Léim ar aghaidh chuig an bpríomhábhar
Gnáthamharc

Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 24 Feb 2004

Vol. 580 No. 5

Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies received from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 6, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 7 to 100, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 101 to 109, inclusive, answered orally.

Television Licence Fee.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

110 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the claims made by the chairman of the RTE authority that he is undermining staff morale in the station and that he has underestimated the work achieved by RTE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5817/04]

The Government decision of December 2002, which provided for a very substantial increase in the television licence fee, also introduced a new mechanism for determining the future level of the licence fee. The Government decision provided for an annual adjustment of the television licence fee using a consumer price index minus X formula to take account of rising costs but also to reflect RTE's performance on execution of change management and programme commitments.

My decision to grant RTE an increase of €2 in the licence fee was informed by the report of an independent evaluation of RTE's performance in 2003, that was undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers. When announcing the decision to increase the television licence fee, I recognised that RTE had achieved a significant amount in 2003, particularly with respect to delivery of programme output; near achievement of its budget target; and delivery of accountability and transparency measures. I also highlighted that RTE had less success in terms of the implementation of its change programme.

The chairman of RTE welcomed the increase in the licence fee, while saying that RTE would have preferred a higher figure. He also expressed some concern at the language used in my press release. I do not consider it particularly helpful to engage in a lengthy public debate on this matter. I have spoken to the chairman about his concerns and the chairman understands the position taken by me on the issue. I had a duty to explain to the public the circumstances in which they would be asked to pay an increased licence fee. As a result, my statement reflected the positive achievements of RTE in 2003 and also referred to where there could have been a better result.

Joan Burton

Ceist:

111 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the nature of the investigation he intends to hold into RTE’s pricing policy in the advertising market; the terms of reference of the investigation; the person who will carry it out; when it is expected to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5816/04]

Last December when I announced an increase of €2 in the television licence fee, I also announced that I will be arranging for an external review of the impact on all broadcasters of the licence fee paid to RTE with particular emphasis on possible distortions in the advertising market. This review will be undertaken later this year and the terms of reference for the review will be published once they have been drawn up. I intend to engage independent experts to undertake this review. In drawing up the terms of reference for the review, I will take account of the fact that the Competition Authority recently concluded its consideration of a request from TV3 to take up a complaint against RTE for alleged predatory pricing on advertising.

Decentralisation Programme.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

112 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to decentralisation for his Department; if a site has been finalised; the number of staff who are willing to move; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5855/04]

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

117 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in regard to proposals for decentralisation, a survey has been undertaken to establish the number of persons employed in his Department in boards or agencies operating under the aegis of his Department who are willing to move to the new locations announced by the Minister for Finance in his budget speech; the results of such a survey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5813/04]

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

330 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6039/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 112, 117 and 330 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the Government's budget day announcement on decentralisation provides for the relocation of my Department's headquarters and 425 staff from Dublin to Cavan. It also provides for Bord Iascaigh Mhara to relocate to Clonakilty while the Central Fisheries Board will move to Carrick-on-Shannon.

Following this announcement, my Department conducted an informal survey of staff in January last to determine preliminary levels of interest in decentralising to any of the designated locations. The results of the survey showed that approximately 7% of respondents were interested in moving to Cavan; 28% expressed interest in other locations; and a further 24% fell into the "don't know" category.

I stress that this exercise was very much a point in time straw poll and that staff did not have the benefit of specific details regarding work areas being relocated, timing of decentralisation or in respect of facilities and amenities in the Cavan area. Since the survey was carried out, an information pack compiled by Cavan County Council has been distributed to all staff in my Department. This provides details on availability and price of housing, educational facilities, health services, and sports and recreational facilities.

The Office of Public Works, which is co-ordinating the property aspects of the decentralisation programme, is currently carrying out an initial assessment of proposals received from the owners of sites and properties in the designated locations and will report to the implementation group as well as liaise with individual Departments. The provision of high quality office accommodation for staff will be a primary consideration in the assessment of the property options in all locations.

The Central Fisheries Board, CFB, has not conducted a staff survey on decentralisation. BIM is currently carrying out a preliminary survey, but the results are not yet available.

Electricity Generation.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

113 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps being taken to ensure the security of the electricity supply, especially in view of the warnings from the ESB of the possibility of power cuts and warnings from a firm of consultants (details supplied) that Ireland may be entering a prolonged period of brownouts and blackouts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5861/04]

The Commission for Energy Regulation continues to monitor security of supply. It has initiated positive actions to redress postulated generation capacity shortfalls in the short, medium and longer terms, as forecast by ESB national grid in its generation adequacy report published on 27 November 2003.

Short-term measures put in place for this winter include the implementation by ESB national grid of a demand side management programme, increased imports of 167MW of electricity from Northern Ireland contracted on a priority basis and 104MW of additional peaking capacity operational since last December.

As to the capacity deficit in the medium to longer term, the CER's recently run competition addresses this situation by facilitating the entry of two new independent generating plants with a combined installed generating capacity of over 500MW. As regards ESB plant productivity a programme is in place to enhance its availability from some 76% in 2003 to a target of 82% during 2004.

ESB is currently undertaking a significant networks investment programme, of €4 billion up to 2007, to bring the transmission and distribution systems up to required international standards and to meet projected capacity demand requirements. The programme is being delivered within the planned timeframe and budget.

As regards interconnection, the Government has given its approval to proceed with the development of two 500MW interconnectors between Ireland and Great Britain, while the desirability and feasibility of further interconnection North-South is being investigated.

As demonstrated by recent international blackout events, no electricity power system can be fully protected from all eventualities. However, the transmission system operator has in place specific plans to deal with any incident quickly and effectively whereby supply is matched to demand.

At EU level, the Commission has brought forward a draft directive proposing measures to safeguard security of supply. The directive forms part of a new energy infrastructure and security of supply legislative package, designed in the main to promote investment in the European energy sector with a view to both strengthening competition and helping to prevent the reoccurrence of electricity blackouts.

Aquaculture Industry.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

114 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will introduce new measures to police and impose sanctions on persons within the fish farming or aquaculture industry should they show blatant disregard to good practise and laws in the industry, in response to concerns expressed by an Oireachtas committee. [5829/04]

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

128 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the frequency with which inspections are carried out on fish farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5854/04]

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

130 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the results of his investigation into the aquaculture industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5846/04]

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

149 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the progress made to date in regard to his Department’s comprehensive review of the existing procedures for the monitoring and control of aquaculture generally which he had indicated would be completed by the end of January 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5838/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 114, 128, 130 and 149 together.

An extensive programme of monitoring and inspection of fish farms is undertaken by my Department with the advice and assistance of the Marine Institute. Key elements of this programme include 14 sealice inspections at each marine fish farm each year and at least one fish health inspection at each fish farm annually. Inspections of fish farms are also carried out by the engineering division of my Department. In 2003, 51 of these inspections were carried out at marine fish farm sites and 44 were undertaken at freshwater sites.

In addition, a monitoring and sampling programme for residues is carried out by the Marine Institute each year in accordance with EU Directive 96/23. The programme involves monitoring for a wide range of residues including antibiotics and environmental contaminants. Fish farm operations are also scrutinised through returns and reports that are required to be made to my Department by the companies concerned. These include, for example, reports on the benthic conditions under and adjacent to sea cages.

I have indicated to the House previously that I am committed to having effective monitoring and control systems for aquaculture so that we can be assured of having a well regulated industry operating to appropriately high standards. My Department is, therefore, in the process of undertaking a detailed review of the existing regulatory systems. This exercise is now at an advanced stage and will be finalised shortly. The review will consider, in particular, how existing systems and processes may need to be refined or reinforced to ensure the optimal operation of monitoring and control programmes. It will address also what action, if any, is required in respect of enforcement measures and procedures. If it is apparent, following the review, that changes are required to legislation or procedures or practices, then these changes will be introduced without delay.

Fishery Harbour Centre.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

115 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will honour a commitment made by his predecessor on 15 May 2001, that if he received a request from Dingle Harbour Commissioners to designate the harbour as a fishery harbour centre, he would immediately do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5750/04]

At present Dingle harbour operates under the Harbours Act 1946 with Dingle Harbour Commissioners being the responsible authority for the management, control and operation of the harbour. Currently, the five fishery harbour centres, Howth, Dunmore East, Castletownbere, Rossaveel and Killybegs, are owned by my Department and are directly managed by the Department under the Fishery Harbour Centres Acts 1968 to 1998. Section 4(1) of the 1968 Act requires that I manage, control, operate and develop each of the fishery harbour centres. Section 6 of that Act places specific responsibility on me in regard to maintenance, repair, improvement, extension and modification of the harbour including buildings and road access.

In 2001, my predecessor, the Minister of State, Deputy Fahey, established a review group to consider suitable future structures for the harbours. This review group was chaired by Professor Jim Ward of UCG and comprised representatives of each of the five fishery harbour centres and Dingle together with representatives of the Department, BIM and Údarás na Gaeltachta. The group considered a range of options, however, it was not possible to achieve consensus on the way forward. Management arrangements for the fishery harbour centres are subject to ongoing review in the context of further streamlining of the executive functions of the Department. The position of Dingle harbour will be considered in the context of that review.

In many respects, Dingle has the benefits of fishery harbour centre status in that for capital investment purposes Dingle is treated as a fishery harbour centre and the commissioners are not expected to contribute the normal 25% towards development works, which is required in respect of other harbours. Apart altogether from the ongoing review of executive functions at my Department, there are various arrangements to be put in place before Dingle can be designated as a fishery harbour centre.

Post Office Network.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

116 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to his Department’s consideration of the recovery plan from An Post which he ordered the company on 4 September 2003 to produce; when he expects agreement on the plan; if he has received an indication of the extent of the job cuts being sought by the company; when the ESOP which was promised following the transformation agreement of 2000 will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5823/04]

My Department received an outline recovery strategy from An Post on 30 September last year. I met the board of An Post in October and expressed the importance of the early agreement and implementation of the recovery strategy with specified savings and timescales for delivery. A core element of the strategy is a change management programme, which is subject to discussion and agreement with the relevant trade unions in An Post. I understand talks on the change management element of the recovery strategy are ongoing with the trade unions in An Post with the exception of one union, the Communications Workers Union, CWU. The final agreement on the plan is obviously contingent of the outcome of these negotiations. Provisional numbers in terms of staffing reductions amounting to approximately 1,500 are envisaged by the company at this stage.

In regard to the implementation of the ESOP, the transfer of shares to employees is dependent on the achievement of specified cost savings. My Department is in correspondence with the board of An Post on the verification of the cost savings which would trigger any initial transfer of shareholding to employees. However, overall policy on the ESOP has not changed. The Government is still committed to the ESOP process if it can be demonstrated that real transformation has occurred and that the cost savings agreed as part of the ESOP have been achieved.

Question No. 117 answered with QuestionNo. 112.

Communications Regulation.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

118 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has further plans to give enhanced regulatory powers to ComReg in regard to television retail distribution networks and cable companies following ongoing complaints regarding service and price increases in that retail market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5865/04]

I am preparing draft heads of legislation which will give powers to ComReg on the regulation of television retail broadcasting services. Among other provisions, the proposals will include measures regarding quality of service, price, likely disputes, transparency, dominance, etc., with a view to ensuring that retail broadcasting is regulated appropriately in the public interest. I hope to bring the matter to Government in the next couple of months.

Question No. 119 answered with QuestionNo. 109.

Oil Refinery Sale.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

120 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the total amount paid to date to the Exchequer in respect of the sale of a refinery (details supplied) and the Bantry storage terminal; the amount of the balance which remains outstanding; when he expects that this will be paid; and if he has satisfied himself at the rate of payments. [5843/04]

It is estimated that the final net return to the Exchequer arising from the sale of the business and commercial assets of the Irish National Petroleum Corporation, INPC, will be in excess of some €30 million. The INPC has already paid €20 million to the Exchequer.

In November 2003, the board of the INPC, cognisant of its obligations under the Companies Acts to retain sufficient assets to meet potential liabilities, determined that it would not be appropriate to make a further payment to the Exchequer at that stage as a number of outstanding matters have still to be resolved. These matters, comprising chiefly environmental claims lodged against the INPC and a contractual dispute with a former customer, have potential financial implications and consequently the INPC is not currently in a position to divest itself of its remaining financial assets.

It has always been accepted that the total cash return to the Exchequer arising from the INPC transaction would be considerably less than the headline sale price of $100 million as the INPC had, for example, to use some of the proceeds to discharge the company's debt.

I am satisfied, however, that the transaction represented a very positive outcome for the State, particularly having regard to the fact that the Government also placed an obligation on the private owners to operate the facilities for a period of at least 15 years as a condition of the sale.

Aquaculture Industry.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

121 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his investigations into dumping of farm salmon in Galway in the summer of 2003 and Inver Bay in 2002 have come to an end; if persons have been charged with this dumping; and the body from which the results of his investigations can be obtained. [5848/04]

Investigations have been carried out in respect of matters relating to the discovery of salmon buried on land near Casla, County Galway, last summer. As proceedings may follow from these investigations, it would not be appropriate to comment on the matter at this time. The events at Inver Bay in 2002 arose from an operating accident at the fish farm concerned about which the company failed to inform the Department. On investigation, the Department found that a substantial number of dead salmon had been left on the seabed beneath one of the fish cages. The Department required the company to have a report on the situation, and on how best to deal with it, prepared by consultants. On receipt of this report, it was determined, with the advice of the Marine Institute that the best way of dealing with the matter was to leave the dead fish in situ.

The company was further required to have regular monitoring of the affected area of the seabed carried out by consultants and to furnish reports of the monitoring to the Department. These reports have shown a satisfactory recovery and return to normal of the seabed conditions. It was decided at the time by the Department, taking account of all of the circumstances, not to initiate a prosecution in respect of the events in Inver Bay in 2002.

Broadcasting Charter.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

122 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the main features of the proposed charter for RTE being prepared by his Department; if there has been consultation with the RTE authority or staff regarding the terms of the charter; when he expects it to be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5818/04]

The purpose of the public service broadcasting charter is to provide an understanding to the people of what is expected of RTE in return for the substantial public funds provided to RTE from the proceeds of the television licence fee. The key aspects of the charter are as follows: it outlines RTE's statutory mandate; it explains the guiding principles under which RTE will operate; and it describes what RTE commits to in terms of the provision of services and in terms of accountability.

There has been significant consultation with RTE during the process of drawing up the charter. An initial draft charter was included with RTE's application for a television licence fee increase in 2002. My officials have also had a series of discussions with senior management in RTE over the past year regarding the charter. RTE also made a detailed submission to my Department last year dealing with issues raised in the submissions received during the public consultation process.

The trade union group in RTE made a submission on the charter as part of the public consultation process. Officials from my Department met the group recently and discussed elements of the group's submission. I intend to bring the finalised charter to Government very shortly after which I will arrange for its publication.

Digital Hub.

Gerard Murphy

Ceist:

123 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the development on the proposed digital hub in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5849/04]

The Digital Hub Development Agency Act was enacted in July 2003. The legislation places the development agency for the hub on a statutory footing and the agency is charged with the development of the hub.

The digital hub, which is the Government's flagship project in the digital content sector, intends to provide a high quality environment for Irish and international new media companies, research and development, along with educational and community initiatives in the Liberties-Coombe area of Dublin. The digital content industry has been identified by our development agencies as a high growth, value added industry where this country already exhibits significant strengths.

The digital hub is currently conducting negotiations to select a preferred developer for the refurbishment of seven acres of development space. Three consortia have bid for the development contract. These bids are currently being evaluated and a recommendation is expected to be made to me in early April 2004.

Wild Salmon Quotas.

John Gormley

Ceist:

124 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he intends to provide details regarding quotas for commercial wild salmon fisheries for summer 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5880/04]

I rely upon the advice of the National Salmon Commission and the regional fisheries boards' managers in determining the terms of the wild salmon and sea-trout tagging scheme, which inter alia sets out district quotas for the commercial catch. I understand that my colleague and Minister of State, Deputy Browne, met with the National Salmon Commission on Thursday last and that the commission’s recommendations, including the proposed commercial catch quotas, for the operation of the scheme in 2004 are now imminent.

Once I have received these recommendations from the commission, my Department will proceed to finalise the draft regulations to give effect to any proposed adjustments. It is my intention to publish the draft regulations for a 30-day consultation period in early March in accordance with the requirements of the Fisheries Acts. During this time, interested parties will have an opportunity to submit any objections they may have. Following the receipt and consideration of these, I will then make a final decision on the scheme.

EU Directives.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

125 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the EU directives for which his Department is responsible which have yet to be implemented, particularly those whose deadlines for implementation have passed; the legal actions initiated or threatened by the Commission for the non-implementation of directives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5841/04]

The following table sets out the position on EU Directives due to be transposed for which my Department is responsible. The European Commission has issued letters of formal notice in the case of the following two directives: 2002/84/EC, which was due to be transposed on 23 November 2003. Nine of the ten legislative measures required for transposition of this directive are in place. The remaining measure has proven to be particularly complex and difficult and my Department is working to resolve the issues in close consultation with the Attorney's General office; and 2002/59/EC, which was due to be transposed on 5 February 2004. My Department aims to complete transposition in this case by the end of the month.

Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources — Directives awaiting Transposition

Title of Directive

Deadline for Transposition

Expected date of transposition

Directive 2002/59 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 27 June 2002 establishing a Community Vessel Traffic Monitoring and Information System and repealing Council Directive 93/57/EEC

05.02.04

End February 2004

Directive 2002/84 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 November 2002 amending the Directives on maritime safety and the prevention of pollution from ships

23.11.03

March 2004 — Overdue due to legal complications.

Directive 2003/24/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14/04/03 amending Council Directive 98/18/EC of safety rules and standards for Passenger Ships

17.11.04

November 2004

Directive 2003/25/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14/04/03 on specific stability requirements for ro-ro passenger ships (Text with EEA relevance)

17.11.04

November 2004

Directive 2003/30/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 08/05/03 on the promotion of the use of biofuels or other renewable fuels for transport.

1.07.04 for report to Commission on indicative targets to be met by Dec 05 and Dec 2010 and 31.12.04 for any legislative measures.

01.07.04 to report to Commission and 31.12.04 for any legislative measures.

Directive 2003/44/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 June 2003 amending Directive 94/25/EC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to recreational craft

30.06.04

June 2004

Directive 2003/54/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 July 2003 concerning common rules for the Internal Market in Electricity and repealing Directive 96/92/EC

30.06.04

June 2004

Directive 2003/55/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 26 June 2003 concerning common rules for the internal market in natural gas and repealing Directive 98/30/EC.

1. 01.07.04 (part)2. 01.07.04 (part)3. 01.07.05 (balance)

1. June 2004.2. June 2004.3. July 2005.

Mobile Telephony.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

126 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals to minimise charges associated with cross-Border roaming. [5856/04]

I have recently published draft policy directions which, if finally adopted, I propose to issue to the Communications Regulator, ComReg. One of these draft directions focuses on cross-Border roaming. It mandates ComReg to identify barriers, and use the tools available to them to encourage and support initiatives to reduce or eliminate roaming charges between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

As a Minister from a Border county, I am acutely aware of the impact of these charges on local people and local businesses. The issue is not simply one of mobile operators introducing all-Ireland tariffs, although this in itself is to be welcomed.

These directions have been published in draft format for public consultation until Monday, 1 March 2004 and I welcome input from both the industry and the public.

Fishing Industry Development.

Ciarán Cuffe

Ceist:

127 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the conservation measures which have been introduced within the Irish fishing fleet in the past year to ensure that the fishing industry is adapting to more sustainable fishing practices. [5876/04]

The measures under which the Irish fishing fleet operates are governed by the framework of the Common Fisheries Policy. Within this framework, there is a wide range of conservation measures already in place in Community waters generally and these apply to all EU fishing fleets.

The basic objective of the Common Fisheries Policy is to provide for the sustainable exploitation of resources, taking account of the environmental, economic and social aspects in a balanced manner. This fundamental objective is ongoing in nature and will continue to be the driving force underpinning CFP actions and initiatives.

In so far as the waters around Ireland specifically are concerned, there has been a number of noteworthy conservation measures and developments within the past year. These include the successful outcome to the Irish Box issue under which fishing effort levels of fishing fleets, both Irish and otherwise, will be curtailed. Decisions were also taken within the past year to strengthen recovery measures for cod stocks in the Irish Sea and off the north-west coast of Ireland and for the hake stock off the south and west coast.

Notwithstanding these specific improvements in resource conservation, it is important to plan for strengthened conservation measures for the future. To that end, I have arranged for a major conference to be held in Ireland next month to consider in detail the specific subject of how best to fast-track the further development of environmentally-friendly fishing methods. This conference will be attended by Commissioner Fischler and several Fisheries Ministers from inside and outside the EU and representatives of the various stakeholders.

I believe that the initiative of the Irish presidency in convening this major conference will contribute in a significant way to sustainable management and development of fishery resources.

Question No. 128 answered with QuestionNo. 114.

Corrib Gas Field.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

129 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the information available to his Department regarding the proposed development of the Corrib gas field; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5858/04]

Shell Exploration and Petroleum Ireland Ltd, developers of the Corrib gas field submitted a new planning application to Mayo County Council on 17 December 2003 on the onshore gas terminal at Bellanaboy Bridge, County Mayo. Any decision to develop the field will be taken by the developers in the light of Mayo County Council's determination on this application.

Question No. 130 answered with QuestionNo. 114.

Coastal Erosion.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

131 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the counties which have received funding to deal with coastal erosion in the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5852/04]

The following counties received funding from my Department in 2002 and 2003 in respect of coastal protection works: Dublin, Wicklow, Wexford, Waterford, Cork, Kerry, Clare, Louth, Galway, Mayo, Sligo and Donegal.

Mobile Telephony.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

132 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his preferred options in respect of the future development of the mobile telephone industry with particular reference to new service providers, competition and the needs of the consumer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5805/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

341 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which the emergence of further competition in the mobile telephone market is likely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6098/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 132 and 341 together.

My preferred option for the mobile sector, and the telecoms sector as a whole, is the creation of conditions for sustainable growth and competition that will benefit the economic and social development of Ireland by providing competitive services.

As Minister for communications, I have overall responsibility for telecoms policy. Since assuming office, my main goal has been to implement this policy in a coherent way using the tools available to me to improve the range and quality of services available to consumers, by facilitating growth and the introduction of more innovation and competition in the sector.

I have recently published draft policy directions which, after the statutory consultation process and subject to any amendments, I propose to give to the Communications Regulator. One of the directions focuses on competition as a key objective for 2004 and one focuses on national roaming.

These draft directions mandate ComReg to: implement where necessary, remedies which counteract or remove barriers to entry and support, in all ways possible, entry by new players to the market and entry into new sectors by existing players; and to use its powers to mandate national roaming on existing GSM networks of incumbent mobile network operators on fair commercial terms subject to relevant requirements under European law.

These directions have been published in draft format for public consultation until Monday 1 March 2004 and I welcome input from both the industry and the public. My message is simple: the more competitive telecoms services that are on offer, the better in the long run for consumers, the sector and the economy as a whole.

Gas Pipeline.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

133 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the licensing arrangements that will apply to the pipelines from the shore to the proposed gas terminal in Bellanaboy, County Mayo; and if he will give other international examples of cases in which there is a similar distance between the landfall for such a pipeline and such a terminal. [5875/04]

In April 2002, I gave consent to the developers of the Corrib gas field to lay an onshore and offshore pipeline to which I attached a number of conditions both technical and environmental. The developers in carrying out this work must comply with all of these conditions. This Corrib pipeline proposal was examined by my Department on its own merits.

I am not in a position to answer the second part of the Deputy's question, as such information is not available to me.

Fishing Vessel Licences.

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

134 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the situation whereby two newly purchased fishing vessels (details supplied) in Killybegs are confined to port and not allowed to fish due to quota and licensing regulations; and his advice to the owners to overcome these difficulties. [5809/04]

Current policy on the licensing of sea-fishing boats, introduced by me on 17 November last, sets out the key requirements to be complied with in order for the two vessels concerned to be licensed for commercial sea-fishing. This matter is currently the subject of legal proceedings and it would not be appropriate to comment on it.

Television Licence Fee.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

135 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the progress which has been made by RTE since the licence fee increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5853/04]

The television licence fee was increased by €2 from 1 January 2004, which brought the annual cost of a licence to €152. I approved the increase in the television licence fee to ensure that RTE would be in position to continue to deliver the quality of service it is mandated to, and which the people of Ireland deserve and expect.

RTE will shortly publish its annual statements of commitments for 2004. This document taken together with RTE's changed management commitments for 2004 will be key inputs when RTE's performance in 2004 is being evaluated for the purpose of the annual licence fee adjustment.

Fisheries Protection.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

136 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has received the final report of the investigation into the massive fish kill at Inver Bay, County Donegal, during July 2003; the findings of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5837/04]

I understand that the Marine Institute's investigation of the fish mortalities at salmon farms in Donegal Bay last year is at an advanced stage and that the report relating to those events will be finalised shortly.

The Marine Institute is also, at my request, looking at the overall position in relation to mortalities at fish farms along the western seaboard last year. A further report addressing this overall situation will also be prepared.

Energy Resources.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

137 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of the Government’s anti-nuclear policy, the proposed electricity connectors from Britain will be so contracted that no electricity from nuclear power stations, including Sellafield, will be purchased or imported for use in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5862/04]

Under the provisions of the EU Electricity Directive 2003/54/EC concerning common rules for the internal market in electricity and repealing Directive 96/92/EC, to avoid imbalance in the opening of electricity markets, the supply of electricity to customers deemed eligible in other member states shall not be prohibited.

Also, it is not possible to prohibit electricity generated from nuclear sources being imported over the proposed East-West interconnectors, since it is not physically possible to prevent the flow of nuclear generated electricity on to the network. This is the case with the existing interconnection between Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland through the Moyle interconnector.

The Deputy may wish to note that with the implementation of the Electricity Directive, all electricity suppliers will be required to specify in or with the electricity bills and in promotional material made available to final customers, the contribution of each energy source to the overall fuel mix of the supplier over the preceding year. This Directive is scheduled to be transposed into Irish law by 1 July 2004, whereas the earliest possible date for commencement of construction work on an East-West interconnector is end 2006.

I am confident, given the known popular opposition to nuclear energy in Ireland, that suppliers would not knowingly contract for electricity imports clearly traceable to nuclear stations or that Irish consumers would knowingly buy any. There is simply no business case for selling nuclear energy in Ireland.

Wind Energy.

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

138 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that work should proceed at Derrybrien on the development of a wind farm despite the recent landslide caused in the Derrybrien area. [5830/04]

The question of whether this work should proceed is one for the developers and the planning authorities. In the case of the developer, it is a day to day matter for ESB and its subsidiary and, thus, not one in which I have a function.

EU Constitution.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

139 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his position on proposals in the draft EU Constitution to end the requirement for unanimous votes in changes to the common commercial policy in cultural and audio-visual services; the implications of such a change for this State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5857/04]

This is a matter for the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

Telecommunications Services.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

140 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the towns which have no plans for the roll-out of broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5850/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

332 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which state of the art communications technology is available or will be soon available in all areas throughout the country; the region or regions most deficient in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6088/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 140 and 332 together.

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. The Government recognises the importance of a balanced regional rollout of broadband, and in this regard is taking a series of initiatives to support and complement investment by the private companies operating in the market.

An indicative €200 million was set aside for the current programme of broadband infrastructure developments under the NDP 2000-2006. This includes funding for 19 metropolitan area networks in towns and cities across the country, the extension of digital subscriber lines by both Eircom and Esat BT, the construction of a 1,300 kilometre fibre trunk network by the ESB, and other regional broadband investment initiatives.

The MANs are now nearing completion, and will begin coming on stream in mid-2004. DSL rollout has now reach over 900,000 lines countrywide, and the ESB telecoms fibre trunk was completed recently.

Recent figures released by ComReg show the dramatic increase in the take-up of broadband in Ireland in the past year. Ireland can also boast one of the highest internet penetration levels in Europe with more than 50,000 customers accessing the internet though flat rate packages offered by Eircom Net and other internet service providers.

There are now more than 32,000 DSL subscribers nationally, compared with 1,000 in March 2003, and the number is increasing every month. Ireland can also boast, at 30%, one of the highest digital TV penetration rates in Europe.

Last December, I announced my Department's broadband action plan outlining the proposals to stimulate broadband-capable infrastructural investment throughout Ireland. The key elements of the plan include the provision of broadband infrastructure in more than 90 towns with a population of 1,500 and more, using community broadband exchanges and strategic fibre. A new group broadband scheme, similar to the group water schemes, is proposed for smaller communities to pool their broadband requirements and secure high speed connectivity from a range of service providers, with grant assistance from the Government.

An annual spend of €35 million between now and 2007 has been committed to the broadband action plan in partnership with the local authorities and in co-operation with the telecoms industry here. Operational details for the broadband action plan are now being finalised, and I expect to be able to make a full announcement shortly.

It is possible to obtain broadband services in most places in Ireland at the moment, and my Department's website www.broadband.gov.ie gives full details of broadband availability in all areas and the names and contact numbers for all service providers.

Electricity Costs.

Joe Sherlock

Ceist:

141 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on reports of further price rises in electricity following an expected asset windfall for ESB resulting from the company’s expected share of the allocation of Ireland’s trading emission allowances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5871/04]

The eventual economic outcome of measures, such as emissions allocations and emissions trading, is a complex matter to analyse and continues to be considered by interested parties both in this country and elsewhere. Several analysts are of the view that there will be resultant windfall gains, notably in the electricity generation sector.

Consultants who advised the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government suggested that, in certain circumstances, and based on a postulated cost of carbon of €10 per tonne, that wholesale electricity prices here could increase by 14% leading to a retail increase of7%. This would be lower than the average increase postulated for the EU. I am considering, in conjunction with the Commission for Energy Regulation, what options and measures might be available to mitigate the windfall factor to minimise or eliminate increases in the consumer prices of electricity.

Inland Fisheries.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

142 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects to receive the report of the consultants appointed to undertake the review of the inland fisheries sector; the number of submissions received by the closing date of 16 January 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5839/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, a consortium of consultants, led by Farrell Grant Sparks Consulting, is undertaking a high level review of the inland fisheries sector in Ireland. This review is to be completed in two stages over six months and the consultants expect to be in a position to report to me on the first stage by late March. The consultants, as part of this first phase, have undertaken a comprehensive consultation process during which more than 60 submissions from relevant stakeholders and interested parties were received.

Advertising Ban.

John Bruton

Ceist:

143 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has plans to lift the ban on religious advertising. [5651/04]

As I explained in reply to Question No. 606 on 27 January, the ban on religious advertising as provided for in section 20(4) of the Broadcasting Authority Act 1960, as qualified by section 65 of the Broadcasting Act 2001, and section 10(3) of the Radio and Television Act 1988, should remain.

In arriving at my decision, I had regard to a diverse range of opinions expressed during a public consultation process I conducted last year. In arriving at the view that the ban should remain I was conscious of the potential intrusive nature of advertising on radio and television, which is different to other forms of advertising. It is not desirable that individual groups would be in a position to buy air time to deliver an unchallenged message aimed at influencing and altering behaviour in society in circumstances where it is difficult for the public to test or verify positions advanced.

Section 65 of the Broadcasting Act 2001 provides that the ban on religious advertising does not preclude the broadcasting of a notice of the fact that a particular religious newspaper, magazine or periodical is available for sale or supply or that any event or ceremony associated with any particular religion will take place, if the contents of the notice do not address the issue of the merits or otherwise of adhering to any religious faith or belief or of becoming a member of any religion or religious organisation. Submissions received as part of the consultation process together with a report on the consultation process itself and the documents that set out the basis for my decision, are available on my Department's website.

Fisheries Protection.

Ciarán Cuffe

Ceist:

144 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he intends to introduce a single stock management system for the commercial catching of wild Irish salmon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5877/04]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Ceist:

160 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the level of river monitoring which will be required to introduce a single stock management system; and the projected cost of such monitoring. [5878/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 144 and 160 together.

The overriding objective of the Government is to preserve the salmon resource in its own right and for the coastal and rural communities that it helps to support. The economic goals for a sustainable commercial salmon fishery based on quality and value rather than volume and the development of salmon angling as an important tourism product are both fully compatible with the primary objective. The current strategy of developing a sustainable commercial and recreational salmon fishery through aligning catches on the scientific advice by next year hold out the strong prospect of a recovery of stocks and of a long term sustainable fishery for both sectors. As a result, I have no plans to introduce a single stock management system for the commercial catch of wild Irish salmon but I intend to keep the matter under review in the context of the policy outlined.

EU Bodies.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

145 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the failure of the Government to secure the location of the European network and information security agency for Ireland; if there are plans for a future EU agency covering areas of interest to his Department to be based here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5869/04]

The decision on the location for the European Network Security Agency was made at the European Council chaired by the Italian Presidency last December. The question of the location of new agencies is kept under review as these issues emerge at the level of Council of Ministers from time to time.

Proposed Legislation.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

146 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he intends to bring proposals to Government to establish TG4 as an independent statutory entity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5844/04]

I will bring forward a proposal in the coming months to give effect to the commitment in the programme for Government in regard to the establishment of TG4 as an independent statutory entity.

Harbours and Piers.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

147 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the funds committed and promised for the new pier at Bantry have not been made available. [5812/04]

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

181 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to the funds promised for the new pier at Bantry in west Cork; and when the work can commence. [5811/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 147 and 181 together.

I am awaiting advice from the Attorney General on various legal issues pertaining to the pier development at Bantry and, particularly, the expenditure of Exchequer funds thereon. Previously, it was indicated that funding of up to €1.9 million would be available subject to stringent conditions.

Under the Harbours Act 1946, a harbour authority is required to seek the Minister's consent for any financial commitment regarding infrastructural works. In August 2002, it was belatedly brought to the attention of my Department by Bantry Bay harbour commissioners that they had entered into a contract in respect of the pier development. The harbour commissioners were subsequently advised that, pending clarification on all financial issues relating to the project, the contractors were not to proceed with the project or incur additional expenditure. Advice has been sought on various legal issues pertaining to the pier development and a response is awaited from the Attorney General in this regard.

Telecommunications Services.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

148 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the timescale within which he hopes to roll-out broadband Internet connections to all primary and secondary schools in the country; and the way in which he intends to finance such a roll-out. [5828/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, my responsibility lies in developing and implementing public policy that ensures broadband services are widely available at an affordable price in the Irish market, whether such services are provided for citizens, businesses or schools. The case for the provision of broadband to all primary and secondary schools is compelling, particularly with regard to improving and ensuring the quality of the education experience; access to global information sources; the possibilities of communication and collaboration between school communities, at home and abroad; a seamless transition from second to third level education; the skills required for competitiveness of the economy; and the inclusion of geographically remote schools.

In addition, it is likely that the provision of broadband to schools will drive demand and deployment of broadband technologies within the wider community. My Department has been working with the Department of Education and Science to develop plans for such provision. During 2003 the Department of Education and Science commissioned a consultancy study on the options for providing broadband to schools around the country taking into account the practical issues of market ability to provide such connectivity, the range of delivery technologies available, timescale for delivery, cost and scale.

Since the completion of this report in August 2003, detailed discussions have taken place between my Department, the Department of Education and Science and the telecommunications industry regarding the allocation of resources from both industry and Government to ensure such provision and a timescale for implementation. I am pleased that agreement was reached with the telecommunications industry, represented by the telecommunications and Internet federation of IBEC, earlier today regarding the provisioning of broadband to schools. This agreement involves a voluntary commitment of €15 million over three years by the telecommunications sector, augmented by a Government contribution of €3 million, towards the cost of providing broadband services to all primary, voluntary secondary, vocational, community, comprehensive and special needs schools.

The Department of Education and Science, assisted by my Department, will shortly begin a competitive tendering process for the procurement of such broadband services to all schools, with a view to awarding contracts in autumn 2004 and beginning the roll-out to schools by end 2004.

Question No. 149 answered with QuestionNo. 114.

Postal Services.

David Stanton

Ceist:

150 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the meetings he has had with An Post as part of its recovery plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5847/04]

My Department received an outline recovery strategy from An Post on 30 September 2003. I met the board of An Post in October and expressed the importance of the early agreement and implementation of the recovery strategy with specified savings and timescales for delivery. A core element of the strategy is a change management programme, which is subject to discussion and agreement with the relevant trade unions in An Post.

Talks on the change management element of the recovery strategy are ongoing with the trade unions in An Post with the exception of one union, the Communications Workers Union, CWU. The final agreement on the plan is obviously contingent on the outcome of these negotiations. I met An Post representatives on 8 October 2003, 29 January 2004 and 4 February 2004 to discuss the financial position facing the company.

EU Directives.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

151 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to his discussions with the EU on proposals to regulate foreign television stations broadcasting into Ireland; when he expects that this matter will be concluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5859/04]

As I stated in reply to Question No. 156 on 11 November 2003, the television without frontiers directive regulates the reception and retransmission of television broadcasts from one member state to another. The EU Commission is conducting a review of the directive. Last year the Commission invited submissions from interested parties. In its formal submission to the Commission Ireland suggested the directive should be amended to ensure a broadcasting service originating in one member state but intended primarily for reception in another member state should be subject to the broadcasting standards of the member state at which it is primarily directed. It is reasonable to expect that Irish broadcasting standards should be applied to television channels intended primarily for reception in Ireland. A copy of Ireland's submission is available on my Department's website.

In December 2003 the EU Commission published its communication on the future of regulatory audiovisual policy. The communication has indicated a number of areas that merit further consideration and that the Commission will establish focus groups or undertake studies to advance its thinking in these areas. The Commission expects the work of these groups and studies will be undertaken in 2004 and 2005. While it is a matter for the Commission to bring forward proposals to amend the directive, I do not expect such proposals before the second half of 2005. I intend to continue to pursue the question of the regulation of services primarily targeted at Ireland as the review progresses.

Television Licence Fee.

Joan Burton

Ceist:

152 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reasons RTE was not granted an increase in the licence fee in line with inflation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5815/04]

The Deputy should be aware that the €2 increase in the licence fee approved by me last year, taken together with the increase in the households that should have licences, should result in RTE licence fee revenue growing at more than the rate of inflation in 2004. The Government decision of December 2002, which provided for a substantial increase in the television licence fee, also introduced a new mechanism for determining the future level of the licence fee. The Government decision provided for an annual adjustment of the television licence fee, using a consumer price index minus X formula where X is determined by an external evaluation of RTE's compliance with its statement of commitments and its change management agenda, to take account of rising costs, but also to reflect RTE's performance on execution of change management and programme commitments. My decision to grant RTE an increase of €2 in the licence fee was informed by the report of an independent evaluation of RTE's performance in 2003, that was undertaken by PricewaterhouseCoopers. A copy of this report is available on my Department's website. The decision to increase the television licence fee by €2 took account of the findings in that report that RTE had achieved a significant amount in 2003, particularly with respect to delivery of programme output, near achievement of its budget target, and implementation of accountability and transparency measures, and while recognising that many changes had taken place, in RTE, the implementation of its change programme has not been as successful as planned.

Energy Resources.

John Perry

Ceist:

153 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his plans to encourage further expansion of wind energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5851/04]

I recently announced the establishment of a permanent renewables development group, chaired by the Department, which will provide a forum to share expertise and knowledge on an ongoing basis, and improve co-ordination to ensure the continued development of the renewable sector. The promotion of renewable energy technologies, of which wind energy is the dominant form at this time, is a priority of this Government. As Minister with responsibility for energy policy, my immediate goal is to add 500 megawatts of renewables-based electricity generating capacity to the electricity network by 2005 to deliver the target published in the Green paper on Sustainable Energy. In addition, I have announced that, subject to EU state aids clearance, I will support the building of an additional 218 megawatts of new renewable energy projects.

The 500 megawatt target is currently being implemented and will be achieved in the main under contracts offered by me under the fifth and sixth alternative energy requirement competitions. I am confident of securing State aids clearance for the additional 218 megawatts that will be allocated to AER VI projects but I cannot commit to individual projects until the European Commission has finalised its position on the State aids notification.

In addition, Sustainable Energy Ireland, SEI, the independent non-commercial State body focused exclusively on sustainable use of energy including deployment of renewable energy sources, has commenced a challenging work programme to increase energy efficiency and to promote renewable energy technologies. In the renewable energy field specifically, SEI has opened a research, development and demonstration programme for renewable energy technologies. The programme is open to a wide range of proposals including policy studies, field research, feasibility studies and technology research, development and demonstration.

The completion of AER VI will close the current chapter of support for renewable energy technologies. However at the end of last year I published a consultation document, Options for Future Renewable Energy Policy, Targets and Programmes. The consultation document and supporting annexes, which examine in detail support mechanisms and renewable energy policies in Ireland as well as in other European countries, were published on my Department's website in December 2003 and the closing date for receipt of submissions is next Friday 27 February 2004.

The document will be used to map out a future strategy for green energy in the coming years and follows a commitment I gave after the conclusion of the AER VI competition several months ago. The consultation document looks at key areas in the future, including future renewables policy; future green energy contribution to Ireland's electricity markets; how to overcome barriers to the deployment of renewable energy; and future options for market support mechanisms. Respondents are asked to outline their proposals in detail and to estimate the cost of any support measures that are proposed. After an assessment period, the Department will formulate a new renewable support policy, which it intends to have in place by the end of summer 2004.

Radio Broadcasting.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

154 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects to receive the report of the consultants appointed to assist in the review of radio licensing, which he had indicated was expected by mid-January 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5840/04]

The consultants, OX Auction Experts, are in the process of finalising their report, which I expect to receive shortly.

Fisheries Protection.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

155 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the response he has received from the European Commission to the joint application made with the UK for new measures to safeguard the salmon farming industry from recent surges of cheap imports of farmed salmon from non-EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5821/04]

The issue of the joint Ireland-UK application for an investigation into the circumstances leading to the current situation on the EU salmon market, and the possibility of opening safeguard measures, was discussed in the meeting of the European Commission's safeguards committee on 12 February 2004. At that meeting the Commission gave a preliminary view on the conditions required for launching an investigation but further comprehensive consideration including seeking the detailed views of other member states is necessary.

The deadline for submission of those views was Friday last, 20, February 2004. Given the urgency attached to this issue by both Ireland and the UK, I expect the Commission to consider these views and to formally respond to the request shortly. In the meantime, the Commission services have contacted the governments of the third countries who export into the EU market to explore possible alternative solutions to the current situation. Ireland and the UK have both stated that a workable and enforceable solution, arrived at through renewed dialogue, would be preferable to introducing safeguard measures. The matter will be the subject of further discussion at the European Commission's safeguards committee.

Food Safety.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

156 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps he intends to take to ensure the safety of Irish farmed salmon following the publication of a number of reports raising concerns regarding possible contamination of farmed salmon; the steps being taken to reassure consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5820/04]

There have been a number of recent reports on the potential risk from environmental contaminants, such as dioxins, to the consumer of farmed salmon. Most recently, a paper in the journal Science received media attention. Measures are in place and further steps are being taken to ensure consumers are not exposed to an unacceptable risk from eating farmed salmon.

Persistent organic pollutants, of which dioxins and polychlorinated biphenyls or PCBs are examples, are widespread in the environment. Due to measures taken at international level, to which Ireland is a party, levels of dioxins, PCBs and organochlorine pesticides are decreasing in the environment. However, they are still found in fish due to their persistence and due to accumulation in fish tissue.

The Marine Institute carries out surveillance monitoring for residues in Irish aquaculture in accordance with Directive 96/23/EC on behalf of the Department. This includes routine surveillance of environmental contaminants, such as trace metals, PCBs and organochlorine pesticides in farmed salmon. Since monitoring commenced in 1999, the levels of these contaminants have been well below available standards in all 485 samples.

In 2001, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, FSAI, with the assistance of the Marine Institute, carried out an investigation into the levels of dioxins and PCBs, including "dioxin-like" PCBs, in farmed salmon and trout and wild salmon. The FSAI concluded that levels of dioxins were well below the EU maximum limits and on average less than 25% of the limit. There are no current EU maximum limits for PCBs in food, but the European Commission is working towards proposals for maximum limits for PCBs and "dioxin-like" PCBs. The FSAI, the Marine Institute and BIM are carrying out another collaborative survey of persistent organic contaminant levels in farmed fish this year. The results of this study will be used to provide an updated assessment of any possible health significance of the levels of these contaminants in Irish farmed salmon. Oily fish play an essential role in a balanced nutritious diet, as they are an important source of omega-3 fatty acids. The FSAI advises that consumers eat one to two portions of fish per week, including one portion of oily fish such as salmon.

The EU Commissioner for Health and Consumer Protection, David Byrne, has reacted to the recent Science study. He highlights that the study did not raise new food safety issues and that the data was consistent with results from other surveys, but that that did not mean the presence of these contaminants is not a cause for concern. He points to the “comprehensive strategy adopted by the European Commission in 2001 to reduce the presence of dioxins and PCBs in the environment, feed and in food.” The pesticides mentioned in the Science study have long been prohibited in the EU. Commissioner Byrne concluded that “fish, be it farmed or wild, has its place in a well balanced diet to ensure consumers continue to benefit from its positive health effects.” Notwithstanding the aquaculture industry has indicated its willingness to review, with relevant State agencies, mechanisms for reducing the level of these contaminants in farmed fish.

Energy Resources.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

157 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the renewable fuels standard which is part of US farmer friendly energy legislation; and if resources will be invested into developing plans for farmers to create renewable energy in the interests of rural employment, cleaner air and fuel safety. [5063/04]

I am fully committed to developing a range of sustainable and renewable energy options for Ireland. The renewable fuels standard legislation was passed by the US Senate in June 2003 and was backed by a coalition which included agricultural groups. Among the measures included in this legislation was a target for the use of renewable fuels in refineries.

The EU directive on the promotion of the use of bio-fuels or other renewable fuels for transport has a similar provision in that it obliges member states to set targets for the percentage of bio-fuels to be used in transport fuels. Research is being conducted into the potential for bio-fuels in Ireland and a number of pilot projects are already under way. These projects, some of which are supported by Sustainable Energy Ireland, include the growing of rapeseed which can be converted into bio-diesel and then used in transport fuels. New measures have also been included in the 2004 Finance Bill, which will allow excise exemption on pilot projects for bio-fuels. Inevitably, there will be a knock-on effect for farmers, who may grow rapeseed to service the market or for whom this will provide a market for certain farming waste products.

I recently established a bio-energy strategy group, comprising representatives of my Department, Sustainable Energy Ireland, the Departments of Agriculture and Food and the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, COFORD and various industry representatives. The group is considering the potential for all forms of bio-energy, including energy from agricultural and forestry production and waste. The group will report to me by the end of 2004 with proposals to increase market penetration of these environmentally friendly energy products, which may benefit farmers through production of new products or through creating a market for waste, products which farmers may have traditionally had to pay to dispose of.

Mobile Telephony.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

158 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position with regard to his policy directive on the introduction of wholesale line rental through single billing for fixed line telecoms operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5872/04]

I recently published draft policy directions which I propose to give to the Communications Regulator. One of these draft directions focuses on wholesale and retail telephone line rental, recognising the importance of the single billing product to advancing competition.

The direction as drafted, mandates ComReg to introduce by Wednesday 31 March, 2004 a single billing product for voice and data services; to insist that the margin between wholesale and retail is wide enough to drive competition; and to insist that the product is accessible, affordable, and available for telecoms operators; and contains any other conditions required that will give incentive to and drive competition in this market.

These directions have been published in draft format for public consultation until Monday 1 March 2004 and I welcome input from both the industry and the public.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

159 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will issue new policy directives to ComReg following ComReg’s recent review of the mobile phone market, which discovered that the market here has one of the highest concentrations in the EU and that both leading operators have significant market power; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5866/04]

In accordance with the market definition procedure outlined in the framework regulations, S.I. No. 307 of 2003, ComReg are conducting a market analysis of the wholesale mobile access and call origination. It is ComReg's preliminary view that Vodafone and O2 have a collectively dominant position. ComReg have published their findings and proposed remedies for consultation.

In addition, I have recently published draft policy directions which I propose to give to the Communications Regulator, one of which focuses on competition as a key objective for 2004 and one of which focuses on national roaming.

These draft directions will, if issued in final form, mandate ComReg to: implement where necessary, remedies which counteract or remove barriers to entry and support, in all ways possible, entry by new players to the market and entry into new sectors by existing players and; use its powers to mandate national roaming on existing GSM networks of incumbent mobile network operators on fair commercial terms subject to relevant requirements under European law.

These directions have been published in draft format for public consultation until Monday 1 March 2004 and I welcome input from both the industry and the public.

Question No. 160 answered with QuestionNo. 144.

Harbour Authorities.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

161 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on whether it is fair and equitable that the Dingle Harbour Commission is expected to finance its staffing and maintenance requirements, while the State provides the funding for staffing, maintenance and so on for the designated fishery harbour centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5749/04]

Dingle Harbour operates under the Harbours Act 1946 with Dingle Harbour Commissioners being the responsible authority for the management, control and operation of the harbour. The operation and management of the fishery harbour centres is by way of the fishery harbour centres fund which is provided for in section 9 of the Fishery Harbour Centres Act 1968. All income received by way of harbour dues, rents, etc. are paid into the fund and outlay in respect of the management, staffing, maintenance and so on of the harbours is paid from the fund.

For capital investment purposes Dingle is treated as a fishery harbour centre with the Exchequer meeting the full cost of development works.

Fishing Industry Development.

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

162 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the crisis in the fish processing sector, particularly in Donegal as a result of the implementation of new EU regulations as applied to pelagic catches; and his plans to ameliorate the situation. [5810/04]

The new EU procedures for the weighing of certain pelagic catches apply to all concerned EU fishermen and are designed to facilitate effective control of pelagic fisheries. Such control is a key element in fisheries management policy and enables the sustainable management and development of the fisheries concerned. This is an entirely valid policy objective, and I fully support it.

I have met representatives of both fishermen and the fish processing sector on the implementation of these new procedures. These discussions were wide-ranging and comprehensive and focused on the need to ensure that catch quality is maintained.

I am pleased that following these constructive discussions, it has proved possible to put in place certain transitional arrangements which are both effective in control terms and satisfy the legitimate requirement of both fishermen and processors to maintain the quality of catches.

In the coming period, additional infrastructural facilities, such as weighing facilities, will be installed in the relevant fishery harbour centres to enable an efficient and effective implementation of these new requirements. In addition, I have asked my Department to work with local authorities and industry to ensure that the necessary facilities are also put in place in the key additional ports. In tandem with this process, a close dialogue will be maintained with sectoral representatives to ensure that appropriate account is taken of any practical issues arising.

Planning Issues.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

163 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the circumstances in which financial support was approved by his Department for the construction of a marine centre at Dereenacallaha, Kenmare, County Kerry, despite reservations expressed by senior officials, and part of which has now been demolished due to the fact that it did not comply with planning requirements; the amount of financial support approved and the total amount paid out to date; if he intends to review the procedures for approving financial support for such projects in view of this experience; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5814/04]

€5.7 million was allocated as a budget day adjustment in 2000 for four projects, at Kenmare, Cahirciveen, Rosses Point and Roundstone. These were to be four flagship projects in advance of the NDP marine tourism grant scheme which was launched in February 2002.

The estimated total cost of the Kenmare projects was €1,665,540 which included provision for a pier with slipway and adjoining buildings on which marine leisure training courses would take place. The grant approved to the Kenmare project of €752,550, 45.2% of estimated total cost, was subject to a number of conditions, including evidence of planning and foreshore permissions having been obtained.

Payment of the first instalment of the grant on 3 December 2001 in the amount of €332,312 was made on the basis of invoices in respect of matured liabilities and copies of the planning permission and foreshore lease that had been obtained. Despite transmitting the latter documents in support of the application for payment, the promoters did not draw the Department's attention to any departure from the terms for the planning permission or foreshore lease in their progressing of the construction of the centre up to that point.

In October 2002 however, following investigation by the Department's engineers, the Department became aware that the development had not been constructed in line with its planning permission, and the Department's engineering division was immediately asked to investigate the situation with the local authority. As a consequence, no further payments from the grant were made and the Department liaised with Kerry County Council on the planning difficulties.

As the promoters had applied for retention permission, it was considered advisable to await the outcome of the planning process before taking legal advice as to how the State's investment should be protected.

Following Bord Pleanála's refusal of retention, a new planning application was made to Kerry County Council. This application was withdrawn in November 2003 and steps were taken by Kerry County Council to enforce the conditions of the original planning permission.

The Department has sought legal advice, in December 2003, on the status of the moneys paid and the status of the outstanding grant.

Environmental Issues.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Ceist:

164 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the report that a study carried out on behalf of the Corrib gas field developers showing that Broadhaven Bay, a candidate special area of conservation, was a significant breeding and rearing area for whales and dolphins; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that the report was only made available to Dúchas ten months after its completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5879/04]

The study of Broadhaven Bay referred to by the Deputy of which I have now received a copy was commissioned by the developers of the proposed Corrib gas field. It was carried out over the period August 2001 to October 2002 and the final report of the study was completed in March 2003. My Department and the environmental monitoring group, EMG, for the Corrib gas field development were informed of this work.

To date a small amount of development work has taken place in the bay in the period to September 2002 and this was done in full consultation with the heritage service of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and with the agreement of my Department. The full results of this recent study will no doubt be used by the company to guide them and the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government in making further decisions on the processes to be adopted for the installation of the offshore pipeline.

The consultation by the company with The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government regarding the results of the study is a matter for the developing company.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

165 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on the formal request to Ireland by the EU requiring the Government to prepare anti-pollution programmes for waters designated for shellfish in accordance with the shellfish water directive and on the possibility that the EU Commission may refer Ireland to the Court of Justice on this matter. [5864/04]

My Department is currently addressing a number of issues in regard to the findings of the European Court of Justice, on 11 September 2003, against Ireland in relation to implementation of obligations under Council Directive 79/923/EEC on the quality of shellfish waters.

The Department, working closely with an Bord Iascaigh Mhara, BIM, and the Marine Institute, has been progressing the work involved as a matter of priority. The process is being underpinned through ongoing consultation with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

BIM and the institute were tasked with drafting anti-pollution programmes for the designated areas, in consultation with relevant local authorities, and I am pleased to inform the Deputy that this process is substantially complete.

In this regard, a formal response, detailing the significant progress already made in this matter, issued to the European Commission on 30 January 2004, in reply to the Commission's inquiry for an update on the situation.

Mobile Telephony.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

166 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the charging of high termination fees to mobile phone consumers when porting their mobile phone numbers and the consequent charging of rentals by two mobile companies for one phone; the action he intends to take arising from this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5873/04]

I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy. This is a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation.

Departmental Appointments.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

167 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the nature of the personal probity test it is intended to apply to directors of State-sponsored companies; if existing directors will be subjected to the test or if it will apply to new appointments only; if he will examine the possibility of an independent appointments system for semi-State boards within his remit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5826/04]

The code of practice for the governance of State bodies issued under Government decision dated 2 October 2001 directs that the highest standards of business conduct should apply in the corporate governance of State bodies. Particular importance is attached to the ethical behaviour of those appointed to positions of director in these bodies. The code contains an appendix setting out a framework code of business conduct for directors and employees.

In order to provide for greater transparency I have proposed the introduction of a requirement whereby all those to be appointed or re-appointed to positions of director in the State bodies under the aegis of my Department will be required to produce a valid tax clearance certificate from the Revenue Commissioners. Existing directors, however, would serve out their terms under the conditions that applied when they were appointed.

In addition, I have also proposed the introduction of a provision that all directors of State bodies under the aegis of my Department would sign an annual compliance statement on a personal basis in relation to the code of practice.

The Deputy is aware that my Department is not the only one with responsibility for State bodies and in this context the Department of Finance has convened a cross-departmental committee to consider the implications for the wider State body sector should this initiative proceed.

The Deputy will appreciate that the question of examining a possible independent appointments system for directors of State bodies is one that would require cross-departmental consideration and is more appropriate a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Finance.

Mobile Telephony.

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

168 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to make policy directives on national roaming by mobile phone network operators; the way in which mobile virtual network operators will be permitted access to existing mobile service providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5867/04]

I have recently published draft policy directions which I propose to issue to the Communications Regulator.

One of these draft directions focuses on national roaming. It mandates ComReg to use its powers to mandate national roaming on existing GSM networks of incumbent mobile network operators on fair commercial terms, subject to relevant requirements under European law.

These directions have been published in draft format for public consultation until Monday 1 March 2004 and I will consider the position of mobile virtual networks operators in the context of this consultation process.

Broadcasting Legislation.

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

169 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the specific steps he intends to take during the Irish Presidency to protect minors in the area of broadcasting in regard to his statement of 26 January 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5824/04]

When addressing the Culture Committee of the European Parliament on 26 January, I outlined the work programme for the Irish Presidency in the broadcasting area.

One of the items of that programme relates to the protection of minors. The EU Commission will propose an update to the recommendation on the protection of minors and human dignity. The Commission intends to publish the update to the recommendation in March. This would provide time for the Commission document to be discussed at meetings of the audio-visual working group in March and April with a view to the updated recommendation being placed on the agenda of the Education and Culture Council in May, for a policy discussion.

Gas Distribution Network.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

170 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself with the steps being taken to modernise and upgrade the domestic gas distribution network; when all cast iron pipes will be replaced; if he will consider alerting members of the public living in those areas where cast iron pipes are still in use of the need for extra vigilance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5822/04]

In the first instance it is an operational matter for Bord Gáis Éireann, BGE, under the supervision of the Commission for Energy Regulation, CER, to arrange the safety of its natural gas network and this includes works to upgrade the network or to replace cast iron pipes. I am aware that gas safety is a high priority for BGE.

BGE has an ongoing programme to replace all cast iron mains with polyethylene pipe within the next ten years. The network at present consists of 8,000 km of which over 85% or 6,800 km is polyethylene. When BGE took over the networks of the former town gas companies, there were 3,000 km of cast iron mains.

Following the Raglan House explosion in the mid 1980s, BGE followed a strategy to replace all cast iron pipes greater than four inches diameter or serving buildings of four or more storeys. This programme was completed well within the scheduled ten years. All other cast iron mains have been subject to replacement in pace with roadworks, building redevelopment and new construction.

The report of the independent investigation of the Rathfarnham explosion of 2 November 2003 was published by the CER on 25 November 2003 and the commissioner provided my Department with a copy on that day. Among the recommendations in the report, all of which were accepted by the commissioner, was that BGE should put in place a parallel programme of cast iron mains replacement in areas where the ground was known to be liable to subsidence. In the report, the investigator noted that BGE had already commissioned work to assess the vulnerability of its cast iron network to poor ground conditions.

Another of the recommendations was that BGE report its progress in meeting the recommendations, to the CER, within three months. I understand that BGE and the CER are in close touch with each other in this and allied safety matters and that the cast iron pipe replacement programme is under review.

As regards advice to gas users and their neighbours, I would remind them that gas, although a clean and efficient fuel, must be treated with care and to follow the gas industry's safety advice: to report all suspected leaks, not to risk sparks or open flames in a suspected area and to ensure that only suitably qualified personnel install and maintain gas appliances. It will be noted that BGE has a strong safety awareness campaign under way at present.

Marine Safety.

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

171 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he expects to introduce a new registration system for recreational craft at sea. [5834/04]

The maritime safety directorate of my Department is developing a registration system to enhance the safety of recreational craft. This new system will form part of an overhaul of the vessel registration process generally by the directorate, which will put safety at the centre of the process. It is proposed that recreational craft would fall into two categories for registration purposes, a small craft register or full registration, depending on length, tonnage and speed.

Having carried out a preliminary examination, a number of concerns have arisen which need to be addressed. As part of the process of developing the register I have now requested that the directorate undertake a public consultation process to clarify, in more specific terms, the needs and concerns of the different interests involved.

The registration system will be introduced initially on a voluntary basis to facilitate the early commencement of the scheme, but it is my intention that the system will, in time, be put on a statutory basis. The consultation process will commence very shortly.

Telecommunications Services.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

172 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the percentage of the territory of the country which is now covered by fixed wireless access local area licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5868/04]

I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy. Fixed wireless access local area licences are a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.

Information on: licences already awarded; the areas covered by those licences and; licence processes currently under way is available directly from ComReg.

Waste Disposal.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

173 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in regard to his Department’s discussions with the former operators of a facility (details supplied) in County Tipperary, regarding the remedial work to be carried out at the dried out tailings pond at the mine site; if his attention has been drawn to the serious objections raised by local residents regarding proposals to dispose of organic waste at the site; his views on this proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5842/04]

The former operating company made a presentation of its proposals for remedial works at old mine sites, including the tailings pond, to the Department, North Tipperary County Council and the Environmental Protection Agency on 19 January last. The Department issued a press release outlining the outcome of that meeting. A further meeting to consider the operating company's detailed proposals, expected at the end of this month, will be held on 22 March 2004.

An application for a waste permit under the Waste Management Act 1996 was also lodged with North Tipperary County Council in late December 2003 on behalf of the former operating company. The objections to this application, which refers to an experimental proposal for remediation of the tailings pond, are a matter for the local authority.

Telecommunications Regulation.

John Deasy

Ceist:

174 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he plans to introduce legislation or directives to ComReg to protect children from being sent pornographic images via texts on mobile phones. [5833/04]

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

179 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he plans to tackle the growing problem of pornographic images being sent to children through mobile phone text systems; and the measures which can be taken. [5832/04]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

321 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans his Department has to make it compulsory for persons who purchase pre-paid mobile telephones to register the number in their name (details supplied). [5687/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 174, 179 and 321 together.

I understand the Deputies' concern over the recent media reports of pornographic images being sent via mobile phones, however, legislation already exists to tackle this problem.

It is an offence under the Section 13 of the Post Office (Amendment) Act, 1951 as amended by the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983 to send by phone any message or other matter which is grossly offensive or of an indecent, obscene or menacing character. It is also an offence under section 10 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act, 1997 to harass a person by use of a telephone.

Anyone who has information on these matters should bring it immediately to the attention of the Garda Síochána for criminal investigation. Such offences are not the responsibility of ComReg.

The registration of pre-paid mobile phones is a complex issue. The enforcement and practicalities of implementing such a register would be difficult given the already high level of mobile phone penetration, the high percentage of prepaid phones already in circulation, and the issues surrounding the capturing of and ensuring the accuracy of the required information.

My colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform is responsible for policy on the protection of children from the transmission of pornographic images by phones and other media.

Marine Safety.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

175 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself with the seaworthiness of all shipping passing close to the Irish coast or using Irish ports; if all such vessels are compliant with international safety standards including the availability of qualified crew; the means used to detect those who do not observe the standards set down; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5804/04]

Safety standards for seagoing passenger and cargo vessels are developed and adopted at international level, principally from the Safety Conventions of the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, and from initiatives at European Union level. My Department participates in the relevant IMO and EU committees that develop new standards and legislation, and our maritime law is continually updated to ensure that all the resulting EU directives and IMO safety conventions and resolutions are fully implemented.

Under Irish and international law all vessels trading into and out of Irish ports are required to carry the appropriate certification to demonstrate compliance with the requisite international conventions and regulations applicable to ships of their size and type. All vessels are subject to surveys and inspections by their flag states and, under the European Union's port state control system, all vessels using Community ports are liable to inspections by any of the EU states they are visiting. The application of port state control ensures that at any given time a large number of ships operating in Community waters has undergone an inspection by an EU port state control authority.

The enforcement of all regulations, including checking that the crew is suitably qualified, is carried out by the surveying staff attached to the maritime safety directorate of my Department. They inspect vessels to ensure that they are complying with the safety standards laid down. Surveyors assign priority to foreign registered vessels that have had adverse inspection reports elsewhere or which fall into certain targeted categories. When any such vessels are found to be deficient, they are detained until the deficiencies are rectified

During 2003 my Department's surveyors inspected 430 foreign vessels under the port state control system. Of these, 37 vessels were detained for non-compliance with the requisite international marine safety conventions. The surveyors also inspect Irish registered vessels at least annually. Where a vessel is found not to comply then it is issued with a list of deficiencies to be rectified and it will not be permitted to leave port until the deficiencies have been addressed.

The international conventions covered by these inspections include the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, the STCW convention. All crew on board a vessel must have proper certification to ensure that they are suitably trained and can adequately and safely discharge the duties of the positions they hold.

I believe that the monitoring of ships by regular inspections is proving to be an effective measure in encouraging full compliance with international safety standards and that the vast majority of vessels operating into and out of Irish ports and waters are complying with international convention requirements.

Telecommunications Services.

Joe Sherlock

Ceist:

176 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will report on the tendering process for the MSE to manage the MANs project and on the likely development of the management of the metropolitan area networks over the next three to five years and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5870/04]

The Management Services Entity, MSE, is the independent body, which will be engaged to manage, market and maintain the fibre optic metropolitan area networks, MANs, currently being constructed under the regional broadband programme.

It is intended that the MSE will be awarded a services concession contract for a period of ten years, in consideration of a financial return to the State. The MSE will offer open access to the MANs, for example, optical fibre, subducts and co-location space, on a carrier neutral basis. It is envisaged that telecommunications companies will lease capacity on the MANs from the MSE and offer broadband and related services to the public.

Notice of my Department's intention to commence a competitive tender process for the engagement of an MSE was published in the Official Journal of the European Communities on 19 June 2003.

Responses received by the tender deadline of 15 August 2003 have been evaluated, and it is anticipated that the MSE procurement process, as outlined in the instructions to tender document which issued on 19 June 2003, will reach conclusion shortly.

Damien English

Ceist:

177 Mr. English asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if broadband and IT strategies will be part of all future county and city development plans at local authority level. [5835/04]

Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources (Mr. D. Ahern) The question of county and city development plans is a matter for the local authorities and the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Fisheries Protection.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

178 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he will make a statement on his participation in and the outcome of the meeting of the European Council of Agriculture and Fisheries Ministers on 17 to 19 December, 2003. [5819/04]

The outcome of the Fisheries Council in December was generally satisfactory from an Irish viewpoint. The negotiations were difficult and prolonged and included several items of particular interest to Irish fishermen such as the extension of a "days-at-sea" regime as part of a recovery plan for cod stocks. Close liaison was maintained with representatives of the Irish fishing industry throughout the Council and in my view this contributed significantly to the Council's outcome which has been broadly welcomed by the industry.

The Commission had proposed a system of "days-at-sea" that would have limited to an unacceptable degree the length of time that fishermen could spend fishing in all of the Irish Sea and a large area off the Donegal coast. I succeeded in negotiating some fundamental changes to the Commission's proposal which will minimise the impact of the scheme on vessels catching little or no cod, especially prawn fishermen. The fishing effort system agreed provides for a range of fishing days, from no restrictions at all to 12 days per month, depending on the type of fishing gear used and the level of cod, sole and plaice catches. I also persuaded the Council to maintain the spring closure for cod fishing in the northern part of the Irish Sea, thus protecting this stock during its most vulnerable period. The Council also progressed a plan for the recovery of the northern hake stock. These plans aim to restore these stocks to safe levels over a number of years. These are important stocks to Irish fishermen and the need for recovery plans is widely accepted.

The December Council also dealt with the setting of quotas for 2004. Some quotas were reduced in accordance with scientific advice whilst in other cases it was possible to increase quotas, again because of improvements in the status of particular stocks. Overall, an 8% increase over last year's quotas was achieved which, bearing in mind the need to respond to biological concerns on particular stocks such as cod, sole and plaice, I consider to be a good result for Irish fishermen. Our 2004 quotas includes additional quota available under the Hague Preference system under which Ireland gets additional whitefish quotas at the expense of other member states. This was achieved in the face of opposition from certain other member states.

Overall, I believe the outcome of the Council to be a positive one which helps to maintain a balance between the economic needs of the Irish fishing industry and the need to preserve and rebuild key stocks.

Question No. 179 answered with QuestionNo. 174.

Gas Terminal.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

180 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he intends to examine the possible effects on local lakes and rivers of the transfer of peat material from the proposed Bellanaboy gas terminal in County Mayo. [5874/04]

This matter is one which falls to be examined by Mayo County Council under the Planning and Development Act 2000.

Question No. 181 answered with QuestionNo. 147.

Post Office Network.

David Stanton

Ceist:

182 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the downgrading of post offices throughout the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5969/04]

The Government is committed to a viable and sustainable rural post office network.

However, consideration must be given to the current climate in which An Post is operating, bearing in mind the serious operational losses the company has suffered and the measures which need to be implemented if the company is to return to profitability.

All stakeholders recognise that An Post must adapt to its customer needs within the financial constraints in which it now finds itself.

Parallel with these developments, under an agreement between the Irish Postmasters' Union and An Post, the conversion of sub-post offices from a fixed contract to an agency basis, whereby payments are linked to transactions, is being implemented on a voluntary basis.

Where vacancies arise in the normal course of events, An Post advertises the post at least twice and actively canvasses for suitable persons to fill the vacant positions. It is only when a suitable candidate for a vacancy cannot be found or where there are no applicants, that a post office is closed. Such closures are regarded as temporary pending an application from a suitable person.

In order to improve the viability of the post office network, significant extra commercial business has been acquired including bill pay facilities for the ESB and a contract with the AIB under which the banks' customers can access their accounts through the network.

I understand that this new business is contributing to enhancing the sustainability of the network.

Northern Ireland Issues.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

183 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Taoiseach the position regarding the peace process in the North. [5608/04]

The review of the Good Friday Agreement is under way and is expected to continue to the Easter period. The review is about the operation of the Agreement. There can be no change in the fundamentals. We are open to considering practical and sensible changes in the workings of the Agreement where the parties consent to such changes.

There are, of course, critical issues to be addressed. In the course of my address at Coleraine University on Thursday, 19 February I emphasised that the essence and core of the Agreement is partnership, that a viable partnership in Northern Ireland can only be constructed on the basis of total equality between the prospective partners. There can be no half-way house between violence and democracy. Equally, there can be no comfortable resting place between exclusion and partnership.

We must therefore, have definitive closure to paramilitarianism and a commitment to exclusively peaceful means. We must also have commitment to the inclusion of all parties whose electoral mandate gives them a right of participation in the political system.

Departmental Costs.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

184 Mr. Crowe asked the Taoiseach the amount spent by his Department on legal advice and lawyers; the amount paid out in settlement of legal proceedings against his Department, including cases settled prior to coming to court in each of the past three years, omitting expenses relating to tribunals of inquiry. [5611/04]

The following table outlines the amount spent by my Department on legal advice and lawyers.

Legal Advice

Year

Amount

2003

32,885

2002

5,397

My Department has paid €145,000 to 29 current and former staff members following the settlement by the Department of Finance of an equal pay claim against all Departments lodged by the Civil and Public Services Union.

The figures do not include expenses relating to the Moriarty tribunal or the Independent Commission of Inquiry into the Dublin and Monaghan bombings.

EU Presidency.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

185 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Taoiseach the details of the programme for marking the accession of new EU member states in Dublin on 1 May 2004; the time, nature and location of events; the projected cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5612/04]

In so far as my Department is involved, the main official events being arranged to mark enlargement on 1 May 2004, comprise a formal ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin on the evening of 1 May at which the Heads of State or Government of the EU and accession countries will participate; and immediately after the ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin, an official dinner at Farmleigh for the European Council Members, being Heads of State or Government.

Earlier in the day, the Presidents of the European Commission and European Parliament will join me in meeting the press for statements and comments about the significance of this enlargement.

Timings are not yet firmed but the formal ceremony at Áras an Uachtaráin and the dinner at Farmleigh are intended to take place between 5 p.m. and 9 p.m. Consideration is also being given to the possibility of a further reception linked to the meeting with the media.

Costs arising to my Department identified at this stage of planning are provisionally estimated to be in the order of €300,000.

The Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism is also co-ordinating an extensive programme of public events in Dublin and throughout the country to mark the historic occasion.

Telecommunications Services.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

186 Mr. Boyle asked the Taoiseach the anticipated increases in telephone costs to his Department after the recent telephone rental price rises. [5613/04]

The increase in line rental costs by Eircom to the Department after the recent increase in telephone line rentals is €238.37 per month or €2,860 for a full year.

Land Reclassification.

David Stanton

Ceist:

187 Mr. Stanton asked the Taoiseach the amount and percentage of farm land that has been lost to farming in 2000, 2001 and 2002 due to forestry, road developments and industrial as well as building developments and all such other developments [5406/04]

The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available. The CSO compiles statistics on the agricultural area utilised on farms over one hectare, from its annual June agricultural survey. This comprises the area under crops, horticulture, silage, hay, pasture and rough grazing in use including fallow and set-aside land.

The total agricultural area utilised was 4,443,200 hectares in the June 2000 census of agriculture. The corresponding estimate for June 2001 was 4,410,100 hectares and, for June 2002, 4,372,000 hectares.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

188 Mr. Boyle asked the Taoiseach the number of full time civil servants in his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5912/04]

There are no full time civil servants in my Department who first entered the service as political advisers.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

189 Mr. Gilmore asked the Taoiseach if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6002/04]

There are no plans to decentralise any part of my Department, therefore the question of a risk assessment does not arise.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

190 Mr. Gilmore asked the Taoiseach the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6017/04]

No parts of the Department of the Taoiseach have been decentralised.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

191 Mr. Gilmore asked the Taoiseach the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6032/04]

The exact procedures which will apply in the relocation of staff in the decentralisation programme are being dealt with as part of the implementation process. This is being driven by the implementation committee and will be discussed with the public service unions.

Pending clarification of those procedures, my Department has not carried out any survey to ascertain the number of staff who are interested in relocating from Dublin under the decentralisation programme.

Where members of staff, on their own initiative, ask to be considered for relocation, this is noted and will be taken into account when the process of formally ascertaining staff interest in relocation commences.

So far, 17 members of staff from the clerical officer, staff officer, executive officer, administrative officer and higher executive officer grades have taken the initiative of alerting the Department to their interest in participating in the decentralisation programmes in a wide range of locations in 15 different counties. This number is likely to change significantly when the procedures are clarified.

Working Time Act.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

192 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a 24 hour a week, part time worker, who does not work on a Monday is entitled to 12 hours paid leave on the May Bank holiday. [5617/04]

The Organisation of Working time Act 1997 provides that a part-time employee must have worked at least 40 hours during the period of five weeks ending on the day before a public holiday to have an entitlement in respect of that public holiday.

Regulation No. 5(2)(a) of the Organisation of Working Time (Determination of Pay for Holidays) Regulations 1997-S.I. No. 475 of 1997 sets out the entitlement in respect of a public holiday of an employee who is not a piece employee and who does not work on a day which is a public holiday. Generally, such an employee shall be entitled to be paid a sum that is equal to one-fifth of the sum, including any regular bonus or allowance the amount of which does not vary in relation to the work done by the employee but excluding any pay for overtime, paid in respect of the normal weekly hours last worked by the employee before that public holiday.

Regulation 5(2)(b) of the regulations sets out the entitlement in respect of a public holiday of a piece employee who does not work on a day which is a public holiday. In such circumstances, the employee shall generally be entitled to be paid a sum that is equal to one-fifth of the average weekly pay, excluding any pay for overtime, calculated over: (i) the period of 13 weeks ending immediately before that public holiday, or (ii) if no time was worked by the employee during that period, the period of 13 weeks ending on the day on which time was last worked by the employee before that public holiday.

Industrial Development.

Damien English

Ceist:

193 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures that have been put in place to support indigenous industry here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5698/04]

The support of indigenous industry is afforded a high priority in industrial policy and this is reflected in the programmes pursued by the enterprise development agencies of my Department.

Enterprise Ireland, which has the lead role in this area, offers a range of supports aimed at assisting Irish indigenous client companies to expand and compete in the international marketplace. The agency delivers a flexible set of solutions tailored to the needs of individual circumstances of Irish enterprises. Each client company is assigned a development adviser who works with the company in assessing its needs and capabilities, formulating an agreed growth plan and in assisting the company access the range of services and resources it needs to execute that plan.

Enterprise Ireland provides funding and non-financial supports to client companies across a range of activities structured within the six key interacting elements of a business development model. Key among these are supports in respect of business planning and information, research, development and design, production and operations, marketing and business development, human resource development and finance for growth. The financial supports offered by Enterprise Ireland place a strong emphasis on encouraging research and development and improving the competitiveness of existing companies, supporting new company start-ups and growing exports.

In May 2003, Enterprise Ireland launched the competitiveness fund, a €10 million fund established to build the competitiveness of small and medium enterprises. The final call for proposals under the fund closed on 6 February 2004 with more than €7.5 million already committed to Irish firms. Shannon Development, which has responsibility for Irish industry in the Shannon region, operates a number of programmes aimed at established Irish industry and high potential start-up companies. The main focus is on the technological and management ability of client companies and to the ability of these companies to invest in and exploit research and development. In 2003, the Shannon region's technology based start-up sector continued to be buoyant with seven HPSU business proposals approved for assistance, 37 new start-up feasibility proposals supported and venture capital of €2.5 million leveraged for the start-up sector in the region.

The year 2003 saw the opening of the €3.8 million Birr Technology Centre, and the commencement of construction at the Information Age Park Ennis to complete the network of five technology locations, which comprise the Shannon development knowledge network. The company is also developing a concept known as e-towns to help stimulate information-related investment and enterprise to smaller population centres. Five locations have been selected and it is expected that the total capital investment in each location will be in the order of €2 million to €3 million.

The city and county enterprise boards, CEBs, have primary responsibility for the promotion of indigenous industry in the micro-enterprise sector and are strongly committed to the support and development of this sector and will continue to be proactive in ensuring that available funds are targeted to maximise entrepreneurial development throughout the country. More than 30,000 jobs have been created in indigenous companies supported by the CEBs since their establishment in 1993.

Job Creation.

Damien English

Ceist:

194 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures that have been taken to generate new employment in Navan, following the meeting with her Department, a delegation from Navan Town Council, the enterprise development officer with Meath County Council and the county manager; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5699/04]

IDA Ireland's remit is to secure high value added projects requiring skills and innovation that will deliver high wage jobs to the local economy. In recent times, competition from emerging economies to attract industry here has increased. Availability of premises is one of the important attractions for foreign direct investment in Ireland. Some 70 acres of serviced industrial lands are available at the IDA Navan Business Park where four client companies are located. IDA Ireland has accelerated the level of itinerary visits to Navan and is hopeful that this will result in additional projects for the park.

IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland are working with Meath County Council's new investment marketing manager in promoting the business park's facilities, nationally and internationally, and securing the provision of required infrastructure in the county, particularly telecoms and electricity. There are proposals for three advance office buildings and one advance technology building in the business park at the planning permission stage. Planning permission has been received for the conversion of a former house estate, Athlumney House, Navan, incorporating 29,000 sq. ft. of office space; this redevelopment programme is well advanced.

Expansion projects in Navan that are under way include Generali and Europ Assistance, which will provide additional employment of 57 and 50 jobs respectively. A pilot FÁS traineeship scheme has been established in Navan to service insurance administration. In 2004, FÁS has planned for Navan training programmes such as telesales training, return to work programme, computerised accounts/payroll course, beautician and care assistant traineeships.

The Meath County Enterprise Board is facilitating micro-enterprises to create jobs and is providing training courses, business advice and mentoring for enterprises in Navan and elsewhere. The board and Enterprise Ireland have supported the development of the Navan enterprise centre, which consists of over 75,000 square feet of enterprise and office space and employs 150 people. The decentralisation programme announced in the budget includes 100 jobs for relocation to Navan and this should provide a further boost to development in the area.

Job Losses.

Damien English

Ceist:

195 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures that have been taken or are proposed to support the furniture industry in Navan, County Meath, which is continuously underpinned and is experiencing ongoing job losses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5700/04]

The furniture industry in Navan and in Ireland faces increased costs of production as well as competition from low cost economies. The industry has been outsourcing some of its production to reduce costs and maintain competitiveness and this has had an adverse effect on employment.

Enterprise Ireland assists the furniture industry by encouraging investment in innovation so that companies can increase home market share and develop export markets. FÁS supports the furniture industry in County Meath through the provision of craft training; 37 cabinet making and wood-machining apprentices from the county are currently in training with FÁS and other bodies.

Meath County Enterprise Board has facilitated the participation of six furniture companies in the county, including three from Navan, in a cross-Border training programme provided by the Dublin Institute of Technology and the Furniture Centre in Letterfrack, County Galway.

Question No. 196 withdrawn.

Adult Education.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

197 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has satisfied herself that there is sufficient support for persons already at work to take up study opportunities in further education or in higher education; if she will consider developing a partnership model which would combine employer support, study time allowance and Government or tax relief to create a genuine workplace partnership for the promotion of life long learning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5762/04]

There are ever increasing opportunities being made available for persons to become involved in lifelong learning. The Exchequer is already investing significantly in supporting learning opportunities for those at work and for persons seeking employment. Adult education and training, which was the focus of the task force report on lifelong learning, is provided in a multiplicity of centres funded by the Exchequer, either directly or through intermediary agencies, including universities, institutes of technology, further education colleges, local adult education centres, Youthreach and traveller training centres, FÁS training centres, community training workshops and dedicated sectoral training centres such as agriculture and tourism. Learning opportunities in this area are also available through a wide range of private providers including private third level colleges and commercial training bodies.

It is important to recognise that responsibility in this area is shared involving Government, employers and employees. The need to encourage further training and education of those at work is well recognised. Research shows that the level of investment by companies in the development of skills of their employees is somewhat better than the EU average, but significantly below the best-performing countries such as those in Scandinavia, the Netherlands and the UK. Whereas large companies, and especially foreign-owned companies, invest heavily in their employees, indigenous SMEs are relatively low spenders. For Ireland to be successful in the future we must increase investment in the skills of our workforce and ensure that all workers can get the benefit of such investment. Intensifying global competition is leading to changes in the sectors where Ireland can complete effectively, necessitating a continued focus on changing skill needs and keeping in mind the impact of the changing business environment it is vital that firms take greater responsibility for upskilling their employees to give them a competitive advantage.

The issues raised in the Deputy's question about employer support, study time allowance and Government or tax relief to promote life long learning were considered in the course of the preparation of the report of the task force on lifelong learning. These issues were more recently addressed in the Irish Labour Market Review 2003, published by FÁS in late 2003. FÁS will carry out a study in this area, in consultation with relevant organisations, in 2004. This study will make a further contribution to our consideration of this issue.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

198 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of full time civil servants within her Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5913/04]

There are no civil servants serving in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment who first entered the service as political advisers.

Work Permits.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

199 Mr. Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the correct procedures regarding the employment of non-nationals were followed by the APC company when advertising for workers to fulfil a contract at Tarbert Power Station. [5939/04]

I am informed that 75 work permits have been issued to this company in the past 12 months and having examined the applications in question the work permit section of my Department is satisfied that correct procedures were followed.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

200 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on her Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of her Department; when she expects to receive the risk assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6003/04]

Following the announcement of a decentralisation programme across the civil and public service, a decentralisation implementation committee has been established within my Department to drive the decentralisation process across the Department and its agencies. This committee has had a preliminary discussion on the need for a risk assessment exercise and is convening a specific meeting at an early date to consider in more detail the requirements for both the Department and its agencies.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

201 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the locations to which any part of her Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by her Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within her Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6018/04]

The Patents Office, an office of my Department, was decentralised to Kilkenny in 1998. There are currently 82 staff employed in 72 posts in the Patents Office in Kilkenny. A total of 63 posts were decentralised in 1998, of which 15 staff were located from within the Department, 43 were transferred from other Departments and five specialist staff were directly recruited to the Patents Office. With regard to people changes required to achieve decentralisation, the best estimate of the Department is that there were an average of 3.5 people changes for every job decentralised.

The cost of the decentralisation, which includes fitting out of accommodation and IT requirements, is estimated at €361,000. It has not been possible to quantify the staffing costs associated with the move to Kilkenny given the required training overlap with existing staff for new staff in advance of the move to Kilkenny; the provision of training for staff relocating from the Patents Office to other areas of the Department and the total administrative costs involved in the processing of staffing, organisational and IT issues resulting from the move to Kilkenny. The associated administrative costs would also include the time and effort of staff in personnel units of other Government Departments, staff of the Office of Public Works and the Office of the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commissioners who all contributed to the move of the Patents Office to Kilkenny.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

202 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of staff within her Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6033/04]

Following the announcement of the Government's decentralisation programme a survey was conducted within the Department with a view to establishing the numbers of staff interested in decentralising to locations outside Dublin. A total of 503 staff responded to the survey, 69 of whom indicated that they would be prepared to transfer to Carlow and 160 of whom indicated a willingness to decentralise to other locations outside Dublin. It should be noted that the majority of those who expressed a willingness to decentralise listed a number of possible locations. The detailed information requested by the Deputy is set out as follows.

Location

PO and equivalent/ Assistant Secretary

AP and equivalent

HEO and equivalent

EO

SO

CO

Other grades

Athlone

1

1

1

2

5

Athy

1

2

5

6

6

Buncrana

1

2

Carlow

1

3

10

21

2

32

Carrick on Shannon

1

1

1

4

6

Cavan

2

1

1

4

Claremorris

1

3

1

Donegal

1

3

Drogheda

1

1

2

5

9

Dungarvan

1

1

Furbo

Kanturk

2

1

Kilkenny

1

4

10

Killarney

1

1

1

2

Kilrush

1

1

Knock Airport

1

2

4

1

Limerick

1

2

3

Listowel

1

2

Loughrea

2

2

Macroom

1

1

1

Mullingar

1

2

5

7

Navan

3

2

1

1

Newbridge

1

3

10

8

18

Newcastle West

New Ross

1

2

Portarlington

1

5

6

7

Portlaoise

2

4

10

13

Roscommon

1

1

2

4

7

Roscrea

2

1

4

Sligo

1

1

1

2

7

1

Tipperary

2

1

Trim

1

2

6

7

1

8

Tullamore

2

1

8

5

Waterford

1

2

1

3

Wexford

2

3

4

1

Youghal

1

1

Work Permits.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

203 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding an application for a non-EU work permit for a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [6072/04]

I am informed that a permit in respect of the individual concerned was issued on 26 November 2003 valid until 25 November 2004.

Industrial Development.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

204 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 298 of 27 January 2004, if there has been further progress in the provision of an alternative manufacturing industry; if the IDA indicated that the use of the facility for a non-manufacturing purpose is the only option now for the site in question; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6077/04]

IDA Ireland has already circulated a profile of the Celbridge facility to its network of overseas offices but has not been successful in attracting a replacement project. It is understood that interest has been expressed in acquiring the facility for non-manufacturing purposes but agreement has not yet been reached.

Question No. 205 withdrawn.

Search and Rescue Service.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

206 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of the privatisation of the north west search and rescue service, the same medical helicopter emergency transport service and mercy missions will be available to the Mayo and other off-shore islands by the new contractors as was provided previously; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5808/04]

I understand from my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, Deputy Dermot Ahern, that CHCI provides a full SAR service to the standard required and demanded by the Irish Coast Guard. This service includes medical evacuation in the Ireland search and rescue region and island relief. As such, I can see no reason for coastal and island communities to be concerned about the standard of emergency service available from CHCI, when they replace the Air Corps in the north west.

In addition, one of the roles of the Defence Forces under the white paper on defence is the provision of services to civil authorities as and when required. The Defence Forces have never been found wanting in this regard, particularly in times of floods, forest fires, severe weather conditions or any other emergencies faced by the community, including those on the islands. In the event of an emergency request from the Coast Guard, or, from any other service, the Air Corps will obviously respond to any such request in it usual efficient and supportive manner and to the best of its capability.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

207 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Defence the number of full time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5914/04]

There are no full time civil servants in my Department who were political advisers prior to appointment.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

208 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6004/04]

No assessment of the type described by the Deputy has been carried out by my Department. Civil-military working groups have been set up to consider the practical aspects of the transfer of staff to Newbridge and the Curragh. In that regard, appropriate measures will be put in place to ensure that there is no adverse impact on the operations of the Department and of Defence Forces headquarters.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

209 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6019/04]

The Deputy will be aware that the finance branch of my Department was decentralised to Galway in 1989. Of the 176 staff who relocated, 43 were already serving in my Department while 133 transferred from other Departments. The move to Galway was over-subscribed in terms of applicants from all grades and it was not necessary to recruit locally for administrative posts. Ten staff were recruited in the services and telephonist areas. There were no relocation expenses paid. There are currently 194 people employed in the finance branch of my Department. The Deputy will also be aware that the Directorate of Military Police, Directorate of Reserve Forces and Headquarters 1 Southern Brigade FCA, comprising 23 military personnel in all, decentralised to Kickham Barracks, Clonmel, County Tipperary, in 2001.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

210 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Defence the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; and the locations for which they have volunteered. [6034/04]

No survey of staff interest in regard to the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance in December 2003 has been conducted in my Department.

Forestry Sector.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

211 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the annual value of the forestry industry; the extent to which a trend is discernible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6089/04]

The annual value of the forest industry is estimated at €500 million. The current timber output of 3 million cubic metres is anticipated to grow to 3.95 million cubic metres by 2005 and to 4.44 million cubic metres by 2010. This represents output growth of 37% in a decade.

Grant Payments.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

212 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a decision will be made on an application made by a person (details supplied) in County Cork for consideration of force majeure and exceptional circumstances in relation to the establishment of entitlements in view of the detailed circumstances submitted to support the application. [5579/04]

The person named submitted an application for consideration of force majeure — exceptional circumstances to my Department on 21 January 2004. Processing of applications has commenced and my Department will be in contact with the person named in the coming weeks.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

213 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive payment under the disadvantaged areas compensatory allowance scheme. [5580/04]

Payment due to the person named under the 2003 area-based compensatory allowance scheme could not be made until a potential stocking density problem had been resolved but, now that this has been done, payment will issue shortly.

Milk Quota.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

214 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will approve the transfer of a milk quota for 2004 to a person (details supplied) in County Cork on compassionate grounds. [5630/04]

Milk quota can only be transferred between family members when the land to which the quota attaches is transferred as provided for under the milk quota regulations. A lease of land with quota is possible between family members. That possibility of a land lease has been raised in discussions between my Department and the named person, but I understand the named person and his brother are reluctant to follow this course. There is no provision under the regulations whereby a producer can temporarily transfer quota without land to another producer.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

215 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if an additional milk quota will be allocated to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [5631/04]

Allocations of milk quota from the national reserve are granted on the basis of recommendations from the milk quota appeals tribunal. The tribunal is a body established to consider and advise on applications for additional quota from individual producers who have suffered severe hardship in the context of the milk quota system. The person named submitted an application for additional quota on the grounds of hardship and this was considered by the tribunal in the current 2003-04 milk quota year. Unfortunately, it did not recommend making an allocation on this occasion and the person named was notified of this outcome. While every application to the tribunal is treated in a fair and sympathetic manner it has not been possible, within the constraints of the limited amount of quota available and the sizeable number of applications received, to meet the demands for quota from all applicants.

Agriculture Strategy.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

216 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food his views on whether the high level group which he has established to re-examine the future strategy for Irish agriculture is deficient both in terms of broader representation from those actively involved in farming and rural life, and in gender balance. [5661/04]

In setting up this group, I was guided by the context and the environment in which the agri-food sector will be operating in the future. The agriculture and food sectors exist in a rapidly changing and internationalised environment. Farmers rely on a series of routes for their output to reach these customers. Equally, the processing sector, whether co-operatives, private or public companies, the distribution networks, the retail sector and catering sectors are all vital links for the farmers with consumers. In addition and to an increasing extent, agriculture has had to take on board many issues including animal welfare, the environment, biodiversity and the enhancement of the landscape. It is with this degree of complexity in mind that I appointed the group. The membership of the group consists of experts drawn from farming, the food industry, research, academia, the State agencies and the business world. This group has a good balance of representation and will, in my view, provide the agri-food sector with the vision and strategies needed for the future.

Grant Payments.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

217 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when forestry premia will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5679/04]

Payment of the 2004 forestry premiums will begin to be made towards the end of March as has been the position over the years.

Question No. 218 withdrawn.

Farm Retirement Scheme.

John Cregan

Ceist:

219 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will examine his Department’s demand for repayment of an alleged overpayment made in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick in receipt of the scheme for early retirement from farming, whose spouse was in receipt of a contributory old age pension from the Department of Social and Family Affairs. [5755/04]

The 1994 scheme of early retirement from farming and its successor introduced in November 2000 are both governed by EU Council regulations. It is a requirement of these regulations that the early retirement pension may only be paid as a supplement to any national retirement pension payable. This means that any national retirement pension payable to a participant in the scheme must be deducted from his or her early retirement pension. This condition also applies to participants' partners in a joint management application. The overpayment for the person named arose from the concurrent payment of her husband's old age contributory pension and the full amount of early retirement pension. My Department is obliged to recover all overpayments under the scheme, as failure to do so would jeopardise its obligations with regard to EU funds. However, my Department will consider sympathetically any proposals the person named may wish to make to repay the full amount over a period of time.

Grant Payments.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

220 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a ewe premium grant for 2003 has not been made to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5756/04]

The person named applied on 118 ewes under the 2003 ewe premium scheme, which he declared to be in his ownership and possession at the time of application on 6 January 2003 and which he undertook to keep on his holding up to 13 April 2003. At an inspection of his flock on 17 December 2003 only 84 ewes were presented. The person named was unable to account for the 34 missing ewes. He was given the opportunity to submit sales dockets to prove that he disposed of the 34 ewes after the retention period but he failed to do so. As the person named failed to satisfy my Department that he had 118 ewes when he applied in early 2003, and since he could not account for the movements of 34 of those 118 ewes, he cannot be paid 2003 ewe premium according to the relevant EU regulations.

Disadvantaged Areas Scheme.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

221 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a submission to reclassify parts of County Monaghan as severely disadvantaged and to extend the disadvantaged status to all the BMW region has been made to the EU Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5757/04]

The position is that on one occasion in 2002 and on three occasions in 2003, my Department raised the issues of extension and reclassification of Ireland's disadvantaged areas at meetings with the EU Commission. On all four occasions the Commission services strongly made the point that a review request for designation or reclassification of any area could lead to a demand for justification of the current designation and classification of all Ireland's existing disadvantaged areas.

On the most recent occasion when my Department's officials endeavoured to progress this matter, at a meeting with the Commission on 9 December last, they were advised again by the Commission to be well aware of the risk associated with an examination of any formal request for designation or reclassification. In the light of the Commission's attitude, which has its basis in negative comments by the Court of Auditors, my Department is examining at present how best it can progress this matter further.

Farm Retirement Scheme.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

222 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Laois who is on the early retirement scheme pension is eligible to receive adult dependant allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5798/04]

The person named is in receipt of the maximum annual payment under the current early retirement scheme. There are no additional allowances payable under the scheme in respect of adult or other dependents. Because the person named joined the scheme under the joint management arrangement, the value of her husband's old age contributory pension must be deducted from her early retirement pension. If he receives an adult dependent allowance, this amount must also be deducted from the early retirement pension. The question of eligibility for the adult dependent allowance, as an addition to the old age contributory pension, is a matter for the Department of Social and Family Affairs.

Department Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

223 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5915/04]

There are no full-time civil servants in my Department who first entered the service as political advisers.

Milk Quota.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

224 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare, retiring from dairying on health grounds may assign part or all of their milk quota to a portion of land that they propose to sell. [5926/04]

I understand an application was received in my Department from the named person for a certificate of entitlement to transfer milk quota. This application sought to assign the entire transferable element of the milk quota on the sale by him of a part of his lands. Milk quota attaches equally to all the lands used in the dairying enterprise in the reference year. When part of a holding is to be sold it is essential that the Department is assured as to what parts of the holding were dairying lands in the reference year so that the amount of quota attaching to the lands in sale can be calculated for the purpose of the certificate.

In view of the information provided to date on the use of the other lands owned during the reference year, my Department wrote to the applicant proposing that a proportionate amount of the quota, rather than the entire quota, would be attached to the lands in sale and seeking observations in the matter. No reply has yet been received from the applicant but the matter will be fully considered on receipt of such a reply.

Grant Payments.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

225 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when it is proposed to issue grant aid under the native woodland scheme to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry. [5927/04]

An application from the person in question for grant aid under the native woodland scheme is currently being processed by my Department. A decision on the application will be given as quickly as possible.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

226 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a ewe premium for 2003 will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5928/04]

This matter is the subject of an appeal. The agriculture appeals office received the appeal from this herd owner on 6 February 2004. Appeals receive individual examination and are dealt with in the order in which they are received. The appeals office will contact the appellant shortly to arrange the oral hearing he requested. It is not expected that there will be any undue delay in dealing with this case.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

227 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive a forestry payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5929/04]

Payment of the 2004 forestry premium will begin to be made toward the end of March as has been the position over the years.

Michael Moynihan

Ceist:

228 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he will clarify under the mid-term review proposals, if a farmer (details supplied) sold cows and milk quota this year, will the land be eligible for cattle premia next year; if this person had land leased for dry stock and milk production, can they now sell their milk quota and cows, drop rented land and claim full cattle premia on owned land; and if this person sells premia rights, can they reduce the area which they farm in order to continue drawing the remaining rights; and if so, by how much. [5930/04]

The single payment scheme will commence on 1 January 2005 and all livestock premia and arable aid schemes will cease to exist as and from 31 December 2004. As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the single decoupled payment will be based on the average number of animals or the average number of hectares in the case of arable aid on which payments were made under the livestock premia and arable aid schemes in respect of the three reference years 2000, 2001 and 2002. The single payment is calculated by taking the three yearly average number of animals and arable hectares which attracted payment and multiplying them by the payment rate for 2002 in respect of livestock or by €383.04 per hectare in the case of arable aid. Entitlements are calculated by dividing this single payment amount by the average number of hectares over the three-year period. Farmers for whom entitlements have been established must activate those entitlements in 2005 by continuing to farm and submitting an area aid declaration in that year. In general, farmers must also have an eligible hectare for each payment entitlement.

The coupled dairy premium will be introduced this year. It will be based on the milk quota held — owned and leased in — on 31 March 2004. The applicant must be a milk producer as the premium is linked to production. The dairy premium will be decoupled from production in 2005 and will be based on the milk quota held — owned and leased in — on 31 March 2005. Dairy premium entitlements are calculated by dividing the premium by the average number of hectares over the three-year period where a farmer has existing livestock and arable entitlements or by the eligible hectares owned in 2005 where the farmer has no existing entitlements. In cases where livestock and arable entitlements are already established and the farmers concerned qualify for the decoupled dairy premium, the value per hectare of the decoupled dairy premium is added to the value of the existing livestock entitlements without the necessity of having additional eligible hectares.

If the person named sells his cows and milk quota after 31 March 2004, he will qualify for the coupled dairy premium in 2004 if he was an active milk producer in the 2003-04 milk marketing year. He will also have livestock entitlements established for 2005 based on the average number of animals that qualified for payment under the various livestock premia schemes during the three year reference period. I assume that when the Deputy refers to selling premia rights, he means selling livestock entitlements under the new regime. Under European Council Regulation 1782/03, the person named may sell some of his entitlements without land after he has activated at least 80% of his entitlements in any one calendar year.

The position with regard to rented land is that negotiations on the detailed rules regulation governing the implementation of the single payment scheme including the issue of land availability are ongoing between the European Commission and all member states. The Commission is expecting to have agreement on the detailed rules by the end of March 2004. It is not possible therefore, to indicate at this stage what the position will be in relation to the person named.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

229 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a suckler cow premium for 2003 has not been paid to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5975/04]

The person named applied for premium for 60 animals under the 2003 suckler cow scheme for small scale milk suppliers. He applied under his Tipperary herd number but was a milk supplier under his Galway herd number Under the terms and conditions of the scheme an applicant must have a milk quota which does not exceed 39,594 gallons on 31 March 2003 to 1 April 2003. Our records show that the person named held a milk quota of 40,471 gallons at 31 March 2003 and as a result is not entitled to payment under the 2003 suckler cow premium scheme.

Mayo Landslide.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

230 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position in regard to a visit by officials from his Department to the landslide victims in Pullathomas, Ballina, County Mayo; and the measures and funding in place following this meeting. [5976/04]

Officials of my Department visited Pullathomas and had a useful discussion with the farmers affected.

Grant Payments.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

231 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when decoupling takes place, the way in which a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be affected as they did not have a suckler cow quota or sheep quota in the years 2000, 2001 and 2002. [5977/04]

As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the single decoupled payment will be based on the average number of animals — or the average number of hectares in the case of arable aid — on which payments were made under the livestock premia and arable aid schemes in respect of the three reference years 2000, 2001 and 2002. The single payment is calculated by taking the three yearly average number of animals and arable hectares which attracted payment and multiplying them by the payment rate for 2002 in respect of livestock or by €383.04 per hectare in the case of arable aid. Entitlements are calculated by dividing this single payment amount by the average number of hectares over the three-year period. Farmers for whom entitlements have been established must activate those entitlements in 2005 by continuing to farm and submitting an area aid declaration in that year.

Since the person named had no animals that attracted payment under the suckler cow premium and ewe premium schemes during the three year reference period, he will not have any entitlements established in respect of those schemes. However, he will have entitlements established based on the average number of animals that qualified for payment in the reference period under the slaughter premium and special beef premium schemes.

While the European Commission's detailed rules regulations on decoupling have not yet been agreed, my Department has commenced the work of establishing entitlements for every farmer in the country. My Department intends to establish interim single payment entitlements for each farmer and to notify those entitlements to individual farmers during 2004. Definitive details will issue early in 2005. It will not be possible, however, to finalise this work until such time as the Commission's detailed rules are fully agreed. This will be well into spring of this year.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

232 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6005/04]

The decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance in his Budget Statement will necessitate the movement of at least 470 of my Department's staff and 185 staff in Teagasc, Bord Bia and Bord Glas. This will require careful planning and organisation to minimise disruption to the work of my Department and of the other agencies. The central decentralisation implementation group is drawing up an overall implementation plan which is to be submitted by March 2004. My Department's own decentralisation implementation group will examine the plan and organise detailed internal implementation arrangements. My Department will also monitor the arrangements being put in place by the agencies.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

233 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6020/04]

Table 1 shows the existing staff of my Department's decentralised headquarters offices in Johnstown Castle, Castlebar, Cavan and Portlaoise. The table also shows the years in which the original decentralisation to these locations took place. Table 2 shows the previous career history of the staff involved in the most recent decentralisation to Johnstown Castle — other than forest service staff — along the lines requested by the Deputy. My Department cannot provide total numbers of job and people changes to achieve the decentralisation as many of these changes would have occurred in other Departments. My Department has not carried out a detailed examination of the pattern in the other offices listed in table 1 because of the time elapsed and the detailed work involved.

The cost of the building in each case was borne by the Vote of the Office of Public Works. The cost of furniture, carpets, blinds and miscellaneous items were a charge on this Department and the estimated cost for all four offices listed is in the region of €3 million. I should also add that my Department has 1,700 staff based in local offices in different parts of the country.

Table 1.

Staff currently in Decentralised HQ Offices:

1970’s

1980’s

Early 1990’s

Late 1990’s

Grade

Castlebar

Cavan

Portlaoise

Johnstown Castle

Principal Officer

2

1

0

4

Senior Inspector

0

0

0

1

Sen. Sup. Vet Inspec.

0

0

0

1

Assistant Principal

4

6

1

13

Insp. Gr 1

1

0

0

0

Insp. Gr 2

2

0

0

0

Vet. Inspec

0

0

0

1

Professional Accountant

0

0

0

1

Admin. Officer

0

0

0

1

Agricultural Inspector

1

0

0

5

Assistant Ag. Inspector

1

0

0

3

Area Superintendent

0

0

0

1

HEO

15

18

7

36

HEO Analyst

0

0

0

1

Super. Ag. Officer

0

0

0

3

EO

18

23

20

64

EO Analyst

0

0

1

1

SO

11

10

19

14

CO

41

100

103

144

Service Officers

4

2

3

5

Cleaner

0

1

0

0

Visually Impaired Telephonist

0

1

0

1

General Operative

0

0

2

0

Total

100

162

156

300

Table 2.

Staff involved in Decentralisation to Johnstown Castle in 1998:

Grade

Relocated

Transferred in

Recruited

Grade Totals

Agricultural Inspectors

4

0

0

4

Administration Officers

0

1

0

1

Area Superintendent

1

0

0

1

Assistant Agric. Inspectors

0

0

3

3

Assistant Principal

2

12

0

14

Cleaner

1

0

0

1

Clerical Officers

12

17

106

135

Executive Officers

14

42

12

68

EO Analysts

1

1

0

2

Higher Executive Officers

4

31

0

35

HEO Systems Analysts

1

0

0

1

Principals

0

3

0

3

Senior Inspectors

2

0

0

2

Senior Superintendent Vet Insp.

1

0

0

1

Service Officers

1

1

1

3

Staff Officers

4

11

0

15

Supervisory Agric Officers

3

0

0

3

Vet Inspectors

0

0

1

1

Totals

51

119

123

293

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

234 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6035/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is on the following table.

Survey of interest of Department of Agriculture and Food staff in decentralisation, Portlaoise, Macroom:

Grades

Dublin Interest

Other County Interest

Total

Dublin Interest

Other County Interest

Cork Interest

Total

CO

14

22

36

2

1

25

28

SO

2

2

1

2

3

EO

17

8

25

2

1

6

9

HEO

3

5

8

1

2

3

AP

2

2

1

1

DS

0

1

1

2

AI

2

9

11

2

6

1

9

AAI

3

3

TAO

3

4

7

2

3

5

SAO

2

2

2

2

VI

1

2

3

2

2

4

Serological Asst.

1

1

Accountant

1

1

Total

42

58

100

8

16

43

67

Nitrates Directive.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

235 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the financial assistance which will be provided to farmers to assist in meeting the requirements of the nitrates directive, when implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6047/04]

Substantial financial aid will be available to farmers on whom the nitrates directive has an impact. In Sustaining Progress, the Government stated that recognising the importance of the nitrates directive and its impact on certain farmers, a number of initiatives shall be taken in the context of optimising the use of available EU and national budgetary resources. These initiatives included a review of REPS with higher payment rates and changes to the terms and conditions of the farm waste management scheme and the dairy hygiene scheme with an increase of the income and eligible investment ceilings. Proposals for REPS, including an average 28% increase in payments, are now with the European Commission for approval.

Earlier this year, I secured approval from the EU to proceed with substantial improvements to both the farm waste management and the dairy hygiene schemes with effect from January 2004. The new schemes incorporate a number of major changes. The ceiling for eligibility under the schemes has been raised from 200 to 450 income units. This change will mean that the vast majority of Irish farmers will now be able to avail of grant aid. The investment ceilings have also been raised from €50,790 to €75,000 in the case of farm waste management works and from €31,743 to €50,000 in the case of dairy hygiene works. Furthermore, a standardised grant rate of 40% will now apply for most investments which is twice what would have been available to many farmers previously. In addition, increases have already been applied to the standard costs used to calculate grant aid.

Section 21 of the Finance Bill 2004 extends the special scheme of capital allowances for expenditure incurred on the construction of facilities to control farm pollution to 31 December 2006, subject to the enactment of the necessary legislation in the Finance Act 2004. The scheme allows total expenditure on or after 6 April 2000 on necessary measures for farm pollution control to be written off as a tax allowance over seven years. This allowance is subject to a maximum write-off in any one year of the lesser of 50 % of the expenditure or €31,743.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

236 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if he has received the Irish Farmers’ Association submission on the draft nitrates directive; his views on same; the proposals he has made to the Commission on the implementation of the directive here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6048/04]

Proposals for further implementation of the nitrates directive were issued for public consultation on 19 December 2003 by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Agriculture and Food in the draft nitrates action programme. All interested parties were invited to provide comments in writing within two months. I have received a submission on the draft nitrates action programme from the Irish Farmers' Association. The issues raised in the submission will be considered by the two Departments, in association with all submissions by other interested parties, in the preparation of the final proposals.

I will give consideration to the issues involved in consultation with my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government having regard to the need to finalise the terms of the action programme at an early date and submit definitive proposals to the EU Commission.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

237 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if agreement was reached in the process of the partnership talks on the amount of livestock manure per hectare which shall be applied to the land per year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6049/04]

In relation to the amount of livestock manure per hectare to be applied to land, the Sustaining Progress agreement stated that in the context of the regime soon to be adopted to transpose the provisions of the nitrates directive, the Government will use the flexibility in the directive to seek to secure European Commission approval for limits of up to 250 kg per hectare per annum to be allowable in appropriate circumstances. The draft nitrates action programme currently under discussion includes a provision to this effect and is consistent with the provisions of Sustaining Progress.

Suckler Cow Quota.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

238 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the medical condition of a person (details supplied) in County Cork and medical evidence supplied was taken into account when allocating an additional sucker cow quota; and if this person’s application will be reconsidered on hardship grounds with a view to granting an additional quota of ten. [6071/04]

The person named was allocated ten suckler cow quota units from the 2004 national reserve, which was the maximum allocated to any applicant regardless of his or her circumstances. According to the records in my Department, there was no medical evidence supplied by the person named with his application for additional suckler cow quota or to the local office of my Department with his suckler cow premium application. Furthermore, when an official from my Department contacted him on 19 December 2003 concerning the allocation of an additional six quota rights to the four he had already received, the person named did not mention any medical condition and indicated that the total allocation of ten quota rights from the 2004 national reserve would suffice. In any event, his medical history is not relevant to the criteria for allocating quota rights from the 2004 reserve.

As previously indicated in my reply to the Deputy on 29 January 2004, if the person named has more than 14 eligible animals, for which he has quota, on which he wishes to claim suckler cow premium under the 2004 scheme, he may purchase or lease in additional quota in order to qualify for payment on all his eligible animals. However, it will be essential to lodge an area aid application in 2004 if the person named wants to qualify for payment in excess of 15 livestock units.

Grant Payments.

John Perry

Ceist:

239 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a decision will be made on an application made by a person (details supplied) in County Sligo for payment under force majeure and exceptional circumstances in view of the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6138/04]

The person named has submitted an application for consideration of force majeure — exceptional circumstances — to my Department on 16 January 2004. Processing of applications has commenced and my Department will be in contact with the person named in the coming weeks.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

240 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a REP scheme payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Killarney; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6143/04]

An amended plan was received in this case on 30 January 2004. The plan has been examined and some additional information has been requested from the REPS planner involved in the case. No payments can issue until all information required by my officials has been submitted.

Tax Code.

Joe Higgins

Ceist:

241 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Finance if tax breaks given to the stud farm industry are in conflict with Article 87 of the EC treaty which prohibits aid granted by a member state or through state resources in any form which distorts or threatens to distort competition by favouring certain firms or the production of certain goods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5620/04]

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

242 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the reason Article 87 of the EC Treaty prohibits aid (details supplied) granted by a member state, or through state resources in any form which distorts or threatens to distort competition by favouring certain firms, or the production of certain goods; the reason the EU has not prohibited the unfair tax breaks given by the Government to a stud farm (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5677/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 241 and 242 together.

Article 87 of the EC treaty prohibits any aid granted by a member state or through state resources in any form whatsoever which distorts or threatens to distort competition by favouring certain undertakings or the production of certain goods. Aid can take a variety of forms including grants, interest relief and tax relief. The issue as to whether or not aid granted by member states in any particular case is compatible with the state aid articles of the treaty is a matter for the European Commission.

The European Commission was informed of the existence of the tax exemption for stallion stud fees in line with the applicable state aid procedures in June 1982 and on a further number of occasions since then.

Anti-bullying Policies.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

243 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the number of complaints lodged with the human resource departments of the public service; if he has a system in place to ensure that these complaints are handled within the terms of codes of practice provided by the Health and Safety Authority in relation to anti-bullying policies; and if he plans to undertake initiatives following the adoption of anti-bullying policies in the public service to monitor the level and response to complaints and to seek to move the public service to achieve best practice standards in this respect. [5701/04]

My Department is responsible for ensuring that all persons employed in the Civil Service work in an environment that is free from bullying and harassment. The Civil Service policy on harassment, sexual harassment and bullying, A Positive Working Environment, was introduced in July 2000 following an agreement between management and the Civil Service staff unions at General Council. The policy is based on best practice in this area and meets the standards set out in the code of practice provided by the Health and Safety Authority. The policy applies to all persons employed directly by Government Departments and to persons employed by bodies under the aegis of Government Departments.

It is the responsibility of public service organisations to develop their own policies in this regard. Figures available to December 2003 indicate that Departments have received approximately 165 complaints under the policy. Of these, 109 complaints were the subject of formal investigations under the policy.

The management of claims under the policy is a matter for each Department and Office. The policy is reviewed and monitored by my Department, in consultation with personnel officers and staff unions. As part of this process an informal review of the policy is almost complete. The conclusions of the review and any agreed recommendations arising from it will inform the development of the policy into the future.

Departmental Properties.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

244 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Finance the data concerning the properties or buildings rented by his Department; the location, the annual rent, the date and term of lettings and the person from whom the property is rented. [5722/04]

The information requested on the OPW building lease stock is shown on the following table. It is based on the data as currently recorded on the OPW's property information system.

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

ARDEE

Ardee SWO

5,282.11

12-Jul-93

11

5

14

MS MARY HALPENNY

1 WILLIAM STREET, ARDEE, CO LOUTH

ARKLOW

Arklow Customs and Excise

9,523.04

01-Jan-95

10

0

0

ARKLOW SHIPPING LTD

NORTH QUAY, ARKLOW, CO WICKLOW

ARKLOW

Arklow Prob & Welfare Service

19,046.07

14-Feb-00

10

0

0

PATRICK O'TOOLE & EAMONN ESMOND

C/O PATRICK O'TOOLE, CHURCH STREET, WICKLOW

ASHFORD

Ashford GS-Temporary

18,000

01-Jul-03

1

5

25

C & A BOLAND

10 RIVERWALK, ASHFORD, CO WICKLOW

ATHLONE

Athlone Education W/Hse

14,665.47

01-Jun-99

10

0

0

NIALL MCCORMACK

SIBABU, GARDEN VALE, ATHLONE, CO WESTMEATH

ATHLONE

Athlone AHGI Office

11,046.72

01-Jan-01

4

0

0

L O'DOHERTY & A MURPHY

62 CONNAUGHT STREET, ATHLONE, CO WESTMEATH

ATHLONE

Athlone Education W/Hse Annagh

5,459.87

01-Jan-00

10

0

0

JAMES KEEGAN

TULLYWOOD HOUSE, BAYLIN, ATHLONE, CO WESTMEATH

ATHLONE

Athlone Prob/Welfare Service

12,697.38

31-Jul-96

8

4

25

MRS MARY E O'CARROLL

HODSON BAY, ATHLONE, CO WESTMEATH

ATHLONE

Athlone Education W/Hse

13,205.28

01-Nov-01

10

0

0

NIALL MCCORMACK

SIBABU, GARDEN VALE, ATHLONE, CO WESTMEATH

ATHLONE

Athlone DTC

17,370.04

01-Apr-96

10

0

0

MIDLAND PROPERTIES

C/O O'FARRELL & CO, CASTLEMAINE STREET, ATHLONE, CO WESTMEATH

ATHY

Athy SWO

12,500

17-Nov-87

21

0

0

CULLETON INSURANCES LIMITED

SELSKAR STREET, WEXFORD

BAILIEBOROUGH

Bailieboro SWO

10,234.09

06-Oct-98

9

11

0

MICHAEL GILES

BARRACK STREET, BAILIEBORO, CO CAVAN

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

BALBRIGGAN

Balbriggan Passport Office

574,560

23-Dec-03

20

0

1

SANDYMOUNT CONSORTIUM

27 SYDNEY PARADE AVE, SANDYMOUNT, DUBLIN 4

BALLAGHADERREEN

Ballaghaderreen GS

3632.72

20-Aug-56

48

4

6

ROSCOMMON CO COUNCIL

COURTHOUSE, ROSCOMMON

BALLINAMORE

Ballinamore SWO

12,220

21-Jun-97

14

6

0

MS MARY WRYNN

PINE RIDGE HOUSE, BALLINAMORE ROAD, FENAGH, CO LEITRIM

BALLINASLOE

Ballinasloe Gov Office

14,195.67

01-Feb-95

10

0

0

ML & ANN MCCULLAGH

5 SOCIETY STREET, BALLINASLOE, CO GALWAY

BALLINASLOE

Ballinasloe Gov Office

4,951.96

01-Jul-97

7

7

0

ML & ANN MCCULLAGH

5 SOCIETY STREET, BALLINASLOE, CO GALWAY

BALLINCOLLIG

Cork AHGI Office

6,551.88

21-Feb-01

1

10

0

SOUTH WEST REGIONAL AUTHORITY

INISHMORE, BALLINCOLLIG, CO CORK

BALLINGARRY

Ballingarry GS + MQ

5,942.37

15-Mar-89

15

9

11

NIAMH BOWEN

10 CHURCH STREET, LIMERICK

BALLINTRA

Ballintra GS + MQ

1,980.79

01-Oct-84

20

2

25

GEORGE HAMMOND

KILGADE, BRIDGETOWN, CO DONEGAL

BALLYBAY

Ballybay Dist Veterinary Office

11,427.64

25-Sep-94

13

3

1

GRAY BROTHERS LTD

MAIN STREET, BALLYBAY, CO MONAGHAN

BALLYBAY

Ballybay Livestock Office

21,077.65

01-May-96

10

0

0

PETER SHARPE

MAIN STREET BALLYBAY CO. MONAGHAN

BALLYBOFEY

Ballybofey SWO

13,808.4

21-Oct-96

8

2

5

MS SUSAN MCGONAGLE

17 GLASHEDY VIEW, BALLYLIFFIN, CO DONEGAL

BALLYCOTTON

Ballycotton GS

8,888.17

01-Aug-95

10

0

0

PATRICK J ABERNETHY

WHITEROCK, NORTH CHURCHTOWN, MIDLETON, CO CORK

BALLYHAUNIS

Ballyhaunis SWO

4,571.06

01-Sep-92

11

3

25

D H BURKE GROUP

THE OLD PRESBYTERY, TUAM, CO GALWAY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

BALLYMORE EUSTACE

Ballymore Eustace GS + MQ + RAX

7,620

01-Aug-01

3

0

0

GERARD O'NEILL

712 BERMUDA AVENUE, OSHAWA L1J6A8, ONTARIO, CANADA

BALLYMOTE

Ballymote SWO

6,193.78

01-Aug-89

15

4

25

TEAGASC

RIVERSIDE, CO SLIGO

BALLYPOREEN

Ballyporeen GS + MQ

6,603

06-Nov-65

39

1

20

MARY WILSON

AIB BANK, MITCHELSTOWN, CO CORK

BALLYSHANNON

Ballyshannon Marine Office

10,234.09

01-Jun-93

11

0

0

JOHN MURRAY

REID & SWEENEY, SOLICITORS, BALLYSHANNON, CO DONEGAL

BALTINGLASS

Baltinglass Farm Dev Off

2,793.42

01-May-98

5

7

25

JOHN SHORTT

MILL STREET, BALTINGLASS, CO WICKLOW

BANDON

Bandon SWO

10,081.72

10-Nov-97

9

11

0

DESSI LIGHTNING PROTECTION IRL LTD

ALLEN SQUARE, BANDON, CO CORK

BANDON

Bandon School Inspectors Office

23,490.15

01-Jun-00

10

0

0

DESSI LIGHTNING PROTECTION IRL LTD

ALLEN SQUARE, BANDON, CO CORK

BANDON

Bandon Garda Training Cntr

13,967.12

01-Nov-00

5

0

0

DESSI PROPERTIES

WEIR STREET, BANDON, CO CORK

BANTRY

Bantry Wildlife Service

1,980.79

01-Jan-98

6

11

25

PATRICK O'DONOVAN

NEWTOWN, BANTRY, CO CORK

BANTRY

Bantry Customs and Excise

25,394.76

19-Sep-94

10

0

0

OLIVER & MARJORIE O'DWYER

CAHIR, BANTRY, CO CORK

BANTRY

Bantry Temp GS

27,934.24

01-Nov-01

4

0

0

K & M MCCARTHY

AIB BANK, BANTRY, CO CORK

BANTRY

Bantry SWO — 7 Main Strret

18,198.52

01-Sep-98

8

0

0

MARK O'SULLIVAN

WOODLAWN, BAURGORM, BANTRY, CO CORK

BANTRY

Bantry SWO — 6 Main Street

3,174.35

22-Nov-67

36

1

4

JAMES J O'SULLIVAN

6 MAIN STREET, BANTRY, CO CORK

BIRR

Birr Government Offices

6,900

24-Jan-97

7

11

2

CAMPBELL PROPERTIES BIRR LIMITED

TOWNSEND STREET, BIRR, CO OFFALY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

BIRR

Birr Marine Forestry Off.

4,951.98

16-Jan-95

10

0

0

DONALD & LYNNE HAYES

BOVEEN, SHARAVOGUE, BIRR, CO OFFALY

BIRR

Birr Government Offices

4,291.71

01-May-97

6

7

25

CAMPBELL PROPERTIES BIRR LIMITED

TOWNSEND STREET, BIRR, CO OFFALY

BLACKROCK

Blackrock Trident House

678,500

01-May-92

25

0

0

SUPERQUINN

P O BOX 99, SUTTON CROSS, DUBLIN 13

BLARNEY

Blarney GS

17,776.33

01-Jul-77

57

3

0

RICHARD LA TOUCHE COLTHURST

BLARNEY CASTLE EST, BLARNEY, CO CORK

BORRISOKANE

Borrisokane GS

63.49

01-May-89

15

0

0

IRISH PROVINCE OF THE CONGREGATION OF THE MISSION

ST PETERS, PHIBSBORO DUBLIN 7

BOYLE

Boyle SWO

8,295.56

01-Feb-01

4

11

0

MICHAEL DURKIN

THE COURTHOUSE, BOYLE, CO ROSCOMMON

BRAY

Bray SWO — Main Street

12,697.38

01-Aug-98

6

0

0

GLENDRUID LIMITED

ST GEORGES, HERBERT ROAD, BRAY, CO WICKLOW

BRAY

Bray SWO — The Esplanade

48,942.05

15-May-95

9

5

17

JOSEPH DUGGAN & SONS LIMITED

LAXTON, NOVARA AVENUE, BRAY

BRAY

Bray SWO — The Esplanade

43,742.48

01-Nov-96

8

0

0

JOSEPH DUGGAN & SONS LIMITED

LAXTON, NOVARA AVENUE, BRAY

BUNCRANA

Buncrana Government Offices

11,935.54

01-Jan-92

11

11

25

CHARLES KELLY

PARK HOUSE, ST MARYS ROAD, BUNCRANA, DONEGAL

BUNCRANA

Buncrana SWO

27,807.26

01-Jul-93

11

5

25

MARTIN D MOYNE & OTHERS

ELAGHBEG, BURNFOOT, CO DONEGAL

BUNNINADDEN

Bunninadden GS + MQ

3,174.35

01-Sep-97

15

0

0

MRS K MCDERMOTT

BUNNINADDEN, BALLYMOTE, CO SLIGO

CABINTEELY

Cabinteely GS

24,759.89

23-Feb-95

20

0

0

PATRICK CADDEN

8 MERVILLE AVENUE, STILLORGAN, CO DUBLIN

CAHIR

Cahir Forest Office

3,885.4

11-Jun-01

9

11

0

JOHN & B CUMMINS

CUMMINS INSURANCE, PEARSE STREET, CAHIR, CO TIPPERARY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

CAHORE

Cahore Rescue Service

3.17

25-Mar-08

95

9

1

EXECUTORS OF HENRY MOORE DECEASED

CARLOW

Carlow Gov Off. Church St

27,013.68

08-Jul-96

10

0

0

MR K & MR J MURNANE

OAKLEY PARK, GRAIGUECULLEN, CARLOW

CARLOW

Carlow Prob & Wel. Service

18,030.28

01-Nov-98

9

10

0

ROBERT & MARY QUINN

25 GOVERNEY SQUARE, CARLOW

CARLOW

Carlow Vehicle Reg Off.

31,108.58

01-Jul-96

9

11

0

EDDIE ROBERTS

5-8 LWR STAPLESTOWN ROAD, CARLOW

CARRICK ON SUIR

Carrick-on-Suir SWO

5,282.11

06-Apr-98

6

8

20

IMELDA FITZPATRICK

THE QUAY, CARRICK-ON-SUIR, CO TIPPERARY

CARRICKMACROSS

Carrickmacross SWO

27,000

12-Apr-96

20

0

0

OLIVER MARTIN

MEADOWLANDS, MULINARY, CARRICKMACROSS, CO MONAGHAN

CARRIGTWOHILL

Carrigtwohill GS + MQ

10,400.04

26-Sep-97

10

0

0

MARY BURCHILL

CASTLEBAR

Castlebar Prob/Welfare Service

22,399.45

01-Sep-92

12

3

25

D H BURKE GROUP

THE OLD PRESBYTERY, TUAM, CO GALWAY

CASTLEBAR

Castlebar SWO — Humbert Mall

59,677.69

01-Jul-95

20

0

0

BRIDGE DEVELOPMENT COMPANY LIMITED

23 ROCKBARTON ROAD, SALTHILL, CO GALWAY

CASTLEBAR

Castlebar DTC

8,761.19

01-May-00

10

0

0

CASTLEBAR MITCHELS GAA CLUB

MCHALE PARK, CASTLEBAR, CO MAYO

CASTLEBAR

Castlebar Nat Ed Psych Service

19,046.07

01-Apr-01

5

0

0

DAVID O'MALLEY

THOMAS STREET, CASTLEBAR, CO MAYO

CASTLEBAR

Castlebar SWO — New Antrim St

25,846.79

14-Oct-87

17

2

12

THOMAS MCHUGH & SON

NEWTOWN, CASTLEBAR, CO MAYO

CASTLEBLAYNEY

Castleblayney SWO

9,903.96

15-Feb-93

11

10

11

JOHN DALY FURNITURE SALES LIMITED

SHANTONAGH, CASTLEBLANEY, CO MONAGHAN

CASTLECOMER

Castlecomer SWO

4,469.48

11-Mar-95

20

0

0

CASTLECOMER ENTERPRISE GROUP

ENTERPRISE CENTRE, KILKENNY ROAD, CASTLECOMER

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

CASTLEISLAND

Castleisland Marine Forestry Off.

2,244.9

19-Jul-96

8

5

7

NARBERTH LIMITED

ISLAND CENTRE, 49-51 MAIN STREET, CASTLEISLAND, CO KERRY

CASTLEISLAND

Castleisland Temp GS

6,602.64

01-Mar-01

2

11

28

MR & MRS DENIS ROCHE

BALLYPLYMOUTH, CARDAL, CASTLEISLAND, CO KERRY

CASTLEREA

Castlerea AHGI Office

6,602.64

01-Feb-01

5

0

0

SEAMUS & MARY CLEARY

KNOCKROE, CASTLEREA, CO ROSCOMMON

CASTLEREA

Castlerea SWO

6,602.64

13-Feb-95

10

0

0

MRS MAURA MORAN

PATRICK STREET, CASTLEREA, CO ROSCOMMON

CASTLEREA

Castlerea Agriculture Office

4,761.52

21-Aug-96

8

0

0

SEAMUS & MARY CLEARY

KNOCKROE, CASTLEREA, CO ROSCOMMON

CASTLETOWNBERE

Castletownbere SWO

9,245

15-Nov-95

9

11

0

JAMES O'SULLIVAN

1 BANK PLACE, CASTLETOWNBERE, CO CORK

CAVAN

Cavan Gov Off. Newcourt Shop Ctre

122,200

01-May-98

20

0

0

NOEL & KATERINE ELLIOT

7 OAKS, CULLIES, CAVAN

CAVAN

Cavan DTC

12,875.14

29-Mar-99

5

8

27

MCDWYER LENNON & CO

CHARTERED ACCOUNTANT, ESKER PLACE, CAVAN

CAVAN

Cavan Education Office

9,903.96

01-Feb-01

3

10

25

NOEL O'GORMAN & CO

SOLICITORS, 7 FARNHAM STREET, CAVAN

CLAREMORRIS

Claremorris Agriculture Office

35,000

10-Jun-91

15

0

0

ST COLMAN'S CREDIT UNION LIMITED

THE SQUARE, CLAREMORRIS, CO MAYO

CLAREMORRIS

Claremorris SWO

8,913.56

01-May-95

10

0

0

MICHAEL & MAURA JOYCE

RATHREDMOND, BALLINROBE, CO MAYO

CLIFDEN

Clifden Driving Test Centre

4,621.85

01-Apr-96

7

8

25

BERNADETTE JOYCE

MARKET STREET, CLIFDEN, CO GALWAY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

CLONAKILTY

Clonakilty SWO

8,375

24-Mar-97

10

0

0

SEAN AHERN

CLONAKILTY BUSINESS CENTRE, CLONAKILTY, CO CORK

CLONAKILTY

Clonakilty Prob & Wel Office

12,697.38

05-May-93

11

7

21

TAYLOR JENNINGS PROPERTIES LIMITED

CLONMEL

Clonmel Gov Off Harbour Hse

235,000

01-Apr-98

9

10

28

SEAN CAREW

CARHUE, DUNDRUM, CO TIPPERARY

CLONMEL

Clonmel Gov Off Gladstone Hse

7,364.48

01-Jan-98

5

11

25

ACC BANK

BOX 111, ACC HOUSE, UPPER HATCH STREET, DUBLIN 2

CORK

Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg

142,000

01-Jan-95

10

0

0

DENIS & DANIEL O'FLYNN

CARHUE, COACHFORD, CO CORK

CORK

Cork Prob&Wel Serv Grattan St

9,523.04

01-Jan-92

12

11

25

CORK CORPORATION

CITY HALL, CORK

CORK

Cork Gov Off Hibernian House

280,000

01-Aug-77

35

0

0

HIBERNIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HAWKINS HOUSE, HAWKINS STREET, DUBLIN 2

CORK

Glanmire GS

11,427.64

01-Jan-94

10

11

25

MS MARIE MCMANUS

MILL ROAD, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

CORK

Cork C&E Centrepoint

39,875

08-May-98

20

0

0

TEMPLEFORD LIMITED

ENTERPRISE HOUSE, MARINA COMMERCIAL PK, MONAGHAN ROAD, CORK

CORK

Cork Prob&Wel Serv 52 South Mall

15,236.86

01-Jun-74

35

0

0

FAIRWAY INVESTMENTS LIMITED

C/O MALL MANAGEMENT, 45 GRAND PARADE, CORK

CORK

Cork C&E Centre Park House

56,884.27

01-Sep-91

13

3

25

BTR PROPERTY HOLDING LIMITED

CENTRE PARK HOUSE, CENTRE PARK ROAD, CORK

CORK

Cork Rev Store Boland Ind Est

59,042.82

01-Jan-97

20

0

0

PUREFRESH FRUIT JUICES LIMITED

GLEBE HOUSE, GLEBE PLACE, KILLARNEY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

CORK

Cork ETE Inspectors Office

6,094.74

10-Mar-99

10

0

0

B & E HENNESSY

2 LAWSON SPINNEY, SWORDS ROAD, MALAHIDE, CO DUBLIN

CORK

Cork Education Office

234,536.25

01-Jan-03

20

0

1

JOSEPH LANE HOLDINGS LTD

MONAGHAN ROAD, CORK

CORK

Cork Gov Off Hibernian House

18284.23

01-Nov-01

9

11

0

HIBERNIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HADDINGTON ROAD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

CORK

Cork Prob&Wel Serv 54 South Mall

28,569.11

01-Oct-92

12

2

25

CORK INVESTMENTS LIMITED

CORK

Cork Gov Off Hibernian House

11,247.09

21-Dec-98

13

8

11

HIBERNIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HADDINGTON ROAD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

CORK

Cork Consumer Affairs Office

44,000

01-Jul-96

20

0

0

NORWICH UNION LIFE INSURANCE SOCIETY

60-63 DAWSON ST, DUBLIN 2

CORK

Cork SWO — ESB Premises

102,850

01-Aug-99

9

11

0

ESB LEGAL DIVISION

27 LR FITZWILLIAM ST, DUBLIN 2

CORK

Cork Gov Off Connolly Hall

15,808.24

01-Jan-92

12

11

25

SIPTU

FINANCE & ADMIN DIVN, LIBERTY HALL, DUBLIN 1

CORK

Cork Gov Off Connolly Hall

11,237.18

01-Dec-91

12

0

25

SIPTU

FINANCE & ADMIN DIVN, LIBERTY HALL, DUBLIN 1

CORK

Cork Gov Off Doughcloyne

35,664.4

01-Apr-00

10

0

0

P J & M A QUINN

BALLINAGH, CO CAVAN

CORK

Cork Marine office

33,013.19

18-Jan-01

4

9

0

LIAM LYNCH

LYNCH & CO AUCTIONEER, 72 SOUTH MALL, CORK

CORK

Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg

132,688

01-Jan-95

20

0

0

DENIS & DANIEL O'FLYNN

CARHUE, COACHFORD, CO CORK

CORK

Cork Marine Office

53,320

01-Apr-02

9

10

28

CADO SYSTEMS IRELAND LIMITED

3 (A) OAK HOUSE, BESSBORO ROAD, BLACKROCK

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

CORK

Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg

73,327.8

01-Jul-03

10

0

0

DENIS & DANIEL O'FLYNN

CARHUE, COACHFORD, CO CORK

CORK

Cork Revenue Store(Millfield)

30473.71

07-Dec-92

12

0

19

MILLFIELD INVESTMENT ONLINE ACCOUNTING SERVICES

SUMMERCOVE, KINSALE, CO CORK

CRUSHEEN

Crusheen GS + MQ

1,206.25

01-Jul-52

52

5

25

THOMAS WATERS

CRUSHEEN GS MQS, CRUSHEEN, CO CLARE

DONARD

Donard GS

9,523.04

20-Jun-97

7

6

6

MRS BRENDA SMYTH

150 AYLMER PARK, MONREAD ROAD, NAAS, CO KILDARE

DONEGAL

Donegal Government Offices

12,920.85

02-Nov-95

9

1

24

WILLIAM L R IRWIN

MILLTOWN, DONEGAL TOWN, CO DONEGAL

DONEGAL

Donegal Customs and Excise

13,332.25

10-May-93

11

7

16

MICHAEL KELLY

MALDON HOUSE, GLEBE, DONEGAL TOWN

DONEGAL

Donegal SWO

19,807.91

01-May-93

11

7

25

JOHN DIVER

ARUS MHUIRE, SHEIL AVENUE, BUNDORAN, CO DONEGAL

DONEGAL

Donegal Government Offices

11,176.23

01-Jul-00

4

5

25

WILLIAM L R IRWIN

MAIN STREET, DONEGAL TOWN, CO DONEGAL

DONERAILE

Doneraile Wildlife Office Temp

4,621.85

14-Feb-00

4

10

12

PATRICK O'SULLIVAN

BRIDGE HOUSE, DONERAILE, CO CORK

DOWRA

Dowra GS + MQ

165.06

01-Apr-58

46

8

25

CAVAN CO COUNCIL

COURTHOUSE, CO CAVAN

DRIMOLEAGUE

Drimoleague GS + MQ

6,500

01-Apr-97

10

0

0

MS MARIE KINGSTON

MAULNAGEARAGH, CLONAKILTY, CO CORK

DRINAGH

Drinagh GS

4,952

12-Feb-72

32

8

4

MRS C O'DONOVAN

VINTER, TOUGHBAWN, DRINAGH, CO CORK

DROGHEDA

Drogheda Education Office

60,947.42

01-Dec-02

4

11

1

ATLANTIC INDUSTRIES INDUSTRIAL ESTATE

DROGHEDA, CO LOUTH

DROGHEDA

Drogheda SWO/C&E

7,745.4

01-Oct-93

11

2

25

TASSEL LTD

ABBEY SHOPPING CENTRE, WEST STREET, DROGHEDA, CO LOUTH

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DROGHEDA

Drogheda Prob & Wel Serv

48,884.92

17-Sep-00

9

0

0

ROBERT&AUDREY MURPHY

13 SEABURY CRESCENT, MALAHIDE, CO DUBLIN

DROGHEDA

Drogheda Customs & Excise

12,697.38

04-Mar-97

6

9

22

PATRICK MONAHAN (DROGHEDA) LIMITED

MERCHANTS QUAY, DROGHEDA, CO LOUTH

DROGHEDA

Drogheda SWO/C&E

3,301.32

18-Sep-00

4

9

0

TASSEL LTD

ABBEY SHOPPING CENTRE, WEST STREET, DROGHEDA, CO LOUTH

DROMAD

Dromad GS

5,586.85

01-Oct-88

15

6

0

EDWARD DEVLIN

DUBLIN 01

O'Connell St 29-32 Lyon Hse

7,618.43

01-Oct-74

37

0

0

TELECOM EIREANN

TELEPHONE HOUSE, 43-46 MARLBOROUGH ST, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Abbey Street Upper 26 — 30

1,206,162.3

29-Apr-02

25

0

0

DANNINGER LTD

LA TOUCHE HOUSE, GROVE ROAD, LOWER RATHMINES ROAD, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 01

Marlborough St 101-104 Clare Hse

412,344.9

15-Nov-75

30

0

0

MICHAEL&EILEEN BROE

JIGGENSTOWN, NAAS, CO KILDARE

DUBLIN 01

Abbey Street Upper 26 — 30

667,133.08

29-Apr-02

25

0

0

DANNINGER LTD

LA TOUCHE HOUSE, GROVE ROAD, LOWER RATHMINES ROAD, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 01

Gardiner Street Upper 77

201,190

01-Apr-01

4

9

0

DAVE WALSH

57 SHREWSBURY, OFF SHREWSBURY PARK, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 01

Parnell Sq 2 — 3

698,355.94

15-Mar-01

10

0

0

AUSTIN KELLY

13 BROMPTON GROVE, CASTLEKNOCK, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 01

Parnell Sq 13-15 Parnell House

1,793,365.4

01-Dec-95

20

0

0

ALSTEAD SECURITIES

48 UPPER DRUMCONDRA ROAD, DUBLIN 9

DUBLIN 01

Irish Life Centre Block 1

111,102.08

01-Jul-77

35

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Abbey Street Upper 26 — 30

994,923.93

07-Sep-01

25

0

0

DANNINGER LTD

LA TOUCHE HOUSE, GROVE ROAD, LOWER RATHMINES ROAD, DUBLIN 6

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 01

O'Connell Street Upper 11 — 13

7,364.48

13-Oct-03

100

2

13

EXECUTORS OF O'GLASAIN ESTATE

DUBLIN 01

Irish Life Centre Block 4 & 5

129,331.71

27-Feb-97

10

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Frederick St NorthFrederick Crt

677,000

01-Aug-99

16

10

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Amiens Street (Gandon House)

450,000

01-Feb-76

35

0

0

MARKLAND HOUSE ROPERTIES LTD

19 UP FITZWILLIAM ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 01

O'Connell St 29-32 Lyon Hse

533,290

01-Oct-74

37

0

0

TELECOM EIREANN

TELEPHONE HOUSE, 43-46 MARLBOROUGH ST, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Arran Quay (Arran Court)

165,337.23

21-Dec-95

10

0

0

LINDERS OF CHAPELIZOD LTD

CHAPELIZOD, DUBLIN 20

DUBLIN 01

Abbey Street Upper 26 — 30

211,542

29-Apr-02

25

0

0

DANNINGER LTD

LA TOUCHE HOUSE, GROVE ROAD, LOWER RATHMINES ROAD, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 01

Parnell Sq 16

1,493,644.7

01-Jul-02

25

0

0

ALSTEAD SECURITIES

48 UPPER DRUMCONDRA ROAD, DUBLIN 9

DUBLIN 01

Capel Street 89 -94

689,321.76

15-Jun-01

20

0

1

ALEXION MANAGEMENT LIMITED

39 FLEET STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 01

Irish Life Centre Block 5/7

685,658.56

01-Sep-78

35

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Amiens Street (Gandon House)

655,000

01-Aug-78

35

0

0

MARKLAND HOUSE PROPERTIES LTD

19 UP FITZWILLIAM ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 01

Amiens Street (Gandon House)

66,000

01-Jan-94

18

1

0

MARKLAND HOUSE PROPERTIES LTD

19 UP FITZWILLIAM ST, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 01

Irish Life Centre Block 2

694,546.73

01-Jan-97

15

9

0

IRISH ESTATES MANAGEMENT LTD

BERESFORD COURT, 16 BERESFORD PLACE, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Irish Life Centre Block D E & F

749,145.47

01-Jan-97

8

2

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Irish Life Centre Block 1

520,592.61

01-Feb-78

35

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 01

Parnell St Parnell BusinesCntr

45,801.99

01-May-00

10

0

1

PASCAL CONROY

42 MOUNT PLEASANT SQ, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 02

Mespil Road 43-49

1,450,302

01-Mar-93

11

10

0

FÁS

P.O. BOX 456, 27/33 UPR BAGGOT STREET, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Leeson Street Lower Ossory House

825329.75

01-Jan-95

25

0

0

NORWICH UNION LIFE INSURANCE SOCIETY

60-63 DAWSON ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Merrion Square 24 The Mews

68,210.33

01-May-01

4

9

0

MARTIN KEANE

9-11 CAMBRIDGE ROAD, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 02

Molesworth Bldg Setanta Cntre

1,985,000

16-Aug-76

35

0

0

IRISH AIRLINES PENSIONS LTD & AGS (ROI) PENSIONS NOMINEES LTD

DUBLIN AIRPORT

DUBLIN 02

Merrion Row 2-4

422,292

01-Aug-02

20

0

1

ROYAL LIVER ASSURANCE CO LTD

ROYAL LIVER BUILDING, PIER HEAD, LIVERPOOL

DUBLIN 02

Clare Street 22-25

659,946.37

09-Jul-80

35

0

0

M J CONROY & SONS GENERAL BUILDING CONTRACTORS

CONG, CO MAYO

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Road Iveagh Court

724,941.08

22-Apr-00

25

0

0

ALCOVE PROPERTIES LIMITED

IVEAGH COURT, 6-8 HARCOURT ROAD, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Frederick St South Frederick Hse

130,070.7

28-Sep-98

25

0

0

NEW IRELAND & IRISH NATIONAL PENSION LTD

11-12 DAWSON ST, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Lr 79-83 Timberlay Hse

1,079,277.4

01-Jan-98

17

3

0

IRISH PENSION FUND PROPERTY UNIT TRUST

LEESON COURT, 86-88 LR LEESON ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Holles Street Holbrook House

163,796.21

01-Feb-00

24

0

0

HOLBROOK HOUSE PROPERTIES LIMITED

18 ELY PLACE, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Sq Garda Block 4

365,100

01-Jan-82

35

0

0

VALUE EQUIPMENT LTD

SCD HOUSE, WATERLOO ROAD, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Sq Garda Block 2

1,605,842

01-Jun-81

35

0

0

ALVERGOLD LIMITED

SCD HOUSE, WATERLOO ROAD, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Sq Garda Block 1

1,079,366.2

01-Nov-79

35

0

0

PECAN PROPERTIES LTD

SCD HOUSE, WATERLOO ROAD, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Frederick St South 5-9

950,001

01-Jul-97

6

11

0

NEW IRELAND ASSURANCE CO LTD

C/O BOI ASSET MGNT, 26 FITZWILLIAN SQ, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

St Stephens Gr 67-71 Hainault Hse

406,316.19

21-Dec-95

11

6

10

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Lr 73-79 Ballaugh House

725,020.44

01-May-96

18

6

11

AGS (ROI) PENSIONS NOMINEES LIMITED

ST JAMES GATE, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Street 26

71,105.33

01-Jul-70

35

0

0

M & M TAYLOR c/o TAYLOR & BUCHALTER

GREENSIDE HOUSE, 45-47 CUFFE STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Dawson St 18A Royal Irish Acad

38,092.14

29-Sep-95

35

0

0

REPRESENTATIVE BODY OF CHURCH OF IRELAND

CHURCH AVENUE, RATHMINES, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Lr 67-72 Grattan House

190,000

27-Mar-72

35

0

0

EARLSFORT CENTRE DEV c/o PALMER MCCORMACK

65 ST STEPHENS GREEN, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 02

Grand Canal Street

1,625,264.7

16-Sep-73

33

0

0

TOM & DEIRDRE JONES

15 NUTLEY AVENUE, DONNYBROOK, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Hatch Street 13-15

235,828.45

01-Sep-78

35

0

0

BAVARIAN IMPORT LTD

BMW HOUSE, JFK DRIVE, NAAS ROAD, DUBLIN 12

DUBLIN 02

Molesworth Bldg Setanta Cntre

100,182.33

30-Nov-93

21

0

0

JONES LANG LASALLE

10-11 MOLESWORTH ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Mount Street Lower 85 — 93

1,733,192.5

06-Feb-81

35

0

0

LOCHLANN QUINN

41 AILESBURY ROAD, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Upr 36

172,500

19-Oct-99

17

11

11

CHARLES&IMELDA KELLY

SWINFORD, CO MAYO

DUBLIN 02

Clare Street 12

95,230.36

11-Jan-85

35

0

0

AIB BANK EXEC & TRUSTEE SERV

BANK CNTR PO BOX 512, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Trinity Street 10-12

274,263.42

01-Jun-90

25

0

0

HIBERNIAN TRUSTEE COMPANY LIMITED

HADDINGTON ROAD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

DUBLIN 02

Pearse St 212-213 Oisín House

803,109.33

01-Dec-73

36

0

0

THE PROVOST FELLOWS & SCHOLAR OF TRINITY COLLEGE

DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Sq Garda Block 3

1,119,290

01-Jun-81

35

0

0

ANGLO IRISH ASSURANCE CO LTD

HERITAGE HOUSE, 23 ST STEPHEN GR, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Wilton Place Fitzwilton House

191,924

01-Dec-96

25

0

0

ERIN EXECUTOR & TRUSTEE CO LTD

17 COLLEGE GREEN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt St Harcourt Cntre Blk 2

223,797

08-May-96

20

0

0

IRISH AIRLINES PENSIONS LTD

PO BOX 180, DUBLIN AIRPORT, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 02

Townsend St 157 — 164

1,180,856.4

01-Jun-75

35

0

0

CARLISLE TRUST LTD

48 UPPER DRUMCONDRA ROAD, DUBLIN 9

DUBLIN 02

St Stephens Gr Ardilaun House

1,098,323

18-Jan-02

4

9

0

GOFREE LIMITED

112-114 ST STEPHENS GREEN WEST, DUNBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 02

Tara Street Apollo House

185,600

25-Dec-96

15

0

0

DAMIEN M P TANSEY

NO 3 WINE STREET, SLIGO

DUBLIN 02

Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse

304,013.39

01-Apr-03

11

6

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IBI PROPERTY NOMINEE, NEW IRELAND ASSURANCE COMPANY PLC

DUBLIN 02

Great Georges St Sth 73/83

796,760.64

01-Jan-75

30

0

0

CHANIA LIMITED

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Lr 67-72 Grattan House

190,000

01-Jan-72

35

0

0

EARLSFORT CENTRE DEV

C/O PALMER MCCORMACK, 65 ST STEPHENS GREEN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Merrion Square 24

166,335.69

14-Aug-98

25

0

0

MARTIN & VERA KEANE

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Lr 67-72 Grattan House

145,800

01-Apr-73

35

0

0

EARLSFORT CENTRE DEV

C/O PALMER MCCORMACK, 65 ST STEPHENS GREEN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Mount St Lr 67-72 Grattan House

184,900

01-Apr-73

35

0

0

EARLSFORT CENTRE DEV

C/O PALMER MCCORMACK, 65 ST STEPHENS GREEN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Nassau Building Setanta Centre

634,869.04

19-Jan-76

35

0

0

REVERIE LTD

MILESTOWN, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

East Essex Street Dolphin House

583,500

01-Apr-82

35

0

0

GALICON LIMITED

1 STOKES PLACE, ST STEPHENS GREEN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Setanta Place 1

350,000

26-Mar-98

13

9

6

STATOIL IRELAND LTD

STATOIL HOUSE, DEANSGRANGE, BLACKROCK, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 02

Great Georges St Sth 84/88

494,245.55

09-Apr-76

30

0

0

CHATHAM SERVICES LTD

27 PHIBSBORO PLACE, PHIBSBORO, DUBLIN 7,

DUBLIN 02

St Stephens Gr 94

711,724

01-Jul-03

4

9

0

SMURFIT IRELAND LTD

BEECH HILL, CLONSKEAGH, DUBLIN 4

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 02

Hatch St 6/7 Hardwicke Hse

284,391.39

01-Jun-03

1

3

0

PARTHUSCEVA TECHS LTD

32/34 HARCOURT ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Nassau Building Setanta Centre

643,500

01-Apr-78

35

0

0

REVERIE LTD

MILESTOWN, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Tara Street Apollo House

316,799.65

25-Mar-70

42

0

0

DAMIEN M P TANSEY

NO 3 WINE STREET, SLIGO

DUBLIN 02

Earlsfort Terrace Earl Ctr Blk

188,556.12

01-Oct-02

12

5

0

BANK OF IRELAND

BOI HEAD OFFICE, 50 LOWER BAGGOT STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Kildare Street 43-44

1,034,836.5

29-Nov-75

35

0

0

BANK OF SCOTLAND IRELAND LTD

65-68 ST STEPHEN'S GREEN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Clonmel Street [Clonmel Place]

601,392.39

01-May-99

25

0

0

ASPENWAY PROPERTIES LIMITED

77 MERRION SQUARE, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Mount Street Lr Clanwilliam Crt

480,000

01-May-75

35

0

0

IRISH AIRLINE PILOTS PENSIONS LTD

DUBLIN AIRPORT, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 02

Tara Street Apollo House

453,120.2

15-Jun-70

42

0

0

DAMIEN M P TANSEY

NO 3 WINE STREET, SLIGO

DUBLIN 02

D'Olier Street (D'Olier House)

1,085,626

11-Dec-72

35

0

0

DUBLIN CITY ESTATES LIMITED

48 UPR DRUMCONDRA RD, DUBLIN 9

DUBLIN 02

Ely Place 7-8 Ely Court

711,322.5

20-Mar-98

120

0

0

THE ORDER OF THE KNIGHTS OF ST COLUMBANUS

DUBLIN 02

Earlsfort Terrace Earl Ctr Blk B

126,211.96

17-Feb-00

4

9

0

ODS COMPANY

EARLSFORT CENTRE, EARLSFORT TERRACE, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Earlsfort Terrace Earl Ctr Blk C

1,143,300

21-Feb-86

35

0

0

CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE (IRL) LTD

65 ST STEPHENS GREEN, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 02

Adelaide Rd 65A (Davitt House)

1,533,843.6

19-Sep-80

35

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 02

Nassau Building Setanta Centre

639,000

01-Apr-78

35

0

0

REVERIE LTD

MILESTOWN, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Bishops Square

1,164,168.8

04-Jan-02

20

0

0

BELLTRAP LTD

GRATTAN BRIDGE HOUSE, 3 UPPER ORMOND QUAY, DUBLIN 7

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Road 4-5

1,193,500

17-Oct-80

35

0

0

HALFPIPE LIMITED

MILESTONE, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, DUNDALK, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Nassau Building Setanta Centre

240,000

15-Sep-77

35

0

0

REVERIE LTD

MILESTOWN, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Lombard St East 8 — 11 Joyce Hse

493,000

16-Sep-81

35

0

0

DERMOT KING

ARDREAGH HOUSE, BISHOPS COURT, STRAFFAN, CO KILDARE

DUBLIN 02

Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse

1,009,440

01-Apr-96

10

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IBI PROPERTY NOMINEE, NEW IRELAND ASSURANC COMPANY PLC

DUBLIN 02

Harcourt Street 75-78

882,000

15-Jan-82

35

0

0

HAZELDALE LIMITED

MILESTONE, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, DUNDALK, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse

198,840

24-Aug-95

10

7

8

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IBI PROPERTY NOMINEE, NEW IRELAND ASSURANC COMPANY PLC

DUBLIN 02

Nassau Building Setanta Centre

656,454

16-Feb-77

35

0

0

REVERIE LTD

MILESTOWN, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Leinster St Sth 6-9 Phoenix Hse

119,990.25

25-Jun-70

42

0

0

FRIENDS FIRST LIFE ASSURANCE CO LTD

29-31 ADELAIDE ROAD, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 02

Bishops Square

1,187,319.3

04-Jan-02

20

0

0

BELLTRAP LTD

GRATTAN BRIDGE HOUSE, 3 UPPER ORMOND QUAY, DUBLIN 7

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 02

Nassau Building Setanta Centre

406,316

08-Apr-95

16

8

24

REVERIE LTD

MILESTOWN, CASTLEBELLINGHAM, CO LOUTH

DUBLIN 02

Bishops Square

871,700.58

18-Jan-02

20

0

0

BELLTRAP LTD

GRATTAN BRIDGE HOUSE, 3 UPPER ORMOND QUAY, DUBLIN 7

DUBLIN 02

Molesworth St Gov Publications

193,000

25-Dec-81

35

0

0

ALLIANCE ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

14-17 DAWSON STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 03

East Wall PVII

212,249.28

01-Feb-03

5

0

0

MOLLOY & SHERRY

EIRFREEZE LTD, BOND ROAD EXTENSION, EAST WALL, DUBLIN 3

DUBLIN 03

Castleforbes Road C&E Warehouse

224,743.64

16-Jan-89

15

11

10

HENRY A CROSBIE

CROSBIE BUSINESS CTR, OSSORY ROAD, DUBLIN 3

DUBLIN 04

Ballsbridge (Hume House)

500,000

01-Feb-92

30

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 04

Claremont Road Revenue Office

605,347.63

06-May-80

35

0

0

MANDON LIMITED

71 UPR LEESON ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 04

Ballsbridge (Hume House)

160,000

01-Feb-66

55

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 04

Waterloo Road St Martins House

507,005

09-May-97

25

0

0

FRIENDS FIRST LIFE ASSURANCE CO LTD BLOCK H

CHERRYWOOD SCIENCE & TECH PARK, LOUGHLINSTOWN, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 04

Shelbourne Rd 21Shelbourne Hse

693,616

14-Mar-77

43

10

25

J FRANK MYLES & JASON O'MALLEY

COLLINE HOUSE, KILRICKLE, LOUGHREA

DUBLIN 05

Kilbarrack SWO

145,500

21-Nov-88

20

0

0

BENHEDGE LIMITED

37 LR BAGGOT STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 05

Coolock Northside Shop Cntre

41,266.49

01-Apr-79

35

0

0

GREEN PROPERTY MANAGEMENT LTD

STYNE HOUSE, HATCH STREET UPPER, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 06

Canal Road (Canal House)

620,000

16-May-97

25

0

0

CIF FIRST HOLDINGS

FEDERATION HOUSE, CANAL ROAD, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 06

Rathgar Driving Test Centre

36,822.4

01-Mar-95

9

6

0

REDEMPTORIST FATHERS

MARIONELLA, ORWELL ROAD, RATHGAR, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 06

Clonskeagh Road

46,000

16-Jun-03

1

10

15

CHRIS & MARIAN FLYNN

1 ST JAMES TERRACE, CLONSKEAGH ROAD, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 07

Distillery Building

475,530

08-Sep-99

3

6

0

LAW LIBRARY SERVICES LIMITED

DISTILLERY BUILDING, 145-151 CHURCH ST, DUBLIN 7

DUBLIN 07

Richmond Hospital Courts

31,743.45

01-Jan-00

16

8

8

RORY O'MEARA

AVONMORE, SEAFIELD ROAD, KILLINEY, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 07

Bow Street Gov Office

444,212.79

15-Nov-00

25

0

0

DANNINGER LTD

LA TOUCHE HOUSE, GROVE ROAD, LOWER RATHMINES ROAD, DUBLIN 6

DUBLIN 07

Bow Street 12-13

300,000

18-Mar-03

9

11

1

LAW LIBRARY PROP LTD

BAR COUNCIL ACS OFF, 158-159 CHURCH ST, DUBLIN 7

DUBLIN 07

Smithfield Prob and Wel Service

272,485.79

01-Jan-01

26

0

0

LINDERS OF CHAPELIZOD LTD

CHAPELIZOD, DUBLIN 20

DUBLIN 07

North Circular Road Park House

90,000

01-Aug-77

35

8

9

PARK HOUSE REALTY LIMITED

10-11 MOLESWORTH ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 07

North Circular Road Park House

340,000

10-Apr-78

35

0

0

PARK HOUSE REALTY LIMITED

10-11 MOLESWORTH ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 07

Ormond Quay Upper 19

87,611.93

01-Jan-00

20

0

0

ROBIN A PEILOW

13 KNOCKNASHEE, GOATSTOWN, DUBLIN 14

DUBLIN 07

Ormond Quay Ormond House

258,350

01-Apr-77

35

0

0

NEW IRELAND ASSURANCE CO LTD

11-12 DAWSON STREET, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 07

Navan Road Ashtowngate

1,387,160.1

01-Oct-02

20

0

1

FRIENDS FIRST LIFE ASSURANCE CO LTD BLOCK H

CHERRYWOOD SCIENCE & TECH PARK, LOUGHLINSTOWN, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 07

Smithfield Prob and Wel Service

362,383.25

01-Jan-01

26

0

0

LINDERS OF CHAPELIZOD LTD

CHAPELIZOD, DUBLIN 20

DUBLIN 07

Manor St Nursing Council

73,175.01

10-Sep-01

24

7

9

P MAGUIRE & M MONAGHAN

UNIT 32B MANOR ST, DUBLIN 7

DUBLIN 07

Richmond Hospital Courts

507,896

09-Sep-96

20

0

0

RORY O'MEARA

AVONMORE, SEAFIELD ROAD, KILLINEY, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 08

Thomas Street 126 — 7

120,625.12

01-Sep-78

35

0

0

BUCKLEY PARTNER

AIB BANK, 1 LWR BAGGOT STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 08

Riverbank Courts

38,092.14

01-Oct-96

10

0

0

FRANCISCAN MISSIONARY UNION

8 MERCHANTS QUAY, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN 08

Conyngham Road Phoenix House

260,405.5

08-Feb-99

25

0

0

RYANAIR LIMITED

DUBLIN AIRPORT, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 08

Mountshannon Rd Fur Br Off Block

426,631.99

01-Aug-81

35

0

0

BANK OF IRELAND

O'CONNELL BRIDGE BR, 6 LWR O'CONNELL ST, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 08

Ph/Pk Garda HQ Portacabins

11,983.8

22-Jun-98

6

2

0

VIVIDALE LIMITED

T/A CABINPAC, DUNSHAUGHLIN IND EST, DUBLIN ROAD, DUNSHAUGHLIN

DUBLIN 08

James' Street Customs and Excise

25.39

109

11

25

ARTHUR GUINNESS & SON CO (DUBLIN) LTD

ENGINEERING DEPART, ST JAMES GATE, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN 08

Victoria Street SWO

44,440

11-Oct-91

15

0

0

B J O PASLEY FOR TRUSTEES

KINGSLAND PARK METHODIST CHURCH

DUBLIN 09

Airways Industrial Estate

223,473.9

27-Sep-79

35

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 09

Santry Revenue Warehouse/Office

289,087.62

17-Jun-99

25

0

0

ERIN EXECUTOR & TRUSTEE CO LTD

56-59 ST STEPHENS GN, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 10

Ballyfermot Prob & Wel Service

36,822.4

26-Apr-99

20

0

0

MARY MCGRATH

BERKELEY HOUSE, 17 BERKELEY ROAD, DUBLIN 7

DUBLIN 11

Finglas Finance Storage

61,677

01-Jan-03

21

0

1

B & M MURPHY

113 ARD NA MARA, MALAHIDE, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 11

Finglas Prob & Welfare Service

34,282.93

01-Jun-95

20

0

0

PAUL COATES

CARRIG NIRVANA, KILLAKEE ROAD, DUBLIN 16

DUBLIN 11

Ballymun GS + RAX

3,175

10-Jan-72

146

7

22

DUBLIN CORPORATION RENTALS

BLOCK 3 FL 3, CIVIC OFFICES, WOOD QUAY

DUBLIN 11

Unidare OPW Store Warehouse2

15,236.86

01-Nov-96

8

1

25

MARSHALSEA PROPERTY COMPANY LIMITED

MERCHANTS HOUSE, 27-30 MERCHANTS QUAY, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN 11

Finglas Shopping Centre FÁS

25,648.71

01-Mar-81

29

8

0

WINCHURCH INVESTMENT LIMITED

6 CAVENDISH ROW, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 11

Finglas Driv Test Ctr+Rev Store

35,910.73

01-Apr-91

20

0

0

MARSHALSEA PROPERTY COMPANY LIMITED

MERCHANTS HOUSE, 27-30 MERCHANTS QUAY, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN 11

Ballymun SWO

28,092.95

25-Mar-69

35

0

0

BALLYMUN DEVELOPMENT

WILTON WORKS, NAAS ROAD, CLONDALKIN, DUBLIN 22

DUBLIN 11

Ballymun SWO

25,394.76

30-May-93

12

0

0

BALLYMUN DEVELOPMENT

WILTON WORKS, NAAS ROAD, CLONDALKIN, DUBLIN 22

DUBLIN 11

Unidare Departments Store W/hse1

210,000

01-Jan-96

20

0

0

MARSHALSEA PROPERTY COMPANY LIMITED

MERCHANTS HOUSE, 27-30 MERCHANTS QUAY, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN 12

Crumlin Prob & Wel Service

111,736.95

01-Feb-95

20

0

0

JOHN & MARIAN REGAN

C/O HIGGINS CHAMBERS & FLANAGAN SOLICITORS, HEADFORD

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 12

Park West Business Park Block 43

212,585.9

01-Sep-01

20

0

0

AIRSCAPE LIMITED

HARCOURT HOUSE, 18-19 HARCOURT ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 12

Park West Ind Est Unit 4

142,015.13

01-Jun-99

20

0

0

LEAMORE LIMITED

PARK WEST IND ESTATE, NANGOR ROAD, DUBLIN 12

DUBLIN 13

Donaghmede Garda Clinic

5,713.82

15-Jan-96

7

10

16

MAX DEVELOPMENTS LTD

52 LR LEESON STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 13

Donaghmede Prob/Welfare Service

152,368.57

01-Jun-00

10

0

0

FITZWILLIAM PLACE MANAGEMENT LTD

HARCOURT HOUSE, 18-19 HARCOURT ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 14

Dundrum SWO

6,983.56

09-Aug-96

9

6

0

DUNDRUM TRAVEL LTD

MAIN STREET, DUNDRUM, DUBLIN 14

DUBLIN 14

Clonskeagh Beech Hill Off Camp

75,549.42

14-Apr-03

2

0

1

L M ERICSSON LIMITED

BEECH HILL, OFFICE CAMPUS, CLONSKEAGH, DUBLIN 14

DUBLIN 14

Sandyford Furze Road

216,000

01-Sep-95

25

7

4

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 14

Nutgrove SWO

144,480

01-Feb-88

35

0

0

NUTGROVE SHOPPING CENTRE LIMITED

40 UP FITZWILLIAM ST, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 14

Churchtown Driving Test Centre

10,665.8

01-Sep-98

6

0

0

KIERAN FEHAN & BARRY FLOOD

5 BRAEMOR ROAD, CHURCHTOWN, DUBLIN 14

DUBLIN 14

Clonskeagh Belfield Office Park

1,053,095.4

13-Aug-99

25

0

0

IRISH LIFE ASSURANCE

IRISH LIFE CENTRE, LOWER ABBEY STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUBLIN 15

Blanchardstown Marine W/hse/Off

206,332.44

01-Jun-99

20

0

0

IBI PROPERTY NOMINEES LIMITED

26 FITZWILLIAM PLACE, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 15

Blanchardstown SWO

638,678.25

01-Jun-00

25

0

0

PETER JOSEPH & MICHAEL COSGROVE

13 WENTWORTH, ELBANA VILLAS, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN 18

Sandyford Ind Est Geolog W/house

214,903.17

25-Apr-94

20

0

0

VENDING PRODUCTS LTD

BRACKEN ROAD, SANDYFORD IND ESTATE, DUBLIN 18

DUBLIN 22

Clondalkin Education Office

39,361.88

11-Feb-85

35

0

0

FRANK HEGARTY

18 ST ANTHONYS AVE, CLONDALKIN, DUBLIN 22

DUBLIN 22

Clondalkin Education Office

39,361.88

11-Feb-85

35

0

0

P MANGAN

CASTLEDILLAN, STRAFFAN, CO KILDARE

DUBLIN 22

Clondalkin SWO Ninth Lock Rd

203,394.26

08-Sep-99

20

0

0

RACONTEUR LIMITED

9 FITZWILLIAM SQUARE, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 22

Clondalkin Prison Services

559,646.58

01-May-01

25

0

0

SIAC CONSTRUCTION LIMITED

MONASTERY ROAD, CLONDALKIN, DUBLIN 22

DUBLIN 24

Tallaght Gov Off Belgard

48,250.05

01-May-99

4

9

28

TNT RETAIL EXPRESS

UNIT 1, BELGARD IND ESTATE, TALLAGHT, DUBLIN 24

DUBLIN 24

Tallaght Gov Off Plaza Complex

357,073.2

01-Mar-00

25

0

0

K P L PARTNERSHIP

29 DAWSON STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 24

Tallaght Revenue Commissioners

90,000

01-Oct-96

25

0

0

ANGATON PROPERTIES LIMITED

60 FITZWILLIAM SQ, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 24

Tallaght Prob and Welf Service

92,057

28-Jul-83

35

0

0

LESLIE & ANTONIO KERTESZ

24 BROOK COURT, MONKSTOWN, CO DUBLIN

DUBLIN 24

Tallaght Gov Off Plaza Complex

469,161.87

01-Mar-00

25

0

0

K P L PARTNERSHIP

29 DAWSON STREET, DUBLIN 2

DUBLIN 24

Tallaght Gov Off St Johns Hse

694,584.82

30-Jul-96

25

0

0

WINGMOUNT TRADING LTD

1 HIGH STREET, DUBLIN 8

DUBLIN AIRPORT

Dublin Airport Transaer House

565,235

01-Dec-01

4

0

0

AER RIANTA

DUBLIN AIRPORT, CO DUBLIN

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

DUBLIN AIRPORT

Dublin Airport Collinstown Hse

5,724.6

07-Oct-03

4

0

0

AER RIANTA

DUBLIN AIRPORT, CO DUBLIN

DUN LAOGHAIRE

Dun Laoghaire Garda Control

8,253.3

09-Sep-99

10

0

0

DUN LAOGHAIRE HARBOUR COMPANY

HARBOUR LODGE, CROFTON ROAD, DUN LAOGHAIRE

DUN LAOGHAIRE

Dun Laoghaire Prob & Welfare Serv

85,999.36

01-Feb-96

20

0

0

CHARLES COOTE

C/O T G MC VEAGH & CO SOLICITORS, 32 KILDARE ST, DUBLIN 2

DUN LAOGHAIRE

Dun Laoghaire Vehicle Reg Off

40,631.62

12-Aug-94

21

0

0

MICHAEL C HALPENNY

96 UPR GEORGES ST, DUN LAOGHAIRE, CO DUBLIN

DUNDALK

Dundalk Gov Off Brook St

30,000

01-Oct-97

7

6

0

PATRICK COPAS

31 LADYWELL TERRACE, DUNDALK, CO LOUTH

DUNDALK

Dundalk SWO — Wilton House

50,789.52

01-Oct-91

12

2

25

MONARCH PROPERTIES LIMITED

SOMERTON, CASTLEKNOCK, DUBLIN 15

DUNDALK

Dundalk Gov Off St Pat's Hall

31,743.45

01-Apr-92

11

8

25

REV S MC CARTAN

THE ADMINISTRATOR, ST PATRICKS, DUNDALK, CO LOUTH

DUNDALK

Dundalk Gov Off Earl Hse

177,763.33

01-May-75

35

0

0

NORTHERN BANK LIMITED

DUNDALK

Dundalk Garda Office

1,904.61

01-Jun-02

3

0

0

CIE GROUP PROPERTY LIMITED

ORIEL STREET, DUBLIN 1

DUNFANAGHY

Dunfanaghy SWO

20,800

01-Jan-92

13

11

0

MRS ADA ARNOLD

PATRICK STREET, DUNFANAGHY, CO DONEGAL

DUNGARVAN

Dungarvan Gov Off Civic Bldgs

81,806.68

01-May-99

20

0

0

WATERFORD CO COUNCIL CIVIC OFFICES

DUNGARVAN, CO WATERFORD

DUNLAVIN

Dunlavin GS + MQ

8,888

10-Jun-85

20

0

0

MRS A B TYNTE-IRVINE

THE GLEBE HOUSE, TAMMEY, LETTERKENNY, CO DONEGAL

DUNMANWAY

Dunmanway SWO

14,119.49

27-Apr-59

50

7

4

MRS EILEEN COAKLEY

MONCH, BALLINEEN, CO CORK

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

EDENDERRY

Edenderry SWO

4,828.62

08-Aug-94

10

0

0

PAT & SEAN FLANAGAN

EDENDERRY BUS PARK, BARROWBANK, PORTARLINGTON, CO LAOIS

ELPHIN

Elphin GS

6,602.64

01-Jun-93

11

6

25

MR MICHAEL CONNELLAN & MRS MARY LYSTER

110 GEORGIAN VILLAGE, CASTLEKNOCK, DUBLIN 15

ENNIS

Ennis Education Office

47,615

01-Jul-02

20

0

0

AUSTIN SLATTERY

SPRINGFIELD COURT, VICTORIA TCE, MILL RD, ENNIS, CO CLARE

ENNIS

Ennis Education Office

47,615

01-Jul-02

20

0

0

BRIAN MCCARTHY

CRAGWOOD, QUIN, CO CLARE

ENNIS

Ennis Justice Welfare

13,205.28

21-Jan-99

5

0

0

ML & JOAN HOULIHAN

ARDCAIRN GORT ROAD, ENNIS, CO CLARE

ENNISCORTHY

Enniscorthy SWO

9,269.09

01-Mar-80

23

9

25

AGNES KELLY

SLANEY PLACE, ENNISCORTHY, CO WEXFORD

FALCARRAGH

Falcarragh SWO

9,880

25-Mar-03

9

11

0

MARY MC GARVEY

MAIN STREET, FALCARRAGH, CO DONEGAL

FERMOY

Fermoy SWO — Connolly Street

13,967.12

02-May-00

10

0

0

DR CHARLES & ANN MCCARTHY

CONNOLLY STREET, FERMOY, CO CORK

FERRYBANK

Ferrybank GS

1,508.45

01-May-57

52

2

0

THE MAJOR ALDERMEN & BURGESSES OF WATERFORD

GALWAY

Galway DAF Dockgate

744,825.84

01-Jan-03

20

0

1

MARIS MANUFACTURING LTD, MC DONAGH HOUSE

GALWAY TECHNOLOGY PK, PARKMORE, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Revenue Tax Office

27,299.37

15-Aug-94

9

11

0

HIBERNIAN TRUSTEE COMPANY LIMITED

HADDINGTON ROAD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

GALWAY

Galway Revenue Tax Office

54,281.3

01-Jan-87

18

0

0

HIBERNIAN TRUSTEE COMPANY LIMITED

HADDINGTON ROAD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

GALWAY

Galway Revenue Tax Office

126,973.81

21-Jul-75

35

0

0

HIBERNIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HAWKINS HOUSE, HAWKINS STREET, DUBLIN 2

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

GALWAY

Galway Customs & Excise Liosaban

129,513.28

25-Nov-99

4

1

1

DONALL DOOLEY & PETER MELVILLE

DEERPARK IND ESTATE, ORANMORE, CO GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Garda Office

65,899.41

01-Jan-02

9

11

0

PETER MELVILLE

DEERPARK INDUSTRIAL ESTATE, ORANMORE, CO GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Gov Off Hynes Building

181,572.55

01-Jan-86

35

0

0

O'MALLEY PROPERTY LIMITED

15 HIGH STREET, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Revenue Tax Office

27,616.8

01-Nov-75

35

0

0

HIBERNIAN INSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

HAWKINS HOUSE, HAWKINS STREET, DUBLIN 2

GALWAY

Galway Gov Off Ross House

78,232

01-Jul-78

36

0

0

EQUITY HOLDINGS

VICTORIA HOUSE, EYRE SQUARE, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Prob & Wel Serv

7,575

01-Sep-03

20

0

1

D & M DUNCAN

M & D PROPERTIES, 10 UPR ABBEYGATE ST, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Irish Water Safety

27,639.66

01-Feb-00

21

0

0

JOHN COYLE

LONG WALK, GALWAY, CO GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Mervue Garda

6,602.64

01-Jan-00

35

0

0

THOMAS BOURKE

5 SYLVAN DRIVE, NEWCASTLE, CO GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Driving Test Centre

28,600

05-Feb-96

10

0

0

COLM O'DONNELLAN & GERRY PURCELL

GALWAY

Galway Education Office

155,520.06

15-Jun-01

35

0

0

G & M BRENNAN

MAUNSELLS ROAD, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Prob & Wel Serv

27,068.28

01-Sep-01

20

0

0

COLM O'DONNELLAN

MARY STREET, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Prob & Wel Serv

34,274.04

01-Sep-01

20

0

0

D & M DUNCAN

M & D PROPERTIES, 10 UPR ABBEYGATE ST, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Gov Off Ross House

13,205.28

01-Apr-01

3

8

25

EQUITY HOLDINGS

VICTORIA HOUSE, EYRE SQUARE, GALWAY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

GALWAY

Galway Environment Office

47,087

01-May-02

20

0

0

D FARRELL & M GILLEN

DM PROPERTIES GR GLR, 36 UPR ABBEYGATE ST, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Gov Off Ross House

77,060.4

01-Sep-95

20

0

0

EQUITY HOLDINGS

VICTORIA HOUSE, EYRE SQUARE, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway SWO — Augustine House

33,267.14

01-Jan-92

12

11

25

BRIAN LYNCH & ASSOC

4 THE COURTHOUSE SQ, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Garda Training

28,300

19-Nov-96

9

4

9

GEORGE, BRENDAN & PATRICK CONROY

CONG, CO MAYO

GALWAY

Galway Gov Off Hynes Building

117,768.21

01-Apr-92

11

9

30

O'MALLEY PROPERTY LIMITED

15 HIGH STREET, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Gov Off Hynes Building

37,774.71

01-Apr-92

11

10

0

O'MALLEY PROPERTY LIMITED

15 HIGH STREET, GALWAY

GALWAY

Galway Central Statistics Office

3,573.97

16-Jul-74

36

0

0

MARTIN & MARGARET O'BRIEN

QUARRYFIELD HOLDINGS

GLENTIES

Glenties Marine Forestry Off

8,851.5

21-Jan-98

10

0

0

MARTIN REGAN

MILL ROAD, GLENTIES, CO DONEGAL

GOREY

Gorey Government Offices

6,602.64

01-Apr-93

11

8

25

PAT FUNGE

HOLLYFORT ROAD, GOREY, CO WEXFORD

GORT

Gort SWO

8,253.3

01-Jun-99

10

0

0

TOMMY O'DONNELL

THE SQUARE, GORT, CO GALWAY

GRANARD

Granard SWO

6,602.64

01-Feb-96

10

0

0

STEPHEN GARLAND

MAIN STREET, GRANARD, CO LONGFORD

GREENCASTLE

Greencastle Marine Office

2,310.92

16-Mar-94

10

0

0

FOYLE FISHERMENS CO-OP SOCIETY LTD

THE PIER, GREENCASTLE, MOVILLE

GREENORE

Greenore Customs Post

2,730.44

01-Nov-78

25

1

25

GREENORE FERRY SERVICES LIMITED

GREENORE, CO LOUTH

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

GWEEDORE

Gweedore Arts/Her/Gael/Is

6,920.07

11-Mar-93

11

9

15

UDARAS NA GAELTACHTA

NA FORBACHA, CO GALWAY

KELLS

Kells SWO

7,923.17

28-Apr-98

5

7

28

MICHAEL SWEENEY

HEADFORT PLACE, KELLS, CO MEATH

KENMARE

Kenmare SWO

19,000

01-Nov-94

10

0

0

RODGER O'SULLIVAN

OLD BRIDGE ROAD, KENMARE, CO KERRY

KILDARE

Kildare AHGI Office

11,422.9

01-May-00

20

0

0

JOHN CONWAY

CONWAY ESTATES, STATION ROAD, KILDARE

KILLARNEY

Killarney Driving Test Centre

6,348.69

01-Apr-92

12

8

25

SEAN O DONOGHUE

WHITE VILLA FARM, LISSIVIGEEN, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

KILLARNEY

Killarney Government Offices

36,822.4

01-Jan-95

10

0

0

KILLARNEY CREDIT UNION

NEW STREET, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

KILLARNEY

Killarney Education Office

6,602.64

08-Oct-01

4

11

0

COYNE & CULLOTY

2 MAIN STREET, KILLARNEY, CO KERRY

KILLYBEGS

Killybegs Government Office

68,733.46

07-May-01

10

0

0

SEAN & ANNE RODGERS

ATLANTIC MARINE SUPPLIES LTD, DONEGAL ROAD, KILLYBEGS, CO DONEGAL

KILMALLOCK

Kilmallock SWO

11,700

01-Aug-03

9

11

0

A & J O'CONNELL

SWO OFFICE, CHARLEVILLE ROAD, KILMALLOCK, CO LIMERICK

KILMALLOCK

Kilmallock SWO

7,262.9

01-Dec-95

8

5

30

A & J O'CONNELL

SWO OFFICE, CHARLEVILLE ROAD, KILMALLOCK, CO LIMERICK

KILRICKLE

Kilrickle GS + MQ

5,713.82

25-Apr-00

5

0

0

MICHAEL CURLEY

THE GREEN, KILTORMER, BALLINASLOE, CO GALWAY

KILRUSH

Kilrush SWO

1,650.66

01-May-54

49

7

25

PATRICIA M MCMAHON

ANNAVILLE, 2 ALBERT PLACE, WESTEND, KILKEE

KINSALE

Kinsale Old Head MES

1,396.71

01-Mar-01

4

9

0

MRS BRIGID O'REGAN

TOOMB, DUNMANWAY, CO CORK

LEIXLIP

Leixlip GS

20,000

01-Feb-98

6

11

0

JAMES PEGLEY

70 NEWTOWN PARK, LEIXLIP, CO KILDARE

LETTERKENNY

Letterkenny Driving Test Centre

12,062.51

07-Jun-93

11

6

19

P J DOHERTY & SON LTD

COSHCLADY, BUNBEG, CO DONEGAL

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

LETTERKENNY

Letterkenny Prob & Wel Serv

12,062.51

19-Jul-94

10

0

0

P J DOHERTY & SON LTD

COSHCLADY, BUNBEG, CO DONEGAL

LETTERKENNY

Letterkenny OPW Store

5,332.9

01-Dec-00

10

0

0

GEORGE BOAL

PINEHILL WAREHOUSING, MOUNTAIN TOP, LETTERKENNY, CO DONEGAL

LETTERKENNY

Letterkenny Revenue Office

58,000

20-Jul-98

20

0

1

PATK & SALLY DUNION

SPRACHBURN HOUSE, LETTERKENNY, CO DONEGAL

LETTERKENNY

Letterkenny Customs &Excise Store

17,827.12

26-Oct-95

8

2

0

GEORGE BOAL

PINEHILL WAREHOUSING, MOUNTAIN TOP, LETTERKENNY, CO DONEGAL

LETTERKENNY

Letterkenny Customs & Excise

24,000

07-Jun-93

20

0

0

KEVIN PEOPLES

LOWER MAIN STREET, LETTERKENNY, CO DONEGAL

LIMERICK

Limerick Education Office

123,824.25

01-Apr-02

20

0

1

GERARD ENRIGHT

9 MOUNT GERARD COURT, SOUTH CIRCULAR ROAD, LIMERICK CITY, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Limerick Gov Off St Munchins Hse

36,822.4

16-May-97

11

11

15

ST MUNCHIN HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

C/O GRANT THORNTON, MILL HOUSE, HENRY STREET

LIMERICK

Limerick Gov Off St Munchins Hse

62,877.43

01-Sep-73

35

0

0

ST MUNCHIN HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

C/O GRANT THORNTON, MILL HOUSE, HENRY STREET

LIMERICK

Limerick Driving Test Centre

15,000

29-Jan-81

23

10

27

DAVID & KAY CULHANE

WOODVIEW SHOP CENTRE, WOODVIEW PARK, OLD CRATLOE ROAD, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Moyross Garda Clinic

1,269.74

17-May-92

12

7

9

MOYROSS COMMUNITY ENTERPRISE CNTR LTD

MOYROSS, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Limerick Gov Off St Munchins Hse

5,688.43

01-Apr-74

34

5

0

ST MUNCHIN HOUSE PARTNERSHIP

C/O GRANT THORNTON, MILL HOUSE, HENRY STREET

LIMERICK

Limerick Revenue Warehouses

73,396

01-Jun-96

20

0

0

LIMERICK FRUIT SUPPLIERS HOLDINGS

PARK ROAD, RHEBOGUE, LIMERICK

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

LIMERICK

Limerick Prob & Wel Office

21,526

18-Dec-00

3

8

2

DUDIKA LIMITED

CRESCENT TRUST CO, GARDINER HOUSE, BANK PLACE, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Limerick SWO — Plassey

33,140.16

01-Nov-92

11

1

25

SHANNON FREE AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT CO LTD

SHANNON, CO CLARE

LIMERICK

Limerick F/SWO Upper Cecil St

152.37

01-Aug-33

99

0

0

KENNEDY & OTHERS

LIMERICK

Limerick Education Office

3,809.21

01-Jun-99

5

6

25

CITY OF LIMERICK VEC

ATHENAEUM BUILDING, UPPER CECIL STREET, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Limerick Garda Pulse Office

6,602.64

13-Aug-99

5

4

13

GARDA SPORT & SOCIAL CLUB

SEXTON STREET, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Limerick Revenue Office

569,360

11-Jun-92

20

0

0

BABA EXPORTS LIMITED

KINNEAR COURT, CUMBERLAND ST SOUTH, DUBLIN 2

LIMERICK

Limerick Revenue Drugs Team

17,954.1

01-Nov-98

20

0

0

LIMERICK BUSINESS SYSTEMS LIMITED

CORCANREE IND ESTATE, LIMERICK

LIMERICK

Limerick CSO Folio Storage

81,923.4

22-Jul-99

5

3

0

BEVERLY RECORDS MANAGEMENT

13-17 NEWMARKET, DUBLIN 8

LISMORE

Lismore SWO

5,078.95

01-Jun-00

5

0

0

D MURPHY & G DOWD

MAIN STREET, LISMORE, CO WATERFORD

LISTOWEL

Listowel SWO

81,263.24

14-Feb-02

20

0

0

KEVIN BARRY

CLIEVERAGH, LISTOWEL, CO KERRY

LONGFORD

Longford Vehicle Reg Off

10,157.9

01-Jan-93

11

11

25

ZOLA ENTERPRISES LTD

DUBLIN ROAD, MULLINGAR, CO WESTMEATH

LOUGHREA

Loughrea SWO — Main Street

19,147.65

19-Jul-96

10

0

0

SEAN KELLY & VALERIE DOLAN

C/O M KEARY AUCTIONEERING, LOUGHREA

LOUGHREA

Loughrea SWO — PMPA Building

23,000

14-Feb-97

10

0

0

ZACCIO LIMITED

C/O SWEENEYS, MAIN STREET, LOUGHREA, CO GALWAY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

LOUGHREA

Loughrea Agriculture Offices

9,903.96

02-Aug-76

35

0

0

VALERIE DOLAN

POOLBOY, BALLINASLOE &, SEAN &JEANETTE KELLY, DERRYMULLEN

LOUGHREA

Loughrea Driving Test Centre

5,078.95

01-Nov-98

6

1

25

MARTIN AHERNE

COSMONA, LOUGHREA, CO GALWAY

LUCAN

Lucan SWO — Chapel Hill

16,671.66

01-Apr-85

20

0

0

SEAN TUOHY

PARK LODGE, CHAPEL HILL, LUCAN, CO DUBLIN

LUCAN

Lucan SWO — Main Street

12,697.38

02-Jun-96

14

0

0

MRS GRACE O'HARA

47 LR BEECHWOOD AVE, RANELAGH, DUBLIN 6

MACROOM

Macroom SWO

6,602.64

06-Nov-97

6

1

20

ESB

SARSFIELD ROAD, WILTON, CORK

MALAHIDE

Malahide SWO

15.871.73

15-Apr-85

20

0

0

OWEN OWENS

SUITE 1, MARIAN HOUSE, 93/95 TERENURE RD E, DUBLIN 6

MALLOW

Mallow Driving Test Centre

1.27

01-May-90

13

7

25

CORK CO COUNCIL

ANNABELLA, MALLOW, CO CORK

MALLOW

Mallow SWO

33,846.14

30-May-94

10

0

0

PAT MCNALLY

CENTRAL LANE, OFF DAVIS STREET, MALLOW, CO CORK

MALLOW

Mallow Government Offices

26,664.5

01-Jul-92

12

5

25

MALLOW CREDIT UNION LIMITED

135 BANK PLACE, MALLOW, CO CORK

MALLOW

Mallow Farm Devopment Service

10,361.06

01-Mar-99

4

11

28

D K P HOLDINGS LTD

GOULDSHILL HOUSE, GOULDSHILL, MALLOW, CO CORK

MAYNOOTH

Maynooth Agriculture Office

940,625.68

01-Feb-02

9

11

0

RAY GREHAN

CRINSTOWN, MAYNOOTH, CO KILDARE

MONAGHAN

Monaghan Drainage Workshops

21,331.6

15-Aug-96

8

4

11

E MCNALLY LIMITED

GLASLOUGH, CO MONAGHAN

MOYLOUGH

Moylough GS + MQ

6,602.64

01-Jul-97

15

0

0

PATRICK BURKE

BEECHCROFT, BALLYFORAN, BALLINASLOE, CO GALWAY

MOYNE

Moyne Wildlife Office

13,205.28

01-May-00

10

0

0

JOE DWYER

FYHORA, MOYNE, CO LONGFORD

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

MOYNE

Moyne GS

126.97

01-Apr-84

20

8

25

REV JOSEPH BERGIN PP

PAROCHIAL HOUSE, TEMPLETOUHY, CO TIPPERARY

MULLINGAR

Mullingar Central Stats Office

3,580.66

23-Jun-97

6

6

3

EARLSCOURT DEVELOPMENT LIMITED

PARK HOUSE, AUSTIN FRIAR STREET, MULLINGAR

MULLINGAR

Mullingar Prob & Wel Serv

26,664.5

01-Feb-00

20

0

0

DAVID MULVANY

WILLIAMSTOWN, TRIM ROAD, NAVAN, CO MEATH

MULLINGAR

Mullingar Education Office

186,309

23-May-03

20

0

2

PEARSE CORROON

DUBLIN ROAD, MULLINGAR, CO WESTMEATH

MULLINGAR

Mullingar Vehicle Reg Office

10,500

01-Nov-92

11

7

0

PATSY FAGAN

MULLINGAR

Mullingar Ed Warehouse 1

28,011.96

01-Oct-01

9

11

0

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

NAAS

Naas Vehicle Registration Office

31,925

01-Dec-92

19

6

0

T & L MC KENNA

WHITECHURCH, STRAFFAN, CO KILDARE

NAAS

Naas Agric Off Spring Garden Hse

35,314.59

23-Oct-95

9

11

0

THOMAS MC KENNA

TURNINGS, STRAFFAN, CO KILDARE

NAAS

Naas Driving Test Centre

8,380.27

01-May-91

12

7

25

BRIAN HIGGINS

MOYCLARE VILLAGE, MAYNOOTH, CO KILDARE

NAAS

Naas Agric Off — Poplar House

95,696

01-Mar-83

35

0

0

NAVSCAN LIMITED

FITZWILLIAM BUSINESS CENTRE, 26 UPR PEMBROKE ST, DUBLIN 2

NAAS

Naas Gov Office

254,034

01-Jan-04

20

1

0

GOLDSTATE LIMITED

ANNAVILLE HOUSE, NEWTOWN, WATERFORD

NAAS

Naas SWO — Rathasker Square

19,500

01-Aug-97

9

11

0

GROVEWORTH DEVELOPMENT LIMITED

BALTYBOYS, BLESSINGTON, CO WICKLOW

NAVAN

Navan SWO

224,562.2

01-Aug-02

20

0

0

JOHN CUSACK

ECHO GATE, DUBLIN ROAD, TRIM, CO MEATH

NAVAN

Navan SWO

45,710.57

02-May-95

9

6

0

MKF ENTERPRISES

COPSE LODGE, BELLINTER, NAVAN, CO MEATH

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

NAVAN

Navan VRT Commons Road

23,500

30-Nov-01

5

0

0

W J MURPHY c/o P SMITH & CO SOLRS

CHURCH VIEW, NAVAN, CO MEATH

NEW INN

New Inn GS — Galway

5,078.95

01-Mar-99

4

11

28

MARTIN SPELLMAN

NEW INN, BALLINASLOE, CO GALWAY

NEW ROSS

New Ross SWO

2,539.48

01-Jul-96

8

5

25

AUGUSTINIAN FATHERS

GOOD COUNSEL COLLEGE, NEW ROSS, CO WEXFORD

NEW ROSS

New Ross Government Offices

1,904.61

18-Jun-85

19

6

8

NEW ROSS HBR COMMRS

HARBOUR OFFICE, THE QUAY, NEW ROSS, CO WEXFORD

NEWBRIDGE

Newbridge SWO — Henry Street

17,776.33

01-Jan-95

10

0

0

PETER O' CONNELL

1 HENRY LANE, NEWBRIDGE, CO KILDARE

NEWCASTLEWEST

Newcastlewest Prob/Wel Office

39,613.16

01-Feb-02

19

11

1

MARTIN MULCAHY

CHURCHTOWN ROAD, NEWCASTLEWEST, LIMERICK

NEWMARKET

Newmarket SWO

2,539.48

01-Mar-77

26

9

25

TED FEEHAN

RATHCOOLA, CHARLEVILLE ROAD, NEWMARKET, CO CORK

OLDCASTLE

Oldcastle GS + MQ

69.84

01-Jan-63

45

0

0

JAMES NAPER

LOUGHCREW, OLDCASTLE, CO MEATH

ORANMORE

Oranmore GS + MQ

25,394.76

01-Jul-86

19

0

13

EXECUTORS OF AILEEN DILLON DECEASED

PASSAGE WEST

Passage West GS + MQ

126.97

25-Mar-66

38

9

1

MISS LAURA M PERRY & MRS MARY CASHMAN & MISS MARGERY KING & STEPHEN A PERRY

PORTLAOISE

Portlaoise DAF Appeals Office

83,259

01-Jun-03

20

0

1

KILMINCHY HOLDINGS

MOUNT KENNETT HSE, HENRY STREET, LIMERICK

PORTLAOISE

Portlaoise Furniture Store

2,031.58

01-Jan-01

10

0

0

JOHN EGAN

DOWNSVIEW, STRADBALLY ROAD, PORTLAOISE, CO LAOIS

PORTLAOISE

Portlaoise Agric Warehouse

25,394.76

01-Dec-99

20

0

0

SEAMUS MCCUSKER

SHANDERRY, PORTARLINGTON, CO LAOIS

PORTUMNA

Portumna Killimor-Cappagh Dr/nge

6,666.12

01-Jan-94

10

11

25

WESTERN HEALTH BOARD FINANCE DEPARTMENT

MERLIN PARK REGIONAL HOSPITAL, GALWAY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

RAMELTON

Ramelton GS + MQ

3,771.12

01-Jan-97

7

11

25

TRUSTEES OF LEMENS ESTATE

KARL HERMANN CLEMEN & OTHERS

REAR CROSS

Rear Cross GS

3,999.67

20-Feb-97

9

0

0

MS JOAN CAREY

91 BALLINACURRA GARDENS, LIMERICK

ROSCOMMON

Roscommon Agriculture Office

41,901.36

10-Oct-95

9

0

0

GERARD & BRIGEEN FITMAURICE

ARDSALLAGH BEG, ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON

Roscommon Health Office/Store

11,427.64

01-Dec-98

7

5

26

BRENDAN &THOMAS KELLY

ROSCOMMON ENTERPRISE CENTRE, RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON

Roscommon Vehicle Reg Office

13,713.17

01-Nov-92

11

1

25

SEAN DOYLE

CIRCULAR ROAD, ROSCOMMON

ROSCOMMON

Roscommon Health Office/Store

75,708.13

27-May-96

10

0

0

BRENDAN & THOMAS KELLY

ROSCOMMON ENTERPRISE CENTRE, RACECOURSE ROAD, ROSCOMMON

ROSCREA

Roscrea GS

36,314.51

01-Jan-01

35

0

0

ESTATE OF GEORGE E P FAWCETT — ATTN OF FEARGHAL L DE FEU

BRIDGE DE FEU & CO SOLRS, ROSCREA

ROSCREA

Roscrea SWO

16,506.6

01-May-00

19

11

28

J P CAMPION

THE MALTHOUSE, VALLEY PLACE, ROSCREA, CO TIPPERARY

ROSSLARE HARBOUR

Rosslare Harbour Government Off

79,206.26

01-Jan-93

11

11

25

CIE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

HEUSTON STATION, DUBLIN 8

ROSSLARE HARBOUR

Rosslare Harbour Government Off

38.09

17-Sep-23

82

3

9

CIE SECRETARYS OFFICE

HEUSTON STATION, DUBLIN 8

ROSSLARE HARBOUR

Rosslare Harbour Veh Reg Office

76,184.28

01-Nov-95

35

0

0

DEVEREUX ENTERPRISES LIMITED

WEXFORD ROAD, ROSSLARE HARBOUR, CO WEXFORD

ROSSLARE HARBOUR

Rosslare Harbour Government Off

10,860

21-Feb-02

10

0

0

CIE PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

HEUSTON STATION, DUBLIN 8

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

SCOTSTOWN

Scotstown GS

6,031.26

18-Feb-93

11

10

8

MISS K MC KENNA

SCOTSTOWN, CO MONAGHAN

SHANNON

Shannon Driving Test Centre

4,202.83

01-Aug-98

6

4

25

MS ANN MAHER

C/O RISTEARD M CRIMMINS SOLICITORS, WEST MALL, SHANNON TOWN CTR

SHANTONAGH

Shantonagh GS

63.49

29-Oct-64

40

1

27

MRS SARAH MITCHELL

SHANTONAGH, CASTLEBLAYNEY, CO MONAGHAN

SKIBBEREEN

Skibbereen Marine Forestry Off

6,602.64

01-Dec-98

10

0

0

RAYMOND & MARY O'NEILL

37 NORTH STREET, SKIBBEREEN, CO CORK

SKIBBEREEN

Skibbereen Driving Test Centre

5,873.81

01-Jan-91

13

11

25

UNION HALL FISHERMAN CO-OP SOCIETY LTD

FASTNET ESTATE, MARSH ROAD, SKIBBEREEN

SLIGO

Sligo Driving Test Centre

109,220

21-Nov-03

20

0

0

TERRY GANNON

13 CEDAR DRIVE, SLIGO

SLIGO

Sligo Customs and Excise Store

17,450

01-Jul-96

10

0

0

RHODAVILLE PROPERTIES LTD

FINISKLIN IND ESTATE, FINISKLIN, SLIGO

SLIGO

Sligo Garda Welfare Office

11,732.38

01-Jun-00

5

0

0

ELEANOR NICHOLSON

BALLINCAR, SLIGO, CO SLIGO

SLIGO

Sligo Central Statistics Office

5,713.82

09-Jul-97

6

6

23

BRIAN REDAHAN

8 WINE STREET, SLIGO

SLIGO

Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr

34,752.73

07-Mar-97

9

11

0

LOMBARD & ULSTER BANKING LIMITED

ULSTER BANK GRP CNTR, GEORGES QUAY, DUBLIN 2

SLIGO

Sligo Vehicle Reg Off

12,710.08

19-Oct-98

6

2

7

PATRICK JOS CONWAY

GLENCAR, UPPER ROSSES POINT, SLIGO

SLIGO

Sligo SCFA Office

146,019.88

01-Aug-01

9

11

0

MRS EILEEN MONAHAN

ROSSAVILLE, BALLINCAR, CO SLIGO

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

SLIGO

Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr

28,125

13-Jul-92

20

11

0

WESTWARD (SLIGO) LTD

STROKESTOWN PARK HSE, STROKESTOWN, CO ROSCOMMON

SLIGO

Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr

33,750

22-Feb-93

20

0

0

WESTWARD (SLIGO) LTD

STROKESTOWN PARK HSE, STROKESTOWN, CO ROSCOMMON

SLIGO

Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr

45,525

01-Sep-92

25

0

0

WESTWARD (SLIGO) LTD

STROKESTOWN PARK HSE, STROKESTOWN, CO ROSCOMMON

SLIGO

Sligo District Veterinary Office

15,236.86

01-Sep-95

10

0

0

RHATIGAN & COMPANY

14 TEELING STREET, SLIGO

STRADBALLY

Stradbally GS + MQ

3,809.21

01-Jun-62

42

0

1

MRS NICOLA MINIHAN

THATCHED COTTAGE, CHURCH LANE, STRADBALLY, WATERFORD

SWINFORD

Swinford SWO

5,332.9

01-Mar-96

10

0

28

JOHN O'CONNOR SOLICITOR

168 PEMBROKE ROAD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

SWORDS

Swords Census Office

634,852.53

16-Sep-00

25

0

0

CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE (IRL) LTD

TEMPLE HOUSE, ROCK ROAD, BLACKROCK

SWORDS

Swords Agricultural Inspectors

8,253.3

23-Jan-98

10

0

0

LINMORE PROPERTY COMPANY LIMITED

ADELAIDE HOUSE, 90 UPR GEORGES ST, DUN LAOGHAIRE

TEMPLEMORE

Templemore SWO

8,253.3

20-May-93

15

0

0

J & L FITZPATRICK

MAIN STREET, TEMPLEMORE, CO TIPPERARY

TERRYGLASS

Terryglass GS

9,142.11

01-Jan-01

4

9

0

MR & MRS M COMERFORD

TOWERHILL, BORRISOKANE, CO TIPPERARY

THURLES

Thurles Justice Welfare Office

10,729.29

02-Dec-98

10

0

0

JOHN & LINDA HANAFIN

10 ROSEMOUNT, CLONGOUR, THURLES, CO TIPPERARY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

THURLES

Thurles Gov Offices — ACC House

6,983.56

05-Oct-98

6

2

21

ACC BANK

CHARLEMONT PLACE, DUBLIN 2

THURLES

Thurles Gov Offices — ACC House

10,157.9

01-Feb-99

6

0

0

ACC BANK

CHARLEMONT PLACE, DUBLIN 2

TIPPERARY

Tipperary Driving Test Centre

3,174.35

07-Oct-91

12

2

19

CANON HAYES

RECREATION CENTRE, ST MICHAELS STREET, TIPPERARY

TOOMEVARA

Toomevara GS + MQ

2,539.48

01-Jul-79

25

5

25

JAMES O'MEARA

POST OFFICE, TOOMEVARA, NENAGH, CO TIPPERARY

TOURMAKEEDY

Tourmakeady GS

4,761.52

26-May-94

9

7

0

JOHN BARKER

GURTEENMORE, TOURMAKEADY, CO MAYO

TRALEE

Tralee Marine Office

9,903.96

04-Jul-97

6

5

22

DECLAN O'SULLIVAN

3 GREENVIEW TERRACE, PRINCES STREET, TRALEE, CO KERRY

TRALEE

Tralee Prob and Wel Service

22,855.29

01-Feb-94

10

0

0

COLM V CURNEEN

13 SILCHESTER ROAD, GLENGEARY, CO DUBLIN

TRALEE

Tralee Education Office

28,569.11

15-Feb-01

9

11

0

ARTHUR GERARD SPRING

19 STRAND STREET, TRALEE, CO KERRY

TRALEE

Tralee Education Office

28,569.11

15-Feb-01

9

11

0

DONAL SPRING

29 BELGRAVE SQUARE, MONKSTOWN, CO DUBLIN

TRALEE

Tralee Garda Training Centre

18,000

11-May-99

8

7

30

PUREFRESH FRUIT JUICES LIMITED

GLEBE HOUSE, GLEBE PLACE, KILLARNEY

TRALEE

Tralee Agric Warehouse

18,324.86

01-Jul-00

20

0

0

J DILLON PROPERTIES

C/O DILLON CAR SALES, JOHN JOE SHEEHY ROAD, TRALEE, CO KERRY

TRIM

Trim SWO

1,587.17

19-Jan-93

11

11

7

TRIM UDC

TOWN HALL, TRIM, CO MEATH

TUAM

Tuam DTC

12,697.38

01-Jan-00

10

0

0

PAT & MAURICE BURKE

BURKES COACHES, TUAM, CO GALWAY

TUAM

Tuam Government Offices

25,394.76

28-Mar-85

24

0

0

SEAN & MARY RHATIGAN

MILLTOWN ROAD, TUAM, CO GALWAY

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

TUAM

Tuam Ordnance Survey Office

20,636.49

01-Sep-94

20

0

0

MARY KEATING

GARDENFIELD, TUAM, CO GALWAY

TULLAMORE

Tullamore Education Warehouse

15,984

01-Oct-02

9

11

1

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

TULLAMORE

Tullamore Education Warehouse

23,976

01-Sep-03

9

11

0

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

TULLAMORE

Tullamore Education Warehouse

10,656

01-Oct-01

9

11

0

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

TULLAMORE

Tullamore Education Warehouse

15,998.7

01-Jun-99

10

0

0

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

TULLAMORE

Tullamore Education Warehouse

20,869.42

01-Mar-01

9

11

0

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

TULLAMORE

Tullamore Education Warehouse

26,664.5

01-Aug-00

9

11

0

MID FREIGHT SHIPPING LIMITED

CAPPINCUR, TULLAMORE, CO OFFALY

VALENTIA

Knightstown MES

359.76

01-Jun-82

35

0

0

ADRIAN FITZGERALD

16 CLAREVILLE STREET, LONDON SW7, ENGLAND

WATERFORD

Waterford Gov Off-Johnstown

117,968

01-Jun-03

20

0

1

M & M CAHILLANE & J & B ROHAN T/A JOHNSTOWN PROPERTIES

UNIT 8, JOHNSTOWN BUS. PK, WATERFORD

WATERFORD

Waterford Prob & Wel Off

25,394.76

03-Sep-01

4

10

0

CAREY & LYNCH

86 THE QUAY, WATERFORD

WATERFORD

Waterford Customs Store

14,760.71

03-Feb-94

19

11

29

D FLYNN PROPERTIES

PARAGON HOUSE, WATERFORD BUSINESS PARK, CORK ROAD, WATERFORD

WATERFORD

Waterford Customs Store 1

32,505.29

01-Jul-00

20

0

0

D FLYNN PROPERTIES

PARAGON HOUSE, WATERFORD BUSINESS PARK, CORK ROAD, WATERFORD

Location

Building Name

Annual Rent

Rent Start Date

Term Years

Term Months

Term Days

Landlord Name

Address

WATERFORD

Waterford Education Office

23,939.64

11-Oct-71

35

0

0

JOHN & IMELDA COTTER

3 BAYSWATER, CURRABINNY RD, CARRIGALINE, CORK

WATERFORD

Waterford DTC

13,967.12

01-Sep-00

4

0

0

D FLYNN PROPERTIES

PARAGON HOUSE, WATERFORD BUSINESS PARK, CORK ROAD, WATERFORD

WEXFORD

Wexford Education Office

72,694.8

01-Dec-02

9

11

0

WRIGHT GROUP INVESTMENTS LTD

CORNMARKET, WEXFORD

WEXFORD

Wexford Family Med Services

15,236.86

14-Oct-98

5

5

0

BARRY KEHOE

BROOKHAVEN, NEWBAY, WEXFORD

WEXFORD

Wexford Driving Test Centre

5,078.95

01-Jul-91

13

5

25

CONTINENTAL SALES LIMITED

61 SOUTH MAIN STREET, WEXFORD

WICKLOW

Wicklow Gov Off Murrough

123,926.44

04-Dec-00

20

0

0

SHADOW PROPERTIES

45 NORTHUMBERLAND RD, BALLSBRIDGE, DUBLIN 4

YOUGHAL

Youghal SWO — Main Street

12,000

28-Oct-03

9

11

0

PAUL & ANNE MURRAY

GOLF LINKS ROAD, YOUGHAL, CO CORK

Pension Provisions.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

245 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his proposals to deal with the pension rights of unestablished workers in the Department of Defence who receive very low rates of non-contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5942/04]

I indicated in my most recent budget speech that my intention is to bring forward proposals to change certain pension terms for existing staff. These proposals include, in particular, provisions to amend the formula used for integrating public service and social welfare pensions in order to make better provisions for current and future staff on lower pay levels.

Integration is the arrangement whereby, in the case of public service employees on full PRSI, which includes unestablished civil servants in the Department of Defence, the social welfare pension is combined with the occupational pension to provide a combined pension which is at least as good as the pension which would have been payable if the sole source of pension were occupational pension alone. For information, the lump sum payment due at the time of retirement is not integrated and as such is payable in full based pensionable remuneration and service.

Under the current approach to integration of pensions, the occupational portion of pensions is calculated on the basis of "net pensionable remuneration" — that is, pensionable remuneration less an offset of twice the value of the old age contributory pension. The occupational portion of pension is then calculated at a rate of 1/80th of the net pensionable remuneration for each year of reckonable service up to a maximum or 40/80th over 40 years. The current approach can provide a very low, or even zero, rate of occupational pension, apart from lump sum, for public servants who retire on low levels of pay.

In the approach recommended by the commission on public service pensions and discussed with the public service unions a new formula would be used which would ensure that workers with lower levels of income, that is income below three 1/3rd times old age contribution pension — currently about € 557 per week or €29,100 per annum, would be guaranteed a certain level of occupational income as well at the full old age contribution pension. The occupational portion of the pension will be calculated at 1/200th of total pensionable remuneration for each reckonable year of service; and would be payable in addition to old age contributory pension, as well as the unintegrated lump sum. In the case of employees earning over the limit of three 1/3rd times old age contributory pension, the calculation would yield the same pension as heretofore.

The effect of these proposed changes would be to improve the rate of occupational pension for lower paid public service workers generally, including relevant Department of Defence employees, while not affecting the occupational pensions of workers who are on relatively higher pay. It is important to note that old age contributory pension is paid in addition to the occupational pension, in respect of these workers, and would not be affected by the proposals. Similarly the unintegrated lump sum payments are not affected.

The revised proposals are in line with recommendations brought forward by the Commission on Public Service Pensions and improved, since then, in line with discussions with trade union representatives.

Tax Code.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

246 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance the correct method of assessment of the crèche subsidy for benefit in kind tax purposes (details supplied). [5944/04]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that where an employer provides a benefit to an employee the amount of the taxable benefit which will be liable to PAYE and PRSI is the expense incurred by the employer less any amount made good to the employer by the employee.

In this case the employer has made a block booking of a number of places in a crèche. The employees pay part of the cost. The difference between the cost to the employer and the amount paid by the employees is a taxable benefit which must be apportioned between the employees concerned based on the facts including the number of children involved for each employee. The apportionment should lead to a result which is fair and reasonable.

Revenue have advised me that they will be in contact with the employer to ensure that there is an appropriate tax treatment in this case.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

247 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by him on budget day, insofar as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6006/04]

I have appointed an implementation committee to prepare and submit an overall implementation plan on decentralisation by the end of March 2004. More detailed planning for decentralisation, which will include risk assessment for the Department of Finance and the bodies under its aegis, will commence on receipt of the overall implementation plan.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

248 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6021/04]

The Department of Finance does not have any decentralised offices at present.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

249 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by him on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6036/04]

I have appointed an implementation committee to prepare and submit an overall implementation plan on decentralisation by the end of March 2004. It was decided not to conduct a survey of the staff of the Department on decentralisation as, until the implementation plan is completed, they will not have the information they need to assist them in making an informed decision on the matter. When the implementation plan is completed research will be commenced among Department staff as to their interest in decentralising to Tullamore and other locations.

A number of expressions of interest have been received from staff of my Department and from other Departments, in relation to decentralisation and those have been noted, but will not be processed further pending receipt of the implementation plan.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

250 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Finance if his Department has carried out a cumulative risk assessment on the decentralisation plan which he announced on budget day; when he expects to receive such a cumulative risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6055/04]

I announced the decision to introduce a major decentralisation programme in December 1999. Since then my Department has received numerous representations, submissions and advices on the programme. In the context of budget 2004, taking account of these, the Government decided to decentralise over 10,000 civil and public servants.

We are now in the implementation stage and I have established an implementation committee to drive this forward. I am awaiting the report of the committee which I expect to receive by the end of March. Following this each Department will be required to develop a detailed plan for its own element of the programme. I have no doubt that the question of risk assessment and risk mitigation, covering such aspects as business continuity, financial and logistical issues will be addressed in the detailed planning exercise.

Flood Relief.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

251 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance the outcome of the meeting between officials from the OPW and officials from Kildare County Council which was held to discuss flood relief schemes in Maynooth, Leixlip and Ardclough, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6081/04]

The Office of Public Works met officials from Kildare County Council earlier this month to discuss flooding problems at a number of locations.

The county council confirmed that it has commissioned a report on flooding at Leixlip and agreed to forward a copy of the report to OPW when available.

Works undertaken on the Lyreen and Meadowbrook rivers in the Maynooth area are complete. No further works are planned. This work was carried out by OPW as an agent of the county council.

On the issue of flooding at Ardclough, Kildare County Council agreed that insufficient information is available to address the flooding problem. Further technical and engineering data is required. The county council agreed to consider how this information might be gathered.

Flooding problems in the areas mentioned are a matter for the local authority in the first instance. OPW is happy to assist with technical advice and guidance but I must point out that no flood relief scheme is planned for any of these locations. The flood policy review which I initiated in November 2002 has now completed its work and the report of the review group will shortly be submitted to Government. I hope to be in a position to publish the report in the very near future. As well as setting out a strategy for flood management in the future, the report will clarify responsibilities of central and local government and set out criteria for prioritisation of resources on flood management measures.

Architectural Heritage.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

252 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance further to Parliamentary Question No. 293 of 27 January 2004, if the revised schedule of works for Lucan Demesne has been agreed and submitted to his Department; if same has been approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6082/04]

The current position remains unchanged from that outlined in my response to the Deputy's recent question on this issue, No. 293 of 27 January 2004.

Ombudsman’s Office.

Pádraic McCormack

Ceist:

253 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Finance the names of employees of the Ombudsman’s office who previously worked in Departments; and the Departments they worked in. [6148/04]

I have been informed by the Office of the Ombudsman that it lists the names of all its staff in its published annual reports.

Details held in the personnel files concerning the previous service of individual staff members in that office is personal data and as such, under the provisions of the Data Protection Act 1988 cannot be released without the prior consent of the individual.

Stádas na Gaeilge san Aontas Eorpach.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

254 D’fhiafraigh Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin den Aire Gnóthaí Eachtracha cad iad na tearmaí tagartha atá tugtha don Ghrúpa Oibre a bhfuil ionadaí ag a Roinn air chun tuaraisciú ar cheist na Gaeilge mar theanga oifigiúil oibre san Aontas Eorpach. [5610/04]

Agus é ag plé na ceiste tábachtaí seo, beidh an dream oibre ag díriú ar dheiseanna oiriúnaí a aithint chun stádas na teanga san Aontas Eorpach a chur chun cinn. Tá mé ag tnúth le tuarascáil ón dream chomh luath agus is féidir.

Irish Presidency.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

255 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will urge the Government to introduce and implement the appointment of an EU special representative for Tibetan affairs during the Irish Presidency of the European Union; if he will make representations to members of the Cabinet to ensure that such an appointment is proposed during the Irish Presidency of the European Union; and if Ireland will maintain its present strong position that there can be no suggestion of the EU lifting the 1989 China arms embargo without substantive progress in China’s human rights record. [5597/04]

In March 2002, the Dalai Lama wrote to the Foreign Ministers of EU member states, asking that an EU special representative for Tibet be appointed. In a joint response at that time, and after careful consideration, the EU Ministers were unanimously of the view that nominating an EU special representative would not contribute positively to the situation. The response also made clear the long-standing concern of the Union about the human rights situation in Tibet.

The position was considered again by member states at the end of last year and it was agreed that the position had not changed. The Union emphasised that it would make full use of the EU-China human rights dialogue, and other avenues, to convey its concerns, and that it would also continue to encourage direct talks between the representatives of the Dalai Lama and the Chinese authorities.

Following the decision of the European Council in December 2003 that the embargo on the sale of arms to China should be re-examined, I held initial discussions on this matter with my EU colleagues at the General Affairs and External Relations Council, GAERC, on 26 January 2004. The matter has now reverted to the preparatory bodies of the Council for further consideration of the facts and issues which surround this difficult and complex matter. The GAERC will further discuss this question when this preparatory work has been completed. The GAERC will review this issue in the context of the EU's commitment to human rights and our overall relationship with China, as well as the broader regional and international context. A decision would follow only on a full and detailed consideration, and would require consensus among EU partners.

Passport Applications.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

256 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason for the delay in releasing a passport in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5678/04]

I am advised by the Passport Office that it does not have a record of receiving a passport application in respect of this person.

If the Deputy could give my office further details of this application, I will have the matter examined by the passport officer.

Question No. 257 withdrawn.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

258 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of full time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5916/04]

None of the full-time staff of the Department of Foreign Affairs first entered the Civil Service as political advisers.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

259 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, insofar as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6007/04]

Under the Government's recently announced decentralisation programme, the Development Co-operation Directorate of the Department of Foreign Affairs is scheduled for decentralisation to Limerick. This will involve the relocation to Limerick of some 130 posts. Departmental staff are also expected to apply to decentralise to some of the other 52 centres.

The Deputy will be aware that, in addition to a passport office in Cork and a new passport facility being established in Balbriggan, this Department also has 67 resident diplomatic and consular missions abroad, with which Dublin-based staff liaise on a daily basis, by e-mail, fax, telephone and video conference facility. The decision to relocate the Development Co-operation Directorate to Limerick does not, therefore, pose any exceptional problem for the efficient and effective operation of the Department in general, or the directorate itself in particular.

The decentralisation programme poses certain challenges for the Department. I am confident that, with careful planning, these challenges will be met. Measures to minimise potential risks to efficiency and effectiveness, particularly in the period leading up to, during and following the decentralisation to Limerick, will be planned and overseen by the Department's recently established decentralisation committee.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

260 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6022/04]

The Department of Foreign Affairs established a passport sub-office in Cork city in 1987. Two of the original three posts were filled from within the Department. The third officer came from another Department. The staffing complement of the office has increased in the intervening years, as a consequence of its upgrade to full passport-issuing status with responsibility for processing all applications from the Munster area, and in line with significant annual increases in passport demand since 1987. The office's current staff complement is 56 posts.

The Office of Public Works is responsible for the provision of office accommodation. No significant costs arose for the Department of Foreign Affairs in connection with the establishment of the office in Cork. The Deputy will be aware of my announcement a year ago of plans to open a new passport production facility in Balbriggan during 2004. This will involve the relocation of some 80-90 posts initially, approximately one third of which are expected to be filled by staff recruited from other Government Departments and offices.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

261 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6037/04]

A number of important questions relating to decentralisation remain to be clarified. In particular, the timing of moves will be a central issue. In this context we would wish to be in a position to give staff as much information as possible prior to asking them to indicate whether they wish to decentralise. The content of the central implementation plan report, to be prepared by the implementation committee for the Cabinet sub-committee on decentralisation by the end of March, will be of particular relevance in this regard. I anticipate that the Department of Foreign Affairs will conduct a decentralisation survey shortly after the presentation of that report.

State Pardons.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

262 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received correspondence from an Irish citizen (details supplied) regarding their request to have a conviction for destitution as a child, wrongfully made against this person many years ago, expunged and an individual pardon extended to them by the institutions of Irish State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5994/04]

The person referred to by the Deputy has been in contact with my Department in relation to this issue and a reply has already issued. Section 35 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002 provides a stipulation that for children who were detained in institutions, other than children who were detained as a result of an offence, should not be regarded as having any form of conviction. In the case where children were detained in an institution as a result of an offence the Children Act 2001 provides that the offence committed by a minor shall be sealed after a period of three years.

I have made arrangements for an extract of the Children Act 2001, which outlines the conditions for non-disclosure of certain finding of guilt for offences committed by a minor, to be forwarded to the Deputy.

Special Educational Needs.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

263 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science when approval will be given to an application for resource teacher hours for a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5590/04]

The school referred to by the Deputy currently has the services of one learning support teacher and three resource teaching posts. I can confirm, also, that my Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question.

SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August, 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to at or before the commencement of the current school year. The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September, 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

School Transport.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

264 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Education and Science when a decision will be made on an application for a school bus service to a national school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5591/04]

My Department has requested Bus Éireann to furnish a report on the matter referred to in the details supplied. It is not possible to say if a service can be provided until the report has been received and assessed.

Physical Education Facilities.

Olivia Mitchell

Ceist:

265 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount allocated in 2004 to primary schools as part of the annual physical education grant scheme. [5593/04]

Physical education is a compulsory part of the curriculum for primary schools. In October 2000, my Department introduced an annual physical education grant for all primary schools. Since the introduction of the scheme, my Department provided in excess of €5.5 million in grant aid to primary schools under this scheme for schools to provide coaching or mentoring in connection with physical education or for the purchase of resource materials associated with the provision of physical education. Materials and equipment purchased by schools in previous years will generally be available to them for the current year.

In 2002, primary schools designated as disadvantaged schools received a grant of €1,270 while other recognised primary schools received a grant of €635. Approximately €2.4 million was allocated to schools in 2002 under this scheme. In the light of the current budgetary constraints, I decided to withdraw payment of the grant from 2003. However, schools may use their ordinary capitation grant which has been increased to €121.58 with effect from 1 January 2004. The position will be kept under review as part of the normal Estimates process in the coming years.

Schools Building Projects.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

266 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding made available to Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal secondary school, Blarney, County Cork, for a sports community hall. [5595/04]

As the Deputy may be aware, 2004 is designated as the European Year of Education Through Sport, EYES, the official launch of which was successfully held in Dublin in January. To coincide with EYES, my Department's published 2004 schools building programme includes provisions for a number of physical education halls at post-primary level to proceed to tender and construction in the current year.

These sports facilities are to be delivered under two programmes, the dual use PE halls under the drugs task force initiative, and the generically-designed halls, which will provide the template for future sports facilities in schools nationwide. Both programmes will be evaluated on an ongoing basis throughout the construction phase, and in relation to the generically-designed halls in particular, this will inform any decision to extend the scheme to those post-primary schools requiring new or refurbished indoor sporting facilities. Progression of the sports hall project at the school referred to by the Deputy will be considered in this regard and in the context of a multi-annual building programme from 2005 onwards.

Third Level Education.

Pat Carey

Ceist:

267 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the issues raised in correspondence (details supplied) regarding the funding for university education reform (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5619/04]

I am aware that the universities will be challenged in the short term by the constraints on recurrent Exchequer funding placed on them in 2004, having regard to overall cost pressures. I appreciate that individual institutions are required to find economies and to become more streamlined in some of their operations in order to reconcile available budgets with pre-existing demands and commitments. This must be viewed, however, in the context of overall increases in investment in higher education over recent years and the Government's longer term strategic objective for excellence in the sector.

In 2004, overall investment in higher education under my Department's vote stands at some €1.48 billion. This is an increase of approximately 74% since 1997. Ireland's spend on higher education as a percentage of GDP in 2000 ranked us eighth out of 29 OECD countries looked at. If GNP, as opposed to GDP, is used as the comparator for Ireland, we would be placed among the top ranking OECD countries on this measure.

The Government has identified the placement of our higher education system at the top rank of the OECD in terms of quality and levels of participation as a key national strategic issue and we are continuing to work towards that. In this context, I have asked the OECD to conduct a wide-ranging review of higher education in Ireland and this is currently underway. The objective of this review is to lay down a strategy for future excellence for higher education in Ireland in the context of the intensely competitive global environment in which we now operate. Moving forward, we need to measure ourselves against the best systems worldwide if we want to build on the strong foundations for success that we already enjoy here in Ireland. The OECD review will provide us with that international reference point and will consider all of the issues and challenges associated with achieving those goals.

With regard to the various student supports measures, in addition to the ordinary maintenance grant schemes and the free fees initiative, my Department has responsibility for promoting access and participation opportunities for students in higher education. Under the social inclusion measures in the national development plan, there was provision for a third level access fund totalling €121 million, over the period 2000 to 2006, aimed at tackling under-representation by three target groups: students from disadvantaged backgrounds; mature students; and students with disabilities. Since 1997, spending on third level access measures funded directly by the Department of Education and Science has been increased from €0.5 million to €26 million in 2003. By any standards this represents a quantum leap in the commitment of resources. The Deputy will also be aware that last May I announced a new package of measures costing €42 million in a full year to further address and ameliorate the problems facing students from low to moderate income households in accessing third level education. This package combines substantial improvements in the level and coverage of the maintenance grants for those on low to moderate incomes, with increases in the level of top-up grant for those who are most disadvantaged.

I believe that this substantial package of measures will provide the opportunity, in an unprecedented manner, for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their full potential in the education system.

Summer Works Scheme.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

268 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will approve the carrying out of works under the summer jobs work scheme in respect of a secondary school (details supplied) in County Cork. [5633/04]

The scope of the works required at the school referred to by the Deputy is appropriate for consideration under the summer works scheme which was announced in December last. Officials in the school planning section of my Department are currently in the process of registering and assessing all applications received for the summer works scheme 2004. Details of the result of this assessment and the schools which will receive funding will be published no later than the 27 February 2004.

Schools Building Projects.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

269 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science when the pupils of St. Mary’s school, Aghamore, Ballyhaunis, County Mayo (details supplied) can expect a new school building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5653/04]

My Department is currently considering a proposal from the Aghamore Community Development Company which involves the development of an integrated community campus which would include the provision of a new school to replace the existing St. Mary's national school. When publishing the 2004 school building programme, I outlined that my strategy going forward will be grounded in capital investment based on multiannual allocations. My officials are reviewing all projects which were not authorised to proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme, with a view to including them as part of a multiannual school building programme from 2005 and I expect to be in a position to make further announcements on this matter in the course of the year. The project for St. Mary's school, Aghamore, will be considered in this regard.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

270 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science when he intends to approve new school buildings for Bonniconlon national school, Ballina, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5654/04]

The proposed large-scale building project for Bonniconlon national school is listed in section 8 of the 2004 school building programme which is published on my Department's website at www.education.ie. This proposed project is at stage 4/5 (detail design/bill of quantities) of architectural planning. It has been assigned a band 3 rating by my Department in accordance with the published criteria for prioritising large-scale projects.

Indicative timescales have been included for large-scale projects proceeding to tender in 2004. The budget announcement regarding multi-annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multiannual framework for the school building programme, which in turn will give greater clarity regarding projects that are not progressing in this year's programme including Bonniconlon national school. I will make a further announcement in that regard during the year.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

271 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when an application from St. Joseph’s national school, Ballinagar, Tullamore, County Offaly, for the provision of a new school will be granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5663/04]

An application for additional accommodation for St. Joseph's national school, Ballinagar, County Offaly, has been received in my Department and it is currently being examined in school planning section to determine the long-term accommodation needs of the school. Following completion of this assessment contact will be made directly with the school authorities.

Schools Refurbishment.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

272 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Education and Science when a refurbishment grant will be awarded to St. Joseph’s secondary school, Charlestown, County Mayo; if his Department will expedite the refurbishment/extension of all the school buildings in order that teachers, students and all who use the school will have a safe place to work and study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5672/04]

Officials of the planning and building unit of my Department met recently with the trustees of St Joseph's secondary school, Charlestown, to discuss accommodation issues. In regard to the prefabricated buildings at the school, the position is that the Office of Public Works which has responsibility for the national asbestos programme of detection and remediation in schools is in the process of replacing prefabs at the school and it is expected that these works will be completed over the summer.

Special Educational Needs.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

273 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if the three CABAS facilities in Dublin, Cork and Drogheda will be made permanent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5673/04]

I would like to assure the Deputy that a measured approach will be taken to considering the future of the three CABAS facilities in Dublin, Cork and Drogheda. In that regard, my intention will be to ensure continuity of provision for the pupils in question. The concerns of parents for greater certainty are well appreciated and, in this connection, I wish to confirm that my Department is prepared to continue to provide funding for the three CABAS facilities for the next school year, 2004-05.

My Department will in due course consider the reports of the inspectorate on autism-specific provisions and any issues arising therefrom will be raised directly with the relevant managements. The position regarding the future of the CABAS facilities beyond 2004-05 will be considered in the context of this process.

In-career Development.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

274 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason an application by Kilrush community school, Kilrush, County Clare, for funding from the in-career development unit of his Department was not forthcoming to provide a school chaplain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5684/04]

I understand that the Deputy is referring to a letter from a member of the School Chaplains' Association concerning funding for in-career development courses. In addition to funding a number of national support services, for example in the areas of curricular reform and special needs, my Department supports a wide range of continuing professional development programmes provided by a network of education centres at local level for personnel working in primary and post-primary schools. In this regard the in-career development unit of my Department funds 21 full-time education centres and nine part-time centres to deliver this service.

In the past the unit also provided limited financial support to a range of other course providers/organisers for other elective programmes of inservice, to the extent that resources permitted having regard to other commitments and priorities. This included direct support to the School Chaplain's Association and to schools which applied to my Department rather than to their local education centre.

In order to rationalise matters and to make the best use of available resources, direct support to schools and other bodies and groups is no longer being made by my Department. Schools and others are advised to contact their local education centre, whose role it is to provide local inservice and to provide support, advice and assistance to schools and their personnel in these matters. This approach will help avoid duplication and make the best use of available resources.

Special Educational Needs.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

275 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has received an application for a special needs teacher for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; if this application will be granted in the present school term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5691/04]

The school referred to by the Deputy currently has the services of one learning support teacher and one resource teacher. I can confirm, also, that my Department has received an application for special educational resources, SER, in respect of the child referred to by the Deputy. However, the application is incomplete and the school authorities have indicated that they are submitting the relevant documentation. The application can be considered further following receipt of this documentation.

School Accommodation.

Damien English

Ceist:

276 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding has been sought for the additional accommodation that is to be provided in St. Stephen’s primary school, Johnstown, Navan, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5692/04]

Damien English

Ceist:

278 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science if extra accommodation will be provided within the existing building or if it will be by way of prefabricated buildings in St. Stephen’s primary school, Johnstown, Navan, County Meath in September 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5694/04]

Damien English

Ceist:

279 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans that are in place to accommodate the expected increase of children attending St. Stephen’s primary school, Johnstown, Navan, County Meath, in September 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5695/04]

Damien English

Ceist:

280 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children that are attending St. Stephen’s primary school Johnstown, Navan, County Meath; the estimated intake for September 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5696/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 276, 278, 279 and 280 together.

An application for additional accommodation has been received from the school authority in question. It is currently being assessed in the school planning section of my Department. The school authority will be informed of the outcome.

Schools Building Projects.

Damien English

Ceist:

277 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science if a process has been initiated to provide a purpose built new school in Johnstown on the present site of St. Stephen’s primary school, Johnstown, Navan, County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5693/04]

St. Stephen's primary school, Johnstown, Navan, County Meath, opened with provisional recognition in September 2003. Newly established schools are required to undergo a period of provisional recognition, during which the operation of the school and the growth of pupil numbers are monitored. During that period it is the responsibility of the school patron to provide suitable accommodation. This accommodation should be capable of fully meeting the needs of the developing school until permanent recognition has been secured and my Department is in a position to provide permanent accommodation.

My Department has not received any application to date from the school authorities for permanent recognition.

Questions Nos. 278 to 280, inclusive, answered with Question No. 276.

Special Educational Needs.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

281 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the request from the parents of autistic children group CABAS for funding for a facility in south Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5697/04]

I am most anxious that all children, including children with autistic spectrum disorders, receive education appropriate to their needs. There are seven facilities in the State operating on a pilot project basis and using alternative educational methods for teaching children on the autistic spectrum. Three of the seven are CABAS facilities, whose teaching method involves a comprehensive application of behaviour analysis to schooling approach.

A decision regarding the retention of these establishments will be made in light of an evaluation of provision for children with an autistic spectrum disorder carried out by my Department's inspectorate. It is envisaged that the outcome of the evaluation will be determined and a decision taken on the future of the facilities during the course of the current school year.

My Department is actively considering applications from CABAS, Dublin, for autistic provision in south County Dublin. My officials are liaising with my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, in this regard. A response will issue to the applicants as quickly as possible.

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

282 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received an application from St. Fiachra’s senior school, Beaumont, Dublin 5, to allow their resource teacher teach a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 who has dyslexia; if he will sanction this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5703/04]

I am aware that an application for special educational resources, SER, was received from St. Fiachra's senior school in respect of the pupil in question on 21 November 2003. SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school. It also draws attention to a recommendation of the task force on dyslexia that a staged approach should be used in the case of pupils with dyslexia, outlining the stages involved. The expertise within the learning support teacher service is particularly appropriate to the needs of pupils with dyslexia. The school currently has the services of two learning support teachers. Accordingly, my Department has no objection to the needs of the pupil being met from within the school's existing resources.

The arrangements for processing applications received after 31 August 2003, including the one referred to by the Deputy, will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Question No. 283 withdrawn.

Schools Building Projects.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

284 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of money which was spent in County Clare in the schools building programme in 2001, 2002 and 2003; the number of primary schools which received funding; the number of post-primary schools which received funding; the amount each school received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5741/04]

The number of primary and post-primary schools in County Clare that were funded under the schools building programme in the years 2001, 2002 and 2003 is given in the following table.

Primary

Year

Number

Expenditure

2001

47

1,548,238.09

2002

63

6,966,902.64

2003

54

2,463,194.76

Total

164

10,978,335.49

Post-primary

Year

Number.

Expenditure

2001

16

4,974,046.05

2002

15

8,956,253.77

2003

12

5,202,332.88

Total

43

19,132,632.70

The total number of schools concerned funded under the programme is in excess of 200. I have therefore arranged for the detailed expenditure figures on an individual school basis for each of the three years to be forwarded directly to the Deputy.

It should be noted that all primary schools have received an allocation, under the grant scheme for works grant — also known as the devolved grant — of €3,809.21 per school and €12.70 per pupil in respect of each academic year from 2000-01 to 2003-04. Nationally this annual amount is approximately €18 million. This is not included in the expenditure table above.

Special Educational Needs.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

285 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of services to students with special needs at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12; when his Department will have finished its consideration of psychological reports submitted for these students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5744/04]

The school referred to by the Deputy currently has the services of two full-time and one part-time resource teaching posts. This school also has the services of a full-time learning support teacher and five special needs assistants.

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special education needs, SEN, supports for a number of pupils attending the school in question during the period from 15 February to 31 August 2003. SEN applications received during that period, including the applications made by the school concerned, are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to before or soon after the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of special educational resource provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

John Cregan

Ceist:

286 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Education and Science when approval will issue to a school (details supplied) in County Carlow in respect of resource teaching for a person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5760/04]

My Department has received applications for special educational resources, SER, from the school referred to by the Deputy, including an application for the pupil in question.

SER applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003 are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to at or before the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising of members of my Department's inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advise on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

School Transport.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

287 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if school transport can be provided on a route to serve pupils who reside in Kilkea, Ballyroe and Levitstown, County Kildare who travel to Castledermot post-primary school, Castledermot, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5763/04]

My Department has requested the transport liaison officer, County Kildare Vocational Education Committee to furnish a report on the matter. It is not possible to say if school transport can be provided on a route to serve pupils who reside in the areas mentioned until the report has been received and assessed.

Schools Building Projects.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

288 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to an application for assistance from a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5779/04]

An application for an extension and refurbishment has been received from the school to which the Deputy refers. When publishing the 2004 school building programme, I outlined that my strategy going forward will be grounded in capital investment based on multi-annual allocations. My officials are reviewing all projects which were not authorised to proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme, with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual school building programme from 2005 and I expect to be in a position to make further announcements on this matter in the course of the year.

The project from the school to which the Deputy refers will be considered in this regard.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

289 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application by a board of management in relation to facilities at their school (details supplied) in County Kildare [5780/04]

A large scale building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is listed in section 9 of the 2004 school building programme which is published on my Department's website at www.education.ie. This project is at early stages of architectural planning. It has been assigned a band 4 rating by my Department in accordance with the published criteria for prioritising large-scale projects.

The budget announcement regarding multi-annual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multi-annual framework for the school building programme, which in turn will give greater clarity regarding projects that are not progressing in this year's programme. I will make a further announcement in that regard during the year.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

290 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application by a board of management for the provision of a new school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and the status of the application [5781/04]

The property management section of the OPW is acting on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally and is currently exploring the possibility of acquiring a site extension for Scoil Bhríde, Nurney, County Kildare. The school authorities will be kept informed of developments.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

291 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the average length of time that a school takes to pass through the architectural planning stage using the most recent years figures available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5782/04]

Each individual school design will vary due to the specific site, the educational brief and the ethos of the school. The design team's primary requirement will be to provide a school that encompasses the quality and character of an environment appropriate to the educational aims of the school. The building must be designed as suitable premises for intellectual, creative, physical and social activity.

At each stage of architectural planning, the function of the design team should be integrated, combining architectural planning and design, structure, building services, engineering and cost efficiency to create a well-designed, cost-effective, durable, low-maintenance building. The design must also ensure the possibility for repairs or replacement components of the building such as fittings, finishes and services with minimum disruption and cost as necessary.

The Deputy will therefore appreciate that it is not possible to provide a timescale for the progression of individual schools building projects through the architectural planning stages.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

292 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the average length of time it takes for a school to progress from architectural planning to tender stage using the most recent figures available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5783/04]

Each individual school design will vary due to the specific site, the educational brief and the ethos of the school. The design team's primary requirement will be to provide a school that encompasses the quality and character of an environment appropriate to the educational aims of the school. The building must be designed as suitable premises for intellectual, creative, physical and social activity.

At each stage of architectural planning, the function of the design team should be integrated, combining architectural planning and design, structure, building services, engineering and cost efficiency to create a well designed, cost effective, durable, low maintenance building. The design must also ensure the possibility for repairs or replacement components of the building such as fittings, finishes and services with minimum disruption and cost as necessary.

The Deputy will therefore appreciate that it is not possible to provide a timescale for the progression of individual schools building projects through the architectural planning stages.

School Staffing.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

293 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has given consideration to making the position of school chaplains permanent; the outcome of these considerations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5784/04]

My Department is currently examining the position with regard to the appointment of school chaplains on a permanent basis. These considerations are ongoing at present and the outcome will be notified to the relevant parties in due course.

Grant Payments.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

294 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the application for funding for the School Chaplains Association has been rejected; if he will reconsider this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5785/04]

In addition to funding a number of national support services, for example in the areas of curricular reform and special needs, my Department supports a wide range of continuing professional development programmes provided by a network of education centres at local level for personnel working in primary and post-primary schools. In this regard the in-career development unit of my Department funds 21 full-time education centres and nine part-time centres to deliver this service.

In the past, the unit also provided limited financial support to a range of other course providers and organisers for other elective programmes of inservice, to the extent that resouces permitted having regard to other commitments and priorities. This included direct support to the school chaplins association and to schools which applied to my Department rather than to their local education centre.

In order to rationalise matters and to make the best use of available resources, direct support to schools and other bodies and groups is no longer being made by my Department. Schools and others are advised to contact their local education centre, whose role it is to provide local inservice and to provide support, advice and assistance to schools and their personnel in these matters. This approach will help avoid duplication and make the best use of available resources.

School Staffing.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

295 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of post-primary schools that employ school chaplains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5786/04]

Ex-quota chaplain posts are allocated in respect of community and comprehensive schools and designated community colleges. There are currently 140 WTE posts allocated in respect of chaplaincy services for the (2003-04) school year.

Schools Building Projects.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

296 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application which is with the building unit of his Department for Gaelscoil Bharra, Cabra, Dublin 7; the reason for the delay in approving this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5793/04]

The Gaelscoil referred to by the Deputy is currently in temporary accommodation in the grounds of Naomh Fionnbarra GAA Club, Dublin 7. The delivery of a new school is dependent on the identification and subsequent acquisition of a suitable site in the area, together with the priority afforded to this project and the availability of capital funding to progress the project.

Institutes of Technology.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

297 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the support that can be given to assist the continuation of a course (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5795/04]

Letterkenny Institute of Technology sought approval last year to provide a national certificate in traditional Irish music performance in Falcarragh. I understand that this course has been provided in Falcarragh, as a higher national diploma — UK accreditation, by a subsidiary of Udarás na Gaeltachta. The institute's proposal involves reaccreditation of the course by HETAC and its continued provision in Falcarragh by the institute on an out-centre basis.

There are questions as to the appropriateness of providing this type of course within the technological sector of higher education and the institute was informed that it would not be approved pending a review of the remit of the technological sector. The need for such a review arose from a number of course proposals submitted by institutes of technology which appeared to fall outside the range of courses traditionally provided by the technological sector. As any expansion of the range of provision by the technological sector would have significant implications not only for that sector but for third level provision generally, it was decided not to approve any such applications pending a review of the remit of the sector.

In this regard, I have asked the OECD to conduct a wide-ranging review of third level education provision and a team of experts is currently engaged in this exercise. I expect to receive a report of the findings of the OECD team later this year. The position in relation to the course in question will be re-examined when the OECD report has been fully considered.

Schools Amalgamation.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

298 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the proposed new school for Scoil Mhuire Fatima NS, Dublin Road, Drogheda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5894/04]

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

299 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals he has for the amalgamation of primary schools in the county of Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5895/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 298 and 299 together.

There are two primary schools serving St. Mary's parish in Drogheda, County Louth, namely, Scoil Mhuire Fatima NS and St. Mary's boys school. Both schools have submitted applications for major capital grant aid. These applications were examined in the school planning section of my Department in the context of overall primary education requirements in the parish.

Having considered all the relevant factors, the conclusion of my Department is that primary provision in the parish can be best served into the future by the provision of two new co-educational schools, one catering for junior cycle pupils and the other catering for senior cycle pupils. I understand that there is a site available in the ownership of the parish which could accommodate this development.

On being informed of my Department's decision, the respective boards of management have been asked to engage in a process with the local education partners to facilitate the re-structuring of the schools. Officials in the school planning section of my Department are available to assist the boards in this regard if necessary. When this process has been completed, arrangements will be made to provide the required supporting educational infrastructure as quickly as possible.

The school planning section of my Department is not currently actively pursuing the amalgamation of any schools in County Louth. However, as I recently announced, over the remainder of this school year a new school planning model involving published area development plans will be piloted in five areas. Included in the pilot scheme is the north Dublin-south Louth region which covers the Drogheda area.

The purpose of this new approach to school planning is to ensure that, in future, the provision of school infrastructure will be decided only after a transparent consultation process. In this regard, parents, trustees, sponsors of prospective new schools and all interested parties from a locality will have the opportunity to have their voices heard in the process. Following the consultation process, individual plans will set out the blueprint for schools development in an area covering a period of up to ten years.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

300 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of full time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5917/04]

There are no full-time civil servants in my Department who first entered the Civil Service as political advisors. All entry grade civil servants are appointed by means of recruitment competitions conducted in accordance with the appropriate regulations.

School Transport.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

301 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department is carrying out a review of bus routes and changing school catchment areas for secondary schools in the County Clare area (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5925/04]

For the purposes of post-primary education provision, the country is divided into catchment areas, each of which has its own post-primary education centre. These areas were drawn up in the late 1960s in the context of the free education scheme. The catchment boundaries were determined following consultation with local educational interests and the intention was that certain primary schools would feed exclusively into each centre. A relatively small number of primary schools are shared between two or more centres.

The revision of catchment areas is addressed by my Department as the need arises. It is the practice in my Department to consult with local educational interests where any such adjustments are being contemplated. At present, my Department is not changing school catchment areas for the secondary school referred to by the Deputy. However, my Department will continue to monitor the provision of school transport under the terms of the school transport scheme.

Special Educational Needs.

David Stanton

Ceist:

302 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has visited any of the CABAS schools since he took up office or if he plans to do so in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5934/04]

I have not visited any of the CABAS facilities since being appointed Minister for Education and Science. I have no record of having being invited to visit a CABAS project and, if such an invitation is extended, it will be considered. I should point out that I maintain close contact with the promoters of these facilities through regular liaison with the Irish Autism Alliance, on which CABAS is represented.

Schools Amalgamation.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

303 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has prioritised the amalgamation of the three post-primary schools in Kildare town; and if it is intended to purchase a site for a new community school in the town. [5935/04]

The property management section of the OPW is acting on behalf of my Department in regard to site acquisitions generally and is currently exploring the possibility of acquiring a site for an amalgamated post-primary school in Kildare town. As soon as a site has been acquired my Department will allow the project into architectural planning in accordance with the criteria used for prioritising post-primary building projects. The school authorities will be kept informed of developments.

Special Educational Needs.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

304 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the efforts that are currently taking place to ensure locations in Donegal such as the large peninsula of Inishowen is provided with an educational psychologist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5936/04]

At present, there are six psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, deployed in the north western region, of whom 2.5 psychologists — whole time equivalent — are assigned to County Donegal. The NEPS development plan envisages that there should ultimately be seven educational psychologists in the county. At present, NEPS provides a service to approximately 55% of all school pupils in County Donegal but unfortunately is not yet in a position to provide a service in Inishowen.

The Civil Service and Local Appointments Commission has created a panel of educational psychologists qualified to serve in NEPS. My Department is currently making offers of employment to five psychologists from this panel. The north-western region has been identified as one of the priority regions for assignment of these psychologists. Due to general staffing constraints, it is unlikely that there will be any further recruitment to NEPS during the current school year.

At present, schools that do not yet have a service from NEPS may avail of the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments. Details of this scheme have been circulated to all schools and are also published on my Department's website.

Nursing Education.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

305 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science if there are plans to introduce a student loan scheme for Irish nursing students studying in the UK, with only tuition fees and not maintenance being paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5937/04]

Under the terms of my Department's higher education maintenance grant schemes, students from the State who are attending undergraduate courses in the UK, including courses in nursing, can apply for maintenance grants in respect of approved courses at higher national diploma level or higher, which are pursued in colleges approved for the purpose of the schemes. Under the terms of the schemes, grants are not available in respect of tuition fees paid at undergraduate level outside of the State. However, all EU students, including students from this State, may be eligible for grant assistance towards the cost of tuition fees from the relevant UK authorities, subject to the same conditions as apply to students who have been resident in the UK. My Department has no plans at present with regard to the introduction of a student loan scheme.

Tax-relief has been available for tuition fees paid for full-time, qualifying undergraduate courses in publicly-funded universities or similar third level colleges in any EU member state, including the UK, since 1999/2000.

Research Funding.

Paul McGrath

Ceist:

306 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has withdrawn funding to the Linguistics Institute of Ireland; the reasons for the withdrawal of those funds; the level of funding granted to this institute in each of the last ten years; the reason the funds are being withdrawn; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5938/04]

At an extraordinary general meeting of ITE, held on 18 July 2003, the company agreed to initiate a process of voluntary liquidation. This decision was a matter for the members in accordance with their memorandum and articles of association and relevant company law and was not related to financial considerations.

I understand that a meeting of the executive committee of ITE on 5 December agreed a timetable for the appointment of a liquidator, who was subsequently appointed on 9 January 2004, and agreed to issue redundancy notices to staff in advance of this. I understand from the liquidator that he has extended the period of notice of redundancy for the staff to 27 February 2004. Officials from my Department met with all members of staff of ITE in December, 2003. At the request of SIPTU, a further meeting was held on 28 January, 2004 with that union and its staff representatives.

My Department has given a commitment to provide every assistance to the company in giving effect to its decision, in partnership with the staff of the institute, and is working closely with the liquidator in this regard. This includes exploring possible arrangements for the continuation of certain research activities previously carried out by the institute and, in the interests of assisting with an orderly wind-up, facilitating appropriate re-deployment or other appropriate arrangements for staff in line with general public service policy in these matters and subject to agreement with the Department of Finance.

Options that may be available in this context continue to be explored by my Department. In this regard staff will be kept appraised as developments occur. The entitlements of those employees for whom appropriate re-deployment arrangements are not made will be determined in accordance with the terms of their contracts. I have asked to be kept informed of progress in these matters. The level of funding provided to the institute over the last ten years is as follows: 1995, €1.159 million; 1996, €1.207 million; 1997, €1.258 million; 1998, €1.388 million; 1999, €1.483 million; 2000, €1.638 million; 2001, €1.657 million; 2002, €1.764 million; 2003, €1.985 million; 2004, provision for €2.501 million.

Schools Building Projects.

Eoin Ryan

Ceist:

307 Mr. Eoin Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the building progress of a primary school (details supplied) in the Dublin 6 area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5984/04]

A large-scale building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is listed in section 9 of the 2004 school building programme which is published on my Department's website at www.education.ie. This project is at early stages of architectural planning. It has been assigned a band 2 rating by my Department in accordance with the published criteria for prioritising large-scale projects.

The budget announcement regarding multiannual capital envelopes will enable me to adopt a multiannual framework for the school building programme, which in turn will give greater clarity regarding projects that are not progressing in this year's programme. I will make a further announcements in that regard during the year.

Schools Refurbishment.

Eoin Ryan

Ceist:

308 Mr. Eoin Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation in relation to a school in the Dublin 4 area (details supplied); if any applications were made by this school to his Department for grant aid for school buildings, renovations, extra teachers and so on, in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5985/04]

The school to which the Deputy refers submitted an application to my Department for refurbishment works to the school building in 2002. As rationalisation talks with the trustees of the school were ongoing at that time and consistent with standard policy, the application for funding was not approved pending the outcome of the rationalisation negotiations.

Teacher allocations to second level schools are approved annually by my Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. Each school management authority is required to organise its time-table and subject options having regard to pupils needs within the limit of its approved teacher allocation.

The rules for allocating teacher resources provide that where a school management authority is unable to meets its commitments, my Department will consider applications for additional support i.e. curricular concessions, additional allocation for special needs, additional allocation for traveller and non national pupils.

In the last five years the school in question has received additional allocations as follows: 1999/00, 1.36 wholetime teacher equivalent; 2000/01, 1.36 wholetime teacher equivalent; 2001/02, 1.67 wholetime teacher equivalent; 2002/03, 1.97 wholetime teacher equivalent; 2003/04, 3.17 wholetime teacher equivalent.

Schools Building Projects.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

309 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for a new school building for Wandesforde Church of Ireland national school, Castlecomer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5986/04]

An application for grant-aid towards improvement works has been received from the management authorities of Wandesforde NS, Castlecomer, County Kilkenny. The project is awaiting the appointment of a design team to commence architectural planning.

As I announced in the 2004 school building programme, a key strategy going forward will be grounded on the budget day announcement of multiannual allocations for capital investment in education projects. All projects that are not going to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme will be re-evaluated with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual building programme from 2005 onwards.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

310 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6008/04]

As a result of previous decentralisation, my Department already has a significant presence in both Athlone and Tullamore with major operational areas being located on both campuses. The further decentralisation of Dublin-based staff will allow management to oversee the consolidation of services and minimise the impact of the proposed move on the diverse services provided to the education sector. The Department is carrying out a risk analysis which should be available by the end of March 2004.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

311 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6023/04]

My Department has already undergone three phases of decentralisation, to Athlone in 1977 and 1991 and to Tullamore in 1995. There are currently 335 and 195 staff working in my Department's offices in Athlone and Tullamore, respectively, with a further 175 posts in the State Examinations Commission in Athlone.

For each of the phases of decentralisation to Athlone and Tullamore, applications were initially invited from staff already working in the Department, then from those working in the wider Civil Service. Where a shortfall in staff arose, staff were recruited to these vacancies. Since each phase of decentralisation, there has been significant turnover of staff due, for example, to promotions, resignations and retirements. The resultant vacancies have been filled by internal inter-departmental promotion competitions or by lateral transfer.

Details of the costings have been requested from the Office of Public Works and I will arrange for these to be forwarded to the Deputy, as soon as they become available.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

312 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6038/04]

The decentralisation implementation committee in the Department of Finance, is overseeing the decentralisation programme. This committee is currently preparing an implementation plan that will address the orderly and timely reassignment of staff between departments to give effect to the relocations.

Until this plan is in place, vacancies for new decentralised locations are not being advertised, either within my Department or within any other Department and we are not in a position to accept any volunteers for the different locations.

Special Educational Needs.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

313 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason resource hours in respect of nine persons with special needs have not been granted to a school (details supplied); the reason the school was given two different dates upon which they would have an answer; when an answer will be given; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6050/04]

I can confirm that my Department has received applications for special education needs, SEN, support for eight pupils attending the school in question during the period from 15 February to 31 August 2003 and a further application was received in the Department on 2 February 2004. Special educational resource, SER, applications received between 15 February and 31 August 2003, are being considered at present. In all, more than 5,000 such applications were received. Priority was given to cases involving children starting school last September and all these cases were responded to at or before the commencement of the current school year.

The balance of more than 4,000 applications has been reviewed by a dedicated team comprising members of my Department's Inspectorate and the national educational psychological service, NEPS. These applications are being further considered in the context of the outcome of surveys of SER provision conducted over the past year or so. Account is also being taken of the data submitted by schools as part of the recent nationwide census of SER provision.

The processing of the applications is a complex and time-consuming operation. However, my Department is endeavouring to have this completed as quickly as possible and my officials will then respond to all applicant schools. Pending a response, schools are advised to refer to Circular 24/03, which issued in September 2003. This circular contains practical advice on how to achieve the most effective deployment of resources already allocated for special educational needs within the school.

The arrangements for processing applications received after 31 August 2003 will be considered in the context of the outcome of discussions on a weighted system of allocation of resource teaching support. A further communication will be sent to schools in this regard.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

314 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the contract for special needs assistants for second level schools is different from the contract for special needs assistants at primary school level; the reason for the difference in pay and conditions particularly for holiday periods between the two; the reason special needs assistants at second level are paid by the individual school and not by the Department of Education and Science; the reason a person (details supplied) of St. Killian’s community school in Bray who has been a special needs assistant since October 2001 has not been made permanent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6051/04]

The arrangements governing contracts for special needs assistants at second level are the subject of discussions at the Labour Relations Commission.

My Department provides a payroll service for the payment of special needs assistants on behalf of boards of management of primary schools. The payment of special needs assistants employed in secondary schools and community and comprehensive schools is a matter for the managerial authority of each school.

The issue of my Department providing a payroll service for the employment of special needs assistants in secondary and community and comprehensive schools is under consideration. Special needs assistant posts are allocated by my Department where the professionally assessed needs of a child or children involved are such as to require the delivery of such support. Applications for such support are made to my Department by the relevant school authorities. Each case is considered on its merits and determined on the advice of the psychological service. Special needs assistants posts, including the post to which the Deputy refers, are sanctioned on a temporary basis and are subject to review in light of the emerging needs of the pupil(s) concerned.

Schools Refurbishment.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

315 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the joint application for inclusion in the summer works scheme made by St Maelruan’s senior and junior schools in order to replace the 29 year old boilers, which are badly corroded; if his attention has further been drawn to an examination of the mechanical and electrical services in the school carried out by an outside firm of engineers stating that the boilers need to be replaced; and if he will consider the applications. [6059/04]

An application for funding under the summer works scheme 2004 has been received from the schools referred to by the Deputy. Applications under this scheme are currently being processed in my Department and details of successful applicants will be published on my Department's website no later than 27 February 2004.

Schools Building Projects.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

316 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will approve works to be carried out at a primary school (details supplied) under the summer works project. [6069/04]

The scope of the works required at the school referred to by the Deputy is appropriate for consideration under the summer works scheme which was announced in December last.

Officials in the school planning section of my Department are currently in the process of registering and assessing all applications received for the summer works scheme 2004. Details of the result of this assessment and the schools which will receive funding will be published no later than 27 February 2004.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

317 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the difficulties and health and safety problems caused by the non-provision of the covered walkway at Confey College, Leixlip; if he will visit the school to see for himself the situation as it exists; if he will consider funding the walkway from the secondary school contingency fund in view of this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6075/04]

As previously outlined to the Deputy, my Department prioritised projects for inclusion in the 2004 school building programme on the basis of the published criteria. It was not possible to include provision for a covered walkway at Confey College, Leixlip, County Kildare.

On the basis of the budgetary allocation, funding for this project cannot be allocated from the contingency fund.

Schools Refurbishment.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

318 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will award aid up front and the provision of additional furniture and equipment for the new north Kildare Educate Together School at Ballymakealy, Celbridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6078/04]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department approved grant aid of €15,638 for furniture in January 2004 for North Kildare Educate Together national school. All relatively new previously grant aided furniture and equipment provided by my Department was required to be transferred to the new building and the provision for an additional €6,500 set up grant for the autistic unit is also available for draw down by the school authority. It is not the policy of my Department to encourage retrospective funding for works of a capital nature. All works of a capital nature requiring capital investment from my Department should be approved in the first instance by my Department's planning unit, thus ensuring that financial pressure is not placed upon the parents or boards of management of schools.

Schools Building Projects.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

319 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if the OPW have been successful in identifying and purchasing a site for a new national school in Kill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6080/04]

The property management section of the OPW is acting on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally and is currently exploring the possibility of acquiring a site for Kill national school, County Kildare. The school authorities will be kept informed of developments.

Departmental Funding.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

320 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the details of the applications made by his Department, or State agency or semi-State company under the control of his Department, under the EU Marco Polo; the agencies involved; the funding sought; the purpose of such projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5747/04]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to the recent Parliamentary Question No. 99 and I wish to confirm that the position remains unchanged.

Question No. 321 answered with QuestionNo. 174.
Question No. 322 withdrawn.

Pilots Remuneration.

James Breen

Ceist:

323 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason he is not using his powers under section 80(2) of the Harbours Act 1996 when he is in full possession of knowledge that pilots on the River Shannon for a company (details supplied) are having their income and future pension entitlements adversely affected by the application of EU Reg 2978/94; and the reason he appears to be circumventing the provisions of section 80(2) of the 1996 Act by not issuing an appropriate instruction as requested to prevent and rectify the unintended adverse impact on pilots’ remuneration entitlements. [5758/04]

Council Regulation (EC) No. 2978/94 deals with the implementation of the International Maritime Organisation, IMO, Resolution A.747(18) on the application of tonnage measurement of ballast spaces in segregated ballast oil tankers. The regulation introduces a differential calculation system for fees for oil tankers to be followed by port, harbour and pilotage authorities reach the objective of the IMO resolution. The objective of the regulation is to encourage the use of environmentally friendly oil tankers.

The Harbours Acts 1996 to 2000 provide that a port company, such as Shannon Foynes Port Company, operating under the Acts, may, in respect of pilotage services that are provided by pilots in its pilotage district, impose charges at such rates as are from time to time determined by it. Section 80(2) of the Harbours Act 1996 provides for the possibility of a ministerial direction to a port company requiring it to comply with policy decisions of a general kind in relation to the levels of pilotage charges imposed. My Department has consulted the Office of the Attorney General about the application in Ireland of the regulation and in particular in relation to the Shannon estuary. The Attorney General was of the view that there had not been a breach of the regulation and noted that the European Commission was also of this view. In the circumstances, the Attorney General advised that a direction by me under section 80(2) was not necessary.

Search and Rescue Service.

James Breen

Ceist:

324 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when the finance sanctioned for the purpose-built rescue centre at Doolin will be made available to proceed with planning permission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5759/04]

The required financial sanction for the building of a coastal unit station house, with rescue facilities, at Doolin, County Clare, has been granted in principle under the Irish Coastguard's coastal unit building programme. However, there has been considerable difficulty regarding the acquisition of a site for the new building. The purchase of a site was agreed between the Irish Coastguard and the site owners, but difficulty has arisen in respect of both title, which is required to obtain planning permission for the proposed station house, and price. The Office of Public Works, which is the project manager for the Coastguard, is at present in negotiations with the site owners to advance the matters of both title and purchase.

When this has been resolved and the site agreed, planning permission will be applied for and the tendering process commenced.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

325 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4792/04]

There are no full-time civil servants within my Department who first entered the service as political advisers.

Harbours and Piers.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

326 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if an application for funding has been received for two cranes (details supplied); if so, the current position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5932/04]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department provided funding of €82,064.81 to Donegal County Council in 2001 and 2002 towards the provision a crane at Portaleen harbour. In September 1999 Donegal County Council submitted an application to my Department for funding for works at Leenan Pier. The proposal included the provision of a crane at the harbour at an estimated cost €76,184. In December 2000 the Department contributed €56,323.04 towards a site investigation at the harbour. The question of providing funding for the provision of a crane at Leenan Harbour will depend on the amount of Exchequer funding available for works at fishery harbours generally and overall national priorities.

Foreshore Licences.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

327 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when he will instruct his Department officials to re-issue an existing foreshore licence which has expired, but whose interest remains valid, for the construction of a marina and related works, for which all other statutory provisions have been granted, for the Poolbeg Yacht and Motor Club, Pigeon House Road, Ringsend, Dublin 4, so as to enable contracts to be confirmed, and works commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5983/04]

An application was received by my Department from Poolbeg Yacht and Boat Club for permission under the Foreshore Acts for construction of a 100 berth marina and associated capital dredging works. The club held no previous foreshore lease or licence in the area concerned. The application was made on the basis that the foreshore in question was in State ownership, and initial processing was carried out on that basis. Since then, however, questions have arisen as to whether the ownership is in the hands of the State or Dublin Port Company, and my Department's legal advisers are investigating the matter.

Every effort will be made to resolve the matter as quickly as possible, so that consideration of the club's application can be finalised, in the appropriate manner, as soon as possible.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

328 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6009/04]

As part of my Department's overall planning and scoping of the decentralisation programme, a risk assessment-risk management project is under way in consultation with management and staff. The risk assessment will, inter alia, address the business continuity and budgetary challenges and will identify appropriate solutions to manage these challenges effectively, taking account also of central developments.

This project will also feed into the Department's enterprise wide risk assessment which is being undertaken as part of the implementation of the recommendations of the working group on the accountability of Secretaries General and Accounting Officers. An initial risk assessment report in regard to decentralisation will be completed shortly for discussion and review by senior management.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

329 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6024/04]

In 1976, approximately 50 staff in the accounts branch of the then Forest and Wildlife Service were decentralised to Castlebar, County Mayo. As a result of departmental reconfiguration over time and, in particular, the establishment of the State forestry agency, Coillte, the accounts branch of my Department based in Castlebar today consists of 18 staff.

Given the number of years that have elapsed and the extent of reconfiguration of departmental boundaries since this decentralisation, my Department is not in a position to source the specific information requested by the Deputy in regard to the Castlebar decentralisation.

Question No. 330 answered with QuestionNo. 112.

Salmon Fishing Licences.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

331 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be given assistance in obtaining a salmon fishing licence. [6070/04]

Under the Control of Fishing for Salmon Orders 1980 to 1997, the allocation of commercial salmon fishing licences is a matter for the relevant local regional fisheries board which, in this case, is the South Western Regional Fisheries Board. Neither I nor my Department has any role in this matter.

Question No. 332 answered with QuestionNo. 140.

Offshore Exploration.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

333 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the results of recent oil, gas or other mineral exploration which indicate commercial viability on or offshore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6090/04]

There have been no recent results of petroleum exploration to indicate commercial viability. The most recent declaration of commerciality for gas was in July 2002 in respect of the Seven Heads gas field. With regard to non-petroleum minerals, I refer the Deputy to my reply to a similar question, Question No. 175 on 11 June 2003. The position has not changed since then.

Fishing Industry Development.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

334 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of persons employed in the fishing industry; if an increase or decrease has been registered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6091/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

335 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the value of the fishing industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6092/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 334 and 335 together.

Surveys in regard to employment in the Irish seafood industry, comprising fishing, aquaculture, processing and ancillary sectors are carried out by an Bord Iascaigh Mhara, BIM, on a periodic basis. The most recent survey, carried out in 2000, estimated total employment in the industry, including full-time and part-time jobs, at about 15,000.

The successful restructuring of the whitefish fleet brought about by the whitefish renewal scheme and the fleet development measure has resulted in consolidation within the whitefish sector as modern, safe and efficient units replace a larger number of smaller, older and less seaworthy craft. While this has meant an inevitable reduction of overall employment within the catching sector, the quality and sustainability of the jobs going forward has vastly improved.

According to data provided by BIM, seafood exports for 2003 amounted to €384.3 million while sales on the home market were valued at €281 million, giving a total of just under €665 million.

Fish Diseases.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

336 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which he has taken steps to combat the spread of fish disease; the results of his efforts to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6093/04]

The Marine Institute, acting on the Department's behalf, has responsibility for fish health matters. The institute carries out inspections on, and samples fish from, every aquaculture site in the State at least once a year in line with the requirements of EU Directive 91/67 concerning fish health.

The import of live fish from EU member states must also be certified in accordance with that directive. Additional health certification in regard to fish imports from non-EU countries is also required, in line with the standards laid down by the World Animal Health Organisation.

The institute is also consulted in regard to movements of live fish within the State. Such movements require a written permit from my Department following this consultation and confirmation that the fish involved are healthy and free of disease. Under the terms of current aquaculture licences, abnormal fish mortalities must be notified to the Department and the institute within 24 hours and such instances are investigated immediately.

I want to assure the Deputy that the measures in place to control the spread of fish diseases are robust and comprehensive. The fact that Ireland is free of most of the diseases listed in EU Directive 91/67 and has a record second to none in controlling the small number of instances which have occurred is a vote of confidence in these procedures.

Fishing Fleet Protection.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

337 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the extent to which the fishing fleet continues to provide an adequate living for those involved in the fishing industry, having particular regard to catch restrictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6094/04]

Ireland's national quotas for 2004 show a 7.8% overall growth, in volume terms, on the equivalent figure for 2003. While this figure includes a modest reduction in the whitefish and shellfish quotas, from 37,635 tonnes in 2003 to 36,005 tonnes in 2004, it includes a significant 10.6% increase in the pelagic quotas this year. In addition, the quotas of whitefish and shellfish available to the Irish fishing fleet in 2004 exceed the landings figure for the fleet in 2002, the latest year for which figures are available. Taking account of this and the trend in pelagic quotas specified earlier, the outlook for the sector in 2004 is for a modest increase in overall fish landing this year. Assuming no reduction in average prices achieved for this catch, a similar figure will also apply in value terms.

The catching sector together with associated processing industries onshore, continue to make a major contribution to employment and income in our coastal regions. It is my policy to maximise these economic and social benefits within a framework aimed at ensuring stability and sustainability in the industry going forward.

Mobile Telephony.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

338 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that the quality of mobile telephone service here is on a par with the standard of service available in other countries; the top 10 best served countries in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6095/04]

I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy. This is a regulatory matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

339 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has satisfied himself that customer service needs are adequately met through the network coverage of mobile telephone service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6096/04]

I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy. The Communications (Regulation) Act 2002, outlines ComReg's role in protecting and promoting consumer interests. Under this Act, ComReg is mandated to ensure a high level of protection for consumers in their dealings with suppliers and to investigate complaints from consumers regarding the supply of and access to electronic communications services, networks and associated facilities.

Telecommunications Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

340 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the telecommunications industry is ready to meet enhanced competition from other European and non-European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6097/04]

The telecommunications sector in Ireland is fully liberalised, with private companies operating under the control of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.

Question No. 341 answered with QuestionNo. 132.

Mobile Telephony.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

342 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the procedures to be followed in the event of the admission of another service provider to the mobile phone market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6099/04]

I have no function in the matter raised by the Deputy. The authorisation of another service provider to the mobile phone market is a matter for the Commission for Communications Regulation.

Sports Capital Programme.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

343 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the funding made available to Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál secondary school, Blarney, County Cork, for a sports community hall. [5578/04]

The national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis. My Department has made no funding available under this programme to Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál secondary school, Blarney, County Cork, for a community hall.

The 2004 sports capital programme was advertised in the national newspapers on 30 November and 1 December 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 16 January 2004. My Department has not received an application from the school under this programme.

Swimming Pool Projects.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

344 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in relation to funding for the proposed refurbishment and upgrade of Portarlington swimming pool, Portarlington, County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5662/04]

The contract documents for the refurbishment of the swimming pool in Portarlington which were submitted by Laois County Council are under consideration in my Department.

Sports Capital Programme.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

345 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when funding and local approval will be provided for a project in County Clare (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5685/04]

My Department administers the national lottery funded sports capital programme that allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.

The 2004 programme was advertised in the national newspapers on 30 November and 1 December 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 16 January 2004. A total of 1,302 applications were received before the closing date, including one from the project in question. At present all applications are being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria outlined in its guidelines, terms and conditions. I intend to announce the grant allocations after the assessment process has been completed.

Harbours and Piers.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

346 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if an application for funding by Ballyvaughan Harbour, County Clare can be considered in order to construct a slipway and parking area at the new pier; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5686/04]

Marine infrastructure is a matter for the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.

Question No. 347 withdrawn.

Sports Capital Programme.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

348 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will approve a grant application for St. Faithleach’s GAA club, Ballyleague, County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5800/04]

My Department administers the national lottery funded sports capital programme that allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.

The 2004 programme was advertised in the national newspapers on 30 November and 1 December 2003. The closing date for receipt of applications was 16 January 2004. A total of 1,302 applications were received before the closing date, including one from the organisation in question. At present all applications are being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria outlined in its guidelines, terms and conditions. I intend to announce the grant allocations after the assessment process has been completed.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

349 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of full-time civil servants in his Department who joined as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5918/04]

At present one full-time civil servant in my Department entered the service as a special adviser as defined in section 19 of the Ethics in Public Office Act 1995. The officer served as a personal assistant to the Taoiseach and in January 1980 was appointed to an established position as a higher executive officer under section 13(3) of the Civil Service Commissioners Act 1956.

Arts Funding.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

350 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans to fund art centres supported by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5978/04]

My Department is administering capital grant aid of €39 million to 24 arts and culture infrastructure projects promoted or supported by local authorities. It will not consider any more at present.

Sports Capital Programme.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

351 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department has plans to provide funding for coaching, development officers and staff for such facilities to ensure the maximum benefit to the community that they serve in view of an end of year statement on maximising of facilities funded under the sports capital programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5979/04]

My Department operates the sports capital programme. One of its key objectives is to assist voluntary and community groups, sports organisations and other bodies with their development of facilities in appropriate locations to maximise participation in sport and recreation.

High priority in allocating these capital grants is given to projects that are closely linked to participation in sport, for example, pitch development, floodlights and dressing rooms and showers. One of the criteria used to assess applications is the extent a project will increase participation levels in sport and improve performance levels.

It is not possible to assist with the provision of personnel under the sports capital programme. The Irish Sports Council is a statutory body responsible for the promotion and development of sport and my Department continues to give it substantial funding.

Funding provided to the council has been increased from €13 million in 2000 to €30.75 million this year. The council has been able to develop and fund a wide range of high quality programmes and initiatives in the area of sports participation by all age groups in the community, for example, the local sports partnership programme and the raising of performance standards through the funding of various coaching, training and development officer programmes operated by the national governing bodies of sport.

The allocation of more than €267 million to 3,500 sports facilities under the sports capital programme since 1998 has helped provide a framework for the council. It can deliver its strategic plan for Irish sport based on participation, performance and excellence.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

352 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plan announced on budget day, in so far as its impact on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6010/04]

An implementation committee was appointed by the Government and is chaired by Mr. Phil Flynn. It is due to prepare and submit an overall implementation plan by the end of March. More detailed planning for decentralisation will include risk assessment and will commence on receipt of the plan.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

353 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his Department’s new locations; the years decentralisation took place; the total staff employed by his Department in each location; the number of staff relocated from his Department; the number of staff transferred from other Departments; the number of staff recruited directly; the total number of job and staff changes required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6025/04]

To date no sections of my Department have been decentralised.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

354 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of staff in his Department that have volunteered to be decentralised under the new decentralisation scheme; the grades concerned; the locations they have opted for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6040/04]

My Department will be decentralised to Killarney and the Government has established a central implementation group to oversee the process. No staff survey on transfers has been undertaken yet and, therefore, the information sought is not available. The implementation committee is chaired by Mr. Phil Flynn. Conducting a survey before it prepares a plan would be premature and of limited value. I hope to conduct a survey on completion of the implementation plan when information on timelines for the sequencing of all the various moves is available. Staff will then be able to make informed decisions.

Genetically Modified Organisms.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

355 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason Ireland supported lifting the ban on genetically modified sweetcorn BT11 by the EU’s regulatory committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5892/04]

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

356 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Health and Children the position the Government is taking on the issue of genetically modified sweetcorn BT11 during the EU Presidency since the issue has been referred by the Commission to the Council of Ministers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5893/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 355 and 356 together.

At a meeting of the standing committee on the food chain and animal health on 8 December 2003, member states were asked to give an opinion on a draft Commission decision authorising the placing on the market of sweetcorn from a genetically modified maize line BT11 under Regulation (EC) No. 258/97 of the European Parliament and of the Council. The Irish representative at the meeting voted in favour of the Commission's proposal. The decision was based on the scientific risk assessment undertaken on the product, initially by the Netherland's/Dutch food assessment body and subsequently by the EU Scientific Committee on Food. It was concluded that BT11 sweet maize is as safe for use by humans as conventional sweet maize.

Ireland's position also reflected the fact that safeguard measures on labelling and traceability are in place following the completion of the European legislative framework for GMOs earlier this year. The new legislation ensures the full traceability of GMOs from farm to table. It also provides consumers with comprehensive information by labelling all food and feed consisting of, containing or produced from a GMO.

As a qualified majority was not achieved in the vote on 8 December, the matter was recently referred to Council for a decision. It has three months from the referral date to adopt or reject the proposal by qualified majority. If a qualified majority is not achieved, the proposal will revert to the Commission which may make the decision under its own authority. My officials are consulting officials in the Department of Agriculture and Food with a view to bringing the matter to Council in the near future.

Ireland's national position on the Council will continue to be based on the scientific risk assessment that BT11 sweet maize is as safe as conventional sweet maize. Ireland, as Council President, will be obliged to act in a neutral fashion and will seek to resolve the issue by a qualified majority.

I am satisfied that appropriate arrangements are in place to ensure the safety of authorised GM foods, or foods containing GM ingredients, placed on the market in Ireland. The EU has one of the most rigorous regimes for the assessment of GMOs as well as food and feed derived from GMOs. Only GM foods that satisfy the highest safety standards are allowed on the market.

Health Board Services.

John Bruton

Ceist:

357 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the funds he allocated to the North Eastern Health Board to provide counselling and support services for the families of drug abusers, for the period 2002 to 2004, inclusive; if he can confirm the drug initiatives he will launch in the board’s area in 2004; if the board received the same funding as the Eastern Regional Health Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5982/04]

Drug treatment and related services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards. My Department allocated funding to the NEHB to address the drug abuse in the region. The allocation for the past three years is as follows: €842,000 in 2002; €874,000 in 2003; and €893,000 in 2004.

The funding allocated to boards reflect a number of factors, including the prevalence and severity of drug abuse, population size and an assessment of relative need. Funding allocated to the ERHA reflects its population size and the prevalence of drug abuse.

The NEHB's chief executive officer informed me that it provides a comprehensive range of services in the area of substance abuse. Services are delivered in conjunction with general practitioners and pharmacists within primary care settings. Counselling, outreach, education and prevention services are provided in community settings such as schools, third level institutions and sports clubs. The board's service also embraces community development through working with groups such as the Drogheda Drugs and Alcohol Forum, the South Meath Alcohol and Drug Misuse Response and the Pillar Support group for parents of drug users.

The board also provides secondary and tertiary care through counselling and outreach, involving families where appropriate. Secondary and tertiary care is also facilitated through links with the psychiatric and psychology services, voluntary agencies such as the Bradan day programme and Tabor House. There is also a link with residential rehabilitation programmes such as those offered by Aislinn and Rutland. The board is also a lead agency in the regional drugs task force and has co-ordinated its establishment under the national drugs strategy.

The board's chief executive officer informed me that it is constantly looking at new and innovative ways to enhance its services. That includes the following: the provision of information nights for parents in schools and other settings; the provision of information and advice for young people and parents through its interactive website and helpline; the training of parents in communication skills, self-esteem development, coping mechanisms; and the provision of skills to support others in similar situations. The board expects to launch the regional drugs task force action plan this year.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

358 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for breast screening or a mammogram. [5598/04]

The provision of hospital services for people living in County Mayo is a matter for the Western Health Board. My Department has asked its chief executive officer to investigate the matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

359 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the strategy to ensure that patients are not put in danger by the withdrawal of services by the Irish Hospital Consultants Association; the efforts being made to resolve the dispute; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5615/04]

I welcome the association's decision to suspend its threatened industrial action. Discussions with the Medical Defence Union to resolve outstanding issues are continuing.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Pat Carey

Ceist:

360 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which appropriate assistance can be made available by the Northern Area Health Board to assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5621/04]

Responsibility for the provision of funding for services to persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism in the Dublin region lies, in the first instance, with the authority. My Department has asked its chief executive officer to investigate the matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Medicinal Products.

Pat Carey

Ceist:

361 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason nicotine replacement therapy patches are available to medical card holders and not to subscribers to the drugs subsidisation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5622/04]

My decision to make nicotine replacement therapies available to medical card holders was taken on foot of recommendations made by the cardiovascular health strategy group and the advisory forum established to support the task force in the implementation of strategy.

A common list of reimbursable medicines is in place for the general medical services scheme and the drugs payment scheme to ensure equity in a range of medicines paid for by the State. A product must satisfy a number of criteria for it to become a reimbursable item under both schemes. These include not being advertised or promoted and being prescription only. Nicotine replacement therapies belong to a category of products that would not normally satisfy these criteria. They are generally available over the counter and may be advertised directly to the public.

In light of the recommendations that have been made to me I have decided, as an exceptional measure, to make the full range of nicotine replacement therapies available on prescription to medical card holders. Evidence shows that lower socio-economic groups have a higher incidence of smoking and spend a higher proportion of disposable income on tobacco. Accordingly, this group is in greatest need of assistance to quit smoking.

Medical Aids and Appliances.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

362 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be fitted with a hearing aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5623/04]

Responsibility for the provision of audiology services to eligible persons in County Kildare rests with the ERHA. My Department has asked its chief executive officer to investigate the matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

363 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children when a CAT scan will be completed for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [5647/04]

The Mid-Western Health Board must provide services to residents of County Limerick. My Department has asked its chief executive officer to investigate the matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

John Perry

Ceist:

364 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Sligo will called for a hip operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5666/04]

Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons living in County Sligo rests with the North Western Health Board. My Department has asked its chief executive officer to investigate the matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Health Board Services.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

365 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an immediate assessment will be arranged here or elsewhere for persons (details supplied) in County Kilkenny, who have a condition known as lebers and whose parents are anxious to determine the extent and form of the condition in each person; the reason the South Eastern Health Board did not report its findings on this matter to the parents of the children when the condition was suspected in 2001; if he will treat the request as urgent in view of the fact that the information has only come to light arising from freedom of information request made by the parents; if he will determine the treatment or assistance available to the children and parents to deal with this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5667/04]

Responsibility for the provision of services for people resident in County Kilkenny is, in the first instance, a matter for the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the South Eastern Health Board to investigate the matter and reply directly to the Deputy.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

366 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding optical treatment for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if the cost of such treatment will be refunded by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5681/04]

Responsibility for the provision of optometric services to eligible persons in County Kildare rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Medical Cards.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

367 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare has been refused a medical card; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5683/04]

Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board or authority. My Department has therefore asked the CEO of the Mid-Western Health Board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Hospice Services.

Noel Grealish

Ceist:

368 Mr. Grealish asked the Minister for Health and Children the date the report from the group who are holding an independent inquiry into clinical issues at the Galway Hospice will be available; the interim arrangements that are to be put in place to provide full hospice services while this inquiry is ongoing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5702/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services including hospices services in the Galway area is a matter for the Western Health Board in the first instance.

The Galway Hospice Foundation has for the last number of years provided a valuable service to cancer patients and their families in the west. I am aware that there are currently difficulties surrounding the operation of the in-patient unit at the Galway Hospice and that no new patients are being admitted at present. However, home care and day care services are continuing to be provided to approximately 100 patients by the foundation with those patients who require consultant-led specialist in-patient care being admitted to University College Hospital, Galway.

The Western Health Board has informed my Department that an independent expert group was established by the Galway Hospice Foundation to review procedures at the hospice and that it is expected that the report of the expert group will be available in the near future.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

369 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures he is taking to tackle hospital waiting lists; his plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5705/04]

The waiting list data for the period ended 30 September 2003 showed that there were significant reductions in the number of adults and children waiting longest for in-patient treatment. The total number of adults waiting more than 12 months for in-patient treatment in the nine target surgical specialties has fallen by approximately 42% in the period September 2002 to September 2003. The total number of children waiting more than six months for in-patient treatment in the target specialties has decreased by approximately 39% in the same period.

Significant progress has been made in many health board areas to achieve reductions in waiting times. This has been achieved through active management of long waiting lists at a local level and the involvement of the national treatment purchase fund, NTPF. Up to the end of January 2004, close to 10,500 patients had already received treatment through the NTPF. All health boards outside of the eastern region are reporting that, in general, those adults currently reported to be waiting more than 12 months and those children reported to be waiting more than six months have either been offered treatment under the NTPF or have conditions that are complicated and need to be treated locally. It is now the case that, in most instances, adults waiting more than six months for an operation and children waiting more than three months will now be facilitated by the NTPF.

Accident and Emergency Services.

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

370 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures he is taking to deal with overcrowding problems in the accident and emergency departments of acute hospitals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5706/04]

Pressures on the hospital system arise from demands on emergency departments and on difficulties associated with patients who no longer require acute treatment but are still dependent. There are a number of initiatives under way to deal with these pressures.

Planning for the discharge of patients by acute hospitals and the liaison with the community services has been prioritised on an ongoing basis by the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards. Initiatives such as Homefirst, Slán Abhaile and home subvention are all contributing to providing alternative care packages for older people so that they can be discharged.

The single most important factor for admission to hospital is bed availability. A report called Acute Hospital Bed Capacity — A National Review, carried out by my Department, identified a requirement for an additional 3,000 acute beds in acute hospitals by 2011, and this requirement is reflected in the Government's health strategy, Quality and Fairness- A Health System for You. Some 568 of the 709 beds in the first phase have been commissioned to date of which 260 are in the eastern region. Funding is available to enable the balance of the 709 beds to be brought into operation this year.

Also under the acute bed capacity initiative, I have provided an additional €12.6 million to the Eastern Regional Health Authority, €8.8 million, and to the Southern Health Board, €3.8million, to facilitate the discharge of patients from the acute system to a more appropriate setting thereby freeing up acute beds. It allows for funding through the subvention system of additional beds in the private nursing home sector and ongoing support in the community. Already this funding has resulted in the discharge of over 200 patients from acute hospitals in the eastern region. The ERHA is actively monitoring the situation and working with hospitals and the area health boards to ensure that every effort is being made to minimise the number of delayed discharges in acute hospitals. The ERHA has reported that it is working closely with the major acute hospitals in Dublin with a view to re-opening beds which were temporarily closed last year.

As part of the winter initiative, an additional 20 accident and emergency consultants have been appointed from the 29 approved. Additional appointments are being progressed by the health boards and the ERHA.

Reviews of the bed management function and nurse staffing levels in emergency departments are being progressed by the Health Services Employers Agency in consultation with health service management representatives and the nursing unions.

Emergency medicine departments may sometimes have to deal with injuries and conditions which are more appropriate to a primary care setting. General practitioner out-of-hours co-operatives have been established and are operating in at least part of all the health board areas, with one health board, the North Eastern Health Board, having a region-wide project. A total of €46.5 million has been allocated for the development of out-of-hours co-operatives between 1997 and 2003. I assure the Deputy that I will continue to work with the various health agencies in looking for short-term and longer term solutions to the current difficulties.

Mental Health Services.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

371 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will honour his commitment to implement the findings of the report on assaults on psychiatric nurses which incorporates a no-fault compensation scheme; the timescale for the implementation of the no-fault compensation scheme; the status of the report in the context of the political process; the delays which exist in relation to it; his position in relation to the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5717/04]

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

381 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of the task force to investigate assaults on psychiatric nurses; if he intends to set up a compensation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5776/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 371 and 381 together.

I met representatives of the Psychiatric Nurses Association on 24 September 2003. Among the issues discussed was the report of the task force on assaults on psychiatric nurses and, in particular, the proposal that a scheme be established to compensate psychiatric nurses seriously injured as a result of assault by a patient.

Officials from my Department prepared a draft memorandum for Government on the recommendations contained in the report. This draft memorandum was circulated to other Departments for their observations. Responses have now been received from all Departments and are under consideration. Arrangements have been made to meet the Psychiatric Nurses Association and SIPTU in relation to the matter.

Health Board Services.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

372 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason appointments made in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 are regularly postponed; if the Northern Area Health Board will examine the circumstances of another postponed appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5738/04]

Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons living in counties Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to her directly.

Medical Cards.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

373 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the way in which his Department determines when and if new health services, such as genetic testing, will be extended to medical card holders free of charge when such new services become known to his Department; the criteria used to make such a determination; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that delays in this regard are contributing to gross inequality in the health care system; the plans he has to extend free genetic testing in certain circumstances set down by his Department to all medical card holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5739/04]

Medical card holders are entitled to a range of services, including tests and examinations, which are publicly funded and available in public hospitals free of charge. These tests must be prescribed by their general practitioner or consultant and form part of a treatment protocol.

Arrangements for the provision of services to medical card holders are a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board to decide, having due regard to the strategic, financial and need requirements.

The National Genetics Centre is situated at Our Lady's Hospital, Crumlin. I am not aware of difficulties being experienced by patients as suggested by the Deputy.

Health Board Services.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

374 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will set up an inquiry into the reason the Mid-Western Health Board had a surplus of €13.5 million in 2003 despite the fact that patients were forced to wait in trolleys in many accident and emergency departments in the mid-west region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5740/04]

The provisional outturn for the Mid-Western Health Board for 2003 is €543.7 million, giving a surplus of €13.3 million. This is provisional as the final figures for 2003 will not be available until the annual financial statements have been prepared and submitted for audit by 1 April next.

The 1996 accountability legislation requires health boards to transfer a deficit or a surplus for the preceeding year to the following year. Accordingly, the Mid-Western Health Board has included such surplus funding in its service plan-budget for 2004 and this plan has been passed by its board.

Following on from meetings with health boards on 2004 service plans, Department officials met with some health boards to discuss issues arising and requiring follow-up. In relation to those boards which recorded surpluses at the end of 2003, discussions covered the background to the financial outcome and intended use of such once-off funding in 2004.

Hospitals Building Programme.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

375 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will approve a €2.5 million project to provide 30 beds for the care of the elderly at St. Canice’s Hospital, Kilkenny; the staffing costs involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5770/04]

As the Deputy is aware, responsibility for the provision of health services in the Kilkenny area rests with the South Eastern Health Board in the first instance. The board has submitted to my Department a proposal to develop a 30 bed residential unit and day facility for psychiatry of later life and a 22 bed residential facility for the elderly at St. Canice's Hospital, Kilkenny.

My Department is examining the health capital programme for 2004 and beyond to ascertain what new projects can be progressed through either planning or construction stages, taking account of existing commitments and overall funding resources available. It is in this context that my Department will continue to liaise with the South Eastern Health Board regarding the proposed development at St. Canice's Hospital in the light of the board's overall capital funding priorities.

I acknowledge the special interest Deputy McGuinness has expressed in the proposal in St. Canice's Hospital and I will review this particular submission.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

376 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the land bank identified by the South Eastern Health Board as being surplus to requirement can be sold and the proceeds ring-fenced to provide a 30 bed unit at St. Canice’s Hospital, Kilkenny for the care of the elderly and a special unit for Alzheimer patients at the same location; the legal process involved to achieve this; the plans he or the South Eastern Health Board have to sell the land and their intentions in relation to the proceeds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5771/04]

My Department will be contacting the chief executive officers of the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority to discuss with them the matter of selling or disposing of land in their ownership during the period of transition to the new health structures. In principle, the funds so generated should be committed to the programme of care relevant to the sale or disposal of the asset. At present the process generally is governed by section 18 of the Health (Amendment) (No.3) Act 1996. Until the meeting above has taken place between my Department and the agencies, I cannot comment further on individual cases but I have asked the chief executive officer of the South Eastern Health Board to reply directly to the Deputy with details of any proposals they may have in relation to St. Canice's Hospital, Kilkenny.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

377 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will approve the plan of a private operator to provide an MRI scanner at St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny, which would allow 750 public patients to be dealt with free each year; the outcome of a meeting between Department officials and consultants supporting the project from St. Luke’s Hospital held in November 2003; if the needs assessment report prepared by the hospital was examined by his Department or the South Eastern Health Board; his views on same; if he will examine the project and approve it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5772/04]

The South Eastern Health Board has made submissions to my Department in relation to the provision of a private MRI facility on the grounds of St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny and these are currently the subject of examination by my Department in consultation with the board.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

378 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if the hospital design team has been appointed for projects at St. Luke’s hospital, Kilkenny; if not, if the appointment will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5773/04]

Prior to the selection and appointment of a design team for St Luke's Hospital agreement must be reached between the South Eastern Health Board and the Department of Health and Children on the phasing and size of the development. The project team for the site submitted a draft design brief to my Department setting out the broad scope of possible future developments to be considered on the campus of the hospital.

My Department is at present considering the question of progressing this proposal in the context of health capital priorities under the Government's new capital framework 2004-08 and in line with overall funding resources available to progress individual new capital commitments. My Department will continue to liaise closely with the South Eastern Health Board in relation to the appointment of a design team for capital proposals at St. Luke's Hospital.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

379 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in providing a community hospital on the grounds of St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny; if the plans submitted in 1999 will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5774/04]

As the Deputy is aware, responsibility for the provision of health services in the Kilkenny area rests with the South Eastern Health Board in the first instance.

The project team for St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny submitted a draft design brief to my Department setting out the broad scope of future developments on the campus of the hospital, including the first phase of the community hospital. My Department is at present examining the health capital programme for 2004 and beyond to ascertain what new projects can be progressed through either planning or construction stages, taking account of existing commitments and overall funding resources available. It is in this context that my Department will continue to liaise with the South Eastern Health Board regarding the proposed development of a community nursing unit for St Luke's Hospital in the light of the board's overall capital funding priorities.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

380 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress which has been made in the provision of information technology systems at the gynaecological unit, St. Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5775/04]

The provision of services at St. Luke's Hospital, Kilkenny, is a matter for the South Eastern Health Board. Accordingly my Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply directly to him.

Question No. 381 answered with QuestionNo. 371

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

382 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the outstanding issues to be resolved prior to the opening of Birr community nursing unit, Birr, County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5777/04]

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

383 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children when he expects to be in a position to confirm the opening date of Birr community nursing unit, Birr, County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5778/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 382 and 383 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Offaly area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the Midland Health Board. A sum of €1.2 million has been made available by my Department to the board for the purpose of equipping the new community nursing unit in Birr. I understand that this process has begun.

Issues relating to the appropriate levels of staff for the new unit will be the subject of ongoing discussion between the Midland Health Board and staff representatives. I am, however, hopeful that these discussions can be completed at an early date.

Emergency Plans.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

384 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the out of hours arrangements in place within his Department for dealing with emergency situations; the staff from his Department who are rostered to provide an out-of-hours service; the nature of such rosters; the remuneration for those participating on those rosters; the contact details for those who might wish to bring matters of urgency or emergency to department staff on an out-of-hours basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5799/04]

My Department and the health services generally operate within the context of a Government approved framework for a co-ordinated response to major emergencies. The purpose of the framework is to establish common procedures in each of the frontline emergency services for activating emergency plans and co-ordination, control and co-operation during peacetime emergencies.

The Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, and each of the health boards has an emergency plan which is based on this framework and which is kept under constant review. The main aim of the plans is to ensure that the health service is in a position to mobilise all necessary and available resources and to utilise these to best advantage so that the resulting response will be appropriate, structured, co-ordinated and effectively managed. The emergency plan can be activated by the ambulance service, fire service or the Garda.

Each health board or health authority has out-of-hours contact details for a number of officials in my Department for use in the event of a major emergency. These officials are not on a roster and are not paid any additional remuneration for carrying out this function.

Hospital Staff.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

385 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received an application from the Western Health Board for the appointment of a third physician at the County Hospital, Roscommon; if he will approve this appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5801/04]

The issue of appointing an additional consultant physician at Roscommon County Hospital will be considered by my Department in conjunction with the Western Health Board in the context of the resources available to the board in 2004.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

386 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has received a request from the Western Health Board for the appointment of additional staff at the accident and emergency unit at the County Hospital, Roscommon; if he will approve these appointments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5802/04]

The construction and equipping of the new accident and emergency department at Roscommon County Hospital has recently been completed at a capital cost of approximately €7 million and is now in use. The department has been partially commissioned and I understand that the Western Health Board proposes to complete commissioning on a phased basis in the context of the resources available to it.

European Working Time Directive.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

387 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children , further to Question No. 236 of 2 December 2003, the progress to date on the European Working Time Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5803/04]

As outlined in my reply to Question No. 236 of 2 December 2003, Ireland is legally obliged to begin applying the conditions stipulated in the European Working Time Directive to doctors in training from 1 August 2004, and I am determined that every effort will be made to effect these employment rights. Discussions with the Irish Medical Organisation on the implementation of the directive as it relates to doctors in training have re-convened in the Labour Relations Commission. The most recent meeting took place on 17 February 2004. Management and the Irish Medical Organisation have confirmed their commitment to engagement to achieve the required reduction in non-consultant hospital doctors' working hours. A number of further meetings have been planned and it is hoped that the negotiations can be completed within a ten week timeframe.

The report of the National Taskforce on Medical Staffing — the Hanly report — specifies a number of national initiatives which, when combined with appropriate local action, provide the capacity to deliver on the requirements of the European Working Time Directive in respect of the reduction of working hours of non-consultant hospital doctors by 1 August 2004. These initiatives are as follows: reduction of tiered on-call by different grades of non-consultant hospital doctors; introduction of cross-cover arrangements; new non-consultant hospital doctor working patterns; rostering of hospital medical staff; and changes in skill-mix and practice for other grades of hospital staff.

The Hanly report also recommends a review of a range of work patterns, accurate recording of information and centralised rostering by each health agency; and at a national level, regulation by a single national agency of all hospital medical posts, subject to independent approval of training posts based on training criteria. Other steps recommended to reduce the working week as required include the appointment of a national group to implement the task force's proposals on tiered on-call, cross-cover and other relevant issues to monitor progress regarding the reduction in non-consultant hospital doctors' hours, and the immediate establishment of a working group in each hospital to work with the national group and to progress measures proposed by the task force for the reduction of non-consultant hospital doctors' hours at local level. These groups are to include appropriate hospital managers, consultants, non-consultant hospital doctors, nurses and other relevant health care professionals. Arrangements for the establishment of these groups were discussed with the Irish Medical Organisation at the last meeting in the Labour Relations Commission and it is my wish to have them operational at an early date.

Consultation and planning on the implementation of the European Working Time Directive requirements for non-consultant hospital doctors is ongoing. This week, the chief executive officers of health boards and hospital managers, together with senior officials from my Department and the Health Service Employers Agency, met to discuss developments to date and to agree further steps at national and local level which are required to implement the directive by 1 August. Ongoing communication and co-ordination structures will support this process. A national co-ordinator and support team are being seconded from the health agencies to oversee this process. Medical manpower managers who were approved under the 2000 non-consultant hospital doctor agreement are also playing a central role in the implementation arrangements.

The appointment of a national steering group, under an independent chairman, to oversee and co-ordinate the reduction in non-consultant hospital doctor working hours has also been agreed. The inter-agency health care forum and the medical stakeholders group will have an important role to play in maintaining open liaison between agencies. Fast-tracking the work-up of draft rosters in a representative group of hospitals based on detailed information which has been collated is being progressed. An expert on rostering issues, who acted as a previous consultant to the Hanly group, has been retained in an advisory capacity. The medical education and training group of the Hanly task force is continuing its work and engaging with the training colleges on the provision of appropriate training within the requirements of the directive. It is intended to agree appropriate protocols-parameters in this regard.

As the working week for non-consultant hospital doctors will be reduced from the current average of 77 hours to 58 hours, as required under the directive, this should result in significant financial flexibility in the implementation of the necessary measures. I am confident that, as the benefits of adopting the directive's measures are increasingly recognised, all parties involved will continue to co-operate to bring about the successful achievement of healthier and safer working conditions for doctors and safer provision of services to patients.

Accident and Emergency Services.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

388 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when the long-awaited joint feasibility study into an all-Ireland helicopter emergency medical service will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5806/04]

My Department and the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety, Belfast, commissioned a feasibility study and report on the costs and benefits associated with the introduction of a dedicated helicopter emergency medical service, HEMS, for the island of Ireland.

The final report of the consultants appointed to undertake the study has recently been received by both Departments. The report is under consideration in the context of the strategic development of the pre-hospital emergency care service and will be the subject of discussion by the two Departments at a meeting scheduled for 26 February.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

389 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not been called for an urgent operation on that person’s spine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5897/04]

The provision of services to residents of County Mayo is the responsibility of the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the position on this case and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Staff.

Joe Sherlock

Ceist:

390 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will approve the permanent appointment of radiologists, a geriatrician, ear, nose and throat consultants and a general surgeon at Mallow Hospital, a designated general hospital under the Health Act 1970. [5898/04]

The provision of hospital services, including the appointment of staff, at Mallow General Hospital is a matter for the Southern Health Board. The board has submitted applications to my Department for approval of a consultant geriatrician post at Mallow General Hospital and applications for approval of posts that would provide consultant radiologist cover for Mallow. Funding for these posts will be considered in the context of available resources.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

391 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5919/04]

There are no full-time civil servants within the Department who first entered the service as political advisers.

Long-Term Illness Scheme.

Pat Carey

Ceist:

392 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children if he has proposals to remove long-term illness cards from categories of mentally or physically disabled children who currently qualify for them; if his attention has been drawn to changes being introduced in health board areas or by bodies by which such charges have been implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5945/04]

Pat Carey

Ceist:

393 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children if the status of epilepsy as an illness qualifying for a long-term illness card has been or will be changed; if his attention has been drawn to changes being introduced or that have been introduced in health board areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5946/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 392 and 393 together.

Under the 1970 Health Act, a health board may arrange for the supply without charge of drugs, medicines and medical and surgical appliances to people with any of the following conditions who do not have a medical card for the treatment of that condition under the long term illness scheme: mental handicap; mental illness — for people under 16 only; phenylketonuria; cystic fibrosis; spina bifida; hydrocephalus; diabetes mellitus; diabetes insipidus; haemophilia; cerebral palsy; epilepsy; multiple sclerosis; muscular dystrophies; parkinsonism; conditions arising from thalidomide and acute leukaemia. There are no plans to amend the list of eligible conditions.

The assessment procedures for granting a long-term illness card are the responsibility of each health board. People with any of the listed illnesses may apply directly to their local board for admission to the scheme. If the Deputy is aware of specific cases where he considers that eligibility has been incorrectly withdrawn, he should forward the details directly to the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. Where the Deputy has specific complaints about the operation of the overall scheme by health boards, he should supply details directly to my Department.

Medical Cards.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

394 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an appeal will be expedited for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny for a medical card in view of the person’s serious medical and poor financial circumstances. [5947/04]

Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board-authority. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive officer of the South Eastern Health Board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Health Board Services.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

395 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12 will be given urgent detoxification treatment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5948/04]

The provision of drug treatment services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards in the first instance. In this case, the responsibility rests with the South Western Area Health Board. My Department has requested the chief executive of the South Western Area Health Board to look into the matter and to reply direct to the deputy.

Hospital Accommodation.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

396 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if he will give details of the number of persons moved from acute hospital to step down accommodation in the ERHA and SHB areas in 2003 under the bed capacity initiative; the average cost in 2003; and the projected carryover cost of continued support of these patients in 2004. [5949/04]

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

397 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the details of the distribution of the €12.5 million proposed for the bed capacity initiative in 2004 across health; and his estimate of the number of new patients who can be moved from hospitals to step down facilities in 2004. [5950/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 396 and 397 together.

In July 2003, I made additional funding of €5.5 million available to the Eastern Regional Health Authority, €3.8 million, and the Southern Health Board, €1.7 million, to allow them access appropriate care package for patients occupying acute beds but whose acute phase of treatment was over. The operational capacity of acute hospitals in the Dublin and Cork areas in particular are restricted by the continued occupancy of beds by patients who could be discharged if appropriate facilities were available elsewhere. The full year cost of this initiative is €12.6 million, of which €8.8 million is available to the ERHA and €3.8 million to the Southern Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officers of the Southern Health Board and the ERHA to provide the most up-to-date position to the Deputy in relation tothe number of persons to benefit from this initiative.

National Health Strategy.

John Gormley

Ceist:

398 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children if action 52 of the health strategy 2001 concerning the participation of the community in decisions regarding the delivery of health and social services has been implemented, in particular, the objective targeted for implementation by mid-2002 that a panel of consumers will be convened at regular intervals in each health board area, to allow the public have their say in matters that concern them locally; and the progress which has been made with regard to this objective. [5951/04]

Implementation of action 52 is well under way in the health system.

All regions have undertaken initiatives to inform and educate the public about the national health strategy and health service reform programme. A variety of mechanisms are used including websites, information sessions and booklets, newspaper features, radio slots and education units.

Guidelines on a health service approach to community participation were produced in 2002 by the health boards executive in association with my Department. Two boards have established regional advisory panels/co-ordinating commit-tees for older consumers and their carers. A further two boards have a consumer panel on services for older consumers.

The expert group on mental health policy, established in August 2003 to prepare a new national policy framework for the mental health services, has received 140 submissions from interested organisations, individuals and the general public. Further consultation with various stakeholders including users of mental health services is planned. Regional advisory panels/co-ordinating committees in regard to services for people with a mental illness have not been established as yet, although three boards have indicated that other initiatives are under way to consult users of mental health services.

Six boards have established consumer panels dealing with issues such as service delivery; service development; environmental factors; appointment times; complaints; local service developments; and development of multidisciplinary primary care services.

The national consultative forum is convened on an annual basis to monitor the implementation of the national health strategy. The forum is broadly based and includes patient and client groups, service providers, senior management in the health system, the voluntary sector, organisations with an interest in the health system and relevant Government departments.

In May 2003, my Department and the Combat Poverty Agency jointly launched the agency's building healthy communities programme, which has a special focus on community development approaches to reducing health inequalities.

The primary care strategy, Primary Care — A New Direction, contains a commitment to the strengthening of community participation in primary care by encouraging and facilitating the involvement of local community and voluntary groups in the planning and delivery of primary care services. In the first instance, this is being given effect in the development of the initial group of ten primary care teams around the country. The health boards, which have the lead role in the process, have been exploring different mechanisms to engage with communities and users of primary care services in the areas involved. The national primary care steering group, through its sub-group on community involvement and health, is also considering how, at both a strategic and an operational level, community involvement in the planning and delivery of primary care services can be given practical effect. These mechanisms for community participation will be further advanced in the restructured health system.

Nursing Education.

John Gormley

Ceist:

399 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of funding available for students from Ireland who seek nurse training in the UK due to ineligibility here or due to a shortage of training places; if students will have their tuition fees paid on their behalf; if they will receive a maintenance grant; if there are plans for a student loan system, which will enable these students to take up offers in the UK; if students, once qualified, will have their qualification recognised here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5952/04]

Students undertaking the nursing degree programme receive a means tested higher education grant from the Department of Education and Science similar to all third level students.

I have made enquiries of my colleague the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Noel Dempsey, and under his Department's higher education grant scheme, maintenance grants are available to eligible students pursuing approved undergraduate courses in other EU member states, including the UK. In general, approved courses are those pursued in a third level institution, which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds.

Students attending approved courses in other EU member states are subject to the same conditions of funding as students attending approved courses in the State. The main conditions of funding relate to age, residence, means, nationality and previous academic attainment. Also, tax relief on tuition fees is available in respect of approved courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level in other EU member states.

In recent years, the UK authorities introduced a number of changes in the financial support arrangements for students pursuing courses at further and higher education institutions. This included the introduction of an annual tuition fee for students entering further and higher education institutions for the first time from the 1998-99 academic year and the replacement of maintenance grants by student loans to be phased in from that year also. All EU students, including Irish students, are eligible for grant assistance towards the tuition fee, subject to the same conditions as apply to UK students

An Bord Altranais is the statutory regulatory body for the nursing profession in Ireland and is responsible for nursing registration. In carrying out its registration function, An Bord Altranais must comply with the relevant EU directives concerning the education and training of nurses. There should be no difficulty in registering nurses trained in the EU, including the UK, as long as their education and training complies with the standards set out in the EU directives. The number of nurses with UK qualifications who have been registered with An Bord Altranais since 2001 is as follows: 2001, 1,219; 2002, 1,017; and 2003, 815.

Medical Cards.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

400 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Louth who has cancer and who had a symphysiotomy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5953/04]

Responsibility for the provision of a medical card is, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board/authority. My Department has therefore asked the CEO of the North Eastern Health Board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Health Board Services.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

401 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be admitted to hospital given that the person is in very poor health and is in need of urgent medical attention. [5992/04]

Responsibility for the provision of health services to persons residing in counties Dublin, Kildare and Wicklow rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

402 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of fees payable by the funding of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5993/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Kildare area is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the South Western Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

403 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6011/04]

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

405 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6041/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 403 and 405 together.

The number of staff within my Department who have volunteered to date for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day is set out in the following table. A total of 526 staff out of a staff complement of 690 have replied to a document seeking expressions of interest in decentralisation. The detail provided on the attached table broken down by location and grade is not totalled as in many instances an individual head of staff has applied for a number of locations, thereby making totals by grade/location quite misleading.

With regard to the implications for the Department of Health and Children, of the public service decentralisation plan, my Department must await a decision by the Government on the location of the headquarters of the Health Service Executive as this Department's own reform agenda will impact directly on the decentralisation options available to the Department of Health and Children staff.

I trust that the Deputy will appreciate that my Department is not in a position to carry out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans at present.

Location

Asst Sec

PO

Prof.

AP

HEO

AO

EO

SO

CO

Arklow

0

0

1

0

1

0

1

0

2

Athlone

0

0

0

1

2

1

3

0

5

Athy

0

1

0

2

2

1

1

0

3

Balbriggan

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

0

1

Ballinasloe

0

0

0

1

1

1

3

1

1

Ballybofey

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

Birr

0

0

0

2

1

1

3

0

1

Buncrana

0

0

0

0

2

1

1

0

1

Carlow

0

0

1

1

2

1

1

0

1

Carrickmacross

0

0

0

0

1

1

1

0

1

Carrick-on-Shannon

0

0

0

2

1

0

4

1

5

Castlebar

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

Cavan

0

0

0

1

1

2

2

0

2

Claremorris

0

0

0

1

4

1

4

2

3

Clifden

0

0

0

1

0

1

1

1

0

Clonakilty

0

0

0

1

2

0

2

0

2

Cork

0

0

0

0

1

0

2

0

1

Curragh

0

1

0

0

3

2

3

0

4

Donegal

0

0

0

0

1

2

1

0

2

Drogheda

0

0

0

2

6

1

5

0

6

Dundalk

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

0

1

Dungarvan

0

0

1

0

0

1

2

0

0

Edenderry

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

2

Enniscorthy

0

0

1

0

1

0

0

0

2

Furbo

0

0

0

2

0

1

1

1

1

Galway

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

Gweedore

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

2

Kanturk

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

0

0

Kilkenny

0

0

1

2

4

2

2

0

1

Killarney

0

0

0

0

3

1

1

0

2

Kilrush

0

0

0

1

1

0

1

0

0

Knock Airport

0

0

0

2

3

1

4

2

4

Letterkenny

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

Limerick

0

0

0

2

1

1

3

0

0

Listowel

0

0

0

0

1

1

0

0

0

Longford

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

1

3

Loughrea

0

0

0

2

1

1

2

1

1

Macroom

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

1

Mallow

0

0

0

1

1

0

2

0

1

Maynooth

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

1

Mitchelstown

0

0

0

0

1

0

1

0

0

Monaghan

0

0

0

0

0

2

1

0

1

Mullingar

0

0

0

2

1

2

4

0

7

Naas

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

0

0

Navan

0

0

0

1

4

0

3

0

6

New Ross

0

0

1

1

2

1

1

0

2

Newbridge

0

1

0

1

3

2

3

0

6

Newcastle West

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

0

0

Portarlington

0

0

0

2

2

1

2

0

3

Portlaoise

0

0

0

4

5

1

4

0

3

Roscommon

0

0

0

2

1

0

2

1

7

Roscrea

0

0

0

3

4

0

1

0

0

Shannon

0

0

0

3

1

0

4

0

0

Sligo

0

0

0

2

1

0

2

0

1

Thomastown

0

0

1

2

0

0

0

0

0

Thurles

0

0

0

3

4

1

1

0

0

Tipperary

0

0

0

2

3

1

2

0

0

Trim

0

0

0

2

4

0

3

0

3

Tuam

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

0

1

Tullamore

0

0

0

2

2

1

5

0

3

Waterford

0

0

1

1

4

2

2

0

0

Wexford

0

0

1

1

7

2

1

0

2

Youghal

0

0

0

1

1

0

3

0

0

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

404 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Health and Children the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6026/04]

On foot of a Government decision in 1992, a portion of my Department, namely the General Register's Office — GRO — decentralised to Roscommon in 1996. In order to retain an acceptable level of service to the public, and to allow for the modernisation of the service provided by the GRO including the introduction of new legislation and information technology, it was decided to proceed with the decentralisation on a phased basis.

There are now 40 staff employed in the decentralised office. Of this number, three staff transferred from my Department, six staff were directly recruited, and the balance of 31 transferred from other Departments. It is not possible to give accurate information concerning people changes and job changes until the decentralisation of the GRO is completed. The once-off set-up cost to my Department, which consisted of furniture, floor coverings etc., amounted to €195,000.

Work is now under way on a new office building in Roscommon which will be completed by the end of 2004. The decentralisation of the remainder of the GRO will be completed in spring of 2005.

Question No. 405 answered with QuestionNo. 403.

Health Reform Programme.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

406 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the estimated provision as submitted by the ECHB and its cost required to implement the Hanly report in the ECHB area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6054/04]

I propose to establish an implementation group in the East Coast Area Health Board region as soon as possible to devise an action plan for implementing the Hanly report in the area. The cost of implementing the recommendations in the region will emerge from this process.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

407 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if, under the proposed re-structuring of the health boards, children with disabilities who live in the southern part of County Clare will be able to continue to receive services, including residential and respite care in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6060/04]

Currently, the provision of health related services, including residential and respite care, for people with a disability is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards in the first instance.

The health service reform programme's priority focus is improved patient care, better value for taxpayers' money and improved health care management. The new structures set out in the reform programme will provide a clear national focus on service delivery and executive management and will achieve this through reduced fragmentation and the creation of clear and unambiguous accountability throughout the system. I am confident that the programme is in the interests of an improved system of patient-centred service delivery, greater accountability, quality and value for money. The precise arrangements for service delivery in any particular area will be determined by the HSE in due course.

Community Care.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

408 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Question No. 820 of 27 January 2004, the reason the full complement of beds is not in use in the Maynooth community care unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6076/04]

As the Deputy will be aware responsibility for the provision of health services in County Kildare rests with the South Western Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has been informed by the authority that the Maynooth community nursing unit has a bed complement of 44 beds, of which 35 are occupied at present. The authority has also advised that it has been working with the South Western Area Health Board to resolve staffing issues at the unit and that an advertisement for staff will be placed in the national media in the near future. The authority has further advised that it hopes that the remaining beds at the unit will be fully occupied during April 2004.

Services for People with Disabilities.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

409 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in providing a medical report in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny who is an applicant under the disabled persons grant scheme and whose file was submitted to the South Eastern Health Board in October 2003; if a response will be expedited from the SEHB; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6084/04]

The provision of health-related services for people with physical and-or sensory disabilities is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards in the first instance. Accordingly, the Deputy's question has been referred to the chief executive officer of the South Eastern Health Board with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

410 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the reasons for the delay in approving an application under the housing aid for the elderly scheme for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in view of the fact that it was lodged in mid-2003; if a decision in the case will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6085/04]

The information requested is set out in the following table:

Year

Allocation

2000

10,157,905

2001

11,993.392

2002

11,903,000

2003

11,536,000

2004

11,600,000

Road Traffic Offences.

Joe Higgins

Ceist:

411 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport the reason for the delay between motorists being observed breaking the speed limit and the awarding against them of penalty points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5990/04]

Joe Higgins

Ceist:

412 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will take measures to ensure that motorists are notified within two weeks of the awarding against them of penalty points; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5991/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 411 and 412 together.

The penalty points system, which is provided for in the Road Traffic Act 2002 was introduced with effect from 31 October 2002 for the offence of breaching a speed limit, from 1 June 2003 for insurance offences and from 25 August 2003 for seat belt wearing offences. Penalty points are being applied to the driving licence records of those convicted of such offences, and to those who pay a fixed charge — in the case of speeding and seat belt wearing offences — to the Garda to prevent the instigation of court proceedings.

As regards speeding, penalty points are endorsed on the licence record held in the national driver file upon conviction for a speeding offence, or upon payment of a fixed charge for speeding. In the case of latter offences, the system operates in such a way that the offer of paying a fixed charge is always provided and a person has 56 days within which to pay the charge. The 56 day period comprises an initial 28 day period within which €80 fixed charge can be paid, followed by a further 28 day period within which a fixed charge of €120 can be paid. If a person opts not to pay, the case is taken to court. These periods are built into the system and ensure that every opportunity is afforded to the person to pay the fixed charge and avoid a court hearing.

There is therefore an inevitable and intrinsic time lapse between the issue of the notices, the payment of the fixed charge and the notification of the endorsement of penalty points. The fact that, at present, the processing of notices by the Garda is operated on a manual basis is a further contributory factor to those time lapses. The timing of the issue of fixed charge notices is a matter for the Garda Síochána.

The Road Traffic Act 2002 contains a specific structure that applies directly to the effective application of penalty points on the licence record of an individual. Section 5 of the Act provides that, where penalty points are to be endorsed in a record, a notification of that endorsement must be issued to the licence holder involved. The notice sets out in particular the basis for the endorsement of the points. Section 7 of the Act provides that, save in very limited and quite specific instances, the operative date for penalty points is 28 days from the date of the notice issued under section 5.

The recording of convictions for offences is a matter for the courts service. In addition, the compilation of data relating to payments of fixed charges where the relevant notices are issued by the Garda Síochána is a matter for that force.

Both the Courts Service and the Garda Síochána transfer the appropriate data relating to convictions and payment of fixed charges to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to facilitate its entry into the national driver file which is the responsibility of that Department. As the processing of data by the Courts Service and the Garda Síochána is operated on a manual basis, the data relating to convictions and payment of fixed charges are received in non-electronic format by a company engaged by my Department to convert such data for transmission electronically to the national driver file. Currently this process takes about five working days from date of receipt of the data from the Courts Service and the Garda Síochána. There are no major delays in my Department in the administration of the penalty point system.

Rail Services.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

413 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport his practical proposals for the DART in 2004 to improve travelling conditions for commuters especially those using the Harmonstown, Killester and Clontarf DART Stations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5607/04]

The Deputy will be aware that Iarnród Éireann has embarked on phase one of the DART upgrade project to increase the capacity of the network by more than 30%. This project is designed to increase capacity on the entire DART network by providing eight-car DARTs on peak hour trains, increasing platform lengths and achieving full accessibility at all DART stations. This phase of the project is due for completion in 2005. I understand that the project is proceeding satisfactorily and that work on the line from Connolly Station to Howth Junction, affecting Harmonstown, Killester and Clontarf stations in particular, will commence later in the year. When phase one of the project is completed, Iarnród Éireann will have doubled the capacity of the DART system in less than five years.

Driving Tests.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

414 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport when a driving test will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Cork who applied in May 2003. [5642/04]

A driving test has been arranged for the person concerned.

Air Services.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

415 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport, further to Question No. 392 of 10 February 2004, the transatlantic services out of both Dublin and Shannon which are supported under the Aer Rianta route support scheme in view of his efforts and responsibilities to develop transatlantic services to and from Ireland, and in view of the fact that the Aer Rianta website does not give a route by route analysis as previously requested; the stage they are at under the current scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5670/04]

As I stated in my earlier reply of 10 February 2004 to Question No. 392 from the Deputy, Aer Rianta's support schemes for the development of new routes at the State airports are a day to day operational matter for the company. I understand from Aer Rianta, however, that the company would be happy to endeavour to address supplementary enquiries directly from the Deputy regarding the operation of their incentive schemes for new route development.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

416 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if his Department intends to negotiate on the bilateral transatlantic agreement with the US authorities outside of the current EU-US process; if the negotiations have commenced; the minimum position of the Government for Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5671/04]

As I have previously indicated to the House on a number of occasions, I have authorised my officials to seek negotiations with the US on possible phased amendments to the Ireland-US bilateral agreement. negotiations have not yet commenced.

On 5 February I met with the Aer Rianta unions for further discussions on the dual gateway status of Shannon. There will be further discussions with the unions and the Shannon board-designate before the negotiating position is finalised.

Air Marshals.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

417 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Transport if US planes with air marshals are using Irish airspace and landing in Dublin, Cork or Limerick; if so, the number of such planes in 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5716/04]

The deployment of air marshals on any US aircraft is a matter in the first instance for the US security authorities. It is not the practice on security grounds to disclose the existence or otherwise of air marshals on any aircraft that may use an airport in the State. In common with other states, the Irish position concerning the acceptance of in-flight security personnel on foreign aircraft arriving at Irish airports has been a willingness to permit such operations subject to appropriate protocols and procedures being agreed in advance with the State of the carrier concerned.

Question No. 418 withdrawn.

Driving Tests.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

419 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to reduce the number of motorcyclists driving on provisional licences; the number of full motorcycle licence holders in the State; the number of provisional motorcycle licence holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5765/04]

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government holds and administers the national driver file licence records, and I have asked that Department for the statistics which the Deputy has requested as regards the current number of motorcycle drivers on full and provisional licences.

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 297 — reference number 3430/04 — on 4 February 2004 regarding measures being taken to reduce the waiting time for driving tests.

Rail Safety.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

420 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the difficulties his Department is experiencing regarding the delay in bringing forward promised legislation on railway safety. [5791/04]

During the course of an extensive debate on Committee Stage of the Railway Safety Bill, a large number of suggestions for amendments were made. My Department has been working with the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel on drafting a considerable number of amendments to the Bill to take on board the suggestions made in committee.

On Committee Stage, I indicated that I intended to bring forward amendments to provide for criminal sanctions for people found to be intoxicated while working on the railway. These amendments require careful consideration and also need to take careful account of the provisions relating to intoxication provided for under the Road Traffic Acts.

I hope to be in a position to move to Report Stage of the Bill at an early date and to introduce for debate at that Stage those amendments on which work has been completed.

Driving Tests.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

421 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Transport the information which was given regarding the reasons for the failure of a driving test by a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5792/04]

The person concerned unsuccessfully sat a driving test on 7 August 2003. On completion of each test the driver tester gives a report to the candidate which indicates the driving faults incurred during the course of the test, the severity and number of such faults, and whether the faults incurred result in failure of the test. The person concerned would have been provided with such a report setting out the reasons for the failure of the driving test.

Rail Services.

Dermot Fitzpatrick

Ceist:

422 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Transport if, in relation to the railway line from Heuston Station to Connolly Station, he has been in discussions with Iarnród Éireann regarding the provision of passenger services on the line; if it is proposed to put a railway station on the old cattle bank at Cabra; if Iarnród Éireann intends to dispose of the remainder of the lands at the old cattle bank which are surplus to requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5911/04]

Iarnród Éireann has stated that there are severe signalling constraints in the area Connolly Station to Pearse Station which prevents the company from making more use of the line between Heuston and Connolly Stations for regular passenger services.

However the completion of the second phase of the DART upgrade programme in 2007, when extra train paths into Connolly Station become available, will provide an opportunity for greater use of the tunnel.

For the moment, Iarnród Éireann has no plans to open a station at the old cattle bank at Cabra and is in the process of examining the extent of land at the old cattle bank which it can declare surplus to its operational requirements.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

423 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5920/04]

While this information may appear on an individual's personnel file, my Department does not systematically keep records of the information requested by the Deputy. I am therefore, unable to supply the information requested.

Driving Tests.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

424 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Transport if he will take steps to expedite an application for a driving licence by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath as same is urgently required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5965/04]

Under the Road Traffic Act 1961 and the Road Traffic (Licensing of Drivers) Regulations, 1999 to 2001, it is a matter for the appropriate licensing authority to determine the eligibility of a person for a driving licence, and to issue licences.

The person concerned sat the driving test in July 2002. There is no record of a further application for a driving test having been received from that person.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

425 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6012/04]

The Minister for Finance has appointed an implementation committee who are preparing an overall implementation plan on decentralisation which is due by the end of March 2004. On receipt of this plan, more detailed planning for decentralisation, which will include risk assessment for my Department and the bodies under my aegis, will commence.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

426 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6027/04]

At the time of the formation of my Department in June 2002, the driver testing and licensing section had already been decentralised to Ballina. That decentralisation took place in 1989 at which time these functions came under the remit of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. There are now 67 of this Department's staff working in Ballina.

While a very small number of individual records may exist in my Department which might form part of the information requested by the Deputy, the time and resources required to identify these records would be totally disproportionate to the value of the information obtained. This problem is compounded by the fact that the bulk of the records in question are held by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

427 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6042/04]

To date a total of 19 staff have volunteered for the decentralisation programme. Some staff have indicated more than one location. The grades of the staff and locations for which they have volunteered are indicated in the following table:

Grade

Number

Location(s)

Assistant Principal

1

Athy

Assistant Principal

1

Loughrea & Ballinsloe

Assistant Principal

1

Loughrea, Claremorris, Knock and Furbo

Administrative Officer

1

Knock, Sligo & Carrick on Shannon

Higher Executive Officer

1

Enniscorthy, Arklow and Carlow

Higher Executive Officer

1

Loughrea

Higher Executive Officer

1

Drogheda

Executive Officer

1

Loughrea, Athlone & Mullingar

Executive Officer

1

Navan, Trim and Drogheda

Executive Officer

1

Knock and Claremorris

Executive Officer

1

Knock, Claremorris, Sligo, Carrick on Shannon and Mullingar

Executive Officer

1

Limerick, Shannon, Roscrea & Tipperary

Staff Officer

1

Trim & Mullingar

Clerical Officer

1

Cavan & Carrick on Shannon

Clerical Officer

1

Mullingar

Clerical Officer

1

Loughrea

Clerical Officer

3

Knock & Claremorris

TOTAL

19

Public Transport.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

428 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if persons who hold travel passes will be able to use them on privatised bus routes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6062/04]

The responsibility for funding of concessionary travel lies with the Department of Social and Family Affairs. The proposed introduction of franchising will have no impact on these concessionary travel arrangements.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

429 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Transport the changes to speed limits which are planned; if he has information on the change in levels of emissions of greenhouse gases which would result from the planned changes; and if so, if he will provide such information. [6101/04]

A review of the present speed limit structure was carried out in 2003 against the background of the requirement to changeover to metric units of measurement for speed by end 2004. The broadly based working group which carried out the review recommended that speed limits should range from a high of 120 kph — equivalent to 74.580 mph — on motorways to 50 kph -equivalent to 31.075 mph — in built-up areas. The working group also recommended that a special limit of 30 kph — equivalent to 18.645 mph — should be applied on a very restrictive basis in residential areas where traffic calming measures have been provided. Within that range, the working group specifically recommended that the speed limit for non-urban regional and local roads should be 80 kph — equivalent to 49.790 mph. This represents a significant decrease on the speed limit of 60 mph that currently applies to what is the vast majority of the rural road network.

In light of that particular proposal and having regard to the fact that the overall structure proposed is very similar to that which is currently in place there would not be seem to be a case for suggesting that the new system will give rise to any significant increase in the emission levels of greenhouse gases.

I propose to bring forward legislative measures shortly to provide for a new metricated speed limit structure based on the recommendations made by the working group.

Motorbike Facilities.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

430 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport his views on allowing all motorbike drivers use bus lanes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6149/04]

The use of bus lanes in this country is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997, the primary purpose of which is to facilitate and promote bus based public transport. These regulations generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to that limitation is allowed in respect of taxis when they are being used in the course of business.

An overriding concern is the carrying capacity of bus lanes and the potential that their primary role to provide bus priority could be undermined if other vehicles are allowed access.

I have received representations seeking to extend access to bus lanes in relation to a wide range of other road users including hackney and limousine operators and motorcyclists.

I do not have any immediate proposals to review the question of extending access to bus lanes to other road users. However, as I have already indicated on previous occasions in this House I will review the question when the number of bus lanes has doubled.

Road Safety.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

431 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to compel all motorbike owners and drivers to complete a training course; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6150/04]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to priority question number 80 — reference number 2888/03 — on 5 February 2003 which refers, inter alia, to the fact that driver formation has in accordance with the Government’s strategy for road safety, 1998 to 2002, been assisted in a number of ways, including the introduction of a driver theory test for applicants for first provisional licences, support for the voluntary driving instructor register and support for an initiative by the Irish motorcyclists’ action group to establish a network of motorcycle instructors throughout the country.

A new road safety strategy to chart government policy for the years ahead will issue shortly and policy in relation to instruction standards, driver training and licensing, including initial basic training for motorcyclists will be considered in this context.

Residency Permits.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

432 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the conditions under which a person (details supplied) in County Louth will be allowed to re-enter Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5599/04]

The person referred to, together with her daughter, who is a minor, arrived in the State on 3 October 2001 on visitor visas valid for 90 days. She remained in the State beyond the 90 days and did not register with the Garda authorities until 7 April 2003. During her period in the State, she did not seek or gain employment, had insufficient means with which to support herself and her daughter and was maintained throughout by social welfare payments.

The case file in respect of this woman and her daughter was examined under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, prohibition of refoulement, having regard to all the representations made on their behalf. On 28 October 2003 deportation orders were made in respect of them and on 8 December 2003 they were deported. The effect of the deportation orders is that they must leave the State and remain out of it thereafter.

Asylum Applications.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

433 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the location of all asylum-seekers and refugees in the State; and the numbers in each location for the year ended 2001, 2002 and 2003. [5600/04]

The reception and integration agency, RIA, is responsible, inter alia, for meeting the accommodation needs of asylum seekers under the system of dispersal and direct provision. It has no role in relation to the payment of rent supplements to enable asylum seekers access the private rented sector. It also provides self catering accommodation in extenuating circumstances to a small number of asylum seekers. Refugees and persons given leave to remain in the State essentially have access on the same basis as Irish citizens to the general housing stock, and as such, the RIA has no information on the individual locations of this cohort of immigrants.

The information sought by the Deputy in respect of asylum seekers accommodated by the RIA in direct provision and self catering facilities for the years in question is set out in the following table. It should also be noted that while the RIA has no specific detailed information on the number of asylum seekers accommodated in the private rented sector in receipt of rent supplements by health boards, it is understood that over 5,000, claims approximately 50% of claims in the State by non-EEA nationals — are currently in payment in the greater Dublin area.

Direct Provision

Capacity

Capacity

Capacity

Dec ’01

Dec ’02

Dec ’03

2 The Mall, Youghal

12

0

0

69 Jamestown Road, Inchicore, Dublin 8

14

0

0

70 The Manor, Waterford

20

0

0

Aasleagh House, 13 Cuan Glas, Galway

25

0

0

Abbington Guest House, 12 Cuan Glas, Galway

25

0

0

An Poc Fada, Cobh

43

43

43

Ashbourne House Hotel, Glounthane, Cork

114

110

108

Atlantic House + Coltro, Tramore

69

60

74

Atlantic Lodge, Kenmare

60

60

56

Atlantic View Guesthouse, Salthill, Galway

33

0

0

Atlas House, Killarney

0

75

94

Atlas House, Tralee

0

0

100

Ballymullen Barracks, Tralee

120

120

120

Barrington’s Lodge, George’s Street, Limerick

90

0

0

Bawn Lodge Guesthouse, Strokestown

20

0

0

Beechlawn B & B, Corballis, Rathdrum

25

20

20

Benamore House, Old Dublin Road, Roscrea

17

0

0

Bridgewater House, Carrick-on-Suir

40

40

95

Brookvale Hotel, Bunbeg, Letterkenny

30

0

0

Camden Hall Hotel, 1 Upper Camden St. Dublin 2

85

85

76

Camden House, Dublin 2.

0

0

19

Cashel Holiday Hostel, 6 John Street, Cashel

28

0

0

Ceide House, Ballycastle

15

0

0

Cliffview, Donegal Town

62

55

55

Clodagh Bar, Main St., Borrisoleigh

40

20

20

Clonakilty Lodge, Clonakilty

95

90

90

Clyde House, St. Alphonsus St., Limerick

100

100

100

Corofin Holiday Hostel, Corofin

20

18

18

Dun Gibbons Inn, Clifden

92

81

81

Eglinton Hotel, Salthill, Galway

250

250

250

Eyre Powell Hotel, Main St., Newbridge

0

0

100

Glen Vera, Wellington Road, Cork

107

95

104

Golflinks Hotel, Glengarriff

65

0

0

Great Western House, Eyre Square, Galway

198

180

180

Harcourt Inn, 27 Harcourt Street, Dublin 2

76

0

0

Hibernian Hotel, Abbeylei

45

60

60

Hillview, Prosperous

0

0

30

Homefield House Hotel, Bundoran

30

20

20

Inisfail House, Main Street, Baltinglass

22

0

0

Island View House, Morrison’s Quay, Cork

110

0

0

Johnston Marina, Tralee

106

106

106

Kilmarnock House, Military Rd., Killiney

0

0

110

Kincora House, Seatown Place, Dundalk

40

35

35

Kinsale Road Accommodation Centre, Cork

72

200

300

Knockalisheen

156

300

300

Lissywoolen Accommodation Centre, Athlone

400

375

375

Lough Muckno, Castleblayney

45

0

0

Magee Barracks, Kildare Town.

175

175

175

Millstreet Accommodation Centre, Millstreet

60

85

145

Milverton House, Montgomery St., Carlow

40

32

30

Mosney Holiday Centre, Mosney

551

769

769

Moville Holiday Hostel, Main Street, Moville

15

12

12

Newlight House, St. Margarets

38

0

32

North Quay Place, Cork

274

274

274

Oaklands Hotel, Glenamaddy

30

0

0

Ocean View + Boathouse, Tramore

55

53

75

Old Rectory, Rosbercon, New Ross

30

40

58

Old Convent, Ballyhaunis

90

84

84

Ormonde House Hotel, John’s Green, Kilkenny

100

82

82

Ox Mountain Lodge, Tubbercurry

8

0

0

Park Lodge, Killarney

54

60

55

Park Place Hotel, Killarney

0

0

62

Railway Hotel, James’ St., Kiltimagh

0

0

50

Red Cottage, Bundoran Rd., Sligo

30

22

25

Richmond Court, Richmond St., Longford

70

50

66

Riverbed, Longford

20

14

0

Scariff Court Hotel, Main St. Scariff

50

0

75

Shannonside Holiday Hostel, Old Cratloe Rd. Limerick

107

107

90

Sliabh an Iarainn, Ballinamore

38

0

44

Slip House, Newtown, Bantry

40

40

36

Southern Hills, Galway

40

0

0

St. Laurence’s Lodge, Drogheda [Direct Provision]

52

0

0

St Patricks Former Agricultural College, Monaghan

40

101

154

The Clare Lodge, Summerhill, Ennis

75

65

65

The Horse & Carriage, Aungier St., Dublin 2

39

39

26

The Maltings, Birr

90

70

60

The Old Presbytery, Fairgreen, Rathdrum

24

0

0

The Quiet Man Hostel, Abbey St., Cong

26

19

19

The Staircase, 21 Aungier St. Dublin 2

50

0

0

The Village House, Glenbeigh Village

12

12

12

The Warrens, Kilmantin Hill, Wicklow

19

22

23

Ursuline Complex, Ballytruckle Road, Waterford

70

70

150

Vee Valley, Clogheen

20

20

0

Viking House, Coffee House Lane, Waterford

85

85

100

Viking Lodge Hotel, 34-36 Francis St, Dublin 8

110

0

78

Westbourne Holiday Hostel, Dock Rd., Limerick

100

100

101

Westward Court, Main St., Tralee

45

42

34

Wrafters B+B, Castle Street, Tullamore

12

0

0

Self Catering Accommodation

Glenview House, Glenview Lawns, Balrothery, Tallaght, D. 24

0

0

75

James’ St. Apartments, 140-142 James’ St., Dublin 8

0

0

34

Montpellier Hill Apartments, 57 — 63 Montpellier Hill, D.7

0

0

69

Tathony House, Bow Lane West, Dublin 8

0

0

83

Watergate House, 11-14 Ushers Quay, Dublin 8

0

0

76

St. Laurence’s Lodge, Drogheda

0

0

46

As regards the Dublin area the reception and integration agency operates three reception centres for newly arrived asylum seekers which can accommodate up to 560 persons at any given time.

Prison Medical Service.

Ciarán Cuffe

Ceist:

434 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will attend the conference, breaking the barriers: partnership in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Europe and Central Asia, being held at Dublin Castle on 23 and 24 February 2004; if he will make a commitment to seriously investigate the best practice models of HIV/hepatitis C prevention in prisons (details supplied) that are operating in many of the countries represented at that conference with a view to implementing them here; and if not, the reason he is content to preside over a prison health system that does not meet accepted international best practice in this regard, nor strive to do so. [5618/04]

Best practice, as far as I am concerned, is to prevent drugs from being introduced into or used in prisons. The programme for Government commits me to creating a drug free prison service with mandatory drug testing of prisoners. I intend to put this commitment into effect and expect to receive shortly from the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel a new set of prison rules which will make provision for creating drug free prisons and for the effective use of mandatory drug testing.

A group consisting of Irish prison service management, prison governors and health board staff together with relevant clinicians have drafted a prison drug treatment policy. This policy would, in so far as practical, seek to apply consistent regulation and operational structure to the provision of drug treatment services both in the general community and in prison. I am currently considering this draft policy.

It is both my policy and that of the Irish prison service, in common with most prison systems worldwide, not to issue needles or injecting equipment to prisoners. Emphasis within prisons is on health education and appropriate substitution treatment, etc., where required. The report of the group to review the structure and organisation of prison health care services considered the matter of developing a syringe exchange programme within Irish prisons and came to the conclusion that, on the basis of potential risk to staff, such a step could not be recommended.

Unfortunately, I was unable to attend the conference referred to by the Deputy.

Registration of Title.

John Perry

Ceist:

435 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an application (details supplied) will be processed as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5629/04]

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for transfer of part, which was lodged on 16 July, 2001. Dealing number D2001SM005451J refers.

Prison Accommodation.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

436 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has the intention of reopening of recently closed prison in the future. [5632/04]

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

454 Mr. Conor Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans for the Shelton Abbey prison facility and if it will be retained under the control of the Irish Prison Service. [5904/04]

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

455 Mr Conor Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ensure that if the Shelton Abbey prison facility is to be given to another agency, that all ot the existing prisoner officer staff will be offered positions with the new agencies given both the age and experience these officers have in relation to administering this open prison facility. [5906/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 436, 454 and 455 together.

The Deputies will be aware that on 11 November 2003, the Government approved a series of measures to be taken on a rolling basis with effect from 1 January 2004 in the event of failure to reach agreement with the Prison Officers' Association on a change agenda aimed at eliminating overtime payments and reducing other costs in the Irish prison service. These measures included the mothballing of the Curragh and Fort Mitchel places of detention and the transformation of the open centres at Loughan House and Shelton Abbey into independently managed post-release centres for the reintegration of prisoners into society.

The reasons for the Government decision have been well aired in the House and the Seanad. I would refer the Deputy to the Adjournment debates in this House on 12, 18 and 27 November 2003 and to an Adjournment debate in the Seanad on 19 November, 2003. In the course of those debates, I made it clear that the Irish Prison Service could not continue to spend public money to feed an overtime culture which was virtually out of control, while maintaining outdated and inefficient work practices. I also made it clear that I had no desire to close or mothball prisons and that my preference was for a mutually advantageous agreement with the Prison Officers' Association which would ensure an efficient and cost effective prison service into the future. My position has not changed in that regard.

In the absence of agreement with the Prison Officers' Association, the Curragh place of detention closed on 20 January 2004 and Fort Mitchel closed on 10 February 2004. I have no plans at present to reopen either of the two facilities.

As regards Shelton Abbey, I temporarily deferred its closure and the closure of Loughan House for logistical reasons, and in the context of contact with the Labour Relations Commission in the lead-up to last week's resumption of talks with the Prison Officers' Association. The future of these two institutions will be kept under continuing review in the light of progress in the talks. In the event that it becomes necessary to transform Shelton Abbey and Loughan House into post-release centres, neither facility would remain under the control of the Irish Prison Service. Alternative staffing arrangements will be a matter for the new management.

I am further informed that, subject to no queries arising, the application will be completed within the next few weeks.

Citizenship Applications.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

437 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application by a person (details supplied) in County Cork for post-nuptial citizenship. [5635/04]

A declaration of acceptance of post nuptial citizenship from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in my Department on 7 August 2003. The current processing time for such declarations is approximately eight months from the date of lodgement and it is likely, therefore, that the processing of the declaration of the person referred to will be finalised towards the end of April.

I will let the Deputy know as soon as the matter is finalised.

Departmental Staff.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

438 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff and resources in the forensic department; if the maximum support and assistance will be given in 2004; and if he will make this matter a priority. [5674/04]

I can inform the Deputy that, following the recommendations of a recent report into the forensic science laboratory, the authorised staffing number for the laboratory was increased to 68.5. The number of staff currently serving in the laboratory is 64 — filling 61 posts. The Department is endeavouring to fill the vacant posts as quickly as possible. I can also inform the Deputy that the Department will give every assistance to the management of the laboratory as regards any other resources required to fulfil its mandate.

Asylum Applications.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

439 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the consideration which has been given to the humanitarian grounds claimed by a person (details supplied) who has a neurological health problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5675/04]

The person concerned entered the State on 22 April 1999 and applied for asylum on 23 April 1999. The Refugee Applications Commissioner recommended that his claim be refused and he was informed of this recommendation on 29 February 2000. He appealed this recommendation on 7 March 2000. The Refugee Appeals Tribunal affirmed the recommendation and he was informed of this decision on 12 July 2002.

In accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, he was informed on 29 August 2002 that it was proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him and was given the following options: to make written representations within 15 working days to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform setting out reasons he should be allowed to remain in the State, to voluntarily leave the State or to consent to deportation. An application for leave to remain was submitted on 17 September 2002 which included a letter dated 10 September 2002 stating that the person concerned was awaiting an appointment with a consultant neurosurgeon. Further correspondence was received from the legal representatives of the person concerned on 14 August 2003. The only medical report on file is a note dated 13 December 2001 indicating that the person has a long standing medical condition.

The case file in this matter will be submitted to me shortly for decision in accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. Regard shall be had to the criteria set out in section 3(6) of that Act, taking into account the information which the person concerned has chosen to provide and to section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 prohibiting refoulement.

Citizenship Applications.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

440 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for a person (details supplied) in County Clare regarding residency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5682/04]

A declaration of acceptance of post-nuptial citizenship from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in my Department in July 2003. The average processing time for declarations of post-nuptial citizenship is approximately eight months.

The declaration and its supporting documentation have recently been examined by officials in the citizenship section of my Department. I have been informed that it is necessary to clarify a couple of matters and a letter has issued to the person concerned in the last few days.

I will advise the Deputy when the matter has been concluded.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

441 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be taken in respect of a folio in the name of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if the matter will be expedited as soon as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5707/04]

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is a ground rents application pursuant to the Landlord and Tenant (Ground Rents) (No. 2) Act 1978 which was lodged on 20 January 2004. Application Number 04GR00048 refers.

I am further informed that the Land Registry has written to the applicants on 23 February 2003 and advised them on how to proceed with this application. I can assure the Deputy that on receipt of a reply from the applicants, the matter will receive further attention in the Land Registry.

Child Care Services.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

442 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proposals he has to implement the recommendations proposed in the national childcare strategy 1999; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5708/04]

I refer the Deputy to my comprehensive reply, outlining progress made on this issue, in Parliamentary Question No. 435 of Tuesday, 3 February 2004.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

443 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing will be completed for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [5713/04]

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that the two reference numbers quoted by the Deputy refer to an application under section 49 — that is, acquisition of title by virtue of long possession — of the Registration of Title Act 1964 which was lodged on 28 March 2003 and an application for a transfer which was lodged on 28 April 2003. Dealing Numbers D2003SM002847M and D2003SM003474E refer.

I am further informed that the application for the registration of the transfer is dependent on the completion of the section 49 application. I understand that due to their complicated nature, applications under section 49, which require detailed examination of claims for registration as owners, can take some time to process. Accordingly it is not possible to estimate a completion date at this stage.

However, I can assure the Deputy that these applications are receiving attention in the Land Registry.

Visa Applications.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

444 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a visa will be issued to a person (details supplied) in Nigeria to visit their child and grandchildren here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5714/04]

The person in question made a visa application in October 2003. The application was refused because it had not been established, on the basis of the documentation supplied to my Department, that the applicant would observe the conditions of the visa. In particular it was considered that the applicant had not displayed sufficient evidence of her obligations to return home following her proposed visit.

It was noted that the person in question had made a previous visa application in December 2002, which had been refused. However, the applicant did not disclose this fact in the relevant questions in her recent visa application form.

It is, of course, open to the applicant to appeal against the refusal of the visa by writing to the visa appeals officer in the Department.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

445 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a visa will be issued to a person (details supplied) in Zimbabwe to visit their family here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5715/04]

The person in question made a visa application in November 2003. The application was refused because it had not been established, on the basis of the documentation supplied to my Department, that the applicant would observe the conditions of the visa.

It is, of course, open to the applicant to appeal against the refusal of the visa application by writing to the visa appeals officer in the Department, enclosing any additional supporting documentation.

Child Abduction.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

446 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the measures in place to deal with child abduction in this State; if, in view of the need for a quick response in cases of child abduction, consideration has been given to the use of the amber alert system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5743/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, as far as abduction of a child from Ireland to another state is concerned, both the Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction and the European Convention on Recognition and Enforcement of Decisions Concerning Custody of Children and on Restoration of Custody of Children have been incorporated into Irish law in the Child Abduction and Enforcement of Orders Act 1991. There is a network of central authorities established under the conventions for the purposes of assisting applicants and generally ensuring the effective operation of the conventions and the central authority for child abduction operates in my Department for the purposes of both conventions in this jurisdiction.

The Hague Convention is designed to ensure the immediate return of children who have been removed from one contracting state to another — usually by a parent in defiance of the wishes of the other parent. It is based on the principle that the custody of a child should be decided by courts in the state in which the child habitually resides. The European Convention is designed to ensure that custody and access orders granted in one contracting state are recognised and enforced in other contracting states. Recognition and enforcement disputes usually arise when one parent removes a child from one state to another in defiance of a court order granting custody or access rights to the other parent.

In addition, sections 16 and 17 of the Non-Fatal Offences against the Person Act 1997 prescribe offences applying to the abduction of children under 16 years.

I am familiar with the "amber alert" which the US law enforcement agencies use to engage law enforcement, the media and the public in combating child abduction by sending out immediate, up to the minute information bulletins to aid in the child's safe recovery. It is intended only for the most serious, time-critical cases and is not used for cases involving runaways or parental abduction, except in life-threatening situations.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they regard the current arrangements and legislative provisions sufficient to deal with child abduction at this time.

Garda Deployment.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

447 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a Garda sergeant will be replaced in a station (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5768/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that a Garda sergeant is due to be allocated to Carndonagh Garda station on 4 March, 2004.

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

448 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he can give comparative figures for the number of gardaí serving the Limerick area and the comparable numbers of gardaí serving the Tallaght district in Dublin. [5899/04]

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

449 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the disparity in the level of Garda resourcing between Limerick and Tallaght; and if he will set out measures he believes can be implemented to enhance the level of policing in the division. [5900/04]

I will answer Questions Nos. 448 and 449 together.

I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of Tallaght garda district as at 20 February 2004 was 232. This compares to a figure of 196 as at 31 December 1997 and represents an increase of 36 — or 18.3% — since that date. Tallaght Garda district is comprised of Rathfarnham and Tallaght Garda stations.

I am further informed that the personnel strength — all ranks — of Tallaght Garda station as at 20 February 2004 was 162. This compares to a figure of 133 as at 31 December 1997 and represents an increase of 29 or 21.8% since that date.

The personnel strength of Limerick division as at 20 February 2004 was 466, all ranks.

Garda personnel allocated to Limerick division police the entire county of Limerick. Tallaght is just one of a number of Garda stations which make up the Dublin metropolitan region south division, which, as at 20 February 2004, has a personnel strength of 530 — all ranks .

Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Tallaght area with a view to ensuring an effective Garda service is maintained.

The situation will be kept under review and when additional resources next becomes available, the needs of Tallaght Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

450 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he or the Gardaí have received requests from the division of Dublin area south in relation to extra resources for the Tallaght station and surrounding districts in the division. [5901/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of Tallaght Garda station as at 20 February 2004 was 162. This compares to a figure of 133 as at 31 December 1997 and represents an increase of 29, or 21.8%, since that date.

Requests are constantly received for additional resources from almost every division in the country and the DMR south is no exception. Each request for additional resources is carefully examined.

Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Tallaght area with a view to ensuring an effective Garda service is maintained.

The situation will be kept under review and when additional resources next become available the needs of Tallaght Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

Garda Operations.

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

451 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he can set out the role he sees in future for the community Garda programme; and if his Department has held an evaluation of the programme so that it can be enhanced to cover all areas of the country and all neighbourhoods. [5902/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that community policing is an integral element in policing rural and urban communities. This form of policing involves the community in the policing process with a focus on crime prevention.

Urban areas, particularly in Dublin, Galway, Limerick, Cork and Waterford have dedicated community policing units. Community policing in rural areas is integrated with regular policing activities.

Community policing units have responsibility for crime prevention initiatives such as neighbourhood watch, community alert, hospital safety and security and campus watch.

The community policing programme was reviewed as part of the Garda organisations structures under the strategic management initiative programme of modernisation and I will give careful consideration to all of its recommendations, including any it may make on the community policing programme.

Garda Deployment.

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

452 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will set out the number of gardaí that are designated as community Garda and what this represents in percentage terms relative to the number of gardaí available for duty on the beat. [5903/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána as at 20 February 2004 was 11,922, all ranks.

The total number of gardaí involved in community policing is currently being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy in due course. However, all gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to deal with community policing issues as they arise.

Community gardaí generally perform their duties on the beat. The number of gardaí on the beat at any given time varies depending on the time of day and the day of the week. For this reason, it is not possible to define the number of community gardaí on the beat at any given time in percentage terms relative to the number of gardaí that are performing their routine duty on the beat.

Conor Lenihan

Ceist:

453 Mr. C. Lenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will set out the level and number of community gardaí available for duty in the Tallaght area; and if these numbers have grown or fallen in recent years. [5904/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength — all ranks — of the community policing unit at Tallaght Garda station at 31 December each year for the past five years and at 20 February, 2004 is as set out here under

Year

Strength

1999

22

2000

23

2001

23

2002

25

2003

24

20/02/2004

23

The personnel strength, all ranks, of Tallaght Garda station at 20 February 2004 was 162. This represents an increase of 29, or 21.8%, in the personnel allocated to Tallaght Garda station since 31 December 1997.

All gardaí allocated to Tallaght Garda station have a responsibility , inter alia, to deal with community policing issues as they arise.

Questions Nos. 454 and 455 answered with Question No. 436.

Court Procedures.

Dermot Fitzpatrick

Ceist:

456 Dr. Fitzpatrick asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in relation to uncontested consumer debt, he is contemplating introducing legislation on attachment to earnings, as a method of enforcing a court judgement in relation to non-payment of civil debt that would serve as an alternative to prison; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5907/04]

The Government legislation programme is as announced by the Chief Whip on 23 January 2004 for the spring session. The programme does not include any proposal for a Bill to provide for the attachment of earnings as a means of enforcing a judgment debt. However, the area is one that continues to be kept under review taking into account the work of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service, and other relevant agencies.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

457 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5921/04]

There are no full-time civil servants in my Department who first entered the service as political advisors.

Visa Applications.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

458 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of a visa application for a person (details supplied); and if a decision will be expedited in relation to this holiday visa. [5954/04]

The person in question made an application for a visa in October 2003. The application was refused because it had not been established, on the basis of the documentation supplied to my Department, that the applicant would observe the conditions of the visa. In particular, it was felt that the applicant, a 20 year old, had not displayed sufficient evidence of her obligations to return home following her proposed visit. It was noted that the application was not accompanied by any details of the applicant's employment in her home country. It was also noted that no documentation was submitted with the application to show how the applicant intended to maintain herself while in the State. The application also contained inconsistencies in the information provided. It is open to the applicant to appeal against the refusal by writing to the visa appeals officer in the Department.

Juvenile Offenders.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

459 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons referred in the Buncrana district to the juvenile liaison system in the past five years; the number of juveniles who are on a first caution; the number who are on a second or more caution; the number who have been referred for prosecution; the number of prosecutions which have taken place or are pending; the average sentence handed down in such a situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5955/04]

I regret that it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy in relation to the Garda juvenile liaison programme in Buncrana. I will contact the Deputy again when the information is to hand.

Statistics as regards the Garda juvenile diversion programme for the northern region which includes Donegal are available in the Garda annual report 2002. The Garda annual report 2002 is available in the Oireachtas Library and on the Garda website.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

460 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prosecution cases taken under the Child Care Act 1991 since its enactment in the Buncrana district, County Donegal. [5956/04]

I regret it has not been possible in the time available to obtain the information requested by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the information is to hand.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

461 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the supports available to victims of regular, daily or weekly crime such as vandalism and intimidation, particularly when such incidences are perpetrated by juveniles, some of whom may be already on a juvenile liaisons programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5957/04]

The rights and entitlements of victims of crime in Ireland are set out in the Victims Charter, published by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in 1999, following extensive consultations with all relevant agencies including the courts, the Garda Síochána, the Prison Service, the probation and welfare service, the State prosecution service and the Victim Support organisation.

A guiding principle of the Victims Charter is a commitment to giving victims of crime a central place in the criminal justice system. The charter makes specific provision for particularly vulnerable victims such as victims of sexual offences, domestic violence, elderly victims, victims with disabilities, and children. It also contains specific provisions in relation to keeping victims informed of the outcome of their complaints, the progress of any criminal proceedings, and the outcome of these proceedings.

The Irish Victim Support organisation has over 500 professionally trained volunteers countrywide helping over 7,700 victims of crime annually with a network of centres based in local communities in all parts of the country. In addition, the victim support organisation operates a court witness programme in the Circuit and Criminal Courts.

It receives the bulk of its funding directly from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and in the last five years the organisation has received over €5 million in direct funding from my Department. Among the aims of the organisation are to: assist victims of crime both in practical and emotional terms; offer advice and provide information in relation to matters relevant to victims such as compensation, legal aid, insurance cover, relevant statutory entitlements, etc.; and create a greater awareness throughout society about the plight of victims and to highlight the viewpoint of victims.

The Garda Síochána has undertaken to provide help and support to victims of crime as one of the strategic goals of the Garda corporate strategy 2000-04 and, in the Garda policing plan 2004, has undertaken to strongly increase the number of referrals of victims of crime to the victim support organisation. I am informed that the Garda authorities have appointed victim liaison gardaí to liaise with the victims of crime and the victim support organisation.

I understand from the Garda authorities that the policy of the Garda Síochána as regards dealing with juveniles who offend is to consider the offender for inclusion in the Garda juvenile diversion programme. The Garda juvenile diversion programme provides that, in certain circumstances, a juvenile under 18 years of age who freely accepts responsibility for a criminal incident may be cautioned as an alternative to prosecution. The Children Act 2001 placed this programme on a statutory footing, and the relevant sections of the Act were commenced in May 2002.

The programme has proven to be highly successful in diverting young people away from crime by offering guidance and support to juveniles and their families. In the more serious cases, juveniles are placed under the supervision of Garda juvenile liaison officers, who are specially trained members of the Garda Síochána responsible for administering the programme at the local level. I am informed by the Garda authorities that persistent offenders would be unlikely to remain on the juvenile diversion programme. I am further informed in 2003 the Garda national juvenile office received 19,915 referrals under the programme relating to 17,050 individual offenders. The Deputy should note that these figures are provisional and are subject to a validation process. The programme is delivered throughout the country by 85 gardaí and eight sergeant juvenile liaison officers who are employed full time working with juvenile offenders.

Part 4 of the Children Act 2001 introduced the concepts of restorative justice, specifically restorative cautioning and restorative conferencing, to the Juvenile diversion programme. The restorative justice programme supports the victim by providing an opportunity in certain circumstances to attend a caution of the juvenile offender. The victim may take the opportunity to explain the harm done to him/her and receive an apology. Essentially, the provisions of the Children Act 2001 provide for the inclusion, where appropriate and possible, of the victim, the juvenile's family and the wider stakeholding community in the process of diversion. To facilitate these innovative developments, most of the Garda juvenile liaison officers have now received training in mediation skills, with advanced training being provided to selected officers. Since the commencement of the relevant part of the Children Act in 2002 and up to the end of September 2003, almost 100 restorative justice events have been held. Early assessments indicate a very high level of satisfaction from all those involved in the process.

Ongoing evaluation of restorative justice practice is being carried out by the Garda research unit. It is intended that as Garda juvenile liaison officers become more skilled in administering restorative justice, they will be able to focus on the more complex and high-risk offenders, with a view to further reducing the incidence of recidivism.

To ensure the effective operation of the Garda juvenile diversion programme in accordance with section 44 of the Act, a committee to monitor the effectiveness of the programme, review all aspects of its operation and monitor the ongoing training needs of facilitators involved in restorative conferencing was established in June 2003.

In addition to the Garda juvenile diversion programme, there are in existence a total of 64 Garda youth diversion projects. These projects are a community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiative which seeks to divert young persons from becoming involved — or further involved — in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development, promote civic responsibility and improve long-term employability prospects. By doing so, the projects also contribute to improving the quality of life within communities and enhancing Garda/community relations.

On the basis of commissioned evaluations of the Garda youth diversion projects, my Department, in conjunction with the Garda Síochána and other key stakeholders, commissioned the centre for social and educational research at the Dublin Institute of Technology to prepare comprehensive guidelines for the establishment, operation, management and administration of projects. It is anticipated that these guidelines will act as a benchmark against which applications for new projects will be assessed and against which existing projects will be evaluated on an ongoing basis. The guidelines were officially launched at the Garda youth diversion projects annual conference in May 2003. As the Deputy may be aware, recent years have seen a dramatic increase in the number of these projects, from 12 in 1997 to 64 at present, a process made possible, in part, by funding under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. The locations of the new projects were decided upon according to local needs by the Garda authorities, in conjunction with my Department. Funding of €5.318 million has been allocated to these and related projects in the current year.

In summary, the Garda authorities and I remain strongly committed to the principle and practice of diversion in the criminal justice system, a commitment warranted by consistent findings of national and international criminological research. Although the Garda juvenile diversion programme and the Garda youth diversion projects are not appropriate for all juveniles or in all situations, they nevertheless provide an important intervention in the lives of those juveniles who have taken a wrong turning in the process of maturing into young adults. Moreover, research indicates that of all those formally diverted from prosecution, some 88% do not come to the attention of the Garda Síochána again by their 18th birthday.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they monitor crime trends on an ongoing basis at national and local level and that Garda patrolling arrangements are adjusted to respond to the type of incidents referred to by the Deputy.

Garda Investigations.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

462 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Gardaí have received a complaint from a company (details supplied); if so, the action which has been taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5958/04]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that they have not received a complaint about the specific location mentioned by the Deputy. They have, however, invoked the provisions of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2002 in relation to a nearby carpark.

Garda Stations.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

463 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Robertstown Garda station, County Kildare, is fully equipped with up to date equipment to enable the Garda carry out their duties efficiently and effectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5959/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, that Robertstown Garda station is equipped with a single telephone line as well as the following radio equipment: one high-band radio base; one low-band radio base; one sub-district controller; public access call box; two hand-portable radios; and a patrol vehicle fitted with a mobile radio.

This is the standard communications infrastructure provided in a sub-district station of this size and is designed to allow the members of the station carry out their duties effectively and efficiently.

Registration of Title.

Michael Noonan

Ceist:

464 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will expedite the transfer of land in the Land Registry Office for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [5995/04]

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application under section 49 (i.e. acquisition of title by virtue of long possession) of the Registration of Titles Act 1964, which was lodged on 9 September 2003. Dealing No. D2003PS016660Y refers.

I am further informed that this application was completed on 20 February 2004 and that notice of completion was issued to the lodging solicitor.

Hunger Strike.

Joe Higgins

Ceist:

465 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the anti-war protester on hunger strike in Limerick Prison; and if he will seek his immediate release. [5996/04]

The director general of the Irish Prison Service has provided me with the details of a remand prisoner in Limerick prison who is currently engaging on a hunger strike protest. He is in custody since 12 February 2004 and is due to appear in Ennis District Court on 27 February 2004 on charges of wilful obstruction, failing to comply with the directions of a member of the Garda Síochána, obstruction of a peace officer and insulting behaviour in a public place. He has been on hunger strike since 15 February 2004 but is continuing to take liquids. As with any prisoner who embarks on such a form of protest he is seen daily by a prison doctor.

As the Deputy is aware the courts are independent in the exercise of their constitutional functions and I do not have the authority to release any prisoner that the courts have specifically ordered remain in custody pending a future court appearance.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

466 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6013/04]

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

467 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6028/04]

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

468 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6043/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 466 to 468, inclusive, together.

A high-level implementation group has been established in my Department, with representatives from the areas concerned, to deal with all issues arising from the decentralisation proposals approved by Government. The group will have regard to any decision of the central implementation committee that has been established by the Government.

One division and two agencies of my Department have successfully decentralised over the last number of years and I would anticipate that this success would be replicated in the current decentralisation proposals. The details of these decentralisations requested by the Deputy are contained in the tabular statement below.

Name of Organisation/Office

Legal Aid Board

Land Registry

Finance Division

Year decentralisation completed

2002

1998

1990

Number of Staff as at 31/1/2004

37

206.5

154

Numbers of Department staff who decentralised

9

25

5

Staff from other Departments

14

26

95

Numbers recruited through Civil Service Commission

14

89

0

Building Cost

€4.38M

N/A

N/A

Some of the information requested by the Deputy on the number of job changes, staff changes and costs involved in the decentralisation is not readily available and would take an inordinate amount of time to compile.

While the Department has not carried out a survey of staff within the Department, some 160 staff have indicated an interest in decentralising to various locations outlined in the recent programme for decentralisation. The vast majority of these applications show a preference for two or more locations in the same geographical area and are not confined to offices of any particular Department. This number would not include staff of my Department who may have been in direct contact with other Departments in regard to expressing an interest in decentralisation.

Child Care Services.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

469 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform , further to Parliamentary Question No. 284 of 18 February 2004, when the review referred to will be completed; and when decisions regarding funding applications will be resumed. [6061/04]

I have already dealt with this issue at great length in a previous reply to the Deputy. In this regard I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 284 of Wednesday, 18 February 2004. I have nothing further to add at this point.

Garda Stations.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

470 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the Garda authorities are now five months considering the accommodation needs of the gardaí in the new Garda station at Leixlip, County Kildare; his views on whether this seems to be an inordinate delay; and if they will finalise their consideration of the accommodation needs without delay. [6079/04]

I understand from the Garda authorities that they have now decided on their accommodation requirements for Leixlip, and expect to finalise the brief of requirements for a new station within two to three weeks.

When they have indicated those requirements to my Department, the Office of Public Works will be requested to provide a revised sketch scheme for further consideration.

Citizenship Applications.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

471 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform , further to Parliamentary Question No. 344 of 21 October 2003, if a decision in the case will be expedited; and the status of the application. [6086/04]

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that I have recently approved the application for a certificate of naturalisation in respect of the person referred to and a certificate of naturalisation will issue as soon as certain statutory and other requirements, including the making of a declaration of loyalty to the State and fidelity to the nation and payment of the statutory fee, have been complied with. The applicant has been notified in writing of my decision.

Residency Permits.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

472 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform , further to Parliamentary Question No. 389 of 9 December 2003, if a decision has been made in this case; and if a decision will be expedited. [6087/04]

An application for permission to remain in the State based on marriage to an Irish national was received from the person concerned in July 2003. Applications of this type are dealt with in strict chronological order and applications received in February 2003 are currently being processed.

Departmental Appointments.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

473 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if interviews have taken place for the position of county registrar for County Clare; the number of persons interviewed; if the successful candidate will be in place for the local and European elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6103/04]

I can confirm that interviews for the position of county registrar for County Clare were held by the Appointments Advisory Board, and that ten eligible candidates were interviewed. A memorandum on the appointment in question is currently with the Government and I expect that a decision will be made shortly.

Residency Permits.

John Perry

Ceist:

474 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application by a person (details supplied) for residency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6140/04]

The person concerned applied for asylum in the State on 2 August 2002. He subsequently withdrew this application on 11 September 2002 and made an application for residency in the State on the basis of his parentage of an Irish child born on 30 August 2002.

Following the decision of the Supreme Court in the cases of L & O, the separate procedure which then existed to enable persons to apply to reside in the State on the sole basis of parentage of an Irish born child ended on 19 February 2003. The Government decided that the separate procedure would not apply to cases which were outstanding on that date. There are a large number of such cases outstanding at present, including the case to which the Deputy refers.

Since the person in question does not have an alternative legal basis for remaining in this jurisdiction the issue of permission to remain will be considered, but only in the context of a ministerial proposal to deport him. If, in the light of representations received and the range of factors set out in section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, the Minister decides not to make a deportation order he will be given leave to remain on a humanitarian basis.

Because of the large number of such cases on hand I am unable to say at this stage when the file will be examined.

Citizenship Applications.

John Perry

Ceist:

475 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on the application by a person (details supplied) for naturalisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6141/04]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department on 12 August 2003.

John Perry

Ceist:

476 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the avenues that are open to a person (details supplied) to apply for a permit in view of the circumstances outlined in correspondence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6142/04]

The person in question currently has permission to remain in the State on the basis that he holds a work permit. From the correspondence submitted it would appear that he wishes to operate a business in the State. If this is the case then he must submit an application in writing to the immigration division of my Department providing details of the proposed business. His application can only then be processed. Details of the requirements of this scheme are available on the Department's website.

The average processing time of applications for naturalisation currently is approximately 15 to 18 months. Consequently, it is likely that the application of the person concerned will be finalised in early 2005.

As soon as I have reached a decision on the matter, I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy of the outcome.

Proposed Legislation.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

477 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the proposed Bills being processed by his Department include provisions to make gazumping by housing developers a criminal offence. [5742/04]

The general issue of gazumping was examined by the Law Reform Commission, LRC, in October 1999. Its report examined the practice of taking booking deposits on the sale of new residential properties. The commission found that gazumping occurred in only a handful of cases, less than 5%, and almost always on the sale of new houses. They concluded that the current legal position, which does not confer any interest in property upon the payment of a booking deposit, generally benefits the purchaser more than the vendor, allowing the purchaser flexibility to conduct the necessary preliminary investigations before committing to an irrevocable agreement.

Among the recommendations of the LRC report was the initiation of, and adherence to, voluntary codes of practice among the industry such as the home purchase protection pledge established by the Irish Home Builders Association, IHBA.

Under the IHBA code of practice, members must not increase the price of the property or accept any offer from any other party for the property for a seven week period following payment of a booking deposit, during which time contracts should be exchanged and signed. The code stipulates that IHBA members are only entitled to increase the price of properties in circumstances where VAT rates have changed or as a result of newly enacted legislation that would directly affect the price of a property. In the event of non-compliance by a member of the IHBA in relation to this aspect of the code, the IHBAmay take appropriate sanctions against that member.

My Department plans to engage with the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs during 2004 to consider a range of consumer issues related to housing including gazumping.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

478 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government , regarding the housing aid for the elderly scheme, total grants allocated under the scheme in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and the amount available in 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6085/04]

The information requested is set out in the following table:

Year

Allocation

2000

10,157,905

2001

11,993.392

2002

11,903,000

2003

11,536,000

2004

11,600,000

Local Authority Housing.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

479 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Markievicz House flats, Dublin 2, still have no sinks in their bathroom; and if he will release funding to the city council in order that it can carry out the relevant work and install sinks as a matter of urgency. [6354/04]

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

502 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department will make funding available to Dublin City Council to carry out much needed precinct improvements in Markievicz House flat complex, Dublin 2, in view of the ongoing neglect of some of our inner city flat complexes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6053/04]

I propose to take to Questions Nos. 479 and 502 together.

There have been no proposals to my Department from Dublin City Council in respect of this flat complex. Central heating has been installed, new windows have been provided and roof replacement works have been carried out to the complex under the city council's area regeneration programme. I understand there are a number of dwellings in the city council's stock, including the flats in Markievicz House, which do not have sinks in their bathrooms and that the city council is formulating proposals to be submitted to my Department on the provision of such facilities.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

480 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the application by Kildare County Council in regard to funding for the refurbishment of a housing scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5596/04]

Kildare County Council submitted an outline proposal to my Department in 1996 to undertake refurbishment work to houses at Maddenstown under my Department's remedial works scheme. The council subsequently informed my Department that further scoping work was required and that the council would revert to my Department. There are no current proposals in my Department in relation to this original outline proposal.

Archaeological Sites.

John Bruton

Ceist:

481 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the name of the person who was licensed to conduct each one of the 1,514 licensed archaeological excavations conducted between 1997 and 2002 in respect of which a report is not, at this stage, lodged and available for inspection in the files available to the public of reports of licensed excavations; the date of the licences in respect of each of the 1,514 licences; the location of the excavation; the purpose for which the excavation in question was licensed; if the excavation is complete; the action taken in respect of the non-lodgement of the report in question; and if licences were issued for archaeological excavations to the person in question on the matter. [5614/04]

The submission of excavation reports is a very important element of the archaeological licensing system. The vast majority of reports have been received over the years since 1930 when licensing was introduced. However, my Department is still working to establish a definitive database of outstanding reports. This will involve verifying the information on the Department's database with the licensed archaeologists. A timescale for submission of outstanding reports with individual archaeologists will also be agreed. It is expected that this work will be completed by the end of this year. In the circumstances it is not possible to provide the detailed information sought.

Housing Grants.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

482 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of funding for a project (details supplied) in County Cork. [5634/04]

Certain clarification regarding the application for funding under the capital assistance scheme in respect of the proposed provision of 14 units of accommodation for disabled persons has been sought from Cork County Council, which is responsible for administering the scheme in its area. When this is to hand, the application will be further considered by my Department and the council will be advised of the outcome as soon as possible.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

483 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will increase the frequency of grant aid to the rare and unusual thatched cottages that are difficult to maintain and preserve, in particular for a 300 year old cottage (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5733/04]

My Department operates a scheme of grants to assist in the renewal and repair of traditional thatched roofs and has introduced significant improvements to the grant levels under the scheme. The basic maximum grant was increased in 1999 from €3,047, £2,400, to €3,810 and from €4,571, £3,600, to €5,720 for houses on specified offshore islands. The grants may meet two thirds of the approved cost of thatching works, subject to the maximum limits.

The Department also introduced a new measure to assist lower income households, for which the cost of maintaining a thatched roof imposed a particular burden. Householders with medical cards are eligible for thatching grants up to a maximum of €6,350 or €8,260 in the case of the specified offshore islands. In addition, in such cases the grant may cover up to 80% of the approved cost of the works, again subject to the maximum grant limits.

A further grant in respect of the same dwelling can be paid where the works are commenced seven or more years from the date of payment of a previous grant.

While there are no proposals, at this stage, to increase the rate of the grant or the frequency for which applications can be made for thatching grants, my Department will keep the terms of the scheme under review.

Local Authority Housing.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

484 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the discussions being held with local authorities, particularly in urban areas, regarding the upgrading of housing stock, fuel poverty and the introduction of common quality standard heating in housing stock that is thermally deficient; and if his Department has funding agreed in its estimate to support this type of initiative. [5734/04]

My Department is in regular contact with local authorities on a range of housing issues. In so far as the issue of heating is concerned, my Department has recently been following up a survey undertaken in 2003 to establish the number of local authority dwellings without central heating facilities. A number of authorities have been contacted to establish the progress being made and details of the plans in place to provide central heating facilities in dwellings which lack them. A number of local authorities have put specific programmes in place to address this matter. In this context these programmes have been progressed by local authorities from their own resources and also with assistance from remedial works and area regeneration schemes funded by my Department.

Apart from the foregoing, there is no specific funding mechanism available from my Department for the installation of central heating in local authority rented dwellings.

Recycling Policy.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

485 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the discussions his Department has initiated with the vintners and licensed trade to encourage recycling in view of the volume of glass and bottles not recycled by same. [5735/04]

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

486 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the tariffs in operation against vintners and those in the licensed trade who do not recycle the huge volume of glass bottles consumed on their premises. [5736/04]

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

487 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the alcohol bottles which are not recycled by vintners and those in the licensed trade. [5737/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 485 to 487, inclusive, together.

European Parliament and Council Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste requires member states to achieve specified targets in relation to the recovery and recycling of packaging waste i.e. glass bottles and jars, cardboard boxes and containers, cans, plastic containers and wrapping, pallets etc. Under the directive, Ireland is required to achieve a 25% recovery rate of packaging waste by 1 July 2001, increasing to a 50% recovery rate by 31 December 2005, with a minimum of 25% to be achieved by recycling, including a minimum 15% recycling rate for each type of packaging material. The 1994 packaging directive has recently been revised by a new amending directive which specifies higher recovery and recycling targets to be achieved by 2011 in the case of Ireland.

The latest official data on packaging waste arisings and recovery are contained in the national waste database report for 2001 published by the Environmental Protection Agency in July 2003. The EPA estimates that 872,917 tonnes of packaging waste arose in 2001, of which 221,266 tonnes was recovered for recycling. This represents a recovery rate of 25.2%, thereby enabling Ireland to meet its 2001 25% EU packaging waste recovery target. In regard to glass packaging, the EPA estimates that 105,273 tonnes of glass packaging waste arose in 2001, of which 41,156 tonnes was recovered for recycling i.e. a glass recycling rate of 39.1%.

With a view to facilitating the achievement by Ireland of the 50% packaging waste recovery target by end 2005 as specified in the 1994 packaging directive, new regulations entitled the Waste Management (Packaging) Regulations 2003 were introduced last year. It is envisaged that these regulations will support the progress made by Repak, the compliance scheme set up by industry to ensure the recovery of packaging waste, by ensuring that all members of the business community — large or small, and including the licensed trade — play their part in meeting Ireland's packaging waste recovery targets. One of the principal features of the 2003 regulations is the introduction of a requirement on all producers participating in the placing of packaging on the market, i.e. manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers — both Repak and non-Repak members — to segregate the packaging waste arising on their own premises, back-door packaging waste, into specified waste streams i.e. waste paper, fibreboard, glass, aluminium, steel, plastic sheeting and wood, and have it collected by authorised recovery operators for recycling.

The regulations further provide that such packaging waste may not be landfilled. Furthermore, the new regulations also clarify that packaging sold and consumed on a producer's premises comes within the scope of the regulations e.g. bottles sold and consumed in pubs, clubs and hotels. This mandatory obligation on producers to recycle packaging waste arising on their premises applies to all beverage containers sold on licensed premises, alcoholic and non-alcoholic. On foot of the introduction of this new requirement on producers, combined with the continued expansion of the bring bank network under the local and regional waste management plans, it is estimated that the glass recycling rate increased to over 60% in 2003. My Department was not involved in direct discussions with the organisations representing the licensed vintner trade in respect of the new regulations but they were directly notified of the new provisions.

Further obligations are being placed on major producers i.e. producers who place more than 25 tonnes of packaging on the market in a calendar year and who have an annual turnover of more than €1 million. These include a requirement to provide segregated facilities for the take-back of packaging waste from the general public and to register with, and submit quarterly returns to, the local authority in whose functional area the major producers premises is located. Major producers can fulfil their obligations individually, or gain exemption from them by participating in an approved packaging waste compliance scheme i.e. Repak. Both options involve the payment of fees by major producers, largely related to the type and volume of packaging placed on the market.

Enforcement of the packaging regulations is a matter for local authorities. In this regard, I have allocated €7 million to local authorities from the environment fund in 2004 for stepped-up enforcement of waste management legislation generally. Local authorities have been requested to give particular priority to enforcement of the new packaging regulations in their functional areas.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

488 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the report of the Innishannon water scheme (details supplied) submitted by Cork County Council in November 2002 has now been considered and approved; if the scheme can now get under way; and the approximate commencement date. [5769/04]

The Innishannon — Ballinadee/Ballinspittle/Garretstown — water supply scheme has been approved for funding in my Department's water services investment programme 2003-05 under the rural towns and villages initiative.

A preliminary report for the scheme has been submitted to my Department by Cork County Council. To facilitate further consideration of the preliminary report, the council has been requested to review and report to my Department on the water demand requirements of the villages included in the scheme, and their surrounding hinterlands. On receipt of the council's report, further consideration will be given to the preliminary report.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

489 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to extend and increase the grant for group sewerage schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5789/04]

Group sewerage scheme grants of up to 75% of the approved cost, subject to a maximum grant of €2,031 per house, are available for the provision of common or shared wastewater disposal systems.

The national rural water monitoring committee is overseeing the implementation of a pilot programme by local authorities to test a range of new, small-scale wastewater collection and treatment systems. Twelve villages in six counties have been selected as locations for the pilot programme. Last year, proposals were invited from suitably qualified contractors to design and build these village schemes and to operate and maintain the infrastructure over a 20 year period. Contractors have now been shortlisted and construction is expected to commence later this year.

Subject to a satisfactory outcome to the pilot testing, the national rural water monitoring committee envisages a potential role for group sewerage schemes in the collection of domestic wastewater from households outside the immediate catchment of such treatment systems. Confirmation of such a role for group sewerage schemes and any review of the associated grants must await the outcome of the pilot programme.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

490 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has an application from Kildare County Council for the provision of a new sewerage scheme or the upgrading of the existing scheme at a location (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5790/04]

My Department has no proposals from Kildare County Council on the provision of wastewater facilities in Nurney. Neither is there such a proposal in the list of schemes submitted by Kildare County Council in response to my Department's request to local authorities in 2003 to prepare updated assessments of their water services infrastructural requirements.

Motor Taxation.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

491 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans he has to review the rate of motor tax charged on seven-seater vehicles in view of the fact that a family with more than three children are required to have such a vehicle to becompliant with the current seat belt legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5794/04]

Motor tax for private cars is related to engine capacity rather than number of seats. A seven-seater vehicle with a lower engine capacity would therefore be liable for a lesser rate of motor tax than one with a higher engine capacity. It is not therefore proposed to review the basis of assessment for motor tax as proposed in the question.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

492 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5922/04]

There are no full-time civil servants within my Department who were initially employed as political advisers.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

493 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide details of the submissions that his Department has received from Kildare County Council, regarding the proposed upgrade of the Kildare town sewerage treatment plant. [5940/04]

The Kildare town sewerage scheme is included in my Department's water services investment programme 2003-05 as a scheme to advance through planning.

Kildare County Council's proposed brief for the appointment of a client's representative to prepare the preliminary report for the scheme is under examination in my Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

494 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has plans to grand aid a new sewerage treatment system for Rathangan, County Kildare. [5941/04]

In January 2001 my Department approved Kildare County Council's application for funding under the serviced land initiative in respect of a proposed sewerage scheme at Rathangan. In October 2001 the council requested my Department to consider the proposal for funding as a major capital project under the water services investment programme.

The scheme had been included, as a 2005 objective, in the list of water and sewerage schemes submitted by Kildare County Council in October 1999 in response to my Department's request to local authorities to undertake fresh assessments of the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priority lists were taken into account in the framing of subsequent phases of the water services investment programme. Because of the level of competing demand, and the need to prioritise individual proposals on a national basis, it has not been possible to include the scheme in the programme.

In 2003, local authorities were asked by my Department to provide updated assessments of their current water services infrastructural requirements. The Rathangan sewerage scheme has been placed fourth on the resulting priority list produced by Kildare County Council. The priority list will be taken into account in the selection of new schemes for approval in the next phase of the water services investment programme in due course.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

495 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans his Department has to increase the capping of the shared ownership housing scheme from its present level of €130,000 to a reckonable figure that will match the price of housing within the local authority area where the applicant is seeking such an agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5987/04]

Jack Wall

Ceist:

496 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans his Department have to address the problem in view of the discrepancy that now exists in all local authority areas between the maximum loan available under the shared ownership scheme and the cost of housing in these areas; the directives given to local authorities in regard to the provision of affordable sites, houses and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5988/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 495 and 496 together.

The shared ownership scheme offers home ownership in a number of steps to purchasers who cannot afford full ownership in the traditional way. Initially, ownership is shared between the purchaser who buys at least 40% of the value of the house and the local authority from whom the purchaser rents the remaining share.

The present maximum loan which a local authority may advance in respect of the purchased equity in a house is €130,000. Under the terms of the scheme, a loan of this amount can facilitate the purchase of houses at the level of average house prices nationally or above.

It is a matter for local authorities, in operating the scheme, to determine the maximum house price limits having regard, inter alia, to the ability of applicants to meet the mortgage and rent commitments involved.

My Department is keeping the terms of the income and loan limits under review, taking into account the movement in house prices, the effectiveness of various schemes in meeting the needs of the relevant target group and the availability of mortgage finance in the private sector. Work is continuing with representatives of the Irish Mortgage Council and the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority on the provision of finance by the lending institutions for affordable housing and other initiatives.

Housing Grants.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

497 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position of the application of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare for the first-time buyer’s grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5989/04]

The receipt of documentation and information requested from the applicant is awaited.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

498 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6014/04]

The Minister for Finance has appointed an implementation group to prepare and submit an overall implementation plan on decentralisation by end March 2004.

Pending this, my Department has not carried out a formal risk assessment of the decentralisation plans to date. However, it would be the intention to implement the decentralisation arrangements in such a way as to minimise impact on and disruption to the Department's operations.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

499 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6029/04]

My Department has participated in two previous decentralisation programmes. In 1983, the vehicle registration unit decentralised to Shannon, while under a later decentralisation programme in 1989, a number of sections moved to Ballina. There are currently 79 staff employed in Shannon and 89 in Ballina.

The additional information sought is not readily available and its compilation would involve a disproportionate amount of time and work.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

500 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6044/04]

My Department has not yet conducted a survey to determine the number of staff who wish to volunteer for the programme of decentralisation. The Department considers that such a survey will most valuably be undertaken when greater clarification on detailed arrangements is available following, inter alia, the report of the decentralisation implementation group.

EU Directives.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

501 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the Irish Farmers Association submission on the draft nitrates directive; his opinion on same; the proposals he has made to the Commission on the implementation of the directive here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6052/04]

I refer to the reply to Question No. 182 of 3 February 2004.

Proposals for further implementation of the nitrates directive were issued for public consultation on 19 December 2003 by the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Agriculture and Food in the draft nitrates action programme. All interested parties were invited to provide comments in writing within two months. The comments received will be considered initially by officials of the two Departments and consideration will be given to the extent to which the draft action programme might need to be revised on the basis of these comments.

I will give consideration to the issues involved in consultation with my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture and Food, having regard to the need to finalise the terms of the action programme at an early date and submit definitive proposals to the EU Commission. There have been informal contacts between officials of my Department and the Irish Farmers' Association and a submission dated 18 February 2004 has been received in my Department.

Question No. 502 answered with QuestionNo. 479.

Ministerial Staff.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

503 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the names, duties and annual salaries of each of the special, political and communications advisers or assistants appointed by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6083/04]

The names, function and salary scales of persons appointed by me as temporary civil servants in the grades of press officer, special adviser, personal assistants and personal secretaries are as set out in the following table. The exact present pay of the officers involved is in accordance with their progression on the salary scale.

The press officer provides a service to my Department generally, as well as to my office and the offices of both Ministers of State at this Department. In addition to the above, a communications service is provided to my Department on a consultancy basis by Monica Leech Communications.

Name

Function

Salary scale

Dan Pender

Press Officer

Principal Officer scale (modified) — €69,194 — €72,128 — €75,043 — €77,981 — €80,457

Pat Daly

Special Adivser

Principal Officer scale (modified) — €69,194 — €72,128 — €75,043 — €77,981 — €80,457

Sean Dower

Personal Assistant

Higher Executive Officer scale (modified) — €37,520 — €38,653 — €39,781 — €40,918 — €42,052 — €43,191 — €44,328

Inez O’Neill

Personal Secretary

Secretarial Assistant scale — €359.17 p.w. — €379.38 — €403.30 — €436.25 — €469.20 — €503.94 — €538.16 — €570.17 — €602.80 — €633.80 — €656.81 — €667.72 — €681.58 (1st LSI) — €692.98 (2nd LSI)

Deirdre Heaney

Personal Assistant to Minister of State Ahern

Higher Executive Officer scale (modified) — €37,520 — €38,653 — €39,781 — €40,918 — €42,052 — €43,191 — €44,328

Siobhan McGrath

Personal Secretary to Minister of State Ahern

Secretarial Assistant scale — €359.17 p.w. — €379.38 — €403.30 — €436.25 — €469.20 — €503.94 — €538.16 — €570.17 — €602.80 — €633.80 — €656.81 — €667.72 — €681.58 (1st LSI) — €692.98 (2nd LSI)

Sinead McGowan

Personal Assistant to Minister of State Gallagher

Higher Executive Officer scale (modified) — €37,520 — €38,653 — €39,781 — €40,918 — €42,052 — €43,191 — €44,328

Aideen Gilleen

Personal Secretary to Minister of State Gallagher

Secretarial Assistant scale — €359.17 p.w. — €379.38 — €403.30 — €436.25 — €469.20 — €503.94 — €538.16 — €570.17 — €602.80 — €633.80 — €656.81 — €667.72 — €681.58 (1st LSI) — €692.98 (2nd LSI)

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

504 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when approval will be given to an application by Westmeath County Council in regard to the Milltownpass sewerage scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6147/04]

The Milltownpass sewerage scheme has been approved for funding in my Department's water services investment programme 2003-05 under the rural towns and villages initiative.

I approved the preliminary report for the scheme in November 2003. In the meantime, Westmeath County Council has submitted a water pricing report which is under consideration in my Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible. Once the water pricing report has been approved, the council will be in a position to appoint a client's representative to draw up tender documents.

Departmental Funding.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

505 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when the allocation of €7 million for the second round of the young people’s facilities and services fund, promised in 2002, will be made available to local communities. [5609/04]

Proposals submitted as part of a second round of allocations in local drugs task force areas are currently being examined by the national assessment committee, which is chaired by my Department. I hope to make announcements in this regard in the near future.

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

506 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the proposals to be included in forthcoming legislation to alter the guidelines on the distribution of dormant account funds; if the recommendations of the Dormant Fund Accounts Board will be made public after this legislation is introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5585/04]

The Deputy will appreciate that proposals for legislation in regard to dormant accounts are currently being drafted and the general scheme of a Bill has not yet been submitted to Government. The Deputy should note, however, that the guidelines on the distribution of dormant accounts funding as set out in the dormant accounts plan will remain unchanged; and the purposes for which funding will be allocated will remain as specified in existing legislation.

With regard to the forthcoming draft legislation, consistent with the Government's December 2003 decision, I can confirm for the Deputy that the following measures are proposed: a transparent application process; clear published evaluation criteria by which future applications will be assessed; and publication of lists of all successful projects and programmes.

In addition, the Dormant Accounts Disbursement Board will be given key roles, including preparation of future plans, advising annually on priority areas for disbursement and critically assessing the additionality and impact of the spend.

In keeping with the principles of transparency, I anticipate the publication of annual recommendations by the Disbursement Board as to priority areas for funding.

Community Employment Schemes.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

507 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the details of the guidelines for the rural social scheme for farmers; and the position regarding this scheme. [5745/04]

I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 232 of 19 February 2004.

Community Development.

James Breen

Ceist:

508 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grant he proposes to advance to Eirí Corca Baiscinn in 2004 to allow this service to continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5766/04]

Area Development Management Limited, ADM, manages the local development social inclusion programme on behalf of my Department. ADM is currently appraising implementation plans for 2004-06 and programmes of activities for 2004 from partnerships and community groups. Decisions on funding allocations for 2004, including Éirí Corca Baiscinn, will be made by ADM in due course.

Sealúchas Údarás na Gaeltachta.

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

509 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an eol dó na deacrachtaí atá á gcothú d’Fhoinn Chonallacha de bharr Teach Bhaile Chonaill a bheith á dhíol ag Údarás na Gaeltachta agus an bhfuil réiteach á dhéanamh sa dóigh go leanfar leis an chúrsa tábhachtach seo i gceol traidisiúnta ár dtíre agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [5767/04]

Is fochuideachta de chuid Údarás na Gaeltachta é Foinn Chonallacha Teoranta, a bunaíodh i 1997 chun acmhainn an cheoil a fhorbairt.

Is é an cúrsa ‘Ceoltóir', a reachtáiltear go príomha i dTeach Bhaile Chonaill, ceann de phríomh-imeachtaí Fhoinn Chonallacha Teoranta agus tuigim go bhfuil socrú déanta ag an Údarás an cúrsa seo a mhaoiniú suas go dtí Meitheamh 2004.

Déantar athbhreithniú ar thionscnaimh uile an Údaráis agus a chuid fhochuideachtaí go rialta. Sa chomhthéacs seo, tá comhairleoir i mbun meastóireachta i láthair na huaire ar obair Fhoinn Chonallacha Teoranta go dáta. Tuigim ón Údarás go gcuirfear moltaí ar fáil go luath agus, mar chuid den phróiseas seo, déanfar measúnú ar an chúrsa atá faoi chaibidil ag an Teachta. Ní bheidh aon tionchar ag díol Theach Bhaile Chonaill ar thodhchaí an chúrsa seo. Braithfidh cibé cinneadh a thiocfaidh as ar fhiúntas agus riachtanais an chúrsa féin.

Departmental Funding.

Cecilia Keaveney

Ceist:

510 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the support that can be given to assist the continuation of a course (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5797/04]

The course to which the Deputy refers is operated by a subsidiary company of Údarás na Gaeltachta, which was established in 1997. I understand it has been decided by Údarás na Gaeltachta to continue funding for the course until June 2004.

Reviews are carried out from time to time on projects undertaken by Údarás na Gaeltachta and its subsidiaries. In this context, Údarás has appointed a consultant to examine and review the work of the subsidiary company in question and an assessment of the course referred to by the Deputy will form part of that review. It is expected that specific recommendations will be made in regard to the continuation of the course in question, taking into account key factors such as the merits of the course, level of demand and future viability.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

511 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of full-time civil servants within his Department who first entered the service as political advisors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5923/04]

As the Deputy is aware, my Department was established in June 2002. I can confirm that since that date no established civil servants have been appointed to my Department who first entered the service as political advisors. From the information available to me, I am not aware of any established civil servants currently serving in my Department who were appointed prior to June 2002 and would fall within the category referred to by the Deputy.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

512 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on his Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of his Department; when he expects to receive the risk assessment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6015/04]

The assessment of the impact of risks arising from decentralisation is clearly important. Strategies identified and mitigating any risks will be pursued, drawing on the resources of the departmental decentralisation committee and the experience of Departments which have decentralised functions in the past. My Department's membership of the central liaison committee will also assist in this regard.

Timely intake of new staff and appropriate training provision will help to ensure that there will be no undue loss of expertise and knowledge in my Department arising from decentralisation.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

513 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the locations to which any part of his Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by his Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within his Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6030/04]

As the Deputy is aware, my Department was established in June 2002. The Gaeltacht division of my Department was decentralised to Na Forbacha, County Galway, since 1980. The total staff now employed in this location is 46. The detailed records sought by the Deputy are not readily available given the passage of time and the various changes of Departmental functions which have occurred since that time.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

514 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of staff within his Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6045/04]

I should say at the outset that my own Department has received 150 unsolicited applications from staff of other Departments wishing to decentralise to Knock Airport.

The staff of my Department have not yet been requested to indicate their interest in decentralising, pending resolution centrally of a co-ordinated process for such arrangements. Six officials in my Department have applied through personnel division for posts in other Departments decentralised locations as follows: one higher executive officer — Donegal town and Buncrana; one higher executive officer — Drogheda, Carrick-on-Shannon, Longford and Sligo; one higher executive officer — Limerick; one executive officer — Tullamore, Kilkenny, Newbridge, The Curragh and Portlaoise; one clerical officer — Achill Sound, Ballina, Castlebar and Sligo; and one clerical officer — Tullamore.

Community Support for Older People.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

515 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has satisfied himself with the operation of the scheme of community supports for older people with reference to the service being provided to the elderly; the details of the tendering process; if he is getting value for money; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that it is alleged that at least one commercial group is using community based organisations as a cover to break the guidelines of the scheme with a view to becoming the dominant supplier or installer for the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6144/04]

The purpose of the scheme of community support for older people is to provide funding for initiatives to improve the security of vulnerable older people.

The scheme is advertised annually in the national and provincial papers. Applications are invited from locally based organisations to apply on behalf of the older people, that is, people aged 65 and over, in their area. The applications are received and assessed by my Department. Once the group has satisfied all criteria under the scheme, the group is approved up to 90% of the cost of their application.

The local group applying under the scheme has responsibility for the purchase and installation of the security equipment. My Department has no involvement in this aspect of the funding.

It is a matter for the local groups to seek quotes from various suppliers and to choose the security equipment that they consider best value. I do not consider that it would be appropriate for my Department to choose or promote one supplier over another.

My Department is currently undertaking a review of the rules and guidelines of the scheme, prior to re-advertising it in May. The concerns expressed by the Deputy will be taken into account in the review process.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

516 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the list of the groups, including addresses and number of persons who applied for approval under the 2003 CSOP scheme and who were unsuccessful. [6145/04]

I have attached a list of groups who were unsuccessful in their application under the 2003 scheme of community support for older people, for the Deputy's information.

Ref No.

Group Name

Address

Approx. No. who applied through the group

13

Knockanore Glendine Kilwatermoy Community Council

The Lodge, Moore Hill, Tallow, Co Waterford

15

15

Knockbridge Community Alert

Ballinlough, Knockbridge, Dundalk, Co Louth

12

47

Skerries 65 Club

44 St Patricks Close, Skerries, Co Dublin

20

49

Security of the Elderly

6 Mary’s Lane, Dublin 7

982

50

Security of the Elderly Bishopstown

20 Bishopscourt Rd., Wilton, Co Carlow

35

64

Killarney TASC Alarms

69 Pinewood Estate, Park Road, Killarney, Co Kerry

10

69

Lobinstown Muintir Na Tire

Lobinstown, Navan, Co Meath

2

73

Killala Community Council

c/o Killala Community Centre, Ballina Road, Killala, Co Mayo

3

87

Glenfin Care Of The Aged Committee

Cloghan Beg, Cloghan, Co Donegal

**

95

Belturbet Neighbourhood Watch

Sugarloaf, Belturbet, Co Cavan

13

116

Ennis RAPID Community Assembly

c/o 7 Quin Road Business Park, Ennis, Co Clare

20

136

Kilmallock Community Alert

Bracken Lodge, Gotoon, Kilmallock, Co Limerick

99

140

Saula Community Alert

Saula, Achill, Co Mayo

22

152

Abbeyleix Community Alert

Ballytarsna, Abbeyleix, Co Laois

82

158

Fahy — Quansboro Community Alert

Deerpark, Ballycrissane, Ballinasloe, Co Galway

27

162

Leenane Day Care Centre

Leenane Community Hall, Leenane, Co Galway

10

177

Community Alert Aghada

Woodview, Cloyne, Co Cork

**

178

Frenchpark Community Alert

Frenchpark, Co Roscommon

14

192

Irish Wheelchair Association

Springfield Centre, Devlin Road, Mullingar, Co Westmeath

1

205

Newcastle Community Alert

Newcastle, Clonmel, Co Tipperary

2

210

RESPOND! Housing Association

Airmount, Dominic’s Place, Waterford, Co Waterford

2

216

Killusty Community Alert

Killusty, Fethard, Co Tipperary

5

218

Forthill Aid for Elderly

6 St Michael’s Terrace, Sligo, Co Sligo

37

224

Killanny Community Alert

Stradeen, Carrickmacross, Co Monaghan

20

234

Harbour Area Neighbourhood Watch

26 Kirwan Park, Mountmellick, Co Laois

20

247

St Munchin’s Family Resource Centre

26 Clonconnane Road, Ballynanty, Limerick, Co Limerick

16

248

Crossroads and Killygordon Enterprise Limited

Old Creamery Office, Crossroads, Killygordon, Co Donegal

6

269

Stradbally Concern Group

Stradbally, Co Laois

33

274

St John’s Caring Centre

Hacketstown, Co Carlow

**

275

Geesala Community Alert

Geesala, Ballina, Co Mayo

3

284

Drogheda Senior Citizens Interest Group

Unit 3, Mayoralty Street, Drogheda, Co Louth

60

288

The Thursday Club

c/o Mary Hanley, Corcamore, Clarina, Co Limerick

8

289

Crossabeg Community Alert

Crossabeg, Co Wexford

14

297

Ballybricken Community Alert Group

Rochestown House, Grange, Kilmallock, Co Limerick

3

301

Senior Citizens Concern Limited

St Louis Day Care Centre, Ramsgrange, New Ross, Co Wexford

**

302

Castlemartyr/Mogeely Community Alert

Killeagh Road, Castlemartyr, Co Cork

6

331

Mealagh Valley Community Alert Group

Melagh Valley, Dronclough East, Bantry, Co Cork

2

335

Killoran Community Alert

Killoran, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway

14

337

Faugheen Ahenny Community Alert

Faugheen, Carrick-on-Suir, Co Tipperary

1

347

Portlaw Neighbourhood Watch

Community Hall, Portlaw, Co Waterford

1

352

Killygoan Residence Association

7 Highfield Close, Killygoan, Co Monaghan

6

361

Ballymacerbey Community Alert

Ballymacerbery, Clonmel, Co Waterford

60

366

Monasterboice Forum

Parochial House, Tenure, Dunleer, Co Louth

500

367

Bellacorrick Community Alert

Coolturk, Crossmolina, Co Mayo

6

378

Cabragh/Ballycurrane Community Alert

c/o Ballycurrane, Thurles, Co Tipperary

2

387

Ballysaggart Community Alert

Ballysaggart, Lismore, Co Waterford

10

389

Upperchurch/Drombane & DDA

UpperchurchCommunity Centre, Upperchurch, Thurles, Co Tipperary

8

391

Society of St Vincent de Paul St Joseph’s Housing Conference

29 Bridge St., Cavan, Co Cavan

8

392

Mohill Neighbourhood Watch

Drumboy, Mohill, Co Leitrim

10

397

Avondale Residents

Avondale, Kilrush road, Ennis, Co Clare

1

400

Killucan Golden Years Ltd

Rathwire Hall, Killucan, Co Westmeath

86

401

Binghamstown Community Alert

Binghamstown, Belmullet, Co Mayo

8

409

Actively Retired Social Club (South/East Clare)

Parish Hall, Broadford, Co Clare

40

416

Roscommon Town Active Age

Brookvale Avenue, Roscommon, Co Roscommon

5

422

Kilmurry/Lackaraigh

Killcrest, Ballymicheal, Lissarda, Co Cork

12

427

Friends of Assisi House Day Centre

Airmount, Dominick Place, Waterford, Co Waterford

65

428

Kiltullagh/Killimordal Community Alert

Kiltullagh, Athenry, Co Galway

9

430

Grange Community Alert

Rochestown, Cahir, Co Tipperary

20

431

Barrack St Garda Station

Barrack St., Co Cork

20

438

National Council for the Blind of Ireland (Kildare Branch)

13 Whitethorn Grove, Kill, Co Kildare

40

449

Tullamore Social Services

Tullamore Social Services Ltd., Offaly Street, Tullamore, Co Offaly

70

459

Glenflesk Community Alert

Killaha, Glenflesk, Killarney, Co Kerry

1

461

Friends of Assisi House

10 Williamstown Village, Waterford, Co Waterford

10

463

Kells Active Retirement Group

Edmund Rice Centre, Bective Street, Kells, Co Meath

**

**Details of approx. no. of applicants not provided to Department in certain cases.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

517 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will report on the status of the application submit from Glasnevin North Active Retirement Association for approval under the 2003 CSOP scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6146/04]

My Department has no record of an application by the group mentioned in the Deputy's question under the 2003 scheme of community support for older people. If the Deputy provides an address for this group I will arrange for application forms and further information to be sent as soon as such material is available.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Seán Ardagh

Ceist:

518 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will award rent allowance to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 10. [5908/04]

Subject to certain conditions, the supplementary welfare allowance scheme provides for the payment of a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of rent to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation needs and who do not have accommodation available from any other source.

Rent supplements are subject to a means test and are normally calculated to ensure that a person, after the payment of rent, has an income equal to the rate of supplementary welfare allowance appropriate to his or her family circumstances, less a minimum contribution, currently €13. In addition to the minimum contribution each applicant is required to contribute towards his or her rent any additional assessable means that he or she may have over and above the appropriate rate of basic supplementary welfare allowance.

The South Western Area Health Board was contacted on behalf of the individual in question and has advised that she submit an application form for rent supplement at the local health centre on 6 November 2003. She was asked to provide documentation relating to her financial circumstances so that an assessment of her means could be carried out. To date she has not provided the documentation sought and accordingly the board has advised that, at present, it is not in a position to determine the level, if any, of assistance payable in this particular case.

The board has further advised that if the person in question supplies the outstanding documentation her application will be processed at the earliest opportunity.

Departmental Staff.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

519 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of full-time civil servants within her Department who first entered the service as political advisers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5924/04]

There are no full-time civil servants in the Department who first entered the service as political advisers.

Occupational Injuries Benefit.

Séamus Pattison

Ceist:

520 Mr. Pattison asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the miner’s chest compensation scheme in the UK; if she will consider introducing a similar scheme here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5960/04]

Employment under a contract of service as a miner is insurable for occupational injuries benefit, OIB, under the Social Welfare Acts. Miners who are unable to work due to an incapacity arising from their employment may be entitled to occupational injury benefit for the first 26 weeks of their claim. If their incapacity extends beyond that period they may receive disability benefit subject to meeting the qualifying conditions for that payment.

Miners may be entitled to disablement benefit if they suffer a loss of physical or mental faculty as a result of an accident at work or a disease prescribed in legislation that they contracted at work. Medical assessments are undertaken in all such cases to determine the degree of disablement, which is calculated by comparison of the state of health of the applicant with a person of the same age and gender. The degree of disablement is expressed as a percentage loss of faculty and the compensation payable varies accordingly.

Chronic emphysema and bronchitis and/or asthma, now known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD, which have been contracted in the course of coal mining are not included in the list of occupational injuries prescribed diseases.

The position in the UK is that their equivalent of our OIB may be paid to coal miners who have worked underground for at least 20 years and who are diagnosed as having definite pneumoconiosis with considerable lung function loss. The effect of prescribing COPD was not to confer entitlement to people who did not already qualify for the UK equivalent of OIB but rather, to enable a higher rate of payment to be made to some pneumoconiosis sufferers in certain circumstances.

In Ireland, if COPD is present in cases where miners develop pneumoconiosis as a result of their occupation the disablement award will reflect this.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

521 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will take steps to ensure that the grant which is available to residents in Dublin and other urban areas in respect of smokeless fuel is extended to the rest of the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5962/04]

The smokeless fuel allowance was introduced in October 1990 to assist people with the additional costs arising from the ban on the sale of bituminous coal in certain designated areas.

This ban currently covers designated areas in Arklow, Bray, Celbridge, Cork, Dublin, Drogheda, Dundalk, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick, Leixlip, Naas, Sligo, Tralee, Waterford and Wexford.

The designation of areas is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. I understand there are no immediate plans to extend the ban on the sale of bituminous coal, so the question of extending the smokeless fuel allowance to other areas does not arise at present.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

522 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will make a statement on the changes in unemployment benefit where a worker must have 26 contributions every year to open a claim and the removal of child dependency allowances in cases where the unemployed workers spouse is earning €300 a week, and specifically the impact these decisions will have on workers engaged in seasonal work such as in the fishing industry. [5963/04]

The contribution conditions for unemployment benefit, UB, qualification that a person must have are at least 39 reckonable PRSI weekly contributions paid between the date of entry into insurable employment and the date the claim is made; and at least 39 reckonable contributions paid or credited in the governing contribution year, GCY, or at least 26 reckonable contributions paid in both the GCY and the year immediately preceding the GCY. The GCY is defined as the second last complete contribution year before the benefit year in which the claim is made. There is no requirement to pay 26 contributions every year in order to qualify for UB.

As part of a number of measures announced at the time of the publication of the Estimates for 2004, from 5 April 2004, all new claims will require at least 52 paid contributions since the date of entry into insurable employment to qualify for unemployment benefit.

Furthermore, provisions included in the 2004 Estimates for social welfare spending included the introduction of an upper limit of €300 on weekly earnings by a spouse, for entitlement to child dependant allowance in respect of all unemployment benefit claims.

Child dependant allowance, CDA, is an additional weekly payment made to social welfare recipients, including those on unemployment benefit, in respect of each qualified child dependant. A full CDA rate of €16.80 is payable to recipients of unemployment or disability benefit together with a qualified adult allowance where the spouse's gross weekly earnings do not exceed €210.

The new measure continues to provide for payment of half rate CDA where the gross income of the spouse exceeds €210 but for withdrawal of payment where it exceeds €300 per week. Prior to this, half rate CDA would have continued in payment regardless of the spouse's earnings.

The practice of linking spousal earnings and the withdrawal of increases for dependants has been in place for a number of years in the form of a reduced qualified adult allowance and payment of half rate CDA. This new measure extends the practice by applying, for the first time, an upper income limit for receipt of CDA.

It should be noted that the new measure will only take effect where there is a minimum family income equivalent to €22,600 or more per annum when the social welfare personal rate of €134.80 and earnings are combined. Where there is a non-earning or lower earning spouse, CDA entitlements remain unchanged.

As the measure applied from 19 January, people already receiving half rate CDA on that date with a spouse earning more than €300 are not affected by this measure while they remain in continuous receipt of the existing payment. These measures are not expected to have a disproportionate impact on people in seasonal employment or in the fishing industry. It is estimated that the majority of claimants affected are those with a spouse or partner in full-time employment and earning considerably in excess of the €300 threshold. The measure enables available resources to be directed towards lower income families.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

523 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if rent support will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who is in rented accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5997/04]

Subject to certain conditions, the supplementary welfare allowance scheme provides for the payment of a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of rent to eligible people in the State whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation needs and who do not have accommodation available from any other source. The scheme is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards and neither I nor my Department have any function in deciding entitlement in individual cases.

The South Western Area Health Board was contacted and has advised that it has no record of an application for rent supplement from the person in question. If the person concerned wishes to make an application for rent supplement she should contact the community welfare officer at her local health centre so that an assessment of her circumstances, including a means test, can be carried out to determine whether or not she is entitled to a rent supplement.

Departmental Programmes.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

524 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if there are plans in place to provide a locall number to all sections of her Department. [6001/04]

My Department provides three separate locall telephone contact numbers for the schemes and services available from our offices in Sligo, Longford and Letterkenny. The schemes in question are child and treatment benefits at 1890 400 400, maternity benefit at 1890 690 690 and pensions at 1890 500 000. The independent social welfare appeals office offers a locall service at 1890 74 74 34.

Information material on all social welfare schemes and services, as well as application forms, may be requested via locall 1890 20 23 25 on a 24-hour, seven days a week basis or from the Department's website at www.welfare.ie.

Most customers of my Department can contact their nearest social welfare local office at local rates where their information needs will be met by a designated information officer.

The question of access to other service via locall will be kept under review in the context of developments in service delivery generally and of the implementation of the Government's decentralisation programme.

Decentralisation Programme.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

525 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her Department has carried out a risk assessment of the decentralisation plans announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day, in so far as they may impact either directly or indirectly on her Department, or an agency or body operating under the aegis of her Department; when she expects to receive the risk assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6016/04]

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

527 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of staff within her Department who have to date volunteered for the programme of decentralisation announced by the Minister for Finance on budget day; the grades of the staff concerned; the locations for which they have volunteered; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6046/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 525 and 527 together.

Under the Government decentralisation programme announced recently by my colleague, the Minister for Finance, all sections of my Department currently located in Dublin will move to the following towns:

Town

Posts

Drogheda

300

Buncrana

120

Donegal

230

Carrick-on-Shannon

225

Sligo

100

The Department's information services division will also be relocated, though the location has yet to be determined.

In addition, the Combat Poverty Agency and Comhairle, agencies under the aegis of my Department, will be relocated to Monaghan and Carrickmacross respectively.

A project management structure has been established within my Department to manage the decentralisation programme. The structure will support the two phases of the programme i.e. the development of an overall departmental strategy and the development and implementation of plans for decentralising individual sections.

In developing the programme my Department will identify the risks associated with the decentralisation programme under various headings and will incorporate approaches to address these in the plans. In addition each business area will develop a project plan, part of which will involve a risk assessment and proposals to manage each category of risk.

My Department has carried out a preliminary survey to establish levels of initial staff interest in transferring to decentralised locations. A total of 3,046 responses were received. Preliminary results are as set out in the attached chart at appendix A.

While the survey provides a useful initial indication of staff preferences, it is recognised that the decisions which people will make are likely to change as the implementation of the programme proceeds.

To date, staff surveys have not been carried out in the Combat Poverty Agency or in Comhairle.

Appendix A

Location

Carrick-on-Shannon

149

Drogheda

120

Donegal Town

51

Sligo

24

Buncrana

15

Carrickmacross (Comhairle)

16

Monaghan (Combat Poverty Agency)

4

Another Department, Office or Agency’s Location

586

Grade and interest in locations:

Grade

New DSFA Location

Other Dept/Office

Senior Management

6

3

Assistant Principal

14

12

Higher Executive Officer/Administrative Officer

39

68

Executive Officer

72

104

Staff Officer

29

92

Clerical Officer

218

304

Services Officer

0

3

Medical Assessor

1

0

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

526 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the locations to which any part of her Department has already been decentralised; the years in which each such decentralisation took place; the total number of staff who are now employed by her Department in each such location; the number of such staff who were relocated from within her Department; the number of such staff who were transferred from other Departments; the number of such staff who were directly recruited; the total number of job changes and people changes which were required to achieve the decentralisation; the cost of the decentralisation to each such location; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6031/04]

My Department currently has decentralised offices in Sligo, Letterkenny, Longford, Waterford and Dundalk. Some 319 staff responsible for the delivery of pension services were relocated from Dublin to Sligo in 1989. The number of staff serving in this office has now risen to 552 due to scheme changes and additional workload over the period. Of the original 319 staff involved, 31.6% were relocated from other areas of this department, 32.3% were redeployed from other Departments and 36.1% were recruited directly.

In 1990-91 my Department decentralised its child benefit and treatment benefit office to Letterkenny. At that time a total of 176 staff were relocated. Due to increased claim loads the number of serving staff has risen to 190. Of the original 176 staff, 36.3% were relocated from within the Department, 23.9% were redeployed from other Departments and 39.8% were recruited directly.

In 1993-94 my Department decentralised long-term illness schemes and other miscellaneous services to Longford. At that time a total of 178 staff were relocated. With an increased claim load there are currently 283 staff serving in this office. Of the original 178 staff who initially moved to this location, 52% were relocated from within the Department, 41% were redeployed from other Departments and 7% were recruited directly.

In 1995 my Department decentralised part of its client data services to Waterford. At that time a total of 28 staff were relocated. Of these 68% were relocated from within the Department and 32% were redeployed from other Departments.

In 2002 my Department decentralised its accounts branch to Dundalk. A total of 95 staff was relocated. Of these, 38% were relocated from within the Department, 47% were redeployed from other Departments and 15% were recruited directly.

The number of job and people changes required to achieve decentralisation was significant in respect of each location. At a minimum, the filling of posts required two such changes and in some instances a higher number of changes were required.

The additional costs to the Department arising in the context of decentralisation consists mainly of building fit-out costs, telecommunication equipment and staff related costs including training, overtime and travel and subsistence. The approximate total costs in the case of the locations above were as follows:

Location

Cost

(million)

Sligo

£2.14

Letterkenny

£1.13

Longford

£1.13

Waterford

£0.04

Dundalk

€1.73

Question No. 527 answered with QuestionNo. 525.
Barr
Roinn