Vol. 602 No. 1
67 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on recent CSO figures which show that the number of bed nights spent here by overseas visitors in 2004 fell by 1% compared to the 2003 figure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15068/05]
82 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the reduction in the average length of stay of overseas visitors to Ireland in 2004 compared to 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14963/05]
111 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the implications for tourism policy here of the figures on tourism and travel published by the CSO on 26 April 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15010/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 67, 82 and 111 together.
The year 2004 saw a record number of visitors to our shores, with overseas visitor numbers up over 3%. Numbers were up but revenue growth was soft, resulting in increased pressure on yields for tourism operators. The international tourism marketplace is challenging and is likely to become even more so.
If we are to secure future growth, there are a number of underlying issues to be addressed which both the industry and the tourism agencies have identified as critical. Of these, the British market is a key challenge. Tourism from Britain, which accounts for 58% of visitor numbers, declined by 1% last year following more than a decade of sustained growth. In response to the softness in the British market, Tourism Ireland, in consultation with industry leaders, undertook a root and branch review of the market. That review included very comprehensive and sophisticated research on the nature of the British consumer and emerging trends in consumer behaviour.
The whole process of reaching potential customers and how they choose and buy their holidays is undergoing dramatic change in the British and in other markets. The reality is that travellers are continually changing in terms of what they are seeking, how they make their choices, where they go, for how long and on what they are willing to spend their money. An environment of evolving consumer choices and needs is here to stay.
Informed by the results of the new consumer research in relation to the British market, I was in a position on 13 April to launch a new action plan for Tourism Ireland and the tourism industry for restoring growth from the British market. This incorporates a clear set of tangible and relevant responses to the shifting demand patterns and other challenges that this market is presenting and will continue to present over the medium to long term. Greater attention must be placed on product innovation. Ireland offers a wealth of special interest products, cultural activities and festivals. With the support of both Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, the industry needs to package these better and in a way that consumers can access them more easily.
On the length of stay issue, it is clear that there is an international trend towards more frequent and shorter breaks. Much of our growth in recent years has been driven by short break urban tourism into Dublin. On the domestic front also, people are taking a larger number of shorter breaks. If an increasing proportion of our business consists of shorter breaks, this obviously has an impact on bednights. Last year saw a decrease in bednights in the order of 0.5% but this disguises sharply varying trends between sectors, with a 4% increase in hotel bednights and a decrease of 7% in the guesthouse and bed and breakfast sector.
We are also operating in a more value-for-money conscious marketplace and resulting pressure on price must, inevitably, affect yield. In addition, the drop in the value of the dollar against the euro will have impacted on North American spend here over the last two years. The strong growth from emerging European markets and the sluggish performance of more traditional markets would favour the trend towards shorter break holiday business.
Both tourism agencies have sought to address the visitor stay issue in a number of ways. Stronger emphasis on the higher revenue segments, for example, the family market in Great Britain, the luxury segment in Europe and business tourism globally, is a key component of their marketing focus. Longer staying visitors, such as North American visitors and long haul markets, are also being prioritised. Overseas marketing programmes include specific campaigns targeting car touring visitors from Britain and leading European markets who, typically, stay longer and travel more widely throughout the island.
There is also a strong onus on the industry itself to put compelling packages together, particularly with a special interest element, which will encourage longer stay, higher yield visits. In its activity plans this year, Fáilte Ireland is placing particular emphasis on this type of innovative product clustering and marketing.
Ireland's core appeal is still as compelling as ever. Our tourism brand remains among the strongest in the world. Our tourism industry and our tourism agencies are top-class. Bolstered by an unprecedented level of Exchequer investment in tourism services this year of €125 million, representing a 13% increase on the 2004 outturn, both Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland will be well positioned to take a strong lead in responding to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
68 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has received recommendations from the Irish Sports Council arising from the review of Ireland’s performance at the Athens Olympics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15000/05]
76 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the timescale for the implementation of the Athens review; the cost factor involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15022/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 76 together.
In July 2004, the Irish Sports Council in conjunction with the Olympic Council of Ireland and the Paralympic Council of Ireland commissioned the Athens review to produce an objective assessment of the preparation and performance of the Irish teams at the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Athens 2004. The review was to identify the strengths and weaknesses of all aspects of the programmes and structures over the course of the four-year cycle leading into the Athens Games with a view to making recommendations for the development of programmes for the 2008 Beijing Olympic and Paralympic Games.
The final report, which was published on 2 March 2005, draws on the lessons of the last four years and on international experience to set out how we can achieve consistent success at Olympic and Paralympic Games. The report is a timely follow-up to the Sydney review which marked a watershed in Ireland's approach to high performance sport. Twenty-nine recommendations were made in that review with a view to urgently addressing every aspect of Ireland's preparation for and participation in major international sports events.
The Athens review, in its assessment of the implementation of those recommendations, makes it clear that a great deal has been achieved over the past four years. It acknowledges that significant improvements were made in the general preparation for the 2004 Athens Olympic and Paralympic Games. In particular, the relationship between the Irish Sports Council and the Olympic Council of Ireland has advanced along the lines set out in the Sydney review.
Clear, measurable targets are required for any investment. It is particularly important that, as the review recommends, sustained investment should be focused on the most talented athletes and measured against clearly defined targets. The Athens review has provided those targets for Irish sport.
In retrospect, it probably was unreasonable to expect a major benefit from the improved investment in the Athens cycle. It was too short a time-frame, especially in comparison with major competitors. We have invested substantially in sport but we started behind others and it will take time to catch up. There must be a focus on junior and developing athletes. That is the correct way to go, but it does not produce instant dividends.
The Irish Sports Council is currently carrying out an assessment of the conclusions and recommendations of the Athens review. This assessment will develop into an operational plan, which will address key performance indicators, timescales and costings and identify the roles of the various agencies, as it supports Ireland's Olympic and Paralympic preparations for Beijing. I expect to receive the council's detailed proposals shortly and it is my intention to ensure that appropriate, effective interventions will inform our preparations for Beijing.
69 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the progress which has taken place in relation to a nationwide audit of sporting facilities. [14955/05]
73 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the national sports and recreation facilities audit, promised in the programme for Government, has commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15020/05]
100 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if progress has been made on the commitment in the programme for Government to complete a national audit of local sports facilities around the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14999/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 69, 73 and 100 together.
The Government has committed under An Agreed Programme for Government to complete a national audit of local sports facilities and to put in place a long-term strategic plan to ensure the development of such necessary facilities throughout the country.
Since 1997, €331 million has been allocated by my Department under the sports capital programme in respect of 4,271 projects across a range of sports and a variety of voluntary and community organisation including sports clubs. This funding has provided badly needed investment in sports facilities varying from the small local sporting clubs up to regional and national sports centres including a number of municipal sports centres developed by local authorities.
This substantial investment in the provision of sports facilities throughout the country in the period 1998 to 2004 has met, in a significant manner, the urgent need for such facilities caused by the absence of investment in earlier years. Therefore, it is now appropriate to assess what has been achieved, identify the gaps in the sporting infrastructure yet to be met and to put in place a strategy to ensure that Ireland has a sporting infrastructure which matches that available in other European countries.
Given the significant overlap between my Department and other Departments and bodies engaged in sports facility provision, it is my intention to set up an inter-agency steering group to oversee the development of such a strategy. I have already raised this informally with some of my ministerial colleagues in advance of bringing a formal proposal to Government.
One of the first challenges facing the proposed steering group will be to oversee the commencement of a national audit of sports facilities. Ascertaining and mapping what is already in place will be an important part in developing such a strategic approach to future facility provision in terms of establishing the level of need that still exists in the sports sector and in helping to determine future priorities. Before undertaking this task important decisions will need to be made by the steering group to establish the parameters and means of conducting such an audit. A range of information already exists at local authority level on sports facilities which could prove useful and how effectively information can be obtained for certain facility types over and above others will be considered.
In reality it could take a number of years to complete a comprehensive audit of all sports facilities. However, it may be possible to conduct the work in stages to ensure that some useful results are available in the short term. I expect that the commitment outlined in An Agreed Programme for Government will be met within the lifetime of this Government.
70 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the Government’s views on the decision of the GAA Congress to authorise central council to make Croke Park available, subject to certain conditions, for other sporting organisations during the period of the renovation of Lansdowne Road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14996/05]
On 16 April, GAA Congress took a decision to give the power to central council to authorise the renting or leasing of Croke Park for events other than those controlled by the association during a period when Lansdowne Road is being redeveloped. I was very happy to attend the congress to congratulate the GAA at first hand on making such a positive decision.
71 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he intends to introduce an ACCESS II programme for the refurbishment of existing theatres and arts centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15023/05]
The ACCESS scheme, which commenced in 2001, provided grants of €45.71 million for the development of 44 arts and cultural facilities around the country. This scheme, which provided funding for theatres, museums, and multi-purpose arts centres, has transformed the level of access to arts and cultural activities for a great many people in all parts of the State.
Since assuming responsibility for the arts, I have consistently said that the arts are for all, that artistic expression is a key element of a rounded society. The ACCESS scheme has contributed significantly to bringing arts and culture to the people and, accordingly, I believe there is a strong case for a successor scheme to ACCESS, which I am now pursuing. However, there are many other demands on available funds and my final decision must balance all competing demands against the total funding available to me. I hope to be in a position shortly to clarify the position regarding a possible successor to the current ACCESS scheme.
72 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in relation to the proposed relocation of the Abbey Theatre; the recent discussions he has had with the board and director of the theatre in this respect; if he has undertaken an assessment of the recent court case regarding the old Carlton Cinema site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14995/05]
74 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the availability of the Carlton Cinema site for the relocation of the Abbey Theatre; if other sites are under active consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15026/05]
75 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position with regard to the relocation of the Abbey Theatre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15059/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 72, 74 and 75 together.
As I have previously informed the House on a number of occasions, I was authorised by Government to invite expressions of interest by way of public invitation from the private sector in participating, on the basis of a PPP, in the capital redevelopment of the Abbey Theatre in and-or around the vicinity of the site of the existing theatre.
My preference would have been to redevelop the theatre at its present location. However, when it became apparent that the timeframe for the acquisition of the additional properties necessary to render the existing location suitable was indeterminate, I arranged for a trawl of other available city centre locations. At this point in time, that trawl has not yet reached a conclusion.
As I have previously informed the House, a site was identified at Coláiste Mhuire on Parnell Square which it appeared might, along with an adjacent building, have provided the necessary footprint to meet the accommodation requirements of the redeveloped Abbey Theatre. Unfortunately, as the owner of the adjacent premises was not prepared to sell them to the State for what my advisers considered a fair market price, there was no option but to withdraw from the negotiations.
The former Carlton Cinema site was also in the frame as a possibility. I am aware there has been a High Court judgement in relation to the compulsory purchase order on this site. However, it is solely a matter for the parties to that judgement, which do not include my Department or the Office of Public Works, to assess the implications of this judgement. Until such time as all legal issues are resolved, it would be premature either for my Department or for OPW to engage in negotiations in relation to the Carlton site. I have said that should this site appear to become available for the redevelopment of the Abbey, I will have the position carefully evaluated.
Recently the Dublin Docklands Development Authority offered a site at George's Dock and I have asked the OPW to explore the options for this site with the DDDA without any commitment on either side. These discussions are ongoing.
I assure the Deputy of my unrelenting efforts to identify a suitable location and I am in constant contact with the Office of Public Works to that end. I have kept the chairperson of the board of the Abbey Theatre informed of developments and I remain confident that a suitable site will be identified and acquired in due course.
77 Mr. English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if the spending review initiated by his Department on the swimming pools programme has been completed; if the guidelines of the programme will be extended to include grant aid for fitness studies, gym facilities and funding for the ongoing costs of running public swimming pools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15027/05]
The expenditure review of the local authority swimming pool programme which is being carried out by my Department is expected to be completed later this year. The review is examining issues such as how the programme has worked to date, the benefits which have accrued to the areas where pools have been built and what amendments, if any, are required to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of the programme.
At present, non-pool related costs in respect of gym or fitness facilities are not eligible under this programme. However, under the national lottery-funded sports capital programme, which is also administered by my Department, funding can be made available to sporting and community organisations and, in some instances, to local authorities, in respect of gym and fitness facilities. Consequently, municipal centres containing swimming pools funded under the local authority swimming pool programme can also seek to have additional facilities grant aided under the sports capital programme. This programme is advertised on an annual basis and the deadline for receipt of applications for funding under the 2005 sports capital programme was 4 February 2005. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as the assessment of applications has been completed.
The local authority swimming pool programme is a capital grant scheme that provides funding towards the cost of the provision of new, or the refurbishment of, existing swimming pools. The funding of ongoing operational costs of public swimming pools is a matter for the relevant local authority and it is a requirement under the grant programme that local authorities make appropriate future arrangements in relation to these costs.
78 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in regard to his statement issued on 24 April 2005 in which he expressed concern at the controversy regarding the outcome of a race at Cork racecourse and the possibility that such incidents may hinder the positive promotion of Irish horseracing at home and abroad, he intends to take any further action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15013/05]
Horse Racing Ireland, HRI, was established as the statutory body with responsibility for the horseracing industry under the Horse and Greyhound Racing Act 2001.
HRI provides annual funding to the Turf Club which is the independent body responsible for enforcing the rules of racing and maintaining the integrity of the sport. The incident at Cork represents an isolated case out of close to 3,000 races run in Ireland each year, including point to points.
The incident was dealt with on the day with a suspension for the horse involved for 60 race days and a further suspension for the jockey of 50 race days coupled with a fine of €2,000. In the case of the jockey's suspension, this was the maximum penalty which could be imposed on him under the rules.
I understand that the suspension of the horse is now the subject of an appeal and I wish to refrain from making any further specific comment. The rider has chosen not to appeal his penalties.
I have made my views on the matter known to HRI and the Turf Club and have every confidence in their ability to ensure that incidents such as that witnessed in Cork remain as the exception to an otherwise highly regarded sport.
While the success of Irish trained national hunt horses this year with an unprecedented nine winners at Cheltenham and eight at Aintree backed up by numerous other big race wins reflects very positively on the Government's confidence and investment in horse racing as a high quality, disciplined sport for participant and spectator alike, nevertheless, incidents such as the one witnessed at Cork recently and which thankfully are sporadic can hinder the positive promotion of Irish horseracing both at home and abroad.
80 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans to have discussions with the sporting organisations in regard to ticket touting and ticket forgeries; if legislation to address this issue is necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14994/05]
While my Department has no statutory or regulatory responsibility in the area of ticket touting and ticket forgery, the three main national governing bodies of sport, the GAA, the IRFU and the FAI, were consulted by departmental officials on the issue some time ago.
These consultations revealed a strong commitment on the part of the governing bodies to the elimination of ticket touting in respect of the sporting events under their control and they have systems in place to deal with ticket touting which enable them to trace any touted ticket to the person to whom it was issued and to take any action considered appropriate.
In addition, a number of organisations have sophisticated systems in place aimed at eliminating ticket forgery, which can be experienced at major sporting events, and which prevent forged ticket holders from gaining entry to events.
Legal advice obtained by the Department of Tourism, Sport and Recreation in 2001 indicated that responsibility for arrangements to ensure the availability of tickets on a fair basis and the enforcing of such arrangements is primarily a matter for the event organisers themselves.
The question of whether legislation is necessary to address the issue in question is one for consideration in the context of policing, pricing and consumer protection, areas which are outside the remit of my Department.
83 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when the National Aquatic Centre will reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15065/05]
85 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in respect of repair of storm damage or other restoration or improvement works at the National Aquatic Centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15044/05]
97 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the latest information available to his Department regarding the likely re-opening date for the National Aquatic Centre in Abbotstown; if he will consider initiating an inquiry to establish the reason the centre was so seriously damaged so soon after its opening; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14998/05]
105 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the reopening of the National Aquatic Centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14962/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83, 85, 97 and 105 together.
Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited has advised me that based on confirmation which its structural engineers have received from the contractors, Rohcon Limited, that the repairs to the national aquatic centre are expected to be completed by 20 May 2005, save for the neon lighting, where there is a seven-week delivery period for replacement equipment. This is the circular strip of lighting that surrounds the roof of the leisure waters. Rohcon has confirmed that this is to be installed on top of the flume tower from 23 May to 10 June 2005. CSID has asked Rohcon to use all necessary resources to ensure that these dates are met, if not improved upon. On completion of the repair works, it will be a matter for Dublin Waterworld, as the operator of the national aquatic centre, to arrange the reopening of the centre.
An independent report on the damage to the aquatic centre was provided by Kavanagh Mansfield & Partners, Consulting Structural and Civil Engineers, who were engaged by the Office of Public Works at the request of my Department and in consultation with CSID. I do not see the necessity for a further inquiry. I look forward to the completion of these works and the reopening of the centre as soon as possible.
84 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has received a copy of the report, the Reeks action plan, which sets out serious concern at the lack of facilities and access to Carrauntoohil; if, in view of the importance of Ireland’s highest mountain to tourism here, he intends to take action arising from the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15008/05]
112 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism whether the reply to Question No. 59 of 1 December 2004 was correct in view of the fact that the Joint Committee on the Constitution has stated that, in its view, there would be no constitutional problem with legislation providing for better access to the countryside. [14956/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 84 and 112 together.
I have received a copy of the Reeks Action plan and am aware of the significant work invested in it by Beaufort Community Council to address a number of issues surrounding the route to Carrauntoohil. While neither I nor my Department directly administer any schemes to support such projects, I did refer the matter to Fáilte Ireland for its attention. I understand the project is among a number of such projects being assessed for funding under the recent second call for proposals under the tourism product development scheme. This scheme is funded under the EU-supported regional operational programme and it is managed by the product management board.
On the more general issue of access to the Irish countryside for recreational purposes, this matter falls within the ambit of my colleague, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, Deputy Ó Cuív. As the Minister explained to the House on 5 October 2004 last in response to a parliamentary question, the issue is being considered by Comhairle na Tuaithe, the Countryside Recreation Council.
The All-Party Oireachtas Committee on the Constitution endorsed the establishment of such a council. The comhairle was appointed in February 2004 to bring together representatives of farmers and landowners, recreational users of the countryside and tourism bodies with a view to finding a positive and speedy resolution to the access difficulties that have arisen in recent years. These difficulties have negative implications, not only for the development of rural tourism but also for marketing Ireland abroad, which is based on the image of Ireland as a welcoming destination.
I understand that a Supreme Court judgement of 21 January 2005 has opened the way to clarifying some of the complex issues involved. The case centred on an appeal of a High Court decision that found a landowner was liable for damages sustained by a recreational user. The Supreme Court found that there was no liability on the part of the landowner and set aside the High Court judgement. I understand that the Minister is awaiting the outcome of the Comhairle's deliberations on the implications of this decision and related issues with a view to putting in place a policy framework to facilitate an acceptable and reliable level of access to the countryside for recreational walkers.
I do not believe my reply to Question No. 59 of 1 December 2004 was incorrect. In response to a supplementary question, I said that the British Government had introduced:
demanding legislation in regard to legal rights of access for walking activities across Britain. Having looked at the situation, I am strongly of the view that because of the rights to private property in the Constitution, such legislation [my emphasis on this occasion] would not survive constitutional challenge here and that represents a real difficulty.
This is still my view. I do not believe the approach adopted in England and Wales is the way forward.
I hope the issue can be resolved as suggested by the all-party committee which, while concluding that no constitutional amendment may be necessary, pointed out that a number of submissions received revealed "certain shortcomings in the existing legislation".
86 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress made with regard to his discussions with the FAI and the IRFU in regard to securing an alternative venue for international matches during the course of the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14997/05]
I am aware that the IRFU and the FAI have considered a number of contingency options for rugby and soccer matches during the period when the existing pitch at Lansdowne Road stadium will be unavailable due to the redevelopment work. It is a matter for these autonomous sporting bodies to make the necessary arrangements to ensure that their match commitments are met.
88 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress being made on the programme for Government commitment to encourage special interest tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15005/05]
I refer the Deputy to the text of my reply to a similar question on this matter, Question No. 24 dated 22 March 2005.
In keeping with the commitment in the programme for Government to encourage special interest tourism, Fáilte Ireland will in 2005 spend more than €6 million on promoting special interest tourism. I understand that this funding is being made available primarily to promote those special interest tourism products which hold the greatest appeal to overseas consumers such as heritage and culture, walking, golf, English as a foreign language, EFL, angling, inland cruising, equestrianism and cycling. Other special interest sectors such as sailing and "wellness" also benefit.
Fáilte Ireland also actively seeks to promote special interest tourism through the international sports tourism initiative which was established by the Government in 2000 with the objective of attracting prestigious major international sporting events to Ireland. From its commencement, the initiative has supported a total of 74 international events to the end of 2004 with a funding allocation of €29 million.
In addition, up to €50 million in grant aid is provided under the European regional development fund to support investment in tourism product, including special interest pursuits, over the period of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 through Fáilte Ireland's tourism product development scheme. The scheme is funded under the local enterprise development priority subprogramme of the two regional operational programmes and is administered by Fáilte Ireland. Last December, I agreed to Fáilte Ireland inviting a second round of investment proposals specifically under the special interest pursuits category of the scheme. Decisions in respect of grant allocations to individual projects are a matter for the independent product management boards specifically set up for this purpose.
89 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress being made regarding the implementation of the recommendations of the tourism policy review group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15066/05]
114 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when the second progress report of the tourism action plan implementation group will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15021/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 and 114 together.
I am pleased to confirm that I recently received the second report of the independent group which I established in January 2004 to oversee progress on the implementation of the strategy set out in the report of the tourism policy review group, New Horizons for Irish Tourism: An Agenda for Action. The second progress report was published on 5 May 2005 and is available on my Department's website at www.dast.gov.ie/pressroom/pr_publications.htm.
The strategy document laid out ambitious development targets for the tourism industry such as doubling overseas revenue earnings to €6 billion and increasing visitor numbers to 10 million annually by 2012. It included more than 70 key action points.
The progress report covers the six-month period to the end of March 2005 and indicates that overall the implementation group is satisfied that the strategy is being well advanced, both by the industry itself and by Government.
The group identifies the areas where good progress has been made. These include increased air access to Ireland in 2005, the opening up of some new markets, the implementation of well-resourced marketing and development programmes by the tourism State agencies in 2005, the launch of new marketing strategies by Tourism Ireland for the British and mainland Europe markets, the preparation of a new human resource strategy by Fáilte Ireland, the establishment of a business tourism forum, the funding of a significant number of new tourism development projects and the launch of a range of programmes and incentives to address business competitiveness among tourism enterprises.
I welcome the implementation group's conclusion that Ireland's tourism performance in 2004, with 6.6 million overseas visitors and €4.1 billion in foreign exchange earnings, was broadly consistent with the targets set and that the ambitious target to double revenue earnings, over the ten-year period to 2012, continues to be attainable if the tourism action plan is implemented effectively.
The progress report highlights a number of key barriers to tourism development. These include concerns about the competitiveness and value for money of Ireland's tourism product against a background of tight margins and enhanced competition, slow progress in the negotiation on an EU-US "open skies" arrangement that would open up the prospect of new gateways for air services from the US, the need to progress the provision of additional pier and terminal facilities at Dublin Airport, the need to restore growth from the British market, the absence of a national conference centre, continuing uncertainty about access to the countryside and significant gaps in Dublin's cultural infrastructure.
This is a critical time for the tourism industry throughout Ireland. While recently released CSO statistics for 2004 reveal a healthy tourism sector overall, we all share concerns in relation to the performance of some sectors and markets last year. The trend towards shorter holidays and lower expenditure levels is depressing tourism revenue, in particular outside Dublin and other urban areas. The second progress report from the implementation group is timely and useful in identifying what needs to be done to build on recent progress and to highlight the continuing barriers that need to be addressed by the industry and the Government to help sustain future growth.
91 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress being made with regard to the redevelopment of Lansdowne Road stadium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15063/05]
94 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the progress to date on the development of Lansdowne Road stadium; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14960/05]
98 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when he expects a planning application to be lodged for the new stadium at Lansdowne Road; the likely start-up date for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15025/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 91, 94 and 98 together.
On 25 April I announced the awarding by the Lansdowne Road Stadium Development Company of the design and project management contracts for the stadium, moving the development plan for the new Lansdowne Road stadium to a new phase. The contracts have been awarded following tender competitions, advertised internationally through the EU Journal as well as in Ireland.
The design contract has been awarded to a consortium led by HOK Sports, one of the world's largest sport architectural practices. The winning consortium also includes Irish architects Scott Tallon Walker. The contract for project management services has been awarded to a consortium led by Project Management Limited, PM, one of Ireland's largest specialist technical consultancy and project management firms.
The Lansdowne Road Stadium Development Company has begun the preparatory work leading to a submission for planning application with the intention to lodge a planning application in December of this year, in accordance with the timetable previously announced. The newly appointed design team has already begun to develop a final detailed design for the new stadium. It is expected that ‘enabling works' will happen during 2006 and the actual main construction work will commence in 2007 with an estimated building time of 29 months.
I reaffirm the Government's commitment to the project and its decision to provide an amount of €191 million towards the cost of the project, which is estimated to cost €292 million.
92 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his alternative proposals for the proposed site of the national stadium at Abbotstown; the cost incurred to date on the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15043/05]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Priority Questions Nos. 62 and 63 of today.
95 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in regard to capital grants awarded by his Department to Shamrock Rovers Football Club to allow it to complete its new stadium, he has satisfied himself that all moneys were used for the purposes allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15003/05]
As I indicated previously, capital grants totalling €2.57 million were allocated in respect of the Shamrock Rovers stadium in Tallaght, under the sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department.
A total of €2.44 million of this amount has been paid out to Slonepark Limited, the Shamrock Rovers stadium development company, in respect of works certified by invoices to the value of €3.3 million. As provided for under the terms and conditions of the sports capital programme relating to grants awarded in respect of large projects, all invoices submitted by the applicant were cleared for payment by the Office of Public Works, in advance of any payment of the approved grants being made. At the same time, the project was the subject of an inspection as work progressed by the Office of Public Works, which acts as technical advisers to the Department in the administration of the sports capital programme. I am therefore satisfied that the €2.44 million paid out to date was used entirely towards the development of the stadium and I can report that these grants have been secured through the execution of a deed of trust which provides for a legal avenue by which the Minister may seek repayment of the grant moneys.
I have indicated that I am prepared to engage with South Dublin County Council in the development of a strategy for the completion of the stadium as soon as the council gains possession of the site.
96 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the establishment of the National Museum of Ireland as an autonomous national cultural institution under the provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14958/05]
108 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the establishment of the National Library of Ireland as an autonomous national cultural institution under the provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14964/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 96 and 108 together.
I am pleased to inform the Deputies that the National Museum of Ireland and National Library of Ireland became independent, non-commercial semi-state bodies under the terms of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997, with effect from Tuesday, 3 May 2005.
99 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his assessment of the implications for sport here of the decision of the International Equestrian Federation to strip Ireland’s Cian O’Connor of the gold medal he had been awarded at the Athens Olympics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15014/05]
The matter referred to by the Deputy is a major setback for equestrian sport and sport in general in Ireland and I would like to reiterate my strong condemnation of the use of prohibited substances and methods in any form in sport.
Ireland, through its support for the Copenhagen Declaration on Anti-Doping, and for the work of the World Anti-Doping Agency, WADA, remains in the forefront of the global battle against doping alongside those governments, sports bodies and agencies which are determined to rid us of the abuse of drugs in sport. It is imperative that high performers in sport must participate on fair and ethical means.
I am confident that the national governing bodies of sport, working closely with the Irish Sports Council, will ensure that the good name of Irish sport is maintained and enhanced both here at home and abroad and that Irish sportspersons will have further international successes while also adhering to the highest ethical standards.
101 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on efforts being made to save Shamrock Rovers Football Club; if, in view of the long history of the club in sporting life, he will consider ways of assisting the restructuring of the club; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15004/05]
All issues pertaining to the structure and operation of Shamrock Rovers Football Club are a matter for the club itself, the Eircom league and the governing body of soccer, the Football Association of Ireland.
My Department remains in contact with both South Dublin County Council and the Football Association of Ireland with a view to supporting plans for completion of the stadium in Tallaght. The council has initiated a series of discussions with interested parties with a view to the repossession of the property stating that it is the ultimate objective of the council that the proposed stadium be completed. I have indicated that I am prepared to develop a strategy with the council aimed at completing the stadium. If and when the council has succeeded in regaining ownership of the site, it would be my intention to support South Dublin County Council in putting together a financial package which would ensure the completion of the stadium.
102 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the proposed redevelopment of the National Concert Hall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15002/05]
104 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the level of support to be allocated for the redevelopment of the National Concert Hall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15064/05]
113 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the proposed redevelopment of the National Concert Hall, including the development of a new 2,000 seat auditorium recently proposed by the chairperson of the board and of the NCH; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15015/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102, 104 and 113 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply to Priority Question No. 60.
103 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the locations at which sports partnerships have completed their strategic plans; and the role these plans will play in determining funding for initiatives at these locations. [15042/05]
Responsibility for the funding of the 16 local sports partnerships in operation around the country rests with the Irish Sports Council, the statutory body responsible for the promotion and development of sport in Ireland.
As my Department does not have a role in the ongoing operation of these 16 partnerships, I have referred the Deputy's inquiry to the Sports Council for attention.
106 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will consider giving preferential treatment to applications made for grant aid under the sports capital programme to provide facilities on or adjacent to local primary or post-primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15024/05]
The national lottery-funded sports capital programme administered by my Department allocates funding to sporting, voluntary and community organisations throughout the country. While responsibility for the provision of facilities in national and secondary schools rests with the Department of Education and Science, applications from schools and colleges may be considered under the sports capital programme in certain circumstances, where those facilities are made available to the wider community.
Applications from schools and colleges must be made jointly with local sports clubs or community groups and must provide for significant levels of usage by the local community during periods when the facilities are not being used by the school itself and must demonstrate that the facilities concerned will meet an identified deficiency in that locality, as agreed with other local groups.
Applications for funding under the 2005 programme were invited through advertisements in the press on 5 and 6 December last. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 February 2005. All the 1,362 applications received before that deadline, including 30 related to facilities in primary and secondary schools, are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. Preferential treatment in terms of the assessment is given to projects, including joint school-club applications, which are designated as disadvantaged under the programme. These are areas that have been designated by Government for special support through the schemes administered by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, that is, RAPID 1, RAPID 2, local drugs task force areas and CLÁR areas. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
The programme for Government includes a commitment to putting in place a long-term strategic plan to ensure the development of local sports facilities throughout the country. As part of that plan, an inter-agency steering group will be set up later this year to oversee the implementation of this long-term strategy.
One of the issues likely to be considered by this group will be potential for greater co-operation between the Departments in the administration of programmes aimed at meeting the sporting and recreational needs of communities and maximising the use of existing sports facilities by local communities and in particular, those located in schools.
107 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his attention has been drawn to recent figures from the Tourist Victim Support Service showing a significant continuing level of crime against tourists; his views on whether attacks or other crime directed at tourists may damage the tourism industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15012/05]
I am aware that, as reported recently at the launch of its 2004 annual report, the Tourist Victim Support Service dealt with a total of 353 cases of crimes against tourists last year. This represented a decrease of 1% on the 357 cases reported for the previous year. I understand that the majority of the cases, 190, were in relation to larceny but, regretfully, 36 cases involved violence.
I deplore all crime against tourists, particularly as they are a vulnerable group away from their home country and without a network of family and friends to support them. For this reason, I applaud the work of the Tourist Victim Support Service and I am encouraged by the support and close co-operation that the service continues to receive from the Garda Síochána.
I would like to acknowledge also the role the service plays in terms of providing top quality safety information guides for tourists. I wish the service every success and I would urge the tourism sector, and wider commercial interests that benefit from tourism, to fully support the service in its very important work both with tourists in crisis and in safety awareness.
While any level of crime is unacceptable, it is important to have a sense of perspective. In a recent survey on personal safety in capital cities worldwide, Dublin, ranked 27th, was found to be one of the safest capital cities in the world.
109 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the commitments which have been made for the provision of swimming pools in 2005; the funding which remains in the budget for 2005; the number of projects awaiting allocation of funding; the average waiting time for this allocation; and the way in which these projects are evaluated. [15041/05]
The 2005 Estimate provision for the local authority swimming pool programme, administered by my Department, is €32 million. This provision includes €3.7 million allocated by the Minister for Finance in the budget towards the cost of providing a swimming pool at St. Michael's House, Belcamp Lane, Dublin. Commitments of some €23 million were carried forward from 2004. To date this year, grant-aid has been approved for one project, bringing total commitments to €26.8 million.
A portion of the total current commitment will be carried forward into 2006 as the rate of drawdown of grant in respect of each project varies in accordance with the speed at which the project proceeds. The normal timescale for pool construction is in the region of 18 months. However, arising from the need for the assembly of properly documented claims by the project promoter and scrutiny of these by my Department's technical advisers, the Office of Public Works, OPW, and as certain project fees already incurred can be claimed immediately on grant approval and prior to construction, the process of drawing down allocated funding invariably extends beyond the construction period. In addition, a percentage of grant-aid is retained until both the final account and architects opinion on compliance with building regulations and planning permission are provided and found to be in order.
Under the programme, there are four main stages in progressing a swimming pool project. These, in order of progress, are: feasibility study-preliminary report; contract documents; and tender and construction. My Department's technical advisers, the OPW, evaluate each stage and local authorities cannot proceed to the next stage of a project unless prior approval issues from my Department. Grant aid is not formally allocated until the tenders have been approved for a project.
At present only those applications submitted under the enhanced 2000 programme before 31 July 2000 are being considered by the Department for grant purposes. The only exception was where a local authority swimming pool in Monaghan had to close, for safety reasons, after that date, leaving Monaghan as the only county in the country without a local authority pool. Since that date, 55 projects have or are being dealt with. A total of 25 projects have been allocated grant aid, 15 of which have been completed and ten are at construction stage. Thirty other applications are at various stages in the process, six are at tender stage, 15 are at contract documents stage and nine are at preliminary report stage.
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 relation to operational and maintenance issues, overall funding package for the project, technical details and the Department's annual Estimates provision for the programme.
110 Mr. English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he intends to review the technical guidelines for swimming pools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15029/05]
An expenditure review of the local authority swimming pool programme is being carried out by my Department currently and will be completed later this year. I understand that the question of a revision of the technical guidelines associated with the programme is being considered in the context of the review.
115 Mr. P. Breen asked the Taoiseach the live register figures in Ennis, County Clare for each month of 2005 to date. [15179/05]
116 Mr. P. Breen asked the Taoiseach the live register figures in Kilrush, County Clare, for each month of 2005 to date. [15180/05]
117 Mr. P. Breen asked the Taoiseach the live register figures in Shannon, County Clare, for each month of 2005 to date. [15181/05]
118 Mr. P. Breen asked the Taoiseach the live register figures in Ennis, County Clare, for each month of 2004. [15182/05]
119 Mr. P. Breen asked the Taoiseach the live register figures in Kilrush, County Clare, for each month of 2004. [15183/05]
120 Mr. P. Breen asked the Taoiseach the live register figures in Shannon, County Clare, for each month of 2004. [15184/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 115 to 120, inclusive, together.
The exact information as requested by the Deputy is not available as there is no Department of Social and Family Affairs local branch office in Shannon, County Clare. The live register figures for all the local branch offices in County Clare for 2005 and 2004 are set out in the following table.
The live register series gives a monthly breakdown of the number of people claiming unemployment assistance, unemployment benefit and other claimants registered with the Department of Social and Family Affairs. Figures are published for each county and each local social welfare office. A breakdown by postal district is not available. The most recent information available is for March 2005.
It should be noted that the live register is not a definitive measure of unemployment as it includes part-time workers, seasonal and casual workers entitled to unemployment assistance or benefit. Statistics on unemployment are measured at regional level by the quarterly national household survey; and the exact area covered by each local office is not limited to the immediate locality of the particular office. For instance, in the Tallaght local office there may be registered, persons from the Blessington area.
|
Live Register County Clare Total |
|||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Average |
|
2004 |
4,349 |
4,281 |
4,160 |
4,029 |
3,835 |
3,848 |
4,028 |
4,064 |
3,689 |
3,734 |
3,714 |
3,851 |
3,965 |
|
2005 |
3,993 |
3,984 |
3,914 |
|
Year |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Average |
|
2004 |
2,529 |
2,508 |
2,445 |
2,375 |
2,273 |
2,300 |
2,446 |
2,443 |
2,237 |
2,245 |
2,190 |
2,244 |
2,353 |
|
2005 |
2,360 |
2,349 |
2,315 |
|
Year |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Average |
|
2004 |
731 |
700 |
670 |
633 |
594 |
591 |
597 |
604 |
544 |
561 |
596 |
629 |
621 |
|
2005 |
641 |
639 |
626 |
|
Year |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Average |
|
2004 |
649 |
638 |
629 |
625 |
588 |
584 |
599 |
623 |
547 |
567 |
569 |
600 |
602 |
|
2005 |
600 |
594 |
571 |
|
Year |
Jan |
Feb |
Mar |
Apr |
May |
Jun |
Jul |
Aug |
Sep |
Oct |
Nov |
Dec |
Average |
|
2004 |
440 |
435 |
416 |
396 |
380 |
373 |
386 |
394 |
361 |
361 |
359 |
378 |
390 |
|
2005 |
392 |
402 |
402 |
121 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Taoiseach the procedures he follows in vetting persons being considered for appointments to State boards under his aegis, especially in regard to tax compliance and any other issue which, if revealed, would make a person unsuitable for appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14822/05]
Appointments to statutory boards under the aegis of my Department are subject to the relevant legislation governing the establishment of the board. In considering a person's suitability for appointment to such boards, regard would be given to a range of factors, including individual expertise and any known, or potential, conflict of interest. Under the Ethics in Public Office Act, normal disclosure requirements apply to members of boards, once they have been appointed, where the body is prescribed in regulations made by the Minister for Finance.
In relation to tax compliance by persons being considered for appointment to State boards, the Department of Finance, in conjunction with other relevant Departments, is considering whether tax clearance certificates can and should be required of such persons. Based on the outcome of that process, a decision will be made on whether any change to the existing arrangements is appropriate or not.
122 Mr. Ferris asked the Taoiseach, further to Question No. 178 of 4 November 2003, if he will make available all correspondence between his Department and a company (details supplied); the administrative rank of the officials from his Department, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government who attended the meeting with this company; if he will make available all correspondence between his officials and other Departments on the proposed project and the minutes of the meeting of 19 September 2003. [14834/05]
I reported to the House on the meeting in question, including orally on 19 November 2003, when there were substantive exchanges. In that regard, I refer the Deputy to the official published report of that date. I do not propose to go beyond what I have already stated clearly and dealt with comprehensively in this House.
As the Deputy will be aware, ministerial responsibility for the matters relating to the project in question fall within the remit of the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
123 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Taoiseach the European directives in his Department that are awaiting full implementation. [14823/05]
There are no European directives awaiting full implementation in my Department.
124 Mr. Gilmore asked the Taoiseach if he intends to attend the forthcoming Third Summit of the Council of Europe State in Warsaw; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15233/05]
I will travel to Warsaw on 17 May for the Third Summit of the Council of Europe.
125 Mr. Timmins asked the Taoiseach if he provides funding for commemoration activities; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that County Wicklow will celebrate 400 years since its formation in 2006; if he will consider an application for funding to mark the event; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15471/05]
A limited amount of resources to mark certain historically significant events has been made available through the commemoration initiatives fund, which is administered by my Department. No decision has yet been made in the context of the Estimates for 2006 as to the amount of funding that will be available for events next year. All applications will be considered in that context.
126 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the amount of State funding made available to assist the training of guide dogs for the blind; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15078/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the funding of non-governmental organisations. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Health Service Executive to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
127 Mr. Ardagh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if he will examine and report on the reason there is an additional charge of €10 per treatment to those in receipt of free chiropody. [15136/05]
151 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 64 of 22 March 2005, the position regarding the review of fees for chiropodists under the chiropody scheme; the way in which she plans to tackle the problem of chiropodists charging top-up fees to elderly patients with medical cards. [15138/05]
161 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some chiropodists are charging medical card patients for their services; if this is permissible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15236/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 127, 151 and 161 together.
The provision of chiropody services is a matter for the local area of the Health Service Executive. This is a service which it is not statutorily obliged to provide but a variety of arrangements are in place nationally under arrangements made by the former Eastern Regional Health Authority, ERHA, and other health boards.
Generally speaking, fees paid to private health care practitioners for the provision of services to public patients are reviewed periodically and in that context I have requested my Department, in conjunction with the Health Service Executive, to look specifically at the current levels of fees paid to chiropodists participating in the chiropody scheme of the former ERHA. Arrangements are being made by my officials to progress this matter. I wish to restate that I consider it is inappropriate for chiropodists to charge a top-up fee to elderly public patients who have been deemed eligible for services under the scheme. My Department wrote to the Health Service Executive on 26 January 2005 regarding the inappropriateness of these additional charges.
128 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the scope of services for persons who are deaf and hard of hearing in relation to the development of health policy; and the number of beneficiaries of such services on a national and county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15536/05]
152 Mr. Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the scope of services for persons who are deaf and hard of hearing in relation to the development of health policy; and the number of beneficiaries of such services on a national and county basis. [15163/05]
155 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the scope of services for persons who are deaf and hard of hearing in relation to the development of health policy; and the number of beneficiaries of such services on a national and county basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15169/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 128, 152 and 155 together.
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of such services for people who are deaf and hard of hearing. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer in each of the executive's areas to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
129 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will consider the concerns of a group (details supplied) in relation to a publication. [14855/05]
The manner in which persons or agencies provide information about pregnancy termination services outside the State is regulated by the Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for Termination of Pregnancies) Act 1995. This Act permits a doctor or advice agency to provide abortion information to pregnant women — in the context of full counselling — as to all available options and without any advocacy of abortion. There are no plans to amend this legislation to oblige crisis pregnancy counsellors to provide the information suggested by the group concerned.
The Crisis Pregnancy Agency, CPA, has informed my Department that it has recently issued guidelines to agencies about the provision of abortion information. These guidelines are primarily based on two principles that the information is truthful and objective, in line with the statutory provisions of the Regulation of Information (Services Outside the State for Termination of Pregnancies) Act 1995 and that information provided is guided by sound scientific evidence. In line with these principles, the CPA advises all agencies providing information on options available to women with crisis pregnancies, including abortion, to rely on peer-reviewed sources of research. Thus, the agency has found the guide produced by the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists on information for women seeking abortions particularly useful for this purpose. This is available on the website www.rcog.org.uk.
The agency launched its strategy to address crisis pregnancy in late 2003. The CPA acknowledges in this document that crisis pregnancy counselling has the potential to provide women with standardised information on supports available to them. The agency aims to review the type of information available to women in crisis pregnancy counselling through this strategy in order to set and maintain high standards; it is already compiling a manual of best practice for crisis pregnancy counselling that will set a standard for crisis pregnancy counsellors in Ireland.
The CPA's strategy to address the issue of crisis pregnancy emphasises reducing the number of crisis pregnancies — and hence abortions — through the consistent and correct use of effective methods of contraception. In line with this and its statutory mandate, the agency is engaged in the drafting of a contraceptive framework that will advise on options for the further development of contraceptive services.
130 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the HSE will provide persons (details supplied) in Dublin 12 with every support and advice in relation to the illness of a family member; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14862/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for mental health services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
131 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the capital allocation in respect of a development (details supplied) in County Cork following an announcement made by her Department in this regard; and when she will permit this development to go to tender. [14867/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services.
As part of the executive's responsibility to prepare and submit an annual service plan for my approval, it is obliged under section 31 of the Act to indicate any capital plans proposed by the executive. In this process the executive can be expected to have regard to the full range of potential capital developments, its own criteria in determining priorities, available resources and any other relevant factors. The Health Service Executive's national capital plan is being examined by my Department.
132 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the appropriate levels of physiotherapy will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14885/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for physiotherapy. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
133 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on the appeal against a decision not to grant a medical card to persons (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14886/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
134 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal in relation to a nursing home subvention in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14887/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of the nursing home subvention scheme. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
135 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the planned activity for 2005 at the acute psychiatric unit in the County Hospital, Roscommon; the number of admissions and bed nights utilised in 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14888/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for mental health services in Roscommon. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the Health Service Executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
136 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the planned activity for the acute services at St. Brigid’s Hospital, Ballinasloe, in 2005; the number of admissions and bed nights utilised in 2004 within the acute services at the hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14889/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for mental health services in Ballinasloe. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer, Health Service Executive's western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
137 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the HSE will investigate the case of a person (details supplied); and if every assistance will be provided to protect this person. [14890/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for child welfare issues. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the Health Service Executive, eastern regional area, to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
138 Mr. Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funding is available for the establishment of a link club to cater for adults with special needs in the 18 to 35 age group in an extensive catchment area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14925/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January, 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of funding. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's midland area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
139 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the very long waiting times for initial assessment in inter-country adoption cases and to the nature of distress this causes; and the way in which this matter will be remedied. [14926/05]
Applications for inter-country adoption are processed by the Health Service Executive, HSE, under the Adoption Acts 1952-1998, as amended by the Health Act 2004. The length of time it takes to complete the necessary assessment and the allocation of resources within the HSE is a matter for the management of the HSE. However, I have asked the Adoption Board to identify practical measures to tackle the waiting lists of inter-country assessments. The board has initiated discussions with the HSE on the matter.
140 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons on the waiting list for a surgeon (details supplied) for over three months, over six months, over nine months and over a year; the number of surgical procedures carried out by this surgeon for each of the past 24 months; the number of persons who have been on this surgeon’s waiting list to be seen for an initial examination for over three months, over six months, over nine months and over a year; the steps she intends to take to ensure that patients are not waiting more than six months for surgery in this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14975/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services.
Services at the relevant hospitals are provided under an arrangement with the executive. My Department has, therefore, requested the chief officer of the HSE to examine the issues raised and to reply to the Deputy directly.
141 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a consultant-led palliative care team will be appointed for the North West Hospice, Sligo; the steps which have been taken to ensure that the facility is operating to its full capacity; when the appointments will be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14983/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Responsibility for the provision of health services in Sligo rests with the executive. My Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's north-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
142 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be called for surgery to Our Lady’s Hospital, Crumlin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14984/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person in question resides in County Clare, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised, and to reply directly to the Deputy.
143 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the details of the 2001 derogation within the GMS scheme for doctors taking on patients over 70 years of age. [15052/05]
144 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on doctors who set up practices and are prevented from acquiring a GMS contract, including those who hold a certificate of specific training in general medical practice issued by the Irish Medical Council; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15053/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 144 together.
Entry to the general medical services, GMS, scheme for general practitioners is normally through open competition and interview following advertisements in national and medical newspapers. All suitably qualified persons may apply for these positions. The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the selection and recruitment of general practitioners to provide services under the GMS scheme.
Applicants for GMS general practitioner contracts, whether from this or another jurisdiction, must satisfy the provisions of EU Directive 93/16/EEC. This directive facilitates the free movement of doctors and the mutual recognition of their diplomas, certificates and other evidence of formal qualifications. It also stipulates the requirement in respect of vocational training for persons seeking to be considered for such posts.
As part of industrial relations agreements between the Department of Health and Children and the Irish Medical Organisation, IMO, made in 1999 and again in 2001 between the health services employers agency and the IMO, limited entry to the GMS scheme was possible for suitably qualified general practitioners. These agreements allowed for those general practitioners who were interested and qualified to hold limited GMS contracts. These limited GMS contracts allowed general practitioners to treat their over 70s patients who qualified for a medical card for the first time, following the phased increase in the income level for eligibility assessment in 1999, and again following the introduction of the statutory entitlement to a medical card for all persons aged 70 years and over from 1 July 2001. After specified periods general practitioners holding these limited contracts would become eligible for full GMS contracts and be able to provide services to any medical card patient who might choose to be included on their patient panel list.
145 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be renewed in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in view of the medical and financial circumstances of the applicant. [15100/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south eastern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
146 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the report of the expert group on mental health policy will be available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15101/05]
As the Deputy may be aware, I appointed the expert group on mental health policy in 2003 with the specific task of preparing a new policy framework for the mental health services updating the present policy document Planning for the Future which was published in 1984. The group, which is currently examining the future direction and delivery of all aspects of our mental health services is expected to complete its work and publish its report later this year.
147 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of an application with the housing aid for the elderly for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15103/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage, deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of the housing aid scheme for the elderly in County Clare, on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's mid-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
148 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if appropriate transport will be arranged for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if the circumstances of this person’s case will be investigated; if assistance will be given; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15133/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person referred to by the Deputy resides in County Kilkenny, my Department has asked the chief officer for the executive's south-eastern area to respond to the Deputy directly.
149 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 282 of 26 January 2005, the progress in arranging a hip operation for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15134/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. As the person referred to by the Deputy resides in County Kilkenny, my Department has asked the chief officer for the executive's south-eastern area to respond to the Deputy directly.
150 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a new electric wheelchair has not been provided for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if a decision will be expedited in this case; the amount of State funding made available for this purpose and for the purchase of aids and appliances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15135/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for aids and appliances. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south-eastern area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
153 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons in possession of a medical card in each county at the latest date for which figures are available and if she will provide this information in a tabular form. [15167/05]
The number of persons in possession of a medical card in each county for April 2005 is set out in the following table:
|
County |
No. of people covered by medical cards |
|
Dublin |
273,291 |
|
Kildare |
36,594 |
|
Wicklow |
27,593 |
|
Laois |
16,927 |
|
Longford |
12,429 |
|
Offaly |
19,087 |
|
Westmeath |
21,274 |
|
Clare |
30,862 |
|
Limerick |
48,907 |
|
Tipperary NR |
19,047 |
|
Cavan |
18,544 |
|
Louth |
34,593 |
|
Meath |
29,590 |
|
Monaghan |
16,225 |
|
Donegal |
67,825 |
|
Leitrim |
11,265 |
|
Sligo |
19,302 |
|
Carlow |
15,308 |
|
Kilkenny |
19,454 |
|
Tipperary SR |
28,353 |
|
Waterford |
34,635 |
|
Wexford |
39,301 |
|
Cork |
130,902 |
|
Kerry |
41,197 |
|
Galway |
65,722 |
|
Mayo |
47,327 |
|
Roscommon |
19,777 |
|
Total |
1,145,331 |
154 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has made an appointment to meet a group (details supplied) in County Kerry; and, if so, when this meeting will take place. [15168/05]
The Tánaiste has agreed to meet this group on Tuesday, 24 May 2005.
156 Ms B. Moynihan-Cronin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the date of publication of the capital investment programme for her Department for 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15170/05]
157 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when funding for capital projects by her Department will be announced; if funding for Ennis General Hospital will be included; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15178/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 157 together.
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, established on 1 January 2005, to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for progressing the bulk of the health capital programme in 2005 and in future years. My Department has retained the direct provision of capital funding for a small number of health agencies and I will forward a copy of this programme to the Deputy when it has been formally sanctioned.
The HSE service plan for 2005 was recently approved by me and, as required by relevant legislation, laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. The detailed capital funding programme for 2005 is being finalised in the context of the capital investment framework 2005-09. This process will be concluded in the near future and the HSE will then be in a position to decide on publication and to progress its capital programme for this year, in line with overall funding resources available for 2005 or beyond. This process will involve, as appropriate, new contractual commitments for individual projects through either the design, construction or equipping stages, taking account of the future non-capital funding implications of such commitments in 2005. An outline development control plan for the proposed capital development at Ennis General Hospital has recently been prepared. I understand that the question of appointing a design team for this project is being considered by the HSE in the context of finalising the overall capital programme for this year.
158 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who attended accident and emergency departments in 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15191/05]
According to the integrated management returns, IMRs, which are supplied by acute hospitals on a monthly basis, there were 1,240,241, provisional, attendances at accident and emergency departments in 2004. The 2004 figure represents a 2.4% increase on the 2003 figure of 1,211,071.
159 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the cost for the provision of a midwife for home births will be granted for women in County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15192/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of midwifery services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's east coast area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
160 Mr. Gilmore asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will identify the members of the working group which her Department has established to review the Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 and associated regulations; and if she will make a statement on the matter [15235/05]
The membership of the working group is as follows: Mr. Jimmy Duggan, principal officer, Department of Health and Children, Chairman, Mr. James Conway, programme manager, Health Service Executive — mid-western area, Ms Valerie Nagle, health economist, HSE — eastern regional area, Ms Anne Vaughan, principal officer, planning unit, Department of Social and Family Affairs, Mr. Joe Mooney, principal officer, Department of Finance, Ms Marie Kennedy, acting appeals officer, appeals office, St. Joseph's Hospital, Ms Aileen O'Doherty, Irish Association of Older People, University College Dublin, Ms Ellen Dillon, Federation of Irish Nursing Homes, Mr. Maurice O'Connell, chief executive, The Alzheimer Society of Ireland, Mr. Pat Quinlan, Federation of Catholic Voluntary Nursing Homes, Mr. Bob Carroll, director, National Council on Ageing and Older People, Ms Mairéad Hayes, development officer, Irish senior citizens parliament, Mr. Paul Costello, chief executive, Irish Nursing Homes Organisation Limited, Mr. Enda Egan, chief executive officer, the Carers Association, Mr. Noel Brett, former regional manager SFOP, Western Health Board, Mr. Aidan Browne, national director for primary, community and continuing care, Health Service Executive, former assistant CEO, community service, North Eastern Health Board, Ms Ann Coyle, HSE, north-eastern area, Dr. Bernard Walsh, consultant physician, St. James's Hospital, Mr. David Wolfe, assistant principal, Department of Health and Children, Mr. Derek Finnegan, higher executive officer, Department of Health and Children, Ms Julie Ling, nursing adviser, Department of Health and Children and Mr. Des Tracey, executive officer, Department of Health and Children.
A working group chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach and comprising senior officials from the Departments of Finance, Health and Children and Social and Family Affairs was established in early 2005. The objective of this group is to identify the policy options for a financially sustainable system of long-term care, taking account of the Mercer report, the views of the consultation that was undertaken on that report and the review of the nursing home subvention scheme by Professor Eamon O'Shea. This group has been requested to report to both the Minister for Social and Family Affairs and the Tánaiste by mid-year 2005. Following this process it is the intention that there will be discussions with relevant interest groups.
162 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will introduce measures to allow for separate rooms for those who are dying in public wards in view of the recent survey by the Irish Hospice Foundation which shows the appalling conditions in which many people die in hospitals here, often in public wards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15249/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of acute hospital services. Accordingly, my Department has requested the director of the National Hospitals Office to reply to the Deputy directly.
163 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15272/05]
The organisations represented by Alcohol Action Ireland play a significant role in providing regional and local community services in alcohol harm reduction, treatment and education, and I welcome their contribution to the debate on the recently published Intoxicating Liquor Bill 2005.
The Government is concerned about alcohol related harm and about the increase in consumption in the total population as well as the increased prevalence of binge drinking. This problem calls for a concerted cross-departmental approach involving a range of key Departments and stakeholders. The recently published second report of the strategic task force on alcohol provides a blueprint for tackling alcohol related harm. The report has been approved by the Government, and the Department of Health and Children and other relevant Departments have been authorised to implement the recommendations coming within their remit.
164 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will quantify the number of general practitioners operating in the country; if she will give a breakdown of the figures per county; the steps she plans to undertake to improve the situation where many people find it difficult to access their general practitioner or to become a new patient of a general practitioner, in view of the increased workload undertaken by general practitioners; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15305/05]
Figures contained in the 2003 annual report of the general medical services payments board, the latest published report, indicate the number of general practitioners holding general medical services, GMS, and other contracts in respect of providing services under the primary childhood immunisation scheme, the Health (Amendment) Act 1996, Heartwatch and the methadone treatment scheme was 2,181. Of this number 1,971 held GMS contracts.
It is possible to provide details of the number of general practitioners who held GMS and other contracts in 2003 by each Health Service Executive area only. This is set out in the following table:
|
Health Service Executive area |
Number of General Practitioners |
|
East Coast Area |
208 |
|
South Western Area |
295 |
|
Northern Area |
237 |
|
Midland Area |
119 |
|
Mid Western Area |
200 |
|
North Eastern Area |
163 |
|
North Western Area |
129 |
|
South Eastern Area |
216 |
|
Southern |
363 |
|
Western |
251 |
|
Total |
2,181 |
The Health Service Executive has been requested to provide a breakdown of the number of general practitioners who currently hold GMS and other contracts for each county and to forward this directly to the Deputy.
The current GMS contract which general practitioners hold with their local area of the Health Service Executive provides for the assignment of public patients (medical card holders) to participating doctors when their doctor of choice is unable to provide service. If the Deputy is aware of a particular case where an eligible person for GMS services is unable to access a general practitioner GMS contract holder I will be happy to have the case investigated on receipt of the details.
With regard to manpower in general practice, the Department of Health and Children has met the Irish College of General Practitioners, which is responsible for the organisation of training of GPs in Ireland, and it was agreed to increase the number of training places from the current 84 to 150. It was agreed with the ICGP that this would be best achieved on a phased basis with 22 new places being provided in each of the years 2005 to 2007. Funding has been provided to allow the Health Service Executive implement this development in 2005.
165 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive will fund a stay in a clinic in the UK for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15390/05]
166 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive will fund a stay in a clinic in the UK by a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15444/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 165 and 166 together.
Where an individual requires specific treatment which is necessary and which cannot be provided in Ireland, the Health Service Executive, HSE, may refer the person to another member state for treatment. Under EU regulations, the executive issues a form E112 to the person being referred to establish his or her entitlement to such treatment and to imply a commitment by the HSE to pay the full cost of the treatment. My Department has issued guidelines which set down the criteria to be used by the Health Service Executive when assessing applications for approval of forms E112, as follows: the application to refer a patient abroad must be assessed before the patient goes abroad except in cases of extreme urgency. Medical evidence must be provided by a hospital consultant giving details of the condition from which the patient suffers and of the type of treatment envisaged. It must be certified by the consultant: that the treatment concerned is not available in this country; there is an urgent medical necessity for the treatment; there is a reasonable medical prognosis; the treatment is regarded as a proven form of medical treatment; the treatment abroad is in a recognised hospital or other institution and is under the control of a registered medical practitioner.
In the case where a person's E112 application has been approved, the HSE may provide assistance towards the cost of travel and subsistence expenses. The decision on the provision of such assistance is a matter for the HSE. Arrangements which are made privately for the treatment of a patient in any country abroad, must be regarded as outside the terms of the EU regulations and the HSE has no obligation to meet any part of the cost involved.
In this case, my Department has requested the chief officer of the executive's western area to investigate this matter and reply directly to the Deputy.
167 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the family of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare qualifies under the national repayment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15446/05]
A special Cabinet sub-committee comprising the Taoiseach, Deputy Bertie Ahern, the Minister for Finance, Deputy Cowen, the Attorney General, Mr. Brady, and myself has been established to consider the issue of repayment in light of the Supreme Court judgment. Full details of a repayment scheme will be announced as soon as possible and it is the intention to make repayments as automatic as possible.
The provisions of the judgment relate to charges for publicly funded long-term residential care. People in publicly contracted beds in private nursing homes are covered by the terms of the judgment. The provisions of the judgment do not apply to individuals in private nursing homes who have entered these homes under the nursing home subvention scheme.
Any person who considers that they or a family member may be eligible for repayment may register their interest in advance with the Health Service Executive, by writing to the National Refund Scheme, HSE Midland Area, Arden Road, Tullamore, County Offaly or by e-mail to refundscheme@mailq.hse.ie, or by calling the helpline 1800 777737 during office hours.
168 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is unable to access their patients private property account; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15448/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of health services in County Kildare. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
169 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; the reason same was refused previously; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15450/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the assessment of applications for medical cards. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's south-western area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
170 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if and when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be transferred to Maynooth Community Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15451/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of health services in County Kildare. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
171 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if and when nursing home subvention will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15453/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the provision of the nursing home subvention scheme. Accordingly, my Department has requested the chief officer for the executive's eastern regional area to investigate the matter raised and to reply directly to the Deputy.
172 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has satisfied herself with the operation of powers of the Health Service Executive to take children with acute special needs into care against the wishes of their parents; her views on whether it would be appropriate to extend the remit of the Ombudsman for Children to have the power to investigate the application of these procedures; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15461/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive is required to manage and deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for services for the welfare and protection of children.
Under the Child Care Act 1991 as amended by the Health Act 2004 the Health Service Executive has a duty to act in regard to any child who requires care or protection. On the application of the Health Service Executive care orders are made in the District Court only where the judge is satisfied that this is an appropriate course of action.
Section 8 of the Ombudsman for Children Act allows for the investigation of actions taken in the performance of administrative functions by public bodies. However, under section 7 of the Act, the Ombudsman for Children has a statutory obligation to promote the rights and welfare of children and, in particular, to encourage public bodies, schools and voluntary hospitals to develop policies, practices and procedures designed to promote the rights and welfare of children.
173 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the guidelines which are given by her Department through the Health Service Executive to home help organisers in respect of the charges that may be made for these services; if she has received reports of substantial increases in home help charges in recent times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15462/05]
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the Act, the executive has the responsibility to manage, deliver, or arrange to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. This includes responsibility for the home help service. Accordingly, my Department has requested the HSE's national director of primary, continuing and community care to investigate the matters raised and to reply direct to the Deputy.
174 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the allocation from her Department for suicide prevention and research for 2005. [15463/05]
As the Deputy may be aware, work is well under way on the preparation of a national strategy for action on suicide prevention. The strategy, which involves the project management unit of the Health Service Executive in partnership with the national suicide review group, is supported by the Department of Health and Children. It will be action-based from the outset and will build on existing policy. All measures aimed at reducing the number of deaths by suicide will be considered in the context of the preparation of the strategy, which will be published later this year.
The Health Act 2004 provided for the Health Service Executive, which was established on 1 January 2005. Under the 2004 Act, the executive is responsible for managing and delivering, or arranging to be delivered on its behalf, health and personal social services. Therefore, it is responsible for managing suicide prevention and research programmes and allocating funding to such programmes. Accordingly, the Department of Health and Children has asked the chief executive officer of the Health Service Executive to reply directly to the Deputy about this matter.
175 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the Government recently made a decision to approve the allocation of two civilian drivers for the Leader of the Seanad; if so, the date of this approval and the effective date; if any legislation or regulation was required for such a decision; if so, the titles and dates of such documentation; his estimate of the full year cost of the decision based on the similar facility available to Ministers of State; if other such measures for Seanad Members are planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15119/05]
Under established arrangements governing transport for office holders, Ministers of State other than the Chief Whip, the Leas-Cheann Comhairle and the Cathaoirleach of the Seanad are provided with two civilian drivers. The Leader of the Seanad became an office holder when section 7 of the Ministerial, Parliamentary and Judicial Offices and Oireachtas Members (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2001 took effect. Although the present Leader of the Seanad initially declined the offer of civilian drivers when she became an office holder, she indicated to my predecessor last summer that she wished to have the offer activated and that was done. Her two drivers recruited in February and April of this year, are paid from the Vote of the Department of the Taoiseach. The maximum additional annual cost, at current rates, based on the facilities provided to Ministers of State, is approximately €88,000. I have no plans to extend the arrangement to other Members of the Seanad.
176 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the reason the Higher Education Training Awards Council does not come within the scope of the Freedom of Information Act 1997; and if he will take steps to address this matter to ensure transparency in the third level sector. [15610/05]
177 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if the Freedom of Information Act 1997 will be extended to include HETAC and FETAC. [15547/05]
183 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance his proposals to add the Higher Education Training Awards Council to the list of bodies to which the Freedom of Information Act 1997 applies (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15055/05]
186 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance if he will include the Higher Education Training Awards Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1997; the reason HETAC is not under the provisions of the Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15188/05]
188 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Finance if he will designate the Higher Education Training Awards Council under the working of the Freedom of Information Act 1997 to ensure transparency and to reinforce the credibility of the third level education sector. [15199/05]
189 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance his plans to include correspondence (details supplied) under the Freedom of Information Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15285/05]
190 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Finance if he will consider designating the Higher Education Training Awards Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15294/05]
191 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Finance if it is proposed to designate the Higher Education Training Awards Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15295/05]
192 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if he will amend the Freedom of Information Act 1997 to include HETAC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15389/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 176, 177, 183, 186 and 188 to 192, inclusive, together.
The Freedom of Information Act has been extended gradually as experience has been gained in its application. Proposals for a further extension of freedom of information are being finalised in the Department of Finance. The organisations in question are being considered as part of that proposal.
178 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Cork is entitled to a refund of income tax. [14853/05]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they are not aware of any basis on which the person in question might be entitled to a refund of income tax. If the person would like to discuss the matter further, he should contact the Cork north-west tax district at Government office, Sullivan's Quay, Cork. Its telephone number is (021) 4325000.
179 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will be issued with a statement of their tax contributions for 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14928/05]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE balancing statement for 2003, showing details of earnings and tax deductions, issued to the taxpayer in question on Friday, 6 May 2005.
180 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance, further to Question No. 337 of 12 April 2005, the position regarding the use of IMF gold to fund debt cancellations; the discussions that took place on this issue at the April 2005 meetings of the IMF and World Bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14929/05]
At the recent spring meetings of the IMF and the World Bank, referred to in the Deputy's question, there was a preliminary discussion of key issues relating to proposals for further multilateral debt relief and its financing options. The meeting called for further discussions with shareholders and examination of the issues, including the possible use of IMF resources, ahead of the annual meetings of the IMF and the World Bank in the autumn. The development agenda remains a significant challenge. Substantial increases will be needed if we are to make progress with the targets of the millennium development goals.
181 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if persons who joined the SSIA scheme in 2001 and who do not earn any income will receive the full benefit of an account when it matures from May 2006 onwards. [14950/05]
It is not a requirement per se of the SSIA scheme for an individual to earn any income. However, Part 36A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, as inserted by section 33 of the Finance Act 2001, requires inter alia that for a saver to get the full benefit from an SSIA account he or she must be the beneficial owner of the funds in the account and must have subscribed to the SSIA from funds available to him or her, or his or her spouse, without recourse to borrowings, or the deferral of repayment, whether in respect of capital or interest, of sums already borrowed. If the requirements are not satisfied, the person is required to close the SSIA and the value of the assets in the account is taxed at 23%.
182 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Finance the progress he is making to implement the Government policy that interim arrangements be provided to facilitate public servants who have already volunteered to transfer to regional locations under the decentralisation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15030/05]
The two reports of the decentralisation implementation group, of 31 March and 30 July 2004, provide detailed accounts of the progress made in implementing the decentralisation programme announced in December 2003. An analysis of the applications registered with the central applications facility by 7 September 2004 has also been published. The implementation group's report of 24 November 2004 contains details of organisations and locations which, in the opinion of the group, should be included in the first phase of moves. I understand that the implementation group will report to me again soon about its progress in implementing the programme. The group's report of November 2004 included indicative accommodation completion dates. All the organisations listed for early relocation can use the time leading up to the accommodation availability dates to secure the transfer and training of their staffing compliment. The question of recommending interim or advance moves will be considered by the implementation group based on submissions to it from the organisations concerned.
184 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Finance the number of individual taxpayers removed from the tax net as a result of the budget provisions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15099/05]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that some 66,000 income earners are estimated to have become exempt from income tax as a result of the changes announced in the 2005 budget. This figure is a provisional estimate. A married couple that has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as a single tax unit.
185 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Finance if the OPW has plans in place to facilitate the draining of the River Slate in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15117/05]
As the River Slate forms part of the Rathangan drainage district, the maintenance of the river is a matter for the local authority. The Office of Public Works carried out drainage works on the river in 2003, as agents for Kildare County Council. There are no proposals to carry out further works.
187 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance if surgery, including cosmetic or other medical services provided by a person (details supplied) or any clinics associated with them, including Central Park South Clinic in New York, has qualified or would qualify for tax relief or medical expenses and expenditure; if so, the number of taxpayers qualifying for such reliefs in each year since 2000 and the amounts in each year. [15198/05]
Tax relief for unreimbursed medical expenses does not cover plastic surgery or other medical works or procedures undertaken on purely cosmetic grounds. The clinic referred to by the Deputy is not on the list of approved hospitals for medical treatments that might qualify.
193 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when tax refund will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare based on annual rent paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15454/05]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a letter issued to the taxpayer on 3 May 2005 advising that no rent relief is due in respect of rent payments as only rent payable in respect of private rented accommodation is allowable.
194 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Finance the position with regard to the proposed decentralisation of Ordnance Survey Ireland to Dungarvan, County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15476/05]
The Government's decentralisation programme, which was announced in the 2004 budget, will involve the transfer of 210 posts to Dungarvan. Initial data from the central applications facility indicates that 15 staff of Ordnance Survey Ireland have applied to decentralise to Dungarvan and a further 47 expressions of interest in decentralising to Dungarvan have been made by civil servants. All organisations that are decentralising, including Ordnance Survey Ireland, have prepared and submitted implementation plans as requested by the decentralisation implementation group. The plans, which include detailed material on all issues to be addressed such as people, property and business planning, will be further developed as additional information emerges. In its next report, the implementation group will deal with locations and organisations not covered in its November report, which did not include Dungarvan. I understand from the Office of Public Works that it has chosen a site for the decentralisation project in Dungarvan and details of the deal are being finalised with the land owner.
195 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the plans he has regarding the matter of overcoming the two licence issues for fishing boats in their engaging in angling, particularly recognition of a certification scheme to enable fishing boats to be declared passenger vessels for a specified period of time while not being allowed to carry fishing equipment, in the context of the new stringent safety regulations that apply to the small boats; and if he will make a statement on the matter in the context of the importance of the issue for the maintenance of local fishing festivals. [14922/05]
The Sea Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003 provides that a licensing authority shall not grant a sea fishing boat a licence unless an independent survey of the boat has confirmed to the authority's satisfaction that the boat is in a safe and seaworthy condition. The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources introduced a code of practice for fishing vessels of less than 15 m in length last year. The code sets out the minimum standards of safety for vessel design, construction, safety equipment and stability. It also provides that the surveyor undertaking the survey has to declare that the fishing vessel complies with the code. The sea fishing boat licensing authority grants a sea fishing boat a licence on the basis of such a declaration of compliance.
A vessel that has been granted a sea fishing boat licence may apply for a passenger boat licence to operate the vessel as a passenger boat to carry sea anglers. If, following a survey by a surveyor from the Maritime Safety Directorate, the vessel complies with the Merchant Shipping (Passenger Boat) Regulations 2002, as amended, a passenger boat licence can be issued subject to conditions for its use as a passenger boat. Such conditions include that fishing nets and gear may not be carried on board while the vessel is being used as a passenger boat. Corresponding conditions are also attached to the sea fishing boat licence — the boat shall not carry passengers while being used as a fishing boat, for example.
The survey and licensing processes for fishing vessels and passenger boats are separate and distinct because the standards and requirements for fishing vessels and passenger boats are different, having regard to the purpose for which they are used and the conditions under which they operate. Therefore, it is not possible to establish the type of certification scheme proposed by the Deputy.
196 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the grants available to householders for investment in alternative technologies such as heat pumps, solar panels, energy and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15361/05]
Sustainable Energy Ireland, which was established as a statutory agency in May 2002, implements renewable energy and energy efficiency initiatives, including research, on behalf of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. Under Sustainable Energy Ireland's research, development and demonstration programme, House of Tomorrow, heat pumps and solar panels are just two of a number of energy technologies eligible for support in the context of an integrated set of measures comprising a whole house energy efficiency solution. The programme is open to demonstration projects involving clusters of five or more homes. Funding is available for whole house measures at a rate of up to €5,000 per house in such developments. Funding is not available under the programme for homes on an individual basis. Direct funding support is not available to individual householders.
197 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in relation to broadband for Ashford, County Wicklow; if it will be rolled out as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14973/05]
198 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position in relation to broadband for Dunlavin, County Wicklow; if it will be rolled out as a matter of urgency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14974/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 197 and 198 together.
The provision of broadband facilities is a matter for private telecommunications companies, which operate in a fully liberalised market. A number of factors, including the potential number of customers and the required level of investment, determine where and when broadband services are offered. The Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources administers the county and group broadband scheme, under which grant aid of up to 55% of set-up costs is available. The programme is driven by the broadband needs of the community. It addresses those needs by funding the most appropriate broadband technology for each application. Under the second call of the county and group broadband scheme, two applications have been received from County Wicklow. The projects relate to north-east Wicklow, which includes Ashford, and Carnew.
199 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason the proposal from An Post whereby an increase might be awarded to pensioners in circumstances in which employees have not received such an increase was rejected; and if he will reconsider his decision on this matter. [15300/05]
In October 2004, the board of An Post submitted a proposal to amend the existing An Post pension scheme to allow payment of Sustaining Progress increases to pensioners.
By way of background, the existing terms of the An Post superannuation scheme provide for pay parity, that is, that pensions are increased in line with the pay of serving staff. This is in accordance with public service pension policy generally, pay parity being an integral and well established practice which is widely applied in public service pension schemes.
Following examination of the issue and taking into consideration the implications of providing a precedent that could impact adversely on pension policy generally in the wider public sector, in particular the existing practice of pay parity, payment of sustaining progress increases to An Post pensioners is not possible at this time.
The way forward is to reach agreement in partnership with An Post unions to the restructuring plan aimed at securing the future of the company.
200 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if all of the aid pledged by the Government to the tsunami victims in south east Asia will be fully honoured. [14880/05]
203 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount which was pledged by the Government to the victims of the tsunami disaster; the amount of this aid and the groups to which it has been disbursed to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14993/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 200 and 203 together.
Ireland was one of the first countries to respond to the tsunami disaster. When the scale of the disaster became clear, the Taoiseach and I jointly announced that our funding would rise to €10 million. Prior to that, and in the immediate wake of the disaster, it had been doubled from an initial pledge of €1 million to €2 million. In addition, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Dermot Ahern, visited the affected region in early January with the heads of Concern, GOAL, the Irish Red Cross and Trócaire. On that occasion, he pledged a further contribution, doubling Ireland's pledge to €20 million, to address longer-term recovery and reconstruction, as well as immediate needs.
Ireland will fully honour its pledge of assistance to the tsunami-affected region. It is essential that international pledges are met and that the funds contributed are used in the most effective way possible. Ireland has expressed support for the enhancement of EU and UN tracking systems which will monitor pledges and delivery.
To date, approximately €11.3 million has been made available towards meeting the needs of affected people in the aftermath of the disaster. This funding has been provided to a range of non-governmental organisations, NGOs. These are Christian Aid Ireland, Concern, GOAL, Gorta, Habitat for Humanity, Hope Foundation, Mercy Corps, Oxfam Ireland, Plan Ireland, Trócaire and World Vision Ireland. Funding has also been contributed to the Red Cross family.
Ireland has assisted United Nations agencies, including UNICEF, the World Food Programme, the Office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees, and the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. The Defence Forces provided a number of skilled personnel in the area of logistics to help with the recovery efforts. We are examining recovery and reconstruction plans, which will provide an opportunity to assist the affected populations in the rebuilding of their lives and livelihoods. Ireland will continue to support NGOs and UN agencies for their ongoing engagement in the affected region. The reconstruction planning and implementation tasks ahead are enormous.
A special envoy has been appointed for the tsunami-affected region. The envoy, former Minister of State and current chairman of the Advisory Board for Development Co-operation Ireland, Mr. Chris Flood, has made two visits to the affected countries. During his visits, the envoy met a wide range of organisations and individuals, including senior government representatives. The envoy's mandate is to oversee the disbursement of Ireland's assistance and to ensure it is done in line with best international practice and meets the needs of the most affected.
Ireland remains closely engaged with ongoing developments in relation to the aid effort in the tsunami-affected countries. We are in constant liaison with all stakeholders including our partners in the NGOs, UN and international agencies. This engagement will be actively maintained.
201 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will actively promote Ireland’s policy of 100% untied aid among all the member states of the EU; and if he will raise this matter at the next meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council. [14881/05]
Ireland's policy since the establishment of the aid programme has been that aid should be completely untied. This policy remains. While the EU has made advances in the area of untying of aid in recent years, there is as yet no consensus to move to a policy of fully untying aid among all the member states.
In preparation for the 2002 Monterrey International Conference on Financing for Development, the General Affairs Council concluded that the European Union would implement the OECD Development Assistance Committee recommendation on untying of aid to least developed countries and continue discussions on further untying bilateral aid. The EU also undertook to consider steps towards the further untying of Community aid while maintaining the existing system of price preferences for the EU-African, Caribbean and Pacific framework.
Subsequently, in November 2002, the Commission adopted a Communication entitled — Untying: enhancing the effectiveness of aid. The General Affairs and External Relations Council in May 2003 underlined the need to further untie Community aid and also agreed to the modalities detailed in the Commission Communication. A European Parliament resolution in September 2003 took a similar approach.
Following these developments, a draft regulation on untying aid was submitted by the Commission and has been under consideration by the Council at working group level over the past 18 months. Most recently, on 7 April 2005, the Council working group considered Presidency proposals for compromise amendments which had been drafted on the basis of consultations with the European Parliament rapporteur on the draft regulation. These efforts between the Council Presidency and the Parliament to find common ground remain ongoing. I will avail of every appropriate opportunity to urge fellow EU member states both in the council and elsewhere to follow Ireland's policy on the complete untying of aid. A complete untying of aid is the best way the international community can serve developing countries.
202 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to a report from Saudi Arabia regarding the sentencing of 35 persons to flogging and imprisonment following their attendance at a gay partnership ceremony; if he has raised this matter with the Saudi Arabian authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14901/05]
Sharia, the law of the land in Saudi Arabia, permits corporal and capital punishment, and prohibits many activities which we would regard as matters of personal and private conduct. The Saudi Arabian authorities interpret the universal concept of human rights through the principles of Islam. Public criticism of Islam, including the Sharia law, is strictly prohibited.
In our ongoing contacts with the authorities of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Ireland and our EU partners have conveyed our concerns on human rights issues, and impressed upon them the negative impact which such practices have on public perceptions in Europe.
I am aware of the reports referred to by the Deputy. Inquiries are ongoing among EU partners to determine the facts.
204 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the cases of 15 former members of the Turkish Grand National Assembly (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15081/05]
The Government, and our partners in the European Union, have followed closely the cases of the Kurdish political representatives referred to by the Deputy. I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter Parliamentary Union adopted a resolution on these cases at its meeting in Manila on 8 April 2005.
Of the 15 former members of the Turkish Parliament mentioned, perhaps the most prominent case has been that of Ms Leyla Zana and three other members of the Democracy Party, DEP, who were elected in 1991. Ms Zana, Mr. Hatip Dicle, Mr. Orhan Dogan and Mr. Selim Sadak were arrested in March 1994 on charges of violating electoral law and membership of an armed organisation. They were sentenced to a 15 year prison term in December 1994. Following a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights in June 2001 that they had not received a fair trial, a retrial opened in the Ankara State Security Court in March 2003. The verdict was upheld in a ruling by the court in April 2004. Ireland, as EU Presidency, issued a declaration on behalf of the European Union expressing the Union's deep disappointment at the decision. Following a further appeal, the four were released in June 2004. Their conviction was overturned by the appeals court the following month. It is important to note that the State security courts, which handled this case, were abolished in July 2004. A second retrial of the case opened in December 2004 and the next hearing is scheduled for 23 May 2005.
The EU is monitoring developments in this case closely. It is essential that Ms Zana and her colleagues receive a fair trial on this occasion Deputies will be aware that the delegation from the Oireachtas Joint Committee on European Affairs which visited Turkey last November had the opportunity to meet with Ms Leyla Zana and her three colleagues at our embassy in Ankara. The Government continued to monitor the human rights situation in Turkey in cooperation with its partners in the EU and through the embassy in Ankara. Human rights issues are raised regularly in our contacts with the Turkish authorities, at political and official level. Turkey has been a candidate for membership of the Union since December 1999. In recent years, and in particular since the election of the Government of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, there has been very significant progress in the adoption of wide-ranging political reforms. These have included important legislative and constitutional reforms to protect freedom of expression and freedom of assembly and measures to enhance the cultural rights of all citizens, including the estimated 15 million people of Kurdish ethnic origin.
The European Council in Brussels on 16-17 December 2004 decided that Turkey sufficiently fulfilled the Copenhagen political criteria to enable the opening of accession negotiations. It decided that work should begin on a negotiating framework, with a view to the opening of negotiations on 3 October 2005. The pace of Turkey's accession negotiations will depend in large part on continued progress in the implementation of the reform programme. In our contacts with the Turkish Government, we will continue to emphasise the central importance of full implementation of all aspects of Turkey's reform legislation. The Government and our partners in the Union will also continue to highlight the need for further work in a number of areas, including women's rights, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and freedom of religion. Turkey's accession process, which will inevitably be a lengthy one, will contribute to the further strengthening of the reform process and to the continued improvement of the situation of the Kurdish population.
205 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the case of a person (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in relation to the matter. [15082/05]
Ms Merve Safa Kavakci was elected to the Turkish Grand National Assembly in the general election held on 18 April 1999. She represented a constituency in Istanbul, as a member of the main Islamist political group at the time, the Fazilet (Virtue) Party. At the first meeting of the new parliament, Ms Kavakci was prevented from taking the oath when other representatives protested that she was illegally wearing a headscarf. She was subsequently deprived of her Turkish citizenship, on the grounds that she is also a US citizen. In March 2001, she lost her parliamentary seat when her name was removed from the parliamentary records. Three months later, the constitutional court dissolved the Virtue Party on the basis that its Islamist character was incompatible with the secular constitution of Turkey. In 2001, Ms Kavakci filed an application with the European Court of Human Rights, challenging the decision to revoke her nationality and her parliamentary membership. I understand that a decision of the court on the admissibility of the case is pending. I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter Parliamentary Union adopted a resolution on the case of Ms Kavakci, at its meeting in Manila on 8 April 2005.
In recent years, and in particular since the election of the Government of Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey has made very significant progress in the adoption of wide-ranging political reforms. Important human rights reforms have been introduced, including legislation to protect freedom of expression and freedom of assembly, and the rights of women. Turkey has been a candidate for membership of the European Union since December 1999. The European Council in Brussels on 16-17 December 2004 decided that Turkey sufficiently fulfilled the Copenhagen political criteria to enable the opening of accession negotiations. It requested the Commission to begin work on a proposal for a negotiating framework and to present it to the council, with a view to the opening of negotiations on 3 October 2005.
The Government is working with its partners in the Union, and with Turkey, to ensure that all the elements are in place for the successful opening of accession negotiations in October. The pace of the negotiations will depend in large part on continued progress in the implementation of Turkey's reform programme. In all our contacts with the Turkish Government, we will continue to emphasise the central importance of full implementation of all aspects of Turkey's reform legislation. The EU will also continue to highlight the need for further work in a number of areas, including women's rights, freedom of expression, freedom of assembly, and freedom of religion.
206 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to 33 Zimbabwean parliamentarians (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15083/05]
The 33 Zimbabwean parliamentarians referred to have all reportedly been subject to various forms of harassment, arbitrary arrest and imprisonment by the Zimbabwean authorities. Regrettably, this is a pattern of intimidation of opposition politicians which has obtained in Zimbabwe for several years now where the overall human rights situation continues to deteriorate. Ireland and its EU partners have taken the lead internationally in highlighting the serious human rights situation in Zimbabwe and are active in pressing for the repeal of repressive legislation and an end to attacks on basic freedoms by the Zimbabwean authorities. It has been made clear that, until such time as there are genuine moves by the Zimbabwean Government to restore democracy, improve respect for human rights and engage in a meaningful political dialogue with opposition parties such as the MDC, there is no basis for positively reviewing or amending the EU Common Position on Zimbabwe which since February 2002 has imposed restrictive measures against the members of the ruling Zimbabwean elite. The initiative, therefore, remains very much with the Zimbabwean Government in this matter and I strongly urge them to respond in a positive fashion.
With regard to the situation of Mr. Roy Bennett, the former Movement for Democratic Change member of the Zimbabwean Parliament, I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 90 of 28 April 2005.
207 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the ongoing cases of assassinations, deaths in custody and parliamentarians in detention or imprisoned in Myanmar (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15084/05]
I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, adopted a resolution on 8 April 2005 concerning 23 parliamentarians in Burma, 15 of whom are reportedly in detention, six of whom are reported to have died in custody and two of whom are reported to have been assassinated.
Together with our EU partners, the Government has consistently condemned the lack of progress towards democracy in Burma and the continuing abuse of human rights and fundamental freedoms in that country. Most recently, the EU Troika of Foreign Ministers met with the Burmese Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. U Nyan Win, in the margins of the Asia-Europe Meeting, ASEM, of Foreign Ministers in Kyoto, Japan, on 7 May 2005. The troika expressed concern about the situation in Burma and called on the Burmese authorities to enter into a constructive dialogue with the opposition National League for Democracy, NLD, other legitimate representative bodies and ethnic groups. The troika also called for the release of all political prisoners and presented a list of 19 political prisoners, which the EU would like to see freed immediately on humanitarian grounds, to the Burmese authorities. The troika further appealed to the Burmese authorities to establish permanent and sincere co-operation with the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy on Burma, Mr. Razali Ismail, the special rapporteur on the situation on human rights in Burma, Mr. Sergios Pinheiro and with all relevant UN agencies. The Burmese Foreign Minister agreed to study the list of political prisoners and the demands expressed by the EU.
At the opening session of the ASEM Foreign Ministers Meeting on 6 May, European and Asian Foreign Ministers collectively expressed to the Burmese Foreign Minister, their concern at the situation in Burma and expressed the expectation that all restrictions on the democratisation process will be lifted at the earliest possible opportunity. Ireland was represented at the ASEM Foreign Ministers Meeting by the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy Roche. The Minister urged the Burmese authorities to release Daw Aung San Suu Kyi and all political prisoners. He also expressed Ireland's grave disappointment and concern that the Burmese authorities had failed to create the conditions for political parties to participate in the national convention, now in recess.
On 14 April 2005, the United Nations Commission on Human Rights passed without a vote a resolution introduced by the EU and co-sponsored by Ireland, criticising systematic violation of human rights in Burma, calling for the restoration of democracy and freedom for all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi. The resolution also called on the Burmese authorities to release unconditionally and immediately, all political prisoners, with particular emphasis on the elderly and the sick. It further called on the Burmese authorities to desist from arresting and punishing persons for their peaceful political activities.
The Government's continuing goal, and that of the EU, remains the return of democracy to Burma, an end to human rights violations there and the realisation of peace and prosperity for the long suffering people of Burma.
208 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the case of a person (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15085/05]
209 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the case of a person (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15086/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 208 and 209 together.
I am aware of the cases to which the Deputy refers. The Government shares the concerns expressed about the conduct of the cases against these persons and the conditions under which they have been detained. We continue to monitor these cases. The Government, both bilaterally and together with our partners in the European Union, has regularly conveyed its concerns to the Israeli authorities about the human rights implications of its security policies and stressed the importance of Israel complying with international humanitarian law.
210 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the case of the disappearance of a person (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15087/05]
On 7 April 2003, Dr. Leonard Hitimana, a member of the Transitional National Assembly of Rwanda representing the opposition Mouvement Démocratique Républican, MDR, party, disappeared after having left the home of another MDR Deputy in Kigali. It appears that Mr. Hitimana's disappearance may be linked to his activity in the MDR political party which was subsequently banned by the Rwandan parliament in May 2003. In particular, Dr. Hitimana had been accused in a report prepared by a parliamentary committee investigating the MDR of belonging to a group of people disseminating ideologies of ethnic discrimination. There is no proof, however, supporting such an accusation.
An official investigation into Dr. Hitimana's disappearance was immediately opened and is still under way and is being monitored by the Rwandan Parliament's Committee on Human Rights and National Unity. Rwandan authorities have suggested that Dr. Hitimana may have fled to either Uganda or to the Democratic Republic of Congo, since his car was found near the Ugandan border shortly after his disappearance. However, his family have rejected this suggestion. There are genuine concerns that Dr. Hitimana's disappearance may form one of a series of forced disappearances, arbitrary arrests and illegal imprisonments which have been widely reported in Rwanda in recent years.
Ireland and its EU partners continue to pursue an active political dialogue with the Rwandan Government within the framework of the Cotonou Agreement, particularly on issues such as democracy and human rights which can contribute to the promotion of national reconciliation within Rwanda. The European Union has made clear that there is a need to open up the political space within Rwanda to ensure greater freedom of expression and respect for the promotion and defence of human rights. Within the framework of this dialogue, Ireland and our EU partners will urge greater efforts to strengthen the rule of law within Rwanda and to ensure that forced disappearances are fully and properly investigated. Specifically, we will also urge the Rwandan authorities to continue their investigations and efforts to locate Dr. Hitimana.
211 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the cases of persons (details supplied); if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15088/05]
I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, adopted a resolution on 8 April 2005 concerning the imprisonment of the persons referred to, who were members of the People's Council of the Syrian Arab Republic. The presidency and the EU missions in Syria are following closely developments in relation to these cases, and have made known our concerns to the Syrian authorities. In addition, the European Parliament's special rapporteur for the EU-Syria Association Agreement, Véronique De Keyser MEP, raised the cases with the Syrian authorities while visiting Syria last month.
While there have been some improvements in recent years, the Government, and the EU, remain concerned about the protection of human rights in Syria, including the issue of freedom of expression. These concerns are conveyed to the Syrian authorities in our bilateral contacts or together with our EU partners.
212 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the murder of a person (details supplied) in January 2000; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in the matter. [15089/05]
I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, adopted a resolution on 8 April 2005 concerning the case of Mr. Tengku Nashiruddin Daud. I understand that Mr. Tengku Nashiruddin Daud, an Acehnese member of parliament in Indonesia, was killed in January 2000 and that an investigation into this case is still ongoing.
Ireland and our EU partners continue to monitor the political situation in Indonesia and human rights issues are regularly raised in discussions with the Indonesian authorities. The EU Troika of Foreign Ministers met with the Indonesian Foreign Minister, Mr. Hassan Wirajuda, in Jakarta on 10 March 2005. Human rights issues were discussed at that meeting.
EU Heads of Mission in Jakarta also raise human rights issues during regular political dialogue meetings with the Indonesian authorities. Indonesia is a focus country of the European Initiative for Democracy and Human Rights, EIDHR, the aim of which is to promote human rights, democracy and conflict prevention in non-EU countries. Through the EIDHR micro-projects facility, the European Commission delegation in Jakarta supports small-scale civil society activities in the field of strengthening the rule of law and the legal system, conflict prevention and resolution and freedom of expression and independent media. Together with our EU partners, the Government will continue to raise human rights in our discussions with the Indonesian authorities.
213 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the case of a person (details supplied) a former member of the House of Representatives of Malaysia who is barred from standing for election and from political activity; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in relation to the popular quest for a pardon by the King. [15090/05]
I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, adopted a resolution on 8 April 2005 concerning the former Deputy Prime Minister of Malaysia, Mr. Anwar Ibrahim.
Mr. Anwar was dismissed from office in 1998 and subsequently imprisoned for alleged offences of sodomy and corruption and sentenced to serve nine and six year sentences respectively. Following a number of appeals, he was acquitted on 2 September 2004, when his conviction on charges of sodomy was overturned. By the time of his release, Mr. Anwar had already served his full sentence arising out of his conviction on corruption charges. I understand that according to Malaysian law, Mr. Anwar is prevented from holding political office for five years after the ending of his sentence served for alleged corruption, in this case, until April 2008.
The EU issued a statement on 10 September 2004, welcoming Mr. Anwar's acquittal. The EU had monitored this case closely throughout the various stages of the judicial process. It had frequently expressed deep concern about the fairness of the legal proceedings against Mr. Anwar on both the sodomy and corruption charges. The EU continues to closely monitor the appeal process concerning Mr. Anwar's conviction for corruption.
214 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in regard to the case of the murder of a person (details supplied) in Mongolia in 1998, which was believed could have been politically motivated; if he will make a statement on the role he can play in the matter. [15091/05]
I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, adopted a resolution on 8 April 2005 concerning the death of the Mongolian parliamentarian, Mr. Zorig Sanjasuuren, in 1998. I understand that an investigation into his death is still ongoing.
Ireland and our EU partners continue to monitor the political situation in Mongolia. A trade and co-operation agreement between the EU and Mongolia entered into force in 1993. This agreement includes a commitment to protect human rights.
The European Commission adopted a country strategy paper on Mongolia on 27 December 2001. This paper set out the strategic framework within which European Community assistance would be provided to Mongolia in the period 2002-06. The country strategy paper notes that the overall human rights record is good in Mongolia but acknowledges that there have been shortcomings. The European Community has provided assistance to Mongolia in the general area of democratisation, including, inter alia, through supporting the activities of non-governmental organisations, increasing theoretical and practical knowledge of democracy and assisting the Mongolian authorities in reforming public management.
The European Union meets with the Mongolian authorities on a regular basis. The 8th joint committee meeting of Mongolia and the European Union took place in Brussels on 15 March 2005. That meeting provided an opportunity to review recent political developments in Mongolia. Together with our EU partners, we will continue to monitor the political situation in Mongolia.
215 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in regard to the case of the torture of a person (details supplied) in January 2000; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in the matter. [15092/05]
216 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in regard to the case of the holding in solitary confinement of a person (details supplied) a member of the National Assembly of Pakistan; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in regard to the violations occurring against this person. [15093/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 215 and 216 together.
I am aware that the Governing Council of the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, adopted resolutions on 8 April 2005 concerning Mr. Asif Ali Zardari and Mr. Makhdoom Javed Hashmi of Pakistan. I understand that Mr. Asif Ali Zardari, leader of the Pakistan People's Party, was released from prison in December 2004. Following his release, he travelled to Dubai to be with his family. He returned to Pakistan on 16 April 2005 and is reported to be currently at liberty.
I am aware that Mr. Makhdoom Javed Hashmi, leader of the Alliance for the Restoration of Democracy party, is currently serving a 23 year prison sentence for charges relating to defamation of the Pakistan authorities. I understand that the EU troika of heads of mission in Islamabad recently raised Mr. Hashmi's case with the Pakistan authorities during a démarche on human rights issues.
On a general level, Ireland and our EU partners discuss human rights and democratisation issues with the Pakistan authorities on a regular basis. Most recently, the EU troika of Foreign Ministers met with the Pakistan Foreign Minister, Mian Khursheed Kasuri, in Luxembourg on 27 April 2005. The Pakistani delegation briefed the EU side on political developments in Pakistan, including on human rights and democratisation issues. The EU stressed the importance of further democratisation in Pakistan.
Human rights issues were also raised at the EU-Pakistan Foreign Minister's meeting which took place in Islamabad in February 2004. The EU delegation was led by the then Minister for Foreign Affairs, Deputy Brian Cowen. On that occasion, the EU side expressed continued EU concern on human rights issues, such as treatment by police forces, blasphemy law, and the situation of women.
217 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in regard to the cases of persons (details supplied) who have been kidnapped for a number of years now; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15094/05]
218 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in regard to the case of a person (details supplied) who has been under threat of assassination; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in the matter. [15095/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 217 and 218 together.
I am aware that the Inter-Parliamentary Union at its meeting from 3 to 9 April 2005 in Manila considered the cases of the kidnappings of Mr. Oscar Lizcano, Mr. Jorge Eduardo Gechen Turbay, Mr. Luis Eladio Pêrez Bonilla, Mr. Orlando Beltrán Cuéllar, Ms Gloria Polanco de Lozada and Ms Consuelo González de Perdomo as well as death threats directed towards Mr. Gustavo Petro Urrego. I am also aware that the left wing guerrilla group FARC is said to be involved in the kidnappings while right wing paramilitary groups, with allegations of participation by elements of the security forces, are said to be involved in the death threats in the cases referred to by the Deputy.
Ireland monitors human rights in Colombia together with its partners in the European Union. The General Affairs and External Relations Council at its meeting on 13 December 2004 reiterated the EU's concern over the grave human rights and international humanitarian law situation in Colombia.
In the Colombian peace process, an essential element is the need for a comprehensive legal framework for the process of disarmament, demobilisation and reintegration of the illegal armed groups, based on the principles of truth, justice and reparation. This was emphasised in the Cartagena Declaration which was adopted at a meeting on international support for Colombia on 3-4 February 2005 in Cartagena at which Ireland was represented. The Colombian Government has since then introduced a justice and peace Bill in the Colombian Congress, which it argues will provide such a framework.
Ireland was actively involved in negotiating the recent Chairperson's Statement on the situation of human rights in Colombia which was adopted on 22 April 2005 at the 61st session of the Commission on Human Rights in Geneva. The statement appeals to the Government of Colombia to address the issue of impunity and to take action to improve the capacity and effectiveness of the judicial system and to take action where evidence of collusion with the paramilitary forces is found. My Department will continue to monitor the situation in Colombia, and particularly the progress of the justice and peace Bill, through our embassy in Mexico City, as well as in co-operation with our EU partners with resident embassies in Colombia.
219 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the cases of the murders of persons (details supplied) in January 2000; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in relation to the matter. [15096/05]
I am aware that the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, at its meeting from 3 to 9 April 2005, in Manila, adopted a resolution regarding the murders of Jaime Ricaurte Hurtado González and Pablo Vicente Tapia Farinango. I share the view of the IPU that due process is essential in such cases.
In a statement on recent political developments in Ecuador issued on 21 April 2005, the Luxembourg Presidency, on behalf of the European Union, called for every effort to be made to strengthen the democratic process and State institutions in that country.
My Department will continue to monitor the situation in Ecuador in co-operation with our EU partners with resident embassies in Quito.
220 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the cases of the holding incommunicado detention of 11 parliamentarians (details supplied) from Eritrea since September 2001; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in the matter. [15097/05]
The Government remains deeply concerned at the treatment of the eleven parliamentarians arrested on grounds of treason in September 2001, after they had issued a statement critical of the human rights record of the Eritrean Government and calling for a greater level of democracy and political space in Eritrea. None of the eleven parliamentarians detained have been allowed access to their families or legal counsel nor charged with any crime. Their whereabouts remain unknown.
Ireland and its EU partners pursue an active and open political dialogue with the Eritrean Government, within the framework of the Cotonou Agreement. Within that framework, EU ambassadors in Asmara have repeatedly pressed the Eritrean Government for information on the group and have urged that they either be released or brought before the courts on specific charges. The EU formally wrote to President Isaias regarding the case last September, in a letter issued by the Dutch presidency in Asmara which called on the Government of Eritrea to grant the detainees a fair trial in accordance with international law. The African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights has also found Eritrea in violation of the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights in connection with this case and has ordered the immediate release of the eleven detainees, a decision which was formally approved by the African Union Heads of State meeting in Abuja last January.
Ireland and its EU partners will continue to monitor closely the case of the eleven detainees and to raise this matter with the Eritrean Government as an example of the need for greater promotion of and respect for democracy, human rights and the rule of law in Eritrea. In this regard, the Luxembourg Presidency, in conjunction with the Eritrean authorities, has recently drawn up a set of performance indicators for the EU's political dialogue with the Government of Eritrea. These include the start of due process for political and religious detainees, detained journalists and other prisoners of conscience and provision for visits to political prisoners by EU ambassadors in Asmara. A further round of political consultations is expected to take place shortly in Asmara. In September 2005 the EU and the Eritrean authorities will undertake a joint assessment of progress towards achievement of the various performance indicators.
221 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the position in relation to the murder investigation of a person (details supplied) of Honduras in 1988; if he will make a statement on the role that he can play in relation to the matter. [15098/05]
I am aware that the Inter-Parliamentary Union, IPU, at its meeting from 3 to 9 April 2005 in Manila, adopted a resolution regarding ongoing court proceedings in the case of the murder of Mr. Miguel Angel Pavón Salazar in Honduras. I share the view of the IPU that due process is essential in such cases and I assure the Deputy that my Department will continue to monitor the situation in Honduras in cooperation with our EU partners with resident embassies in Tegucigalpa.
222 Ms Hoctor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts made by the Government in progressing the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15351/05]
This case continues to be closely monitored by my Department through the Irish Embassy in London. The embassy in London remains in contact with the person himself and with the prison authorities on his behalf. The embassy also met recently with the representatives of the group campaigning for his release.
As I have indicated previously in my replies on this case, I understand the person's solicitor is still seeking appropriate grounds on which either to lodge an appeal against conviction or to seek to have the case reopened. The embassy, following the last prison visit to him by a diplomatic officer, has also written to his solicitor on his behalf.
My Department will continue to provide all appropriate consular assistance and advice to the person concerned and his family. I will consider whether there is any further action that I might take when the legal position has been clarified.
223 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a new honorary consul has been appointed in Ecuador; if so, when the consul was appointed; if not, when the appointment will be made; if the Irish Consul Office in Ecuador is operational; if so, when it came into operation; if not, when it will come into operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15478/05]
The issue of appointing a new honorary consul is at present under active consideration and it is hoped to approve a nominee for the position very shortly. However, before an appointment can be confirmed, the agreement of the Ecuadorian authorities must also be obtained. Pending finalisation of the appointment, Irish citizens in Ecuador may seek consular assistance from the embassy of any other EU member state in Quito. They may also contact the Embassy of Ireland in Buenos Aires, which is monitoring the situation in Ecuador in relation to consular assistance.
Honorary consuls are not full-time employees of the State but are private individuals who undertake, in addition to their normal work, to provide a range of consular services to Irish citizens abroad. As a condition of their appointment, honorary consuls undertake to put in place the necessary staff and office resources to provide these consular services.
224 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the progress which has taken place in a nationwide audit of sporting facilities. [15177/05]
I refer the Deputy to Question No. 69 earlier in today's Order Paper.
225 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has planned to mark the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the European flag; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14838/05]
The Genealogical Office of Ireland is an integral part of the National Library of Ireland. The Deputy will be aware that the library was incorporated as a statutory body on 3 May 2005 and that I appointed a statutory board to administer the library's own affairs. I will invite the new board to consider how the anniversary of the adoption of this flag by the Council of Europe could be appropriately acknowledged.
In this connection, I take this opportunity to acknowledge the achievement of the then Chief Herald of Ireland, the late Mr. Gerard Slevin, in having his design concept for a European flag adopted by the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe in December 1955. This flag, comprising twelve golden stars on a blue background, was subsequently adopted by the European Community in the 1980s and is the emblem of the European Union.
226 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in relation to a sports lotto application by an association (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14920/05]
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.
Applications for funding under the 2005 programme were invited through advertisements in the press on December 5 and 6 last. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 February 2005. All applications received before the deadline, including one from the organisation in question, are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
227 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if community groups are eligible for grant aid under the sports equipment fund to supply gym equipment that will be used by the community on a non-commercial basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14921/05]
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. Projects must be directly related to the provision of sport and recreation facilities and be of a capital nature, which, for the purpose of the programme, is defined as: expenditure on the improvement or construction of an asset and includes any costs directly incurred in this process; and purchase of permanently based sports equipment, i.e., it is securely housed and will remain in use for five years or more.
In relation to funding for gym equipment, or any sports equipment, it should be noted that the programme does not assist in the purchase of personal equipment, such as sports kits, gloves, shoes, boots or personal protective clothing, etc.
228 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if funding is available for the establishment of a link club to cater for adults with special needs in the 18 to 35 age group in an extensive catchment are; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14923/05]
The national lottery-funded sports capital programme administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and to voluntary and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.
Projects considered for funding under the programme must be directly related to the provision of sport and recreation facilities and must be of a capital nature, which, for the purpose of the programme, is defined as: expenditure on the improvement or construction of an asset and includes any costs directly incurred in this process; and purchase of permanently based sports equipment, i.e., it is securely housed, and will remain in use for five years or more.
The programme, however, does not assist in the purchase of sites, premises or personal sports equipment, such as sports kits, gloves, shoes-boots or personal protective clothing, etc. The sports capital programme is advertised on an annual basis. Applications for funding under the 2005 programme were invited through advertisements in the press on December 5 and 6 last. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 February 2005. All applications received before that deadline are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
It is open to any voluntary or community organisation which wishes to develop a sporting facility to apply for funding under the sports capital programme club when applications are invited in the media on an annual basis.
229 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if college sports clubs are eligible for sports capital grants. [14985/05]
Under the national lottery funded sports capital programme administered by my Department, applications for funding are invited from voluntary and community organisations and sporting organisations and clubs, including college sports clubs. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.
Applications for funding under the 2005 programme were invited through advertisements in the press on December 5 and 6 last. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 February 2005. All of the 1,362 applications received before that deadline, including three received from third level college sports clubs, are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
230 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of money allocated to clubs in county Kildare, under the sports capital programme in the years 2000-04; the amounts actually paid in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15072/05]
The information requested by the Deputy regarding the allocations and payments under the sports capital programme in the period 2000-04 is as follows:
|
Year |
Funding Allocated to projects in County Kildare |
Payments made to grantees from County Kildare |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2000 |
2,541,381 |
1,246,440 |
|
2001 |
3,853,655 |
1,697,674 |
|
2002 |
4,870,000 |
3,131,195 |
|
2003 |
3,166,000 |
4,471,618 |
|
2004 |
3,357,000 |
2,652,947 |
|
Total |
17,788,036 |
13,199,874 |
231 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on the effect on the market here of attracting Japanese tourists with the launch of a new route (details supplied) in Nagoya, Japan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15165/05]
I am informed by Tourism Ireland that the new route referred to by the Deputy is from Nagoya in Japan to Paris. Although this new route should increase the number of Japanese tourists to Europe as a whole and does present some opportunities for Ireland given the strong air connection between Irish airports and Paris, the effect on the number of Japanese tourists visiting the island of Ireland is expected to be minimal.
232 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on correspondence (details supplied); if the matter has been reviewed by his Department; if any meeting has taken place; if he or his officials have met the Department of Finance on the matter; if any official has been appointed by him to attend such an investigation or review; if he plans to meet interested groups on the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15254/05]
The tax exemption for artists has contributed very significantly to the development of a viable arts sector in Ireland. The Arts Council has made a case to me for the continuation of the scheme, and I have passed this, with my strong support, to my colleague, Deputy Brian Cowen, Minister for Finance. My Department is continuing to collaborate with the Arts Council in assessing the relevance of this exemption for the arts in Ireland, and I will keep in close touch with the Minister for Finance in this context. I have directed my officials to continue to treat this matter as a priority.
233 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress which has been made in regard to an application for funding to refurbish and upgrade a swimming pool (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15255/05]
The proposal to refurbish Portarlington swimming pool is one of a number of swimming pool projects within the local authority swimming pool programme under consideration at present. There are four stages in the programme — preliminary report, contract document, tender approval and construction. The contract documents, submitted by Laois County Council for the Portarlington project, are being considered in the context of allowing the Council to invite tenders for the work proposed, taking into account the funding available in the Department's multi-annual capital envelope for the local authority swimming pool programme.
234 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his Department’s policy with regard to potential financial support for community based socially enhancing arts, sport or tourism related projects; the extent of likely financial assistance available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15429/05]
The national lottery funded sports capital programme administered by my Department, is the major source of funding available for the provision of sporting facilities for sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is demand led and only projects with a clearly defined sporting aspect are considered eligible. The types of projects funded include indoor sports halls, community sport facilities and sports playing surfaces, changing rooms and shower facilities available for the usage of individual clubs and community organisations.
Under the programme, every effort is made to achieve a balanced geographical spread of funds to benefit all types of eligible projects in all categories, having regard to the existing range of facilities in each county, while also affording priority to projects in disadvantaged areas aimed at increasing participation, particularly for young people.
The programme is advertised on an annual basis and the 2005 applications are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed. At this point, I could not say how many allocations will be made. The amount allocated under the programme since 1998 is €331.5 million to more than 4,250 projects.
My Department also administers the local authority swimming pool programme, which provides grant aid towards the capital cost of refurbishing existing swimming pools or for the provision of new pools. The maximum grant available is €3.8 million subject 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 closing date for receipt of applications under the current programme was 31 July 2000. Since then, 55 projects have or are being dealt with. Twenty-five projects have been allocated grant aid, 15 of which have been completed and ten are at construction stage. Thirty other applications are at various stages in the process, six are at tender stage, 15 are at contract documents stage and nine are at preliminary report stage.
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 relation to operational and maintenance issues, overall funding package for the project, technical details and the Department's annual estimates provision for the programme. The budget provision in my Department's Vote for the programme in 2005 is €32 million.
My Department also operates the ACCESS scheme which provides funding for the capital development of arts and cultural facilities, galleries, museums, etc., around the country. In August 2001, €45.71 million was allocated to 44 successful projects. Taking into account matching funding being provided by project promoters, the ACCESS scheme will result in almost €58.4 million going into arts capital infrastructure. As completion of these projects, is at differing stages, depending on local arrangements, procurement of matching funds and necessary legal issues being put in place it is not possible to state the number of groups which will benefit under the scheme in 2005.
My Department does not provide any direct funding to projects in the tourism sector.
235 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his Department’s policy in regard to the promotion of sporting and recreational community projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15430/05]
The policy objective of this Government for Irish sport is to promote and encourage an active sports sector with increased participation in sport, especially by young people in areas of disadvantage and to support the provision of good quality, sustainable facilities and opportunities for people to play an active role in sport. To contribute to a healthier lifestyle, it is vital that people of all ages and from all backgrounds have equal opportunities to engage in sporting activity and are encouraged to participate at a level that suits their needs.
My Department's Statement of Strategy 2003-2005, identifies the key areas to be addressed. These include the creation of expanded opportunities to participate in sport through facilitating the provision of sporting facilities at local, regional and national level with a particular emphasis on providing facilities for young people in disadvantaged areas.
The national lottery-funded sports capital programme is administered by my Department and advertised on an annual basis, provides funding towards the provision of sport and recreational facilities to voluntary, sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. This and the previous Government have, through the programme, provided unprecedented levels of funding for sport and its infrastructure by allocating €331.55 million to 4,273 projects between 1998 and 2004. This includes funding in the four year period 2001-2004 of over €121 million allocated to 1,266 projects located in areas designated as disadvantaged by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
The 1,362 applications received under the 2005 sports capital programme before the deadline of 4 February last are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in its guidelines, terms and conditions document. I intend to announce the 2005 grant allocations as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
The local authority swimming pool programme, which is also administered by my Department, provides grant assistance to local authorities for the construction of public swimming pools. This grant scheme has or is assisting 55 local authority-led pool projects throughout the country at the present time and 25 have either been completed or are currently under construction.
The projects funded through these two programmes form the backbone of sporting infrastructure in Ireland and provide the means for greater public participation in sporting activities. Under the sports capital programme in particular, such projects include the provision and development of facilities such as natural playing surfaces, synthetic and all-weather playing surfaces, changing facilities, floodlighting, indoor sports halls, and a vast range of sports equipment.
In addition, section 847a of the Taxes Consolidation Act provides for a scheme for tax relief for relevant donations to an approved sports body for the funding of sports capital projects. Approved sports status can be awarded by my Department for suitable capital projects, allowing for tax relief to be claimed by a club on donations towards the project that exceed the minimum qualifying threshold of €250 per annum. Full details of the tax relief scheme are available on my Department's website at www.dast.gov.ie.
236 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the likely extent of the cost of repairs to the national aquatic centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15431/05]
Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited has advised me that its structural engineers have received information from the contractors, Rohcon Limited, that the repairs to the national aquatic centre are expected to be completed by 20 May 2005, save for the neon lighting, which has a seven week delivery period. CSID has asked Rohcon to use all necessary resources to ensure that these dates are met, if not improved upon. On completion of the repair works, arrangements for the re-opening of the centre will be a matter for Dublin Waterworld, the operator of the national aquatic centre.
The cost of the repairs is a matter between the contractor and the insurers. I look forward to the completion of these works and the reopening of the centre as soon as possible.
237 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his Department’s policy in respect of the promotion of arts related projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15432/05]
239 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of arts related projects initiated by his Department and funded directly or indirectly in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15435/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 237 and 239 together.
My policy is to promote a vibrant arts sector in Ireland and to maximise participation in the arts at all levels. State support for the arts is, in the main, delivered through the Arts Council. The council, though under my Department's aegis, is independent on a day to day basis, and has statutory independence regarding the disbursement of its funds. The grant-in-aid payable to the Arts Council for 2005 amounts to €61 million.
In relation to the promotion of arts internationally, I recently launched Culture Ireland, the new body charged with the promotion of Irish arts abroad and this body has been given 12 months to develop its strategy.
My Department initiated and funded directly the cultural programme of Ireland's Presidency of the EU during the first half of 2004, the cultural exchange with China, which ran from April to November in 2004 and the Rejoyce Festival to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Bloomsday. The arts and culture enhancement support scheme, ACCESS, 2001-2004, initiated by my Department is ongoing, under which €45.71 million has been allocated to 44 projects, for the capital development of arts and cultural facilities around the country.
238 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the extent to which his Department has set out and realised sports projects in the past 12 months; the extent of the funding proposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15434/05]
The national lottery funded sports capital programme, administered by my Department, is the primary means of providing funding for capital sporting facilities to clubs and voluntary and community organisations throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis. Under the 2004 sports capital programme, €61 million was allocated in respect of 738 projects. These allocations give very real, practical effect to the commitment made in the programme for government that we will continue to invest in sports facilities around the country. This ongoing investment is yielding an excellent network of facilities for all levels of sport in Ireland and is providing a framework on which the delivery and implementation of national sports policy can be built, covering the three main pillars of our sports strategy: participation; performance; and excellence.
Almost €62 million has been provided in the 2005 Estimates for the provision of National Lottery-funded sports and recreational facilities. The 2005 sports capital programme was advertised in the national newspapers on 5 and 6 December 2004. The closing date for receipt of applications was 4 February 2005. A total of 1,362 applications were received by the closing date and are being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce grant allocations under the 2005 programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
Considerable progress has been made in advancing grant applications under the local authority swimming pool programme, which is administered by my Department. In 2003, €9 million was provided from my Department's Vote to support the construction and refurbishment of local authority swimming pools. In 2004, a record €17.6 million was provided. In that year, three pool projects opened to the public — in Finglas, Grove Island (Limerick) and Tralee — and nine projects were approved for grant assistance allowing construction or refurbishment work to commence at various locations throughout the country. A further six projects had their preliminary reports approved allowing the preparation of contract documents. Programme funding for 2005 has increased to €32 million, allowing further progress with projects. To date in 2005, one project has been approved to go to construction and seven more projects have had their preliminary reports approved, thereby allowing the preparation of contract documents. In summary, 55 projects have been or are being dealt with under the programme. Some 15 projects have been completed, ten are at construction stage, six are at tender stage, 15 are at contract documents stage and nine are at preliminary report stage.
The project to redevelop the stadium at Lansdowne Road has been successfully commenced within the past 12 months. The project will attract Exchequer support of €191 million and is scheduled to be ready for lodgement of an application for planning permission before the end of the year.
As a consequence of the Government's policy of providing substantial funding for sport, particularly towards the development and enhancement of the sporting infrastructure, a range of modern well-equipped facilities have been provided throughout the country.
240 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the discussions he has had with the authorities at the previously proposed National Stadium at Abbotstown; if the required land transfers have taken place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15436/05]
The state owned site at Abbotstown is currently under the ownership of the Minister for Agriculture and Food, except for the portion on which the National Aquatic Centre has been built. This part of the site was transferred to the ownership of Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited, CSID, when the National Aquatic Centre project was completed. A development control plan for a sport campus at Abbotstown has been received from Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited, which I intend to bring to Government shortly.
241 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his Department’s intentions in regard to the future of the film industry; the extra financial inducements to support the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15438/05]
It is my intention to support and promote film making in Ireland to the maximum extent possible. To this end I will attend the Cannes Film Festival later this month. Direct support of the industry is a matter for the Irish Film Board, which, although under the aegis of my Department, is independent on a day to day basis. The funds provided by my Department to the Irish Film Board in 2005 came to €14.45 million, an increase of 22% on the 2004 figure. The section 481 incentive for investment in film production has now been extended to at least 2008, with the amount that can be raised increased to €15 million from the start of this year.
242 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department will directly or indirectly support the building of community-based theatres or community centres adaptable for theatrical production in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15440/05]
My Department's arts and culture capital enhancement support scheme, ACCESS, provides capital funding for Arts and Culture projects throughout the country. Unfortunately all the funds under this scheme are fully allocated at present. I hope to be in a position shortly to clarify the position regarding a possible successor to the ACCESS scheme.
243 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he or his Department will directly or indirectly offer financial support towards the building of swimming pools in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15441/05]
Kildare County Council has applied for grant aid under the local authority swimming pool programme for the replacement of the existing swimming pools in Naas and Athy. In March this year, I approved the contract documents for the replacement of the pool in Naas and this approval allows the council to invite tenders for the work proposed. In the same month, I also approved the preliminary report for the replacement of the swimming pool in Athy and this approval allows the council to have detailed contract documents prepared for the project. Both projects will be considered further when the relevant documentation is submitted.
The programme has four principal stages in respect of a swimming pool project, which are, in order of progress: feasibility study-preliminary report; contract documents; tender; and construction. The Office of Public Works, which acts as technical adviser to my Department, evaluates each stage and local authorities cannot proceed to the next stage of a project unless prior approval issues from my Department. Grant aid is formally allocated when the tender for the project is approved.
244 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he provides funding for commemoration activities; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that County Wicklow will celebrate 400 years since its formation in 2006; if he will consider an application for funding to mark the event; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15472/05]
The moneys available to my Department for cultural purposes are earmarked primarily for use by the national cultural institutions such as the National Museum of Ireland, the National Library of Ireland and the National Archives.
My Department has no funds at its disposal under which financial assistance can be made available to support activities of this nature. However, Fáilte Ireland administers the festivals and cultural events initiative, a scheme that was established some years ago to expand regional tourism through festivals and cultural events by both assisting with the marketing activities of existing festivals as well as promoting new events. Applications for support from the initiative are accepted year round by Fáilte Ireland and must be submitted at least six months prior to the festival or cultural event taking place.
If the organisers of the commemorative celebrations in Wicklow wish to make an application for financial support under this initiative they should do so in writing to the festivals and cultural events officer, Fáilte Ireland, Baggot Street Bridge, Dublin 2. Full particulars about the initiative, including the prescribed application form, are available on Fáilte Ireland's website: www.failteireland.ie
245 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the fairness of persons not being able to qualify for social welfare payments either due to the income of their spouses or to an inadequate number of social welfare contributions and who consequently cannot take up places on community employment or social economy schemes; his proposals in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14931/05]
Eligibility for FÁS employment programmes is, in general, limited to persons who are long-term unemployed and in receipt of an unemployment payment or certain other welfare payments, such as the one-parent family payment or disability payments. It is appropriate to continue to target available resources at the most vulnerable and disadvantaged. Accordingly, there are no plans to change the eligibility criteria for participation on FÁS employment schemes.
246 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the provisions which exist in domestic and EU law to protect migrant workers; if the Government proposes to rectify the EU convention on the protection of the rights of all migrant workers and members of their families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14932/05]
The State is committed to the prevention of exploitation of migrant workers through its legislation. All workers in Ireland have the full protection of Irish employment law, which reflects the wider EU social protection framework. The law prohibits discrimination between workers on nationality or other grounds. Section 20 of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001 also provides for the avoidance of doubt that all employee protection legislation on the Statute Book in the State applies to a person, irrespective of his or her nationality or place of residence who has entered into a contract of employment that provides for his or her being employed in the State; and works in the State under a contract of employment. Therefore, all employee protection legislation applies to migrant workers in Ireland.
As regards the latter part of the question, I assume the Deputy is referring the UN International Convention on the Protection of the Rights of All Migrant Workers and Members of Their Families. Ireland has not yet signed and is not a party to this convention, which was adopted by the UN General Assembly in December 1990. The convention has been examined by my Department. It would appear that, in order for Ireland to ratify the convention, significant changes would have to be made across a wide range of existing legislation, including: legislation addressing authorisation to stay and to work; education, training and integration; family reunification; social security; transfer of income and taxation; housing; health and medical care; and electoral law. These changes would also have implications for our relations with our EU partners, none of which has signed or ratified the convention, or have signalled an intention to do so, and possibly for the operation of the common travel area between Ireland and the UK. We have no plans to introduce the changes in the foregoing areas, which would be necessary before Ireland could ratify or consider signing the convention.
247 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the length of time presiding officers had to work in polling stations during the by-elections of March 2005 which saw them working for 16 hours without a break; if this contravenes the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14978/05]
The Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 provides that an employee is entitled to a 15-minute break after working more than four and a half hours and to a further 15-minute break after working more than six hours. If a 15-minute break is not taken after more than four hours and 30 minutes work, a 30-minute break may be taken after more than six hours work. An employee would be entitled to a further break of 15 minutes after more than ten hours and 30 minutes work. In addition to these provisions, the 1997 Act also provides for a rest period of 11 consecutive hours in every 24-hour period. Thus the maximum permissible working day would amount to 13 hours.
The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is responsible for the law relating to the conduct of elections. Under electoral law, returning officers are responsible for all aspects of the running of elections, including the employment of staff.
The 1997 Act provides for the referral of a complaint to a rights commissioner by a person who feels that his or her employer may be in breach of the terms of the Act.
248 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will review the capping of community employment schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14979/05]
On foot of a review of FÁS employment schemes, which included detailed consultations with the social partners, I decided that with effect from 10 November 2004 the three-year cap would be removed for community employment, CE, participants aged 55 or over. Such participants are now eligible to participate on CE for a maximum of six years. The extension of the participation period from three to six years for over 55s should ensure the availability of sufficient clients to fill the available places. The continuation of ring fencing and prioritisation for the essential services of child care, health-related services and drugs task force clients, and the extended participation on CE by older workers will help to secure the continuity of community services generally.
249 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of delegations taken to south Kildare by IDA Ireland in the past two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15077/05]
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment, FDI, to Ireland, including its regions and areas. Ultimately decisions regarding where to locate, including what areas or sites to visit as potential locations, are taken by investors. IDA Ireland hosted two site visits to Kildare over the past two years, both in late 2003. In addition to targeting potential new projects, IDA Ireland is also working with its existing base of companies in the region with a view to supporting such companies with potential expansions and diversification of activities, which strengthen their presence in the region. At present 25 IDA client companies in County Kildare employ 10,109 permanent staff.
Last week, I performed the official opening of the new International Fund Services (Ireland) Limited, IFS, office in Naas, County Kildare, the second operation for IFS in Ireland. Located in Millennium Park, the Naas facility is on target to employ 140 people by the end of 2005 and 240 by the end of 2006.
Kildare continues to thrive across a broad range of activities in the housing, commercial, services and industrial sectors. As a result, many job opportunities are being created within the county. The population of the county continues to grow well above the national average and in 2004 significant developments in overseas investment have been announced including: the largest ever ICT investment in the country by Intel of €1.6 billion in wafer fabrication; a €21.4 million technology development centre by Hewlett Packard. Other overseas companies in the county such as Wyeth Medica, Oral B, Tegral Products, IFS, and Athy Concentrates, continue to provide solid job opportunities. Similar opportunities are being provided by the services and local industrial sectors.
I am confident the strategies and policies being pursued by IDA Ireland will continue bear fruit in terms of maximising sustainable investment and jobs for the people of Kildare.
250 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the action he will take to recoup the €300,000 given by the Enterprise Ireland to Swords-based telesales company (details supplied) in view of the fact that this company shut down its operations in March 2005 owing its employees, among many other creditors, on average six weeks unpaid wages before setting up business again under the name (details supplied). [15172/05]
When Enterprise Ireland-funded companies close or liquidate and contingent liabilities remain outstanding on grants paid to the companies, the liabilities fall due. I understand that Enterprise Ireland has informed the company in question that it is Enterprise Ireland's policy to seek revocation of grant moneys paid as the company is in breach of its legal agreement with Enterprise Ireland. In this case, following the appointment of a liquidator, Enterprise Ireland will follow its usual legal procedures in these matters. I have been informed that European ICT Resource Facilities Limited is still registered with the Companies Registration Office, CRO, and has not filed any documents indicating that it has ceased to trade. The CRO register of companies has no mention of the second company in question. I am informed by Enterprise Ireland that it is not aware of any new operation being opened by the company in Ireland.
251 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the sanctions his Department will take against companies grant-aided by State bodies that shut down owning money to creditors and employees before setting up business again under a different name. [15173/05]
The Director of Corporate Enforcement, ODCE, has a range of investigative and enforcement powers, which permit the imposition of criminal and civil sanctions by the Courts for breaches of the Companies Acts and abuse of the privilege of limited liability. The director's responsibilities include the supervision of unliquidated insolvent companies, UICs. The Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement has published a booklet on UICs, which indicates the director's approach to addressing this phenomenon. The director has undertaken to forward a copy of this publication to the Deputy for his information.
When companies grant-aided by the industrial development State bodies under the aegis of my Department close or liquidate and contingent liabilities remain outstanding on grants paid to the companies, the liabilities crystallise and the relevant agency seeks to have any moneys repaid to it. When these agencies consider providing funding assistance to any company, either new or expanding and which has had a prior corporate existence, I understand that they will take account of all aspects of the track record of the promoters of the company.
252 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will impose controls on the wholesale trade so that drink suppliers refrain from imposing price increases, at least into 2006, in view of pressures on the vintners trade in recent years and the consequent decline in their business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15280/05]
I have no plans to introduce price controls in any area of the economy. Government policy is aimed at increasing competition in the marketplace to improve consumer choice and enhance consumer welfare through lower prices. Suppliers and retailers of drink products, therefore, are free to set their own prices in the light of prevailing market conditions. However, the provisions of the Competition Act, which prohibit anti-competitive practices such as price-fixing, should also be borne in mind by undertakings in considering this matter.
253 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if an area near a site (details supplied), at which third parties are subjected to significant risk, constitutes a place of work in accordance with the terms of section 2(1) of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 1989; if so, if vulnerable third parties within such an area have a legal entitlement to copies of any risk assessment pertaining to the site in question; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15339/05]
It is not possible to determine from the information supplied whether the area referred to in the first line of the question constitutes a place of work.
If a site is subject to the European Communities (Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances) Regulations 2000, S.I. No. 476 of 2000, and, on account of its inventory, constitutes an "upper-tier" establishment then the following duties apply by virtue of Regulation 19. The operator shall make its safety report available to any member of the public who requests it. The information to be considered in a safety report is set out in the fourth schedule to the regulations and includes the identification and analysis of accidental risks. The company shall inform persons who are likely to be habitually in the specified area of the safety measures and the correct behaviour to be adopted in the event of a major accident. This information is also available to any member of the public upon request. The extent of the specified area is determined by the operator with the agreement of the HSA or in the case of non-agreement, by the HSA alone. In the case of "lower-tier" sites, the operator has no obligation to produce a safety report and no obligation to provide information that would be contained in such a report.
The difference between upper and lower tier is based on the levels of dangerous substances held at the establishment. The relevant quantities of dangerous substances, which determine an establishment to be upper — the most hazardous — or lower tier, are set out in Annex 1 to Council Directive 96/82/EC. The regulations do not place any other duty on the operator to make information on risk assessment available to neighbours unless that neighbour is also an establishment operator subject to the regulations, and the possibility of a "knock-on" effect has been identified by the HSA as provided for in Regulation 9.
Any advice provided by the HSA to a planning authority pursuant to Regulation 29 is provided on the basis that such information will be placed in the public sphere in accordance with normal planning practice. Any disclosure of information by the HSA related to the implementation of the European Communities (Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances) Regulations is subject to either the Freedom of Information Act or the Access to Information on the Environment Regulations in accordance with Regulation 36.
Risk assessment is required for workplaces outside the scope of the European Communities (Control of Major Accident Hazards Involving Dangerous Substances) Regulations 2000. However such assessment is in respect of employee protection and there is no obligation on employers to make such assessments available to persons other than their employees or others who may be at work on the employers site. The 1989 Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act and associated regulations do not provide right of access for non-employees to such risk assessments.
254 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he intends to introduce Directive 2003/105/EC before the deadline of 1 July 2005; if he proposes to seek a derogation from the EU on such matters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15340/05]
The preliminary drafting of a statutory instrument to transpose Directive 2003/105/EC is currently taking place in the Health and Safety Authority. Following clearance by the Health and Safety Authority's legislation and guidance sub-committee the draft will be forwarded to me for final legal settlement. My intention is to transpose the Directive 2003/105/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 2003 amending Council Directive 96/82/EC on the control of major accident hazards involving dangerous substances on time.
255 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to provide replacement industry to Dungarvan, County Waterford when the Waterford Crystal plant closes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15458/05]
256 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the discussions he has had with the Waterford Crystal management over the past 12 months. [15459/05]
257 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the discussions which Enterprise Ireland has had over the past 12 months regarding the future of Waterford Crystal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15460/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 255 to 257, inclusive, together.
I am aware that Enterprise Ireland has been working intensively with the company in question, not just over the past 12 months, but over recent years, to assist the company in addressing the competitive issues it faced. Enterprise Ireland has provided significant financial support for the company to develop new products to meet changing market needs, as well as providing overseas marketing support. Over the past seven years, the agency has paid almost €3 million in supports to assist the company with development projects. Unfortunately, the company has been unable to break a cycle of falling sales. Lightweight functional glassware, which can be outsourced from low cost countries, is now in demand as the market continues to move away from heavy cut crystal.
Senior management people from Enterprise Ireland, including its chief executive, have held meetings with the company in recent months to discuss the company's strategy. Cost saving action taken by the company in September 2004 has not been sufficient to prevent the restructuring programme, which the company has now deemed necessary, both to remove excess capacity and to improve manufacturing efficiency. However, I know that Enterprise Ireland will continue to work with the company as it goes through its restructuring programme.
The strategy for the south-east region is to promote the development of Waterford city as a gateway location to attract industry to the city and region. There has been success in attracting new knowledge-based industries with the locating in Waterford of Sunlife Corporation, AOL and Genzyme and the area has a strong indigenous presence including Dawn Meats and Radley Engineering. In Dungarvan, phase one of the site development has been completed on IDA Ireland's industrial park and the first client, Biopin, has been secured.
I am satisfied the combined efforts of the industrial development agencies, together with local interests, will continue to meet the ongoing needs of the area in question. An inter-agency forum has been set up to address the consequences of the closure of the plant in Dungarvan and the redundancies in Dungarvan and Waterford. The forum, to be chaired by the Waterford county manager, will have its first meeting on 13 May 2005.
258 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his proposals to keep income limits for the diet supplement in line with increases in social welfare payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14924/05]
Diet supplements are available through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive.
Diet supplements are subject to a means test. The amount of supplement payable in individual cases depends on which of two categories of diet, low-cost or high-cost, has been prescribed by the applicant's medical adviser, and the income of the individual and his or her dependants.
The basis for calculating the amount of diet supplement remained unchanged between 1996 and 2004. Increases in social welfare rates and in the cost of special diets since 1996 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 both 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 increased up-to-date 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 cases. Pending any changes I will make to the scheme, this year's increases in social welfare payment rates are disregarded in assessing entitlement in respect of new applications.
To inform future consideration of the scheme, my Department commissioned a study by an expert from the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute. The study examined the special diets prescribed in legislation for which assistance is available through the existing diet supplement scheme.
The study also considered the appropriate level of assistance required to cater for any additional costs involved in providing for necessary special diets, relative to the cost of a normal healthy diet.
The findings of this research study have been assessed by my Department to determine how diet supplement assistance should be developed. I intend to finalise consideration of that shortly and to introduce regulations to update the scheme as necessary.
259 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the orphan allowance is €121 per week but the foster allowance is €331 per week; if this discriminates against orphan children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14852/05]
The primary objective of the orphans payments administered by my Department is to provide income support in respect of children whose parents are deceased or who are unable and have failed to provide for them.
The weekly rate of payment is €121 per week. That is a substantially higher rate of payment compared with other payments made by my Department in respect of children. Foster carers, on the other hand, operate within a very specific framework, and the foster care allowance is intended not only to provide income support but to recompense foster carers for the expense incurred regarding looking after a child who would otherwise be in institutional care. Foster carers are therefore subject to rigorous scrutiny and ongoing monitoring by the health boards, and the children in their care are subject to a care plan. The foster care allowance paid by the health boards is paid at a rate of €297 per week, per child under 12 years of age, and €324 per week, per child of 12 years and over.
The two payment systems have, in my view, significantly different objectives, and I do not consider that there is a case for standardising payments in the area.
260 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person who is in receipt of the invalidity pension is entitled to the respite care grant of €1,000; the conditions for eligibility for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14908/05]
The respite care grant is an annual payment for carers who look after certain people in need of full-time care and attention.
The receipt of a payment from my Department by the carer or the person being cared for, including invalidity pension, does not affect eligibility for the grant. However, both the carer and the person in receipt of care must satisfy certain conditions as follows.
The carer must be aged 16 or over, ordinarily resident in the State, caring for the relevant person on a full-time basis, living with the person being cared for, or, if not, contactable quickly by a direct system of communication between his or her home and the home of the person being cared for, and have been caring for the relevant person for at least six months, which includes the first Thursday in June.
The person being cared for must be so incapacitated as to require full-time care and attention — medical certification is required — not normally live in a hospital, convalescent home or other similar institution, and not receive full-time care and attention within his or her own home from another person.
Application forms and information leaflets are available throughout my Department's network of local and branch offices and from citizens' information centres. Application forms and information leaflets will also be available from my Department's automated leaflet request line and website shortly.
Carers currently in receipt of either carer's allowance, carer's benefit, domiciliary care allowance or prescribed relative allowance, or if the person being cared for is in receipt of constant attendance allowance, will not have to apply for the grant, as it will be paid automatically.
261 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has satisfied himself that the proposed issue of public service cards is being dealt with expeditiously; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15035/05]
Following approval from the Government in June 2004 to begin work on a standards-based framework for a public services card, an interdepartmental steering group was established in September 2004. The proposed framework was agreed in principle by the steering group in March 2005, and detailed drafting is under way. That will accompany a memorandum to the Government which will also address future phases of work, including convergence issues and a communication and consultation programme. While the deployment of specific applications will continue to be the responsibility of individual agencies, it is proposed that those be co-ordinated under the overall programme.
Many of the legal, organisational and business foundation and infrastructural requirements for a card have been put in place over the last few years, with the enabling legislation on the PPS number and public service card in 1998, the setting up of client identity services in 2000, and the introduction and legislation of public service identity in 2002 as well as the support provided to agencies seeking to adopt the PPS number. However, a card standard could be introduced only in the context of wider industry standards. The technology is just now maturing, with the roll-out of EMV currently under way.
I am satisfied that the programme of work is being developed in accordance with the agreed timeframe.
262 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when the Government first considered proposals for the integrated social services system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15036/05]
263 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the key potential developments described for the integrated social services system described in a report published in 1996; the progress regarding each of them in the period since 1996 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15037/05]
264 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the potential developments described for the integrated social services system described in a report published in 1996 which are no longer considered relevant due to the passage of time, technological innovation or changes in policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15038/05]
265 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if any work on standards for social service cards or their replacement, that is, the public service cards, was undertaken or could have been undertaken in earlier years, particularly in the context of the interdepartmental report on the development of an integrated social services system, which was published in August 1996; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15039/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 262 to 265, inclusive, together.
On 21 December 1993 the Government approved, in principle, the development of an integrated social services system, or ISSS, which would provide a more integrated approach to the administration, delivery, management and control of statutory income support services.
An interdepartmental committee was set up to consult the agencies involved and put forward more detailed proposals to achieve integration. The committee reported in 1996 and made several key recommendations.
The report recommended that the RSI number should be the standard identifier for the sharing and transfer of personal information between public service agencies, and that appropriate legislation should be enacted and security arrangements reviewed. The RSI number should be triggered by the registration of birth on the GRO computer system. Those recommendations have been implemented.
The report recommended acceleration of the computerisation of births, marriages and deaths and reorganisation of the registration procedures, as well as enactment of the necessary legislative provisions. That has been implemented following an extensive programme of work involving my Department and the Department of Health and Children.
The report recommended that the use of the social services card should be expanded to support customer identification, speed up access to social services, support new electronic payment options, and provide secure access to personal information. In addition, consideration should be given to including a photograph on the card, and the public sector should be actively involved with the private sector in the setting of standards for smart card technology.
Many of the legal, organisational and business foundation and infrastructural requirements for a card have been put in place over recent years, with the enabling legislation on the PPS number and public service card in 1998, the setting up of client identity services in 2000 and the introduction and legislation of public service identity in 2002, as well as the support provided to agencies seeking to adopt the PPS number. However, a card standard could be introduced only in the context of wider industry standards. The technology is just now maturing, for example, the present roll-out of financial services smart cards.
The report recommended simplification of the assessment of means, and the introduction of a central means database. In that regard, significant complications and variations in the policies and process in different agencies were identified. A central means database was developed for my Department and considerable background work done on shared means services.
The report recommended several changes to the supplementary welfare allowance scheme, including the introduction of an appeals system, its computerisation, introduction of a national application form and transfer of the scheme to my Department. Several recommendations made in that regard have been implemented.
The report also recommended that social welfare customers should be offered the widest choice of modern payment methods, with a household budgeting facility. In that regard, all customers are offered a choice of payment method, that is, either to be paid at a post office of their choice or by EFT into an account at a bank or building society. Payment by cheque is also offered as an option for customers getting short-term payments. Customers opting for a particular payment method do so on a voluntary basis having regard to their own circumstances and needs.
My Department also introduced a household budgeting service, which allows set payments to be made directly to a range of utilities on behalf of the customer, which is operated by An Post on behalf of participating post office payment customers. The report also recommended that, where possible, a single contact local point for customers should be provided, a customer-first approach adopted, and an electronic information system developed to support the dissemination of information.
In that connection, my Department is implementing a customer-central approach in its service delivery modernisation programme. Regarding a single contact point for customers, a multiple-channel — for example, on-line, telephone — approach is now policy. Information is electronically provided via my Department's website. In the context of its local offices, my Department has availed of the opportunity to co-locate services with other agencies where possible, and when the opportunity arises my Department is still combining services within its own offices.
Overall, the recommendations contained in the report are still relevant. In technology, the environment has changed, with technology such as EDI, or electronic data interchange, now superseded by the opportunities offered by Internet-based technology.
While the focus of the report was on integrating social services, it acted as a key driver for the development of the wider e-Government programme. A Government decision of July 1999 re-launched the integrated social services system, or ISSS, as a wider initiative spanning all relevant public services, to be known as the REACH initiative and with specific objectives concerning the development and implementation of a national framework for the integration of public services. That mandate was later expanded to include the development of the public services broker, which offers a comprehensive set of services to public sector agencies and the general public, including a portal offering a single point of access to public services, www.reachservices.ie, and a set of shared services, including access control, e-payments, forms development, etc.
The public services broker will offer Departments and agencies a cost-effective and flexible means of delivering electronic services to customers, as well as providing them with the means to access data and services of other bodies.
266 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of directors, managers, secretaries or other officers of bodies corporate who have been charged with offences under section 213(7) of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act in the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15045/05]
No directors, managers, secretaries or other officers of bodies corporate have been charged with offences under section 213(7) of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act in the past five years. However, in the same period one employer was prosecuted under section 213(2) of the same Act for similar offences.
267 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of the alarming rise in the value of cash taken in armed robberies, he will consider accelerating the take-up of electronic funds transfers or equivalent payment arrangements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15048/05]
My Department's policy is to ensure that a range of payment options is available to customers, including electronic funds transfers to customers' accounts. That type of payment arrangement is not compulsory, and there are no plans to make it so.
It is Government policy to facilitate the greater use of electronic payment systems in the economy generally as they become available, and my Department, as a major generator of payments, will have a major part to play in that regard. The Department is undertaking a review of payment methods, and I envisage that the review will be completed by the end of this year.
268 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will clarify the payment arrangement in terms of children’s allowance for newborn babies; if he plans to amend the current system to enable payment from date of birth and not from the month after a baby is born; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15110/05]
Currently the births of all children born in the Republic of Ireland are registered electronically. The Department receives this information from the General Registrar's Office and allocates a PPSN to the child and also commences a child benefit application for them.
If the mother already has other children, the new baby is added automatically to the existing claim, and payment issues to the mother from the month after the child's birth. It is not necessary to fill out an application form or supply a birth certificate in those cases.
If the baby is the first child in the family, a partially completed application form is produced and sent to the mother to invite a claim. When she returns the completed application form, it is processed and payment issues, again from the month after the child's birth.
Currently, a person receives in the normal course 16 years child benefit, or 192 monthly payments, in respect of a child up to 16 years of age, as payments are made in advance each month, up to and including the month in which the child's 16th birthday occurs. In cases where a qualifying child continues in full-time education beyond the age of 16, child benefit will be paid up to and including the month in which the child's 18th birthday occurs.
There are no plans to change the current payment arrangements for child benefit.
269 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider raising the €50 limit applied to additional income for persons wishing to qualify for the national fuel scheme as a very targeted method of helping pensioners on low income to deal with the high cost of winter heating. [15131/05]
The aim of the national fuel scheme is to assist householders who are in receipt of long-term social welfare or health board payments and who are unable to provide for their extra heating needs during the winter season.
To qualify for an allowance under the national fuel scheme, an applicant must be in receipt of a qualifying payment, live alone or only with a dependant spouse or partner, child or children, or with other eligible recipients and be unable to provide for his or her heating needs from his or her own resources.
People who are in receipt of relevant non-contributory social assistance payments do not have to undergo a further means assessment for fuel allowance purposes. An income test applies in the case of other applicants, whereby they and members of their household may have a combined assessable income of up to €51 a week above the appropriate maximum social welfare rate applicable in their circumstances and still qualify for the fuel allowance.
Based on the new capital means assessment rules that I introduced with effect from 1 June 2005 for old age pension purposes, a fuel allowance applicant may have savings or investments of up to €46,000 above the appropriate maximum Irish contributory pension or benefit rate and qualify for fuel allowance from the start of the next winter heating season.
That formula provides an in-built annual indexation of the eligibility limits for fuel allowance purposes. Those income limits are increased automatically in line with the prevailing rate of the relevant allowance or pension to which the applicant has entitlement.
More generally, the significant increases in recent years in primary social welfare payment rates, such as the old age pension, have improved the income position for people dependent on the social welfare system. Those rates are payable throughout the year and are intended to cover basic living costs, including cooking and heating, supplemented where applicable by the fuel allowance during the winter heating season. Many households also qualify for electricity or gas allowances throughout the year under the social welfare household benefits scheme. In addition, a heating supplement may be payable through the supplementary welfare allowance scheme in cases of individual special need.
Apart from the indexation of the fuel allowance income limits each year in line with general social welfare pension or benefit increases, there are no plans to increase fuel allowance scheme rates or eligibility criteria. Any such change to the scheme would have to be considered in a budgetary context and in the light of other priorities.
270 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will consider improving the level of fuel support under the free schemes, which are confined to limited assistance on only one or other of electricity or gas bills; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15132/05]
One of the components of the household benefits package is the electricity allowance. That allowance was introduced in 1967 to ensure a basic standard of heat and light for specific targeted groups of people. The electricity allowance covers normal standing charges and up to 1,800 units of electricity each year.
Over time, the options of claiming bottled gas allowance or electricity — group account — allowance were introduced to facilitate those who were not connected to an electricity supply or were in self-contained accommodation.
The natural gas allowance was introduced as an alternative for those who were connected to a natural gas supply. For those incurring more expenditure on their gas bills than on their electricity bills, having the allowance applied to their gas bill was of more advantage.
A range of proposals has been made to extend the free schemes to include other groups and to increase their value. Those proposals are kept under review in the context of the objectives of the scheme and budgetary resources.
271 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department has studied the case for reintroducing a pay-related element into sickness benefit, which would be common in social insurance models throughout most of Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15143/05]
The Irish social welfare system is primarily a flat-rate system, and rates of payment under the various schemes are set by reference to the objective of ensuring an income for recipients sufficient to live life with dignity. The policy followed by successive Governments has been to increase the basic levels of payment up to a benchmark level of €150 per week in 2002 terms by 2007.
The payment of a pay-related benefit supplement, or PRB, in addition to disability benefit was phased out with effect from April 1992 as part of the policy of directing available resources towards those most in need by increasing the basic rate of payment rather than through pay-related supplements. That policy is broadly in line with the recommendations of the Commission on Social Welfare.
The basic rate of disability benefit has been significantly increased since 1992. While the cost of living index rose by 39.9% in the period, the rate of disability benefit increased by 100.3%, that is, 2.5 times the rate of inflation. In addition, the rate of disability benefit has increased by significantly more than average industrial earnings, which increased by 81.1% in the period up to December 2004.
Improvements in the basic rate of disability benefit are of benefit to all recipients, whereas PRB was only paid in the case of a minority of recipients — in the region of 20%.
There are no plans for the reintroduction of the pay-related element to disability benefit.
272 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the outcome of the review of exemptions to PRSI granted to Gama workers according to replies to previous parliamentary questions; the social welfare payments which have been awarded in Turkey on behalf of these workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15193/05]
As previously advised, applications for exemption certificates from the company were examined to ensure the qualifying conditions were met. A declaration was obtained from the company that the employees continued to be subject to social insurance in their home country. A request has issued to the relevant social insurance authority to confirm that social insurance contributions were paid in respect of several of the workers concerned, and a reply is awaited.
Entitlement to benefits for the employees in question is a matter for the overseas social insurance authority. Information is not available to my Department regarding the benefits paid, if any, to the individuals concerned.
273 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of exemptions from PRSI which have been granted annually to foreign workers who have been here for fewer than 52 weeks; the countries they have come from; and the companies or persons they have worked for, for each year since 1998 to date. [15194/05]
The information sought by the Deputy involves an amount of detail, and I am arranging for it to be forwarded to her at the earliest possible date.
274 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of civil servants in his Department who have made settlements with the Revenue Commissioners as tax defaulters; his views on whether this is appropriate in view of his Department’s auditing role regarding EU and national schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15258/05]
My Department does not hold information regarding the tax affairs of individual staff members.
275 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of perceived risks that persons could emigrate while continuing to claim social welfare assistance payments and that such frauds could be facilitated by the adoption of EFT, he has considered an extension of An Post arrangements for unemployment payments whereby his Department could be enabled to receive precise and detailed information on the cashing or withdrawal patterns adopted by beneficiaries that would help identify potential fraudulent situations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15398/05]
Risk analysis is a key element of my Department's control strategy. That entails the identification of areas at high risk of fraud and abuse in the various schemes and putting in place appropriate measures to address them systematically. Any risks associated with each claim or payment type are addressed in that context.
Social welfare payments made by direct payment, or EFT, are paid directly into the customer's bank or building society account. My Department is empowered to seek information from claimants of social assistance payments regarding such accounts. Obtaining such information from financial institutions, however, would be subject to the confidentiality of relationships between customers and their bank or building society. The issue of access to account information is one of the matters kept under review in the context of developments in the Department's control strategy.
Previous EFT control projects undertaken regionally had identified that the risks associated with EFT as a payment method lie mainly in the criteria used for placing customers on EFT in the first instance. The Department plans to use the evaluation of the EFT control initiatives to develop such criteria, which may include the requirement for customers to demonstrate an attachment to their area of residence.
276 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if estimates have been made of the administrative and agency services charge savings for printing, distribution, cashing and reconciling; if any estimates have been made of the potential losses that could occur under EFT systems using the Department’s own experience with equivalent systems and the experience of the private pensions industry that would seem to face similar risks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15400/05]
A strategic review of my Department's future payment requirements has commenced, with the aim of identifying payment solutions for the future which will be flexible, cost-effective, customer-focused, manageable and accountable.
The study will take account of current market offerings in the financial services sector and future advances in card-based technologies with a view to seeing how future needs might best be met. An inherent part of the study will be to identify the overheads of the different payment methods and to assess the potential savings arising from the adoption of the proposed payment solutions.
No estimate has been made of the potential losses that could occur under the EFT payment system compared with other payment methods. The potential losses associated with any claim are dictated more by the risks associated with a particular claim rather than by the payment method.
Risk analysis is a key element of my Department's control strategy. That entails the identification of areas of risk of fraud and abuse in the various schemes and putting in place appropriate measures to address them systematically. Any risks or losses arising in the context of payment by EFT would be addressed in that context.
277 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason supplementary welfare payment has been refused in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare while her appeal against termination of one-parent family allowance is pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15456/05]
The person concerned had been refused one-parent family payment by my Department on the grounds that she was cohabiting. She has appealed that decision to the social welfare appeals office.
In the light of that situation, the Dublin and mid-Leinster area of the Health Service Executive has advised that it requested the person concerned to clarify her household circumstances so that her continued entitlement to supplementary welfare allowance and rent supplement could be assessed. She failed to provide the clarification sought, and those payments were terminated by the executive accordingly.
The executive has further advised that she has been unsuccessful in appealing against that decision to its area appeals officer. At the request of the person concerned, her case was referred by the executive to the social welfare appeals office for further adjudication, and a decision on that appeal is expected shortly.
278 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Transport if grant assistance is available for a person involved in the road haulage business and who is seeking to expand their operation to keep it viable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14891/05]
My Department does not provide grant assistance for persons involved in the operation of a road haulage business. However, where hauliers are seeking to expand their business, my Department does provide advice to hauliers on the requirements to be met for maintaining their operator's licence, including the financial considerations.
279 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he intends to introduce legislation to permit random testing for drug use by car drivers. [15291/05]
The Road Traffic Act 1994 provides that a member of the Garda Síochána may, where he or she is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person to submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample which will then be subject to analysis by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety.
In regard to roadside testing, the Medical Bureau of Road Safety is aware that screening devices based on oral fluid specimens are being developed for the purpose of carrying out roadside drug testing. Such testing devices are in prototype stages and the MBRS is keeping abreast of developments in this area. There is therefore no feasible basis for the introduction of a scheme of preliminary roadside testing for drugs at this stage.
280 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Transport if he has approved the feasibility study completed by Iarnród Éireann, Meath County Council, Fingal County Council and the Dublin Transportation Office on the provision of a rail link between Dublin and Navan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15292/05]
I understand Iarnród Éireann is examining the feasibility study on the proposed Clonsilla-N3 interchange railway line, in consultation with Meath and Fingal county councils. The next step is for Iarnród Éireann to decide if and how it wishes to proceed with this project and I expect a report will be submitted to my Department in the near future. The question of my approval will only arise following the submission of that report.
281 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Transport, further to Question No. 351 of 15 February 2005, if the scheme showing restrictions that were considered for the purpose of air safety at Shannon Airport was proposed by his Department; the lengths of the then proposed extensions to runways 06/24 and 14/32 or 13/31 that were taken into account in the said scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15342/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply of 9 March 2005 to his previous Question No. 222 in this matter. I understand the scheme referred to by the Deputy, which was prepared in the late 1960s, envisaged restrictions relating to runways 05/23 and 18/36 for the purposes of air safety. The further details requested by the Deputy are now the responsibility of the Dublin Airport Authority, formerly Aer Rianta.
282 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a grant is available for rural electrification schemes for small farms in isolated areas in order to allow electricity to be brought thereto; if he will furnish the relevant information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14906/05]
My Department administers the farm electrification grants scheme which subsidises the installation of electricity supply to farms located in disadvantaged areas which are without supply or where supply is inadequate. The scheme provides financial assistance to farmers who wish to provide or increase electricity supply to their farms. The grant aid available to successful applicants for new or increased supply is 80% of eligible costs to a maximum of €2,032 with any balance to be borne by the applicant. The maximum grant aid for three-phase supply — where a heavier current is required — is €4,064. Intending applicants must apply through their local ESB office where information leaflets and application forms are available.
283 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the proposals he has to simplify Irish language grammar to enable the language to survive (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15359/05]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 326 of 4 May 2005.
284 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil eolas aige faoi chinneadh stairiúil an Bhoird Pleanála maidir le cúrsaí pleanála sa Ghaeltacht agus an bhfuil sé i gceist aige dul i gcomhairle leis an Aire Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil féachaint le rialacháin a dhéanamh faoi alt 33 den Acht um Pleanáil agus Forbairt 2000 a cheanglódh ar lucht forbartha an fhaisnéis chuí a sholáthar chun go n-ullmhófaí ráiteas tionchair teanga neamhspleách maidir le forbairt mholta i limistéir Ghaeltachta. [15719/05]
285 D’fhiafraigh Aengus Ó Snodaigh den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta i bhfianaise chinneadh stairiúil an Bhoird Pleanála maidir le cúrsaí pleanála sa Ghaeltacht, an bhfuil sé i gceist aige dul i gcomhairle leis an Aire Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil féachaint le rialacháin a dhéanamh faoi alt 33 den Acht um Pleanáil agus Forbairt 2000 ar rialacháin iad a cheanglódh ar lucht forbartha an fhaisnéis chuí a sholáthar chun go n-ullmhófaí ráiteas tionchair teanga neamhspleách maidir le forbairt mholta i limistéir Ghaeltachta. [15510/05]
286 D’fhiafraigh Mr. J. Higgins den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta i bhfianaise chinneadh stairiúil an Bhoird Pleanála maidir le cúrsaí pleanála sa Ghaeltacht, an bhfuil sé i gceist aige dul i gcomhairle leis an Aire Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil féachaint le rialacháin a dhéanamh faoi alt 33 den Acht um Fhorbairt agus Pleanáil 2000 ar rialacháin iad a cheanglódh ar lucht forbartha an fhaisnéis chuí a sholáthar chun go n-ullmhófaí ráiteas tionchair teanga neamhspleách maidir le forbairt mholta i limistéir Ghaeltachta. [14850/05]
Tógfaigh mé Ceisteanna Uimh. 284 go dtí 286 le chéile.
Mar is eol don Teachta, is í an Roinn Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil agus na húdaráis áitiúla atá freagrach as cúrsaí pleanála sa Ghaeltacht, ar a n-áirítear cur i bhfeidhm na bhforálacha faoi leith san Acht um Pleanáil agus Forbairt 2000 a bhaineann leis an nGaeltacht féin. Is faoin Roinn sin dá réir atá sé go príomha na himpleachtaí a eascraíonn as na cinntí a rinne an Bord Pleanála a mheas agus gníomhú mar is gá faoi réir na reachtaíochta.
I gcomhthéacs chuspóir lárnach mo Roinne-se maidir le húsáid na Gaeilge mar phríomh-theanga na Gaeltachta a bhuanú agus a láidriú, áfach, fáiltím roimh an gcinneadh a rinne an Bord Pleanála. Is cosúil go mbeidh gá codán faoi leith de thithe a chur ar leataobh feasta do lucht labhartha na Gaeilge i gcás forbairtí ar nós eastáit tithíochta sa Ghaeltacht. Tá súil agam go mbeidh an beartas seomar thaca praiticiúil chun an Ghaeilge a chothú mar theanga phobail agus teaghlaigh sa Ghaeltacht.
Is fiú a rá freisin gur chuir mo Roinnse aighneacht chuig an mBord Pleanála i 2004 chun aird an bhoird a tharraingt go sonrach ar an gcontúirt a d'fhéadfadh a bheith bainteach le lonnaíocht ar nós eastáit tithíochta i gceantair oifigiúla Gaeltachta. Cuireadh béim ar an ngá le straitéisí réadúla cuí a fhorbairt chun díriú ar riachtanais na gceantar seo i gcomhthéacs teangeolaíoch. Chomh maith leis sin, i 2003 cuireadh aighneachtaí chuig na húdaráis áitiúla ar fad a bhfuil ceantar Gaeltachta faoina gcúram d'fhonn a n-aird a tharraingt ar na dualgais atá orthu i ndáil leis an nGaeilge sa Ghaeltacht i gcomhthéacs an Achta thuasluaite.
Ar mhaithe le cuidiú leis an bpróiseas, tá fo-ghrúpa NASC ag feidhmiú faoi scáth Údarás na Gaeltachta atá ag obair faoi láthair ar dhréacht-threoirlínte. Tá an grúpa seo comhdhéanta d'ionadaíocht ó mo Roinn féin, Údarás na Gaeltachta agus Údarás Réigiúnach an Iarthair, chomh maith le Chomhairle Chontae Chorcaí, Comhairle Contae Dhún na nGall, Comhairle Chontae na Gaillimhe, Comhairle Cathrach na Gaillimhe, Comhairle Chontae Chiarraí agus Ollscoil na hÉireann Gaillimh. Tuigtear go bhfuil sé i gceist na treoirlínte seo a eisiúint chomh luath agus a bheidh siad aontaithe.
Ní miste a rá chomh maith go bhfuil mo Roinn i dteagmháil leis an Roinn Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil faoi chúrsaí pleanála go ginearálta sa Ghaeltacht le tamall anuas d'fhonn na féidearachtaí a chíoradh maidir le seimineár a eagrú faoin ábhar. Tá an scéal seo go ginearálta á mheas faoi láthair ag mo Roinn i gcomhar le hÚdarás na Gaeltachta.
287 D’fhiafraigh Mr. O’Shea den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé sásta nach bhfuil oiread agus cent amháin á chaitheamh i ndáilcheantar Phort Láirge nó i réigiún an Oirdheiscirt i mbliana (sonraí tugtha) agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina leith. [14976/05]
Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheisteanna Uimh. 114 agus 115 uaidh den 17 Feabhra 2005.
Mar a dúirt mé cheana, tuigfidh an Teachta gur cheist d'Fhoras na Gaeilge féin cinntí a dhéanamh maidir le soláthar deontas, i gcomhréir leis an réimse reachtúil ina bhfeidhmíonn sé agus na pleananna gnó agus corparáide atá aige.
288 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the zone in which Mayo is situated in respect of the nitrates directive implementation action plan submitted to the EU in April 2005; the effect this will have on the county; and the areas affected by it. [14839/05]
The implementation of the nitrates directive is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. For the purposes of the revised action programme, on which my Department has been consulted, Mayo is located in zone B as it was in the earlier version sent to the European Commission in October 2004. The provisions of the action programme will apply to all areas of the county. The general requirements proposed for zone B will include a minimum storage capacity on farms of 18 weeks and prohibitions on landspreading of chemical fertiliser from 15 September to 15 January, of organic fertiliser from 8 October to 15 January and of farmyard manure from 1 November to 15 January.
289 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when she intends to implement the findings of the recently published report on the early retirement scheme from farming; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14840/05]
I received the report of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food on 7 April. I have asked my officials to consider the recommendations contained in the report having due regard to the terms and conditions both of the early retirement scheme itself and of the European Commission regulations under which both the current and previous schemes were introduced.
290 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if all outstanding payments will be issued for a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14848/05]
The person named submitted five applications under the 2004 special beef premium scheme, in respect of a total of ten animals. Payment has issued in full in respect of these ten animals. No applications were received under the scheme from the spouse of the person named.
Ten animals eligible under the 2004 slaughter premium scheme were slaughtered under the herd number of the person named. Payment in full has issued in respect of these ten animals. The spouse of the person named had no eligible animals slaughtered under the scheme.
The person named applied for premium on three animals under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme. Payment of his 60% advance instalment amounting to €403.47 issued on 19 October 2004 and the balancing instalment for €268.98 issued on 1 April 2005. These represent payment in full in respect of the three animals for which application was made. The deceased spouse of the person named was not an applicant under the suckler cow scheme.
The person named has received his full entitlement under the 2004 ewe supplementary premium scheme. The deceased spouse of the person named was not an applicant under the scheme. In addition, the person named has received his full entitlement under the 2004 area based compensatory allowance scheme.
There are no outstanding extensification premium payments due to the person named nor to the estate of the deceased. In regard to the 2004 extensification, applications were lodged under both herd numbers. The stocking density of the holding in the case of the person named amounted to 3.3891 livestock units per hectare. Under EU regulations, where the stocking density of a holding is greater than 1.80 livestock units per hectare, extensification premium cannot be paid. In the case of the second holding, while the stocking density amounted to only 0.1060 livestock units per hectare, since neither suckler cow premium nor special beef premium applications were lodged under the herd number, the question of payment of 2004 extensification does not arise.
The person named is not an applicant under the on-farm investment schemes or rural environment protection scheme.
291 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the total amount of entitlements under the single payment scheme for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if she is aware that for the reference years 2000 to 2002, the land was owned and farmed by this person’s father who subsequently legally transferred the farm to him in April 2003; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14898/05]
The person named submitted an application for consideration in respect of both the new entrant and inheritance measures under the single payment scheme. Following processing of his application, the person named was advised his inheritance application was successful. The appropriate entitlements gifted with land during the reference period have been transferred to the person named. The new entrant application was disallowed as no entitlements were established during the reference years 2000 to 2002 by the person named.
A statement of provisional entitlements reflecting the transfer of the proportion of land and entitlements issued to the herdowner on 22 March and a duplicate has now been issued.
292 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason the full entitlements under the single payment scheme for 2002 only has not been granted to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if she is aware that this person commenced farming in 2002 and is a fully qualified young farmer; if, in the circumstances, the total amount of payments received in 2002 will be translated into this person’s single payment entitlements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14899/05]
The person named submitted an application for consideration in respect of both the new entrant and inheritance measures under the single payment scheme.
Following processing of his application the person named was advised that his application under the inheritance measure was successful. The percentage entitlements gifted with land during the reference period have been transferred to him.
The new entrant application was disallowed as no entitlements were established by the person named during the reference years 2000-02. A statement of provisional entitlements reflecting the transfer of the proportion of land and entitlements issued to the herdowner on 22 March and a duplicate has now been issued.
293 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Limerick will receive additional quota from the national reserve. [14934/05]
Allocations of milk quota from the national reserve are granted on the basis of recommendations from the milk quota appeals tribunal. The tribunal was established to consider and advise on applications for additional quota from individual producers who have suffered severe hardship in the context of the milk quota system. It also examines applications from producers whose herds have been restricted by animal disease in the current milk quota year.
The person in question last applied for additional quota on the grounds of hardship in 1997. I understand that he sold his milk quota in 2000 and he is no longer a milk producer. Only active milk producers can apply to the milk quota appeals tribunal for an allocation of additional milk quota from the national reserve.
294 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the legal authority, including EU and Irish regulations, which empowers her mandatorily to oblige livestock farmers of holdings run under a herd number registered in more than one name to cede legal authority or accountability for key control areas of a joint or multiple owned herd to only one person to be known as the keeper of the animals; the way in which the demand is in compliance with the natural and constitutional principles of fair procedure and equality before the law; the published conditions which entitle her to disqualify farmers, including women and family members with equal or other ownership interest in animals within a holding, from payment of subsidies or other entitlements, or the ownership of animals, when they refuse to comply with the demand; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14949/05]
307 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the legal authority, including EU and Irish regulations, under which she is empowered to force livestock owners in holdings governed by a herd number registered in more than one name to nominate only one person to act as keeper for the herd when the person so nominated would be the only person open to prosecution and, on conviction, potentially liable to heavy fines or imprisonment, in the event of prosecutions connected with such person’s area of responsibility being brought before the courts by her Department; her views on whether the imposition of such a draconian requirement on livestock owners is at one with the principles of social justice or in compliance with the natural and constitutional principles of fair procedure and equality before the law; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15353/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 294 and 307 together.
Article 2 of Regulation (EC) No. 1760/2000 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 17 July 2000, which established a system for the identification and registration of bovine animals and the labelling of beef and beef products, defines a "keeper" as any natural or legal person responsible for animals whether on a permanent or temporary basis, including during transportation or at a market. In line with this definition, in circumstances where more than one person has an interest in a herd, my Department requires a single person to be nominated as keeper to be the initial point of contact in regard to animal inspections, testing, identification, records etc. to sign documents pertaining to the identification of the animal and to be deemed legally responsible for the day-to-day care and welfare of the animals. It also places a responsibility on the keeper to notify the database of animal births, deaths and movements, to keep the herd register and to sign certain documents such as the animal passport when the keeper takes possession of an animal. The designation of more than one person as keeper would lead to general confusion, possible denial of responsibility, duplication of communication to all named parties difficulties in supply of identification tags and documents and difficulties in prosecutions, all of which could delay immediate action in regard to the prevention of the spread of animal disease and the protection of animal welfare.
With regard to prosecutions for non-compliance with relevant legislation, since the keeper is the person defined in EU and national legislation as being responsible for the animals, he or she will be held responsible before the law for any breaches of this legislation. However, where justified by the evidence available, other persons who have an interest in the herd or who are involved in the maintenance of the herd may also be prosecuted for such breaches.
In regard to entitlements under the various schemes operated by my Department, the keeper role is classified as a non-financial role and payments are made to herdowners rather than to keepers. As stated in my Department's information note for applicants for a herd or flock number for cattle, sheep and-or goats, which is issued by the district veterinary offices, persons other than keepers who have an interest in the herd may register their interest in the herd as herdowners through form ER1.1 and, accordingly, qualify for payment under these schemes. In view of this, it is not the case that the requirement to designate a single keeper disqualifies some farmers from these schemes.
295 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when money will be awarded under the disease eradication scheme under the hardship fund for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14980/05]
The hardship grant is aimed at assisting eligible owners or keepers whose herds are restricted during the period 1 November to 30 April. Under the terms and conditions of the hardship grant 2004-05, payment will not be made where the owner or keeper fails to co-operate with veterinary inspectors or authorised officers in carrying out their duties under the diseases eradication schemes.
In this instance the person concerned had a TB round test on 22 October 2004. Twelve of the 122 animals tested were reactors. The second part of this test was carried out on 26 November and a further two reactors were disclosed. The person concerned did not allow the Department to remove these animals until 14 January 2005, a delay of six weeks, thus disqualifying him for hardship grant due to non-compliance with testing regulations.
296 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the way in which farmers who need to spread slurry on their own land may be affected by building development which is to occur on the boundaries of their land; if the REP scheme guidelines regarding the advice not to spread within 50 m of residents will apply when the housing development is new; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14981/05]
It is a condition of REPS that slurry may not be spread within 50 m of any school grounds, public building or amenity area and that there must be no spreading of slurry within 1.5 m of any field boundary.
The specification for REPS planners in the preparation of REPS plans also recommends a buffer strip of up to 50 m where land spreading of animal manures takes place adjacent to housing development. This recommendation applies equally to new and existing housing development.
297 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason a person (details supplied) has not yet received a suckler cow payment; when it will be released; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14982/05]
The person named submitted two applications under the 2004 special beef premium scheme in respect of a total of five animals. The first application, in respect of three animals, was received on 16 January 2004. The second application, in respect of two animals, was received on 2 November 2004. The 60% advance payments issued on 18 October 2004 and 25 February 2005, respectively. Following computer validation, one of the animals included on the second application was found to be ineligible and was deleted. The balancing payment in respect of the four eligible animals will issue shortly.
The person named applied for premium on nine animals under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme. Payment of his 60% advance instalment amounting to €1,210.41 issued on 19 October 2004. The application has been processed and found in order for balancing payment. However at balancing payment stage all administrative and on-farm checks in regard to bovine premia applications lodged by the herdowner are carried out on an integrated holding-based approach and payment due in this case under the suckler cow scheme had to be deferred pending processing of his special beef application. As that has been finalised recently, payment of the suckler balancing instalment will issue shortly.
298 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will implement the findings of the recently published report on the early retirement scheme for farmers (details supplied). [15050/05]
I received the report of the Oireachtas joint committee formally on 7 April. I have asked my officials to consider the recommendations in the report, having regard to the terms and conditions of the early retirement scheme and the European Commission regulations under which the current and previous schemes were introduced.
299 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if new proposals are being discussed by the European Commission for a further extension of the disadvantaged areas scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15051/05]
The European Commission's draft regulation governing for the post-2006 rural development framework proposes the reclassification of disadvantaged areas. This proposal responds to the European Court of Auditors' criticism, endorsed by the European Parliament, about the current system. The suggested new methodology would be based on natural conditions, notably soil and climatic factors. The socio-economic criteria that were taken into account to designate the current eligible areas would no longer apply.
In discussions in the Council of Ministers, I have stressed that this is an extremely sensitive issue. Other member states have also highlighted its importance. The Commission has accepted that the original proposal presents difficulties for a number of member states. However, a revised draft regulation circulated by the Presidency on 27 April did not propose any changes to the original text in so far as the disadvantaged areas are concerned. I will continue to seek a solution that is equitable and in Ireland's interests.
300 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of registered mushrooms growers here in 2002, 2003 and 2004. [15144/05]
304 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of mushroom growers who have gone out of production over the past ten years; if research has been carried out to find alternative use for these valuable plastic tunnel type structures before they fall into derelict eyesores in rural Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15250/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 300 and 304 together.
The number of mushroom growers has decreased from 566 in 1995 to 228 in 2004. The rate of decline increased sharply since 2000. The numbers of growers in the past three years were: 2002, 365 growers; 2003, 289 growers; and 2004, 228 growers. While the number of growers declined over the past ten years, mushroom output increased in the period by approximately 10,000 tonnes due to the increasing scale of the farms remaining in operation.
Mushroom tunnels consist of cladding and an outer layer of plastic. When mushroom production ceases, the insulating material can be removed and the tunnels converted to use for other crops as polythene tunnels for hot or shade houses.
301 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if assistance will be given to the many mushroom growers who are facing a crisis due to the cheap imports of foreign produce; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15145/05]
The quantity of mushrooms imported into Ireland is not significant in terms of our overall production and imports tend to be exotic varieties to meet the demands of niche markets. Total mushroom production in 2004 is estimated at 65,000 tonnes of which some 80% was exported to the UK market where there is strong competition mainly from Dutch and Polish imports.
The difficulties facing the sector were recognised by my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Treacy, when as Minister with responsibility for horticulture in the Department of Agriculture and Food, he established the mushroom task force in December 2003. The report of the task force was published in May last year and considerable progress has been made in the implementation of the recommendations in the report which has the objective of putting the industry on a sound footing and addressing the competitive threats facing the sector.
Significant support is provided to the mushroom sector through the EU producer organisation scheme which is operated by my Department. Approximately 90% of mushroom output now goes through the scheme and over the past three years €11.5 million as been paid out to the producer organisations involved.
My Department also supports the mushroom sector through the grant aid scheme for capital investment under the National Development Plan 2000-2006 and to date, €2.6 million has been paid to growers for the modernisation and improvement of their facilities. For this year's scheme, applications have been received from 40 mushroom growers in respect of proposed investments of €7.6 million. My colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Brendan Smith, will announce the grant aid package details shortly.
303 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the measures she is considering to protect small farm producers of agricultural produce from low cost imports, including producers in the most recent round of EU accession states; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15185/05]
Trade in agricultural products among member countries of the World Trade Organisation, WTO, is regulated by agreements concluded between the members of that organisation. Negotiations on a new agreement have been under way for some time and are expected to conclude at the WTO ministerial conference in Hong Kong in December 2005. While the Commission negotiates on behalf of the EU on the basis of a mandate agreed by the Council of Ministers, my objective is to ensure that Ireland will remain competitive on the domestic and EU markets as a result of the level of tariff protection that will apply on imports from third countries under the new agreement.
Trade between Ireland and other member states is subject to EU internal market rules which preclude action against imports from another member state except in the most exceptional circumstances such as risk to human health or outbreak of serious animal disease.
305 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her attention has been drawn to the report on the early retirement scheme for farmers compiled by the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food; her views on this report; if she intends to implement it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15251/05]
I received the report of the Oireachtas joint committee formally on 7 April. I have asked my officials to consider the recommendations in the report, having regard to the terms and conditions of the early retirement scheme and the European Commission regulations under which the current and previous schemes were introduced.
306 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of civil servants in her Department who have made settlements with the Revenue Commissioners as tax defaulters; her views on whether this is appropriate in view of her Department’s auditing role in relation to EU and national schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15252/05]
Compliance with the taxation code is primarily a matter for individual taxpayers and the Revenue Commissioners.
308 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of herdowners who have entitlement under the new single farm payment scheme. [15354/05]
The number of herdowners who currently have entitlements established under the single payment scheme is 136,985.
309 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will review the level of suckler cow payment made to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15355/05]
The person named applied for premium on 34 animals under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme. Under the terms and conditions of the scheme a producer may be paid premium on up to 1.8 reckonable livestock units only per hectare of forage area as established from the producer's 2004 area aid application.
The forage area on record for the person named is 24.06 hectares, which entitles him to premia payment on a maximum of 43.3 livestock units. As he has already been paid premium in respect of 14.4 special beef livestock units the most he can get paid on under the suckler cow scheme is 28.9 livestock units.
His payments of €4,572.66 on 18 October 2004 and €2,443.23 on 18 April 2005 are in respect of these 28.9 livestock units, that is, six heifers under two years at 0.6 which equals 3.6 livestock units and 25.3 cows-heifers over two years which equals 25.3 livestock units. This is his maximum entitlement under the 2004 suckler cow premium scheme and he can be paid no more under it.
310 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the single payment entitlements for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15375/05]
The person named has a reference amount of €52.80 under the single payment scheme. This amount will be payable to him provided he submits a single payment application form on or before 16 May with details of the forage area farmed by him in 2005.
311 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps she is taking to rectify the anomaly created by the special beef premium overshoot; her plans to compensate farmers; the outcomes of discussions on the matter with the EU Commission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15466/05]
312 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if compensation and payment to affected farmers will be arranged in view of the decimating impact of the special beef premium overshoot on the farm income of many beef finishers. [15467/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 311 and 312 together.
I made arrangements last month to expedite balancing payments to farmers affected by the special beef premium quota excess, based on an estimated overshoot reduction. Over the last three weeks, €83 million has been paid to special beef, suckler cow and slaughter premium applicants, with the bulk of this going to farmers with more than 25 special beef premium animals.
I have also raised the matter of the overshoot with the European Commission, pointing out that it was never the intention of the mid-term reform of the CAP that farmers would be disadvantaged in the transition to the single payment scheme. As the extent of the special beef premium quota excess is linked to the move to full decoupling of direct payments in 2005, I have asked the Commission to address the problem as a matter of urgency.
I will pursue this matter vigorously with the EU Agriculture Commissioner, but it is necessary to give the Commission sufficient time to examine the submissions made to it by my Department.
313 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on the farm consolidation and the impact of compulsory purchase orders on farm holdings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15468/05]
Low levels of land mobility as well as the small, fragmented nature of farm holdings have always been regarded as obstacles to the development of a competitive agrifood sector. The development of an Irish agrifood sector that is internationally competitive continues to be a priority for my Department and this will become even more critical following the switch to the single payment scheme. At farm level, many producers will be required to increase the scale of their farming enterprises to operate on full-time competitive basis.
To facilitate the development of a competitive agrifood sector, my Department offers a range of supports aimed at improving the viability of farm holdings. These include on-farm investment grants as well as measures to support land mobility such as installation aid and an early retirement scheme. A range of reliefs are available through the taxation system with objectives to reduce costs associated with the exchange of farm land. For example, 100% stamp duty relief on farm transfers to young trained farmers, 90% agricultural relief on capital acquisitions tax, 100% stock relief for four years from setting up as a young trained farmer, and retirement relief from capital gains tax on disposals of up to €500,000 by farmers over 55 years.
Furthermore, there is a generous income tax exemption for land leased out on a long-term basis. This is available to farmers over 40 years who lease out land to non-family members for a period of five years or more. Last year's budget made provision for stamp duty relief, worth €1million in a full year, for farmers who exchange land for the specific purpose of consolidating their farm holdings. This relief will allow farmers who exchange farm land for the purposes of consolidating their holdings to pay stamp duty only in respect of the amount equal to the difference in the values of the lands concerned, which must be payable in cash. This relief is to be available for a two-year period from 1 July 2005 to 30 June 2007.
These positive measures provide valuable relief to farmers wishing to develop the viability of their farms through consolidation or other means and will help reduce some of the high costs associated with the exchange of farm land allowing farmers to farm more efficiently in the post decoupled era.
In regard to compulsory purchase orders, the power of public authorities to compulsorily acquire property required for the performance of their functions in the overall community interest has long been a feature of the law. While this can create difficulties for farmers and farm consolidation, landowners whose property is compulsorily acquired are adequately compensated. Compensation packages include one or more of the following elements: the market value of the property acquired; damage arising from the severance of land acquired from land retained by the owner; and damage arising from the injurious affection of lands retained, and disturbance and other matters not related to the value of land.
Apart from the above statutory compensation, under a 2001 agreement between the National Roads Authority and farmer representatives, if land is compulsorily acquired or to be acquired in relation to national roads development under the National Development Plan 2000-2006, a fixed payment of €5,000 per acre is paid to the landowner, in addition to all other payments.
314 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the grants which are available to develop a pre-school facility for children aged three to five years both in terms of capital grant for the development of the facility and for maintenance of same once developed. [14835/05]
The equal opportunities child care programme, EOCP, 2000-2006, is a central pillar in the Government's child care strategy and is intended to increase the availability and quality of child care supports for parents in employment, education or training. The programme is funded by the Exchequer and the European Union Structural Funds as part of the regional operational programmes of the national development plan.
The programme makes capital grant assistance available to community-based, not for profit organisations to build, renovate or equip a child care service if their proposal meets with the objectives of the EOCP programme. In areas of significant disadvantage, multi-annual staffing grants may be available to community based groups which are providing child care which meets the needs of disadvantaged parents to enable them to avail of work, education or training opportunities. Capital grants are also made available to self employed-private providers to build, renovate, upgrade or equip child care facilities. In this regard, capital grant assistance of 65% of the cost of the project up to a maximum of €50,790 may be available.
The principles of the programme state, inter alia, that child care is the provision of daycare facilities and services for pre-school children and for schoolgoing children out of school hours. To receive grant support, an application must show that the proposed service will facilitate parents to avail of employment, educational or training opportunities; be sustainable; be of high quality; have sound management, a good child care programme and training; represent value for money; and not displace existing facilities.
Area Development Management, ADM, Limited, which administers the grant assistance applications on behalf of my Department, carries out a technical assessment of each project to ensure that the project meets with the EOCP criteria. When the assessment is completed, ADM makes a recommendation regarding the allocation of funding which is then considered by the programme appraisal committee, chaired by my Department, before I make a final decision on the application.
315 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Mullingar area, County Westmeath for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive; if he will give consideration to establishing a full-time Garda station in the area given the rapidly increasing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14868/05]
316 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Mullingar area for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive; if he will establish a full-time Garda station in the area in view of the fact that the population has rapidly increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14869/05]
317 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Athlone area, County Westmeath for the years 2000 to 2004; if he will give consideration to establishing a full-time Garda station in the area given the rapidly increasing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14870/05]
318 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Athlone area for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive; if he will establish a full-time Garda station in the area in view of the fact that the population has rapidly increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14871/05]
319 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Kinnegad area, County Westmeath for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive; if he will give consideration to establishing a full-time Garda station in the area given the rapidly increasing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14872/05]
320 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Kinnegad area for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive; if he will establish a full-time Garda station in the area in view of the fact that the population has rapidly increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14873/05]
321 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Moate area, County Westmeath for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive; if he will give consideration to establishing a full-time Garda station in the area given the rapidly increasing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14874/05]
322 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Moate area for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive; if he will establish a full-time Garda station in the area in view of the fact that the population has rapidly increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14875/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 315 to 322, inclusive, together.
In regard to crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country.
In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999, which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that Mullingar Garda station, which covers the Kinnegad area, and Athlone Garda station, which covers the Moate area, are open to the public on a 24-hour basis. Accordingly, the gardaí attached to both of these stations provide a 24-hour service to their respective districts. Resources are augmented from within the district-division as required. The area is also patrolled by the divisional traffic unit on an ongoing basis.
The Garda authorities have further informed me that the following tables show the headline offences for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive, for the Mullingar Garda district and the Athlone Garda district.
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Mullingar Garda District from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
14 |
13 |
23 |
20 |
51 |
41 |
38 |
31 |
35 |
24 |
|
Sexual Offences |
6 |
4 |
14 |
10 |
28 |
16 |
33 |
24 |
34 |
22 |
|
Arson |
6 |
4 |
10 |
2 |
16 |
7 |
11 |
3 |
14 |
2 |
|
Drugs |
2 |
2 |
9 |
9 |
15 |
15 |
15 |
15 |
11 |
11 |
|
Thefts |
240 |
127 |
276 |
113 |
468 |
157 |
451 |
106 |
520 |
133 |
|
Burglary |
142 |
51 |
181 |
61 |
208 |
26 |
278 |
35 |
230 |
11 |
|
Robbery |
7 |
6 |
7 |
2 |
17 |
5 |
11 |
4 |
6 |
1 |
|
Fraud |
39 |
29 |
57 |
51 |
57 |
24 |
42 |
26 |
45 |
34 |
|
Other |
0 |
0 |
9 |
6 |
24 |
14 |
13 |
7 |
6 |
3 |
|
Total |
456 |
236 |
586 |
274 |
886 |
307 |
892 |
251 |
901 |
241 |
*Statistics for 2004 are provisional/operational and liable to change.
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Athlone Garda District from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
2 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
7 |
5 |
17 |
16 |
80 |
68 |
41 |
38 |
35 |
27 |
|
Sexual Offences |
9 |
8 |
10 |
5 |
15 |
6 |
16 |
6 |
11 |
1 |
|
Arson |
1 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
11 |
3 |
15 |
2 |
|
Drugs |
4 |
4 |
9 |
9 |
41 |
41 |
20 |
20 |
22 |
22 |
|
Thefts |
320 |
176 |
422 |
192 |
550 |
216 |
606 |
211 |
463 |
133 |
|
Burglary |
211 |
61 |
185 |
34 |
283 |
85 |
287 |
56 |
267 |
43 |
|
Robbery |
11 |
8 |
25 |
15 |
24 |
14 |
19 |
7 |
23 |
11 |
|
Fraud |
38 |
35 |
52 |
43 |
36 |
24 |
15 |
10 |
37 |
22 |
|
Other |
2 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
29 |
10 |
5 |
5 |
7 |
3 |
|
Total |
605 |
300 |
728 |
318 |
1,062 |
465 |
1,021 |
356 |
880 |
264 |
*Statistics for 2004 are provisional/operational and liable to change.
323 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Castlepollard area, County Westmeath for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive; if he will give consideration to establishing a full time Garda station in the area given the rapidly increasing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14876/05]
324 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Castlepollard area for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive; if he will establish a full time Garda station in the area in view of the fact that the population has rapidly increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14877/05]
325 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Kilbeggan area, County Westmeath for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive; if he will give consideration to establishing a full time Garda station in the area given the rapidly increasing population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14878/05]
326 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Kilbeggan area for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive; if he will establish a full time Garda station in the area in view of the fact that the population has rapidly increased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14879/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 323 to 326, inclusive, together.
As regards crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account must also be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999, which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
The Garda authorities inform me that Athlone Garda station, which covers the Kilbeggan area, and Granard Garda station, which covers the Castlepollard area, are open to the public on a 24-hour basis. Accordingly, gardaí attached to both of these stations provide a 24-hour service to their respective districts. Resources are augmented from within the district or division as required. The area is also patrolled by the divisional traffic unit on an ongoing basis.
The following tables show the headline offences for the years 2000 to 2004 inclusive for the Granard Garda district and the Athlone Garda district.
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Granard Garda district from 2000 to 2004: |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
7 |
6 |
15 |
11 |
16 |
14 |
16 |
13 |
11 |
11 |
|
Sexual Offences |
5 |
2 |
8 |
1 |
8 |
4 |
7 |
4 |
9 |
7 |
|
Arson |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
4 |
9 |
5 |
11 |
0 |
|
Drugs |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Thefts |
59 |
20 |
69 |
21 |
125 |
16 |
114 |
30 |
129 |
28 |
|
Burglary |
94 |
25 |
70 |
25 |
84 |
12 |
101 |
12 |
110 |
7 |
|
Robbery |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
6 |
1 |
|
Fraud |
8 |
5 |
4 |
3 |
10 |
2 |
5 |
4 |
7 |
5 |
|
Other |
1 |
1 |
3 |
0 |
5 |
1 |
9 |
9 |
7 |
5 |
|
Total |
175 |
60 |
169 |
61 |
257 |
55 |
264 |
78 |
290 |
64 |
*It should be noted that statistics for 2004 are provisional or operational and are liable to change.
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Athlone Garda district from 2000 to 2004 |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
2 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
7 |
5 |
17 |
16 |
80 |
68 |
41 |
38 |
35 |
27 |
|
Sexual Offences |
9 |
8 |
10 |
5 |
15 |
6 |
16 |
6 |
11 |
1 |
|
Arson |
1 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
11 |
3 |
15 |
2 |
|
Drugs |
4 |
4 |
9 |
9 |
41 |
41 |
20 |
20 |
22 |
22 |
|
Thefts |
320 |
176 |
422 |
192 |
550 |
216 |
606 |
211 |
463 |
133 |
|
Burglary |
211 |
61 |
185 |
34 |
283 |
85 |
287 |
56 |
267 |
43 |
|
Robbery |
11 |
8 |
25 |
15 |
24 |
14 |
19 |
7 |
23 |
11 |
|
Fraud |
38 |
35 |
52 |
43 |
36 |
24 |
15 |
10 |
37 |
22 |
|
Other |
2 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
29 |
10 |
5 |
5 |
7 |
3 |
|
Total |
605 |
300 |
728 |
318 |
1,062 |
465 |
1,021 |
356 |
880 |
264 |
*The statistics for 2004 are provisional or operational and liable to change.
327 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of the headline offences recorded and detailed for each of the districts within the Dublin metropolitan area in 1997, 2000 and 2004. [14882/05]
As regards crime figures the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999, which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following tables show the headline offences by group for 2000 and 2004 in the Dublin metropolitan area. Comparable figures for the year 1997 are not available. Statistics for 2004 are operational and liable to change.
|
Blackrock |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
12 |
10 |
46 |
24 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
11 |
9 |
21 |
9 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
10 |
6 |
33 |
5 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
9 |
9 |
29 |
28 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
1,038 |
322 |
1,080 |
308 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
626 |
203 |
744 |
89 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
71 |
44 |
94 |
53 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
97 |
90 |
33 |
23 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
2 |
2 |
3 |
1 |
|
Total |
1,876 |
695 |
2,083 |
540 |
|
Blanchardstown |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
1 |
0 |
4 |
2 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
30 |
13 |
146 |
50 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
8 |
5 |
82 |
51 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
18 |
3 |
53 |
1 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
21 |
21 |
65 |
65 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
953 |
363 |
1,952 |
567 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
633 |
182 |
870 |
58 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
117 |
41 |
201 |
29 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
24 |
19 |
76 |
38 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
16 |
7 |
105 |
38 |
|
Total |
1,821 |
654 |
3,554 |
899 |
|
Bray |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
15 |
10 |
70 |
29 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
14 |
11 |
34 |
13 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
23 |
14 |
25 |
1 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
21 |
21 |
27 |
27 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
727 |
158 |
952 |
184 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
625 |
167 |
690 |
70 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
46 |
17 |
50 |
11 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
36 |
34 |
35 |
16 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
0 |
0 |
15 |
5 |
|
Total |
1,507 |
432 |
1,900 |
357 |
|
Bridewell |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
28 |
15 |
70 |
40 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
47 |
44 |
22 |
18 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
16 |
1 |
15 |
0 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
28 |
28 |
65 |
65 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
602 |
187 |
732 |
177 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
246 |
131 |
214 |
44 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
85 |
34 |
53 |
25 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
7 |
5 |
29 |
17 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
3 |
3 |
18 |
13 |
|
Total |
1,063 |
449 |
1,220 |
400 |
|
Clondalkin |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
70 |
49 |
94 |
59 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
12 |
8 |
28 |
14 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
36 |
5 |
51 |
4 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
81 |
81 |
94 |
94 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
1,047 |
338 |
1,059 |
216 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
460 |
128 |
536 |
65 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
166 |
81 |
72 |
17 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
17 |
11 |
131 |
107 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
24 |
11 |
49 |
27 |
|
Total |
1,913 |
712 |
2,115 |
604 |
|
Coolock |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
46 |
41 |
86 |
57 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
19 |
12 |
66 |
49 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
25 |
4 |
44 |
4 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
67 |
67 |
95 |
95 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
889 |
311 |
1,386 |
394 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
371 |
114 |
673 |
72 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
83 |
40 |
87 |
37 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
14 |
10 |
45 |
29 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
9 |
4 |
47 |
13 |
|
Total |
1,524 |
604 |
2,529 |
750 |
|
Crumlin |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
33 |
18 |
71 |
47 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
14 |
13 |
30 |
18 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
37 |
13 |
55 |
3 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
52 |
52 |
40 |
40 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
517 |
188 |
796 |
268 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
490 |
163 |
502 |
87 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
80 |
43 |
60 |
18 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
12 |
8 |
45 |
27 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
5 |
3 |
26 |
13 |
|
Total |
1,240 |
501 |
1,625 |
521 |
|
Donnybrook |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
13 |
11 |
35 |
21 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
19 |
19 |
23 |
15 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
10 |
0 |
20 |
9 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
3 |
3 |
6 |
6 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
977 |
274 |
1,046 |
198 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
434 |
241 |
663 |
99 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
43 |
25 |
54 |
27 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
18 |
15 |
46 |
36 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
2 |
2 |
14 |
7 |
|
Total |
1,520 |
591 |
1,909 |
419 |
|
Dún Laoghaire |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
13 |
11 |
42 |
24 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
5 |
4 |
52 |
39 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
11 |
9 |
26 |
3 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
49 |
49 |
29 |
29 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
969 |
390 |
1,013 |
347 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
639 |
113 |
638 |
81 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
40 |
21 |
52 |
15 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
18 |
15 |
31 |
17 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
0 |
0 |
10 |
8 |
|
Total |
1,744 |
612 |
1,894 |
564 |
|
Fitzgibbon Street |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
2 |
1 |
6 |
4 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
54 |
27 |
126 |
79 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
27 |
16 |
28 |
14 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
25 |
3 |
43 |
8 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
82 |
82 |
112 |
111 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
1,020 |
356 |
1,400 |
399 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
499 |
234 |
575 |
114 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
130 |
54 |
152 |
58 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
21 |
15 |
53 |
26 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
12 |
7 |
99 |
74 |
|
Total |
1,872 |
795 |
2,594 |
887 |
|
Kevin Street |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
3 |
2 |
4 |
4 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
28 |
18 |
101 |
42 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
26 |
17 |
26 |
6 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
27 |
1 |
25 |
3 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
89 |
89 |
227 |
227 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
1,260 |
338 |
1,266 |
202 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
556 |
204 |
723 |
134 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
182 |
42 |
168 |
51 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
10 |
5 |
46 |
28 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
8 |
7 |
39 |
15 |
|
Total |
2,189 |
723 |
2,625 |
712 |
|
Lucan |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
34 |
23 |
103 |
48 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
15 |
12 |
57 |
28 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
20 |
4 |
32 |
4 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
37 |
37 |
92 |
92 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
862 |
352 |
1,194 |
348 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
431 |
149 |
445 |
20 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
82 |
37 |
85 |
13 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
12 |
7 |
50 |
30 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
10 |
10 |
32 |
12 |
|
Total |
1,504 |
632 |
2,092 |
597 |
|
Pearse Street |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
54 |
25 |
145 |
70 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
24 |
19 |
28 |
8 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
17 |
3 |
12 |
2 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
71 |
71 |
179 |
179 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
4,639 |
1,418 |
4,029 |
1,268 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
661 |
266 |
583 |
109 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
256 |
99 |
183 |
67 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
76 |
52 |
115 |
59 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
11 |
9 |
16 |
6 |
|
Total |
5,809 |
1,962 |
5,294 |
1,769 |
|
Raheny |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
20 |
10 |
60 |
32 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
24 |
22 |
17 |
9 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
28 |
1 |
22 |
4 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
31 |
31 |
37 |
37 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
824 |
245 |
968 |
206 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
606 |
179 |
761 |
206 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
135 |
63 |
118 |
57 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
37 |
30 |
40 |
22 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
8 |
8 |
7 |
5 |
|
Total |
1,713 |
589 |
2,030 |
578 |
|
Santry |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
3 |
3 |
17 |
14 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
69 |
59 |
179 |
146 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
23 |
21 |
27 |
12 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
8 |
6 |
21 |
4 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
68 |
68 |
64 |
64 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
842 |
389 |
1,048 |
326 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
571 |
273 |
666 |
158 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
59 |
31 |
102 |
37 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
29 |
26 |
215 |
125 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
20 |
19 |
72 |
58 |
|
Total |
1,692 |
895 |
2,411 |
944 |
|
Store Street |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
39 |
21 |
89 |
61 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
14 |
9 |
19 |
13 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
9 |
1 |
16 |
1 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
53 |
53 |
107 |
106 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
4,200 |
2,352 |
4,198 |
2,488 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
373 |
117 |
279 |
93 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
147 |
31 |
92 |
24 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
47 |
35 |
99 |
51 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
3 |
2 |
21 |
11 |
|
Total |
4,885 |
2,621 |
4,920 |
2,848 |
|
Tallaght |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
3 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
56 |
35 |
183 |
88 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
29 |
21 |
91 |
32 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
39 |
4 |
74 |
8 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
47 |
47 |
73 |
73 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
1,390 |
498 |
2,409 |
859 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
703 |
170 |
1,042 |
94 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
190 |
82 |
172 |
48 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
58 |
53 |
57 |
31 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
29 |
16 |
80 |
58 |
|
Total |
2,544 |
928 |
4,183 |
1,293 |
|
Terenure |
2000 |
2004 |
||
|
Recorded |
Detected |
Recorded |
Detected |
|
|
Group 1 Homicides |
2 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Group 2 Assaults |
20 |
12 |
43 |
25 |
|
Group 3 Sexual Offences |
11 |
3 |
26 |
10 |
|
Group 4 Arson |
12 |
2 |
31 |
5 |
|
Group 5 Drugs |
11 |
11 |
18 |
18 |
|
Group 6 Thefts |
840 |
191 |
854 |
187 |
|
Group 7 Burglaries |
684 |
189 |
727 |
64 |
|
Group 8 Robberies |
59 |
30 |
55 |
18 |
|
Group 9 Frauds |
14 |
5 |
44 |
27 |
|
Group 10 Other Headline Offences |
4 |
3 |
11 |
6 |
|
Total |
1,657 |
447 |
1,809 |
360 |
328 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that the accommodation at a location (details supplied) in County Limerick is suitable hostel accommodation for non-national mothers and babies; if the recent outbreak of illness which affected mothers and babies is not connected to the water supply; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the location is isolated in woodland and that residents find it very difficult to settle; if, taking all the factors into account, thetransfer of these persons to a more suitable location will be expedited and use of the facility discontinued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14883/05]
The Reception and Integration Agency, RIA, continues to operate under pressure in meeting the accommodation and ancillary needs of asylum seekers against a backdrop of a severe shortage of suitable accommodation of every type in the State. The number of asylum seekers currently accommodated is more than 8,000.
Against this background, the RIA entered into a short-term contract for the provision of emergency full board accommodation at the Mount Trenchard hostel in Foynes. The hostel is used to accommodate asylum seekers who have made an application for leave to remain in the State on the basis of an Irish-born child. It is anticipated that all such applications will have been processed by the end of June. The majority of residents at the centre have submitted asylum applications between six and 24 months ago and had previously been accommodated in RIA accommodation. However, they subsequently abandoned the accommodation originally provided and have recently returned seeking to be re-accommodated. There is a free crèche provided for children on site for three mornings each week and the RIA has provided a bus service that runs four times per day, Monday to Friday, and twice per day, Saturday and Sunday, into Foynes; three times per week into Newcastle West; and once per week into Limerick city. In addition, residents can avail of the normal Bus Éireann service that passes within close proximity of the centre. The local support group visits the centre on a weekly basis and has plans to provide English classes, musical therapy sessions and other activities for residents.
The RIA understands from local medical personnel that there was no reason to suspect that the recent outbreak of illness was connected to the water supply. Some residents in the centre did receive medical treatment for sickness or vomiting. However, the RIA has been informed that the medical personnel who attended the residents returned to the centre to advise residents and management of the position and that the symptoms were not serious.
I am informed by the RIA that there has been a recent issue in relation to water pressure or supply from a local well. This matter was appropriately addressed by the contractor who consulted with the local Health Service Executive. In addition to procedures undertaken to flush out the well, a new water pump was installed to remedy the problem. A UV light water treatment plant has also been installed and continues to be tested. This treatment plant is due to come into operation after 10 May. Bottled drinking water is being made available for the residents on a 24-hour basis in the interim.
As in all accommodation centres that house asylum seekers, medical services, education etc. are made available to residents on the same basis as for the indigenous population. All contractors are obliged, on foot of their memorandum of agreement with the RIA, to ensure that their premises complies with and operates in accordance with all relevant statutory requirements of local authorities pertaining to planning, building, by-laws, bedroom capacity, food, food hygiene, water supply, sewage disposal, fire precautions, and general safety, including: European Communities (Hygiene of Foodstuffs) Regulations 2000; European Communities (Official Control of Foodstuffs) Regulations 1998; Fire Services Act 1981; Food Hygiene Regulations 1950 to 1989; Health, Safety and Welfare at Work Act 1989; Housing Acts 1966 to 2002; Planning and Development Act 2000 and the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2002; Drinking Water Regulations 1988; Employment Permit Act 2003; Tourist Traffic Acts 1939 to 1995; and any statutory modification or re-enactment of same and any other relevant Act or Regulations as may be notified by the Minister to the proprietor or contractor.
The memorandum of agreement places other obligations on the contractor in respect of reception, management and staff issues, menus and food for infants and schoolgoing children, maintenance of the property and fire and safety standards. It is the policy of the RIA to conduct regular comprehensive inspections on properties used to house asylum seekers. These inspections are carried out internally by RIA staff and externally by an independent company who have stated experience in hazard and critical control point, HACCP, analysis and fire safety. In addition, all premises are subject to inspection by the local environmental health officer and fire officer.
Having regard to severe constraints under which the RIA continues to operate, it has no plans at this point in time to discontinue use of the hostel. Transfer applications from residents are processed in the normal manner and will be considered in the light of the personal circumstances of the applicant and the availability of alternative accommodation.
329 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will reconsider an application for leave to enter by persons (details supplied). [14893/05]
The applications in question were received in my Department in February 2005. When assessing applications, the visa officer will consider, among other factors, whether the level of salary of the worker would come within the ambit of qualifying for payment from public funds. In this regard, the criteria set by the Department of Social and Family Affairs for eligibility for family income supplement, FIS, is used. The criteria, which may change from time to time, are available on that Department's website www.welfare.ie/publications/sw22.html.
If the level of the worker's income as evidenced by his or her payslips or P60 would qualify for FIS payments, the application for the visa is generally refused as it is evident that the family can seek recourse to public funds. The visa officer will expect to see sufficient evidence of the financial status of the applicant in the form of several payslips, and detailed bank statements covering at a minimum a two to three-month period. The documentation supplied should demonstrate a consistent financial history and evidence of regular income.
On the basis of the information supplied, the applications were refused as it was deemed that the respective spouses would be unable to support the applicants without recourse to public funds.
Each of the applicants received the reasons for refusal of the visa by post, which included information regarding the process of appeal of refusal decisions. As the time has elapsed for receipt of an appeal, it is now open to the applicants to make fresh applications with up-to-date supporting documentation and the applications will be considered anew.
330 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the area covered by Dundrum Garda station for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive. [14894/05]
As regards crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table shows the headline crime statistics by groups from 2000 to 2004 for the Blackrock Garda district, which covers the Dundrum area.
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
12 |
10 |
39 |
30 |
49 |
36 |
45 |
32 |
46 |
24 |
|
Sexual Offences |
11 |
9 |
11 |
10 |
54 |
47 |
25 |
14 |
21 |
9 |
|
Arson |
10 |
6 |
23 |
6 |
36 |
15 |
22 |
1 |
33 |
5 |
|
Drugs |
9 |
9 |
15 |
15 |
30 |
30 |
21 |
21 |
29 |
28 |
|
Thefts |
1,038 |
322 |
905 |
274 |
1,105 |
304 |
1,019 |
288 |
1,080 |
308 |
|
Burglary |
626 |
203 |
626 |
172 |
749 |
111 |
706 |
72 |
744 |
89 |
|
Robbery |
71 |
44 |
76 |
36 |
79 |
26 |
74 |
26 |
94 |
53 |
|
Fraud |
97 |
90 |
82 |
73 |
62 |
39 |
68 |
43 |
33 |
23 |
|
Other |
2 |
2 |
13 |
11 |
18 |
17 |
14 |
14 |
3 |
1 |
|
Total |
1,876 |
695 |
1,790 |
627 |
2,182 |
625 |
1,994 |
511 |
2,083 |
540 |
*The statistics for 2004 are provisional or operational and liable to change.
331 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the area covered by Stepaside Garda station for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive. [14895/05]
As regards crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. Taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table shows the headline crime by groups from 2000 to 2004 for the Blackrock Garda district which covers the Stepaside area.
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
12 |
10 |
39 |
30 |
49 |
36 |
45 |
32 |
46 |
24 |
|
Sexual Offences |
11 |
9 |
11 |
10 |
54 |
47 |
25 |
14 |
21 |
9 |
|
Arson |
10 |
6 |
23 |
6 |
36 |
15 |
22 |
1 |
33 |
5 |
|
Drugs |
9 |
9 |
15 |
15 |
30 |
30 |
21 |
21 |
29 |
28 |
|
Thefts |
1,038 |
322 |
905 |
274 |
1,105 |
304 |
1,019 |
288 |
1,080 |
308 |
|
Burglary |
626 |
203 |
626 |
172 |
749 |
111 |
706 |
72 |
744 |
89 |
|
Robbery |
71 |
44 |
76 |
36 |
79 |
26 |
74 |
26 |
94 |
53 |
|
Fraud |
97 |
90 |
82 |
73 |
62 |
39 |
68 |
43 |
33 |
23 |
|
Other |
2 |
2 |
13 |
11 |
18 |
17 |
14 |
14 |
3 |
1 |
|
Total |
1,876 |
695 |
1,790 |
627 |
2,182 |
625 |
1,994 |
511 |
2,083 |
540 |
*The statistics for 2004 are provisional or operational and liable to change.
332 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the area covered by Rathfarnham Garda station for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive. [14896/05]
As regards crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Rathfarnham area is part of the Tallaght district. The following table shows the headline offences by group from 2000 to 2004 in Tallaght Garda district.
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
3 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
6 |
4 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
Assault |
56 |
35 |
146 |
100 |
213 |
139 |
189 |
123 |
183 |
86 |
|
Sexual Offences |
29 |
21 |
87 |
64 |
191 |
151 |
111 |
23 |
91 |
32 |
|
Arson |
39 |
4 |
53 |
9 |
47 |
6 |
54 |
9 |
74 |
8 |
|
Drugs |
47 |
47 |
139 |
139 |
115 |
115 |
77 |
77 |
73 |
73 |
|
Thefts |
1,390 |
498 |
1,585 |
709 |
1,878 |
757 |
1,855 |
754 |
2,409 |
859 |
|
Burglary |
703 |
170 |
827 |
182 |
975 |
140 |
746 |
77 |
1,041 |
93 |
|
Robbery |
190 |
82 |
215 |
72 |
188 |
62 |
158 |
43 |
172 |
45 |
|
Fraud |
58 |
53 |
86 |
75 |
66 |
33 |
85 |
58 |
57 |
31 |
|
Other |
29 |
16 |
55 |
32 |
56 |
31 |
61 |
39 |
80 |
58 |
|
Total |
2,544 |
928 |
3,196 |
1,385 |
3,735 |
1,438 |
3,337 |
1,203 |
4,182 |
1,287 |
333 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the circumstances outlined in correspondence in relation to the visa appeal by a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14897/05]
The visa application in question, which was for the stated purpose of a two-week visit, was received in my Department on 5 April 2005. My Department will re-assess the application in the light of additional documentation which has now been received. However as the supporting documentation is not in English it will require translation.
334 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal. [14909/05]
It is not clear exactly what case the Deputy is referring to. The person concerned is a key figure in the work being undertaken by the Morris tribunal and has also initiated legal proceedings against the Garda Commissioner, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Ireland and the Attorney General.
As far as the Morris tribunal is concerned, the position is that it has recently completed hearing oral evidence pertaining to the module relating to the Garda investigation into the death of a person in Donegal and I understand that it expects to present its report on that module shortly. As regards the civil proceedings, it would be inappropriate of me to comment further pending the determination of the case.
335 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will change the legislation to assist persons (details supplied) with their costs; and if they will be given the maximum support. [14910/05]
It is not clear exactly what costs the Deputy is referring to, but I can only assume they are in respect of representation before the Morris tribunal. If so, the position has been outlined on many occasions to the House. The current legislation, the Tribunal of Inquiry (Evidence) Acts 1921 to 2002, provides that the question of costs is solely a matter for the tribunal. The Acts provide that a tribunal which, having regard to its findings and all other relevant matters, is of opinion that there are sufficient reasons rendering it equitable to do so, can order the whole or part of the costs of representation of a person appearing before it to be paid.
A tribunal, when determining whether costs should be paid, may take into account failure to co-operate or to provide assistance to, or knowingly giving false or misleading information to, the tribunal. This has important practical implications for tribunals generally in their search for the truth. The power to decide on costs is one of the greatest weapons in the armoury of a tribunal to ensure the co-operation and truthfulness of the parties.
As far as the Morris tribunal itself is concerned, it is clear from the Chairman's judgment on applications for costs associated with the first module that he regards co-operation with the tribunal and truthfulness in giving evidence as matters of paramount importance. In deciding on costs he made deductions in some cases and totally rejected other applications where he was of the opinion that persons deliberately lied or otherwise hindered him in his efforts to get to the truth.
It is crucial that this power is available to tribunals and that it is not undermined. To interfere with it, however well-intentioned the motives, would blunt the effectiveness of tribunals in general, and the Morris tribunal in particular, in uncovering the truth and I am not prepared to do that. I have consistently maintained this policy.
336 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made regarding permission to reside here in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if a decision will be expedited. [14912/05]
An application for permission to remain in the State based on marriage to an Irish national was received from the person concerned in April 2005. Applications of this type, in fairness to all other such applicants, are dealt with in chronological order and take approximately 16 months to process.
337 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if residency will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14913/05]
The person in question has permission to remain in the State as a dependant of his spouse who is the holder of a working visa. His current permission does not expire until June 2006, at which time it is open to him to seek further permission to remain in the State. If the person concerned wishes to take up employment in the State, a prospective employer must first obtain a work permit on his behalf. In this respect it should be noted that new arrangements were introduced by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment in 2004 which give greater ease of access to employment to spouses of persons who are the holders of working visas or work authorisations. These arrangements removed the requirement on employers to advertise the jobs with FÁS prior to making the work permit applications, exempted the applications from the work permit fees and allowed applications for jobs in categories which would otherwise be considered ineligible for work permits.
338 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing (details supplied) at the Land Registry will be completed. [14935/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for transmission of part which was lodged on 3 June 2004. Dealing number D2004SM004736A refers. I am further informed that a query issued to the lodging solicitor on 22 April 2005 and that the application cannot proceed until this query has been satisfactorily resolved. However, on receipt of a satisfactory reply, the application will receive further attention in the Land Registry.
339 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the replacement of a Garda station (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14951/05]
I refer the Deputy to my recent replies to her Questions Nos. 485 of 22 March 2005 and 98 of 12 April 2005 with regard to this Garda station. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the proposals I outlined to address the accommodation needs of this station are still under consideration.
340 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the passport belonging to a person (details supplied) in County Louth will be returned to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14988/05]
The passport from the person concerned was submitted with his application for permission to remain in the State on the basis of his parentage of an Irish-born child under the revised arrangements announced by me on 15 January 2005. The relevant passport has been located, checked, copied and returned to the applicant by registered post.
Applications are being dealt with as expeditiously as possible and, in so far as is possible, in order of receipt. Given the number of applications being processed, it is expected that the processing of the application and that of the person's partner will be completed shortly.
341 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Question No. 685 of 12 April 2005, if a decision has been made on an application for a visa for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14989/05]
I believe the Deputy is referring to reference to visa application numbers 1740469 and 1740470. These applications were received in my Department on 18 March 2005. The visa officer dealing with the applications has undertaken an initial assessment of the papers provided and has sought further supporting documentation by letter dated 4 May 2005. When the visa officer receives the information, a final assessment will be made. The applicants can expect a decision within a short period once the information sought by the visa officer is received.
342 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received all the documentation from the UK authorities to allow for him to make a decision for a prisoner (details supplied) to be transferred to this State to serve the remainder of their sentence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14992/05]
I expect that a decision on the case of the person referred to will be forwarded to the United Kingdom authorities very shortly. It should be noted that the convention on the transfer of sentenced persons requires extensive documentation to be exchanged between both jurisdictions to allow an application to be fully considered. A three-way consent is also required to enable any transfer to take place, that is, from the authorities of both jurisdictions and from the person concerned. On receipt of those consents, assuming they are forthcoming, an application must be made to the High Court for a warrant authorising the transfer of the person concerned and his/her continued detention here.
343 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of applications received in each of the past five years from non-EU nationals requesting to remain in the State based on their marriage to an Irish citizen; the length of time it is taking to process these applications from the date of application to completion; his views on whether the delays being experienced can be improved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15057/05]
The number of applications received for residency in the State based solely on marriage to an Irish national are as follows: 156 in 2001; 191 in 2002; 271 in 2003; 326 in 2004 and 93 to end April 2005. Figures are not available for 2000.
Applications of the type referred to by the Deputy are dealt with in chronological order, in fairness to all such applicants, and take approximately 16 months to process. The resources allocated to process such applications are dependent on the prioritised work requirements of the immigration division of my Department at any one time which is operating against a background of significant increases on demands for its services over a wide range of areas.
344 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí that are assigned to Castledermot Garda station, County Kildare; if there are plans to increase this number; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15104/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Castledermot Garda station as at 9 May 2005 was two — all ranks. Local Garda management is satisfied that the present strength of Castledermot Garda station is sufficient to meet the present policing needs of the area.
With regard to Garda resources generally, I am very 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 in 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 theforce.
The Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of the Castledermot Garda station will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country. Clearly, 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 increase very significantly the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda traffic corps. 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.
345 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing in the Land Registry will be completed for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [15105/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for deed of charge which was lodged on 13 October 2004. Dealing number D2004SM008627Q refers. I am further informed that this application is associated with dealing number D2004SM006350T in respect of which a land certificate has been requested by the Land Registry from the lodging solicitors. I am also informed that on receipt of a land certificate, both applications will receive further attention in the Land Registry and will be completed as soon as possible.
346 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Garda Commissioner’s proposals for extra Garda patrols on Dublin city centre streets, particularly late at night and early morning, having regard to the continued high and unacceptable levels of violence that many citizens are experiencing; the plans being prepared to extend CCTV coverage in areas of high usage, such as Dame Street; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15106/05]
There was a decrease of 22% in assault causing harm and a decrease of 23% in minor assaults in 2003 compared with 2002. There was almost a 22% decrease in criminal damage cases and 4% decrease in public order offences in the same period. Assaults causing harm decreased by a further 1% in 2004 compared with 2003 and by 15% for the first quarter of 2005 compared with the same period in 2004. Figures for the other categories above are not yet available.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of personnel and resources, that the area in question is policed by gardaí attached to the north central and south central divisions of the Dublin metropolitan region. The personnel strength — all ranks — of these divisions as at 9 May 2005 was as follows.
|
Division |
Strength |
|
DMR north central |
634 |
|
DMR south central |
698 |
A number of policing operations have been put in place to combat public order incidents in Dublin city centre, including Operations Encounter, Boulevard, Eden Quay and the city centre initiative. These operations are Garda initiatives aimed at dealing effectively with public order issues by providing high visibility foot patrols in city centre streets late at night and during the early morning. Garda authorities consider these operations to have been very successful in combatting such incidents. These initiatives are kept under constant review by local Garda management and are tailored to meet circumstances as they exist at any given time.
I am advised that local Garda management is satisfied with the current level of patrols in the city centre. Garda management will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in Dublin city centre with a view ensuring an effective Garda service is maintained.
With regard to CCTV coverage of Dublin city centre, I am informed by the Garda authorities that 69 Garda CCTV cameras provide coverage of areas of high usage in the city centre. A Garda proposal to extend CCTV coverage in the Camden Street, Temple Bar and Pearse Street areas by a further nine cameras is under examination. With regard to the area given as an example by the Deputy, I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are two Garda CCTV cameras covering Dame Street — one at College Green, and one opposite the Central Bank. This coverage may be further augmented with the expansion of the CCTV system as described above.
347 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a dealing will be completed in the Land Registry for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [15109/05]
I am informed by the Registrar of Titles that this is an application for transfer of part which was lodged on 19 March 2004. Dealing number D2004SM002488U refers. I am further informed that the application is receiving attention in the Land Registry and, subject to no queries arising, should be completed within the next few weeks.
348 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will reconsider his decision on the deportation of a person (details supplied) in County Clare on 8 June 2005 in view of the fact that this person’s life may be in danger if this person returns to their own country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15116/05]
365 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a deportation order will be withdrawn on humanitarian grounds against a person (details supplied) in County Clare. [15162/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 348 and 365 together.
I refer the Deputies to the reply I gave to Questions Nos. 719 and 741 on Wednesday, 26 January 2005. The person concerned is awaiting deportation following a full and comprehensive examination, including all refoulement matters, of his application to remain temporarily in the State. The decision to deport therefore remains unchanged. The Garda National Immigration Bureau is awaiting a travel document from the Togolese authorities and the deportation order will be enforced as soon as this becomes available and travel arrangements have been made.
349 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the application by the spouse of an Irish national (details supplied) for a visa will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15139/05]
My Department has not to date received a visa application to reside for the person named by the Deputy. As processing times for visa applications are on average between four and six weeks from the date of receipt in my Department, the applicant can expect a decision within this timeframe.
350 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests made for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Ennis, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15147/05]
351 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests made for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Ennistymon, County Clare. [15148/05]
352 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests made for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Shannon, County Clare. [15149/05]
353 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests made for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Kilrush, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15150/05]
354 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests made for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Scarriff, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15151/05]
355 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests made for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Milltown Malbay, County Clare. [15152/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 350 to 355, inclusive, together.
It has not been possible to compile the information requested in the timeframe allowed. I will arrange for the information to be forwarded directly to the Deputy at the earliest possible opportunity.
356 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions secured for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Ennis, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15153/05]
357 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions secured for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other public order offences in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Ennistymon, County Clare. [15154/05]
358 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions secured for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other anti-social behaviour in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Shannon, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15155/05]
359 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions secured for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other anti-social behaviour in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Kilrush, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15156/05]
360 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions secured for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other anti-social behaviour in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Scarriff, County Clare. [15157/05]
361 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of convictions secured for the offences of being drunk and disorderly, drunk and a danger to oneself or others, damage to public property, common assault, refusal to comply with a Garda direction and other anti-social behaviour in 2002, 2003 and 2004 and the first four months in 2005 in Milltown Malbay, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15158/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 356 to 361, inclusive, together.
It has not been possible to compile the information requested in the timeframe allowed. I will arrange for the information to be forwarded directly to the Deputy at the earliest possible opportunity.
362 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to meet the concerns of Alcohol Action Ireland regarding the Intoxicating Liquor (Codification) Bill 2005 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15159/05]
371 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15260/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 362 and 371 together.
The position is that I have recently published proposals for an intoxicating liquor Bill that will streamline and modernise our liquor licensing laws. This will involve repealing the Liquor Licensing Acts 1833 to 2004 and replacing them with updated provisions more suited to modern conditions. As part of a consultative process, I have invited organisations and private individuals with an interest in this area to submit their views or suggestions on all or specific parts of the proposed Bill. I will take the views of Alcohol Action Ireland and those of other organisations and individuals who make submissions into account in the detailed drafting of the Bill. The deadline for the receipt of submissions is 31 May 2005.
363 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) has been detained at Clover Hill Prison awaiting deportation. [15160/05]
The person concerned, a Croatian national, arrived in the State on 28 December 2000 and claimed asylum. His application was refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and he was notified of this recommendation by letter on 5 February 2002. His subsequent appeal was refused by the Office of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal and he was notified of this recommendation by letter on 12 July 2002.
He was notified of the decision to refuse him refugee status by letter on 26 August 2002, in which he was informed of the three options open to him at that point, these being to leave the State before his case was considered for deportation, to consent to the making of a deportation order in respect of him or to make written representations within 15 working days to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform setting out the reasons why he should not be deported and be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
His case was examined under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, including consideration of representations received on his behalf for temporary leave to remain in the State. On 11 February 2005 a deportation order was made in respect of him. Notice of the order was served by registered post requiring him to present himself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau on Thursday, 24 March 2005 in order that travel arrangements could be put in place to effect his removal from the State. The person concerned failed to present himself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau as required and was classified as having evaded deportation. I understand from the Garda authorities that he was subsequently located, arrested and detained pursuant to section 5 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. He is detained in Clover Hill Prison pending his removal from the State. The enforcement of the deportation order is now a matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau. The person concerned did not have the right to work in the State.
364 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Wicklow town in 1997, 2000, 2002, 2003 and 2004; the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 in the Wicklow town area; if he will increase the number of gardaí in the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15161/05]
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 Wicklow town Garda station as on 31 December in each of the years 1997 to 2004 was as follows.
|
Date |
Strength |
|
31/12/1997 |
33 |
|
31/12/1998 |
39 |
|
31/12/1999 |
40 |
|
31/12/2000 |
39 |
|
31/12/2001 |
40 |
|
31/12/2002 |
41 |
|
31/12/2003 |
39 |
|
31/12/2004 |
36 |
Local Garda management states that the existing available resources at Wicklow Garda station are adequate to meet the present policing needs of the area.
On the issue of crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of eleven quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004. The following table shows the headline offences for the Garda district of Wicklow for the years 2000 to 2004. The figures provided for 2004 are provisional and are, therefore, subject to change.
|
Groups |
*R 00 |
*D 00 |
R 01 |
D 01 |
R 02 |
D 02 |
R 03 |
D 03 |
R 04 |
D 04 |
|
*G. 01 — Homicides |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
G. 02 — Assaults |
24 |
24 |
24 |
24 |
45 |
37 |
32 |
29 |
36 |
29 |
|
G. 03 — Sexual Offences |
9 |
3 |
21 |
20 |
12 |
9 |
12 |
4 |
13 |
6 |
|
G. 04 — Arson |
14 |
4 |
3 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
6 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
|
G. 05 — Drugs |
13 |
13 |
6 |
6 |
2 |
2 |
15 |
15 |
10 |
10 |
|
G. 06 — Thefts |
348 |
125 |
404 |
139 |
540 |
118 |
462 |
120 |
407 |
114 |
|
G. 07 — Burglaries |
240 |
67 |
233 |
56 |
295 |
48 |
264 |
34 |
288 |
48 |
|
G. 08 — Robberies |
5 |
4 |
11 |
6 |
10 |
5 |
4 |
0 |
9 |
3 |
|
G. 09 — Frauds |
42 |
41 |
32 |
27 |
29 |
22 |
29 |
10 |
16 |
10 |
|
G. 10 — Other Headline Offences |
2 |
2 |
6 |
6 |
18 |
14 |
9 |
8 |
13 |
8 |
|
Total |
699 |
285 |
740 |
284 |
954 |
256 |
833 |
223 |
796 |
230 |
*R — Recorded
*D — Detected
*G — Group
Concerning Garda resources generally, 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 in this regard in An Agreed Programme for Government. 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 draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of the Wicklow district will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda districts and sub-districts throughout the country. The additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies areas with a significant drugs problem and a large number of public order offences but it will be possible to address other priorities, such as the need to increase significantly the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda traffic corps. 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 and will have a real impact.
366 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of a cross-Border sex offenders register; the difficulties he envisages its use would have, particularly in Border areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15166/05]
In the context of the Good Friday Agreement, negotiations are taking place on an intergovernmental agreement on North-South co-operation on criminal justice matters, together with an associated work programme, and are expected to be finalised in the near future. One of the items under consideration for inclusion in the work programme is the establishment of a working group to review the arrangements for exchanging information on registered sex offenders. I am informed by the Garda that they and the PSNI maintain regular contact and exchange intelligence and information on convicted sex offenders.
367 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Arklow, County Wicklow for the years 1997, 2002, 2003 and 2004; the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings for 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004; the plans he has to increase these; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15200/05]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of Arklow Garda station as on 31 December in each of the years 1997 to 2004 was as set out in the following table.
|
Date |
Strength |
|
31/12/1997 |
22 |
|
31/12/1998 |
25 |
|
31/12/1999 |
24 |
|
31/12/2000 |
24 |
|
31/12/2001 |
25 |
|
31/12/2002 |
28 |
|
31/12/2003 |
27 |
|
31/12/2004 |
28 |
Local Garda management states that the existing available resources at Arklow Garda station are adequate to meet the present policing needs of the area.
Regarding crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of eleven quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999, which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. The Deputy will also wish to be aware that, taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
The following table shows the headline offences for the Garda district of Gorey for the years 2000 to 2004. Arklow Garda station is included in Gorey Garda district. The figures provided for 2004 are provisional, and are, therefore, subject to change.
|
Groups |
*R 00 |
*D 00 |
R 01 |
D 01 |
R 02 |
D 02 |
R 03 |
D 03 |
R 04 |
D 04 |
|
*G. 01 — Homicides |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
G. 02 — Assaults |
8 |
8 |
18 |
16 |
41 |
38 |
37 |
26 |
37 |
26 |
|
G. 03 — Sexual Offences |
2 |
2 |
15 |
11 |
14 |
9 |
19 |
13 |
20 |
12 |
|
G. 04 — Arson |
4 |
1 |
7 |
2 |
14 |
3 |
8 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
|
G. 05 — Drugs |
25 |
25 |
22 |
22 |
25 |
25 |
19 |
19 |
23 |
23 |
|
G. 06 — Thefts |
163 |
64 |
228 |
99 |
371 |
143 |
395 |
141 |
398 |
155 |
|
G. 07 — Burglaries |
238 |
90 |
232 |
91 |
248 |
41 |
292 |
46 |
300 |
45 |
|
G. 08 — Robberies |
13 |
7 |
8 |
7 |
8 |
2 |
7 |
7 |
15 |
8 |
|
G. 09 — Frauds |
27 |
26 |
24 |
23 |
14 |
10 |
22 |
11 |
23 |
20 |
|
G. 10 — Other Headline Offences |
6 |
6 |
9 |
8 |
17 |
13 |
11 |
7 |
24 |
20 |
|
Total |
486 |
229 |
563 |
279 |
752 |
284 |
810 |
272 |
842 |
309 |
*R — Recorded
*D — Detected
*G — Group
Concerning Garda resources generally, I am very 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 in this regard in An Agreed Programme for Government. This is a key commitment in the programme for Government and its implementation will significantly strengthen the operational capacity of the force. The Garda Commissioner will now draw up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources. In this context, the needs of the Gorey district will be fully considered within the context of the needs of Garda districts and sub-districts throughout the country. The additional resources will be targeted at the areas of greatest need, as is envisaged in the programme for Government. The programme identifies 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 very significantly the number of gardaí allocated to traffic duties as part of the new Garda traffic corps. 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 and will have a real impact.
368 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to websites (details supplied), on which uncontrolled, undesirable and defamatory postings have been noted which cause grievous offence to those targeted; if he has had discussions with the regulator with a view to the blocking of such activity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15201/05]
The regulator and statutory body responsible for the electronic communications sector, telecommunications, radiocommunications and broadcasting transmission, and the postal sector is ComReg. Questions regarding its functions should be referred to my colleague the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources.
369 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the revenue raised from ground rents in 2004. [15202/05]
The position is that ground rent is payable by the ground rent tenant to the ground rent landlord and therefore there is no information available to me to indicate the amount raised from ground rents in 2004.
370 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, regarding an application for permission to remain here by a person (details supplied), he will delay the making of a deportation order to enable the person to complete their education and to allow further consideration of the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15259/05]
I refer the Deputy to my statement to the Dáil during the Adjournment debate on Thursday, 5 May 2005 regarding the policy on the deportation of persons due to sit State examinations. The person concerned is a refused asylum seeker in respect of whom a deportation order was made on 8 March 2005. The order was served on him by registered post requiring him to report to the Garda National Immigration Bureau on Thursday, 5 May 2005. He is due to present himself again on Friday, 20 May 2005, when it is expected that travel arrangements will have been made.
372 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on correspondence (details supplied); his plans to address the concerns expressed in same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15261/05]
The correspondence relates generally to the question of the payment of the costs of representation for a party attending the Morris tribunal. The issue has been raised on many occasions and the position on this matter is clear. The current legislation, the Tribunal of Inquiry (Evidence) Acts 1921 to 2002, provides that the question of costs is solely a matter for the tribunal. The Acts provide that a tribunal which, having regard to its findings and all other relevant matters, is of opinion that there are sufficient reasons rendering it equitable to do so, can order the whole or part of the costs of representation of a person appearing before it to be paid.
A tribunal, when determining whether costs should be paid, may take into account failure to co-operate or to provide assistance to, or knowingly giving false or misleading information to, the tribunal. This has important practical implications for tribunals generally in their search for the truth. The power to decide on costs is one of the greatest weapons in the armoury of a tribunal to ensure the co-operation and truthfulness of the parties.
Concerning the Morris tribunal itself, it is clear from the chairman's judgment on applications for costs associated with the first module that he regards co-operation with the tribunal and truthfulness in giving evidence as matters of paramount importance. In deciding on costs he made deductions in some cases and totally rejected other applications where he was of the opinion that persons deliberately lied or otherwise hindered him in his efforts to get to the truth.
To not undermine this power of the tribunal is crucial. To interfere with it, however well-intentioned the motives, would blunt the effectiveness of tribunals in general and the Morris tribunal in particular in uncovering the truth, which I am not prepared to do. I have consistently maintained this policy. The correspondent is a key figure in the work being undertaken by the Morris tribunal and has also initiated legal proceedings against the Garda Commissioner, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Ireland and the Attorney General. Regarding these proceedings, it would be inappropriate of me to comment further pending their determination.
As to the other issues raised in the correspondence, the position is that the forum exists for the full truth to emerge. The Morris tribunal has demonstrated its effectiveness and the Government has demonstrated its readiness to take action on foot of its findings. I urge everyone connected with the work of the tribunal to co-operate fully with its inquiry.
373 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Whitechurch and Carrignavar area, County Cork, for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005; if he will give consideration to changing the management arrangements of gardaí in order that the area comes under the jurisdiction of either Blarney or Cork city rather than Cobh which is 25 miles away. [15263/05]
374 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Glanmire area of County Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15264/05]
375 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Blarney area of County Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15265/05]
376 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Dripsey and Berrings area of County Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15266/05]
377 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Knockraha area of County Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15267/05]
378 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Gurranabraher area of Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15268/05]
379 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Blackpool area of Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15269/05]
380 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Mayfield area of Cork for the years 2000 to 2004 and to date in 2005. [15270/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 373 to 380, inclusive, together.
Concerning crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of eleven quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. Taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the assistant commissioner of the southern region recently established a review group under the chairmanship of a chief superintendent to examine both the administrative and operational issues in relation to the areas mentioned and to make recommendations. The result of this review is not yet available. The Deputy will be aware that the allocation of Garda resources is a matter for the Garda Commissioner.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following tables show the headline crime by group from 2000 to 2005, up to 30 April, for the Cobh Garda district, which incorporates the Glanmire, Knockraha, Whitechurch and Carrignavar areas, the Mayfield Garda district, which includes the Blackpool area, the Macroom Garda district, including the Dripsey and Berrings areas, and the Gurranabraher Garda district that includes the Blarney area.
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
2005* |
||||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
20 |
20 |
24 |
19 |
55 |
50 |
50 |
31 |
30 |
19 |
24 |
13 |
|
Sexual Offences |
8 |
8 |
31 |
28 |
24 |
16 |
24 |
11 |
10 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
|
Arson |
2 |
1 |
4 |
1 |
10 |
0 |
9 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
3 |
2 |
|
Drugs |
17 |
17 |
11 |
11 |
13 |
13 |
11 |
11 |
13 |
11 |
6 |
5 |
|
Thefts |
147 |
63 |
210 |
58 |
249 |
59 |
277 |
61 |
194 |
70 |
87 |
51 |
|
Burglary |
89 |
41 |
106 |
24 |
144 |
33 |
86 |
11 |
75 |
30 |
42 |
15 |
|
Robbery |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
4 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
Fraud |
10 |
9 |
7 |
5 |
10 |
4 |
32 |
21 |
13 |
12 |
4 |
2 |
|
Other |
3 |
2 |
8 |
6 |
17 |
14 |
13 |
9 |
11 |
10 |
2 |
2 |
|
Total |
298 |
163 |
402 |
153 |
526 |
189 |
505 |
157 |
352 |
155 |
172 |
91 |
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
2005* |
||||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
37 |
35 |
61 |
56 |
79 |
68 |
46 |
43 |
45 |
36 |
17 |
6 |
|
Sexual Offences |
12 |
12 |
23 |
17 |
34 |
10 |
21 |
13 |
17 |
11 |
3 |
1 |
|
Arson |
34 |
18 |
43 |
16 |
27 |
12 |
46 |
8 |
33 |
6 |
6 |
2 |
|
Drugs |
33 |
33 |
37 |
37 |
44 |
44 |
28 |
28 |
35 |
34 |
12 |
12 |
|
Thefts |
442 |
172 |
467 |
234 |
603 |
251 |
503 |
213 |
531 |
220 |
192 |
81 |
|
Burglary |
250 |
111 |
261 |
131 |
258 |
83 |
202 |
91 |
245 |
116 |
57 |
16 |
|
Robbery |
28 |
16 |
27 |
15 |
41 |
26 |
34 |
20 |
54 |
28 |
17 |
8 |
|
Fraud |
31 |
23 |
23 |
19 |
25 |
15 |
39 |
28 |
19 |
14 |
9 |
6 |
|
Other |
4 |
4 |
6 |
3 |
18 |
17 |
13 |
9 |
7 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
|
Total |
871 |
424 |
949 |
528 |
1,132 |
529 |
933 |
454 |
986 |
469 |
315 |
133 |
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
2005* |
||||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
6 |
6 |
2 |
2 |
11 |
10 |
11 |
10 |
14 |
14 |
3 |
3 |
|
Sexual Offences |
4 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
6 |
5 |
6 |
6 |
7 |
6 |
|
Arson |
1 |
0 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
Drugs |
7 |
7 |
4 |
4 |
7 |
7 |
13 |
13 |
6 |
6 |
3 |
3 |
|
Thefts |
41 |
8 |
66 |
28 |
87 |
27 |
76 |
21 |
108 |
47 |
34 |
17 |
|
Burglary |
57 |
18 |
94 |
26 |
75 |
23 |
47 |
10 |
45 |
15 |
24 |
5 |
|
Robbery |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
Fraud |
2 |
0 |
23 |
17 |
7 |
6 |
47 |
46 |
4 |
2 |
4 |
4 |
|
Other |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
Total |
121 |
45 |
196 |
82 |
194 |
78 |
204 |
107 |
189 |
92 |
80 |
41 |
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
2005* |
||||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
25 |
20 |
47 |
27 |
73 |
57 |
59 |
40 |
49 |
35 |
23 |
8 |
|
Sexual Offences |
10 |
8 |
13 |
4 |
30 |
13 |
16 |
11 |
23 |
15 |
6 |
3 |
|
Arson |
32 |
10 |
10 |
2 |
30 |
7 |
31 |
3 |
32 |
3 |
10 |
1 |
|
Drugs |
18 |
18 |
16 |
16 |
21 |
21 |
24 |
23 |
25 |
25 |
15 |
15 |
|
Thefts |
267 |
87 |
301 |
86 |
313 |
82 |
268 |
78 |
414 |
109 |
117 |
27 |
|
Burglary |
214 |
83 |
230 |
41 |
235 |
48 |
150 |
30 |
186 |
43 |
45 |
9 |
|
Robbery |
11 |
8 |
16 |
8 |
10 |
1 |
19 |
4 |
14 |
9 |
2 |
0 |
|
Fraud |
32 |
29 |
10 |
8 |
8 |
5 |
19 |
14 |
44 |
40 |
9 |
7 |
|
Other |
0 |
0 |
7 |
4 |
24 |
21 |
13 |
11 |
8 |
5 |
2 |
1 |
|
Total |
611 |
265 |
651 |
197 |
747 |
258 |
600 |
214 |
796 |
285 |
229 |
71 |
381 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has given consideration to changing the ward of courtprocedure for families of those suffering from Alzheimer’s to a more simplified procedure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15271/05]
I am advised that the Courts Service, mindful of the need for a comprehensive reform of the law relating to the protection of intellectually incapacitated individuals, and in the context of a relevant consultation paper published by the Law Reform Commission in 2003, is engaged in a review of the operation of the wardship jurisdiction. I will consider any proposals for changes in legislation within my area of functional responsibility which emanate from the review and from the final report of the Law Reform Commission.
382 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a person (details supplied). [15301/05]
The person in question had permission to remain in the State until 21 March 2005. Having considered all the circumstances of his case, he has now been granted permission to remain in the State for a six-month period to enable an employer obtain a work permit on his behalf.
383 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedures followed by the Reception and Integration Agency in arranging contracts for accommodation and services; and if these procedures have been followed in all cases. [15356/05]
The Reception and Integration Agency, RIA, sources management and catering services in State owned asylum seeker accommodation centres by way of EU open tender competitions. Suitable accommodation centres in the commercial sector which satisfy the requirements of RIA continue to be sourced on foot of advertisements in the national newspapers. To date, more than 600 offers of accommodation in the commercial sector have been made to RIA and offers continue to be received on an ongoing basis.
384 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of staff seconded to the Reception and Integration Agency in 2002, 2003, 2004 and to date in 2005; the length of time for which each individual secondment lasted and the Department or public service organisation of origin from which each individual was seconded. [15357/05]
The following table sets out details of secondments to the Reception and Integration Agency as requested by the deputy.
|
Grade Equiv. |
Dept./Org. |
From |
To |
|
AP |
Dept. of Education |
05/11/1999 |
15/06/2003 |
|
AO |
Dublin Corporation |
11/11/1999 |
to date |
|
AP |
Eastern Health Board |
09/12/1999 |
19/11/2004 |
|
AP |
Dept. of Health and Children |
09/12/1999 |
to date |
|
AO |
Irish Red Cross |
03/02/2000 |
11/06/2004 |
|
AP |
Dept. of Defence |
05/02/2001 |
02/03/2003 |
|
AP |
Irish Prison Service |
16/04/2001 |
to date |
|
EO |
Dept. of Environment & Local Government |
14/05/2001 |
to date |
|
EO |
Irish Prison Service |
16/09/2004 |
to date |
|
AP |
Dept. of Education |
01/12/2004 |
to date |
|
AP |
East Coast Area Health Board |
31/01/2005 |
to date |
385 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of contracts awarded by the Reception and Integration Agency in 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005 to date in respect of accommodation and services; and the value of each individual contract awarded. [15358/05]
I have been advised by the Reception and Integration Agency that it would not be possible to supply the Deputy with the information sought in the time available. The agency will provide the information to the Deputy as soon as possible.
386 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Thurles area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004 under each headline, including the total number of crimes recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15391/05]
387 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Templemore area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004 under each headline, including the total number of crimes recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15392/05]
388 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Nenagh area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004 under each headline, including the total number of crimes recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15393/05]
389 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Borrisokane area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004, under each headline, including the total number of crimes recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15394/05]
390 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Roscrea area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive, under each headline, including the total recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15395/05]
391 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Newport area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive, under each headline, including the total recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15396/05]
392 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the crime statistics for the Cappawhite area of County Tipperary for the years 2000 to 2004, inclusive, under each headline, including the total recorded and detected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15397/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 386 to 392, inclusive, together.
In regard to crime figures, the Deputy will be aware that on becoming Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, I arranged for the publication of headline crime statistics on a quarterly basis to improve the quality of information available to the public. While caution should be exercised in interpreting levels of crime between quarters, I am pleased to note that during my term of office as Minister, the quarterly crime rate has decreased from 6.7 per 1,000 population to 6 per 1,000 over the longer period of 11 quarters for which figures are available. This trend is reflected throughout most Garda districts in the country. In interpreting these figures, account has also to be taken of the introduction of the new PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999, which led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. Taking into account the significant increase in our population since 1995, the headline crime rate has fallen from 29 per 1,000 population in 1995 to 25 per 1,000 population in 2004.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following tables show the headline crime statistics by groups from 2000 to 2004 for the Thurles Garda district, the Templemore Garda district, which includes the Roscrea area, the Nenagh Garda district, which covers the Borrisokane area, the Killaloe Garda district, which covers the Newport area, and the Tipperary town Garda district, which covers the Cappawhite area.
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Thurles Garda district from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
9 |
8 |
16 |
16 |
31 |
27 |
26 |
22 |
24 |
20 |
|
Sexual Offences |
3 |
2 |
12 |
10 |
32 |
28 |
22 |
22 |
7 |
7 |
|
Arson |
2 |
1 |
7 |
2 |
5 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
|
Drugs |
2 |
2 |
14 |
14 |
37 |
37 |
23 |
23 |
25 |
25 |
|
Thefts |
85 |
43 |
202 |
70 |
216 |
90 |
234 |
67 |
241 |
67 |
|
Burglary |
109 |
21 |
163 |
17 |
134 |
19 |
150 |
23 |
156 |
22 |
|
Robbery |
2 |
0 |
5 |
2 |
5 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
Fraud |
8 |
8 |
34 |
33 |
17 |
13 |
54 |
47 |
29 |
25 |
|
Other |
0 |
0 |
5 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
11 |
7 |
7 |
5 |
|
Total |
220 |
85 |
458 |
169 |
481 |
221 |
522 |
211 |
493 |
173 |
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Templemore Garda district from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
10 |
10 |
12 |
8 |
15 |
13 |
16 |
9 |
17 |
15 |
|
Sexual Offences |
5 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
5 |
2 |
9 |
5 |
2 |
1 |
|
Arson |
2 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
2 |
5 |
0 |
7 |
1 |
|
Drugs |
4 |
4 |
6 |
6 |
4 |
4 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
|
Thefts |
81 |
31 |
101 |
35 |
155 |
33 |
175 |
67 |
169 |
62 |
|
Burglary |
85 |
18 |
121 |
19 |
79 |
11 |
89 |
15 |
92 |
11 |
|
Robbery |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
1 |
4 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
|
Fraud |
1 |
1 |
18 |
17 |
3 |
2 |
4 |
1 |
9 |
4 |
|
Other |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
4 |
10 |
7 |
|
Total |
190 |
72 |
269 |
92 |
270 |
71 |
313 |
109 |
313 |
107 |
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Nenagh garda district from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
13 |
13 |
12 |
10 |
14 |
13 |
20 |
16 |
3 |
3 |
|
Sexual Offences |
6 |
3 |
17 |
15 |
13 |
11 |
16 |
15 |
6 |
3 |
|
Arson |
2 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
3 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Drugs |
9 |
9 |
17 |
17 |
15 |
15 |
22 |
22 |
17 |
17 |
|
Thefts |
103 |
53 |
94 |
27 |
123 |
48 |
134 |
41 |
153 |
56 |
|
Burglary |
66 |
11 |
101 |
11 |
92 |
18 |
91 |
16 |
96 |
20 |
|
Robbery |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
5 |
4 |
5 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
|
Fraud |
5 |
3 |
18 |
18 |
14 |
14 |
4 |
2 |
12 |
8 |
|
Other |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
2 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
3 |
|
Total |
205 |
94 |
263 |
101 |
282 |
125 |
298 |
120 |
290 |
110 |
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Killaloe Garda district from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
2 |
2 |
6 |
6 |
7 |
5 |
2 |
1 |
8 |
4 |
|
Sexual Offences |
3 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
22 |
15 |
34 |
33 |
1 |
1 |
|
Arson |
0 |
0 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
Drugs |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
7 |
7 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
|
Thefts |
47 |
13 |
111 |
10 |
145 |
24 |
122 |
27 |
162 |
19 |
|
Burglary |
56 |
14 |
86 |
13 |
109 |
12 |
77 |
4 |
80 |
4 |
|
Robbery |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
Fraud |
1 |
1 |
11 |
8 |
2 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
5 |
0 |
|
Other |
2 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
5 |
5 |
|
Total |
115 |
38 |
222 |
40 |
297 |
66 |
247 |
72 |
268 |
38 |
|
Headline Offences Recorded and Detected for Tipperary town Garda district from 2000 to 2004* |
||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004* |
|||||
|
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
Rec |
Dec |
|
|
Homicide |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
16 |
11 |
14 |
14 |
22 |
21 |
19 |
17 |
22 |
14 |
|
Sexual Offences |
1 |
1 |
6 |
6 |
1 |
0 |
4 |
1 |
6 |
4 |
|
Arson |
1 |
1 |
5 |
3 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
4 |
2 |
|
Drugs |
5 |
5 |
4 |
4 |
7 |
7 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
|
Thefts |
87 |
48 |
102 |
41 |
113 |
43 |
120 |
35 |
123 |
43 |
|
Burglary |
92 |
37 |
125 |
33 |
92 |
14 |
58 |
11 |
69 |
19 |
|
Robbery |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
|
Fraud |
17 |
17 |
6 |
5 |
13 |
8 |
13 |
10 |
16 |
12 |
|
Other |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
7 |
7 |
1 |
1 |
|
Total |
220 |
121 |
263 |
106 |
252 |
96 |
230 |
87 |
248 |
100 |
393 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if any changes in the management structures within the Garda Síochána in Donegal have been undertaken; if such decisions are awaiting the final report of the Morris tribunal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15473/05]
The tribunal of inquiry into complaints concerning some gardaí of the Donegal division has already in its first report demonstrated its effectiveness, and the Government and the Garda Commissioner have shown their determination to take action on its findings. While there have been certain personnel changes, there have been no changes in the management structures in the Donegal division.
The Commissioner has accepted the recommendations made in the first report of the Morris tribunal and is already taking action on foot of these. The Commissioner has established an implementation group under the chairmanship of the deputy commissioner, Mr. Peter Fitzgerald, to examine the issues arising from the recommendations contained in the first report of the Morris tribunal. A number of working groups have been established to deliberate on matters raised in the report. These working groups are examining the following areas: the role of assistant commissioner and accountability framework; erosion of discipline; issues involving personnel; migration management and policy of tenure; management development; internal audit; informant management; and religious and ethnic minorities. A composite report, containing firm recommendations, will be prepared by the implementation group for the Garda Commissioner and myself.
The Deputy will be aware that the Garda Síochána Bill, currently before the Dáil, makes provision for the establishment of a Garda Síochána inspectorate. This proposal was introduced during the debate on the Bill in Seanad Éireann, directly as a result of a recommendation in the first report of the Morris tribunal to the effect that the Minister and the Department in its oversight role must be "empowered by knowledge". The main functions of the inspectorate will be to ensure that the Minister and the Department will have objective information on matters relevant to the functioning of the force. The key objectives will be to ensure and promote efficiency and effectiveness in the Garda Síochána and to provide advice and support to the Minister and the Department.
394 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding persons (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14851/05]
My Department funds three means-tested maintenance grant schemes for third level education students in respect of attendance on approved courses in approved third level institutions and one grant scheme in respect of post-leaving certificate courses. They include the higher education grants scheme; the vocational education committees' scholarship scheme; the third level maintenance grants scheme for trainees; and the maintenance grants scheme for students attending post-leaving certificate, PLC, courses.
I understand that the student in question is 14 years of age. The position is that under current provisions, generally speaking, students who are entering approved courses for the first time are eligible for grants where they satisfy the relevant conditions as to age, residence, means, nationality and previous academic attainment. Each application is assessed in accordance with terms of the prevailing scheme.
395 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in bringing the Department of Education and Science to Mullingar as announced in the decentralisation programme; the timescale she envisages for the completion of this programme; and the number of civil servants who will be accommodated in the decentralised Department of Education and Science. [14977/05]
The decentralisation implementation group report of November 2004 included the Department of Education and Science as a potential early mover to Mullingar under the Government's decentralisation programme. Approximately 300 staff will be transferred to Mullingar under the programme. The Office of Public Works has overall responsibility for the provision of accommodation in the decentralised locations. My Department is working with it to ensure that the move can be made as early as is feasible.
396 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the use of public private partnerships for the provision of school accommodation; if she approved the use of this model for her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15286/05]
421 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when she intends to announce the list of schools which will proceed by way of public private partnership; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15274/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 396 and 421 together.
My colleague the Minister for Finance provided a capital envelope of €555 million in respect of education PPPs for the period 2005 to 2009 and I am examining how this may be best utilised. This examination covers both schools and the third level sector.
A key rationale underpinning the decision to proceed with the initial bundle of five schools was to test the PPP approach in the case of schools, to learn from the experience and thereby to inform future usage of a PPP approach to procuring schools.
Based on the experience to date from the use of the PPP process for the National Maritime College and schools projects, a number of issues are under active consideration by my Department and will inform my decision on the allocation of the funds available to me for PPP development. These include the type of PPP model to be used, the level of operation and service to be included in any new programme, how the projects should be bundled so as to provide the most cost effective procurement and the size and geographical spread of the bundles.
In respect of school building projects, new schools on greenfield sites that have been prioritised using the criteria agreed with the education partners, and published by my Department, fit the PPP model best as distinct from projects that involve modernisation of existing buildings. I intend to announce my plans for a further PPP programme in the near future.
397 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the proposed new Cork School of Music; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14836/05]
On the 3 December 2004 Jarvis, which was appointed preferred bidder for the Cork School of Music PPP project, announced that it had reached an agreement with Hochtief Developments UK Limited to purchase the PPP bidding arm of its business. Following the announcement, various issues surrounding the purchase were being completed and a revised proposal and documentation in connection with the project were received on 19 January 2005. As Hochtief has now replaced Jarvis as a member of the bidding consortium, it must satisfy the Department that had it applied under the terms of the original PPP advertised in 2000, it would have been one of the consortia that pre-qualified for the project. The new documentation is being examined by my Department's specialist advisers to the project who are also undertaking full financial and legal due diligence to ensure that the proposal meets all EU procurement guidelines. Part of the due diligence process included contact with the relevant section of the European Commission for clarification and advice on the procurement issue. Subject to all the necessary financial and legal issues being in order, it will then be possible to commence formal contract negotiations with Hochtief Developments. It is expected that these negotiations will commence shortly.
398 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools in County Kerry that are being authorised to progress through the architectural planning process with immediate effect; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14837/05]
Three schools in County Kerry, one primary and two post-primary, were included in my recent announcement of schools to progress through architectural planning in 2005.
The school building section of my Department will be in contact with each of the schools shortly to progress the projects. Other Kerry schools that have benefited from recent buildings announcements include five schools approved to proceed to tender and construction over the next 12 to 15 months, and 16 primary schools and seven post-primary schools, which were allocated funding in the amount of €1.2 million and €1.4 million, respectively, under the summer works scheme 2005 to carry out mechanical and electrical upgrades, gas proofing, roof repairs, sewerage and fire safety works.
399 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if the present staffing in a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will remain from September 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14854/05]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule, agreed between my Department and the education partners.
In accordance with the staffing schedule, the mainstream staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy for the school year 2004-05 is a principal and seven mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 187 pupils at 30 September, 2003. The school also has one full-time resource post and the services of a learning support teacher.
My Department will finalise the staffing schedule for the 2005-06 school year shortly and thereafter notify school boards of management. According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management, the enrolment on 30 September, 2004 in the school was 175 pupils. The staffing for the 2005-06 school year will be determined on the basis of this figure and in accordance with the agreed staffing schedule.
As outlined in primary circular 19/02, an independent appeals board was established to adjudicate on appeals from boards of management on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. The appeals board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. Appeals must be submitted to primary payments section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone, on the standard application form, clearly stating the criterion under which the appeal is being made, after the schedule for the 2005-06 school year has issued.
400 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has received a report from the OPW architect who visited Ballybunion, County Kerry, recently to inspect a site for the proposed amalgamation of schools (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14915/05]
The property management section of the OPW, which acts on behalf of my Department in regard to site acquisitions generally, was originally requested to investigate the possibility of acquiring a site for the proposed amalgamation of schools referred to by the Deputy.
Subsequently, the school authority identified a possible suitable site. This site was inspected by a member of my Department's technical staff. A report on this inspection is now under consideration. As soon as a decision is made on the matter officials in the building unit of my Department will be in direct contact with the school.
401 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science when the result of her review of the special education needs provision will be available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14917/05]
The review of the general allocation system, GAS, has now been completed. The new model replaces that which was notified to schools in June 2004, which was reviewed to take account of difficulties that it may have caused for smaller schools.
I can confirm that 660 additional special needs teaching posts will be put in place in primary schools from next September to facilitate the implementation of the new GAS. The introduction of this new system will involve the provision of an estimated additional 340 permanent posts in primary schools from September next. A further 320 posts are being provided on a temporary basis to facilitate the transition to the new system and to ensure continuity of service for children who have previously being given an individual allocation until those children leave the primary school system.
My Department is now devising school clusters in respect of allocations to be made under the general allocation system. These will be notified to schools shortly along with the details of each school's individual allocation. My Department is also finalising a circular for schools which will contain detailed information on how the new system will operate. This circular will issue before the end of the current school year.
I am delighted to be able to get such significant resources for special needs provision in primary schools. Prioritising special needs and disadvantage has been top of my agenda since becoming Minister for Education and Science. I also want to acknowledge the support of the Minister for Finance and the Government in making the necessary resources available.
402 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the position to date regarding an application made to the Residential Institutions Redress Board by a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14918/05]
The Residential Institutions Redress Board is independent in the performance of its functions in accordance with the terms of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002. In the circumstances, I do not have access to the details of an individual's application, nor is it open to me or my Department to intercede on behalf of an individual applicant.
However, all applicants are entitled to contact the board directly, or through their legal representatives, to enquire about the progress of their applications.
403 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the development of a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14919/05]
The project at the school to which the Deputy refers has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria. The project will be progressed in the context of the School Buildings and Modernisation Programme 2005-2009.
The Deputy will be aware that I have made a number of announcements in regard to the 2005 school building programme since the beginning of the year. I will be making further announcements on projects which will progress, on a phased basis, into the architectural planning process in the next 12 to 15 months. The project referred to will be considered in this regard.
404 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the background to the resignation of a person (details supplied) as principal of a training college; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14938/05]
405 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on allegations of bullying and psychological abuse against the former principal of a training college (details supplied); and if the trustees and governing body of the college acted in a fair and professional manner. [14939/05]
406 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the purchase of four apartments by an institute of education (details supplied); and if all aspects of the issue are in order. [14940/05]
407 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person was forced to resign from a training college (details supplied); and her views on whether this resignation raises disturbing questions regarding governance of such institutions. [14941/05]
409 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the procedures her Department has in place for each of the colleges of education to ensure accountability for the public moneys allocated to them for the sole purposes of teacher education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14943/05]
410 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of surplus public moneys which accrued in each of the colleges of education in the years 1999 to 2004, inclusive; the way in which these moneys were spent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14944/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 404 to 407, inclusive, and 410 together.
As Deputies are well aware, the president of the college covered by the Deputies' questions resigned from that position on Friday, 29 April. Arising from this development and various related matters, I have asked that one of the country's leading independent accountancy firms examine the question of the use of moneys paid by my Department to the institution in question. I have also asked that a report be prepared as promptly as possible and that the outcome be presented to me once completed. I intend to make its findings public.
At this stage, there is nothing to show that funding provided by my Department to the institution in question has not been applied solely and properly for its intended purposes, but it is important to secure confirmation that this is indeed the case. I also commend and acknowledge that the staff of the institution in question are ensuring that the education of its students is of paramount importance and, despite the current difficulties at the institution, they continue to provide a properly professional service to students. I have been assured that the lectures, teaching practice and examinations are proceeding as planned.
The recent reported difficulties at the institution in question relate to the employee-employer relationship between the head of the college and that person's employers which, I understand, were subject to legal proceedings. In this regard, it is considered that it is not appropriate for me to make any comment on them.
Apart from the provision of funding, my Department also has a role in regard to the quality of graduates from the college. This role is similar to its role vis-à-vis other State-supported colleges of this nature. My Department’s inspectorate actively monitors the quality of the graduates on an ongoing basis to ensure that the highest quality students leave all colleges of this nature. This is a well established monitoring process and one which has worked very well.
408 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of public moneys allocated to colleges of education (details supplied) in the years 1999 to 2004, inclusive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14942/05]
There are three different methods of providing funding to the five colleges of education, reflecting the historical context within which the colleges were established and developed over time. Coláiste Mhuire Marino and the Froebel College of Education are funded on a capitation basis with funding linked to a payment per student registered in these colleges, certified by the college president. My Department is not prescriptive in how this funding is spent by the colleges only that, in accordance with regulations governing all public expenditure, the moneys are spent in accordance with the purposes for which they are allocated. For Coláiste Mhuire Marino and the Froebel College of Education, this purpose is teacher training.
The Church of Ireland College, Rathmines, is funded on a budget basis. This involves that college submitting annual returns and financial projections for agreement by my Department. St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, and Mary Immaculate College, Limerick, are funded through the Higher Education Authority. The amount of funding provided by my Department for the 1999-2004 period is set out in the following table.
|
College |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Froebel College |
1,028,352 |
1,292,369 |
1,745,624 |
2,124,431 |
2,357,985 |
2,254,133 |
|
Mary Immaculate College |
9,060,366 |
9,907,969 |
11,417,415 |
12,790,423 |
14,234,001 |
14,168,420 |
|
St Patrick’s College, Drumcondra |
9,410,547 |
10,144,927 |
12,191,310 |
14,273,448 |
15,725,886 |
15,326,610 |
|
Coláiste Mhuire |
1,449,010 |
2,027,097 |
2,836,506 |
3,534,125 |
4,025,096 |
4,159,172 |
|
Church of Ireland College |
1,040,426 |
1,302,972 |
1,406,616 |
1,486,466 |
1,184,316 |
1,476,705 |
Mary Immaculate College Limerick and St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, are funded by the HEA.
411 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to expand school capacity in Kildare town to take account of the decision to use the land at Magee Barracks for the purposes of the affordable housing initiative as announced on 4 July 2003; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14945/05]
A copy of the draft local area plan for the former Magee Barracks lands has recently been received from Kildare County Council. Officials in the planning section of my Department are currently examining the implications of the draft plan. Any additional school accommodation required as a result of this plan will be addressed in the context of the school building programme from 2005 onwards.
412 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has considered the introduction of mobile phone jamming systems into schools in order to block mobile phone access in the classroom; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14986/05]
My Department has no proposals to introduce mobile phone jamming systems into schools.
In accordance with the Education Act 1998, individual school authorities are responsible for the day-to-day running of schools. It is a matter for each school authority to establish rules on what is and is not acceptable for students to do while on the school premises, provided that those rules are lawful, fair and reasonable.
The National Centre for Technology in Education, in its advice sheet for schools on mobile phones, recommends that the management of mobile phone use by students should be incorporated into the school's ICT plan and acceptable use policy.
413 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the urgency of re-establishing an all-Irish education school in Ballyvourney, County Cork, in view of the language commissioner's recent report. [14991/05]
The recent report of the Irish Language Commissioner highlighted the fact that despite appreciable time devoted to Irish in the school system, many students emerge from primary and post-primary education without achieving a reasonable command of the language. Particular concerns were raised about students' command of the spoken language.
While I absolutely accept that the standard of oral Irish, in particular, of many of our young people is not as it should be, it is important to note that significant efforts have been made by my Department in recent years to improve standards in the teaching and learning of Irish in our schools. The revised Irish language programme at primary level places a strong emphasis on oral Irish. This programme, implemented in all schools since September 2003, and supported by extensive in-service training by the primary curriculum support programme should bring significant improvement to the standard of spoken Irish over time. This development at primary level complemented similar curricular changes at second level where syllabus reform is ongoing.
Significant improvements are being made in regard to the provision of materials and resources for the teaching of Irish. An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta has been established to progress this area and to provide support services for schools. Funding has been provided to an chomhairle to support this task and I know that this is an area that will need further work. Marino Institute of Education now provides Irish courses at different levels for teachers and an enhanced range of supports for those studying for the scrúdú le haghaidh cailíochta sa Ghaeilge has been put in place.
My Department is currently engaged in a number of evaluation activities relating to the teaching and learning of Irish. Also, at the request of my Department, the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment is carrying out a review of languages in the post-primary curriculum. This will include Irish.
I am confident that the above reports will both inform us of good practice within the system and point to areas requiring improvement. The inspectorate of my Department, on foot of a major review of Irish language policies carried out in the Department last year, has recently prepared an internal report for policy discussion regarding areas where further improvements could be made. The Coimisinéir Teanga, with other interest groups, contributed to that process.
I also recently met An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta to discuss further improvements that could be made to support schools in improving the teaching and learning of Irish and to promote high quality education through the medium of Irish. The proposed lárionad náisiúnta oideachais, Baile Mhúirne, has the potential to provide assistance to schools and teachers in the teaching and learning of Irish and most particularly, Gaelscoileanna and Gaeltacht schools.
There are a number of issues that remain to be clarified including the specific rationale and function of the centre, building and related technical requirements, and the involvement of other bodies such as An Chomhairle Um Oideachas Gaeltachta and Gaelscolaíochta and the Department for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. It is important to note that the issue of promoting the Irish language is not one that can be advanced by schools alone. Societal attitudes to the Irish language certainly impact on students' desire to learn it.
The Government has demonstrated a clear commitment to promoting our national language. It is hoped that the continuing initiatives in education along with the increased emphasis on the use of Irish in the Official Languages Act, will in time create a positive climate whereby students will realise the value of learning our native language and as a consequence language competence will prosper.
414 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the proposed reduction in the number of classroom assistant hours and therefore classroom assistants at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15054/05]
The Deputy will be aware that a review has been conducted in recent months to establish whether primary schools have the level of SNA support that they need for children in their care, whether they have resources which they no longer need or whether they need extra resources.
The review has found that some schools no longer have the care needs for which the SNA was originally sanctioned, i.e., in some cases the child may have left the school while in other cases the care needs of the child have diminished as the child has progressed through the school. In this regard, the schools where surplus SNA support was identified have been advised that they may retain this surplus until the end of the current school year.
I understand that the school concerned was reviewed recently by the local special education needs organiser, SENO. The outcome of the review has not yet been communicated to my Department. My officials will convey the outcome of the review to the school in question as soon as the information becomes available.
415 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent of the help available to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15075/05]
I understand from the relevant vocational education committee that the pupil referred to by the Deputy is enrolled and in attendance at post-primary school. Where a pupil with special educational needs enrols in a post-primary school, it is open to the school to apply for additional teaching support and-or special needs assistant support for the pupil.
My Department allocates additional teaching support and special needs assistant support to second level schools and vocational education committees to cater for pupils with special educational needs. Each application is considered on the basis of the assessed needs of the pupil(s) involved and having regard to a range of factors including the overall resources available to the school. My Department has approved an allocation of 49 hours teaching support per week and 56 hours special needs assistant support per week to cater for the special educational needs of a number of pupils enrolled in the school in question, including the pupil to whom the Deputy refers.
The level of support allocated was determined after detailed consideration of the school's application, the supporting documentation provided and having regard to the overall level of resources already available to the school to address special needs issues. If the school authority is of the view that the existing approved allocation is incapable of addressing the current level of assessed special needs within the school and additional information to that already submitted becomes available, my Department will be prepared to reconsider the case.
416 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the results of the review of special needs provision; if a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7 will not lose any teaching staff; and if it will be given the maximum support. [15076/05]
The review of the general allocation system, GAS, has now been completed. The new model replaces that which was notified to schools in June 2004, which has been reviewed to take account of difficulties that it may have caused for smaller schools. I can confirm that 660 additional special needs teaching posts will be put in place in primary schools from next September to facilitate the implementation of the new GAS.
The introduction of this new system will involve the provision of an estimated additional 340 permanent posts in primary schools from September next. A further 320 posts are being provided on a temporary basis to facilitate the transition to the new system and to ensure continuity of service for children who have previously been given an individual allocation until those children leave the primary school system.
My Department is now devising school clusters in respect of allocations to be made under the general allocation system. These will be notified to schools shortly along with the details of each school's individual allocation. My Department is also finalising a circular for schools which will contain detailed information on how the new system will operate. This circular will issue before the end of the current school year.
I am delighted to be able to get such significant resources for special needs provision in primary schools. Prioritising special needs and disadvantage has been top of my agenda since becoming Minister for Education and Science. I also want to acknowledge the support of the Minister for Finance and the Government in making the necessary resources available.
417 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow will be provided with funding to replace physical education equipment it has used since the school opened in 1975; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15186/05]
All primary schools receive an annual minor works grant from my Department. Each school gets a standard rate of €3,809 together with a per pupil rate of €12.70.
It is open to the school management authority of the school referred to by the Deputy to use this devolved grant for the purchase of physical education equipment provided it is not required for more urgent works.
418 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow will be provided with an additional teacher; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15187/05]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on the 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule, agreed between my Department and the education partners.
The system for allocating teachers to primary schools is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29, it is generally because a decision has been taken at local level to use their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes.
In accordance with the staffing schedule, the mainstream staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy for the school year 2004-05 is a principal and five mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 167 pupils at 30 September 2003. The school also has one full-time resource post and the services of a learning support teacher and a temporary resource post for Travellers based in the school. The average class size in the school is 27. The Department will finalise the staffing schedule for the 2005-06 school year shortly and thereafter notify school boards of management.
According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management, the enrolment on 30 September 2004 in the school was 162 pupils. The staffing for the 2005-06 school year will be determined on the basis of this figure and in accordance with the agreed staffing schedule.
As outlined in primary circular 19/02, an independent appeals board was established to adjudicate on appeals from boards of management on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. The appeals board operates independently of the Minister and the Department and its decision is final. Appeals must be submitted to primary payments section of the Department of Education and Science, Athlone, on the standard application form, clearly stating the criterion under which the appeal is being made, after the schedule for the 2005-06 school year has issued.
419 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Education and Science the criteria required to establish a gaelscoil in an area; if she has a liaison person in her Department who advises groups that wish to set up new schools; the assistance available for the setting up of a new school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15196/05]
Section 10 of the Education Act 1998 provides for the recognition of new schools by the Minister. The application procedure for the process involved was revised in 2002 based on the recommendations in the report of the Commission on School Accommodation, Criteria and Procedures for the Recognition of New Primary Schools.
The application procedure involves a number of stages, including formal notification of intention to apply for recognition; public consultation and identification of need; formal application for recognition; assessment of application by the new schools advisory committee, NSAC, which consults interested parties and reports to the Minister; decision by the Minister; and provision for appeal by the applicant to an independent appeals committee.
In December 2002, the NSAC was established as part of the process. On receipt of the notifications of intent, the NSAC initiates a public and transparent consultation process and assesses the applications against the published criteria. The NSAC's annual programme of work culminates in a report to the Minister with recommendations on the granting of recognition to applicants.
The criteria for recognition of new primary schools, including Gaelscoileanna, are such that there must be evidence of the following: the proposed school meets a need that cannot reasonably be met within existing provision; the local community is consulted in advance; the patron has been registered as such by the Minister for Education and Science; a board of management will be appointed in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Education and Science; the rules for national schools will be complied with; the proposed school has a minimum initial enrolment of 17 junior infants and a minimum projected enrolment of 51 pupils for the third year of operation; all pupils are at least four years of age on 30 September of the year in which the school is due to commence operation.
Furthermore, in accordance with section 10(2)(e) of the Education Act 1998, proposed interim school accommodation must comply with the Planning and Development Act 2000, the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, the Building Regulations 1991 to 1997, including the building control regulations, and the Health, Safety and Welfare at Work (Construction) Regulations 2001, and any modifications, statutory instruments or orders made in accordance with these Acts. There must also be evidence that the school will follow the primary school curriculum of the Department of Education and Science and employ recognised primary school teachers.
The Department grant-aids teacher salaries and temporary accommodation for newly recognised schools. The rates of such grant are 95% of rental costs for primary schools with permanent recognition and 75% of rental costs for primary schools with provisional recognition. School authorities pay a local contribution of the balance. Where the local contribution exceeds €3,175 for expenditure incurred in the financial year January to December, rental payments are grant-aided by my Department at a rate of 100%.
Officials in the school planning section of my Department are available to advise any party who wishes to set up a new school and details are also available on my Department's website. Any party proposing to establish a gaelscoil can also seek assistance from Gaelscoileanna, the umbrella body for all-Irish schools.
420 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of civil servants in her Department who have made settlements with the Revenue Commissioners as tax defaulters; her views on whether this is appropriate in view of her Department’s auditing role regarding EU and national schemes in education and science; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15273/05]
In accordance with section 23 of the Ethics in Public Office Act 2001, officers of Departments at or above deputy secretary level must make a statutory declaration that they are tax-compliant within one month of taking up office. In addition, such officers must forward to the Standards in Public Office Commission a tax clearance certificate issued by the Revenue Commissioners within nine months of taking up office.
Apart from the aforementioned officers, all matters relating to tax are regarded as a private issue between the individual and the tax authorities and I would not, therefore, be aware of the number of civil servants in my Department who have made tax settlements with the Revenue Commissioners. Any extension of the scope of section 23 of the above Act of 2001 to other designated officers in Departments, including auditors, would require amendment of the legislation.
422 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the serious overcrowding at the primary schools of Portlaoise; the applications she has for the provision of extra accommodation in the town; the stage each of these applications is at on the building programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15275/05]
423 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the serious overcrowding at the post-primary schools of Portlaoise; the applications she has for the provision of extra accommodation in the town; the stage each of these applications is at on the building programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15276/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 422 and 423 together.
The Deputy will be aware that a facilitator, Dr. Tom McCarthy, was appointed to assist in the development of a long-term plan for the provision of primary and post-primary school accommodation in the Portlaoise area.
Following receipt of Dr. McCarthy's recommendations, it was decided that educational provision at post-primary level required to be addressed as a matter of urgency. This matter has reached finality with the decision to provide three new post-primary schools in Portlaoise, one of which, the new VEC school, has recently been completed.
A site has been purchased for the development of the other two schools referred to, a single-sex girls school and a single-sex boys school. These schools, each of which will cater for 850 pupils, will occupy the site on a shared campus basis. Progress on these projects is being considered in the context of the schools building programme from 2005 onwards.
With regard to primary infrastructure, there are currently six primary schools and two special schools serving Portlaoise. These include four Catholic schools, one Church of Ireland school and one Gaelscoil. The McCarthy report recommends a reconfiguration of three of the Catholic schools into two coeducational schools with development of the remaining schools to cater for the future demand.
Officials in the school planning section of my Department are now examining this matter with a view to establishing the best way forward. In the meantime, progress on applications for capital funding from individual schools in the area will be considered in the context of the McCarthy report and the published criteria for prioritising large-scale projects.
424 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason bonus marks for the production of pre-submitted research projects for the leaving certificate history course when done through Irish are not being awarded in the same manner as the bonus marks awarded for completing the rest of the examination in Irish; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15277/05]
425 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason teachers and pupils have not been informed of a decision taken by her Department to withdraw the bonus marks for submitting pre-submitted research projects in the new leaving certificate history course through Irish; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15278/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 424 and 425 together.
Currently, leaving certificate history is examined by means of a terminal written examination, which takes place under examination hall conditions. Candidates answering through Irish are eligible for the award of bonus marks in accordance with rule 29 of the Rules and Programme for Secondary Schools. In 2006 and subsequent years, the leaving certificate history examination will comprise a written examination conducted under examination hall conditions and a research study report completed by candidates in advance of their sitting the written examination under examination hall conditions.
In keeping with all other examinations that involve a component completed outside of the formal supervised written examination, bonus marks will not be awarded in the case of research study reports written in Irish. However, bonus marks will be awarded in the normal way in the case of the component conducted under examination hall conditions.
On foot of a Government decision of 6 March 2003, the State Examinations Commission has been established with statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the national certificate examinations.
426 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is financial assistance available from her Department for a project (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15279/05]
My Department supports the delivery of music programmes outside of schools through allocations to vocational educational committees under the Co-operation with Other Institutions heading. Students attending courses run by vocational education committees pay a fee to the relevant VEC.
My Department pays the salaries of the teachers in the case of school-based music tuition and there is normally no tuition cost to students in these circumstances. However, students who take music lessons outside their school in a college or school of music, or privately, can expect to pay a fee and my Department does not subsidise such fees. I have no plans to provide funding to privately operated summer schools, such as that referred to by the Deputy.
427 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science when the National Education Welfare Board proposes to start maintaining a register of young persons in employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15281/05]
The Education (Welfare) Act 2000 established the National Educational Welfare Board as the single national body with responsibility for school attendance. The Act provides a comprehensive framework promoting regular school attendance and tackling the problems of absenteeism and early school leaving. The general functions of the board are to ensure that each child attends a recognised school or otherwise receives a certain minimum education.
Under the terms of the Act, any young person aged between 16 and 17 who wishes to leave school to enter employment must apply to the National Educational Welfare Board to have his or her name included in a special new register. The purpose of the register is to safeguard the educational welfare of young people who leave school early to take up employment.
Prior to registration, the board prepares a plan in consultation with the person and other relevant parties for the purpose of assisting the young person concerned to continue to avail of educational and training opportunities. When the person is registered, a certificate is issued to the young person. An employer must inspect this certificate before employing the young person. The certificate may be withdrawn where the board forms the opinion that the young person is failing to make all reasonable efforts to carry out the education plan prepared for him or her and that it would not be in the young person's best interests to continue in employment without also continuing to carry out the plan. The board is obliged to give notice in writing to the young person, his or her parents and his or her employer, of its intention to withdraw the certificate and to invite them to make representations to the board concerning the matter.
428 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the VEC courses for which asylum seekers are entitled to register. [15282/05]
429 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if asylum seekers who have been granted the right to work and asylum seekers granted leave to remain in this State as the parent of an Irish-born child are subject to different criteria in registering for a VEC course than asylum seekers who do not come under these categories. [15283/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 428 and 429 together.
Adults in the following categories may participate on courses in the VEC sector: EU nationals; persons who have refugee status in Ireland; persons in the State as the spouse of an EU national, where the EU national has moved from one country to another within the EU to work; persons who have been granted leave to remain in the State on humanitarian grounds; persons who have permission to remain in the State as the parents of a child born in Ireland; applicants for asylum who have been granted permission to work under the terms of a Government decision of 26 July 1999.
Part-time courses in adult literacy and English language supports may be offered by VECs under the adult literacy and community education scheme to persons who are applicants for asylum who do not come under the above categories.
430 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Education and Science the service which will be put in place to replace resource teaching hours for a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim from September 2005. [15284/05]
The review of the general allocation system, GAS, has now been completed. The new model replaces that which was notified to schools in June 2004, which has been reviewed to take account of difficulties that it may have caused for smaller schools.
Some 660 additional special needs teaching posts will be put in place in primary schools from next September to facilitate the implementation of the new GAS. The introduction of this new system will involve the provision of an estimated additional 340 permanent posts in primary schools from September next. A further 320 posts are being provided on a temporary basis to facilitate the transition to the new system and to ensure continuity of service for children who have previously being given an individual allocation until those children leave the primary school system.
The Department is now devising school clusters in respect of allocations to be made under the GAS. These will be notified to schools shortly along with the details of each school's individual allocation. My Department is also finalising a circular for schools which will contain detailed information on how the new system will operate. This circular will issue before the end of the current school year.
I am delighted to be able to get such significant resources for special needs provision in primary schools. Prioritising special needs and disadvantage has been top of my agenda since becoming Minister for Education and Science. I acknowledge the support of the Minister for Finance and other members of the Government in making the necessary resources available.
431 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) in County Laois was not included under the devolved grant scheme; when it will be included; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15287/05]
The school to which the Deputy refers submitted an application for ancillary accommodation which was assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects. Under the criteria, schools with a deficit of mainstream classroom accommodation are afforded a higher band rating than those with a deficit of ancillary accommodation. The 2005 devolved grant scheme prioritised funding to schools with a requirement for mainstream accommodation.
The school in question subsequently submitted a revised application to reflect a deficit of mainstream accommodation. This application is being examined and progress on any proposed project will be considered in the context of the schools building programme from 2005 onwards.
432 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on correspondence (details supplied); her plans to address the issue contained therein; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15288/05]
433 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if it is proposed to designate the Higher Education and Training Awards Council under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1997; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15296/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 432 and 433 together.
Proposals for extending the Freedom of Information Acts are being considered in the Department of Finance.
434 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a school (details supplied) in County Carlow was not successful in its recent application for new temporary accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15304/05]
The school to which the Deputy refers applied for temporary accommodation in October of 2004. In the context of the available funding for temporary accommodation and the number of applications for that funding, it was not possible to approve all applications received and only those with an absolute and demonstrated need for additional accommodation were approved. All schools are required, as an interim measure, to maximise the use of existing accommodation until my Department is in a position to make extra accommodation available.
435 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools in County Tipperary with class sizes of more than 20 pupils, more than 25 pupils, more than 30 pupils and more than 35 pupils. [15381/05]
436 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary school pupils in County Tipperary in classes of more than 20, more than 25, more than 30 and more than 35; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15382/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 435 and 436 together.
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department. If the Deputy has a query about a particular school, I will be happy to answer it. Data from previous years are out of date but can be supplied to the Deputy if he so wishes.
437 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if correspondence was received by her Department (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15383/05]
Correspondence has been received from the school authority referred to by the Deputy. The matter is being considered in the school planning section of my Department and a response will issue to the school authority shortly.
438 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if correspondence was received by her Department (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15384/05]
The school to which the Deputy refers applied for funding under the summer works scheme for 2005. The application was unsuccessful because the works largely related to maintenance matters which should be funded from the schools devolved maintenance grant under the grant scheme for minor works. The school authority appealed this decision and, following a review, the original decision was upheld. The summer works scheme for 2005 has been finalised and the list of successful applicants has been published. It is open, however, to the school authority to apply for works consistent with the terms and conditions of the 2006 summer works scheme when it is announced later this year.
439 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount being spent on prefabricated buildings in County Tipperary for primary, post-primary and tertiary buildings in the education sector in each year from 1997 to 2005; the amount spent nationally on prefabricated buildings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15385/05]
Expenditure by my Department on the purchase of prefabricated buildings in County Tipperary includes the supply and installation of prefabricated buildings, associated site works, and other costs such as compliance with planning permission conditions, professional fees, connections for water, electricity and sewage.
|
Primary Prefabricated |
Post-Primary Prefabricated |
Third-Level Prefabricated |
Total Prefabricated |
Total Capital |
Prefabricated as a % of Capital |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
% |
|
|
1997 |
Nil |
9,301 |
Nil |
9,301 |
5,866,827 |
0.16 |
|
1998 |
44,797 |
129,843 |
Nil |
174,640 |
6,943,898 |
2.52 |
|
1999 |
27,078 |
63,519 |
Nil |
90,597 |
18,887,870 |
0.48 |
|
2000 |
Nil |
6,414 |
1,269,493 |
1,275,907 |
8,105,973 |
15.74 |
|
2001 |
371,499 |
159,706 |
60,685 |
591,890 |
5,108,227 |
11.59 |
|
2002 |
1,532,399 |
83,077 |
Nil |
1,615,476 |
9,352,828 |
17.27 |
|
2003 |
482,491 |
86,274 |
Nil |
568,765 |
10,900,341 |
5.22 |
|
2004 |
124,125 |
1,854 |
Nil |
125,979 |
11,274,119 |
1.12 |
|
2005 |
(To date) Nil |
84,415 |
Nil |
84,415 |
3,060,665 |
2.76 |
The above data excludes any expenditure on the renting of prefabricated buildings which cannot be extracted on a county basis from the national total.
Expenditure at national level from 1997 to date in 2005 on prefabricated buildings, including expenditure on the renting of temporary accommodation most of which would be for prefabricated buildings, is as follows:
|
Prefabricated Buildings |
Total Capital Expenditure plus rent of temporary accommodation |
Prefabricated as a % of total capital |
|
|
€m |
€m |
% |
|
|
Primary* |
104.310 |
1,034.012 |
10 |
|
Post-Primary |
31.136 |
1,083.174 |
2.87 |
|
Third-Level |
15.543 |
904.460 |
1.72 |
|
TOTAL |
150.989 |
3,021.646 |
4.99 |
*Data on Primary for1997 not available.
440 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science when the school staffing schedule for the 2005-06 academic year will be published. [15386/05]
It is expected that the staffing schedule will issue to all national schools this week.
441 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the situation at a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [15387/05]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by applying the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year to a staffing schedule, agreed between my Department and the education partners. The system for allocating teachers to primary schools is based on ensuring an overall maximum class of 29 in each school. Where some classes in a school have class sizes of greater than 29, it is generally because a decision has been taken at local level to use their teaching resources to have smaller numbers in other classes.
In accordance with the staffing schedule, the staffing of the school referred to by the Deputy for the school year 2004-05 is a principal and five mainstream class teachers based on an enrolment of 147 pupils at 30 September 2003. In addition, the school has the services of a learning support teacher and a resource teacher.
My Department will finalise the staffing schedule for the 2005-06 school year shortly and thereafter notify school boards of management. According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management of the school, the enrolment on 30 September 2004 was 142 pupils. The staffing for the 2005-06 school year will be determined on the basis of this figure and in accordance with the agreed staffing schedule.
As outlined in primary circular 19/02, an independent appeals board was established to adjudicate on appeals from boards of management on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. The appeals board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. Appeals must be submitted to primary payments section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone, on the standard application form, clearly stating the criterion under which the appeal is being made, after the schedule for the 2005-06 school year has issued.
442 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of persons from County Tipperary enrolled on courses (details supplied); the total number of persons enrolled on these courses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15388/05]
The five colleges of education do not, in the normal course of events, submit information to my Department setting out the county of origin for their students in respect of each year of study. They do, however, provide the county of origin for the overall number of students in their colleges for a particular academic year. The material in respect of the three colleges of education directly funded by my Department is as follows: Coláiste Mhuire Marino — 8; Froebel College of Education — 7; Church of Ireland College — 1. I have requested that the HEA-funded colleges of education — St. Patrick's College, Drumcondra, and Mary Immaculate College, Limerick — explore whether it is possible to provide the information requested by the Deputy in the required format. I will ask my officials to contact the Deputy in relation to this matter in due course.
443 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of special needs assistants to be made redundant in County Tipperary in 2005; the number of special needs assistants working in the country in total; the number of special needs assistants required to cater for special needs children in the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [15469/05]
444 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason 70 special needs assistants are to be made redundant nationally in 2005. [15470/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 443 and 444 together.
It is not possible to provide the specific information requested on special needs assistants in County Tipperary. However, a review has been conducted in recent months to establish whether primary schools have the level of special needs assistant support that they need for children in their care, whether they have resources which they no longer need or whether they need extra resources. The review found that some schools no longer have the care needs for which the special needs assistant was originally sanctioned that is, in some cases the child may have left the school while in other cases the care needs of the child have diminished as the child has progressed through the school. In this regard, the schools where surplus special needs assistant support was identified have been advised that they may retain this surplus until the end of the current school year.
Special needs assistants are assigned to schools to meet the care needs of individual children who have been assessed as needing this type of support. Where it has been established that additional special needs assistant posts are required, these posts continue to be allocated on an ongoing basis. Those schools have been informed that they may make the necessary arrangements immediately for putting the required staff in place.
This Government has put in place an unprecedented level of support for children with special needs. Since 1998, the number of special needs assistants has increased from under 300 to nearly 6,000 nationally. In addition to this, more effective systems, such as the establishment of the National Council for Special Education, have been put in place to ensure that children receive support as early as possible. At this stage the National Council for Special Education has dealt with all new applications from schools for special needs assistance that will be required from the beginning of September 2005. Therefore, there should be no reason why a child enrolling in a school in September 2005 who needs special needs assistance does not have that assistance in place from his or her first day in school.
445 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Defence his estimation of the serious health and safety hazards at a club (details supplied) in County Cork; if an assessment procedure will be expedited and necessary works carried out immediately to minimise the disruption to the club during the upcoming summer season. [14930/05]
Arising from concerns that continuing use of the pitch and putt facilities in question, which are held under licence from the Department of Defence, may present serious health and safety hazards for members and visitors, it was decided to suspend further use of the facilities with immediate effect, pending a complete safety assessment of the site. This decision was conveyed in writing to the club chairman on 30 March 2005. It is proposed to conduct a full safety assessment by the Department's properties officer and appropriate military personnel as soon as possible. In a further letter dated 13 April 2005, the club chairman was informed accordingly and in this regard a meeting between officials of the Department and representatives of the club will be arranged once the outcome of the assessment is to hand.
446 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the action he proposes to take in fulfilment of the undertaking to provide community gain arising from the disposal by the State of the lands at Magee Barracks, Kildare town, for affordable housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14948/05]
The Government decided on 1 July 2003 that Magee Barracks, Kildare, would be among the State lands released for inclusion in the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiative. This initiative will be aimed at those who in the past would have expected to purchase a house from their own resources but find that they are unable to do so in the current market. The release of State lands under this initiative is a critical factor in ensuring delivery of affordable housing units.
With regard to Magee Barracks, the modalities of the transfer of the property to Kildare County Council are in process in consultation with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The future development of the site is a matter for that Department and Kildare County Council, which has prepared a draft local area plan for the site. In this regard, Kildare County Council was asked by my Department to take into consideration the commitment made by my predecessor to allocate some land at Magee Barracks to the local community when final decisions are being made regarding the development of the site.
447 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to a report of an incident at a location (details supplied) concerning the involvement of the military police; the action which has been taken as a result of the incident; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15195/05]
The matter referred to is the subject of a formal application for redress of wrongs which has been forwarded to me, after due process through the military chain of command, by a member of the Permanent Defence Force under the terms of Section 114 of the Defence Act 1954. As I intend to refer the matter to the complaints inquiry officer, under the administrative arrangements agreed with the representative associations, it would be quite improper to comment further on the subject matter of the application for redress.
448 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the taking in charge of the road at Blackrath, the Curragh, by the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15289/05]
My Department has been in contact with Kildare County Council in this matter. The council advised the cost of bringing the road in question up to the standard required to have it taken in charge. My Department has recently written to the council agreeing to pay the amount involved if, in line with normal practice, the council arranges to have the necessary works carried out.
449 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Defence the position regarding the sale of the Orchard Park housing scheme to the tenants; when the estate will be taken in charge by the local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15290/05]
To date, 86 of the houses at Orchard Park have been sold to the occupants and the sale of the remaining 14 houses at the estate is ongoing. Kildare County Council has advised that the roads, services etc. at Orchard Park will have to be brought up to the required standard before they will be taken in charge. It is hoped to undertake a programme of works later in the year to ensure that the facilities at the estate are up to the standard required. Emergency repairs to the roads have recently been carried out by a contractor employed by my Department.
450 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Defence if the pension payable to a person (details supplied) includes an amount as a military service allowance; and if not, his plans to include such an amount in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15343/05]
Military service allowance was made pensionable in the case of Defence Forces' personnel retiring on or after 1 August 1990 on foot of a recommendation of the commission on remuneration and conditions of service in the defence forces, the Gleeson commission. This approach is fully consistent with settled public service pensions policy which provides that the benefit of an allowance being made pensionable for serving personnel does not extend to existing pensioners. As the person in question retired before 1 August 1990, he is not eligible to have military service allowance taken into account in the calculation of his pension.
451 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the proposed EU directive on recycling of electronic waste can pose serious difficulties for electrical retailers, particularly those who are operating in town situations; if electrical retailers need to obtain a waste management licence in order to have storage facilities at their premises for such hazardous waste; if there will be insurance implications for such retailers when storing hazardous waste on site; and if they will require a permit for transportation of such material from their premises to a civic amenity area. [14841/05]
The EU directive on waste electrical and electronic equipment, which came into effect on 13 February 2003, presents a challenge to all relevant stakeholder groups, including retailers, and effective implementation will require a focused, committed approach from all concerned. Draft regulations, which will transpose the directive into Irish law, have been published for consultation. These were prepared by my Department, working closely with the relevant public sector and industry stakeholders through a dedicated waste electrical and electronic equipment task force. Retailer interests are represented on this task force, which was established in February 2003.
To minimise the regulatory burden of the directive, the draft regulations propose that retailers be allowed to avail of an exemption from the normal waste permitting requirements for the storage and transport of waste electrical and electronic equipment in certain circumstances. Under the modified regime, which will be considerably less burdensome than the normal collection and waste permitting requirements, retailers will be required to register their premises with their local authority.
In recognition that some retailers, particularly those operating in the centre of a town, may have difficulties in catering for waste electrical and electronic equipment, the draft regulations also propose that retailers may, subject to the agreement of the appropriate local authorities, make alternative arrangements to in-store take-back, provided that such arrangements are not more inconvenient for the purchaser and remain free of charge. Insurance considerations are matters for the individual retailers.
452 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funding will be provided for the R312 regional road from Bellacorrick to Castlebar. [14844/05]
The improvement of non-national roads in County Mayo is a matter for Mayo County Council. Such schemes are funded from the authority's own resources supplemented by grants from my Department.
In 2004, my Department sought applications from road authorities for funding under the 2005 EU co-financed specific improvements grant scheme. The initial selection of projects to be submitted for consideration for funding under this scheme is a matter for local authorities. Mayo County Council's submission did not include an application for works on the R312 Bellacorrick to Castlebar Road. It will be open to the council to prioritise works on this route for funding under the EU co-financed specific improvement grant scheme in 2006, if eligible, when applications are sought later this year by my Department.
Mayo County Council may also use the discretionary improvement grant provided by my Department towards the carrying out of such works. The discretionary improvement grant allocation to Mayo County Council in 2005 is €1.497 million. The selection of works to be funded from this allocation is a matter for the council.
453 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the Government’s plans for planning legislation particularly in cases in which a council refuses a planning application and An Bord Pleanála grants it; and his plans to give An Bord Pleanála an enforcement role. [14845/05]
Under the Planning and Development Act 2000, any decision of An Bord Pleanála on an appeal of a decision of a planning authority is deemed to be made in the first instance and operates to annul the earlier decision of the planning authority. Section 34(10) of the Act provides that the board is required to give reasons for its decision. Furthermore, where a proposed development would contravene the development plan, the board may decide to grant permission but only in certain defined circumstances.
The enforcement of planning control is a matter for the planning authority, which can take action where a development requiring planning permission has not obtained this permission, or where permission has not been complied with. There are no proposals to amend the legislation in this regard.
454 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the funding of €4.5 million allocated to the Macken Street bridge project in early 2004 has been fully drawn down; if not, the reason therefor; the areas in which the money has been spent; when the remainder of the funding originally committed in 1999 by his Department will be drawn down for this project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14900/05]
Primary responsibility for the provision of non-national roads and bridges in its area is a matter for each individual local authority and accordingly the advancement of the proposed Macken Street bridge project is primarily a matter for Dublin City Council.
The bulk of the €4.5 million allocated to the council for this project in 2004 was not drawn down in that year as construction work on the bridge had not commenced. A grant of €5 million has been allocated for the project in 2005 by my Department. Funding to date for this project has been spent mainly on design and site investigation works. The city council has now invited tenders for this project.
455 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of electrical retailers regarding the new directive on recycling of electronic waste and to the fact that there has been no consultation with the retailers regarding the disposal of such waste; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14914/05]
Implementation of the EU directive on waste electrical and electronic equipment, which came into effect on 13 February 2003, requires close co-operation between all stakeholders - producers, retailers and central and local government. For this purpose, a task force representative of all relevant sectors including retailers was established in February 2003 to draw up proposals for implementing the directive. A draft report by the task force was published in April 2004; the report examined the issues surrounding implementation of the directive and made several recommendations on the collection, recycling, financing, regulation and reporting arrangements that need to be put in place in advance of free take-back of waste electrical and electronic equipment, which will commence on 13 August 2005. A public consultation followed, the results of which assisted the preparation of draft regulations I published in April last.
Following ongoing consultations with relevant stakeholders, including retailers, these draft regulations lay down conditions concerning time limits for the obligation to take back waste electrical and electronic equipment and on the availability of waste electrical and electronic equipment for immediate collection where a new item of similar electrical and electronic equipment is being delivered. They also propose that retailers who register their premises with their local authority should be allowed to avail of an exemption from the normal waste permitting requirements for the storage and transport of waste electrical and electronic equipment in certain circumstances, under a modified permitting regime, which will be considerably less burdensome than the normal collection and waste permitting requirements, and may, subject to the agreement of the appropriate local authorities, make alternative arrangements to in-store take-back provided that such arrangements are not more inconvenient for the purchaser and remain free of charge. These draft regulations are now the subject of a consultative process following which they will be finalised and published in advance of the coming into effect of the directive.
456 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the consultations his Department held with Kildare County Council before the announcement on 4 July 2003 that Magee Barracks, Kildare town, was to be made available for housing as part of the affordable housing initiative in the context of the Sustaining Progress agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14946/05]
457 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the decision to use the lands at Magee Barracks, Kildare town, for the purposes of the affordable housing initiative, as announced by the Taoiseach on 4 July 2003, has been examined for conformity with the principles of sustainable development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14947/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 and 457 together.
To ensure progress on the affordable housing initiative, the Government undertook to examine the best use of resources at its disposal, which included the housing potential of under-utilised State lands. Arising from this process, the former Magee Barracks in Kildare was identified as a potential site to deliver housing for this initiative.
The site was released to the initiative by the Minister for Defence on foot of a Government decision of 1 July 2003. Its release was consistent with the previously stated objective of Kildare County Council to have the former Magee Barracks area brought forward for development. The county council had earlier been identified in the Kildare town local area plan 2002 as being an area suitable for extensive development with a mix of uses so as to generate a new vibrant quarter to the town emerges. At that stage, it was envisaged that a separate local area plan for the site would identify the proposed uses, street pattern or urban form and mobility through the site. The council intended that this area would be knitted in to the existing urban fabric so that it would become an integral part of the extended town centre. At the time, it was decided to leave the zoning of the lands unchanged pending the actual adoption of the separate plan on the former barracks.
As with other sites being released to the initiative, the detailed consultations necessary to facilitate the full potential of the site had to be undertaken in accordance with the appropriate planning framework. In this context, officials from my Department consulted with Kildare County Council on how best to proceed with development on this site with a view to the earliest possible delivery of affordable housing units.
The site has been the subject of a local area plan prepared by the county council and advertised in February this year. The plan will be on display until 16 May during which time comments or submissions may be made to the county council, providing ample time for all views to be considered. The plan seeks to cater for the development of the site in an appropriate and sustainable way, with a mix of residential housing types. There is the potential for up to 700 housing units to be developed on the site, with a minimum of 350 units being made available to the initiative.
458 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position with the Shrule water scheme; when it was applied for; the stages it has gone through; and the stage it is at now. [14972/05]
The Kilmaine and Shrule water supply scheme is included in my Department's water services investment programme 2004-2006 as a scheme to commence construction this year at an estimated cost of €5.3 million. Further consideration will be given by my Department to Mayo County Council's contract documents for the scheme on receipt of additional information requested from the Council in February last.
459 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress which has been made in relation to the upgrading of Coole village sewerage treatment plant; if a plan has been lodged with his Department; if so, when; and the position regarding same. [14987/05]
The upgrading of the Coole village sewerage treatment plant is included in my Department's water services investment programme 2004-2006 as a scheme to complete planning. Westmeath County Council's preliminary report for the scheme is under examination by my Department and this will be dealt with as quickly as possible. The council will be in a position to prepare contract documents for the scheme following approval of the preliminary report.
460 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he intends to make a decision with regard to the Woodstown Viking site in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15056/05]
I propose to issue directions under the National Monuments Act 1930, as amended, with regard to the site in question within the next week or so.
461 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount provided in grant aid to Kildare County Council to assist in the provision of civic amenity sites in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15079/05]
Kildare County Council has received a total of €1,971,000 in capital grants allocations from the environment fund since November 2002. This includes a total of €1,425,000 towards civic amenity facilities at Athy and Kilcock, as well as €546,000 towards a composting facility at Silliot Hill. In addition to this capital assistance, €184,450 has been provided towards the operational costs of civic amenity sites in four tranches of subvention provided since 2003, and a total of €44,500 towards the operational costs of bring banks in the same period.
462 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he intends to publish the detailed results of the 2004 local and European elections. [15121/05]
The booklet, European Parliament Elections Results 2004, was published on 28 January 2005. Copies are available in the Oireachtas Library and from the European Parliament Office in Ireland. The publication, Local Elections 2004 — Volume 1, containing the results of the county and city council elections, was published on 6 May 2005. Copies are available in the Oireachtas Library and may shortly be obtained from the Government Publications Sales office. Both publications can also be accessed on the Department's website at www.environ.ie. Local Elections 2004 — Volume 2, containing the results of the borough and town council elections, will be published later in the year.
463 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress he is making in securing the future of Ireland’s historic heritage, including great house and heritage properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15164/05]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 220 of 3 March 2005. Statutory protection of the architectural heritage is primarily a matter for the planning authorities to whom my Department provides advice in the exercise of their functions under the Planning and Development Act 2000. In that regard I recently issued the architectural heritage protection guidelines to assist planning authorities in implementing the legislation. These guidelines include the criteria to be applied by planning authorities when selecting proposed protected structures for inclusion in the record of protected structures, as well as other advice for the performance of their functions under Part IV of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The guidelines also provide useful information and advice to owners and occupiers of protected structures.
Under the 2000 Act, the Minister may also make recommendations to planning authorities concerning the inclusion in the record of protected structures of any particular building or structure. Based mainly on the results of surveys carried out in the compilation of the national inventory of architectural heritage by my Department, recommendations have to date been made to 54 planning authorities covering more than 11,700 buildings. Inclusion in the record of protected structures places a duty of care on the owners of protected structures and also gives planning authorities powers not only to deal with development proposals affecting them but also to seek to safeguard their future.
A range of financial supports is available to the owners of our architectural heritage from local authorities, the Heritage Council and my Department, and from the tax relief available under Section 482 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. Considerable support for architectural heritage is also provided through the ongoing conservation and presentation of the State's own portfolio of historic properties.
To enhance the protection of our architectural heritage further, I am considering an initiative to develop new methods of supporting the preservation of key heritage buildings. My Department engaged consultants to examine the question of facilitating the emergence of a national trust and other trust-type organisations which might, independently of Government, acquire and manage such heritage properties. My Department is at present evaluating the recommendations of the consultant's report and I hope to bring proposals to Government in the near future.
464 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in preparing a planning authority manager’s report on the progress made in attaining the objectives of its current development plan, as required under Section 15 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, there are objectives that should be left out of the review; if so, the objectives which should be so left out; if he will give an example of best practice and intentions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15197/05]
Draft guidelines for planning authorities on development plans, including monitoring and review of development plans, will be issued shortly for public consultation. The guidelines will deal with the requirement for progress reports from the managers of planning authorities, as set out in Section 15 (2) of the Planning and Development Act 2000. It would be my intention that all such reports should be as comprehensive as possible.
465 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has examined the report of the Incorporated Law Society’s law reform committee entitled Discriminatory Planning Conditions - The Case for Reform; if arising from the report, he plans any amendments to planning law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15232/05]
I am aware of the recent report by the Law Society's reform committee entitled Discriminatory Planning Conditions: the Case for Reform. Section 39 of the Planning and Development Act 2000, and corresponding earlier planning legislation, provides that a condition may be attached to a grant of planning permission for a house, specifying that the house must be occupied by persons of a particular class or description, with provision to that effect to be incorporated in an agreement under section 47 of the Act. In effect, occupancy conditions are applied in certain circumstances as a mechanism to facilitate a positive approach to applications from persons who are part of or linked to certain rural communities in circumstances where a different application might have to be refused.
In addressing the issue of occupancy conditions, the recently launched guidelines for planning authorities on sustainable rural housing state that such conditions are only appropriate in certain cases such as permission being granted to persons with roots or links to areas close to the larger cities and towns under strong pressure for urban generated development and in the case of permission being granted to permanent residents in an area where there is an over-concentration of holiday or second home development. The guidelines use illustrative examples to demonstrate that people who fall into the category of having local roots or links would include people who have spent much of their lives in rural areas and are building their first homes, farmers and their families, returning emigrants, people involved in forestry, inland waterway and marine related occupations, teachers in rural schools and other people whose work is predominantly in rural areas. This list is not intended to be exhaustive; planning authorities are asked to carry out their own assessment of the rural housing needs to be catered for in the areas mentioned, taking account of local conditions and planning issues and to add to the list as appropriate.
I am aware that in administering the planning code, planning authorities are required to act in a manner that is consistent with the norms of administrative and constitutional law, the European Convention on Human Rights law, EU law and equality law. Amendment of planning law in this matter does not at present seem indicated, but it is my intention to monitor the effectiveness of the guidelines and in that context I will continue to bear in mind the concerns of the Law Society's recent report.
466 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a request for a meeting from the Cork Harbour Alliance for a Safe Environment; if he plans to meet the group; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15234/05]
477 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received an invitation to meet with a group (details supplied) to discuss the proposal for a toxic waste incinerator in Ringaskiddy, County Cork; if he will meet with the group; and if not, the reason therefor. [15465/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 466 and 477 together.
I have received invitations from Cork Harbour Alliance for a Safe Environment to meet it to discuss proposals for a hazardous waste incinerator in Ringaskiddy, County Cork. I have not considered it appropriate to meet the group as the proposal is the subject of planning and licensing processes which are statutorily independent and in which, except in the case of heritage issues, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government must not intervene.
I share with the group a concern to ensure that the highest levels of environmental protection are maintained. This is why we have some of the most rigorous and open planning and licensing processes in Europe. I am confident that the best interests of the community and the environment are catered for within these processes.
467 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of civil servants in his Department who have made settlements with the Revenue Commissioners as tax defaulters; his views on whether this is appropriate in view of his Department’s auditing role in relation to EU and national schemes in relation to the environment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15293/05]
Tax clearance provisions for certain officials prescribed under the Ethics in Public Office Acts are a matter for the Standards in Public Office Commission. Tax settlements for other civil servants are a matter between the Revenue Commissioners and the individuals concerned. My Department is not aware of any conflict of interest on the part of any of its staff who are involved in auditing work as referred to in the question.
468 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Westmeath County Council has applied for substantial funding for the improvement of the R390 at Walderstown, Athlone, County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15299/05]
The improvement of non-national roads in County Westmeath is a matter for Westmeath County Council. Such schemes are funded from the authority's resources supplemented by grants from my Department.
In 2004, my Department sought applications from road authorities for funding under the 2005 EU co-financed specific improvement grants scheme. While Westmeath County Council's application included an application for funding of €100,000 in respect of improvement works to the R390 at Walderstown, Athlone, this project was not among the projects selected for funding in 2005. In this regard it should be noted that five of the eight schemes submitted by the council received an allocation in 2005. All applications submitted under this scheme were considered in my Department having regard to EU eligibility criteria, the need to prioritise projects, competing demands from other local authorities and the funds available for the scheme in 2005.
My Department will again be seeking applications under the EU co-financed specific improvement grants scheme later this year and it will be open to the council to submit a funding application for consideration under this scheme in 2006.
469 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he proposes to publish guidelines in respect of public safety zones at the State airports; if he plans to instruct the local authorities involved to inform each affected landowner in keeping with the principles of the White Paper of 2004, Regulating Better, before any such public safety zones are subsequently incorporated in county development plans. [15341/05]
My Department expects to be in a position to publish draft guidelines on public safety zones at State airports for planning authorities later this year. The Planning and Development Act 2000 requires a planning authority to consult the public and other interested parties when reviewing or amending development plans. I have no proposals to amend the provisions on public consultation which in my view ensure that all persons in an authority's area are informed of the provisions of the development plan.
470 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether there is a need to improve the reduce, reuse and recycle culture here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15360/05]
Continual improvements in levels of recycling are being achieved. About 28% of municipal waste is now being diverted from landfill, which is a substantial improvement on the situation in 2001 when the recycling rate stood at under 10%. Kerbside collection has a key part to play in this, but I also remain committed to enhancing the network of bring centres and civic amenity sites, which often accept materials that cannot be put in a green bin and which all householders can use.
I welcome that the number of households in receipt of kerbside collection of recyclables has increased from 70,000 in 1998 to more than 550,000, representing some 42% of all households. In addition, separate collection of organic waste is available in some areas and roll-out is planned for more. This collection service is in addition to the network of more than 1,800 bring banks, an increase of almost 1,000 since 1998, and the some 60 civic amenity sites.
This progress reflects the Government's overall integrated approach to waste management based on the internationally recognised waste hierarchy, prioritising waste prevention, minimisation, reuse, recycling, energy recovery and the environmentally sound disposal of residual waste which cannot be recycled or recovered. Maximising how we all reduce, reuse, recycle has been the keystone of Government's waste management policy since the publication of Changing our Ways in 1998, which set out ambitious recycling and recovery targets over a 15-year period, including recycling of 35% of municipal waste; recycling of at least 50% of construction and demolition waste by 2001, a target which was exceeded according to Environmental Protection Agency, EPA, estimates, with a progressive increase to at least 85% by 2013; a diversion of 50% of household waste from landfill; and a minimum 65% reduction in biodegradable waste consigned to landfill.
Through the Race Against Waste campaign, public awareness of the importance of reducing, reusing and recycling has also increased, as illustrated by the 25% increase between 2002 and 2003 in the volume of materials being brought to bring and civic amenity facilities. In this context, I urge collection service providers to ensure that demand for household collection of recyclables is responded to and, to the greatest extent possible, met.
471 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will allow Castleisland sewerage scheme stage II to go to tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15376/05]
The Castleisland sewerage scheme stage II is included in my Department's water services investment programme 2004-2006 as a scheme to commence construction in 2006, at an estimated cost of €5.5 million. My Department is awaiting submission of a water services pricing policy report by Kerry County Council to allow consideration of the council's preliminary report for the scheme to be finalised.
472 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his recently announced directive on illegal waste of 3 May includes a requirement to remove non-hazardous waste; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15378/05]
473 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his recently announced directive on illegal waste of 3 May 2005 includes waste, hazardous and non-hazardous, at landfills which, although owned by public authorities, would not have been licensed between 1975 and 1996 as there was no EU directive requiring licensing since 1975; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15379/05]
474 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number landfills that did not have a licence since 1975; the number of such landfills, closed or still operating; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15380/05]
476 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number and location of landfills in the ownership and control of local authorities that were unlicensed at 1 June 2002; when same were licensed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15464/05]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 472, 473, 474 and 476 together.
Under section 60 of the Waste Management Act 1996, the Minister may, whenever he or she thinks proper, give general directions in writing to the EPA, or each local authority as to policy in relation to aspects specified in section 60(1). Section 60(2) requires the agency or each local authority concerned, as the case may be, in performing its functions under the Act to have regard to any directions given to it by the Minister under that section. The powers conferred by section 60, however, do not extend to individual cases, and section 60(3) precludes the Minister from exercising any power or control in relation to the performance in particular circumstances by the EPA or a local authority of a function conferred on it by or under the Act.
The policy direction issued on 3 May 2005 applies to both hazardous and non-hazardous waste and it states that the principal aim in dealing with illegal waste sites should be to secure the protection of the environment and human health. The aim in all cases should be the making safe of the site, including the removal of waste where required as a consequence of a risk based assessment. In particular, all hazardous waste which is detected shall be removed and recyclable material shall be removed unless it can be shown that there are alternative environmentally sustainable options.
In the case of lands proximate to existing or planned residential development or educational facilities, the directive states that illegal waste shall be removed, in the shortest practicable time, except only where it is shown that an alternative solution provides greater protection to the environment and the health of the local population.
With regard to sites owned by public authorities and which were not licensed between 1975 and 1996, the policy direction directs the local authorities to ensure that the requirements of section 22 of the Waste Management Act 1996 are fully met in the current review of their waste management plans. Section 22 states that a waste management plan shall include information on the identification of sites at which waste disposal or recovery activities have been carried on; the assessment of any risk of environmental pollution arising as a result of such activities; measures proposed to be taken or, where such an assessment has already been made, measures taken to prevent or limit any such environmental pollution; and the identification of necessary remedial measures in respect of such sites, and measures proposed to be taken or, where such measures have already been identified, measures taken to achieve such remediation, having regard to the cost-effectiveness of available remediation techniques. As of 1 June 2002, all operating landfills in the ownership and control of local authorities were licensed.
475 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide an update on an application from Drogheda Borough Council for financial support for a civic amenity facility for the town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [15428/05]
An allocation of €1.395 million was made in April 2004 towards the construction of a civic amenity site in Drogheda, pending the submission of total estimated costs. Tenders have now been received, and, as costs are significantly greater than originally anticipated, Drogheda Borough Council is seeking additional funding. This will be considered when the council submits its report on the increased costs to the Department.
