Léim ar aghaidh chuig an bpríomhábhar
Gnáthamharc

Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Thursday, 28 Oct 2004

Vol. 591 No. 2

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 7, inclusive, answered orally.

Hospital Accommodation.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

8 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to recent figures provided by the Eastern Regional Health Authority showing that the average number of hospital beds available in the Mater Hospital declined from 530 in 2001 to 455 in the first quarter of 2004, a drop of 15%, and that in the same period the average number of beds closed increased from just six in 2002 to 42 in 2003 and 37 in the first quarter of 2004; the steps that are being taken to address this situation, especially in view of the ongoing problems in the Mater accident and emergency department in which patients are backed up on trolleys awaiting beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26334/04]

Services at the Mater Hospital are provided under an arrangement with the Eastern Regional Health Authority.

My attention has been drawn to the figure of 530 beds in 2001 which was provided recently. This comprised a complement of 482 in-patient beds and 48 day beds. This breakdown was not made clear at the time. My Department is assured by the authority that the bed complement in the Mater Hospital has not been reduced since 2001. The current bed complement at the Mater Hospital is 556 beds, comprising 503 in-patient beds and 53 day beds. However, as the Deputy will be aware, it is a feature of all acute hospital systems that some beds are out of use from time to time.

I am assured that there are no beds closed for financial reasons. The closures here arose for infection control reasons and because of difficulties in recruiting staff.

National Health Strategy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

9 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to develop the primary and secondary care aspect of the health services with a view to meeting the growing needs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26345/04]

The Government and I are committed to developing all levels of our health services in a way that meet the needs of people throughout the country. Our strategy is to put in place health services that are accessible and available to people based on their medical needs.

This will require funding and reform together at every level, be it primary, secondary or tertiary care. We will have clear priorities for funding because resources will always be limited. We have clear priorities for reform also because we seek visible improvements in patients' experience of health care at each level.

The Government's funding and reform priorities recognise the central role that primary care has in delivering a quality health service. For most people, their interaction with their GP and others in the GP surgery is their most frequent point of contact with the health services. The effectiveness and quality of primary care affects all the other aspects of health services and the well-being of people. As many have recognised, our primary health care services represent good value for money and a quality service for people, irrespective of whether they are medical card holders or otherwise.

Government policy is to develop further the range and quality of primary health care services throughout the country. The Government has supported the development of GP co-operatives to provide, among other things, the benefits of reliable out-of-hours services to the public. These have been successful in many parts of the country. Where they are not yet developed, I intend to use all available measures to bring about a situation where the public is adequately served by out-of-hours GP services. This is important in its own right but also as a measure to relieve pressure on accident and emergency departments of hospitals.

The Government published a far-seeing primary health care strategy a number of years ago setting out a broad vision for team-based primary health care covering many disciplines in each GP centre. We are at the early stages of moving towards that vision of primary health care. There is great interest among many GPs in developing this form of primary practice. I welcome the ideas and innovations on how we can achieve the services we seek for members of the public, both medical card holders and fee-paying patients.

In regard to secondary care, the Government's strategy is to develop hospital services in every region that will meet the more complex medical needs of patients both for elective and emergency treatment. We aim to develop acute hospital services on a regional basis that will command public confidence within each region, both in relation to elective and emergency services. The Hanly report on acute hospital services contained many proposals that will undoubtedly improve hospital services in each region of the country and will increase public confidence. For example, the recruitment of more consultants to work in teams at accident and emergency 24 hours a day, seven days a week, will improve the services available to the whole population of each region.

The key to our decisions in delivering more services and opening more beds is to make investment match need in a way that is both effective and efficient.

Different services can be provided in different hospitals. Not every procedure needs to be carried out in the most sophisticated and expensive acute hospital setting. Some highly specialised services can best be provided on a national basis; most on a regional basis.

To ensure the highest standards of clinical excellence and outcomes for patients, and to achieve best value for money, we intend to invest in a differentiated way in hospital services, matching services with the needs of the population in each region and nationally. We will also encourage private providers to innovate and to make available services to the public, which may also be capable of being purchased by the State for public patients. This is an established practice which we can make increased use of in ensuring that quality health care services are available to the whole population.

Infectious Diseases.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

10 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the persistent high rate of outbreaks of the winter vomiting bug in hospitals here. [26196/04]

Pat Breen

Ceist:

15 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on concerns regarding good hygiene practices in acute hospitals; and the agency which will be responsible for monitoring hygiene standards in acute hospitals when the health boards are abolished. [26195/04]

John Deasy

Ceist:

45 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken by her Department to control the high level of infectious diseases (details supplied) in acute and non-acute hospitals. [26194/04]

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

60 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if overcrowding and lack of staff is contributing to the difficulty of controlling infectious diseases in hospitals here, especially the winter vomiting bug and MRSA. [26197/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 10, 15, 45 and 60 together.

Norovirus, more commonly referred to as the winter vomiting bug, is very resilient, highly infectious and can remain infectious for long periods. There has been an upsurge of activity of this virus throughout Europe and north America since 2002. It is important to understand that, since it is a community infection, outbreaks in hospitals are simply a gauge or reflection of what is happening in the community.

The National Disease Surveillance Centre, NDSC, has reported that there were 76 outbreaks of norovirus in 2003 and 64 outbreaks to date in 2004. Outbreaks cannot be eradicated, but they can be controlled. Within hospitals and other health care settings, early identification of an outbreak and a rapid response is the key to its control.

The NDSC was requested by the former Minister for Health and Children to draw up a set of national guidelines on the management of outbreaks of norovirus. These guidelines were developed by a multi-disciplinary working group, the sub-committee of the NDSC Scientific Advisory Committee, representing all professional groups which deal with such outbreaks, and were published in December 2003. These guidelines provide a framework to address the challenge of outbreaks of gastro-enteritis in hospitals and other settings caused by noroviruses.

The guidelines are intended for use and adaptation in all health care settings. Local arrangements can be put in place to match local needs, but the above principles should guide decision making in all circumstances. I have already dealt with issues relating to MRSA in my response to the Priority Question No. 5.

Community Care.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

11 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason none of the 850 community nursing units promised by her predecessor in July 2002 is yet available; when it is expected that these beds will be available; the steps being taken to expedite delivery of the units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26319/04]

The provision of step-down services for people ready to be discharged from hospital is a key element in ensuring health services are matched exactly to patient needs. It is a priority to increase the availability of community nursing and other units that would meet the needs of people who need care that could not be adequately provided at home.

Work has been under way in the Department of Health and Children on a proposal for a public private partnership investment scheme for 850 community nursing units. There have also been discussions between my Department and the Department of Finance in the development of this PPP scheme, as is normal and entirely appropriate with PPP projects.

These are complex schemes and it is important to have a clear view of the benefits that will accrue given the complexity of the PPP contracting structure. The work that has been done so far has helped to clarify a number of issues. I intend to examine this project in detail very soon.

The objective set by my predecessor stands, that is, putting in place a large number of nursing units that will greatly help people make the transition from an acute hospital setting to care matched to their needs.

Health Insurance.

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

12 Mr. Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on risk equalisation and whether it is necessary in the private health insurance industry here. [26199/04]

Olivia Mitchell

Ceist:

16 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Health Insurance Authority has made its final recommendations on risk equalisation; and her views on this issue. [26198/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 12 and 16 together.

By way of introduction to this reply, I would point out that provision for risk equalisation is a necessary support to maintain the established common good principles of community rating, open enrolment and lifetime cover in our voluntary health insurance market, and has been the policy of successive Governments. The need for recourse to risk equalisation in a community rated market is recognised in the EU's third non-life insurance directive.

Under the Health Insurance Acts and the provisions of the risk equalisation scheme 2003, the Health Insurance Authority has a central and independent role to play in relation to whether or not risk equalisation transfers between insurers are warranted. Participating insurers submit data returns to the authority on a six monthly basis, and the authority analyses these returns to assess the level of risk differential between the insurers. The risk equalisation scheme provides that: risk equalisation transfers cannot be commenced where the difference in the risk profiles of the insurers is less than 2% of the market equalisation percentage; risk equalisation transfers can only be commenced with a positive recommendation from the authority where the percentage is between 2% and 10%; and the Minister is obliged to consult with the authority on a decision to commence risk equalisation where the percentage is greater that 10%. The authority's first report, submitted at the end of April 2004, did not recommend the commencement of transfers, the then market equalisation percentage being 3.7%.

The authority's second report in respect of the period January to June 2004 was submitted to my office last night and is being considered. The scheme provides that the authority may, if it thinks fit, release such reports to insurers, subject to the release not being effected earlier than 14 days from the date on which the said report was received by me.

Eating Disorders.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

13 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the support services available for persons suffering from eating disorders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26205/04]

Persons presenting with eating disorders are generally treated through the psychiatric services of their local health board. Outpatient psychiatric services are provided from a network of hospitals, health centres, day hospitals and day centres. Where in-patient treatment is deemed necessary, it is provided in the local acute psychiatric unit or hospital, beds being allocated on the basis of patient need at any particular time.

A tertiary referral service for eating disorders is available to public patients in St. Vincent's Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin where three in-patient beds are designated for this purpose. A similar service is available privately at St. Patrick's Hospital, James's St, Dublin and at St. John of God Hospital, Stillorgan, County Dublin.

The voluntary organisation, Bodywhys, provides advice and support to sufferers of eating disorders, their families and carers. My Department has provided funding of €394,000 to Bodywhys since 2001 to further develop its activities in this area.

An expert group on mental health policy is currently preparing a national policy framework for the further modernisation of the mental health services. The provision of services to people with eating disorders is among the issues being considered by the group. It is expected to report in 2005.

Health Insurance.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

14 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that VHI premiums have increased by almost 100% since 1997; if her attention has further been drawn to the difficulties created for VHI members by the huge rate of increase in rates; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26342/04]

I am aware that VHI premiums have increased by nearly 100% since 1997, if one includes both the increases that took effect from 1 September 1997 and 1 September 2004. While the increase is substantial, it must be looked at in the context of the obligation on VHI to meet claims in the period covered by any increases. Claims incurred increased by almost 90% from year ending February 1997 to year ending February 2004, and are projected to increase significantly in future years.

Under VHI legislation, the VHI Board is responsible for setting premium rates. The legislation obliges the board to fix premiums to provide sufficient revenue to meet claims costs and to make such provision for reserves as it sees fit. It is a matter for the VHI Board, in discharging its responsibilities as regards setting premium levels, to take account of all the key considerations, including the matter of affordability for its members. The increase in premiums must be considered in this context.

Question No. 15 answered with QuestionNo. 10.
Question No. 16 answered with QuestionNo. 12.

Hospital Services.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

17 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the investigation that has been held into the circumstances in which a person (details supplied) had to be sent to a hospital in Northern Ireland, due to a shortage of intensive care beds in the north east and in Dublin; the number of occasions in each of the past five years in which patients had to be sent to Northern Ireland due to the unavailability of intensive care beds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26336/04]

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

96 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement regarding the surgical services in the north east, especially the Cavan-Monaghan group; the operations being carried out; and the reason emergency surgery was not carried out recently on a very sick person. [26225/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 96 together.

Responsibility for the provision of services at the Cavan-Monaghan Hospital Group rests with the North Eastern Health Board. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the various issues raised by the Deputies and to reply to them directly in the matter.

With regard to the specific case referred to by the Deputies, my Department is advised by the board that the patient in question was admitted to Monaghan General Hospital. However, her condition deteriorated and a clinical decision was made to transfer her to another hospital. Several hospitals were contacted, including hospitals in the Dublin region, but due to pressure on intensive care beds they were not in a position to admit the patient. The patient was subsequently admitted to the Erne Hospital, Enniskillen.

Vaccination Programme.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

18 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the level of the take-up of the MMR vaccine in each health board area for the latest period for which figures are available; the steps being taken to promote fuller take-up, especially in view of reports of a significant increase in the number of cases of measles in some areas of the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26313/04]

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

28 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the increased incidence of measles being reported in the eastern region. [26218/04]

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

46 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps her Department is taking to reduce the incidence of measles, in view of the fact that over 70% of measles cases identified have involved unvaccinated patients. [26220/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 18, 28 and 46 together.

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella and, in accordance with the recommendations of the Immunisation Advisory Committee of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, can be administered to children between 12 and 15 months of age. A vaccine uptake rate of 95% is required to protect children from the diseases concerned and to stop the spread of the diseases in the community. Measles, in particular, is a highly infectious and serious disease; approximately one in 15 children who contract measles suffer serious complications.

In Ireland, uptake of the first dose of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, MMR1, is calculated on a quarterly basis among children of 24 months of age. In quarter 2, 2004, the national uptake rate for this vaccine was 81%. This represents an increase of 1% in the national uptake rate when compared with the previous quarter and an increase of 4% in comparison with the same quarter in 2003. In addition, uptake rates reported by individual health boards ranged from 76% to 91% — Table 1 refers.

Table 1: MMR1 Uptake rates by health board in Quarter 2 2004*

Uptake at 24 months — Q2 2004

%

ERHA

76

MHB

91

MWHB

84

NEHB

84

NWHB

87

SEHB

86

SHB

82

WHB

76

IRELAND

81

*The most recent period for which uptake figures are available from the NDSC

The national uptake rate of MMR1 has increased from 69% in Q4 2001 to 81% in Q2 2004. This trend has been reflected in each of the health boards, with all health boards having reported an increase in the uptake rate for MMR1 over that period. Although MMR1 uptake rates have been improving over the past year and a half, they are still 14% lower than the national target rate of 95%.

I am concerned about the unsatisfactory MMR immunisation uptake rates because of the risk of unimmunised children contracting the potentially serious diseases concerned. The outbreak of measles in 2000, which resulted in approximately 2,000 cases and three deaths, is evidence of the consequences of insufficient immunisation uptake. However, I am encouraged by the fact that the immunisation uptake rates are steadily improving. Meanwhile, data provided by the NDSC indicate that from week one to week 40, inclusive, of 2004, that is, up to 9 October 2004, 296 cases of measles were notified, which compares with 541 cases notified for the comparative period in 2003; this represents a significant reduction in the number of measles cases reported to date this year.

A National Immunisation Steering Committee was established to address a wide range of issues relating to the childhood and other immunisation programmes including the identification of issues that are hampering the achievement of uptake targets. The report of the steering committee was launched in April 2002 and a National Implementation Group was subsequently established to draw up a phased national implementation plan based on the report's recommendations.

Following consideration of proposals in relation to childhood immunisation, which were submitted by the National Implementation Group through the Health Boards Executive, HeBE, on behalf of the health boards, €2.116 million was allocated by my Department in 2003 to fund initiatives to improve childhood immunisation uptake. A further €2.778 million has been allocated for that purpose this year. Funding in the region of €800,000 has been allocated to health boards, via the HeBE, specifically for regional and localised projects which will focus on measures to improve immunisation uptake.

There is concern among some parents in relation to the measles, mumps and rubella, MMR, vaccine. Negative coverage on this issue has added to the confusion of parents in deciding whether or not to vaccinate their children. In April 2002, the MMR vaccine discussion pack, an information guide for health professionals and parents, was launched. The pack was produced by the NDSC and the Department of Public Health, Southern Health Board, and was published by the HeBE on behalf of the health boards. The pack sets out the facts in relation to the most common concerns about MMR in a way that will help health professionals and parents to explore these concerns together, review the evidence in relation to MMR and provide the basis for making an informed decision. The information is presented in such a way as to allow full discussion between health professionals and parents on each issue. The pack also contains an information leaflet for parents. The pack is set out in Q&A format and addresses such issues as the alleged link between MMR and autism and Crohn's disease, the safety and side effects of the vaccine, the purpose of a second dose of vaccine, combined vaccine versus single doses and contraindications to the vaccine. The pack enables health professionals to respond to the very real concerns of parents.

In 2003, CEOs in all health boards and the ERHA were asked to ensure that specific immunisation measures were prioritised in all regions in order to prevent a serious measles outbreak. Health boards have undertaken a range of measures in their regions to improve vaccine uptake in their region. These include: information sessions for professionals, for example, doctors and nurses in the area; information sessions for parents; distribution of information to the public, for example, leaflets on MMR available in public areas; advertisements taken out in local papers; advertisements on local radio stations; advice regarding immunisation, including MMR, forms part of every public health nurse consultation with parents; information leaflets displayed prominently in all health centres; information given to schools regarding the booster MMR; follow up of parents by letter and telephone where children have not been vaccinated; follow up with GPs and nurses regarding children in their area who have not been vaccinated; and information sessions for staff.

Furthermore, my Department has convened a measles eradication committee to develop a national five year action plan for the elimination of measles and rubella in line with the WHO strategic plan for 2010. This committee had its first meeting on 30 September 2004 and is due to report to me by the end of June 2005.

I again urge all parents to have their children immunised against the diseases covered by the childhood immunisation programme in order to ensure that both their children and the population generally have maximum protection against the diseases concerned.

Medical Cards.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

19 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to new figures showing that there are now 101,279 fewer persons holding medical cards than in 1997; if her attention has further been drawn to the severe difficulties placed on persons and families on low incomes who do not qualify for medical cards in meeting doctors’ and medical bills; when the Government intends to honour its commitment to reduce eligibility limits in order to provide medical card cover for another 200,000 persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26338/04]

Generally, the reduction in recent years in the number of medical cards may be attributed to the increase in the number of people in employment and also the improved economic situation nationally. Another factor which affects this area is the review by health boards of medical card databases. Since 2003 this has led to over 100,000 inappropriate database entries being removed from these databases. Reasons for deletions included duplicate entries, change of address, cases where the medical card holder is deceased, ineligibility due to changed circumstances and normal reviews.

The determination of eligibility of applications for medical card is a matter by legislation for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. In determining eligibility, the local health board will have regard to financial circumstances and medical needs of the applicant. A medical card will be issued to a person, for whom, in the opinion of the chief executive officer, the provision of medical services for him-herself and-or their dependants would cause undue financial hardship.

Non-medical card holders, and people with conditions not covered under the long term illness scheme, can use the drugs payment scheme. Under this scheme, no individual or family unit pays more than €78 per calendar month towards the cost of approved prescribed medicines.

The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage as set out in the programme for Government. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.

Obesity Levels.

Eamon Ryan

Ceist:

20 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether an interdepartmental approach is necessary to deal with the problem of obesity; the steps she has taken to ensure an interdepartmental approach; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26351/04]

To halt and then reverse the rise in obesity levels, programmes and initiatives need to operate in an environment that will influence, encourage and sustain a healthy lifestyle regime. This will require the direct involvement of a range of Departments and agencies.

The National Taskforce on Obesity, established on 10 March 2004, has carried out a comprehensive consultation process in which a number of Departments were identified as key stakeholders and invited to make submissions. All submissions received from this consultation process will inform the recommendations being made by the task force, which is due to present its recommendations to me by December 2004.

Health Board Services.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

21 Mr. Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if any health boards purchased quads during the period from 1997 to 2003, if so, the number and cost of same; the purpose for which they are used; the locations at which they are stored; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26286/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is not routinely collected by my Department. Therefore, my Department has requested the chief executive officer of each health board-authority to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested.

Hospital Services.

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

22 Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the fact that the neurosurgery unit at Cork University Hospital does not have the required number of consultants for training recognition and may be forced to reduce services or go off call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26189/04]

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

47 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken to reduce the waiting list for neurosurgery; the number waiting on this list; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26204/04]

Gerard Murphy

Ceist:

74 Mr. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on recent comments that neurosurgery services in Dublin have not seen an increase in staffing of consultants in a quarter of a century; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26188/04]

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

81 Mr. Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of neurosurgical operations carried out under the national treatment purchase fund; the locations at which these operations were carried out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26190/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 22, 47, 74 and 81 together.

In February 2002, Comhairle na nOspidéal was asked to carry out a review of neurosurgical services, focusing in particular on the provision of adequate capacity and equity of access to neurosurgical services, having regard to best practice in the provision of quality health care. Comhairle established a committee to review neurosurgical services, and I understand the committee's work is at an advanced stage.

The development of neurosurgical services, including the appointment of additional consultants, will be progressed having regard to the recommendations contained in the Comhairle report when it has been completed, and in the event of additional development funding becoming available.

To date, the number of neurosurgical operations carried out under the national treatment purchase fund, NTPF, is 258, and a further 25 operations are in the process of being arranged.

The locations where these operations were carried out are the Blackrock Clinic, the Hampshire Clinic London, BUPA Hospital, Manchester and North West Independent Hospital, Derry. Cork University Hospital and Beaumont Hospital have undertaken a small number of operations which were not suitable for referral to the private sector.

The NTPF has reported that there are no patients waiting more than three months at Cork University Hospital, and there are 257 patients waiting longer than three months at Beaumont Hospital for neurosurgical operations.

Clinical Indemnity Scheme.

Joe Sherlock

Ceist:

23 Mr. Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress which has been made by the working group on the development of a no-fault compensation system for birth-damaged children; when she expects the group to report; if she will seek to expedite the introduction of proposals in this area, having regard to the recent awards in the High Court and the increasing difficulties facing practitioners and especially obstetricians in finding insurance cover; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26317/04]

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

29 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has proposals for a no-fault compensation scheme for children brain damaged as a result of an obstetrical accident. [26193/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 23 and 29 together.

The advisory group examining the desirability of introducing a "no fault" compensation scheme for infants who suffered cerebral damage at, or close to, the time of birth made substantial progress in its work programme up to the end of 2003. It had completed the bulk of its research, including an examination of no-fault schemes in other jurisdictions. It also had the benefit of presentations by legal and medical experts from Ireland and abroad. Representatives of parents of children with cerebral palsy had also made a presentation to the group. The drafting of some chapters of the group's report had been allocated to a number of subgroups of the main group. The decision to include claims against consultants in the clinical indemnity scheme from 1 February 2004 has delayed the completion of the group's report. Consultants have withdrawn from ministerial committees and working groups. Therefore, it has not been possible to complete the group's report. I hope that when the difficulties surrounding the clinical indemnity scheme are resolved this group will be able to resume its deliberations immediately and complete its task as soon as possible.

While I would like to see the group produce a report quickly, I do not believe that this has any adverse impact on the affordability of indemnity cover for consultants. Consultants now have all of their practice in public hospitals, including their private practice, covered by the clinical indemnity scheme. In addition, the Government has put special arrangements in place to ensure that indemnity cover for consultants in full time private practice and for any private practice undertaken by public consultants which is not covered by the clinical indemnity scheme remains affordable. Consultant obstetricians are required to only purchase indemnity for the first €500,000 of any claim against them. There is also a protection against the cost of serial claims against any consultant in any one year. As a result, a consultant in full time private practices is paying €100,000 per annum rather the full economic cost of €350,000 for indemnity cover. This is a clear demonstration of the Government's commitment to dealing with this issue.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

24 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding her discussions with the Irish Hospital Consultants Association regarding the proposed new system of medical insurance; if the commitment she gave to the recent IHCA conference in Kilkenny that no hospital consultant would be left without cover and no patient without redress still holds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26318/04]

Discussions are continuing with the Irish Hospital Consultants Association and the Irish Medical Organisation on aspects of the coverage of claims against consultants by the clinical indemnity scheme. The major concern of both organisations is that there should be no doubt as to the position of consultants facing personal injury claims arising from events which occurred prior to the inception of the scheme. The Government's position on this matter has always been clear. The clinical indemnity scheme should not have to cover claims where insurance companies or mutual indemnity bodies had accepted premiums or subscriptions to cover these claims. This position is accepted by all of the insurers and indemnity bodies with the exception of the Medical Defence Union. The MDU has written to several of its former consultant obstetrician members in Ireland threatening to leave them without assistance in dealing with personal injury claims against them. The MDU has a moral and ethical obligation to provide assistance to these members. I also believe these decisions may be in breach of the MDU's memorandum and articles of association. Against that background, the first source of indemnity should be the body which accepted payment to cover these claims. That body should be subjected to the maximum pressure, including legal pressure, to ensure that it lives up to its obligations. In the event that it continues to refuse assistance in these cases, the plaintiffs and doctors involved cannot be left in an uncertain position while the MDU is pursued to honour its obligations.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

25 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the next hospital waiting list figures will be published; if there is preliminary information available to her Department on the figures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26335/04]

Responsibility for the collection and reporting of waiting lists and waiting times now falls within the remit of the national treatment purchase fund, NTPF. My Department understands that the NTPF is collating data for the position as at 30 June 2004. It is expected that the NTPF will report on this data as soon as it has completed its analysis.

Health Care Funding.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

26 Mr. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if planned funding for primary care and mental health facilities are to be deferred for up to three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26332/04]

John Bruton

Ceist:

102 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department has reached an agreement with the Department of Finance to spend nearly €2.5 billion on capital programmes over five years to 2008; the breakdown of this funding between the acute and non-acute sectors with a timescale for release of funds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26202/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 26 and 102 together.

My Department, and the Department of Finance, earlier this year agreed in principle the Capital Investment Framework, CIF, 2004-8, in terms of progressing the health capital programme for this year and in relation to the overall funding levels proposed. The framework will complement and indeed enhance the significant capital developments envisaged for the health sector under the National Development Plan 2000-2006. Total health capital expenditure by my Department under the NDP in the period 2000-3 was in the region of €1.7 billion.

The new Health Capital Investment Framework 2004-8 proposes a total funding envelope in the region of €2.7 billion, including provision for a new PPP initiative in relation to infrastructure for services for older persons. This unprecedented level of funding for the health capital programme reaffirms the Government's commitment to providing quality infrastructure to support all health care programmes to the benefit of both client and staff alike. The CIF is intended to enable my Department, and health agencies, to plan and manage more effectively the health capital programme in line with identified service priorities. While the planned funding over the period in question remains subject to the annual Estimates process and a sustainable overall budgetary position, the proposed annual breakdown is as follows:

Year

Total (€m)

2004

509

2005

500

2006

555

2007

575

2008

595

TOTAL

2.734 billion

It has been my Department's policy under the NDP 2000-6 that greater balance should be achieved in relation to capital investment between the acute and non-acute hospital sectors over the lifetime of the plan. This policy will continue under the CIF.

In devising the details of the CIF, various factors had to be taken into consideration. Obviously, account had to be taken of existing contractual commitments, or those scheduled in the near future, to complete projects now under way. This factor applies to both acute and non-acute projects. The question of possible non-capital implications arising from progressing capital projects to various stages is also a significant issue. Also, as is normally the case in any major capital programme, the level of contractual commitments will be greater for the earlier years of a multi-annual plan than for the latter period to 2008. The CIF caters for the continuance of all projects or other capital expenditure planned by my Department.

Many non-acute projects, including mental health and primary care facilities are being progressed through the procurement process. A number of major acute hospital projects are also being progressed and require significant contractual funding commitments for the next few years. It is in this context, allied to the multi-annual nature of funding, that a greater number of non-acute projects was scheduled for the latter period of the framework. This is particularly the case, bearing in mind all the circumstances and complex factors governing the planning and delivery of the health CIF, including the timescales involved in delivering the larger projects in the non-acute sector. In the circumstances, it is not correct to say that funding for the non-acute sector, including the primary care or mental health areas, has been deferred for three years. Various levels of funding for all health care programmes will be progressed under the framework and in line with overall funding resources available.

General Practitioner Co-operatives.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

27 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children his proposals to provide sufficient funding to allow the Caredoc Co-operative Service to commence in County Waterford in 2004; if the €1 million needed in 2005 (details supplied) will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [21265/04]

Between 2000 and 2003, €7.124 million was allocated to the South Eastern Health Board for the expansion of its out of hours co-operative, Caredoc. In 2004, €3.492 million has been included in the health board's base allocation for the continued provision of services under this heading. The dedicated funding is exclusive of the fees paid to participating general practitioners.

Decisions in relation to the geographical areas to be covered by co-operatives and the order in which developments occur are matters for the relevant health board which must have regard to the range of financial and other issues involved in any such developments. Further expansion will be considered in the context of service requirements, health board proposals and funding availability.

Question No. 28 answered with QuestionNo. 18.
Question No. 29 answered with QuestionNo. 23.

Hospital Services.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

30 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps being taken to address the serious shortage of intensive care nurses at Crumlin children’s hospital that has led to the recent cancellation of cardiac surgery on two patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26308/04]

My Department is advised that the planned cardiac surgery of two patients at Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin recently was deferred due to the lack of available staffed ICU beds. The beds due to be occupied by the patients in question were, instead, used to accommodate two emergency cardiac surgery cases that had to be carried out that day.

The hospital seeks to prioritise elective cardiac surgery and minimise the number of deferrals. However, priority is always given to emergency cases which are, by their nature, unpredictable, and unfortunately this may necessitate the deferral of less urgent cases. This situation is not unique to Our Lady's Hospital and can occur across the hospital system where emergency cases require admission.

The approved funded complement of nurses for the ICU at Our Lady's Hospital is 124. Currently, the ICU has a staff of 107 nurses. Because of the nursing shortage, the ICU is currently staffed for between 14 and 17 beds, depending on the case mix between intensive care and high dependency patients.

There is a continuing difficulty worldwide in recruiting ICU nurses, particularly those trained in paediatric intensive care. With the co-operation of the Eastern Regional Health Authority and my Department, Our Lady's Hospital has made significant efforts to attract and recruit nursing staff into the ICU, including: an extensive advertising campaign which has been undertaken in Ireland and abroad. The hospital has carried out recruitment campaigns in the Middle East, Asia, the United Kingdom and Poland in an effort to recruit nurses; the hospital is working with four nursing agencies who continually work to recruit nurses on the hospital's behalf; and post-registration paediatric nursing students are specifically targeted for recruitment to ICU.

In relation to the retention of nurses in the ICU, Our Lady's Hospital has a number of policies designed to attract and retain specialist nursing staff, including family-friendly work policies and extensive education and support structures.

While initiatives to recruit specialist ICU nurses have met with some success, and the hospital has made significant efforts to attract staff from Ireland and from abroad, it is regrettable that the target complements for these areas have not yet been achieved. However, I am advised that the hospital is confident that additional nurses will be recruited to the intensive care unit in the near future.

The Report of the Paediatric Review of Nurse Education Group identified that there should be various educational options available for those wishing to register as a sick children's nurse. In recent months, my predecessor announced the establishment of an expert group to develop a comprehensive strategy for the future of midwifery and paediatric nurse education. This group has commenced its work, and will be reporting to me at the end of this year.

Clearly, all possible measures need to be taken to reduce the possibility of the deferral of elective surgery at Our Lady's Hospital. However, given the unpredictable nature of emergency cases, the hospital cannot guarantee that elective cases will not, on occasion, require to be deferred.

Death Inquiry.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

31 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she expects to receive the report of the independent review into the circumstances of the death of a person (details supplied); the reason for the long delay in finalising this report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26307/04]

On 23 July 2003, my predecessor, Deputy Micheál Martin, announced that he had convened a review panel to conduct an independent review of the events surrounding the tragic death of the person concerned. The members of the panel are: Mr. David Hanly, Chairman; Ms Kay O'Sullivan, Director of Nursing at Cork University Hospital, and Dr. Shakeel A. Qureshi, Paediatric Cardiologist at Guy's and St. Thomas's Hospital, London.

The terms of reference of the panel are to consider the report of the ERHA in relation to the events of 30 June 2003 at Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Dublin and to make such further inquiries and conduct such interviews as the panel considers necessary; to address the questions raised by the family; to examine protocols and procedures relevant to this incident having regard to prevailing standards of best practice, and to examine their application in this case; and to report to the Minister and to make such recommendations as it sees fit. Following the review, both reports will be made available. My Department understands that the work of the review panel is at an advanced stage.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

32 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the proposed timetable for the extension of the BreastCheck scheme to the entire country; when she expects that the service will be available throughout the entire country; the reason women over 64 are ineligible to participate in the BreastCheck programme, especially in view of the fact that half of breast cancers occur in women over 65; if she intends to raise this limit to include all women at risk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26343/04]

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

33 Mr. Allen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will extend the age limit of women who are called for screening under the BreastCheck programme to 70 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26206/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 33 together.

The roll-out of the national breast screening programme to the remaining counties is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 age group throughout the country have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where required. A capital investment of approximately €20 million has been approved to construct and equip two static clinical units, one in the south and the other in the west. This investment will also ensure that mobile units are available to screen women in the relevant age group throughout the country. BreastCheck and my Department are fully committed to an expeditious approach to the national roll-out of the programme and representatives have met recently to progress the design process. Following the roll-out and when the programme is sufficiently developed and it is assured that a quality service is being delivered at national level, consideration will be given to extending the upper age limit to 69 years.

Any woman irrespective of her age or residence who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her region.

EU Directives.

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

34 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the application of the European working time directive to non-consultant hospital doctors; if the directive is now being implemented in all hospitals; the impact on staffing rosters in hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26337/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, the provisions of the European working time directive as it relates to the working hours of doctors in training came into force on 1 August 2004. The relevant provisions were transposed into Irish law by way of the European Communities (Organisation of Working Time) (Activities of Doctors in Training) Regulations 2004.

The ability of the management of the health services to effectively implement the European working time directive, EWTD, for the benefit of all NCHDs, is dependent on the full co-operation of the Irish Medical Organisation, IMO, at both national and local level. This process has been delayed for some time in the absence of agreement by the IMO to the establishment of a national implementation group and local implementation groups in each hospital. These groups would be representative of all relevant stakeholders in this process and are crucial to the achievement of progress on this issue.

Discussions involving the HSEA and the IMO under the aegis of the Labour Relations Commission, LRC, have been taking place for some time. While some progress has been made, much remains to be resolved. The LRC has requested that both parties refrain from engaging in any form of unilateral action for the duration of the negotiation process. As a result, as of 1 August, health employers have not acted unilaterally in order to achieve compliance with the EWTD. In many sites around the country, the introduction of new rosters would facilitate significant progress towards EWTD compliance while maintaining safe patient care and existing levels of service provision. However, health employers, in response to the request of the LRC, are awaiting agreement between management and the IMO at national level before proceeding.

In this regard, both sides have accepted a proposal from the LRC for the selection of eight pilot hospital sites to examine local implementation issues, and to develop plans for the full implementation of the directive. Preparations are well advanced for the establishment of the groups and two regional workshops, supported by both management and the IMO, are taking place this week to assist, advise and guide the work of the pilot groups. Further intensive negotiations under the auspices of the LRC are scheduled to take place on 2 November. I am hopeful that early progress can be made in resolving outstanding issues, so that full implementation of the directive's requirements can proceed without further delay.

Hospital Staff.

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

35 Ms Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the expected timeframe for the roll-out of proposals for the appointment of an additional six neurologists to the Cork University Hospital as recommended in the Report of the Review of Neurology and Neurophysiology Services in April 2003; her views on whether the current situation of two neurology consultant posts in the Cork University Hospital and one in the Mercy Hospital in Cork serving a population of over 1.1 million persons is unsatisfactory; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26241/04]

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

94 Ms Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the requisite funding will be made available to support the appointment of an additional consultant neurologist and clinical and non-clinical support staff to the Cork University Hospital as requested by the Southern Health Board; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26240/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 94 together.

The provision of hospital services, including the appointment of staff, at Cork University Hospital, in the first instance, a matter for the Southern Health Board. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the Southern Health Board to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested.

The Deputy will be aware that the Comhairle na nOspidéal report on neurology and neurophysiology services recommended significant enhancement of neurology and neurophysiology services, including increases in consultant manpower. The Comhairle report also recognises that there are aspects of a number of other specialties and services, such as rehabilitation medicine, geriatric medicine and old age psychiatry, which are related to and overlap with neurology services. Comhairle has recommended that a national multi-disciplinary review of rehabilitation services be undertaken to further inform the policy framework in relation to the development of neurology services.

Consistent with this recommendation, and in line with commitments in the national health strategy, a national action plan for rehabilitation services is currently being prepared by my Department. The action plan will set out a programme to meet existing shortfalls in services and to integrate specialised facilities with locally based follow-up services. The rehabilitation action plan, together with the Comhairle report and the work undertaken by the Neurological Alliance of Ireland through its own publications, will, in my view, offer a comprehensive policy framework for the future development of neurology and neurophysiology services in this country.

My Department will continue to work closely with the alliance and with the Irish Consultant Neurologists' Association in relation to the future development of services. The implementation of the Comhairle recommendations will be progressed having regard to the evolving policy framework in this area, competing funding priorities and the report of the National Task Force on Medical Staffing.

The appointment of the additional neurologists as recommended in the Comhairle report will have to be considered in the context of the resources available in 2005 and subsequent years.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Pádraic McCormack

Ceist:

36 Mr. McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the average length of time taken to process cervical smears in the cervical screening programme in the midwest; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26233/04]

My Department is advised by the Irish cervical screening programme office that the average time for cervical screening test results in the Mid-Western Health Board region is currently six weeks.

The number of smear tests carried out nationally is approximately 230,000 annually and represents an increase of almost 20% in recent years. In order to meet this increased demand, additional cumulative funding of €11 million has been provided by my Department since 2002 to enhance the laboratory and colposcopy services. This funding has enabled the laboratories to employ additional personnel, purchase new equipment and introduce new technology and thereby increase the volume of activity. In addition, a number of hospitals have undertaken initiatives such as contracting out of smear test analysis to external laboratories. These initiatives have resulted in a considerable reduction in waiting times in laboratories throughout the country.

Pharmacy Regulations.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

37 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding her consideration of the report of the pharmacy review group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26310/04]

The Pharmacy Review Group was established in November 2001 to examine the pharmacy issues raised in the OECD report on regulatory reform in Ireland. I expect to take definitive decisions on the report shortly. The report is available on my Department's website, www.doh.ie, along with reports prepared for the group by Indecon International Economic Consultants.

Alcohol Abuse.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

38 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the recent report of the strategic task force on alcohol; if it is intended to implement the recommendations of the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26340/04]

The report which the Deputy refers to is the 2nd Report of the Strategic Task Force on Alcohol. I welcome the report which contains a wide range of evidenced based recommendations which aim to tackle alcohol related harm in this country. It is my intention to bring the report to Government in the near future.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

39 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps she intends to take to ensure that the 330 persons with intellectual disabilities who are being treated in psychiatric hospitals are relocated to appropriate accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26323/04]

The majority of the 330 persons with an intellectual disability or autism who are accommodated in psychiatric hospitals are in St. Joseph's Services, St. Ita's Hospital, Portrane. One of the key capital priorities for my Department is to progress as quickly as possible the development of purpose built residential and day facilities for around 60 persons on St. Ita's campus.

My Department will continue to work with the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the other relevant health boards to progress the programme to provide more appropriate accommodation and to maximise the outcome from the capital resources available to my Department and from other sources. This will be undertaken in the context of the multi-annual revenue and capital investment programme for disability specific support services recently announced as part of the national disability strategy.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

40 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she intends to extend the long overdue cervical screening programme from the health board area in which it exists; if so, when this national extension will happen; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26238/04]

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

58 Mr. Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will expand the cervical screening programme to the west. [26232/04]

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

70 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the action she is taking to address the prevalence, detection and treatment of cervical cancer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26243/04]

Damien English

Ceist:

90 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she will expand the cervical screening project nationwide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26226/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 40, 58, 70 and 90 together.

The number of smear tests carried out nationally is approximately 230,000 annually and represents and increase of almost 20% in recent years. In order to meet this increased demand, additional cumulative funding of €11 million has been provided by my Department since 2002 to enhance the laboratory and colposcopy services. This funding has enabled the laboratories to employ additional personnel, purchase new equipment and introduce new technology and thereby increase the volume of activity. In addition, a number of hospitals have undertaken initiatives such as contracting out of smear test analysis to external laboratories. These initiatives have resulted in a considerable reduction in waiting times in laboratories throughout the country.

A pilot cervical screening programme commenced in October 2000 and is available to eligible women resident in Limerick, Clare and Tipperary North. Under the programme, cervical screening is being offered, free of charge, to approximately 74,000 women in the 25 to 60 age group, at five year intervals.

The Health Board Executive, HeBE, commissioned an international expert in cervical screening to examine the feasibility and implications of a national roll out of a cervical screening programme. The examination included an evaluation of the pilot programme, quality assurance, laboratory capacity and organisation and the establishment of national governance arrangements. The expert's report was submitted to my Department on 12 October 2004 for consideration. My Department is now consulting with relevant professional representative and advocacy groups on the report as an essential input into its preparation of a detailed response to the recommendations.

Any woman who is concerned about cervical cancer should contact her general practitioner. Appropriate treatment for women diagnosed with cervical cancer is available at major hospitals throughout the country.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

41 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason she has not granted permission to the Southern Health Board to proceed to invite tenders for the provision of the new community hospital in Dingle, County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26234/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Kerry area is a matter for the Southern Health Board, in the first instance. The board in consultation with my Department decided to build a new 72 bed community hospital in Dingle, County Kerry to replace the existing hospital. This new hospital will comprise a mix of beds for continuing care, rehabilitation-convalescent, respite, palliative care beds and beds which will be used for direct admissions by the local GP-primary care team. In addition, there will be a central module, a day care unit, a mental health day care unit and an ambulance base.

The next step in the progressing of the Dingle project to construction is to invite tenders for the construction of the project. Any decision in relation to progressing this project will be considered by my Department in the context of the significant additional revenue funding and staff which will be required by the board to operate the new hospital and having regard to the board's employment ceiling and funding available to my Department.

Joe Sherlock

Ceist:

42 Mr. Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she intends to publish the report commissioned from a company (details supplied) on the GMS, in view of the fact that it is over a year since a draft was submitted; if the report has been brought to Government; if it is intended to implement the recommendations of the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26316/04]

The Deloitte & Touche consultancy review of governance and accountability mechanisms in the GMS schemes was received by my Department in February 2003. While the review was being considered by officials in my Department, the Commission on Financial Management and Control Systems in the Health Service, Brennan, and the Audit of Structures and Functions in the Health System, Prospectus, reports were published. Since the contents and recommendations of both of these reports are relevant to the subject matter of the GMS review, my Department requested Deloitte & Touche to update the draft in this light, and also having regard to the latest financial data from the General Medical Services (Payments) Board. It is still my intention to bring this review to Government, after which its publication and implementation will be discussed.

Hospital Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

43 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the action she proposes to take to address the serious deficiency in acute hospital bed numbers, with particular reference to the concern and anxiety of patients and their families who are unable to access services when most needed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26344/04]

Liz McManus

Ceist:

69 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an additional 3,000 hospital beds will be provided in regard to the commitment given in the national health strategy; the number provided to date; the hospitals in each case; the number that have been provided to date; the projected number that will be provided before the end of 2004; the number of beds lost since 1997; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26330/04]

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Ceist:

93 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date in introducing extra beds as promised in the health strategy; her views on whether the introduction of beds needs to be speeded up; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26347/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 43, 69 and 93 together.

This Government is committed to increasing acute hospital bed capacity as indicated in the health strategy. Since 2002, funding has been provided to hospitals to open an additional 900 beds. A total of 600 of these beds are already open and the rest will come on stream in 2004-2005. The table below shows details of the current position in relation to additional beds for which funding has been provided.

Hospital

Additional beds in place

Beds due to open

Beaumont/St. Joseph’s, Raheny

77

28

St. James’s

74

66

St. Vincent’s, incorporating St. Michael’s, Dun Laoghaire

42

Naas General

61

30

James Connolly Memorial

21

Tallaght

7

Temple Street

15

Midland Regional Hospital, Tullamore

6

Midland Regional Hospital, Mullingar

12

Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise

5

Mid West Regional Hospital, Limerick

55

Croom Orthopaedic

17

Nenagh General

6

Louth General

14

Monaghan General

10

Our Lady’s Navan

14

Letterkenny General

8

Sligo General

30

Kilcreene Orthopaedic

28

St. Luke’s Kilkenny

14

Waterford Regional

24

Wexford General

10

Bantry General

8

Mercy University Hospital

13

South Infirmary / Victoria, Cork

35

Kerry General, Tralee

16

Mayo General

23

37

Roscommon General Hospital

9

UCHG

36

44

Portiuncula

3

2

Total

600

300

Overall Total

900

The average number of in-patient and day beds available in publicly funded hospitals in June 1997 as reported to the Department of Health and Children by health boards and voluntary hospitals was 12,604. The total number of available beds in July 2004, the latest date for which complete figures are available was 13,390.

Suicide Incidence.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

44 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the plans her Department has formulated to introduce the recommendations of the national taskforce on suicide. [26281/04]

Following the publication of the report of the National Task Force on Suicide in 1998, there has been a positive and committed response from both the statutory and voluntary sectors towards finding ways of tackling the tragic problem of suicide. In response to the recommendations of the task force, the National Suicide Review Group was established by the health boards and membership of the group includes experts in the areas of mental health, public health and research. Health boards, in particular, have a major role to play in co-ordinating efforts to help reduce the level of suicide and parasuicide in this country. In this regard, resource officers have been appointed in all the health boards with specific responsibility for implementing the task force's recommendations.

My Department has given special attention over the past number of years to the resourcing of suicide prevention initiatives. Since the publication of the task force report in 1998, a cumulative total of more than €17.5 million has been provided since towards suicide prevention programmes and for research. This year more than €4.5 million is available to the various agencies working towards reducing the level of suicide and attempted suicide in this country. This includes the health boards, the National Suicide Review Group, the Irish Association of Suicidology and the National Suicide Research Foundation.

The recently published annual report of the National Suicide Review Group, NSRG, meets the requirement of The Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2001, that the Minister for Health and Children will report annually on the measures taken by health boards to prevent suicides in the previous year. This report, which was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on 29 September, outlines the measures taken by the health boards and other agencies in 2003 to help prevent suicide and reduce the impact of suicidal behaviour. The aim of the report is to facilitate the sharing of information across the health boards and other sectors regarding suicide prevention projects and to provide accurate and current information on the patterns of death by suicide in Ireland.

I share the public concern about the level of suicides in this country and I am fully committed to the intensification of suicide prevention measures and research programmes and in this regard, work is now well under way on the preparation of a strategic action plan for suicide reduction. This strategy, involving the Health Boards Executive, HeBE, in partnership with the National Suicide Review Group and supported by the Department of Health and Children will build on existing policy and on the recommendations contained in the report of the national task force on suicide. All measures aimed at reducing the number of deaths by suicide will be considered in the preparation of this strategy.

Question No. 45 answered with QuestionNo. 10.
Question No. 46 answered with QuestionNo. 18.
Question No. 47 answered with QuestionNo. 22.

Health Board Services.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

48 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has proposals for investigating ways to allow medical card holders to have free digital hearing aids as opposed to the older analogue models with digital features. [23366/04]

The Northern Area Health Board of the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, is responsible for procuring and supplying hearing aids for the health board community audiology service.

The chief executive officer of the ERHA has informed my Department that a tendering process for the supply of hearing aids, including digital hearing aids, is under way; the chief executive officer expects this process to be completed at the end of the year. The prospects of offering contracts for the supply of digital hearing aids will be considered at the end of this tendering process.

Community Pharmacy Services.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

49 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date in her Department’s review of pharmaceutical expenditure and community pharmacy services; when she expects the review will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26309/04]

All aspects of the drug delivery system from the manufacturer to the patient are currently under review. The pharmacy review group report was published in February 2003 and I expect to take definitive decisions on it shortly. In addition, the health service procurement improvement project has analysed the State's procurement of pharmaceutical goods and services. A national drugs prescribing group is evaluating proposals in relation to the control of drugs costs contained in various reports, for example, Brennan and Deloitte & Touche, to determine their feasibility and early delivery as part of the health reform agenda.

Departmental Correspondence.

Joe Higgins

Ceist:

50 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if he has received correspondence from the Parents for Justice organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22399/04]

The most recent correspondence received in my Department from the Parents for Justice organisation relates to a funding request for 2005. The matter is under consideration at present.

Immune Deficiency Disorders.

John Gormley

Ceist:

51 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to a recent report which suggests that just 8% of an estimated 400,000 asthma sufferers do not have their symptoms under control; the steps she has taken to deal with the increasing asthma problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26354/04]

Asthma is one of the most common chronic diseases, with approximately 10% of people having had an attack of asthma at some time. Asthma prevalence across Europe has sharply increased in recent years and in Ireland, the level of asthma has risen to 20% in young teenagers.

Asthma is a complex disorder where genetics and environment play an interacting role. It is generally recognised that there is a need for further work on the multiple facets of gene-environment interaction and their relevance for measuring susceptibility to asthma.

Asthma treatment has improved substantially in recent years, however, there is scope for the development and utilisation of asthma management guidelines which emphasise the key role of first line preventive therapy which will reduce morbidity and hospital admissions. A full range of treatment services is available for people with asthma, incorporating hospital and primary care services and assistance with the community drugs schemes.

The first step in an asthma initiative is the recognition of the condition as an important cause of morbidity and mortality and also that it carries economic costs. A range of initiatives have been taken this year to prevent and control asthma, namely, smoking reduction — given the association between early exposure of children to environmental tobacco smoke and childhood asthma, the Smoke Free at Work initiative and more general health promotion activities will ensure greater protection from toxic tobacco smoke. These are providing benefits to workers and the general public and help to reduce asthma and respiratory diseases; the Irish EU Health Presidency — as part of the Irish Presidency, a set of proposals were developed by the Irish Presidency in April 2004. These proposals called for the need for research into the factors underlying asthma; the development of common terminologies and better information systems on asthma; the exchange of best practice in relation to the prevention and management of childhood asthma; and involvement of all relevant stakeholder groups; Ireland hosted the EU's Joint Research Council, JRC, Childhood Asthma Envirogenomics Conference, which provided further research information on asthma and its causes; and information — Ireland already participates in international prevalence studies and additional work is ongoing with the ERHA on the development of further information systems.

The initiatives outlined above illustrate the broad range of activities to reduce morbidity and mortality from asthma. This should provide a better understanding of the nature of asthma and highlight areas for development so that individuals affected can go about their normal activities without fear or concern.

Vaccination Programme.

John Bruton

Ceist:

52 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will consider a voluntary proposal that all children at crèches and starting school be appropriately vaccinated for their age. [26223/04]

The primary childhood immunisation programme, PCIP, provides for the immunisation of children against a range of potentially serious infectious diseases. The objective of the PCIP is to achieve an uptake level of 95% which is the rate required to provide population immunity and to protect children and the population generally from the potentially serious diseases concerned. The PCIP provides for the immunisation of children up to two years of age. Under the PCIP parents may have their children immunised free of charge by the general practitioner of their choice. The schedule of immunisation is in accordance with the recommendations of the national immunisation advisory committee of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. The schedule was most recently revised in October 2002.

The recommended childhood immunisation schedule is as follows:

Age

Immunisation

Birth-1 month

BCG

2 months

DTaP/IPV/Hib (“5 in 1”) and MenC

4 months

DTaP/IPV/Hib (“5 in 1”) and MenC

6 months

DTaP/IPV/Hib (“5 in 1”) and MenC

12 -15 months

MMR, Hib1

4-5 years

DTaP/IPV (“4 in 1”) and MMR

11-12 years

MMR (omit if 2 previous doses)

10-14 years

BCG2

11-14 years

Td

1A single dose of Hib vaccine is also recommended if the child presents after age 13 months and has had no previous Hib vaccine.

2Only for those who are known to be tuberculin negative and have had no previous BCG.

The childhood immunisation programme is voluntary but I consider that all children should be appropriately vaccinated for their age. I urge all parents to have their children immunised against the diseases covered by the childhood immunisation programme in order to ensure that both their children and the population generally have maximum protection against the diseases concerned.

SARI Committee.

David Stanton

Ceist:

53 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the names of the members of the national SARI committee established in 2002; the procedures in place to review the work of the committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26356/04]

In 1999, my Department asked the National Disease Surveillance Centre, NDSC, to evaluate the problem of antimicrobial resistance in Ireland and to formulate a strategy for the future. The NDSC gave detailed consideration to these issues and drew up a strategy for the control of antimicrobial resistance in Ireland, SARI, which was launched on 19 June 2001. This report contains a wide range of detailed recommendations to address the issue of antimicrobial resistance, including a strategy to control the inappropriate use of antibiotics.

The SARI recommendations can be grouped into five main categories, as follows: surveillance of antimicrobial resistance; monitoring of the supply and use of antimicrobials; development of guidance in relation to the appropriate use of antimicrobials; education of health care workers, patients and the general public; and, development of principles in relation to infection control in the hospital and community setting.

The strategy for the control of antimicrobial resistance in Ireland recommended that a national SARI committee be established to develop guidelines, protocols and strategies in relation to antimicrobial resistance. This committee was established in late 2002 and as part of its remit provides advice to the regional SARI committees in each health board area which were established as a result of the strategy's recommendations. The national SARI committee is comprised of a wide range of experts in the field.

The current membership of the SARI National Committee is as follows:

Nominating Body

Representative

Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland

Professor Hilary Humphreys* (chair)

National Disease Surveillance Centre

Dr Robert Cunney** (honorary secretary)

Academy of Medical Laboratory Science

Ms Margaret Fitzpatrick

Health Board CEO Group:

1 Dr Declan McKeown

2 Mr Éamonn Fitzgerald

3 Ms Mary Diver

Consumers’ Association of Ireland

Ms Dorothy Gallagher

Department of Agriculture & Food

Dr Michael Gunn

Faculty of Paediatrics

Dr Karina Butler

Faculty of Pathology

Professor Martin Cormican

Faculty of Public Health Medicine

Dr Máire O’Connor

Faculty of Veterinary Medicine

Dr Nola Leonard

Food Safety Authority of Ireland

Mr David Nolan

Infection Control Nurses’ Association

Ms Roma Ruddy

Irish College of General Practitioners

Professor Colin Bradley***

Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association

Ms Leonie Clarke

Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland

Ms Marita Kinsella

Royal College of Physicians of Ireland

Dr Lynda Fenelon

University Dental School and Hospital

Dr Christine McCreary

Department of Health and Children:

1 Dr Eibhlín Connolly

2 Mr Brian Mullen

3 Mr Pat Clifford

Chairs of Regional SARI Committees:

ERHA

Dr Eleanor McNamara

MHB

Dr Phil Jennings

MWHB

Dr Kevin Kelleher

NEHB

Dr Rosemary Curran

NWHB

Dr Anthony Breslin

SEHB

Dr Anne Moloney

SHB

Dr Olive Murphy

WHB

Dr Diarmuid O’Donovan

Chair of SARI Hospital Antibiotic Stewardship Subcommittee

Dr Edmond Smyth

Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (Northern Ireland) (Observer)

Dr Lorraine Doherty

* Also chair of SARI Infection Control Subcommittee.

** Also chair of SARI Antimicrobial Resistance and Antimicrobial Consumption Surveillance Subcommittees.

*** Also chair of SARI Community Antibiotic Stewardship Subcommittee.

Tackling the problem of antimicrobial resistance is a multi-faceted issue which will require action on a number of fronts. Implementation of the strategy is taking place on a phased basis and will take a number of years to complete. To date, approximately €16 million has been allocated by my Department to health boards to enable them to put in place measures to control antimicrobial resistance. It is ultimately a matter for each health board CEO to determine the priorities in each region. These priorities should take account of the recommendations in the SARI report and also the recommendations put forward by each regional SARI committee. Much of the funding is designated for improving hospital infrastructure for control of infection and for appointing additional microbiologists, infection control nurses and other healthcare professionals involved in the control of infection.

Work on the SARI annual report for 2003 is nearing completion; the report will be presented to the national SARI committee at its meeting in December and will include details of the national committee's work to date.

In addition, there is an annual SARI implementation meeting to which all parties involved in SARI are invited. These include members of the national committee, regional committees and sub-committees, various professional groups involved in the control of antimicrobial resistance, for example, microbiologists, infection control nurses, public health specialists and surveillance scientists, as well as representatives from my Department and health board administration. The annual SARI implementation meeting was held in Tullamore in December 2003 and this year's meeting will be held next month in Dundalk. The 2004 meeting will be a joint North-South meeting with the antimicrobial resistance action plan, AMRAP, the equivalent strategy in Northern Ireland. Meeting participants are updated on the work of the national committee and feedback from the meeting is used to direct the priorities for the committee for the following year.

Medical Aids and Appliances.

Joan Burton

Ceist:

54 Ms Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children , further to the EU Commission statement of 15 July 2004, that it was initiating infringement proceedings against Ireland in regard to the system of reimbursing the cost of medical appliances here, the steps she proposes to take on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26326/04]

I have made inquiries in relation to the matter raised by the Deputy and it transpires that the issue is more appropriate for answer by my colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs. Accordingly, I have passed the question to his Department for direct reply.

Organ Retention.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

55 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date by the Dunne inquiry into the retention of organs of deceased children; the date on which the report will be published; the steps being taken to address the concerns of the families affected; if it is intended to introduce legislation to regulate organ retention and transplants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26320/04]

The terms of reference of the post mortem inquiry require it to review post mortem policy, practice and procedure in all hospitals in the State since 1970, with particular reference to organ removal, retention, storage and disposal. The inquiry is also mandated to examine any arrangements with pharmaceutical companies in relation to retained organs, including pituitary glands.

The chairman has indicated that she will provide a report on paediatric hospitals in December 2004. There are ongoing consultations with the inquiry in relation to the other elements of its remit, having regard to the Government decision that the inquiry should conclude by 31 March next.

I am advised that individual hospitals have adopted differing policies in relation to the question of contacting next of kin of deceased persons whose organs were retained.

The European Commission is currently considering the question of a directive in respect of organ transplantation, including the issue of consent, and proposes to conduct a thorough scientific evaluation of the situation. It will present a report on its analysis to the Council of the European Union as soon as possible. It is hoped that this will provide the framework for the development of legislation in this area.

In the meantime, it is intended to establish an expert group to review organ donation, procurement and utilisation policy in Ireland. The work of this group will inform Ireland's contribution to the discussions in relation to the proposed directive on organs.

Health Board Staff.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

56 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the additional number of employees across all grades that will be employed to get the HSE up and running; and if these employees will come from the ranks of existing employees in the health services. [26200/04]

The Health Service Executive, HSE, will assume responsibility for the direct management of existing health board personnel and the staff of certain specialist health agencies — approximately 65,000 staff in whole-time equivalent, WTE, terms from 1 January 2005, following the dissolution of the health boards and the integration of the functions of the specialist agencies concerned into the structures of the HSE. While a limited number of top-level appointments in the HSE are being filled from open competition, it is not envisaged that the establishment of the HSE will give rise to the requirement for additional health service staff.

Medical Cards.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

57 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if measures to allow medical card holders to obtain induction loops installed free of charge will be investigated. [23368/04]

The Northern Area Health Board, NAHB, of the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, is responsible for procuring and supplying hearing aids for the health board community audiology service.

The NAHB has informed the Department of the following figures for supply of hearing aids:

Year

Numbers Supplied

Expenditure

€m

2003

11,634

1.745

2002

10,066

1.509

2001

9,531

1.429

Question No. 58 answered with QuestionNo. 40.

Departmental Staff.

Olivia Mitchell

Ceist:

59 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if agreement has been reached between her Department and the Department of Finance to allow the employment ceiling of public service employees to be breached in order to employ staff to open a number of facilities (details supplied) across the country; if sufficient numbers have been allowed for all the proposed facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26201/04]

Following discussions with the Minister for Finance, a designated increase in authorised health service employment numbers has been secured to commission the new health facilities referred to by the Deputy. Following discussions with the relevant health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority, the employment increases and funding allocations required to open the new units have been approved by my Department.

Question No. 60 answered with QuestionNo. 10.

National Drugs Strategy.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

61 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some schools are locking away asthma inhalers under action 43 of the national drugs strategy; her views on whether this policy may have serious health implications for certain pupils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26352/04]

Under action 43 of the national drugs strategy, guidelines for developing a substance abuse policy were drawn up by my Department in consultation with the health boards and the Department of Education and Science. These guidelines were issued to all schools in October 2002 to assist them in the development of appropriate substance abuse policies. The guidelines do not make reference to asthma inhalers.

The implementation of the guidelines is the responsibility of the relevant school authorities and if problems arise, parents should raise these with the school in the first instance.

Hospital Staff.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

62 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the progress in the renegotiation of the consultants’ common contracts. [26293/04]

During 2002 and 2003, a series of meetings took place between management and the medical organisations to resolve the outstanding issues from the current consultants' common contract. These negotiations resulted in the introduction of a revised grievance and dispute procedure for consultants.

In 2003, preliminary talks were held between management and the medical organisations to discuss forthcoming negotiations on the new contract. Unfortunately, the opposition of these organisations to the extension of the clinical indemnity scheme to cover claims against consultants led to a decision by the Irish Hospital Consultants Association, IHCA, not to participate in further negotiations with effect from 1 February 2004, which has resulted in talks on a new contract being stalled.

I am anxious to break the deadlock that has arisen, and I have indicated to the consultants that I am available to sit down with them to discuss a new contract in tandem with those issues that are of particular concern to them in relation to the clinical indemnity scheme. I am writing to the consultants to this effect today and I hope for a positive response.

Health Board Services.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

63 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the expected date for the bringing into commission of each of the unopened facilities, in regard to the announcement by her predecessor on 14 September 2004; if the health boards have been provided with the resources to recruit the appropriate staff for these units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26331/04]

My predecessor, Deputy Martin, and officials from my Department entered into discussions with the Department of Finance earlier this year to progress the issue of opening facilities that had received substantial capital investment. These discussions resulted in my Department agreeing to fund €35 million of the required revenue costs from its overall existing funding. Further funding of these new units will be discussed in the context of the Estimates process for 2005.

The agreement concluded with the Minister for Finance also provided for an increase in the national employment ceiling in respect of staff required for the commissioning of the new units.

Since the announcement, the acute psychiatric unit at the Midland Regional Hospital, Portlaoise, has become operational, 29 September 2004, and the commissioning of the remaining acute and non-acute new units is ongoing. Health boards have informed my Department that the new units will be brought into operation on a phased basis over the remainder of 2004 and early 2005. This phasing is necessary as each health board must go through a logistical process of recruiting and appointing additional staff and, in some cases, equipping new facilities.

Hospital Staff.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

64 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of nursing posts unfilled at the latest date for which figures are available; if her attention has been drawn to warnings from the INO that the number of vacancies will rise to 2,000 over the next 18 months; the number of vacancies of ICU nurses and the hospitals in which they exist; the number of nursing vacancies in accident and emergency departments and the hospitals in which they exist; the steps being taken to deal with the shortage of nurses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26306/04]

The Health Service Employers Agency, HSEA, undertakes quarterly surveys of nursing vacancies, the latest of which is for the month ending 30 June 2004. A copy of this survey, which contains a breakdown by hospital-health board and voluntary agency, will be forwarded directly to the Deputy.

While all sectors reported that recruitment was well ahead of resignations and retirements, employers reported that 771 vacancies existed at 30 June 2004, a decrease from 1,007 vacancies in June 2003.

The number of vacancies as of 30 June 2004 represents a substantial decrease from the end of September 2000, when employers reported 1,388 vacancies.

The current vacancy rate of 1.92% is one of the lowest in recent years, and could be considered to be a normal frictional rate, given that there will always be some level of movement due to resignations, retirements and nurses availing of opportunities to change employment and locations.

In 1998, there were 26,612 whole-time equivalent nurses employed in the public health system. By the end of December 2003, this figure had reached 33,765. This is an increase of over 7,150 during the period or 26.8%.

The recruitment and retention of adequate numbers of nursing staff has been a concern of this Government for some time, and a number of substantial measures have been introduced in recent years. The number of nursing training places has been increased by 70% since 1998 to 1,640 from 2002 onwards. The continuing attractiveness of nursing as a career for school leavers and mature code applicants alike is clearly evident from the number of applicants for such courses. For example, there were 8,300 CAO applications for 1,640 places in the autumn 2004 intake. This is most encouraging, given that there is an ever-increasing array of attractive alternatives provided by our third-level education system.

A comprehensive range of financial supports have been introduced to support nurses in pursuing part-time degrees and specialist courses, including "back to practice" courses. Since 1998 nurses have been paid for overtime. Previously they had been given time off in lieu and the introduction of payment represents a further significant financial incentive for nurses.

My predecessor introduced a scheme of flexible working arrangements for nurses and midwives in February 2001. Under the scheme, individual nurses and midwives may apply to work between eight to 39 hours per week on a permanent, part-time basis. The figure of 33,765 whole-time equivalent nurses working in the health service translates into 40,119 individual nurses. Of these, some 29,629 work full-time, and 10,490 work job-sharing or other atypical patterns. Thus, over one quarter of the nursing workforce avails of family-friendly work patterns.

The promotional structure within nursing, including the introduction of a clinical career pathway, has been substantially improved on foot of the recommendations of the commission on nursing and the 1999 nurses' pay settlement. The National Council for the Professional Development of Nursing and Midwifery has been especially active in this area and, to date, 1,600 clinical nurse specialist and advanced nurse practitioner posts have been created.

My Department gave approval in late 2003 to the roll out, on a national basis, of the health care assistant training programme. This is in fulfilment of a key recommendation of the commission on nursing. The main objective of the programme is to up-skill health care assistants so that, working under the supervision of nurses, they are enabled to take on a wider range of duties, thereby freeing up nursing resources to concentrate on exclusively nursing tasks.

I am confident that the extensive range of measures I have outlined, including the substantial increase in training places, the recruitment of overseas nurses, the more effective utilisation of the professional skills of nurses and midwives, in addition to close monitoring and assessment of the situation on an ongoing basis, will continue to prove effective in addressing the nursing workforce needs of the health services.

In relation to predictions of an increase in nurse vacancies over the next 18 months, the lack of a cohort of nurse graduates in autumn 2005 is obviously a challenge for the health service. The difficulty arises because nurse education is moving from a three year diploma programme to a four year degree programme in line with the recommendations of the commission on nursing. The final cohort of diploma students graduated recently and the first cohort of degree students will graduate in autumn 2006.

Officials from my Department are in touch with senior nurse managers throughout the country on a regular basis and discussions indicate that the problem of a lack of graduates in 2005 will manifest itself in early 2006. As there will be a cohort of graduates available by early autumn 2006, the problem has a relatively short life span. A working group representing health service employers and officials from my Department was established last April to examine the issue and provide advice to employers on addressing potential shortfalls. Workforce planners in each health board are liaising with directors of nursing and human resource managers to ensure the sufficient staffing resources are available during the period from late 2005 to autumn 2006.

Current vacancies in ICU and accident and emergency units for each hospital are shown in the table below.

Hospital

ICU Vacancies

A&E Vacancies

Adelaide & Meath Hospital Incorporating the National Children's Hospital

1.3 WTE

2.6 WTE

St Vincent’s University Hospital

0 WTE

6 WTE

Mater Hospital

12.42 WTE

8 WTE1

Beaumont Hospital

2 WTE

6 WTE

James Connolly Memorial Hospital

5 WTE

5.5 WTE

St James Hospital

29 WTE

1.5 WTE

Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin

20.5 WTE

1 WTE2

Temple Street Hospital

2 WTE

2 WTE

Loughlinstown Hospital

4.6 WTE3

3.7 WTE4

Naas Hospital

5

8

Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise

0

0

Midland Regional Hospital Tullamore

0

25

Midland Regional Hospital Mullingar

3

26

Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Limerick

0

1

Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Ennis

0

0

Mid-Western Regional Hospital, Nenagh

0

0

Our Lady’s of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda

67

0

Our Lady’s Hospital, Navan

0

0

Louth County Hospital

0

0

Cavan General Hospital

0

Monaghan General Hospital

Letterkenny General Hospital

3

2

Sligo General Hospital

0

4

Wexford General Hospital

0

0

Waterford Regional Hospital

0

0

Our Lady’s Hospital, Cashel

0

0

Sth. Tipperary General Hospital

0

0

St Luke’s Hospital, Kilkenny

0

1.5 WTE8

Cork University Hospital

0

19

Kerry General Hospital

0

0

Mallow General Hospital

0

0

Bantry General Hospital

1.46 WTE

Mercy Hospital

510

0

South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital

0

0

Roscommon County Hospital

0

Portiuncula Hospital, Ballinasloe

0

0

Mayo General Hospital, Castlebar

0

0

University College Hospital, Galway

0

0

1 6 WTE Staff Nurses, 1 WTE Clinical Nurse Manager 2 and 1 Clinical Nurse Specialist.

2 1 WTE Clinical Nurse Manager 3.

3 1 new staff member to commence end of November 2004.

4 2 new staff members to commence by mid November 2004.

5 Post currently advertised.

6 Post currently advertised.

7 Adult ICU — Six vacancies at present which will be filled on 5th November. There is no designated Paediatric ICU.

8 1.5 WTE A&E posts just vacant and being advertised at the weekend.

91 vacant Clinical Nurse Manager 2 post in A&E, Cork University Hospital — competition is currently underway to fill this vacancy.

10There are 5 specialist vacancies in ICU/CCU, Mercy Hospital, Cork which are currently filled by General Nurses. An external agency has been contacted to fill existing specialist posts.

Medical Inquiries.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

65 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made in finalising the terms of reference of the inquiry, to be chaired by Judge Maureen Harding Clarke into the activities of a person (details supplied); when it is expected that the inquiry will begin; the form it will take; the steps that are being taken to address the serious concerns regarding the adequacy of the proposed inquiry raised by Patient Focus and others; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26341/04]

Following the Medical Council's investigation into the conduct of Dr. Michael Neary, which found him guilty of professional misconduct in relation to ten patients, the Government decided to establish a non-statutory inquiry chaired by Judge Maureen Harding Clarke.

Terms of reference were agreed by Government and the inquiry commenced its work in May 2004. The format and terms of reference for the inquiry were the subject of detailed discussion with Patient Focus, which is a patient advocacy group that represents former patients of Dr. Neary. In broad terms, the inquiry is examining the rate of peripartum hysterectomy at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital, Drogheda, with particular reference to the period covered in the report of the Fitness to Practise Committee of the Medical Council relating to Dr. Michael Neary and the period since the publication of that report. The inquiry will seek to establish how this rate compared with the rate in other maternity units of similar status. It will also inquire into whether Dr. Neary's practice was commented or acted upon by others at the hospital and examine whether internal or external reviews were conducted. The inquiry will also report on the measures put in place to prevent a repeat of those events at the hospital and offer advice on any additional systems that should be put in place.

The inquiry team has already examined a substantial amount of documents and records which relate to the inquiry. It has conducted over 100 interviews to date with patients, Medical Missionaries of Mary sisters, both consultant and non-consultant doctors, midwives, nurses, theatre staff and non-medical personnel from the hospital. The inquiry has been asked to report within a nine month timescale.

Hospital Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

66 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the progress in identification of the Dublin hospital which will accommodate the promised radiotherapy centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26292/04]

Liam Twomey

Ceist:

108 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the two sites for radiotherapy oncology for the eastern region will be announced. [26720/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 66 and 108 together.

The Government is committed to making the full range of cancer services available and accessible to cancer patients throughout Ireland. To this end, we will provide considerable investment in radiation oncology facilities in the coming years. The central aim is to ensure access by cancer patients throughout the country to high quality radiation oncology in line with best international standards.

The Government's policy on radiation oncology is based on the report on the Development of Radiation Oncology Services in Ireland. I will be advised by the chief medical officer of my Department in relation to the location of radiation oncology services in the eastern region and by other experts in the area. The chief medical officer is being assisted by a panel of international experts in this regard.

A detailed request for proposals issued to six hospitals in Dublin on 24 June 2004. The document set out extensive information requirements including details of current oncology services provision, approach to the organisation of radiation oncology service provision, capital and revenue requirements, transport options for outpatient and day-case patients, education, training, quality systems and research. The document also set out the evaluation criteria against which the proposals will be assessed as follows: overall quality of the proposal; quality of current cancer service delivery; quality of proposed integrated cancer service delivery, to include radiation oncology; commitment to research, education and training; suitability of site to accommodate radiation oncology and related services, including timelines for construction and capital costs; and costs, taking into account revenue costs, both pay and non-pay and staffing requirements.

A further breakdown of these criteria was agreed by the international panel and issued to all hospitals on 22 September 2004 to assist hospitals in finalising their proposals. The deadline for receipt of proposals was 8 October 2004 and six hospitals submitted proposals on that date. The international panel is currently examining the proposals in detail in preparation for its meetings with hospitals which will take place during the week beginning 13 December 2004. I expect to receive the advice of the international panel by the end of the year.

Health Board Services.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

67 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she intends to respond to the call from the director of the Crisis Pregnancy Agency that contraceptive services be made available free of charge in order to reduce the number of crisis pregnancies; if, in particular, she has plans to provide for the wider availability of the morning-after pill; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26321/04]

The Crisis Pregnancy Agency, CPA, published a piece of research, entitled Contraception Needs: The Evidence, A Literature Review. The research, and not the CPA, recommended that some consideration be given to making contraceptive services available free of charge, and to deregulating emergency contraception in order to increase access to women in rural areas.

The director of the CPA has advised my Department that the recommendations in this research will be considered by the agency in the first instance, as part of the development of an overall framework for contraceptive services due to be completed next year.

Each health board is obliged to ensure that an equitable, accessible and comprehensive family planning service is provided in its area. The Department issued guidelines to the health boards in 1995 on the provision of family planning services to all persons in their area who need such services; these services are provided primarily through general practitioners, non-governmental organisations and, to some extent, maternity hospitals-units. Significant additional funding, €5.73 million, was provided for the development of family planning and pregnancy counselling services between 1999 and 2002.

The Deputy will be aware that the question of licensing any medicinal product, along with the conditions attached to any such product placed on the market and made available to the public, are matters for the Irish Medicines Board, IMB, in the first instance. The IMB is obliged to review all the evidence on the quality, safety and efficacy of the product concerned when examining an application for a product authorisation; the question of the legal classification appropriate to the product would also be considered.

Infectious Diseases.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

68 Mr. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the contacts she has had with her Asian counterparts with regard to a new outbreak of Avian influenza; the dangers posed by this outbreak to Irish nationals travelling in Asia; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25234/04]

The National Disease Surveillance Centre, NDSC, plays a key role in relation to the prevention and management of infectious diseases in this country.

The Irish approach to infectious diseases outbreaks is based on sound internationally accepted principles such as preventative measures; early identification of cases; effective clinical care including good hospital infection control; appropriate surveillance; and, contact tracing and management of contacts. The procedures for dealing with infectious diseases are based on these principles.

The NDSC monitors the avian influenza situation in Asia on an ongoing basis through the World Health Organisation, WHO.

In line with advice from WHO, it is recommended that Irish travellers to areas experiencing outbreaks of H5N1 avian influenza infection should avoid contact with live animal markets and poultry farms. In addition, there are no restrictions on travel to any country currently experiencing outbreaks of H5N1 avian infection in poultry flocks, including countries, which have also reported cases in humans. This is also in line with WHO travel recommendations.

In addition, the following actions have been undertaken: interim Irish guidelines on the investigation and management of suspected human cases of highly pathogenic avian influenza, Influenza A-H5, have been circulated to all health care professionals and are also posted on the NDSC website; guidance in the form of a SARS and avian influenza clinical management algorithm has been circulated to hospitals and clinicians on the appropriate management of travellers with an influenza-like illness who have returned from east or Southeast Asia, that is, areas where avian influenza outbreaks are occurring. This will assist in early detection of any influenza A/H5 cases

Question No. 69 answered with QuestionNo. 43.
Question No. 70 answered with QuestionNo. 40.

Departmental Expenditure.

Eamon Ryan

Ceist:

71 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the latest ESRI report by a person (details supplied) which suggests that Ireland is still spending below the EU average on health; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26350/04]

I am aware of the recent article published by the ESRI to which the Deputy refers. It concludes that when current and capital spending are aggregated, OECD data places Irish public spending per capita at 101.4% of the EU average in 2002.

The author has indicated that in her view if all community welfare programme and disability programme spending were excluded to make Irish figures more comparable to that of other EU countries, the Irish per capita spend for 2002 would be below the EU average at 96%. However the figure of 101.4% quoted above was based on figures agreed between my Department and the OECD and is therefore the best comparator available at present.

Hospital Staff.

Pádraic McCormack

Ceist:

72 Mr. McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she intends to lift the Government embargo on the recruitment of permanent nurses at hospitals to allow the many closed wards to be opened and to alleviate the problem of patients on trolleys. [26257/04]

There is no Government embargo on the recruitment of nurses. The chief executive officer of each individual health board has responsibility for the management of the workforce, including the appropriate staffing mix and the precise grades of staff employed within that board, in line with service plan priorities, subject to the overall employment levels remaining within the authorised ceiling.

The Health Service Employers Agency, HSEA, undertakes a quarterly national survey of nursing resources. The most recent survey reported that the recruitment of additional nurses continued to be a prominent feature of activity with a net increase of 563 nurses in the system in the year ended 30 June 2004.

It is a feature of all acute hospital systems that some beds are out of use for short periods. Bed closures fluctuate over time and may arise for a variety of reasons such as ward refurbishment, essential ward maintenance, staff leave, seasonal closures and infection control measures.

Infectious Diseases.

David Stanton

Ceist:

73 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of MRSA cases currently in hospitals in the State; the assistance given or available to families and the method of applying for such help when a family member contracts MRSA in a hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26357/04]

Staphylococcus aureus, often referred to simply as "staph", are bacteria commonly carried on the skin or in the nose of healthy people. Occasionally, "staph" can cause infections — such bacteria are one of the most common causes of skin infections. Most of the infections are minor, such as pimples or boils and most can be treated without antibiotics. However, these bacteria can also cause serious infections, such as surgical wound infections and pneumonia. In the past, most serious "staph" infections were treated with antibiotics related to penicillin. Over the past 50 years, treatment of these infections has become more difficult because "staph" bacteria have become resistant to various antibiotics, antimicrobials. MRSA, Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus, is a resistant form of Staphylococcus aureus. The proportion of Staphylococcus aureus bacteraemia caused by MRSA in Ireland in 2002 was 42.7%.

I note that the Deputy has asked for the number of MRSA cases. This is a somewhat misleading term, as MRSA is not a disease but rather a bacteria that can cause a wide range of infections. Indeed, most people who acquire MRSA do not develop any infection and simply carry the bacteria without any symptoms. To try to routinely measure all of the various types of infection that can be caused by MRSA and to determine whether or not they are clinically significant would be an enormous undertaking; even if an attempt were made to try to measure all MRSA cases, there are no comparative data as this is not something that is routinely done at a national level in most countries.

MRSA bacteraemia is used as a measure for two reasons: first, it is a reliable indicator of significant MRSA infection and, second, it is the same standardised measure of MRSA infection that is used by most other countries, for example, the UK, the USA, etc.

The National Disease Surveillance Centre, NDSC, collects data from hospitals on MRSA bacteraemia, also known as bloodstream infection or blood poisoning, as part of the European Antimicrobial Resistance Surveillance System, EARSS. Ireland has the highest level of participation of any country involved in EARSS and EARSS data in Ireland represent at least 95% of the population; thus the EARSS data for Ireland approximates the true total number of cases of MRSA bacteraemia in Ireland. In 2003, there were 477 cases of MRSA bacteraemia reported in Ireland.

The strategy for the control of antimicrobial resistance in Ireland, SARI, was launched in June 2001. Since then, approximately €16 million in funding has been made available by my Department to health boards under the strategy. Much of this funding is designated for improving hospital infrastructure for control of infection and for appointing the additional microbiologists, infection control nurses and other health care professionals required for effective control of infection in hospitals.

At national level, MRSA bacteraemia is now included in the revised list of notifiable diseases of the infectious diseases regulations, so hospitals are now legally required to report cases of serious MRSA infection to health board departments of public health and to the NDSC. The reporting process for MRSA bacteraemia remains the same for now, that is direct reporting to the NDSC via the EARSS protocol, as this has proven extremely effective.

MRSA infection is generally confined to hospitals and, in particular, to vulnerable or debilitated patients. These include patients in intensive care units and on surgical or orthopaedic wards. MRSA does not generally pose a risk to hospital staff, unless they are suffering from a debilitating disease, or family members of an affected patient or their close social or work contacts. MRSA does not harm healthy people, including pregnant women, children and babies. MRSA can affect people who have certain long-term health problems. Visitors to patients with MRSA infection should be advised by the local nursing-medical staff to wash their hands thoroughly after visiting patients so as to avoid spreading MRSA.

Infection with Staphylococcus aureus or MRSA bacteria can be prevented by practising good hygiene, namely, keeping hands clean by washing thoroughly with soap and water; keeping cuts and abrasions clean and covered with a proper dressing, that is, bandage, until healed; and, avoiding contact with other people's wounds or material contaminated by wounds.

Hand hygiene is a key component in the control of MRSA and the SARI infection control sub-committee has just released national guidelines for hand hygiene in health care settings. These guidelines have been widely circulated by the NDSC and are available on the NDSC's website. The SARI national committee has set the implementation of these guidelines as a priority for the coming year.

Each health board-authority region has a regional SARI committee and these committees have been developing regional interventions to control hospital infection, including MRSA.

In 1995, my Department prepared a set of guidelines in relation to MRSA. These guidelines have been widely circulated and include an information leaflet for patients. The SARI infection control sub-committee is currently updating national guidelines on the control of MRSA in health care settings. A draft version of these guidelines is being distributed for consultation in the coming week and will also be available on the NDSC website. The key recommendations cover such areas as environmental cleanliness and overcrowding, sufficient isolation facilities, hand hygiene, appropriate antibiotic use, early detection of MRSA through surveillance and laboratory detection of MRSA. The implementation of these guidelines will require further essential staff and improved hospital infrastructure, as outlined in the SARI report, and an acceptance of corporate responsibility for infection control at senior hospital and health board level.

Question No. 74 answered with QuestionNo. 22.

National Drugs Strategy.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

75 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the actions she intends to take to counteract the spread of opiate use here in view of recent studies which have revealed the dramatic increase in opiate use, particularly outside of Dublin; if she intends to increase the number of initiatives and resources available to combat opiate abuse; if she intends to expand the number of needle exchange facilities available as part of the national drugs strategy in order to reduce the spread of drug related diseases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23050/04]

As the Deputy is aware, the provision of drug treatment services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards.

To address the problem of drug misuse, health boards provide a wide range of drug addiction services including outreach, education, treatment, rehabilitation and community welfare in line with the actions set out in the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008. Furthermore, the health boards fund and co-ordinate a broad range of services provided by voluntary and community sector organisations. Additional annual funding provided to health boards for drug treatment services since 1997 amounts to €52 million. This funding has allowed for the employment of over 730 staff in the drug addiction services and for the expansion of services. Since 2002 alone an additional €9.721 million has been allocated to health boards. Funding is provided for the treatment of all drug users abusing all types of drugs and is not broken down by a specific type of drug. In the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, there are currently 59 drug treatment locations. This is an increase of 47 locations since 1996. Outside the ERHA, seven treatment clinics have been established.

With regard to prevalence of opiate use, research conducted by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs, NACD, last year estimated that there were 14,452 people using opiates in Ireland in 2001. In comparing the estimates for Dublin for the year 1996 with those for the year 2001, there appears to be a decrease of approximately 1,000 in the prevalence of opiate users. There are no comparative figures for the regions outside Dublin as they were not included in the 1996 study.

The numbers in treatment for heroin use outside the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, area have increased significantly between 1998 and 2002. This is in line with one of the key actions in the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008 which is to increase the number of treatment places available for drug misusers. At the end of September 2004, 7114 people were receiving methadone treatment. Based on the NACD figures, we can say that around half the people who misuse opiates are in treatment, a very high proportion by international standards.

Regional drugs task forces have been established in all health boards and are currently mapping out the patterns of drug misuse in their areas as well as the range and level of existing services with a view to better co-ordination and addressing gaps in the overall provision of services. It is expected that these reports and actions plans will be received and considered by my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Noel Ahern, in the coming months.

The Deputy will also be aware that the programme for Government calls for the monitoring of the use of heroin, particularly outside Dublin and in this regard the NACD are currently establishing an early warning system to address this issue.

As part of the mid-term review of the national drugs strategy, which is being conducted by the Minister of State, Deputy Noel Ahern, the relevance of the strategy in tackling the current extent and pattern of drug misuse is being examined and any gaps will be identified and addressed.

In relation to needle exchange, I am informed that the Northern Area Health Board, NAHB, the South Western Area Health Board, SWAHB, and the East Coast Area Health Board, ECAHB, offer harm reduction programmes including needle exchange from fixed sites, mobile units and outreach work. Outreach workers frequently practise "backpacking" a process whereby staff, in the absence of a local clinic or mobile unit, carry supplies of drug-taking paraphernalia for distribution to known drug misusers. Additional services operate from Merchant's Quay Project, and other sites in the greater Dublin area run in partnership by the three area health boards of the ERHA and a number of voluntary organisations.

Mental Health Services.

Ciarán Cuffe

Ceist:

76 Mr. Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans for the future of the Central Mental Hospital. [20819/04]

A project team was established by the East Coast Area Health Board in February 2003 to examine all options for the development of the Central Mental Hospital. The team reported to my Department this year and its proposals for the development of a new Central Mental Hospital, including the future location of the hospital, are currently under consideration.

The majority of admissions to the Central Mental Hospital come from within the prison service. Accordingly, ease of access between the main Dublin prisons and the hospital would be of importance and I understand that the location of the hospital adjacent to a prison would have operational benefits for the prison service. On the other hand, it must be borne in mind that the Central Mental Hospital is a therapeutic, health care facility. I fully agree with families and carers who feel that it would not be desirable that the hospital be perceived as, or closely identified with, a prison complex.

I understand that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has advanced proposals to develop a new prison complex replacing Mountjoy. I recognise the potential benefits of close co-operation between that project and the re-development of the Central Mental Hospital and I will be asking my officials to consider how the matter might be progressed to the mutual benefit of both services.

Irish Blood Transfusion Service.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

77 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the Government’s undertaking following the publication of the Lindsay report, to consider the possibility of initiating legal action against US drugs firms which supplied contaminated blood products to Irish haemophiliacs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26322/04]

In July 2003 the Government was approached unilaterally by a firm of New York lawyers with the proposal that the Government could sue certain pharmaceutical companies in the United States arising from the manufacture of blood products which caused hepatitis C and HIV infection to persons with haemophilia.

Initial advices received from counsel appointed by the Attorney General raised serious concerns in relation to the proposal. Following careful consideration of these advices, the Attorney General recommended that an independent opinion be obtained in the United States in respect of the proposed litigation. Advices are being sought on an urgent basis from a suitable US law firm.

The Irish Haemophilia Society has been kept informed of developments.

Health Board Staff.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

78 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on whether it is satisfactory that the newly appointed chief executive of the Health Service Executive will not be in a position to take up the position until April 2005; the salary and remuneration package agreed for the post; the person who will take charge of the HSE pending the appointment being taken up; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26311/04]

Professor Aidan Halligan is taking up his appointment as chief executive officer of the Health Service Executive, HSE, from 31 January 2005, rather than April as previously stated. Professor Halligan has already been involved in planning activities for January next for the establishment of the HSE and in the recruitment of the senior management team for the HSE. He will continue to liaise with the interim HSE's change management team until his official start date in January.

In the meanwhile, responsibility for the running of both the interim HSE and the HSE will be a matter for the executive chairman and his board. The executive chairman, board and the interim HSE's change management team are currently putting in place appropriate measures to ensure the smooth running of the operation until Professor Halligan formally takes up office.

The salary for Professor Halligan is: basic —€330,000; performance bonus — up to a maximum of 25%; pension provision — 25%; relocation allowance —€40,000; and, car allowance —€15,000. The remuneration package reflects the size of the task and the level of responsibility of the CEO role.

National Drugs Strategy.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

79 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the amount of money which has been allocated or spent on treatment services for cocaine abuse here from 2002 to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22690/04]

As the Deputy is aware, the provision of drug treatment services is the statutory responsibility of the health boards.

To address the problem of drug misuse, health boards provide a wide range of drug addiction services including outreach, education, treatment, rehabilitation and community welfare in line with the actions set out in the National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008. Furthermore, the health boards fund and co-ordinate a broad range of services provided by voluntary and community sector organisations. Additional annual funding provided to health boards for drug treatment services since 1997 amounts to €52 million. This funding has allowed for the employment of over 730 staff in the drug addiction services and for the expansion of services. Since 2002 alone an additional €9.721 million has been allocated to health boards. Funding is provided for the treatment of all drug users abusing all types of drugs and is not broken down by a specific type of drug. In the Eastern Regional Authority, ERHA, there are currently 59 drug treatment locations. This is an increase of 47 locations since 1996. Outside the ERHA, seven treatment clinics have been established.

The addiction services in the ERHA provide a range of services to those presenting with problem cocaine use. The treatment methodologies utilised for those with primary cocaine addiction are evidence based and are in line with best practice internationally. The services are focused on psychological support, counselling interventions and referral to appropriate residential services.

I am also advised that only a small number of individuals are presenting for treatment for cocaine misuse alone, the majority of service users presenting with problem cocaine use are individuals involved in poly drug misuse, particularly opiate misuse, and their cocaine use is treated in the context of their overall treatment plan.

In addition to the drug treatment services outlined above, a provocative and targeted multi-media advertising campaign to help correct misinformation about recreational cocaine use has been launched earlier this month as part of the national drugs awareness campaign. The campaign is managed by the health promotion unit in my Department in conjunction with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown local drugs task force.

The core message of this phase of the national campaign is, "There is no fairytale ending with cocaine", and it uses the device of nursery rhyme characters such as Jack and Jill and Georgie Porgie to illustrate the stark facts about the psychological, physical, sexual and financial problems that can arise from using cocaine as a recreational drug. The campaign is aimed at 18 to 35 year olds and is designed to disprove some of the common urban myths surrounding cocaine use.

The campaign features three individual advertisements placed in the restrooms of entertainment venues such as pubs and clubs throughout Ireland and is supported by print advertisements in selected national newspapers and magazines, beer mats and free postcards. The campaign will run for six months including over the Christmas party season. The campaign is also supported by a special "micro-site" on cocaine on a website which explains in detail the negative effects of cocaine use. Health boards will continue to work to develop new initiatives to respond to the cocaine problem.

Suicide Incidence.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

80 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to a report that suggests that one third of deaths in the 15 to 24 age bracket is caused by suicide north and south of the Border; the steps her Department is taking to deal with this serious health problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26353/04]

I welcome the publication of the evidence-based report, Youth Suicide Prevention, which was researched by the Institute of Public Health in Ireland, the programme of action for children and the health development agency. The information contained in this report will provide invaluable material for all those working in the area of suicide prevention and mental health promotion. It will also inform the work that is now underway on the preparation of a strategic action plan for suicide reduction. This strategy, involving the health boards executive, HeBE, in partnership with the national suicide review group and supported by the Department of Health and Children will build on existing policy and on the recommendations contained in the report of the national task force on suicide. All measures aimed at reducing the number of deaths by suicide will be considered in the preparation of this strategy.

My Department has given special attention over the past number of years to the resourcing of suicide prevention initiatives. Since the publication of the task force report in 1998, a cumulative total of more than €17.5 million has been provided since towards suicide prevention programmes and for research. This year more than €4.5 million is available to the various agencies working towards reducing the level of suicide and attempted suicide in this country. This includes the health boards, the national suicide review group, the Irish Association of Suicidology and the National Suicide Research Foundation.

The task force report recommended that steps be taken to make the mental health services more accessible to the public, particularly to young people. In this regard, additional funding has been made available in recent years to further develop consultant-led child and adolescent psychiatry services to assist in the early identification of suicidal behaviour and to provide the necessary support and treatment to individuals at risk. Significant additional funding has also been provided for many voluntary organisations who deal with people suffering from depression, mental illness and bereavement who are at risk of suicide and attempted suicide.

I share the public concern about the level of suicides in this country and I am fully committed to the intensification of suicide prevention measures and research programmes.

Question No. 81 answered with QuestionNo. 22.

Mental Health Services.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

82 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make the national treatment fund for waiting lists available to mental health patients. [26282/04]

In accordance with health strategy objectives, the Government's immediate focus is on the reduction of waiting lists and waiting times for in-patient and day case treatments in acute hospitals. This is being particularly facilitated by the National Treatment Purchase Fund, NTPF. It is now the case that, in most instances, anyone waiting more than three months will be facilitated by the fund. The issue of including other categories of conditions under the remit of the NTPF will be kept under review.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

83 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when BreastCheck will be available nationwide. [26192/04]

The rollout of the national breast screening programme to the remaining counties is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 age group throughout the country have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where required. A capital investment of approximately €20 million has been approved to construct and equip two static clinical units, one in the south and the other in the west. This investment will also ensure that mobile units are available to screen women in the relevant age group throughout the country. BreastCheck and my Department are fully committed to an expeditious approach to the national roll-out of the programme and representatives have met recently to progress the design process.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

84 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she expects to see the publication of the report on complementary and alternative medicine; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26349/04]

As the Deputy may be aware, a national working group was established in 2003 to advise on future measures for strengthening the regulatory environment for complementary therapists in line with action 106 of the health strategy. The group held its first meeting in May 2003 and is continuing to meet on a regular basis. My Department has been advised by the chair of the working group that the report of the group will be completed before the end of next year.

Health Reform Programme.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

85 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date with regard to the implementation of the recommendations of the Brennan report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26314/04]

The health service reform programme announced by the Government in June 2003 is primarily based on the recommendations of the commission on financial management and control systems in the health service, the Brennan report, and the audit of structures and functions in the health system, the Prospectus report, together with the report of the national taskforce on medical staffing, the Hanly report. Work is well advanced on the implementation of the Brennan report as part of the overall health service reform programme.

A number of key bodies central to the reform programme are now in place and working to advance the implementation of the reform programme. The national steering committee, which I chair, is overseeing the implementation of the work programme. The Cabinet committee on health, chaired by the Taoiseach, ensures that the Government is kept fully informed on all important issues.

The health service reform programme will consolidate the multiplicity of different structures within a single agency, the Health Service Executive, HSE. I propose to submit a new Health Bill to Government shortly which will deal with the establishment of the HSE.

On 26 November 2003 the Minister for Health and Children announced the establishment of the interim board of the Health Service Executive. The interim HSE was established as a statutory body on foot of SI 90/04 on 9 March 2004. Under the establishment order, the interim HSE has been given the task of drawing up a plan for the transition to a unitary delivery system. The interim executive has also been given the task of making the necessary preparations to implement this plan, subject to ministerial approval, so as to ensure as smooth a transition as possible from the existing management, administrative and service delivery structures of the health boards to the new health service executive structure.

Thirteen action projects which were put in place to develop specific aspects of the reforms, reported on schedule in December 2003. A composite report collating individual action committee reports was prepared and disseminated.

The Health (Amendment) Act 2004, which provided for the abolition of the membership of the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards was commenced on 15 June. The Act also repealed the provisions providing for the appointment of members to the Eastern Regional Health Authority, area health boards and health boards. The enormous and complex nature of the reforms requires work across the whole spectrum of organisational change. Significant work is continuing on a broad number of fronts including: the interim Health Service Executive has announced the appointment of Professor Aidan Halligan as the first chief executive officer of the HSE and arrangements to recruit other senior management of the HSE are well advanced; a draft revised organisation design for the restructured Department of Health and Children has been completed; my Department and the interim HSE financial transition team are working on appropriate transition arrangements to lay the groundwork for the implementation of a number of the recommendations of the Brennan report; health boards have recently submitted draft service plans to the interim HSE to facilitate the drafting of the national service plan for 2005 - this, with associated performance indicators, will help provide a robust monitoring and evaluation framework; work on a broad range of human resource and industrial relations matters is continuing through the agreed structures; Mr. Pat McGrath, group managing director of the project management group, was appointed as the chairperson of the Health Information and Quality Authority, HIQA, on 28 September. I will be announcing the board of HIQA in the near future; work is progressing in relation to agencies designated for streamlining into the HSE in the short term. The interim HSE has been liaising closely on the matter with the agencies concerned, namely, the Health Boards Executive, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Office for Health Management, Comhairle na nOspidéal, the National Disease Surveillance Centre and the GMS (Payments) Board; the boundaries of the HSE's four primary, community and continuing care regions were announced on 28 September; and work is well advanced on drafting an interim code of governance for the health service.

The new arrangements will provide a stronger national focus for the management and delivery of health and personal social services. The implementation of the reform programme will result in a less fragmented and more accountable system, as envisaged by the Brennan report.

Community Care.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

86 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding funding problems at Carmichael House in Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22767/04]

My Department asked the ERHA to make a grant of €150,000 available on a once-off basis to alleviate the immediate funding needs which were outlined by the board of Carmichael Centre. The payment of this grant was made pending the completion of a review by the ERHA-Northern Area Health Board of the operation of the centre.

Mental Health Services.

Ciarán Cuffe

Ceist:

87 Mr. Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has satisfied herself that the Inspector of Mental Health Services has the necessary statutory powers in relation to taking action on complaints received. [20817/04]

Dr. Teresa Carey has been appointed by the Mental Health Commission to the position of Inspector of Mental Health Services under the provisions of section 50 of the Mental Health Act 2001. I am satisfied that the Act confers all necessary powers on the inspector to enable her to carry out her functions.

Any person dissatisfied with the level of care and treatment received by themselves or others while in the care of the mental health services may contact the Inspector of Mental Health Services at the Mental Health Commission, St. Martin's House, Waterloo Road, Dublin 4.

Medical Cards.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

88 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons over 70 who have received medical cards and who would not have qualified on income grounds at the latest date for which figures are available; the cost of extending medical cards to the over 70s and the way in which this compares with the original estimate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26339/04]

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

182 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons over 70 years of age currently covered by a medical card; the number of persons over 70 in actual possession of a medical card; the number of persons over 70 who are covered by medical cards at present who would ordinarily qualify for a medical card on purely income grounds and the number who would not; the number of persons over 70 who were in possession of a medical card and covered by a medical card on income grounds immediately prior to the introduction of automatic medical card cover for the over-70s in 2001; the estimated approximate cost to the Exchequer of medical card cover for the over 70s; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26653/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 182 together.

It is not possible to give a breakdown of the numbers of persons to whom medical cards were allocated under the Government decision, in respect of statutory automatic eligibility for persons aged 70 years and over which came into effect from 1 July 2001, in the manner requested by the Deputies. Since that date persons, in this age category, no longer have to give details of their income to the local health board at the time of their application for a medical card. Applications for medical cards for persons aged 70 years and over are made on simplified application forms which are accompanied by proof of age. However, the number of persons who are covered with the 'higher rate' medical card as opposed to those on the ordinary rate card gives a close approximation of the figures. The following table outlines the position in relation to the number of persons aged 70 years and over who held and were covered by a medical card for October 2004 and June 2001.

Persons aged 70 years and over

October 2004

June 2001

No. of persons covered by the medical card*

316,618

258,183

No. at higher capitation rate

111,065

None

No. at ordinary rate

205,553

258,183

* The cost of medical card coverage to persons aged 70 years and over in 2003 was €152.759 million in respect of doctors and pharmacists fees and drugs and medicines. The additional annual cost of providing medical cards to all persons aged 70 years and over was estimated at €51million in April 2002. The 2002 estimate of cost proved to be significantly understated because of discrepancies in the medical card data base for 2001 which subsequently came to light.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

89 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the actions she is taking to address the prevalence, detection and treatment of prostate cancer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26242/04]

Recently published data from the national cancer registry Ireland has shown that there is an increase in age standardised incidence rates by approximately 6% per year during the period 1994 to 2000. It is important to note that age standardised mortality rates over the same period have been falling by about 1% per year. The increase in incidence may reflect increased rates of prostate cancer testing in Ireland in recent years. The national cancer registry Ireland, together with the Northern Ireland cancer registry are about to commence a two year study on prostate cancer, which will provide more detailed information on the relationship between prostate cancer testing and incidence trends. Appropriate treatment services are available regionally for patients with prostate cancer. Any man who is concerned about prostate cancer should contact his general practitioner.

Question No. 90 answered with QuestionNo. 40.

Health Insurance.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

91 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Government has completed negotiating new regulations with American health care insurers that will enable returning emigrants from the United States to transfer their health care insurance to a health care insurance company here; if she will outline the new regulations; if plans are completed or under way regarding regulations that will allow returning emigrants from Canada and Australia with health insurance in those countries to transfer their cover to Ireland. [26239/04]

I wish to advise the Deputy that no such negotiations with health care insurers have taken place and that it would not be feasible to bring forward regulations given the differences in the health systems in these countries.

Currently the operation of private health insurance in this country is subject to the provisions of the Health Insurance Acts 1994 to 2003, and incorporates community rating, open enrolment and lifetime cover. The legislation requires all health insurers to operate on a "open enrolment" basis, in addition to offering community-rated health insurance. Insurers are obliged to make cover available to all persons, including returning emigrants, who are under the age of 65 regardless of whether or not they were previously covered, subject to prescribed waiting periods. Generally, insurers are entitled to apply an initial waiting period of 26 weeks in respect of persons aged under 55 and 52 weeks in respegt of those aged 55 or over, prior to health insurance cover becoming fully effective. In addition, insurers are entitled to apply longer waiting periods in relation to pre-existing conditions.

Insurers participating in the Irish market are not obliged to offer cover to persons aged 65 and over, unless they were covered in a former health insurance contract with a registered health insurer, which had expired less than 13 weeks previously. Allowing insurers discretion to apply waiting periods and on whether to accept new applicants aged 65 and over is considered a necessary protection in a community-rated open enrolment environment and supports the principle of inter-generational solidarity.

The Health Insurance (Amendment) Act 2001 contains provision for the introduction of a system of "lifetime community rating" which will involve allowing health insurers to apply late entry premium loadings to persons who delay taking out insurance cover until, or after, the age of 35 years, thereby strengthening community rating. Under this system, access to cover will be open to persons aged 65 or over. While the primary legislation is in place, the detailed implementation of lifetime community rating will be by way of secondary legislation. My Department has initiated work on the preparation of these regulations and they will be introduced as soon as is practicable. The introduction of these regulations will broaden the scope for those persons aged 65 and over who come to live in Ireland from abroad to avail of health insurance cover.

Water Fluoridation.

Dan Boyle

Ceist:

92 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of much new evidence, she will reconsider the Government policy of fluoridating water supplies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26348/04]

John Gormley

Ceist:

106 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of much new evidence, she will now reconsider the Government policy of fluoridating water supplies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26577/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 92 and 106 together.

A forum on fluoridation was established to review the fluoridation of public piped water supplies in Ireland. The forum report's main conclusion was that the fluoridation of public piped water supplies should continue as a public health measure.

The report of the forum on fluoridation made 33 recommendations covering a broad range of topics such as research, public awareness, policy and technical aspects of fluoridation and the establishment of an expert body to oversee the implementation of the recommendations. The expert body, to be known as the Irish expert body on fluorides and health, was set up earlier this year. The terms of reference of the expert body are: to oversee the implementation of the recommendations of the forum on fluoridation; to advise the Minister and evaluate ongoing research — including new emerging issues — on all aspects of fluoride and its delivery methods as an established health technology and as required; to report to the Minister on matters of concern at his-her request or on its own initiative.

The expert body has broad representation, including from the areas of public health medicine, engineering, management, environmental protection, environmental health, dentistry, and health promotion. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the body has a strong consumer input in terms of members of the public and representatives of consumer interests, in addition to the necessary scientific, managerial and public health inputs. The expert body will oversee the implementation of the wide-ranging recommendations of the forum and advise me on all aspects of fluoride.

Question No. 93 answered with QuestionNo. 43.
Question No. 94 answered with QuestionNo. 35.

Health Action Plan.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Ceist:

95 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she is committed to increasing spending in order to implement properly the health strategy 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26346/04]

The total funding provided for the health services in the Revised Estimates Volume 2004 was €10.08 billion. This provided for €9,570 million current funding, a rise of 9% over the outturn 2003, and €510 million capital funding, approximately. Since 2001 the total increase in the Health Estimate has been €1,093 million, based on Revised Estimates 2002. This increase in funding has allowed the health services to address care areas outlined in the programme for Government 2002 and the health strategy 2001, such as acute hospitals, disability services and services for older people, progressing towards the highest quality of care for service users. Discussions are continuing between the Minister for Finance and myself in regard to the 2005 Estimates.

Question No. 96 answered with QuestionNo. 17.

Departmental Properties.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

97 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the way in which it is intended to dispose of the land, in regard to the announcement by the Minister of State in July last regarding the sale of hundreds of acres of land from the country’s biggest psychiatric hospitals; the names of the hospitals in question; if these hospitals have been consulted regarding the proposed land sale; if all such moneys will be ring-fenced for investment in the psychiatric services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26324/04]

Earlier this year, my Department requested health boards to provide it with detailed schedules of all proposals regarding planned disposal of property. The sale of assets in the health area will be used for health purposes, with the exception of a contribution towards social and affordable housing.

The information received from the health boards in response to this request is being examined at present. Among the matters to be considered in this context is the fulfilment of my Department's obligations in respect of the provision of lands for affordable housing. I believe it would be inappropriate to provide further details in advance of the completion of this process.

With regard to establishing the extent of the total surplus properties available to the health services, it will be necessary to carry out a professional assessment/evaluation of the entire health estate. This issue will be addressed by a group of senior officials of my Department in the near future.

Health Reform Programme.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

98 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date with regard to implementation of the recommendations of the Hanly report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26315/04]

The Government is committed to implementing the Hanly report in a way that will command the confidence of people in each region. Implementation of some of the report's key proposals has been hampered by industrial action taken by hospital consultants. My predecessor appointed implementation groups in the two phase 1 regions, and an acute hospitals review group to develop a national hospitals plan. These groups have not been able to meet due to the non-participation of consultants.

Work on other elements of the Hanly proposals is progressing. Detailed assessments have been prepared of the service and resource implications of the forthcoming reduction in non-consultant hospital doctors', NCHDs, working hours in each health agency. Negotiations with the Irish Medical Organisation on the reduction in NCHD hours required under the European working time directive are continuing in the Labour Relations Commission. Local implementation groups for this purpose are being established in eight hospitals as part of an agreed pilot process.

The sub-group of the national task force on medical staffing which dealt with medical education and training issues has remained in place. The group has been asked to examine and report to me on the measures required to accommodate NCHD training in all postgraduate programmes and safeguard both training and service delivery during the transition to a 48-hour working week. The group has agreed a joint approach to training with the medical training bodies and the Medical Council, and has provided formal advice on the provision of medical education and training in a 58-hour working week.

Consultant contract negotiations are paused pending resolution of issues related to medical indemnity arrangements. However, significant preparatory work has been undertaken in anticipation of substantive negotiations with the medical organisations.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

99 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when legislation will be introduced to provide for the four new health service regions, announced by her predecessor on 28 September 2004; the proposed powers of the new regions; the provision there will be for democratic accountability in the new structures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26312/04]

The Government's decision of June 2003 on the health services reform programme, will consolidate the multiplicity of different structures within a single agency, the Health Service Executive, HSE. To that end, I propose to submit a new Health Bill to Government shortly which will deal with the establishment of the Health Service Executive.

The new Health Bill will also provide for the establishment of regional forums by me as the Minister for Health and Children, following consultation with the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Members will be nominated to the forums by the city and county councils in each forum's functional area. The objective of the regional forums will be to enable informed dialogue and consultation between the Health Service Executive and the public at local level. The operation of the regional forums will complement the role of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children in reflecting the views of public representatives in the ongoing oversight of the health system.

The board of the interim Health Service Executive was set up last November. Under its establishment order, the interim executive has responsibility, subject to ministerial approval, to plan the establishment of a national unified structure for the delivery of health services. This includes responsibility for the integration of the management, administrative and service delivery structures of the health boards.

The Government decision provided that the primary, continuing and community care directorate, to be established within the HSE, would be supported by a network of four regional health offices, and the existing community care areas based on 32 local health offices.

On foot of proposals from the interim Health Service Executive, the former Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Martin, on 28 September 2004 jointly announced with Mr. Kevin Kelly, executive chairman of the interim HSE, the four regional areas of the HSE.

As proposed by the interim Health Service Executive, the local health office will be the primary service delivery unit in each community, and the regional health offices will co-ordinate services where they span more than one local area and will be responsible for performance management, translating national policies through the local areas and gathering and relaying information on a regional basis. Interaction with local communities and their elected public representatives will also be a part of their functions. It is envisaged that they will employ somewhere in the region of 25 to 35 staff.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Damien English

Ceist:

100 Mr. English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the cervical screening programme established in the mid-west has successfully screened high risk groups; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26229/04]

A pilot cervical screening programme commenced in October 2000 and is available to eligible women resident in the Mid-Western Health Board region. Under the programme, cervical screening is being offered, free of charge, to approximately 74,000 women in the 25 to 60 age group, on a structured call and recall basis, at five year intervals. All women in the age cohort are eligible to avail of the programme.

The aim of the cervical screening programme is to detect abnormal pre-cancerous conditions in asymptotic women which, if left untreated, may become cancerous. To date, 45,000 women have availed of screening. The vast majority of women participating are aged 25-44 years.

Vaccination Programme.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

101 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department has made inquiries or reached conclusions regarding the reason such large variations in the vaccination rates exist between different regions of the country. [26221/04]

In Ireland, immunisation uptake is routinely calculated on a quarterly basis among children at 12 and 24 months of age. The latest figures available from the National Disease Surveillance Centre for immunisation uptake relate to the second quarter of 2004. The statistics relate to children who have received three doses of vaccines against diphtheria, pertussis, tetanus, Hib — Haemophilus Influenzae Type B, polio, and meningococcal group C; and one dose of vaccine against measles, mumps, and rubella, MMR1.

In Quarter 2, 2004, the national uptake rate for vaccines against diptheria, pertussis, tetanus, Hib and polio was 88-89% at 24 months — Table 1. The uptake rate for menC vaccine was 87% and the uptake rate for MMR1 was 81%. Two health boards reached the target rate of 95% uptake for diptheria and tetanus. One of these health boards also reached the target rate of 95% for pertussis and polio.

Table 1 Immunisation uptake rates by health board in Quarter 2-2004.

D3

P3

T3

Hib3

Polio3

MenC

MMR1

%

%

%

%

%

%

%

ERHA

86

86

86

86

86

84

76

MHB

93

92

93

93

93

93

91

MWHB

89

88

89

89

89

88

84

NEHB

95

94

95

94

94

93

84

NWHB

95

95

95

94

95

94

87

SEHB

91

90

91

91

91

90

86

SHB

87

86

87

87

87

86

82

WHB

90

90

90

90

90

86

76

IRELAND

89

88

89

89

89

87

81

D3 = Diptheria, P3 = Pertussis, T3 = Tetanus.

Hib3 = Haemophilus Influenzae Type B.

MenC = Meningococcal Disease Group C.

MMR = Measles, Mumps, Rubella.

Uptake, particularly in relation to MMR, falls short of the national target of 95%. I am concerned about the unsatisfactory immunisation uptake rates in childhood immunisations because of the risk of non-immunised children contracting the potentially serious diseases concerned. The outbreak of measles in 2000, which resulted in three deaths and approximately 2,000 cases, is evidence of the consequences of insufficient immunisation uptake.

There is concern among some parents in relation to the measles, mumps and rubella, MMR, vaccine. Negative coverage on this issue has added to the confusion of parents in deciding whether or not to vaccinate their children. In April 2002, the MMR vaccine discussion pack, an information guide for health professionals and parents, was launched. The pack was produced by the NDSC and the Department of Public Health, Southern Health Board, and was published by HeBE on behalf of the health boards. The pack sets out the facts in relation to the most common concerns about MMR in a way that will help health professionals and parents to explore these concerns together, review the evidence in relation to MMR and provide the basis for making an informed decision. The information is presented in such a way as to allow full discussion between health professionals and parents on each issue. The pack also contains an information leaflet for parents. The pack is set out in question and answer format and addresses such issues as the alleged link between MMR and autism and Crohn's disease, the safety and side effects of the vaccine, the purpose of a second dose of vaccine, combined vaccine versus single doses and contraindications to the vaccine. The pack enables health professionals to respond to the very real concerns of parents.

On a positive note, since the introduction of the national immunisation programme against group C meningococcal disease in October 2000 there has been a dramatic reduction in this disease in Ireland. The aim of this programme was to immunise all children and young people up to the age of 22 against the disease. Data provided by the NDSC indicates that between January and September 2004 five cases of the disease were notified compared to 121 cases in the same period in 2000, a reduction of 96%. This represents a very significant reduction and highlights the importance and success of the campaign.

The health board CEOs established a national immunisation steering committee to address a wide range of issues relating to the childhood and other immunisation programmes including the identification of issues that are hampering the achievement of uptake targets. The steering committee was assisted by four working groups, which examined the following areas in relation to immunisation: (a) communication; (b) materials management; (c) IT systems; and (d) planning and organisation.

The report of the steering committee was launched in April 2002. This report is an important step towards improving immunisation uptake and also enhancing and developing the key systems which underpin the immunisation programmes. In July 2003, a national immunisation implementation group was established and is responsible for co-ordinating the planning and implementation of immunisation programmes in order to improve uptake. This group reports to the national steering committee.

Following consideration of proposals in relation to childhood immunisation which were submitted by the national implementation group through the Health Boards Executive, HeBE, on behalf of the health boards, €2.116 million was allocated by my Department in 2003 to fund initiatives to improve childhood immunisation uptake. A further €2.778 million has been allocated for that purpose this year. Funding in the region of €800,000 has been allocated to health boards via HeBE specifically for regional and localised projects which will focus on measures to improve immunisation uptake.

In 2003, CEOs in all health boards and the ERHA were asked to ensure that specific immunisation measures were prioritised in all regions in order to prevent a serious measles outbreak. Health boards have undertaken a range of measures in their regions to improve vaccine uptake in their region. These include: information sessions for professionals, for example, doctors and nurses in the area; information sessions for parents; distribution of information to the public e.g. leaflets on MMR available in public areas; advertisements taken out in local papers; advertisements on local radio stations; advice regarding immunisation, including MMR, forms part of every public health nurse consultation with parents; information leaflets displayed prominently in all health centres; information given to schools regarding the booster MMR; follow up of parents by letter and telephone where children have not been vaccinated; follow up with GPs and nurses regarding children in their area who have not been vaccinated; and information sessions for staff.

I would like to take this opportunity to again urge all parents to have their children immunised against the diseases covered by the childhood immunisation programme in order to ensure that both their children and the population generally have maximum protection against the diseases concerned.

Question No. 102 answered with QuestionNo. 26.

Health Board Services.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

103 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress todate on the opening of the new Ballymun health centre; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26203/04]

The former Eastern Health Board and its successors the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the Northern Area Health Board, in conjunction with Ballymun Regeneration Limited — a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dublin City Council — proceeded with the development of Ballymun primary care centre in the absence of my Department's involvement or approval; consequently, my Department must conduct an evaluation of this project. The Deputy will appreciate that a detailed examination of this development is a fundamental requirement for those who are accountable for approving it.

My Department commenced an evaluation of this project when the ERHA and the NAHB sought funding last year for the provision and fit-out of these facilities — as construction work approached completion on site. This evaluation is ongoing and to date, it has concentrated on confirming all necessary compliance with relevant obligations in respect of public procurement. The evaluation must also address the normal criteria applicable to health capital developments, including the scope, the functional content and the overall funding requirements of the project, particularly the recurrent non-capital element involved in this case.

On satisfactory completion of this evaluation my Department will be in a position to make a recommendation in respect of the provision of funding for this project. My Department is making every effort to bring this matter to a conclusion and is continuing to work closely with the ERHA to resolve the outstanding issues as quickly as possible.

Mental Health Services.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

104 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the call made by Mental Health Ireland for the establishment of a national strategy on mental health; if it is intended to respond to this call; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26325/04]

The National Health Promotion Strategy 2000-2005 recognises that mental health is equally important as physical health to the overall well being of a person and poor mental health has a significant impact on a person's quality of life and their contribution to society. For that reason mental health is a resource that needs to be protected and promoted.

An expert group on mental health policy has recently been set up to develop a national policy framework for mental health. On foot of submissions made to the expert group, a sub-group on mental health promotion and the prevention of mental ill-health has been established to examine the issues around the promotion of positive mental health. It is envisaged that the group will make recommendations, based on best practice and current policy, for the inclusion for mental health promotion and prevention of mental ill health in the new national policy framework, as well as identifying and recommending priority areas for action. The expert group is due to report in 2005.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

105 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason school transport charges have risen so steeply in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if her attention has been drawn to the huge increase in payment being sought for transport and that a family on social welfare cannot afford such payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26473/04]

The provision of transport for people with disabilities is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, a copy of the Deputy's question has been forwarded to the chief executive officer, Western Health Board, with a request that she examine the case and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Question No. 106 answered with QuestionNo. 92.

Medical Cards.

Jerry Cowley

Ceist:

107 Dr. Cowley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she can increase the financial threshold in order that the 200,000 extra medical cards promised can be delivered, and that those on the minimum wage have a medical card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26673/04]

The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage as set out in the health strategy. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.

Income guidelines are drawn up each year by the health board-authority chief executive officers to assist in the determination of a person's eligibility for a medical card and these are revised annually in line with the consumer price index. The last such increase was notified in January 2004.

For those who do not qualify for a medical card there are a number of schemes that provide assistance towards the cost of medication. Under the long-term illness scheme persons suffering from a number of conditions can obtain the drugs and medicines required for the treatment of that condition free of charges. Under the drug payments scheme, a person and his-her dependants will not have to pay more than €78 in any calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.

Health board chief executive officers have discretion in relation to the issuing of medical cards and a range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Despite someone having an income that exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that a person's medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship.

The health strategy includes a whole series of initiatives to clarify and expand the existing arrangements for eligibility for health services, including recommendations arising from the review of the medical card scheme carried out by the health board CEOs under the PPF which include: streamlining applications and improving the standardisation of the medical card applications process to ensure better fairness and transparency; providing clearer information to people about how and where to apply for medical cards; and proactively seeking out those who should have medical cards to ensure they have access to the services that are available.

In addition, my Department is committed to the preparation of new legislation to update and codify the whole legal framework for eligibility and entitlements in regard to health services.

Question No. 108 answered with QuestionNo. 66.

Genetically Modified Organisms.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

109 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has had discussions with the Office of Consumer Affairs and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland concerning prosecuting and fining companies that falsely label food products as being free of genetically modified ingredients; if her attention has been drawn to claims from the FSAI that several companies have labelled products as genetically modified free in spite of the fact that FSAI tests indicated that genetically modified ingredients were present in the foods; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20092/04]

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland, FSAI, is the competent authority in Ireland for the enforcement of EU legislation regarding food derived from genetically modified organisms, GMOs, generally referred to as GM food. This includes the enforcement of food labelling provisions for which the FSAI carries out checks on the market place for compliance.

Ireland, in common with other member states and as required by EU rules, applies EU legislation on GM foods. EU legislation on GM foods is in the form of EU regulations which are directly applicable to and binding on each member state. My Department is currently working on introducing measures into national legislation which will allow for enforcement measures including penalties in the case of non-compliance with the recently adopted EU regulations.

The regulation on GM food and feed — EC No. 1829/2003 — shifts the basis for labelling from presence-detection of genetically modified DNA or protein, to apply to any products produced or derived from GM material, regardless of the presence-detectability of genetically modified material. In order to ensure the practicability and feasibility of this regulation, a labelling threshold applies to foods containing material which contains, consists of or is produced from GMOs. The threshold applies to the adventitious and technically unavoidable presence of authorised genetically modified material in a proportion no higher than 0.9 % of the food ingredients considered individually or food consisting of a single ingredient.

This threshold recognises that despite the fact that some operators avoid using GMOs, such material may gain access to conventional food and feed in minute traces as a result of adventitious or technically unavoidable co-mingling during production, cultivation, harvest, transport, storage or processing.

The FSAI has in the past identified certain products bearing labels identifying the product as GM-free when in fact a level of GM was present, albeit lower than the 0.9% threshold. Currently the FSAI is specifically examining foods carrying GM-free type labels with a view to the authenticity of such labels. Article 2 of Directive 2000/13/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 20 March 2000 on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to the labelling, presentation and advertising of foodstuffs, provides that labelling must not mislead the purchaser as to the characteristics of the foodstuff and in particular, as to its nature, identity, properties, composition, method of production and manufacturing. The use of GM-free type labelling is voluntary and legal when no GM ingredients are present in a food where GM ingredients could be found. However, it is not legal under the general labelling directive to label something as GM-free when there is actually no GM variety of that food or ingredient available as this could mislead the purchaser. For example, labelling milk as GM free is not legal since there is no GM milk available. The views of the FSAI on GM-free labels and the actions taken to address the problem have received the support of many other member states and the European Commission at Standing Committee level.

The FSAI is actively engaging with retailers to address the problem of foods inaccurately labelled as GM-free, an approach that is also being used in addressing other labelling inaccuracies. This approach places the onus on the retailer to remove specific affected batches from the shelves and to liaise with their suppliers in order to either rectify any labelling inaccuracies or have that product line restricted or discontinued. In this way inaccurate labelling can be more quickly addressed without the immediate need for legal action which would tie up scarce resources for long periods.

The FSAI is constantly engaged in educating industry as to the implications of the recent changes in EU regulations on GMOs, including the issue of labelling. To this end, and in conjunction with Departments and industry organisations, the FSAI is formulating a guidance note for industry which will highlight the impact of the legislation with regard to GMOs and all derived products.

It must be stressed that no product consisting of, containing or derived from GMOs can be authorised for marketing without first having undergone the appropriate safety assessment. Consequently, 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. Consumer safety and consumer choice are paramount in the approach taken to GM foods, as reflected in the extent of the legislation developed to deal with this sensitive area. Government policy on GM foods is based on the advice that no credible evidence has yet been provided to show that GM foods pose a risk to human health.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

110 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the European Commission decision to authorise the marketing of a genetically modified form of sweetcorn, thus ending the six-year ban on new genetically modified foods in the EU; her further views on the consequences of this decision for the marketing of more genetically modified foods throughout the EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [20091/04]

On 19 May 2004, the European Commission authorised the placing on the market of sweetcorn from genetically modified maize line Bt11. The significance of this decision is that granting the approval in this case ended an almost six year de facto moratorium during which no new GM events, be they food, feed or the deliberate release of crops, were approved within the EU.

This decision taken by the Commission was the result of the decision making process known as comitology. In order to grant Community authorisation, a draft Commission decision was submitted to the Standing Committee on Food Chain and Animal Health on 8 December 2003. However the necessary qualified majority was not achieved. Under comitology rules it was then necessary for the Commission to put forward a proposal to Council for a vote on the application. If Council were to fail to come to a decision or fail to act on the proposal within three months of having received it the proposal would then revert back to the Commission for a decision. The proposal was put on the agenda of the Agriculture Council on April 26 in order for Council to meet its obligation to act before the end of April 2004. However, the Agriculture Council did not achieve a qualified majority either for or against the proposal. Consequently, on 19 May 2004, the European Commission authorised the placing on the market of sweet corn from genetically modified maize line Bt11.

Ireland, represented by the Department of Health and Children at the Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health and by the Department of Agriculture and Food at the Agriculture Council, supported this proposal. Ireland's decision to support the proposal was taken after consultation with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, FSAI, and was based on the scientific risk assessment undertaken on this product, initially by the Netherlands' food assessment body and subsequently by the EU Scientific Committee on Food which concluded that Bt11 sweet maize is as safe for human food use as conventional sweet maize.

The FSAI is the competent authority in Ireland for the legislation governing GM food. It does not give blanket approval to GM foods but individually evaluates, on its own merits, each application to place a new GM food on the EU market. The FSAI is satisfied that based on the best scientific evidence available, all of the GM foods and ingredients currently on the EU market are as safe as those derived from their non-GM counterparts.

The authorisation of Bt11 follows upon the introduction in November 2003, of Regulation (EC) No 1829/2003 on GM Food and Feed which replaces the GM part of the Novel Food Regulation (EC) No 258/97, and heralded the completion of the new tranche of EU legislation in the area of GMOs. The objective of this regulation, in accordance with the general principles laid down in European food safety legislation, is to provide the basis for ensuring a high level of protection of human life and health, animal health and welfare, environment and consumer interests in relation to GM food and feed, while ensuring the effective functioning of the internal market. Also introduced at that time was Regulation (EC) No 1830/2003 on traceability and labelling of GMOs and traceability of food and feed produced from GMOs. The objective of this regulation is to provide for an improved labelling and traceability framework for GM-food and GM-feed and came into effect in April 2004. It aims to respond to citizens' demands for more and better information on GMOs, and the need to facilitate the freedom of choice between new and more traditional food products. There are eight current applications for authorisation of GM foods. It is expected that of these eight, only maize lines NK603, GA21 and MON 863 will follow the approvals procedure under Regulation (EC) No. 258/97. Any future applications will follow the approvals procedure set out under Regulation (EC) No. 1829/2003.

Food Poisoning.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

111 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the recent increase in the number of cases of food poisoning caused by salmonella Newport in Northern Ireland; if she will take steps to keep the public reminded of the need for constant vigilance in the preparation, handling and storage of food; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24510/04]

The National Disease Surveillance Centre, NDSC, plays a key role in relation to the prevention and management of infectious diseases in this country. Information provided by the NDSC indicates that salmonella Newport is an uncommon variety of salmonella. It accounts for about 1-2% of all salmonella infection in Europe but it is responsible for a considerably higher proportion of infection in the United States. It produces the same symptoms as other strains of salmonella including diarrhoea, vomiting and fever. Most cases of illness are mild and short lived, if unpleasant. While a significant minority of cases are ill enough to require hospitalisation, life-threatening illness and death are rare. Salmonella infection usually results from undercooked foods, especially eggs, poultry and pork, or by cross-contamination from raw to prepared food.

The current outbreak of salmonella Newport in the United Kingdom came to light when an increase in this relatively rare salmonella was noticed by the UK Health Protection Agency, HPA. The authorities have established epidemiological evidence indicating that the illness has been associated with consumption of lettuce from restaurants, fast food and take away premises. However, this has not been confirmed by identification of the bacteria from food samples analysed.

In response to evidence which suggested that the lettuce implicated in the UK outbreak was supplied to catering premises only and not to retail traders, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland took the precautionary step of issuing detailed advice to caterers preparing lettuce. Food businesses were also reminded of the need to maintain good hand washing practices and hygiene practices in kitchens in order to minimise the risk of causing this type of illness.

The NDSC and the interim national salmonella reference laboratory in Galway have been monitoring the situation closely. One case of salmonella Newport, associated with the United Kingdom outbreak, has been diagnosed in the Republic of Ireland. The patient, a resident of the Republic of Ireland, had consumed food in Northern Ireland and the illness was diagnosed on returning home. Two other cases of Salmonella Newport earlier in the year in the Republic of Ireland were associated with overseas travel and are not part of the United Kingdom outbreak.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

112 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her approach to a recommendation from the Disability Federation of Ireland that a cost of disability payment should be introduced for persons with a disability currently in receipt of a means-tested social welfare payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23315/04]

Under the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, an interdepartmental working group, chaired by the Department of Health and Children, was established to examine the feasibility of introducing a cost of disability payment — PPF3.10.11.

The National Disability Authority, on behalf of the working group, and in line with its own remit, commissioned research into the feasibility of such a payment in Ireland. The purpose of this research was to advise regarding the additional costs incurred by people with disabilities, owing specifically to the direct or indirect costs of the disability and the appropriate mechanisms or instruments by which to address identified additional costs. The resultant report, Disability and the Cost of Living, was published by the NDA early in 2004.

The working group produced a position paper in March this year, which gave an overview of the work it had undertaken. It outlined the group's current thinking and also gave an indication of the next steps the group intends taking. The working group recommends that urgent steps should be taken to improve the quality of data relating to disability in Ireland. This might include, for example, adjustment of existing data gathering exercises undertaken by the Central Statistics Office or other relevant bodies to include questions on the numbers per household with disabilities, the nature of the disability, severity of impairment, etc. The working group considers that it is vital that comprehensive data should be available on which to base consideration of the feasibility of a cost of disability payment. Given its advisory and research remit, the working group considers that the National Disability Authority has an important role to play in addressing these data gaps along with other relevant bodies.

The working group acknowledges that a number of Departments and agencies have previously carried out reviews of the various supports-payments for people with disabilities. However, these reviews have tended to focus solely on the operation of individual schemes, without taking a broader view of how these measures fit into the overall system of disability supports. The working group proposes to examine the scope for rationalising and streamlining the various disability supports measures, with a focus on mitigating the additional costs of disability for a greater number of people with disabilities, particularly in the case of those who wish to move from total welfare dependence to greater economic independence. The working group is following up these various matters.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

113 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the high cost of hospitalisation for long-stay children, she has plans to amend the terms of the domiciliary care allowance, which is discontinued when a child who normally lives at home is absent from the home for eight weeks or more; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23322/04]

The domiciliary care allowance, DCA, was introduced in 1973 by way of circular 24/73 and is payable under section 61 of the Health Act 1970. DCA is a monthly allowance administered by health boards and may be paid in respect of eligible children from birth to the age of 16 who have a severe disability requiring continual or continuous care and attention, which is substantially in excess of that normally required by a child of the same age. The condition must be likely to last for at least one year.

Eligibility is determined primarily by reference to the degree of additional care and attention required by the child rather than to the type of disability involved, subject to the means test. While no condition is debarred, conditions such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy are not normally considered unless significant additional care and attention is required. Since the allowance is intended as a recognition of the additional burden involved in caring for children with a severe disability in the their homes, it does not apply to children who are maintained full time in residential homes, schools or other institutions. Eligible children in part-time residential care who go home at weekends or holidays may receive a pro rata payment, that is, a nightly rate based on the number of nights spent at home — nightly rate is equal to the monthly rate multiplied by 12 and divided by 365. However, the allowance is paid in full in cases where eligible children who live full time at home are absent for periods of not more than eight weeks in a 12-month period, that is, hospital admissions or respite. There are no plans to amend the terms of the DCA in this regard.

Hospital Accommodation.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

114 Mr. Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the proposed development of the new hospital at Dingle. [26417/04]

The provision of health services in the Kerry area is a matter for the Southern Health Board. The board, in consultation with my Department decided, to build a new 72-bed community hospital in Dingle, County Kerry, to replace the existing hospital. The new hospital will comprise a mix of beds for continuing care, rehabilitation-convalescent, respite, palliative care beds and beds that will be used for direct admissions by the local GP-primary care team. In addition, there will be a central module, a day care unit, a mental health day care unit and an ambulance base.

The next step in the progressing of the Dingle project to construction is to invite tenders for the construction of the project. A decision on progressing this project will be considered by my Department in the context of the significant additional revenue funding and staff that will be required by the board to operate the new hospital and having regard to the board's employment ceiling and funding available to my Department.

Proposed Legislation.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

115 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she intends to introduce the long awaited human tissue legislation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26418/04]

An EU directive on standards of quality and safety in relation to human tissues and cells was adopted on 31 March 2004. The directive sets minimum standards with regard to the donation, procurement, testing, processing, storage and distribution of human tissues and cells for human applications. The directive must be transposed in member states by 6 April 2006 and this will give Ireland a framework on which to build the legislative base for all such activities. Work has commenced on the drafting of legislation to transpose the directive and on identifying the other steps to be taken to ensure compliance with it.

The European Commission is considering the question of a directive in respect of organ transplantation, including the issue of consent, and proposes to conduct a thorough scientific evaluation of the situation. It will present a report on its analysis to the Council of the European Union as soon as possible. It is hoped this will provide the framework for the development of legislation in this area. In the meantime, it is intended to establish an expert group to review organ donation, procurement and utilisation policy in Ireland. The work of this group will inform Ireland's contribution to the discussions on the proposed directive on organs.

Health Board Services.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

116 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason incorrect information was sent out in reply to Question No. 848 of 29 September 2004 by the Western Health Board relating to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will investigate this matter in full. [26419/04]

The provision of hospital services for people resident in County Mayo is the responsibility of the Western Health Board. I understand from the board that the appointment for the person in question had to be deferred due to unanticipated leave by the consultant ophthalmic surgeon and a letter was issued to the person on 7 October 2004 with a new appointment date of 18 November 2004. The board regrets any distress caused to the person due to this rescheduling.

Vaccination Programme.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

117 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the way in which her Department independently monitors and screens vaccines imported into Ireland in order to provide safeguards against contamination. [26420/04]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

118 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if contaminated stocks of a drug (details supplied) were distributed in the State prior to the notification given to the Irish Medical Board on 9 September 2004 of sterility problems with the product; the steps which were taken to prevent distribution of the contaminated drug; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26421/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 117 and 118 together.

The Irish Medicines Board, IMB, is the national competent authority responsible for the licensing of the manufacture, preparation, importation, distribution and sale of all medicinal products for use in Ireland.

There are inspectors in each competent authority in Europe. If the manufacturing site is in Ireland, inspectors from the IMB inspect to see that the products are made to the appropriate quality and, if so, issue the manufacturing licence, which is recognised by the rest of Europe. In the case of the flu vaccine, the manufacturing site is in the UK and, therefore, the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency, MHRA, inspectors inspect the manufacturing site and grant, suspend etc., the manufacturing licence. The UK inspectors inform the Irish Medicines Board of their findings as necessary. Apart from the quality controls at the manufacturing site, after a batch of vaccine is released from the manufacturing site but before it reaches the Irish market, it is a condition of the licence that, "No batch shall be marketed in Ireland unless first released in accordance with Article 4 of Directive 89/342/EEC." This means a batch of vaccine cannot be imported or used in Ireland unless first released by an independent control agency. No stocks of Fluvirin vaccine manufactured at the Chiron site in Liverpool arrived in Ireland. There are no quality relating to the influenza vaccine, Agrippal, that came to Ireland from the Chiron manufacturing site in Italy.

Child Care Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

119 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children about the discussions taking place with the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety in Northern Ireland on the establishment of a North-South child protection forum; the progress which has been made on same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26422/04]

No discussions have taken place. An initial meeting has been arranged for 17 November 2004.

Medical Cards.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

120 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps which can be taken as a matter of urgency to allow free medical attention to low income families which are currently denied access to medical attention as a result of too low an eligibility threshold for the medical card. [26423/04]

The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage, as set out in the health strategy. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.

Income guidelines are drawn up each year by the health board-authority chief executive officers to assist in the determination of a person's eligibility for a medical card and these are revised annually in line with the consumer price index, CPI. The last such increase was notified in January 2004. A number of schemes provide assistance towards the cost of medication for those who do not qualify for a medical card. Under the long-term illness scheme, persons suffering from a number of conditions can obtain the drugs and medicines required for the treatment of that condition free of charges. Under the drug payments scheme, a person and his-her dependants will not have to pay more than €78 in a calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.

Health board chief executive officers have discretion regarding the issuing of medical cards and a range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Despite someone having an income that exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that a person's medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship.

The health strategy includes a series of initiatives to clarify and expand the existing arrangements for eligibility for health services, including recommendations arising from the review of the medical card scheme carried out by the health board CEOs under the PPF, which include streamlining applications and improving the standardisation of the medical card applications process to ensure better fairness and transparency; providing clearer information to people about how and where to apply for medical cards; and proactively seeking out those who should have medical cards to ensure they have access to the services that are available. In addition, my Department is committed to the preparation of new legislation to update and codify the entire legal framework for eligibility and entitlements in regard to health services.

Hospital Services.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

121 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps which will be taken, given the demands of the working time directive, to provide extra training places and institutional support for doctors and other medical professionals. [26424/04]

The report of the national task force on medical staffing — Hanly report — sets out the changes needed in NCHD work patterns; a series of reforms in medical education and training, the number of additional consultants needed and how they should work under a significantly revised contract. The report emphasised that change could not be achieved without reform of acute hospital services. While additional medical training places will be required to implement the restructuring the ratio of consultants to non-consultant hospital doctors, it is not anticipated that additional training places will be required specifically to meet the requirements of the directive.

Following the publication of the Hanly report, the medical education and training group, MET, which formed part of the task force, remained in place to ensure NCHDs can access high quality training while the EWTD is being implemented. The group comprises representatives from the Medical Council, health employers, various statutory agencies and the IMO. The MET group published a set of training principles agreed with the Medical Council, each of the postgraduate training bodies and the Department in July 2004. The agreed principles will be used by employers and training bodies when discussing new rosters — both at national and local level. Local implementation groups will be tasked with progressing the principles, which are available on the Department's website at www.doh.ie. Separately, the DOHC and the Irish higher surgical trainees group have agreed a series of rostering principles for higher specialist trainees in surgery. These are available on the website.

The group has been asked to examine and report to me on the measures required to accommodate NCHD training in all postgraduate training programmes within a 48-hour working week; facilitate NCHDs in addressing skills deficits, which may hinder entry to the specialist register; safeguard both training and service delivery during the transition to a 48-hour working week; identify the barriers to improving graduate retention; address obstacles to the conduct of academic health research; and improve access to international training opportunities for Irish doctors in training.

The group has also been asked to consider and make recommendations on issues relating to competence-based specialist training; the role of the university sector in postgraduate medical education and training; and the implications of the draft EU directive on the recognition of professional qualifications as it relates to medical practitioners. The group will engage closely with the appropriate section of the Department of Health and Children to assist it in accommodating the integrated education and training functions proposed by the task force within the structures announced by the Government in June 2003, following publication of the Brennan and Prospectus reports. It is anticipated that the group will report before the end of the year.

Approval in principle was recently given to the allocation of more than €5 million, under various headings, to support the implementation of the European working time directive. These broad headings include projects to enhance medical education and training in association with training colleges, the Medical Council, etc; enhanced medical education and training facilities on hospital sites; support for health service agencies in implementing the EWTD; priority projects under the remit of the national co-ordinator for EWTD implementation; and educational and recruitment supports.

Significant work is being undertaken in the context of industrial relations negotiations to progress issues relating to how rosters are designed and implemented in hospitals. It is my hope that all these measures will ensure doctors are fully supported in terms of training in a reduced working hours environment.

Health Board Staff.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

122 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has plans to develop a network of social workers dedicated to the care of older persons in the community, as a method of integrating the piecemeal provision of public health nurse, home help and other services directed at the care of older persons; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26425/04]

As the Deputy may be aware, the primary care strategy, Primary Care: A New Direction, proposes the delivery of a broad range of generalist services in the community by interdisciplinary primary care teams and primary care networks with a whole population approach. Patients will have direct access to general practitioners, nursing, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers, who will work together as a team to provide a patient-centred service in the local community. These services will be provided to the community as a whole, including older people.

There is evidence that health care professionals working together as a team within the primary care setting represents the most appropriate, effective and user-friendly approach to the organisation of services. The introduction of a multidisciplinary primary care team within a community can enable people to be maintained at home in times of crisis, reduce emergency admissions and shorten lengths of hospital stay. Primary care teams will establish appropriate linkages and relationships with existing specialist community teams, which will enable the team to act as a single and ongoing point of contact in accessing required specialist services.

Medical Cards.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

123 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has plans to restore the 5,565 medical cards which have been removed from persons in County Kerry since 1 January 1997; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26426/04]

The determination of eligibility of applications for medical card is a matter by legislation for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. Assessment of eligibility is based upon the applicants' incomes and their medical needs. Applicants have the right of appeal in cases of refusal and are normally advised of this by their local health board.

Generally, the reduction in recent years in the number of medical cards may be attributed to the increase in the number of people in employment and also the improved economic situation nationally. Another factor which affects this area is the review by health boards of medical card databases. Since 2003 this has led to the removal of more than 100,000 inappropriate entries from these databases. Reasons for deletions included duplicate entries, change of address, cases where the medical card holder is deceased, ineligibility due to changed circumstances and normal reviews.

The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage, as set out in the programme for Government. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

124 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a directive or instruction has been issued from her Department to the health boards in recent years relating to discretionary medical cards; if so, the nature and content of such directive or instructions; if the number of discretionary medical cards awarded by health boards has reduced considerably in recent years; if she has asked health boards to clamp down on issuing discretionary medical cards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26427/04]

An agreement was reached with the Irish Medical Organisation in July 2001 in respect of a special allowance to be paid to general practitioners for each person on their GMS panels who hold a discretionary medical card. The notional number at that time was 20,000. A letter issued to chief executive officers of health boards in April 2002 on the definition of a discretionary card for the purpose of this special payment. It stated that the definition was to cover persons whose income exceeded the income guidelines and whose medical condition required a GP visitation rate significantly above the norm that would result in increased costs. The chief executive officers were reminded of this definition in July 2002 and asked to ensure the numbers of cards in this category met the qualifying criteria. A subgroup of health board officials, led by HeBE and in consultation with my Department, is considering the issue.

My Department has requested information from the health boards on the number of discretionary cards issued in each county in recent years. All the responses have not been received. Upon receipt of this information, it may be possible to identify a change in numbers. No instruction was issued regarding who should be given a discretionary medical card, as this is the statutory responsibility of the chief executive officer of each health board-authority.

Cruelty to Animals.

Trevor Sargent

Ceist:

125 Mr. Sargent asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will withdraw licences for the collecting of frogs for vivisection in view of the protected nature of this species. [26482/04]

Information provided to my Department indicates that frogs for use in experiments under current licences are purpose-bred abroad and are not taken from the wild. The use of live animals in experiments in Ireland is strictly controlled in accordance with the Cruelty to Animals Act 1876, as amended by the European Communities (Amendment of Cruelty to Animals Act 1876) Regulations 2002. Under the Act, an experiment shall not be performed if another scientifically satisfactory method of obtaining the result sought, not entailing the use of an animal, is reasonably and practicably available. Furthermore, the person proposing to perform the experiment must carefully consider and explain the choice of species in the licence application. I have no plans to revoke licences for the use of frogs for experimental or other scientific purposes.

Medical Cards.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

126 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the basis on which certain EU country pensioners enjoy entitlement to a medical card without a means test; if she will consider extending similar provisions to Irish persons who are suffering from a specified list of serious illnesses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26486/04]

On joining the EU, the arrangements for the co-ordination of Ireland's social security system, including health care benefits, with those of the other member states were agreed under the terms of EU Regulation 1408/71. As a consequence of these arrangements, persons taking up permanent residence in Ireland who are in receipt of a social security pension from another EU member state but not in receipt of an Irish Department of Social, Community and Family Affairs pension as a recipient or dependant and who cannot be regarded as employed or self-employed in Ireland, are entitled to receive health services free of charge and are issued with a medical card. The full costs associated with the provision of health care for such persons under the regulations are met by the country of origin.

Where the EC regulations do not apply, persons with social security pensions from another EC member state are entitled to be assessed for medical cards by the chief executive officers of the health board under the normal eligibility criteria. Entitlement to health services in Ireland is primarily based on residency and means. Under the Health Act 1970, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board. Apart from persons aged 70 and over who are automatically entitled to a medical card, medical cards are issued to persons who, in the opinion of the chief executive officer, are unable to provide general practitioner medical and surgical services for themselves and-or their dependants, such as seriously ill children, without undue hardship.

Income guidelines are drawn up each year by the health board-authority chief executive officers to assist in the determination of a person's eligibility for a medical card and these are revised annually in line with the consumer price index. However, the guidelines are not statutorily binding and, even though a person's income may exceed the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that his-her medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship.

A number of schemes provide assistance towards the cost of medication for those who do not qualify for a medical card. 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 a specified condition, for the treatment of that condition under the long-term illness scheme. The conditions are 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. A person with an eligible condition, or their parent, should contact their local health board in order to register under the scheme. Under the drug payment scheme, a person and his-her dependants will not have to pay more than €78 in a calendar month for approved prescribed drugs, medicines and appliances.

A range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Many allowances such as carer's allowance, child benefit, domiciliary care allowance, family income supplement and foster care allowance are all disregarded when determining a person's eligibility. Given these factors and the discretionary powers of the CEOs, having an income that exceeds the guidelines does not mean that a person will be ineligible for a medical card, and a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that a person's medical needs or other circumstances would justify this.

Vaccination Programme.

John Gormley

Ceist:

127 Mr. Gormley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the spokesperson of Parents of Twins Ireland (details supplied) who has called on her to reform the present vaccination system whereby doctors of State health boards are vaccinating without a thorough knowledge of their family medical history; her further views on whether there should be a thorough medical screening of all children before a vaccination is administered by a doctor; and if she will make a statement regarding a letter she has received from the group dated 30 September 2004. [26488/04]

The letter from Twins Ireland is being examined in my Department and a reply will issue shortly. However, I wish to make the following general points. The primary childhood immunisation programme, PCIP, provides for the immunisation of children against a range of potentially serious infectious diseases. The objective of the PCIP is to achieve an uptake level of 95%, which is the rate required to provide population immunity and to protect children and the population generally from the potentially serious diseases concerned. The PCIP provides for the immunisation of children up to two years of age. Under the PCIP parents may have their children immunised free of charge by the general practitioner of their choice. The schedule of immunisation is in accordance with the recommendations of the national immunisation advisory committee of the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland. The schedule was most recently revised in October 2002.

The recommended childhood immunisation schedule is as follows:

Age

Immunisation

Birth-1 month

BCG

2 months

DTaP/IPV/Hib (“5 in 1”) and MenC

4 months

DTaP/IPV/Hib (“5 in 1”) and MenC

6 months

DTaP/IPV/Hib (“5 in 1”) and MenC

12-15 months

MMR, Hib1

4-5 years

DTaP/IPV (“4 in 1”) and MMR

11-12 years

MMR (omit if 2 previous doses)

10-14 years

BCG2

11-14 years

Td

1 A single dose of Hib vaccine is also recommended if the child presents after age 13 months and has had no previous Hib vaccine

2 Only for those who are known to be tuberculin negative and have had no previous BCG.

The immunisation guidelines state that if an immunisation course is interrupted, it should be resumed as soon as possible. Children who are not immunised and are older than the recommended age should be immunised as soon as possible.

The MMR vaccine protects against measles, mumps and rubella and can be administered to children aged between 12 and 15 months. A vaccine uptake rate of 95% is required to protect children from the diseases concerned and to stop the spread of the diseases in the community. Measles, in particular, is a highly infectious and serious disease. Approximately one in 15 children who contracts measles suffers serious complications.

There is concern among parents regarding the MMR vaccine. Negative coverage on this issue has added to the confusion of parents in deciding whether to vaccinate their children. In April 2002, my predecessor launched the MMR Vaccine Discussion Pack, an information guide for health professionals and parents. The pack was produced by the NDSC and the department of public health, Southern Health Board, and was published by HeBE on behalf of the health boards. The pack sets out the facts about the most common concerns about MMR in a way that will help health professionals and parents to explore these concerns together, review the evidence regarding MMR and provide the basis for making an informed decision.

The information is presented to allow full discussion between health professionals and parents on each issue. The pack also contains an information leaflet for parents. The pack is set out in a question and answer format and addresses such issues as the alleged link between MMR and autism and Crohn's disease, the safety and side effects of the vaccine, the purpose of a second dose of vaccine, combined vaccine versus single doses and contraindications to the vaccine. The pack enables health professionals to respond to the very real concerns of parents.

There are sound public health reasons for not administering the MMR as separate vaccines. First, the scientific evidence does not support a link between MMR and autism or inflammatory bowel disease. There is no evidence that administering the three components of MMR as separate vaccines is safer. The immune system is well capable of responding to the small number of components in the MMR vaccine and there is no evidence that the component parts of the MMR vaccine interfere with each other. In any event, vaccines are designed to strengthen the immune system and not weaken it.

If the vaccines were administered separately, a child would require a total of six injections to complete the course instead of two, which could also result in an increased risk of local reactions at the injection site. The practical aspect of giving six injections means children would be unprotected for a greater time from these diseases and, therefore, would be at significantly greater risk of contracting these conditions. The protracted time involved in administering the vaccines would result in the diseases in question circulating in the community for longer. Unprotected children such as younger children, that is, children below the age of 12 months and children who are immuno-suppressed would, therefore, be at greater risk of catching the diseases concerned.

Most countries implement a two-dose MMR vaccine programme and this policy has been very successful in controlling measles where high uptake of the vaccine has been achieved. My Department's primary concern regarding immunisation is that the vaccines in use are safe and effective. Since the original publication of UK research by Dr. Andrew Wakefield about a possible causal link between MMR vaccine and autism, many researchers have investigated the proposed causal relationship and concluded that there is no link between MMR vaccine and autism or inflammatory bowel disease. In Ireland, this issue has been examined by the immunisation advisory committee of the RCPI and the Irish Medicines Board.

The conclusions are there is no evidence to support the association between MMR vaccines and the development of autism or inflammatory bowel disease and the vaccine is safer than giving the three component vaccines separately. The Oireachtas committee has also endorsed the safety of the MMR vaccine.

The international consensus from professional bodies and international organisations is that the MMR is a safe and effective vaccine. The institutions include the medical research council expert committee and the British committee on safety of medicines in the UK, the centres for disease control and prevention and the American Academy of Paediatrics in the USA as well as the World Health Organisation.

I urge all parents to have their children immunised against the diseases covered by the childhood immunisation programme to ensure both their children and the population generally have maximum protection against the diseases concerned.

Health Board Services.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

128 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the way in which a reduction of 300,000 home help hours in 2003 compares with 2002 and the implementation of strategies increasing client contributions, reductions in hours provided and waiting lists throughout the country; and if she proposes to reassess the needs of older persons in this area. [26492/04]

The provision of home help services is, in the first instance, the responsibility of the health boards and Eastern Regional Health Authority. The aim of the home help service is to enable people to remain living at home, where appropriate, who would otherwise need to be cared for in long-stay residential care and that this service is an essential support to families and informal carers. The home help service by its nature is a flexible service, which is designed to respond to clients' needs. The service is targeted at high and medium dependency clients in accordance with their assessed need. As a result, therefore, the service required in individual cases will fluctuate from time to time. Assessments are undertaken at local sector level and are carried out by public health nursing services to ensure effective prioritisation of the service.

There are a number of reasons demand for the home help service has been increasing, such as demographic factors. Approximately 6,000 additional people come into the over 65 bracket every year and there has been a proportionately higher percentage increase in the more dependent over 80 category. These factors have necessitated minor adjustments in the provision of the home help service at health board level. Although a small percentage of clients may have had their hours reduced, this has been counter-balanced by others receiving the service for the first time. I have been assured by all health boards that the provision of the home help service is organised on the basis that the most vulnerable clients are given priority.

The following table outlines the funding allocated to the home help service by health board area in 2003 and the percentage increase in funding for this service compared with 2000:

Authority/Health Board

Expenditure in 2003 on Home Help Service

Percentage Increase in Expenditure since 2000

%

Eastern Regional Health Authority

21,650,641

45.74

Midland Health Board

8,671,000

147.81

Mid-Western Health Board

9,574,315

136.62

North Eastern Health Board

8,165,391

107.05

North Western Health Board

8,347,268

131.62

South Eastern Health Board

9,196,719

155.07

Southern Health Board

31,300,000

154.47

Western Health Board

13,513,791

122.98

Total

110,419,125

The total increase in expenditure on the home help service across all health board areas since 2000 is 113.59%. An additional €3.748 million has been allocated by my Department to this service in 2004. The North Eastern Health Board overspent on its home help budget in 2002 to the sum of €800,000 and, in accordance with accountability legislation, that amount had to be drawn down against the 2003 allocation. Accordingly, the number of home help hours delivered by the board to clients in 2003 was down on the 2002 figure.

The information requested by the Deputy regarding the administration of the home help services at local level is not routinely collated by my Department. I have, therefore, requested the health boards and the authority to provide this information as a matter of urgency and I will be in contact with the Deputy again when this information is to hand.

Organ Retention.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

129 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Dunne inquiry’s investigations into maternity hospitals will be as rigorous as the investigations into paediatric hospitals; the reason it is intent on completing all work by March 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26493/04]

The Government has decided that the post mortem inquiry will conclude by 31 March next. The chairman has advised that the report of its investigations in relation to paediatric hospitals will be furnished by the end of the year. Consultations are continuing on the completion of the balance of the inquiry’s remit.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

130 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if all persons whose relatives have had pituitary glands retained by hospitals for onward transmission to pharmaceutical companies will be so informed that such retention occurred; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26494/04]

I am advised that individual hospitals have adopted differing policies on the question of contacting next of kin of deceased persons pituitary glands were retained. For example, one hospital recently made contact with next of kin to advise them that pituitary glands of deceased relatives had been retained. A number of those contacted were greatly distressed at the news. Subsequently, another hospital decided not to make direct contact with next of kin and, instead, placed notices in the newspapers inviting next of kin of patients who died during specific periods to contact the hospital if they wished to know whether glands had been retained.

Hospital Waiting Lists.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

131 Mr. Ring asked asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for a cataract operation; when they were initially placed on the waiting list for assessment and then for surgery; if this person will be called under the national treatment purchase fund; and when their surgery will be scheduled. [26495/04]

The provision of hospital services for people living in 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 in relation to this case and also to investigate the position on the national treatment purchase fund and the person's eligibility, and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Benchmarking Awards.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

132 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if general nurses, retired and employed pre-1999, are entitled to backdated benchmarking increases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26496/04]

Nurses who have retired from the health service have benefited from the benchmarking increases awarded to date. Increases due under phase 1 and phase 2 of benchmarking have been paid to pensioners who are members of the voluntary hospital superannuation scheme and the nominated health agency superannuation scheme. Nurses formerly employed by the health boards are members of the local government superannuation scheme and responsibility for payment of pensions under this scheme rests with the health boards-ERHA. Phase 1 and 2 benchmarking increases have also been paid to members of the LGSS.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

133 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when an award will be finalised for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; the reason it has taken so long to finalise the award; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26506/04]

Responsibility for the management and staffing of specific health agencies rests with the relevant chief executive officer. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive officer of the Eastern Regional Health Authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Health Board Services.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

134 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied); her views on whether the circumstances caused serious trauma to their parent and family; if she will take steps to ensure this type of issue will be stopped and dealt with in a more sensitive way in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26507/04]

General practitioners who hold general medical services contracts with local health boards are obliged to make arrangements for contact with them or their locum or deputy, for emergencies, for all hours outside of normal surgery hours. They also must register their surgery contact details with the local health board. Responsibility for the provision of services for medical card holders, including general practitioner services is a matter for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. Accordingly, my Department has referred this question to the chief executive officer of the North Eastern Health Board for investigation and direct reply.

Services for People with Disabilities.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

135 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the supports and services that are available in County Carlow for persons with autism; the autism specific schools that are available in Carlow; the funding allocated to this group; and her future plans for the services in the country. [26512/04]

Responsibility for the provision of funding for services, including support services, for persons with intellectual disability and those with autism in the Carlow area is a matter, in the first instance, for the South Eastern Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the health board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him.

Medical Cards.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

136 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason there was a 14.8% reduction in the number of medical card holders in County Mayo for the period 1997 to 2004 when the average national reduction for this period was 7.75%; and the remedial action that will be taken to restore medical card coverage in County Mayo. [26525/04]

From information available to the Department compiled by the GMS (Payments) Board, the percentage difference in medical card coverage in County Mayo for the period 1 January 1997 to 1 October 2004 was a decrease of 9.67% or 8,319 persons. The average national decrease for this period was 6.08% or 101,500. The determination of eligibility of applications for medical card is a matter by legislation for the chief executive officer of the relevant health board. Assessment of eligibility is based upon the applicant's income and his or her medical need. Applicants have the right of appeal in cases of refusal and are normally advised of this by their local health board.

Generally, the reduction in recent years in the number of medical cards may be attributed to the increase in the number of people in employment and also the improved economic situation nationally. Another factor which affects this area is the review by health boards of medical card databases. Since 2003 this has led to the removal of more than 100,000 inappropriate entries from these databases. Reasons for deletions included duplicate entries, change of address, cases where the medical card holder is deceased, ineligibility due to changed circumstances and normal reviews. The Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage, as set out in the programme for Government. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position.

Health Reform Programme.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

137 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if necessary health system reforms can be achieved with the existing resource base; and if increased funding is required to provide essential health care, which is acceptable and efficient. [26526/04]

Both the Brennan and Prospectus reports, which are central to the reform programme, refer to the likelihood of savings in the implementation of their respective recommendations. However, the Prospectus report also states it is extremely difficult to accurately predict the financial impact of programmes of this scale. The re-alignment and streamlining of functions and structures in the health system are expected to generate efficiency gains over time and any resources freed up will be re-invested in strengthening front line services. I am satisfied the new arrangements, combined with the introduction of system-wide best practice, governance and accountability systems, will ensure a stronger, more effective health system and an improved health service for patients and clients.

The total funding provided for the health services in the Revised Estimates Volume 2004 was €10.08 billion. This provided for €9,570 million current funding, a rise of 10.7% over the Revised Estimates 2003, and €510 million capital funding approximately. Since 2001 the total increase in the Health Estimate has been €1.093 million, based on Revised Estimates 2002. This increase in funding has allowed the health services to address care areas outlined in the programme for Government and the health strategy such as acute hospitals, disability services and services for older people, progressing towards the highest quality of care for service users. Discussions are continuing between the Minister for Finance and myself in regard to the 2005 Estimates.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

138 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has declared that Asperger’s syndrome is a qualifying disability for the payment of domiciliary care allowance; if this has been notified to all chief medical officers in the health boards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26527/04]

Domiciliary care allowance, DCA, is a monthly allowance administered by health boards and may be paid in respect of eligible children from birth to the age of 16 who have a severe disability requiring continual or continuous care and attention, which is substantially in excess of that normally required by a child of the same age. The condition must be likely to last for at least one year. Eligibility is determined primarily by reference to the additional care and attention required by the child rather than to the type of disability involved, subject to a means test. While no condition is debarred, conditions such as asthma, diabetes or epilepsy are not normally considered unless significant additional care and attention required. It is a matter for the senior area medical officer or other designated medical officer in the relevant community care area to decide whether a child qualifies for DCA on medical grounds.

Health Board Staff.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

139 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of speech therapists employed in the mid-west region; the number of unfilled posts for speech therapists in the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26528/04]

The provision of health related services, including speech and language therapy, 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 Mid-Western Health Board with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Hospital Services.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

140 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 can only be offered an x-ray from their two local hospitals two months from the date of the request; if she will urgently examine the capacity of local hospitals to cope with such basic health care demands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26543/04]

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 her directly.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

141 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the continuing shortage of step down facilities for civilian patients, she will review the decision not to proceed with the proposal to use St. Bricin’s Hospital, Dublin 7, for this purpose; and will she provide an updated estimate of the cost of this proposal. [26544/04]

St Bricin's Hospital is owned and operated by the Department of Defence. A study was undertaken in recent years by the Eastern Regional Health Authority to examine the feasibility of using facilities at St Bricin's Hospital for public patients. Following detailed consideration and advice from technical experts the authority concluded that the proposal was not viable. My Department is not aware of any change to this position. However, the regional chief executive of the authority has been asked for an update and I will revert to the Deputy at an early date.

Nursing Homes.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

142 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of public nursing homes and beds in the country; her views on whether there is a need for an inspectorate to be put in place on a statutory basis similar to the private sector; and if she will establish such an inspectorate. [26566/04]

As the Deputy may be aware, figures on the number of public nursing homes and beds are collated by my Department on an annual basis. The most recent long-stay activity statistics report was finalised in July 2004 and provides information on activity in long-stay units in 2003. According to the report, there were 12,339 long-stay beds in health board facilities, including respite beds, on 31 December 2003. This figure represents 51.8% of the long-stay bed complement with the remaining 49.2% of long-stay beds being provided in private and voluntary nursing homes. Currently, the inspection of private nursing homes is the responsibility of the health boards under the Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990. Regulations made under this Act empower health boards to inspect private nursing homes.

The social services inspectorate, or SSI, was established in April 1999, initially on administrative basis though it is proposed to establish it on a statutory basis. The main function of the inspectorate is to support child care services by promoting and ensuring the development of quality standards. While in the longer term the SSI will monitor all personal social services operated by the health boards, it is concentrating initially on the child care area and, in particular, on the inspection of health board operated residential child care facilities. The health strategy, Quality and Fairness, states that the SSI will be established on a statutory basis and its remit will be extended to cover residential services for people with disabilities and older people. Establishing the SSI on a statutory basis will strengthen its role and will provide it with the necessary independence in the performance of its functions. It will also serve to increase public confidence in state and voluntary social services. Consultation with the Department of Finance on the statutory instrument to enable the SSI to be established on a statutory footing is in progress.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

143 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the type of problems that are being identified in respect of the inspection of private nursing homes; the action that is being taken to address these problems; the number of court actions pending; and to give details of the nursing homes in question if any. [26567/04]

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

144 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied that the powers available to the inspectors of nursing homes are adequate to guarantee health and safety of the residents, generally old people and the closure of nursing homes if deemed necessary. [26568/04]

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

145 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she is satisfied that the Nursing Home Act 1990 in respect of inspections of private nursing homes is being implemented; if the statutory requirement of two inspections per year is being met; and if not the reason therefor. [26569/04]

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

146 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the need for an independent inspectorate of nursing homes; and if so when does she propose to establish such a body. [26570/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 to 146, inclusive, together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the inspection of private nursing homes is the responsibility of the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority under the Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990. As the information requested by the Deputy is not routinely collated by my Department, the chief executive officers of the health boards and the authority have been asked to provide the information. It will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it becomes available.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

147 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a waiting list of up to 12.5 years for public nursing beds in some regions of the greater Dublin area; and to indicate the way in which she proposes to deal with the problem. [26571/04]

I draw the Deputy's attention to the reply given to his parliamentary question of 22 June this year. Funding of €20.6 million provided by my Department to the Eastern Regional Health Authority under the delayed discharges initiative has to date facilitated the discharge of 518 people from the acute hospital sector to private nursing homes and their own homes.

Hospital Services.

Seán Ryan

Ceist:

148 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will provide a breakdown, hospital by hospital, of the numbers of acute beds being inappropriately occupied due to the unavailability of non-acute hospital beds; and the way in which she proposes to provide proper care for our older people. [26582/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is not routinely collected by my Department. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the chief executive officers of the health boards to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested. The future financing of long-term care for the elderly is being examined to find the best ways to structure support for long-term care and the most effective and equitable methods of funding.

The nursing home subvention scheme is also being reviewed. The purpose of this review is to develop a scheme within the system which includes standardised dependency and means testing, is less discretionary, provides a home and nursing home subvention depending on need, is consistent in implementation throughout the country and draws on experience of the operation of the old scheme. In addition, home care grant schemes have been introduced as an alternative to long term care in a number of health board areas. The Department has also encouraged the ERHA and the health boards to introduce personal care packages for older people. These are specifically designed to give older people the option of remaining living within their home.

Health Board Services.

Olivia Mitchell

Ceist:

149 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make a full statement concerning the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork, in view of the fact that this person has been diagnosed with a moderate speech impairment by a speech and language therapist in City General Hospital, Cork and has been awaiting speech and language therapy in City General Hospital since April of this year. [26583/04]

The provision of health related services, including speech and language therapy, 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 Southern Health Board with a request to examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.

Pension Provisions.

James Breen

Ceist:

150 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funds will be made available to finance overdue payments to retired nurses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26595/04]

I presume the Deputy is referring to the Labour Court decision No. 033 (CD/02/607) on the inclusion of acting-up allowance in the calculation of premium pay. A circular sanctioning the implementation of the decision issued from my Department on 7 May 2003. Additional payments may be owed to some retired nurses whose acting-up allowance was not included in the calculation of premium pay. Responsibility for the payment of arrears to retired nurses rests with the health boards and the ERHA. My Department will shortly provide additional funding to the health boards and ERHA to assist them in meeting their obligations. I understand the boards will endeavour to make payments to claimants as soon as possible.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

151 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the enhanced levels of nursing home subvention in each health board area. [26596/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, the administration of the nursing home subvention scheme is a matter for the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards in the first instance. My Department has requested the chief executive officers of the authority and health boards to investigate the matters raised by the Deputy and reply direct to him as a matter of urgency.

Hospital Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

152 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when it is intended that the facilities provided at Naas Hospital will be fully commissioned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26597/04]

Responsibility for the provision of services at Naas General Hospital rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. The Deputy will be aware that my Department recently approved additional revenue funding of €7.5 million to the authority in respect of commissioning of additional services at the hospital. This funding will facilitate the development of a range of additional services at Naas. In the accident and emergency department the following new facilities are to be commissioned: nine observation beds, two treatment rooms, two additional treatment bays, one additional resuscitation bay, a dedicated triage room for the operation of 24 hour nurse-led triage and a dedicated plaster room. The observation beds are scheduled to open in November 2004 and the remaining facilities, outlined above, are scheduled to open in January 2005.

My Department is advised by the authority that additional capacity will also be put in place in the following Departments, the target commissioning dates for which are outlined in the table below:

Department

Date of Commissioning

Outpatients

November 2004

Geriatric Day Hospital

November 2004

Medical Records

November 2004

Chaplaincy

November 2004

Pathology

January 2005

Pharmacy

January 2005

Radiology

February-March 2005

Operating theatres

Early 2005

Services for People with Disabilities.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

153 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which she proposes to improve and extend respite care facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26598/04]

My Department has significantly enhanced respite care facilities in recent years. This is one of the key areas to be included in the multi-annual revenue and capital investment programme for disability specific support services recently announced as part of the national disability strategy.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

154 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has satisfied herself regarding the adequacy of numbers of psychologists available through the various health boards; if she plans to increase the numbers in line with current demands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26599/04]

There has been an increase of more than 50% over the period from end-1999 to end-2003 in the number of personnel employed as psychologists in the health service. This represents an increase of 150 staff from 291 to 441, in whole time equivalent terms and has contributed to a significant increase in the volume of psychological services provided.

To continue to increase the number of psychologists employed in the health service in line with current and future demand, my Department is supporting the implementation of a key recommendation of the joint review group on psychological services in the health services to substantially increase the number of training places in clinical psychology from 30 to 50. A new model for supporting post-graduate clinical psychology training has been agreed jointly by my Department with the health boards' directors of human resources. The model has underpinned the establishment of new courses at the National University of Ireland, Galway and the University of Limerick. My Department remains committed to working on an ongoing basis with health agencies, educational providers and the education authorities to ensure adequate provision of training places in clinical psychology.

In addition to increased training provision, the continued availability of the fast-track working visa scheme and the streamlining of procedures for the validation of overseas qualifications are designed to help sustain the improvements in staffing levels achieved for psychology services, both at local and national level.

Hospital Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

155 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position on present and future plans on tuberculosis and respiratory units at Peamount Hospital, Newcastle, County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26600/04]

Services at Peamount Hospital are provided under an arrangement with the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has asked the regional chief executive of the authority to examine the issues raised by the Deputy and reply to him directly.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

156 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of children who have received orthodontic treatment in the past four years; the number currently on waiting lists who have not yet received treatment; if she will indicate a time by which it is expected those patients now on the waiting list will receive treatment if at all; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26601/04]

The provision of orthodontic services is a matter for the health authorities in the first instance. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that a number of measures have been adopted to improve orthodontic services on a national basis. The grade of specialist in orthodontics has been created in the health board orthodontic service. In 2003, my Department and the health boards funded 13 dentists from various health boards for specialist in orthodontics qualifications at training programmes in Ireland and three separate universities in the United Kingdom. The 13 trainees for the public orthodontic service are additional to the six dentists who commenced their training in 2001. There is an aggregate of 19 dentists in specialist training for orthodontics. These measures will complement the other structural changes being introduced in the orthodontic service, including the creation of an auxiliary grade of orthodontic therapist to work in the orthodontic area.

The commitment of the Department to training development is manifested in the funding provided to both the training of specialist clinical staff and the recruitment of a professor in orthodontics for the Cork Dental School. This appointment will facilitate the development of an approved training programme leading to a specialist qualification in orthodontics. My Department has also given approval in principle to a proposal to substantially improve training facilities for orthodontics at the school, which will ultimately support an enhanced teaching and treatment service to the wider region under the leadership of the professor of orthodontics.

The chief executive officers of the health authorities have informed my Department of the following information on their orthodontic treatment waiting lists as at the end of June 2004:

Treatment Waiting List.

Health Board

Category A

Average waiting time (months)

Category B

Average waiting time (months)

SWAHB

784

< 10

517

< 12

ECAHB

37

< 6

183

< 18

NAHB

125

< 12

2,249

< 24

MHB

Nil

No Waiting Time

187

12

MWHB

Nil

No Waiting Time

519

24-36

NEHB

6

1.5-2

286

12-18

NWHB

223

14

1,081

32.6

SEHB

Nil

No Waiting Time

667

20

SHB

Nil

No Waiting Time

3,172

42-48

WHB

Nil

No Waiting Time

866

38

The chief executive officers of the health authorities have also informed my Department of the following number of patients in treatment in the past four years:

Date

Numbers in Treatment

30/6/04

20,236

31/12/03

21,083

31/12/02

20,151

31/12/01

17,295

Children receive between 18 to 24 appointments in the course of their treatment in the health board orthodontic service over a period of approximately two years. The above table shows that at the end of the June 2004 quarter, 20,236 children were undergoing orthodontic treatment in the public orthodontic service. This represents a 42% increase on the numbers in treatment in May 1999 and means that currently there are almost twice as many children undergoing orthodontic treatment as there are children awaiting treatment.

Hospital Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

157 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if during the past three years there has been an increase or decrease in the number of nursing staff available throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26602/04]

During the past three years there has been a significant increase in the number of whole-time equivalent nurses employed in the health service. Figures from the health service personnel census show that between 31 December 2001 and 31 December 2003 the number of whole-time equivalent nurses increased from 31,428 to 33,765. The additional 2,337 whole-time equivalent nurses employed represents an increase of 7.43%.

Child Care Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

158 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has plans to expand, extend or improve school medical examinations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26603/04]

The best health for children programme provides for a new core surveillance programme for all children up to 12 years and covers both pre-school developmental examinations as well as the school health service. Underpinning the recommendations in the report is a model which embraces a more holistic child health promotion approach and emphasises the role of parents in achieving best health for children. Additional funding of over €2 million was allocated to the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority to facilitate the implementation of the recommendations set out in the report, Best Health for Children. This funding has been used to appoint key individuals at regional level to drive the implementation process at board level as well as to establish pilot projects aimed at demonstrating best practice.

Working groups have been established to develop a revised national core child health surveillance and screening programme. The objective is to make recommendations on the key areas of child health surveillance such as developmental, vision and oral health. One of the key recommendations in the report, Best Health for Children, is the provision of appropriate training for public health doctors and nurses involved in delivering the child health surveillance programme and the school health service. Additional funding of €700,000 has been provided to health boards and the ERHA in 2003 for this purpose. The funding has been used to appoint relevant training personnel and develop in conjunction with Trinity College Dublin a training programme for those involved in the delivery of the core surveillance programme. The programme was launched earlier this year and it is intended that all those involved in child health surveillance will have received the necessary training by the end of 2005.

With a view to facilitating a co-ordinated and integrated approach to the delivery of a range of child health and child care projects, the Health Boards Executive has established a programme of action for children. An interim steering group has been appointed to oversee the programme's work. The initiative will encompass a number of child related measures, including projects associated with best health for children.

Medical Cards.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

159 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if cancer patients are likely to receive medical cards for an indefinite duration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26604/04]

No person or group of persons other than those aged 70 years and over since 1 July 2001 is automatically entitled to a medical card. Assessments of eligibility of applicants for a medical card are, by legislation, a matter for the chief executive officers of the health boards. Assessment is based on the income and medical need of the individual. The period of the validity of the card is also a matter for the health board to decide.

Reviews of the databases of medical cards are carried out regularly. My Department is not aware of any plan to vary the current administrative arrangements in place in health boards.

Hospital Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

160 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which she expects to provide sufficient staff to enable Maynooth Community Hospital become fully operational; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26605/04]

As the Deputy will be aware, the provision of health services in the Kildare area is a matter for the South Western Area Health Board acting under the aegis of the Eastern Regional Health Authority in the first instance. The authority has advised my Department that following recruitment of staff, an additional six beds have been opened at the Maynooth community nursing unit, giving a current total bed complement of 36 beds. The authority has further advised that the process for recruiting additional nurses is still under way, that additional beds will be opened at the unit as soon as sufficient staff are in place and that there will be a total bed complement of 44 beds when all the additional staff have been recruited.

Health Board Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

161 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of vacant positions in respect of various categories of health workers with particular reference to public health nurses, social workers, child psychologists in the various health boards throughout the country; her plans to address shortages in this area at an early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26606/04]

My Department does not maintain records on vacancy levels in the health service. The quarterly health service employment returns compiled by my Department are concerned primarily with the numbers employed in the sector.

The responsibility for the management of the workforce in a given region lies exclusively with the chief executive officer of relevant health board-authority. The management of the workforce includes responsibility for the recruitment of all grades of staff employed, in line with service plan priorities, subject to overall employment levels remaining within the authorised ceiling. However, to improve recruitment and retention prospects my Department has put in place a number of important initiatives to meet the human resource needs of the health services. The implementation of these developments is making an important contribution to strengthening the capacity of the health services to recruit and retain the high calibre professionals required in all disciplines to fill challenging and demanding roles central to the delivery of quality health and social care services to the public.

Before setting out these initiatives in detail, it is important to emphasise that staffing requirements overall must be viewed in the context of the very substantial increases in employment levels achieved in the health services in recent years. The Deputy may wish to note there has been an overall increase in the level of employment of 28,658 in wholetime equivalence, WTE, terms since 1997, excluding home helps. This represents an increase of 42% over the 1997 levels. In this regard there are, for example, 1,816, up 36%, more medical-dental personnel, 6,720, up 112%, more health and social care professionals and 6,419, up 23%, more nurses. Caution should be exercised in comparing employment growth between grade categories owing to some changes in their composition over the period. This is a considerable achievement which reflects the success of the steps taken to increase the attractiveness of employment in the health services and also the ongoing measures being taken in areas experiencing shortages of fully trained and qualified staff.

The following table sets out employment growth in the grades mentioned by the Deputy. To provide a valid statistical comparison, the employment figures for end year 2003 have been used in answering this query. Employment data for Q2 2004 is available on the Department's website should the Deputy require to access it. It is expected that data in respect of end year 2004 will be available in March 2005.

Developments such as pay increases, improvements in career structure and enhanced opportunities for professional and career development have all played a part in increasing staffing levels. Overseas recruitment by health agencies has, over recent years, also contributed significantly to meeting the workforce needs of the health services, particularly in professions where qualified staff are scarce. As mentioned earlier, specific human resource initiatives are under way in a number of key areas which have expanded considerably over recent years.

With regard to the therapy professions, the report, Current and Future Demand Conditions in the Labour Market for Certain Professional Therapists, commissioned by my Department, concluded that a major expansion was essential in the numbers of therapists. Significant progress has been achieved in boosting the number of therapy training places in line with the recommendations of that report. In the nursing area, the recruitment and retention of adequate numbers of staff has been a concern of this Government for some time and a number of substantial measures have been introduced in recent years. The number of nursing training places has been increased by 70% since 1998 to 1,640 from 2002 onwards. The promotional structure within nursing, including the introduction of a clinical career pathway has been substantially improved on foot of the recommendations of the Commission on Nursing and the 1999 nurses' pay settlement. The National Council for the Professional Development of Nursing and Midwifery has been especially active in this area and, to date, 1,600 clinical nurse specialist and advanced nurse practitioner posts have been created.

My Department gave approval in late 2003 to the rollout, on a national basis, of the health care assistant training programme. This is in fulfilment of a key recommendation of the Commission on Nursing. The main objective of the programme is to upskill health care assistants so that, working under the supervision of nurses, they are enabled to take on a wider range of duties, thereby freeing up nursing resources to concentrate on exclusively nursing tasks.

I am also conscious that, in view of the large numbers of staff employed and the unique nature of the services being delivered, it is imperative that a coherent, strategic approach to workforce and human resource planning be developed further and aligned closely with strategic objectives and the service planning process. Planning for the development of new and existing services in the future must be soundly based on a robust and realistic assessment of the skill and human resource needs to deliver these services. The issue of skill mix is also of paramount importance in meeting human resource needs. Enhanced skills mix by matching skills to service needs benefits patients and empowers health personnel to reach their full potential and optimise their contribution to quality care. The Health Service Executive will have a central role to play in the development of an integrated workforce planning strategy for the health sector.

I am, however, well aware that, in addition to effective planning to ensure the continued availability of a qualified, competent workforce, it is also necessary for the health service to become an employer of choice to further improve potential for recruitment and retention. While the record number of staff recruited into the health service in the past number of years shows the progress that has been made in this regard, even more can be achieved. Having recruited and developed such a large number of staff over recent years, it is a priority to retain them by offering a challenging and rewarding career path. In the human capital and skills intensive health sector, retention has been identified as a key issue in better people management. The continued implementation of the Action Plan for People Management has a crucial role to play in improving retention and reducing turnover of skilled staff, while providing the opportunity for each member of the workforce in the health sector, to maximise their contribution to the creation of a quality and patient-centred health service in line with the objectives of the health strategy.

Public Health Nurses

Region

31/12/1997

31/12/2003

Change end-1997 to end-2003

% Change end-1997 to end-2003

Eastern

440

386

-54

-12

Midland

100

107

8

8

Mid-Western

108

135

28

26

North-Eastern

106

121

15

14

North-Western

98

123

26

26

South-Eastern

154

158

4

3

Southern

163

211

49

30

Western

167

162

-5

-3

Total

1,334

1,404

71

5

Psychologists (all Grades excluding Students)

Region

31/12/1997

31/12/2003

Change end-1997 to end-2003

% Change end-1997 to end-2003

Eastern

97

164

67

70

Midland

18

31

14

78

Mid-Western

28

36

9

32

North-Eastern

20

32

12

60

North-Western

24

27

3

14

South-Eastern

29

47

18

61

Southern

24

57

33

140

Western

39

47

9

22

Total

277

441

165

59

Social Workers (all grades)

Region

31/12/1997

31/12/2003

Change end-1997 to end-2003

% Change end-1997 to end-2003

Eastern

612

845

233

38

Midland

58

84

27

46

Mid-Western

78

149

72

92

North-Eastern

63

103

40

63

North-Western

61

125

64

105

South-Eastern

86

128

42

49

Southern

120

266

145

121

Western

86

142

56

65

Total

1,164

1,843

679

58

Source: Department of Health and Children Personnel Census.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

162 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has satisfied herself that the general public have adequate and unimpeded access to the health services; if she proposes to address the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26607/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

172 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has identified the reason for the poor delivery of health services with particular reference to access to hospitals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26620/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 162 and 172 together.

A core objective of the health strategy is that all people should have access to high quality services. Priority will be given to supporting those who need to access the health service they require and I will address the provision of health services from this perspective with particular emphasis on the implementation of the current reform programme.

As regards general eligibility for health services, it is the case that under the Health Act 1970, the determination of eligibility for health services is based on residency and means and is primarily the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board.

Persons in category 1 are medical card holders and they are entitled to a full range of services including general practitioner services, prescribed drugs and medicines, all in-patient public hospital services in public wards including consultants services, all out-patient public hospital services including consultants services, dental, ophthalmic and aural services and appliances and a maternity and infant care service. Persons in category 2, non-medical card holders, are entitled, subject to certain charges, to all in-patient public hospital services in public wards including consultants services and out-patient public hospital services including consultants services. The current public hospital statutory in-patient charge is €45 per night, up to a maximum of €450 in any 12 consecutive months. Attendance at accident and emergency departments is subject to a charge of €45 where the patient does not have a referral note from his or her doctor. This charge applies only to the first visit in any episode of care.

In regard to acute hospital services, the target set out in the national health strategy states that by the end of 2004 all public patients requiring admission to hospital will be scheduled to commence treatment within a maximum of three months of referral from an out-patient department. Intermediate targets have been set to achieve this aim to ensure that the focus is being turned towards those patients waiting longest for treatment. In accordance with health strategy objectives, the Government's immediate focus is on the reduction of waiting lists and waiting times for in-patient and day case treatments in acute hospitals. This is being particularly facilitated by the National Treatment Purchase Fund, NTPF.

The NTPF has reported that waiting times have fallen significantly with 37% of patients now waiting between three and six months and 43% waiting between six and 12 months for surgery. Some 80% of patients now wait less than one year for surgical treatment. This represents a major reduction in the length of time patients have to wait. The NTPF has been successful in arranging treatments for approximately 19,000 patients up to the end of September 2004. It is now the case that, in most instances, anyone waiting more than three months will be facilitated by the fund.

Many of the difficulties and delays experienced in emergency medicine departments reflect the system-wide issues. Therefore, in tackling the problems in emergency medicine departments it is necessary to take a whole system approach involving primary care, acute care and sub-acute and community care. Following a submission from the Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, in June 2004 my Department approved proposals for short and medium term actions to be taken to address the problems associated with emergency departments in the Dublin Academic Teaching Hospitals, DATHS. The cost of these new initiatives is €2.4 million in a full year. Areas covered include the appointment of specialist nurses, the establishment of rapid assessment teams, a clinical decisions unit and the provision of multi-disciplinary teams to assess patients.

Pressures on the hospital system, particularly in the eastern region, arise from demands on emergency departments and on difficulties associated with patients who no longer require acute treatment but are still dependent. Funding of €16.8 million has been made available to the ERHA which has resulted in some 520 patients being discharged and work is ongoing to facilitate the discharge of a further 80 patients. Increasing acute bed capacity will also have an impact on the delivery of emergency services. As a result of the bed capacity initiative and the commissioning of new units, which was announced in September, funding is now in place for an additional 900 beds in the acute hospital system.

In line with the objective set out in the health strategy to broaden the eligibility framework, the Government is fully committed to the extension of medical card coverage. This will focus on people on low incomes. The timing of the introduction of the extension will be decided having regard to the prevailing budgetary position. For those who do not qualify for a medical card there are a number of schemes that provide assistance towards the cost of medication. Under the long-term illness scheme persons suffering from a number of conditions can obtain the drugs and medicines required for the treatment of that condition, free of charge. Under the drug payments scheme, a person and his or her dependants will not have to pay more than €78 in any calendar month for approved prescribed drugs and medicines.

Health board chief executive officers have discretion in relation to the issuing of medical cards and a range of income sources are excluded by the health boards when assessing medical card eligibility. Despite someone having an income that exceeds the guidelines, a medical card may still be awarded if the chief executive officer considers that a person's medical needs or other circumstances would justify this. It is open to all persons to apply to the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board for health services if they are unable to provide these services for themselves or their dependants without hardship.

The health strategy includes a whole series of initiatives to clarify and expand the existing arrangements for eligibility for health services, including recommendations arising from the review of the medical card scheme carried out by the health board CEOs under the PPF which include: streamlining applications and improving the standardisation of the medical card applications process to ensure better fairness and transparency; providing clearer information to people about how and where to apply for medical cards; proactively seeking out those who should have medical cards to ensure they have access to the services that are available.

In addition, my Department is committed to the preparation of new legislation to update and codify the whole legal framework for eligibility and entitlements in regard to health services. Since the publication of Primary Care: A new Direction, significant progress has been achieved on many fronts in the development of an integrated, multi-disciplinary and team based approach to the delivery of primary care services. Initiatives included the establishment of a primary care task force, national primary care steering group, primary care implementation projects, further research and wider implementation of the strategy.

In June 2003 the Government introduced thehealth service reform programme, HSRP,based on system reviews which identified various needs, such as clear focus on service and management, less fragmentation, more accountability and better information, for modernisation in line with the health strategy. The work currently underway to implement the reform programme will combine to enhance nationwide access to health services with the overarching objective of providing higher quality delivery aimed at ensuring a healthier community.

Hospital Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

163 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which she expects the hospital services to be able to meet demands in respect of heart operations and hip replacements in the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26608/04]

There has been a significant increase in the consultant manpower needed to deliver cardiac surgery and orthopaedic services in the last ten years. Based on figures provided by Comhairle na nOspideal the number of cardiothoracic surgeons has increased from six to 11 between 1993 and 2003 and the number of orthopaedic surgeons has increased from 52 to 76 in the same period.

Plans and developments are in place which will increase the capacity for cardiac surgery. For example, the theatre and critical care complex, completed as part of the Phase 2 development at University College Hospital Galway, includes provision for cardiac surgery facilities. Approval has also been given to the Southern Health Board to proceed with the planning and construction of a new €82 million cardiac and renal dialysis building at Cork University Hospital.

In relation to orthopaedic services the North Eastern Health Board has re-organised its orthopaedic services in moving trauma services to Drogheda and creating additional capacity for elective services in Navan. A new orthopaedic service was opened at Mayo General Hospital in September 2004. This new service serves the people of the western region and increases orthopaedic capacity for the region.

The single most limiting factor for admission to hospital is bed availability therefore increasing the bed capacity of the acute hospital system is of particular priority for my Department. As a result of the bed capacity initiative and the commissioning of new units, which was announced in September, funding is now in place for an additional 900 beds in the acute hospital system.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

164 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if sufficient funding and facilities exist or are proposed to meet the needs of the parents and friends of special needs children and young adults in County Kildare with particular reference to training, respite, long term care and other support services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26609/04]

Responsibility for the provision of funding for services including training, respite, long term care and other support services, for persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism in the County Kildare area is a matter, in the first instance, for the Eastern Regional Health Authority. My Department has asked the regional chief executive of the authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him.

National Treatment Purchase Fund.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

165 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of patients treated so far under the treatment purchase scheme; the combined costs of such treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26613/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

167 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which waiting lists in respect of cataract removal have increased or decreased in the past 12 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26615/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

171 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason it is necessary to send patients outside the State for various surgical or medical treatments while the facilities are already available here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26619/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

173 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken or proposes to take to address the anomalous situation whereby long hospital waiting lists appear to have become the norm, while at the same time, hospital wards remain closed or beds decommissioned due to a lack of adequate resources and staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26621/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 165, 167, 171 and 173 together.

Responsibility for the collection and reporting of waiting lists and waiting times now falls within the remit of the national treatment purchase fund, NTPF. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the NTPF to respond directly to the Deputy on the number of patients awaiting treatment for ophthalmology procedures. The NTPF has the capacity to treat more than 1,000 patients per month or 12,000 in a full year from the funding available to it. Since it commenced operations the fund has been successful in locating additional capacity, both here and in the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland and arranging treatments for over 19,000 patients up to the end of September 2004. The majority of these patients have been treated in hospitals in Ireland. It is now the case that, in most instances, anyone waiting more than three months will be facilitated by the fund. The cost of the national treatment purchase fund to date is as follows:

Year

€m

2002

5.012

2003

30.057

Provisional Outturn

2004

44.00

Allocation

It is a feature of all acute hospital systems that some beds are out of use for short periods. Bed closures fluctuate over time and may arise for a variety of reasons such as ward refurbishment, essential ward maintenance, staff leave, seasonal closures and infection control measures.

Hospital Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

166 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the way in which the ration of various hospital consultants per 1,000 of the population in this country compares with the UK and France; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26614/04]

As of 1 January 2004, there were 0.45 public consultant posts in Ireland per 1,000 population. This compares to 0.65 public posts per 1,000 population in France. The equivalent grade in France is a specialist and 0.49 public posts per 1,000 population in England. Comparable figures for the entire United Kingdom are not currently available.

The report of the national task force on medical staffing, the Hanly report, recommended that the number of consultant posts here be increased by approximately 1,800 posts in order to improve patient care and ensure better patient access to 24-hour services.

Question No. 167 answered with QuestionNo. 165.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

168 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she proposes to engage in discussion with the Department of Social and Family Affairs with a view to expanding, liberalising and improving facilities for carers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26616/04]

My Department's policy on care of older people is to maintain them in dignity and independence in their own home for as long as possible in accordance with their wishes. This policy was first enunciated in the Care of the Aged Report which was published in 1968 and confirmed in the report, The Years Ahead, A Policy for the Elderly, published in 1988. Numerous research studies have shown that the vast majority of older people have a preference to remain living in their own home for as long as possible rather than moving into long-stay residential care. Indeed, the preferred option for most families is to help care for their elderly relatives at home for as long as possible with the assistance of local health service staff.

My Department has been encouraging the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the health boards to introduce personal care packages for older people as an alternative to long-stay residential care. Personal care packages are specifically designed for the individual concerned and could possibly include the provision of a home help service, home subvention payments, arrangements for attendance at a day centre or day hospital and other services such as twilight nursing. Personal care packages allow older persons the option of remaining living in their own home rather than going into long-stay residential care. Additional funding of €1.25 million was made available to the authority-health boards this year for the introduction of personal care packages. This is on top of the significant expenditure currently being incurred on home help and other services aimed at supporting people at home.

As the Deputy will be aware, primary responsibility for issues relating to carers is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Brennan. Officials of my Department engage on a regular basis with their counterparts in the Department of Social and Family affairs on matters in which they have a mutual interest including the position of carers and those in receipt of care.

Cancer Incidence.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

169 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent to which adequate facilities are available for the treatment of cancer patients at the various hospitals throughout the country; if extra funding will be offered to hospitals which require new equipment and extra staff or upgrading of existing facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26617/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

179 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has studied reports on the number of incidents of various forms of cancer on a county by county basis; her views on whether there are indications of higher incidents in certain regions; if research has been done into the contributory cause or causes; the action she proposes to deal with the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26628/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 and 179 together.

Reports of the national cancer registry have examined variations in incidence of cancer among counties and health board areas during the period from 1994 onwards. Variations in case numbers, overall or for particular cancers, obviously reflect variation in population size or in population age-structure. Age standardised rates show less variation, but nevertheless some variation is evident, although, for most counties or regions, rates do not show statistically significant variation from the national average. The main exception is Dublin and the ERHA region where incidence rates are higher than the national average for cancers as a whole, and for a number of individual cancers, including lung, breast and prostate cancers. For lung and a number of other cancers, variation is strongly influenced by smoking, which tends to be most prevalent in urban, particularly deprived urban areas. For breast and prostate cancer, incidence rates may be increased in areas where there are higher levels of screening, for example, breast screening.

In general, cancers not strongly influenced by smoking, socio-economic or screening-related factors show less marked variation within Ireland and any such variation cannot readily be attributed to specific factors without further research into specific cancers. Distinguishing true geographic variation from random or chance variation is also a problem given the small numbers of cases involved at county level for most cancers.

Since 1997, significant developments in cancer services have taken place in all regions. The overall additional cumulative funding in cancer services in this country since 1997 is in excess of €550 million including an additional €15 million revenue which has been allocated this year. An additional 104 consultant posts in key areas of cancer treatment and 245 clinical nurse specialists across all health board areas have been funded. There has also been approximately €95 million in capital funding allocated specifically for the development of cancer related initiatives. These include an investment of €60 million in radiation oncology and €11.9 million in BreastCheck.

The investment and appointments in cancer services have resulted in substantial increases in activity levels across the three modalities of care of radiation oncology, medical oncology and surgical oncology. There has been a 36% increase nationally in surgical procedures for breast cancer, with an additional 500 procedures performed in 2002 compared to 1997. Substantial progress is being made in developing radiation oncology. In 2004, an additional €3.5 million is being used to develop the radiation oncology services at the supra regional centres at University College Hospital Galway and Cork University Hospital. The immediate developments in the south and west will result in the provision of an additional five linear accelerators. This represents an increase of approximately 50% in linear accelerator capacity.

The appointment of an additional five consultant radiation oncologists is under way. We have ten consultant radiation oncologists nationally. This will result in a significant increase in the numbers of patients receiving radiation oncology in the short term. Additional funding of €15 million and 130 staff for these centres have been approved recently to develop radiation oncology services regionally.

The national roll-out of the BreastCheck programme to remaining counties is a major priority in the development of cancer services. This will ensure that all women in the 50 to 64 age group throughout the country have access to breast screening and follow up treatment where required. A capital investment of €20 million has been approved to construct and equip two static clinical units, one at South Infirmary Victoria Hospital, Cork and the other at University College Hospital, Galway. This investment will also ensure that mobile units are available to screen women in the relevant age group throughout the country.

Hospital Accommodation.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

170 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will consider increasing the number of subvented or dedicated long stay beds with a view to alleviating acute bed pressure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26618/04]

As the Deputy may be aware, there is a commitment in the national health strategy to provide 1,370 additional assessment and rehabilitation beds, plus 600 additional day hospital beds with facilities encompassing specialist areas such as falls, osteoporosis treatment, fracture prevention, Parkinson's disease, stroke prevention, heart failure and continence promotion clinics. In addition, the strategy proposed the provision of an extra 5,600 extended care-community nursing unit places over a seven year period which will include provision for people with dementia. Provision of the above facilities was contingent on the provision of the necessary resources.

In relation to subvented beds, the Deputy may wish to note that, in 1994, the first full year of implementation of the nursing home subvention scheme, 3,200 people received subvention. At the end of April 2004 over 9,900 people were in receipt of subvention.

In addition, public private partnerships, PPPs, are currently being piloted in the health sector. PPP is based on the concept that better value for money for the Exchequer may be achieved through the exploitation of private sector competencies to capture innovation and the allocation of risk to the party best able to manage it. Initially, the focus will be mainly in the area of community nursing units, CNUs, for older people. It is anticipated that 17 new CNUs will be created when the initial pilot programmes are complete, providing up to a maximum of 850 new beds in Dublin and Cork. The services offered in these units will include: assessment-rehabilitation; respite; extended care; convalescence and, if the PPP pilot demonstrates success, it is the intention to use it as a means of providing additional community nursing units in other locations throughout the country.

Question No. 171 answered with QuestionNo. 165.
Question No. 172 answered with QuestionNo. 162.
Question No. 173 answered with QuestionNo. 165.

Cancer Incidence.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

174 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of incidents of breast cancer diagnosed in each of the past ten years; if there is an increase or decrease in the number of women under 50 years of age diagnosed in each of those ten years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26622/04]

Statistics on cancer incidences are collated by the national cancer registry. My Department has asked the director of the registry to examine this matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Ambulance Service.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

175 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the ambulance services are adequately staffed and equipped to meet all eventualities in the foreseeable future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26623/04]

The Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, and each of the seven health boards are responsible for the provision of ambulance services in their functional areas.

National standards for the ambulance service were introduced a number of years ago by the National Ambulance Advisory Council, the precursor to the Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council. The standards cover training and equipment and are currently being updated by the council.

My Department is advised by the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority that adequate numbers of ambulance personnel are employed to respond to current need. The Pre-Hospital Emergency Care Council is in the process of introducing an advanced paramedic training programme for ambulance personnel. The provision of this training coupled with forthcoming amendment of the Misuse of Drugs Regulations 1988 and the Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control) Regulations 1996 will provide a statutory basis for the administration of additional medications and the use of additional medical equipment by ambulance personnel. It is intended that this expanded service will commence roll-out in 2005.

Hospital Staff.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

176 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there are adequate accident and emergency staff available throughout the country to deal with current and anticipated population growth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26625/04]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

178 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there has been a curtailment of accident and emergency facilities at various hospitals throughout the country; the procedures that are likely to be put in place to shorten waiting lists at accident and emergency facilities throughout the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26627/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 176 and 178 together.

Many of the difficulties and delays experienced in emergency medicine departments reflect system-wide issues. Therefore, in tackling the problems in emergency medicine departments, it is necessary to take a whole system approach involving primary care, acute care and sub-acute and community care.

Already the Government, over the last few years, has introduced a number of initiatives aimed at improving the delivery of acute services and alleviating the pressures on accident and emergency departments. I have previously said that the delivery of such services will be an area for particular attention during my term as Minister for Health and Children. I intend to identify the particular pressure points within the health system that affect the efficient delivery of emergency services. I will be working with the relevant authorities to ensure that the most pressing problems are addressed as a matter of urgency and, as such, I intend to introduce a package of measures to address these problems.

Health Board Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

177 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to upgrading of services available through health centres thereby eliminating some of the overcrowding at accident and emergency services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26626/04]

The primary care strategy, Primary Care: A New Direction, aims to shift the emphasis from the current over-reliance on acute hospital services to one where patients will be able to access an integrated multi-disciplinary team of general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, and social workers in their local community.

The introduction of the team based model of service delivery has the potential to meet 90-95% of all health and personal social service needs in the primary care setting. As the primary care teams are developed, a wider primary care network of other professionals, including speech and language therapists, community pharmacists, dieticians, dentists, chiropodists and psychologists will also provide services for the population served by each primary care team.

Primary care planned and organised on this basis, can lessen the current reliance on specialist services and the hospital system, particularly accident and emergency and out-patient services. Based on available evidence, it has the potential to reduce the requirement for specialist services, reduce hospitalisation rates, reduce lengths of stay for those who are hospitalised and improve efficiency.

The strategy also envisages the development of extended-hours and out-of-hours cover for defined primary care services. The management of this wide range of care within the primary care setting represents the most appropriate, effective and user-friendly approach to the organisation of service delivery. Clearly, a significant element in the development of future primary care teams must involve the reorientation of the substantial staff and physical resources currently within the primary care setting. The health boards are currently working to map the general configuration of future teams and networks and to develop team working and collaborative working in the existing primary care services. The mapping exercise involves an examination of service needs, demographic and other relevant data to ensure that primary care services are organised and developed on the basis of identified need.

The strategy recognises that the provision of modern, well-equipped, accessible premises will be central to the effective functioning of the primary care team. It emphasises the need to gain full benefit from existing buildings and to fully exploit any opportunities for public-private partnerships in implementing the development programme. I intend to develop policy in such a way as to encourage innovative approaches that have the potential to result in the provision where appropriate, of modern, well-equipped, user-friendly buildings to support the development and operation of primary care teams and networks.

Question No. 178 answered with QuestionNo. 176.
Question No. 179 answered with QuestionNo. 169.

Nursing Home Subventions.

David Stanton

Ceist:

180 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding old aged pensioners of low means who have to become patients in community hospitals administered by the health boards with reference to the home of the pensioner; if this will be viewed as an asset or its value can be taken into account when calculating changes that might be levied on the old person as a result of being a patient in the community hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26629/04]

In respect of people availing of public long-stay care, charges can be made under two regulations. They can be made under the Health (Charges for In-Patient Services) Regulations 1976, as amended by the Health (Charges for In-Patient Services) (Amendment) Regulations 1987. These regulations enable charges to be made towards the cost of providing hospital in-patient services for persons with income who have been in receipt of such services for more than 30 days or for periods totalling more than 30 days within the previous 12 months. The regulations provide that a charge is made at a rate not exceeding the person's income. Medical card holders and persons with dependants are exempt from these charges. Charges may also be made under the Institutional Assistance Regulations 1965 where the patient receives "shelter and maintenance" rather than treatment. These charges apply from the date of admission and are payable by all patients who are in receipt of incomes, including medical card holders and persons with dependants. Under the Health Act 1970 the determination of eligibility for health services, including charges, is primarily the responsibility of the chief executive officer of the appropriate health board. I understand from the health boards that the person's home is not considered during such assessment. Under the Second Schedule of the Nursing Home Regulations 1993 (S.I. No. 227 of 1993), provision was made for including the value of the person's home in respect of the subvention of private nursing homes only.

In deciding the amount to be contributed, health boards have regard to the person's individual circumstances. Allowance is made for any financial commitments the person may have and a reasonable amount is left to meet the person's personal needs. Charges may be waived if, in the opinion of the chief executive officer of the relevant health board, payment would cause undue hardship.

Health Centres.

David Stanton

Ceist:

181 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the need to upgrade the health centre in Youghal, County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26630/04]

The provision of health centres to meet the needs of local communities and the maintenance and upgrading of such centres within its functional area is a matter for the relevant health board or the Eastern Regional Health Authority. In the case of Youghal, County Cork, this responsibility rests with the Southern Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to examine this issue and reply direct to the Deputy.

Question No. 182 answered with QuestionNo. 88.

Health Reform Programme.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

183 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the recent report, How are our Kids? in Tallaght west; and the new measures or sanctions she proposes to introduce in response to the considerable problems highlighted in the report. [26657/04]

As the Deputy will be aware responsibility for the provision of health and social services to children in Tallaght west rests with the Eastern Regional Health Authority and the South Western Area Health Board. I am aware that the Tallaght West Childhood Development Initiative has published a working paper on the research project "How are our Kids?" I understand that the South Western Area Health Board is part of this initiative and was involved in the research project. The area board informs me that they will be examining the findings in the paper as it relates to their services.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

John Perry

Ceist:

184 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of applications from County Sligo and County Leitrim submitted to the North Western Health Board in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 under the housing aid for the elderly scheme for the provision of domestic heating; the number that have been granted the full amount; the number refused; the reason for the refusals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26668/04]

The housing aid scheme for the elderly in counties Sligo and Leitrim is operated by the North Western Health Board, on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. My Department has, therefore, asked the chief executive of the board to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him as a matter of urgency.

Health Board Services.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

185 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of pensioners that have been asked to pay €10 per visit for chiropody services provided by the health board; the plans she has to end this supplementary charge on pensioners; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26670/04]

Health boards are not statutorily obliged to provide chiropody services. It is not one of the attendant benefits of being a medical card holder. Decisions to make chiropody and other services available are a matter for the local health board to make, bearing in mind their priorities and the funding available to them.

Where chiropody services are provided, they are normally given to persons aged 65 years and over and those suffering from particular medical conditions. There are a variety of arrangements in place nationally for the provision of chiropody service to clients, with a mixture of public and private practitioners in different locations throughout the country.

Persons were not obliged to pay the supplementary charge for chiropody services. In cases where payments were made, it was a matter between the chiropodist and the client, and therefore outside of the medical card scheme. As a consequence, there is no record of the numbers involved or the amounts paid.

When it became known that chiropodists in the Eastern Regional Health Authority region were imposing an additional charge the Department wrote to the Eastern Regional Health Authority and stated that these were inappropriate and should not be levied on people who were deemed eligible for the service under the Eastern Regional Health Authority scheme.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

186 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be called for orthodontic treatment in Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26671/04]

Responsibility for the provision of orthodontic treatment to eligible persons in County Clare rests with the Mid-Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Hospital Services.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

187 Dr. Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will examine the long delay in offering appointments with a neurologist at a hospital (details supplied); and if she will comment on a person’s position. [26676/04]

Services at St. James's Hospital are provided under an arrangement 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.

Services for People with Disabilities.

David Stanton

Ceist:

188 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of speech therapists working in Cork city and county; the number waiting for assessment and treatment in Cork city and county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26681/04]

The provision of health related services, including speech and language therapy, 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 Southern Health Board with a request that he examine the matter and reply directly to the Deputy, as a matter of urgency.

Hospital Services.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

189 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a CAT scanner has not been installed at Ennis General Hospital in view of the fact that funding has been provided for same; if the Mid-Western Health Board will install same in the interest of patients’ safety; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26698/04]

The provision of services at Ennis General Hospital is the responsibility of the Mid-Western Health Board in the first instance. The possibility of providing CT facilities at the hospital is acknowledged in the outline development control plan which is currently being prepared. It is anticipated that this plan will be submitted to the Mid-Western Health Board for consideration in the near future. The development of services at Ennis General Hospital, including CT scanning, will be considered in the context of the funding available and the priorities for development of services in the region.

Nursing Home Subventions.

John Curran

Ceist:

190 Mr. Curran asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of grants paid for by the State in respect of subventions for private nursing home beds in September 2004, September 2003, September 2002 and September 2001. [26703/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is not routinely collated by my Department. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive officers of the health boards and the Eastern Regional Health Authority to investigate the matters raised by the Deputy and reply directly to him as a matter of urgency.

Drugs Payment Scheme.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

191 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost of the drug refund schemes and of the long term illness medication scheme in each year since 1997 and the number of claimants in each year under the respective schemes. [26705/04]

The drugs payment scheme, with a monthly threshold of £42, €53.33, replaced the drug refund scheme and the drug cost subsidisation scheme on 1 July 1999. Under this scheme, families and individuals only had to meet the first €53.33 a month of spending on approved prescribed medicines. The drug cost subsidisation scheme threshold was £32, €40.63, per month per individual, and for the drug refund scheme it was £90,€114.28, per quarter for each eligible person and dependants. Under the drug refund scheme, the person paid for medicines at the pharmacy and claimed a refund from the health board at the end of each quarter.

The drug refund scheme threshold was raised from €53.33 to €65 on 1 August 2002, from €65 to €70 from 1 January 2003 and from €70 to €78 from 1 January 2004.

The following table sets out the cost of the schemes for each year of operation from 1997:

Year

LTI

DRS

DCSS

DPS

1997

£19,721,634

£24,452,827

£35.859m

1998

£23,239,067

£27,505,550

£47.253m

1999

£27,209,488

£25,250,489

£27.813m

£40,431,188

2000

£32,870,045

£110,730,208

2001

€52,080,599

€177,616,777

2002

€61,635,841

€192,366,168

2003

€73,348,251

€204,422,697

The following table sets out the average number of claimants in each scheme, except the drug refund scheme, for which this information was not collected:

Year

LTI

DCSS

DPS

1997

24,124

38,816

1998

25,712

48,587

1999

26,885

54,586

2000

27,382

155,638

2001

30,165

199,546

2002

31,422

205,578

2003

32,720

204,065

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

192 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the five measurable performance indicators which she regards as targets of greatest priority within her Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; her views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if she will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26706/04]

The development of performance indicators in relation to the services funded by my Department is a continuing process which has been carried out jointly with the health boards. It would not be possible to effectively measure the performance to the entire health and personnel social services concerned by way of just five performance indicators. My Department, in conjunction with the health boards, has been developing a range of performance indicators in association with service plan developments. A suite of 84 indicators have been specified to cover all services funded by my Department. Because these indicators are still developmental in nature, in many cases, and have only been in use, in the main, during the past three to four years it would not be possible to present a picture of the movement of these indicators since 1997.

Health Board Allowances.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

193 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the SWAHB will issue a domiciliary care allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12. [26732/04]

The assessment of entitlement to and payment of the domiciliary care allowance in any individual case is a matter for the relevant health board. Accordingly, a copy of the Deputy's question has been forwarded to the regional chief executive of the Eastern Regional Health Authority with a request that he examine the case and reply directly to the Deputy as a matter of urgency.

Health Board Staff.

Paddy McHugh

Ceist:

194 Mr. McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on the creation of a two-tiered health service for persons with disabilities due to the fact that some persons with disabilities receive their service from staff funded by health boards while others are dependent upon service provided by community employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26735/04]

I am aware of the staffing difficulties referred to by the Deputy. They are being given consideration as part of the discussions on the Estimates and the budget for 2005 between my Department and the Department of Finance.

Hospital Services.

Paddy McHugh

Ceist:

195 Mr. McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the action she is taking in response to the crisis in the accident and emergency section of University College Hospital, Galway resulting in regular cancellation of elective surgery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26736/04]

The provision of services at University College Hospital Galway is the responsibility of the Western Health Board. My Department has asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the issues raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.

Health Board Services.

Paddy McHugh

Ceist:

196 Mr. McHugh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason two palliative support beds provided at Áras Mhuire in Tuam have not been opened for use; if she will intervene with the Western Health Board to ensure the beds are opened and action be taken to put nursing staff in place and appropriate training provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26737/04]

I wish to advise the Deputy that in 2003 agreement was reached with the Tuam cancer care group to provide a two-bed unit with a family room to provide a palliative care service to replace the service which had been provided in the Bon Secours Hospital prior to its closure. The structural work is now complete for the setting up of a palliative care suite at Áras Mhuire community nursing unit, Tuam, and funding of €120,000 was provided for 2.5 WTE nursing staff.

The board made a submission to my Department on 13 September 2004 seeking additional funding as follows: provision of RGN services, additional three WTEs, €130,000; and provision of sessional physiotherapy services, €20,000, making a total of €150,000. This matter is under consideration in the context of the Estimates process and in the light of other requests for resources from the Western Health Board. In regard to training I wish to advise that the appropriate training will be provided for nursing staff once these staff are in place.

Medical Cards.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

197 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the case of a person (details supplied); and if an appeal form will be sent out to this person. [26742/04]

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 regional chief executive of the Eastern Regional Health Authority to investigate the matter raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Hospital Staff.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

198 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding the two surgeons on suspension in Cavan General Hospital; if she has satisfied herself that sufficient efforts are being made to stabilise the situation in the surgical section of the hospital and to recruit five anaesthetists that would allow Monaghan General Hospital to come back on call thus removing the ongoing crisis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26755/04]

Responsibility for the provision of services at the Cavan Monaghan hospital group rests with the North Eastern Health Board. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive officer of the board to investigate the position in relation to the issues raised by the Deputy and to reply to him directly.

Hospital Accommodation.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

199 Mr. Crawford asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the total number of beds that were in use in each of the Cavan and Monaghan General Hospitals in 1997; the number in place in each of the hospitals now; when she expects the 19 new beds in Cavan and the ten new beds in Monaghan to be in service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26756/04]

Responsibility for the provision of services at the Cavan Monaghan hospital group rests with the North Eastern Health Board. My Department has therefore asked the chief executive officer of the board to reply directly to the Deputy in respect of bed numbers in 1997 and now at Cavan and Monaghan General Hospitals. The position on the provision of additional beds is as follows. My Department has approved revenue funding of €500,000 to commission ten additional day beds at Monaghan General Hospital. These beds are designed to facilitate the development of surgical services across the Cavan Monaghan hospital group. The commissioning of these beds is being progressed by the board.

The board has recently submitted proposals to my Department for the provision of an additional 19 beds at Cavan General Hospital as part of the reconfiguration of services across the group. This submission is now being examined by my Department.

Disabled Drivers.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

200 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the reason for the delay in processing the appeal for the primary medical certificate for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; when a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26416/04]

I assume that the Deputy is referring to an appeal to the disabled drivers medical board of appeal for a primary medical certificate for eligibility for tax relief under the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994. In this respect, I wish to advise that my Department has no direct involvement in the operation of the disabled drivers medical board of appeal. However, I am informed that there is currently a backlog of appeals to be dealt with by the board.

At present, there is a waiting time of over two years for appellants to be seen by the board. I am advised that the backlog of appeals, approximately 600, is caused by a number of factors, in particular the general increase in applications for a primary medical certificate and the significant number of persons who are aware that they do not meet the medical criteria specified in the regulations but nevertheless insist on exercising their right of appeal.

An interdepartmental review group was established to examine the operation of the scheme and the group's report was made public in early July 2004. Following on from the report's recommendations concerning the appeals process, amendments to the regulations governing the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme were drafted to improve the operation of the medical appeals board. These were signed by the Minister for Finance on 23 July 2004.

The amendments provide for changes to the existing regulations as follows: expanding the panel of medical practitioners serving on the medical board of appeal from three to five and amending the appeals process by introducing a six month waiting period between an appeal and a subsequent application, and introducing the requirement for a second or subsequent application to be certified by a registered medical practitioner to the effect that there has been material disimprovement in the medical condition since the previous application.

In regard to the first change, on the recommendation of the Minister for Health and Children, I hope shortly to appoint two more doctors to the board. A panel of five doctors should allow for the board to meet more regularly and hence reduce the backlog. As regards the second change, it should be noted that a further factor in the backlog of appeals is that a number of those who are seen by the board and are dissatisfied with its decision are re-appealing immediately and this is causing a build up of appeals. The change addresses this issue and should free up the appeals board to deal with existing appeals in the system and subsequent appeals where a change in an individual's circumstance requires a reassessment.

Tax Code.

John Gormley

Ceist:

201 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether VAT on tickets for the performing arts should be zero rated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26491/04]

The position is that the promotion of and admissions to live theatrical or musical performances, including circuses, are exempt from VAT under paragraph viii of the First Schedule to the VAT Act 1972, as amended. However, this exemption does not include dances or performances in conjunction with which facilities are available for the consumption of food or drink during all or part of the performance by persons attending the performance.

On the issue of zero rating tickets for the performing arts, the position is that, under the EU sixth VAT directive, with which Irish VAT law must comply, member states may only retain the zero rates they had in place on 1 January 1991 but are prohibited from introducing new zero rates. It is therefore not possible to apply a zero VAT rate to tickets for the performing arts.

Financial Services Regulation.

Seán Haughey

Ceist:

202 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance the measures he can take to assist endowment mortgage holders to make up the shortfall in the cash sum which will be available to them; if he proposes to intervene with the financial institutions in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26478/04]

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

207 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance his response to the endowment mortgage scandal; his proposals to assist the approximate 90,000 persons here adversely affected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26565/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 202 and 207 together.

I have no intention of intervening with regard to endowment loan shortfalls at present. The Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, IFSRA, is already studying the situation, having commenced a survey earlier this year, to determine whether and to what extent there will be difficulties for customers. It would be premature at this stage to second guess the outcome of the survey. I will continue to review the adequacy of the relevant legislative framework as the information developed by IFSRA becomes available.

There is already a substantial volume of legislation in place relating to these products. The Consumer Credit Act 1995, which commenced in May 1996, contains specific provisions in relation to endowment loans and in particular prescribes certain information which must be included in any application form or information document issued to consumers applying for such loans. For example, since the commencement of the Act all endowment loan application forms must contain a prominent notice to the effect that "There is no guarantee that the proceeds of the insurance policy will be sufficient to repay the loan in full when it becomes due for payment".

The Act also obliges that in instances where there is a possibility during the lifetime of an endowment loan that borrowers may be required to increase premium payments on the insurance policy relating to the loan, any document approving the loan must contain a prominent statement of this possibility. Similarly information documents on endowment loans must, where the possibility exists that early surrender of the insurance policy may result in a net loss to the consumer, taking into account premia and other charges paid in, contain a statement of this possibility.

The Act also places an obligation upon insurers underwriting policies relating to endowment loans to issue a statement to the consumer every five years setting out not only the value of the policy at the time of issue but also a comparison of this valuation to the valuation at such date projected at the time the policy was first written and a revised estimate of the valuation at maturity.

In addition to the provisions of the Consumer Credit Act, the Life Assurance (Provision of Information) Regulations, which came into being in 2001, oblige insurers to provide policy holders, including holders of policies relating to endowment mortgages, with an annual written statement containing, inter alia, information on the current surrender or maturity value of the policy.

More recently, the Government has already very considerably enhanced the regulatory and supervisory regime governing the financial services industry, primarily through the enactment of the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Act 2003, which established the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority.

The Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Act 2004, complements the Act passed last year and further enhances IFSRA's powers and strengthens the regulatory environment. Particular features of the 2004 Act are that it provides for an enhanced structure for dealing with consumers who have complaints about financial institutions and also provides consumer and industry consultative panels for the financial regulator. The consumer panel will have an important role in ensuring that the regulator is correctly reflecting the interests of consumers in its protective — issue of codes of conduct — and educational — information pamphlets — roles. These provisions will help IFSRA to ensure consumers have all necessary information to allow them to make considered and informed choices between differing financial products including mortgages.

Tax Code.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

203 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the present rate of duty under each of the excise taxes, vehicle registration tax and special duties; the total tax take from each duty; the proportion of the average retail price of the final product to consumers which tax makes up, indicating the part coming from the duty and the part from VAT. [26479/04]

The present rates of duty under each of the excise taxes are as follows:

ALCOHOL PRODUCTS TAX

1

BEER exceeding 1.2% vol (per hectolitre percent of alcohol)

19.87

Other Beer

nil

2

SPIRITS (per Litre of alcohol)

39.25

3

WINE (per hectolitre)

Still and Sparkling, not exceeding 5.5% vol

90.98

Still, exceeding 5.5% but not exceeding 15% vol

273.00

Still, exceeding 15% vol

396.12

Sparkling, exceeding 15% vol

546.01

4

Other Fermented Beverages

(a)

CIDER AND PERRY (per hectolitre)

Still and Sparkling, not exceeding 6% vol

83.25

Still and Sparkling, exceeding 6% but not exceeding 8.5% vol

192.47

Still, exceeding 8.5% vol

273.00

Sparkling, exceeding 8.5% vol

546.01

(b)

Other than Cider and Perry (per hectolitre)

Still and Sparkling, not exceeding 5.5% vol

90.98

Still, exceeding 5.5% vol

273.00

Sparkling, exceeding 5.5% vol

546.01

5

Intermediate Beverages (per hectolitre)

Still, not exceeding 15% vol

273.00

Still, exceeding 15% vol

396.12

Sparkling

546.01

TOBACCO

1

CIGARETTES

Specific duty per 1,000 cigarettes

133.39

Ad Valorem duty as percent of retail price

18.32%

2

CIGARS (per kilogram)

196.409

3

FINE CUT TOBACCO FOR ROLLING OF CIGARETTES (per kilogram)

165.740

4

OTHER SMOKING TOBACCO (per kilogram)

136.261

Mineral Oil Tax

MINERAL HYDROCARBON LIGHT OILS (per 1,000 Litres)

1

LEADED PETROL

553.04

2

UNLEADED PETROL

442.68

3

SUPER UNLEADED

547.79

HYDROCARBON OILS OTHER SORTS (per 1,000 Litres)

1

HEAVY OIL (AUTO DIESEL)

368.05

Auto Diesel — (non Low Sulphur) with effect from 1 March 2002

420.44

Auto Diesel — Scheduled passenger road transport services

22.72

2

HEAVY OIL (NON AUTO USE — REBATE RATE) Transport Services

47.36

KEROSENE (with effect from 1 December 1999)

31.74

3

FUEL OIL

Industrial

13.45

For the use in the Generation of Electricity for sale

13.45

4

AUTO LPG AND METHANE

53.01

5

OTHER LPG

18.15

The current excise rate structure for vehicle registration tax i.e. the VRT for vehicles and motorcycles is as follows:

Private Cars (Category A)

Cars up to 1,400 ccs

22.5% of Open Market Selling Price (OMSP)

Cars 1,401 to 1,900 ccs

25% of OMSP

Cars 1,901 and over

30% of OMSP

Small Vans and some Jeeps (Category B)

13.3% of OMSP

Other Vehicles (Category C)

€50

Motor Cycles (new)

€2 per cc up to 350 ccs and €1 per cc thereafter

Motor Cycles (used)

mitigation of VRT provided for by age

Receipts from excise duties, on a revenue net receipts basis, totalled €4,736 million in 2003. The different elements of this tax revenue are as follows:

€m

Beer

455.4

Spirits

305.0

Wine

167.8

Cider

60.4

Tobacco

1,157.2

Light Oils

853.8

Other Oils

842.6

LPG

5.1

VRT

819.4

Other Excise

69.2

Total

4,735.95

As regards special duties such as betting tax, liquor licence fees and firearm certificate fees, the total revenue is included in the "Other Excise" category. A full breakdown of the rates and revenue from each can be supplied to the Deputy on request.

In respect of the proportion of tax in the average retail price of the final product to consumers, I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the details are as set out below:

Incidence of Duty and VAT

Price*

Excise Content

VAT Content

Total Tax Content

Tax Exclusive Price

Tax as a % of Price

%

Pint of Stout

3.55

0.47

0.62

1.09

2.46

30.6

Pint of Lager

3.93

0.47

0.68

1.15

2.78

29.3

Standard measure of Whiskey

3.34

0.56

0.58

1.14

2.20

34.1

Whiskey Bottle

23.97

10.99

4.16

15.15

8.82

63.2

Bottle of Table Wine

9.34

2.05

1.62

3.67

5.67

39.3

Litre of Unleaded Petrol

0.99

0.44

0.17

0.61

0.38

62.1

Litre of Auto Diesel

0.92

0.37

0.16

0.53

0.39

57.4

Kerosene (Home Heating) 1,000 Litres

485.9

31.74

57.79

89.53

396.32

18.4

Diesel (Home Heating) 1,000 Litres

475.7

47.36

56.58

103.94

371.76

21.9

Packet of 20 Cigarettes

6.25

3.81

1.08

4.90

1.35

78.4

* Source — CSO National Average Price Survey, August 2004.

In respect of calculations below on the tax content of car prices, sample open market selling prices are used rather than any specific industry data.

Less than 1,401cc

Between 1,401 and 1,900cc

Greater than 1,900cc

Sample OMSP

17,000

Sample OMSP

32,500

Sample OMSP

37,000

VTR

3,825

VTR

8,125

VTR

11,100

VAT

2,287

VAT

4,230

VAT

4,495

Total Tax

6,112

Total Tax

12,355

Total Tax

15,595

Total as % of Price

35.95%

Total as % of Price

38.02%

Total as % of Price

42.15%

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

204 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the details of the latest evidence which he has of the price and tax comparison of products subject to excises, VRT and special duties in the Republic and in Northern Ireland. [26480/04]

The most recent price comparisons that have been carried out by the Revenue Commissioners relate to June 2004. These provide a snapshot of the average retail prices of the main excisable commodities observed in the Dublin and Newry areas on 29 June 2004. The following tables provide a breakdown of the prices and tax on these commodities on that date. With respect to vehicles that are subject to vehicle registration tax, VRT, in the State, comparisons cannot be made with Northern Ireland as VRT is not imposed in that jurisdiction.

Results of Cross Border Price Survey — June 2004 — Table 1

All figures are in € and rounded to the nearest cent

(Sterling Prices are converted to € as per rate at 29/6/04: 1 € = 0.6705 Sterling)

ALCOHOLS

Price €

Diff

Excise Content

Diff

VAT Content

Diff

Total Tax

Diff

Tax Exclusive Price

Diff €

Tax as % of Price

Beer

Budweiser (can)

Irl

1.71

0.05

0.50

0.03

0.30

0.05

0.79

0.08

0.92

-0.02

46.4

5% alc — 50 cl

N. Irl

1.66

0.47

0.25

0.72

0.94

43.2

Guinness (can)

Irl

1.76

0.12

0.42

0.02

0.31

0.06

0.72

0.08

1.04

0.04

41.1

4.2% alc — 50 cl

N. Irl

1.64

0.39

0.24

0.64

1.00

38.9

Miller (bottle)

Irl

1.80

0.64

0.31

0.02

0.31

0.14

0.62

0.16

1.18

0.48

34.5

4.75 alc —33 cl

N. Irl

1.16

0.29

0.17

0.46

0.70

39.9

Spirits

Whiskey

Irl

24.28

3.91

10.99

2.82

4.21

1.18

15.20

4.00

9.08

-0.09

62.6

40% alc — 70 cl

N. Irl

20.37

8.17

3.03

11.20

9.17

55.0

Vodka

Irl

20.89

5.24

10.30

2.65

3.63

1.30

13.93

3.94

6.96

1.30

66.7

37.5% alc — 70 cl

N. Irl

15.65

7.66

2.33

9.99

5.66

63.8

Wines

Jacob’s Creek

Irl

8.95

0.76

2.05

0.22

1.55

0.33

3.60

0.55

5.35

0.21

40.2

<15% alc — 75 cl

N. Irl

8.19

1.83

1.22

3.05

5.14

37.2

E + J Gallo

Irl

7.95

0.51

2.05

0.22

1.38

0.27

3.43

0.49

4.52

0.02

43.1

<15% alc — 75 cl

N. Irl

7.44

1.83

1.11

2.94

4.51

39.5

Sparkling Wine

Irl

12.95

2.52

4.10

1.63

2.25

0.69

6.34

2.32

6.61

0.20

49.0

<15% alc _ 75 cl

N. Irl

10.43

2.47

1.55

4.02

6.41

38.6

Regarding tax as a percentage of price, it should be noted that VAT will fluctuate with price while excise will not — hence the tax content as a percentage of price on a pint of beer ina pub will be less than that on a can of beer purchased in a supermarket, which is generally less expensive.

Results of Cross Border Price Survey — June 2004 — Table 2

All figures are in € and rounded to the nearest cent

(Sterling Prices are converted to € as per rate at 29/6/04: 1 € = 0.6705 Sterling)

Price €

Diff

Excise Content

Diff

VAT Content

Diff

Total Tax

Diff

Tax Exclusive Price

Diff €

Tax as % of Price

Tobacco

B&H (20 cigarettes)

Irl

6.25

-0.88

3.81

-0.73

1.08

0.02

4.90

-0.71

1.35

-0.17

78.4

N. Irl

7.13

4.55

1.06

5.61

1.52

78.7

Silk Cut (20 cigarettes)

Irl

6.25

-0.76

3.81

-0.71

1.08

0.04

4.90

-0.67

1.35

-0.09

78.4

N. Irl

7.01

4.52

1.04

5.56

1.45

79.4

RYO (25 g)

Irl

7.10

-0.33

4.14

0.25

1.23

0.13

5.38

0.37

1.72

-0.70

75.7

N. Irl

7.43

3.90

1.11

5.00

2.43

67.3

Light Oils

Unleaded Petrol (1 litre)

Irl

0.98

-0.26

0.44

-0.26

0.17

-0.01

0.61

-0.27

0.36

0.01

62.7

N. Irl

1.24

0.70

0.18

0.89

0.35

71.6

Auto Diesel (1 litre)

Irl

0.90

-0.34

0.37

-0.33

0.16

-0.03

0.52

-0.36

0.38

0.02

58.2

N. Irl

1.24

0.70

0.18

0.89

0.35

71.6

Home Heating

Kerosene (1,000 litres)

Irl

438.3

123.1

31.7

31.7

52.1

37.1

83.9

68.9

354.5

54.3

19.1

N. Irl

315.2

0.0

15.0

15.0

300.2

4.8

Diesel (1,000 litres)

Irl

427.7

72.2

47.4

-15.6

50.9

33.9

98.2

18.4

329.4

53.8

23.0

N. Irl

355.5

62.9

16.93

79.9

275.6

22.5

Disabled Drivers.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

205 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the submissions by the Blind Car Owners and Users Association to have the scheme of tax relief for disabled drivers extended to persons who are registered blind; if he has carried out an assessment of this proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26487/04]

A pre-budget submission from the Blind Car Owners and Users Association was received by my office in early October. This organisation also made submissions to the interdepartmental review group established to review the disabled drivers' and disabled passengers' tax concessions scheme. The group's report examined all aspects of the scheme including the qualifying medical criteria. The Government has agreed that the Minister for Finance will consider the report on an ongoing basis in the overall budgetary context having regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme This submission, as with all other pre-budget submissions, will be considered in the context of preparations for the forthcoming budget and Finance Bill.

Departmental Advertising.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

206 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance, further to Question No. 103 of 13 October 2004, the name of the company that was successful in the 2000 tender process and the name of the company that held the contract prior to that date. [26524/04]

Brindley Advertising was awarded the contract for State advertising for various Departments and offices for three years from 1 November 2000. Brindley Advertising held the contract prior to that for three years from 1 October 1997.

Question No. 207 answered with QuestionNo. 202.

Disabled Drivers.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

208 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the efforts that have been made to publish the report of the interdepartmental review group which has been studying the 1994 disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme; if the full and final submissions have been made; if each of the Departments involved has accepted all or part of the merit of the submissions; if any Department has not; if changes in the operation of the scheme are imminent arising from the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26610/04]

I refer the Deputy to my reply of 14 October which dealt with the matters raised. The position is as follows: The report of the interdepartmental review group, established to examine the operation of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme, was published on my Department's website in early July 2004. It sets out in detail the genesis and development of the scheme, the current benefits, the Exchequer costs, the various requests to broaden the eligibility criteria and various recommendations for changes to the scheme.

Following on from the report's recommendations concerning the appeals process, amendments to the regulations governing the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme were drafted to improve the operation of the medical appeals board. These were signed by the Minister for Finance on 23 July 2004.

The amendments provide for changes to the existing regulations as follows: expanding the panel of medical practitioners serving on the medical board of appeal from three to five and amending the appeals process by introducing a six month waiting period between an appeal and a subsequent application, and introducing the requirement for a second or subsequent application to be certified by a registered medical practitioner to the effect that there has been material disimprovement in the medical condition since the previous application.

The Government has agreed that the Minister for Finance will consider the report on an ongoing basis in the overall budgetary context having regard to the existing and prospective cost of the scheme.

Tax Code.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

209 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the correct tax free allowance in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26643/04]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the total tax credits due to the person mentioned by the Deputy for the current tax year are €4,080 and notification of these issued to the taxpayer on 23 January 2004. A duplicate notice, outlining the tax credits due, will be sent to the person's home address on 28 October 2004. If the taxpayer has any further queries, he should contact east and south east regional PAYE by telephoning lo-call 1890 44 44 25.

Council of Europe Development Bank.

David Stanton

Ceist:

210 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Finance the relationship which the State has had with the Council of Europe Development Bank including monetary transactions; his further plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26682/04]

Ireland is not yet a member of the Council of Europe Development Bank, CEB. Although the bank was founded in 1956, Ireland did not join at that stage. However, negotiations for membership have taken place and the Council of Europe Development Bank Bill 2004, currently at Second Stage in Dáil Éireann, will allow Ireland to join the bank. The terms and conditions of our membership and participation in the operations of the bank were set out in the Second Stage speech of the Minister of State, Deputy Treacy, taken on my behalf, on 21 October 2004. Up to now, the Irish Government has not had a financial relationship with the Council of Europe Development Bank, but the CEB may well have had a relationship with Irish based financial institutions.

Decentralisation Programme.

Gerard Murphy

Ceist:

211 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding decentralisation to Kanturk, County Cork; the number of positions which will be available; the number of persons who have applied to be transferred to Kanturk, County Cork; and if an employee of the Southern Health Board fits under public service status. [26693/04]

Under the decentralisation programme the Office of Public Works is to re-locate 100 posts to Kanturk, County Cork. The data from the central applications facility, CAF, operated by the Civil Service Commission, published last month showed that a total of 85 persons have applied for decentralising to Kanturk as their first choice. The Southern Health Board is not a participating organisation in the CAF and therefore its staff cannot apply.

Liquor Licensing.

John Curran

Ceist:

212 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Finance the number of premises in Dublin City and county that are licensed to sell alcohol by retail sale; and if he could give comparable figures for the periods June 2004, June 2002, June 2000 and June 1998. [26702/04]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the number of premises licensed to sell alcohol by retail sale in Dublin City and county, on the dates referred to, were as follows:

Date

30 June 1998

1,692

30 June 2000

1,835

30 June 2002

1,798

30 June 2004

1,949

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

213 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26707/04]

The performance indicators used by the Department since 1997 are set out in the statements of strategy for the Department published since that date. Given the diversity of the Department's objectives and their impact on all aspects of the economy and the community in general, it would be inappropriate to attempt to draw any meaningful conclusions about the Department and its work based on just five performance indicators. For example, our statement of strategy for the period 2003-2005, which was published in April 2003, sets out approximately 80 high-level objectives and 50 indicators of progress. These were addressed in the context of the Department's seven strategic priorities, as follows: To support sustainable growth and employment creation, social progress and improved living standards through the formulation of appropriate economic and budgetary policies; to maximise delivery of the Government's economic and social objectives through the development and management of effective taxation and public expenditure policies; to develop policies that continue to promote Ireland's interests at EU and international level and which support the social and economic progress of the EU; to promote the effective regulation of the financial services sector; to promote and implement policies in relation to incomes, with particular reference to the public service, which take account of the financial position of the Exchequer and support competitiveness and the delivery of better public services; to support and improve public service management; and to provide an efficient, high quality service to our customers in line with the standards and targets set out in our customer service action plan.

Given the number and complexity of our objectives and their associated indicators of progress, along with annual changes in our business environment since 1997, it would be inadvisable for the Department to confine its strategic analysis of the economy as a whole over the period in question to a limited subset of objectives and their relevant indicators.

Tax Code.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

214 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6W will have overpaid tax refunded. [26729/04]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, in the case of the person mentioned by the Deputy, DIRT reclaimed for the period 1997 to 2001 amounted to €60.44 in total and was included on the balancing statement for the year 2001 that issued to the taxpayer together with a cheque for this amount on 15 October 2004.

Budget Submissions.

Paddy McHugh

Ceist:

215 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for Finance if in the forthcoming budget he will make sufficient finance available to enable persons with disabilities to participate as full and equal citizens in Irish society; if he will allocate funding in order that resourced community services can be provided for persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26734/04]

At this time of the year I receive a large number of pre-budget submissions requesting funding for a wide range of issues. Each one will be considered in the context of the forthcoming budget.

As I have previously indicated, there is already a significant level of investment by Government in disability specific services through a number of Departments. At present, some €2.5 billion, representing 7% of gross current public expenditure on services, is provided specifically for people with disabilities. This includes health sector services specifically for persons with an intellectual disability or autism, physical or sensory disabilities and mental illness; first and second level special needs education funded through the Department of Education and Science; the specialised training and employment support services provided by FÁS; the cost of various tax relief schemes; and local authority spending to adapt accommodation specifically for people with disabilities. These figures do not take account of the income support and other services provided through the Department of Social and Family Affairs or the fact that many people with a disability participate in, or benefit from, mainstream public service programmes and services. For example, speech and language therapy, physiotherapy and other similar key services for people with a disability are provided as part of the mainstream health services. Similarly, improving access to public transport services for persons with mobility and sensory impairments is an integral requirement of all Exchequer funded new investment in buses, rolling stock and station infrastructure.

The Deputy will also be aware that the Disability Bill was recently published and was accompanied by an announcement of new funding arrangements for capital and current spending on disability support services. On the capital front, a multi-annual capital investment programme for disability-specific services will be developed within the overall system of five-year multi-annual capital envelopes introduced in budget 2004. This was a major change in the treatment of capital spending. It provided for a rolling investment programme and a structured and planned approach to capital spending. These envelopes will be reviewed and rolled forward in the current Estimates and budget process. Decisions in relation to the investment programme for disability-specific services will be announced as part of that process.

On the current side, the Government has decided on a fundamentally different approach to current funding for high priority disability support services. In contrast to the traditional year-to-year basis, a multi-annual funding package for current expenditure on these services will be agreed within the Estimates and budget process. This is the first time that Government has adopted this approach in the case of spending on services. This new approach shows the Government's commitment to funding for disability support services and overall to implementing the initiatives announced with the publication of the Disability Bill.

Tax Code.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

216 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to the reorganisation of the Revenue Commissioners; if an arrangement (details supplied) can be changed in order to assist persons with queries in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26739/04]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that since their reorganisation at the end of last year a beneficiary's capital acquisition tax affairs are managed by Revenue in the region where the donor resides/resided. The appropriate region handles all services in that regard and there has been no diminution of such services with reorganisation. For personal callers in the Dublin area, the capital acquisitions tax — taxpayer information service is located in the Stamping Building, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2. Personal callers, where donors reside/resided in the Limerick or Clare area, can call to the Limerick Revenue district located in River House, Charlotte Quay, Limerick.

In the case of a non-resident donor, the Dublin region capital acquisitions tax customer service unit currently based in the Stamping Building, Dublin Castle, Dublin 2 deal with the capital acquisition tax affairs of the beneficiaries.

The capital acquisitions tax — taxpayer information service is a nationwide service for general queries in regard to capital acquisitions tax and can be contacted by telephone at LoCall 1890 20 11 04 or by fax at 01 679 0049.

Telecommunications Services.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

217 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals for ensuring the widespread provision of broadband services (details supplied) to areas in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26509/04]

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, under the regulation of ComReg, the Commission for Communications Regulation.

In its report on Ireland's Broadband Future, published in December 2003, the Information Society Commission concluded that the market has failed to respond to the demand for broadband connectivity, and there is a proven need for Government intervention to accelerate the provision of infrastructure and the driving of demand.

My Department's broadband action plan, which was launched in December last, will see broadband connectivity rolled out to over 90 towns with a population of 1,500 and over, using community broadband exchanges and strategic fibre. A spend of €35 million each year from now until 2007 has been committed to the broadband action plan. Five towns in Kildare, Kilcullen, Kildare, Maynooth, Newbridge and Rathangan, have submitted proposals under the current call for proposals and are being evaluated.

In addition to this initiative, the group broadband scheme, which was launched in March last, will allow smaller communities to pool their requirements and obtain broadband connectivity from a range of service providers, with €25 million in funding assistance from Government. Full details of the broadband rollout programme are on my Department's websites, www.dcmnr.ie and www.gbs.gov.ie.

Fishing Vessel Licences.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

218 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when a new fishing boat (details supplied) will be registered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26552/04]

Under the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003 the functions of sea-fishing boat licensing and registration were transferred from the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources to the Licensing Authority for Sea-Fishing Boats which operates on an independent basis subject to criteria set out in that Act. All applications for sea-fishing boat licences are considered by the Licensing Authority for Sea-Fishing Boats. The head of the licensing authority is the registrar general of fishing boats, a senior official in my Department. The licensing authority has informed me that the vessel concerned has been approved for entry onto the fishing boat register and that a certificate of registry for the vessel has now issued to the owner.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

219 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proposals he has to dramatically reduce the delay of up to 18 months in regard to applications for the licensing and registration of new fishing boats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26553/04]

An independent Licensing Authority for Sea-Fishing Boats, which is responsible for both the licensing and registration of fishing boats, was established last year under the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003. The processing of licensing applications had to be suspended for much of last year pending the finalisation of a new EU fleet policy and the consequent introduction of a new national licensing policy. The licensing authority has since been working through a backlog of licensing applications. It has informed me that it expects, by the end of next month, to have processed all licence applications currently on hands and to be in a position whereby a substantive reply will issue to all future applicants within four weeks of the date of receipt.

The licensing authority has informed me that it has processed all licence applications received in 2003 to the greatest extent possible. In many cases licence offers have been issued but all of the conditions of offer have to be complied with by the vessel owner before a licence can issue. With regard to licence applications made in 2004, the licensing authority has processed the vast majority of applications to the greatest extent possible other than those relating to the specific and aquaculture fleet segments. The licensing authority found it necessary to review the position with regard to the licensing of certain vessels in these fleet segments but hopes to shortly be able to issue a substantive reply in all of these cases.

The processing to finality of registration applications has been delayed in certain cases, mainly due to the need for the licensing authority to resolve, with the European Commission, a technical issue arising from new EU requirements in relation to the reporting of fleet changes. This issue has resulted in a delay in entering some vessels on the fishing boat register. The licensing authority is hopeful that the technical issue can be resolved very shortly so that the processing of any currently outstanding registration applications can be completed. The licensing authority hopes to shortly be in a position to have all registration applications processed within three weeks of their receipt.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

220 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26708/04]

The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources was established in June 2002. Prior to then the constituent parts of the Department were spread among a number of Departments and the priorities identified in those constituent parts were set in the context of their respective parent Departments at the time.

In regard to the current formation of the Department, I refer the Deputy to the Department's statement of strategy 2003-05 which sets out overarching high level goals and strategies for the Department and for each of the sectors for which the Department has responsibility. In addition to this, the strategy statement sets out an indicative list of broad performance indicators associated with the high level goals and strategies and specific performance indicators for each of the sectoral strategies.

My Department is preparing a new statement of strategy for the period 2005-07. Reflecting the wide range of responsibilities my Department has across a number of sectors, the new strategy statement will also set overarching high level goals and strategies and associated performance indicators for the Department and for each of the sectors. Priorities, both overarching and sectoral, and associated indicators, will reflect the programme for Government and all of Government's strategic priorities.

Passport Applications.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

221 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the procedure by which a person (details supplied) in Dublin 17 can obtain an Irish passport. [26672/04]

A passport application in respect of the person concerned was received on 6 October last. This was returned to the applicant on 13 October as the applicant's birth certificate had not been submitted. In cases where a birth certificate is not available the Passport Office can accept alternative evidence of birth such as a church certificate, early school record etc. I have asked the Passport Office to get in touch directly with the applicant in order to resolve the matter.

Human Rights Issues.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

222 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if active support will be given to Israeli citizens who are suffering detention and imprisonment for resisting the draft and their human right protected. [26686/04]

The Government is aware of the situation to which the Deputy refers. The matter is primarily one for the Israeli court system, to which the affected individuals have access. The position is that the individuals concerned have not been deprived of the opportunity to vindicate their rights within the Israeli legal system. In a broader context, the Israeli authorities are aware of the EU's concerns in relation to international human rights norms.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

223 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26709/04]

My Department has six high level goals, which are set out in our current strategy statement. They are to work to achieve the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the sustained operation of all its institutions, promoting co-operation, mutual understanding and respect between both traditions on the island, between North and South in Ireland and between these islands. The second goal is to pursue Ireland's foreign policy in accordance with the ideals enshrined in the Constitution and in conformity with the principles of the United Nations Charter, through the development of our bilateral relations with other states and our active and principled participation in international organisations. The third goal is to promote and protect Ireland's interests at the heart of the European Union as it enlarges and develops, including at the convention and subsequent IGC on the Future of Europe, while ensuring an efficient and effective EU Presidency in 2004 during which the historic enlargement of the European Union is due to take place.

The fourth goal is to promote Ireland's trade, investment and other interests, including its culture, in close co-operation with other Departments, State agencies and the private sector, ensuring that the State's network of diplomatic and consular missions adds real value to this task. The fifth goal is to make a substantial and effective contribution to lasting poverty reduction and sustainable growth in developing countries through the policy and programmes of Ireland Aid, and by working for a just and stable international economic system. The sixth goal is to protect the interests of Irish citizens abroad, maintain and strengthen links with people of Irish ancestry, and provide a modern and efficient passport and consular service.

These goals reflect the priorities with regard to the main policy work areas of the Department at the time the last strategy statement was prepared. The policy areas to which these goals refer have remained my Department's main priorities throughout the period from 1997 to date.

In the intervening period, certain goals have been achieved, such as conclusion of negotiations on the EU constitution and the conduct of an effective EU Presidency in which enlargement of the EU was successfully concluded.

Other primary indications of performance in the period 1997-2004 can be judged in the successful election to and term of office for Ireland's membership of the Security Council. There are also specific and measurable indicators to show progress in the achievement of all of the goals during the period from 1997. These include developments in North-South relations, expansion of the Department's support for Irish economic efforts aboard and the response to the very significant increase in demands on our consular passport and visa service at home and abroad.

I am satisfied that the goals as listed give an adequate picture of the Departmental priorities. My Department is about to commence work on a new strategy statement in the course of which we will be reviewing the priorities for the period ahead.

British Security Checks.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

224 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the circumstances surrounding the detention and questioning of an Irish singer and songwriter recently by the UK authorities; if it is normal practice for visitors and artists visiting the UK to be treated in this fashion; if an apology has been sought or made; if the nature of the questions asked was in accordance with normal procedure; if his office has communicated with his UK counterpart to register his protest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26723/04]

The Irish singer-songwriter and his driver were detained and questioned by police at Holyhead for two hours on 18 October after they arrived from Dublin. The detention was under the Terrorism Act 2000. He has complained to officials of this Department that the questioning was intimate and intrusive and amounted to harassment.

Following this report, the Irish Embassy in London made contact with the Foreign Office, and subsequently the Home Office, conveyed the initial details, and requested an explanation. The Home Office has confirmed that it has requested a report on the incident from Holyhead. It is expected that this will be received in the next few days. I will respond directly to the Deputy when in receipt of a reply from the British authorities.

My Department does occasionally receive complaints with regard to how security checks are handled by the British authorities. We have in the past consistently raised our concerns with the British authorities that the provisions of the British Terrorism Act 2000 be applied sensitively to ensure they do not cause embarrassment to travellers, nor discriminate against persons travelling between the two islands. The matter is the subject of regular discussions with the British side.

UN Conventions.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

225 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will promote and support a campaign to establish a UN international convention to provide protected status for aid workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26752/04]

It should be recalled at the outset that states are obliged, under international law, to protect the rights of all civilians in their territory, including aid workers, even in time of war or armed conflict. Ireland has consistently called upon all states to respect these obligations.

With regard to a convention to provide protected status for aid workers, the Deputy may be aware of the Convention on the Safety of United Nations and Associated Personnel of 1994, to which Ireland acceded in March 2002. The convention applies in respect of UN personnel on defined UN operations, and associated personnel, that is, personnel provided, with the agreement of the UN, by governments, intergovernmental organisations, or humanitarian non-governmental organisations, to assist in the fulfilment of the mandate of such UN operations. The convention obliges states parties to take all appropriate measures to ensure the safety and security of UN and associated personnel and to protect them from murder, kidnapping or other attack. It also requires states parties to punish the perpetrators of such attacks, and to co-operate with one another in any such criminal proceedings.

A number of weaknesses have been identified in the legal regime created by the convention, in particular the narrow definition accorded to the term "UN operation", which prevents the application of the convention to non-peace keeping operations without a prior declaration of exceptional risk by the General Assembly or Security Council. In response to this, the strengthening of the scope of the convention has been discussed by the Sixth (International Law) Committee of the UN General Assembly.

In meetings of the sixth committee, Ireland and its EU partners have been consistent and strong supporters of the strengthening of the convention. In the meeting of the sixth committee on this matter, held earlier this month, Ireland and the EU called for the application of the convention to be extended to all UN operations delivering humanitarian, political or development assistance. Discussions on this matter are expected to be resumed in spring 2005.

Arts Council.

John Gormley

Ceist:

226 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the Arts Council budget will be increased to €70 million in line with the Government’s own funding strategy for the council 2002-06; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26489/04]

The amount sought by the Arts Council is €68 million, which represents an increase of almost 30% on the 2004 figure. I presume that when the Deputy refers to "the Government's own funding strategy," he is referring to the Arts Plan 2002 to 2006, which projected funding of €70.69 million for 2005. This plan was prepared and approved by the Arts Council on its own initiative. It has recently been set aside by the council. I will do my utmost to secure the best possible deal for the Arts Council in the context of the Estimates for next year.

Swimming Pool Projects.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

227 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when the funding for the proposed new swimming pool for west Tallaght is going to come on stream as South Dublin County Council plans to proceed with this development are currently held back; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26539/04]

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

228 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when funding for the new replacement swimming pool for Clondalkin is going to come on stream as South Dublin County Council’s plans to proceed with this development are currently stymied and the existing swimming pool is in a dangerous state; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26540/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 227 and 228 together.

South Dublin County Council has applied for grant aid under the local authority swimming pool programme for a proposed new swimming pool in Jobstown in west Tallaght and the replacement of the existing swimming pool in Clondalkin. In June 2004, I approved the contract documents for the pool project in Jobstown and this approval allows the county council to invite tenders for the work proposed. Once the tender documentation has been submitted to my Department, the project can be considered further. The position in regard to the Clondalkin pool is that the contract documents for the project are under consideration in my Department.

Grant aid is not allocated until the tenders have been approved for a project. The maximum grant available under the programme is €3.8 million, which is available towards either the refurbishment of existing pools or the provision of new pools, subject in both cases to the total grant not exceeding 80% of the eligible cost of the project or, in the case of projects located in disadvantaged areas, 90% of the eligible cost. The local authority must provide the balance of the financing directly or in a combination of local authority funding, community group financing, private sector etc.

Projects are considered on a case-by-case basis and consideration is given to such issues as to whether the area is classified as disadvantaged, the number and geographical spread of projects within and between counties, the viability of the project, particularly in regard to operational and maintenance issues, overall funding package for the project, technical details and the Department's annual Estimates provision for the programme.

Sports Capital Programme.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

229 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when the application forms will be available for community voluntary and sporting organisations to enable them to apply for capital funding to enable them to undertake projects in their areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26550/04]

The national lottery-funded sports capital programme 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. Under the 2004 sports capital programme I allocated €61 million in respect of 738 projects. I will make an announcement shortly about the timetable for submission of applications for grants under the 2005 sports capital programme.

Cultural Institutions.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

230 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will make a statement on the implementation of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997, with regards to the National Library of Ireland and the National Museum of Ireland; the additional staff resources that have been put in place for the proper running of these institutions; the way in which the implementation of the Act will effect the status of existing staff members; the measures that have been put in place for the safety and maintenance of the collections; if he has satisfied himself that all reasonable provisions have been or will be made for the proper maintenance of the buildings, public liability insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26551/04]

My Department has been working closely with the National Library and the National Museum to achieve implementation with effect from 1 January next of the key sections of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997. This will mean that the National Library of Ireland and the National Museum of Ireland will become non-commercial semi-State bodies from this date, with statutory boards. It is my intention in the context of the 2005 Estimates process to seek a level of funding for both institutions which would permit them to discharge fully their current functions together with the additional administrative responsibilities, that they will be required to discharge as a result of autonomy.

Implementation of the Act will affect the existing staff members in two ways. First, under section 30(4) of the Act, those members of staff who are engaged for the performance of duties exclusively in the museum or library, as the case may be, shall, with effect from establishment day be transferred to, and become members of the staff of, the board of the museum or the board of the library. They will in effect become public servants from 1 January next.

Second, under section 31(1) of the Act, those staff serving in a general service capacity will be given an option to continue to work with their respective institution after establishment day, on a secondment basis, for a specified period of time within which they will be required to decide whether to transfer to the new boards or return to the general service. Details of this secondment arrangement are still being finalised.

In all cases where staff are transferred to the new boards, the Act provides that they shall not while in the service of the boards receive a lesser scale of pay or be made subject to less beneficial terms and conditions of service than those to which they were subject immediately before the establishment day.

The arrangements for safety of the collections, which are and will remain the property of the State, in both institutions will be no less than at present. Maintenance of the buildings will remain a function of the Office of Public Works. A financial provision will be made in the form of grant-in-aid to both new institutions to enable them take out their own insurance to cover public and employers' liability.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

231 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26710/04]

The priorities for my Department, which was established in mid-2002, are articulated in the programme for Government and encompassed in the goals and objectives set out in my Department's statement of strategy 2003-05 which is available on the Department's website. The performance indicators to measure delivery against these goals and objectives are also set out in the statement of strategy. Progress is reported in my Department's first annual report for 2002-03 which is also available on the Department's website.

In view of the three large sectoral areas for which I have responsibility, I do not believe that selecting five measurable performance indicators would give a true reflection of the range of policies and services being delivered in pursuit of the achievement of my Department's overall goals and objectives. Work has recently commenced on the development of a new statement of strategy in the context of which these goals, objectives and performance indicators will be reviewed and revised as appropriate.

EU Directives.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

232 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the name and address of the applicant site and the name of the establishment in question in tabular form, with respect to each of the planning applications for which planning permission was refused arising from the location of the applicant site within the consultation zone of a Seveso establishment designated in accordance with the terms of EC COMAH Directive 96/82/EC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26461/04]

The Health and Safety Authority, when requested to do so by a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála, gives technical advice on land use planning when decisions are taken relating to establishments subject to Directive 96/82/EC in respect of the following: the siting of new establishments; the modification of an existing establishment to which Article 10 of Council Directive 96/82/EC applies; and proposed development in the vicinity of an existing establishment.

The local planning authority or An Bord Pleanála then makes a decision, based on all the information and advice available to it, as to whether planning permission is to be granted. The Health and Safety Authority is not required to be informed of the decision, refusal or otherwise, or reason for such decision of a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála and does not, therefore, have the requested information. It lies within the jurisdiction of the relevant planning authority or An Bord Pleanála.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

233 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when and the means by which he proposes to implement Directive 2003/105/EC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26462/04]

Proposals are currently being developed by the Health and Safety Authority for draft regulations to transpose Directive 2003/105/EC of the European Parliament and Council of 16 December 2003, amending Council Directive 96/82/EC on the control of major-accident hazards involving dangerous substances, into national legislation.

The directive is required to be transposed into national legislation before 1 July 2005 and I look forward to receiving the authority's proposals towards the end of this year or early in 2005 to enable the legal drafting process to be completed within that timeframe.

The new regulations will, inter alia, revoke and replace the European Communities (Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances) Regulations 2000 — SI 476 of 2000 — and the European Communities (Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances) (Amendment) Regulations 2003 — SI 402 of 2003, which transposed Council Directive 96/82/EC into national legislation in Ireland.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

234 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the precise difference between upper and lower tier establishments with respect to the EC COMAH Directive 96/82/EC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26463/04]

The difference between upper and lower tier establishments, in terms of Directive 96/82/EC, is based on the levels of dangerous substances held at that establishment. The relevant quantities of dangerous substances that determine an establishment to be upper tier — the most hazardous — or lower tier are listed in Annex 1 to Council Directive 96/82/EC.

All establishments, subject to the directive, are subject to general requirements including that they must be notified to the Health and Safety Authority. A major accident prevention policy document, MAPP, must also be prepared and held by the establishment. All are subject to the land use planning provisions of the directive.

Upper tier establishments, in addition to the general requirements, must produce and submit to the authority a detailed safety report and must notify the public within a specified area of safety measures to be taken in the event of an emergency. The relevant local competent authorities must prepare an external emergency plan to deal with potential major accidents at each upper tier establishment.

Local Employment Service.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

235 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when, as provided for in Sustaining Progress, the integration of the local employment service into the national employment service will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26499/04]

The Programme for Prosperity and Fairness contained a commitment to integrate the local employment services within the national employment service. More recently, a similar recommendation was contained in a report on the review of the national employment service, which was commissioned by my Department. Implementation of that report is under consideration in my Department.

Work Permits.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

236 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has plans to review the work permit system in relation to the awarding of permits to the spouses of professionals, and the difficulties this creates for those in seasonal employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26500/04]

New arrangements were introduced earlier this year which were designed to give greater ease of access to employment for the spouses of certain non-EEA nationals working in the State under specified schemes and facilities. The non-EEA nationals concerned are persons working here on working visas or work authorisations, certain intra-company transferees, certain academics and researchers on work permits and certain registered medical professionals on work permits. The facilitation of access to work for spouses was achieved by eliminating the requirement that the employer in question advertise the job with FÁS in advance of making a work permit application, by the acceptance of applications for jobs in any category, providing the original work permit holder is skilled as defined; and by waiving the fees normally payable in respect of the application of a work permit.

A detailed set of guidelines, outlining the eligibility criteria and procedures relating to these arrangements, has been available on my Department's website, www.entemp.ie, since April and has been circulated widely. I have no plans at present to review these arrangements.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

237 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when his Department will make a decision concerning a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; the reason this person’s application has been delayed, despite repeated claims by his Department that a decision was to take up to eight weeks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26517/04]

An application for a work permit for the above named individual was received on 9 August 2004. This application was recently refused and the work permit section wrote to the employer on 27 October 2004 setting out the reasons for the refusal.

Statutory Redundancy Payments.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

238 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason for the delay in payment of statutory redundancy to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who worked under a FÁS administrative scheme; if payment will now issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26518/04]

This relates to a former employee of a private company that was grant aided by FÁS under the social economy programme. Responsibility for statutory redundancy payments rests in the first instance with the employer. I understand from FÁS that it will be in contact with the employer about this issue.

Waste Disposal.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

239 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he supports the application by the IDA to be permitted to store 40,000 tonnes of waste that was illegally dumped at its site at Belcamp, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26580/04]

The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio, including decisions regarding location and size of land owned by the authority, are day-to-day operational matters for the authority and not matters in which I have a function.

IDA Ireland has informed me that it purchased approximately 48 hectares, 120 acres, in five lots from separate owners at Belcamp, County Dublin, in 1997. As is standard practice, a site acquisition report was prepared by consultants engaged by the agency, which involved opening sample trial pits on the land. This report did not indicate any impediments with the purchase of the site and subsequently the purchase was executed.

In June 2001, illegal waste was discovered on approximately two acres of this land when Dublin City Council contractors were conducting excavation works for the laying of the major north fringe sewer. The nature of the illegal waste discovered is bio-hazardous clinical/general waste and, from analysis, was deposited in the 1980s prior to IDA Ireland acquiring the land. IDA Ireland has begun legal proceeding against the vendors in regard to this matter and it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.

Since the discovery, IDA Ireland's primary concern has been, and continues to be, health and safety. The agency took immediate action by fencing off the area, erecting signage and capping the area with clean soil pending the implementation of a solution.

IDA Ireland has assured me that it is managing the situation according to best international practice. It appointed experts to advise on the extent of the problem and its implications with particular emphasis on health, safety and environmental issues. Specialist environmental consultants were retained to provide expert advice on solutions and extensive consultations with the appropriate regulatory and local authorities were held.

The containment solution was proposed to IDA following consultations with the experts as the best means of solving the problem and addressing concerns regarding the welfare of the surrounding community and environment. This containment solution is the subject of a recent planning application by IDA Ireland to the planning authorities, Fingal County Council and Dublin City Council, as the land straddled both council areas.

Insurance Industry.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

240 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in view of the large increase in profits and significant decrease in claims being experienced by insurance companies, he will be arranging a meeting with representatives of the industry to demand a comparative decrease in motorists insurance premiums. [26659/04]

The CSO consumer price index statistics show that there was a reduction of 19.3% in motorcar insurance between the months of April 2003 and September 2004. The CSO index is based on averages but many individual policyholders have done much better as is evidenced from data provided by the Motor Insurance Advisory Board, MIAB. Examples provided by MIAB for three specific companies between March 2003 and March 2004 indicate the following reductions: 10% to 16% in comprehensive insurance for a 30 year old male, 10% to 41% in comprehensive insurance for a 50 year old female, and 10% to 45% for third party, fire and theft insurance for a 21 year old male.

Motor insurance market losses from 1997 to 2001 were reversed in 2002 and 2003 and profit levels in 2003 have been very significant. However, the cumulative profit margin in motor insurance between 1997 and 2003 was only4.8%. I strongly welcome the premium reductions we have seen to date and I expect that further premium reductions will follow from the new market conditions now in place.

EU law prevents Governments from intervening directly in relation to the matter of premium levels or in respect of what risks insurance companies are prepared to underwrite. Governments are free to take steps to improve the functioning of the market, and the Government's concern for motorists and businesses regarding insurance premia has been pursued in the insurance reform programme. A significant number of the MIAB recommendations, which were central to the reform programme, have been fully implemented, and the majority of the remaining recommendations are being progressed.

Reforms such as the establishment of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board, action in the areas of road safety and driver behaviour and the Civil Liability and Courts Act tackling fraudulent and exaggerated personal injury claims will further benefit consumers and genuine claimants and drive premium reductions.

Competition from new entrants attracted by the improvement in market conditions will be an important element in ensuring continuing downward pressure on premia. New entrants in the motor and liability areas authorised to operate on a freedom-of-services basis in Ireland include Brit Insurance and ARB Underwriting. Great American Insurance International was authorised by IFSRA in June 2004. Santam Europe Limited, with a parent company based in South Africa, was authorised by IFSRA in August 2004. Quanta Europe Limited, a subsidiary of Quanta Capital Holdings, Ltd., Bermuda, was authorised by IFSRA on 1 September 2004.

My Department and the Competition Authority have undertaken a joint study to identify and analyse barriers to entry and limitations on rivalry in the insurance marketplace. A preliminary report and consultation document on competition issues in the non-life insurance market was published on 18 February 2004. Following a consultation period, a final report will be published, which will contain recommendations based on its findings. I expect these reforms will result in further premium reductions going forward.

The Deputy might wish to note that following the establishment of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, IFSRA, my Department no longer regulates the insurance industry. My colleague, the Minister for Finance, retains overall responsibility for policy and legislation in relation to the provision of financial services in Ireland, including insurance.

My colleague the Minister for Transport, in the light of broader responsibility for legislation regarding motor insurance, including negotiation and transposition of EU motor insurance directives, the operation of the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland, the requirement for motor insurance and road safety, will shortly take over the lead role in relation to policy and legislation on the availability and cost of motor insurance, including related interdepartmental co-ordination.

Work Permits.

Gerard Murphy

Ceist:

241 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a person (details supplied) in County Cork can obtain a work permit for an employee; and if the necessary application form will be forwarded to this person. [26694/04]

Work permits were issued to Macra na Feirme for a special scheme on the understanding that the participants would return to their home country on completion of their placement on the scheme.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

242 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26711/04]

My Department has a broad range of responsibilities and activities. These are grouped together in the Department's Statement of Strategy 2003-2005 under five pillars covering the following areas: enterprise, innovation and growth; quality work and learning; making markets and regulation work better; quality, value and continuous improvement; and the European Union. High level performance indicators are set for each of these five pillars.

An example of a high-level goal under pillar one is the prioritisation of investment in science, technology and innovation and the development of the knowledge society. High-level performance indicators for this goal include business expenditure on research and development, and gross expenditure on research and development. A high-level goal under pillar two involves ensuring that labour market policy responds to changing skills needs and prioritising investment that delivers better jobs, life-long learning for all and enhanced social inclusion. High-level performance indicators for this goal include: complete reviews of supports to the long-term unemployed and of the national employment service; and an action plan to implement policy for lifelong learning to be completed by the end of 2003 in agreement with the Department of Education and Science.

Under the Public Service Management Act, each Department is required to prepare an annual progress report on the implementation of the strategy statements. The Department's most recent annual report, published in May 2004, sets out progress against the achievement of goals set out in the Statement of Strategy 2003-2005.

My Department is currently reviewing the way in which Departmental performance indicators are set and reported on in the context of the Public Service Management Act requirement to prepare a new strategy statement within six months of the appointment of a new Minister and also to progress the roll-out of the management information framework. That process will establish a set of key performance indicators against which progress will be reported in subsequent annual reports. I envisage that, in line with practice in the current strategy statement, the diversity of my Department's responsibilities will require significantly more than five performance indicators.

Social Welfare Code.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

243 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the reports that women in domestic violence situations are being forced to remain in such situations due to cutbacks to the rent supplement; if he intends to reverse these cutbacks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26428/04]

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

249 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the steps he proposes in order to assist the many vulnerable persons who are denied rent allowance for the first six months after lodging an application. [26437/04]

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

258 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the criteria applied in determining loss of rent allowance to persons refusing a second offer of local authority housing. [26535/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 243, 249 and 258 together.

Rent supplements are paid under the terms of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme which is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards.

There are no circumstances in which women in domestic violence situations have to remain in such situations due to changes introduced into the rent supplement scheme earlier this year. Equally, there is no question of vulnerable persons being denied rent supplement for the first six months after lodging an application.

All applicants for rent supplement who have been assessed by a local authority as being in need of housing, receive rent supplement immediately regardless of how long they have been renting in the private sector or even if they never rented before. Nobody who needs rent supplement is refused if they have a housing need.

If an applicant for rent supplement has not been assessed by a local authority as being in need of housing, they are not excluded from receiving rent supplement on that account. First, a number of categories of people are exempted from the requirement to be assessed by the local authority, including: elderly people; people with disabilities; people regarded as homeless by a local authority; people leaving institutions such as prisons; and existing bona fide private sector tenants, defined as people who have been renting for six months or more, who have an income maintenance need, for example, because they have just become unemployed.

Second, a person who applies for rent supplement who is not in one of the exempted categories may apply to their local authority for an assessment of their housing need. If the local authority considers that they have a housing need and the local authority cannot immediately meet that housing need, then rent supplement is payable without delay.

The health boards have discretion to award rent supplement in any cases where they feel it is appropriate to do so even if the person in question is not an existing private sector tenant and does not fall into one of the exempted categories. The instructions issued to health boards on implementing the new arrangements earlier this year state that the new arrangements do not restrict the discretion given to them to award a supplement in any case where it appears to the board that the circumstances of the case so warrant.

The principal criteria upon which such a determination might be made include the safety and well-bring of the applicant or a situation where an applicant is being made homeless or forced to use homeless facilities unless rent supplement is paid. Such cases could include people who find themselves caught up in violent domestic situations who have to move accommodation because of fears for their safety or well-being. My Department is not aware of anybody in such circumstances who has been refused rent supplement since the new measures were introduced.

In the past it had been possible for people to refuse a housing offer, or multiple offers, from their local authority in favour of availing indefinitely of rent supplement from the health board for private rented accommodation. Rent supplement is no longer payable to those who refuse two such offers of accommodation from their local authority.

In a related development, a new initiative announced in July 2004 will progressively transfer responsibility to local authorities for meeting long-term housing needs, including those of people dependent on rent supplement for 18 months or longer. These new arrangements will see local authorities put solutions in place for people with long-term housing needs, while the rent supplement scheme will continue to provide short-term income support in appropriate circumstances. These measures are intended to strengthen the capacity of local authorities to deal with actual housing needs in their areas.

A working group was established earlier this year under the Sustaining Progress agreement to enable the social partners to assess the impact of the changes to the rent supplement scheme. The working group, which was chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach, included representatives from ICTU and the community and voluntary pillar, as well as my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. This group concluded that the new measures were not having any significant adverse impacts, taking account of the continuing appropriate levels of discretion available to community welfare officers in respect of particularly vulnerable people.

As previously stated, I have instructed my Department to conduct a review of a number of adjustments to particular welfare schemes that were introduced last year. That review is currently under way and I expect that it will be concluded soon.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

244 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has conducted an analysis of the impact on recipients of the dietary supplement of the cuts placed on the supplement a year ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26429/04]

Recipients of social welfare or health board payments who have been prescribed a special diet as a result of a specified medical condition and whose means are insufficient to meet their food needs may qualify for a diet supplement under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards.

Diet supplements are subject to a means test. The amount of supplement payable depends on which of two categories of diet has been prescribed by the applicant's medical advisor and the income of the individual and his or her dependants.

The basis for calculating the amount of diet supplement had remained unchanged since 1996. Subsequent increases in social welfare rates and in the cost of special diets had not been taken into account in assessing entitlement in individual cases.

With effect from 1 January 2004, the diet supplement scheme was restructured to take account of increases in social welfare payment rates and the rate of food inflation since 1996. In the case of new applicants for diet supplement, the amount of supplement payable is based on revised diet costs, €44 for lower cost diets, or €57 for higher cost diets, less one third of the applicant's income or one sixth of the joint income in the case of a couple. People who were in receipt of a diet supplement prior to the introduction of the revised regulations on 1 January 2004 continue to receive their existing rate of supplement until such time as there is a change in their circumstances that would warrant a review of their case.

In order to inform future consideration of the scheme, my Department has commissioned a short study by the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute to establish what constitutes a standard healthy nutritional diet and how the cost of such a diet relates to the current rate of social welfare payments. The study will also examine the special diets currently prescribed in legislation which attract assistance in the form of a diet supplement and examine the appropriate level of assistance required to allow individuals cater for any additional costs involved in providing for special diets. The study is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

As previously stated, I have instructed my Department to conduct a review of a number of adjustments to particular welfare schemes, including alterations to the dietary supplements, that were introduced last year. That review is currently under way and I expect that it will be concluded soon.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

245 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be approved the carer’s allowance. [26431/04]

The person concerned was refused carer's allowance on the grounds that full-time care and attention as prescribed in regulations was not required in this case. She was notified of the decision, the reason therefor and her right to appeal on 22 September 2004.

She lodged an appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 7 October 2004. As part of this process, the additional medical evidence provided in support of this appeal has been submitted to the chief medical advisor of my Department for consideration. If this medical evidence provides grounds for a more favourable assessment of the person concerned the decision will be revised to reflect this.

Under social welfare legislation, decisions on claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in making such decisions.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

246 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an unemployment assistance appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be determined; the number of letters this person has submitted as proof that he is genuinely seeking work; the number of letters needed to show that he is actively looking for work; the reason this person’s unemployment assistance was stopped; when this case will be dealt with; if an oral hearing is necessary in this case; if so, when it will be scheduled; and when this person’s unemployment assistance will be restored. [26432/04]

There is no specific number of job applications which would be automatically accepted as evidence that a person is available for or genuinely seeking work. The person concerned was in receipt of unemployment assistance up to 21 September 2004 when, following a review of his claim that took account of all the available evidence, including replies to seven job applications, the deciding officer disallowed the claim on the basis that he was not available for full-time employment and was not genuinely seeking employment.

The person concerned has appealed this decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The appeal has been referred to the appeals officer, who is of the opinion that an oral hearing is required. He will be advised of the date and venue for the hearing when the necessary arrangements have been made. Under social welfare legislation, decisions on claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in making such decisions.

Child Care Services.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

247 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the recommendations he has to enhance the future of child care and crèche facilities in view of the importance of supporting child care facilities and the discontinuance of crèche supplements to eligible low income parents. [26435/04]

The equal opportunities child care programme operated by my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, provides capital funding to both private and community based groups, as well as funding for the staffing costs of certain community based child care facilities. That programme assists parents to avail of educational, training or employment opportunities.

Health boards have the primary responsibility for provision of child welfare supports under the Child Care Act. In that context, the question of adequate ongoing health board funding arrangements for community based or not-for-profit crèches is a matter for consideration in the context of health service financing generally.

I consider that child care and child welfare supports are best provided by consolidating and improving these programmes.

Money Advice and Budgeting Service.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

248 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of running the Money Advice and Budgeting Service; the number of centres used; the number of callers logged for the first half of 2004; and the breakdown of the type of assistance sought. [26436/04]

The Money Advice and Budgeting Service, MABS, is provided by 52 MABS companies operating out of 65 centres throughout the country. There are 130 money advisors and 80 administrative staff working in the MABS. A total of €11.4 million has been allocated to the service in 2004.

The first half of 2004 saw an increase in numbers calling to MABS offices. A total of approximately 8,500 clients used the service during that period. In 2003 the service helped approximately 16,000 new clients and had more than 13,000 active cases at any one time. The number of new clients has increased from 9,000 in 2001 and 12,000 in 2002. An average of 1,700 persons per month visit the MABS website at www.mabs.ie.

A very high number of those presenting to the MABS are "multiple debt" cases. These are cases where an individual or a family runs into arrears with a number of household bills that may include rent or mortgage, ESB bills, hire purchase costs, motor tax and insurance, children's educational expenses and personal loans from banks, credit unions, money lenders and credit cards. A detailed breakdown of the types of assistance sought is not available.

Question No. 249 answered with QuestionNo. 243.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

250 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons and the amount awarded to them by way of rent allowance or mortgage supplement in 2003 and the estimated figures for 2004; and the breakdown as per local authority or health board area. [26438/04]

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

257 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons and the total amount paid to them by way of rent allowance or mortgage supplement in 2003 and estimated for 2004; and the break down as per local authority area or health board area. [26534/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 250 and 257 together.

Subject to certain conditions, the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on behalf of my Department by the health boards, provides for the payment of a weekly or monthly supplement in respect of rent or mortgage interest to assist with reasonable accommodation costs of eligible people who are unable to provide for their accommodation costs from their own resources and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.

Recipient numbers and expenditure on rent and mortgage interest supplement, categorised by health board, in respect of 2003 and to date in 2004 are set out in the following tabular statements.

Table 1: Rent/Mortgage Interest Supplement details for 2003.

Rent Supplement

Mortgage Interest Supplement

Health Board

Recipients*

Expenditure

Recipients*

Expenditure

€m

€m

ERHA

25,523

176.497

1,714

3.673

MHB

2,319

11.158

95

0.191

MWHB

4,348

18.767

284

0.482

NEHB

3,374

15.962

300

0.544

NWHB

2,738

9.364

146

0.190

SEHB

6,190

28.553

427

0.739

SHB

8,985

41.531

595

1.272

WHB

6,499

29.638

372

0.572

Total

59,976

331.470

3,933

7.663

* Recipient numbers reflect position at end of December 2003.
Expenditure figure reflects the actual cumulative figure for the year.
Table 2: Rent/Mortgage Interest Supplement details for 2004**

Rent Supplement

Mortgage Interest Supplement

Health Board

Recipients*

Expenditure

Recipients*

Expenditure

€m

€m

ERHA

25,566

157.903

1,489

2.419

MHB

2,107

8.862

73

0.118

MWHB

4,106

16.025

244

0.317

NEHB

2,895

11.892

239

0.335

NWHB

2,462

7.924

130

0.150

SEHB

5,900

24.079

371

0.544

SHB

8,351

34.406

520

0.885

WHB

5,927

24.135

309

0.392

Total

57,314

285.226

3,375

5.16

** Recipient numbers reflect position at 22/10/04. Expenditure is cumulative to 22/10/04 and is provisional only, subject to final account reconciliation.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

251 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if it his intention to introduce social welfare provisions or adjust existing provisions in advance of the budget for 2005. [26439/04]

Changes to social welfare schemes and services are normally announced in the context of the annual estimates and budget. The Abridged Estimates Volume will be published within a few weeks while the budget will be announced shortly after 1 December next.

As I have already stated in the House, I am committed to delivering on the social welfare commitments contained in An Agreed Programme for Government, Sustaining Progress and the national anti-poverty strategy. I am engaged in meeting a wide variety of community and voluntary groups to hear their concerns. I am also examining a range of proposals for improvements in social welfare arrangements in consultation with my officials and my plans in this regard should be finalised shortly.

Pension Provisions.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

252 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the inequity caused by the introduction of the reduced old age contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26440/04]

To qualify for an old age contributory pension, it is necessary for a person to have paid social insurance contributions, at an appropriate rate, over an extended period. The rate structure is designed to enable as many as possible to receive pensions, while at the same time giving appropriate recognition to the different levels of contribution which people have made to the social insurance fund.

In this regard, the Government has introduced a number of measures designed to make qualification for old age contributory pensions easier for people with reduced or broken social insurance records. In 1997, the average yearly number of contributions required for a minimum pension was reduced from 20 to ten. Pro rata pensions are also available for people with insurance contributions at different rates or from other EU countries or countries with whom Ireland has signed a bilateral agreement. In addition, special pensions were introduced for those with pre-1953 contributions and for the self-employed who were already over 56 years of age in 1988 when compulsory social insurance was introduced for that group.

Rather than creating inequities, the measures introduced, including the creation of half-rate pensions, have enabled many people, who up to 1997 would not have qualified for a payment, to qualify. The pensions being received by those on reduced rate or pro-rata pensions represent a very good return for the contributions paid. All persons are entitled to an old age non-contributory pension, subject to a means test.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

253 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider exempting part of payments of redundancy lump sums from the means test for unemployment assistance on condition that this part is put into a pension fund; his estimate of the cost of exempting €50,000 of any lump sum in this way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26502/04]

In assessing means for unemployment assistance purposes, account is taken of any cash income the person may have, together with the value of capital and property. Amounts held in occupational pension schemes and personal pension products such as PRSAs and retirement annuity contracts are not assessed as capital for means testing purposes while they are held in such schemes. In addition, the origin of such pension contributions, be it a redundancy lump sum or otherwise, is not relevant in this context.

Pension Provisions.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

254 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons that are now depending on non-contributory old age pensions; his views on whether many of these, as self-employed persons, were not eligible to make any PRSI contributions until 1988; if he will consider removing the strict means test that is imposed on these persons and provide them with a full pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26508/04]

At the end of September 2004, there were 85,381 people receiving an old age non-contributory pension which represents a decline of over 20% in the last ten years. Figures in relation to the previous employment status of those receiving old age non-contributory pension are not available.

This decline in the importance of the old age non-contributory pension reflects improved social insurance coverage and increased labour force participation, particularly for women. Successive changes to the social insurance system throughout the period 1974 to 1995 extended coverage to new groups of workers and this extended coverage is resulting in additional numbers now qualifying for contributory payments.

The Government is committed to extending contributory based pensions to as many people as possible through easing the qualifying conditions and catering for special groups who marginally fail to qualify for a pension. However, the basic principle underlying entitlement to social welfare contributory schemes, which requires a certain level and type of social insurance, remains an important feature.

Self-employed people who were over 56 years in 1988 when compulsory social insurance was introduced for the self-employed were one of the groups for whom a special pension was introduced. In April 1999 a flat-rate pension of 50% of the standard maximum rate with equivalent increases for adult and child dependants, was introduced based of the payment of 260 contributions. There are currently 16,116 people in receipt of the self-employed pension.

The old age non-contributory pension is a social assistance payment which is designed to provide financial support for older people who do not qualify for one of the contributory pension schemes. In common with other social assistance schemes it is payable subject to a means test which is intended to ensure that available resources are targeted at those who are most in need. There are no plans to remove the means test for this pension.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

255 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of formerly unemployed persons that availed of the back to education allowance in 2003; and the number that are in receipt of the allowance for the 2004-5 academic year. [26532/04]

The back to education allowance is a second chance education opportunities programme designed to encourage and facilitate people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to the active work force.

During the 2003-04 academic year there were 5,732 participants in the back to education allowance scheme who were previously in receipt of an unemployment payment. Applications for the 2004-05 are still being processed and to date 5,350 persons formerly in receipt of an unemployment payment have been approved for participation in the scheme.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

256 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the financial support currently available to help lone parents to re-enter the workforce; and if he will introduce a new back to work scheme to support them. [26533/04]

The main financial support available to lone parents is the one parent family payment which was introduced in 1997 to replace a number of schemes which catered for different categories of lone parent. These schemes included lone parents allowance, deserted wife's benefit and the non-contributory widow and widower's pension for those with dependent children.

The one-parent family payment is based on the need for social welfare support for parents with children where a person has not secured adequate, or any maintenance from the spouse or the other parent. One of the objectives of the scheme is to encourage lone parents to consider employment as an alternative to welfare dependency, while at the same time supporting them to remain in the home if they so wish. It is generally accepted that one of the most effective routes out of poverty for people in the active age groups is through paid employment.

The main element of this policy is an earnings disregard of €146.50 per week. Earnings above this limit are assessed at 50%, up to a maximum of €293 per week. The earnings disregard is designed to facilitate lone parents in entering or re-entering the workforce by enabling them retain entitlement to their payments until they become established in employment. It also facilitates them in availing of training opportunities to prepare them for employment. Lone parents who exceed the upper income limit applying under the scheme may qualify for the family income supplement. This scheme is designed to provide income support for employees on low earnings with children. It helps to "make work pay" for employees with children in circumstances where otherwise they might only be marginally better off in work than if claiming other social welfare payments. The employment support services currently in place in my Department offer a number of options which are designed to assist certain social welfare recipients, including lone parents, return to work. These options are provided through the Department's locally based facilitators who assist people to access work, training or further education.

The back to education allowance scheme is a second chance educational opportunities programme designed to encourage and facilitate unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities to improve their skills and qualifications with a view to returning to the workforce. Courses covered under the scheme range from second level through to third level courses of study. Persons awarded the allowance receive a standard weekly rate of payment equivalent to the relevant social welfare payment prior to participation. An annual cost of education allowance of €254 is also payable. Almost 1,300 lone parents availed of the scheme in the 2003-04 academic year.

The back to work allowance scheme is designed to assist the return to work by allowing persons to retain a reducing rate of their social welfare payment over a three-year period, when they take up employment, or four years, if entering self-employment. The allowance is payable to employees at 75% in year one, 50% in year two, and 25% in year three. For those engaged in self employment the allowance is payable at 100% in the first year and at 75%, 50%, and 25%, respectively, over the following three years. There are currently 1,204 lone parents on the scheme, 337 of whom are self employed. The impact and effectiveness of these provisions and schemes is being kept under review, in pursuit of the commitment given in my Department's statement of strategy to review the income support arrangements for lone parents. The main purpose of the review is to establish the extent to which obstacles remain to recipients taking up employment. Account will be taken in the review of the research carried out to date, not least the review of the one parent family payment, published by my Department in September 2000 and the OECD review of family-friendly policies, "Babies and Bosses" Volume II, published in November 2003, which contained a detailed analysis of the position in Ireland from a cross-country perspective. The entire OECD study is currently being finalised and conclusions and recommendations, which will inform my Department's review, are expected shortly. Account is also being taken of policies and programmes pursued in other EU countries, as set out in their national action plans on social inclusion.

Question No. 257 answered with QuestionNo. 250.
Question No. 258 answered with QuestionNo. 243.

Pension Provisions.

David Stanton

Ceist:

259 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a clawback policy relating to means-tested pension payments from pensioners’ wills exists in his Department; the number of such cases taken each year since 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26635/04]

Social welfare legislation places an obligation on people applying for a means-tested payment to disclose their full means at time of application and to notify my Department of any subsequent changes. The requirement to submit a schedule of assets in the case of deceased old age non-contributory pensioners is to ensure that the correct rate of pension was payable for the duration of the person's entitlement. There is provision in legislation for the recovery of any overpayments from the assets of the deceased's estate. The number of means-tested pension cases where my Department assessed overpayments since 2000 is as follows.

Year

Number of Cases

2000

508

2001

442

2002

406

2003

388

2004 (Up to Sept)

247

Family Support Services.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

260 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the recent report, How are our Kids?, in Tallaght west; and the new measures or sanctions he proposes to introduce in response to the considerable problems highlighted in the report. [26658/04]

I welcome the study, to which the Deputy refers, and like many others am concerned at its findings. It demonstrates the urgency of the action required to combat poverty, which impacts on our most vulnerable citizens, especially our children.

The study is based on a sample of 187 children drawn from 79 households in Tallaght west. The area differs from the average in this country in the following important respects. The population is much younger than the average, 54% under 25, compared with the national average of 37%, and 33% under 15, compared with the national average of 21%; almost 7% of the population lives with a disability of whom 14.6% are under 15 years age, compared with an national average of 5.3%; the proportion unemployed, at 10.6%, is more than twice the national average, while a further 4.6% are unable to work; almost one in three, 32.6%, of households are headed by a lone parent, with just under 24% of lone parent households having a child under 15 years, compared to national averages of 12% and 5.3% respectively; the numbers leaving education early are significantly higher than the national averages. Those living in the area are, therefore, at a much higher risk of poverty than the national average.

The national anti-poverty strategy, which has been in operation since 1997, is being constantly developed, a process being co-ordinated by the office for social inclusion in my Department. It is designed to meet the type of challenges highlighted by this study. A report on implementation of the plan for the period 2003 to 2004 is being finalised and will be published shortly. It is intended that this will provide a basis for evaluation of the progress made so far in combating poverty and social exclusion and what the priorities should be for further action. The evaluation will take place in consultation with the social partners, the community and voluntary sector and other interested parties, with a view to a report being forwarded to the EU in June.

A key priority will be to further develop a more effective regional and locally based approach to combating poverty, within the context of the revitalising areas by planning, investment and development, RAPID programme. This programme, launched in 2001, is designed to improve the quality and delivery of services and facilities in identified areas of urban disadvantage, which includes parts of west Tallaght. The ongoing review of the NAPS will examine how national policies in areas such as income and employment supports, child care, health, and education can be better integrated with locally based services to combat more effectively concentrations of poverty, especially in areas of deprivation. Above all it will seek to identify priorities for immediate action, given the urgency of significantly improving the well being of the children, whose situation is so well documented in the study.

The findings of studies such as this are being fully taken into account in this process. I have also asked my officials to contact the authors of the study with a view to discussing their findings and identifying other priorities for action.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

261 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26712/04]

As the Deputy suggests, the range of activities in which my Department is involved makes it difficult to convey an adequate picture of the Department's performance through a small number of specific indicators.

The process of producing period statements of strategy, as Departments are now required to do under the Public Service Management Act 1997, requires that Departments set out key objectives and performance indicators for the different areas of business in which the Departments are engaged. The learning process which this involves is helping to clarify the key indicators of progress for Departments in delivering on their remit.

The production of performance indicators also requires investment of resources in technology to support this. In that regard the management information framework project which is being implemented as part if the programme of modernisation of the public service will enable the production of more comprehensive indicators and improved systems for measuring and reporting on inputs, outputs and outcomes.

Over the period since 1997, my Department has used a range of indicators to measure progress on the delivery of its responsibilities. The key areas in relation to which performance is measured are, first, customer satisfaction, second, processing times for new claims and, third, the level and effectiveness of control and anti-fraud activity.

In relation to customer satisfaction, my Department carries out periodic surveys of customers and consultation exercises to determine levels of satisfaction and obtain views on the service provided. While these surveys show consistently high levels of overall customer satisfaction, the exercises are used to identify specific areas where improvement is required and to target resources towards these areas.

In relation to processing times, my Department publishes a set of targets covering the different payment schemes for which it is responsible and these are used to assess performance and to redirect resources where necessary. Between 1997 and 2003, the number of claims in payment by the Department rose by 8.6% with particularly high levels of increases in certain scheme areas. These increases have presented a significant challenge to the Department in maintaining overall service levels over this period.

In relation to control activity, the Department's control strategy involves a wide range of measures and activities to control fraud and abuse of the social welfare system. The main indicator of performance in this regard is the amount of savings arising from control activities. The overall amount involved increased by 53% between 1997 and 2002.

Citizen’s Information Centres.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

262 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will review the situation at an information service (details supplied) in Dublin 12 which will have to make three positions redundant if Comhairle plans to reduce financing go ahead; if he will identify additional sources of funding which would be relatively modest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26730/04]

Comhairle, which comes under the aegis of this Department and is the national agency responsible for information, advice and advocacy on social services, funds a network of citizen's information centres around the country. Citizen's information centres provide comprehensive information on the full range of social services available to citizens from state and voluntary agencies.

The citizen's information centre in question receives its core funding from FÁS under the social economy programme. Comhairle provided a supplementary grant of €95,630 to the centre in 2004 which enabled the centre to have a level of staffing that is above the norm for CICs. The social economy programme is due to finish in mid-November 2004 and FÁS has indicated that it does not intend to allocate any further funding to the centre. The board of Crumlin CIC was informed in 2001 by Comhairle that on the conclusion of the social economy programme in November 2004, the centre would have to revert to staffing levels that are consistent with citizens information centres countrywide.

To develop further outreach services, Comhairle has decided to provide funding for an additional part-time information officer post. Staffing levels will be reviewed on a yearly basis with the board of the CIC and additional resources allocated if deemed appropriate.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

263 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if it is possible to grant retrospective payments to workers in cases in which it becomes apparent that there was no reasonable expectation of a returning to full-time employment in cases in which the workers were in receipt of systematic short-term payments rather than casual payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26751/04]

Social welfare legislation provides that a person is regarded as being engaged in systematic short-time working where his or her full-time working week is reduced by his or her employer due to a downturn in business and where there is a clear repetitive pattern of employment each week. The number of days of benefit payable each week to a systematic short-time worker is limited to ensure that the total number of days paid and the number of days worked do not exceed five.

Similarly, the criteria for classification as a casual worker are also set out in legislation. A person who is not classified as either a casual worker or a systematic short-time worker is considered to be a part-time worker for unemployment benefit purposes.

Where it comes to light that a systematic short-time arrangement no longer applies, it is open to the deciding officer to re-classify the claimant as either a part-time or casual employee, and to revise the unemployment benefit claim accordingly. The date from which the revision is effective depends on the circumstances of the individual case in accordance with the criteria set out in legislation. Where a person is dissatisfied with a decision made by a deciding officer, he or she may appeal the decision to the social welfare appeals office.

Airport Development Projects.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

264 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if the existing north-east to south-west and north-west to south-east runways were shown extended to 8,500 and 8,250 feet, respectively, while two new parallel runways, each of which was 11,500 feet in length, were also shown with respect to the airport development plan prepared by his Department for Dublin Airport on 11 March 1968; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26454/04]

Pat Breen

Ceist:

267 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport , further to Question No. 326 of 25 May 2004, if the western threshold of proposed runway 10/28, as depicted on the recently launched Dublin Airport Authority plan, still remains a distance of approximately 425 metres east of Kingston Crossroads; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26457/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 264 and 267 together.

I understand from the Dublin Airport Authority that the documents of March 1968 referred to by the Deputy depicted the then existing north-east to south-west runway with a possible extension of 1,000 feet, which would have brought its overall length to 8,500 feet. I am informed, however, that the runway was never extended beyond 7,500 feet and it was withdrawn from service in 1990. I also understand that there was no indication in the documents of a possible extension of the north-west to south-east runway above its then and current operational length of 6,800 feet. The documents of March 1968 also indicated the proposed parallel runways.

With regard to the western threshold of proposed parallel runway 10/28, Dublin Airport Authority informs me that the distance remains unchanged at approximately 425 metres east of Kingston Crossroads.

Land Acquisition.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

265 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will outline in tabular form the name of the landowners with respect to all the plots of land acquired by his Department by means of compulsory purchase orders at each of the State airports from whom such lands were compulsorily acquired; the operative dates of such orders; the areas of land in question; the reason or reasons for such compulsory acquisition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26455/04]

Pat Breen

Ceist:

266 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will outline, in tabular form, the names of the applicants, the address of each of the applicant sites, the stated reason for such objections and appeals, the applicable planning reference numbers and the final outcomes of such objections and appeals with respect to all the planning applications to which his Department lodged objections and-or appeals at each of the State airports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26456/04]

I propose to take Question Nos. 265 and 266 together.

Under the Air Navigation and Transport (Amendment) Act 1998, as amended by the State Airports Act 2004, Dublin Airport Authority, formally Aer Rianta, is responsible for any proposals to compulsorily acquire land in accordance with sections 17 and 18 of the 1998 Act. The airport authority also has a statutory mandate to manage and develop the State airports while planning issues relating to proposed developments in the vicinity of the airports are a matter for the relevant planning authorities. Since the coming into force of the 1998 Act, my Department has not compulsorily acquired land at the State airports nor has it lodged objections or appeals in connection with planning applications at the airports.

As regards the period preceding the coming into force of the 1998 Act, I do not believe that I could justify the significant use of resources and expense required to examine relevant records, which date back as far as the 1930s. However, if the Deputy wishes to write to me in relation to any particular compulsory acquisition order at a State airport or in relation to an objection or appeal concerning a particular planning application, my Department will endeavour to assist with his inquiry in a helpful and practical manner.

Question No. 267 answered with QuestionNo. 264.

Airport Red Zones.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

268 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 43 of 13 February 2001, if it was stated that the essential purpose of the so-called red zones at airports is to control the erection of buildings within those zones which by their height may interfere with the safe take-off or landing of aircraft; if such purpose was the precise reason for the concept of protected areas as provided for by way of section 14 of the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1950; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26458/04]

I can confirm that the former Minister for Public Enterprise, Senator O'Rourke, stated that: "The essential purpose of the so-called red zones at Irish airports is to control the erection of buildings within those zones which by their height may interfere with the safe take off or landing of aircraft." However, it would not be appropriate for me to interpret the Air Navigation and Transport Act 1950. The interpretation of law is a matter for the courts.

In a reply to a similar question on 29 June 2004, my predecessor, Deputy Brennan, pointed out that the High Court, in a judicial review case between Mr. Sean Liddy and the Minister for Public Enterprise, the Irish Aviation Authority, Aer Rianta Teoranta, Ireland and the Attorney General, ruled in February 2003 that the use of either section 14 orders or the planning process is permissible for restricting development in the vicinity of airports.

Road Traffic Offences.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

269 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the circumstances in which it is an offence for motorists to use cycle lanes; if this is an offence which is included in the penalty points system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26459/04]

The statutory basis for the use of cycle tracks is set out in the Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998. The regulations provide for two types of cycle tracks. The first is delineated by the provision of a full white line. Mechanically propelled vehicles may not be driven along or across such a cycle track except for the purpose of accessing or egressing a place adjacent to the track. That restriction does not apply in respect of a cycle track that is delineated by a broken white line.

The offence of breaching restrictions on driving a vehicle on a cycle track is scheduled in the Road Traffic Act 2002 to be rolled out as a penalty point offence. A driver who commits this offence will incur three penalty points on conviction in court and one penalty point on payment of a fixed charge in lieu of going to court. The aforementioned 1997 and 1998 regulations also prohibit parking in a cycle track. That offence will not attract penalty points as is the case in respect of all parking offences with the exception of the offence of parking a vehicle in a dangerous position.

Road Safety.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

270 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if he has reviewed the recent accident records in Dublin city, which reveal the high risk of accident suffered by motor cyclists; if he will consider opening bus lanes to use by motor cyclists as a measure to help reduce the risk; if he has had communications with the Director of Traffic for Dublin city regarding the possibility of opening bus lanes to motor cyclists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26460/04]

Statistics relating to road accidents, based on information provided by the Garda Síochána, are published by the National Roads Authority in its annual road accident facts reports. The most recent report is in respect of 2002 and that report, with reports relating to previous years, is available in the Oireachtas Library.

The 2002 report shows that, in respect of Dublin city, four motorcyclists were killed and 235 were injured. This compares with a total of 44 motorcyclists killed and 971 injured nationally during that year. Of that total figure, 12 drivers and two passengers killed were not wearing helmets and 231 drivers and 18 passengers were injured while not wearing helmets.

The use of bus lanes is provided for in the Road Traffic (Traffic & Parking) Regulations 1997 and 1998. The primary purpose of bus lanes is to facilitate and promote bus-based public transport. The regulations, which have national application, generally limit the use of bus lanes to buses and, in the case of with-flow bus lanes, to cyclists also. Having regard to the role of taxis in providing on-street immediate hire service, an exemption to the restriction relating to the use of with-flow bus lanes 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. However, representations have been received by my Department seeking to extend access to bus lanes with regard to a wide range of other road users including hackney and limousine operators and motorcyclists. A review of the access issue was carried out in 2001. As part of that review, the views of the director of traffic in Dublin City Council, the Dublin Transportation Office and the Garda Síochána were sought. All of those bodies suggested there should be no change to the current position. I do not have any immediate proposals to review the question of extending access to bus lanes to other road users.

Road Traffic Offences.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

271 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Transport if he has plans to amend the road traffic legislation to empower the Garda to seize a car which is not displaying tax or insurance discs, and does not have a driver at the time of seizure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26537/04]

Section 41 of the Road Traffic Act 1994 provides for the detention, removal and storage of a vehicle that is in use in a public place by a member of the Garda Síochána who is of the opinion that the vehicle is not insured for such use or that the excise duty on the vehicle has not been paid for three months prior to such use.

There are no plans to amend the legislation since, of itself, the absence of a motor tax disc or an insurance disc does not necessarily mean that motor tax has not been paid or that motor insurance cover is not in place and would not therefore constitute sufficient grounds for forming such opinion. However, if there is some specific issue that the Deputy is concerned about, he should send me the details and I will be glad to examine it.

Rail Services.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

272 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Transport when the promised improvement in rail services to County Kerry will come on stream. [26547/04]

I am informed by Irish Rail that since 1994 over €50 million has been invested in the Mallow-Tralee railway line. This involved the total relaying of the line and the replacement of old track with new continuous welded rail, CWR, and the upgrading of customer facilities on the route. The Kerry route re-signalling project, which commenced in February 2004, is due to be completed in the spring of 2005. The project involves the replacing of the old semaphore mechanical signalling system by a computer-controlled colour light signalling system on the Tralee-Mallow section of the line. The re-signalling project is designed to deliver significant service improvements to rail customers who use the Tralee-Dublin route.

Irish Rail has already placed a €116 million order for a fleet of 67 new purpose built intercity carriages. When delivered late next year, they will be used on all Cork-Dublin services, and when the full fleet is in service in 2006, they will allow Irish Rail to deliver an hourly service in each direction on the Cork-Dublin route. They will also allow the carriages currently operating on the Cork-Dublin route to be allocated to other routes, including the services to Kerry.

In the December 2004 timetable, a number of additional services were introduced to facilitate travel on the line between Tralee and Cork and I understand that these services are proving popular with Irish Rail's customers.

Taxi Hardship Panel.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

273 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Transport further to Parliamentary Question No. 258 of 12 October 2004, if he will verify the accuracy of the information obtained from Area Development Management Limited as the applicants in question responded to all queries in full in correspondence of 25 July 2004 and received by Area Development Management Limited on 29 July 2004; the information outstanding to this file; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26675/04]

The Deputy is aware from my previous reply that the processing and consideration of applications under the taxi hardship payments scheme is being undertaken independently of my Department by Area Development Management Limited. My Department has no details of applications made to Area Development Management Limited under the scheme. Moreover, Area Development Management Limited is obliged to manage the scheme in a confidential manner and afford individual applicants privacy. I am, therefore, not in a position to comment on specific details of any individual case.

In response to the Deputy's question, I have again made enquiries with Area Development Management Limited which has confirmed to my Department that there are specific outstanding issues with regard to the application referred to by the Deputy and that these issues are being followed up with the applicant.

Departmental Strategy Statements.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

274 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as targets of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26713/04]

My Department is working on a new statement of strategy, as required under the Public Service Management Act 1997. Performance indicators will be included in the statement, a copy of which will be sent to the Deputy once it is finalised.

Community Development.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

275 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when he proposes to make a decision on an application for funding by a group in County Kerry (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26450/04]

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

276 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the application by a locally-based voluntary organisation in County Kerry (details supplied); when he intends to make a decision on the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26451/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 275 and 276 together.

The programme of grants for locally-based community and voluntary organisations for 2004 offers two schemes of once-off grants to local voluntary and community groups. These are the scheme of equipment and refurbishment grants which provides essential physical supports for the local community and voluntary sector, and the scheme of education, training and research grants which is aimed at enhancing the capacity of local communities. An application was received under this programme from the group in question.

The process of assessment of the large number of applications received under the scheme is nearing completion and I expect to make an announcement on funding within the next week. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application shortly thereafter.

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Breeda Moynihan-Cronin

Ceist:

277 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if an application for grant aid from the dormant accounts funds by an organisation in County Kerry (details supplied) will be facilitated; when he proposes to make a decision on the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26452/04]

Decisions on the disbursement of funds from dormant accounts moneys are currently a matter for the dormant accounts fund disbursements board, an independent body established under the Dormant Accounts Acts. The board has engaged Area Development Management Limited to administer the initial round of funding on its behalf, which will involve the disbursement of up to €60 million from the fund.

I understand an application from the group concerned has been received by Area Development Managed Limited. All applications received will be evaluated by Area Development Management Limited against the criteria set out in the published guidelines and recommendations made to the dormant accounts fund disbursements board for decision. The group concerned will be advised of the outcome in due course.

Community Development.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

278 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when funding will be provided to a community centre (details supplied) in County Mayo; when the application for funding was received in his Department; when he expects to announce funding for it; and the stage the application is at. [26453/04]

The programme of grants for locally-based community and voluntary organisations for 2004 offers two schemes of once-off grants to local voluntary and community groups. These are the scheme of equipment and refurbishment grants which provides essential physical supports for the local community and voluntary sector, and the scheme of education, training and research grants which is aimed at enhancing the capacity of local communities. An application was received from the group in question on 31 May 2004.

The process of assessment of the large number of applications received under the scheme is nearing completion and I expect to make an announcement on funding within the next week. All applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application shortly thereafter.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

279 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the recent report, How are our Kids?, in west Tallaght; and the new measures or sanctions he proposes to introduce in response to the considerable problems highlighted in the report. [26656/04]

I would firstly like to welcome this report, which has highlighted a number of issues facing the community in west Tallaght. As the Deputy is aware, this matter is being debated in the House this week in the context of a Private Members' motion and I took the opportunity during the first part of that debate yesterday evening to fully outline the extent of the Government's commitment to respond positively to the recommendations in the report.

In particular, the Government is committed to the continued effort to address the challenge of anti-social behaviour. This effort includes such initiatives as the ongoing Garda Síochána youth diversion projects and juvenile diversion programme which operate in communities nationwide, including Tallaght. A review is ongoing by Garda management of current and future accommodation requirements of the Garda Síochána in Tallaght, with a number of different options being considered with a view to finalising proposals in the near future.

The Government has given an ongoing commitment of significant funding for the support and creation of child care places in the Tallaght area, with over €4.4 million allocated to the area to date for this purpose. The improvement in early school provision is also a priority through initiatives such as the provision of Early Start pre-school places for children at risk of social disadvantage. Other educational measures include reading support programmes and extra teaching resources to decrease pupil-teacher ratios. Additional support to reduce early school-leaving is provided through the disadvantaged areas scheme and the school completion programme.

The Government is committed to further improve the environment in the estates surveyed and continue with the housing estate enhancement scheme initiated this year under the RAPID programme. Some €7 million of investment in RAPID areas under the second phase of the equality for women measure is earmarked for projects benefiting women in these areas and includes a number of applications from groups in the west Tallaght area. The Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform expects to be in a position to allocate funding under the measure by the end of the year. The Government is also developing mechanisms which will lead to better delivery by the RAPID programme, including better local co-ordination, the leverage fund for small works, and the ring-fencing of funds under the dormant accounts fund towards RAPID areas. We will continue to develop the RAPID initiative in all its strands beyond 2006, including an ongoing commitment to the further prioritisation of RAPID areas in decision-making by Departments.

Irish Language.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

280 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if community development partnerships are required to produce their annual reports in bi-lingual format; if he will provide additional funding towards the production of the Irish language version; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26683/04]

As the Deputy is aware, section 10(b) of the Official Languages Act 2003 provides for the simultaneous publication in both official languages of a limited number of key governance documents such as annual reports and accounts. The area partnership companies are public bodies for the purposes of the Act. An annual report is one of the key documents by which public bodies account back to the general public, to their specific customers and to the Oireachtas in relation to how they have, in the previous year, discharged their public functions.

The question of provision of funding for specific administrative costs for individual public bodies — whether these relate to the Official Languages Act or any other service delivery or policy obligation arising — falls to be assessed against formal business cases or proposals submitted as part of the normal annual Estimates and budget cycle. Given its position as the first constitutional language, my objective is to ensure that delivery through the Irish language of public services by public bodies — including provision of information about services and activities — is seen as normal and appropriate to meet minimum standards of customer service. With regard to area development partnerships, the position is that each partnership receives an overall sum of funding to meet its operational costs and, within that overall amount, is responsible for managing its various spending requirements and priorities.

I am encouraged by the extent to which a number of public bodies have incorporated, even in advance of the Official Languages Act being implemented, Irish language publications and website material into the mainstream of their service provision.

Departmental Strategy Statements.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

281 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as targets of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26714/04]

As the Deputy is aware, my Department was established in June 2002. Priority goals and strategies, incorporating relevant commitments from the programme for Government, together with related performance indicators, are set out in my Department's strategy statement and have been reported upon in my Department's annual reports for 2002 and 2003.

Grant Payments.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

282 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason the 2004 grants have not been awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26474/04]

The person named was selected for an on-farm inspection in 2004. It was found that adequate deductions had not been made for buildings, a yard and a road. This resulted in an area over-claim of 0.65 hectares. His 2004 area aid application has been fully processed, without penalty, and with a slightly reduced area of 44.83 hectares determined for payment purposes.

Payment of the 2004 ewe premium was made to the person named on 19 October 2004. Payment of the supplementary premium and the 2004 area based compensatory allowance, which had been withheld pending clearance of the area aid application, will be made shortly.

The person named is not an applicant under the suckler cow premium scheme, nor to date under the 2004 EU special beef premium scheme. To date, the person named has no eligible animals under the 2004 EU slaughter premium scheme. However, my Department is contacting the person named regarding one animal, which was slaughtered in September, concerning the potential eligibility of that animal under the scheme.

The person named has submitted an application under the 2004 extensification premium scheme. Payments under this scheme are due to commence in June 2005. The application will be considered in due course.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

283 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Galway is entitled to an income supplement; if there are any other top-up payments available to this person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26475/04]

A TB round test on 3 September 2004 disclosed one reactor animal in this person's herd of 24 cattle. The herd was restricted and it has been listed for a reactor re-test on 20 November 2004. To qualify for the income supplement grant, more than 10% of a herd must be disclosed as reactors. Since fewer than 10% of the herd was disclosed as reactors in this case, the person concerned does not qualify for income supplement.

An application form to enable the person referred to apply for a grant under the hardship grant scheme has been issued. This will be considered on receipt under the terms and conditions of the scheme.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

284 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason the 2001 suckler cow and other grants have not been awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26476/04]

The person named stated that he wished to apply for premium on 25 animals under the 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 suckler cow premium schemes, 25 being the number of quota rights on record for him. While he submitted 25 cattle identity cards with his 2001 application, he only submitted 12, 16, and 20 cattle identity cards respectively with the other applications. He has not been paid on foot of these applications because of delays in replying to queries issued to him concerning the identification and registration of some of the animals to which his application related. A final decision on eligibility for payments on the 2001 and 2002 applications will be taken in the coming week by my Department and will be notified in writing to the person named. He is being given more time to answer the queries with regard to the 2003 and 2004 applications.

The person named lodged no applications under the 2001, 2003 and 2004 EU special beef premium scheme. An application was received under the 2002 special beef premium scheme on 31 December 2002 in respect of two animals. Payment on this application cannot be processed until outstanding suckler cow queries are resolved. Eligibility for the 2001 EU slaughter premium has been determined in respect of one animal. However, payment did not issue in respect of this animal as the person named did not return a duly completed producer acknowledgement form to my Department. Should the person named return this form at this stage, payment will be considered.

With regard to the extensification premium, the person named participated in these schemes in 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004. For 2001 and 2002, he opted for the census system for the purposes of determining the stocking density of his holding. To be considered for payment under both years' schemes, herd owners must have submitted the CEN.1 and CEN.2 forms, declaring the numbers of bovine animals present on their holdings at each census date. The person named did not lodge these forms with his local district livestock office and, for this reason, he cannot be considered for payment of the premium. With regard to the 2003 extensification premium, the position is that the stocking density of the holding cannot be determined until the outstanding issues already highlighted with regard to the identification and registration of animals have been resolved. Payment of the extensification premium where due is based on the numbers of animals on the holding on which the herd owner in question has already qualified for payment of the suckler cow premium and-or the special beef premium. The person named has also submitted an application under the 2004 extensification premium scheme. Payments under this scheme will commence in June 2005. The application will be considered in due course.

Payments under the 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 area based compensatory allowance scheme were made to the person named on 24 September 2001, 16 October 2002, 19 September 2003 and 17 September 2004 respectively. The final year payment under a REPS 1 contract issued to the person named in February 2002. He has not made an application to re-join REPS since then.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

285 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Wexford will be granted the bullock slaughter premium; the reason for the delay in processing the payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26503/04]

The person named has to date lodged five applications under the 2004 EU special beef premium scheme, one on 17 February 2004 in respect of seven animals, one on 2 June 2004 in respect of eight animals, one on 21 June 2004 in respect of six animals, one on 30 August 2004 in respect of seven animals and one on 4 October 2004 in respect of 17 animals. While all applications have been processed for payment, payment has not issued due to an unresolved query relating to the 2004 area aid application lodged by the person named. The area aid unit of my Department has been in contact with the person named concerning an over-claim on the 2004 area aid application and it is expected that this matter will be resolved shortly. After this, the special beef premium applications will be processed further on the basis of the area established.

Under the 2004 EU slaughter premium scheme, 48 animals have been deemed eligible for payment to the person named. The 60% advance payment has issued in respect of 36 of these animals slaughtered between 1 January 2004 and 31 August 2004 to the amount of €1,782.00. Advance payment in respect of the 12 other eligible animals slaughtered in September is due to issue in November.

Gerard Murphy

Ceist:

286 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the status of payments due to a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if there is a fine being imposed on their REP scheme payment; if there is a fine, if this money will be taken from payment due for beef premium moneys due, or from money due from the REP scheme. [26504/04]

Following a REPS compliance inspection carried out in March of this year, a penalty had to be imposed as the planned animal housing facilities had not been provided. Penalties are recovered from the next payment due to the farmer from my Department. The penalty in this instance was recovered from a dairy premium payment, the balance of which issued to the person named recently.

Potato Sector.

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

287 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will reconsider policy decision of charging potato growing farmers for seed certification; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26538/04]

An expenditure review of the programmes in the potato sector was carried out earlier this year. A wide range of issues are addressed in that review, including the operation and optimum efficiency of the potato certification scheme. Consultations are taking place with the relevant stakeholders and I will advise the Deputy of the outcome in due course.

Milk Quota.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

288 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Wexford made an application for farm family partnership for milk production while remaining in a REP scheme, would this be acceptable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26587/04]

Applications for the registration of new entrant and-or parent partnerships are not made to my Department but to Teagasc which is the registration body designated under the milk quota regulations. I am informed that no application has been made in the case of the person mentioned.

Being in REPS does not disqualify a producer from forming a new entrant and-or parent milk production partnership. However, to operate such a partnership, all the farming enterprises of the partners, other than certain specialist enterprises, must be pooled. The resultant change to the farming operations of the partners may have implications for compliance with the conditions of any existing REPS contract. The named person should, therefore, contact my Department for guidance on the precise implications for his participation in REPS of forming such a partnership.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

289 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the way in which her policy on a person who is in a REP scheme and wishes to apply for milk production farm family partnership operates; the way in which they apply for the above; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26588/04]

Participation in both REPS and the new entrant and-or parent milk production partnerships is possible provided that the farmers in question can satisfy the conditions of both schemes. To participate in a new entrant and-or parent milk production partnership, all the farming enterprises of the partners, other than certain specialist enterprises, must be pooled. The resultant change to the farming operations of the partners may have implications for compliance with the conditions of any existing REPS contract.

Any person who is in REPS and is considering forming a new entrant and-or parent milk production partnership should, therefore, contactmy Department for guidance on the precise implications which forming such a partnership might have for their continued participation in REPS.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

290 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of applications her Department has received for milk production farm family partnership by persons who are also in a REP scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26589/04]

Applications for the registration of new entrant parent partnerships are not made to my Department but to Teagasc which is the registration body designated under the milk quota regulations. The application form for registration as a new entrant parent partnership does not require the applicants to indicate whether they are participants in REPS. Therefore, the information sought by the Deputy is not available to me.

Grant Payments.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

291 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the outcome of a decision with regard to the force majeure exceptional circumstances on the establishment of entitlement under the single payment scheme under the farm review of Agenda 2000 for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26652/04]

The person named, having been notified that the circumstances outlined by her did not satisfy the criteria for force majeure and-or exceptional circumstances under Article 40 of Council Regulation (EC) No. 1782/2003, was advised to apply for consideration under the new entrants and-or inheritance measure of the single payment scheme.

The person named submitted an appeal to the independent single payment appeals committee. Following a full examination of the circumstances outlined in the appeal, the independent single payment appeals committee made a recommendation and a letter issued to the person named on 7 October 2004. The findings of the appeals committee were that the original decision taken by my Department should be upheld.

The person named has since submitted an application for consideration under both the new entrants and inheritance measures provided for in the regulation underpinning the scheme. When processing of these applications has been completed, the person named will be notified directly of the outcome.

Land Purchase Annuities.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

292 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare can purchase the ownership of the lands outright rather than by instalments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26699/04]

The folio mentioned in the question is subject to a land purchase annuity. This annuity may be redeemed in a lump sum and to arrange this, the annuitant should contact the collection branch of my Department at Davitt House, Castlebar. In the Land Bill 2004, which I propose to bring before the Dáil shortly, there is provision for a discounted, 25% buy-out scheme for annuities, which would be of financial benefit to the person named once the Bill is enacted and the scheme is introduced.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

293 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the five measurable performance indicators which she regards as target of greatest priority within her Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; her views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if she will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26715/04]

My Department's statement of strategy, its fourth, was published in June 2003 and contained 205 performance indicators relating to 75 strategies being followed in pursuit of six high-level goals. Without prejudice to any single priority or set of priorities, satisfactory performance is evident across a range of areas both from a national and international perspective and this is recorded in the Department's annual report on the statement of strategy.

My Department continues to implement the commitments contained in An Agreed Programme for Government as well as those contained in the national partnership agreement, Sustaining Progress. Future priorities within the Department will be addressed in the context of these and also in a new statement of strategy currently being prepared for the calendar years 2005-07. An ongoing examination of the appropriate use of high level performance indicators, in tandem with performance measures at other levels, will be reflected in that document.

Grant Payments.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

294 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be immediately awarded the remainder of the 2003 EU special beef suckler cow premium; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26747/04]

The person named submitted two applications under the 2003 special beef premium scheme; one on 14 March 2003 in respect of nine animals and one on 4 November 2003 in respect of 18 animals. The 80% advance payments have issued in respect of these applications in the amount of €3,120.

To date, the 20% balancing payments have not issued as the person named has not responded to correspondence concerning an animal registration issue identified. In the absence of a reply, the applications will be processed for payment of the outstanding balances, less a regulatory penalty of 1.43% due to the registration issue.

Under the 2003 EU slaughter premium scheme, the person named had seven animals deemed eligible for payment. The 80% advance payment has issued in respect of these animals to the amount €448.

The person named applied for premium on 38 animals under the 2003 suckler cow premium scheme. The application was processed for payment and the 80% advance instalment amounting to €6,814.16 issued on 20 October 2003.

The balancing payments under slaughter premium and suckler cow are affected by the registration issue highlighted under the special beef premium scheme. These payments will now issue, less the penalty of 1.43% mentioned above which has to apply across all other livestock premium schemes.

Suckler Cow Quota.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

295 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position with regard to the allocation of entitlements to farmers who purchased at the end of 2002, 20 additional entitlements from a farmer or farmers; the way in which this will be allocated within the framework of the reference years 2001-02; if steps will be taken within her Department to ensure that farmers who paid €12,000 to acquire such suckler cow entitlements are left with same, having duly purchased them, at the end of 2002; the way in which she intends to deal with such purchases to ensure that the purchasing farmer derives the benefit thereof at this point in time during the course of the allocation of the entitlements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26748/04]

I assume the Deputy is referring to suckler cow quota rights.

The official trading period for 2002 suckler cow quotas was 1 January 2002 to 30 June 2002. The official trading period for 2003 suckler cow quotas was 1 January 2003 to 30 June 2003. There was no official trading period for suckler cow quotas at the end of 2002.

A farmer who purchased suckler cow quota during the trading period for 2002 will have received some benefit of it in his or her single payment. In addition he or she will also have benefited from payments under the 2003 and 2004 suckler cow premium schemes, the national envelope top-ups and extensification premium, if eligible.

A farmer who purchased suckler cow quota in any of the years 2001, 2002 or 2003 may apply to the single payment national reserve for entitlements under the investment category and application forms will be available in November. In this regard, he or she should contact the single payment section of my Department at Michael Davitt House, Castlebar, County Mayo, telephone No. 094-9035300, where his or her name will be recorded for the purposes of issuing an application form as soon as they become available.

Citizenship Applications.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

296 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position with regard to a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow who has applied for a certificate of naturalisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26444/04]

An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of my Department in July 2004. The average processing time for such applications is 24 months and it is likely, therefore, that the application of the individual concerned will be finalised in or around July 2006. I will inform both the applicant and the Deputy as soon as I have reached a decision on the application.

Garda Deployment.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

297 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform how many of the 2,000 gardaí whom he proposes to recruit over the lifetime of the Government will be allocated to Garda stations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26445/04]

I am pleased that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis in line with the commitment of An Agreed Programme for Government in this regard. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government, and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the Garda.

The commissioner will now draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these resources. No decision regarding the allocation of the proposed increase in the strength of the force has been made to date.

Clearly, however, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies particular areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to increase significantly the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties. I have already promised that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into front-line, operational, high-visibility policing and will have a real impact.

Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Dublin metropolitan region, DMR, with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained. The situation will be kept under review by Garda management and when additional personnel next become available, the needs of Garda stations in the DMR will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

Registration of Title.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

298 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Land Registry office will expedite dealings for persons (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when these applications will be complete. [26448/04]

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that the applicants referred to by the Deputy have lodged two dealings with the Land Registry: an application for a new folio which was lodged on 20 November 2001, and an application for transfer of part which was lodged on 17 January 2002. Dealings Nos. D2001SM008664N and D2002SM000464B refer.

I am further informed that the applications are receiving attention in the Land Registry and, subject to no queries arising, will be completed as soon as possible.

Vehicle Disposal.

Charlie O'Connor

Ceist:

299 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of so-called company cars seized recently by the Garda in Tallaght, Dublin 24; if he will seek effective action in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26449/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that, from 1 January 2004 to 27 October 2004, a total of 439 vehicles were seized under section 41 of the Road Traffic Acts 1961-1994.

I am further informed that these vehicles are disposed of in two ways. First, vehicles may be reclaimed by their owners on production of documentation indicating that the vehicle has the relevant motor tax and insurance and upon payment of the fees which have occurred since the date of seizure. Second, vehicles which are not reclaimed by owners are disposed of by way of scrappage once sanction has been given by the Garda Commissioner. This can happen with or without owner consent.

Currently, all vehicles which have been seized are stored at Tallaght Garda station. However, I understand from the Garda authorities that the Garda national traffic bureau is examining the issues pertaining to the seizure, storage and disposal of vehicles seized under section 41 of the Road Traffic Acts. As part of this examination, the Garda national crime prevention office has held preliminary discussions with South Dublin County Council and the matter is currently being pursued by the Garda national traffic bureau.

Garda Vetting Procedures.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

300 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the time from the date of application it takes for Garda clearance to be issued for persons applying to work in positions for which Garda clearance is compulsory. [26529/04]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the current average turnaround time for Garda vetting is three weeks.

Visa Applications.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

301 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a visa will be granted to a person (details supplied) on whose behalf an application has been made to be reunited with their parents and four year old twin brothers, due to the fact that the parents have legal status in Ireland since 2001. [26530/04]

The parents of the person in question have permission to reside in Ireland based on their parentage of an Irish-born child. The visa application in question relates to their daughter who wishes to join them in the State.

Following the decision of the Supreme Court in the case 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 also decided that the general policy of allowing such parents to be joined in the State by other family members would no longer apply. Accordingly, the immigration division of my Department does not generally approve visas in respect of such visa applications.

Juvenile Offenders.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

302 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of children incarcerated in State institutions due to the fact that no alternative accommodation exists; if Garda cells are also being used on a temporary basis to accommodate youths; and the figures relating to this practice. [26546/04]

The only children who have ended up in prison custody for the reason set out by the Deputy have been those committed on foot of a High Court order. There are no such persons in custody at this time.

As regards the question about youths being accommodated in Garda station cells, I have provided appropriate information in response to a separate, similar question, Question No. 314, that he has also tabled in the matter for answer today.

Registration of Title.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

303 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will take steps to expedite an application for a registry amendment (details supplied) as same is urgently required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26573/04]

I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for a mapping amendment which was lodged on 16 August 2004. Dealing No. D2004XS011631J refers. I am further informed that this dealing was completed on 26 October 2004.

Asylum Applications.

John Curran

Ceist:

304 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made regarding an application for a general permission to remain in the State made by a person (details supplied) in County Dublin. [26631/04]

A letter issued from the immigration division of my Department in September 2004 granting the person concerned permission to remain in the State for a further year.

Child Care Services.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

305 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average cost of child care in the State and in each county; the number of child care places available, full and part-time, in each county; the breakdown of those numbers in terms of the type of care catered for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26644/04]

As the cost of child care is normally a commercial arrangement between parent and provider the State does not have a role in the collection of data on costs such as is sought by the Deputy. However, in order to establish a clear picture in relation to the child care sector, my Department asked the Central Statistics Office to review child care as an element of the quarterly national household survey and this was completed in the period from September to November 2002 and the findings of which were published in mid 2003.

The survey found that the average cost of child care per hour for pre-school and primary school-going children in the September to November 2002 period was €3.25 and €4.70 per hour respectively. The survey also provided a breakdown of the average cost of paid child care per household per week for pre-school and primary school-going children in different regions of the country. The following table summarises the key results of this element of the study.

Average weekly cost of paid child care in Ireland 2002.

Average weekly cost in €

Range of weekly costs in €

From (region)

To (region)

Pre-school only

105.36

80.78 (Border)

131.12 (Dublin)

Primary Only

75.54

63.03 (West)

91.33 (Dublin)

Both

107.37

84.89 (Mid-West)

129.15 (Mid-East)

Total

97.47

79.42 (Border)

118.96 (Dublin)

Source: CSO.

The child care sector in Ireland comprises both community based and privately owned centre based services together with a significant element of child care delivered by childminders. In the year 2000, there were about 56,000 centre based child care places in Ireland of which 39,500 were part time places and 17,285 were full time places. It is known that the total funding committed under the equal opportunities child care programme, EOCP, to date will lead to the creation of 31,200 new centre based child care places — 12,704 full-time and 18,496 part-time — when all the projects have been completed. Of these new places, about 12,500 part-time and 8,000 full-time places were completed by end June 2004.

However, my Department does not have the detail of the number of new services which have been developed independently of the EOCP. My child care directorate is currently concluding an update of the key elements of the 2000 census of centre based services and this material will be lodged in the Oireachtas Library when it comes available. It will contain data on a county basis.

In the interim, the Deputy will be aware that detail on the implementation of the equal opportunities child care programme was circulated to all Deputies in the report, Developing Childcare in Ireland, during summer 2004. I expect to lodge an update of these data in the Oireachtas Library later this year.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

306 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position on the community-based closed circuit television programme; the number of applications received and grants paid; the guidelines for their use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26645/04]

As the Deputy is aware, it is not, understandably, possible for the Garda Síochána to install CCTV systems in all areas that have sought them. Some applications for Garda CCTV systems relate to relatively small schemes which, while of importance to the local community, cannot be regarded as a national Garda priority.

To this end, a grant-aid scheme has been launched to facilitate community-based groups who wish to press ahead with their own local CCTV system. Grant assistance of up to €100,000 will, subject to the availability of funds, be obtainable from my Department towards the cost of such systems.

A prospectus has been prepared by my Department which provides information on how to apply for grant-aid funding, outlines the application process and identifies the main issues that applicants will need to consider. I am advised that in excess of 200 expressions of interest in this scheme have been received from entities throughout the country.

The code of practice for the operation of the community based CCTV scheme has been drawn up by my Department in co-operation with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner. Detailed technical specifications have been drawn up by the Garda Síochána and are currently under consideration by officials in my Department.

I expect that both the code of practice and the technical specifications will be finalised by my Department in the coming weeks. At that stage copies of same will issue to all communities and organisations who have expressed an interest in the community based CCTV scheme. Any applications subsequently received will be evaluated and processed in accordance with the conditions set out in the prospectus.

Visa Applications.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

307 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform , further to Question No. 300 of 12 October 2004, if and when a holiday visa will issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26646/04]

The person in question made a visa application in August 2004 for the stated purpose of a holiday with his aunt and uncle who are resident in the State. The applicant stated on his visa application form that he is a student in his home country, yet no documentation was submitted to support this claim. No evidence of finances was submitted to show how the applicant intended to maintain himself while in the State. The application was supported by an unsigned letter which did not confirm the duration of the proposed journey to the State. The application was refused because the visa officer was unable to conclude, on the basis of the documentation supplied to my Department, that the applicant would observe the conditions of the visa.

It is open to the applicant to appeal against the refusal by writing to the visa appeals officer in my Department, enclosing additional supporting documentation.

Anti-Social Behaviour.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

308 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the recent report, How are our Kids?, in Tallaght West; and the new measures he proposes or sanctions he proposes to introduce in response to the considerable problems highlighted in the report. [26654/04]

I refer the Deputy to my previous answer to Question No. 187 of 21 October 2004.

Child Care Services.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

309 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the percentage and number of children in the three to four age group in the State who are in receipt of pre-school education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26660/04]

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

310 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the percentage and number of children in the zero to two age group in the State who are cared for in crèches; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26661/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 309 and 310 together.

My Department has responsibility for the delivery of the equal opportunities child care programme which aims to expand the availability of child care places to support the child care needs of parents who are in employment, education and training. My Department is not involved in the direct delivery of child care services, which in Ireland is done by a mix of community based and private providers of centre based services and by childminders. As a result, no data are systematically gathered on the percentages and numbers of children in the zero to two age group who are cared for in crèches, or in the three to four age group who are in receipt of pre-school education.

Nevertheless, the Central Statistics Office, CSO, quarterly national household survey on child care usage which was published in mid 2003 does provide some data which may be of interest to the Deputy. In the September to November 2002 period, when the survey was undertaken, it was estimated that 36,700 pre-school children availed of child care in the crèche-Montessori category, with a further 6,100 primary children using the category crèche-Montessori. In that survey, the CSO grouped a number of child care services under the category crèche or Montessori, namely, crèche, naíonra, nursery, Montessori school, playgroup, pre-school, and sessional child care.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

311 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of work based crèche places in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26662/04]

My Department has responsibility for the delivery of the equal opportunities child care programme, EOCP, which aims to expand the availability of child care places to support the child care needs of parents who are in employment, education and training. My Department is not involved in the direct provision of child care services, which, in Ireland, are delivered by a mix of community based and private providers of centre based services and by childminders. Crèches and other child care facilities are required to notify their existence to the health boards on behalf of the Minister for Health and Children in accordance with the Child Care Act 1991. As a result, no data is systematically gathered by my Department on the numbers of child care facilities, including work based crèches, throughout the country.

Capital funding has been made available to not for profit consortia to facilitate the development of three work based crèches to date under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

312 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount and percentage of GDP spent on early childhood care and education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26663/04]

My Department has responsibility for the delivery of the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006, which aims to expand the availability of child care places to support the child care needs of parents who are in employment, education and training. My Department is not involved in the direct delivery of child care services, which in Ireland is done by a mix of community based and private providers of centre based services and by childminders.

In 2004 the Minister for Finance made available the amount of €68.233 million for the delivery of the EOCP. This represents 0.047% of GDP based on the estimate for GDP made by the Department of Finance in August 2004 which GDP will be €144.9 billion this year. This does not include expenditure by other Departments which also support the child care sector.

Garda Recruitment.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

313 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the outcome of the review of the eligibility criteria for entry to the Garda Síochána will be made available. [26664/04]

In connection with my recent announcement of the Government's intention to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000, I have taken the opportunity to ask the Garda Commissioner to review the eligibility criteria for entry to the Garda Síochána.

I believe this is an opportune moment to ensure that the criteria for entry meet the needs of the Garda Síochána and the society it serves. One particular aspect which I know the Commissioner has already studied is the maximum age of entry, and arising from that I will be proposing to Government that the age should be increased from 26 to 35 in respect of recruitment from now on. There may also be other criteria which would benefit from review. I think it is right, for example, that future intakes of recruits to the Garda Síochána should as far as possible reflect the composition of Irish society, and I am anxious to see if there are any possible changes to the existing criteria which might facilitate recruitment from different ethnic backgrounds in our community. This review will be concluded in advance of the next Garda recruitment campaign, which I expect to commence shortly.

Prisoners in Custody.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

314 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Garda cells are being used to accommodate youth; and if so the figures relating to this practice. [26679/04]

The Criminal Justice Act 1984 (Treatment of Persons in Custody in Garda Síochána Stations) Regulations, 1987 provide, inter alia, that a person in custody under the age of 17 years shall not be kept in a cell unless there is no other secure accommodation available.

In that connection, I am informed by the Garda authorities that in the past 12 months five youths have been accommodated in Garda cells, having been remanded in custody to the respective Garda station on the direction of a judge of the District Court.

Child Care Services.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

315 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for refusing child care funding to support the work of persons (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if these persons will receive the necessary funding they need in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26695/04]

As the Deputy may be aware, the equal opportunities child care programme provides grant assistance towards the staffing costs of community not-for-profit based child care services which have a clear focus on disadvantage. The programme has an underlying economic prerogative in terms of promoting opportunities for parents to participate in education, training or employment. Such applications are assessed against five distinct criteria, as set out in the programmes guidelines, which are as follows: the socio-economic and demographic profile of the area; the general quality of the application; the capacity of the group to implement the project; the level of integration/co-ordination of the service; and the cost and value for money of the project.

With respect to the application referred to by the Deputy I have made inquiries of the child care directorate of my Department and I understand that the original application from this group was turned down in July 2003 because their application did not adequately satisfy all the criteria of the programme. The group subsequently appealed this decision and, in June 2004, were informed that their appeal had been unsuccessful.

The group was informed of the reasons why their application was turned down. Staffing grant assistance is only made available to community based not for profit groups which show a clear focus on disadvantage and which support the child care needs of parents who are in employment or who are preparing for labour market participation through education and training. This project failed to demonstrate a strong focus on disadvantage while the service catered for a very small core group of children and the short operating hours did not facilitate parents to access either education, training or employment. Accordingly the project did not comply with the terms of the programme and therefore was not eligible for funding which is linked to the aims of the European Social Funds as the key funding source for staffing grant assistance.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

316 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of applications which have been received for the childminding in the home grant; the amount paid out annually since the scheme began; the number of applications which have been rejected; and if consideration has been given to changing the qualifying criteria or making it a start-up grant. [26696/04]

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

323 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will consider allowing the 90% grant of cost of child care facilities in the home to be awarded up front and not retrospectively. [26728/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 316 and 323 together.

I assume the Deputies are referring to the childminder development grant that forms part of the national child minding initiative. I launched the national childminders initiative in November 2003 as part of the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006. Funding of up to €2.89 million has been made available to the city and county child care committees for the implementation of the initiative during 2004. Funding for the 2005 implementation of the initiative is currently under review by my Department.

The initiative links a small development grant scheme for childminders to a quality awareness programme, QAP, which consists of a series of short lectures for child minders addressing quality issues. The development grant scheme provides grants of up €630, subject to a maximum of 90% of total expenditure, to childminders to cover quality and/or safety enhancement costs.

The initiative is implemented locally by the city and county child care committees. A review of the initiative by my Department in August 2004 revealed that by end June 2004, 325 childminders had received grant approval while over 900 childminders attended the QAP in its first six months of operation. At that time, an additional 117 grant applications were being processed with over 300 childminders scheduled to attend the QAP. Figures for applications that have been rejected are not available, but are thought to be negligible at this stage.

Given that this is a new initiative and that the city and county child care committees have only had a limited amount of time to implement this new initiative, particularly in setting up the quality awareness training element, I am very pleased with the initial response and believe that this initiative will serve as a very useful support for childminders. I expect that there will be a significant increase in the number of grants taken up as the initiative becomes widely recognised.

To obtain the development grant, childminders must provide an expenditure return detailing their eligible expenditure with original itemised receipts attached. This ensures that all successful applicants of the development grant are or will be engaged in child minding of children, other than their own children, on a commercial basis and be in receipt of payment for the services provided. In light of this, the development grant could be seen to be a start-up grant as well as a quality improvement grant.

In light of the above and given the relatively small amounts of money involved in each grant offer and the large number of potential grant recipients, which could exceed 3,000 in a single full year of operation, I have no plans to change the payment procedures of the child minder development grant scheme as proposed by the Deputies, as this would be administratively cumbersome and expensive to operate and monitor.

Garda Deployment.

John Curran

Ceist:

317 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Clondalkin Garda station, Ronanstown Garda station and Lucan Garda station in September 2004; and if any of the gardaí attached to the above stations were assigned to other duties away from their stations. [26704/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Clondalkin Garda station, Ronanstown Garda station and Lucan Garda station as at the 30 September, 2004 was as set out as follows.

Station

Number

Clondalkin

78

Ronanstown

83

Lucan

71

Gardaí can be deployed away from their stations when a need arises. A disproportionate amount of time and resources would be required to establish the exact number of gardaí in this category.

Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in Clondalkin, Ronanstown and Lucan with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained.

The situation will be kept under review by Garda management and when additional personnel next becomes available the needs of Clondalkin, Ronanstown and Lucan will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.

In relation to Garda resources generally, I am very pleased to say that the Government has approved my proposal to increase the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 members on a phased basis, in line with the An Agreed Programme for Government commitment in this regard. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government, and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force. The Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these resources. Clearly, however, the additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies in particular areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences, but it will be possible to address other priorities as well, such as the need to significantly increase the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties. I have already promised that the additional gardaí will not be put on administrative duties. They will be put directly into frontline, operational, high-visibility policing. They will have a real impact.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

318 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26716/04]

The priorities for my Department and indicators of performance are not limited to five in number, and relate to the implementation of An Agreed Programme for Government and Sustaining Progress commitments for which my Department is responsible. My Department is responsible, in a lead role, for the implementation of in excess of 80 of the 477 total commitments contained in An Agreed Programme for Government and a number of important commitments in the Sustaining Progress social partnership agreement. Significant progress has been achieved on many of these commitments to date and further progress is expected in relation to other commitments going forward.

The statements of strategy which my Department has published in recent years have set out the high level goals and objectives relating to the organisation's priorities and the performance indicators linked to those goals and objectives. Overall progress on the implementation of strategy statement objectives and performance indicators is reported in the Department's annual reports. The indicators which the Department has used to measure performance in the period since 1997 have developed and improved over the years and will be reviewed again shortly in the context of the preparation of the Department's new strategy statement 2005-07.

A specific set of performance indicators has also been agreed for the Department in respect of the change and modernisation programme under the Sustaining Progress agreement. These performance indicators relate to modernisation initiatives such as, performance management and development, financial management, information technology and customer service. Progress on these and other modernisation initiatives are independently validated under the terms of the agreement. These modernisation performance indicators are also being reviewed in the context of the requirement for Departments to update modernisation action plans following on from the mid-term review of part two of the Sustaining Progress agreement.

Garda Strength.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

319 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the overall numbers in the Garda Síochána by rank and by gender in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the numbers at each rank by gender, eligible for promotion in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the numbers at each rank, by gender, who applied for promotion in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the numbers at each rank by gender who were successful in gaining promotion in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the numbers of members of the force who retired in 2002, 2003 and 2004 broken down by rank and gender; the numbers of students in each intake by gender in 2002, 2003 and 2004; the number of applications to join the Garda Síochána broken down by gender in 2002, 2003 and 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26724/04]

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 31 December 2002, 2003 and 28 October 2004, was as set out hereunder:

Year

Number

2002

11,895

2003

12,017

2004

12,109

The personnel strength by rank and by gender at 31 December 2002, 2003 and 28 October 2004 was as set out below.

Number of Males.

Rank

2002

2003

2004

Commissioner

1

1

1

Deputy Commissioner

2

2

2

Assistant Commissioner

10

9

10

Chief Superintendent

46

46

45

Superintendent

167

170

166

Inspector

283

281

277

Sergeant

1,814

1,820

1,836

Garda

7,875

7,845

7,763

Total

10,198

10,174

10,100

Number of Females.

Rank

2002

2003

2004

Commissioner

0

0

0

Deputy Commissioner

0

0

0

Assistant Commissioner

0

1

1

Chief Superintendent

1

1

1

Superintendent

4

3

4

Inspector

11

13

14

Sergeant

114

126

133

Garda

1,567

1,699

1,856

Total

1,697

1,843

2009

The remainder of the information requested by the Deputy is not readily available and can only be obtained by the disproportionate expenditure of Garda time and resources relative to the information sought.

Garda Training.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

320 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the initiatives, programmes and training which have been undertaken in 2003 and 2004 addressing issues of equality within the Garda Síochána; and the plans for 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26725/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that training in relation to issues of equality within the Garda Síochána and in policing a multicultural society is provided as part of Garda student/probationer training.

Training was provided in Garda policy, practices and procedures on equality, grievances, sexual harassment and bullying.

All training and development programmes provided for supervisors and managers in 2003-04 contain inputs in relation to Garda policy on equality, bullying and harassment in the workplace. All inputs into the Garda training and development courses for Garda supervisors and managers are gender proofed. The continuance of this training is planned for 2005.

The gardaí continue to have a policy on promoting equality and countering bullying, harassment and sexual harassment, and have in place a grievance procedure which aims to promote an organisational environment which encourages and supports the right to dignity at work.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

321 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the initiatives, programmes and training which have been undertaken in 2003, 2004 addressing issues of equality within the Garda Síochána in relation to policing in a multicultural society; the numbers by rank who have participated in such developments; the measures planned for 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26726/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that training in relation to issues of equality within the Garda Síochána and in policing a multicultural society was provided to the following number of gardaí as part of their student/probationer training.

Year

Number

2003

536

2004

482

The following is an outline of the programme.

Contextual Policing — Community Policing

Training relating to the partnerships formed with the following: Traveller community, gay and lesbian community and ethnic communities; training on beliefs, values and characteristics of the communities, cultures and religions most commonly encountered in Ireland today; and training on Garda practices and procedures on human rights standards.

Social Studies

Lectures on pluralism, racism and ethnicity; lectures on psychology of attitude, prejudice and discrimination; lectures on treating people with dignity, respect and equality; social placements — two weeks working with a variety of community and State bodies; training inputs from external groups including Pavee Point, refugee centre rape crisis and victim support. The course is continuously under review and elements are included to cater for changes in society.

In 2003-04, training was provided for the following Garda personnel who are part of the Garda ethnic liaison network:

Rank

Number

Sergeant

10

Gardaí

135

The personnel trained have received training on human rights and intercultural issues. In 2003-04, 52 gardaí and eight sergeants from the Garda national immigration bureau were trained in human rights and intercultural issues.

One hundred Garda trainers have received training in human rights and multicultural issues. In 2004, Garda officers at Commissioner rank were briefed on the implications of human rights in police management.

In 2003-04, the following numbers of Garda personnel received instruction on human rights and multicultural issues as part of training as public order commanders.

Rank

Number

Chief Superintendent

2

Superintendent

17

Inspector

28

In 2003-04, the following numbers of Garda personnel received instruction on human rights and multicultural issues as part of training as public order instructors.

Rank

Number

Sergeant

31

Gardaí

4

In 2003-04, 1,117 personnel of sergeant and garda rank received instruction on human rights and multicultural issues as part of public order training.

All participants in management and supervisory training and development programmes in 2003 and 2004 received an input from the Garda intercultural office in relation to policing in a multicultural society.

In 2005, the following training is planned: anti-racism training for all Garda training staff; human rights and police management seminars for all Garda officers; and the continuation of multicultural policing modules for all courses at all levels.

Child Care Services.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

322 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will sanction child care for Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26727/04]

In recognition of the many achievements of the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-06 up to December 2003 the funding for the programme was recently increased to €449.3 million following the mid-term evaluation of the national development plan. Every locality has benefited significantly from grants to provide new and enhanced community based child care facilities and indeed to support capital developments in the private child care sector.

The total funding committed under the equal opportunities child care programme up to the end of September 2004 is over €264.3 million. Over 2,600 grants have been awarded to child care providers and community groups, which will, when fully drawn down, lead to the creation of approximately 29,700 new child care places, and will support almost 28,000 existing places. In the Dublin 12 area alone funding, totalling € 2.25 million, under the programme has been allocated to 17 projects to date. This funding will lead to the creation of an additional 261 new child care places in the area and will support a further 403 existing places.

I understand that there are a number of applications on hand in my Department for capital grant assistance to establish new services in the Dublin 12 area. The Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-06 is a seven-year development programme which aims to increase the availability and quality of child care to support parents in employment, education and training.

There has been considerable demand from community based groups for capital grant assistance under the programme and every county has benefited significantly from grants to provide new and enhanced community based child care facilities and indeed to support capital developments in the private child care sector. ADM, on behalf of my Department, is currently carrying out an extensive review of the programme's capital commitments to date, numbering over 1,100 and at a value of €114 million, to ensure that all the grant commitments previously entered into will be realised. Projects may be awaiting planning permission or the completion of tender processes before reasonable assurance can be taken that they will proceed and, if they do not, the funding set aside can be decommitted and made available to another project. Expenditure under the programme covers the period to end 2007 and must take place in a planned manner as must grant approvals to ensure that the programme can meet its financial commitments at all times.

In addition, my Department has recently reviewed the different budget lines under the EOCP including the capital programme to ensure that the most effective use is made of all remaining funding in accordance with the programme's objectives and this has brought to €157 million the total allocation for the capital development of child care under the present programme. At the same time, an extensive review of child care provision on the ground has taken place to identify obvious service gaps, the filling of which will be a priority using the remaining capital funding which currently exceeds €30 million, of which about €25 million is being earmarked for community based not for profit child care groups which provide services for young children to support their parents who may be in employment, education and training.

I intend to allocate the remaining capital funding under this strand of the Government's commitment to child care to address the most immediate service gaps. As a result, all the projects in the pipeline on 30 April 2004 have been reviewed again by ADM Limited on the basis of geographical need, the range of services being offered, value for money and the capacity of the groups to complete a project before the end of the programme in 2007. Those projects which best meet the criteria will receive priority funding from the capital funding which remains unallocated at this point.

I understand that the recommendations in relation to the allocation of the remaining funding are currently in preparation. If a project is recommended for funding as part of this process, its recommendation will be conditional upon its being able to establish that it can be completed within a fixed budget and a tight time frame. If a project is not recommended for priority funding at this time, it may be considered again should additional capital resources come available and if the project has adequately demonstrated that it would merit funding under the programme during the review process. The allocation of any additional funding which might come available to me will also be allocated on the basis of local need, levels of service being offered and value for money.

I do not doubt but that the success of the present strand of the programme and the need to continue to make child care available to support the child care needs of our still growing workforce will support my case for ongoing capital and current funding from Government for this key sector. Indeed, should any additional funding become available before the end of the present national development plan, I would expect that the programme would again benefit from transfers.

Question No. 323 answered with QuestionNo. 316.

Crime Prevention.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

324 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to an escalation in anti-social activity in an area (details supplied) in Dublin 11; and the action he proposes to take to deal with this matter. [26741/04]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that local gardaí are aware that the area in question is used by youths as a short cut to other areas during late evening and during the night. Mobile and foot patrols, both uniform and plain clothes, patrol the area in question in order to identify and monitor the actions of these youths.

I understand that the area is continually monitored and appropriate action is taken where necessary to deal with anti-social behaviour.

Visa Applications.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

325 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has received an application for a visitors visa from a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; if same will be expedited; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26750/04]

My Department has no record of a visa application from the person named in the details supplied by the Deputy. The Deputy should forward the reference number of the visa application in question to the immigration division of my Department in order to enable a check on the status of the application in question.

Garda Stations.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

326 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations in the country; the number of such stations which do not have a PULSE terminal; the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26753/04]

There are 703 Garda stations in the country. PULSE is available at 181 locations including divisional and district headquarters and all major city stations throughout the country. Under this level of coverage, 85% of all incidents are directly captured and over 75% of Garda personnel have direct access to PULSE systems in their own stations. Garda personnel in other stations have also the means to link up with the PULSE network indirectly. It is considered by the Garda authorities that the correct balance between cost and availability has been achieved with this level of coverage.

However, this is a matter to be kept under review in the light of advances in technologies and experience gained from the use of the system over time. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that a decision has recently been made to carry out such a review.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

327 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations in the Cork west Garda division; the names of stations in that division equipped with a PULSE terminal; the names of stations in that division which are not equipped with a PULSE terminal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26754/04]

There are 43 Garda stations in the Cork west Garda division. The following stations have PULSE equipment: Bandon, Bantry, Clonakilty, Kanturk, Macroom and Millstreet.

The following stations do not have PULSE equipment: Adrigol, Ballgurteen, Ballineen, Ballingeary, Ballinhassig, Ballinspittle, Ballydehob, Ballydesmond, Ballyfeard, Ballyvourney, Baltimore, Boherbue, Castletownbere, Castletownsend, Coachford, Crookstown, Drimoleague, Drinagh, Dunmanway, Durras, Glengarriff, Goleen, Inchigeela, Innishannon, Keatkil, Kilbrittain, Kinsale, Knocknagree, Meelin, Newmarket, Rathmore, Rosscarbery, Schull, Skibbereen, Stuake, Tarelton and Timoleague.

Schools Refurbishment.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

328 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when the application for the refurbishment and extension proposed for a school (detail supplied) in County Clare will go into advance architectural planning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26464/04]

The extension-refurbishment project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. It has a band 2 rating. My Department's technical staff are currently examining the stage 3 submission, detailed plans-costs, and the school authorities will be kept informed of developments.

My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

329 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when the application for the refurbishment and extension proposed for a school (details supplied) in County Clare will go into the next stage of architectural planning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26465/04]

The extension/refurbishment project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. It has a band 2 rating. My Department's technical staff are currently examining the stage 1/2 documentation, site suitability/sketch scheme. The school authorities will be kept advised of developments.

My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Schools Building Projects.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

330 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when construction for the resource room for a school (details supplied) in County Clare will take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26466/04]

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that my Department has sanctioned a maximum grant level of €100,000 for the school in question as part of a devolved initiative under the 2004 school building programme. The initiative allows boards of management to address their accommodation and building priorities with a guaranteed amount of funding and gives boards of management control of the building project. It is my understanding that the contractor will commence works at the school in question next January.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

331 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when the application for the new school building for a school (details supplied) in County Clare will go into advance architectural planning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26467/04]

The new school building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. It has a band 2 rating. My Department's officials recently wrote to the school authorities requesting a stage 4/5 submission, detail design/bills of quantities, and a response is awaited.

My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005.

All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

332 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when the application for the refurbishment and extension proposed for a school (details supplied) in County Clare will go into advance architectural planning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26468/04]

The extension/refurbishment project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. It has a band 2 rating. My Department's officials recently wrote to the school authorities requesting a stage 3 submission (detailed plans/costs) and a response is awaited.

My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process, I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework

Pat Breen

Ceist:

333 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when the application for the three classrooms and ancillary refurbishment proposed for a school (details supplied) in County Clare will go into advance architectural planning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26469/04]

The extension/refurbishment project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. It has a band 3 rating. My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

334 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if construction in relation to the two classrooms and ancillary facilities proposed for a school (details supplied) in County Clare has taken place; if not when it is proposed to take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26470/04]

Pat Breen

Ceist:

335 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if construction in relation to the refurbishment and extension proposed for a school (details supplied) in County Clare has taken place; if not when it is proposed to take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26471/04]

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

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction work has recently commenced on the projects in question.

Special Educational Needs.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

336 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will clarify the allocation of special needs teachers under the new weighted system to all girls schools which are designated disadvantaged; if their disadvantaged status will be taken into account; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26472/04]

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

350 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the fact that under the new weighting system for special needs resources for disadvantaged schools, it is fair that a disadvantaged school in an urban area will receive one teacher for every 80 pupils, in a disadvantaged school in a rural area it will receive one teacher for every 150 pupils; and if she will explain the criteria behind this decision. [26557/04]

David Stanton

Ceist:

358 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the research that was used to determine the so-called weighted model of teacher allocation for the various disability categories; the rationale and scientific analysis that was used to determine the weighted allocation based on gender discrimination; the way such systems are arrived at in other OECD countries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26593/04]

Damien English

Ceist:

366 Mr. English asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason all girls schools are being discriminated against regarding the new weighted system of allocating special education teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26684/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 336, 350, 358 and 366 together.

As the Deputies will be aware, the proposed new system for resource teacher allocation involves a general weighted allocation for all primary schools to cater for pupils with higher incidence special educational needs — borderline mild and mild general learning disability and specific learning disability — and those with learning support needs, that is, functioning at or below the 10th percentile on a standardised test of reading and/or mathematics. It will also allow for individual allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence special educational needs.

The proposed allocation mechanism is as follows: in the most disadvantaged schools, as per the urban dimension of Giving Children an Even Break, a teacher of pupils with special educational needs will be allocated for every 80 pupils to cater for the subset of pupils with higher incidence special needs; in all boys schools, the ratio will be one teacher for every 140 pupils; in mixed schools, or all girls schools with an enrolment of greater than 30% boys, one for every 150 pupils; and in all girls schools, including schools with mixed junior classes but with 30% or less boys overall, one for every 200 pupils.

In addition, all schools will be able to apply for separate specific allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence disabilities. The rationale for a pupil teacher ratio of 150 pupils for every teacher in mixed schools to support pupils with higher incidence special educational needs and learning difficulties/delays is that the pupil teacher ratio for a learning support teacher was approximately 300 pupils; 10% of pupils would be expected to have learning difficulties in the fields of literacy and numeracy and, on that basis, approximately 15 out of a group of 150 pupils would be expected to have learning difficulties. This is considered half of a teacher's caseload. A further 3%, or 4/5 pupils, in this cohort would be expected to have higher-incidence special educational needs and would expect to receive 2.5 resource teaching hours per week. This would account for the other half of a teacher's caseload.

The rationale for the different pupil teacher ratios in boys'— 140:1 — and girls'— 200:1 — schools is twofold. First, international literature on the incidence of disability indicates that, across all disability types, there is a greater incidence in boys than in girls. Second, international and national surveys of literacy and numeracy have found that these difficulties are more common among boys than girls.

The rationale for the level of support proposed for schools in areas of urban disadvantage is that evidence shows that there is a significantly higher incidence of literacy and numeracy difficulties in urban disadvantaged compared to other schools, including those in areas of rural disadvantage.

It is important to emphasise that applications may be made for specific resource teacher allocations in respect of pupils with lower incidence special educational needs regardless of gender of pupil or status of school.

I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the proposed model, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, I will be reviewing the model to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year.

Schools Building Projects.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

337 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the building of a new school (details supplied) in County Mayo; when the building project application was received in her Department; the date that this project progressed from each stage; the stage it is currently at; when it is expected to proceed to construction; the estimated total cost of the building project; and the amount that has been spent by her Department on it to date. [26497/04]

My Department received an application for refurbishment from the board of management of the school referred to by the Deputy in May 1998. A design team was appointed on 23 September 1999 to commence the architectural planning of the project and to examine a number of options to provide improved accommodation for the school. Following an examination of the options presented it was decided to proceed with the provision of a new school building.

The stage 1/2/3 report — developed plans/costs — was approved by my Department on 2 May 2001 and approval was given to the board of management to proceed to stage 4/5. The building project is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning and has a band 3 rating.

My Department is not in a position to indicate the estimated cost for the project as this is regarded as commercially sensitive information. The total amount spent on the building project to date is €58,942.84. My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Educational Projects.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

338 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if the area development plan for education infrastructure in an area (details supplied) in County Mayo is complete; the stage it is at; if the demographics of the area have been examined; the recommendations for the area into the future; when the draft area development plan will be published; when the public engagement process will commence; the submissions that have been received in this regard; if she will provide this Deputy with a copy of the submissions received; the estimated date of the publication of the final area development plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26498/04]

Earlier this year the previous Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Dempsey, introduced a new planning model for educational infrastructure to ensure that, in future, school provision will be decided after a transparent consultation process. In this regard, trustees, parents, sponsors of prospective schools and all interested parties from a locality will have the opportunity to have their voices heard in the process.

The main feature of the new model, being introduced initially on a pilot basis in five specific areas, is the publication of an area development plan which will set out a blueprint for education infrastructure in the particular area into the future.

The components of the draft area development plan are as follows: details of existing primary and post primary provision; examination of the demographics of the area; commentary on the data; and recommendations for the area into the future.

Following publication of each draft area development plan, the Commission on School Accommodation will conduct a public engagement process to which all interested parties can make submissions. All of these submissions will be published. The process in each case will culminate in the publication of a final area development plan against which all capital funding decisions will be made over the next decade.

The location of the proposed new school to which the Deputy refers is being considered through the process outlined above, as it forms part of one of the pilot area development plans, for which the draft area development plan will be published in the near future.

Schools Refurbishment.

Gerard Murphy

Ceist:

339 Mr. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if and when she intends giving the go ahead to a school (details supplied) in County Cork for the requested, required and much needed works. [26505/04]

An application for grant-aid towards an extension has been received from the management authority of the school referred to by the Deputy.

My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the multi-annual programme. The accommodation needs of the school referred to are being considered as part of this review.

Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Special Educational Needs.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

340 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason special needs children who are receiving help from a health board prior to going to primary school are not automatically entitled to resource hours or special assistance when they attend school. [26510/04]

Decisions regarding the most appropriate model of educational response for children with special educational needs, SEN, are based on the professionally assessed needs of the individual child and in the context of the criteria outlined in the relevant Department circulars. A child's SEN may be capable of being met from within a school's existing special education teaching complement or it may involve additional resources being provided to the school.

I recently announced my intention to review the proposed new mechanism for allocating teaching support to schools. The intention is to ensure that the mechanism provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before the new arrangements are implemented.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

341 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the supports and services that are available in County Carlow for persons with autism; the autism specific schools that are available in County Carlow; the funding allocated to this group; and her future plans for the services in the county. [26511/04]

Every effort is made to ensure that children with special educational needs, including children with autistic spectrum disorders, receive an education appropriate to their needs. Decisions regarding the most appropriate model of response in each particular case are based on the professionally assessed needs of the individual child.

In the Carlow area, some children with autism are attending mainstream schools on a fully integrated basis, with the support of resource teaching and special needs assistant support, as appropriate. St. Lazarian's special school also caters for a number of children on the autistic spectrum. In addition, my Department has been actively investigating the development of additional educational services for children with autism in the Carlow area in consultation with existing education providers and this process is continuing. No funding has been allocated to any particular group in the Carlow area by my Department in the context of autism provision other than the normal resources made available to schools who are catering for pupils with autism.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

342 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools that will lose resources for pupils with special educational needs as a result of the proposed introduction of a weighted system as per circular SP ED 09/04; the number that will gain resources; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26513/04]

I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the proposed mechanism for allocating resource teachers to primary schools, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, I will be reviewing the proposed model to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year. It would not be possible to provide the information sought pending the outcome of the review.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

343 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has evidence that the schools that will lose resources under the new weighted system of special needs allocation have a reduction of need with regard to the pupils attending their schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26514/04]

I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the proposed mechanism for allocating resource teachers to primary schools, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, I will be reviewing the proposed model to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year.

Psychological Service.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

344 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of NEPS psychologists employed in the mid-western region; the number that has been deemed appropriate for the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26515/04]

When the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, was established in 1999, it drew up a development plan, based on student numbers in each region of the country. On this basis, NEPS estimates that 16 psychologists would be needed to support the population in the mid-western region. It has proved difficult to recruit psychologists to serve in some regions, including the mid-western region, where five psychologists are currently deployed by NEPS. NEPS management is making every effort to persuade new recruits to opt for the mid-west region.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

345 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will publish the results of a study carried out by NEPS into learning support needs in Leitrim and Dundalk; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26516/04]

An internal committee of my Department meets from time to time to ensure effective liaison in the area of special educational needs. It includes representatives of the inspectorate, special education section and the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS. As part of its work, the committee commissioned a screening project with the aim of informing policy and practice on the effective use of resources to support children with special educational needs, including children with disabilities.

The project was overseen by NEPS, with assistance from the educational research centre in St Patrick's College, Drumcondra. It involved the assessment of all pupils in second to sixth class in mainstream primary schools in the town of Dundalk and in the county of Leitrim. Teachers in 55 schools administered group tests of cognitive ability and of reading and mathematical attainment to 3,897 pupils and also completed questionnaires on individual pupils, on concerns not amenable to normal screening methods.

Statistical analysis of the results has proved to be time consuming, but I understand that the final report on the project will be presented to me before the end of 2004. I shall consider the findings in the report with my officials and decide on the appropriate response.

Schools Building Projects.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

346 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount it cost to re-roof a school (details supplied) in County Mayo in 2004; if there was a claim taken by the Department against the builder or the design team in this matter; if not, the reason why; the amount the State paid to the architects for the design of this building; the amount paid to the builder; the amount the overall project cost; and if she will provide a detailed listing of all costs paid out in this regard. [26541/04]

This school was built to a standard Department design that has been successfully used throughout the country over a 15-year period. The architectural service for this project was provided by my Department's professional and technical staff.

The particular difficulty in this case related to the exceptional and unpredictable local wind factors on site rather than poor workmanship from the contractors and therefore the issue of pursuing a claim against the contractor did not arise. The building contractor, the roofing sub-contractor and the roof tile supplier tried various solutions, at no cost to the State, to deal with the leaks at the school in question. However, none of these proved to be a sustainable solution given the wind factors.

The total cost of designing and building this new school was €953,059.93. This amount is made up of payments of €831,765.55 to the building contractor, €60,769.73 to the external members of the design team for quantity surveying and engineering services, €58,747.02 for furniture and equipment and €1,777.63 for development charges to Castlebar UDC. The cost of the re-roofing project was €155,611.99.

Múinteoirí Feabhais Gaeilge.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

347 D'fhiafraigh Mr. O’Shea den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an bhfuil aon phlean aici múinteoirí feabhais Gaeilge a chur ar fáil do Ghaelscoileanna agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina leith. [26554/04]

Ar an gcéad dul síos, ba chóir go mbeadh ar chumas gach múinteoir náisiúnta lán-cháilithe, múinteoirí feabhais ina measc, teagasc trí mheán na Gaeilge. Fairis sin, tá sé de chúram ar bhoird bainistíochta Ghaelscoileanna múinteoirí a fhostú a bhfuil an cumas sin acu. Sa chóimhthéacs sin, níl aon idir-dhealú indéanta idir múinteoir feabhais agus múinteoir ranga.

Special Educational Needs.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

348 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if additional hours will be provided for a special needs assistant at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26555/04]

An application for an increase in the level of special needs assistant, SNA, support from part-time to full time has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. The application will be considered by my Department and a decision will be conveyed to the school at the earliest possible date.

Grant Payments.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

349 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science if the amount of £47,000 has been paid to Kilkenny County Council relative to condition No. 2 of planning approval 99/121; if so if she will determine when the infrastructure outlined in condition No. 2 will be provided or demand a repayment of the contribution; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26556/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available. My Department will contact him directly as soon as the information is to hand.

Question No. 350 answered with QuestionNo. 336.

Special Educational Needs.

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

351 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the fact that two schools with the exact pupil number, with completely different special needs children with higher incidence special education needs should get the same allocation of resource teachers; and the way in which this can ensure that resources go were they area actually needed. [26558/04]

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

352 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the fact that the new weighting system for special needs resources discriminates against small schools and leaves them with less resource hours than they enjoyed previously under the old system; her further views that this new system could result in the closure or amalgamation of same small schools. [26559/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 351 and 352 together.

I am conscious of difficulties that could arise with the proposed mechanism for allocating resource teachers to primary schools, particularly for children in small and rural schools, if it were implemented as currently proposed. Accordingly, I will be reviewing the proposed model to ensure that it provides an automatic response for pupils with common mild learning disabilities without the need for cumbersome individual applications, while at the same time ensuring that pupils currently in receipt of service continue to receive the level of service appropriate to their needs. The review will involve consultation with educational interests and the National Council for Special Education before it is implemented next year.

Schools Building Projects.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

353 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of a school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; when construction of this much-needed school will commence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26561/04]

The new school building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. It has a band 2 rating. My Department's technical staff are currently examining stage 3 documentation, covering detailed plans and costs, and the school authorities will be kept advised of developments.

My officials are nearing completion of a review of all projects, which did not proceed to construction as part of the 2004 school building programme with a view to including them as part of a multi-annual programme from 2005. All projects are being assessed against the published prioritisation criteria, agreed earlier this year with the education partners. Each project will be assigned a band rating and the progress of all projects will be considered in the context of the programme from 2005. Following conclusion of the current Estimates and budgetary process I intend to publish the 2005 building programme, which will operate in a multi-annual framework.

Special Educational Needs.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

354 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will examine the attached submission and favourably consider the person’s application for a special needs assistant for their child (details supplied). [26579/04]

I can confirm that an application for special needs assistant support, SNA, for the pupil in question was considered by my Department. The school authorities were informed in a letter dated 26 August 2004 that the pupil did not meet the criteria for such support under the relevant Department circulars. Additional supporting documentation was submitted to my Department recently. The application will be reconsidered in the context of this additional information and in light of the existing level of SNA support available in the school.

Teaching Qualifications.

Pat Carey

Ceist:

355 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if the awards obtained in a USA university by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 would qualify them to teach in an Irish second level school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26590/04]

The Registration Council is the statutory body which determines, with the approval of the Minister for Education and Science, the qualification requirements for the purpose of registration as a secondary teacher. The council prescribes that each applicant for registration as a secondary teacher must, among other requirements, hold a relevant third level qualification which in the opinion of the council, is adequate to enable the holder to teach at least one of the approved subjects or areas of study approved for the purpose of a course of instruction as set out in the rules and programme for secondary schools together with a suitable training in teaching qualification acceptable to the council which is directed towards the age range 12- 18 years.

Applications for the recognition of qualifications for the purpose of registration are considered by the council at meetings, which take place on a periodic basis. For the council to assess the suitability of qualifications for teaching purposes, full details of the courses of study pursued must be submitted. I will arrange to have the secretariat of the Registration Council make contact with the person in question with a view to advising him of the procedures to be followed.

Psychological Service.

David Stanton

Ceist:

356 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if the National Educational Psychological Service have been instructed by her Department not to answer queries from Members of the Oireachtas; if a direction has been issued to direct all such questions to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26591/04]

The normal practice for answering queries from Members of the Oireachtas is that such queries are processed and replies co-ordinated through my office or that of the Minister of State. The National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, is part of my Department and consequently the same arrangement applies to queries from Members of the Oireachtas relating to NEPS.

David Stanton

Ceist:

357 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the vacancies that exist in NEPS for educational psychologists at present; the way in which psychologists can make applications to NEPS in respect of any such vacancies; her further plans in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26592/04]

At present, the National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS has 127 psychologists in including 67 psychologists at entry level. Five more psychologists are due to take up employment in NEPS, three in November and two others shortly thereafter.

Recruitment of permanent staff to the Department, including psychologists has, to date, been undertaken by the Office of the Civil Service and Local Appointments Commissioners, OCSLAC, under the terms of the Civil Service Commissioners Act 1956. The commissioners have provided an independent recruitment and selection service to Departments. The Public Service Management (Recruitment and Appointments) Act 2004 was recently enacted. The OCSLAC no longer exists but has been replaced by two new bodies. The Commission for Public Service Appointments is now the regulatory body for recruitment, while the Public Appointments Service will provide a recruitment, selection and advisory service. The legislation also broadens the options to Departments and Civil Service offices by enabling them to undertake their own recruitment.

The current Civil Service Commission panel of 69 psychologists has recently been exhausted and discussions regarding a new panel will commence shortly. Further recruitment of psychologists to NEPS will depend on the availability of resources and must also take account of Government policy on public sector numbers.

Pending the expansion of NEPS to cover all schools, those that are not yet served may avail of the scheme for commissioning psychological assessment, SCPA. The SCPA is an interim measure and was specifically introduced to minimise delays for those children who need to be assessed. Under this scheme, individual psychological assessments may only be administered by psychologists whose names appear on a panel compiled by NEPS. Psychologists on the panel are private practitioners who have satisfied NEPS that they are graduate members of the Psychological Society of Ireland or the British Psychological Society; that they are registered or chartered psychologists or, if not, that they have at least one year's supervised experience of administering psychological tests to children; that they have obtained Garda clearance; and that their tax affairs are in order.

Question No. 358 answered with QuestionNo. 336.

University Admissions.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

359 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will accept that in the interests of equality of access for all Irish students that Trinity College waiver their new admissions criteria for the academic year 2005 to allow schools in Northern Ireland to organise their teaching calendar to meet the college’s new requirement. [26637/04]

Issues surrounding the development of admissions criteria for entry to courses at Trinity College are a matter for that university, in line with the Universities Act 1997. I have no plans to intervene in such matters. In this case, the university has been in contact with all second level schools in Northern Ireland and has provided advance notification of the relevant changes prior to the commencement of the A-level cycle of the first students affected. The university has given undertakings that any anomalous cases arising will be dealt with on a case by case basis.

Educational Qualifications.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

360 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the fact that there is a need to harmonise educational qualifications across the island of Ireland to ensure equality of access and opportunity for all the children of the island. [26638/04]

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

361 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether there is a need to progress such harmonisation within an agreed time frame in view of the changes to the educational qualification system in both England and Northern Ireland. [26639/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 360 and 361 together.

We must respect the fact that education systems across the EU differ in how they prepare children and young people for participation in social and economic life, for active citizenship and for lifelong learning. The education system in Northern Ireland is closely aligned with that of England, Scotland and Wales and differs to that in the Republic, especially in regard to the treatment of upper secondary education.

The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has carried out a comprehensive public consultation process on the future direction of senior cycle education in Ireland. This concluded with the publication by the NCCA of Directions for Development — Developing Senior Cycle Education, which was presented at a national forum in Dublin Castle on 23 September 2003. The NCCA proposals set out a vision for the type of school system which might exist by 2010. The proposals for reform build on extensive consultation with stakeholders in Ireland as well as on research on developments in upper secondary education internationally.

The NCCA has submitted initial advice on the reforms in June 2004. This will be followed by a second stage at the end of the year which will include an elaboration of the possible configuration of subjects, short courses and transition units, details of how assessment might be managed, an analysis of the implications for staff development and infrastructure, and a detailed action plan for implementing the proposal. This will enable decisions to be made on implementation issues.

It would not be appropriate to seek to harmonise our education systems. Rather, policy is focused on seeking agreement on the alignment of the various levels of qualification in the Republic of Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, England and Wales, so that there will be clarity as to what levels qualifications are broadly comparable. This will provide important information for learners, employers and education institutions.

In that context, the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland has hosted a network of qualifications and regulatory authorities in the Republic of Ireland and the United Kingdom to promote co-operation and share practice, and consider the potential for aligning frameworks of qualifications and levels, or agreeing linkages. The network has had a number of meetings and a process is under way to develop a "ready reckoner" which will show key points of convergence of qualifications levels within the frameworks across the UK and the Republic of Ireland. This is expected to be ready at the end of the year.

In addition, under the framework of the North-South Ministerial Council, a North-South working group has been established, co-chaired by officials from the Department of Education and Science in the Republic and Department of Employment and Learning in the North to identify where recognition arrangements are not in place and need to be advanced and to report and make proposals in this area.

On 6 February 2004 it was announced that Irish leaving certificate awards at ordinary and higher level would be included, with effect from 2006, in the UCAS tariff, the points system for admission to higher education colleges in Northern Ireland and Britain.

In addition, the work is progressing at EU level on the implementation of the Bologna and Copenhagen process regarding common approaches to the transparency and quality of qualifications in higher education and vocational education and training, and is beginning on the development of a European framework of qualifications. The developments in Ireland regarding the national framework of qualifications in Ireland are attracting considerable international interest in that context.

During the Irish Presidency of the EU political agreement was reached on Europass, a set of transparency tools to improve information on qualifications, work experience and language proficiency which are now being introduced across the EU. Political agreement was reached on a draft consolidated EU directive on the mutual recognition of professional qualifications.

Educational Disadvantage.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

362 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will respond to the recent report, How are our Kids?, by directing extra resources to schools in the area; and if there will be a greater input by her Department to deal with absenteeism, bullying, high drop out from school, adult education and other issues pertinent to her Department. [26640/04]

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

363 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the recent report, How are our Kids?, in Tallaght West; and the new measures she proposes or sanctions she proposes to introduce in response to the considerable problems highlighted in the report. [26655/04]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 362 and 363 together.

A key focus of education policy is to prioritise investment in favour of those most at risk and to optimise access, participation and outcomes at every level of the system for disadvantaged groups.

The wide variety of measures in place in Tallaght and in other similar areas for tackling educational disadvantage and social exclusion reflect these concerns. These measures range from pre-school interventions, supports for tackling children's literacy problems, reduced pupil teacher ratios, increased capitation grants, measures to tackle early school leaving and strengthen ties between the school, the family and the community. In addition, there are interventions in support of youth and in providing second chance education for young people and adults.

As part of the roll out of services of the National Educational Welfare Board, which is the national body with responsibility for school attendance, four educational welfare officers have been assigned to the Tallaght area. The school completion programme is my Department's main programme for tackling early school leaving. There are six school completion clusters in Tallaght, comprising six post-primary and 19 primary schools. The Tallaght youth service has been allocated funding of €700,000 to help targeted groups, including early school leavers, young mothers and Travellers. My Department also provides support for second chance education in west Tallaght through the Youthreach programme, the back to education initiative, and the local senior Traveller training centre.

Despite the range of difficulties identified in the report referred to by the Deputy, 68% of the parents surveyed for it reported that their child was achieving his or her potential at school. I welcome the report as a useful contribution to this complex area of policy and I have asked my officials to consider its wider policy implications in the context of finalising work on an overall review of educational disadvantage programmes at national level.

As part of a wider system of structural reform, my Department is establishing a network of ten regional offices, including one in Tallaght. This network of offices will help to identify education issues arising at local level, particularly gaps and overlap in social inclusion provision, and provide regular reports to my Department. This local presence will help my Department to continue to target resources at those most at risk of educational disadvantage in Tallaght and other similar areas. My priority as Minister for Education and Science will be to continue targeting resources at those areas and people most in need.

School Enrolments.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

364 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the average age in months at which children commence primary education in this State. [26666/04]

The information supplied relates to the number of pupils in junior infant classes in September of 2003-04 by age on 1 January 2004. It is not possible, within available data sources, to supply this information in months.

Age

Number of pupils

3

85

4

25,042

5

31,224

6

665

7

36

8

2

Residential Care Schools.

Seán Crowe

Ceist:

365 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children incarcerated in State institutions due to the fact that no alternative accommodation exists. [26677/04]

There are five children detention schools under the aegis of my Department which provide residential care, education and rehabilitation for children, generally up to age 16, who have been convicted of an offence or remanded in custody by the courts. The operational capacity of the five schools is 114 of which there are 15 places for girls and 99 for boys. Officials from my Department have confirmed that on Friday, 22 October 2004, a total of 81 of the 114 beds were occupied.

St. Joseph's school, unlike the other four schools, caters for both offending children referred by the courts and non-offending children on placement from various health boards across the country in accordance with the Health Acts.

Of the 81 occupied beds in the schools on 22 October 2002, 18 were occupied in St. Joseph's school by children pursuant to the Health Acts. The remaining 63 beds were occupied by children detained on foot of court orders. Alternative placements are being sought for nine of these children, of which alternatives have been secured for two of the cases as of Friday, 22 October 2004.

The Special Residential Services Board was established pursuant to the Children Act 2001. Its function is to provide policy advice to my Department and to the Department of Health and Children on the remand and detention of children and to ensure the efficient, effective and co-ordinated delivery of services to children in respect of whom children detention orders or special care orders are made. The mission statement of the board is that detention is a measure of last resort. The board liaises with the courts and, advises on request, with regard to suitable bed placements or alternate child care options depending on the case circumstances.

Since April 2004, all requests for beds in the children detention schools from the courts are channelled centrally via the Special Residential Services Board. There is on-going co-ordination by this board with the various agencies, including my Department, in order to provide for alternate placements including the necessary child care plans and services most appropriate to meet the needs of the individual child.

Question No. 366 answered with QuestionNo. 336.

Special Educational Needs.

Fiona O'Malley

Ceist:

367 Ms F. O’Malley asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for a discrepancy in the payment of part-time special needs assistants who work the same hours (details supplied); and the steps she will take to bring these salaries into line. [26697/04]

All special needs assistants employed in primary schools are paid on an incremental salary scale. My Department has recently revised the rate of pay for all part time special needs assistants in primary schools and issued any arrears due for the period — 1 September to 18 October 2004 — in the salaries paid on 21 October 2004. An insert issued with the payslip notifying the part-time special needs assistants of the adjustment in pay and advising them of the relevant circular outlining the details. A copy of the relevant circular follows for the Deputy's information.

The arrangement for the payment of special needs assistants working with children in infants classes was also revised recently. To enable my Department process applications for arrears due to special needs assistants working with children in infants classes, the school managerial authority must verify the special needs assistant work pattern.

An application for payment of arrears for work undertaken by the person in question in an infant's class for the periods 16 September 2002 to 20 December 2002 and 7 January 2003 to 31 August 2003 has been received in my Department. Arrears due in respect of these periods will be included in the person's salary on the 4 November 2004.

Circular Pay 21/04

To the Management Authorities of Primary Schools

1. Revision of Rates of Pay for Regular Part-Time Special Needs Assistants

1.1 The Minister for Education and Science wishes to inform Management Authorities of Primary Schools of the revised pay arrangements for regular part-time special need assistants employed in the 2004/2005 school year.

1.2 Part-time special needs assistants who are employed for a regular number of hours each week over the course of the full school year will be paid at the appropriate revised hourly rate for each hour worked w.e.f. 1st September 2004. A copy of the revised rates is attached as Appendix A.

1.3 Special Needs Assistant employed in an Infant class for the full duration of the infant school day will be paid for 27 hours per week at the appropriate hourly rate. The school managerial authority must verify annually that the Special Needs Assistant is working in an Infant's class for the full duration of the infant school day.

1.4 The issue of arrears of pay for the 2001/2002, 2002/2003 and 2003/2004 school years will be addressed in a further Circular.

2. Supervision and Special Needs Assistants

2.1 The arrangements for supervision of students during assembly, recreational and dispersal periods are comprehended by the supervision/substitution scheme as outlined in Circular Letter PPT 01/03. This scheme provides resources to schools for the paid supervision of students on school premises by teachers and/or external supervisors outside of specified classroom teaching duties. The resources are determined by the teacher allocation to the school.

2.2 Part of the contractual duties of Special Needs Assistants is toassist teachers in the supervision of students during assembly, recreational and dispersal periods. Special Needs Assistants should not be instructed to directly supervise students during these periods

2.3 Managerial authorities are requested to ensure that the arrangements for supervision in schools are such that they do not conflict with the contractual duties of the Special Needs Assistant and are in compliance with the terms of the supervision/substitution scheme.

3. Modernisation Issues

3.1 The terms of Sustaining Progress provide that payment of the final two phases of the benchmarking increase and the general round increases is dependent, in the case of each sector, organisation and grade on verification of co-operation with flexibility and ongoing change, satisfactory implementation of the agenda for modernisation, maintenance of industrial relations and absence of industrial action in respect of any matters covered by the Agreement.

3.2 Details of the modernisation agenda agreed for Special Needs Assistants are attached as Appendix B. The agreement applies in the case of all Special Needs Assistants whose posts are approved and funded by the Department of Education and Science. The terms outlined in the agreement supersede any previous local arrangements or conditions which may have existed.

4. Dissemination

Management authorities are requested to bring the details outlined in this Circular to the attention of special needs assistants employed in the schools. You are also requested to give a copy of the Circular to the parents' representatives on the Board of Management.

P. Maloney,

Principal Officer,

October 2004.

Appendix B

Sustaining Progress

Modernisation agenda for Special Need Assistants

1. Attendance Patterns

Primary School Special Needs Assistants are required to be available to schools for a couple of days at the start and finish of each school term. It is agreed that these days (12 in total) may be combined at the discretion of school management to be utilised flexibly throughout the year for work appropriate to the grade including training. These days will not exceed 5 consecutive days and will immediately follow or precede school terms or within a couple of days thereof. The agreement reached under PCW in respect of pupils in special schools and special classes who have extra attendance at school for respite care/holiday programmes remains unaffected.

2. Restructuring and rationalisation of resources

Full engagement in a fundamental review of the special needs assistant service including restructuring and rationalisation of the service.

3. Co-operation with ongoing change

Training and development — Special Needs Assistants will co-operate with programmes for implementing change in the workplace and will co-operate with workplace training for change in work practices where provided.

School Development Planning — Co-operation with school development planning is a future oriented process and may involve development and changes in various aspects of the school's policies and practices. Special Needs Assistants will participate in the school development planning process where appropriate and will co-operate with any such changes in policies and practices arising from the school development planning process.

Curricular and legislative change — Special Needs Assistants will continue to co-operate with curricular and legislative change.

Flexibility — Work demands may lead to change in the way in which work is organised involving a redistribution of tasks among staff and more flexibility in regard to reporting. Special Needs Assistants will agree to be re-assigned to other work appropriate to theSpecial Needs Assistant grade as outlined in their relevant contracts when special needs pupils are absent from school or when particular urgent work demands arise. In addition Special Needs Assistants will report to other senior school personnel as authorised by school management from time to time.

4. Maintenance of stable industrial relations environment

The parties recognise the importance of stable industrial relations and are committed to maintaining a well-managed industrial relations climate to minimise disputes. Special Needs Assistants will agree to utilise available dispute resolution mechanisms industrial relations procedures (both statutory and non-statutory) including

·Grievance procedures

·Disciplinary Procedures

·School related policies in respect of Health and Safety and the relevant codes of practice in respect of bullying and harassment in the workplace.

5. Customer

Special Needs Assistant will commit to the schools' culture and traditions and reflect these through interaction where appropriate with parents, pupils, teachers, management and the wider school community. Special Needs Assistants will implement and co-operate with directives issued by the school authority or the Department of Education and Science including new arrangements for parent-teacher meetings, staff meetings and the standardised school year. Special Needs Assistants will engage with parents of special needs pupils in both formal and informal structures as required and directed by school management.

Appendix A:

Special Needs Assistants — Salary Scales

Rates effective from 1st July 2004

Point on Scale

Full Time

Hourly Rate

1

20,128

12.05

2

21,073

12.62

3

22,016

13.19

4

22,961

13.75

5

23,907

14.32

6

24,851

14.88

7

25,795

15.45

8

26,735

16.01

9

27,682

16.58

10

28,623

17.14

11

29,572

17.71

12

31,353

18.78

13

32,621

19.54

School Enrolments.

John Curran

Ceist:

368 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children from travelling families who were enrolled in primary schools in Dublin City and County as at 30 September 2003; the number who were enrolled in Gaelscoileanna, Educate Together schools and schools in areas designated as disadvantaged; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26700/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Dublin city and county

Enrolments as at 30 September, 2003

Total Traveller pupils in primary schools

1,288

Traveller children in Gaelscoileanna

0

Traveller children in Educate Together schools

0

Traveller children in schools designated as disadvantaged

988

John Curran

Ceist:

369 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of new enrolments in primary schools in Lucan in September 2004, September 2003 and September 2002. [26701/04]

The annual primary census forms for the current school year are still being collected and, therefore, the information requested is not yet available for the 2004-05 school year. The information requested by the Deputy for 2002 and 2003 is set out in the following table. It should be noted that the figures provided relate to the number of pupils in junior infants in the Belgard area of Dublin.

Pupils In Junior Infants In Dublin Belgard By School (2002/2003 School-Year).

Roll No.

School

Address 1

Address 2

Boys

Girls

Total

00714P

Lucan B N S

Lucan

Co Dublin

60

0

60

00729F

Clochar Loreto N S

Grange Road

Rathfarnham

0

56

56

11638N

Whitechurch Nat School

Whitechurch

Rathfarnham

7

11

18

12014D

St Andrews N S

Lucan

Co Dublin

19

14

33

13217W

Holy Family National School

Rathcoole

Co Dublin

11

17

28

13447Q

Scoil Mhuire

Lucan

Co Dublin

0

83

83

14939T

Rathfarnham Parish N S

Washington Lane

Templeogue

12

17

29

16461C

Caisleain Nua Liamhna

Newcastle Lyons

Co Dublin

15

16

31

16983J

S N Naomh Cillin

Bluebell

Inchicore

7

2

9

17055T

S N Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Co Dublin

11

12

23

17899C

Scoil Carmel

Teach Giuise

Tallaght

56

58

114

17953F

S N Bhaile Eamonn

Rathfarnham

Dublin 14

7

8

15

17996A

Glen Na Smol N S

Glen Na Smal

Tallaght

6

4

10

18173H

S N Briotas

Brittas

Co Dublin

5

10

15

18323A

Scoil Lorcain B

Palmerstown

Dublin 20

57

0

57

18324C

Scoil Bride C

Palmerstown

Dublin 20

0

52

52

18411U

St Marys School

Greenhills Road

Tallaght

17

12

29

18602E

Scoil Mhuire

Clondalkin

Dublin 22

28

31

59

18642Q

S N Naomh Eoin

Tower Road

Clondalkin

4

10

14

19114T

St Patrick Gns

Ballyroan

Rathfarnham

48

55

103

19158Q

St Peters B N S

Limekiln Rd

Greenhills

28

0

28

19177U

St Pius X N S Boys

Fortfield Park

Terenure

65

0

65

19178W

St Pius X G N S

Fortfield Park

Terenure

0

49

49

19220S

Scoil Naomh Ide

Clondalkin

Dublin 22

30

26

56

19221U

Scoil Naomh Aine

Clondalkin

Dublin 22

20

35

55

19446V

Scoil Mhuire Boys

Grange Road

Rathfarnham

60

0

60

19462T

Naomh Maolruain

Old Bawn

Tallaght

38

28

66

19464A

Sn Naomh Colmcille

Homelawns

Tallaght

2

2

4

19465C

St Kevins Boys

Kilnamanagh

Tallaght

28

0

28

19466E

St Kevins Girls

Kilnamanagh

Tallaght

0

27

27

19472W

St Marks Junior N S

Springfield

Tallaght

70

55

125

19474D

Scoil Colmcille Naofa

Knocklyon

Templeogue

100

84

184

19490B

Scoil Mhuire

Ballyboden

Dublin 16

20

16

36

19502F

Scoil Aenghusa Jun Ns

Balrothery

Tallaght

23

23

46

19503H

Scoil Chronain

Sraid Mor

Rath Cuil

25

17

42

19509T

Scoil Nano Nagle

Bawnoge

Clondalkin

26

35

61

19541P

Belgard Heights N S

Scoil Ard Mhuire

Belgard Heights

25

18

43

19542R

Esker N S

St Thomas Ns

Esker

69

51

120

19556F

St Killians Junior School

Castleview

Tallaght

38

33

71

19566I

Our Lady Queen Of Apostles

Queen Of Apostles Ns

Clonburris

36

34

70

19569O

Neillstown N S

St Peter Apostle Ns

Neillstown

41

35

76

19574H

Marley Grange NS

Divine Word Ns

Marley Grange

33

25

58

19575J

St Marys Junior N S

Rowlagh

Clondalkin

22

29

51

19577N

Scoil Iosa

Scoil Nais Iosa

Tymon North

5

5

10

19582G

St Maelruains N S

Kilclare Avenue

Jobstown

4

4

8

19617W

St Martin De Porres N S

Aylesbury

Old Bawn

28

15

43

19622P

St Annes Jun N S

Fettercairn

Tallaght

16

16

32

19623R

St Pauls Jun Ns

Greenhills

Walkinstown

0

89

89

19646G

Scoil Santain

Bothar Na Habhann Mor

Tamhlacht

25

22

47

19652B

An Chroi Ro Naofa Sois

Killinarden

Tallaght

40

32

72

19658N

Bishop Shanahan Ns

Orwell Park

Templeogue

71

45

116

19702N

St Thomas Junior N S

Jobstown

Tallaght

50

43

93

19707A

St Ronans N S

Deansrath

Clondalkin

21

25

46

19743E

St Bernadettes Junior N S

Quarryvale

Clondalkin

30

33

63

19775R

Scoil Cnoc Mhuire Junior

Knockmore Ave

Killinarden

24

19

43

19782O

St Brigids N S

Brookfield

Tallaght

37

37

74

19799I

Sacred Heart N S

Sruleen

Clondalkin

19

33

52

19817H

St Marys N S

Woodview

Esker

17

14

31

19855P

Gaelscoil Chluain Dolcain

Bothar Nangor

Cluain Dolcain

11

22

33

19865S

Archbishop Ryan N S

Balgaddy

Lucan

53

46

99

19872P

Scoil Chaitlin Maude

Cnoc Mhuire

Tamhlacht

14

11

25

19878E

Ballycragh N S

Ballycragh

Firhouse

30

27

57

19940G

Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig

Leamhcan

Co Baile Atha Cliath

14

18

32

19943M

St Damiens NS

Beechfield Close

Walkinstown

18

10

28

19950J

St Dominics N S

Tallaght

Dublin 24

10

13

23

19991A

Gaelscoil Na Camoige

Aras Chronain

Bothar An Ulloird

15

16

31

20043G

Gaelscoil Chnoc Liamhna

Halla Na nGasoga

Bothar Cnoc Liamhna

19

14

33

20066S

Lucan Multi Denominational Ns

Willsbrook

Lucan

33

25

58

20166W

Griffeen Valley Educate Together Ns

Bewley Way

Willsbrook

8

14

22

3,519

Pupils In Junior Infants In Dublin Belgard By School (2003/2004 School-Year)

Roll No.

School

Address 1

Address 2

Boys

Girls

Total

00714P

Lucan B N S

Lucan

Co Dublin

73

0

73

00729F

Clochar Loreto N S

Grange Road

Rathfarnham

0

70

70

11638N

Whitechurch Nat School

Whitechurch

Rathfarnham

16

8

24

12014D

St Andrews N S

Lucan

Co Dublin

19

11

30

13217W

Holy Family National School

Rathcoole

Co Dublin

30

19

49

13447Q

Scoil Mhuire

Lucan

Co Dublin

0

80

80

14939T

Rathfarnham Parish N S

Washington Lane

Templeogue

17

14

31

16461C

Caisleain Nua Liamhna

Newcastle Lyons

Co Dublin

13

10

23

16983J

S N Naomh Cillin

Bluebell

Inchicore

3

1

4

17055T

S N Naomh Mhuire

Saggart

Co Dublin

4

17

21

17899C

Scoil Carmel

Teach Giuise

Tallaght

48

59

107

17953F

S N Bhaile Eamonn

Rathfarnham

Dublin 14

8

7

15

17996A

Glen Na Smol N S

Glen Na Smal

Tallaght

1

5

6

18173H

S N Briotas

Brittas

Co Dublin

8

2

10

18323A

Scoil Lorcain B

Palmerstown

Dublin 20

59

0

59

18324C

Scoil Bride C

Palmerstown

Dublin 20

0

56

56

18411U

St Marys School

Greenhills Road

Tallaght

26

18

44

18602E

Scoil Mhuire

Clondalkin

Dublin 22

39

28

67

18642Q

S N Naomh Eoin

Tower Road

Clondalkin

3

7

10

19114T

St Patrick Gns

Ballyroan

Rathfarnham

38

39

77

19158Q

St Peters B N S

Limekiln Rd

Greenhills

31

0

31

19177U

St Pius X N S Boys

Fortfield Park

Terenure

65

0

65

19178W

St Pius X G N S

Fortfield Park

Terenure

0

61

61

19220S

Scoil Naomh Ide

Clondalkin

Dublin 22

23

24

47

19221U

Scoil Naomh Aine

Clondalkin

Dublin 22

8

25

33

19446V

Scoil Mhuire Boys

Grange Road

Rathfarnham

61

0

61

19462T

Naomh Maolruain

Old Bawn

Tallaght

45

48

93

19464A

Sn Naomh Colmcille

Homelawns

Tallaght

2

0

2

19465C

St Kevins Boys

Kilnamanagh

Tallaght

31

0

31

19466E

St Kevins Girls

Kilnamanagh

Tallaght

0

33

33

19472W

St Marks Junior N S

Springfield

Tallaght

72

47

119

19474D

Scoil Colmcille Naofa

Knocklyon

Templeogue

97

87

184

19490B

Scoil Mhuire

Ballyboden

Dublin 16

16

14

30

19502F

Scoil Aenghusa Jun Ns

Balrothery

Tallaght

21

22

43

19503H

Scoil Chronain

Sraid Mor

Rath Cuil

16

20

36

19509T

Scoil Nano Nagle

Bawnoge

Clondalkin

41

32

73

19541P

Belgard Heights N S

Scoil Ard Mhuire

Belgard Heights

15

15

30

19542R

Esker N S

St Thomas Ns

Esker

50

70

120

19556F

St Killians Junior School

Castleview

Tallaght

34

34

68

19566I

Our Lady Queen Of Apostles

Queen Of Apostles Ns

Clonburris

42

34

76

19569O

Neillstown N S

St Peter Apostle Ns

Neillstown

52

34

86

19574H

Marley Grange Ns

Divine Word Ns

Marley Grange

20

25

45

19575J

St Marys Junior N S

Rowlagh

Clondalkin

33

26

59

19577N

Scoil Iosa

Scoil Nais Iosa

Tymon North

8

4

12

19582G

St Maelruains N S

Kilclare Avenue

Jobstown

8

5

13

19617W

St Martin De Porres N S

Aylesbury

Old Bawn

29

14

43

19623R

St Pauls Jun Ns

Greenhills

Walkinstown

0

77

77

19646G

Scoil Santain

Bothar Na Habhann Mor

Tamhlacht

18

26

44

19652B

An Chroi Ro Naofa Sois

Killinarden

Tallaght

26

35

61

19658N

Bishop Shanahan Ns

Orwell Park

Templeogue

74

39

113

19702N

St Thomas Junior N S

Jobstown

Tallaght

53

46

99

19707A

St Ronans N S

Deansrath

Clondalkin

23

23

46

19743E

St Bernadettes Junior N S

Quarryvale

Clondalkin

40

25

65

19775R

Scoil Cnoc Mhuire Junior

Knockmore Ave

Killinarden

28

19

47

19782O

St Brigids N S

Brookfield

Tallaght

53

36

89

19799I

Sacred Heart N S

Sruleen

Clondalkin

33

22

55

19817H

St Marys N S

Woodview

Esker

29

24

53

19855P

Gaelscoil Chluain Dolcain

Bothar Nangor

Cluain Dolcain

36

25

61

19865S

Archbishop Ryan N S

Balgaddy

Lucan

61

39

100

19872P

Scoil Chaitlin Maude

Cnoc Mhuire

Tamhlacht

26

20

46

19878E

Ballycragh N S

Ballycragh

Firhouse

31

16

47

19940G

Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig

Leamhcan

Co Baile Atha Cliath

17

13

30

19943M

St Damiens Ns

Beechfield Close

Walkinstown

17

7

24

19950J

St Dominics N S

Tallaght

Dublin 24

13

16

29

19991A

Gaelscoil Na Camoige

Aras Chronain

Bothar An Ulloird

15

15

30

20043G

Gaelscoil Chnoc Liamhna

Halla Na nGasoga

Bothar Cnoc Liamhna

17

18

35

20066S

Lucan Multi Denominational Ns

Willsbrook

Lucan

31

29

60

20166W

Griffeen Valley Educate Together Ns

Bewley Way

Willsbrook

35

24

59

20173T

St Annes Primary School

Fettercairn

Tallaght

18

16

34

3,654

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

370 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science the five measurable performance indicators which she regards as target of greatest priority within her Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; her views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if she will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26717/04]

The information requested by the Deputy is being compiled and a response will be forwarded on to him within the next couple of days.

Special Educational Needs.

Paudge Connolly

Ceist:

371 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the course which is open to parents of children with disabilities and chronic health problems to seek appropriate educational provision for their children without having to resort to litigation against the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26721/04]

Children who have been assessed as having special educational needs have access to a range of special support services. The services range from special schools dedicated to particular disability groups, through special classes/units attached to ordinary schools, to placement on an integrated basis in ordinary schools with special back-up supports.

The nature and level of the special educational response provided is largely based on the professionally assessed needs of the individual child. The National Educational Psychological Service, which was established in 1999, employs qualified educational psychologists to provide the assessment service.

My Department's policy is to ensure the maximum possible integration of children with special needs into ordinary mainstream schools. Many children with special needs are capable of attending mainstream schools on a fully integrated basis with the support, where necessary, of special resource teachers and/or special needs assistants.

Children with more severe disabilities are catered for in special schools which are dedicated to particular disability groups. There are 108 special schools in the country at present. These schools cater for children from four to 18 years of age and each school enjoys a significantly reduced pupil teacher ratio and other staffing supports. For example, each class catering for a maximum of six children with autism or children with severe/profound general learning disability will have a staffing of at least one teacher and two special needs assistants. Additional special needs assistant support is provided if deemed necessary. Special schools also receive increased rates of capitation funding.

Where placement in a special school is not considered necessary, children with special needs can attend special classes attached to ordinary mainstream schools. Each special class is dedicated to a particular disability group. All special classes enjoy the same increased levels of staffing and funding as are made available to the special schools. Children attending special classes attached to ordinary schools may, where appropriate, be integrated into ordinary classes for periods of the school day and, in that way, benefit from being able to socialise with their non-disabled peers. A total of approximately 654 special classes are in place in the primary system at present. While children are awaiting a suitable educational placement, my Department may sanction home tuition as an interim measure if appropriate.

Since 1998, the following dedicated resources have been deployed to support children with special needs in the primary system: more than 2,600 resource teachers, up from 104 in 1998; more than 1,500 learning support teachers, up from 1,302 in 1998; more than 1,000 teachers in special schools; more than 600 teachers in special classes; more than 5,000 special needs assistants, up from 300 in 1998; more than €30 million on school transport for special needs pupils; more than €3 million towards specialised equipment and materials; up from €0.8million in 1998.

To appreciate the scale of improvement in the provision of resources to primary schools for special needs, it is worth reflecting on the fact that, at approximately 10,700, the number of adults providing services to children with special educational needs in primary schools today equates to more than half of the 21,100 primary teaching force in 1998.

Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 provides parents with an appeal process where a board of management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the board refuses to enrol a student. An appeal will generally not be admitted unless it is made within 42 calendar days from the date the decision of the board of management was notified to the parent or student concerned. However, a longer period for making appeals may be allowed as an exception where it is accepted that circumstances did not permit the making of an appeal within the 42 day limit.

Where an appeal under section 29 is upheld, the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to enrol a pupil. The National Educational Welfare Board, NEWB, can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The welfare board has indicated that it will treat children for whom an appeal under section 29 has been unsuccessful as priority cases in offering such assistance.

The Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 sets out the rights and entitlements of children with special needs to an appropriate education service and providing the necessary framework for effective service delivery. In addition, the national council for special education, which will have a local area presence, will play a key role in the development and delivery of services for persons with special needs. It will have a research and advisory role and will establish expert groups to address particular areas of special needs provision. It will also establish a consultative forum to facilitate inputs from the education partners and other interested parties.

Significant progress has been made in the establishment of the national council and 70 special education needs organisers, SENOs, have recently been recruited. The SENOs will be a focal point of contact for schools and parents as well as processing individual applications for resources for special educational needs. It is anticipated that the council and the SENOs will become operational shortly.

Gay Mitchell

Ceist:

372 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science if the provision of a home tutor will be sanctioned for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12. [26731/04]

My Department received the communication referred to by the Deputy. My officials have issued a formal application form to the person in question. When this has been completed and returned to my Department, further consideration will be given to the matter and a decision conveyed to the family.

Schools Building Projects.

Denis O'Donovan

Ceist:

373 Mr. O’Donovan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reasons a contract has not been signed for the construction of a new school (details supplied) in County Cork; the date when the contract will be signed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26738/04]

The school referred to by the Deputy is listed for proceeding to tender and construction as part of the 2004 school building programme. My Department has been in contact with the school authorities regarding the tender outcome on this project. The matter will be considered further when a response has been received from the school authorities.

Defence Forces Property.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

374 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Defence the names of the applicants, with respect to all the planning applications to which his Department lodged objections and appeals at Casement Aerodrome; the address of each of the applicant sites; the stated reason for such objections and appeals; the applicable planning reference numbers and the final outcomes of such objections and appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26484/04]

Casement Aerodrome, which is the only secure military aerodrome in the State, has been operated by the Defence Forces since the foundation of the State. It provides facilities for military aircraft training and operations, including fishery protection patrols, ministerial air transport, Garda air support, etc.

Responsibility for planning and development in the vicinity of Casement Aerodrome currently rests with the planning department of South Dublin County Council and all planning decisions are made by that authority. The practice down the years has been for the local planning authority to consult the Department of Defence in respect of planning applications for proposed developments which may affect Casement Aerodrome.

My Department commissioned a review of its air safety policy at Casement Aerodrome in June 1999. The review was carried out by Sir Frederick Snow and Partners Limited, and following extensive consideration of their report, a formal statement of the Department's revised policy was notified to South Dublin County Council on 26 June 2000. The current safety policy reflects best international practice in accordance with International Civil Aviation Organisation standards and recommendations and provides for military training in the area.

The position is that weekly planning lists as issued by the planning authority of South Dublin County Council are examined in my Department. Where any such application may conflict with my Department's air safety policy or affect the safety and operation of Casement Aerodrome, my Department's observations and/or objections, as appropriate, are conveyed to the council.

The detailed information in relation to applications requested by the Deputy is not readily available and the compilation of such information would require a disproportionate allocation of staff resources. If the Deputy wishes the information in respect of a specific application or applications, I will arrange to have the relevant details made available to him.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

375 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for Defence the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of Departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26718/04]

In the period 1997-2001 my Department had four strategic objectives and a number of associated strategies and performance indicators which were set out in successive strategy statements. A fifth objective, dealing with emergency planning, was added in 2001. Successive annual reports detail the progress made in respect of each of the objectives in terms of the associated strategies and performance indicators.

The strategic objectives have been essentially the same since 1997, except in emergency planning, and are currently set out in the Department of Defence strategy statement for 2003-05. The objectives are to contribute to the security of the State principally against the threat of armed aggression and thus contribute to political and economic well being — the security objective; to promote the co-ordination of emergency planning functions across all Departments and agencies and to oversee the emergency planning process in general — the emergency planning objective; to facilitate through the local authorities Civil Defence responses for emergency relief and support to ensure the operation of vital services and the maintenance of public life and to provide all other supports as directed by Government — the Civil Defence objective; to continue the modernisation of the Defence Forces by implementing the White Paper on Defence and related modernisation initiatives — the White Paper objective; and to provide the Minister for Defence with the best policy advice and support on the management of defence — the policy advice and support objective.

Given that these objectives closely follow the Defence commitments made in the programme for Government, each of the objectives is important, as are all of the related strategies and performance indicators. It would be invidious to try to isolate any five or more as of greater priority than the others.

Air Pollution.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

376 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which air pollution monitoring equipment is currently in use in or adjacent to the various towns and villages in north Kildare; if the equipment is of modern standards and capable of meeting today’s requirements; if monitors are adequately dispersed to achieve an accurate reflection of air quality in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26624/04]

Air quality assessment is a matter for the Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, and air quality management a matter for local authorities informed by air quality measurement data. The EPA's air quality monitoring annual report 2002, a copy of which is available in the Oireachtas Library, contains details of all air quality monitoring stations operated by the local authorities and the EPA, including those in County Kildare. Monitoring of air pollution is also undertaken as a condition of some integrated pollution control licences issued by the agency. Information on all aspects of IPC licences is available from the EPA.

The extent to which adequate air pollution monitoring exists throughout the country and whether the technology involved is sufficiently modern and adequate to meet requirements, are matters for the relevant local authorities, and the EPA at a national level under Article 4 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 (Air Quality Assessment and Management) Regulations 1999. The Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 specify the reference methods for the sampling, analysis and measurement of concentrations of air pollutants.

The reporting and making available of information on ambient concentrations of pollutants within the scope of the 2002 regulations is the responsibility of the EPA. In addition to its annual monitoring report for 2002, the agency's website, www.epa.ie/OurEnvironment/Air, provides the public with real-time information, updated on an hourly basis, on air quality from a number of monitoring points around the country.

Housing Grants.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

377 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the essential repairs grant which is administered by local authorities; the works which are included and those which are not; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26443/04]

Under the Housing (Disabled Persons and Essential Repairs Grant) Regulations 2001, a housing authority may pay a grant to a person carrying out essential repairs to a house where, in the opinion of the authority, the repairs, whilst less than those appropriate to render the house fit in every respect, constitute repairs it considers are necessary to prolong the useful life of the house. A decision on qualifying works under the scheme is a matter for the local authority concerned, subject to this broad framework laid down in the regulations.

Waste Disposal.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

378 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the revenue collected by Repak from its members; the way in which this compares with his estimate of the cost per tonne to local authorities of collecting and disposing of waste; and his estimate of household contributions through waste charges. [26485/04]

Revenue generated by Repak from membership fees is primarily a matter for Repak and its members. I have no function in this matter and as such it would not be appropriate for me to comment on it.

Local authorities are obliged to collect or arrange for the collection of household waste within their functional areas. However, this obligation does not apply in certain circumstances, including where an adequate waste collection service is otherwise available. In those areas where a local authority collection service is in place, the determination of charges for the service is a matter for the local authority itself. In areas where the local authority is not involved in the collection service, the determination of charges is a matter for the private collectors concerned. Based on returns received from local authorities in respect of their 2004 adopted budgets, income from domestic refuse charges applied by local authorities themselves is estimated to amount to €113 million in 2004.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

James Breen

Ceist:

379 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if funding will be provided for improvement and an extension to the sewerage treatment plant in Inagh, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26519/04]

Proposals for improvements to the sewerage facilities in Inagh were ranked 20th in the list of water and sewerage schemes submitted by Clare County Council in response to my Department's request to local authorities in 2003 to produce updated assessments of the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The council's priorities were taken into account in the framing of the Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 published in May. Given the priority rating afforded to the scheme by the council, it has not been possible to include it in the programme. However, an application from the council for funding for sewerage works at this location under the serviced land initiative is currently under examination in my Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

380 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of Kildare County Council’s proposal for a new sewerage treatment system for Rathangan; if his Department has approved the preliminary report on the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26520/04]

In January 2001, my Department approved Kildare County Council's application for funding for a proposed sewerage scheme at Rathangan under the serviced land initiative. The council subsequently requested the inclusion of the scheme as a major capital project in the water services investment programme where it would attract a higher level of departmental funding.

The proposal was ranked fourth in the list of wastewater schemes submitted by Kildare County Council in November 2003 in response to my Department's request to all 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 the Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 published in May 2004. In view of the priority afforded to the scheme by the council, it has not been possible to include it in the programme. However, the approval of the scheme under the serviced land initiative remains in place.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

381 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a preliminary report from Kildare County Council on the proposed Moone-Timolin-Balitore sewerage scheme; if he will approve this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26521/04]

The Moone-Timolin-Balitore sewerage scheme has been approved for planning in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006. The preliminary report for the scheme submitted by Kildare County Council is under examination in my Department and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

382 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received proposals for an extension to the Athy sewerage treatment plant; if he will approve the proposal; and the likely timescale that he envisages for completion of the project. [26522/04]

My Department has received no proposals from Kildare County Council in relation to the Athy sewage treatment plant. Neither were such proposals included in the list of schemes submitted by Kildare County Council in November 2003 in response to my Department's request to all 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 the Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 published in May 2004.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

383 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a proposal from Kildare County Council to provide a sewerage scheme for the village of Milltown; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26523/04]

Proposals for a sewerage scheme to serve Milltown were ranked seventh in the list of wastewater schemes submitted by Kildare County Council in November 2003 in response to my Department's request to all 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 the Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 published in May 2004. In view of the priority afforded to the scheme by the council, it has not been possible to include it in the programme.

Electronic Voting.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

384 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost of the purchase, repair and storage of the electronic voting machines;. [26562/04]

The total cost of the electronic voting machines and ancillary voting equipment is €45 million, including VAT. While the voting machines do not require regular maintenance between polls, the equipment contract negotiated with Nedap-Powervote provides for free servicing and maintenance of all voting equipment until the end of 2007.

Regarding storage of the voting equipment, returns received in my Department from 25 of the 28 Dáil returning officers indicate that annual storage costs, including rental, insurance and other costs, in respect of the electronic voting equipment amount to €546,000. In some cases however, this includes dedicated election office space in addition to equipment storage.

Building Refurbishment.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

385 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position on the proposal emanating form Westmeath County Council to upgrade and refurbish a building (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26563/04]

In July 2004, my Department approved Westmeath County Council's proposals to seek tenders for a pilot phase of remedial works at Ennell Court, Mullingar. It is understood that the council intend to invite tenders for this scheme in November, 2004.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

386 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the provision of the new sewerage scheme for Castletown-Geoghegan and its hinterlands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26564/04]

Some 12 villages, including Castetown-Geoghegan, have been selected by the national rural water monitoring committee as locations for a pilot programme to test a range of new, small-scale waste water collection and treatment systems. I understand that tenders for the contract that includes Castletown-Geoghegan and five other locations are under consideration by Meath County Council, acting as procurement authority, and that they will be dealt with as quickly as possible.

Development Contributions.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

387 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his estimate of the total revenue raised by local authorities from development levies in each year since 1997; and his best estimate of the increase in the rate of contribution as a result of the adoption in March 2004 of the regime of development contributions. [26581/04]

My Department collects statistics on the payment of development contributions on an annual basis. The following table sets out the development contributions collected by planning authorities between 1997 and 2002.

Year

1997

1998

1999

2000

2001

2002

1997-2002

Development Contributions (€ million)

57.813

66.326

87.172

110.380

121.976

150.995

594.662

The amount of development contributions collected in 2003 is currently being compiled and will be available shortly. In addition to any increase in the contribution rate charged by local authorities, the total income generated reflects the significant rise in construction activity during this period, for example, housing output increased from 38,842 in 1997 to 57,695 in 2002.

My Department does not have estimates of any changes in the amount accruing to local authorities arising from the adoption in March 2004 of the new regime, due to the lead-in time between the grant of planning permission for a development and the start of construction. It should be noted that, in a number of cases, the local elected members who adopted the development contribution scheme introduced lower charges than those applying under the previous system. It is likely that the full impact of new development contribution schemes will not be measurable until 2006-07.

Planning Issues.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

388 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the concerns of the Irish Rural Dwellers Association regarding planning here (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26594/04]

An Bord Pleanála is a body established by statute under the Planning and Development Act 2000 which operates completely independently in performing its functions. Members are appointed on the basis of nominations from 37 bodies. An Bord Pleanála is required to make an independent determination of appeals on planning authorities' decisions. In dealing with an appeal, the board must consider all submissions on the file, together with the inspector's report and recommendation. The board reaches its own conclusion in each case, in accordance with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area. The board must also have regard to ministerial policy and guidelines, including the recently published draft sustainable rural housing guidelines.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

389 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Question No. 549 of 23 March 2004, the position regarding an application for funding to upgrade a water supply (details supplied) in County Roscommon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26641/04]

The Arigna regional water supply scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2004-2006 as a scheme to commence construction in 2005. Roscommon County Council's design review report for this and a number of other schemes that are being advanced as a grouped project will be further considered by my Department on receipt of additional information requested from the council last month.

Property Management.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

390 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will investigate a street (details supplied) in Dublin 8 where only one dwelling is now registered as a private rented dwelling on this street; the options that are available to residents on the street to ensure that landlords manage their houses properly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26642/04]

Landlords are obliged to register their tenancies with the Private Residential Tenancies Board under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 and have until 1 December 2004 to register tenancies in existence at 1 September 2004. The board has responsibility for pursuing compliance with the registration requirement. A wide range of action to promote registration is being undertaken including information, publicity and direct contact with landlords. Unregistered accommodation will also come to attention where tenants refer disputes to the board. A double fee will apply to late registrations and conviction for an offence relating to registration requirements, will carry a fine of up to €3,000 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding six months or both, along with a daily fine, of up to €250 for continuing non-compliance.

The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 prescribes various obligations of landlords and tenants, including an obligation on landlords to enforce tenants' obligations where a person, such as a neighbour, would be adversely affected by a failure to do so. Complaints regarding failure to comply with obligations can be referred to the Private Residential Tenancies Board under provisions of the Act to be commenced shortly. Third parties affected will have a right to refer a complaint against a landlord who has failed to enforce a tenant's obligations. The board can direct the landlord to ensure that the tenants comply with their obligations and if necessary, enforce compliance through the courts.

Complaints relating to the standard or condition of particular properties can be made to the relevant local authority, Dublin City Council in the case of the street in question. Local authorities are responsible for enforcing the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 1993, including inspection of premises, notifying landlords of necessary improvements and, where appropriate, instituting court proceedings. The regulations prescribe minimum physical standards of private rented accommodation, including maintenance of dwellings in good repair, and require common areas, yards, forecourts and items such as walls and fences to be kept in good repair and clean condition. Conviction for an offence in relation to accommodation standards carries a fine of up to €3,000 and up to €250 for each day of a continuing offence.

Electoral Register.

Damien English

Ceist:

391 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps which have been taken to prevent persons, political parties, third parties, any other local authority or the Office of the Revenue Commissioners from deleting names from the register of electors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26685/04]

It is in the interests of the democratic process that the register of electors details as accurately as possible those persons who are entitled to vote at elections. Moreover, additions to and deletions from the register should be made in an open and fully transparent manner. Under electoral law, any person may claim to have a correction made to the draft register of electors following publication on 1 November. The claim must be made to the registration authority by 25 November and it may include, in particular, a claim to have the name of a person added or deleted. Such claims are ruled on, in public, by the appropriate county registrar and interested parties must be given notice of the time and location of the proposed hearing. An appeal may be made in the Circuit Court in relation to a decision of a county registrar.

In regard to removing electors from the register in the course of its preparation, authorities are required under a ministerial instruction issued under section 18 of the Electoral Act 1992 to send a notice to a person, whose name it is proposed to omit from the draft register, indicating that they have failed to establish that the person is still resident at the address and, unless evidence to the contrary is provided within ten days, his or her name will be removed.

After the final register comes into force, a person's name can only be removed if they have applied successfully for entry on the supplement to the register as a result of a change of residence to a new constituency or local electoral area. In such cases, the person's name on the register in respect of his or her previous address is deleted and he or she are registered at their new address.

Departmental Priorities.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

392 Mr. R. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the five measurable performance indicators which he regards as target of greatest priority within his Department; the way in which this measure has changed in each year since 1997; his views on whether confining priorities to five indicators gives too partial a picture of departmental priorities; and if he will indicate the movement over the period 1997 to 2004 of other primary indicators of performance. [26719/04]

In my Department's statements of strategy 1998-2001, 2001-04 and 2003-05, key performance indicators are identified in each of the Department's areas of responsibility. My Department is currently preparing a new statement of strategy which will cover the period 2005-07. Progress in implementing the statement of strategy is set out annually in the Department's annual report. Copies of the annual reports for 1998 to 2002 are available in the Oireachtas Library. The annual report for 2003 will be published shortly.

Housing Grants.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

393 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the essential repairs grant which is administered by local authorities (details supplied); the works which are included and those which are not; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26740/04]

The administration of the shared ownership scheme is a matter for individual local authorities. Authorities must assess each application under the scheme on its merits and must have regard, inter alia, to the ability of applicants to manage the mortgage and rental commitments arising from a shared ownership transaction. It should normally be possible for this criterion to be satisfied by a range of different employment tenures.

Barr
Roinn