Vol. 617 No. 4
44 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the timetable for the re-establishment of the Assembly and the Executive in Northern Ireland; his views on re-establishing the Assembly without a fully functioning power-sharing Executive; the scenarios that will emerge in the event of the Assembly not agreeing to form an Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13126/06]
52 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when the proposals for the way forward in Northern Ireland that are currently being agreed with the British Government will be published; the subsequent timetable for the re-establishment of the institutions created under the Good Friday Agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13129/06]
83 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts he is making to ensure the maintenance of the North-South institutions created under the Good Friday Agreement in the event of a failure to re-establish the Assembly and the power-sharing Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13130/06]
93 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the options he is considering for the future governance of Northern Ireland in the event of the Assembly and the power-sharing Executive not being re-established; if he has met with the British Government on this issue; if he has held discussions with parties in Northern Ireland on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13127/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 44, 52, 83 and 93 together.
When the Taoiseach and Prime Minister Blair met at Farmleigh on 26 January last, they said that 2006 would be the decisive year for the peace process. Almost eight years on from the signing of the Good Friday Agreement and more than three years since the suspension of the institutions, it is now time that political power and responsibility is returned to a fully functioning Assembly and Executive and that Northern Ireland politicians begin to do the work they were elected to do. This is what the people in Northern Ireland want to see happen and it is what the two Governments have committed themselves to achieve this year.
The Taoiseach and Prime Minister Blair will meet in Armagh on Thursday, 6 April to set out the Governments' joint strategy for a fully functioning Assembly and Executive, and nothing less than that, in 2006. Work on these proposals is ongoing, and I do not want to anticipate the precise details of what will be announced on Thursday. I can say, however, that the Assembly will be recalled in mid-May and asked to begin immediately to prepare for Government and to elect an Executive within six weeks.
We are fully aware that there are obstacles to progress that need to be addressed and resolved. This can only be done by the parties themselves. Our aim is to create the circumstances in which they can deal with any obstacles and prepare for Government. If the parties cannot overcome these obstacles in six weeks, we are prepared to give the Assembly some additional time, but for a strictly limited period and for the express purpose of implementing the Agreement and electing an Executive.
Whether we are successful in achieving this objective is ultimately the responsibility of the parties themselves. If, within that strictly limited period, the parties collectively are unable to implement the Agreement, then the Governments will have to exercise our responsibilities and ensure that the Agreement is implemented to the maximum possible extent for the benefit of all communities.
The North-South arrangements would be particularly important in that context. They are a vital pillar of the Good Friday Agreement. The North-South Bodies established under the Agreement continue to carry out important public functions and have shown the value of having dedicated institutions to pursue common goals for mutual benefit. The Government is fully committed to advancing North-South co-operation for the benefit of all the people on the island.
Our focus now is on taking the necessary steps which will lead to restoration of all the institutions of the Good Friday Agreement, including the North-South Ministerial Council. As I have said, if we are faced with a situation where we have to conclude that fully-functioning institutions are not in prospect this year, then the two Governments will have no choice but to act to sustain the Agreement, including its provisions on North-South co-operation, to the greatest extent possible.
We are now at a critical juncture. The difficult decisions in the coming days and weeks will be for the parties. We believe our joint strategy represents the best opportunity to pave the way for the restoration of devolved government in Northern Ireland this year. We will be asking all of the parties to consider it carefully and, most importantly, to give it the opportunity to succeed.
45 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, during his discussions with US Administration officials while in the USA recently, the case of Salim Ahmed Hamdan arose; and his views and the view of the Government regarding this case which, it is claimed, illustrates the US Administration’s flaunting of basic military protection in setting up tribunals dealing with suspected Al-Qaeda suspects. [13106/06]
The Taoiseach raised our concerns regarding Guantanamo Bay at his meeting with President Bush in Washington on 17 March 2006, which I also attended. President Bush said that he fully understood the Taoiseach's concerns and that he would also like to close the detention facility when possible. The President also noted that his Administration was awaiting a ruling by the US Supreme Court on the use of army tribunals to try detainees in Guantanamo. I understand that the case referred to was Hamdan v. Rumsfeld, which came before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, 28 March 2006 and which challenges the legality of President Bush’s 2001 military order establishing military commissions to try terrorist suspects. The Supreme Court’s decision is expected in July 2006.
The Government has raised the issue of the detainees in Guantanamo Bay with the US authorities on numerous other occasions. We believe that those detained in Guantanamo must be treated in accordance with the requirements of international human rights law and international humanitarian law. This position is shared by the EU as a whole. I have also made it clear that I fully endorse the UN Secretary General's view that those held in Guantanamo Bay should either be charged or released, and that the US should close this facility. While we continue to press for the closure of the Guantanamo facility and for respect for the principles of international law, the legality of the 2001 military order under US law is a matter for the US courts to determine.
46 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent presidential election in Belarus with particular reference to the violence and intimidation towards the political opposition which preceded it, the jailing of the opposition leader, and the treatment of protestors by the police forces; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13112/06]
95 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions which have been held at European Union level with regard to the recent elections in Belarus, widely thought to have been rigged; and the sanctions the EU may impose upon the Administration of that country in this light and in the view of ongoing practices such as this since the assuming of power by the current president over ten years ago. [13113/06]
144 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the recent discussions he has had with his EU counterparts with regard to the sanctions which will be imposed against the regime in Belarus due to the jailing of democratic protestors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13038/06]
281 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the representations the Government has made to the Government in Belarus regarding human rights violations in that country, including the jailing of political opponents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13168/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46, 95, 144 and 281 together.
In its declaration of 24 March the European Council stated: "On a continent of open and democratic societies, Belarus is a sad exception". Ireland and the European Union deplore the long-standing failure of the Belorussian authorities to meet their OSCE commitments to democratic elections. In light of the findings of the OSCE-ODIHR international election observation mission, we view the presidential elections of 19 March as fundamentally flawed.
The EU has repeatedly made clear that if the Belarus authorities were to reverse their policies and embark on fundamental democratic and economic reforms, their country could have the benefit of closer economic integration and political co-operation with the EU under the European neighbourhood policy. I sincerely regret that the presidential elections have not advanced this prospect and that the opportunity they offered to the people of Belarus has once again been missed.
Ireland and our EU and international partners are watching developments closely. The arrest and sentencing of Belorussian citizens and others who peacefully exercised their right of assembly and freedom of expression to protest the flawed election results shows the disregard of the Belorussian leadership for civil and political rights. I repeat the demand of the European Council for the immediate release of all those detained. I call on the Belarus authorities to refrain from further harassment or intimidation of those who, in the context of the presidential election, used peaceful means to try to develop civil society and advance democracy in Belarus. The European Council welcomed the message of hope brought by the democratic opposition and civil society and it reiterated the commitment of the European Union to engage with Belorussian society by further strengthening its support for civil society and for democratisation. I fully endorse this approach and will ensure that Ireland plays its part in working with partners to promote the process of democratic change. The people of Belarus must not be isolated from Europe by the policy of their leaders. It will be important therefore to intensify people-to-people contacts and to try to enhance access to independent sources of information.
The Irish Government's long-standing concern about the human rights situation in Belarus is well known to the Belarus authorities. It is communicated mainly through EU channels but also bilaterally by the Irish embassy in Moscow, which is accredited to Belarus, and in diplomatic contacts with the Embassy of Belarus in London. Ireland supported strongly the series of declarations on Belarus made by the EU before and since the presidential elections.
The European Council on 24 March decided to take restrictive measures against those responsible for the violations of international electoral standards, including President Lukashenko. Intensive work is under way and the Presidency hopes that a first measure, in the form of an expanded visa ban list, can be adopted at the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 10 April. Ireland is working to ensure that the EU response is targeted and proportionate. It must be directed against the responsible authorities, not against the ordinary people of Belarus. It must also be adaptable in light of future actions by the Belarus authorities, positive as well as negative.
47 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions or exchanges of views which he has had in recent times with representatives of the People’s Republic of China in relation to human rights in general, in the context of their signing of a number of international instruments in relation to human rights, and in particular the repeated reports of oppression against practitioners of Falun Gong. [13125/06]
100 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent reports of further atrocities directed against Falun Gong practitioners in China; if, in particular, he has had examined the information suggested in a website (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13124/06]
115 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the information he has received regarding a reported concentration camp in Shenyang City, Liaoning province in China where, reportedly, 6,000 Falun Gong practitioners are detained (details supplied); the help the Government will offer in this respect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13132/06]
280 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to reports emanating from China regarding the suppression of Falun Dafa, including the existence of the Sujiatun concentration camp, the execution of prisoners and the harvesting of their organs; if he has raised this issue at Government, European Union and at United Nations level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13077/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47, 100, 115 and 280 together.
I am aware of reports that are circulating on the issues raised. As I stated in response to a written question on this issue on 29 March, I am unable at present to confirm the reliability of these reports. I have asked my Department, in particular through the embassy in Beijing, to look into the situation as a matter of urgency and to report back to me. We are also making inquiries within the EU framework. Without prejudice to the outcome of the above inquiries, Ireland and the EU remain concerned about the situation of Falun Gong practitioners in China and have raised our concerns with the Chinese Government on many occasions.
Human rights issues are a constant and important point of dialogue with the Chinese authorities at both bilateral and European Union level. In our bilateral exchanges, human rights concerns were raised most recently with the Chinese Government during the visit of the Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, to China for St. Patrick's Day last month. At EU level, the EU-China human rights dialogue is the agreed formal framework through which the EU raises its concerns with China about individual human rights cases and more general issues such as freedom of expression and the abolition of the death penalty.
At the latest round of the human rights dialogue, held in Beijing on 24 October 2005, the EU raised, inter alia, the right to freedom of religion and the need for reform of the administrative detention system, including the associated re-education through labour, RTL, camps. The EU expressed particular concern in this regard for Falun Gong members and stated that reform of the RTL system is an issue of fundamental importance for the EU in the human rights dialogue. A number of Falun Gong practitioners were also included in the EU’s list of individual cases of concern which was submitted to the Chinese authorities during the dialogue. The next round of the dialogue will take place in Vienna in May.
50 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the March 2006 European summit; the decisions which were taken at this summit; the contributions made by the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13115/06]
I participated at the European Council in Brussels on 23 and 24 March 2006, at which the Irish delegation was led by the Taoiseach. The conclusions of the Council have been laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and Dáil Éireann had an opportunity to discuss the meeting's outcome on 29 March.
The Council's discussions covered matters across the Union's broad economic and social agenda. In particular, the Council endorsed the idea of a new energy policy for Europe, an initiative Ireland wholeheartedly supported. I should emphasise also that the conclusions make it explicitly clear that decisions on the primary sources of energy, and the choice of energy mix, will remain the responsibility of member states.
On state aids, we secured the inclusion of a text which reflects our long-standing view that the EU's rules in this area need to take external factors into account so as to enable Europe to compete successfully for future inward investment. The Taoiseach also won support for his proposal that the EU should look at ways of reducing mobile phone roaming charges for travellers within the Union.
At Foreign Minister level, the particular focus of our discussions was on the future of Europe and on enlargement. In this regard, I took the opportunity to underline our continuing and firm commitment to the EU constitution.
With regard to future enlargement, I said that we would continue to adopt a constructive and pragmatic approach, while giving due weight to the Union's absorption capacity and the need for future candidates to be able to meet fully the obligations of membership. While the Presidency did not seek to arrive at any conclusions on these topics, our discussion was a useful contribution to the current "period of reflection", which is to be reviewed by the Heads of State and Government when they next meet in June.
I raised the recent ETA ceasefire, and complimented the Spanish Government on its facilitation of this breakthrough. I indicated our willingness to assist the Spanish Government based on our own peace process experience and, in this context, the Taoiseach invited Prime Minister Zapatero to visit Ireland at an early opportunity.
I also referred to the question of Guantanamo Bay, and was one of a number of Ministers who exhorted the Presidency to issue a statement expressing the EU's concerns about the continued operation of the facility and urging its closure.
51 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had recent discussions with non-governmental organisations with regard to their concerns surrounding the decentralisation of Irish Aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13029/06]
132 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the negotiations which his Department has undertaken with relevant non-governmental organisations with regard to the proposals to decentralise Irish Aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13004/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 132 together.
I am aware of the concerns of the non-governmental organisations, NGOs, in relation to decentralisation. These concerns were most recently set out in a letter received from Dochas, the umbrella organisation which represents Irish NGOs involved in development overseas, to which my colleague, the Minister, Deputy Dermot Ahern, replied on 31 January. In his letter, the Minister, Deputy Ahern, stated that decentralisation is a Government decision to which we are committed. My departmental officials are currently involved in detailed planning and implementation of the decentralisation project. We look forward to continued engagement and co-operation with NGOs throughout the process of decentralisation.
53 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the so-called quarter powers — the European Union, the US, Russia and the United Nations — have said that a new Hamas-led Government must commit to non-violence, recognise Israel and accept current peace agreements or it could lose the financial support it receives from the international community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13093/06]
67 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on efforts by the US Administration to isolate the democratically elected Government of the Palestinian people, in view of the Palestinian parliamentary vote of confidence in the Cabinet on 28 March 2006; and if he will give a commitment that Irish and EU aid to Palestine will remain unaffected by the result of the recent elections. [13081/06]
70 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on statements by Israeli officials that they have no peace partner in Palestine, in view of the Palestinian parliamentary vote of confidence in its Cabinet on 28 March 2006; and his further views on whether unilateral moves by Israel are justifiable. [13082/06]
136 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his recent meeting with the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council with regard to the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13023/06]
273 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions he and his Department intend holding at either a national or European level with the incoming Israeli Government with a view to contributing towards ongoing progress for the roadmap for peace. [13170/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 53, 67, 70, 136 and 273 together.
The international community has adopted a clear and united approach in relation to the outcome of the democratic Palestinian elections on 25 January and the approval of a new Government by the Palestinian Legislative Council on 28 March. The meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council, which I attended on 30 January, emphasised that violence and terror are incompatible with the democratic process. It urged Hamas and all other factions to renounce violence, to recognise Israel's right to exist, and to disarm. The Council also encouraged the formation of a Government committed to a peaceful and negotiated settlement of the conflict, based on existing agreements and on the terms of the roadmap. On the same day, the international Quartet, representing the European Union, the United Nations, the United States and Russia, set out the conditions for engagement with the new Palestinian Government. The Quartet stated that all members of a future Palestinian Government must be committed to non-violence, to recognition of Israel and to acceptance of previous agreements and obligations, including those of the road map.
Last week, on 30 March, the Quartet welcomed the efforts of President Mahmoud Abbas to ensure that the new Palestinian Government commits to a platform of peace, but noted with grave concern that it has not committed itself to the principles set out by the international community. The Quartet encouraged continued humanitarian assistance to meet the basic needs of the Palestinian people but reiterated that future assistance to the Palestinian Authority will be reviewed by donors against the Government's commitment to these principles.
The General Affairs and External Relations Council will review developments at its meeting in Luxembourg next Monday. The EU is the largest donor to the Palestinian Authority and to the Palestinian people. The Council, on 27 February, agreed to the early disbursement of over €120 million in assistance. Obviously, future decisions will depend on the approach adopted by the Hamas Government. I continue to hope that it will listen to, and act on, the message it has received from President Abbas, its neighbours in the region and the wider international community. I can assure the Deputies that if there is any evidence of a willingness to make progress on the steps set out by the EU and the Quartet, based unequivocally on the continued absence of violence, I will strongly urge a response from the EU.
The Council will also consider developments since the Israeli general elections. I have offered my congratulations to Acting Prime Minister Olmert on the success of his party, Kadima. It appears that he and the other Israeli political leaders will need some time to negotiate the formation of a new coalition Government.
I believe that nothing which has happened in the region in recent months alters the basic reality that the only way in which a lasting and peaceful settlement of the conflict can be found is through the negotiation of a mutually acceptable and viable two-State solution. This must involve the co-existence in peace and security of the state of Israel and a truly viable Palestinian state. The principles and steps contained in the Quartet roadmap continue to provide the framework for such a solution.
I therefore welcome the statement by Acting Prime Minister Olmert last week that there is no good alternative to a peace agreement and that his Government will work for a negotiated agreement with their Palestinian neighbours. The Government, and our partners in the EU, look forward to developing a good working relationship with the new Israeli Government. We will continue to work for early progress based on the implementation of commitments under the roadmap, and under international law. I will also continue to raise directly with the Israeli Government our concerns, which are shared by our EU partners, on Israeli policies and activities in the occupied territories, which are contrary to international law and which threaten to undermine a solution based on the co-existence of two viable states.
54 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department is funding a humanitarian programme in Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13033/06]
The Government is committed to the provision of humanitarian assistance to the Iraqi people. Since 2003, Ireland has delivered over €6.5 million to meet the immediate emergency humanitarian needs of some of the most vulnerable groups in that country. Funding has been delivered through key non-governmental partners such as Concern, GOAL and Trócaire and through UN and international agencies such as the world food programme, the United Nations Children's Fund, UNICEF, the United Nations Office for the Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs, UNOCHA, and the Red Cross family.
Irish Aid also supports the work of the NGO Co-ordination Committee in Iraq, NCCI, which provides a forum for collective NGO activity to enhance the effectiveness of humanitarian action in Iraq at a national level. Funding was also provided to the AMAR, Assisting Marsh Arabs and Refugees, International Charitable Foundation for health care programmes to assist the Marsh Arab population of southern Iraq, which suffered considerably under the former regime.
While the security situation in Iraq has greatly increased the difficulty for those working in the humanitarian field, the Government remains committed to funding humanitarian programmes which can be delivered in this challenging environment.
55 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of European directives awaiting implementation by the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13013/06]
A total of 113 EU directives are at present awaiting transposition into Irish law, 33 of which are overdue for transposition. However, every effort is being made by the relevant Departments to expedite the implementation of these directives.
The Government is strongly committed to meeting the deadlines for transposition. The Interdepartmental Committee on European Union Affairs, chaired by my colleague, Deputy Noel Treacy, Minister of State for European affairs, provides a high level forum overseeing the transposition of EU legislation.
In addition, last December, the Department of the Taoiseach published guidelines on best practice on transposition of EU directives, and the Cabinet Committee on European Affairs keeps the issue of transposition under regular review.
56 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent elections in Ukraine; the prospects for the future governance of this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13116/06]
288 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which the international community can encourage the democratic process in the Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13454/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 56 and 288 together.
As I made clear in a statement issued on 27 March, I am greatly encouraged by the findings of the OSCE's international election observer mission on the parliamentary elections in Ukraine. The mission found that the elections of 26 March further consolidated the democratic breakthrough that began less than a year and a half ago in Ukraine and that, overall, fundamental civil and political rights were respected. An inclusive candidate registration process and a vibrant media environment provided for genuine competition in conditions of equality, enabling voters to express their will freely and fairly. The OSCE-ODIHR mission was one of the largest in the region in recent times, with more than 900 observers. Ireland contributed nine observers, including one Member of this house, Deputy Perry.
I congratulate the President, the Government and the people of Ukraine on the freest and fairest elections since their country's independence. As the EU has noted, their achievement set a new and very welcome standard for elections in the region as a whole.
It would be premature to comment on prospects for the future governance of Ukraine. Following the country's democratic elections, Ireland and the EU will co-operate with whatever government is formed in Kiev. We all hope that a majority-backed government will be formed soon and we expect it to confirm and maintain the democratic achievements of the past 15 months.
The House will be aware that the Our Ukraine party of President Yushchenko lost ground in the elections while the Party of Regions of his former rival for the Presidency, Viktor Yanukovich, became the largest grouping. However, other pro-reform parties either held or substantially increased their vote, making the combined strength of the constituent elements of the former Orange coalition greater than that of the non-Orange parties. The make up of a new government is now a matter for negotiation between the various party leaders and no possible combination can be ruled out at this stage.
Ireland and the European Union look forward to working towards a deeper partnership with Ukraine, one that is built on shared values as expressed in the quality of Ukraine's democracy. As long as Ukraine adheres to the path of political and economic reform, it can count on our support and assistance. Continuing implementation of the action plan under the European neighbourhood policy agreed with Ukraine in February 2005 is vital.
57 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government supports the renewal of the European Union’s common position on Burma; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13027/06]
73 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest contacts that have been made with the military regime in Burma with regard to the detention of pro-democracy leader Aung San Suu Kyi; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13032/06]
143 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position with regard to the diplomatic relationship between Ireland and Burma; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13005/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 57, 73 and 143 together.
Ireland takes a consistently strong position on Burma in relevant contacts, in the European Union framework and at the United Nations. Together with our EU partners, we avail of all opportunities to condemn the abuse of human rights and fundamental freedoms in Burma and deplore the lack of progress towards democracy.
The EU applies a range of sanctions and restrictive measures against Burma, referred to as the EU common position, which are due to expire on 30 April and which are currently up for renewal. In view of the absence of any progress in Burma, Ireland is strongly supporting the renewal of the measures for a further year. I am confident that this will happen.
The most recent EU meeting with Burma was an EU-Burma informal Troika meeting at official level, held in London on 30 November in the margins of the Asia-Europe senior officials meeting, at which my Department was represented. The EU side recalled our concern at the situation in Burma and the EU's desire to see real progress in the roadmap towards democracy. It called for the immediate release of all political prisoners, including Aung San Suu Kyi.
I was delighted that the Olof Palme Memorial Fund in Sweden, established in memory of the assassinated former Swedish Prime Minister, awarded Aung San Suu Kyi the Olof Palme Prize 2005 for her unyielding fight for a democratic Burma. The prize was received on her behalf at a ceremony in Stockholm on 28 February. The Nobel laureate has previously been honoured with the freedom of both Dublin and Galway cities. The EU issued a statement on 28 February acknowledging Aung San Suu Kyi's tireless peaceful struggle and deeply regretting that the deprival of her personal freedom prevented her from accepting the award in person. It urged her immediate release and that of all other political prisoners. It also reiterated the EU's commitment to supporting national reconciliation and respect for human rights and democracy in Burma. It called on the Burmese régime to enter into a genuine dialogue with the National League for Democracy and with ethnic representatives.
Ireland announced the establishment of diplomatic relations on a non-resident basis with Burma on 13 February 2004. However, given that the progress which had been anticipated in 2004, most notably the meeting of an open and unhindered national convention and the release of Aung San Suu Kyi, did not materialise, the Government decided to put on hold the exchange of ambassadors. Any decision to proceed with an exchange of ambassadors with Burma will have to await positive and significant moves by the Burmese Government.
I assure the Deputies that I will continue to raise concerns about Burma on all possible occasions and to work for real progress there.
58 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level of humanitarian funding being allocated to Kenya for 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13016/06]
79 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts being made, both at an Irish and EU level, to help alleviate the drought and connected difficulties being experienced in Kenya; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13119/06]
134 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level of financial support which Ireland has pledged towards helping alleviate the consequences of drought in Kenya; if more funding is envisaged; the manner in which these moneys are being utilised; his views on the need to fully fund the central emergency response fund, a body which, reports have stated, is currently underfunded with regard to the task at hand; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13122/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 58, 79 and 134 and together.
Kenya and its neighbouring countries in the Horn of Africa are in the grip of a severe drought that is directly affecting up to 11 million people across the region. The drought has already killed thousands of livestock, depriving people of their livelihoods and leaving pastoral communities destitute. The impact of poor rainfall during the long rainy season of March to June last year has been compounded by the failure of the short rains in October-December. It is now estimated that 5 million people in Kenya alone now require food aid. Over 2.5 million Ethiopians and over 2 million Somalis are directly at risk. In addition, populations are suffering the effects of the drought in parts of Burundi, Djibouti and Eritrea.
Ireland has responded promptly to this emergency. In early February, over €5 million in emergency humanitarian funding was provided to agencies working in the Horn of Africa. A total of €3 million of this funding has been provided to the regional emergency response programmes of UN agencies and the International Federation of the Red Cross, while funding of over €1 million has been provided for Somalia and almost €1 million has been provided to the NGOs Concern and Trócaire for emergency programmes specifically in Kenya.
I have continued to monitor developments closely and have decided to make available further funding of €2 million. This will be allocated to key NGOs and international organisations working in response to the emergency, particularly in Somalia where there is the added challenge of providing humanitarian relief in an environment of intense insecurity.
At EU level, the European Commission announced last week that it is providing a further €5 million in emergency humanitarian aid to the affected region. This brings the Commission's total response to the drought in the region to €78 million, including €17 million in emergency response to the crisis.
In terms of strengthening the UN's capacity to respond to such crises, Ireland has also contributed €10 million to the central emergency response fund, CERF. Ireland played an active role, with a number of other countries, in advancing the proposal to set up the new CERF. This new mechanism provides UN agencies with a stand-by, grant-based fund to enable them to respond quickly to humanitarian emergencies.
This fund will ensure a more predictable and timely response to humanitarian crisis. For these reasons, it is vitally important that all Governments contribute to the best of their ability to the CERF and help close the gap between the assessment of humanitarian needs and the release of funds essential to meeting them.
59 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his Department’s views of the Charles Taylor case; if there is knowledge of where this person is; and his views on the possible repercussions of this person not standing trial for the fragile peace which pertains in Liberia. [13109/06]
118 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s position with regard to the former leader of Liberia, Mr. Charles Taylor; and the views he and his Department holds of where, in the event of Mr. Taylor being found, the trial of Mr. Taylor ought to be held, Sierra Leone and Liberia itself having been mentioned as possible locations. [13110/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 118 together.
On 29 March 2006, Mr. Charles Taylor, former President of Liberia, was arrested in Nigeria, having violated the terms of his exile there, and moved via Liberia to the custody of the Special Court for Sierra Leone. Irish members of the United Nations Mission in Liberia, UNMIL, provided an air escort for Mr. Taylor from Liberia to Sierra Leone and delivered him to the Special Court. The Government is proud of the important role played by the Defence Forces in bringing Mr. Taylor to account.
Liberia has made remarkable progress since the comprehensive peace agreement of August 2003. The parliamentary and presidential elections held in October 2005 marked the return of democracy to the country after 14 years of civil war. The extradition of Mr. Taylor further consolidates the new democratic dispensation in Liberia. The Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, visited Liberia last week and I requested him to convey the congratulations of the Government to President Ellen Sirleaf-Johnson when he met with her on 30 March 2006. The fact that this extradition was undertaken in a spirit of regional co-operation between Nigeria, Liberia and Sierra Leone augurs well for future peace in the region.
The Special Court for Sierra Leone was set up in 2002 following a request from the Government of Sierra Leone to the UN that the international community try those with greatest responsibility for the violent conflict that took place there between 1996 and 2002. Mr. Taylor is one of the most high profile indictees. He is indicted on 11 charges related to his support of rebel armed forces in Sierra Leone. These include war crimes, crimes against humanity and other serious violations of international law including sexual slavery, mutilations and the use of child soldiers.
At the request of the Special Court, the Netherlands and the International Criminal Court, ICC, have agreed to host his trial on condition that the UN Security Council passes an authorising resolution. Measures are in hand to secure swift agreement on such a resolution in New York. The Netherlands also asked that a third country would accept Mr. Taylor once a verdict had been delivered and that the Special Court would make its own arrangements to use the facilities of the ICC. The trial will remain at all times under the jurisdiction of the Special Court.
I understand that the request to transfer Mr. Taylor's trial to The Hague was prompted by fears that his presence in Sierra Leone could provoke unrest in the region. On 30 March 2006, President Johnson-Sirleaf expressed support for the transfer and extended an invitation to all former associates of Mr. Taylor against whom there is no charge to return and live freely in Liberia. She also reiterated her determination to pursue an agenda dedicated to bringing prosperity and development to Liberia.
Ireland strongly supports the Special Court and has contributed over €1 million to it. An Irish judge, Ms Therese Doherty, sits on the court and is expected to preside over Mr. Taylor's trial.
60 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position with regard to the ratification of the EU convention on corruption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13019/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply of 22 February 2006 on this subject. The convention on the fight against corruption involving officials of the European Communities or officials of member states of the European Union entered into force on 28 September 2005, 90 days after the last of the 15 pre-enlargement member states deposited the required instrument of notification. In the case of Ireland, the terms of the convention had been approved by Dáil Éireann on 17 December 2002, and the instrument of ratification deposited on 11 March 2003.
61 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the organisations in the UK working with Irish emigrants that have been grant aided by his Department; the amount given to each organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13064/06]
The strong commitment of the Government to support our community abroad is reflected in the unprecedented level of funding secured for emigrant services. This year, €12 million is available for this purpose which represents an increase of 45% on 2005.
The needs of our Irish community in Britain are a particular priority for the Government. In 2005, groups in Britain received grants from my Department amounting to €7.06 million. I am delighted that the number of grant recipients increased from 58 in 2004 to 118 in 2005. The very significant increase in funding and the rise in the number of grant recipients reflect, in the clearest possible way, the strength of the Government's firm and sustained commitment to our community in Britain.
While the primary emphasis of funding continues to be on supporting frontline welfare services, I am pleased that additional funding has also made it possible to support a number of capital projects as well as projects which support our community in Britain in their wish to express their Irish identity.
The following table gives details of the grants that I approved last year to organisations based in Britain. Applications for grants are currently under consideration and I look forward to making an announcement in due course.
|
2005 Grants |
€ |
|
Acton Homeless Concern |
55,128 |
|
Age Concern Ealing |
50,776 |
|
Aisling Return to Ireland |
87,045 |
|
Angel Drug Service London |
40,621 |
|
Arlington House London |
7,330 |
|
Batley IDL Club West Yorkshire |
14,507 |
|
Birmingham Irish Club |
53,833 |
|
Birmingham Irish Community Forum Ltd. |
87,045 |
|
Blackfriars Advice Centre London |
54,403 |
|
Bolton Irish Community Association |
53,678 |
|
Brent Adolescent Centre |
14,660 |
|
Brent Irish Advisory Service |
130,643 |
|
Brian Boru I.D.L. Wigan |
29,015 |
|
Broadway (street to home) London |
36,269 |
|
Cairde na nGael London |
50,776 |
|
Camden Elderly Irish Network |
63,989 |
|
Cara London |
28,044 |
|
Celtic & Irish Cultural Society C.I.C.S Crawley West Sussex |
7,254 |
|
Comhaltas CeoltóiríÉireann London |
79,791 |
|
Conradh na Gaeilge Glasgow |
29,015 |
|
Coventry Irish Society |
117,672 |
|
Cricklewood Homeless Concern |
305,492 |
|
Croy Historical Society Glasgow |
1,451 |
|
Cumann na mBunscoil London |
43,522 |
|
Dundee Dalriada GAA |
7,330 |
|
Equinox Care London |
14,507 |
|
Federation of Irish Societies |
870,448 |
|
Feis Ghlaschú Glasgow |
2,932 |
|
Fiann Nottingham |
39,170 |
|
Finsbury Park Street Drinkers Initiative |
36,269 |
|
Fireside Day Centre Birmingham |
47,225 |
|
GEAR Projects Gloucester |
29,015 |
|
Greenwich Irish Pensioners |
2,932 |
|
Halifax Irish Amateur F.C. |
1,451 |
|
Halifax Irish Amateur Rugby League Club |
1,451 |
|
Halifax Irish Centre |
10,155 |
|
Halifax Irish Junior FC |
1,451 |
|
Halifax Irish Society |
7,254 |
|
Hammersmith Irish Centre |
36,269 |
|
Haringey Irish Cultural & Community Centre |
217,612 |
|
Harringey Irish Pensioners |
4,398 |
|
Harrow Emerald Circle |
2,932 |
|
Hillingdon Borough Irish Society |
59,481 |
|
Huddersfield Irish Centre |
14,507 |
|
Icap London |
142,355 |
|
IDL-Haslingden Davitt Branch |
93,058 |
|
Irish Association High Wycombe |
14,507 |
|
Irish Centre Housing London |
21,761 |
|
Irish Chaplaincy Traveller Outreach |
58,258 |
|
Irish Charitable Trust, Hammersmith |
90,022 |
|
Irish Commission for Prisoners Overseas |
151,040 |
|
Irish Community Care Manchester |
184,245 |
|
Irish Community Care Merseyside |
188,597 |
|
Irish Diaspora Foundation Manchester |
47,875 |
|
Irish Episcopal Commission for Emigrants |
4,000 |
|
Irish Heritage in Haslingden |
5,658 |
|
Irish In Greenwich |
137,972 |
|
Irish Music Project Leeds |
29,015 |
|
Irish National Institute Lancashire |
14,507 |
|
Irish Travellers Movement in Britain |
60,048 |
|
Irish Welfare and Information Centre, Birmingham |
174,595 |
|
Irish World Heritage Centre Manchester |
14,507 |
|
Kilburn Irish Pensioners Club |
4,352 |
|
Kingdom Kerry Gaels London |
7,330 |
|
Lancashire Federation of IDL |
21,822 |
|
Leeds Gypsy and Traveller Exchange (GATE) |
52,328 |
|
Leeds Irish Health & Homes |
180,805 |
|
Leicester Irish Forum |
35,906 |
|
Lewisham Irish Community Centre |
53,678 |
|
Lichen Films — Tattie Hokers’ film (Support for Production Costs) |
10,262 |
|
London Gypsy and Traveller Unit |
111,435 |
|
London Irish Centre |
399,930 |
|
London Irish Elders Forum |
7,653 |
|
London Irish Elder’s Forum |
10,172 |
|
London Irish Pensioners Choir |
1,466 |
|
London Irish Women’s Centre |
101,552 |
|
Luton Irish Forum |
295,970 |
|
Manchester Irish Festival |
21,761 |
|
Marian Senior Citizens Club London |
7,254 |
|
New Horizon Youth Centre London |
47,951 |
|
Noah Enterprise Luton |
84,786 |
|
Northampton Irish Support Group |
82,693 |
|
Oldham Irish Society |
7,254 |
|
Pendle and District Irish Society Lancashire |
1,451 |
|
Queens Park Senior Citizens Group |
4,398 |
|
Rehab Irish Elders Centre Coventry |
101,552 |
|
Round Towers and Treacy Minor GAA Surrey |
9,865 |
|
Safe Start Foundation London |
72,537 |
|
Sandwell Irish Society |
20,501 |
|
Shalloe Pearses GFC London |
7,330 |
|
Sheffield Gypsy & Traveller Support Group |
21,625 |
|
Sheffield Support & Development Group |
90,763 |
|
South London Irish Association |
29,091 |
|
South London Irish Welfare Society |
89,946 |
|
Southwark Irish Pensioners |
83,135 |
|
Southwark Irish Youth |
4,352 |
|
Southwark Travellers Action Group (STAG) |
87,045 |
|
St. Patrick’s Festival, Scotland |
7,275 |
|
St. Anne’s Senior Citizen Club Birmingham |
2,932 |
|
St. James The Great Branch Comhaltas Glasgow |
5,803 |
|
St. Mary’s Social Club & Parochial Hall West Yorkshire |
14,507 |
|
St. Michael’s Irish Centre, Liverpool |
42,264 |
|
St. Mungo’s London |
45,535 |
|
St. Patrick’s Festival Committee North Lanarkshire |
7,254 |
|
St. Patricks Traditional Music Group |
2,901 |
|
St. Theresa’s House, Peterborough |
43,979 |
|
Tara Irish Pensioners London |
3,661 |
|
The Connection at St. Martin’s London |
21,761 |
|
The Irish Club Warrington |
10,764 |
|
The London Irish Network |
5,513 |
|
The Maya Centre |
26,552 |
|
The Passage |
55,833 |
|
The Simon Community |
52,208 |
|
Tír Conaill Harps Glasgow |
29,015 |
|
Tuesday Club Leeds |
4,352 |
|
Tyneside Irish Centre |
58,030 |
|
Tyneside Irish Cultural Society |
14,507 |
|
Warwickshire GAA |
29,015 |
62 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the protocol governing the participation of representatives of this State in ceremonies celebrating soldiers from other countries. [11815/06]
76 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the Government should participate in ceremonies marking the home-coming of foreign troops returning from the brutal conflict in Iraq. [11814/06]
82 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the Government should offer support to or legitimise the actions of foreign soldiers returning from the brutal conflict in Iraq who are part of an army that is subject to an investigation for the slaughter of civilians. [11817/06]
125 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether the Government should offer support to or legitimise the actions of soldiers returning from occupying Iraq. [11816/06]
282 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Minister for Transport, Deputy Martin Cullen, was representing his Department at a wreath-laying ceremony in New York in March 2006, involving both US and Irish troops, in commemoration of the US 69th infantry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13185/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 62, 76, 82, 125, and 282 together.
The Minister for Transport represented the Government at an extensive programme of events in New York over the St. Patrick's Day period. The 69th infantry battalion, the Fighting 69th, is the US army unit with the closest ties to Irish America and has led the St. Patrick's Day Parade on Fifth Avenue for more than 150 years. The 69th has recently returned from a tour of duty in Iraq. This year's parade was dedicated to the regiment, and the regiment was also guest of honour at the St. Patrick's Day Mass celebrated by Cardinal Egan in St. Patrick's Cathedral.
As part of his programme, the Minister was invited to attend and speak at a public wreath-laying ceremony at the Father Duffy statue in Times Square. The ceremony was organised to commemorate the tens of thousands of New Yorkers who have served with the 69th. The battalion was formed by Irish immigrants in New York in 1851 and its battle flag was presented to the Irish nation by President Kennedy when he addressed the Houses of the Oireachtas in 1963. The flag is on permanent display in this building.
Given the historical links as well as the focus on the 69th at the St. Patrick's Day events in New York this year, the Minister's attendance at the wreath-laying was entirely appropriate. The Fighting 69th is held in affection and respect by Irish America and the Minister's attendance at the public ceremony was deeply appreciated by the community.
As regards the broader issue of the participation of Government representatives in ceremonies of this kind, this is decided on a case by case basis depending on specific circumstances.
With respect to the multinational forces currently serving in Iraq, I would point out that they are operating at the request of the Iraqi Government and under UN mandate. The presence of the multinational force in Iraq was authorised by the UN Security Council in Resolution 1511 of October 2003. This authorisation was reaffirmed in Resolution 1546 of June 2004, and was extended to the end of 2006 by Resolution 1637, which was adopted unanimously by the Security Council in November 2005.
63 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps that have been taken to implement Amnesty International’s recommendations concerning the UN World Summit 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13021/06]
86 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the establishment of a new Human Rights Council at the UN; Ireland’s attitude towards this council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13097/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 63 and 86 together.
While the resolution establishing the Human Rights Council did not contain all that Ireland or Amnesty International had hoped for, it represents a clear improvement on the Commission on Human Rights and was the best compromise possible. The resolution was supported by 170 states, including Ireland and our EU partners, with only four states opposed and three abstaining. It was also endorsed by the Secretary General of the United Nations and the High Commissioner for Human Rights. In addition, Amnesty International and other prominent international human rights NGOs favoured the resolution.
I was particularly aware of the desire for reform in the area of human rights while serving as envoy for the UN Secretary General on reform last year. Ireland played a very active role in the long process of negotiation which led to the establishment of the Human Rights Council on 15 March 2006 and was to the fore in working to guarantee a common EU position in favour of the resolution.
In addition to preserving some of the best features of the Commission on Human Rights, such as its system of special procedures and dialogue with NGOs, the Human Rights Council will have a number of notable new features: it will be a standing body that will meet more frequently during the year; it will periodically examine the observance of human rights by all UN member states; it has been elevated to being a subsidiary organ of the General Assembly; and the criteria for membership will make it more difficult for states guilty of serious human rights violations to serve on the Council. This accords with the principal recommendations made by Amnesty International.
The new council will be elected on 9 May 2006 and will begin its work on 19 June 2006. Ireland will now work to ensure that the important decisions to be taken during the initial stages of the council's operation will develop its capacity to play the fullest and most effective possible role.
Apart from the Human Rights Council, the other major issue to which Amnesty International attaches great importance is the increase in funding for the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights. As one of the largest voluntary contributors to that office, Ireland was very pleased to see that a commitment to double the contribution to the Office of the High Commissioner from the regular UN budget was included in the summit outcome document.
These revised funding arrangements, together with the new Human Rights Council, represent a valuable opportunity for progress on the human rights agenda.
64 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of EU Foreign Ministers meetings that are scheduled in the next six months; the number of these meetings which he will be attending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13043/06]
As Minister for Foreign Affairs, I attend the monthly meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council. Meetings are scheduled for April, May, June, July and September. No meeting is scheduled for August.
The Presidency has indicated its intention to convene a special meeting of Foreign Ministers in late May to discuss the future of Europe. There is also an informal meeting of Foreign Ministers planned for 1-2 September in Lappeenranta, Finland. I would plan to attend all of these meetings.
65 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the five countries which will receive the largest amount of overseas development aid for 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13026/06]
In 2006, it is expected that the largest amounts of Irish development aid will be provided to Mozambique, Uganda, Ethiopia, Tanzania and Zambia. Ireland's assistance will be delivered via our embassies in these countries and through non-governmental organisations, NGOs, missionaries and UN agencies active on the ground. Funding will also be delivered through global programmes supported by Ireland, such as the global fund for AIDS, TB and malaria. It is estimated that in 2006 assistance amounting to over €150 million will be provided to these five countries. These five countries are among the poorest in the world, ranked from number 146 to number 171, out of 177, on the United Nations human development index, HDI.
Ireland's support is focused on poverty reduction through the provision of basic services, the building of local capacity and the promotion of good governance, including human rights. We work closely with other donors, host governments and civil society to ensure a coherent and co-ordinated approach to development activities. This approach stands the best chance of reversing years of economic and social decline.
At a very practical level our aid programme assists, inter alia, the building of schools, health centres, sanitation facilities and rural roads, the sinking of village wells and the training of teachers, health workers and public servants. We also focus on preventing and mitigating the spread of HIV-AIDS and we facilitate the promotion of a culture of good governance and human rights, through supporting human rights and anti-corruption commissions, as well as national parliaments.
66 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of principal development specialists volunteering to decentralise with Irish Aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13002/06]
84 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of senior development specialists volunteering to decentralise with Irish Aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13001/06]
116 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of development specialists volunteering to decentralise with Irish Aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13003/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 66, 84 and 116 together.
There are three categories of specialists employed by Irish Aid — principal development specialists, senior development specialists and development specialists. All specialist positions will be transferring to Limerick. There are also three principal development specialists in Irish Aid headquarters in Dublin. None of the three has applied to decentralise to Limerick.
There are 12 senior development specialists in Irish Aid headquarters. Likewise, from this group, none of the 12 has applied to decentralise to Limerick. Two senior development specialists originally applied to decentralise to Limerick but subsequently withdrew their applications. In addition, there are nine development specialist posts in headquarters. Five development specialists are intending to decentralise. Of these, four commenced employment since the announcement of the decentralisation programme in December 2003, and one applied via the central applications facility.
Discussions are ongoing with representatives of the specialists, their union IMPACT and the Department of Finance about the issues involved in decentralisation which also have a wider Civil Service dimension. It would be my hope that a greater number of specialists will, in time, volunteer to decentralise to Limerick.
68 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of the Government with regard to the election of members to the UN Human Rights Council; if the Government has indicated support for any country being elected to this council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13008/06]
88 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself that the system for the election of members to the new UN Human Rights Council will ensure that countries which have shown manifest disregard for human rights will be able to be removed from this body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13007/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68 and 88 together.
While the resolution establishing the Human Rights Council did not include all that Ireland and the EU had hoped for, I believe this body will represent an improvement on the Commission on Human Rights. The resolution was supported by 170 states, with only four states opposed and three abstaining. It was also endorsed by the Secretary-General of the United Nations, the High Commissioner for Human Rights and prominent international human rights NGOs.
With regard to the election of members of the council, the resolution establishing the body included a number of innovations. Whereas election to the former Commission on Human Rights was based on a simple majority of states present and voting in the General Assembly, states wishing to become members of the Human Rights Council will have to receive the support of an absolute majority of the General Assembly. In addition, states will be elected by secret ballot.
Prospective members of the council also commit themselves to upholding the highest standards in the promotion and protection of human rights, and will be the first to be scrutinised under the new universal periodic review mechanism which will examine the extent to which international human rights standards are respected on the domestic level.
A mechanism has also been established to allow for the expulsion of a member of the council if it is deemed by a two-thirds majority of the General Assembly to be responsible for gross and systematic violations of human rights.
In relation to Ireland's voting intentions, we have been approached by many countries seeking election to the Council. As the date for election is 9 May 2006, and states are still able to present their candidatures, a definitive decision has not been made as to which states Ireland will support. All candidates will be given due consideration but, clearly, Ireland will only support those countries that are firmly committed to the promotion and protection of human rights. In addition, Ireland and our European Union partners have undertaken not to vote for any state that is subject to Security Council sanctions for human rights related reasons.
I am confident these factors will make the situation more conducive to producing a council whose members are genuinely committed to the promotion and protection of human rights.
69 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if expertise accrued in his Department in dealing with paramilitary organisations on this island will be offered to help the Spanish Government in potential upcoming negotiations with ETA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13105/06]
98 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the historic opportunity to promote conflict resolution in the Basque country afforded by ETA’s ceasefire, he will take steps at the EU level to bring about the removal of the Basque nationalist political party Batasuna from the EU’s list of terrorist organisations. [13083/06]
131 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position with regard to the recent ceasefire called by ETA; the discussions he and his Department have held or plan to hold with Spanish officials over the coming months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13104/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 69, 98 and 131 together.
I welcome the announcement by ETA of a permanent ceasefire from 24 March 2006. This is a very positive development. Any move to a permanent ceasefire and the acceptance of purely democratic means is to be welcomed. The next steps in the process are for the Spanish Government and elected representatives to consider.
ETA has been included on the EU list of terrorist organisations since December 2001. By a unanimous decision of EU member states, Batasuna was added to this list on 4 June 2003. In taking this decision, the Council was satisfied that Batasuna was a terrorist organisation and that it was an alias of ETA. The question of whether ETA and-or Batasuna will be removed from the EU's list of terrorist organisations is, in the first instance, for the Spanish Government to propose.
While there are similarities between all conflict situations, each has its own specific characteristics and requirements. The peace process on the island of Ireland has followed our own roadmap and addressed issues particular to our own situation. It has been a long and challenging process and we are ready to share our experience if this would be helpful and if we are invited to do so by the Spanish Government. Indeed, the Taoiseach has already extended an invitation to Prime Minister Zapatero to visit Dublin.
We in Ireland have a particular understanding of the value of peace, and I wish the Spanish people and Government every success in the process which is now beginning.
71 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, during his visit to the US for St. Patrick’s Day, he had an opportunity of discussing the plight of the undocumented Irish with politicians there; the people he had discussions with; his views on the prospects of the McCain-Kennedy Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13063/06]
91 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the ongoing contact between his Department and the US Administration with regard to the McCain-Kennedy legislative proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13009/06]
104 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the contacts he had with Irish emigrant groups in the United States over the St. Patrick’s Day period; if he has raised with US political leaders proposed new anti-immigration legislation that would have potentially disastrous consequences for tens of thousands of undocumented Irish living in America; the response he received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10196/06]
105 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position in the United States with regard to the various legislative proposals being considered in relation to the regularisation of illegal immigrants in that country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13121/06]
108 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest developments in Ireland’s efforts to assist the undocumented Irish in the US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13028/06]
291 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he can foresee a breakthrough in discussions with the US authorities in the matter of an amnesty for the undocumented Irish in the US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13460/06]
292 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent of his discussions with the US authorities in the matter of the regularisation of the undocumented Irish in the US; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13461/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 71, 91, 104, 105, 108, 291 and 292 together.
The Government attaches the highest priority to the welfare of the undocumented Irish in the United States and takes every opportunity in contacts with US political leaders to emphasise the importance of addressing the matter in a constructive and sympathetic manner.
As Deputies will be aware, the debate in the US on immigration reform has entered a critical phase. The St. Patrick's Day period provided the Government with a particularly timely opportunity to make known our views on this matter and, in particular, our strong support for the approach favoured by Senators Kennedy and McCain. It was an opportunity that we availed of to the full in our meetings with President Bush, his Administration and key figures on Capitol Hill.
President Bush was appreciative of our position and he helpfully reiterated to us his support for a broad approach that involves reform as well as enforcement. This is an approach which he subsequently again underlined in speeches later in the month.
The Taoiseach and I also had a series of valuable meetings with Members of Congress including Senators Kennedy and McCain, as well as Senators Biden, Clinton, Dodd and Leahy and Congressman Jim Walsh and members of the Friends of Ireland Group. In each of these meetings we gave particular prominence to our views on the issue of the undocumented Irish and the need to address the situation.
In addition, the Taoiseach and I had important discussions with Niall O'Dowd and Grant Lally of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform, ILIR. I commend the work of the ILIR which has had a significant impact on the debate in Washington and elsewhere in the US, and whose work I have been very pleased to support financially. We agreed to remain in close contact as the legislative process in Washington moves forward.
Since our St. Patrick's Day visit, a significant and positive development has been the passage through the Senate Judiciary Committee of a comprehensive immigration reform bill which includes the core elements of the approach favoured by Senators Kennedy and McCain. This is a development which I have warmly welcomed. However, it remains clear that reaching consensus on this sensitive and divisive issue presents US legislators with a very formidable challenge. Consideration of this complex matter has now moved to the floor of the full Senate where it is currently being debated. I can assure the Deputies that the Government will continue to monitor the ongoing debate very closely and to actively convey to all sides our strong support for the regularisation of the status of the undocumented Irish in the US. In this regard, I also warmly welcome last week's visit to Washington of the Chairman and members of the Joint Foreign Affairs Committee.
72 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will, through the EU or the UN, influence a specifically targeted and co-ordinated policy in terms of financial aid, peace-keeping and alleviation of starvation in respect of the most seriously affected African countries; the way in which this might be dealt with in order of priority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13089/06]
290 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the African countries which currently suffer the greatest from strife, war, famine and human rights abuse; the degree to which these issues are likely to be addressed in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13456/06]
293 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the African countries currently most vulnerable from war, starvation, human rights abuse and AIDS; the extent to which the international community is in a position to make real progress on these issues in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13462/06]
295 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will encourage the international community through the EU or the UN to specifically target the African countries most seriously affected by war, starvation, health and humanitarian issues with a view to providing the necessary peace-keeping, aid and other requirements with the objective of making a positive impact at an early date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13464/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 72, 290, 293 and 295 together.
A coherent and co-ordinated approach is vital in addressing the immense needs of the vast continent of Africa, needs which have deepened through a complex combination of factors including food insecurity, poverty, climate change, poor economic growth, conflict, severe infrastructural deficits, poor governance, debt and the effects of HIV-AIDS. That coherent response, namely, the millennium development goals, MDGs, has been developed and refined by the United Nations, the key player in the co-ordination of the global community's response to poverty and suffering in the world today.
The MDGs, fully supported by the leaders of the world and reaffirmed at the UN summit last September, represent the key development targets that must be reached if the challenge of poverty, hunger, disease and lack of development is to be met by 2015. There are eight goals in all, covering the eradication of poverty and hunger, achieving universal primary education, promoting gender equality, reducing child and maternal mortality, combating HIV-AIDS and other communicable diseases, ensuring environmental sustainability and developing a global partnership for development. This is a comprehensive, ambitious but achievable set of goals. Ireland is fully committed to doing its part to ensure that they are attained.
Irish Aid, the Government's official programme of overseas development assistance, has Africa at its core. Our approach to Africa has a number of different elements, each distinct but complementary. There is the humanitarian budget which responds to both complex and sudden-onset emergencies. Other elements are our recovery and long-term development programmes, which seek to assist countries emerging from natural and man-made emergencies and also address the fundamental causes of poverty in all its manifestations.
The core of our aid programme in Africa concerns the building of strong partnerships with six countries in sub-Saharan Africa, namely, Ethiopia, Lesotho, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda and Zambia. In addition, we work in many other African countries, either directly or through our partnerships with non-governmental organisations, NGOs, such as Christian Aid, Concern, GOAL, Oxfam, Trócaire and others. In the context of the increasing budget, as we approach the target of 0.7% by 2012, we are considering a further deepening of the engagement with Africa.
As regards peace-keeping and conflict, Ireland is contributing to the security and stability of Liberia through its deployment of troops with UNMIL, the UN Mission in Liberia, since 2003. We are enhancing our engagement in Liberia on a range of key targets.
Ireland works with and seeks to enhance the effectiveness of the multilateral framework provided by the EU, the UN and regional organisations in Africa, particularly the African Union, AU. Ireland is a strong advocate for the developing world and for international peace and security through our membership of the EU and the UN.
The EU is the world's largest contributor of development co-operation. At the emergency humanitarian level, the EU strives to meet the needs of the most vulnerable and food insecure populations of Africa. In 2005, the European Commission's Humanitarian Office, ECHO, allocated over €240 million in humanitarian assistance to Africa.
We support capacity building both regionally and within African nations to respond to the humanitarian, conflict related and development challenges. Working through the African Union and its New Partnership for Africa's Development, NEPAD, programme, African Governments are showing a determination to address these issues collectively. The African Union represents an important strategic partner for the European Union and one with which ever closer relations are being forged in the interests of promoting peace, security, democracy and development on the African continent. Ireland has provided assistance to the African Union for its mission in Sudan, AMIS, as part of the EU's joint actions to foster peace and security in Darfur.
The European Council in December 2005 adopted a long-term strategy for strengthening relations with Africa. The strategy, which is based on the principles of African ownership, equality and partnership, aims at promoting development, security and good governance in Africa and achieving the millennium development goals, as well as enhanced EU-Africa dialogue.
We face huge challenges in working in Africa. However, a well-planned, co-ordinated and multifaceted global response combining the skills and resources of the international community of donors, EU, UN and AU partners is the only way to tackle those challenges and create a better future for all of the peoples of Africa.
74 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he has taken on the international stage to strengthen the nuclear non-proliferation treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13024/06]
The next scheduled review conference of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, NPT, will not take place until 2010. It will be preceded by a series of preparatory meetings beginning in 2007. Ireland will in the meantime continue to work with like-minded countries in identifying areas where implementation of the treaty can be strengthened.
At the last NPT review in May 2005, there were a number of specific proposals on actions that states parties might take to meet the challenges confronting the treaty. Regrettably, the conference ended without agreement on substantive conclusions and recommendations on how to strengthen the non-proliferation regime.
I have made clear, including in my address to the United Nations General Assembly in September, the Government's deep disappointment at this outcome. This was a missed opportunity for the international community to tackle some key threats to global peace and security and to agree an effective collective response. We are firmly of the view that the NPT is now more than ever of tremendous importance to the achievement of international peace and security. Action to strengthen the treaty, and ensure full respect for all its provisions, remains essential and we will spare no effort in pursuit of this objective.
Ireland is committed to the full implementation of the NPT and believes that the 13 practical steps outlined in the outcome document of the 2000 NPT review conference set out a clear road by which the objective of nuclear disarmament can be reached.
In Geneva earlier this month, the permanent representative of Ireland to the conference on disarmament reiterated the Irish position with regard to the NPT and emphasised the need for greater transparency on the part of the nuclear weapons states in their respective nuclear disarmament processes.
75 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to a recent EU report from the Jerusalem and Ramallah heads of mission regarding East Jerusalem; his views on the decision not to publish the report; if the EU plans to act on any part of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13094/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to a question on this matter on 22 February 2006.
The Government, and its partners in the EU, remain very seriously concerned at Israeli activities in the occupied territories, including the building of settlements, house demolitions and continuing construction of the separation barrier on occupied land. These activities are contrary to international law, and to obligations under the Quartet roadmap. They threaten to undermine a solution based on the co-existence of two viable states, and likewise the possibility of a final status agreement on Jerusalem. It remains the clear position of the EU that it will not recognise any changes to the pre-1967 borders other than those arrived at by agreement between the parties.
The Middle East peace process is discussed at every meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council. The meetings which I attended on 7 and 21 November 2005 expressed particular concern about the implementation of Israeli policies in and around east Jerusalem, and repeated the EU position on changes to the pre-1967 borders. The EU's concerns were reaffirmed in the Declaration on the Middle East which was adopted by the European Council on 15 December 2005.
At its meeting on 21 November, the Council had agreed that a detailed EU analysis on east Jerusalem should be prepared for adoption and publication by the Council on 12 December 2005. The matter was discussed in detail at the meeting on 12 December, but consensus was not reached on the publication of an analysis, primarily because of the domestic political developments in Israel in the intervening period. There has been no change, however, in the EU position on these important issues. The Government will continue to raise its concerns directly in discussions with the new Israeli Government. We, and our partners in the EU, will continue to engage constructively with the Israeli Government and with the Palestinian Authority to encourage them to fulfil their obligations under the roadmap, and under international law.
77 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the situation in Kosovo; the diplomatic contacts Ireland has with the area; when a conclusion to the talks will be reached; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13103/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, Kosovo has been under UN administration since the end of the conflict in 1999, in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1244. On 24 October 2005 the Security Council welcomed the report by the Secretary General's envoy, Ambassador Kai Eide of Norway, on the implementation of standards as well as the overall situation in Kosovo.
As recommended by Ambassador Eide, a process of consideration of the future status of Kosovo, led by the UN Secretary General's Special Envoy, former Finnish President Mr. Martti Ahtisaari, has been under way since late last year. Ireland and our EU partners fully support the work of Mr. Ahtisaari and his team, and look forward to working with all those involved to ensure the development of a truly multi-ethnic society in Kosovo in the future. The EU has also nominated a representative to the Kosovo future status process, Mr. Stefan Lehne, who is working closely with Mr. Ahtisaari. Ireland, together with our EU partners, continues to have ongoing contacts with those involved in these important negotiations.
Talks between Serbia, including representatives of the Kosovo Serb community, and the Kosovo Albanians began in February in Vienna under the auspices of Mr. Ahtisaari. So far the atmosphere appears to have been reasonably constructive, although there remain considerable differences in the position of the delegations on the fundamental issues. The Kosovo Albanians are seeking independence while Serbia wants "less than independence and more than autonomy" for Kosovo. In addition to the direct negotiations, Mr. Ahtisaari has been holding an ongoing series of consultations with all parties involved in the conflict and the members of the contact group, which includes the US, the UK, France, Germany, Russia and the EU. It is expected that the status process will continue over the coming months with a view to achieving agreement, if possible, by the end of this year.
The Irish Embassy in Budapest is accredited to Serbia and Montenegro, including Kosovo. Ireland also currently contributes 211 Defence Force personnel to KFOR, the UN mandated peacekeeping force in Kosovo.
78 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the progress made to date in regard to encouraging all political parties in Northern Ireland to support the PSNI and to take their seats on the Policing Board; if he will insist on the need for all parties to support the PSNI to be a central part of upcoming agreement on political progress in Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13128/06]
The Government continues to encourage all sections of the community and all political parties to give their support to the new policing arrangements in Northern Ireland. The Taoiseach and I have repeatedly reiterated that there should be no further delay by Sinn Féin in endorsing these new arrangements including by joining the Policing Board and participating fully in the work of the district policing partnerships. It has been widely acknowledged, including by the independent Oversight Commissioner, that the PSNI has undergone a wide-ranging transformation in recent years, and is now one of the most accountable policing services worldwide. It merits the active support of all sections of the community.
The Government has also made clear that support for policing remains a critical element in putting in place a new political dispensation for Northern Ireland. There is no doubt that a positive decision by Sinn Féin on the policing issue could greatly facilitate the political process. The Government will continue to press for progress in this area in the crucial period ahead.
80 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the security situation in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13011/06]
122 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the situation in Afghanistan with regard to security and reconstruction of the state; if Ireland is funding efforts with regard to reconstruction in that state; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13030/06]
289 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will give an updated report on the situation in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13455/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 80, 122 and 289 together.
It is important to recognise that Afghanistan's transition to democracy and representative government over the past four years is a considerable achievement. Afghanistan now has a democratic constitution, a representative national Parliament and a legitimate elected Government. Efforts are ongoing to consolidate the progress that has been made and reforms are currently under way across all sectors to provide security and essential public services to the Afghan population.
Progress continues to be made in institution-building. Parliamentary committees have been formed and have begun their important oversight work. On 22 March, President Karzai nominated a new cabinet and the Parliament will vote shortly to confirm the ministerial appointments. Parliamentary approval will also be required to confirm President Karzai's nominations to the new Supreme Court.
The security situation, however, remains a cause of serious concern and continues to undermine reconstruction efforts outside the cities. The conflict is complex and is influenced not just by Taliban insurgency but also by a number of other factors including ethnic and tribal tensions, narcotics and crime.
The International Conference on Afghanistan, held in London on 31 January-1 February marked a new stage in Afghanistan's development. The Afghanistan compact, launched at the conference, will guide the joint efforts of the Afghan Government and the international community in meeting outstanding challenges across three pillars of activity: security; governance, rule of law and human rights, and economic and social development. Counter-narcotics has been identified as a cross-cutting priority. The compact notes that Afghanistan's transition to peace and stability is not yet assured and that strong international engagement will be required to address remaining challenges. In the spirit of that engagement, over €8 billion was pledged to Afghanistan by the international community at the conference.
I am pleased that Ireland was in a position to announce a €5 million pledge at the launch of the compact. This latest pledge reflects Ireland's continuing commitment to supporting the reconstruction and reform process in Afghanistan. Funding will be expended over the next two years through the World Bank-administered Afghanistan reconstruction trust fund, ARTF, in support of the Afghan national development strategy and the achievement of Afghanistan's millennium development goals. We will also continue to support the efforts of United Nations agencies and non-governmental organisations towards pro-poor sustainable development in Afghanistan.
Ireland donated €17 million at previous pledging conferences in Tokyo and Berlin in 2002 and 2004 respectively. Funding was expended via the ARTF and through a range of Irish and international non-governmental organisations, including Trócaire, Concern, GOAL, Christian Aid, Halo Trust and Handicap International. Ireland also supported the electoral process through the United Nations Development Programme, UNDP, election support programme, which steered the successful presidential election in 2004 and National Assembly and Provincial Council Elections in 2005.
81 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions which have been held at European level in relation to a proposed referendum in Montenegro later in 2006 at which time the province may vote to secede from Serbia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13114/06]
The State Union of Serbia and Montenegro formally succeeded the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia on 4 February 2003. The Constitutional Charter of the State Union provided for referendums on independence to be held in either or both of the republics, subject to a three year moratorium. The Montenegrin Government has declared its intention to hold a referendum on Montenegrin independence and this is now scheduled to take place on 21 May next.
Following discussions at EU level, the Union has sought to ensure that the referendum will be carried out in line with accepted international standards. In December 2005 the Secretary General-High Representative for CFSP, Javier Solana, appointed Ambassador Miroslav Lajcak of Slovakia as his personal representative to facilitate negotiations between the Montenegrin Government and opposition on modalities for the proposed referendum. At the EU General Affairs and External Relations Council, GAERC, meeting on 27 February last, Ministers reviewed developments.
Negotiations between the Government and opposition, facilitated by Ambassador Lajcak, have resulted in a comprehensive referendum law which was passed by the Montenegrin Parliament on 1 March last. We welcome the agreement reached between the Government and opposition on the referendum issue. Together with our EU colleagues we support the right of the people of Montenegro to hold a referendum on independence as provided for in the Constitutional Charter of the State Union. The result of the referendum obviously will be decided by the voters and we will support the outcome.
85 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount expended in renaming Development Co-operation Ireland as Irish Aid; the amount previously expended in renaming Ireland Aid as Development Co-operation Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13010/06]
129 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when the decision to rename Development Co-operation Ireland was taken; the costs associated with this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13017/06]
278 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount expended in renaming Development Co-operation Ireland as Irish Aid; the amount previously expended in renaming Ireland Aid as Development Co-operation Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12999/06]
I propose to take Question Nos. 85, 129 and 278 together.
In October of last year, following a series of public consultation meetings around the country in advance of the publication of Ireland's first ever White Paper on Development Policy, I decided, in consultation with my colleague, the Minister, Deputy Dermot Ahern, that we should change the name of Ireland's official development assistance programme from Development Co-operation Ireland to something clearer and more direct.
It was evident from the meetings around the country that awareness of the Government's official aid programme was low and that the name Development Co-operation Ireland, despite being an accurate description of Ireland's aid programme, had gained little recognition among the general public. Following internal discussions in my Department, the name "Irish Aid" was chosen and announced on 27 February.
Irish Aid is simple and straightforward; it explains what we do and is much easier to understand. Irish taxpayers will this year contribute over €730 million to helping some of the world's poorest countries, and they have a right to know how this is spent and to feel proud at what is being achieved on their behalf. The name change has been made in the context of increased efforts to make the work of the Government's aid programme better known and understood within Ireland.
The total cost of the name change is €12,712. This includes the design of the new logo, new stationary design and signage. The cost of the name change in 2003 was €2,807.
87 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the call by the United Nations that unless sufficient funds are made available upwards of 300,000 children may die in west Africa in 2006 in nations bordering the Sahara desert; the amount which Ireland has pledged to this effort; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13108/06]
The humanitarian situation in the Sahel region of west Africa remains a matter of deepest concern to me. In 2005, the deepening food crisis in Niger and surrounding countries highlighted a weakness in the international response system. The urgency of the situation took too long to come to light and the response was delayed as a result. At the time, Ireland responded in a prompt and timely manner with support of €3 million to Niger and Burkina Faso as the most seriously affected countries. Thankfully, the situation was quickly alleviated and a good harvest eased immediate needs.
The situation in Niger helped make the case for an enhanced international capacity to respond to such crises. The creation of the United Nation's Central Emergency Response Fund, CERF, will now enable the UN and NGOs to access grant-based, stand-by funding and thereby speed their response to rapidly deteriorating humanitarian situations. Ireland has contributed €10 million to the operation of the CERF, which I believe represents a vital contribution to strengthening the international capacity to response to humanitarian crises.
Despite the 2005 harvest, many people across the Sahel region remain vulnerable in 2006. Accumulated debts, lack of social supports, persistent chronic malnutrition and high market prices for maize remain serious obstacles to recovery. Recognising this ongoing vulnerability, Ireland responded before this latest UN appeal was launched. In February, I allocated funding of €500,000 to the UN world food programme for its ongoing work in Niger to assist those most vulnerable to food shortages. In addition, Ireland's funding partnership with the International Federation of the Red Cross, IFRC, which I have recently approved, will provide €1.5 million in 2006 and 2007 to assist the national Red Cross societies in this region to build local capacity to respond to such emergencies as they may arise in the future.
I can assure the Deputy that this region remains a priority for Ireland and that our focus remains on ensuring that the vulnerable populations receive the humanitarian assistance they require in a timely and effective manner.
89 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to developments with regard to the investigation into allegations of secret detention centres operating within the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13046/06]
There are three investigations currently under way into allegations regarding the existence of secret detention centres. The first is an investigation by Senator Dick Marty, a rapporteur appointed by the Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe. The Department of Foreign Affairs has not been contacted by Senator Marty. However, in his most recent information memorandum to the Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights, the Senator accurately records the Government's "total condemnation" of the practice of extraordinary rendition.
The second investigation takes the form of a questionnaire sent to all member states of the Council of Europe by the Secretary General, Mr. Terry Davis, relating to allegations regarding secret prisons and so-called extraordinary rendition. As I informed the House on 21 February 2006, the Government has co-operated fully with the Secretary General's request and replied in advance of the deadline. The response confirms my previous statements to the House recording the Government's very deep concern over allegations of the possible existence of secret prisons, and its complete opposition to the practice of extraordinary rendition.
Our response was one of only nine out of 46 deemed by the Secretary General to be sufficiently comprehensive not to have required any further clarification.
The third investigation is being carried out by a temporary committee established by the European Parliament "to find out whether the CIA carried out torture or illegal detentions on EU territory, and whether citizens from Member States or candidate countries have been detained". Meetings with a wide range of relevant individuals and organisations are taking place with a view to producing an interim report by the beginning of June.
90 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level of enlargement allowed under the institutional arrangements under which the European Union operates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13015/06]
Article 49 of the Treaty on European Union provides that any European state that respects the principles on which the EU is founded may apply to become a member. The treaty sets no numerical limit to the membership of the Union. It is true, however, that the existing institutional arrangements were created for a considerably smaller Union than the one that exists today.
The Government's view is that the provisions of the EU constitution would serve to create a more efficient and effective Union. In particular, ratification and implementation of the EU constitution would help consolidate the success of the most recent enlargement and strengthen the institutional capacity of the Union. This will be a critical factor in determining the Union's ability to take in new members in the future. In its 2005 enlargement strategy paper, the Commission noted that a well-functioning Union is in the interests of both present and future members.
In December last, EU Foreign Ministers agreed that careful attention needs to be paid to the important issue of the Union's absorption capacity in the context of any further enlargement.
92 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his strategy for the ratification of the EU constitution; if this is likely to entail a revision of the existing proposal, the existing proposals or a new constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13088/06]
99 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the declaration by the Dutch Government that it does not intend to have another referendum on the EU constitution, he accepts that a new constitution will have to be drawn up before the EU can have an EU constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13090/06]
274 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the declaration by the Dutch Government that it does not intend to have another referendum on the EU constitution, he accepts that a new constitution will have to be drawn up before the EU can have an EU constitution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13172/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 92, 99 and 274 together.
The period of reflection on the European constitution, which was initiated following the "No" votes in France and the Netherlands, is due for review at the June European Council. Foreign Ministers will prepare this review over the coming months and Ireland will be contributing actively to this work.
Most member states remain firmly committed to the EU constitution, which a majority have already ratified. The Government wants to see the constitution brought into force as soon as circumstances permit. We do not favour either its selective implementation or a renegotiation of the text. Agreement on the European constitution was arrived at following a long and complex set of negotiations. It is highly unlikely that another negotiation would produce a meaningfully different result which would be acceptable to all member states.
There is no doubt that the referendum results in France and the Netherlands have greatly complicated the ratification process and more time is required to sort out the issues raised by these developments. This is the purpose behind the current period of reflection on the constitution and the future of Europe, but it is still too early to draw conclusions on these issues. This means that there is at present little or no scope for pressing ahead with the ratification of the constitution. It is to be hoped that 2007 will bring new opportunities for progress towards the constitution's entry into force.
96 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the level of humanitarian aid that Ireland will provide to sub-Saharan Africa in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13037/06]
Emergency humanitarian aid of €60 million has been allocated within the overseas development assistance budget for 2006. This funding is allocated on the basis of humanitarian need to save lives wherever they are threatened. The funding is not therefore pre-allocated to any region of the world. Funding is released in line with the principles of best humanitarian practice which are neutrality, humanity, independence and impartiality.
In line with the good humanitarian donorship, GHD, initiative, in which Ireland plays an active role, humanitarian funding support should be released at an early point in the year to enable UN agencies, non-governmental organisations, NGOs, and the International Red Cross movement to respond in a prompt and timely manner to humanitarian needs in these countries.
To date in 2006, €38 million in humanitarian funding has been released to address human suffering and need in 15 countries. A total of €19 million of this was provided to the United Nations consolidated appeals process, CAP, which addresses humanitarian needs across some 20 ongoing situations, mainly in Africa. Most of the remainder was delivered through key NGO partners and humanitarian agencies such as the Red Cross family.
In addition, Ireland also provides assistance in response to sudden onset humanitarian emergencies such as earthquakes, flooding or other natural disasters. In 2005, humanitarian assistance was provided in response to emergency humanitarian situations in some 28 countries.
I can assure the Deputy that Ireland will continue to assist and address humanitarian situations across the world on the basis of assessed needs and through the provision of assistance to key NGOs, UN agencies and international humanitarian organisations on the basis of the principles set out above.
101 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of the Government with regard to the detention centre at Guantanamo Bay; if he has communicated with his US counterpart on this issue recently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13014/06]
106 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the Hamdan case currently before the US Supreme Court which challenges the US Administration’s practices in holding persons with recourse to the Geneva Conventions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13107/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 101 and 106 together.
Ireland has raised the issue of the detainees in Guantanamo Bay with the US authorities on numerous occasions. Most recently, the Taoiseach raised concerns regarding Guantanamo Bay at his meeting with President Bush in Washington on 17 March 2006, which I also attended. President Bush said that he fully understood the Taoiseach's concerns and that he would also like to close the detention facility when possible. President Bush also noted that the US Administration was awaiting a ruling by the US Supreme Court on the use of army tribunals to try detainees in Guantanamo. I understand that the case referred to was Hamdan v. Rumsfeld, which came before the Supreme Court on Tuesday, 28 March 2006 and which challenges the legality of the 2001 military order establishing military commissions to try terrorist suspects. The Supreme Court’s decision is expected in July 2006.
Ireland holds the view that those detained in Guantanamo must be treated in accordance with the requirements of international human rights law and international humanitarian law. This position is shared by the EU. I have made it clear that I endorse the UN Secretary General's view that those held in Guantanamo Bay should either be charged or released, and that the US should close this facility.
While we continue to press for the closure of the Guantanamo facility and for respect for the principles of international law, the legality of the 2001 military order under US law is a matter for the US courts to determine.
102 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the measures Turkey has taken towards membership into the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13042/06]
124 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the measures Croatia has taken towards membership into the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13048/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 124 together.
Accession negotiations were opened with both Croatia and Turkey on 3 October 2005. According to the negotiating frameworks agreed with both countries, the shared objective of the negotiations — an open-ended process whose outcome cannot be guaranteed beforehand — is accession. Both countries will be expected to maintain their commitment to the full implementation of human rights and other reforms and the EU will remain firm in demanding that aspiring members fulfil all the requirements of membership. The Union's capacity to absorb new members will be an important consideration. A well-functioning Union is in the interests of both present and future members.
Both countries will be judged on their own merits and the pace of the negotiations will be determined by progress in fulfilling the requirements of membership. However, as Turkey's accession could have substantial financial consequences, its negotiations can only be concluded after the establishment of the Union's financial framework for the period from 2014.
An extensive screening process is currently under way in which experts from the Commission explain EU rules to the two countries and examine their strategies for adopting and implementing them. It is expected to take until autumn 2006 to complete the screening process for the required 33 chapters. After each chapter has been screened the EU can decide, on the basis of a proposal from the Commission, whether the negotiations in that sector can be opened.
In late November 2005 the Commission presented its first screening reports to the Enlargement Working Group on the science and research and education and culture chapters. Member states have agreed that both countries should be invited to present to the Presidency their negotiating positions for the science and research chapter. Discussions are continuing within the EU on the education and culture chapter.
On 12 December 2005, the General Affairs and External Relations Council, GAERC, welcomed agreement with Croatia and Turkey on the accession partnerships, which are designed to provide support in overcoming problems related to accession. Both Croatia and Turkey benefit from the Department of Foreign Affairs' bilateral assistance programme, which provides support for new member states, acceding and candidate countries in coping with the considerable challenges of EU membership.
103 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the decision to send Irish troops to the Democratic Republic of Congo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13101/06]
On 23 March 2006, the General Affairs and External Relations Council approved the crisis management concept for an EU military crisis management mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, DRC. The Council's decision follows a request from the United Nations that an EU force be deployed to support MONUC, the UN mission in the DRC, during the period of elections in that country.
While detailed planning for the mission is ongoing, it is likely that the total number of personnel taking part will be in the region of 1,500. Germany will provide the operational headquarters for the mission, based in Potsdam, with France providing the force headquarters in Kinshasa. Together, Germany and France will provide approximately two thirds of the force.
Ireland has consistently supported a positive response from the EU to the UN as part of our overall commitment to closer EU-UN co-operation in the area of conflict resolution in Africa. As my colleague, the Minister for Defence, has already told the House, Ireland has already written to the chairman of the EU military staff confirming our willingness to offer up to ten headquarters personnel for the mission subject to our national decision making procedures. The United Nations Security Council is likely to adopt a resolution authorising the mission within the next few weeks, after which a final decision will be taken by the Government on the exact composition of Ireland's contribution. Our proposed contribution is in line with that of other contributing member states and should be looked at in the context of our existing major commitments to peacekeeping operations in Africa and in the Balkans.
107 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions his Department has taken following Trócaire’s call for increased efforts by the Government to bring about an end to child labour in developing countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13100/06]
Ireland is strongly supportive of international standards and norms to combat all forms of slavery, including child labour. During our Presidency of the European Union, Ireland made a statement on behalf of the EU at the Commission on Human Rights on contemporary forms of slavery, which strongly condemned child labour. Ireland and the EU have also raised this important issue at meetings of the UN Commission on Human Rights.
The Government supports the work of the International Labour Organisation, which is the main United Nations agency dealing with the issue of bonded labour. The ILO seeks to improve working and living conditions through the adoption of international labour conventions and recommendations setting minimum standards in such fields as wages, hours of work and conditions of employment. It is a unique agency in the UN system, given its tripartite structure comprising representatives of governments, employer groups and worker groups. The ILO's work on bonded labour and child-bonded labour takes place in its framework of international labour standards, which are international legal instruments. The ILO has played a critical role in highlighting the plight of more than 246 million children in child labour and has sought to tackle this issue through its international programme on the elimination of child labour. Ireland was elected as a deputy member of the ILO governing body for a three-year term in June 2005.
The Government, through Irish Aid, supports the ILO special action programme to combat forced labour. Government funding for this programme from 2003 to 2006 will amount to €1.6 million. The programme tackles issues of bonded labour in Asia, forced labour and human trafficking in Europe and forced labour among indigenous peoples in Latin America. The programme has had considerable impact worldwide in galvanising international action on forced labour. Ireland also supports civil society efforts to end child labour. Trócaire is a key partner in the Government's aid programme. In this regard, Irish Aid has given substantial support to Trócaire in 2003-2005 under the first phase of the multi-annual programme scheme, under which predictable Irish Aid financial support is provided to key non-governmental organisation partners for an agreed programme of development activity. This assistance amounted to more than €34 million, including support for efforts to combat child labour.
110 Mr. English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had recent discussions with the European counterparts with regard to avian flu protection in the event of an outbreak; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13035/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply of 22 February 2006 on the matter of avian influenza.
Avian flu has not recently been on the agenda of the General Affairs and External Relations Council but will be addressed as the situation requires. It is discussed regularly at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council, which has primary responsibility in this regard and which met most recently on 20 March. The issue is receiving constant attention at official level at meetings of the chief veterinary officers and at the standing committee on the food chain and animal health. The chief veterinary officers are meeting in Brussels this week and the standing committee discussed the issue on 23 and 24 March. The H5N1 virus has been confirmed in 11 member states of the EU to date. In all but two of the member states concerned, it remains confined to the wild bird population. In France, however, an outbreak in poultry has been confirmed and in Sweden an outbreak has been confirmed on a game farm.
In view of the role played by wild birds in spreading the virus, the focus of the Department of Agriculture and Food is on early detection, minimising the risk of any subsequent transmission to the commercial poultry flock and, in the event of such a transmission, the rapid removal of the infected flock and the efficient management of any outbreak. The Commission has moved swiftly to apply safeguard measures to all affected countries. It has also adopted a number of decisions, three of which have been transposed into Irish law within the past month. These deal with precautionary measures and steps that will be put in place in response to an outbreak. The Minister for Agriculture and Food is continuing to review and refine our own contingency arrangements. In response to the increased risk, the Minister has established an avian flu expert advisory group to advise on various control measures that may be put in place. The Minister for Agriculture and Food has regularly briefed the Government on developments. The Government task force on emergency planning, chaired by the Minister for Defence and on which my Department is represented, has been briefed regularly on the situation.
Last month, the Minister met her French counterpart in Dublin and took the opportunity to review the current situation regarding avian influenza in Europe. This meeting was particularly opportune in light of the recent outbreak in France. The Tánaiste attended an informal ministerial meeting on the health aspects of avian influenza which took place in Vienna on 24 February 2006. Health Ministers agreed on the need for rapid co-ordinated action within the European Union to combat the avian influenza virus. They emphasised that while infection of humans by the H5N1 virus since its appearance in Asia has been minimal, this virus is a source of continuing concern which demands ongoing vigilance.
The Government is conscious of the cross-Border dimension of this issue, which I discussed with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Mr. Hain, at our recent meeting. Officials from the relevant Departments, North and South, are in regular contact on a wide range of avian influenza related issues. These contacts are being maintained at both formal and informal levels. This is a good example of the type of practical North-South co-operation that makes sense for everyone on the island.
111 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the proportion of Irish aid to Ethiopia that is given on a Government basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13020/06]
Ireland's total bilateral aid to Ethiopia in 2005 amounted to €35 million. It is expected that the total funding to Ethiopia in 2006 will be at approximately the same level. Ireland's support to Ethiopia is focused on addressing the basic needs of the rural poor. Ireland does not provide general or direct budget support to the federal Government of Ethiopia. Of the total budget for 2005, €5.3 million was delivered to sectoral programmes in the areas of health, education and transport. Working with the relevant ministries, Ireland earmarked support for the training of health workers and teachers and the improvement of rural roads.
Ireland also assisted two regional authorities, namely, Tigray in northern Ethiopia and the SNNPR, or southern nations nationalities and people's region, in the south. In Tigray, Ireland expended €6 million to assist the authorities to provide a full range of services to the people of this very poor region. In the southern nations region, Ireland provided support of €4.3 million to the regional authorities' programmes in education, health and HIV/AIDS.
A key component of Ireland's programme in Ethiopia is our support to the UN monitored social safety nets fund, which provides seven million of the poorest Ethiopians with cash or food in exchange for labour. This innovative fund, which was established with assistance and expertise from Ireland, is perceived as an invaluable instrument in preventing up to seven million people from facing starvation each year. In 2005, Irish non-governmental organisations working in Ethiopia received financial support of €5 million. These included Concern, GOAL, Self Help Development International and Trócaire. An additional €2 million was shared with more than 30 Ethiopian based non-governmental organisations to mitigate the effects of the HIV-AIDS pandemic. Ireland spent €4.5 million on initiatives promoting better governance in Ethiopia. Activities supported included promoting the voice of poor communities and facilitating government institutions to be more responsive to people's needs, including assistance for the Human Rights Commission and civic education. In 2006, the aid programme in Ethiopia will continue to focus on the rural poor with the emphasis on the areas of health, education, good governance, HIV-AIDS and the safety nets programme.
113 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has indicated to Ms Condoleezza Rice, Secretary of State of the United States, that planes used for extraordinary renditions should not land at Shannon airport even if those planes do not contain prisoners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13092/06]
In the Government's contacts with the US authorities, on which I have reported to the House in considerable detail as recently as 22 February 2006, we have been concerned to ensure that no extraordinary rendition of prisoners has occurred or is occurring through Ireland. The Taoiseach raised the matter with President Bush in Washington DC on 17 March 2006. The assurances that we have received from the US authorities in this matter have been categorical and unambiguous. In this regard, prisoners have not been transferred through Irish territory, nor would they be, without our permission.
As regards the question of whether planes allegedly used for extraordinary rendition elsewhere might land at Shannon, our view on the matter is best expressed through our complete opposition to the practice of extraordinary rendition, irrespective of where it may occur, which has been made clear on numerous occasions.
114 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his official visit to the United States over the St. Patrick’s holiday; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13098/06]
140 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on his meetings over the St. Patrick’s Day period with members of the US Administration; the topics of such discussions as he and his staff held; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13120/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 140 together.
I travelled to the United States from 11 to 17 March to represent the Government at promotional events in Dallas before attending the customary St. Patrick's Day ceremonies in Washington.
On 17 March, I accompanied the Taoiseach to the White House for the traditional presentation of shamrock, followed by a meeting with President Bush in the Oval Office. Our discussions with the President covered Northern Ireland, immigration reform and other issues including international issues. The Taoiseach and I also had a series of valuable meetings with key members of Congress including Senators Biden, Clinton, Dodd, Kennedy, Leahy and McCain. We also met with Congressman Jim Walsh and members of the Friends of Ireland group in Congress. The focus of these meetings was on Northern Ireland and immigration reform. This special opportunity, unique to Ireland, for direct and detailed dialogue with the President of the United States and his Administration and also key players on Capitol Hill is exceptionally valued by the Government.
My programme also included attendance at the American-Ireland Fund national gala dinner, the lunch hosted by Speaker Hastert, and the ambassador's St. Patrick's Day reception. In addition, the Taoiseach and I had a very valuable meeting on immigration reform with Niall O'Dowd and Grant Lally of the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform. I accompanied the Taoiseach to a meeting with the Ireland-America economic advisory board. Discussions with the board focused on the successes of the Irish economy, business prospects in the US and developments in Northern Ireland.
In Dallas, my programme included attendance at the Irish-American Society dinner, the downtown parade and a breakfast hosted by the American-Ireland Fund. I also had a briefing session with the editorial board of the Dallas Morning News and addressed a lunch hosted by the Dallas Chamber of Commerce. My address to the business lunch focused on the success of the Irish economy, highlighting the theme of the Irish advantage, which was also articulated by the Taoiseach and Ministers at a wide variety of events throughout the world over the St. Patrick’s Day period. The importance of the Irish-American relationship, the peace process and immigration reform also featured in my remarks and discussions in Dallas.
117 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on whether Ireland’s proposed participation in the EU battle groups will require Ireland’s triple lock requirement to be compromised; the way in which the requirement for rapid deployment of battle groups can be reconciled with Ireland’s need for a UN mandate before Irish troops are sent abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13095/06]
As the Taoiseach, the Minister for Defence and I have stated on many occasions, the Government remains committed to the triple lock requirements of UN authorisation, Government decision and Dáil approval before the deployment of Irish troops abroad. Any participation in peace support operations, whether carried out directly by the UN or, for example, as part of an EU-led mission with UN authorisation, is for sovereign national decision. This would apply to operations carried out as part of an EU battle group in the same way as it does to any other peace support operation.
The importance of battle groups as a valuable contribution to the efforts of the United Nations in crisis management has been emphasised by UN Secretary General, Kofi Annan, and has been endorsed in the outcome document of the world summit last September. EU battle groups have a key role to play in support of UN peacekeeping, specifically by having the ability to deploy very rapidly to crisis situations. The fact that EU battle groups would be expected to be on the ground in a short period is in no way incompatible with authorisation from the UN Security Council. The Security Council, as part of its responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security, has often shown the ability to act very quickly when required.
Ireland is not alone in the European Union in looking for UN authorisation before deploying its defence forces on peace support operations overseas. Many member states acknowledge that they would normally have a de facto political requirement for the legitimacy which a resolution of the UN Security Council conveys on peace support operations, particularly robust Chapter VII-type missions for which battle groups are particularly relevant. All member states need to complete their respective national decision-making procedures before deploying troops overseas, most of which would include parliamentary approval processes. The decision by any member state to participate in an EU battle group, or indeed in the European security and defence policy as a whole, does not imply automatic participation by that member state in a specific peace support operation. This is a fundamental principle of the European security and defence policy.
It is possible that there may be cases in which the Government and this House might wish Ireland to participate in a peacekeeping mission, whether as part of an EU battle group or otherwise, but where no UN authorisation was forthcoming, including as a result of a permanent member of the UN Security Council exercising its veto. In such a scenario, Irish troops would be unable to participate in that mission. This is a fundamental element of the triple lock and one to which this Government remains committed. We have consistently made this clear to EU partners, including to Sweden, with whom we are discussing possible participation in the Nordic battle group. The potential for countries which are contributing to battle groups being unable to deploy for various reasons is well recognised within the EU and it is expected that battle groups will need a level of built in redundancy to cover such scenarios.
119 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position between the Sri Lankan Government and the Tamil Liberation Tigers who held discussions in February 2006 to bring about a more peaceful situation in the country, particularly in view of an apparent naval suicide attack by the Tamil Tigers group which was recently reported; and if he will make a statement on the matter focusing on such suggestions Ireland has to make at European level to try to help this position. [13118/06]
Ireland and our partners in the European Union take a close interest in the situation in Sri Lanka. The European Union, in a statement on 27 January, welcomed the agreement by the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam to hold talks in Geneva on 22 and 23 February. It expressed its firm hope that the talks would help stabilise the situation in Sri Lanka and lead to a peaceful solution of the conflict. It also reiterated its full support for Norway's role as facilitator of the peace process.
Following the Geneva talks, which were held as planned, the co-chairs of the Tokyo donor conference, the European Union, Japan, Norway and the United States, welcomed the renewed commitment from the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE to respect and uphold the ceasefire agreement. The co-chairs further welcomed the parties' commitment to ensure that there would be no violence, killings and operations by armed groups, in accordance with the ceasefire agreement. The co-chairs stressed the importance of the parties implementing these commitments on the ground so as to build confidence and an environment conducive to progressing towards lasting peace for all the peoples of Sri Lanka. The co-chairs said that they stood ready to assist Norway in its efforts to bring about a durable peace in Sri Lanka.
The European Union will continue to do its utmost to help the parties along the road of negotiation. I am pleased that the level of violence has reduced since the meeting in February and I hope that the next round of talks between the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE, in Geneva on 19 to 21 April, will lead to renewed efforts by all sides to work towards a lasting peace. Since the December 2004 tsunami disaster, Ireland has supported the activities of seven non-governmental organisations engaged in relief and recovery work in Sri Lanka as well as various UN agencies, the International Organisation for Migrants and the International Committee of the Red Cross. To date, in excess of €4.7 million has been allocated by Ireland to relief and recovery activities in Sri Lanka.
120 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had recent discussions with India and Pakistan with regard to their status as non-signatories to the nuclear non-proliferation treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13036/06]
I have not had recent discussions with either India or Pakistan but both countries are well aware of Ireland's long-held position that both should join the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons as non-nuclear weapon states. As I made clear in my replies to Questions Nos. 64 and 153 of 22 February 2006, Ireland has a long-standing policy of support for the NPT, going back to Frank Aiken's initiative almost 50 years ago, and attaches the utmost importance to its universalisation. India, Pakistan and Israel are the only three countries that have not acceded to the NPT. Ireland will continue to avail of every opportunity to call for their adherence to the treaty as non-nuclear weapon states at national level, within the EU, within the new agenda coalition and at the United Nations.
Ireland strongly supports United Nations Security Council Resolution 1172 adopted in June 1998 which, inter alia, calls on India and Pakistan to become parties to the NPT and to the comprehensive test ban treaty and to stop immediately their nuclear weapons development programmes, including the development of ballistic missiles capable of nuclear weapons delivery. At the NPT review conference in New York last May, I stated that it was a matter of serious concern that India, Israel and Pakistan continue to remain outside the NPT regime and I urged them to accede to the treaty unconditionally and at an early date. Such a call has also been made in recent statements by the European Union.
Ireland, with our partners in the new agenda coalition, introduced a resolution on the NPT to the first committee of the United Nations General Assembly last October. A paragraph in the resolution that urged India, Israel and Pakistan to accede to the treaty was supported by 148 countries. Last December, when the issue was taken up in the plenary of the General Assembly, 158 UN member states endorsed this call. Pakistan voted against that paragraph of the resolution at the first committee but abstained during the plenary while India and Israel voted against the resolution on both occasions. We will continue to press for the universalisation of the NPT and for India, Pakistan and Israel to accede unconditionally to the treaty.
121 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the latest discussions he has had with his EU counterparts with regard to the Iranian nuclear programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13041/06]
127 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had recent contact with the Iranian Government with regard to that state’s compliance with the nuclear non-proliferation treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13049/06]
128 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s position concerning the Iran nuclear crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13099/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 121, 127 and 128 together.
I have not had any recent direct contact with representatives of the Iranian Government in respect of Iran's compliance with the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. The last occasion that I had an opportunity to discuss this matter with the Iranian Government was when I met the then Foreign Minister, Dr. Kamal Kharrazi, on 2 May 2005, during the NPT review conference in New York. During that meeting, I underlined my belief that difficulties should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation and that if a solution was found on the nuclear issue, this would open the way to making progress on other aspects of relations with Iran.
My most recent discussions with my EU counterparts on the Iranian nuclear programme was at the General Affairs and External Relations Council meeting on 20 March 2006. The Council emphasised that the EU continues to be committed to a diplomatic solution, deeply regretted that Iran has failed to implement in full the measures deemed necessary by the IAEA board, resulting in the involvement of the UN Security Council. The council also expressed its deep concern at Iran's continuing failure to co-operate fully with the IAEA and to take the steps necessary to re-establish international confidence in the peaceful purpose of its nuclear programme. It indicated that it believed that the Security Council should act to reinforce the authority of the IAEA and called upon Iran urgently to meet in full the requests set out in the IAEA board of governors' resolution of 4 February, including a full suspension of all enrichment-related and reprocessing activities.
I welcome the UN Security Council presidential statement adopted on 29 March 2006 on the Iranian nuclear programme. The statement notes with serious concern Iran's decision to resume enrichment related activities and to suspend co-operation with the IAEA under the additional protocol. The statement calls on Iran to comply with the steps required in the IAEA board of governors' resolution of 4 February 2006 and underlined the particular importance of re-establishing full and sustained suspension of all enrichment related and reprocessing activities including research and development. The IAEA director general is requested to provide a report to the board of governors, and in parallel to the Security Council, within 30 days on Iranian compliance with the steps required by the IAEA board of governors.
We urge Iran to suspend immediately all enrichment related activities, to co-operate fully with the IAEA and to provide the necessary transparency and openness to resolve all outstanding issues in its nuclear programme. The resolution of those issues would help to restore the confidence of the international community in Iran's declared wish to have a nuclear programme for peaceful purposes.
123 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the diplomatic contacts he or his Department have had with Nepal; the situation in that country; his views on reported developments there; the assistance he will give; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13102/06]
My Department has been closely monitoring the situation in Nepal. Regrettably, the political crisis there seems to be intensifying. While we have not had any recent direct bilateral contacts with the Nepalese Government, we have been active within the EU framework and have contributed to discussions in relevant working groups.
On 27 January, the EU issued a declaration which called upon the King, the Government of Nepal and the security forces to restore immediately all civil and political liberties, immediately release all political prisoners and human rights defenders, and ensure that political and civil rights, including freedom of assembly and freedom of speech could be exercised peacefully. It strongly condemned the use of force to suppress the Nepalese people's exercise of fundamental rights, while also strongly condemning the resumption of Maoist violence. It also reiterated that what Nepal and its people urgently needed was a cessation of armed hostilities as a first step in an inclusive and comprehensive peace process.
We have been concerned by the large number of arrests in Nepal in recent months, including that in January of Krishna Pahadi who attended the Front Line Platform late last year which I had the pleasure of addressing. We ensured that our concern at this and other arrests was included in an EU démarche to the Nepalese authorities which took place on 1 February. In the course of the démarche, the EU side made special reference to detained political leaders and human rights defenders, calling for their immediate release. We have also proposed that the EU might look at providing further support for the work of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights in Kathmandu. In 2005, Ireland made a voluntary contribution of €200,000 to this office.
On 16 February, the Minister of State, Deputy Conor Lenihan, met in Dublin with Dr. Arju n Karki, President of the NGO Federation of Nepal and co-ordinator of the South Asian Alliance for Poverty Eradication, who provided a first-hand account of the situation on the ground in Nepal. Dr. Karki was assured that Ireland was closely following developments in Nepal.
A further EU discussion on the situation in Nepal is due to take place tomorrow when the most recent political developments and their implications for EU policy will be examined. Together with our EU partners, we will continue to closely monitor the situation in Nepal and will urge all sides to pursue a peaceful, political solution and to respect human rights and fundamental freedoms.
126 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish people for whom the Department of Foreign Affairs has paid court-imposed bond since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13031/06]
As I outlined in my reply of 21 February 2006 to a parliamentary question on this general issue, consular assistance is provided by the Department of Foreign Affairs in a wide variety of circumstances, with each situation being assessed case by case having regard to all the factors involved. The Department, for instance, is prepared to advance funds to assist Irish citizens where this is judged to be required to ensure their security and safety and where the individuals concerned cannot gain immediate access to the necessary funds.
Since 2002, an advancement of the funds by the Department in a court bond context occurred in the case of three Irish citizens in Colombia. In this particular consular case, the court judgment permitted the three citizens to be released from prison under conditional freedom on payment of a bond. My Department, at the request of the defence team and given the ongoing consular concerns about the safety of the persons concerned advanced the funds to facilitate the payment of this bond on the basis of a firm undertaking to repay the sum involved. The funds were repaid in full. The decision to advance funds was taken by the Department in pursuit of its consular responsibilities, and was neither discussed nor taken at political level.
130 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the situation in Sudan; the progress which has been made on the implementation of the comprehensive peace agreement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13034/06]
138 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the efforts the Government, on its own behalf and with the European Union, is making to relieve the conflict in Darfur; the new initiatives as have originated over the past six months to deal with the ongoing tragedy in the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13111/06]
286 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the assessment of the situation in Darfur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13452/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 130, 138 and 286 together.
Since the comprehensive peace agreement was signed in Nairobi on 9 January 2005, there has been progress in stabilising the long-running conflict between the north and the south of Sudan. Following a delay due to the accidental death in July 2005 of southern leader and first Vice President, John Garang, a Government of national unity was formed in September 2005 in line with the new constitution. An autonomous regional Government of south Sudan was established on 22 October on the basis of the interim constitution for south Sudan.
Both President Bashir of the National Congress Party and first Vice President, Salva Kiir, on behalf of the south, have expressed their desire to implement the comprehensive peace agreement and, to date, there has been some progress on the implementation of technical and institutional aspects. Also, despite significant administrative and logistical obstacles the Government of south Sudan is gradually establishing itself. However, the Government of national unity needs to be strengthened by the two main coalition partners showing real leadership and working together to address major unresolved issues, including the effective and transparent sharing of oil revenues. On 20 March 2006, the General Affairs and External Relations Council urged the parties to sustain effective and timely implementation of the agreement and reiterated the EU's readiness to continue supporting this process.
The complexity and difficulty of the prevailing situation in south Sudan should not be underestimated. Millions living there continue to depend on humanitarian assistance. Unfortunately violence remains an obstacle to humanitarian work in the region. On 28 March 2006, a UNHCR logistician died as a result of serious wounds suffered in an attack on the agency's compound in Yei which also left one guard dead and another wounded.
Continuing tensions in the east of Sudan are a potentially destabilising factor. On 20 March 2006 the EU expressed concern about these tensions, underscored the need for a genuine, single, transparent, comprehensive and inclusive dialogue to address the situation and urged the Government of Sudan and the eastern front opposition parties rapidly to agree on the modalities for this dialogue.
Since the Darfur crisis began in 2003, Ireland has provided assistance of more than €12.5 million in response to humanitarian needs in the region. At the Oslo international donors' conference on Sudan in April 2005, Ireland pledged support of €15 million to Sudan over the 2005 to 2007 period. Some €9.8 million of this was provided in 2005, including almost €4 million to Darfur. To date in 2006, €1.5 million has been allocated for humanitarian relief in Darfur.
Some 200,000 Sudanese refugees remain in neighbouring Chad and more than 1.7 million persons are still internally displaced within Darfur itself, including 50,000 people who have been forced from their homes since the beginning of this year. Violent acts continue to be carried out by all sides. Security in many parts of Darfur has steadily deteriorated since September 2005, resulting in worsening violence, widespread destruction of crops and livelihoods and serious violations of human rights. This has seriously affected the ability of humanitarian workers to deliver crucial humanitarian relief to the population of Darfur.
In western Sudan, the spillover into Darfur of Chad's internal instability has added a dangerous regional dimension to the crisis. With our partners in the EU, Ireland welcomed the agreement reached on 8 February 2006 between Sudan and Chad which should contribute to a reduction of violence in the Darfur region. Improved border security should contribute to better relations between the two countries. It is clear that only a political solution to the problems of Darfur will lead to a lasting solution to the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Early and successful conclusion of the peace negotiations taking place in Abuja, Nigeria, under the auspices of the AU is absolutely essential. Progress has been slow overall but recently the pace has quickened. In tandem with the recent decision to extend the mandate of the African Union Mission in Sudan, AMIS, the AU has begun a real attempt to bring the parties in Abuja to agreement and set the end of April 2006 as its target date. A first step has been the tabling of an enhanced humanitarian ceasefire proposal by the AU mediator Dr. Salim Ahmed Salim. The EU fully supports the AU's efforts to speed up the Abuja process. With our partners in the EU, we have also underlined the need to establish a clear roadmap for implementation with agreed timetables for action.
All parties to the Abuja negotiations must show their commitment to peace in Darfur by immediately halting all violations of the current ceasefire agreement, especially attacks on AMIS and humanitarian convoys. They must also give their full commitment to the talks and negotiate positively and flexibly. Violations of the UN arms embargo must be stopped. Ireland and the EU support the imposition of sanctions against those blocking the peace process, committing human rights violations, or violating the ceasefire and the arms embargo. I urge the Government of Sudan to co-operate fully with the ongoing investigation by the International Criminal Court of human rights violations in Darfur.
AMIS has been valuable in creating a favourable environment for the political process and in stabilising the security situation. Sudan has stated that it is prepared to accept the deployment of a UN operation in Darfur after and as part of the conclusion of a peace agreement at the Abuja talks. On 10 March 2006 the AU's peace and security commission, PSC, set a framework for transition from AMIS to a UN operation in Darfur. At the same meeting the AU PSC agreed to extend AMIS's mandate until September 2006. This will permit the UN to carry out thorough planning for the transition in co-operation with the AU. The UN Secretary General is to present to the Security Council by 24 April 2006 a range of operations for a UN operation in Darfur. The EU has offered further support to the AMIS mission in the interim, including an additional €50 million from the African Peace Facility, APF. To date the Government and our partners in the EU have fully supported the AU's role in Darfur, both politically and financially. In 2004-05, Ireland contributed €1.5 million to humanitarian, human rights and policing aspects of the AU's AMIS mission.
133 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had contact with his European counterparts to condemn the prosecution of an Afghan citizen relating to that person’s conversion to Christianity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13022/06]
I have followed with concern the case of Mr. Abdul Rahman who was charged in Afghanistan with apostasy for converting from Islam to Christianity, a charge punishable by death under Sharia law. I was pleased to hear that Mr.Rahman was released from custody on 27 March and I welcome the news that he has been granted asylum in Italy.
The EU had been monitoring the situation closely and EU heads of mission in Kabul had been in regular contact with the Afghan authorities. Article 2 of the Afghan constitution enshrines the right to religious freedom and the EU sought assurances from the Afghan Government that it would fully respect this right. The EU also conveyed to the Afghan Government its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights.
Ireland, along with its EU partners, is adamantly opposed to use of the death penalty under any circumstances. The EU has, on a number of occasions, raised this issue with the Afghan authorities and advocated the EU's strongly held position in favour of the abolition of capital punishment.
135 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made on the establishment of a rapid response initiative; the level of involvement from the Department of Defence in this initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13018/06]
My Department is now engaged in planning a more operational and value added response to humanitarian crises, through the development of a distinctively Irish rapid response initiative, RRI. This initiative includes the pre-positioning and transportation of humanitarian supplies to disaster areas; the availability of a roster of highly skilled and experienced individuals, including from the Defences Forces, for deployment at short notice to situations of great need; and enhancing our support for international humanitarian response agencies and mechanisms.
In the context of the reform of the United Nations to make it a more efficient and effective global mechanism, a number of gaps have been identified in terms of its ability to respond to humanitarian crises. A number of these were specified in the UN Secretary General's report, In Larger Freedom. Moreover, the UN's emergency humanitarian co-ordinator, Jan Egeland, commissioned a review of UN's response mechanisms, the Humanitarian Response Review, which detailed where those gaps lie.
The RRI is very much a part of our strong support for the UN and its programme of reform and a response to the needs set out in both these important reports. It is also a full recognition of the importance which the public places in the need to respond rapidly and effectively to emergencies and disasters. The truly amazing generosity of the public to the tsunami at the end of 2004 is a clear indication of the desire to save and protect lives.
My Department is taking the lead on the RRI. My officials are working closely with counterparts in the Department of Defence, the Irish Defence Forces, and other relevant Departments to plan, co-ordinate and launch this initiative. We are also in close contact with non-governmental organisations, NGOs, working in emergencies. The effective mobilisation of the skills, knowledge and resources that exist across the public sector and in the public sphere is essential to the successful implementation of all of the elements of the RRI.
A logistics and humanitarian specialist has been engaged by my Department to assist with the pre-positioning of humanitarian supplies. The specialist, in close consultation with my officials, is preparing and costing a plan for the pre-positioning of supplies to include storage, handling and transport of the supplies. This includes detailed consideration of the quantity and nature of the items to be pre-positioned; the optimal locations; and the logistic and programmatic support required to transport and deliver the supplies. Possible partnerships with other countries and organisations are also being considered with a view to achieving maximum cost effectiveness and efficiency. We are drawing upon the experiences and lessons learned of relevant actors such as large non-governmental organisations, NGOs, donor agencies, and the United Nations.
My Department is also progressing work on the establishment of a humanitarian rapid response roster. Discussions in this regard have taken place, and are ongoing, with a number of United Nations agencies, including United Nations volunteers, UNV, which operates a personnel roster which deploys to the major UN agencies responding to humanitarian crises as they arise. It will be important to ensure that the roster is made up of highly skilled individuals with the ability to work in the complex and demanding environment of humanitarian crises with UN agencies and NGOs. The profile of such experts is developed on the basis of consultation with our key partner agencies and NGOs.
A number of discussions have also taken place on the enhancement of Ireland's support to key humanitarian response agencies through targeted support for standby arrangements and organisational capacity building for humanitarian response. In this context, Ireland has recently contributed €10 million to the UN's central emergency response fund to strengthen its ability to deal with humanitarian crises.
137 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the measures Romania has taken towards membership into the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13044/06]
146 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the date for entry to the European Union of Bulgaria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13047/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 137 and 146 together.
The accession of Bulgaria and Romania to the European Union will mark the completion of the fifth enlargement process, which will increase the Union's membership to 27. The Union's objective is to welcome both countries as members on 1 January 2007. The EU could, however, postpone the accession of either or both countries for up to one year if the Commission considers that either country would be unprepared to meet the requirements of membership in 2007.
The Commission's annual monitoring reports for Bulgaria and Romania, which were published on 25 October 2005, stated that preparations for membership were well advanced in both countries but highlighted a number of issues needing urgent attention before the date of accession. These include the fight against corruption, the reform of the judiciary, the need to increase capacity to manage EU Structural Funds and the importance of compliance with EU veterinary standards.
The progress being made by both countries in implementing the necessary reforms is being closely monitored by the Commission and the member states. Association Councils were recently held with both countries — with Bulgaria on 31 January and with Romania on 20 March. These provided a timely opportunity to review the progress of both countries' preparations for membership.
The Council will make a final decision on the date of accession for Bulgaria and Romania in June on the basis of a recommendation from the Commission, which will be presented in its monitoring reports due to be published in mid-May 2006. Ireland believes that it is important for both countries to make effective use of the coming months to address all outstanding issues so that they can accede to the EU on 1 January 2007. To this end, both countries benefit from the Department of Foreign Affairs' bilateral assistance programme, which provides support for new member states, acceding and candidate countries in coping with the considerable challenges of EU membership.
139 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his position with regard to the EU arms embargo against China; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13040/06]
The Government's position on the lifting of the embargo on arms sales to China is clear and has not changed. We support the lifting of the embargo but we do not wish to see an increase in the quantity or quality of arms exports to China. This position was set out by the Taoiseach during his visit to Beijing in January 2005 when he also explained the importance to Ireland and the EU of continued progress in the promotion and protection of human rights in China.
The European Council meeting on 16 and 17 June 2005 was the most recent occasion on which the arms embargo was discussed with EU counterparts. The European Council recalled the conclusions of its December 2004 meeting, welcomed the progress made to date on the revision of the EU code of conduct on arms exports and the so-called toolbox and invited the Council to continue its work on that basis. As the EU works towards lifting the arms embargo, it has also engaged in a dialogue on the issue at senior official level with key partners, including the US, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Australia. The EU approach was conveyed to Chinese Foreign Minister Li when he met with the Troika of EU Foreign Ministers at the EU-China ministerial meeting held in Vienna on 3 February. The lifting of the arms embargo was also among the issues discussed during the eighth EU-China summit that took place in Beijing on 5 September last.
The Government continues to examine this issue with its EU partners, in the context of its overall relationship with China, its ongoing commitment to human rights and the broader regional and international context. EU Ministers will resume consideration of a decision on lifting the embargo once work on revising the code of conduct has been completed. A decision to lift the embargo will require the unanimous approval of member states.
141 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the case of the murder of the late Pat Finucane; the most recent talks which he and his Department has held with representatives of the British Government; the position with regard to the need for a public inquiry with particular reference to the need for such to meet the most stringent requirements of international law. [13131/06]
I refer the Deputy to my recent statement to the Dáil on 8 March in support of the all-party motion on the Finucane case, which makes clear the Government's strong support for a full, independent public inquiry into the murder of Patrick Finucane. The situation with regard to an inquiry was considered in the course of meetings during the St. Patrick's Day celebrations in Washington. The matter was discussed during the meeting which the Taoiseach and I had with President Bush and in contacts with senior figures in the US Senate and House of Representatives. Both the Taoiseach and I met the Finucane family in Washington and my officials assisted the family with other aspects of their programme. I have also had further contact with the Northern Ireland Secretary of State, Peter Hain. Following the unanimous adoption by the Dáil of the all-party motion, he wrote to me indicating why he felt the UK Inquiries Act 2005 was appropriate in this case. In confirming that I could not share this assessment, my reply emphasised that the all-party motion was a concrete expression of deep and ongoing concern among all parties on this issue.
Throughout this process, the key question for the Government has been whether what has been proposed by the British Government will contribute to the enhancement of public confidence. It is clear from the reaction in many quarters, including the response of distinguished jurists, human rights groups and the Finucane family, that the answer is in the negative. I concluded my letter to the Secretary of State by making it clear that the Government continued to hope that a way will be found to address these issues in a manner which will meet the legitimate concerns of the Finucane family, and of all who wish to see justice done in this case. That remains our position.
142 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the situation in Ethiopia; if he has made his concern at reports of human rights abuses known to the Ethiopian authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13012/06]
145 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views of the trial of over 120 opposition leaders, journalists and dissenters in Ethiopia which is ongoing; his views on whether the Government of that nation is effectively engaged in the violent suppression to any form of protest; the actions the EU has taken or plans to take in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13133/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 145 together.
The deterioration in the political and human rights situation in Ethiopia since the May 2005 general election is a matter of serious concern. Ireland, along with our EU partners, continues to emphasise to the Government of Ethiopia, most recently in a meeting with the Prime Minister, Mr. Meles Zenawi, on 17 January 2006, the need to respect human rights and the rule of law; to strengthen the democratisation process by opening a non-conditional dialogue with all opposition parties and allowing those parties and civil society organisations to operate freely; and to allow the private media operate without restrictions.
Recent positive developments should be noted. An independent investigation commission to examine the June and November 2005 violence was set up by the Ethiopian Parliament in late November and is expected to report back in the near future. An initiative to reform parliamentary rules of procedure and strengthen the role of the opposition is due to be completed within two months. Measures to improve the procedures and increase the capacity of the national election board are expected to be implemented by June 2006. The Prime Minister has indicated that a review of the draft press law should be finalised by June 2006. The European Development Commissioner, Mr. Louis Michel, visited Addis Ababa on 16 and 17 February 2006 and met the imprisoned leadership of the Coalition for Unity and Democracy, CUD, opposition party, the first time such access was allowed to a representative of the international community. He also met the Prime Minister twice. It is understood that 141 out of 173 opposition MPs have entered parliament. Dialogue is under way between the Government and two opposition political parties and the majority of detainees arrested during the unrest last November have been released.
However, although the opposition won almost all the seats in the Addis Ababa City Council in June 2005, it remains reluctant to take over this institution as a protest against the detention and trial of the CUD leadership and continuing restrictions on the operations of opposition parties and the private media. On 28 March 2006, the Prime Minister announced that, if the opposition does not assume responsibility for the administration of Addis Ababa by 18 April 2006, a caretaker administration will be appointed and fresh elections held after 12 months. The trial of 129 individuals, some charged in absentia, including the elected leaders of the CUD, journalists, and civil society leaders, began on 23 February 2006. The Ethiopian authorities claim they were responsible for launching and organising the June and November 2005 riots as part of an agenda to overthrow the Government by force. They were charged as a group with treason, genocide and inciting violence.
Ireland, along with its EU partners, has underlined to the Ethiopian Prime Minister the need for the trial to be conducted in a transparent, fair and speedy manner in accordance with international standards. We also called for the release of the detainees on bail as a confidence building measure and for better access to detainees by families, lawyers and the international community. The Prime Minister agreed to an EU request for international observation of the trial and a distinguished international lawyer, Mr. Michael Ellmann, is observing the trial on behalf of the EU. EU embassies in Addis Ababa, including Ireland's, are also monitoring developments. While bail has not been approved, the Prime Minister has indicated that the Ethiopian authorities will do everything they can to ensure the expeditious completion of the trial and that he expects it to be completed within a year. On 22 March 2006, all charges were withdrawn against 18 of the detainees, including nine being tried in absentia, and the prosecutor was instructed by the court to amend the genocide charge. The next hearing is scheduled for 2 May 2006.
147 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the number of State employees on suspension with pay as on 31 December 2004 and 31 December 2005; and the details of same. [13221/06]
No member of staff from my Department was suspended on paid leave between 31 December 2004 and 31 December 2005.
148 Mr. Dennehy asked the Taoiseach if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13269/06]
My Department exceeds the 3% target for the employment of people with disabilities. Seven persons have voluntarily, self disclosed that they have disabilities. This represents 3.72% of total staff. The principle of equality underpins my Department's human resource policy in accordance with equality legislation and the Government's policies on diversity, dignity at work and gender equality. In addition, my Department is fully committed to complying with the provisions of 2005 Disability Act and, at all times, acts as an equal opportunities employer.
149 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a working group was set up to explore and develop the linkage between the national drug and alcohol policy; the number of times the group has met; and when it is expected to make recommendations. [13052/06]
197 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a working group was set up to explore and develop the linkage between the national drug and alcohol policy; the number of times the group has met; and when it is expected to make recommendations. [13055/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 149 and 197 together.
The mid-term review of the national drugs strategy recommended that a working group involving key stakeholders of both the alcohol and drugs areas should be established to explore the potential for better co-ordination between the two areas and how synergies could be improved. The working group, which is to be chaired by my Department, will also examine and make recommendations on whether a combined strategy is the appropriate way forward. The establishment of the working group is under consideration by my Department and it is intended that it should report by end 2006.
150 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the services provided for the victims of domestic violence; the funding her Department provides; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13165/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
151 Mr. Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the services her Department provides for the victims of rape and sexual violence; the funding her Department provides; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13166/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
152 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the functions, remit and responsibilities of the Minister for Health and Children and the Office of the Minister for Children; the Department the office receives funding from; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13438/06]
The Office of the Minister for Children was established in accordance with the Government decision of 7 December 2005 to place the interests of children at the heart of Government and to build on the successes achieved in the national children's strategy. The responsibilities of the new office within the Department of Health and Children will comprise the following: the equal opportunities child care programme, transferred from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform; the new national child care investment programme, which was announced in the 2006 budget as part of the new national child care strategy for the next five years; the programmes and activities of the former National Children's Office; and policy and legislative work on child welfare and protection conducted by the Department of Health and Children. The new youth justice service of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the early years education policy unit of the Department of Education and Science will be co-located at the new office. The purpose in bringing these various responsibilities together is to maximise the co-ordination of policies for children and young persons and to provide a strong focus at the highest level. The Office of the Minister for Children will also maintain a general strategic oversight of bodies with responsibility for developing and delivering children's services.
The Minister for Children, who holds delegated responsibilities in the Departments of Health and Children, Education and Science, and Justice, Equality and Law Reform, will attend meetings of the Government on a regular basis. This will give a strong voice for the interests of children and young persons at Cabinet. The Office of the Minister for Children is funded through the Department of Health and Children and includes the following: administration, including salaries — Vote 39; the early child care supplement — Vote 41; the equal opportunities child care programme 2000-2006 — Vote 41; the national child care investment programme 2006-2010 — Vote 41; and the national children's strategy programmes — Vote 41. While the OMC is responsible for the early child care supplement, the Department of Social and Family Affairs will administer it on an agency basis. In addition, the youth justice service will be funded through the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform's Vote and the early years education policy unit will be funded through the Department of Education and Science's Vote. The establishment of the Office of the Minister for Children has not altered the duties and responsibilities of the Minister for Health and Children.
153 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department has responsibility for youth affairs; if so, the interaction between her Department and the Minster for youth affairs in the Department of Education and Science; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13439/06]
The functions of the new Office of the Minister for Children, within the Department of Health and Children, are as follows: the equal opportunities child care programme, transferred from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform; the programmes and activities of the National Children's Office; and the policy and legislative work on child welfare and protection conducted by the Department of Health and Children. The new youth justice service of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the early years education functions of the Department of Education and Science will be co-located at the new office. However, these Departments will retain responsibility for these areas.
The Office of the Minister for Children has the lead role on children and young people's participation in local and national decision making under goal 1 of the national children's strategy 2000. It has responsibility for ensuring the development of structures for participation such as Dáil na nÓg and Comhairle na nÓg and for promoting children and young people's participation among Departments, State agencies and the non-government sector.
My colleague, Deputy de Valera, Minister of State at the Department of Education and Science, has overall responsibility for youth affairs. An official from the National Children's Office — now part of the Office of the Minister for Children — participated on an interdepartmental committee established in the youth affairs section of the Department of Education and Science from November 2004 to May 2005. My office is represented on the national youth work advisory committee established by the Department of Education and Science.
154 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of the renewal of a medical card application for persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12795/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
155 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost which she estimated for increasing the threshold on house value to deem a person ineligible for nursing home subvention from €75,000 to €300,000 outside Dublin and €500,000 in Dublin; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this change has not altered in any way the means assessment being used in assessing eligibility for nursing homes owing to the fact that the €75,000 threshold which she revised had long since fallen into disuse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12796/06]
The Health (Nursing Homes) Act 1990 and the Nursing Homes Regulations 1993 provide for the payment of subvention for private nursing home care for applicants who qualify on both medical and means grounds. General rules for the assessment of means in respect of an application for nursing home subvention are set out in the Second Schedule of the Nursing Homes Regulations 1993, as amended by the 2005 regulations. Under the regulations the Health Service Executive, when considering an application for subvention, carries out a means test which takes into account the means of the applicant and his or her spouse or co-habiting partner, where appropriate, and the assets of the applicant. The HSE imputes an income of 5% of the estimated market value of the principal residence of an applicant for subvention, unless the residence is occupied by a spouse, or son or daughter aged less than 21 or in full-time education or in receipt of the disabled person's maintenance allowance, blind person's pension, disability benefit, invalidity pension or old age non-contributory pension, and generally does so unless there are exceptional circumstances.
Under the Nursing Homes (Subvention) (Amendment) Regulations 2005, SI 814 of 2005, the HSE may refuse to pay a subvention if the value of the applicant's principal residence is €500,000 or more, where the residence is located in the Dublin area, or €300,000 or more, where the residence is located outside the Dublin area, and the residence is not occupied by a spouse, a son or daughter aged less than 21 or in full-time education or a relative in receipt of a social welfare pension or allowance. It is difficult to estimate the financial impacts, as much depends on individual circumstances but an additional €20 million has been made available for the provision of the subvention scheme in 2006. The recently published Health (Nursing Homes)(Amendment) Bill 2006 is designed to ensure that the existing subvention scheme for private nursing home care is grounded in primary legislation and to help the HSE to implement the scheme on a standardised basis throughout the country. It includes a provision to vary the 5% income imputation. I will consider the issue of housing assets and long-term residential care following the enactment of this Bill and in the light of the report of the long-term care working group.
156 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the date on which proposals for reform of the nursing home subvention system were submitted to her Department; and the reason it has taken so long to reach decisions on a reform package for the nursing home subvention. [12797/06]
The expenditure review of the nursing home scheme which was carried out by Professor Eamon O'Shea was officially launched on 25 June 2003. This report was launched in tandem with the Mercer study on the future financing of long-term care which was carried out by the Department of Social and Family Affairs.
Following on the publication of the Mercer report, 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. The objective of this group was to identify the policy options for a financially sustainable system of long-term care, including improvements in community 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 presented its report to Government, where it is under consideration.
157 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the criteria which must be satisfied to get a general practitioner visit card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12798/06]
The Health Service Executive, HSE, has a statutory obligation to make available without charge general practitioner services to persons for whom, in the opinion of the executive, it would be unduly burdensome to arrange such services for themselves and their dependants. People who are deemed eligible by the executive are provided with a GP visit card following an assessment of their income and their outgoings.
The income guidelines used by the executive for GP visit card applications are 25% higher than those for medical cards. The HSE has discretion to grant a GP visit card to persons whose income may be in excess of the guidelines but whose particular circumstances justify such a decision.
Over the course of 2005 significant improvements have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for medical cards and GP visit cards is assessed. In June 2005, the means test for both medical cards and GP visit cards was simplified. It is now based on an applicant's and spouse's income after tax and PRSI, and takes account of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent or mortgage payments, child care and travel to work. The guidelines also reflect the family size. In October 2005 the income guidelines for both medical cards and GP visit cards were increased by an additional 20%. The HSE has publicised these changes to encourage people to apply and has made the application process as simple as possible. The HSE has also provided a national information helpline.
The current GP visit card guidelines are set out below. To these amounts are added the reasonable expenses for rent or mortgage, child care and travel to work. The HSE will then compare the applicant or spouse income after income tax and PRSI against the total guideline in making its decision on an application as to whether a medical card or a GP visit card will be approved.
|
Category |
Weekly amount |
|
€ |
|
|
Single person living alone |
|
|
Aged up to 65 years |
230.50 |
|
Aged 66-69 years |
252.00 |
|
Single person living with family |
|
|
Aged up to 65 years |
205.00 |
|
Aged 66-69 years |
217.00 |
|
Married Couple |
|
|
Aged up to 65 years |
333.00 |
|
Aged 66-69 years |
373.00 |
|
Aged 70-79 years |
745.00 |
|
Aged 80 years and over |
783.50 |
|
Allowances for dependent children |
|
|
For each of the first two children |
47.50 |
|
For third and each subsequent child |
51.00 |
|
For each of the first two children aged over 16 |
49.00 |
|
For third and each subsequent child aged over 16 |
53.50 |
|
Dependant over 16 years in full-time education and not grant aided |
|
|
Allowance for each child |
98.00 |
158 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the changes proposed in the operation of St. Joseph’s Hospital, Ardee; if future patients will be admitted for long-term care or respite care in the hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12799/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
159 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to a previous parliamentary question, the reason for the delay in arranging an appointment for a person (details supplied) in County Carlow at Waterford Regional Hospital in view of the fact that they were referred to a pain specialist by their surgeon on 14 November 2005; if the new information and request for an early appointment submitted would be considered; if a response from the Health Service Executive will be expedited regarding this urgent matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12801/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
160 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of nursing home subventions and enhanced subventions per county in 2004 and 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12802/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
161 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of community dieticians employed by the Health Service Executive in the Dublin area; the areas they are situated; and the criteria for an area to be granted access to the service. [12809/06]
The Deputy's question relates to human resource management issues and to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
The Department's health service personnel census shows a total of 326.86 dieticians nationally at end December 2005 compared with a total of 174.48 at the end of December 2000. This represents an increase of 151.38 or nearly 87%. Figures include both hospital and community based dieticians.
162 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason funding is not being provided to a hospital (details supplied) in County Mayo for the contracting of private beds in nursing homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12810/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
163 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the status of a medical card application for persons (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12819/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
164 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if assistance will be given to a person (details supplied); if a long-term care package will be put in place; and if the family will be given the maximum support and assistance. [12826/06]
173 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a long-term care plan will be put in place for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; and if the family will be given the maximum support. [12865/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 and 173 together.
The Deputy's questions relate to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
165 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the Health (Repayment Scheme) Bill 2006 will be debated in Dáil Éireann; her plans to have the Bill passed by the Dáil and Seanad before the summer recess; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12837/06]
The Health (Repayment Scheme) Bill 2006 was published on 16 March 2006 and the Second Stage reading of the Bill commenced in the Dáil on 30 March 2006. The Second Stage of this Bill is due to resume in the Dáil on 27 April 2006. It is my wish that the important legislative proposals contained in the Bill have a speedy passage through the Oireachtas prior to the summer recess. This will enable the implementation of the scheme to ensure the repayments can be made swiftly to those eligible for repayment, following the completion of an uncomplicated application process.
166 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive an appointment with a psychologist in view of the fact that they have been waiting at least six months; and when this person will be helped. [12838/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
167 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the services that would remain in the local children’s accident and emergency units in the event that all children’s inpatient services were consolidated in a single site; the access parents would have to short-term observation wards, outpatient consultant clinics, diagnostic and monitoring facilities, minor surgery and so on; and her plans to undertake consultation with the representatives of parents and patients before final decisions are made on such restructuring. [12843/06]
On 3 February last, the Health Service Executive published a report on the delivery of tertiary paediatric services in this country. This report was commissioned by the Health Service Executive at my request.
The report, which was prepared by McKinsey and Company, recommends that best outcomes for children should be provided by one national tertiary paediatric centre, which would also provide all secondary paediatric services for the greater Dublin area. The report recommended that these secondary services would be supported by strategically located accident and emergency facilities.
Arising from the report's recommendations, a joint HSE-Department of Health and Children task group was established to progress matters and to advise on the optimal location for the new facility. The group's report is expected shortly. When a decision has been taken in relation to the new facility, the HSE will examine the organisational arrangements necessary to progress the development, including the arrangements for the provision of paediatric accident and emergency services. My primary concern is to ensure that we arrive at a solution which is in the best interests of the children of this country.
168 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the specialised training nurses receive for working in units specialising in Alzheimer’s disease care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12850/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
169 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the Health Service Executive areas which provide a chiropody service; the Health Service Executive areas which do not provide such a service; if she will instruct the Health Service Executive to provide a standard chiropody service in all areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12854/06]
170 Mr. Deasy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if medical card holders are entitled to a free chiropody service in those Health Service Executive areas where such a service is provided by the Health Service Executive; if medical card holders can avail of privately owned chiropody services to provide their required treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12855/06]
191 Mr. Andrews asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to top-up fees being charged by chiropodists to medical card holders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12966/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169, 170 and 191 together.
There is no statutory obligation on the HSE to provide chiropody services to GMS patients. However, in practice arrangements are made to provide these services. Before the establishment of the HSE the nature of the arrangements for chiropody and the level of service provided was a matter for individual health boards and so a degree of variation in practice developed over time. Priority is usually given to certain groups of people, including people who are medical card holders aged 65 years and over. In several regions the service is provided by private chiropodists by arrangement with the HSE.
It is inappropriate for private chiropodists who are providing services on behalf of the HSE to charge patients a top-up fee and I have conveyed this view formally to the HSE. My Department requested the HSE to initiate a review of the fee arrangements in place for the provision of chiropody services with a view to ensuring that such additional fees will no longer be levied on persons in receipt of this service. This review is under way.
The Deputies' questions about the provision of chiropody services relate to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputies.
171 Ms Enright asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Offaly has had their medical card withdrawn; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12858/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
172 Mr. Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to a case in which a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 has been refused the Health Service Executive’s home improvement scheme for older persons. [12863/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
174 Mr. P. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be called for further surgery at the University Hospital, Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12866/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
175 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the position with regard to the extension to Schull Community Hospital in view of the fact that the draft design brief was sent by the health board to her Department almost four years ago; the action which has occurred in the meantime; and the prospective timetable for the completion of this work. [12875/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. This includes responsibility for considering new capital proposals or progressing those in the health capital programme. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
176 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of home care nursing home packages allocated for 2006 in counties Galway, Mayo and Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12880/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
177 Mr. Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the eligibility criteria for home care nursing packages; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12881/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
178 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when Coovagh House in Limerick will reopen; its running costs in 2005; the cost of recruiting staff in 2005; and its security costs in each year since its establishment. [12894/06]
179 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when the report on Coovagh House (details supplied) will be published. [12895/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 178 and 179 together.
As the Deputy is aware, the management and operation of health and personal social services, including Coovagh House special care unit, is a matter for the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. I understand from inquiries made of the Deputy's office that the details supplied refer to a report in the Irish Examiner of 15 October 2004. I did not commission a report on Coovagh House in October 2004, which at the time was the responsibility of the Mid-Western Health Board. There were ongoing contacts at the time between my Department and the health board. However, I have asked the Health Service Executive to furnish me with a full report, as soon as possible, on the current position on Coovagh House to include the detailed information sought by the Deputy on the reopening and cost issues. I will be in further communication with the Deputy as soon as this is received.
180 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 228 of 28 November 2005 and 248 of 25 October 2005, when she expects a response to be compiled. [12896/06]
As the Deputy is aware, the questions concerned are a matter for the Health Service Executive and were accordingly referred to the executive for direct reply. My Department has made inquiries of the executive and has been informed that the compilation of the information involves extensive work. The executive has informed the Department that it will reply to the Deputy with the information concerned in the next week.
181 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the occupational therapist reports for the disabled person’s grant applications made to Kildare County Council can be expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12898/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
182 Ms Harkin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when zero hour contracts for home helps will come to an end; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12903/06]
183 Ms Harkin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when home helps will be issued with written contracts based on historic hours worked; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12904/06]
185 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her proposals to make the pay and conditions for home helps more attractive to people in order that more home helps can be recruited in Waterford city and county to address the shortage in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12907/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 182, 183 and 185 together.
The Deputies' questions on human resource management issues are a matter for the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have these matters investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputies.
I recognise the valuable role of the home help service in enabling people who might otherwise need to be cared for in institutional care to remain at home where appropriate. I am aware that a high level group has been established, with representatives from the Health Service Executive and staff representatives from SIPTU and IMPACT, to address issues pertaining to the standardisation of home help services. The group held its first meeting on 23 March and further meetings are scheduled.
An additional €33 million full year cost was allocated to the home help programme in budget 2006, €30 million of which will be for 2006 with the remaining €3 million in 2007, to enable the Health Service Executive to provide an additional 1.75 million hours nationally in 2006. The additional resource will further enhance the service and facilitate the wishes expressed by many older people to remain in their own homes for as long as possible.
184 Ms Harkin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when she hopes to have a comprehensive strategy in place for diabetes care. [12905/06]
The national diabetes working group chaired by the chief medical officer submitted its report to the Tánaiste last summer. The report addressed the epidemiology of diabetes, health promotion and prevention initiatives, including screening and models of care in terms of future service provision.
Specific recommendations included the development of population and high risk approaches to prevent diabetes; the development of podiatry services as a priority issue to prevent foot care complications; the introduction of a diabetic retinopathy screening programme to prevent eye disease; the development of a diabetes register; the setting out of a model of high quality care which describes what children and adults with diabetes shall expect to receive throughout their lifetime; the prioritisation and reflection of diabetes services in the national service plan of the Health Service Executive; the development of shared care or a model of care developed jointly between primary care and specialist services, which has been shown to be effective in diabetes prevention and in the management of complications; and the support of a planning and service delivery framework based on diabetes service development groups with management responsibilities for planning and delivering services and clinical activities such as the support of clinical networks and the application of protocols for better quality care.
The report, which was recently published on the Department of Health and Children website, was forwarded to the chief executive of the Health Service Executive in October 2005. The HSE is treating the matter as a priority and is putting in place a structure to implement the report's recommendations.
186 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the extent of the chiropody provision for diabetic patients in Waterford Regional Hospital, Cork University Hospital, Limerick Regional Hospital and Galway University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12908/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
187 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has had discussions with the Dutch authorities arising from the operation of the Dutch health insurance Act which came into operation on 1 January 2006 and which has implications for the many Dutch citizens residing here and, in particular, for those in receipt of pension payments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12912/06]
Regulation (EC) 1408/71 provides for the co-ordination of social security systems, including health care, among EU member states. Under the regulation, those who are insured with or covered by the health care system of one member state but who are residing or staying in another member state receive health care in the state of residence or stay on behalf of the member state with which they are insured or covered. Thus, persons who are insured with or covered by the Dutch health insurance system and who reside in Ireland receive health care in Ireland on behalf of the Netherlands. Such persons automatically receive a medical card, regardless of age or means.
A new health insurance system has now come into force in the Netherlands and the Dutch authorities have advised through the EU forum dealing with administrative matters arising from the operation of Regulation (EC) 1408/71 that the changes introduced may affect Dutch persons resident in member states other than the Netherlands, including Ireland. The changes are entirely a matter for the Netherlands. There has been no change to the EU legislation governing the co-ordination of social security systems, including health care, among member states.
188 Mr. Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of occupational therapists employed by the Health Service Executive in the Limerick area; the number employed in 2001; and the average waiting time for a child with special needs to gain access to this service in Limerick. [12919/06]
The Deputy's question refers to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
189 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that EU Directive 2004/23/EC will be implemented before 7 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 7 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12944/06]
My Department is finalising a statutory instrument which will transpose into Irish law the provision of EU Directive 2004/23/EC. This sets standards of quality and safety for the donation, procurement, testing, processing, preservation, storage and distribution of human tissues and cells. It is intended that this will be brought into force on 7 April.
190 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has received a proposal for the future of Nenagh General Hospital; her views on the Small Hospital, Big Service report; if she intends to implement the Hanly report in view of this report; if she will act positively towards the report and implement its recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12964/06]
I have recently received the report, Small Hospital, Big Service, referred to by the Deputy, which was published by the Nenagh Hospital Action Group. The report will be examined by my Department and by the Health Service Executive in the context of its role in the management and delivery of health and social services.
The Report of the National Task Force on Medical Staffing, the Hanly report, made a series of important recommendations about the development of hospital services. These covered issues such as the changes needed in NCHD work patterns; the need for a significantly revised contract for medical consultants and an increase in the number of consultants; reform of medical education and training; and the reorganisation of acute hospital services. My Department is working closely with the HSE to build on, and progress, these recommendations. Negotiations in relation to NCHD work patterns and on a new contract for consultants have begun.
On 1 February 2006, together with the Minister for Education and Science, Deputy Hanafin, I announced details of a €200 million Government initiative for major reform of medical education and training from undergraduate level through to postgraduate specialist training. The reforms are based on the recommendations in the report of the postgraduate medical education and training group, chaired by Dr. Jane Buttimer, and the report of the working group on undergraduate medical education and training, chaired by Professor Pat Fottrell. These two reports make a series of comprehensive recommendations for the development and reform of medical education and is the most significant review of the medical education and training field ever undertaken in Ireland.
These measures, combined with ongoing investment in acute hospital facilities, extra consultant posts and the organisation of services around hospital networks, are designed to provide patients with faster access to high-quality consultant provided services. A new independent external review of all acute hospital services in the mid-west and how they can be developed in accordance with best practice has been approved by the Health Service Executive. The report undertaken by the Nenagh Hospital Action Group will be taken into account as a key component of the review process. The review is to be completed by the end of the year following which the findings will be published.
192 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that public health nurses here unlike the UK are unable, for insurance reasons, to visit schools to give advice and raise awareness regarding anaphylaxis and the way in which to manage same in a school environment; her plans to facilitate public health nurses to carry out this work; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12977/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
193 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will make representations on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow regarding admission to Waterford Regional Hospital for surgery. [12982/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
194 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason there are no disabled car parking spaces in the public car park at the Regional Hospital Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12983/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
195 Mr. Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there is information available in her Department regarding the number of people on hospital trolleys in accident and emergency units in hospitals here on the first Monday of each month since October 2004; if she will make this information available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12987/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not available within my Department. 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 collecting data on activity in accident and emergency departments. Information on daily activity levels in accident and emergency departments since April 2005 is available on the HSE website at www.hse.ie. My Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have the information requested furnished directly to the Deputy.
196 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Question No. 159 of 28 March 2006, if there is a national adviser on alcohol policy; if so, if she will identify this person; if not, the steps she is taking to ensure such a person is identified and appointed; and when she expects this appointment to take place. [13051/06]
The Department of Health and Children remains responsible for the development of alcohol policy. However, it is recognised that an integrated approach is required for effective implementation. The Department has led on the establishment of a strategic task force on alcohol and a working group on alcohol and the three reports of these groups form the basis for current alcohol policy. Since the restructuring of the Department, the Health Service Executive has assumed responsibility for the implementation of many of the recommendations outlined in these reports. It is a matter for the HSE to decide on the structural requirements and levels of expertise needed in this regard. There are no plans to appoint a national adviser on alcohol policy in this Department.
198 Mr. Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department accepts liability for the costs of persons who hold or have held medical cards while in private nursing homes, for example in respect of incontinence wear and of medical elements of care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13075/06]
Article 16.1 of the Nursing Homes (Subvention) Regulations 1993 provides that individuals resident in private nursing homes who are in receipt of a subvention from the health board may not be charged extra for any service which is considered to be essential to their maintenance in the home and common practice in most nursing homes. Such services include bed and board, nursing care appropriate to the level of dependency of the person and incontinence wear.
In February 2001, a letter was issued by the Department of Health and Children to the former health boards and Eastern Regional Health Authority requesting that the necessary arrangements be put in place so that all medical card holders in receipt of subvention be supplied with incontinence wear under a similar arrangement as is in place for those living in the community. Arrangements are currently in place in the majority of areas for the supply of incontinence wear to medical card holders in private nursing homes.
From 2003 additional funding was allocated towards the nursing home subvention scheme to assist with the costs of supplying incontinence wear to patients in private nursing homes who are in receipt of a subvention under the nursing home subvention scheme. This funding also assists with costs associated in managing the scheme and providing training and education in relation to incontinence issues.
199 Dr. Twomey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if the Medical Council gave her Department a discussion document or submission paper on the future of medical training, competence assurance and continuous medical education in 1999; if so, if she will forward this Deputy a copy of the report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13086/06]
I am advised that the Medical Council submitted a discussion paper on competence assurance to my Department in mid-December 1998. My Department has requested the Medical Council to communicate with the Deputy directly on the matter.
200 Mr. J. Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the measures she will put in place to address the serious and acute shortage of rheumatologists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13161/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
201 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a medical card will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if a positive response will be expedited. [13190/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
202 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason an outpatients appointment in Wexford hospital cannot be given before 6 December 2006 to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13195/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
203 Mr. Morgan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the percentage of people treated in hospital accident and emergency units in 2005 who suffered their accidents at work. [13196/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available. The Health and Safety Authority, HSA, which reports to the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, is the statutory body with responsibility for monitoring the incidence of work-related accidents. Data are reported to the HSA on those accidents at work, excluding self-employed and certain other categories, which result in at least three days absence from work. The information recorded does not indicate whether those who have suffered an injury attended a hospital accident and emergency department for treatment. Statistics collected by my Department for 2005 show there were a total of 1.25 million accident and emergency unit attendances nationally. It is not, however, possible with present information systems to ascertain what proportion of these visits were due to work-related accidents.
A pilot project is under way to widen the range of information collected on accident and emergency attendances. The project is part of a harmonised EU initiative under the auspices of the public health programme of the EU Commission and is being led by the National Suicide Research Foundation in Ireland. The objective will be to replace the previous system which was restricted to home and leisure accidents to cover all injuries attending accident and emergency units. The new system is being tested throughout the EU and, in Ireland, is being piloted at present in the six hospitals of the Health Service Executive southern region.
204 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has read the recent Amnesty International report, Breaking Down Barriers: Tackling Racism in Ireland at the level of the State and its institutions; and the steps she intends to take in order to address the shortcomings the report identified within her Department and within the State’s health service generally. [13207/06]
The increasing numbers of people from different ethnic minority groups living and working in Ireland has contributed to a rich mix of diversity in the country. At the same time, the need to address the health and support needs of this diverse group in a way appropriate to their culture, has posed challenges for the health services. A number of initiatives have been undertaken aimed at ensuring equal access to health care including the launch of the booklet, Equal Status Acts 2000-2004 and provision of health services. This booklet has been developed as a collaborative initiative by my Department, the HSE and the Equality Authority. It aims to support health service organisations in becoming fully equality competent bodies, committed to ensuring an equality focus on all aspects of service provision and employment. Another initiative is the development of a national equality strategy by the HSE, the initial steps of which have already commenced. The national intercultural strategy, addressing the health and support needs of persons from ethnic minorities, has been developed. This strategy, consistent with the requirements contained in the national action plan against racism, will build on the good practice already reflected throughout the country in ensuring a responsive, culturally sensitive approach to service provision to the unique health care and support needs of asylum seekers, refugees, migrant workers, Travellers and other members of minority ethnic communities.
Much work has been done in parts of the country to reduce barriers experienced by ethnic minorities. Specific measures include the completion of an equal status review in the north west of Ireland, the provision of a range of services targeted at specific health needs of people from ethnic minorities and the provision of interpretation services in different administrative areas. Experience from these and other related initiatives will inform expansion or enhancement of relevant services across the country. Significant efforts have also been made in relation to staff training and support needs in working with people from minority ethnic communities. Plans concerning the roll-out of a national programme are at an advanced stage.
The development of an ethnic identifier, successfully piloted in the area of Traveller health, is a priority for the HSE in 2006. Information gained from use of the ethnic identifier will be applied towards identification of needs, measurement of uptake of services and evaluation of outcomes. Service users from ethnic minorities will be actively involved in planning, implementation and evaluation of this and all other relevant initiatives.
205 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when an operation will be carried out on a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13229/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
206 Mr. McGinley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of people here who are suffering from multiple sclerosis; the type of treatments and assistance available to such patients. [13250/06]
The most recent figures from the national physical and sensory disability database, NPSDD, annual report 2004, which is managed by the Health Research Board, show 1,791 people as having being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. In interpreting this data, it is important to note that as not everyone in this country with a physical or sensory disability is availing of a specialised health and personal social service, the NPSDD will not provide any definite epidemiological statement on the number of people with a particular type of disability.
Part of the Deputy's question relates to treatment and assistance available to such patients. The management and delivery of health and personal social services, are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
207 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her views on including smoking patches in the drugs covered under the drugs payment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13266/06]
A common list of reimbursable medicines is in place for the general medical services and drug payment schemes to ensure equity in respect of the range of medicines paid for by the State under both schemes. For a product to be reimbursable under the two schemes, it must satisfy a number of criteria, including that it is ordinarily supplied to the public only by medical prescription and that it should not be advertised or promoted to the public. Nicotine replacement therapies belong to a category of products that would not normally satisfy these criteria in that they are generally available over-the-counter, and may be advertised directly to the public.
Nicotine replacement therapies are available to medical card holders on foot of recommendations made by the cardiovascular health strategy group and the advisory forum established to support the task force in the implementation of strategy. Evidence shows that lower socioeconomic groups have a higher incidence of smoking and spend a higher proportion of disposable income on tobacco and that, in general, their health is worse. Therefore, it was considered that members of this group are in greatest need of assistance in helping them to quit the habit. Accordingly, and in light of the recommendations that were made, it was decided, as an exceptional measure to make the full range of nicotine replacement therapies available on prescription to medical card holders. There are no plans to extend this to the drug payment scheme.
208 Mr. Dennehy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; her views on whether that figure is adequate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13270/06]
Some 2.3% of the total staff numbers serving in my Department are recorded as having a disability. The figure is lower than the target of 3% due to a combination of circumstances. The Public Appointments Service, PAS, undertakes the recruitment of staff to posts in my Department following approval from the Department of Finance. As the Deputy is aware, my Department is currently undergoing major restructuring and has no posts to be filled at this time.
I understand that the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform is currently in discussions with the PAS concerning future competitions for persons with disabilities and that there are a number of issues to be taken into consideration. Irrespective of any quotas, my Department is, and always has been, willing to provide placements for persons with disabilities.
My Department is participating in the willing able mentoring, WAM, project this summer. The WAM project, which is administered by the Association of Higher Education Access and Disability, aims to provide graduates with disabilities with temporary placements with public and private sector employers.
209 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a person, details supplied, in County Mayo will be reassessed for orthodontic treatment. [13284/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
210 Ms Harkin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person, details supplied, in County Galway will be allocated a place in a hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13288/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have a reply on this issue sent directly to the Deputy.
211 Mr. Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if there has been a policy change in the Health Service Executive western region concerning the payment of the enhanced nursing home subvention; if there has been a cutback in the payment of the enhanced subvention; if so, the reason therefore; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13292/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
212 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of times the group considering the no fault compensation scheme has met; when the group will be presenting its findings; and when those findings will be published. [13369/06]
The advisory group on no fault compensation for brain damaged infants was established in 2001. It met on 19 occasions between 2001 and 2004. It ceased to meet in early 2004 as a result of hospital consultants' withdrawal from ministerial committees and working groups in protest at the inclusion of claims against them in the clinical indemnity scheme. In the interim, advice received from the Attorney General raised some questions about the constitutional implications of no fault schemes in general. I am considering the implications of re-establishing the group. In the event that it is re-established, I am certain that the excellent work already undertaken by the group can be built upon.
213 Ms McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person, details supplied, in County Cork will get an appointment to see a doctor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13370/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
214 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if arrangements have been made to pay, through public funds, the cost of treating public patients at the new radiotherapy unit at the Mid-Western Regional Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13378/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to respond directly to the Deputy in respect of the matter raised.
215 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the need for adult ADD/ADHD services here; her plans to set up such a service on a nationwide basis; the extent of services already available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13397/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
216 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the progress which has been made recruiting speech and language therapists; the number of unfilled posts in each of the Health Service Executive regions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13398/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
The Deputy may wish to note, however, that additional investment in speech and language therapy services in recent years, coupled with enhancements in the professional training, career development and remuneration of these therapists, have led to significant improvements in staffing levels. These developments are in line with the recommendations contained in the 2000 report of the expert group on various health professions, which included new pay scales and enhanced career structures.
In general, developments such as pay increases, improvements in career structure and enhanced opportunities for professional and career development have all supported increased staffing levels for key health and social care professions, including speech and language therapists. The implementation of the pay recommendations of the public service benchmarking body made a further important contribution to recruitment and improved retention. The continued implementation of the action plan for people management, a key action under the health strategy, has a crucial role in improving retention and reducing turnover of skilled staff.
The success of all these measures have contributed to an increase of 162 speech and language therapists, or 42% over the number employed by the end of December 2000, and reflects significant increases in the numbers employed in promotional grades. There were 548 whole-time equivalent speech and language therapists employed in the public health service by the end of September 2005.
In addition, three new speech and language therapy courses commenced in the 2003-04 academic year in UCC, NUIG and UL. In total, these courses provide an additional 75 training places in speech and language therapy. This expansion in training numbers was identified in the Bacon report of 2001, current and future supply and demand conditions in the labour market for certain professional therapists, as sufficient to meet the long-term demand-supply balance for speech and language therapists in Ireland. The first graduates from the two year masters course in UL completed their studies in June 2005. The first graduates from the BSc courses in UCC and NUIG will graduate in 2007.
Essential to the successful roll out of these additional training places is the provision of sufficient quality clinical placements in speech and language therapy. The revenue funding I have provided this year, along with that allocated in the past two years for the three therapy professions, totals €4.6 million. It is expected that approximately 30% of this amount will go towards the speech and language therapy profession and will enable the Health Service Executive, working with my Department, to put in place the enhanced structures necessary to ensure that students will have access to a sustainable, high-quality clinical training model.
217 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children her plans to increase the number of neurosurgeons here; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a long waiting list for neurosurgery and that there are only nine such public posts here based in Dublin and Cork while the recommended number is 14 or 15; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13399/06]
At the request of the Department of Health and Children, a committee was established by Comhairle na nOspidéal, to review the existing arrangements for the provision of neurosurgical services and consultant staffing nationally, and following consultation with the interests concerned, to make recommendations on the future organisation and development of neurosurgical services. My Department has been informed that the report will be published by the Health Service Executive in the coming weeks.
218 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason for the cancellation of a hip operation for a person, details supplied, in County Kildare; and when the operation will be scheduled. [13400/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
219 Mr. Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will support the campaign of the Irish Deaf Society for recognition of sign language; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13412/06]
My Department has responsibility for the provision of health and personal social services for people with disabilities, including deaf people. My Department has no responsibility for the recognition of sign language.
220 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an appeal for enhanced subvention payment in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be expedited; and if a response will be given. [13413/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
221 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a response will be expedited to an application under the housing aid for the elderly scheme in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; the reason the assessment is being delayed in view of the urgent need involved; if funding is an issue; if there is a backlog of applications; if so, the action that is being taken to assist those on the front line of the service to clear the backlog; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13414/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. This includes responsibility for the provision of the housing aid scheme for the elderly, on behalf of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
222 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the additional direction she has given and the contact she has had with the city and county child care committees in respect of the voluntary notification system for childminders who wish to avail of the new childminding relief scheme since its introduction in budget 2006; the additional staff that have been employed by the child care committees to deal with notifications; the functions of these staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13432/06]
223 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of inquiries her office has received regarding the voluntary notification system for childminders wishing to avail of the new tax exemption since its introduction; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13433/06]
224 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of inquiries the city and county child care committees have received with regard to voluntary notification for childminders since the introduction of the new tax exemption; the breakdown of same per child care committee; the number of notifications the child care committees have received since the introduction of the tax exemption; the breakdown of same per child care committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13434/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 222 to 224, inclusive, together.
While the tax exemption which is being introduced for income from childminding is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners in the first instance, to avail of it a childminder must elect to make a voluntary notification of his or her childminding service to the person recognised by the HSE for this purpose, effectively the local city or county child care committee, CCC. This will further strengthen the voluntary notification system already operated by the CCCs and supported by the childminder advisory officers.
To answer the Deputy's questions, it is necessary to outline the position in regard to notification, both voluntary and as required under the Child Care Act 1991. Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 provides for the supervision of pre-school services, including the imposition of a requirement on persons operating pre-school services to notify their service to the Health Service Executive, HSE. A number of categories of persons providing pre-school services are excluded from this requirement, including a person taking care of not more than three pre-school children of different families, other than that person's own such children, in that person's home. A pre-school child is defined as a child who has not attained the age of six years and who is not attending a national school or a school providing an educational programme similar to a national school.
Many childminders are covered by this exemption, however, to facilitate childminders who wish to participate in and avail of the range of quality initiatives introduced under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-06, EOCP, a voluntary notification system was introduced and is operated at local level through the CCCs established under the EOCP. Some 1,000 childminders have notified their local CCC under this system. As the Minister of State with special responsibility for children, I will be responsible for the administration of both the EOCP and the new National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010.
It will be clear from the above that the necessary arrangements and staffing to operate the voluntary notification system were already in place prior to the introduction of the tax exemption announced in budget 2006. The additional numbers of notifications by childminders arising from the introduction of the tax exemption will be accommodated within these existing arrangements and will not give rise to a need for additional staffing or other resources. As the Deputy will appreciate, a wide range of new measures in respect of child care were announced in budget 2006, including the new National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 under which the CCCs will have an enhanced role in identifying and supporting local child care needs. As a result, steps are being taken to further develop and resource the CCCs. In addition, the OMC held a major conference in January 2006 to outline the new programme and budget changes to the CCCs. This has been followed by a series of seminars and information sessions to assist the CCCs in carrying out their role.
With regard to the number of inquiries received and voluntary notifications made to the CCCs since the budget announcement, I understand from inquiries and the information available that the position is as indicated in the following table. Where it has not been possible to obtain details in the time available, I will arrange for this information to be forwarded to you in the coming days. I understand that the OMC has not recorded any significant number of enquiries regarding the exemption. It is not possible to say at this stage whether any significant increase in enquiries or notifications will arise in the period between now and October 2007 when the first tax returns in relation to the exemption will be due for return.
|
City / County Childcare Committee |
Inquiries on Childminding Exemption |
Voluntary Notifications |
|
Carlow |
1 |
1 |
|
Cavan |
25 |
3 |
|
Clare |
2 |
5 |
|
Cork City |
Details awaited |
|
|
Cork County |
8 |
0 |
|
Dún Laoghaire / Rathdown |
3 |
0 |
|
Donegal |
21 |
0 |
|
Dublin City |
30 |
0 |
|
Fingal |
15 |
30 |
|
Galway |
280 |
0 |
|
Kerry |
4 |
70 |
|
Kildare |
Details awaited |
|
|
Kilkenny |
4 |
0 |
|
Laois |
0 |
1 |
|
Leitrim |
Details awaited |
|
|
Limerick City |
Details awaited |
|
|
Limerick County |
6 |
4 |
|
Longford |
5 |
0 |
|
Louth |
1 |
0 |
|
Mayo |
Details awaited |
|
|
Meath |
25 |
17 |
|
Monaghan |
2 |
1 |
|
North Tipperary |
0 |
1 |
|
Offaly |
0 |
1 |
|
Roscommon |
8 |
0 |
|
Sligo |
10 |
0 |
|
South Dublin |
50 |
5 |
|
South Tipperary |
6 |
0 |
|
Waterford City |
20 |
5 |
|
Waterford County |
8 |
7 |
|
Westmeath |
91 |
5 |
|
Wexford |
8 |
0 |
|
Wicklow |
57 |
21 |
|
Total |
553 |
160 |
225 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of childminders who are currently notified and registered with the Health Service Executive and for each year since 2004; the breakdown of same for each Health Service Executive area; the number of children these childminders are looking after; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13435/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
226 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the procedure in place with regard to notification to the Health Service Executive by childminders; the steps that are taken by the Health Service Executive following notification; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13436/06]
Childminders who care for more than three pre-school children of different families, other than their own pre-school children, in the childminders' own homes are required to notify the Health Service Executive in accordance with section 51(2) of the Child Care Act 1991 and article 11(1) of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and Child Care (Pre-School Services) (Amendment) Regulations 1997. Notification must be given in writing at least 28 days in advance of the commencement of the service on a form as set out in the schedule to regulations or on a similar form.
The steps taken by the Health Service Executive following notification relate to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy concerning this matter.
227 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the functions of the pre-school services inspectorate; if its remit extends to the inspection of the homes of childminders who have notified the Health Service Executive and CCCs; the guidelines or legislation in place governing the inspection of childminders homes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13437/06]
The Health Service Executive has statutory responsibility for the implementation of the Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 1996 and (Amendment) Regulations 1997, which give effect to the provisions of Part VII of the Child Care Act 1991 and provide for notification to and inspection by the Health Service Executive of pre-school services. The regulations apply to pre-schools, play groups, day nurseries, crèches, childminders looking after more than three pre-school children other than their own such children in the childminders' own homes and other similar services which cater for children under six years of age.
The notification and inspection service is managed by the pre-school inspection teams of the Health Service Executive, which are appointed by the executive as authorised persons for this purpose. These teams also provide an advisory service to the services that are statutorily required to notify in order to assist them in achieving and maintaining the appropriate standard. They also provide information to interested persons, including parents, on pre-school services in the area.
Following inspection of a service, the inspector provides the service provider with a report on the outcome of the inspection. The teams then work closely with service providers in addressing the recommendations of the inspection reports. Where persistent breaches of legislation occur, the Health Service Executive can initiate prosecutions. In addition, the inspection teams, on receipt of a warrant from the District Court, can inspect a premises where it is believed that a pre-school service is being carried on without notification having been given to the Health Service Executive.
In 2001, a childminder advisory service was put in place to support and advise childminders of pre-school children who are exempt from notification under the legislation, that is, those caring for three or fewer pre-school children, a sibling group of pre-school children or pre-school children of relatives. Such childminders are encouraged to voluntarily notify this service. The childminder advisory service is operated at local level through the CCCs-HSE. The childminder advisory officers provide networking opportunities, advice, advisory visits, support and training for childminders who voluntarily notify.
228 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason the State has no hearing screening programme for newborn children; and her plans to introduce such a programme. [13474/06]
232 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the standards of practice regarding universal newborn hearing screening in other EU countries and North America; and if not, if research has been undertaken to obtain that information. [13565/06]
233 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a cost analysis has been done for the introduction and implementation of universal newborn hearing screening here; if she has any plans to introduce universal newborn hearing screening; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13566/06]
234 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason universal newborn hearing screening has not been introduced since it was first recommended by the National Association for Deaf People in 1988 and in view of wide acceptance of universal newborn hearing screening in most, if not all, developed countries. [13567/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 228 and 232 to 234, inclusive, together.
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
229 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when home help will be provided in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13477/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, the Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
230 Mr. Boyle asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 132 of 21 March 2006, when the Minister replied that only one employment contract dispute has been made in respect of the Safefood Agency, if she will confirm that two other complaints have also been made. [13528/06]
By way of clarification, in the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 132 of 21 March 2006, the Deputy was informed of a complaint relating to a tendered software contract. In replies to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 73 of 23 February 2006 and 216 of 28 February 2006, the Deputy was informed of two complaints made in respect of the appointment of a co-ordinator for a research network on cryptosporidium. None of the three complaints relates to a contract of employment. Officials of my Department have been advised by Safefood that no additional complaints are being dealt with by this body.
231 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she has had contact or discussion with the National Association for Deaf People on the subject of universal newborn hearing screening since May 2005; when the National Association for Deaf People submitted their business case proposal; if she was present in July 2005 when the National Association for Deaf People briefed her Department. [13564/06]
Since May 2005, my Department has received a number of representations from the National Association for Deaf People, NAD, on the subject of universal neonatal hearing screening. This correspondence relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the parliamentary affairs division of the executive to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the National Association for Deaf People.
On 6 July 2005, one of my advisory staff met with a project officer of the National Association for Deaf People on my behalf and discussed a submission prepared by the NAD. This submission was forwarded to the HSE on 18 July and I understand the HSE has had follow up discussions with the NAD since that date.
On 13 July 2005, a meeting took place between the Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children, Deputy Brian Lenihan, and the Irish Society of Hearing Aid Audiology. A representative from the National Association for Deaf People was also present at this meeting. The subject for discussion at this meeting was the inclusion of audiology professions in the system of statutory registration proposed in the Health and Social Care Professionals Bill 2004. To the best of my knowledge, the question of universal neonatal hearing screening was not discussed on this occasion.
235 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding which has been provided to family projects (details supplied) in the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13568/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has asked the executive to provide me with the detailed information sought by the Deputy. I will be in further contact with the Deputy as soon as this information is received.
236 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will double the VAT refund to dairy farmers to 10%, which farmers in most EU countries are in a position to reclaim (details supplied). [13139/06]
The position is that the calculation of the farmers' flat rate is governed by EU VAT law and is based on the relevant macroeconomic data for the farming sector for the preceding three years. The purpose of the flat rate addition is to compensate unregistered farmers for VAT which they incur on their business inputs. The flat rate addition is not a mechanism for providing income support to farmers or to compensate for increases in wages or costs generally.
237 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the action which remains to be taken to conclude outstanding issues in respect of the proposed new site for Kill national school; if he expects the project to proceed in the current year in view of the unsatisfactory location of the present school from a health and safety point of view; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13550/06]
Agreement on price, subject to contract has been reached by the Commissioners of Public Works on behalf of the Minister for Education and Science for a site for a new school in Kill, County Kildare, and they currently await contracts for sale from the vendor. Subject to receipt of the contracts for sale, it is not possible to say how long the conveyancing process will take.
238 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance his views on making schools exempt from VAT; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13570/06]
In accordance with the EU sixth VAT directive and Irish VAT law, most education and training establishments, including primary and secondary level schools, are exempt from VAT. This means that they do not charge VAT on the services they supply but cannot recover VAT on the goods and services that they purchase. Essentially, only VAT registered businesses which charge VAT are able to recover VAT.
It is normal for state funded services to bear VAT on their purchases. However, Exchequer funding for such services, including primary and secondary schools, takes account of VAT when allocations are being made by the Government.
239 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if it is a legal requirement that VAT be charged on road tolls in circumstances where the toll is paid directly to the Government. [12816/06]
The legal position in respect of VAT on tolls was clarified by the European Court of Justice in September 2000 in a series of rulings concerning the VAT treatment of tolls in Ireland, France, the United Kingdom and Greece.
The position is that, in principle, the activity of providing access to roads on payment of a toll is a supply of services subject to VAT under the conditions of the sixth directive. Under Article 4(5) of the directive, if the State, regional or local government authorities or other bodies governed by public law carry out this activity acting as public authorities, the services do not fall within the scope of VAT, unless their non-taxation would lead to a significant distortion of competition. The European Court of Justice examined the conditions under which toll roads are operated in Ireland and ruled that because the tolls are operated by a private concern, the tolls are subject to VAT.
240 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Finance if he will request the Office of Public Works to consider the provision of screening along the northern boundary of the lands at Maynooth Castle, Maynooth, County Kildare, through the provision of mature trees to reduce the visual impact of the Manor Mills development as the castle is viewed from Parsons Street, College Green area of Maynooth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12861/06]
The northern boundary of the Maynooth Castle site already has a significant number of mature trees and there are no plans to add further trees at this time.
241 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his views on the injustice to single income families and the entry point to the 42% tax rate as adjusted in budget 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12941/06]
255 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Finance his views on the widening gap between a married couple with one income and a married couple with two incomes due to tax individualisation; if this gap is set to widen further; the reason for this taxation policy; if same will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13420/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 241 and 255 together.
The standard rate band for a married single earner couple was substantially increased in value in budget 2006 by €2,600 per annum from €38,400 to €41,000. The standard band for a single person was also increased by €2,600 per annum from €29,400 to €32,000. As a result of the changes, a single earner may earn up to €32,000 in 2006 before paying the higher rate of tax. A married single earner couple may earn up to €41,000 before facing tax at the higher rate and a married dual earner couple may earn up to €64,000 before facing the higher rate of tax.
All categories of taxpayer benefited from the income tax changes in budget 2006. No taxpayer has been disadvantaged relative to their former position. The changes reflect a consistent approach by the Government to ease the tax burden on income earners, which has seen the average tax rate fall for all taxpayers, married or single, since 1997. We are well to the fore in this regard compared to other tax regimes.
In fact, the most recent data available from the OECD show that, in 2005, a married single income couple with two children on average earnings in Ireland has the lowest tax wedge in the entire OECD. In addition, when cash transfers from the State are taken into account, such couples face a negative burden in Ireland because they receive more in the cash transfers than they pay out in social security contributions. Ireland is unique in the OECD in this respect. These data do not even take into account the further changes in budget 2006 including, for example, the introduction of the early child care supplement and increases in child benefit payments.
This bears out the fact that this Government has radically improved the position of all taxpayers and single income taxpayers as well since 1997.
242 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/39/EC will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12943/06]
The Markets in Financial Instruments Directive (MiFID) 2004/39/EC was adopted on 21 April 2004 and published in the EC's Official Journal on 20 April 2004. The original deadline set for its transposition was two years after its publication, ie 30 April 2006. However, this was subsequently revised, owing to the very technical nature of the directive and the resources which would be required to comply with it. The new deadline is 31 January 2007 for transposition and a deadline for industry of 1 November 2007. Arrangements for transposition in Ireland are well advanced.
243 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding proposals to decentralise FÁS to Birr, County Offaly; if his attention has been drawn to the Labour Court recommendation (details supplied) which states that FÁS is in breach of the consultation procedures agreement; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that due to the failure of Government to recognise this recommendation, employees of FÁS have commenced industrial action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12956/06]
244 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance if he will uphold the Labour Court ruling (details supplied) in implementing decentralisation for State agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12957/06]
246 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance further to newspaper comments attributed to the Minister of State for the Office of Public Works regarding the dispute between FÁS and SIPTU over decentralisation that one idea is the possibility of guaranteeing staff that a certain number of promotions will be held over for those who do not wish to decentralise; if this means that Government will ensure that some promotions are reserved for employees of FÁS that remain in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12979/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 243, 244 and 246 together.
Both the Government and I have made it clear that participation in the decentralisation programme is voluntary. From the outset, guarantees have been provided at Government level that all those employees not wishing to transfer out of Dublin will be facilitated with an alternative public service post in Dublin. This position has not changed.
In the Civil Service, progress has been made in discussions with the general service unions on issues relating to transfer protocols, promotions and arrangements for staff remaining in Dublin. Discussions are ongoing on these issues with the unions representing the professional and technical grades in the Civil Service. I hope these and other decentralisation issues arising in the State agency sector can be discussed with the relevant unions with a view to arriving at arrangements which support the decentralisation process while also meeting the concerns of staff.
In regard to FÁS, it would be helpful to refer specifically to the Labour Court ruling. In its recent recommendation in a dispute between SIPTU and FÁS concerning decentralisation and FÁS contracts of employment, the Labour Court considered the written and oral submissions of the parties. The court also noted the terms of the company-union industrial relations procedures agreement and said that it was of the opinion that FÁS was in breach of the consultation procedures provided for in that agreement. It made no ruling on the substantive issue of the relocation clause. The court recommended that the matter be referred back to the appropriate central body, at which level the issues should be teased out with a view to arriving at agreed long-term solutions, in consultation with all the parties involved.
I strongly support the full use of existing industrial relations structures by all the parties involved and believe that this represents the best way forward. It is only through dialogue that all the issues raised can be addressed. On this issue, discussions are scheduled under the auspices of the Labour Relations Commission on Tuesday, 4 April.
245 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance the terms and conditions when a person may qualify for tax relief for further education; if a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary will be considered eligible for such relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12971/06]
The position is that tax relief is available in respect of qualifying fees paid by an individual to an approved college in respect of certain full-time or part-time undergraduate courses and postgraduate courses. The current maximum amount of relief per course per academic year in respect of third level fees is €5,000 at the standard rate of tax.
Tax relief is also available in respect of fees paid for training courses in the area of information technology and foreign languages. Tax relief is available at the standard rate of income tax where the tuition fees for an approved course are more than €315. Relief is not available where the tuition fees are less than €315. The current maximum amount of relief is €1,270 per course at the standard rate of tax. Tuition fees paid by an individual on his or her own behalf or on behalf of a spouse, child or person for whom the individual is the legal guardian qualify for tax relief. Relief may be claimed at the end of the tax year or, for PAYE taxpayers, the relief may be claimed by way of amending the tax credit certificate during the tax year when the fees have been paid. Tax relief is available for tuition fees only. It is not available in respect of administration or examination fees or in respect of any part of tuition fees that are met directly or indirectly by grants, scholarships, by an employer or otherwise.
The information leaflet, IT31, in respect of tax relief on tuition fees is available on the Revenue website at www.revenue.ie. Annual lists of approved third level colleges in the State, approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in the State, and approved course providers and courses for information technology and foreign languages are also available on the Revenue website. The application form for claiming the relief is contained in the information leaflet.
In regard to the specific case raised by the Deputy, I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they have not received any claim for relief for tuition fees from the taxpayer to date. They have, however, sent the person a copy of the information leaflet.
247 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the precise tax computation of Irish vehicle registration tax and VAT on a new motorcycle imported from Northern Ireland on which the UK 17.5% VAT was paid. [13072/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that where a new motorcycle is deemed to be a new means of transport for VAT purposes in accordance with EU law, that is, the motorcycle was supplied six months or less after the date of first entry into service and has travelled less than 6,000 km, VAT is chargeable at the rate of 21% of the invoice price and is normally payable at the time of registration in the State. With regard to VAT charged in Northern Ireland and in line with double taxation provisions within EU member states, a refund of such VAT paid may be sought by the purchaser of the vehicle from the appropriate VAT office in that jurisdiction.
With regard to vehicle registration tax, a motorcycle is deemed to be a new means of transport where it was supplied three months or less after the date of first entry into service. VRT is charged on the registration of a motorcycle as follows: €2 per cubic centimetre in respect of the first 350 cc of engine capacity, and €1 per cubic centimetre in respect of each additional cc of engine capacity.
248 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that retired prison officers who re-entered the public service to continue to work face a deduction on their pension once their earnings exceed a certain low threshold; and his views on lifting or abolishing this threshold in order to encourage the continuing working contribution after the quite low retirement age which applies in the prison service. [13074/06]
By virtue of the Pensions (Abatement) Act 1965, any civil servant or prison officer who is re-employed in the Civil Service is liable to pension abatement in situations where his or her post retirement income from the Civil Service exceeds the current income for their job prior to retirement.
The statutory abatement provisions are not a discouraging factor to post retirement re-employment. In the case of a prison officer, abatement only applies if during the period of post retirement employment, the person's total income exceeds the current equivalent of the salary and reckonable allowances they had been in receipt of while serving as a prison officer. That is their combined income from pension and their new employment can be the same, but no more, than the current value of the income of their previous job.
The Deputy may also wish to note that, in general, abatement for retired civil servants and prison officers only applies if they are subsequently re-employed in the Civil Service. Abatement would not apply if a retired civil servant or prison officer works elsewhere in the public service or in the private sector.
249 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Finance when back payment of income tax will be issued to a person (details supplied) as the queries that arose on the years in concern has been resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13156/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they have no record of correspondence relating to refunds of income tax from the individual whose name and PPS number was supplied by the Deputy and are, therefore, unaware of the issue raised by the Deputy. For this reason, the Revenue Commissioners are unable to give any information concerning the back payment of income tax. If the Deputy would like to supply further information to my office, or if the taxpayer would like to provide further details to her local tax office, the matter will be investigated further.
250 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Finance the initiatives he is undertaking to promote the use of biofuels and other renewable energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13228/06]
While the promotion of biofuels and other renewable energy is primarily a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that in the Finance Act 2006, which has recently completed its passage through the Dáil and Seanad, I provided for significant tax measures to promote biofuels in Ireland. The new large-scale scheme of excise relief for biofuels to be established — building on the current pilot scheme — will provide for excise relief on up to 163 million litres of biofuels per annum; cost over €200 million over five years, starting this year; when fully operational, result in CO2 savings of over 250,000 tonnes per annum; meet a target of 2% transport fuel market penetration by biofuels by 2008; help reduce our dependency on conventional fossil fuels; and stimulate activity in the agricultural sector. As a complementary measure, I have provided for a new 50% VRT relief to promote new flexible fuel vehicles — cars designed to operate on biofuels — for an initial period of two years, and also extended the existing VRT relief for hybrid cars by a further year to end 2007. These are major initiatives aimed at promoting biofuels in Ireland.
With respect to the excise relief scheme, as any such scheme is deemed a State aid by the European Commission, the necessary approval from the Commission is required. Preliminary discussions have already taken place between the Department of Finance, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and the European Commission in this regard. Once approval has been granted, the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources will advertise the scheme to potential beneficiaries and set out the procedures for applying for the excise relief. There are also available two tax incentives that relate to renewable energy generally as follows. Investments in companies engaged in renewable energy generation may qualify for the business expansion scheme tax relief. Individual investors holding a BES equity investment in such companies for a minimum period of five years can benefit from tax relief, at their marginal rate, in respect of investments of up to €31,750 per year. A qualifying company may raise equity capital up to a general maximum of €1 million in the lifetime of the company. Section 486B corporate tax relief applies to corporate equity investments in certain renewable energy generation projects which are eligible for tax relief in the form of a deduction from a company's profits for its investment in new ordinary shares in a qualifying company. To qualify for this relief, the energy project must be in the solar, wind, hydro or biomass technology categories, and must be approved by the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources. The relief is capped at the lesser of 50% of the relevant cost of the project or €9.525 million for a single project. Investment by a company or companies is capped at €12.7 million per annum. The shares must be retained for at least five years by the company, otherwise the relief may be withdrawn.
251 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Finance if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13271/06]
The Department of Finance, in common with all other Civil Service Departments and offices, fully implements the Government's policy on the employment of people with a disability.
The Deputy may wish to note that, as part of a review of policy on the employment of people with a disability in the Civil Service, my Department commissioned independent research into the operation of the 3% employment target. A survey carried out as part of this research, which was published as Employment and Career Progression of people with a disability in the Irish Civil Service, IPA 2002, shows that 7% of Civil Service staff have a disability compared with the 2% to 3% generally reported in the annual surveys. The consultants, therefore, concluded that the arrangements in regard to reporting disabilities needed to be addressed.
In the light of the consultants' recommendations, the Government approved proposals from the Minister for Finance to improve the operation of the existing policy. These included, first, the development, in conjunction with the staff unions, of a new code of practice for all Departments to support staff with a disability and, second, ensuring that the Civil Service continues to provide employment opportunities which might not otherwise exist for people with a disability.
The possible use of a survey based on voluntary self-disclosure both for new staff on appointment and for existing staff will be considered in discussion with the staff unions as part of the development of the code of practice. As this gives rise to complex issues about confidentiality and the use of information, specific guidelines on these matters are being examined as part of the new code of practice for the Civil Service. It is estimated that the percentage of staff in the Department of Finance with a disability currently stands at 2.85% based on reporting arrangements which as outlined above are under review.
252 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the range of duties and conditions that apply for the importation of new and second hand cars into the Republic from Great Britain and Northern Ireland; the number of motor vehicles imported in each of the past three years; the duties paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13289/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that vehicle registration tax, VRT, may be payable on the importation of a vehicle from Great Britain and Northern Ireland into the State.
As a general rule, all vehicles imported permanently into the State from Great Britain and Northern Ireland or elsewhere must register for VRT purposes within one working day of their arrival in the State. However, in practice, Revenue allows latitude of a maximum of seven days for registration. VRT is payable on the open market selling price, OMSP, of the vehicle which is the expected retail price of the vehicle in the State, inclusive of all taxes. Cars such as saloons, estates, hatchbacks, convertibles, coupes etc., and minibuses with less than 12 permanently fitted passenger seats are classified as category A vehicles for VRT and as such are charged VRT based on the engine size of the car using the following calculation: less than 1400 cc at 22.5% of OMSP; from 1401 to 1900 cc at 25% of OMSP; and 1901 cc and over at 30% of OMSP, subject to a minimum payment of €315.00. Car derived vans and crew cabs of less than 3,500 kg gross vehicle weight are charged at 13.3% of OMSP, while commercial and agricultural vehicles pay a flat rate of €50.00 regardless of OMSP.
These calculations are used for both new and second-hand cars, so that the VRT payable is based on the OMSP of the car on importation into the State. The OMSP for new cars is determined by the main motor distributors while the OMSP of second-hand cars is determined by the Revenue Commissioners, based on market surveys, study of trade magazines, personal contact with the trade and other relevant material. While the statistics sought with respect to used cars are available, as those registering must declare previous country of registration, such a declaration is not included as part of the process with respect to registration of new cars and consequently the same data for new cars are not available. Revenue confirmed that 6,220 second-hand cars were imported from the UK in 2003, 10,641 in 2004 and 24,994 in 2005. Separately, Revenue confirms that 798 second-hand cars were imported from Northern Ireland in 2003, 1,513 in 2004 and 8,883 in 2005. Appendix 1 provides details of all new and second-hand vehicles imported into Ireland for the years 2003, 2004 and 2005. The Deputy may wish to note that VAT is chargeable at the rate of 21% of the invoice price, and is payable at the time of registration for VRT purposes, on all "new means of transport". A "new means of transport" for VAT is a vehicle that is supplied six months or less after the first date of entry into service and has travelled less than 6,000 km. VAT is not chargeable where a vehicle is not a new means of transport and is imported from within the EU.
We are aware that there has been a growth in the number of used cars purchased in the UK and Northern Ireland and imported into the State in recent years. However, from our perspective, the monetary benefits, if any, of pursuing this option may be negligible as the requirement to pay VRT on importation is aimed at reflecting the price of a similar car in Ireland, the purchaser is exposed to currency risks and long-term issues may emerge for the purchaser with respect to after-sales service.
|
2003 |
New |
Used |
Total |
||||
|
Reg. |
€ |
Reg. |
€ |
Reg. |
€ |
||
|
Category A1 |
Cars up to 1400 cc |
72,217 |
234,971,315 |
3,877 |
2,389,244 |
76,094 |
237,360,559 |
|
Category A2 |
Cars 1401-1900 cc |
50,678 |
288,889,026 |
4,978 |
7,519,007 |
55,656 |
296,408,033 |
|
Category A3 |
Cars over 1900 cc |
22,511 |
254,668,283 |
5,773 |
18,275,929 |
28,284 |
272,944,212 |
|
Total A1, A2 and A3 |
145,406 |
778,528,624 |
14,628 |
28,184,180 |
160,034 |
806,712,804 |
|
|
Category B |
Car Derived Vans |
2,318 |
5,781,125 |
1,065 |
1,100,750 |
3,383 |
6,881,875 |
|
Category C |
Commercial Vehicles |
37,432 |
1,870,154 |
13,044 |
640,880 |
50,476 |
2,511,034 |
|
Category D |
Other Vehicles |
216 |
— |
95 |
— |
311 |
— |
|
Category M |
Motor Cycles |
5,020 |
2,259,892 |
3,933 |
1,084,140 |
8,953 |
3,344,032 |
|
Total Net Receipts |
788,439,795 |
31,009,950 |
819,449,745 |
|
2004 |
New |
Used |
Total |
||||
|
Reg. |
€ |
Reg. |
€ |
Reg. |
€ |
||
|
Category A1 |
Cars up to 1400 cc |
70,707 |
238,128,163 |
6,046 |
4,511,483 |
76,753 |
242,639,646 |
|
Category A2 |
Cars 1401-1900 cc |
58,828 |
343,062,874 |
8,715 |
18,130,459 |
67,543 |
361,193,332 |
|
Category A3 |
Cars over 1900 cc |
24,962 |
295,466,377 |
8,812 |
30,725,134 |
33,774 |
326,191,511 |
|
Total A1, A2 and A3 |
154,497 |
876,657,414 |
23,573 |
53,367,076 |
178,070 |
930,024,490 |
|
|
Category B |
Car Derived Vans |
3,100 |
8,549,311 |
1,428 |
1,616,041 |
4,528 |
10,165,352 |
|
Category C |
Commercial Vehicles |
37,315 |
1,868,471 |
15,469 |
764,350 |
52,784 |
2,632,821 |
|
Category D |
Other Vehicles |
323 |
— |
76 |
— |
399 |
— |
|
Category M |
Motor Cycles |
3,851 |
2,176,629 |
3,606 |
974,109 |
7,457 |
3,150,738 |
|
Total Net Receipts |
889,251,825 |
56,721,576 |
945,973,401 |
|
2005 (Provisional) |
New |
Used |
Total |
||||
|
Reg. |
€ |
Reg. |
€ |
Reg. |
€ |
||
|
Category A1 |
Cars up to 1400 cc |
74,625 |
263,550,370 |
11,306 |
10,592,975 |
85,931 |
274,143,345 |
|
Category A2 |
Cars 1401-1900 cc |
66,878 |
394,600,668 |
17,173 |
39,185,690 |
84,051 |
433,786,358 |
|
Category A3 |
Cars over 1900 cc |
30,378 |
369,427,620 |
13,322 |
50,812,760 |
43,700 |
420,240,380 |
|
Total A1, A2 and A3 |
171,881 |
1,027,578,658 |
41,801 |
100,591,425 |
213,682 |
1,128,170,083 |
|
|
Category B |
Car Derived Vans |
3,845 |
11,133,564 |
2,030 |
2,419,788 |
5,875 |
13,553,352 |
|
Category C |
Commercial Vehicles |
45,166 |
2,256,850 |
20,892 |
1,034,900 |
66,058 |
3,291,750 |
|
Category D |
Other Vehicles |
248 |
— |
131 |
— |
379 |
— |
|
Category M |
Motor Cycles |
3,142 |
2,200,984 |
3,806 |
1,131,463 |
6,948 |
3,332,447 |
|
Total Net Receipts |
1,043,170,056 |
105,177,576 |
1,148,347,632 |
Note: The registrations shown are gross i.e. they include those vehicle registrations which are exempt from VRT.
253 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that when the Army barracks in Ballincollig, County Cork, was sold off, a plot of ground of approximately one acre was retained as a site for a proposed new Garda station; if he has received an offer for this site from a developer in exchange for an alternative site in Ballincollig for the Garda station; if it is intended to accept this offer; if an independent valuation has been done of the two separate sites and if so, the respective values; if his attention has been drawn to the widespread local view that the original site is far preferable for a Garda station; if it is intended to proceed with the Garda station on the original site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13367/06]
Following the sale of the Army barracks in Ballincollig, County Cork, by the Department of Defence, a plot of land measuring approximately 0.5 acres was retained for the possible extension and refurbishment of Ballincollig Garda station. A local developer has also offered an alternative development proposal for a new Garda station in Ballincollig. It is hoped that a final decision will be made shortly, regarding the preferred option for the development of the new Garda station, in consultation with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda authorities.
254 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Finance the timescale for a decision on carbon taxation and emissions trading; his proposals for a re-distribution of receipts from such taxation to reduce the taxation levels on other eco-friendly practices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13377/06]
The climate change strategy says that, from 2002 onwards, taxes will begin to take into account the amounts of greenhouse gases produced in any activity. It is Government policy to take greenhouse gas emission into account when formulating or developing tax policy in any particular area.
In September 2004, the Government decided not to introduce a specific carbon tax, following a thorough examination of the issues involved, including how a carbon tax would be implemented and the associated environmental, economic and social impacts. In addition, my Department carried out an extensive consultation process in which 117 written submissions were received. Following this examination, the Government decided that a carbon tax was not an appropriate policy option and that, instead, it would intensify action on the other measures under the national climate change strategy. The Government concluded that the environmental benefits of a carbon tax would not justify the difficulties that would arise, particularly for households, from the introduction of such a tax. In this respect, the carbon energy tax would have imposed price increases on many products already suffering sharp increases, particularly as a result of increases in international oil prices. While a carbon tax would have involved a range of compensatory measures, these would not fully address the adverse economic and social effects arising. Moreover, a carbon tax would apply to products which are in the main already subject to excise duties and where a new tax is not necessary to increase tax rates.
The carbon energy tax was just one possible element of the Government's approach to meeting Ireland's commitments under the Kyoto Protocol to which the Government remains fully committed. Taxation can play a part in attaining environmental objectives. However, as Minister for Finance, I am concerned to ensure that, in developing policy on tax measures, we take into account any effects on Ireland's international competitiveness, particularly in regard to non-EU countries which compete with us and which may have low taxes on energy. I am also concerned in framing policy about the effect that the imposition of such taxes may have on the consumer price index and how they could impact on the less well off members of our community.
Apart from the carbon tax, the national climate change strategy envisages other initiatives in the tax area with one such example being tax reliefs for "green initiatives". This approach uses the tax system to provide incentives for certain behaviour. In this regard, I would refer the Deputy to the significant biofuels excise relief scheme which I announced in the budget and for which provision has been made in Finance Act 2006, which has recently completed its passage through the Dáil and Seanad. The Act also provides a new 50% VRT relief to promote new flexible fuel vehicles — cars designed to operate on biofuels — for an initial period of two years. Emissions trading is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
256 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Finance his views on allowing tax refunds on all donations to schools rather than confining such refunds to donations above €250; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13561/06]
The Finance Act 2001 introduced a new scheme of tax relief on donations made by either individuals or corporate bodies to eligible charities and other approved bodies, including first and second level schools and third level institutions, including universities. The minimum qualifying donation for relief purposes to an eligible charity or approved body is €250 per annum. Amending the scheme to allow tax relief on all donations rather than on donations of €250 and over, as the Deputy has proposed, would significantly increase the current cost of the scheme to the Exchequer. The relief is already very generous. There is no upper limit on the amount which can be donated generally and relief is granted at the donor's marginal rate of income tax. Donations can be cumulative, so that a donation of just €5 per week over the course of a year would qualify, for example.
As the Deputy will be aware, the donations scheme was one of the tax reliefs examined as part of last year's overall review of tax reliefs and exemptions. The review concluded that the €250 minimum threshold is serving its purpose and should be retained at its current level, subject to ongoing review. I agree with this conclusion. The Deputy may wish to note that the full textof the review can be found on the Departmentof Finance's website at www.finance.gov.ie/ documents/publications/other/revtaxreliefsvol3.pdf.
257 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the local authority requires a foreshore licence for its proposal to locate a new slipway at a location (details supplied) in County Mayo. [13252/06]
264 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the local authority sought permission for its proposal to locate a new slipway in County Mayo; if there was an existing slipway at that location; if the local authority requires a foreshore licence for this work; if the proposed development is in keeping with the area; and if public consultation is necessary for the proposal. [13251/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 257 and 264 together.
The Department has not received an application from Mayo County Council for authorisation under the foreshore Acts for the development of a new slipway at the location in question, and understands from inquiries it has made of the county council that it has no proposals for such a development. I understand the county council is undertaking certain works of maintenance and repair to an existing slipway at the location concerned.
258 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount of fishery rates demanded of salmon fishery owners; the amount of fishery rates awarded; and the unpaid arrears of fishery rates in respect of each of the years 2003, 2004 and 2005 and in respect of each of the seven regional fisheries boards. [12859/06]
Fishery rates are imposed and collected by the regional fisheries boards on the occupier of the fishery, thus forming part of the boards' resources. The rates struck by the boards are subject to confirmation by the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, with or without modification as he thinks proper, section 55(1), Fisheries (Consolidation) Act 1959 as amended by paragraph 1(d) of the Fourth Schedule to the Fisheries Act 1980 and further modified by the Fisheries (Alteration of Fishery Year) Order 1982, SI No. 328 of 1982.
The rates of increase are based on the recommendation of each regional fisheries board and are generally in line with or greater than the annual rate of inflation as set out in the consumer price index for the previous year. The rate of inflation for the year 2005 according to the Central Statistics Office was 2.5%. In November 2005 each of the regional fisheries boards was asked to propose a rate for 2006. Rates proposed by each board are set out below:
|
Board |
Existing Rates |
Proposed 2006 Rate |
% Increase |
|
€ |
€ |
% |
|
|
ERFB |
13.80 |
14.20 |
2.8 |
|
SRFB |
18.80 |
18.30 |
-2.7 |
|
SWRFB |
17.50 |
17.70 |
1.1 |
|
WRFB |
14.70 |
15.29 |
4 |
|
SHRFB |
24.30 |
25.03 |
3 |
|
NWRFB |
31.00 |
32.00 |
3 |
|
NRFB |
21.30 |
22.05 |
3.5 |
The rates 2006 were adopted in line with the boards' proposals with the exception of the SRFB and SWRFB. The rate for SRFB was set at €19.27 and for the SWRFB at €17.94, which is a 2.5% increase. I have no function in relation to the rateable valuations on which the rates are levied and once the fishery rates are set for a particular year, I have no further function in their collection. The collection of fishery rates and the pursuit of arrears is a day-to-day operational matter for the boards.
259 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the grants available to persons wishing to install environmentally friendly wood burners or wood pellet burners when improving their home; his plans to offer more incentives to people willing to invest in these systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12862/06]
On 26 March the Department launched the greener homes grant aid package for the domestic sector which includes funding for wood chip and wood pellet boilers and stoves, solar and heat pump technologies. The following grants are available for wood chip and wood pellet boilers and stoves.
|
Technology |
Grant Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
Wood Chip or Wood Pellet Boilers |
4,200 |
|
Wood Chip or Wood Pellet Stoves |
1,100 |
|
Wood Chip or Wood Pellet Stoves with Back Boiler |
1,800 |
The level of grant aid reflects the Government's commitment to actively encourage people to install renewable heat technology in their homes and the programme will be monitored closely to ensure that this objective is achieved.
260 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the discussions he has had with An Post management in the past six months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12931/06]
In the last six months I have met An Post management twice to discuss various issues that relate to the safeguarding of shareholder interests. Additionally, officials in my Department continue to meet An Post management on a regular basis to discuss ongoing issues in the company.
261 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his responsibilities regarding An Post. [13160/06]
My responsibilities regarding An Post are as set out in the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983 and in the memorandum and articles of the company. My responsibilities are also to ensure that the corporate governance guidelines for semi-State bodies are adhered to and that the shareholder interests in the company are protected. In accordance with the 1983 Act, I have appointed a board and management team at An Post to deal directly with the day-to-day operational matters of the company.
262 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the initiatives he is undertaking to promote the use of biofuels and other renewable energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13226/06]
The Government introduced a scheme for mineral oil tax relief for biofuels under the Finance Act 2004, which was launched in April 2005. Eight projects have been awarded excise relief for a two year period under the scheme including four pure plant oil, three biodiesel or other biofuel and one bioethanol proposal. It is estimated that the pilot scheme will result in 16 million litres of biofuels being placed on the Irish transport market by next year.
Building on the success of the pilot biofuels scheme, the Department has agreed with the Minister for Finance a further targeted package of excise relief valued at €205 million, which was announced in the budget. The new excise relief programme, which is subject to State-aid approval, will be rolled out from this year to 2010 and will enable us to reach the initial target of 2% market penetration of biofuels by 2008. When fully operational, the relief is expected to support the use and production of some 163 million litres of biofuels each year. The Department is also providing funding towards the capital cost of developing biofuels processing facilities, which will critically underpin the excise relief package.
The multi-annual financial package for renewables announced in the 2006 budget included a grant aid package for the domestic sector, which the Department launched on 25 March. This package will provide for individual grants to install renewable energy heat technologies including wood pellet boilers, solar panels and geothermal heat pumps. A financial package for wood chip and wood pellet boilers, aimed at the business, commercial and service sectors, along with a grant aid package to incentivise the installation of combined heat and power in the industrial, commercial and public services sector was also included in the budget package. The Department, in conjunction with Sustainable Energy Ireland, is developing the necessary detailed measures to roll out these other programmes.
The Department also proposes to change the support mechanism for renewable energy projects from competitive tendering to a new fixed price tariff system. The draft terms and conditions of the proposed renewable energy feed in tariff or REFIT programme have been the subject of public consultation and the views received have usefully informed the shape of the programme. The Department is currently in consultations with the Office of the Attorney General regarding drafting of the new arrangements and I expect to be in a position to launch the REFIT programme in the near future.
263 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the financial situation at An Post; the reason for the details of the forensic auditors’ report being withheld; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11719/06]
With respect to the financial situation at the company, I expect that following the company's AGM on 27 April I will be in a position to present its audited accounts before the Oireachtas. The developments earlier this year at the company where the parties have accepted the Labour Court recommendations of 22 November last, leading to a resolution to the industrial relations difficulties at An Post, are most welcome. I understand that as both parties have signed off on the implementation plan, implementation of the recovery strategy in line with the Labour Court's recommendation has commenced.
265 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13272/06]
The policy in relation to the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service is the responsibility of the Minister for Finance and a target of 3% has been set for such recruitment. Current data show that 5.4% of staff in my Department has a disability. As part of my Department's achieving potential through equality and diversity action plan 2004-2006 our goal is to maintain and enhance existing compliance with the Government's employment target of 3% for staff with disability, including temporary recruitment.
My Department is supporting the willing able mentoring or WAM project — placements for graduates with disabilities — this summer. The project aims to give between three and six months' quality work experience to graduates with disabilities. My Department has previously employed a person with disabilities under a scheme to cover term time.
266 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the reason figures for lobster fishermen are taken from where they are sold rather than where they are caught; if this situation will be changed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13303/06]
While the landing figures for lobster catches are taken from the buyers at the time of sale, this information includes the port of landing for the vessel that landed the catch. The reason is that the majority of boats that fish for lobster are under ten metres in length, and consequently are not required to submit logsheets to the Department. The catch figure is subsequently allocated to the relevant port so that the statistics accurately reflect the ports where the catch is landed. For example, the Department's records show that there were 15 tonnes of lobster landed into Achill in 2003 and 12 tonnes in 2004. There are no plans at present to change this procedure.
267 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when the compilation of statistics on the landings of Irish vessels of quota species in ports here and abroad in each of the past five years as well as the quotas that applied in each year for these species will be available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13366/06]
The following is the information sought by the Deputy. It is regretted that it was not possible to provide the information earlier but additional time was required to ensure that a comprehensive and detailed statistical response could be collated for all elements of the Deputy's previous questions on this matter.
My Department has compiled the requested fisheries statistics on the landings, both volume and value, of Irish fishing vessels of quota species into Irish ports and into non-national ports for each of the past five years as well as the quotas that applied for these fish species. These fishery statistics are presented in the following appendices.
Appendix one consists of five separate tables with the quotas for each fish species that applied for that year and the quantity of each species of fish caught and landed by Irish fishing vessels into Irish ports and into non-national ports; this is broken down into other member states and non-EU countries.
Appendix two consists of five separate tables that present data on the total volume and value for each species landed for each year.
The following advisory notes will assist the Deputy's understanding of the fisheries statistics. The stock area defined in each of the tables is by definition a geographical area within which a catch allocation is made for an individual fish species. The geographical scope of a stock area is usually composed of one or more ICES sub-areas. The defined stock areas are subject to change from year to year and as a result direct correlation of the data from one year to the next is not possible in all cases.
The data contained in these tables of fisheries statistics are the officially recorded statistics as reported to the European Commission. The data presented are accurate at the time of my reply but it should be noted that some of these officially reported statistics may be subject to change depending on the outcome of a number of investigations currently being carried out. With regard to the value of fish landed into non-national ports this has had to be estimated as there is no reporting requirement within the European framework for the reporting of fishery statistics to include the value of landed catches The value applied to fish landed into Ireland by Irish fishing vessels is based on an estimated average price at the time of landing.
In appendix one the data are displayed in the following format: column one identifies the fish species. Column two identifies the stock area within which the quota allocation has been made. Column three contains the quota, adjusted following swop arrangements with fellow member states, allocated to Ireland for that species in that year. Column four contains details of the volume of fish landed by Irish fishing vessels into Irish ports. Column five contains details of the volume of fish landed by Irish fishing vessels into non-national ports. Column six contains details of the volume of fish landed by Irish fishing vessels into ports outside the EU.
In appendix two the data are displayed in the following format. Column one contains details of the fish species for which there has been a quota allocation. Column two contains details of the volume, expressed in live weight, of the fish landed. Column three contains details of value of the landings using the national average price per tonne in euro for that species. Column four contains the total estimated value at first sale for each species.
At the bottom of each table in appendix two the total estimated value for all quota species caught and landed by Irish fishing vessels during the year is recorded.
|
Table one: Irish quotas and landings into Ireland and other countries during 2001 |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Species |
Stock area |
Quota |
Ireland |
Non-national |
3rd Country |
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
ANO5N |
2,247 |
1,977 |
27 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
07. |
2,469 |
2,221 |
152 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
561214 |
640 |
497 |
46 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
07A. |
845 |
713 |
37 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
561214 |
733 |
285 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
5BC6A |
555 |
81 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
7X7A34 |
1,279 |
1,270 |
13 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1/2B |
0 |
0 |
0 |
57 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1N2AB |
203 |
0 |
0 |
197 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
07A/MM |
1,800 |
862 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4AB |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4CXB7D |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
5B6ANB |
5,390 |
4,995 |
27 |
42 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
6AS7BC |
12,640 |
12,403 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
7GK. |
17,290 |
13,897 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
2A5B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2. |
6,100 |
0 |
3,382 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2INT |
6,670 |
0 |
3,382 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2 FRO |
0 |
0 |
3,382 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NJM |
0 |
0 |
3,382 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NEZ |
0 |
0 |
3,382 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
04A-C. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2A34- |
0 |
4,568 |
608 |
5,062 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2CX14- |
71,057 |
28,458 |
18,185 |
13,858 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
3A/4BC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
8ABD. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
06AN56. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
51,214 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
4 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
56712- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
245- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
67- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
2AC4-C |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
1CX14- |
31,110 |
26,372 |
274 |
3,116 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
571,214 |
31,110 |
26,372 |
274 |
3,116 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
5BCX14 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
05B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07A. |
140 |
64 |
55 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07D. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07E. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
561,214 |
95 |
24 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7BC. |
67 |
53 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7FG. |
30 |
30 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7HJK. |
290 |
115 |
11 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
571214 |
1,144 |
1,002 |
92 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
07A. |
797 |
366 |
48 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
561214 |
650 |
173 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7BC. |
170 |
67 |
2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7DE. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7FG. |
46 |
44 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7HJK. |
530 |
156 |
3 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
3/4- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
567- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
07A. |
1,149 |
531 |
16 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
561214 |
1,640 |
997 |
1 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
5BC6A. |
1,220 |
660 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
6B1214 |
451 |
340 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7/3411 |
3,660 |
3,545 |
40 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7X7A34 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
1N2AB- |
41 |
0 |
0 |
43 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
2AC4-C |
1,950 |
430 |
60 |
50 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
578/14 |
55,010 |
38,446 |
13,729 |
2,436 |
|
LING |
6X14 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
07. |
777 |
2,540 |
215 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
561,214 |
555 |
558 |
3 |
0 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
AE045W |
0 |
6 |
0 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
07. |
6,965 |
6,783 |
176 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
5BC6. |
155 |
97 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
06- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
07- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
07. |
1,300 |
1,102 |
27 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
561214 |
150 |
108 |
0 |
0 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
5B67- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
2A34- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
561214 |
318 |
397 |
10 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7X1034 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
1N2AB- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7/3411 |
1,685 |
1,539 |
33 |
0 |
|
SWORDFISH |
AN05N |
0 |
7 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
1/214- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
567- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
07A. |
620 |
467 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
561214 |
1,160 |
663 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
7X7A. |
5,414 |
5187 |
18 |
0 |
|
Species |
Stock area |
Quota |
Ireland |
Non-national |
3rd Country |
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
ANO5N |
3,158 |
1,016 |
40.2 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
07. |
2,316 |
2,085 |
230.6 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
561214 |
508 |
380 |
27.7 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
07A. |
1,296 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
561214 |
1,025 |
225 |
2.2 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
5BC6A |
600 |
207 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
7X7A34 |
900 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1/2B |
0 |
0 |
0 |
91 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1N2AB |
203 |
0 |
0 |
187 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
07A/MM |
1,250 |
486 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4AB |
0 |
0 |
773 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4CXB7D |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
5B6ANB |
4,873 |
3,229 |
161 |
306 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
6AS7BC |
13,617 |
12,143 |
1,100 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
7GK. |
11,235 |
10,505 |
200 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
2A5B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2. |
6,370 |
0 |
0 |
1,699 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2INT |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1,699 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2 FRO |
650 |
0 |
0 |
1,699 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NJM |
1,700 |
0 |
0 |
1,699 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NEZ |
1,160 |
0 |
0 |
1,699 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
04A-C. |
22,400 |
2,973 |
512 |
11,177 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2A34- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2CX14- |
73,047 |
32,936 |
19,592 |
5,112 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
3A/4BC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
8ABD. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
06AN56. |
0 |
31,193 |
0 |
3,297 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
51,214 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
56712- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
245- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
67- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
2AC4-C |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
1CX14- |
17,165 |
9,966 |
0 |
7,784 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
571214 |
0 |
9,966 |
0 |
7,784 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
5BCX14 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
05B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07A. |
99 |
53 |
51 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07D. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07E. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
561214 |
100 |
25 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7BC. |
65 |
50 |
1 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7FG. |
35 |
33 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7HJK. |
205 |
129 |
13 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
571214 |
899 |
668 |
130 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
07A. |
487 |
323 |
76 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
561214 |
630 |
144 |
2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7BC. |
144 |
51 |
2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7DE. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7FG. |
89 |
79 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7HJK. |
299 |
155 |
2 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
3/4- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
567- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
07A. |
528 |
396 |
8 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
561214 |
1,535 |
876 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
5BC6A. |
1,393 |
670 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
6B1214 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7/3411 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7X7A34 |
2,209 |
2,167 |
29 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
1N2AB- |
52 |
0 |
0 |
38 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
2AC4-C |
1,950 |
0 |
0 |
51 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
578/14 |
36,596 |
26,254 |
6,644 |
528 |
|
LING |
6X14 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
07. |
2,550 |
365 |
1 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
561214 |
565 |
2,277 |
237 |
0 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
AE045W |
0 |
15 |
35 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
07. |
6,944 |
6,681 |
237 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
5BC6. |
123 |
110 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
06- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
07- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
07. |
1,318 |
1,307 |
7 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
561214 |
155 |
26 |
0 |
0 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
5B67- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
2A34- |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
561214 |
417 |
88 |
2 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7X1034 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
1N2AB- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7/3411 |
2,450 |
1,258 |
8 |
0 |
|
SWORDFISH |
AN05N |
0 |
5 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
1/214- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
567- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
07A. |
4,990 |
374 |
1 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
561214 |
1,029 |
577 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
7X7A. |
8,714 |
5,691 |
19 |
0 |
|
Species |
Stock area |
Quota |
Ireland |
Non-national |
3rd Country |
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
ANO5N |
3,320 |
470 |
0 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
07. |
1,770 |
1,619 |
149.8 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
561214 |
346 |
330 |
24.2 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
07A. |
954 |
635 |
24.7 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
561214 |
357 |
104 |
3.1 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
5BC6A |
0 |
95 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
7X7A34 |
680 |
652 |
6.3 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1/2B |
0 |
0 |
11.4 |
70 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1N2AB |
227 |
0 |
0 |
218 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
07A/MM |
1,250 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4AB |
0 |
0 |
0 |
77 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4CXB7D |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
5B6ANB |
4,382 |
3,131 |
608 |
65 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
6AS7BC |
13,157 |
12,265 |
857 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
7GK. |
11,235 |
11,115 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
2A5B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2. |
1,405 |
0 |
0 |
1,401 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2INT |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1,401 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2 FRO |
544 |
0 |
0 |
1,401 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NJM |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1,401 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NEZ |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1,401 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
04A-C. |
0 |
2,174 |
0 |
7,882 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2A34- |
0 |
0 |
7,049 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2CX14- |
67,307 |
38,639 |
8,452.5 |
544 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
3A/4BC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
8ABD. |
0 |
0 |
12 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
06AN56. |
0 |
0 |
12 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
51,214 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
56712- |
160 |
160 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
245- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
67- |
51 |
30 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
2AC4-C |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
1CX14- |
0 |
3,253 |
3,616 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
571214 |
17,165 |
3,253 |
3,616 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
5BCX14 |
0 |
0 |
5 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
05B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07A. |
108 |
75 |
29.3 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07D. |
0 |
0 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07E. |
0 |
0 |
0.1 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
561214 |
85 |
26 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7BC. |
60 |
49 |
0.9 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7FG. |
39 |
31 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7HJK. |
109 |
86 |
20.4 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
571214 |
1,114 |
895 |
144.4 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
07A. |
543 |
459 |
77.1 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
561214 |
559 |
149 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7BC. |
126 |
56 |
0.7 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7DE. |
1 |
0 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7FG. |
55 |
50 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7HJK. |
215 |
124 |
2.4 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
3/4- |
10 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
567- |
441 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
2AC4. |
0 |
220 |
3.1 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
07A. |
0 |
220 |
3.1 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
561214 |
1,321 |
665 |
2.3 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
5BC6A. |
0 |
496 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
6B1214 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7/3411 |
2,125 |
1,868 |
24.5 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7X7A34 |
0 |
60 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
1N2AB- |
18 |
0 |
0 |
17 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
2AC4-C |
891 |
0 |
0 |
94 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
578/14 |
35,596 |
24,361 |
11,034.1 |
0 |
|
LING |
6X14 |
1,164 |
1,104 |
57.6 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
07. |
2,452 |
2,056 |
145.9 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
561214 |
565 |
410 |
20.1 |
0 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
AE045W |
0 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
07. |
6,695 |
6,519 |
161 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
5BC6. |
153 |
145 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
06- |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
07- |
300 |
172 |
0 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
07. |
1,298 |
1,154 |
8.9 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
561214 |
124 |
87 |
0 |
0 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
5B67- |
346 |
59 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
2A34- |
0 |
166 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
561214 |
415 |
166 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7X1034 |
2,450 |
766 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
1N2AB- |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7/3411 |
0 |
20 |
0 |
0 |
|
SWORDFISH |
AN05N |
0 |
5 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
1/214- |
1 |
0 |
0.1 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
567- |
49 |
43 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
07A. |
268 |
265 |
0.4 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
561214 |
582 |
570 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
7X7A. |
8,714 |
4,541 |
22.2 |
0 |
|
Species |
Stock area |
Quota |
Ireland |
Non-national |
3rd Country |
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
ANO5N |
5,216 |
96 |
0.6 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
07. |
2,032 |
1,915 |
131 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
561214 |
251 |
204 |
19.5 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
07A. |
940 |
372 |
9.2 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
561214 |
166 |
40 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
5BC6A |
0 |
33 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
7X7A34 |
799 |
599 |
2.6 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1/2B |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1N2AB |
256 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
07A/MM |
1,250 |
779 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4AB |
23 |
0 |
22.1 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4CXB7D |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
5B6ANB |
3,104 |
1,864 |
1,001.9 |
13 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
6AS7BC |
14,000 |
13,538 |
163 |
68 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
7GK. |
11,235 |
11,100 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
2A5B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2. |
833 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2INT |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2 FRO |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NJM |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NEZ |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
04A-C. |
0 |
871 |
5,949.3 |
11,058 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2A34- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2CX14- |
63,593 |
25,018 |
13,665.6 |
6,360 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
3A/4BC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
8ABD. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
06AN56. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
51,214 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
56712- |
130 |
150 |
0.3 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
245- |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
67- |
22 |
19 |
2 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
2AC4-C |
30 |
0 |
30 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
1CX14- |
0 |
21,224 |
18,016.2 |
8,056 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
571214 |
71,874 |
21,224 |
18,016.2 |
8,056 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
5BCX14 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
05B-F |
0 |
811 |
0 |
843.5 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07A. |
98 |
41 |
45.8 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07D. |
1 |
0 |
0.3 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07E. |
1 |
0 |
0.1 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
561214 |
68 |
22 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7BC. |
52 |
48 |
0.3 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7FG. |
33 |
32 |
0.4 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7HJK. |
118 |
96 |
21.2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
571214 |
1,109 |
951 |
118.6 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
07A. |
366 |
255 |
107.1 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
561214 |
447 |
62 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7BC. |
137 |
39 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7DE. |
1 |
0 |
0.3 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7FG. |
44 |
44 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7HJK. |
163 |
88 |
2.1 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
3/4- |
46 |
0 |
35.5 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
567- |
441 |
0 |
46 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
2AC4. |
0 |
293 |
3.3 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
07A. |
0 |
293 |
3.3 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
561214 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
5BC6A. |
1,010 |
194 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
6B1214 |
55 |
19 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7/3411 |
1,981 |
1,694 |
15.7 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7X7A34 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
1N2AB- |
45 |
0 |
0 |
34 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
2AC4-C |
1,546 |
0 |
6 |
7 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
578/14 |
34,707 |
30,521 |
6,124.4 |
0 |
|
LING |
6X14 |
1,502 |
1,208 |
39.1 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
07. |
2,996 |
2,164 |
122 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
561214 |
466 |
318 |
2.8 |
0 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
AE045W |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
07. |
6,601 |
6,513 |
179.6 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
5BC6. |
173 |
150 |
12.2 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
06- |
3 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
07- |
300 |
188 |
0 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
07. |
1,298 |
1,040 |
10 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
561214 |
99 |
68 |
0 |
0 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
5B67- |
146 |
52 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
2A34- |
0 |
94 |
0.8 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
561214 |
478 |
94 |
0.8 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7X1034 |
1,960 |
623 |
2 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
1N2AB- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7/3411 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SWORDFISH |
AN05N |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
1/214- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
567- |
49 |
48 |
0 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
07A. |
286 |
96 |
0.9 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
561214 |
466 |
358 |
0.9 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
7X7A. |
7,507 |
4,336 |
6.1 |
0 |
|
Species |
Stock area |
Quota |
Ireland |
Non-national |
3rd Country |
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
ANO5N |
5,723 |
16.7 |
304.1 |
0 |
|
ALFONSINO |
3X12- |
10 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
07. |
2,653 |
2,376 |
209.2 |
0.1 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
561214 |
496 |
369.2 |
37.5 |
0.8 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
07A. |
1,116 |
213.8 |
7.8 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
561214 |
109 |
40 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
5BC6A |
0 |
19.6 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
7X7A34 |
820 |
801.2 |
18.3 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1/2B |
0 |
18.6 |
0 |
51 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1N2AB |
256 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
07A/MM |
1,160 |
1,153 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4AB |
1,700 |
298.4 |
404.2 |
653.6 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
4CXB7D |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
5B6ANB |
3,174 |
1,930 |
937.3 |
25.6 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
6AS7BC |
14,000 |
13,702 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
7GK. |
11,236 |
10,364 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
2A5B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2. |
52 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2INT |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2 FRO |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NJM |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
1/2NEZ |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
04A-C. |
13,918 |
314.7 |
5,481.8 |
10,250.9 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2A34- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
2CX14- |
31,931 |
16,660 |
14,958.4 |
4,760.7 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
3A/4BC |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
8ABD. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
06AN56. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
51214 |
4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
56712- |
97 |
78.2 |
0.8 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
245- |
9 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE LING |
67- |
34 |
10.7 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
2AC4-C |
0 |
0 |
30 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
1CX14- |
0 |
21,224 |
18,016.2 |
8,056 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
571214 |
79,393 |
47,249 |
18,557.9 |
4,222.2 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
5BCX14 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
05B-F |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07A. |
92 |
56 |
30.7 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07D. |
1 |
0 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
07E. |
0 |
0 |
0.1 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
561214 |
54 |
15.3 |
0 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7BC. |
55 |
37.6 |
0.4 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7FG. |
36 |
31.4 |
2.7 |
0 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
7HJK. |
238 |
76.7 |
21.1 |
0 |
|
DEEP-WATER SHARKS |
56789- |
358 |
224.2 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
571214 |
1,118 |
932.9 |
116.3 |
0.1 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
07A. |
371 |
234.3 |
40.5 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
561214 |
358 |
45.9 |
0 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7BC. |
127 |
24.7 |
0.3 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7DE. |
1 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7FG. |
92 |
43.3 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
7HJK. |
204 |
88.8 |
1 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
3/4- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
567- |
375 |
0 |
18.4 |
0 |
|
GREATER FORKBEARD |
567- |
260 |
182.5 |
0.7 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
2AC4. |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
07A. |
0 |
76.2 |
0.4 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
561214 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
5BC6A. |
598 |
1 |
0.4 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
6B1214 |
107 |
104.6 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7/3411 |
2,485 |
2,158 |
24.6 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
7X7A34 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
HADDOCK |
1N2AB- |
55 |
0 |
0 |
45 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
2AC4-C |
1,449 |
1,432 |
0 |
5.4 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
578/14 |
33,542 |
25,203 |
6,242.9 |
2,550 |
|
LING |
6X14 |
1,102 |
899.5 |
32.6 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
07. |
3,189 |
2,043 |
196.6 |
0 |
|
MEGRIMS |
561214 |
373 |
220.8 |
4.7 |
0.2 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
AE045W |
0 |
0 |
0.5 |
0 |
|
BIG EYE TUNA |
ATLANT |
0 |
0 |
32.7 |
0 |
|
NEPHROPS |
07. |
7,302 |
6,829 |
183.8 |
13.2 |
|
NEPHROPS |
5BC6. |
192 |
152.8 |
1.4 |
1 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
06- |
10 |
5.5 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
07- |
255 |
90 |
0 |
0 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
1X14- |
3 |
0.4 |
0 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
07. |
1,298 |
722.9 |
3.1 |
0 |
|
POLLOCK |
561214 |
79 |
27.2 |
0 |
0 |
|
RED SEA BREAM |
678- |
9 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
5B67- |
341 |
71.3 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
2A34- |
0 |
94 |
0.8 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
561214 |
494 |
160.8 |
1.4 |
6 |
|
SAITHE |
7X1034 |
1,568 |
384.3 |
7.5 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
1N2AB- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SAITHE |
7/3411 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
SWORDFISH |
AN05N |
0 |
0 |
1.3 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
1/214- |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
TUSK |
567- |
39 |
33.6 |
1 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
07A. |
286 |
92.5 |
0.2 |
0 |
|
WHITING |
561214 |
478 |
172.5 |
5.1 |
2.1 |
|
WHITING |
7X7A. |
6,006 |
5,761 |
6.7 |
0 |
|
Table one: 2001 official recorded figures for Irish fishing vessels landing into Ireland and other countries |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Species |
Tonnes |
Price/Tonne |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
2,004.0 |
2,221 |
4,450,884 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
2,916.0 |
3,780 |
11,022,480 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
6.0 |
6,500 |
39,000 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
2,653.0 |
3,017 |
8,004,101 |
|
HADDOCK |
6,173.0 |
1,564 |
9,654,572 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
49,136.0 |
267 |
13,119,312 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
1,094.0 |
4,185 |
4,578,390 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
55,151.0 |
328 |
18,089,528 |
|
MEGRIMS |
3,316.0 |
2,982 |
9,888,312 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
70,739.0 |
501 |
35,440,239 |
|
NEPHROPS |
7,056.0 |
4,548 |
32,090,688 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
859.0 |
3,071 |
2,637,989 |
|
SAITHE |
1,979.0 |
984 |
1,947,336 |
|
POLLOCK |
1,237.0 |
1,856 |
2,295,872 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
352.0 |
11,936 |
4,201,472 |
|
SWORDFISH |
7.0 |
4,200 |
29,400 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
59,524.0 |
95 |
5,654,780 |
|
WHITING |
6,335.0 |
1,287 |
8,153,145 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
4.0 |
1,200 |
4,800 |
|
Total Value |
€171,302,300 |
|
Species |
Tonnes |
Price/Tonne |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
1,056.2 |
1,861 |
1,965,588 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
2,723.3 |
3,226 |
8,785,366 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
50.0 |
6,500 |
325,000 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
712.4 |
2,269 |
1,616,436 |
|
HADDOCK |
4,185.0 |
1,344 |
5,624,640 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
37,398.0 |
210 |
7,853,580 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
798.0 |
3,440 |
2,745,120 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
33,477.0 |
299 |
10,009,623 |
|
MEGRIMS |
2,880.0 |
2,954 |
8,507,520 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
106,792.0 |
541 |
57,774,472 |
|
NEPHROPS |
7,028.0 |
4,790 |
33,664,120 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
834.0 |
2,653 |
2,212,602 |
|
SAITHE |
1,358.0 |
1,308 |
1,776,264 |
|
POLLOCK |
1,340.0 |
1,694 |
2,269,960 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
355.0 |
11,372 |
4,037,060 |
|
SWORDFISH |
5.0 |
4,600 |
23,000 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
35,500.0 |
68 |
2,414,000 |
|
WHITING |
6,662.0 |
819 |
5,456,178 |
|
Total Value |
€157,060,529 |
|
Species |
Tonnes |
Price/Tonne |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
470.0 |
3,500 |
1,645,000 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
2,123.0 |
3,042 |
6,458,166 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
2.0 |
6,500 |
13,000 |
|
BLUE LING |
30.0 |
894 |
26,820 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
160.0 |
900 |
144,000 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
7,719.5 |
2,845 |
21,961,978 |
|
HADDOCK |
3,579.0 |
1,924 |
6,885,996 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
35,123.0 |
230 |
8,078,290 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
1,039.4 |
3,500 |
3,637,900 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
35,489.1 |
225 |
7,985,048 |
|
MEGRIMS |
2,632.0 |
3,151 |
8,293,432 |
|
LING |
1,161.6 |
833 |
967,613 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
64,764.5 |
417 |
27,006,797 |
|
NEPHROPS |
6,825.0 |
3,250 |
22,181,250 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
173.0 |
1,285 |
222,305 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
918.4 |
1,909 |
1,753,226 |
|
SAITHE |
1,120.2 |
677 |
758,375 |
|
POLLOCK |
1,249.9 |
936 |
1,169,906 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
59.0 |
900 |
53,100 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
318.2 |
9,586 |
3,050,265 |
|
SWORDFISH |
5.0 |
4,989 |
24,945 |
|
TUSK |
43.1 |
796 |
34,308 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
13,743.0 |
101 |
1,388,043 |
|
WHITING |
5,398.6 |
831 |
4,486,237 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
55.7 |
1,770 |
98,660 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
1.0 |
120 |
120 |
|
Total Value |
€128,324,778 |
|
Species |
Tonnes |
Price/Tonne |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
96.6 |
3,499 |
338,003 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
2,269.5 |
3,134 |
7,112,613 |
|
BLUE LING |
21.0 |
869 |
18,249 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
150.3 |
961 |
144,438 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1,056.3 |
2,884 |
3,046,369 |
|
HADDOCK |
2,549.3 |
1,945 |
4,958,389 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
28,549.0 |
199 |
5,681,251 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
1,069.6 |
3,126 |
3,343,570 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
36,658.4 |
190 |
6,965,096 |
|
MEGRIMS |
2,606.8 |
3,256 |
8,487,741 |
|
LING |
1,247.1 |
812 |
1,012,645 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
62,921.9 |
435 |
27,371,027 |
|
NEPHROPS |
6,854.8 |
3,200 |
21,935,360 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
189.0 |
1,133 |
214,137 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
597.9 |
1,931 |
1,154,545 |
|
SAITHE |
814.6 |
684 |
557,186 |
|
POLLOCK |
1,118.0 |
910 |
1,017,380 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
52.0 |
900 |
46,800 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
307.1 |
11,868 |
3,644,663 |
|
SWORDFISH |
1.0 |
4,963 |
4,963 |
|
TUSK |
48.0 |
796 |
38,208 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
96,276.9 |
100 |
9,627,690 |
|
WHITING |
4,797.9 |
842 |
4,039,832 |
|
ATLANTIC REDFISHES |
3.3 |
1,157 |
3,853 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
81.5 |
120 |
9,780 |
|
Total Value |
€110,773,787 |
|
Species |
Tonnes |
Price/Tonne |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
ALBACORE TUNA |
320.8 |
3,500 |
1,122,800 |
|
ANGLERFISHES |
2,992.3 |
3,920 |
11,729,816 |
|
BLUEFIN TUNA |
0.5 |
6,500 |
3,250 |
|
BLUE LING |
11.2 |
1,000 |
11,200 |
|
BLACK SCABBARDFISH |
79.0 |
1,000 |
79,000 |
|
ATLANTIC COD |
1,170.3 |
2,738 |
3,204,281 |
|
GREATER FORKBEARD |
183.2 |
1,000 |
183,200 |
|
HADDOCK |
2,410.2 |
2,128 |
5,128,906 |
|
ATLANTIC HERRING |
29,468.6 |
210 |
6,188,406 |
|
EUROPEAN HAKE |
1,049.3 |
3,560 |
3,735,508 |
|
HORSE MACKEREL |
35,433.0 |
190 |
6,732,270 |
|
MEGRIMS |
2,465.2 |
3,380 |
8,332,376 |
|
LING |
932.1 |
1,000 |
932,100 |
|
ATLANTIC MACKEREL |
52,426.8 |
685 |
35,912,358 |
|
NEPHROPS |
7,181.5 |
3,106 |
22,305,739 |
|
ORANGE ROUGHY |
95.5 |
1,000 |
95,500 |
|
EUROPEAN PLAICE |
480.0 |
1,820 |
873,600 |
|
SAITHE |
654.8 |
830 |
543,484 |
|
POLLOCK |
753.2 |
1,210 |
911,372 |
|
ROUNDNOSE GRENADIER |
71.3 |
900 |
64,170 |
|
COMMON SOLE |
272.5 |
12,520 |
3,411,700 |
|
SWORDFISH |
1.3 |
4,963 |
6,452 |
|
TUSK |
34.6 |
930 |
32,178 |
|
BLUE WHITING |
70,029.2 |
100 |
70,029 |
|
WHITING |
6,039.9 |
1,050 |
6,341,895 |
|
GREATER ARGENTINE |
18.4 |
120 |
2,208 |
|
Total Value |
€129,619,309 |
268 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the lack of broadband services in the Black Valley, County Kerry; if he or his Department have been approached with a request for funding to facilitate an assessment of the extent of the problem; if the Government’s proposals for the provision of broadband services in the area are in accordance with Government policy and targets set by him or his predecessor; if he intends to take action directly or indirectly to resolve the issue; if he proposes to seek the assistance of his Government colleagues on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13380/06]
The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, an operational issue for the service providers concerned.
Second, responsibility for the regulation of electronic communication service providers rests with the independent regulator, the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the regulations, which transpose the EU regulatory framework for electronic communications.
I have no function in the matter.
269 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the timescale for the switch over from analogue to digital broadcasting; his proposals to assist the elderly and people with disabilities with the transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13382/06]
As proposals are developed for a national rollout of digital terrestrial television the question of possible analogue switch-off dates will be considered.
When a decision has been taken on the timing of analogue switch-off, it will be necessary to ensure that all Irish viewers, including the elderly and people with disabilities, are provided with detailed information to assist them in the transition from analogue to digital broadcasting.
270 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the position regarding the installation of smolt tagging and counters in the Southern Regional Fisheries Board area; when he intends to provide funds for this work; and when he further intends to instruct the Marine Institute to commence this work; and if he will make a statement on the matter [13411/06]
I am advised by the Marine Institute that smolt traps have been operated on the River Suir for the past three years under a joint Marine Institute-Southern Regional Fisheries Board project in an attempt to intercept sufficient wild salmon smolts for tagging with coded wire tags and subsequent release into the Suir. The purpose of this programme is to ascertain the extent of interception of the returning adults in various mixed stock fisheries around the coast and has involved considerable effort on behalf of the Marine Institute in co-operation with staff of the Southern Regional Fisheries Board. In 2006, it is intended to place a second smolt trap into the River Suir to improve the trapping of descending smolts. Preparations have already begun and the traps should be operational by the middle of April, in time for the peak smolt run which should be around the first two weeks of May.
It was anticipated that the smolt trapping on such a large river system might take a number of years to refine and for this reason a secondary programme was initiated by the Marine Institute and the Southern Regional Fisheries Board in 2005, with the release of 10,000 hatchery reared and tagged smolts into the River Suir. Returns from these released fish will be obtained during the 2006 fishery, and will provide information on where River Suir fish may be intercepted in mixed stock salmon fisheries off the Irish coast. This programme will continue in 2006 when a batch of 10,000 reared tagged smolts will be released into the River Barrow. Suitable release locations have recently been identified. The smolts have been tagged and vaccinated and will be released in early April. Returns from these releases will not be available until after the 2007 season.
The overall management of the national fish counter programme has, to date, been primarily the responsibility of the Marine Institute, which has operated directly or by sub-contracting where necessary in order to maintain the objectives of the programme. The Marine Institute in conjunction with the regional fisheries boards, fishery owners, engineers from this Department and consultants-contractors has installed counting systems on a wide range of Irish salmon and sea trout rivers.
Considerable capital expenditure has been invested in the counter programme over the past number of years and I expect the regional fisheries boards and the Marine Institute to collaborate closely in managing the fish counter programme in the most effective and efficient way possible. I am sure that the Deputy will be aware of the increased importance of counters in view of the impending changes in the commercial fishery.
It was decided in June 2003 that the management of all existing counters be transferred to the relevant regional fisheries boards. It is my view that the service can be operated most efficiently and economically by trained fisheries board staff on the ground and I would regard this as an integral part of each board's functions. It should be possible for both the Marine Institute and the fisheries boards to operate the existing counter programme in an efficient manner within the existing financial resources available to them. It is a matter for each board to decide its priorities in relation to investment in counters within their overall allocation of Exchequer funding for capital and current expenditure purposes. In 2005 the Southern Regional Fisheries Board received Exchequer funding of €2,509,300 and for 2006 the allocation is €2,158.505.
The Department is reviewing the arrangements in respect of the operational, data management and quality assurance issues for the national fish counter management programme. I expect this review to be completed shortly so that an enhanced national management programme will be established within the available resources to be carried out by the regional fisheries boards in partnership with the Marine Institute.
271 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when his Department intends to carry out improvement works to the weir at the Manor, Clonmel on the River Suir to allow salmonup river as they are experiencing significantdifficulty at present in passing up river; andif he will make a statement on the matter. [13429/06]
The weir in question is owned by Clonmel Borough Council. I am advised by the chief executive of the Southern Regional Fisheries Board that this weir presents difficulties occasionally for salmon passing up the River Suir at low water levels during the spawning season. The board, in conjunction with the engineering division of the Department, presented a temporary remedy to the owners of the weir. However, following consultation with the OPW, the initial plan was rejected because of the impact on the adjacent bridge during flood conditions. I understand that a further temporary solution has now been agreed and will be completed this summer. Furthermore, I am advised that to address the problems of flooding, the OPW has planned a flood relief scheme for Clonmel, and as part of this scheme, the OPW has agreed to install a comprehensive fish pass system, which will be drawn up by the engineering division of the Department
272 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he supports the proposal made by the African Caribbean and Pacific group of countries, formally submitted to the WTO seeking to introduce development aspects and special and differential treatment into GATT Article XXIV in order to allow greater flexibility in economic partnership agreements and negotiations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12901/06]
The European Commission represents the EU member states in the WTO negotiations and has been supportive of the Africa, Caribbean, Pacific, ACP, position in the negotiation group which is looking at the rules governing all regional trade agreements under GATT Article XXIV.
In its submission, the Commission states that regional trade agreements — which include the economic partnership agreements, EPAs, under negotiation between the EU and the ACP states — should support the development efforts of developing countries and promote their participation in world trade. In the Commission's view, the negotiations on regional trade agreements should take account of individual countries' level of development and should clarify the scope for special and differential treatment for developing countries on issues such as the length of the transition period, the exclusion of sensitive products, and the degree of reciprocity between the parties in the elimination of duties and other restrictive regulations of commerce.
Ireland fully supports the Commission's recommendations on regional trade agreements and will continue to work closely with the Commission to ensure that the EPA negotiations result in agreements that are supportive of ACP countries' development needs and their poverty reduction efforts.
275 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of principal development and senior development specialists with Irish Aid volunteering to decentralise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13300/06]
There are three principal development specialists and 12 senior development specialists attached to Irish Aid. All specialist posts will be transferring to Limerick. There are no current applications for these posts in Limerick. Two senior development specialists originally applied to decentralise to Limerick, but subsequently withdrew their applications.
Discussions are ongoing with representatives of the specialists, with their union IMPACT and with the Department of Finance about the issues involved in decentralisation which also have a wider Civil Service dimension. It would be my hope that a greater number of specialists will, in time, volunteer to decentralise to Limerick.
276 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the present position in Uganda where since 1987 the Lord’s Resistance Army has abducted more than 30,000 children to serve as soldiers, labourers and sex slaves in its forced confrontation and fight against the Uganda People’s Defence Force; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that thousands of children are forced to leave their homes for fear of being abducted; the steps he can take to bring about a resolution of this ongoing conflict; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12814/06]
I remain gravely concerned at the long-running conflict and related humanitarian crisis in northern Uganda, which has led to the deaths of many thousands of people and the displacement of over 1.5 million. It clearly merits increased international attention. Ireland, in collaboration with our EU partners, has been actively working to achieve this.
The primary responsibility for improving security and promoting reconciliation in northern Uganda rests with the Ugandan Government. Following the presidential and parliamentary elections last February, a window of opportunity now exists for the Ugandan authorities to take decisive steps to tackle the conflict. These should include improving security to facilitate greater humanitarian access and measures to promote the much needed economic and social development of northern Uganda. A positive development in this regard is the long-term reconstruction and development plan for northern Uganda which the Ugandan Government outlined at a donors' meeting in Geneva on 20 March 2006. This comprehensive plan emphasises conflict resolution and reconciliation, as well as reconstruction and development. The UN Under-Secretary General for Humanitarian Coordination, Mr. Jan Egeland, visited Kampala on 30-31 March 2006 to discuss these proposals with the Ugandan Government and representatives of the donor community, including Ireland. The Irish Government will continue to work closely with EU and donor partners to promote increased engagement by Uganda with the international community in addressing the conflict in northern Uganda.
The LRA campaign also threatens security in the Great Lakes region as a whole, including in southern Sudan and the eastern DRC from which the LRA continues to operate. At my request, the Irish Permanent Representative to the United Nations wrote to the President of the UN Security Council last January urging the council to address the threat to regional peace posed by the LRA. The UN Secretary General has been requested, in Security Council Resolutions 1653 and 1663, to submit proposals to the council by 24 April 2006 on how the UN can support efforts to put an end to the activities of illegal armed groups in the Great Lakes region, including the LRA. I look forward to this report, which will be an important contribution to the current intensified efforts to resolve the conflict in northern Uganda. Ireland will continue to encourage greater Security Council involvement, including consideration of proposals to appoint a UN special envoy for northern Uganda and to establish a panel of experts to examine the sources of funding and support for the LRA's campaign.
It is also important that the indictments issued last October by the International Criminal Court against five named LRA leaders now be acted on. It is incumbent on all those involved, including the governments of any neighbouring states in which these leaders may be sheltering, to facilitate their arrest. Ireland strongly supports the International Criminal Court and would urge that its investigation into all serious violations of human rights committed in northern Uganda since 1 July 2002, the date when the court was established, should continue.
The overall humanitarian situation in northern Uganda remains alarming, with an estimated 1.7 million people, the vast majority of the population, continuing to live in internally displaced persons camps. However, some limited return of displaced persons to their homes and communities has begun in the Teso region, following an underlying improvement in the security situation, with approximately 390,000 returning in 2005. Irish Aid is continuing to support emergency and recovery efforts and has already provided €1.9 million in humanitarian assistance to northern Uganda in 2006. This funding has been provided to GOAL, UNICEF, and the UN World Food Programme, WFP. Some €1.65 million in humanitarian assistance was provided in 2005. Irish Aid has also supported NGOs in northern Uganda providing shelter to the estimated 40,000 children and young people who are required to flee their homes each night, for fear of possible abduction by the LRA or worse.
277 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department has an arrangement with the Irish Cricket Union which entitles the Irish cricket team to play international fixtures in their own home ground displaying the flag of the visiting state but not the flag of the Irish Republic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12842/06]
There is no such arrangement with the Irish Cricket Union.
In a general context, the Department of the Taoiseach has issued guidelines to assist people in ensuring that due respect is always accorded to the national flag. While observance of these guidelines is a matter for each individual, the national flag should at all times be treated with appropriate respect. The guidelines are available on the Government website at www.taoiseach.gov.ie.
279 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government extended an invitation to the Spanish Prime Minister, Mr. José Luis Zapatero to visit here; and if so, if the Prime Minister will be visiting and when. [13060/06]
There has been a long-standing invitation to Prime Minister Zapatero to visit Ireland. The Taoiseach renewed this invitation at the recent European Council in Brussels, indicating that a visit by Prime Minister Zapatero would provide a valuable opportunity to discuss a range of issues of mutual concern. The Prime Minister responded warmly to the invitation and contact is continuing between the two Governments to establish a suitable date for the visit.
283 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties being experienced by the Irish centre in Camden Town, London, in so far as requirements to provide lift facilities for wheelchair access and for elderly persons; his views on providing some assistance for same; his further views on the eligibility under the aegis of his Department in order that this might be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13240/06]
The Government deeply values the extensive range of services that the London Irish Centre in Camden has offered to the Irish community in London for more than 50 years. In recognition of the centre's vital role within the Irish community, I have been happy to approve significant funding to it from my Department's DÍON fund. The Deputy raises the matter of capital funding for the London Irish Centre. In November 2004 I was pleased to extend the eligibility for DÍON funding to include capital projects. This was a positive response to the interest within the Irish community in Britain for support towards capital projects, and was a development made possible by the substantial increase in funding that had been secured for emigrant services.
I, too, am convinced of the need to install a lift in the London Irish Centre. It is for this specific purpose that I included a grant to the centre of €100,000 in the first batch of capital grants I approved in November 2004. I am advised that the structural work to install the lift will begin shortly. As the centre is located in an old building in a congested part of London, the planning, survey and structural reports involved in this project have taken a considerable period of time. Although the Government is the principal donor for this project, I am pleased to note that the centre has also secured other funding from a private charity and the local statutory authority. The trustees expect that the lift will be installed before the end of this year.
The London Irish Centre in Camden also received significant funding last year when I approved a grant to it of €399,930. This grant supports nine posts at the centre and includes a contribution towards the refurbishment of the day centre where the seniors' luncheon club and other activities take place.
284 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13273/06]
The target for the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service is 3%. Policy on this target is the responsibility of the Department of Finance. The compilation of statistics in this sensitive area is dependent, to a large extent, on voluntary self-disclosure of a disability by staff. However, I am satisfied that the percentage of staff with a disability in the Department of Foreign Affairs is in excess of the 3% target. Our estimate would put the figure at about 3.4%.
My Department looks forward to participating in the willing able mentoring — WAM — project, which is administered by AHEAD, the Association of Higher Education Access and Disability, and supported by the Department of Finance. It aims to provide between three and six months work experience opportunities for graduates with disabilities. My Department intends to offer two WAM work placements in 2006.
285 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the file of one of the 26 soldiers whose cases for pardon are being sought by his Department (details supplied) have been submitted along with the 25 others in the context of the report into the court martial and execution of Irish soldiers by the British Army during the First World War; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the file has been supplied by the Canadian Army and forwarded to his Department; if he will ensure that this person is included in the case for pardon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13389/06]
We have always included Private James Wilson of the 4th Canadian Battalion in our efforts to seek pardons for those "shot at dawn". The Report into the Courts Martial and Execution of Twenty Six Irish Soldiers by the British Army During World War I which I laid before the Oireachtas last week was prepared primarily on the basis of a thorough evaluation of the courts-martial files made available to us by the British authorities at our request. As Private Wilson's file was held by the Canadian authorities, my Department separately requested a copy of this file through our embassy in Ottawa. Regrettably the file kept in the Canadian archives was incomplete and a number of papers had been removed from it, including the report of his court-martial. It was not possible, therefore, to prepare an accurate summary of the case made against him for inclusion in our report which was submitted to the British Government in October 2004.
While the report, as submitted to the British Government, includes summaries of individual cases, it is our position that beyond the compelling individual circumstances, there are persuasive grounds for the British Government to grant a retrospective pardon to all those "shot at dawn". Contemporary public and parliamentary dissatisfaction with the number and manner of military executions during the First World War was such that the death penalty was repealed for the military offences under which each execution took place by 1930. In addition, there is evidence to suggest a disparity in the treatment of lower ranks in comparison to officers and statistical evidence that highlights a harsher disciplinary regime faced by men from Ireland in comparison to men from other countries. Moreover, there are numerous references to the need for an example to be made when sentencing was being considered.
I believe that these points, singly or cumulatively, constitute sufficient grounds for pardons to be issued to all 26 Irish soldiers involved, including Private Wilson, and this we will continue to advocate.
287 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the situation in Kenya, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Mozambique; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13453/06]
Under the provisions of the 2002 Sun City peace accords, the transition process in the Democratic Republic of the Congo — DRC — is formally set to conclude at the end of June 2006, with the holding of the first democratic elections in the DRC in more than 40 years. The successful holding of national elections represents a major undertaking which will require substantial international support. The European Union and its member states have made substantial contributions in support of the electoral process, with the European Commission contributing €150 million while Ireland has contributed €500,000. The EU is also likely to deploy an election observation mission, although a final decision on its deployment is still awaited.
The European Council decided on 24 March that the EU would deploy a mission to provide support to MONUC, the UN peacekeeping mission in the DRC, during the upcoming electoral process. Ireland has indicated it will make available up to ten headquarters personnel for the mission, subject to national decision-making procedures.
Major challenges continue to confront the DRC, as the transition process draws to a close. Greater progress needs to be made in tackling impunity and establishing an effective system of justice. The DRC Government and its armed forces need to continue collaborating closely with MONUC in confronting and removing the threat posed by illegal armed militias in eastern DRC. There also needs to be greater progress in security sector reform, particularly with regard to completing the creation of a fully integrated national army and police and effectively establishing state authority throughout the DRC. The EU is actively supporting the process of security sector reform in the DRC, through deployment of two EU missions, EUPOL and EUSEC. The regional dimension in improving peace and security also remains critical and underlines the importance of initiatives, such as the International Conference on the Great Lakes, which Ireland has supported financially.
Up to 5 million people have died from the direct or indirect consequences of the conflict in DRC since 1998. There are more than 1.6 million displaced persons in the country while 80% of the population live below the absolute poverty line. The UN has launched a 2006 action plan for the DRC which calls for €570 million in funding for humanitarian programmes. So far in 2006, Ireland has provided emergency and recovery funding of €4 million to the UN World Food Programme, WFP, UNICEF and UNHCR in response to the UN plan.
Within Kenya, the major challenge confronting President Kibaki and his Government continues to be that of corruption. Following the publication of the Githongo report in January 2006 which made a series of allegations of high level corruption, two ministers and a personal assistant to President Kibaki were required to resign. Another minister subsequently resigned on account of his implication in a previous corruption scandal. However, to date no prosecutions have resulted from the allegations made.
The Kibaki Government has made efforts since its election in December 2002 to tackle corruption and to strengthen the legislative and institutional anti-corruption framework. However, further measures, including prosecutions, will be necessary in order to reassure international opinion of the seriousness of the government's intent in tackling corruption. In this regard, the EU has publicly expressed its concern over recent raids on the media in Kenya carried out by security agencies which appear to be an attempt to curb press freedom in commenting on issues of public importance such as corruption.
Kenya and its neighbouring countries in the Horn of Africa are in the grip of a severe drought affecting up to 11 million people across the region. It is estimated that 5 million people in Kenya alone now require food aid. Ireland responded promptly to this emergency, providing over €5 million in emergency humanitarian funding last February to agencies working in the Horn of Africa. Further funding of €2 million is now being made available to key NGOs and international organisations working in response to the emergency.
Mozambique continues to be one of Africa's most successful examples of post-conflict reconstruction and development. President Armando Guebuza assumed office in January 2005, following elections in December 2004 which the EU election observation mission deemed to have broadly met international accepted standards. The Guebuza Government has taken steps to tackle the problem of corruption in the public service, police and legal system by establishing a central office for combating corruption. The EU is pursuing an active political dialogue with the government under Article 8 of the Cotonou agreement.
Mozambique is one of Ireland's six ODA programme countries in Africa, with a bilateral assistance programme amounting to some €29 million in 2006. Ireland is helping Mozambique to reduce poverty through fostering economic growth, equitable social development and improved democratic governance. In addition, Ireland is committed to providing €40 million over five years — 2003-07 — through the Clinton Foundation to support the rapid scaling up of HIV-AIDS care and treatment programmes in Mozambique. In 2005, Irish Aid also provided funding of €1 million to the World Food Programme for emergency food assistance in Mozambique as part of the response to the region-wide food security crisis in southern Africa.
294 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the success to date of the international community's efforts to combat AIDS in Africa; his views as to the most effective procedures to be followed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13463/06]
The most recent information and statistics on the HIV-AIDS epidemic are contained in the annual report, AIDS Epidemic Update 2005, released by the joint United Nations programme on HIV/AIDS, UNAIDS, and the World Health Organisation, WHO. This report noted progress in declining HIV infection rates in a number of countries and increasing access to HIV treatment.
Adult HIV infection rates have decreased in certain countries and changes in behaviour to prevent infection have played a key part in these declines. In Africa, Kenya, Uganda and Zimbabwe are all showing declines in HIV prevalence. In Kenya, adult infection rates have decreased from a peak of 10% in the late 1990s to 7% in 2003; in Uganda, from more than 15% to 7% today and in Zimbabwe, from 26% in 2002 to 21% in 2004. The UNAIDS report also recognises that access to HIV treatment has improved markedly over the past two years, especially in developing countries. The number of people receiving combination anti-retroviral therapy, ART, for HIV/AIDS has more than doubled from 400,000 in 2003 to approximately 1 million in 2005. In sub-Saharan Africa, the number of people receiving ART has tripled within a period of one year and it now reaches approximately 500,000 people.
The reality, however, is that the AIDS epidemic continues to outstrip global and national efforts to contain it. The overall number of people living with HIV has continued to increase in all regions of the world except the Caribbean. There were an additional 5 million new infections in 2005, the majority in women. The number of people living with HIV globally has reached its highest level, with more than 40 million people now infected. More than 3 million people died of AIDS-related illnesses in 2005, including more than 500,000 children. Sub-Saharan Africa is home to more than 60% of all people living with HIV.
In addition to a long-term sustained attack on poverty, a rapid increase in the scale and scope of HIV prevention programmes is urgently needed to stop the speed at which new infections are occurring. This needs to take place in the context of a comprehensive response to HIV and AIDS, which requires the simultaneous acceleration of treatment and prevention efforts with the ultimate goal of universal access to prevention, treatment and care.
Ireland has a strong commitment to addressing HIV/AIDS. It is a key priority for Irish Aid's policies and programmes. The Taoiseach, in his speech to the United Nations in September 2005, reaffirmed Ireland's commitment to HIV/AIDS and announced a new initiative on HIV/AIDS and other global communicable diseases. This will bring funding for these diseases up to €100 million per year. This initiative will focus on tackling the major diseases affecting developing countries, including HIV/AIDS. It will build on Ireland's existing support at international, regional and country level and will afford Ireland a stronger voice in international policy dialogue and advocacy for co-ordinated and effective action on HIV/AIDS.
Ireland will continue to work with the international community in advocating for a sustained and resourced global response to HIV/AIDS, strengthened leadership at all levels and improved co-ordination of resources and planning for HIV/AIDS prevention and control.
296 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of aid given directly and indirectly to the Eritrean region by the Government for the years 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. [13472/06]
Ireland provides no humanitarian or development funding directly to the government of Eritrea. Ireland provided total funding assistance of more than €8 million toEritrea for the period 2001-2005 inclusive. The breakdown of funding provided by year is shown in the table.
|
2001 |
762,000 |
|
2002 |
1,370,000 |
|
2003 |
1,547,000 |
|
2004 |
1,958,100 |
|
2005 |
2,443,000 |
|
Total 2001-2005 |
8,080,100 |
Funding was provided to Ireland's key NGO and UN partners working on the ground in Eritrea on a range of humanitarian and developmental projects. Funding was also provided through the multi-annual programme scheme, MAPS, which aims to provide more strategic and programmatic funding to NGO partners. Ireland funds the work of Concern and Self Help Development International, SHDI, in Eritrea in this regard. Other funding support was provided to UN agencies, including the World Food Programme, WFP, and UNICEF, working to provide humanitarian relief to vulnerable, food insecure populations across Eritrea.
The Government is continuing to keep the humanitarian situation in Eritrea under close review in the context of the current drought which is affecting the Horn of Africa region and for which, to date, Ireland has provided assistance of €5 million. With its EU partners, Ireland has sought to encourage Eritrea to engage with the international community on the peaceful resolution of its border disputes. Ireland remains concerned about the internal political situation and issues surrounding human rights in Eritrea. It has conveyed these concerns through diplomatic channels to the Eritrean authorities.
297 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the status of the decentralisation of Fáilte Ireland to Mallow, County Cork, in view of the fact that no member of the existing headquarters staff has applied to the CAF for a transfer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12939/06]
Fáilte Ireland has been selected under the Government's decentralisation programme to relocate to Mallow, County Cork. However, it has not been identified as an early mover by the decentralisation implementation group, DIG. No existing members of Fáilte Ireland have opted to relocate to Mallow at present but 83 applications have been received under the central applications facility, CAF.
My officials have recently met representatives of Fáilte Ireland and emphasised that their full commitment is required. Fáilte Ireland is currently working on a reiteration of its decentralisation implementation plan and is pursuing the matter of the acquisition of a suitable site with the Office of Public Works, OPW.
298 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figure for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13274/06]
My Department fully implements the Government's policy on the employment of people with a disability. The number of people with a disability currently employed by my Department represents more than 4% of the total number employed, which is in excess of the agreed national target figure of 3%.
299 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he proposes to allocate funds for a sports hall at a school (details supplied) in 2006; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this hall has been awaited for more than 20 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13417/06]
The national lottery funded sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.
Schools may only apply for funding jointly with local sports clubs or community groups and must show a clear need for the proposed sports facility in the area as formally agreed with other local groups and/or the local authority, show how the proposed facility will meet that need and show that the local community will have significant access to the proposed facility when it is not being used by the school or college itself. In this regard, the significant access is a requirement for a minimum of at least 30 hours a week throughout the year. Applications from primary and post-primary schools and colleges on their own will not be considered under the programme.
Applications for funding under the 2006 programme were invited through advertisements in the press on 27 and 28 November last. The closing date for receipt of applications was 20 January 2006. All applications received before the deadline will be evaluated against the programme's requirements and 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. My Department has no record of receiving an application under the 2006 programme from the school in question.
300 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will provide in tabular form the number of public swimming pools in each county here; if, in Dublin in particular, this figure is below or above the EU average per head of population and by how much; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13431/06]
The following table shows, in so far as my Department is aware, the number of local authority swimming pools in the country, broken down by county council, city council, borough council and urban council. In addition, there are a number of swimming pools which are in private ownership and are open to the public.
New locations for local authority pools, where projects are under construction or about to start construction, are Ballybunion, Youghal, Jobstown and Killarney. Replacement pools under construction or about to start construction are located in Cobh, Drogheda, Ballyfermot, Letterkenny, Monaghan, Clondalkin, Askeaton, Portlaoise, Portarlington and Longford. My Department has not been able to locate any data on the European average referred to by the Deputy.
My Department administers the local authority swimming pool programme, which provides grant aid to local authorities in respect of the capital costs of a new swimming pool, a replacement pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool. The closing date for receipt of applications under the current round of this programme was 31 July 2000 and since then a total 57 projects have or are being dealt with. Of the 57 projects within the programme, 18 have been completed and 14 pool projects are now under construction or are about to start construction. In addition, 25 other projects are at various stages in the programme — six at tender stage, eleven at contract document stage and eight at preliminary report stage.
My Department is carrying out an expenditure review of the programme which is examining, among other things, how it has worked to date, the benefits that have accrued to the areas where pools have been built under the programme and what amendments, if any, are required to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of the programme. On completion of this review, the question of re-opening the programme will be considered.
|
Local Authority |
Location |
Status1 |
|
County Councils |
||
|
Carlow County Council |
Bagenalstown Graiguecullen |
O.S. I |
|
Cavan County Council |
Drumalee |
I |
|
Clare County Council |
Ennis |
I |
|
Cork County Council |
Dunmanway |
I |
|
Donegal County Council |
Buncrana Bundoran Ballyshannon |
II I |
|
South Dublin County Council |
Clondalkin |
I |
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown County Council |
Monkstown Glenalbyn |
I I |
|
Galway County Council |
Tuam |
I |
|
Kildare County Council |
Naas Athy |
I I |
|
Laois County Council |
Portlaoise Portarlington Ballinakill |
I I O.S. |
|
Leitrim County Council |
Drumshanbo Carrick-on Shannon |
O.S. O.S. |
|
Limerick County Council |
Askeaton |
O.S. |
|
Longford County Council |
Longford Town |
I |
|
Offaly County Council |
Edenderry Clara Birr |
I I I |
|
Mayo County Council |
Ballina Ballyhaunis Belmullet Castlebar Charlestown Claremorris Kilmovee Westport |
I I O.S. I O.S. I O.S. I |
|
Meath County Council |
Trim Kells Navan |
I I I |
|
Roscommon County Council |
Roscommon Town Castlerea |
I O.S. |
|
North Tipperary County Council |
Borrisokane Ballina |
O.S. O.S. |
|
South Tipperary County Council |
Tipperary Town Carrick-on-Suir (Seán Kelly) |
I I |
|
Westmeath County Council |
Mullingar Town |
I |
|
Wexford County Council |
Gorey/Courtown |
I |
|
City Councils |
||
|
Cork City Council |
Douglas Bishopstown Churchfield |
I I I |
|
Dublin City Council |
Townsend Street Crumlin Coolock Ballymun Finglas Seán McDermott Street Rathmines |
I I I I I I I |
|
Galway City Council |
Salthill |
I |
|
Limerick City Council |
Grove Island |
I |
|
Waterford City Council |
Waterford Crystal |
I |
|
Borough Councils |
||
|
Clonmel Borough Council |
Emmet St, Clonmel |
I |
|
Kilkenny Borough Council |
Greensbridge, Kilkenny |
I |
|
Sligo Borough Council |
Cleveragh Pool, Sligo |
I |
|
Wexford Borough Council |
Ferrybank, Wexford |
I |
|
Urban Councils |
||
|
Arklow Town Council |
Ferrybank, Arklow |
I |
|
Athlone Town Council |
Retreat Road, Athlone |
I |
|
Ballinasloe Town Council |
Cleaghmore, Ballinasloe |
I |
|
Bundoran Town Council |
Bundoran |
I |
|
Dundalk Town Council |
Dundalk |
I |
|
Enniscorthy Town Council |
Templeshannon |
I |
|
Fermoy Town Council |
Fermoy Park |
I |
|
Letterkenny Town Council |
High Road, Letterkenny |
I |
|
Mallow Town Council |
New Road, Mallow |
I |
|
Mullingar Town Council |
Mullingar |
I |
|
Nenagh Town Council |
Dublin Road, Nenagh |
I |
|
New Ross Town Council |
Barrack Lane, New Ross |
I |
|
Templemore Town Council |
Town Hall, Templemore |
I |
|
Tralee Town Council |
Clounalour, Tralee AquaDome |
I I |
|
Wicklow Town Council |
Wicklow |
I |
1I = Indoor — all year; O.S. = Outdoor pool operational during summer months only.
301 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has been in contact with the governments of those countries whose citizens are working in Ireland below the recommended levels of pay, as reported here in the media; the nature and outcome of those discussions; if he will ensure there will be no exploitation here of migrant workers from these countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13167/06]
The labour inspectorate of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is responsible for monitoring certain employment conditions for all categories of workers in Ireland, including immigrant workers. The inspectorate operates without any differentiation with regard to worker nationality, as statutory employment rights and protections apply to immigrant workers in exactly the same manner as they do to other Irish workers. For the avoidance of doubt section 20 of the Protection of Employee's (Part-Time) Work Act 2001 provides that all employee protection legislation on the Statute Book in Ireland applies to workers posted to work in Ireland in line with Directive 96/71/EC of the European Parliament and Council of 16 December 1996.
Section 20 of the 2001 Act also provides that all employee protection legislation 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 or who works in the State under a contract of employment. Thus all employment rights legislation applies to migrant workers engaged to work in Ireland under a contract of employment. The employment rights compliance section of the Department, which includes the labour inspectorate, applies the same principles in the discharge of its functions and, accordingly, makes no distinction as between Irish and migrant workers when undertaking compliance checking or investigating complaints. Where possible, the inspectorate will investigate any specific matters brought to its attention once they fall within its powers and remit.
In that regard inspectors pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the inspectorate seeks redress for the individual/s concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. Employers are required to maintain records in respect of such employees and these records, together with other substantiating evidence, for example, a statement from an employee, provide the essentials of a basis for legal proceedings. Failure to maintain adequate records by an employer is an offence.
In the course of investigating matters brought to its attention it is not a normal feature of the inspectorate's approach to initiate contacts with the governments of other states. Where the specific circumstances of a case might suggest that the assistance of an embassy could be useful the inspectorate would make such inquiries. For its part the Government is always ready to listen to the concerns of any state regarding the treatment of its citizens in Ireland.
302 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the review of community employment schemes will be complete; if he intends to sanction new schemes in particular for youth and community centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13553/06]
Following a review of FÁS employment schemes — community employment, job initiative and social economy programmes — I announced on 10 November 2004 that the three year cap for participants on community employment was being raised to six years for those over 55 years, to ensure the maintenance of essential community services particularly in rural areas, where it had been found that difficulties existed in finding replacement participants. There are already a number of dedicated programmes for youth and community centres being provided by FÁS. These comprise community training centres, local training initiatives, apprenticeship programmes and so forth.
303 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if companies applying for grants from the enterprise development agencies are required to demonstrate previous compliance with employment law prior to being awarded a grant (details supplied). [12835/06]
Responsibility for grant assistance to companies is an operational matter for the relevant development agencies; IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland, the city and county enterprise boards, Intertrade Ireland and Shannon Development. As part of their due diligence concerning applications for grants, agencies seek to ensure that clients operate to best practice standards in all aspects of their operations. It is not a condition of receiving grant assistance that companies demonstrate previous compliance with employment law. However, the development agencies require companies to which they provide grant assistance to ensure that all actions undertaken in relation to funded activities comply with relevant regulations and legislation during the period of the funding including, as appropriate, employment law.
304 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the details regarding EU directives in respect of employment law which are awaiting transposition by the State. [12909/06]
305 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the details of all infraction proceedings in respect of EU employment law which the State is currently involved in. [12910/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 304 and 305 together.
There are currently 16 EU directives relating to employment law and occupational health and safety due to be transposed into Irish law by this Department. Of these 16 directives, seven are overdue for transposition.
The details of these directives, their current position, including any enforcement proceedings being taken by the European Commission, and their expected date of transposition, are set out in the following table.
I wish to add for the Deputy's information that this information is available on the Department's website www.entemp.ie and is updated on a regular basis.
|
Directive No. and Subject |
Deadline for Transposition into Irish Law |
Current Position (including details of any enforcement proceedings by Commission) |
Expected date of transposition |
|
2001/45 EC To lay down certain conditions re the minimum safety and health requirements for use of work equipment |
19/07/2004 |
With Office of Parliamentary Counsel for legal settlement. European Court of Justice proceedings instituted. Ireland has submitted a defence as requested by the Office of the Attorney General. |
30/06/2006 |
|
2001/86/EC supplementing the Statute for a European company with regard to the involvement of employees |
08/10/2004 |
A consultation process is ongoing. Draft regulations are in preparation and it is expected to forward these to the Office of Parliamentary Counsel shortly. Warning Letter dated 13 December 2004 and Reasoned Opinion dated 12 October 2005. |
End July 2006 |
|
2002/14/EC establishing a general framework for informing and consulting employees in the European Community |
23/3/2005 |
The Employees (Provision of Information and Consultation) Bill, which transposes the Directive, passed all stages in the Oireachtas on 29 March 2006; it is expected to be signed by the President shortly. Warning Letter dated 27 May 2005 and Reasoned Opinion dated 13 December 2005 from the Commission re: legal proceedings. |
Early April 2006 |
|
2002/44 EC To protect workers from the risks arising from physical agents/vibrations |
06/07/2005 |
Will be part of General Application Regulations being drafted by the Health and Safety Authority. Letter of Formal Notice regarding the Directive being overdue received from the Commission |
30/06/2006 |
|
2003/10/EC To lay down requirements on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (noise) |
15/02/2006 |
Health & Safety Authority is drafting regulations. Plan to go to public consultation in early April 2006. |
30/06/2006 |
|
2003/18/ EC amending council directive 83/477EC on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work. |
15/04/2006 |
Health & Safety Authority is preparing draft Regulations |
15/04/2006 |
|
Council Directive 2003/72/EC of 22 July 2003 supplementing the Statute for a European Cooperative Society with regard to the involvement of employees |
18/08/2006 |
A consultation process is ongoing. Draft regulations are in preparation and it is expected to forward these to the Office of Parliamentary Counsel shortly for legal settlement |
18/08/2006 |
|
2004/40/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council on the minimum health and safety requirements regarding the exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (electromagnetic fields) (18th individual Directive within the meaning of Articles 16 (1) of Directive 89/391/EEC) |
29/04/2008 |
Drafting has not yet commenced. |
29/04/2008 |
|
2004/111/EC adapting for the fifth time to technical progress Council Directive 94/55/EC on the approximation of the laws of the Member States with regard to the transport of dangerous goods by road. |
01/07/2005 |
Draft Regulations are in the final stages of drafting by the Health and Safety Authority |
28/04/2006 |
|
Directive No. and Subject |
Deadline for Transposition into Irish Law |
Current Position (including details of any enforcement proceedings by Commission) |
Expected date of transposition |
|
2004/112 adapting to technical progress Council Directive 95/50/EC on uniform procedures for checks on the transport of dangerous goods by road. |
14/12/2005 |
Draft Regulations are in the final stages of drafting by the Health and Safety Authority Letter of Formal Notice regarding the Directive being overdue received from the Commission |
28/04/2006 |
|
2005/59/EC amending for the 28th time Council Directive 76/769/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations (Toluene and Trichlorobenzene) |
15/12/2006 |
Health & Safety Authority to prepare draft Regulations |
15/12/2006 |
|
Directive 2005/69/EC amending for the 27th time Council Directive 76/769/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in extender oils and tyres) |
29/12/2006 |
Health & Safety Authority to prepare draft Regulations |
29/12/2006 |
|
Directive 2005/84/EC amending for the 22nd time Council Directive 76/769/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations (phthalates in toys and childcare articles) |
16/07/2006 |
Health and Safety Authority to prepare draft regulations |
16/07/2006 |
|
Directive 2005/90/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 18 January 2006 amending for the 29th time, Council Directive 76/769/EEC on the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to restrictions on the marketing and use of certain dangerous substances and preparations (substances classified as carcinogenic, mutagenic or toxic to reproduction — c/m/r) |
24/02/2007 |
Health & Safety Authority to prepare draft Regulations |
24/02/2007 |
|
2006/8/EC amending for the purposes of their adaptation to technical progress, Annexes II, III and V to Directive 1999/45/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the approximation of the laws, regulations and administrative provisions of the Member States relating to the classification, packaging and labelling of dangerous preparations. |
01/03/2007 |
Health & Safety Authority to prepare draft Regulations |
01/03/2007 |
|
2006/15/EC establishing a second list of indicative occupational exposure limit values in implementation of Council Directive 98/24/EC and amending Directives 91/322/EEC and 2000/39/EC |
08/08/2007 |
Health and Safety Authority to prepare draft Regulations |
08/08/2007 |
306 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will confirm that EU Directive 2003/18/EC will be implemented before 14 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 14 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12953/06]
EU Directive 2003/18/EC amends the existing Council Directive 83/477/EEC as amended on the protection of workers from the risks related to exposure to asbestos at work. The existing directive as amended is fully implemented and enforced in Ireland. So, too, is the directive concerning the marketing and use of asbestos, which means that there is a ban on the marketing and use of asbestos in general. The existing directives provide for some derogations for specific uses for a specific period of time. EU Directive 2003/18/EC aims to regulate the activities around those derogations in setting stricter rules protecting workers who carry out those activities.
EU Directive 2003/18/EC provides that member states should comply with the directive by 15 April 2006. I am advised that legislative proposals are currently being drafted by the Health and Safety Authority. I have yet to receive these legislative proposals, so the directive will not be implemented in Ireland by 15 April 2006.
I am advised that the Health and Safety Authority has been working with other member states and the EU Commission in drawing up new guidelines for enforcement and implementation of EU Directive 2003/18/EC. I expect that this preparation should have a positive effect on the enforcement of the regulatory measures to be put in place in Ireland.
307 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/22/EC will be implemented before 29 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 29 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12954/06]
Directive 2004/22/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 31 March 2004 on measuring instruments is due to be transposed by the 30 April 2006. The provisions of the directive will become operational on 30 October 2006, and I expect that this directive will be transposed into national legislation by that date.
308 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/48/EC will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12955/06]
Most of the specific measures required to implement Directive 2004/48/EC on the enforcement of intellectual property rights already exist in Irish law but a small number require primary legislation. The proposed Intellectual Property (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which is intended to transpose several EU directives, will include the further provisions needed to complete legal transposition in this case. My Department is working actively with Parliamentary Counsel on drafting that Bill with a view to its publication in the coming months and consideration by the Oireachtas before the end of 2006.
309 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of calls from workers received by the employment rights information unit phone service in 2005 and in each of the previous five years. [13135/06]
The employment rights information unit does not keep figures on the number of calls received specifically from workers. The number of phone inquiries received during 2005 was 122,283 and the figures for the previous five years are set out in the following tabular statement.
|
Year |
Phone inquiries |
|
2004 |
137,926 |
|
2003 |
148,976 |
|
2002 |
129,498 |
|
2001 |
104,632 |
|
2000 |
117,733 |
310 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of queries from workers received by the employment rights information unit e-mail service in 2005 and in each of the previous five years. [13136/06]
The employment rights information unit does not keep figures on the number of e-mail queries received specifically from workers. The number of e-mail inquiries received during 2005 was 3,037 and the figures for the previous five years are set out in the following tabular statement.
|
Year |
E-mail inquiries |
|
2004 |
2,194 |
|
2003 |
5,165 |
|
2002 |
4,647 |
|
2001 |
2,073 |
|
2000 |
No statistics available |
311 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of one-to-one interviews with workers which were carried out by the employment rights information unit in 2005 and in each of the previous five years. [13137/06]
The employment rights information unit does not keep figures on the number of one-to-one interviews with those who are specifically workers. The overall number of one-to-one interviews carried out during 2005 was 887 and the figures for the previous five years are set out in the following tabular statement.
|
Year |
One-to-one interviews |
|
2004 |
619 |
|
2003 |
1,280 |
|
2002 |
1,245 |
|
2001 |
No statistics available |
|
2000 |
No statistics available |
312 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of employees who staff the telephone service or helpline operated by the employment rights information unit; if these employees have duties other than staffing this helpline; and if so, what these other duties are. [13138/06]
The current number of posts in the employment rights information unit of the Department stands at 14, broken down as follows: one higher executive officer, one executive officer and 12 clerical officers. There is currently one clerical officer vacancy.
The employment rights information unit, ERIU, in addition to staffing the telephone service produces a range of materials, for example, information leaflets and booklets that provide a condensed and simplified version of the large corpus of employment rights legislation that is currently on the Statute Book. With particular regard for the needs of non-national employees the Department has translated key employment rights information into nine languages and made this available in leaflet form and on the Department's website. The unit distributes thousands of information leaflets and booklets to citizen information centres and post offices etc. around the country.
The ERIU responds to messages left on the out of business hours phone service, does one-to-one interviews in privacy with personal callers, provides written replies to correspondence, parliamentary questions etc., responds to the electronic mail service, attends exhibitions, seminars, schools etc. to explain entitlements and distributes explanatory materials on a range of employment legislation.
313 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the implications for Ireland of the European Court of Justice’s ruling in a case (details supplied); if the transposition legislation for the collective redundancies Directive 98/59/EC is correct; if he proposes to amend the Protection of Employment Act 1977; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13159/06]
Council Directive 98/59/EC of 20 July 1998 on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to collective redundancies consolidates two previous directives in this area.
The two directives concerned, namely, Council Directive 75/129/EEC of 17 February 1975 and amending Council Directive 92/56/EEC of 24 June 1992 were transposed into Irish law by means of the Protection of Employment Act 1977, No. 7 of 1977, the Protection of Employment Order 1996, SI No. 370 of 1996, and, more recently, the European Communities (Protection of Employment) Regulations 2000, SI No. 488 of 2000.
My Department is aware of the ruling of the European Court of Justice in this matter. It is currently considering whether there are any implications for the Protection of Employment Act 1977 and whether any revision of the legislation will be required.
314 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the percentage of workers in 2005 and in each of the previous five years who reported suffering from work related stress. [13212/06]
316 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the percentage of deaths in 2005 and in each of the past five years which were work related. [13230/06]
317 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the percentage of the population and the workforce who suffer ill health associated with work in 2005 and in each of the past five years. [13231/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 314, 316 and 317 together.
In relation to the percentage of workers who reported suffering from work related stress in 2005 and each of the preceding five years, figures obtained from the Health and Safety Authority from the Central Statistics Office, CSO, as set out in Table 1, illness category by gender, indicate that 12,200 respondents in the quarterly national household survey, QNHS, of the CSO reported stress, depression or anxiety illnesses for 2004 at a rate of six per 1,000 workers. Of these, 5,300 were males, a rate of five per 1,000 workers, and 6,800 are females, a rate of eight per 1,000 workers. Figures for 2005 are not yet available and there are no corresponding data available for preceding years.
With regard to work related deaths, the Health and Safety Authority has provided figures on the number of reported work-related fatalities for past five years, which are set out in Table 2. The fatalities are compared with information supplied by the CSO in regard to those aged 15+ in employment for each of the years. The work-related fatality rate per 100,000 persons employed is also shown in the table. I understand that the authority does not have information on the rate of work-related deaths as a percentage of all deaths in the population in any year.
In relation to work-related ill health, the Central Statistics Office, in accordance with data obtained through its quarterly national household survey, has provided the Health and Safety Authority with estimates of work-related ill health in the period 2001 to 2004. This information is set out in Table 3. Data for 2005 were collected in the first quarter of 2006 and are not yet available.
The Deputy will appreciate that the questions relate to areas wider than those covered in my range of responsibilities as Minister with responsibility for occupational health and safety and perhaps the Central Statistics Office website, www.cso.ie which contains a wide range of information under a variety of headings including labour market and people and population, would also be of assistance.
|
Male |
Female |
Total |
||||
|
Illness |
Number |
Rate |
Number |
Rate |
Number |
Rate |
|
Bone, joint or muscle |
18,800 |
17.0 |
10,800 |
13.0 |
29,600 |
16.0 |
|
Breathing, lungs |
2,200 |
2.0 |
500 |
1.0 |
2,700 |
1.0 |
|
Skin |
800 |
1.0 |
100 |
0.0 |
900 |
0.0 |
|
Hearing problem |
700 |
1.0 |
* |
* |
700 |
0.0 |
|
Stress, depression, anxiety |
5,300 |
5.0 |
6,800 |
8.0 |
12,200 |
6.0 |
|
Headache, eyestrain |
2,200 |
2.0 |
900 |
1.0 |
3,200 |
2.0 |
|
Heart |
1,300 |
1.0 |
200 |
0.0 |
1,500 |
1.0 |
|
Infectious disease |
900 |
1.0 |
2,100 |
3.0 |
3,000 |
2.0 |
|
Other |
1,800 |
2.0 |
3,100 |
4.0 |
4,900 |
3.0 |
|
Not applicable |
1,000 |
1.0 |
100 |
0.0 |
1,100 |
1.0 |
|
Not stated |
200 |
0.0 |
* |
* |
200 |
0.0 |
|
Total |
35,200 |
32.0 |
24,700 |
30.0 |
59,800 |
32.0 |
* There were insufficient numbers in these categories to calculate a meaningful rate.
|
Year |
Number of work-related fatalities (worker fatalities in brackets) |
Number aged 15+ in employment in Q4, Reference year (CSO) |
Rate of worker fatalities per 100,000 (excluding non-workers) |
|
2001 |
67 (54) |
1,759,900 |
3.0 |
|
2002 |
61 (53) |
1,782,300 |
2.9 |
|
2003 |
68 (60) |
1,828,900 |
3.3 |
|
2004 |
50 (48) |
1,894,100 |
2.5 |
|
2005 |
73 (64) |
1,980,600 |
3.2 |
|
Year |
Rate of work-related illness per 1,000 workers |
Percentage of work-related illness per 1,000 workers |
|
2001 |
18.6 |
1.9 |
|
2002 |
21.5 |
2.2 |
|
2003 |
25.2 |
2.5 |
|
2004 |
31.3 |
3.1 |
315 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of new registered employment agreements which have been put in place during the past twelve months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13220/06]
The registration of employment agreements and the maintenance of the register of such agreements is a matter for the Labour Court and one in which I have no direct function.
However, I will pass the question on to the Labour Court and request it to provide the relevant information to the Deputy.
318 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of registered employment agencies operating here at present and in each of the past five years. [13237/06]
The number of employment agencies licensed under the Employment Agency Act 1971 and operating in the State at present is 507. The number of such agencies operating in the State in the last five years is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
Number of Employment Agencies |
|
2001 |
778 |
|
2002 |
597 |
|
2003 |
547 |
|
2004 |
477 |
|
2005 |
544 |
319 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the changes which will be included in the legislation amending the Employment Agency Act 1971, due to be published in 2006. [13249/06]
As part of the Government's commitments under Sustaining Progress, in June 2005 the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment issued a White Paper on the review of the Employment Agency Act 1971. The deadline for submissions was 15 July 2005. The Department is currently finalising the heads of a Bill based on submissions received. This process should be completed by the end of June 2006 and includes consultations with the various interests. Government approval will then be sought to have a Bill drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. It is hoped to publish this Bill in the second half of 2006.
Matters under consideration for inclusion in the Bill include providing for a system of registration of employment agencies based in Ireland, supported by an industry regulatory code which will set out in detail the practices and standards that employment agencies would be expected to follow. Another change is that a statutory monitoring and advisory committee, representative of all the various interests in the sector, will be established. This committee will oversee the regulatory code and make recommendations to the Minister of State with responsibility for labour affairs with regard to revoking or suspending registration and the prosecution of employment agencies which breach the code. However, it will be necessary to take account of the potential impact of revised proposals from the European Commission on the draft EU services directive, expected in April 2006 and the free movement of persons, services and capital within the EU, as laid down in the EU Treaty.
320 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13275/06]
My Department currently exceeds the 3% target for the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service, with 4.2% of staff recorded as having a disability.
In addition, my Department is to participate in the willing able mentoring project this summer. This project, which is administered by the Association of Higher Education Access and Disability, aims to provide graduates with disabilities with temporary placements with public and private sector employers.
The policy with regard to the 3% target for the employment of people with disabilities is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Finance. However, it may be of interest to note that independent research was carried out into the operation of the 3% target by consultants commissioned by the Department of Finance. The research found, inter alia, that 7% of Civil Service staff had a disability.
On foot of the consultants' recommendations, the Government approved proposals to improve the operation of the policy. These proposals included the development of a new, detailed code of practice for the employment of people with disabilities, a more effective approach to monitoring staff with a disability, a new approach to recruitment and placement and the appointment of a full-time disability advisory officer.
321 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when it is proposed to introduce into national legislation the provisions of EU Directive 2001/84/EC on the re-sale right for the benefit of the author of an original work of art (details supplied) which was to have been introduced before 1 January 2006 to comply with EU requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13402/06]
Due to the novelty of an artists' resale right in Irish law and the directive containing various options on how several key provisions are implemented by individual member states, the transposition of EU Directive 2001/84/EC into Irish law requires primary legislation.
The proposed Intellectual Property (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, which is intended to transpose several EU directives, will include the provisions required in this case. My Department, in consultation with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, is working actively with the Parliamentary Counsel on drafting that Bill with a view to its publication in the coming months and its consideration by the Oireachtas before the end of 2006.
322 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if it is an offence for persons to represent themselves as trading as a limited company in circumstances whereby no company is registered or incorporated under the Companies Acts; the penalties attaching; the prosecuting authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter [13405/06]
Under section 381 (1) of the Companies Act 1963, as substituted by section 98 of the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001, it is an offence for any person or persons to trade or carry on business under a name or title which includes the word "limited" or "teoranta" as the last word of the name unless incorporated with limited liability. Such person or persons shall be guilty of an offence under that provision. The Director of Corporate Enforcement can take the prosecution for such an offence on a summary basis and the Director of Public Prosecutions on indictment. The penalties are listed in section 240 of the Companies Act 1990, as amended by section 41 of the Companies (Amendment) (No. 2) Act 1999 and sections 14 and 104 of the Company Law Enforcement Act 2001. A person or persons can be fined up to €1,904.61 on summary conviction and up to €12,697.38 or imprisonment for a term not exceeding three years, or both, on conviction on indictment. In addition, an order of the court may provide that all costs of, and incidental to, the application shall be borne by the person or persons against whom the order is made.
The Director of Corporate Enforcement has a number of such cases on hand but no prosecutions have been taken before the courts to date.
323 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the proposed community patents scheme; his further views on whether programmes for computers should be excluded from the proposed scheme on the basis of the financial, legal and innovative difficulties that it would cause for persons and small and medium-sized enterprises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13422/06]
324 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on whether the proposed patenting of computer programmes will cause enormous difficulties for small and medium-sized enterprises which will be unable to obtain or defend a software patent; the position of the Government in respect of Article 52, Chapter 1 of Part II of the European Patent Convention, that programmes for computers are not regarded as inventions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13423/06]
I propose to take Questions 323 and 324 together.
Ireland has been party to the European Patent Convention since 1992 and our law reflects its Article 52 criteria on the patentability of inventions. The convention makes it clear that computer programmes, as such, cannot be patented but it is important to note that this does not extend to so-called "computer implemented inventions". These are patentable in certain circumstances and many thousands of such patents have already been granted by the European Patent Office and apply within the EU. The revision of the convention does not change the patentability criteria with regard to these inventions.
The European Commission proposal for a Council regulation on a Community patent in August 2000 envisaged Community patents being granted by the European Patent Office and that the EU would itself accede to the European Patent Convention. All EU member states, except Malta, are already contracting states. The Community patent would, in effect, be a European patent designating the Community but, unlike European patents, it would be unitary in character and relate to the entirety of the Community. The intention was that this would co-exist with the national and European patent systems already in place.
While the EU competitiveness council unanimously agreed on a common political approach on the Community patent in March 2003, progress on this has since been deadlocked on issues to do with translations and no breakthrough is in sight. Against this background, the Commission sought views this January from industry and other stakeholders on how best to take account of stakeholders' needs in patent policy. The proposal for a Community patent remains a priority, but the Commission is also seeking views on what other measures could be taken in the near future to improve the patent system in Europe.
In 2002 the European Commission proposed a directive to harmonise the conditions for patenting computer-implemented inventions. It was concerned that practice on granting such patents varied between EU member states and that particular inventions could get protection in one member state but not in another. Ireland supported the proposal as offering increased certainty on intellectual property right protection and as reinforcing the single EU internal market. While the measure had wide support from the European information and communications technology industry, including the small and medium-sized enterprises sector, in the event, the European Parliament opposed it. The current situation is that the European Commission has indicated that it does not intend to pursue proposals for a directive in this area.
325 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason the heating allowance has been withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [13242/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. Neither I nor my Department has any function in decisions on individual claims.
If a recipient of a social welfare or Health Services Executive payment has exceptional heating costs due to ill health, infirmity or a medical condition, which he or she is unable to meet out of household income, that person can apply to the local community welfare officer for a special heating supplement under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
The Health Service Executive, mid-western region, has advised that payment to the person concerned has been suspended since the end of February 2006 due to an increase in household means. The community welfare officer is currently reviewing the claim. The person concerned has been requested to provide additional details of his exceptional heating needs. When the necessary information is supplied, the executive will determine whether he still has an entitlement to the heating supplement and notify him accordingly.
326 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo currently has an entitlement to sign for credits. [12834/06]
Under certain circumstances a person may be awarded credited social insurance contributions, known as credits, without receiving a benefit or allowance payment. To be entitled to unemployment credits, a person must be available for full-time employment, capable of work and be genuinely seeking work.
A deciding officer disallowed the unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned from 21 February 2006 on the grounds that he was not genuinely seeking employment. Consequently, he does not qualify for credited contributions.
It is open to the person concerned to appeal the decision on his claim and a form for this purpose was issued to him on 9 March 2006. Under social welfare legislation, decisions regarding claims must be made by deciding officers and appeals officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in making such decisions.
327 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to allow payment of the bereavement grant where the applicant has his or her PRSI record in another EU country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12924/06]
The bereavement grant, which is a payment based on PRSI contributions, is designed to assist families in dealing with death and funeral expenses. The grant is payable on the death of an insured person or a family member, including a child under 18 years, or under 22 years if in full-time education. In the case of persons over these ages, the grant is paid on the basis of their own PRSI contributions.
If the person applying for the bereavement grant was previously insurable employed in another country covered by EU regulations and has paid at least one full-rate PRSI contribution since returning to Ireland, the person may combine his or her insurance record from the EU country with his or her Irish insurance record to help qualify for the grant. The person applying for the grant may also use periods of insurance or residence in countries with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement to qualify for the grant. Once a person satisfies the PRSI conditions, he or she is entitled to the grant even if he or she lives outside Ireland.
Where there are insufficient PRSI contributions, a person may receive assistance under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. Under this arrangement, the Health Service Executive may make a single payment to help meet exceptional expenditure, for example, for funeral expenses, which a family could not reasonably be expected to meet out of its income.
328 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the measures he is taking to provide a State pension to married women over 66 years of age who worked all their lives in the home and have no paid contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12930/06]
329 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the guidance he will provide to people who worked and reared their children in the “tighten-your-belt” era when they had little disposable income to invest in pensions and now find that they are forced to live on very modest incomes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12994/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 328 and 329 together.
The social welfare pension rights of those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties are protected by the homemaker's scheme, introduced from 1994. The scheme allows up to 20 years spent caring for children or incapacitated adults to be disregarded when a person's social insurance record is being averaged for pension purposes. However, the scheme will not of itself qualify a person for a pension. The standard qualifying conditions, which require a person to enter insurance ten years before pension age, have a minimum of 260 paid contributions and achieve a yearly average of at least ten contributions on their record from the time they enter insurance until they reach pension age must also be satisfied.
The social welfare system comprises two types of pension; contributory pensions based on social insurance contributions and non-contributory pensions, payment of which is subject to a means test. Within that basic structure, the Government is anxious to ensure as many people as possible can qualify for pensions in their own right.
In recent years, several measures have been introduced making it easier for people to qualify for contributory pensions. These include the reduction in the yearly average number of contributions required for pension purposes from 20 to ten and the introduction of special half rate pensions based on pre-1953 insurance contributions. Pro rata pensions are also available to allow people with mixed rate insurance records to receive a payment. This set of measures is of particular benefit to women who may have less than complete social insurance records due to working in the home.
There are those who will not benefit from the homemaker's scheme and who cannot qualify for a pension in their own right. In this regard, the Government is committed to increasing the payment for qualified adults, aged 66 years or over, to the same level as the personal rate of the old age non-contributory pension and to facilitate the direct payment of the allowance to spouses and partners.
In budget 2006, I made changes to the income disregards allowed under the means test for the non-contributory pension. The basic income disregard was increased by €12.40 per week to €20. I also introduced an earnings disregard of €100 per week. These allowances are doubled in the case of couples and will allow more people to qualify for social welfare pensions.
I continue to look for ways in the current social welfare structure in which the needs of older people who are outside the social welfare pensions system may be addressed further.
330 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to issue all social welfare payments directly into bank accounts rather than by way of payable order books; if he has examined the effect this possible proposal will have on people living in rural areas several miles from their nearest banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13084/06]
The policy of the Department of Social and Family Affairs is to ensure cost-effective arrangements for making payments through a range of payment options and that the service is continually adapted by providing access to new payment services and facilities as they become available. Customers opt for a particular payment method having regard to their personal preferences.
The range of payment options offered by the Department include payment at post offices by means of a pension order book and by electronic or manual post draft, issued to the customer's designated post office each week. Payments are also made by cheque to the home address of the customer and direct payment to the customer's bank or building society account. Some 56% of customers have chosen to receive payment through their local post office, 9% are paid by cheque through the postal system and 35% have chosen to receive direct electronic payment to their bank or building society account.
Last year I announced a review of the Department's payment methods. The review will consider all current payment options and it will identify solutions to ensure high-quality payment delivery services for the future.
331 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 288 of 28 March 2006 and 469 of 21 March 2006 regarding a person, the accommodation that will be provided for his spouse and children who are homeless while this person is in jail; if the €200 fine will be paid to allow him to be released to his family; if the services will be allowed to pro-actively support this family as they have no means and cannot afford a flight back to Germany; if the habitual residency condition will be parked to allow this human tragedy to be dealt with in a humane fashion; if he will issue instructions to have the matter dealt with in a pro-active and positive way. [13189/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, administered on my behalf by the community welfare staff of the Health Service Executive, is one of several social assistance schemes which, with effect from 1 May 2004, is subject to a habitual residence condition.
The Health Service Executive was contacted regarding this case and has advised that the persons concerned were refused supplementary welfare allowance on the grounds that they did not satisfy the habitual residency condition. The executive has further advised that given the exceptional circumstances surrounding the case, it has provided for the accommodation and basic living costs for the family of the person concerned pending the result of court proceedings on 4 April 2006. The executive has also advised that it is not in a position to use the supplementary welfare allowance scheme to pay costs arising from legal proceedings. However, it will fund the family's repatriation costs following the court hearing in view of the exceptional circumstances in this case.
I am satisfied that, given the circumstances surrounding this case, the Health Service Executive has done everything within its powers to provide for the needs of the family concerned, in keeping with the Government's policy on access to the social welfare system by people not habitually resident in Ireland.
332 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the orphan’s allowance is fully assessable as means when determining eligibility for social welfare allowance while a social welfare claim is pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13235/06]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on my behalf by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. Neither I nor my Department has any function in determining entitlement to a supplement in individual cases.
Where a person who is caring for an orphan applies for supplementary welfare allowance, orphan's pension or allowance payable in respect of the orphan is not assessed as means as it is regarded as being for the benefit of the orphan.
333 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department will accept a repayment proposal made by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo to the local social welfare office in respect of the overpayment of their unemployment assistance and benefit. [13236/06]
A deciding officer disallowed the unemployment assistance claim of the person concerned from 16 January 2001 to 23 September 2003, on the grounds that he was not unemployed for this period. Consequently, an overpayment of €14,486.46 was assessed on his claim. An initial letter regarding this decision and the overpayment arising was issued to him on 4 December 2003. Following contact with the local social welfare office on 24 March 2006, the person concerned has been asked to call to the local office to discuss the matter and make arrangements regarding the recovery of the overpayment.
334 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13276/06]
The Disability Act 2005 provides a new statutory basis for the implementation and compliance monitoring of the 3% employment target in the public sector. The current position in the Department of Social and Family Affairs is that 155, 3.3%, of the total staff are persons with declared disabilities. In line with the provisions of the Disability Act, specific commitments to human resources and employment practices for staff with disabilities will be included in the Department's sectorial plan which is in preparation. In addition, the Department is participating in the willing able mentoring project during this summer. The project, administered by the Association of Higher Education Access and Disability, aims to provide temporary placements with public and private sector employers to graduates with disabilities.
335 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow of 11 March 2006; his response to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13368/06]
The person in question, who is a participant in the back to education allowance scheme, contacted the Department of Social and Family Affairs regarding the recent High Court decision on the subject of discontinuation of summer payment. He also inquired about the reinstatement of postgraduate courses of education under the scheme. Correspondence was received on 14 March and a reply issued to him on 27 March 2006.
The back to education allowance is a second chance education opportunities scheme designed to encourage and facilitate people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to the active workforce. Following a review of the basic purpose underlying the Department's back to education provisions, the scheme was revised.
In framing proposals to change elements of the scheme the concern was to ensure resources should be focused where the need is greatest. In line with this, payments under the scheme for the summer period have been discontinued for the scheme's participants as many students traditionally find seasonal work at home or abroad during the summer months. Participants in the scheme who fail to find employment during the summer may be entitled to an unemployment payment, subject to satisfying the usual qualifying conditions.
The issue was recently the subject of a High Court case concerning the cessation of back to education payments during the summer of 2003. I am considering the implications of the judgment and have sought advice from the Attorney General. I will consider the matter further in the light of that advice.
The recent High Court decision deals only with the discontinuation of summer payments to the scheme's participants. Regarding changes to the scheme as it relates to postgraduate courses of education, I am satisfied people in possession of a third level qualification have already achieved a good level of academic attainment, which should impact positively on their employment prospects. I should add, that the scheme continues to support those wishing to take up a higher diploma in any disciplines or graduate diploma in primary school-teaching.
336 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to review the means test for farmers who apply for the old age non-contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13390/06]
Budget 2006 contained several important measures designed to target resources at particular groups of older people, including farmers. In considering these measures I was anxious to target resources at those at the greatest risk of poverty, to encourage saving and to simplify the system of income support for older people who do not receive contributory pensions.
One key measure I was pleased to announce on budget day was the establishment from next September of a single standardised pension scheme with a greatly enhanced means-testing regime. The State pension, non-contributory, will replace the old age pension and, for recipients aged 66 years and over, blind pension, widow's and widower's pension, one parent family payment, deserted wife's allowance and prisoner's wife's allowance.
All schemes in question feature a common means disregard of €7.60 per week, which has not increased since the 1970s. The means disregard for the new non-contributory pension will be €20 per week, an increase of €12.40 per week. More than 30,000 pensioners who are in receipt of a reduced rate of payment will gain from this change with increases of up to €12.50 per week in the personal rate of payment and increases in the qualified adult rate, where applicable, of up to €8.30 per week. I should point out that these increases will be in addition to the increase of €16 per week in the rate of old age non-contributory pension which took effect from January. Furthermore, the new State pension, non-contributory, will also feature an innovative disregard of €100 per week in respect of earnings from employment. These measures will benefit those farmers who are in receipt of an old age, non-contributory, pension, as well as entitling some to a means-tested pension for the first time.
Consequent on the increase in the means disregard to €20 per week, a single person, with no other means, will be able to have up to €35,000 in capital and still qualify for a pension at the maximum rate. This figure is doubled in the case of a pensioner couple.
The levels of increases and revised means test arrangements announced in the budget are exceptional. The proposed modernisation of the arrangements is also a further demonstration of our commitment to the elderly, including farmers.
I will continue to keep the current arrangements under review, particularly in the context of framing future budget proposals.
337 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position on the introduction of common free travel areas for pensioners between Ireland and the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13391/06]
The free travel scheme is available to all people living in the State aged 66 years or over. All carers in receipt of carer's allowance and carers of people in receipt of constant attendance or prescribed relative's allowance, regardless of their age, receive a free travel pass. It is also available to people under 66 years in receipt of certain disability type welfare payments, such as disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind person's pension.
People resident in the State who are in receipt of a social security invalidity or disability payment from a country covered by EU regulations, or from a country with which Ireland has a bilateral social security agreement, and who have been in receipt of this payment for at least 12 months are also eligible for free travel.
There have been several requests and inquiries on the extension of entitlement to free travel in Ireland to Irish-born people living outside of Ireland, or to those in receipt of pensions from the Department of Social and Family Affairs, particularly in the UK, when they return to Ireland for a visit. I am continuing to explore all aspects of a possible approach, subject to clarification of legal advice.
I will continue to review the operation of the free travel scheme with a view to identifying the scope for further improvements as resources permit.
338 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on amending the practice of paying the free fuel allowance on a weekly basis to social welfare recipients to a system where they are given the option of a once-off payment to allow them pay for oil and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13428/06]
A review of the fuel allowance scheme several years ago considered the option of a lump sum payment but concluded it would present difficulties for recipients in certain respects. A survey of recipients carried out in conjunction with the review showed that a majority favoured weekly payments. There are no plans to change the payment arrangements for the allowance.
In addition to the fuel allowance, more than 320,000 pensioner and other households qualify for electricity or gas allowances through the household benefits package, payable towards their heating, light and cooking costs throughout the year, at an overall cost of €109 million in 2005. These allowances are linked to unit energy consumption, thus affording a level of protection against unit price increases in electricity or gas.
If a person has an exceptional heating cost by virtue of a particular infirmity or medical condition which he or she is unable to meet out of household income, it is open to him or her to apply to the local community welfare officer for a special heating supplement under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme.
Some 264,400 customers, 145,800 with basic fuel allowance and 118,600 with smokeless fuel supplement, will benefit in 2006 at an estimated cost of €125.1 million.
339 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will include schools in the free schemes as they relate to television licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13574/06]
The household benefits package, which comprises the electricity-gas allowance, telephone allowance and television licence schemes, is generally available to people living permanently in the State, aged 66 years or over, who are in receipt of a social welfare type payment or who satisfy a means test.
The package is also available to carers and people with disabilities under the age of 66 who are in receipt of certain welfare type payments. People aged over 70 years of age can qualify regardless of their income or household composition.
The objectives and scope of the arrangements, which broadly relate to the social and financial support of persons in receipt of certain social welfare payments, would not extend to the area proposed by the Deputy.
340 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a company (details supplied) proposes to close the Ted Russell Docks in Limerick city; if he will assert his policy role as Minister to protect this important infrastructural facility in the mid-west; if he will also ensure that the effect of such a closure on road traffic in the region is considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12900/06]
Shannon Foynes Port is a State-owned company established under the Harbours Act 1996. The Act provides that the principal objects of the company include the provision of such facilities, services and lands in its harbour for ships, goods and passengers as it considers necessary. The company is required to take all proper measures for the management, control, operation and development of its harbour. Decisions regarding the use of the land within the port estate are a matter for the port company.
On 15 March last, the Shannon Foynes Port Company announced that it was conducting a strategic review of its property portfolio, which could result in a major expansion and upgrade of its facilities in the Shannon estuary at a cost of over €100 million. The company manages six different port installations in the Shannon estuary, three of which are wholly owned.
The company projects significant increases in its volume of trade over the coming years and investment in new modern facilities that can handle bigger ships is required to accommodate this growth in trade. Continued investment in port infrastructure has been identified as being critical for the future development of the mid-west region. Whatever the conclusions of this review, the company has said it will continue to work in partnership with other stakeholders in the region.
More generally, a process is under way in my Department to examine future port capacity requirements at a national level, particularly for unitised trade. The ports have been invited by advisers working for the Department to make detailed project submissions regarding their development plans. These submissions have recently been received, including one from the Shannon Foynes Port Company, and are currently being evaluated.
It is intended to finalise a report over the coming months. The purpose of this process is to provide reassurance to Government that the anticipated capacity requirement for our growing economy will be met through the successful advancement and implementation by the port sector of some combination of the various proposals currently under development in the sector.
As for the implications of future port developments on road traffic in the region, the transfer of responsibility for ports and maritime transport to my Department certainly facilitates better integration of maritime and road transport policy. The implications for traffic congestion of any new port developments represent one of the criteria that will be looked at as part of the evaluation of the submissions referred to above.
341 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport the reason the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 has not been finalised; and if he will clarify the powers in legislation and the role of MIBI. [13163/06]
My officials have made inquiries in this case and I understand that the matter is currently under investigation by the Garda Síochána. The Deputy will appreciate that I cannot have a role in operational matters where the Garda Síochána is involved.
It is necessary for the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland, MIBI, to ascertain that it has a liability in this case. Matters are being expedited as quickly as possible and once liability has been established, I would expect that compensation could be paid soon after.
In all motor collisions referred to the MIBI, the innocent victim will be compensated for personal injuries and, where the driver is identified as being uninsured, for property damage. The MIBI will reimburse the innocent victim for losses incurred, including out of pocket expenses subject to the excess in the agreement, including interest incurred as a result of borrowing to fund outlays.
I understand that a representative of the MIBI met the claimant, who is the subject of the question, on Monday, 3 April. I am sure the Deputy will understand that the MIBI must ensure that claims fall within the scope of the agreement and that liability has been established against the uninsured or untraced driver. It is important to establish the insurance position of the offending vehicle before a payment is made. Where the driver is identified, MIBI representatives will interview him or her and take a statement. Where the offending driver is unidentified, the MIBI must rely on the Garda investigation for verification of the circumstances of the accident, identification of the offending driver and the insurance status of the vehicle.
In this case, I understand that the MIBI has been in touch with the Garda Síochána and it hopes to be in a position to complete its assessment of the case over the coming weeks.
The MIBI's role is to compensate victims of uninsured and untraced drivers. Membership of the MIBI is required of all motor insurers writing insurance in the State under section 78 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, as inserted by S.I. No. 347 of 1992. There have been a number of agreements between the MIBI — which is a company under the Companies Acts limited by guarantee and without share capital — and first, in 1955, with the Minister for Local Government, then Environment and later, in 2004, with the Minister for Transport. The MIBI was deemed the insurer of last resort/compensation body under the second EU motor insurance directive, 84/5/EEC.
342 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport the reason pre-cast concrete was used instead of timber frame at a cross over of the port tunnel. [13164/06]
The planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority, NRA, and the local authorities concerned
343 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding his proposed outsourcing of driving tests; his proposals to reduce the driving test backlog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13385/06]
As I have previously indicated, the delay in providing driving tests is a matter of regret to me. It is also hampering the development of initiatives that I wish to pursue and which will contribute further to road safety. The driving test and those who deliver it are a key element in the road safety strategy.
It is my objective to eliminate the backlog of driving tests by mid-2007 and my Department has developed a package of measures in consultation with staff interests to achieve this.
Additional staff have been made available to the driving test service. Seven additional testers are at present being trained and will be carrying out tests from April onwards. A recruitment campaign has been completed and a further ten persons will commence training shortly and will be available for testing this June.
In addition, a high number of the existing driver testers have indicated that they will participate in a bonus scheme that will make a significant contribution to the reduction of the backlog. Some 90 driver testers have, by way of additional Saturday and evening working, committed to deliver some 30,000 tests over a one-year period. This scheme commenced in February and will make a significant contribution to the backlog.
As regards outsourcing, the Civil Service Arbitration Board has determined that, otherwise than by agreement, the contracting out of core work of driver testers to a private firm is not contemplated or permitted by the provisions of paragraph 21.9 or by any other provision of Sustaining Progress.
However, the board urged a resumption of discussions at which all options — and it emphasised all options — should be considered, with a view to ensuring that a solution is implemented without delay. I am currently in discussions with the unions on a way forward with a view to dealing with the backlog by the middle of 2007.
344 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that a flotation decision on Aer Lingus will be made prior to the summer recess. [12808/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, in its decision of 18 May 2005, the Government agreed to the State disposing of a majority shareholding in Aer Lingus provided that both myself and the Minister for Finance are satisfied that this level of disposal is warranted on foot of the analysis prepared by the Departments' advisers for the transaction.
Following consideration of the report prepared by the advisers appointed by the Minister for Finance and me, and following agreement with the Minister for Finance, I brought proposals for the implementation of an investment transaction for Aer Lingus to Government today and Government noted these proposals.
The investment transaction will be implemented as early as possible by means of an initial public offering of a majority of shares in the company, subject to the State retaining a stake of at least 25.1% of the company to protect the State's strategic interests.
In accordance with the provisions of the Aer Lingus Act 2004, the general principles of the sale will be laid before Dáil Éireann for approval before the summer recess.
345 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport if the proposed Luas to Lucan in Transport 21 will follow the same route outlined in the 2001 DTO document Platform for Change, that is, Dolphin’s Barn, Ballyfermot, Quarryvale, Ballyowen, Esker and Lucan village as there are some local concerns regarding the loss of road space in the Lucan area. [12827/06]
As the document makes clear, the DTO's A Platform for Change provides an overall planning framework for the development of the transport system in the greater Dublin area. It is not, nor was it ever intended to be, a detailed blueprint for each of the projects. It intended that each project should be taken through a detailed planning process, including route selection. Therefore, the route shown in the DTO’s document should be regarded as strategic in character only.
The Railway Procurement Agency will undertake the detailed planning of the Lucan line and this will include appropriate public consultation. The initial phase of public consultation will place emphasis on the issue of selecting the best overall route option. The final route will only be determined following completion of the relevant statutory procedures.
346 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to a situation pertaining to a section of the M1 motorway near Swords in north County Dublin where motorists have received penalty points from the Garda Síochána for speeding in excess of 60 km/h in a zone people are led to believe should be a 120 km/h motorway zone; if his attention has further been drawn to the comments from Fingal County Council, which has responsibility for setting lower speed limits, saying that they have no record of a 60 km/h speed limit on the section of motorway in question; if, in fact such a lower limit exists, the reason no road signage is in place to inform the travelling public; the reason the legal status of penalty points acquired by motorists, who through no fault of their own were not made aware of special speed restrictions; and if those points will be erased from the motorists record. [12914/06]
My Department made inquiries into this matter and has been informed by Fingal County Council that the area in question is the airport spur of the M1 — that section of the M1 between the airport roundabout and the M1 airport interchange. This includes the approach ramp between the airport and the slip road heading northwards on the M1.
The speed limit on this section of road is 60 km/h. This speed limit was originally introduced as a special speed limit of 40 mph in the Road Traffic (Speed Limits) (County of Fingal) By-Laws 2002 and was converted to the metric equivalent of 60 km/h under section 12 of the Road Traffic Act 2004, with effect from 20 January 2005.
The council indicates that the main reason for having a 60 km/h speed limit at this location is to allow for the large volume of weaving traffic to lane-change safely over the relatively short distance of 500 m along the area in question. The area has been examined by the council's traffic engineers who are satisfied that the speed limit is properly and adequately signed at the start and end of the 60 km/h zone.
The county council has informed me that the special speed limit zone in question is clearly sign-posted on both the approach from the airport and the approach from the old N1 by the Coachman's Inn. The council has indicated that it proposes to put additional signage — speed limit repeater signs — in place to emphasise the existence of the 60 km/h special speed limit zone.
Enforcement of offences under the Road Traffic Acts, generally, is the responsibility of the Garda Síochána. The application of penalty points is a matter for the Garda or the courts.
347 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Transport the steps he is currently taking to ensure that people with reduced mobility are protected from discrimination when travelling by air; when the EU regulation on this matter will be adopted by member states; when his Department’s sectoral plan under the Disability Act 2005 covering accessible transport will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12920/06]
It is expected that the EU regulation referred to by the Deputy will be adopted at Council in May 2006. With regard to my Department's sectoral plan, it is intended that it will be finalised by mid July 2006 in time for presentation to the Houses of the Oireachtas by the statutory date.
Prior to the enactment of the legislation referred to, the current practice is that individual airlines have their own rules and procedures in this area, which must be approved for safety purposes by the Irish Aviation Authority.
348 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/36/EC will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12945/06]
Most of the provisions of the directive including actual inspections are already in place and being carried out by the Irish Aviation Authority.
My Department is currently working on a statutory instrument to transpose this directive into Irish law as soon as possible.
349 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/49/EC, the Railway Safety Directive, will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12946/06]
The Railway Safety Act 2005 provides for the implementation of most of the provisions of the EU Directive 2004/49/EC — Railway Safety Directive — including Articles 16 and 21, which require the establishment of a national railway safety authority and a railway incident investigation unit respectively.
My Department is currently drafting regulations to provide for the transposition of the remaining elements of the directive. It is the intention to do this by the end of April 2006.
350 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/50/EC will be implemented before 29 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 29 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12947/06]
The preparation of draft regulations to transpose Directive 2004/50/EC is being finalised by my Department with a view to their implementation before the April 2006 deadline.
351 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/54/EC will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; the effects this directive will have on the Jack Lynch tunnel and the Dublin Port tunnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12948/06]
I intend to sign regulations to implement EU Directive 2004/54/EC, on minimum safety requirements for tunnels in the trans-European network, by 30 April 2006. Both the Dublin Port and Jack Lynch tunnels were designed and built to best international standards in terms of tunnel safety. A review has found that the safety installations of the Dublin Port tunnel exceed those prescribed under the directive. In the case of the Jack Lynch tunnel, a detailed review will be completed later this year. However, it is anticipated that no significant modifications are required to comply with the terms of the directive. The administrative measures required under the directive will be incorporated into the regulations which I intend to make and will be implemented over the coming months in the case of both tunnels.
352 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm that EU Directives 2005/39/EC, 2005/40/EC and 2005/41/EC will be implemented before 19 April 2006; if the directives will not be implemented by 19 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12949/06]
I intend to transpose into Irish law before 20 April 2006 Directive 2005/39/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005, amending Council Directive 74/408/EEC relating to motor vehicles with regard to the seats, their anchorages and head restraints; Directive 2005/40/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005, amending Council Directive 77/541/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to safety belts and restraint systems of motor vehicles and Directive 2005/41/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 7 September 2005, amending Council Directive 76/115/EEC on the approximation of the laws of the member states relating to anchorages for motor-vehicle safety belts.
These directives collectively provide, inter alia, for the extension of requirements to fit safety belts to all forward facing seats in all new passenger and goods vehicles, including buses and minibuses, with the exception of buses constructed and-or designed with areas for standing passengers to allow frequent passenger movement. In accordance with these directives, new vehicles may not be registered, sold or entered into service here, with effect from 20 October 2007, unless fitted with safety belts as provided for.
353 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if there is conflict of interest in the mid-term review of the national car testing services by PricewaterhouseCoopers noting the fact that this company provided the consultancy advice for setting up this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12984/06]
The decision concerning the arrangements for implementing Directive 96/96/EC on compulsory periodic roadworthiness testing of passenger cars to be carried out by a single service provider was made by the Government. Following that decision, PricewaterhouseCoopers, PwC, was engaged following a public procurement process to advise my Department on the tender process and the selection of a preferred contractor for the operation of the service.
The mid-term review of the car testing service is provided for in the project agreement contract between the Minister and National Car Testing Service Limited, NCTS. The purpose of the mid-term review is to review in detail the performance of NCTS, and to assess a range of strategic issues including the location and numbers of test centres, the content of the test and the quality of the service provided by NCTS, and the responses to a public consultation process on the review. The review does not involve consideration of a change in the model of service provision nor whether the contract should be renewed or extended. PwC is assisting my Department in carrying out the mid-term review and was employed following a separate public procurement process. The aforementioned works undertaken by PwC for my Department were entirely separate from one another and do not give rise to a conflict of interest.
354 Mr. J. Breen asked the Minister for Transport if an impact study will be carried out into the effect which abolishing the bilateral agreement will have on Shannon Airport and the mid-west region; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some companies have indicated they may be forced to re-locate when this agreement comes into place in November 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12985/06]
This matter has been raised in the House before and I indicated that open skies will be good for Irish tourism, aviation, business links and the economy generally. Open skies will give Irish airlines access to every city in the US, and enable them to negotiate with different airports to obtain the best commercial deals for new services. The additional access to the US as well as the increased numbers of US tourists into Ireland will greatly benefit Irish tourism, aviation and business links generally in all parts of the country.
A number of recent reports including the Brattle report for the European Commission, the report of the tourism policy review group to the Minister of Arts, Sport and Tourism, and the Air Transport Users Council, ATUC, of the Chambers of Commerce of Ireland report into open skies all support moving to open skies with the US, and emphasise the significant benefits to Ireland when this happens.
Irish airlines serve four US cities under the existing Ireland-US bilateral arrangement. Expanding services across the Atlantic is of great importance to the growth of Irish airlines and Irish tourism. Irish airports will also benefit from open skies, as the pent-up demand for services to Ireland will open up, and all Irish airports, under open skies, can compete for that business.
I am fully conscious of the concerns of those living and working in the Shannon region about the impact of any new arrangements. I stated from the beginning that I supported open skies, but that support was contingent on a suitable transitional arrangement for Shannon Airport. Shannon could have faced a sudden and early end to the Shannon stop arrangements without a suitable lead in time to open skies to allow the airport to prepare. Accordingly, I met the US Secretary for Transportation, Norman Mineta, on 9 November 2005 and we agreed on a transitional arrangement, which will be folded into any EU-US agreement. Ireland is the only EU country to secure transitional arrangements in the proposed EU-US agreement.
In addition to the extra time the transition arrangements will give Shannon to prepare for open skies, the Government's recently approved €34 billion transport investment plan, known as Transport 21, will greatly enhance the infrastructure of the Shannon region and broaden the catchment area of the airport through the completion of the Dublin to Limerick motorway and the building of the Atlantic road corridor, both of which will link to Shannon Airport, and the re-opening of the western rail corridor. A feasibility study of a Shannon rail link will examine linking Shannon Airport to both Limerick and Galway cities by rail.
I sought and obtained assurances from Aer Lingus that, in the context of a level playing field between the airline and its competitors, it will maintain the current level of transatlantic traffic, approximately 400,000 passengers a year, with regular year round scheduled services between Shannon and Boston and New York.
In announcing the agreement reached with the US authorities last November on a transitional arrangement for Shannon Airport in the context of the proposed EU-US open skies, I gave an undertaking to prepare, in consultation with my colleagues, the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, a tourism and economic development plan for Shannon and the west of Ireland. Accordingly, and in view of the benefits I have outlined, it is not necessary to carry out an impact study. Furthermore, I can see no reason companies in the mid-west area might be forced to relocate as a result of open skies in view of the benefits which will accrue.
355 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the estimate provided as to when the Dublin Port tunnel will be fully operational and open to traffic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13187/06]
The planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority, NRA, and the local authorities concerned. Good progress continues to be made on the construction of the tunnel. I am informed by the NRA that the civil engineering work within the tunnel has now been largely completed and the main focus of work has shifted to the installation of the mechanical and electrical systems which make up the safety and control features of the project. I also understand that the tunnel is expected to be open to traffic in summer 2006 following the testing and commissioning of the tunnel's operational and safety features.
356 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for Transport the number of road fatalities and accidents in 2005 and in each previous year which involved vehicles being driven by those who were working at the time of the crash. [13204/06]
362 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Transport the number of road deaths which occurred on a county basis in the years 2000 and 2005; his views on whether the Border region have more problems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13530/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 356 and 362 together.
Statistics relating to road accidents, based on information provided by the Garda Síochána, are published by the National Roads Authority, NRA, in its annual road accident facts reports. The most recent report, entitled Road Collision Facts, relates to 2004 and is available in the Oireachtas Library and on the NRA website. The following table shows the total number of road deaths per annum between 2000 and 2005:
|
Year |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
|
No. of Road Deaths |
415 |
411 |
376 |
335 |
374 |
399 |
The Road Collision Facts reports do not provide a breakdown of the number of road users killed in traffic collisions who were working at the time of the collision. The statistics on the number of persons killed in each county from 2000 to 2004 are available in Road Collision Facts 2004 at www.nra.ie. Those reports also contain details of collision rates per thousand population, per thousand registered vehicles and per 10 million vehicle-kilometres of travel for each county. Statistics relating to 2005 are not yet fully analysed or authenticated.
The statistics do not in general indicate greater problems in the Border regions. The counties which have shown the highest number of collisions per population, the highest number of collisions per 1,000 registered vehicles, and the highest number of collisions per 10 million vehicle kilometres of travel, from 2000 to 2004, include Cavan, Longford, Louth, Cork, Leitrim, Waterford, Carlow and Dublin.
357 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Mallow test centre has again been without a driver tester for a further period of two weeks bringing the total number of weeks without testing in this centre to four weeks since 1 January 2006; his proposals to address this serious issue in view of the large number of applicants awaiting test appointments; and the reason such a large test centre can be left without a tester for four weeks out of eleven. [13248/06]
A total of 12 driver testers are assigned to the Cork region, covering nine driving test centres, including Mallow. The level of service at this test centre is generally consistent with service levels in other centres. The allocation of driver testers to test centres is kept under review having regard to the demand for tests. Occasionally, for operational reasons, some test centres may not have a driver tester assigned during a particular period. However, three testers are assigned on a regular basis to Mallow.
358 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for Transport the speed limits that apply on motorways for lorries, buses and other large vehicles; and if it is policy to have speed limits on motorways indicating the speed limit for such large vehicles. [13265/06]
Since 20 January 2005 the default speed limit on a motorway is 120 km/h. In the Road Traffic (Ordinary Speed Limits — Certain Vehicles) Regulations 2005, SI 9 of 2005, I prescribed the maximum ordinary speed limit at which specified classes of vehicles can be driven on any public road except where a lower maximum road speed limit applies.
With effect from 20 January 2005 a speed limit of 80 km/h applies to a vehicle that accommodates more than eight passengers excluding the driver, such as buses, coaches and minibuses, a goods vehicle with a design gross weight exceeding 3,500 kgs and any vehicle towing a trailer, caravan or horse box. A maximum ordinary speed limit of 65 km/h applies to a double deck bus.
These maximum ordinary speed limits apply to those categories of vehicles on all classes of public road, including motorways, except where the speed limit on a particular road is lower than the 80 km/h or 65 km/h referred to. Vehicle related maximum speed limits, known in law as ordinary speed limits, have been a feature in road traffic legislation since 1961. It has always been the policy to only provide speed limit signs on public roads that indicate the maximum road speed limit. Separate speed limit signs for vehicle related ordinary speed limits are not provided on any class of public road.
Since 1961 the users of the classes of vehicles that are subject to ordinary speed limits are obliged to be aware of the speed limit that applies to the vehicle being driven. The public information on the www.gometric.ie website, live since January 2005, contains information on the current metric vehicle related speed limits.
359 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Transport if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13277/06]
My Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability. I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question No. 367 answered on Tuesday, 7 March 2006.
360 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport the rationale for not applying the national car test to Garda vehicles; his understanding of the reasons this was not included in EU Directive 96/96/EC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13310/06]
Directive 96/96/EC permits member states to exclude vehicles belonging to the Defence Forces and the forces of law and order from its scope. I understand security considerations were a factor and these are also the reason vehicles of the Defence Forces and the Garda Síochána are not liable to compulsory roadworthiness testing.
361 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport the amount of direct or indirect State capital funding spent on each of the regional airports over the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13379/06]
The total amount of Exchequer funding which has been paid by my Department to the regional airports in Donegal, Sligo, Knock, Galway, Kerry and Waterford over the period 1997 to 2006 is outlined in the following table. Additionally, under the CLÁR programme of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, funding of €1.33 million was provided to Ireland West Airport Knock since 2003. The Western Development Commission also provided Knock Airport with €1.317 million, under the western investment fund, since 2003.
|
Airport |
Total |
|
€ |
|
|
Donegal |
1,661,950 |
|
Galway |
5,584,145 |
|
Knock |
3,970,728 |
|
Kerry |
2,088,335 |
|
Sligo |
1,139,920 |
|
Waterford |
2,239,818 |
|
Total |
16,684,896 |
363 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport the number of occasions since 1 January 2001 registered aircraft (details supplied) have landed at airports here; and their origin and destination in each case. [13562/06]
364 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport the number of occasions since 1 January 2001 registered aircraft (details supplied) have landed at airports here; and their origin and destination in each case. [13563/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 363 and 364 together.
In general, in accordance with international aviation law overflights or non-traffic stops by an aircraft of a member state of the International Civil Aviation Organisation, engaged in non-scheduled or private services, may operate without prior permission from my Department and my Department would not normally have any information about them.
Aircraft N970SJ applied to this Department for one ad hoc passenger charter flight in 2004. Traffic rights were granted. In the case of four of the aircraft listed in the questions I have information from the relevant airport authorities on foot of previous inquiries. The following flights have landed in Irish airports since 1 January 2001: N313P — 14 times; N379P — 12 times; N8068V — three times; and N85VM — 19 times.
365 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants for the installation of house alarms that are available for elderly people living alone; the amount of funding that is available; the qualifying criteria of any such scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12921/06]
The purpose of the scheme of community support for older people is to encourage and assist the community's support for older people by means of a community-based grant scheme to improve the security of its older members. The scheme is administered by local community and voluntary groups with the support of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs on an annual basis.
To apply for assistance, individuals should contact a local voluntary and community group and request that they make an application on their behalf to the Department. A list of approved participating groups in 2004 is available on the Department's website at www.pobail.ie.
The scheme provides maximum individual grants of €300 in respect of the once-off installation cost of socially monitored alarms, €150 in respect of door locks, window locks and door chains, €150 in respect of security lighting, and in 2004 I introduced a grant of €50 in respect of smoke alarms. Funding is not available for conventional intruder alarms under this scheme.
In response to suggestions from older people and their representatives, the 2005 scheme was announced earlier than in recent years. Advertisements were placed in the national and provincial newspapers in the week beginning 11 April. The closing date for applications under the scheme was 24 May 2005.
366 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position vis-à-vis the joint British and Irish Governments intent regarding the proposed restoration and development of the Ulster Canal; the thrust of the feasibility report recently received; the outcome of his recent meeting with Northern Ireland Office Minister David Hanson; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13222/06]
I met David Hanson MP, Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure, in Belfast on 6 March 2006. We welcomed the publication of the Socio-Economic Summary Report for the North East and South West Sections of the Ulster Canal and a feasibility study, Re-opening of the Ulster Canal, which Waterways Ireland had commissioned at our request. We noted the potential these reports give for the canal to be developed and for boosting its social and economic potential and we were pleased to acknowledge the assistance provided by the Blackwater Partnership to Waterways Ireland in the production of these reports. Minister Hanson and I, and our respective Departments, are considering the reports.
I have arranged for a copy of the joint statement that was issued following the meeting, as well as copies of the reports, to be forwarded to the Deputy.
367 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on an application from the centre for Irish emigrants, Camden Town, London, under the dormant accounts scheme for assistance to provide lift facilities for wheelchair and disabled people; his further views on whether many emigrants contributed to the moneys lodged in dormant accounts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13238/06]
Decisions on the disbursements of funds from dormant accounts under the initial round of funding were a matter for the dormant accounts fund disbursements board, an independent body established under the dormant accounts Acts. In overseeing the initial round of funding, the board decided that only applications from within the State would be eligible. I understand that the London Irish Centre applied to the board for assistance from the fund under the initial round of funding but were advised in January 2005 that their application was ineligible.
With regard to whether emigrants contributed towards the moneys lodged in dormant accounts, I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 148 on 9 March 2006.
368 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there are plans in place to undertake research into volunteering here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13259/06]
369 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there are plans in place to launch a national campaign to promote volunteering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13260/06]
371 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to put in place a national strategy on volunteering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13304/06]
372 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to give financial incentives to organisations, which can show that they have the proper structures in place for the attraction and retention of volunteers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13305/06]
373 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to put in place a national volunteering passport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13306/06]
374 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to undertake research into volunteering here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13307/06]
375 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his plans to launch a national campaign to promote volunteering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13308/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 368, 369 and 371 to 375, inclusive, together.
I refer the Deputy to my presentation on volunteers and volunteering to the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Arts, Sports, Tourism, Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs on 2 March 2005. During the course of that presentation, which was in response to the committee's report on this topic, I provided details of a package of measures to promote, develop and sustain volunteering while a long-term policy and strategy can be developed in consultation with players across the sector.
The measures include developing and expanding volunteering infrastructure at local and community level, promoting volunteering among young people in second and third level, supporting the development of an authoritative code of best practice for volunteering and developing reliable data with regard to volunteering to inform further initiatives. As I indicated in the course of my presentation to the committee, the key principle underpinning my approach is that volunteering finds meaning and expression at local level and that supports and funding should to the greatest extent seek to reflect and respect this reality.
The specific question of developing a volunteering passport will be addressed in the context of developing a long-term strategy for volunteering. Considerable, useful up-to-date information on volunteering already exists at local or bureau level. This was one of the functions assigned to the development officer recruited by Volunteer Centres Ireland in 2005 as part of the funding measures I have mentioned. I understand that Volunteer Centres Ireland has developed a database system in use by all of the member centres, which can produce local and national volunteer statistics. The development officer is also encouraging organisations to create the proper structures for the attraction and retention of volunteers and is developing a tool kit manual on establishing a volunteer centre for use by existing, emerging and new volunteer centres, which is based on international and national best practice.
370 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his Department meets the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13278/06]
The number of staff with a disability employed in my Department represents 3% of the total number of serving staff, and is in line with the agreed Government target.
376 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the timeframe involved in informing the Department of Agriculture and Food of social welfare payments granted to spouses of ERS pension recipients; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the delay in the time involved in processing this information and passing it onto her Department is causing grave hardship and reduction in ERS pensions of thousands of euro; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12829/06]
Under the early retirement scheme, participants who entered the scheme in joint management with their spouses can be paid the early retirement pension only as a supplement to any national retirement pension they or their spouses receive. On entering the scheme, participants are made aware of this requirement and the onus is primarily on them to notify my Department when they, or their spouses, become entitled to national retirement pensions. My Department reminds participants annually of this obligation.
This control is supplemented by information provided by the Department of Social and Family Affairs. However, that Department will not necessarily be aware in every case that a person who becomes entitled to a national retirement pension, or his or her spouse, is also a participant in the early retirement scheme. Therefore, it cannot automatically notify my Department of pensions granted. Given data protection and privacy concerns, officials of my Department cannot be given direct access to databases held by the Department of Social and Family Affairs to check cases. However, I have had discussions with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs about improving the exchange of information between our two Departments. Arrangements are currently being made between the Departments in relation to early retirement scheme participants and their spouses only in order to give earlier notification of possible deductions to my Department and so reduce the risk of overpayments.
I am aware that there are cases where overpayments have happened. My Department is obliged, as a paying agency for European Union funds, to pursue all overpayments. However, my officials make every effort to negotiate manageable repayment terms with the people concerned.
377 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when supplementary payment of single farm payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [12817/06]
An application under the 2005 single payment scheme was received from the person named on 11 May 2005. A part payment of €5,338.61 issued on 1 December 2005 and the balancing payment of €2,412.80 will issue shortly.
378 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a disability payment from the Department of Social and Family Affairs is taken into consideration in the payment of an early retirement pension awarded to a spouse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12831/06]
It is a requirement of the EU Council regulations under which the 1994 and 2000 early retirement schemes were introduced that the early retirement pension must be reduced by the amount of any national retirement pension to which the participant and his or her spouse or partner in a joint management arrangement may be entitled. However, disability allowance and disability benefit are not classified as national retirement pensions and are not subject to this requirement.
379 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the social welfare payments which are excluded from ERS pension being awarded to a spouse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12832/06]
It is a requirement of the EU Council regulations under which the 1994 and 2000 early retirement schemes were introduced that the early retirement pension can be paid only as a supplement to any national retirement pension to which the participant and his or her spouse or partner in a joint management arrangement is entitled. This means that the value of any such national retirement pension payable must be deducted from the early retirement pension.
It has been determined in consultation with the European Commission that the following pensions are national retirement pensions: old age contributory pension; old age non-contributory pension; widow-widower's contributory pension at age 66; widow-widower's non-contributory pension at age 66; retirement pension; invalidity pension; and blind person's pension.
A national retirement pension may comprise a personal allowance, an adult dependant allowance, child dependant allowances and a living alone allowance. The total amount payable constitutes the national retirement pension as a spouse and children do not have independent entitlement to the pension. Therefore, it is the total amount of the national retirement pension that must be deducted from the early retirement pension and not just the personal rate.
Other payments from the Department of Social and Family Affairs such as disability allowance and disability benefit are not regarded as being national retirement pensions and are, therefore, not deducted from the early retirement pension.
380 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if payment under the single farm payment scheme will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [12847/06]
The person named submitted an application for consideration in respect of the inheritance measure of the single payment scheme. His application has been fully processed and payment of €16,155.42, in respect of his 49.73 standard entitlements issued on 9 December 2005. The person named also submitted a private contract clause application to have entitlements with land transferred to him by way of a rental agreement. This application has been successfully processed and the payment due, €988.58, will issue shortly.
381 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason behind the choosing of the three reference years for single farm payment; the further reason a person can go back behind these years in exceptional circumstances but cannot go forward; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12857/06]
The single payment scheme was introduced in Ireland in 2005 as part of the new measures agreed in the reform of the mid-term review of the Common Agricultural Policy. While member states were free to choose between different models of the single payment scheme, ranging from the historical model to various regional models, the reference period agreed by the Council of Ministers for the establishment of payment entitlements for individual farmers was the years 2000, 2001 and 2002. The entitlements were established based on a farmer's participation in the livestock premia schemes, arable aid scheme, etc., during the reference period. Provision was also made for the application of the principle of force majeure whereby any given farmer, whose circumstances were accepted as exceptional, could be allowed avail of an earlier reference period — 1997, 1998 and 1999. The dairy premium was added to the single payment based on a farmer’s milk quota held on 31 March 2005. The sugar beet compensation will be incorporated in the single payment in 2006 and will be based on the 2001, 2002 and 2003 reference period.
The mid-term review proposals were published in early 2003 and contained details of the 2000 to 2002 reference period. If 2003 and subsequent years were included in the reference period, it would have enabled certain participants with a capacity to increase production to maximise their applications under the coupled livestock premia and arable aid schemes during 2003 and 2004 and, therefore, increase the level of their single payment at the expense of other farmers within the limits of the national ceiling provided under the EU regulations.
382 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will confirm that EU Directive 2005/70/EC will be implemented before 21 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 21 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12950/06]
383 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will confirm that EU Directive 2005/74/EC will be implemented before 26 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 26 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12951/06]
384 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will confirm that EU Directive 2005/77/EC will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12952/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 382 to 384, inclusive, together.
EU Directive 2005/77/EC has been transposed into Irish law by SI 86 of 2006 which was signed by me on 16 February 2006. EU Directives 2005/70/EC and 2005/74/EC will be transposed by the due date.
385 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of applications received by her Department from each county for entitlements from the national reserve under the single farm payment; the average length her Department has been in receipt of same; the reason she has not made a decision on the national reserve in over 300 days; if she will immediately allocate entitlements to reserve applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12969/06]
The position is that 17,500 farmers submitted applications to the national reserve but over 6,000 farmers applied under two or more categories which means that over 23,000 files have to be processed. In dealing with the new single payment scheme, priority was given to establishing the system and paying eligible farmers at the earliest date. I am satisfied this was achieved.
The following table sets out the number of farmers per county who applied under national reserve, some of whom applied under more than one category.
|
Carlow |
204 |
|
Kilkenny |
513 |
|
Offaly |
399 |
|
Cavan |
649 |
|
Laois |
390 |
|
Roscommon |
852 |
|
Clare |
1,151 |
|
Leitrim |
482 |
|
Sligo |
584 |
|
Cork |
1,886 |
|
Limerick |
731 |
|
Tipperary |
1,282 |
|
Donegal |
753 |
|
Longford |
637 |
|
Waterford |
355 |
|
Dublin |
73 |
|
Louth |
156 |
|
Westmeath |
384 |
|
Galway |
1,601 |
|
Mayo |
1,461 |
|
Wexford |
470 |
|
Kerry |
954 |
|
Meath |
438 |
|
Wicklow |
275 |
|
Kildare |
230 |
|
Monaghan |
604 |
|
Total |
17,514 |
While much work has been done in processing the vast majority of the applications, none of the applications have yet been processed to finality with national reserve allocations attributed. Some 11% of the applications received are still under query with the farmers concerned as my Department has sought additional information in support of their applications.
In addition, the regulations contain certain "anti-accumulation" clauses which mean that a farmer may not qualify for an allocation under two or more categories. In such circumstances, an allocation will be made under the category that is most beneficial. Approximately 3,500 applicants to the national reserve have also applied under other measures, for example, force majeure and new entrant. The regulations provide that the farmers may not qualify under the reserve and under the other measures and because of this these 3,500 cases will have to be manually examined to see which measure is the most beneficial. Processing of all applications is continuing and the intention is to make allocations to successful applicants within the next two weeks.
386 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 600 of 7 March 2006 her Department’s role in the monitoring of so-called puppy farming; the role of her Department in animal welfare as it applies to dogs, including those dogs that are defined as companion animals and all other dogs if held for puppy-farming purposes or otherwise; if her Department has no role in this aspect of animal welfare the Department which is responsible for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12978/06]
My Department has statutory responsibility for the welfare and protection of farmed animals. The legislation governing this is the Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes Act 1984 and the European Community (Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes) Regulations 2000. In addition, there is specific legislation in relation to pigs, calves and laying hens.
The Protection of Animals Acts 1911 and 1965 are the principal statutes governing cruelty to animals in this country. Responsibility for pursuing complaints under that legislation rests with the Garda Síochána which, on receipt of such a complaint, has the statutory basis on which to investigate and initiate a prosecution against any person alleged to have committed an act of cruelty against an animal. Officers of my Department are regularly involved in assisting the gardaí in such cases with regard to breaches of farm animal welfare.
My Department does not have a role in the monitoring of puppy farms or for the welfare of dogs generally other than in relation to commercial transport which is covered by EU regulation on the transport of live animals and in relation to veterinary certification in the case of export of traded dogs. As mentioned in reply to Question No. 600 of 7 March 2006, a working group was appointed in September 2004 to review the management of dog breeding establishments. That working group was appointed by my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
387 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the year 2002 will be excluded from the benchmarking years for the single payment scheme (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13154/06]
The current owner of the herd number quoted applied under the force majeure measure of the single payment scheme on 6 February 2004. My Department, having examined the circumstances of the case, deemed that the applicant did not satisfy the criteria of Article 40 of Council Regulation EC No. 1782/2003, determining force majeure-exceptional circumstances.
The current owner of the herd number appealed this decision on 19 September 2005 to the single payment appeals committee which recommended that the decision of my Department should be upheld. The finding was that force majeure on the grounds of ill-health during 2002 could only have been applied to the previous owner, now deceased, and not to the inheritee.
If the current owner of the herd number is dissatisfied with the decision of my Department, he may wish to refer his case to the Office of the Ombudsman, 18 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2.
388 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if all levies, including bovine disease, dairy inspection, NDC, Bord Bainne and farm organisation levies will be abolished from all farmers milk cheques for dairy farmers on a quota of 50,000 gallons or less (details supplied). [13176/06]
Dairy inspection and bovine disease levies are provided for in legislation and help defray some of the costs associated with official controls performed to ensure compliance with EU and national legislation and compensation. I have no plans to abolish such levies. My Department has no responsibility for NDC, Bord Bainne and farm organisation levies.
389 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the average length of time its takes from application to granting of consent to subdivision of an agricultural holding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13191/06]
Since the commencement on 4 November 2005 of section 12 of the Land Act 2005 there is no longer a requirement to obtain my Department's consent to subdivision of an agricultural holding. Prior to that date, applications for consent were dealt with immediately, usually within a matter of days.
390 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of consents to subdivision of land-holding issued by her Department each year for the past five years; the amount applied for; the number of requests refused; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13192/06]
Subdivision consent from my Department is no longer necessary since 4 November 2005, the date of commencement of section 12 of the Land Act 2005. The number of consents issued for the last five years is set out in the following table. My Department has not refused consent under the Land Acts for any application over the past five years.
|
Year |
No. of Consents issued |
|
2005 |
15,561 |
|
2004 |
16,834 |
|
2003 |
15,119 |
|
2002 |
15,842 |
|
2001 |
16,725 |
391 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of people employed in the section of her Department that deals with the issuing of consents to subdivision of land-holdings; the costs of running this division per annum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13193/06]
Consent to subdivision of land holdings is no longer necessary since the commencement on 4 November 2005 of section 12 of the Land Act 2005. Prior to that date, five clerical staff members dealt with general subdivision consents, along with other administrative duties. For more difficult applications, additional staff would be allocated to assist from time to time. As the processing of such applications formed part of the general duties for staff involved, it is not possible to accurately determine the costs associated with this function.
392 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the position on the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if this case will be examined and the correction made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13211/06]
The mix-up that occurred when recording mart transaction details on the cattle movement monitoring system, CMMS, between the two tag numbers mentioned has now been resolved and the person named has been recorded as the buyer of the latter animal.
393 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when payment of the EU single farm payment will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [13241/06]
An application under the 2005 single payment scheme was received from the person named on 9 May 2005, as was an application to have his entitlements consolidated under the single payment scheme.
The single payment could not be issued pending processing of the consolidation application, which in turn has been delayed pending the satisfactory resolution of issues concerning two land parcels which were highlighted following initial processing. While one of these issues has been satisfactorily resolved, officials of my Department are in direct contact with the person named with a view to an early resolution of the outstanding issue. Payment will be issued shortly thereafter.
394 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the steps she intends to take to ensure that milk quota ring fencing will remain in place and that the milk industry in the west and north east will not be deprived of essential milk supply; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13262/06]
The term "ring fencing" can be used in the milk quota context to describe two different sets of rules. The first relates to the movement of quota from a less-favoured area, LFA, arising from the transfer of dairying lands and the second concerns the distribution of milk in milk quota restructuring schemes.
Where land in an LFA to which quota attaches is transferred by way of sale, lease, gift or inheritance, only milk produced on the transferred farm or on other lands within 48 km of it can be delivered in respect of that quota, that is, the new quota holder cannot use the quota on lands more than 48 km away from the original holding. An exemption is available to a producer who sells his or her entire holding and buys a new holding more than 48 km away.
The term "ring fencing" has also been used in the context of the restructuring scheme. This scheme is operated at co-operative level according to detailed rules set each year by my Department. A primary condition of the scheme is that quota sold into the restructuring pool by a co-operative's suppliers is available for purchase by that co-operative's suppliers in the first instance. Surplus quota in a co-operative's restructuring pool would be distributed on a national basis.
I recently announced my intention to move to a more open market system for transferring milk quotas, which will come into effect on 1 April 2007. I made this decision because the current restructuring model will not meet the future needs of the industry and a more effective response is required in order to meet future competitive pressures. In making my announcement I made it clear that the new system would continue to operate at co-operative level. Intensive consultation with farming organisations and with the industry has already begun in relation to the detailed arrangements to give effect to this new approach.
395 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when applications for national reserve allocations under the single farm payment scheme will be made available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13263/06]
The position is that some 17,500 farmers submitted applications to the national reserve but when account is taken of the number of farmers who applied under two or more categories, over 23,000 files have to be processed.
While much work has been done in processing the vast majority of the applications, none of the applications has yet been processed to finality with national reserve allocations attributed. Some 11% of the applications received are still under query with the farmers concerned as my Department has sought additional information in support of their applications. Processing of all applications is continuing and the intention is to make allocations to successful applicants within the next two weeks.
396 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will continue to support the pre-financing of export refunds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13264/06]
Irish beef exports in 2005 stood at 487,000 tonnes. All of these exports went to the UK and continental Europe except for 35,000 tonnes that went to third countries, mainly Russia. While the beef industry has in recent years become less reliant on third countries, these markets are important for specific cuts at particular times of the year. Third country beef exports attract export refunds.
At the Council of Agriculture Ministers on 20 March, Commissioner Fischer Boel announced her intention of abolishing pre-financing of export refunds on the basis of criticisms levelled at the system in a 2003 report of the Court of Auditors. The report stated that controls were complex and not evenly applied across member states. The pre-financing regime allows for payment of refunds at the time the beef is put under customs control and for the meat to remain in storage for up to four months. The regime is of benefit to exporters in that it assists them with cash flow but also provides time for the exporter to build up an exportable quantity of stock and to find a suitable market.
At the meeting of the Council of Ministers, I strongly opposed the removal of pre-financing arguing that its abolition was not justified. Pre-financing is currently being used by most of our exporters of beef to third countries and is an important part of their operation. The system was streamlined in 2003 and the controls are now working well.
An internal impact study by the Commission shows that the main advantage of the scheme was in the administration of beef exports rather than the financial element. The Commission proposes new beef control measures to replace the present scheme and I and my Department will be examining the proposals to ensure as far as possible that whatever is put in place by the Commission to replace the existing system best suits the needs of the Irish beef sector.
397 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if her Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; her views on whether that figure is adequate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13279/06]
Currently 2.6% of the staff employed by my Department have a disability. My Department is committed to the employment of people with a disability and places no barriers to the recruitment of people with disabilities to vacancies that may arise.
398 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will provide an inventory of the assets of Coillte; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13297/06]
Coillte Teoranta publishes details of assets in its annual report and accounts, copies of which are readily available. I refer the Deputy to Note 7 in the most recent Annual Report and Accounts, 2004, which provides information concerning tangible assets under the headings of "Forests and Land", "Buildings", and "Machinery & Equipment".
399 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her plans to introduce legislation to replace the Protection of Animals Act 1911, as amended in 1965, in respect of the protection of animals, but cats in particular, as the current legislation is regarded by animal welfare groups as being outdated, ineffective, unenforceable and unacceptable to them in the 21st century welfare environment, as outlined in correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13388/06]
My Department has statutory responsibility for the welfare and protection of farmed animals. The legislation governing this is the Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes Act 1984, and the European Community (Protection of Animals Kept for Farming Purposes) Regulations 2000. In addition, there is specific legislation in relation to pigs, calves and laying hens.
The Protection of Animals Acts 1911 and 1965 are the principal statutes governing cruelty to animals in this country. Responsibility for pursuing complaints under that legislation rests with the Garda Síochána, which on receipt of such a complaint has the statutory basis on which to investigate and initiate a prosecution against any person alleged to have committed an act of cruelty against an animal. Officers of my Department are regularly involved in assisting the Garda in such cases where farmed animals are involved and in that regard I am satisfied that the legislation is adequate.
I do not have responsibility for the protection and welfare of non-farm animals such as cats which do not come under the definition of farmed animals.
Although it does not have statutory responsibility in this area, my Department makes ex gratia payments annually to organisations involved in the direct delivery of animal care and welfare services to assist in their ongoing work. In December last, some €1.2 million was paid to 86 organisations to assist them during 2006. A provision of €1.1 million for this purpose is included in my Department’s Estimates for 2006 towards their costs in 2007.
400 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will ensure a more humane regime for the treatment of aged-out illegal minors whilst they await a decision on their future. [12915/06]
I contend that all categories of persons in the asylum system, including so-called aged-out minors, have their asylum applications or applications for permission to remain temporarily in the State dealt with in a fair, comprehensive and humane manner.
All persons, including minors and aged-out minors, who, having failed the asylum process and apply to remain temporarily in the State, are dealt with having regard to all of the factors contained in section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended.
All cases are considered on their individual merits. There is no "catch all" policy for dealing with applications for permission to remain temporarily in the State.
401 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a decision has been made on a residency application for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; when a decision is likely on this ongoing matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12813/06]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 6 May 2000 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by asylum division and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 17 January 2002, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made; or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 — prohibition of refoulement. I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
402 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for Irish citizenship by a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12818/06]
A declaration of Irish citizenship as post-nuptial citizenship on foot of her marriage to an Irish citizen was lodged in the citizenship section of my Department by the person in question on 12 January 2005.
The declaration was examined recently and was deemed to be in order. A letter informing the person in question of this and requesting the statutory fee is due to be issued in the coming days. A certificate confirming that the person concerned is an Irish citizen will be issued as soon as possible after receipt of the fee.
403 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the concerns of the family of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; if his attention has further been drawn to reports that the family has been harassed by local gardaí; if he agrees with the family that there are a number of unanswered questions; and if he will order a new investigation to ascertain the facts of what happened to this person. [12828/06]
453 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has satisfied himself regarding the circumstances surrounding the death of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and his views on an independent inquiry in to this death. [13531/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 403 and 453 together.
I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 566 of 6 July 2004. The position remains unchanged.
404 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the funding and personnel allocations in respect of Garda numbers for each station in the Thurles district, County Tipperary with particular reference to personnel and funding tackling specifically the drugs problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12852/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strengths, of all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 were 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, or 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed that the personnel strength, of all ranks, of each Garda station in the Thurles district of the Tipperary division as at 31 March 2006 was as set out in the following table.
|
Station |
Strength |
|
Thurles |
66 |
|
Ballingarry South |
1 |
|
Holycross |
1 |
|
Johnstown |
1 |
|
Killenaule |
1 |
|
Littleton |
1 |
|
Urlingford |
2 |
|
Total |
73 |
The Garda national drugs unit and local drugs units conduct intelligence-driven operations to target individuals suspected of involvement in the distribution of drugs. Drug units and community policing personnel are engaged in intelligence gathering on individuals and groups suspected of involvement in the sale and distribution of all drugs. There is also targeted patrolling by uniform and plain-clothes personnel of problem areas in order to detect and disrupt persons involved in such activity. There is a divisional drugs unit based in Clonmel which is staffed by seven gardaí, of all ranks. The number is augmented as particular demands require and at present includes an additional two members. All gardaí have responsibility, inter alia, to deal with drug related issues as they arise.
Garda management states that they will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Tipperary division with a view to ensuring an effective Garda service is maintained. Garda management further states that the projected financial resources required to operate the Tipperary division for 2006 is adequately provided for in this year's Garda budget of over €1.3 billion. It is a matter for local Garda management to identify and evaluate specific operational needs, and assign resources to meet operational requirements.
The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006.
The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the Tipperary division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
405 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on a visa application for a person (details supplied). [12878/06]
Visa approval was granted in respect of an application made by the person in question in April 2005. I understand that the visa was not availed of due to a delay in its issue. As the visa has now expired it will be necessary for the person in question to make a fresh application. Given the circumstances of this case, I have arranged for waiver of the fee in respect of such application. There is no current application on record in respect of the person in question.
406 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he proposes to provide the Garda Síochána with a modern system of communication to obviate gardaí having to use personal mobile phones to contact Garda stations; if he has identified an appropriate system; if he has sought tenders for same; when he expects to be in a position to have such a system provided to rank-and- file gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12886/06]
The procurement of a managed digital radio service is well advanced by the CMOD division of the Department of Finance, which is undertaking the procurement on behalf of all public security and emergency services, including the Garda Síochána, and some non-commercial public bodies. In this regard, the first stage of a restricted EU-based tender procedure has been completed.
While the exact timeframe for roll-out to the various agencies will be subject to contract negotiations with the successful bidder, the roll-out of the new managed digital radio service to rank and file gardaí will commence this year. With regard to identification of an appropriate system, it will be a matter for the selected bidders to identify and propose appropriate technological solutions that meet the detailed requirements specified by the Garda Síochána and the other emergency services in the tender documentation.
407 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the green man system of communications is obsolete; the analysis which has been carried out on its efficiency; his proposals for its replacement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12887/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that having reviewed the public access callbox units commonly referred to as the "green man" units, which are installed in sub-district stations, they have concluded that such units are becoming increasingly obsolete as spare parts have become difficult to obtain. I am further advised that plans for replacement of faulty units with latest technology have commenced and replacement will be carried out over the next number of years on a priority basis and to meet local demands.
408 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the Garda strength per rank and location in the Mayo division for each of the past two years; the number and rank of positions unfulfilled; the reason these positions have not been filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12888/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strengths, of all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 were 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, or 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed that the personnel strength, by rank of each district, in the Mayo division as at 31 December 2004 and 2005 was as set out in the following tables.
|
District |
C/Supt. |
Supt. |
Insp. |
Sgt. |
Garda |
Total |
|
Castlebar |
1 |
1 |
1 |
12 |
51 |
66 |
|
Ballina |
0 |
1 |
1 |
9 |
39 |
50 |
|
Belmullet |
0 |
1 |
0 |
3 |
23 |
27 |
|
Claremorris |
0 |
1 |
0 |
7 |
33 |
41 |
|
Swinford |
0 |
1 |
1 |
8 |
35 |
45 |
|
Westport |
0 |
1 |
0 |
6 |
30 |
37 |
|
Total |
1 |
6 |
3 |
45 |
211 |
266 |
|
District |
C/Supt. |
Supt. |
Insp. |
Sgt. |
Garda |
Total |
|
Castlebar |
1 |
1 |
1 |
12 |
50 |
65 |
|
Ballina |
0 |
1 |
1 |
10 |
40 |
52 |
|
Belmullet |
0 |
1 |
0 |
4 |
22 |
27 |
|
Claremorris |
0 |
1 |
0 |
7 |
33 |
41 |
|
Swinford |
0 |
1 |
0 |
6 |
32 |
39 |
|
Westport |
0 |
1 |
0 |
5 |
29 |
35 |
|
Total |
1 |
6 |
2 |
44 |
206 |
259 |
The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, and other specialised units.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that a further three gardaí are due to be allocated to the Mayo division on 18 April 2006. Garda management states that it is also anticipated that a further two sergeants will be allocated to the Mayo division in conjunction with the next allocation of newly promoted personnel. The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda College of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006.
The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the Mayo division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
409 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding casinos operating here; the number and location of those currently operating as private clubs; if such clubs are subject to the provisions of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956; his proposals to reform the Act; and the details of such proposals. [12902/06]
Under Irish law, gaming and gambling is illegal, except where it is specifically permitted under the 1956 Gaming and Lotteries Act. Certain gaming activities, such as those carried out in casinos, are prohibited. There are no provisions under current legislation for the registration of casinos in this country. However, a number of private clubs offering casino facilities are under investigation by the Garda Síochána with a view to establishing whether they are in breach of the Gaming and Lotteries Act 1956.
It is not appropriate for me to offer a legal opinion in response to a parliamentary question as to the manner in which the law applies in particular circumstances. However, I have concerns about the enforceability of the present law as it applies to casino-type operations in the State and am preparing proposals for submission to Government regarding possible changes in the law that would facilitate the prosecution of offences and the closing down of establishments engaged in such operations. It is my intention, subject to Government approval, to bring forward any such changes, with the forthcoming Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill as the legislative vehicle, to ensure their early enactment.
410 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force at Skibbereen Garda station; the number of hours per week that the station is opened; and if there are proposals to upgrade the Garda station in question by way of additional members or opening hours. [12917/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 was 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed that the personnel strength of Skibbereen Garda station as at 31 March 2006 was ten, all ranks. Garda management reports that Skibbereen Garda station is open to the public from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday to Saturday. At present, Skibereen Garda station is closed on Sundays. However Garda management states that it is proposed to open Skibbereen Garda Station from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays during the summer months. Garda management further states that it will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Cork west division with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, and other specialised units.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs ofSkibbereen Garda station will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.
411 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in County Louth has been served with a summons under the Immigration Acts after they issued a complaint against their employer for failing to comply with Employment Acts and Revenue Acts; and if he will agree to a request that the person be allowed remain here pending the outcome of proceedings against their employer. [12923/06]
The person concerned entered the State on 8 May 2002 on foot of a "D" employment visa. He attended at his local immigration office on 12 June 2002 and he was granted permission to remain on work permit conditions until 29 March 2003. In January 2006 an immigration officer based at the immigration office, Garda station, Drogheda, County Louth became aware that the person concerned was in employment in County Louth and in February 2006 visited premises where he believed the person referred to was living. A request was made, pursuant to the provisions of section 12 of the Immigration Act 2004, to produce a valid passport or equivalent document issued by or on behalf of an authority recognised by the Government, which establishes his identity. He failed to produce such documentation and proceedings have now been commenced against him in respect of an alleged breach of the provisions of sections 12 (1)(a), and (2) and section 13 of the Immigration Act 2004 and he is summonsed to appear at Dundalk District Court on 5 April 2006.
Notification under section 3(4) of the Immigration Act 1999 has now issued to the person concerned as he has remained in the State since the 29 March 2003 without the permission of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform. He has also engaged in employment without a current work permit which is in direct contravention of the Employment Permits Act 2003.
Under section 3(4) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, it is now open to the person concerned to choose one of following options: leave the State before the Minister decides the matter, section 3(4)(b); consent to the making of a deportation order, section 3(4)(c); or make representations to remain temporarily in the State.
412 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the processing time for applications for a certificate of naturalisation; his views on whether it is acceptable that a person should be required to wait for such a period; the steps which he is taking to address the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12932/06]
The average processing time for applications for certificates of naturalisation is currently 24 months. The lengthy processing time for applications is primarily due to the significant increase in the volume of applications that were received in the last number of years. The following table shows the number of applications received in the years 2000 to 2005, inclusive.
|
Year |
Applications for naturalisation received |
|
2000 |
1,004 |
|
2001 |
1,431 |
|
2002 |
3,574 |
|
2003 |
3,580 |
|
2004 |
4,074 |
|
2005 |
4,523 |
I have informed this House on a number of occasions that the major reduction in the number of asylum applications has given me an opportunity to refocus resources in areas of service provision for non-nationals. Citizenship is but one of the services provided by the Irish naturalisation and immigration service. While the number of staff working exclusively on citizenship matters has doubled to 41 since November 2004, other sections within the broad immigration area, such as those dealing with visas and residency applications, have also been expanded to cope with the additional workload in those areas.
The granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is an honour and applications must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is given only to persons who are suitably qualified. I believe it would be beneficial to the Deputy if I set out a short synopsis of the procedures employed to assess an applicant for naturalisation.
Upon receipt, each application is examined to determine whether the statutory application is completed fully. Incomplete application forms are returned to the applicant for amendment. Valid applications are then examined to determine if the applicant meets the statutory residency criteria set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act. Passports and other documentation are examined in detail and inquiries with the Garda National Immigration Bureau may also be necessary. Since this procedure was introduced on 1 April 2005, more than 1,400 applicants who applied since that date have been found to be ineligible. All such applicants are informed of any shortfall in their residency and will be able to reapply when they have the required residency.
The next stage of the process involves assessing an applicant's financial status in respect of his or her ability to support himself or herself in the State. Inquiries with the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Social and Family Affairs may be necessary in this regard. At the same time inquiries are also made with the Garda Síochána to clarify whether the applicant can be deemed to be of good character. Certain circumstances in individual cases may require a greater level of investigation than other cases. Once all inquiries are completed, the file is referred to me for a decision. The Deputy will appreciate that these processes can take a lengthy time to complete.
The procedures outlined have been developed and refined over a number of years and I am satisfied that they are necessary to maintain the integrity of the naturalisation process. Consequently, there is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved.
413 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in Laois-Offaly Garda division for the years 1997 to 2005; inclusive, and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12933/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following table provides the total number of headline offences, by group, recorded and detected in the Garda division of Laois-Offaly for the years 2000 to 2005, inclusive.
The introduction of the PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 has led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. Consequently the statistics provided for 1997 are not comparable to statistics provided for 2000 and subsequent years. The figures provided for 2000 and 2001 are incomplete due to the phased implementation of PULSE. The first full year captured is 2002 and is a more accurate base year to use.
It should be borne in mind that any interpretation of the crime figures should factor in the increase in our population in the past ten years. In 1995, with a population of almost 3.6 million people, there were 29 crimes per 1,000 of the population. In 2005, with a population of more than 4.1 million, there were 24.6 crimes per 1,000 of the population, a reduction of 4.4 crimes per 1,000 of the population. To put this in context, during the two full years of the rainbow coalition Government, with a population of 600,000 less than at present, the headline crime figures were as follows: 102,484 in 1995; and 100,785 in 1996.
It should also be noted that the headline offence of homicide includes not only murder and manslaughter but also the other homicide offences of infanticide, abortion, attempted murder and threat to murder. Over the six-year period shown in the table four murders were recorded with three detected, and one manslaughter was recorded with one detected.
|
2005* |
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
2000 |
|||||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
Assault |
128 |
109 |
136 |
114 |
105 |
95 |
151 |
134 |
92 |
79 |
47 |
44 |
|
Sexual Offences |
44 |
25 |
30 |
26 |
48 |
23 |
68 |
49 |
85 |
73 |
26 |
23 |
|
Arson |
32 |
9 |
27 |
9 |
26 |
14 |
13 |
7 |
12 |
7 |
17 |
5 |
|
Drugs |
113 |
113 |
97 |
94 |
94 |
91 |
70 |
68 |
71 |
71 |
39 |
39 |
|
Theft |
1,287 |
549 |
1,203 |
516 |
1,370 |
551 |
1,182 |
496 |
666 |
311 |
594 |
304 |
|
Burglary |
725 |
167 |
700 |
156 |
646 |
129 |
714 |
161 |
621 |
165 |
598 |
142 |
|
Robbery |
26 |
9 |
20 |
10 |
20 |
10 |
32 |
15 |
15 |
7 |
18 |
11 |
|
Fraud |
121 |
105 |
125 |
109 |
78 |
67 |
134 |
114 |
149 |
134 |
79 |
70 |
|
Other |
70 |
63 |
62 |
56 |
30 |
26 |
27 |
16 |
19 |
16 |
12 |
11 |
|
Total |
2,547 |
1,150 |
2,400 |
1,090 |
2,419 |
1,007 |
2,391 |
1,060 |
1,731 |
864 |
1,432 |
651 |
* Figures provided are provisional, operational and liable to change.
414 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in Kerry Garda division for the years 1997 to 2005, inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12934/06]
It has not been possible in the time available to compile the information requested by the Deputy. I will contact the Deputy again when the information is to hand.
415 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in Cork north and Cork west Garda division for the years 1997 to 2005, inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12935/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following tables provide the total number of headline offences, by group, recorded and detected in the Garda divisions of Cork north and Cork west for the years 2000 to 2005, inclusive.
The introduction of the PULSE computer system by the Garda Síochána in 1999 has led to more complete and comprehensive recording of crimes reported than was previously the case. Consequently the statistics provided for 1997 are not comparable to statistics provided for 2000 and subsequent years. The figures provided for 2000 and 2001 are incomplete due to the phased implementation of PULSE. The first full year captured is 2002 and is a more accurate base year to use.
It should be borne in mind that any interpretation of the crime figures should factor in the increase in our population in the past ten years. In 1995, with a population of almost 3.6 million people, there were 29 crimes per 1,000 of the population. In 2005, with a population of more than 4.1 million, there were 24.6 crimes per 1,000 of the population, a reduction of 4.4 crimes per 1,000 of the population. To put this in context, during the two full years of the rainbow coalition Government, with a population of 600,000 less than at present, the headline crime figures were as follows: 102,484 in 1995; and 100,785 in 1996.
It should also be noted that the headline offence of homicide includes not only murder and manslaughter but also the other homicide offences of infanticide, abortion, attempted murder and threat to murder. Over the six year period shown in the table for the Garda division of Cork north three murders were recorded with three detected and two manslaughters were recorded with two detected. In the same period in the Garda division of Cork west no murders were recorded, and one manslaughter was recorded that has not been detected to date.
|
2005* |
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
2000 |
|||||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
3 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
114 |
82 |
87 |
65 |
133 |
90 |
160 |
133 |
88 |
72 |
60 |
60 |
|
Sexual Offences |
46 |
18 |
28 |
13 |
55 |
28 |
92 |
65 |
65 |
51 |
19 |
18 |
|
Arson |
30 |
12 |
14 |
6 |
27 |
5 |
27 |
7 |
13 |
3 |
10 |
4 |
|
Drugs |
80 |
72 |
70 |
64 |
49 |
45 |
64 |
62 |
41 |
41 |
37 |
37 |
|
Theft |
977 |
389 |
826 |
306 |
1036 |
260 |
983 |
222 |
715 |
250 |
605 |
288 |
|
Burglary |
526 |
154 |
409 |
99 |
484 |
84 |
534 |
100 |
435 |
114 |
331 |
115 |
|
Robbery |
15 |
7 |
11 |
2 |
13 |
3 |
15 |
3 |
8 |
5 |
6 |
4 |
|
Fraud |
99 |
64 |
96 |
82 |
122 |
86 |
85 |
44 |
59 |
50 |
72 |
67 |
|
Other |
67 |
56 |
30 |
25 |
33 |
22 |
40 |
29 |
21 |
18 |
7 |
6 |
|
Total |
1,955 |
855 |
1,571 |
662 |
1,952 |
623 |
2,003 |
668 |
1,446 |
605 |
1,147 |
599 |
* Figures are provisional, operational and liable to change.
|
2005* |
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
2000 |
|||||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
3 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
113 |
95 |
132 |
114 |
118 |
100 |
125 |
104 |
100 |
91 |
66 |
62 |
|
Sexual Offences |
35 |
19 |
40 |
23 |
26 |
19 |
45 |
37 |
26 |
23 |
72 |
71 |
|
Arson |
26 |
12 |
25 |
11 |
29 |
11 |
24 |
9 |
26 |
15 |
5 |
1 |
|
Drugs |
42 |
42 |
30 |
30 |
56 |
56 |
53 |
53 |
42 |
42 |
26 |
26 |
|
Theft |
700 |
323 |
727 |
282 |
699 |
196 |
719 |
273 |
533 |
202 |
445 |
180 |
|
Burglary |
322 |
109 |
289 |
98 |
286 |
87 |
370 |
89 |
390 |
119 |
329 |
115 |
|
Robbery |
8 |
7 |
3 |
3 |
5 |
2 |
11 |
6 |
7 |
4 |
3 |
2 |
|
Fraud |
92 |
73 |
49 |
38 |
96 |
72 |
130 |
107 |
120 |
101 |
59 |
45 |
|
Other |
50 |
41 |
26 |
20 |
33 |
29 |
25 |
23 |
15 |
14 |
9 |
9 |
|
Total |
1,391 |
723 |
1,322 |
620 |
1,348 |
572 |
1,504 |
703 |
1,259 |
611 |
1,014 |
511 |
* Figures are provisional, operational and liable to change.
416 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Donegal Garda division for the years 1997, 2000, and 2002 to 2005, inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12936/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 was 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number of gardaí, all ranks, stationed in the Donegal division as at 31 December 1997, 2000, and 2002 to 2005, inclusive, and as at 31 March 2006 was as set out in the following table:
|
Division |
1997 |
2000 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
31/03/2006 |
|
Donegal |
440 |
434 |
416 |
424 |
412 |
417 |
433 |
The decrease shown in Garda personnel assigned to the Donegal division between 1997 and 2004 reflects the fact that the necessity for the large Garda presence in the Border counties has significantly diminished since the Good Friday Agreement. However, the Deputy will note the increase in numbers from 416 in 2002 to 433 on 31 March 2006. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, and other specialised units.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved. As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the Donegal division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
417 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Clare Garda division for the years 1997, 2000, and 2002 to 2005, inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12937/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 was 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number of gardaí, all ranks, stationed in the Clare division as at 31 December 1997, 2000, and 2002 to 2005, inclusive, was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Division |
1997 |
2000 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
|
Clare |
219 |
235 |
234 |
245 |
259 |
261 |
This represents an increase of 42, 19%, in the number of gardaí, all ranks, stationed in the Clare division during that period. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, and other specialised units.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved. As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the Clare division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
418 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Cavan and Monaghan Garda division for the years 1997, 2000, and 2002 to 2005, inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12938/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 was 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number of gardaí, all ranks, stationed in the Cavan-Monaghan division as at 31 December 1997, 2000, 2002-2005, inclusively, and as at 4 April 2006 was as set out in the following table:
|
Division |
1997 |
2000 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
04/04/2006 |
|
Cavan/-Monaghan |
371 |
382 |
374 |
377 |
374 |
367 |
384 |
This represents an increase of 13, 3.5%, in the number of gardaí stationed in the Monaghan-Cavan division during that period. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, and other specialised units.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved. As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the Cavan-Monaghan division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
419 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm that EU Directive 2004/38/EC will be implemented before 30 April 2006; if the directive will not be implemented by 30 April 2006 the reason Ireland will not meet its obligations to implement this directive before the deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12942/06]
Work is at an advanced stage in transposing Directive 2004/38/EC on the right of citizens of the Union and their family members to move and reside freely within the territory of the member states. I have no reason to expect that the deadline of 30 April 2006 will not be met.
420 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; the provisions he has made for such people who are beginning to leave second level education to either enter the workforce or go on to third level education and want to work for the summer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12965/06]
I understand from immigration officials of my Department that the person concerned has recently been granted permission to remain on student conditions. Non-EEA nationals granted permission to remain in the State on student conditions are entitled to take up casual employment, defined as up to 20 hours per week during school term and up to 40 hours per week during school holidays, for the duration of their permission to remain.
Entitlements of persons who have completed second level education having entered the State as a member of a family unit and who have been legally resident in the State in the intervening period are as follows. Non-EEA nationals who wish to continue with their studies may seek to renew their permission to remain — student conditions — with their local immigration office. Such non-EEA nationals who wish to enter into employment in the State must obtain a work permit. The issuing of work permits is a matter for the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
421 Ms Cooper-Flynn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in County Mayo for the year ending December 2005; the way in which this compares with the previous year; his plans to increase the numbers for 2006; and the locations where they are stationed. [12967/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána as at 31 December 1997 and 20 March 2006 was 10,702 and 12,445, respectively. This represents an increase of 1,743, 16.3%, in the personnel strength of the Garda Síochána during that period.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the number of gardaí, all ranks, stationed in the Mayo division as at 31 December 2004 and 2005 was 266 and 259 respectively. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, the Criminal Assets Bureau, CAB, and other specialised units.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the Garda Síochána in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government remains as when I announced the Government approval in October 2004 for my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda Síochána to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of both attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved. As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college during 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by way of intakes to the Garda college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner will now be drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage these additional resources, and in this context the needs of the Mayo division will be fully considered within the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
422 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status regarding the transfer of land to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [12968/06]
I have requested the Land Registry to contact the Deputy directly concerning the position of the application in question.
423 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a submission by the Retired Prison Officers Association to have rent allowance reckonable for pension purposes prior to 1994; if this submission has been assessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12975/06]
I am aware that such a submission by the Retired Prison Officers Association was made to my predecessor.
Clause 2(iii) of the Programme for Competitiveness and Work, PCW, provided that claims for improvements in pay and conditions be addressed on a basis which would involve change in structures, work practices or other conditions of service. Negotiations took place with the Prison Officers Association under this clause and agreement on a package of measures was reached. One of the issues which was agreed with the association was that rent allowance would be pensionable to members of the Prison Service serving on or after 1 January 1994. It was also agreed with the association that rent allowance would be reckonable for the purpose of calculating lump sums or death gratuity in the case of members who retired or died in service in the period 1 January 1993 to 31 December 1993. In such cases pension would only be adjusted to take account of rent allowance with effect from 1 January 1994.
Making rent allowance pensionable had cost implications. As clause 2(iii) of the PCW put a ceiling on the overall cost of agreements, a cut-off date for the pensionability of rent allowance needed to be agreed. The dates outlined were an integral part of the agreement with the association.
The issue of pensions generally is a matter for the Minister for Finance. It is established practice that if an allowance becomes pensionable, or a new pensionable allowance is introduced with effect from a specific date, officers who have retired before that date do not benefit from such development. This has been consistent policy for all public service groups.
424 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) is likely to have their case heard by the parole board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12993/06]
The interim parole board, which replaced the sentence review group, was established on an administrative basis in April 2001. The board's principal function is to advise me on the administration of long-term prison sentences.
Generally, the cases of prisoners sentenced to eight years or more, but fewer than 14 years, are reviewed at the half sentence stage. The cases of prisoners sentenced to 14 years or more, including life, are reviewed after seven years have been served. Prisoners serving sentences for certain offences, such as the murder of a member of the Garda Síochána or the Prison Service in the course of their duty, are excluded from the process. The board, by way of recommendation to me, advises of the prisoner's progress to date, the degree to which the prisoner has engaged with the various therapeutic services and how best to proceed with the future administration of the sentence. I consider in full all recommendations put before me by the interim parole board before making the final decision regarding sentence management.
The parole board's secretariat has advised that the case referred to by the Deputy has been scheduled for review for later this month.
425 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he is satisfied that a system is in place to ensure that all Garda vehicles are maintained in a proper roadworthy condition; what is done in this regard; and if he will make a statement bearing in mind the recommendations of the jury at the inquest of the person struck by a Garda car in Clonskeagh. [13065/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that all Garda vehicles are serviced in accordance with, or in excess of, the manufacturers' recommendations. The day-to-day responsibility for Garda vehicles lies with the district to which the vehicle is assigned. It is the responsibility of the Garda fleet management section to develop policies to ensure that vehicles are maintained in a proper roadworthy condition. The policy for maintenance of the fleet is, where feasible, to use main dealers for a particular make. This will ensure, as far as is possible, that the maintenance of the vehicle complies with standards set by the manufacturers. Every service on a Garda vehicle is a full service. All-important components are checked, particularly those which may impinge on the safety of a vehicle and more particularly the braking components of that vehicle.
I have been further informed that the recommendations of the jury at the inquest of the person struck by a Garda car in Clonskeagh are under consideration by the Commissioner at this time. The Garda Commissioner has recently been authorised to "retire" existing Garda vehicles earlier to keep the fleet in top condition. High mileage patrol cars will be withdrawn and replaced on an accelerated basis over 2006 and 2007 with vehicles which have the most modern driver safety features available.
426 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of locations in Dublin where closed circuit television surveillance has been installed; the number of stations in Dublin which have the technology to monitor, read and print off images from closed circuit television; and if he will make a statement on the way in which the use of closed circuit television in Dublin compares to best practice; and the policy initiatives needed to achieve best practice standards. [13071/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that Garda CCTV systems have been installed at three locations in the greater Dublin area. Each of the CCTV systems is operated by the Garda Síochána and is equipped with technology to monitor, read and print images recorded by the CCTV system. The systems are located at O'Connell Street, Pearse Street and Temple Bar and Dún Laoghaire. The O'Connell Street CCTV system has 44 cameras and is monitored at the Garda office on O'Connell Street. The Pearse Street and Temple Bar CCTV system has 25 cameras and is monitored at Pearse Street Garda station. The Dún Laoghaire CCTV system has nine cameras and is monitored at Dún Laoghaire Garda station. The Garda traffic management centre, which is located at the Garda's Dublin metropolitan region headquarters in Harcourt Square, has the ability to access and monitor cameras as required from the Pearse Street and Temple Bar and O'Connell Street CCTV systems, as well as cameras attached to Dublin City Council's traffic management system. Further CCTV systems will be installed in Ballyfermot, Clondalkin and Tallaght as part of the ongoing Garda CCTV programme, under which CCTV systems are being installed at 17 other locations. I hope to have the systems in operation at the earliest opportunity, subject to compliance with relevant procurement legislation and procedures.
People operating a Garda CCTV system must adhere strictly to a code of practice for the use of such systems. The code was drafted in co-operation with the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, which is the State agency responsible for providing guidance on matters relating to the electronic processing of data; in this instance, recorded CCTV images. The code of practice reflects domestic and international best practice. I commenced the provisions of section 38 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, which provides a statutory basis for the operation of CCTV systems in public places by the Garda Síochána and certain other bodies, on 31 March 2006.
427 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the circumstances surrounding the issue of a bench warrant for a named person at Tipperary District Court on 7 February 2006 despite the handing in of a doctor’s letter to the Garda certifying the person’s inability to attend following a diabetic episode which occurred following the person’s three-hour wait in court for his case to be called; the subsequent arrest of the person and his admission to hospital while under arrest due to chest pain; the failure of the court authorities to distinguish between this person and his son of the same name and address; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13078/06]
I asked the Garda authorities for a report on the issues raised by the Deputy. I will give a summary of the events in question, as reported to me by the Garda authorities. The person in question was charged with assault, contrary to section 2 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997, and with trespass, contrary to section 11 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, arising from an incident at the home of one of his neighbours on 15 August 2005. He appeared at Tipperary District Court on 3 January last and was remanded on bail until 7 February. On the latter date, he was present in court and was accompanied by a solicitor who was representing him. At approximately 12.20 p.m., the person in question approached a member of the Garda Síochána in court and handed him a medical certificate that did not relate to diabetes. He was urged to remain in court to explain the situation or, at least, to advise his solicitor of the position. He had been in court for less than two hours at this time and there had been no mention of a diabetic episode. The garda in question advised the person's solicitor and gave him the medical certificate. When the case was called, the solicitor advised the court that his client had been present but had taken ill and he handed the medical certificate to the court. These facts were confirmed to the court by the prosecuting inspector.
The judge issued a bench warrant for the arrest of the person, which was executed on 14 February. While he was detained at Tipperary Garda station, the person complained of chest pain and requested medical attention. He was removed to St. Joseph's Hospital in Clonmel, where he remained until 17 February when he was taken by the Garda before Clonmel District Court. The case stands adjourned for hearing on 16 May 2006 at Tipperary District Court. The Garda authorities have advised me that there is no difficulty in distinguishing between the person referred to and his son of the same name. No issue in this regard was raised in respect of these proceedings. The Garda has no input or control over the court lists. Neither the person referred to nor his legal representative requested to have the case called out of sequence.
428 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure and processes in place for citizens, who do not qualify for free legal aid, to be appropriately represented in court cases in accordance with citizens constitutional entitlements where members of the legal profession refuse to represent them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13079/06]
I am satisfied that the arrangements in place under the Criminal Justice (Legal Aid) Act 1962 and the Civil Legal Aid Act 1995 meet the State's obligations in respect of the provision of legal aid for criminal and civil matters.
429 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has signed a deportation order and if his Department or the Garda Síochána has initiated deportation procedures against persons (details supplied); if he accepts responsibility for putting the child’s life at risk which could happen following a forced deportation to Nigeria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13085/06]
The person in question arrived in the State on 25 January 2005 and applied for asylum. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and on appeal by the Office of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. The person was informed by letter dated 8 September 2005 that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was afforded her three options in accordance with section 3(3)(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended: to leave the State voluntarily, to consent to the making of a deportation order or to submit within 15 working days representations in writing to the Minister setting out the reasons she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. The person’s case was examined under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, which relates to the prohibition of refoulement. All representations received on behalf of the person for temporary leave to remain in the State were considered.
Representations were received from the person's legal representatives, advising officials from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform that she had given birth to a baby boy who was born in the State on 9 June 2005. On 18 November 2005 a deportation order was signed in respect of the person. Notice of the order was served by registered post, requiring her to present herself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau on 1 December 2005 to make arrangements for her removal from the State. She presented herself as required and has been given further presentation dates in the interim. She most recently presented herself to the Garda at Anglesea Street Garda station in Cork on 30 March last and is due to present again today. Further medical reports in respect of the child have recently been received from the legal representatives of the person concerned and a further medical report will issue in June 2006. On that basis, an undertaking has been given not to effect the deportation pending receipt of the further medical reports. In the meantime, all reporting arrangements imposed by the Garda National Immigration Bureau on the person are to be observed. I intend to reconsider the case following a detailed examination of all medical reports submitted.
430 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for citizenship for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6. [13087/06]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in the citizenship section of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in February 2004. I have been advised by my officials that the processing of the application is almost complete and is due to be submitted to me for a decision in the near future. I will inform the Deputy and the applicant when the matter has been finalised.
431 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of drug seizures in County Kildare in the three years to date; the number of prosecutions taken as a result; the number of reports received in connection with possible drug trafficking in the past 12 months; the number of seizures resulting therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13134/06]
It has not been possible to collate the information required by the Deputy within the timeframe available. I will contact the Deputy directly when the information is to hand.
432 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person who has been refused residency here and was subsequently deported, may visit here on holiday. [13174/06]
A person who is served with a deportation order is required by section 3(1) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, to leave the State within such period as may be specified in the order and to remain out of the State thereafter.
433 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number in the Garda press office; and the number of these who are Garda Síochána or civilians. [13194/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength of the Garda press office on 31 March 2006 was 15, of whom 14 were members of the Garda Síochána, all ranks. I have been further informed that the other member of staff attached to the press office is a clerical officer. Significant progress has been made on the implementation of the civilianisation programme approved by the Government in 2001. Some 113 civilian finance officers have been appointed and are carrying out the district finance officer duties which were performed by gardaí before now. The recent establishment of the Garda information service centre, which is manned by civilian staff, in Castlebar and the pending transfer of civilian staff from the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to the Garda Síochána as civil servants of the State are significant developments in the context of greater Garda civilianisation. The establishment of the information service centre will, when fully operational, allow for the equivalent of up to 300 gardaí to be released for frontline outdoor policing duties on a daily basis. A further review of civilianisation possibilities in the Garda is under way with a view to securing many more redeployments of desk-bound gardaí to frontline operational duties over the next four years.
434 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the figures for the number of gardaí, including rank, currently stationed in Limerick city. [13224/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána on 31 December 1997 was 10,702 and on 20 March 2006 was 12,445. Therefore, the personnel strength of the Garda increased by 1,743, or 16.3%, during that period. The personnel strength of the Limerick division on 3 April 2006 was 482, comprising one chief superintendent, five superintendents, ten inspectors, 69 sergeants and 397 gardaí. The personnel strength of the Limerick division on 31 December 1997 was 423, all ranks. Therefore, the personnel strength of the Garda in the division increased by 59, or 14%, during that period. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units, including the Garda National Immigration Bureau, the Criminal Assets Bureau and other specialised units.
Garda management is responsible for the allocation of personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis, in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs. The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the force, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, remains as it was when I announced in October 2004 that the Government had approved my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college in 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by means of intakes to the college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner is drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage the additional resources. The needs of the Limerick division will be fully considered in the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
435 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the figures for the number of gardaí, including rank, stationed in Blanchardstown to cover the Dublin 15 area on 31 January of each year since 1996. [13225/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána on 31 December 1997 was 10,702 and on 20 March 2006 was 12,445. Therefore, the personnel strength of the Garda increased by 1,743, or 16.3%, during that period. I have also been informed that the personnel strength, by rank, of Blanchardstown Garda station on 31 January of each year between 1997 and 2006, inclusive, was as follows:
|
Rank |
1997 |
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
Chief Superintendent |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Superintendent |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Inspector |
0 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
|
Sergeant |
12 |
13 |
15 |
16 |
17 |
22 |
23 |
22 |
23 |
24 |
|
Garda |
76 |
72 |
79 |
83 |
77 |
97 |
100 |
113 |
138 |
133 |
|
Total |
88 |
85 |
94 |
104 |
101 |
126 |
130 |
142 |
169 |
165 |
The number of gardaí allocated to Blanchardstown Garda station increased by 77, or 87.5%, over that period, during which time it became the district K headquarters of the Dublin metropolitan region's west division. The figures requested in respect of the number of personnel attached to Blanchardstown Garda station in January 1996 are not available because the statistics compiled prior to 1997 were compiled on a divisional basis. The resources of the Dublin metropolitan region's west division are further augmented by a number of Garda national units, such as the Garda National Immigration Bureau, the Criminal Assets Bureau and other specialised units. Garda management has said it will continue to appraise the policing and administrative strategy employed in the Dublin metropolitan region's west division with a view to ensuring that an effective Garda service is maintained. It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of such resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs.
Garda management is responsible for the allocation of personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis, in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs. The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the force, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, remains as it was when I announced in October 2004 that the Government had approved my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college in 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by means of intakes to the college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner is drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage the additional resources. The needs of Blanchardstown Garda station will be fully considered in the overall context of the needs of Garda stations throughout the country.
436 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in Roscommon-Galway East Garda division during 1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13253/06]
I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 390 of 28 March 2006.
437 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Longford-Westmeath Garda division during 1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13254/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána on 31 December 1997 was 10,702 and on 20 March 2006 was 12,445. Therefore, the personnel strength of the Garda increased by 1,743, or 16.3%, during that period. I have been further informed that the number of gardaí stationed in Longford-Westmeath Garda division on 31 December of 1997 and each year between 2000 and 2005, inclusive, and on 4 April 2006 was as set out in the following table:
|
31 December 1997 |
232 |
|
31 December 2000 |
241 |
|
31 December 2001 |
235 |
|
31 December 2002 |
240 |
|
31 December 2003 |
243 |
|
31 December 2004 |
243 |
|
31 December 2005 |
248 |
|
4 April 2006 |
259 |
Therefore, the number of gardaí stationed in the Longford-Westmeath division increased by 27, or 12%, during that period. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units, including the Garda National Immigration Bureau, the Criminal Assets Bureau and other specialised units.
Garda management is responsible for the allocation of personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis, in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs. The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the force, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, remains as it was when I announced in October 2004 that the Government had approved my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college in 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by means of intakes to the college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner is drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage the additional resources. The needs of Longford-Westmeath Garda division will be fully considered in the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
438 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Cork north and Cork west Garda divisions during 1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13255/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána on 31 December 1997 was 10,702 and on 20 March 2006 was 12,445. Therefore, the personnel strength of the Garda increased by 1,743, or 16.3%, during that period. I have been further informed that the numbers of gardaí stationed in the Cork north and Cork west Garda divisions on 31 December 1997 and 31 December of each of the years between 2000 and 2005, inclusive, was as follows:
|
Year |
|
|
1997 |
208 |
|
2000 |
244 |
|
2001 |
250 |
|
2002 |
247 |
|
2003 |
245 |
|
2004 |
243 |
|
2005 |
248 |
Therefore, the number of gardaí stationed in the Cork north division increased by 40, or 19%, during that period.
|
Year |
|
|
1997 |
223 |
|
2000 |
237 |
|
2001 |
248 |
|
2002 |
246 |
|
2003 |
241 |
|
2004 |
251 |
|
2005 |
251 |
Therefore, the number of gardaí stationed in the Cork north division increased by 28, or 12.5%, during that period. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units, including the Garda National Immigration Bureau, the Criminal Assets Bureau and other specialised units.
Garda management is responsible for the allocation of personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis, in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs. The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the force, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, remains as it was when I announced in October 2004 that the Government had approved my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college in 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by means of intakes to the college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner is drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage the additional resources. The needs of the Cork north and Cork west Garda divisions will be fully considered in the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
439 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in Sligo-Leitrim Garda division during 1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13256/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the following table outlines the total number of headline offences, by group, recorded and detected in the Garda division of Sligo-Leitrim between 2000 and 2005, inclusive. The introduction of the PULSE computer system by the Garda in 1999 has led to more complete and comprehensive recording of the crimes which are reported. Therefore, the statistics provided for 1997 are not comparable to the statistics provided for 2000 and subsequent years and the figures provided for 2000 and 2001 are incomplete due to the phased implementation of the PULSE system. The first full year captured by the system is 2002, which is a more accurate base year to use. Any interpretation of the crime figures should consider the increase in population over the last ten years. In 1995, with a population of almost 3.6 million people, there were 29 crimes per 1,000 people. In 2005, with a population of over 4.1 million people, there were 24.6 crimes per 1,000 people. Therefore, there has been a reduction of 4.4 crimes per 1,000 people. During the rainbow coalition Government, when there was a population of 600,000 less than at present, there were 102,484 headline crimes in 1995 and 100,785 headline crimes in 1996. The headline offence of homicide includes not only murder and manslaughter but the other homicide offences of infanticide, abortion, attempted murder and threat to murder. Over the six-year period shown in the table, four murders were recorded, of which two were detected; and two manslaughters recorded, both of which were detected.
|
2005* |
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
2000 |
|||||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
2 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Assault |
51 |
33 |
72 |
50 |
78 |
51 |
121 |
90 |
48 |
39 |
24 |
18 |
|
Sexual Offences |
57 |
36 |
36 |
18 |
51 |
40 |
37 |
25 |
18 |
8 |
16 |
15 |
|
Arson |
48 |
5 |
66 |
1 |
73 |
14 |
47 |
5 |
43 |
15 |
22 |
5 |
|
Drugs |
30 |
30 |
27 |
27 |
37 |
37 |
35 |
34 |
23 |
23 |
38 |
38 |
|
Theft |
861 |
274 |
778 |
212 |
895 |
269 |
791 |
211 |
547 |
208 |
547 |
260 |
|
Burglary |
336 |
56 |
323 |
66 |
397 |
101 |
319 |
43 |
419 |
100 |
394 |
118 |
|
Robbery |
13 |
4 |
20 |
10 |
11 |
6 |
7 |
5 |
10 |
5 |
8 |
6 |
|
Fraud |
62 |
36 |
75 |
49 |
61 |
19 |
56 |
33 |
59 |
40 |
55 |
42 |
|
Other |
27 |
16 |
44 |
15 |
41 |
20 |
23 |
21 |
11 |
8 |
3 |
3 |
|
Total |
1,487 |
490 |
1,442 |
449 |
1,646 |
559 |
1,439 |
470 |
1,178 |
446 |
1,107 |
505 |
* Figures provided are provisional, operational and liable to change.
440 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí stationed in Roscommon and Galway east Garda division during 1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13257/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, which are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength, all ranks, of the Garda Síochána on 31 December 1997 was 10,702 and on 20 March 2006 was 12,445. Therefore, the personnel strength of the Garda increased by 1,743, or 16.3%, during that period. I have been further informed that the numbers of gardaí stationed in the Roscommon-Galway east Garda division on 31 December of 1997 and each of the years between 2000 and 2005, inclusive, and on 4 April 2006 was as follows:
|
31 December 1997 |
231 |
|
31 December 2000 |
253 |
|
31 December 2001 |
249 |
|
31 December 2002 |
251 |
|
31 December 2003 |
248 |
|
31 December 2004 |
245 |
|
31 December 2005 |
248 |
|
4 April 2006 |
250 |
This represents an increase of 19, or 8%, in the number of gardaí stationed in the Roscommon-Galway east division during that period. The division's resources are further augmented by a number of Garda national units, including the Garda National Immigration Bureau, the Criminal Assets Bureau and other specialised units.
Garda management is responsible for the allocation of personnel throughout and within divisions on a priority basis, in accordance with the requirements of different areas. The allocation of resources is determined by a number of factors including demographics, administrative functions, crime trends and other operational policing needs. The timescale for achieving the target strength of 14,000 members of the force, in line with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, remains as it was when I announced in October 2004 that the Government had approved my proposals to achieve this objective. The phased increase in the strength of the Garda to 14,000 will lead to a combined strength, of attested gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,000 by the end of this year. This project is fully on target and will be achieved.
As part of the accelerated recruitment campaign to facilitate this record expansion, 1,125 Garda recruits were inducted to the Garda college in 2005. The college will induct a further 1,100 recruits this year and again in 2007, by means of intakes to the college of approximately 275 recruits every quarter. The first incremental increase of newly attested gardaí under the programme of accelerated recruitment took place on 15 March 2006. The Garda Commissioner is drawing up plans on how best to distribute and manage the additional resources. The needs of the Roscommon-Galway east Garda division will be fully considered in the overall context of the needs of Garda divisions throughout the country.
441 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of crimes recorded and detected across all headings in Donegal Garda division during 1997, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2005. [13258/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the following table outlines the total number of headline offences, by group, recorded and detected in the Garda division of Donegal between 2000 and 2005, inclusive. The introduction of the PULSE computer system by the Garda in 1999 has led to more complete and comprehensive recording of the crimes which are reported. Therefore, the statistics provided for 1997 are not comparable to the statistics provided for 2000 and subsequent years and the figures provided for 2000 and 2001 are incomplete due to the phased implementation of the PULSE system. The first full year captured by the system is 2002, which is a more accurate base year to use. Any interpretation of the crime figures should consider the increase in population over the last ten years. In 1995, with a population of almost 3.6 million people, there were 29 crimes per 1,000 people. In 2005, with a population of over 4.1 million people, there were 24.6 crimes per 1,000 people. Therefore, there has been a reduction of 4.4 crimes per 1,000 people. During the rainbow coalition Government, when there was a population of 600,000 less than at present, there were 102,484 headline crimes in 1995 and 100,785 headline crimes in 1996. It should also be noted that the headline offence of homicide includes not only murder and manslaughter but also the other homicide offences of infanticide, abortion, attempted murder and threat to murder. Over the six-year period shown in the table, two murders were recorded, one of which was detected, and no manslaughters were recorded.
|
2005* |
2004 |
2003 |
2002 |
2001 |
2000 |
|||||||
|
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
Rec |
Det |
|
|
Homicide |
1 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Assault |
213 |
141 |
184 |
121 |
217 |
146 |
253 |
187 |
161 |
127 |
71 |
56 |
|
Sexual Offences |
141 |
90 |
134 |
60 |
120 |
62 |
145 |
93 |
47 |
26 |
44 |
35 |
|
Arson |
48 |
7 |
39 |
13 |
44 |
5 |
51 |
12 |
41 |
7 |
20 |
4 |
|
Drugs |
28 |
27 |
53 |
52 |
68 |
67 |
61 |
61 |
51 |
51 |
38 |
38 |
|
Theft |
1,066 |
248 |
1,068 |
238 |
1,110 |
267 |
1,122 |
264 |
640 |
196 |
485 |
159 |
|
Burglary |
427 |
82 |
517 |
102 |
565 |
97 |
486 |
128 |
318 |
78 |
347 |
99 |
|
Robbery |
12 |
4 |
10 |
2 |
17 |
5 |
19 |
4 |
12 |
5 |
15 |
8 |
|
Fraud |
144 |
52 |
88 |
29 |
161 |
92 |
194 |
110 |
94 |
50 |
50 |
35 |
|
Other |
64 |
38 |
61 |
35 |
50 |
33 |
56 |
26 |
56 |
40 |
18 |
17 |
|
Total |
2,144 |
689 |
2,156 |
653 |
2,353 |
774 |
2,389 |
886 |
1,422 |
581 |
1,089 |
452 |
* Figures provided are provisional, operational and liable to change.
442 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13280/06]
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform is fully committed to the employment of people with disabilities, where possible. Its policy is to ensure that people with disabilities are facilitated with access to employment opportunities and that every necessary accommodation is made in this regard. To that end, the Department has a disability liaison officer whose role is to act as a point of contact within and between Departments for information and advice on disability. The employee assistance service plays a valuable role in this regard, as do management and staff within the Department. Disability awareness training has been provided to a number of staff in the personnel area.
The Government's 3% target for the employment of people with disabilities in the Civil Service has a key role to play in creating employment opportunities which might not otherwise be available. The Minister for Finance is responsible for this target, which applies across the Civil Service and not just to individual Departments. The percentage of people with a disability in the Department stands at 5.08%, representing some 148 people. I am anxious to ensure that the Government target is achieved and surpassed if at all possible. The Department continues to liaise on an ongoing basis with the Public Appointments Service to recruit people with disabilities. As a result, a number of people with disabilities were recruited in the past year. The Department also employed a number of graduates with disabilities on a work placement programme during the summer, giving them valuable work experience relevant to their studies and skills. As this worked out well, I am pleased to say that we will offer further such placements this year under the willing able mentoring project, which is part funded under the EQUAL initiative.
443 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the discrepancy in the figures for speeding detections by the Garda Síochána in 2004 (details supplied); if he will offer an explanation for the figure of 141, 723 which he gave in reply to a parliamentary question on 23 March 2006 regarding the number of on-the-spot speeding fines issued for 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13287/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the figure 211,928, provided in response to Question No. 658 of 18 October 2005, relates to speeding detections for all classes of vehicles as supplied by each divisional officer. I am further informed that the figure of 161,192 provided in response to Question No. 477 of 31 January 2006, relates to detections of speeding cars only. Further details are available in the evaluation of the policing plan, 2004, included with the Commissioner's annual report for that year. The figure of 141,723 provided in response to Question No. 178 of 23 March 2006 refers to the number of speeding notices issued in 2004, not the number of detections in that year.
444 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in so far as the retention here of a person (details supplied) is concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13294/06]
The persons concerned arrived in the State on 15 April 2005 and applied for asylum. Their application was refused following consideration of their case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Office of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
The persons concerned were informed, by letter dated 12 August 2005, that the Minister proposed to make deportation orders in respect of them and afforded them three options under section 3(3)(b)(ii) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended; namely to leave the State voluntarily, to consent to deportation or to submit written representations, within 15 working days, setting out reasons they should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State.
Their case was examined under section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, and section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996, as amended, on the prohibition of refoulement. Additionally, consideration was given to all representations received on behalf of the persons concerned. On 10 November 2005, deportation orders were signed in respect of the persons concerned, including a child born in the State on 25 May 2005. Notice of these orders was served by registered post requiring the persons concerned to present themselves to the Garda National Immigration Bureau, GNIB, 13-14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, on Thursday, 24 November 2005, in order to make arrangements for their deportation from the State. The persons concerned failed to present themselves as required on this occasion and were thus classified as evaders. However, the persons concerned were deported from the State on 8 December 2005 by charter flight.
The Deputy might wish to note that, in addition to the 11 factors contained in section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended, I must also have regard to section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 on the prohibition of refoulement, before making a deportation order. This essentially means that the safety of returning a person, or refoulement as it is commonly referred to, is fully considered in every case when deciding whether or not to make a deportation order, that is, a person shall not be expelled from the State or returned in any manner whatsoever to a State where, in my opinion, the life or freedom of that person would be threatened on account of his or her race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion. My Department uses extensive country of origin information drawn from different independent sources, including the UNHCR, in evaluating the safety of making returns to Nigeria and other third countries. In this case, I was entirely satisfied that there were no refoulement related reasons to prevent the deportation of the persons concerned. I am satisfied that the applications made by the persons concerned for asylum and for leave to remain in the State, together with all refoulement issues, were fairly and comprehensively examined and, as such, the decision to deport them was justified.
445 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to establish a comprehensive vetting procedure for volunteers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13301/06]
The Garda central vetting unit, GCVU, was established in 2002 and currently processes vetting requests in respect, inter alia, of prospective full-time employees of the Health Service Executive and certain agencies funded by it, as well as in respect of selected employments in other sectors. In 2004, an inter-agency working group on Garda vetting reported with a clear and focused strategy for enhancing national vetting arrangements. The strategy provides for an expansion of the GCVU’s vetting service to all organisations which recruit persons having substantial, unsupervised access to children and vulnerable adults. The implementation of the strategy is being overseen by an implementation group on Garda vetting comprising key stakeholders.
The GCVU has been successfully decentralised to new, custom-designed office accommodation in Thurles, County Tipperary. Since its decentralisation in November 2005 new liaison mechanisms have been successfully implemented in the Health Service Executive and are now being extended to all organisations previously registered for vetting. Significant changes have been made in the work processes of the unit in order to streamline the processing of vetting applications and have resulted in an improved service being provided. In addition, an additional 17 staff have been provided to the GCVU to more than double its numbers from 13 to 30. The expansion of the Garda vetting service to new organisations and sectors will be by way of a phased roll-out to an increasing number of organisations in the child care and vulnerable adult care sector and a phased expansion plan, within current resource capacity, has been prepared and accepted by the implementation group on Garda vetting. This has resulted in an increase in the number of Health Service Executive personnel being vetted in the first quarter in 2006, as well as vetting being introduced for the private security authority. A number of organisations from the voluntary sector are currently being identified for vetting services. The expansion of the service being provided by the GCVU is proceeding in a planned and structured manner in consultation with Departments responsible for childcare, and will continue until vetting is provided for all personnel working in a full time, part-time and or voluntary capacity with children and or vulnerable adults.
446 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it remains Garda policy not to mount speed checks on motorways other than by fixed cameras. [13309/06]
A traffic corps, headed by an assistant commissioner, was established within the Garda Síochána in November 2004. The number of gardaí assigned exclusively to traffic duties is increasing dramatically — from approximately 530 members of the traffic corps in 2004 to 803 in 2006, 1030 in 2007 and 1,200 in 2008. Some 240 additional gardaí will join the corps in the course of 2006.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that traffic policy demands vary from place to place and time to time. It is a matter for local Garda management to schedule operations to meet what is required and provide optimum use of resources. A structured approach is applied to speed enforcement based on the analysis of trends in speed related collisions both from the knowledge of the gardaí at a local level and statistical analysis by the National Roads Authority and the most effective means of enforcement.
The health and safety of the members performing the speed checks is also a factor in their location. Taking account of the information available and local knowledge and where necessary following consultations with local authorities, the Garda Síochána selects specific locations within each division where, in addition to its effectiveness, speed enforcement can be conducted safely.
447 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision as regards an application for residency will be made by a person (details supplied)in County Monaghan; and if there is a mechanism to accelerate such a decision. [13371/06]
An application for permission to remain in the State based on marriage to an Irish national was received from the person concerned in October 2005. Applications of this type, in fairness to all other such applicants, are dealt with in strict chronological order and currently take approximately 16 months to process. It should be noted that marriage to an Irish national does not confer an automatic right of residence in the State.
The Deputy should note that a person who is awaiting a decision on a residency application based on marriage to an Irish national is free to leave the State at any time. A visa required national must be in possession of a valid Irish visa to allow the person concerned travel to the State. As the person in question is a visa required national, he would require a re-entry visa to return to the State. It is not the normal practice of my Department to assist persons who do not have residency in the State with a re-entry visa prior to travelling except in certain emergency circumstances. Applications of this nature are considered on a case by case basis by the immigration division of my Department.
448 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision was made by the visa office in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Monaghan; the reason behind the decision; if the decision has been appealed; the steps which can be taken to ensure a positive determination. [13372/06]
The applications referred to by the Deputy were received in the visa office on 11 August 2005. The decision of the visa officer to refuse these applications was made on 18 August 2005. The applications were refused because the visa officer was not satisfied that the applicant had sufficient financial resources to support his family. The visa officer was not satisfied that there would be no recourse to public funds or resources. An appeal against the initial decision was lodged on 29 September 2005. Following a re-examination of the case, the decision to refuse was upheld on 19 October 2005. As each application is entitled to one appeal only, no further review in this matter can be granted; however it is open to the applicant to make a fresh application.
449 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he had communications with the Defence Forces, their military intelligence section G2, the Department of Defence prior to 25 February 2006 regarding the Love Ulster march in Dublin; the gist of that intelligence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13374/06]
It is the responsibility of the Garda Síochána to put in place appropriate and proportionate operational policing plans for rallies, parades and similar events in the public arena. A comprehensive policing plan was prepared and put in place ahead of the so-called Love Ulster demonstration which took place in Dublin on 25 February 2006, based on all information then available to the Garda authorities, including information obtained through intelligence sources.
Arrangements are in place between the Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces to facilitate the ongoing exchange of intelligence on matters of mutual interest. It is not the policy of the Garda Síochána, nor would it be appropriate, to divulge the content of such intelligence exchanges.
450 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if it is planned to have e-mail addresses and Internet access available at all Garda stations as a way of facilitating better contact with the Garda Síochána from members of the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13376/06]
E-mail facilities are currently available to all gardaí from superintendent rank and above and this allows for e-mail correspondence with members of the public where appropriate. Access to e-mail is also provided to other individual members of the Garda Síochána where required, based on operational needs. I am advised by the Garda authorities that the Garda Síochána information and communications technology strategy, which is currently being finalised, has identified a requirement for an enterprise-wide e-mail system within the Garda Síochána.
Members of the public can also access and download incident report forms from the Garda website to assist in the reporting of crime at Garda stations. In addition, general comments and queries can be e-mailed via the Garda website —www.garda.ie.
451 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the steps he will take to have an application expedited in view of the fact that queries raised by the Land Registry Office in respect of the application by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath have been recently replied to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13409/06]
I wish to inform the Deputy that I have requested the Land Registry to contact him directly concerning the current position of the application in question. I understand that in circumstances where the completion of an application in a particular case is urgent, the Land Registry will make every reasonable effort to facilitate such requests on receipt of a written explanation as to the reason underlying the urgency.
452 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a citizenship application for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13421/06]
I informed the Deputy in response to Parliamentary Question No. 552 on 21 February 2006 that it was likely that the application of the person concerned would be finalised in or around the end of 2007. That is still the position.
454 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide an outline of the witness protection programme and a general account as to its operation; and the amount spent on the programme in 2005. [13554/06]
455 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the witness protection programme needs to be radically overhauled and put on a statutory basis; the reason this has not been done; and his proposals in this regard. [13555/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 454 and 455 together.
The witness security programme was established in 1997 in response to the activities of organised criminal gangs to facilitate those persons who are prepared to give evidence against alleged offenders. The programme continues to operate under the direct control and administration of the Garda Commissioner.
It is not the practice and it would be contrary to the public interest to comment on the specifics of the operation of the programme, including numbers admitted to it.
Since its inception, the cost of the programme has been as follows: 1997 — zero; 1998 —€52,831; 1999 —€109,671; 2000 —€190,085; 2001 —€459,588; 2002 —€829,898; 2003 —€1,183,482; 2004 —€1,123,889; and 2005 —€540,547.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the review of the witness security programme by an assistant Garda commissioner has been completed and is currently being considered by senior management. I can assure the Deputy that, when received, the recommendations of the review will be given full and careful consideration.
456 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his proposals to put the crime of perjury on a statutory footing. [13556/06]
Perjury, that is, the giving of false evidence on oath or affirmation, is an offence at common law, although a number of statutes also address matters incidental to the offence. The offence is committed by any person lawfully sworn as a witness or as an interpreter in a judicial proceeding who wilfully makes a statement, material in that proceeding, which he or she knows to be false or does not believe to be true. The maximum penalty is imprisonment for seven years. The present law relating to perjury is being examined in my Department with a view to the preparation of legislative proposals which will codify the law on perjury.
457 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether a substantial amount of crime goes unreported; if estimates are available as to the amount thereof; and if analysis is available as to the reasons therefore. [13557/06]
While there are general claims of under reporting of crime, there is no evidence that the level of under reporting now is any greater than in the past, or that the proportion of unreported crime in Ireland is any greater than in other jurisdictions. The problems of unreported and unrecorded crime are well documented in the international criminological literature, and are in no way unique to this country.
Furthermore, the introduction of PULSE has improved the accuracy and comprehensiveness of Garda statistics — for example, the system demands that incidents now have to be recorded before particular actions can be taken.
In July 2003, the Government approved my proposal that a regular national crime victimisation survey be carried out biennially as a valuable and useful complement to the information on crime already available, which includes the Garda Commissioner's annual report and the headline crime figures which I publish on an annual and quarterly basis. Such surveys would provide a more comprehensive perspective on crime victimisation than is currently available and when undertaken on a regular basis, would provide useful information on emerging trends in crime and so provide input into developing strategies to combat crime.
The expert group on crime statistics, which I established and the report of which I published in July 2004, recommended the establishment of a central crime statistics unit, which would, inter alia, examine the collation of information relating to crimes reported to and recorded by the Garda, examine the collation of information relating to other crimes where the Garda Síochána is not the prosecuting authority, identify the needs of key stakeholders within the criminal justice system and the wider research community and publish criminal justice statistics, based initially on PULSE data. I accepted the recommendation that such a unit be established and work is underway on establishing it within the Central Statistics Office.
The report of the expert group strongly endorsed the Government decision to conduct biennial national crime victimisation surveys and recommended that the new unit be responsible for overseeing the national crime victimisation survey and involved in its design and planning. I also accepted this recommendation and work on the survey will be undertaken by the unit as part of its duties.
I understand from the Central Statistics Office that a crime and victimisation survey is to be carried out, either via a dedicated survey or a module of the quarterly national household survey, QNHS, in 2006. This latter approach has previously been used in both 1998 and 2003. The Central Statistics Office expects that dedicated crime and victimisation surveys will be carried out in 2008 and biennially thereafter.
I also understand that the Central Statistics Office intends to develop these surveys in a way that will maximise their utility and their coherence with other administrative data available in the criminal justice system. It is important to note that the data that will result from these surveys will not be directly comparable to the crime statistics based on data recorded by the Garda Síochána as there will be fundamental differences in sources, definitions and classification methodology. As a result of these surveys, we will have a greater understanding as to why some victims chose not to report cases to the Garda and what we can do with regard to reduce the level of under reporting.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there are sufficient measures in place to facilitate the reporting of all offences. These measures include 999 emergency calls, phone calls, visits to Garda stations, and the availability of gardaí on mobile and beat patrols. I am assured that the Garda Síochána urges all members of the public to report any matters of a criminal nature for investigation by them.
458 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the PSNI has begun recording hate crimes against transgender people separately from other hate crimes; and his views on arranging for the Garda Síochána to do the same in order to identify the scale of the crime in order that it can be addressed. [13575/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that gender is recorded as male or female and there are currently no plans in place to capture additional information on gender status.
I am further informed that a number of gardaí have received special familiarisation training and were appointed as liaison officers to the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community, GLBT. The Garda authorities have also established a national advisory panel, which includes members who represent the GLBT perspective, to assist and inform gardaí on matters relating to their community.
With regard to hate crime, the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989, created an offence, inter alia, of using words or behaviour that are threatening, abusive or insulting and are intended, or are likely, to stir up hatred.
"Hatred" is defined as hatred against a group of persons in the State or elsewhere on account of their race, colour, nationality, religion, ethnic or national origins, membership of the travelling community or sexual orientation. Public incitement to racial hatred is a criminal offence under sections 2 and 3 of the 1989 Act in terms of material, written or oral, which is threatening, abusive or insulting.
The announcement of a review of the incitement to hatred legislation was made by my predecessor as Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform at a time when few if any successful prosecutions had been taken under the Act. One of the aims of the review was to ascertain whether problems with the Act were contributing to this lack of prosecutions and, if so, whether reasonable changes to it could remedy that situation. Since the review was announced, a number of successful prosecutions have been taken under the 1989 Act. These trends are being monitored as part of the ongoing review and if maintained could have a significant influence on the outcome of the review and any subsequent proposals for legislation.
Apart from the Prohibition of Incitement to Hatred Act 1989, the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 is the main relevant legislative instruments pertaining to hate crime. That Act created an offence of using or engaging in threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour in a public place. It also created an offence of distributing or displaying in a public place material which is threatening, abusive, insulting or obscene.
459 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied that the pay and conditions of school secretaries and caretakers whose posts are paid through grant-aid to schools are generally in compliance with labour law and national social partnership agreements; and if she will undertake to investigate such conditions by inviting submissions from such personnel and producing a report on the appropriateness of arrangements for this group of workers. [12794/06]
My Department provides funding towards the cost of providing secretarial and caretaking services in primary schools under two separate schemes. One is the 1978-79 scheme for the employment of full-time secretaries and caretakers in primary schools, under which the Department meets the full cost of salary. This scheme is being phased out as posts become vacant and no new ones are being created. This has been superseded by a scheme now referred to as the ancillary services grant.
The ancillary services grant scheme is flexible in nature, giving boards of management discretion as to the manner in which secretarial and caretaking services are provided. The Department does not stipulate any rules concerning how secretarial or caretaking services are to be obtained by the school. It is a matter for the individual school to decide how best to apply the funding to suit the school's particular needs. In this regard it should be noted that the grant aid may be used by a school to provide both secretarial and caretaking services or, if a school so wishes, it may decide to use the grant aid in its entirety in respect of one service only. The secretaries and caretakers are employees of individual schools. The Department does not have any role in determining the pay and conditions under which they are engaged. These are matters to be agreed between the staff concerned and the school authorities. The standard rate of grant per pupil under the scheme, which was increased from €102 in 2002 to €127 in 2004, was increased by a further €6 to €133 in 2005. The rate has been increased by a further €6 this year bringing the rate to €139 per pupil.
Boards of management of individual schools are expected to comply with employment legislation and to this end have been directed by way of circular that any queries they may have as regards employment legislation should be addressed to the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment at 01-6312121, Lo-call 1890 22 02 22, or www.entemp.ie.
It is not proposed to seek submissions or produce a report on this matter as suggested by the Deputy.
460 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science her estimate of the cost in a full year of replacing the current grant aid system in respect of school secretaries and caretakers with a system whereby such personnel are employed directly by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12793/06]
My Department provides funding towards the cost of providing secretarial and caretaking services in primary schools under two separate schemes. One scheme is the 1978-79 scheme for the employment of full-time secretaries and caretakers in primary schools, under which my Department meets the full cost of salary. This scheme is being phased out as posts become vacant and no new posts are being created. This scheme has been superseded by a more extensive grant scheme now referred to as the ancillary services grant.
The ancillary services grant scheme is flexible in nature, giving boards of management discretion as to the manner in which secretarial and caretaking services are provided.
The standard rate of grant per pupil under the scheme, which was increased from €102 in 2002 to €127 in 2004, was increased by a further €6 to €133 in 2005. The rate is being increased by a further €6 this year bringing the rate to €139.
My Department does not have details of the number of secretaries or caretakers employed by boards of management of individual schools as the provision of caretaking-secretarial services, and the manner in which the services are provided, are matters for each individual board to arrange. In the circumstances it is not possible to provide the estimate requested by the Deputy. I have no plans to place school secretaries and caretakers on my Department's payroll.
461 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in regard to the detailed review of the position of one-teacher schools with less than 12 pupils enrolled on 30 September 2004, that was in the process of being carried out recently; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12815/06]
559 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if progress can be reported in the matter of the appointment of a second teacher in the one-teacher schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13543/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 461 and 559 together.
The review of the one-teacher schools is ongoing. As part of the review, inspectors of my Department have been asked to submit reports on the individual schools involved. When their reports have been received and considered discussions will be held with representatives of the interested parties.
462 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason one of the 11 designated disadvantaged schools in an area (details supplied) in Dublin 11 is the only school that has not been given the opportunity to participate in the delivering equality of opportunity in schools initiative; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12820/06]
DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP. The process of identifying primary and second level schools for participation in the new school support programme has been completed.
As a result of the identification process, 840 schools have been invited to participate in the new programme. These comprise 640 primary schools, 320 urban-town schools and 320 rural schools, and 200 second level schools. Letters of invitation were issued to all 840 schools in late February with a request to complete and return an acceptance form by 10 March 2006.
The process of identifying primary and second level schools for participation in the new school support programme was managed by the Educational Research Centre, ERC, on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the inspectorate. In the primary sector, the identification process was based on a survey carried out by the ERC in May 2005, from which a response rate of more than 97% was achieved.
The analysis of the survey returns from primary schools by the ERC identified the socio-economic variables that collectively best predict achievement, and these variables were then used to identify schools for participation in the school support programme. The variables involved were: % unemployment; % local authority accommodation; % lone parenthood; % Travellers; % large families, five or more children; % pupils eligible for free books.
The school to which the Deputy refers is not among the 640 primary schools selected for participation in the school support programme. However, this school is among the schools receiving additional resources under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing concentrated disadvantage and will retain these supports for 2006-07. The efficacy of these supports will be kept under review.
As well as the provision being made under the new school support programme for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage, financial support will be provided for other primary schools where the level of disadvantage is more dispersed. This support will be based on the results of the new identification process and the arrangements which will apply in this regard will be notified to schools early in the autumn.
A review mechanism has been put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the school support programme but regard themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. This mechanism will operate under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The school to which the Deputy refers has requested a review and a review form issued to the school on 7 March 2006. The closing date for receipt of review applications was Friday, 31 March 2006.
463 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in regard to an application by a school (details supplied) in County Donegal for an extension, taking into account the fact that it was to submit a revised educational worksheet, on which schedules of suggested future use of existing accommodation and residual accommodation considered necessary, to her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12821/06]
The proposed extension project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning and is one of the 124 schools that I announced in April of 2005 to progress through the architectural planning process.
The educational worksheet to which the Deputy refers was returned to my Department in December 2005 and following this a schedule of overall accommodation was completed by a member of my Department's inspectorate. In February of this year my Department's officials visited the school in question and schedules of suggested future use of the existing along with a schedule of residual accommodation were completed.
On the 20 March 2006 a letter issued to the school authorities with the revised schedules requesting them to get their design team to revise the original stage 1 as presented to the Department in October 2001 to reflect the impact of the revised schedules.
When this information is forwarded to my Department, my officials will be in further contact with the school authorities as to the next steps involved in progressing this project.
464 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has undertaken an assessment of the IQ limits which she has used in her directive for the weighted system of support for children with special needs; her views on the view expressed by many teachers that the IQ standard which she has set for specialised individual education hours to be triggered for a child are too low; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12844/06]
As I have informed the House on previous occasions, my Department has introduced a general allocation model of additional resources to all primary schools for children in the high incidence categories of special educational needs. This enables an automatic response on the part of schools to any child deemed to be in need of additional teaching resources. In the case of children within these categories, the intelligence quotient is not the sole issue that determines whether or not a child can access additional support in school.
Of course, it may take some time in the case of young children in school for the extent of their needs to emerge. The needs of such children are normally kept under review by the school and it is for the school authorities in conjunction with the various support agencies to make application for psychological and other assessments to determine if a child falls into the category of low incidence. Subsequently, the school authorities can make application to the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, for additional resources in the case of a child diagnosed as being within any of the low incidence categories of disability.
The ranges of assessed intellectual ability associated with the categories of special need identified by my Department as low incidence are in line with the bands identified and described in the report of the special education review committee, 1993. They are also in line with the most frequently used psychometric instruments.
While the system of provision will be kept under constant review by my Department and by the NCSE, I am confident that provision is being provided for all children in school with special needs.
465 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to introduce flexibility to the 10% contribution scheme required of schools undertaking investment in new facilities in order that communities with limited resources will not be handicapped in their access to school development; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12845/06]
The vast bulk of the cost of school building projects is borne by my Department. In general, where a school is not owned by my Department, a local contribution of 10% of the project cost is required for school building projects. This is capped at €63,500 for new schools and €31,500 for extension projects. The amount of the local contribution for schools with disadvantaged status is 5% of the project cost subject to a maximum amount of €12,500.
A change was made in recent years whereby my Department may purchase a site for a new school building and provide the full cost of its provision. In these cases the building would be owned by my Department and leased to an operator. In these cases no local contribution would be required.
466 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding a building project for a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [12848/06]
An application for an extension to the school referred to by the Deputy is currently under consideration in my Department. The assessment of the application includes a determination of the long-term projected staffing at the school which is informed by consideration of factors such as current and projected pupil numbers at the school, the likely impact of housing developments and existing provision in the general area. This process is under way at present. When this is finalised a decision will then be taken on how best to provide for current and emerging needs.
The building project required to address the school's accommodation needs will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2006-10.
467 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science when her Department expects to be in a position to make a decision in regard to the redundancy entitlement of a special needs assistant (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12856/06]
My Department has reached agreement on the terms of a redundancy package for special needs assistants, SNAs, employed in primary and second level schools. I expect that confirmation of the provisions of the redundancy arrangements will issue to schools shortly.
In this particular case, I can confirm that an application form for redundancy payment has been received in my Department. As soon as the final arrangements for payment of redundancy are confirmed, a decision will be communicated directly to the special need assistant concerned.
468 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the overcrowding at a school (details supplied) in County Meath; her views on the health and safety of the students as a result of same; if canteen and sports facilities will be provided; if funding will be provided for the school to have an adequate multi-purpose and theatre area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12860/06]
My Department is in receipt of an application for capital funding from the school to which the Deputy refers. The application, which is for a PE hall only, has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects and assigned a band 4 rating. Progress on the project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.
No application has been received from the school for mainstream accommodation. In this regard, my Department recently completed a major extension at the school to provide for 1,000 pupils. At present, the school has an enrolment of 917 pupils so that, rather than being over subscribed, it would appear that there are in excess of 80 vacant pupil places.
In regard to dining facilities, if these are required by the school, it should make contact with the school planning section of my Department for assistance in submitting a revised capital funding application form.
469 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary gaelscoileanna in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12868/06]
471 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the running costs to the Exchequer or her Department in regard to all primary gaelscoileanna in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12870/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 469 and 471 together.
There are six primary gaelscoileanna in County Kildare. In the 2004-05 school year, the last year for which details are available, these schools were paid a total of €432,612.54 towards their day-to-day running costs.
A total of 57 full-time primary teachers were employed in the six schools in question in the 2004-05 school year. The average cost of employing a teacher in a primary school in the 2004-05 school year was €55,000, inclusive of employers PRSI.
470 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the guidelines and conditions a school must meet when seeking continued recognition under section 3 of additional regulations for the recognition of new schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12869/06]
It is not clear to what additional regulations the Deputy refers. 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 Commission on School Accommodation's report, 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; consultation with interested parties; reports to Minister; decision by Minister — successful applicants will receive temporary recognition at this stage and; provision for appeal by 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 following are the criteria for recognition of new primary schools: There must be evidence that 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; 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; the school will follow the primary school curriculum of the Department of Education and Science; the school will employ recognised primary school teachers; and a school may apply for permanent recognition when it has complied with all the conditions of temporary recognition.
472 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the mechanism and the determination of the way in which patronage of schools is determined by her Department; if, once patronage is selected, it is up to her Department to change it or if this can be done by a school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12871/06]
Section 8 of the Education Act 1998 provides that the person who was recognised as a patron, trustee, member of the board of governors, or the owners of a school in the absence of governors-trustees, at the time of commencement of the Act was automatically entitled to be a patron for the purposes of the Education Act. In any other case, the patron is the person requesting recognition of a school, or his or her nominee.
The basis for recognising new schools derives from the provisions of section 10 of the Education Act 1998 which allows a prospective patron to seek approval for a school that reflects the characteristic spirit of the sponsor.
Generally, the patronage of a school does not change unless a patron body wishes to withdraw from provision or unless two or more schools having a different patron wish to amalgamate. The latter generally results in an agreed patronage arrangement among the schools concerned.
473 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding is available from her Department to run night courses through the mechanism of Irish; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12872/06]
Adult education is provided mainly by the vocational education committees. It is also provided to a lesser extent by some secondary, community and comprehensive schools.
Night courses in Irish may be provided on a self-financing basis in response to public demand.
474 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost to the Exchequer or her Department in regard to the establishment of all primary gaelscoileanna in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12873/06]
There are six primary gaelscoileanna in County Kildare. In the 2004-05 school year, the last year for which details are available, these schools were paid a total of €432,612.54 towards their day-to-day running costs. A total of 57 full-time primary teachers were employed in the six schools in question in the 2004-05 school year.
The average cost of employing a teacher in a primary school in the 2004-05 school year was €55,000, inclusive of employers PRSI. The information in regard to the provision of accommodation is not readily available in the format requested. However, the following is the position with regard to accommodation for all newly established school regardless of ethos. All new schools commence operation with provisional recognition from my Department. During this period of provisional recognition, it is the responsibility of the school patron to provide interim accommodation. This accommodation must be capable of fully meeting the needs of the developing school until permanent recognition has been secured and my Department is in a position to provide a permanent school building.
My Department grant-aids the provision of temporary accommodation at a rate of 75% for schools with provisional recognition and 95% for schools with permanent recognition. However, notwithstanding these rates, a school's contribution is capped at €3,175 per calendar year.
The overall accommodation cost is individual to each school and depends on the type and extent of accommodation required and whether or not site works are required etc.
475 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in regard to redundancy payments for special needs assistants who were laid off; when this payment will issue; the stage it is at; if she will ensure that special needs assistants who were laid off will receive their redundancy payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12877/06]
My Department has reached agreement on the terms of a redundancy package for special needs assistants employed in primary and second level schools. I expect that confirmation of the provisions of the redundancy arrangements will issue to schools shortly. As soon as the final arrangements are confirmed, a decision will be communicated directly to the special needs assistants from whom applications for payment of redundancy have been received.
476 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the action she proposes to take to deal with difficulties at a school (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12882/06]
Under the provisions of the Education Act 1998, the board of management is the body charged with the direct governance of a school. In general, the board has the responsibility to ensure that the school operates efficiently and effectively and also has responsibilities in regard to the action of its employees.
My Department supports the principle that complaints regarding schools should be resolved at school level whenever possible and will only become involved in an investigation of specific complaints after every effort has been made to resolve the matter at local level.
On 13 March 2006, the patron of the school referred to by the Deputy dissolved the board of management and, with my approval, appointed a single manager to manage the school for a period of six months in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Education Act 1998.
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that a sufficient period of time must be afforded to the single manager to address the difficulties within the school. My Department will, however, continue to give support and guidance to the school authorities where necessary.
477 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the proposals that she intends to implement in order to increase the achievement levels of male students in higher level Irish in the leaving certificate in order that greater numbers of male students will have the option of considering primary teacher training as a career; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12883/06]
A range of actions that focus on improving students' competence in spoken and written Irish and on increasing the attractiveness of the language to all learners in post-primary schools have been taken or are under way. A very significant development was the introduction in September 2004 of a revised literature course for leaving certificate Irish, which will be examined for the first time in 2006. This has been widely welcomed because it allows literature to be taught using modern communicative approaches that appeal to young people and affords a high level of choice to students and teachers. For example, film is now an option for the first time. A comprehensive set of guidelines to support teachers in delivering the revised course has been issued.
As the Deputy is aware from replies to previous parliamentary questions, I have asked the advisory body on curriculum reform, the NCCA, to make proposals to me as soon as possible on how the Irish curriculum should be reformed and in particular how greater emphasis can be placed on oral Irish. I am determined to ensure that Irish is taught in our schools in a way that is interesting and relevant and that will promote a positive attitude to the language among young people.
478 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of male students who took the leaving certificate examination in higher level Irish for each of the past ten years; the numbers of these students who achieved entrance examination requirements to primary school training in higher level Irish; the number of male students for each such year who selected primary teacher training; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12885/06]
My Department specifies the minimum academic requirements for entry to primary teacher training courses provided in the colleges of education. As part of these requirements, all candidates, including school leavers, mature students and university graduates, must have a minimum of a grade C in higher level in Irish in the leaving certificate or an approved equivalent. This requirement embodies both the written and oral element of a student's proficiency in Irish.
My Department considers the grade C in higher level in Irish in the leaving certificate to be the minimum standard in Irish necessary for students entering a teacher training course to equip them to teach Irish to pupils at all levels in primary schools.
The number of male students who took the leaving certificate examination in higher level Irish for each of the past ten years and the number of these students who achieved at least a grade C at higher level are set out in tabular form.
|
Year |
Number of Candidates |
Grade C or Higher |
|
2005 |
4,626 |
3,721 |
|
2004 |
4,932 |
3,930 |
|
2003 |
5,235 |
4,079 |
|
2002 |
5,120 |
4,121 |
|
2001 |
5,408 |
4,000 |
|
2000 |
5,923 |
4,501 |
|
1999 |
6,087 |
4,730 |
|
1998 |
6,300 |
4,872 |
|
1997 |
5,598 |
4,229 |
|
1996 |
4,984 |
3,948 |
|
1995 |
5,512 |
3,826 |
In respect of the Deputy's request for information regarding the number of male students who selected primary teacher training, I presume he is referring to students who selected primary teacher training on their central applications office, CAO, forms. In that regard, my officials have sought these details from the CAO and will forward them directly to the Deputy when they are available.
479 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will ensure that funding is provided for the appointment of a crossing patrol personnel, lollipop lady to deal with the serious safety concerns at a school (details supplied) in County Sligo which have been highlighted in the report compiled by Grange community action group for a safer N15; if same will be addressed as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12911/06]
The issue of road safety measures outside the vested site area of a primary school would be a matter that should be raised, in the first instance, with the relevant local authority.
Local authorities have the power to decide on road safety measures outside schools and should ensure that measures are in place to protect the safety of local schoolchildren.
It is open to the board of management of a school to make an application for funding under my Department's summer works scheme should safety measures be required within the school boundaries.
480 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the additional resources she plans to give to a school (details supplied) in view of the fact that the school is undergoing rapid growth, will double in size next year and hence may receive capitation and ancillary grants for only half its pupils; the additional resources which will be allocated to the school in view of the fact that it has not just Irish children but a large number of children from non-Irish backgrounds and thus requires assistance with cultural, language and home school liaison issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12913/06]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is issued to all primary schools each year.
According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management of the school in question, the enrolment in the school on 30 September 2005 was 91 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule, circular 0023/2006, which has issued to all primary schools and is also available on my Department's website at www.education.ie, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2006-07 school year will be a principal and three mainstream class teachers.
Primary schools catering for non-national pupils who have significant English language deficits are entitled to assistance to enable these pupils gain full access to the curriculum. The school has the services of two temporary language support teachers for the current year.
The school in question will be paid enrolment based grants for capitation and ancillary services based on their enrolments in the current school year. The school has been paid €12,649 in respect of the ancillary grant in March 2006 and €8,919.54 in January 2006 in respect of the first moiety, 70%, of the capitation grant. The second moiety, 30%, of the capitation grant will be paid in June.
With regard to the inclusion of schools in the new school support programme, SSP, under the DEIS action plan, separate arrangements are being put in place to address exceptional situations arising up to the time of the next identification process which will be held in 2009-10. These arrangements will take account of new schools, including those created through amalgamation, opening in 2005-06 or thereafter.
Within the terms of the current staffing arrangements for primary schools there is provision for additional posts, referred to as developing school posts, to be assigned to schools on the basis of projected enrolments for the next school year. Under these arrangements, a developing school post may be sanctioned provisionally where the projected enrolment at 30 September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30 September, sanction for the post is withdrawn.
It is open to the board of management to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent appeal board which was established to adjudicate on appeals on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. Details of the criteria and application dates for appeal are contained in the staffing schedule. They are also available in circular 0024/2006, appeal board for mainstream staffing in primary schools, which is available on my Department's website. Hard copies of this circular will issue to primary schools shortly.
It is proposed that the first meeting of the appeal board will be held in May 2006. Further meetings will be held in July and October 2006. The closing dates for receipt of appeals are 12 May, 24 June and 18 October, respectively.
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. The standard application form is available from primary payments section or on my Department's website. The appeal board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent appeal board.
481 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason she is reducing the grant for the ABA supervisor in a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow when this system has been recognised in international research as the best for autistic children in view of the fact that children with autism are entitled to get the best possible chance of this education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12916/06]
The position is that my Department supports the training and professional development of staff working with children with special educational needs through the special educational support service, SESS. This service, as appropriate, consolidates, co-ordinates, develops and delivers a range of professional development initiatives and support structures for school personnel working with students with special educational needs in a variety of educational settings. These settings include mainstream primary and post-primary schools, special schools and special classes. In general, this support is provided by direct training input or sanction for school staff to attend courses recognised and funded through the SESS.
A sum of €31,000 was provided to the school in question to date. However, the issue of consultancy for special units for children with ASD is now within the remit of the SESS and the school has been advised to contact the SESS in this regard.
I wish to point out that my Department supports an eclectic approach in regard to the education of children with autism where a range of teaching methods are available, for example, treatment and education of autistic and related communication handicapped children, TEACH, applied behavioural analysis, ABA, picture exchange communication system, PECS. In this regard, it should be noted that none of the classes sanctioned to the school referred to by the Deputy to cater for pupils with autistic spectrum disorders are classified by my Department as dedicated ABA classes.
482 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if adequate resources are being made available for special needs education in secondary schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12925/06]
My Department provides a range of supports to second level school management to enable schools to cater for pupils with special educational needs. The supports in question include remedial and resource teaching support, special needs assistant support and funding for the purchase of specialised equipment.
As the Deputy is aware, there has been enormous progress made in recent years in respect of increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs.
At second level, approximately 1,653 whole-time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to the approximately 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 532 whole-time equivalent learning support teachers and approximately 1,102 whole-time equivalent special needs assistants, SNAs, in our second level schools.
The precise model of provision made available at second level will depend on the assessed needs of the pupils involved. Some pupils are capable of attending ordinary classes on an integrated basis with additional teacher and/or special needs assistant support. In other cases, placement in special dedicated classes or units attached to the school may be the more appropriate response. Such special classes operate at significantly reduced pupil teacher ratios. Pupils attached to these special classes may be facilitated in attending ordinary subject classes on an integrated basis wherever possible.
With effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, has taken over key functions from my Department in respect of special educational provision. The NCSE was formally established as an independent statutory body on 1 October 2005 under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2005. The council acts under the broad policy direction of my Department but has the resources and the remit to play the leading role in the delivery of education services to children with disabilities-special needs.
The NCSE co-ordinates with the health services, schools and other relevant bodies regarding the provision of education and related support services to children with disabilities-special needs.
The responsibilities of the NCSE include the following: deciding on applications for additional teaching support in respect of children with disabilities with special educational needs at second level; deciding on applications for special needs assistant, SNA, hours; and processing applications for school placement in respect of children with disabilities with special education needs.
Under the new arrangements, the council, through the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, will process the relevant application for resources and inform the school of the outcome. It is important to note that in the case of decisions on additional teaching and SNA support, the SENO will outline the process to the school and parents, where appropriate, and will at the end of the process outline the basis on which the decision was made.
In addition, my Department's teacher education section has developed a strategy designed to meet the continuing professional development needs of personnel working with children with special educational needs. This involves a major expansion of the range of postgraduate professional training programmes available to teachers in the special needs area and the ongoing development of the special education support service, SESS, to support schools staff locally.
My Department will continue to ensure that the necessary resources are made available for the education of children with special needs. I am confident that the advent of the NCSE will prove of major benefit in ensuring that all children with special educational needs receive the support they require, when and where they require it.
483 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if extra funding will be provided to voluntary secondary schools for insurance, the wages of secretaries, the wages of caretakers, the cleaning of schools, the upkeep of school buildings and for educational materials in order that there is equality between those schools and community and comprehensive schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12926/06]
484 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to problems faced by secondary schools due to increasing insurance premiums; the measures she is taking to deal with this situation; the reason secondary schools attached to religious orders have to pay this while community and comprehensive schools do not; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12927/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 483 and 484 together.
As the Deputy is aware, differing funding arrangements have evolved for the different school types at second level. At the core of all arrangements is a reliance upon capitation as the principal determinant of funding. There are however significant differences in the approaches to the funding of back-up services such as for secretaries and caretakers.
Responsibility for arranging insurance cover on school property and against public liability is a matter for the managerial authorities of voluntary secondary schools, which are privately owned. I am aware of concerns expressed by school authorities in relation to increased insurance costs. Per capita grants towards the operating costs of voluntary secondary schools may be used for this purpose.
In my view it is important to consider the issue of insurance and other costs for voluntary secondary schools in the wider context of the equalisation of funding arrangements across the second level system.
There have been significant improvements in the level of funding provided to voluntary secondary schools. Since January 2005, the standard per capita grant has been increased by a cumulative €24 per pupil and now stands at €298. Under the school services support fund initiative, the school services grant has also been increased since January 2005 by a cumulative €28 per pupil bringing the grant from €131 per pupil to €159. These grants are in addition to the per capita funding of up to €40,000 per school that is also provided by my Department to secondary schools towards secretarial and caretaking services. A secondary school with 500 pupils, for example, now receives annual grants of up to €270,000 towards general expenses and support services including secretarial services.
These significant increases in the funding of voluntary secondary schools are a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.
485 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received correspondence of 24 March 2006 from a group (details supplied) in County Wicklow; her views on the points made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12958/06]
The school planning section of my Department has no record of receiving correspondence from the person to which the Deputy refers. If she forwards a copy, a response will issue.
In the meantime, I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department recently approved the provision of temporary accommodation to meet the needs of the school for September 2006. In addition, the project for permanent accommodation at the school has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. Progress on the project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.
486 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial breakdown of the amount which has been spent by her Department per year in the past five years on court cases involving her Department in relation to general cases. [12960/06]
487 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial breakdown of the amount which has been spent by her Department per year in the past five years on court cases involving autistic and special needs students. [12961/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 486 and 487 together.
Legal costs incurred by the State in defending those cases which are brought to court, are not met directly by my Department. In accordance with financial procedures in cases involving damages or compensation against the State, costs are generally charged to the Vote of the Office of the Chief State Solicitor, as sanctioned by the Attorney General.
My Department meets the legal costs of plaintiffs where there is a settlement or an order for costs against the State where my Department is named. The Department has spent the following amounts per year over the past five years in cases in which the Minister for Education and Science is a defendant, respondent or notice party:
2001: €4,410,250.08
2002: €5,282,807.20
2003: €5,887,384.59
2004: €6,748,952.27
2005: €2,927,329.58
These costs include those which relate to litigation involving primary schools, community and comprehensive schools, children detention schools, special educational needs and other related matters.
In respect of special needs cases, the figures are as follows:
2001: €3,286,461.35
2002: €3,924,786.12
2003: €4,306,734.64
2004: €5,647,596.68
2005: €1,600,009.11
There has been enormous progress made over the past number of years regarding increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with SEN. At primary level there are now approximately 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to fewer than 1,500 in 1998. Indeed, one out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.
At second level, approximately 1,647 whole-time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to approximately 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 532 whole-time equivalent learning support teachers.
Enormous progress has also been made in respect of increasing the number of SNAs in our schools who specifically cater for the care needs of children with special educational needs. There are over 7,300 whole time equivalent SNAs in primary and second level schools supporting children with special needs.
In addition, my Department spends over €30 million on school transport and over €3 million towards specialised equipment and materials for pupils with special educational needs.
I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education and the education partners, I will ensure that all children with special educational needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.
488 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the crisis that has developed at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15 where over 100 children have been refused places to start school in September 2006; her proposals to immediately provide school places for the 8,000 new homes that have recently been built in the Littlepace area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12962/06]
At the outset, I want to say that I am fully conscious that the Dublin 15 area as a whole is one of the most rapidly developing areas in the country and, as a result of this, there has been a marked increase in the demand for school places, particularly at primary level.
My Department is taking a number of measures to increase the capacity of existing schools in the area concerned along with the development of new schools to meet this growing demand. A building project to provide a new building for the particular school to which the Deputy refers was completed in September, 2005. To further increase capacity at the school, my Department approached the board of management in 2005 to discuss the possibility of expanding the school to cater for a four-stream intake at junior infants level. The board agreed to this measure. To facilitate this expansion, my Department purchased additional land adjacent to the school which will enable the construction of an additional 16 classroom school to meet the school's permanent accommodation needs. This new building has a target delivery date of September 2007. In the interim my Department has appointed a consultant architect to oversee the provision of temporary accommodation at the school to meet its immediate needs.
The area in question is also served by an Educate Together national school. A project to provide a new building for this school is underway with a target delivery date also of September 2007. In the interim my Department has arranged that the school will continue to occupy temporary accommodation at Littlepace.
I am confident that a combination of the measures outlined will assist in alleviating the demand for pupil places in the area for the foreseeable future. However, due to the current level of demand emanating from the Dublin 15 area, the need to provide even further school accommodation is under consideration and my Department is engaging with the key school patron authorities that are active in the area.
489 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the crisis that has developed at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15 where up to 100 children have been refused places to start school in September 2006; her proposals to immediately provide school places for the 5,000 new homes that have recently been built in the Diswellstown and Castleknock area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12963/06]
At the outset, I want to say that I am fully conscious that the Dublin 15 area as a whole is one of the most rapidly developing areas in the country and, as a result of this, there has been a marked increase in the demand for school places, particularly at primary level.
My Department is taking a number of measures to increase the capacity of existing schools in the area concerned along with the development of new schools to meet this growing demand.
The school referred to by the Deputy has recently moved into a new 24 classroom school and this will facilitate an annual three-stream junior infant intake. However, as an exceptional matter the board of management is in discussions with the school planning section of my Department regarding the possibility of enrolling a fourth stream of junior infants this year to cater for increased demand.
In parallel with this, my Department is currently in discussions with a second school in the area regarding the possibility of it expanding to cater for an annual four stream intake. The school currently has an intake of three junior infants classes. A building project to provide permanent accommodation for this level of expansion will be afforded the highest priority.
I am confident that a combination of the measures as outlined will assist in alleviating the demand for pupil places in the area in the short term. However, due to the unabating increase in demand for pupil places, the need to provide even further school accommodation is under active consideration in my Department.
490 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if applicants on a course are considered eligible for the higher education grant (details supplied). [12970/06]
The higher education grants scheme operates under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts 1968 to 1992.
Under the higher education grants scheme, an approved course is defined as a full-time undergraduate course of at least two years duration or a full-time postgraduate course of not less than one year duration pursued in an approved institution.
An approved institution is defined to mean a university, university college or other institution of higher education in so far as it provides a course or courses of not less than two years duration, being a course or courses which the Minister for Education and Science approves for the time being for the purposes of the Acts.
Each year, the higher education grants scheme specifies a list of approved institutions for the purposes of the scheme. The approved institutions mainly comprise of publicly funded third level institutions. In this regard, the college to which the Deputy refers is not an approved college for the purpose of the scheme.
Any extension to the scope of the grants scheme, to include private colleges such as the college referred to by the Deputy, can be considered only in the light of available resources and in the context of competing demands within the education sector. There are no plans at present to extend the scope of the student support schemes to private colleges.
491 Mr. Andrews asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has had discussions with the State Claims Agency in regard to the case involving a person (details supplied); if the costs of their case will be pursued by the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12976/06]
The State Claims Agency, SCA, has responsibility for deciding on the issue of costs in the case to which the Deputy refers. The SCA has said that it deals with each case on an individual basis, and that its approach here will be measured and sensitive.
The SCA will be consulting my Department on the issue of costs. I agree with its opinion that the matter should be pursued in a measured and sensitive way and I have asked my Department to convey my view that the issue of costs should be dealt with sympathetically. My Department will inform the SCA of this and reflect points made by the plaintiff to me in the course of correspondence.
Before a final decision can be taken on this matter by the SCA, it will be obliged to engage with the solicitors for the plaintiff so that it can take full account of her circumstances. I understand that arrangements for that process are now being put into place.
492 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in respect of a school building (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [12986/06]
An application for capital funding towards the provision of an extension has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. The project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2006-10.
493 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for additional facilities by a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [13056/06]
The school referred to by the Deputy has agreed to amalgamate with another school in the area. My Department is the process of informing the schools of the outcome of a technical inspection to accommodate this development.
The proposed project has been assigned a band one rating and progress on works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.
494 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a resource room for a school (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13061/06]
The school referred to by the Deputy applied under the additional accommodation scheme 2006 for one mainstream classroom. The application was successful and the school was offered funding under the permanent accommodation scheme to build a permanent classroom. In the last few days, the school authority wrote to the school planning section of my Department seeking additional funding to build a permanent resource-learning support room on the basis that since January 2006 they have gained a significant increase in resource-learning support hours.
The school's request is currently being considered in the school planning section of my Department and the school will be notified as soon as a decision is reached.
495 Mr. Healy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the transfer of the Tipperary institute from its location on Frank Drohan Road, Clonmel to the Watson Estate, Ballinganane, Clonmel including the stage of the tendering process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13076/06]
The report of the capital review and prioritisation working group under the Higher Education Authority, HEA, sets out a strategy to meet the future capital needs of the third level sector. In its submission to the review group, Tipperary Rural and Business Development Institute, TRBDI, included a proposal to develop a permanent campus in the planned Clonmel technology park, Ballingarrane estate. The report of the review group stated that the proposal, which involves the disposal of an existing property in Clonmel and the building of alternative facilities without incurring any Exchequer funding, has merit.
In March 2005, my Department gave TRBDI approval to proceed with seeking expressions of interest from private sector property developers to determine what could be provided at Ballingarrane in exchange for the institute's current property in Clonmel and this was advertised on the e-tenders website in June 2005. TRBDI is currently arranging a team of experts to evaluate the expressions of interest that have been received.
496 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science the appeals procedure for allocation of hours for children with special needs in primary schools. [13162/06]
The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, through the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, is responsible for processing applications from schools for special needs supports such as resource teaching hours for pupils with low incidence special educational needs, SEN, and special needs assistant, SNA, support for pupils with high and low incidence SEN on the basis of individual pupil applications.
In the event that an application for these supports for a pupil is unsuccessful, the relevant SENO will be prepared to re-examine the application should additional documentation, not available at the time of the original decision, be submitted to him or her by the school. The Deputy will also be aware that my Department implemented a general allocation system of learning support-resource teachers to schools with effect from September 2005. The system is intended to cater for children with learning support and high incidence special educational needs.
It is a matter for each school to determine the pupils with learning support and high-incidence special education needs that will receive supplementary teaching support. Each school will have enough resource teaching hours to provide its pupils with a level of support appropriate to their needs. The school can use its professional judgment to decide how these hours are divided between different children in the school, to ensure that all their needs are met.
It is intended that a review of the general allocation model will be undertaken within three years of operation.
497 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Laois will be granted two more classrooms as recommended by the Murray report dated September 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13173/06]
The recommendation in the Commission on School Accommodation's report states that two additional rooms should be provided at the school in question in the period 2005-09. The school's application for capital funding is being considered for inclusion in the schools building and modernisation programme in this context.
498 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will respond to correspondence (details supplied) regarding resource hours; and if this person will be granted a proper service. [13197/06]
First, I would like to clarify that the correspondence referred to by the Deputy relates to special needs assistant, SNA, support in respect of a pupil with special educational needs and not to resource hours. As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, which has been operational since 1 January 2005, is responsible for processing applications for special educational needs, SEN, supports. I can confirm that the school has been allocated five hours individual resource teaching support per week and the services of a full time SNA to cater for the pupil in question.
The issue referred to in the correspondence relates to the retention of a particular SNA in a school. I wish to clarify that the recruitment and deployment of SNAs within a school is a matter for the individual principal or board of management. The board is the SNA's employer and the terms of employment are subject to the conditions of the contract of employment.
I assure the Deputy that the pupil in question will continue to receive the SEN supports appropriate to his needs.
499 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science when the information promised to this Deputy further to her response to Parliamentary Question No. 549 of 14 February 2006 will be made available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13198/06]
The assembling of the information sought by the Deputy is near completion and will be forwarded shortly.
500 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications for the position of assessor of youth work with reference to her response to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 27 and 31 of 15 December 2005, when she said that the post had been advertised on that date; the position regarding holding interviews for same; the roll and budget of the assessor; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13199/06]
As I advised Deputy Stanton in December 2005, the post of an assessor of youth work was advertised in the national press on 15 December 2005. Some 15 applications for the post were received by the Public Appointments Service. An interview process has taken place and the Public Appointments Service is currently finalising various details and procedures relating to the appointment.
The assessor of youth work will support the development of good youth work practice through the assessment, monitoring and review of youth work programmes and services provided by the voluntary youth work sector in Ireland. He or she will also be charged with ensuring that public funds are being used efficiently and effectively. The youth affairs section of my Department is currently deciding on the allocation of funding for various youth work activities, projects and programmes including costs attaching to the post of the assessor of youth work and its functions.
501 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects the review of youth work funding and the review of youth information provision respectively to be completed; when these reviews were begun; the person or persons carrying out these reviews; the terms of reference; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13200/06]
The review of funding of the youth work sector is being carried out by McIver Consulting and work commenced in January 2005. A number of issues are currently under discussion between my Department and the consultants with a view to finalising the report. The funding review steering group — that is, a sub-committee of the national youth work advisory committee — will then review the final document to ensure that the terms of reference have been adhered to and appropriately dealt with by the consultants. Following this, the report will be finalised as soon as possible. It is intended that following on this process, the national youth work advisory committee, which represents the various youth work interests, will consider the contents of the report in the first instance and that the report, together with the committee's views, will be presented to the Minister of State responsible for youth affairs for consideration in due course.
The review of youth information provision, which is being carried out by A & L Goodbody Consulting, commenced in June 2005. Discussions between my Department and the consultants are at an advanced stage. The youth information steering group, a sub-committee of the national youth work advisory committee, will then review the final document to ensure that the terms of reference have been appropriately dealt with by the consultants. Again, it is expected that following on this process, the national youth work advisory committee will consider the contents of the review in the first instance and that the report, together with the views of the national youth work advisory committee, will be presented to the Minister of State responsible for youth affairs for consideration in due course. The terms of reference for both reviews are included at Appendix A.
APPENDIX A
Terms of Reference — Review of Funding of the Youth Work Sector:
(i) To review funding across Government Departments and other agencies with a view to determining if financial allocations to youth work are realistic and reflect the real cost of the work, including capital and human costs;
(ii) To review the funding patterns of different types of provision, including youth organisations, community based youth projects, youth information centres and other specialist provision;
(iii) To identify appropriate staffing levels for the delivery of quality youth work and the resulting resource implications;
(iv) To examine the current use of pay scales within the sector, identify those most commonly used and make recommendations on staff remuneration with reference to analogous employments;
(v) To review the current funding schemes for youth work, identify the rationale for these schemes and the relationship between these and other schemes;
(vi) To examine the current application and reporting processes for youth work Grant-in-Aid schemes and report thereon;
(vii) To report on the issue of consistent, open, transparent and equitable criteria for the distribution of grant aid at national and area level, including core costs such as salaries, overheads, administration, travel etc.;
(viii) Identify the main issues, which inhibit the development of sustainable funding streams for the youth sector;
(ix) Examine the scope for improving the availability and sustainability of youth work funding;
(x) To provide the Department of Education and Science with a report on the issues raised in (i) to (ix) above.
Terms of Reference — Review of Youth Information Provision:
(i) To identify and articulate the role of the youth work sector in providing for the information needs of young people
(ii) To review current provision of youth information in Ireland
(iii) To examine the Standards for Youth Information Centres taking account of the current needs and trends
(iv) To establish actual costs for the provision of youth information
(v) To identify the supports required for youth information provision
(vi) To investigate best practice nationally and internationally
(vii) To make recommendations on the future development of youth information provision
(viii) To provide the Department of Education and Science with a printed and electronic report of outcomes (i) to (vii) above.
502 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the location of the special projects for disadvantaged youth; the location of the 10 new such projects established in 2005; her plans to develop more such projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13201/06]
There are currently 177 projects for disadvantaged young people funded under the special projects for youth scheme administered by the youth affairs section of my Department, including ten new projects which were grant-aided in 2005. The 10 new projects are: Cobh youth services, Cork; Daybreak programme, Donegal; the Blue Box creative learning centre, Limerick; County Longford youth services, Longford; Kildare youth project, Kildare; Sliabh Luachra project, County Kerry; Shannon youth project, County Clare; Graiguecullen youth project, County Carlow; unaccompanied minors project — this project is now known as the transition support project — Dublin; and services to young Travellers, Tallaght, County Dublin.
A grant of €46,000 was made available towards the support of each of the ten projects in 2005, with full year costs of €92,000 per project approved for 2006. A complete list of all 177 projects located throughout the country is attached at Appendix A. In addition to the establishment of the ten new projects mentioned above, 20 single worker projects were upgraded to two worker projects in 2005.
The total budgetary provision for youth work purposes within my Department amounts to €47.035 million in 2006. The financial provision for the main funding line for youth work has been increased to €36.7 million in 2006, representing an increase of €2.8 million over the 2005 allocation. The further development of the special project scheme will be examined in the context of the overall allocations for the sector and the phased roll-out of various aspects of the Youth Work Act 2001 and National Youth Work Development Plan 2003-2007.
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Special Projects for Youth |
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Dún Laoghaire VEC |
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Long-standing Projects |
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Loughlinstown/Ballybrack Project |
|
Dún Laoghaire Town/Mountwood-Fitzgerald Pk. |
|
Co-Ordination and Support |
|
City of Dublin VEC (CDYSB) |
|
Focus Ireland |
|
Ballymun Youth Action Project |
|
Ballymun Women’s Resource Centre |
|
Ballymun Regional Youth Resource (BRYR) |
|
Ballymun Columban Youth Project |
|
Ballymun Travellers Project |
|
Rialto Youth Project |
|
Inchicore (St. Michael’s Parish) Project |
|
Crumlin/Dublin 12 Youth Service |
|
Ballyfermot Youth Federation Project |
|
Bonnybrook Youth Project |
|
Donnycarney (Consolata) Youth Project |
|
Lourdes Youth Project |
|
Darndale Youth Project |
|
The Cavan Centre (Kilnacrott) |
|
Candle Community Trust Project (Ballyfermot) |
|
Adventure Sports Project |
|
Stoneybatter Youth Service Project |
|
Donore Avenue Youth Project |
|
Finglas Youth Development Programme |
|
Trinity Youth Project |
|
Priorswood Youth Project |
|
Cherry Orchard Integrated Youth Service |
|
YMCA STEP Project |
|
St. Andrew’s Resource Centre |
|
Administration, Survey and Evaluation |
|
Travellers Youth Service |
|
Pavee Point |
|
Project Manager |
|
Beyond Youth Project- LGBT |
|
City of Cork VEC |
|
Glen Youth Development Project (Foróige) |
|
Mahon Youth Development Project (Foróige) |
|
Cork Youth Encounter Project Youth Work Prog. |
|
STEP Project (YMCA) |
|
Churchfield-Gurranabraher Yth Dev Project (NYF) |
|
Togher Youth Dev. Centre (Ógra Chorcaí) |
|
Farranree Youth Dev. Centre + Outreach (Ógra Chorcaí) |
|
Knocknaheeny-Hollyhill Outreach (Ógra Chorcaí) |
|
YMCA Youth Development Centre |
|
Knocknaheeny-Hollyhill 11-15 (Ógra Chorcaí) |
|
Summer Recreation Project (Ógra Chorcaí) |
|
Ballyphehane & Cork NW |
|
Bishopstown Special Project (Ógra Chorcai) |
|
Strawberry Hill Youth Dev. Centre ( Ógra Chorcai) |
|
Monitoring & Administration of Projects |
|
County Cork VEC |
|
Riverstown Youth Project |
|
SKY Project (Mitchelstown/Charleville) |
|
Summer Recreation 2000 |
|
Beara Peninsula Youth Development Project |
|
City of Galway VEC |
|
Long-standing Projects |
|
Galway Youth Federation, Westside (Youth Action) |
|
Ballinfoyle Youth Project |
|
Ballybane Youth Development Project (Foróige) |
|
Tagaste House Project |
|
Galway Youth Theatre Project |
|
Bohermore Community Activities Project |
|
Mol an Óige Youth Centre + Fairgreen Crafts |
|
Shantalla-Westside Young Parents Project |
|
Le Chéile Westside |
|
Rahoon Family Centre |
|
Projects Development |
|
Hillside Project for Young Travellers |
|
Traveller Youth Project — Ballybane |
|
Knocknacarra Youth Development Project |
|
County Galway VEC |
|
Youth In Action Project, Connemara |
|
County Leitrim VEC |
|
Mohill Community Youth Project |
|
City of Limerick VEC |
|
Limerick Youth Service Long-standing Project |
|
Miscellaneous Long-standing Projects |
|
Limerick Youth Encounter Project |
|
Limerick Youth Theatre |
|
Our Lady of Lourdes Community Youth Project |
|
St. Munchin’s Family Resource Centre |
|
County Limerick VEC |
|
Youth in Action Project, Croom |
|
Loobagh Youth Project |
|
Castleconnell Youth Project |
|
City of Waterford VEC |
|
Manor of St. John Youth Project |
|
Grants for Local Youth Organisations |
|
Children’s Group Link Project |
|
Transport Service |
|
S.H.Y. Project |
|
Red Kettle Theatre Company Project |
|
Waterford Youth Drama Project |
|
Ballybeg Special Youth Project |
|
Ferrybank Special Project (Foróige) |
|
Administration |
|
St. Brigid’s Centre Project for Young Travellers |
|
County Dublin VEC |
|
Tallaght Youth Service (Foróige) |
|
Blanchardstown Youth Service (Foróige) |
|
Ronanstown Youth Service (CYC) |
|
Clondalkin Youth Service (CYC) |
|
Swords/Balbriggan Youth Service (CYC) |
|
Outward Bound Programme (CYC) |
|
Lucan Youth Service (CYC) |
|
CRYPTIC (Balbriggan) |
|
Co-ordination and Administration (CYC) |
|
West Dublin Parents and Kids Together (PAKT) |
|
Youth Outreach 2000 Project, Baldoyle Forum Ltd. |
|
County Wicklow VEC |
|
Longstanding (Bray Youth Service)(CYC) |
|
Ballywaltrim Special Project (CYC) |
|
Little Bray Special Project (CYC) |
|
County Kerry VEC |
|
Tralee Youth Work Development Projects |
|
County Tipperary VEC |
|
Roscrea 2000 Ltd |
|
Nenagh Community Youth Project |
|
Catholic Youth Care |
|
Finglas Youth Encounter Project |
|
East Wicklow Youth Service |
|
National Association of Travellers Centres |
|
Provision of Youth Services (Local) |
|
Provision of Youth Services (NATC) |
|
Administration and Co-ordination |
|
Voice Magazine |
|
Development Worker Post |
|
National Youth Federation |
|
Athy Youth Project |
|
Ballycane-Sarto Youth Project (Naas) |
|
Clare Youth Service, Disadvantaged Outreach |
|
Clonmel Youth Resource Centre Project |
|
Coxes Demesne Youth Project, Dundalk |
|
Co-ordination of Projects — NYF |
|
Donegal Youth Development Project |
|
Dungarvan Youth Resource Centre Project |
|
Ennis Youth Service Literacy Project |
|
Fermoy/Middleton/Mallow Projects |
|
Hebron & Newpark, Kilkenny |
|
Callan and Castlecomer Project |
|
Killarney and South Kerry Youth Project |
|
Leitrim Youth Project |
|
Leixlip Youth project |
|
Limerick Youth Service Resource Centre |
|
Limerick Youth Service — Outreach Project |
|
Limerick YS Special Ed. Initiative (2nd Chance Pr) |
|
Listowel/North Kerry Project |
|
Midlands Project, Athlone |
|
Craobh Rua Youth Project, Dundalk |
|
Mullingar Youth Response Project |
|
New Oak, Carlow |
|
North Galway (Tuam area) Project |
|
North Mayo Youth Project |
|
Ossory Youth, Rural Outreach |
|
Youth Resource Centre, East Galway |
|
Research and Training Project — NYF |
|
Templemore/Thurles Youth Project |
|
Tipperary Rural Outreach Project |
|
Tipperary Town Youth Project |
|
Tullamore Youth Development Project |
|
Wexford Town Young Women’s Project |
|
Wexford & Enniscorthy Community Youth Projects |
|
Woodstown Activity Centre Project, Co.Waterford |
|
Youth New Ross |
|
Southside Community Youth Project, Drogheda |
|
Newbridge Youth Project |
|
Castleblayney Early School Leavers |
|
Youth Development Project Loughrea |
|
Gorey Community Youth Project |
|
Ballygar Youth Project, East Galway/Roscommon |
|
Laois Youth Services |
|
Ballaghaderreen Youth Project, Co. Roscommon |
|
Meath Youth Together Project |
|
Offaly County Council |
|
Tullamore Travellers’ Movement Project |
|
Tionscadal Oibre don Ógra |
|
Tionscadal Mhuintearas na nOileán |
|
Health Service Executive |
|
Sligo/Leitrim Home Youth Liaison Service Project |
|
Miscellaneous Youth Projects |
|
Sheelin Youth Project |
|
Foróige Development Scheme, Co. Donegal |
|
Ronanstown Project, Co. Dublin |
|
Foróige North Dublin Project |
|
City of Dublin Youth Service Board Annual Grant |
|
New Projects sanctioned in 2005 (10) |
|
Cobh Youth Services (Co. Cork VEC) |
|
Daybreak Programme, Donegal (Co. Donegal VEC) |
|
The Blue Box Creative Learning Centre (City of Limerick VEC) |
|
County Longford Youth Services (County Longford VEC) |
|
Kildare Youth Project (NYF) |
|
Sliabh Luachra Youth Project (NYF) |
|
Shannon Youth Project (NYF) |
|
Graiguecullen Youth Project, Carlow (NYF) |
|
Transition Support Project, Dublin (City of Dublin VEC) |
|
Services to Young Travellers, Tallaght (Co. Dublin VEC) |
|
Total 177 Projects |
|
Single worker projects up-graded to two workers (20) |
|
(already listed above) |
|
Loughlinstown/Ballybrack Project |
|
Priorswood Youth Project |
|
St. Andrew’s Resource Centre, Dublin |
|
North Dublin Youth Development Project, Foróige |
|
Mahon Youth Project, Cork |
|
Churchfield/Gurranabraher Project, Cork |
|
Beara Youth Project, Co. Cork |
|
St. Munchin’s Follow your Dream, Limerick |
|
Lucan Youth Service, Co. Dublin |
|
Tagaste House Project, Galway |
|
Waterford Youth Drama |
|
Little Red Kettle Project, Waterford |
|
Castleconnell Youth Project, Co. Limerick |
|
Development Worker Post, NATCs |
|
Coxes Demesne Project, Dundalk |
|
Youth New Ross |
|
Leitrim Youth Project |
|
Laois Youth Services |
|
Hebron and Newpark, Kilkenny |
|
Mullingar Youth Response Project |
503 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which the socioeconomic variables as outlined in her response to Parliamentary Question No. 716 of 21 March 2006 were used to identify primary schools for participation in the school support programme; the method used to grade or the way each variable was weighted; the range of points allocated to schools that were invited to participate in the school support programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13202/06]
DEIS — delivering equality of opportunity in schools — the new action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP. The process of identifying primary and second-level schools for participation in the new school support programme under DEIS has been completed. This process was managed by the Educational Research Centre, ERC, on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the inspectorate. In the primary sector, the identification process was based on a survey carried out by the ERC in May 2005, from which a response rate of more than 97% was achieved.
The analysis of the survey returns from primary schools by the ERC identified the socioeconomic variables that collectively best predict achievement, and these variables were then used to identify schools for participation in the school support programme. The variables involved were: percentage unemployment; percentage local authority accommodation; percentage lone parenthood; percentage Travellers; percentage large families — five or more children; and percentage pupils eligible for free books. Each school was assigned a score on a 600 point scale, based on 100 points for each of the six variables set out above, by adding up the relevant percentages of pupils from families in each of the above categories.
504 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science the independent person mentioned in her response to Dáil adjournment debate of 28 March 2006; the person who will direct the operation of the review mechanism which has been put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the school support programme but regard themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme; when she expects to receive a report from this independent person; when she expects to make decisions on such reports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13203/06]
DEIS — delivering equality of opportunity in schools — the new action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP. The school support programme will bring together, and build upon, a number of existing interventions in schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage.
The process of identifying primary and second-level schools for participation in the new school support programme under DEIS has been completed. This process was managed by the Educational Research Centre, ERC, on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the Inspectorate.
As a result of the identification process, 840 schools have been invited to participate in the new school support programme. These comprise 640 primary schools — 320 urban-town schools and 320 rural schools — and 200 second level schools. Schools not selected to participate in the school support programme but receiving additional resources under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing concentrated disadvantage will retain these supports for 2006-2007. The efficacy of these supports will be kept under review.
As well as the provision being made under the new school support programme for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage, financial support will be provided for other primary schools where the level of disadvantage is more dispersed. This support will be based on the results of the new identification process and the arrangements which will apply in this regard will be notified to schools early in the autumn.
A review process has been put in place for primary and second-level schools that did not qualify for participation in the school support programme and that regard themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The closing date for receipt of review applications was Friday, 31 March, 2006.
The review process will operate under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The process of appointing this person is being finalised at present and I will be making an announcement on the matter shortly.
It is intended that the review process will be completed by the end of the current school year.
505 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the lack of special resource teachers in a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; the reason special resource teaching is being removed in June 2006 from a student who requires it; the action she proposes to take in this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13210/06]
The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, through the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, is responsible for processing applications from schools for special needs supports such as resource teaching hours and special needs assistant, SNA, support for children with low-incidence special educational needs such as specific speech and language disorder, on the basis of applications in respect of individual pupils. The teaching and SNA support allocated are intended to enable schools to meet the needs of pupils as outlined in psychological and other reports.
A general allocation system has been introduced under which all mainstream primary schools have been provided with learning support-resource teacher support, based on their enrolment figures, to cater for children with high-incidence special needs such as mild general learning disability and those with learning support needs.
I wish to advise the Deputy that there are two full-time learning support-resource teachers based in the school referred to by the Deputy. One of the posts is available to the school in question for 15 hours per week and the other post is available for nine hours. This level of support would be adequate to cater for a school of its size and for all pupils with low-incidence special educational needs enrolled there.
I am advised that the local SENO allocated transitional support in respect of a particular pupil who transferred from a special class last September until the end of the current year. I understand that the pupil had made sufficient progress in the special class to warrant only temporary resource teacher support in the mainstream class.
506 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the way in which the parents of 135 children in Littlepace, Dublin 15 are unable to meet their legal obligations under the Education Welfare Act 2000 due to the failure of her Department to provide adequate primary school places. [13213/06]
507 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on the number of children who are on school waiting lists in the Dublin 15 area. [13214/06]
508 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she intends to take to ensure that parents’ rights under the Constitution are not violated by the failure to provide adequate school places in Dublin 15. [13215/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 506 to 508, inclusive, together.
I am conscious that the Dublin 15 area as a whole is one of the most rapidly developing areas in the country and, as a result, there has been a marked increase in the demand for primary school places. My Department is taking a number of measures to increase the capacity of existing schools in the area concerned along with the development of new schools to meet this growing demand. All building projects arising from these interventions are awarded a band 1 priority rating under my Department's prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects to ensure that they are delivered as expeditiously as possible.
In the Littlepace-Castaheaney area a new school building has recently been completed at Mary Mother of Hope national school, with an additional project underway with a target delivery date of September 2007. In addition, a 32-classroom campus is planned for a school site at Ongar. This project will provide a permanent accommodation solution for Castaheaney Educate Together national school. It also has a target completion date of September 2007. This area is also served by the Scared Heart national school, Huntstown, where an extension project to provide a 32 classroom school is nearing completion.
In the Diswellstown area, St. Patrick's national school has recently moved into a new 24 classroom school. This will facilitate an annual three stream intake. However, as an exceptional matter the board of management ill consider taking a fourth stream of junior infants this year. In addition, my Department is currently in discussions with St. Mochta's national school regarding the possibility of it expanding to cater for an annual four-stream intake. The school currently has an intake of three junior infant classes. An extension to cater for this development will also attract a band 1 priority rating. The possible need for further accommodation is under active consideration and my Department is engaging with the key patron bodies active in the area in this regard. Other developments in the Dublin 15 area include the planned expansion of St. Brigid's national school in Castleknock and extensions to St. Brigid's boys and girls national schools, Blanchardstown.
With regard to parents obligations Under the Education (Welfare) Act the position is that, parents are required to ensure that children aged between six and 16 attend school regularly. A person under the age of six is not, therefore, a child for the purposes of the Act and a parent is not under a legal obligation to ensure their attendance at school. Given that there is no question of any six year old year being unable to obtain a place to enrol in junior infants in the Dublin 15 area, parents obligations under the Education (Welfare) act are not affected.
With regard to the Constitution and the particular article referred to by the Deputy, this states, "The State shall not oblige parents in violation of their conscience and lawful preference to send their children to schools established by the State, or to any particular type of school designated by the State". Statutory rights to choice of school derives from the Education Act 1998, section 6 of which provides for a number of objects to which those concerned with the implementation of the Act must have regard, including promoting "the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents' choice having regard to the rights of patrons and the effective and efficient use of resources". In addition, section 15 (2)(d) of the 1998 Act provides that a board of management of a primary school shall: “publish, in such manner as the board with the agreement of the patron considers appropriate, the policy of the school concerning admission to and participation in the school ... and ensure that as regards that, policy principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents’ choice are respected and such directions as may be made from time to time by the Minister, having regard to the characteristic spirit of the school and the constitutional rights of all persons concerned, are complied with”. It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. While my Department would support diverse educational provision in an area, ultimately the extent of such diversity depends on the willingness of a patron body to provide education with any particular ethos. In the final analysis, it is my Department’s remit to ensure that all schools between them in any given area have sufficient accommodation to facilitate all those seeking places in the context of the schools enrolment policies.
509 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to reform her Department to ensure that the provision of schools does not rest on the parents in new communities. [13216/06]
The predominant need in new communities is for the establishment of new primary schools for which there is an open and transparent process in place. A central element of this process is that patron bodies wishing to establish new schools must identify the level of demand for the provision of education under the ethos proposed and that potential enrolment will meet certain minimum targets.
The system was streamlined following recommendations made by the Commission on School Accommodation. As part of the process, the New Schools Advisory Committee, NSAC, which is an independent body, assesses all applications for recognition against published criteria. It conducts an open and transparent public consultation process as part of this assessment. The committee's annual programme of work culminates in a report to the Minister with recommendations on the granting of recognition to applicants. I am happy to support all new schools where it has been clearly demonstrated in accordance with the criteria that a demand exists. This support includes payment of teacher salaries, capitation grants and rental grant aid for accommodation.
In addition, primary school management bodies and newly established primary schools will benefit from a package of measures which I recently announced. This package recognises specific issues that arise in relation to school start-up.
I have decided to provide: a training grant of €10,000 for the boards of management and staff of new primary schools established from this year onwards; a training grant of €5,000 for boards of management and staff where the school is in the second year of operation; and the appointment in advance of the school opening of the principal teacher so the he or she can assist in the preparation for the first year of its operation. These measures are a strong indication of my commitment to supporting schools in a start-up situation.
I am conscious of the pressures being placed on education providers in areas of major population growth in particular. To this end, my Department causes sites to be reserved under local authority area development planning processes so that land will be available to prospective patron bodies for the development of schools. In addition, my Department, is prioritising the provision of new and enhanced educational facilities in these areas. The prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects which were recently revised in consultation with the education partners allocates a top priority band 1 rating to school building projects in such areas.
To further underpin the establishment of these schools, my Department has made a number of changes in recent years which have assisted patron bodies in the provision of permanent accommodation. One of these changes is acquisition by the state of school sites and another is the abolition of the local contribution to the building costs for State-owned school buildings, which had cost up to €63,000 per school. Other innovations include the development of the design and build model and the generic repeat design model to provide permanent accommodation much faster, such as in the case of the new multi-denominational school in Griffeen Valley, Lucan, which was designed and built in less than 13 months.
Taken in combination, these measures have greatly alleviated the burden on local communities and my Department will continue to work to provide any additional supports it can give.
510 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the timeframe for completing her Department’s planning process relative to a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if the process can be fast-tracked in order that a local authority planning application could be lodged in three months to enable the construction contract to be placed in 2006 thus allowing construction to commence in early 2007; if the process will be expedited; and if she will make a statement on the matter in view of the urgent need for the new school. [13218/06]
The school referred to by the Deputy was listed among the 43 schools that I announced to start architectural planning in March of 2005. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department has appointed a full design team on the project with the architectural service for this project being dealt with in-house by the school building section and, indeed, substantial work on the early stages of the design process has already been completed.
My Department's officials have already had a preliminary meeting with the local authority planners of Kilkenny County Council in order to address any possible conditions which the local authority may have in relation to the impending planning application and the school authorities have been informed of the outcome of the meeting.
It is not possible at this point to indicate when the planning application will be lodged and when the architectural planning process will be completed. There are five stages in this process and the timeframe for completing these stages is contingent on various factors including any unexpected issues that may arise.
At present the civil-structural engineer is looking at the site specific issues and when his report is forwarded to my Department, my officials will be in further contact with the school authorities as to the next steps involved in progressing this project. Progression of projects to construction will be considered in the context of the schools building and modernisation programme 2006-10.
511 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the timeframe for consideration of the appeals relative to the DEIS initiative; if a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will be given positive consideration in view of the high level of disadvantage being experienced by families in its catchment area. [13219/06]
DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated school support programme, SSP. The process of identifying primary and second level schools for participation in the new school support programme has been completed.
As a result of the identification process, 840 schools have been invited to participate in the new school support programme, which comprise 640 primary schools — 320 urban-town schools and 320 rural schools — and 200 second level schools. Letters of invitation were issued to all 840 schools in late February with a request to complete and return an acceptance form by 10 March 2006.
Schools not selected to participate in the school support programme but receiving additional resources under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing concentrated disadvantage will retain these supports for 2006-07. The efficacy of these supports will be kept under review. As well as the provision being made under the new school support programme for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage, financial support will be provided for other primary schools where the level of disadvantage is more dispersed. This support will be based on the results of the new identification process and the arrangements which will apply in this regard will be notified to schools early in the autumn.
A review mechanism has been put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the school support programme but regard themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process will operate under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The closing date for receipt of completed review applications was 31 March 2006. A review application has been received by my Department from the school to which the Deputy refers. It is intended that the review process will be completed by the end of the current school year.
512 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the name and location of each primary and post primary school in County Mayo currently availing of assistance under the disadvantaged programme; and if following the assessment under new criteria the name and location of each primary and post-primary school to be excluded from the DEIS programme from June 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13239/06]
Four urban-town primary schools, 59 rural primary schools and six post-primary schools in County Mayo have been invited to participate in the new school support programme, SSP, under DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion.
Schools invited to participate in the school support programme were required to complete and return an acceptance form by 10 March 2006, accepting the invitation to participate in the school support programme, SSP, and giving an undertaking to take all necessary steps to use resources that may be allocated under the SSP in accordance with the key provisions, requirements and aims of the action plan and to support the Department and all relevant bodies and agencies in seeking to achieve the objectives of the action plan in so far as they relate to the school.
Schools not selected to participate in the school support programme but receiving additional resources under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing concentrated disadvantage will retain these supports for 2006-07. The efficacy of these supports will be kept under review. As well as the provision being made under the new school support programme for schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage, financial support will be provided for other primary schools where the level of disadvantage is more dispersed. This support will be based on the results of the new identification process and the arrangements that will apply in this regard will be notified to schools early in the autumn.
A review mechanism has been put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the school support programme but regard themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. This mechanism will operate under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The closing date for receipt of review applications was Friday, 31 March 2006. The complete list of schools participating in SSP will be published on my Department's website shortly.
513 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science her views regarding the proposal for an extension at a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow; when the decision will be made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13268/06]
The school planning section of my Department has received an application for an extension from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.
514 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; her views on whether that figure is adequate. [13281/06]
The most recent data available on officers in my Department who have a disability indicate that there are 37 such officers, which equates to 3.03% of staff. The guidelines followed for the collection of this information are set out in the Code of Practice for the Civil Service 1994. This is in line with the Government's 3% employment target for people with disabilities, as set out in Sustaining Progress.
Following the cessation of special competitions for the recruitment of persons with disabilities, due to the Equal Status Act 2000, it is difficult for Departments to positively discriminate in favour of persons with disabilities. Consultants have been engaged centrally within the public service to review the current position and make recommendations to improve the situation. The human resource strategy for my Department, which was developed through partnership and published in 2005, states that the Department will consider the recommendations in the forthcoming consultants' report, with a view to improving the proportion of staff employed with a disability. It is also stated in the HR strategy that the Department is committed to facilitating the appointment of persons with disabilities, through the provision of assistive technology and ensuring physical access.
The Public Appointments Service recruits the majority of staff for the Department of Education and Science. For certain posts, for example, service support staff, temporary and contract posts, my Department conducts its own recruitment. The Civil Service is an equal opportunities employer. Recruitment to posts within my Department is on the basis of qualifications, where applicable, and the ability to carry out the responsibilities of the grade or post. There are no special qualification criteria for persons with disabilities seeking employment in the Civil Service. Persons with disabilities are entitled to apply for all competitions for which they are eligible and no special application procedures are required. During the selection process and in any subsequent placement in a post, any special needs requirements of an individual will be provided where possible.
My Department has agreed to participate in the Willing Able Mentoring, WAM, project in 2006. This project aims to give between three to six months quality work experience to graduates with disabilities. It is recognised that a disproportionate number of graduates with a disability encounter difficulties at the transitional stage between graduation and employment since many have not had the opportunity of a summer work placement, despite qualifying in a broad range of disciplines such as business, economics, social science, law, engineering, commerce, education and science. Offering placements to third level students has already proved to be a good way of highlighting the benefits of the Civil Service as an employer to prospective graduates. The WAM project will help promote the Civil Service as an employer of choice, as well as giving practical effect to Government and Civil Service policy on improving employment prospects for people with disabilities.
515 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if agreement has been reached on the forum which the amalgamation of schools (details supplied) in Dublin 9 will take; if design teams have been appointed to oversee the refurbishment and other works; if a timeframe for the completion of these works has been agreed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13286/06]
The final details of the amalgamation process for the schools in question are currently the subject of discussions between the boards of management, the patron and the school planning section of my Department. It is anticipated that the matter will be finalised in the near future.
Given the nature of this project, it is possible that a planned, phased approach will need to be adopted in order to carry out the necessary works. The incoming design team, who will be appointed shortly, together with officials from the school building section, will devise a delivery programme that is sympathetic to the users of the existing school buildings and which will also ensure that the project is advanced as quickly as possible.
516 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the date upon which she proposes to publish the scheme for third level grant assistance for 2006-2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13295/06]
The process of reviewing the thresholds for eligibility and the grant levels for the 2006-07 academic year is currently ongoing. Decisions on the 2006 schemes will be announced as soon as this process is completed. The applications forms and accompanying notes for the 2006-07 will issue in the near future.
517 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in respect of her announcement of a single authority to implement a third level grant scheme for students, this proposal involves the amalgamation of staff currently working for local authorities and vocational educational committees in the payment of such grants; when she intends to publish her proposals in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13296/06]
The Deputy will be aware that, in accordance with the commitment in An Agreed Programme for Government, I plan to introduce a single unified scheme of maintenance grants for students in higher education. This will, I believe, provide for a more coherent administration system which will facilitate consistency of application and improved client accessibility and ensure the timely delivery of grants to those who need them most.
As I mentioned previously, my Department has been engaged in substantial consultations with the key stakeholders in order to map the most logical and effective arrangements for the future structure and administration of the student support schemes. These discussions have substantially clarified the positions of the stakeholders in relation to the future administration possibilities for student support and their possible role therein. I expect to be in a position shortly to determine the best strategy, having regard to the many and complex issues involved, to give effect to the programme for Government commitment to the payment of the maintenance grants through a unified and flexible payment scheme. Whatever new arrangements are eventually decided upon will, as I have previously indicated, be provided for in new statutory arrangements through a student support Bill. I expect to be in a position to seek Government approval in the near future for the drafting of the Bill.
518 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the phasing out of preparation for religious sacraments, that is, Holy Communion and Confirmation as referred to by the Association of School Principals; her further views on whether this preparation can be undertaken by parents; if she will make her views known; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13311/06]
Section 15 of the Education Act, 1998 requires boards of management of schools to uphold, and be accountable to the patron for upholding, the characteristic spirit of the school as determined by the cultural, educational, moral, religious, social, educational, linguistic and spiritual values and traditions which inform and are characteristic of the objectives and conduct of the school.
Provision is made for the inclusion of religious education on the curriculum for primary schools. My Department recognises the rights of the different church authorities to design these curricula and to supervise their teaching and implementation. To this end, 30 minutes of the school day is allocated to the teaching of religious education.
I understand that a number of pilot projects have been prepared by the Roman Catholic Church whereby preparation for the sacraments is shared between the home, the school and the parish.
519 Mr. Connolly asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent of the school completion programme countrywide; if she will provide a progress report on this programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13386/06]
There are currently 82 school completion programme, SCP, sites in 21 counties — 108 post-primary schools and 302 primary schools — with 53 second level schools in the stay in school retention strand, SSR, of the school completion programme in 17 counties, targeting approximately 23,000 young people at risk of early school leaving.
Under the new action plan for educational inclusion, DEIS, delivering equality of opportunity in schools, additional supports are being targeted at children in the most disadvantaged schools to encourage them to stay in school. The key principle of early intervention, to identify and help children at risk of early leaving school is a major component of the plan.
As a result of the identification process, 840 schools, serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage, have been invited to participate in the new school support programme. These comprise 640 primary schools — 320 urban-town schools and 320 rural schools — and 200 second level schools. Letters of invitation were issued to all 840 schools in late February with a request to complete and return an acceptance form by 10 March 2006.
A total of €24.7 million has been allocated to the programme for 2006 and school completion programme services will be extended to all 320 urban-town primary schools and 200 second level schools participating in the SSP and not already benefiting from these services with additional clusters created under the school support programme during the school year 2006-07. My Department is now finalising arrangements regarding the clustering of the schools under the school support programme and schools will be notified in due course.
520 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Question No. 583 of 14 February 2006, if she will supply data on the socio-economic background of persons in receipt of third level grants for 2002-03, 2003-04 and, if available, 2004-05; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13387/06]
In my reply to Question No. 583 of 14 February 2006 in respect of the availability of a statistical breakdown of grant holders by socio-economic background, I referred to the fact that limited indicative data on the socio-economic background of grantholders have been collected in the past on the higher education grants scheme only. My Department's student support unit is currently in the process of collating information on students who were awarded grants under the higher education grants scheme for the academic year 2004-05 from the returns which have been submitted to date by the local authorities.
Unfortunately a number of returns are outstanding for 2002-03 and 2003-04 which the Department is currently pursuing with the local authorities and the County and City Managers' Association. Despite this and to avoid any further delay, we are arranging to have the available data provided to the Deputy directly. It is our intention that this information will issue to the Deputy in the coming days in respect of 2002-03 and 2003-04. This indicative data are subject to considerable qualification in relation to their reliability due to, inter alia, the level of undeclared status amongst the returns from the local authorities.
Following consultations with the Irish Vocational Education Association, new arrangements were introduced in 2005 to compile a more comprehensive statistical breakdown of grantholders under the schemes administered by the VECs. This complements arrangements in place in respect of the higher education grants scheme.
It is regrettable that the information in respect of the 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2004-05 academic years was unavailable to the Deputy following the previous parliamentary question. When the complete returns for the academic years 2002-03, 2003-04 and 2004-05 are available, the information will be made available to the Deputy.
521 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on progress to date on commitments made to Educate Together in respect of extra funding for new schools, the working party on religious education and other matters; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13393/06]
As I indicated in my statement on the publication of the Estimates for 2006, extra funding is being made available to the primary school management bodies. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the funding being provided to Educate Together is being increased to €120,000. This represents an almost threefold increase over the level of the grant allocation for this body under the 2005 Estimates provision.
In making its case for funding to me Educate Together also raised the issue for support for newly establishing schools. To support such schools I am introducing a new grant of €10,000 payable in two instalments of €5,000 for the boards of management of newly establishing schools in respect of training of the boards of management and staff in their initial years. Schools established in the 2004-05 school year and which are now in their second year of operation will receive €5,000 as a training grant for boards of management. Those established in the current school year will qualify for both instalments of the grant. The new grant is in addition to the existing start-up grant of €6,348.69 which has been available to all new primary schools which began operating from 1 September 2000.
As a further measure to assist new schools I will be authorising the earlier appointment of principal teachers in these schools to assist in the establishment phase. Discussions on the arrangements to apply for the implementation of this initiative are ongoing between my Department and the relevant interests.
As the Deputy is aware, I asked officials, in respect of Educate Together's ethical education programme, to establish a working group to explore with Educate Together and the colleges of education the best means of ensuring that training in this area can be provided to students studying to become primary school teachers.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my officials have contacted the Conference of Heads of Irish Colleges of Education, CHoICE, to progress the matter and a meeting has been arranged with them to, among other things, formally establish this Working Group. This meeting will take place over the coming weeks. The colleges are well aware of the issues surrounding Educate Together's ethical education programme and they have indicated their willingness to assist the work of the group. In addition, my officials are due to meet with the chief executive officer of Educate Together in the coming weeks to progress the matter.
My Department has supported the establishment of a significant number of new multi-denominational schools in recent years. Of the 24 new schools granted provisional recognition in the past three years alone, 12 are multi-denominational.
To underpin the establishment of new schools, my Department has made a number of changes in recent years which have assisted patron bodies in the provision of accommodation. One of these changes, which was strongly welcomed by the patron body for multi-denominational schools, was the abolition of the local contribution to the building costs for State-owned school buildings, which had cost up to €63,000 per school. Other innovations include the development of the design and build model to provide permanent accommodation much faster — such as in the case of the new multi-denominational school in Griffeen Valley, Lucan, which was designed and built in less than 13 months.
Standard-generic designs have also been developed by the building unit of my Department for eight and 16-classroom schools. It is expected that use of these designs, wherever possible, will yield a substantial savings in terms of design team fees as well as reducing the time taken to bring new school projects to completion.
Many multi-denominational primary schools are established in areas of rapidly expanding population growth. School building projects in these areas are assigned a band one rating under the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects. This is the highest band rating possible which results in the delivery of permanent accommodation in the shortest timeframe achievable. Pending the delivery of new school buildings, my Department contributes 95% towards the cost of rental of temporary accommodation for schools with permanent recognition. The local contribution for a school in such circumstances is capped at €3,175 per annum.
I am satisfied that the range of measures now being introduced, including the almost threefold increase in its grant, provides a comprehensive response to the request made for additional support for Educate Together and its schools.
522 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects to put in place a comprehensive database of primary school pupils based on PPS numbers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13394/06]
My Department is developing a primary pupil database which will monitor the progression of individuals through the education system. The database will be a very useful tool for the Department in evaluating the effectiveness of educational initiatives and I am anxious that it be developed as soon as is practicable. However, I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that the project must be developed carefully to ensure that the final product meets the needs both of schools and of the Department.
523 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she intends to introduce statutory recognition for a group (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13395/06]
The group referred to by the Deputy offers programmes of integrated general education, vocational training and work experience to provide second chance education and training to a number of young people who leave school early with minimal or no qualifications. This group operates under the control of vocational education committees which have the statutory responsibility for delivering the programme in out of school centres.
In 2004, my predecessor designated the group as centres of education under the Education Act 1998, section 10.4. This designation is noted in circular F49/04. Such designation enables, for example, parents of young people in the programme to become involved in elections to vocational education committees. It also regularises the position of the group, vis-à-vis supports, monitoring and evaluation by my inspectorate.
I am currently considering issues relating to the prescription of this group under the Education (Welfare) Act 2000, section 14(19)(b). This was an issue raised in the recently published Report of the Task Force on Student Behaviour in Second Level Schools. The Government is committed to catering for the needs of the young people and will continue to provide significant support to this group.
524 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress which has been made in increasing the number of national education psychologists for the mid-west region; the number currently working in the region; the number of vacant posts in the region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13396/06]
All schools in the mid-western region have access to psychological assessments for their pupils, either directly through my Department's National Educational Psychological Service, NEPS, psychologists or through the scheme for commissioning psychological assessments, SCPA, that is administered by NEPS. Schools that do not currently have NEPS psychologists assigned to them may avail of the SCPA, whereby the school can have an assessment carried out by a member of the panel of private psychologists approved by NEPS, and NEPS will pay the psychologist directly the fees for this assessment. Details of this process and the conditions that apply to the scheme are available on my Department's website. NEPS also provides assistance to all schools that suffer from critical incidents, regardless of whether they have a NEPS psychologist assigned to them. Also, in relation to all schools, NEPS processes applications for reasonable accommodations in certificate examinations.
The number of psychologists in NEPS has increased from 43 on establishment to 122 at present. The NEPS development plan drawn up in the year 2000 envisaged that up to 16 psychologists would be needed at full development strength to provide a psychological service to all schools in the mid-western region serving counties Limerick, Clare and Tipperary North Riding. Currently, there are five NEPS psychologists working in the mid-western region and 11 posts are vacant.
The Public Appointments Service recently concluded a new recruitment competition for the appointment of educational psychologists to NEPS and regional panels have been established to allow my Department give greater priority in filling vacancies to areas with the greatest need. My Department is currently in the process of recruiting additional psychologists from these panels and priority will be given to the mid-west region.
525 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures which have been taken to ensure that the extension of the school year through the month of July is facilitated for a class which caters for students diagnosed with autistic spectrum disorders (details supplied) in view of the statement made regarding such extension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13404/06]
My Department has received a proposal from the school in question for the provision of a July programme for pupils attending the school's special unit for pupils with autism. This proposal is currently under consideration in my Department and the school authority will be notified of the outcome as soon as possible.
526 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will furnish a reply to correspondence (details supplied); if she is satisfied that the service is complying with the terms of the school transport scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13406/06]
Bus Éireann, which operate the school service on behalf of my Department, has been asked to provide a report on the case referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied. When the report is received and considered, my Department will advise the Deputy of the position.
527 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the new school sports hall built by the vocational educational committee in the grounds of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12 and the fact that it has not opened to pupils or the public since its completion due to a failure to agree a management structure and its funding; if her Department has had communication with the vocational educational committee or the school in relation to the sports hall and agreeing a management structure and its future funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13407/06]
My Department is currently examining the issue raised by the Deputy and will be in contact with the school authorities as quickly as possible.
528 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will confirm a newspaper report (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13415/06]
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations. Notwithstanding this, I have made inquiries with the SEC on the matter raised by the Deputy and I am advised as follows.
The revision of draft marking schemes is a normal part of the process which applies to every subject. Each year, following the examinations, the chief examiner and his or her advising team prepare a draft marking scheme for each subject. A meeting of the relevant examiners is convened, and the draft marking scheme is explained and discussed at this marking conference. The effectiveness of the marking scheme is then tested by putting it into action on a random sample of candidates' work. When this process is completed the final marking scheme is prepared.
Changes may be made to the draft scheme in the light of feedback from examiners, advice from advising or senior examiners, or certain trends associated with the spread of the grades. The review of the marking scheme that applies to every subject after the initial sampling is a normal part of the marking process. This is one of the ways to ensure quality control, ensuring that there is uniformity both in the scheme and among the various markers.
In the case of higher level Irish in the leaving certificate in 2005, the review of the draft marking scheme highlighted the need for a number of changes, and a diagnostic test was carried out on some exam scripts before a final decision was taken regarding the definitive marking scheme. All examiners had 50 scripts marked at this stage and many had more than that number completed. The final marking scheme was applied to all candidates, requiring the remarking of the scripts marked earlier, and the examiners were paid the standard fee for this in line with normal practice. Marks were awarded on the basis of the criteria in the final marking scheme.
The leaving certificate examination operates in a transparent manner which is to the forefront of international practice. Marking schemes are published, and candidates are given the opportunity to view their scripts before deciding whether to appeal their grade. There is also provision for a comprehensive appeals process. With regard to leaving certificate Irish at higher level in 2005, 0.9% of candidates scored at grades E, F and no grade. This compares with a figure of 0.6% in 2004, 1.4% in 2003 and 0.7% in 2002.
529 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if she proposes to allocate funds for a sports hall at a school (details supplied) in 2006; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this hall has been awaited for over 20 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13416/06]
My Department is committed to funding the provision of PE, general purpose and outdoor play areas in schools as part of the school building and modernisation programme. This is being addressed in the context of available resources and the published criteria for prioritising school building projects.
The provision of PE halls at post-primary level is considered an integral part of the design stage for any major refurbishment programme of existing school buildings — providing always that the site is of sufficient size — or where a new school on a greenfield site is being built. The PE hall project at the school referred to by the Deputy has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria. The project is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme for 2006 to 2010.
530 Cecilia Keaveney asked the Minister for Education and Science when works will commence at a college (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13427/06]
The proposed extension project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning and is one of the 124 schools that I announced in April 2005 to progress through the architectural planning process.
An educational worksheet was returned to my Department in December 2005 and following this a schedule of overall accommodation was completed by a member of my Department's inspectorate. In February this year my Department's officials visited the school in question and schedules of suggested future use of the existing accommodation, with a schedule of residual accommodation, were completed.
On 20 March a letter issued to the school authorities with the revised schedules requesting them to get their design team to revise the original stage 1 as presented to the Department in October 2001 to reflect the impact of the revised schedules. When this information is forwarded to my Department, my officials will be in further contact with the school authorities as to the next steps involved in progressing this project. Progression of projects to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme for 2006 to 2010.
531 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date in the case of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13478/06]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the school in question was authorised to proceed to stages 4-5 — planning permission, fire certification, bill of quantities and tender documentation — of architectural planning on 14 March.
532 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if the legalities associated with the site transfer in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare are concluded; if the way is now clear for the project to proceed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13479/06]
This project will be in a position to progress when the legalities associated with the transfer of the site from the local authority have been concluded. This is not yet the case.
533 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when the issues raised by the Chief State Solicitor will be fully addressed to enable a project (details supplied) in County Kildare to proceed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13480/06]
As the Deputy is aware, a number of queries were raised by the Chief State Solicitor's office regarding a site acquisition for the school in question. A response to these queries has been received and is being examined by the Chief State Solicitor's office.
534 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13481/06]
539 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13486/06]
540 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13487/06]
541 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13488/06]
542 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13489/06]
543 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13490/06]
544 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13491/06]
545 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13492/06]
546 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13493/06]
549 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she expects to determine a priority position in respect of the application for major capital funding received in her Department in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she intends this project to proceed further in the current year; if so, to what extent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13533/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 534, 539 to 546, inclusive, and 549 together.
The school planning section of my Department has received applications for major capital funding from the management authorities of the schools to which the Deputy refers. The applications have been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.
535 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if examination by her Department’s technical staff has concluded in the case of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare for the provision of extra facilities; when this project is likely to proceed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13482/06]
This project will be in a position to progress when the legalities associated with the transfer of the site from the local authority have been concluded. This is not yet the case.
536 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the degree of priority accorded to the application for capital funding in the matter of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; if she has issued particular instructions in respect of the issue; if she expects the project to proceed in early date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13483/06]
The school planning section of my Department has received an application for major capital funding from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards.
537 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the extent to which her Department has progressed the proposed extension of facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13484/06]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that a letter issued to the school authorities on 16 March 2006 giving approval to proceed to stage 3 — detailed plans and costs — of architectural planning.
538 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects the proposed works involved in the extension of facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare to commence; when she expects the project to conclude; when she expects same to be ready for occupation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13485/06]
My Department is endeavouring to resolve the outstanding issues associated with the award of the contract and is confident that outstanding matters will be sorted out shortly. Until negotiations are concluded with the lowest tenderer it is not possible to give an exact commencement date for the project but at the very latest it will be completed in time for the academic year 2007-08.
547 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of renting prefabricated buildings in 2005; and the breakdown of such costs on a county basis. [13526/06]
Expenditure on rental of temporary school premises, which includes the cost of renting prefabricated buildings, in 2005 was €15.75 million.
The breakdown of costs is not readily available in the format requested by the Deputy as the financial records which are maintained in respect of payments made to school authorities for rented temporary accommodation are recorded on a monthly basis and are not recorded on a county basis. However, if the Deputy wishes to request details on the annual cost of rented school accommodation in a specific school or county, my officials will provide the required information.
The expenditure on rental of prefabricated buildings represented less than 3.2% of the total expenditure of €501 million on school buildings in the same period. The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly in recent years, mainly due to the rapid expansion in teacher numbers, particularly in the area of special needs, the growth in the school-going population in rapidly developing areas and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new Gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools.
The current focus within my Department is on empowering schools to resolve their accommodation needs by way of permanent accommodation wherever possible. To reduce the amount of temporary accommodation at primary level a new initiative was launched in 2003. The purpose of this initiative is to allow primary schools to undertake a permanent solution to their classroom accommodation needs and to achieve the best value for money. The feedback from the 20 schools in that pilot initiative was very positive and the initiative was expanded to 44 primary schools in 2004. Over 70 schools were invited to participate in the initiative in 2005 and 75 schools were invited to participate in what is now known as the permanent accommodation scheme in 2006.
548 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost, on average, of site acquisition per hectare for new school developments; and the breakdown of the highest cost paid on a county basis in 2005. [13527/06]
In general, where the need for a new site has been identified, the property management section of the Office of Public Works acquires the site on behalf of my Department. The process of site acquisitions takes account of all relevant factors, including public procurement procedures.
My Department's policy on site acquisitions is to treat them with the strictest confidentiality until the acquisition has been completed. This is to ensure my Department will achieve best value for money. I am arranging to have the information requested forwarded directly to the Deputy.
550 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when extra teaching staff will be appointed, having particular regard to the local demographics at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13534/06]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is issued to all primary schools each year.
According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management of the school referred to by the Deputy, the enrolment in the school on 30 September 2005 was 187 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule, Circular No. 0023 of 2006, which has issued to all primary schools and is also available on my Department's website at www.education.ie, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2006-07 school year will be a principal and seven mainstream class teachers. Within the terms of the current staffing arrangements for primary schools there is provision for additional posts, referred to as developing school posts, to be assigned to schools on the basis of projected enrolments for the next school year. Under these arrangements, a developing school post may be sanctioned provisionally where the projected enrolment at 30 September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30 September, sanction for the post is withdrawn.
It is open to the board of management to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent appeal board which was established to adjudicate on appeals on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. Details of the criteria and application dates for appeal are contained in the staffing schedule. They are also available in Circular No. 0024 of 2006, Appeal Board for Mainstream Staffing in Primary Schools, which is available on my Department's website. Hard copies of the circular have been issued to all primary schools.
It is proposed that the first meeting of the appeal board will be held in May. Further meetings will be held in July and October. The closing dates for receipt of appeals are 12 May, 24 June and 18 October, respectively. 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. The standard application form is available from primary payments section or on my Department's website.
The appeal board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent appeal board.
551 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she or her Department have received stage 2 submission from a school (details supplied) in County Kildare regarding its school extension application; when the matter will be progressed further in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13535/06]
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. My Department's officials have recently received the stage 2 submission, the outline sketch scheme. When the stage 2 is reviewed, my Department will be in further contact with the school authorities as to the next steps involved in progressing this building project.
552 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the proposed requirements at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the extent to which the future plans for the school have been agreed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13536/06]
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. Officials from my Department visited the school in question to carry out a technical inspection of the existing accommodation and to assess the needs of the pupils attending the school. The school authorities have embarked on a major redevelopment programme which is at a very early design stage. They are assessing the needs into the future of the residents with special needs on the campus and outreach facilities and the many support services and industries around them.
The school's design team is preparing a development control plan for the site, of which this school forms part, and my Department is awaiting their response before the project can proceed further. In the meantime a member of my Department's inspectorate has drafted a schedule of overall accommodation to reflect the current educational needs of the pupils attending the school.
553 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the relocation of a school (details supplied) in County Kildare to extend its capacity to 1,000 pupils; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13537/06]
The management authority of the school in question, County Kildare Vocational Education Committee, is progressing plans to relocate the school and extend the capacity to 1,000 pupils. A formal planning application has been lodged with the local authority. That authority has asked for further information, which the committee's consultants are now in the process of providing.
554 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position on the application for a new building at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13538/06]
The new eight-classroom building project for the school referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. My Department received the stage 3 submission, the detailed plans and costs, from the school authorities on 21 March and when this is reviewed, it will be in further contact with the school authorities as to the next steps involved in progressing the project.
555 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on the application for extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13539/06]
556 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on the application for extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13540/06]
557 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on the application for extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13541/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 555 to 557, inclusive, together.
The schools referred to by the Deputy are three of 62 major building projects announced by me in January last to commence architectural planning in 2006. In all, 1,300 building and modernisation projects will be active in our primary and post-primary schools during 2006. Capital expenditure on primary and post-primary schools this year will exceed €500 million.
Site inspections have been carried out for all three schools with a view to determining the scope of works necessary for the building projects. The next key task is to appoint architectural design teams to each project and this exercise will be initiated shortly by the school building section.
Progression of these projects to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme 2006-10.
558 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the allocation of extra teaching staff at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13542/06]
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30 September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is issued to all primary schools each year.
According to data submitted to my Department by the board of management of the school referred to by the Deputy, the enrolment in the school on 30 September 2005 was 248 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule, Circular No. 0023 of 2006, which has issued to all primary schools and is also available on my Department's website at www.education.ie, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2006-07 school year will be a principal and nine mainstream class teachers. Within the terms of the current staffing arrangements for primary schools there is provision for additional posts, referred to as developing school posts, to be assigned to schools on the basis of projected enrolments for the next school year. Under these arrangements, a developing school post may be sanctioned provisionally where the projected enrolment at 30 September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30 September, sanction for the post is withdrawn.
It is open to the board of management to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent appeal board which was established to adjudicate on appeals on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. Details of the criteria and application dates for appeal are contained in the staffing schedule. They are also available in Circular No. 0024 of 2006, Appeal Board for Mainstream Staffing in Primary Schools, which is available on my Department's website. Hard copies of the circular have been issued to all primary schools.
It is proposed that the first meeting of the appeal board will be held in May. Further meetings will be held in July and October. The closing dates for receipt of appeals are 12 May, 24 June and 18 October, respectively. 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. The standard application form is available from primary payments section or on my Department's website.
The appeal board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final. I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent appeal board.
560 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects the quality and extent of school buildings to be brought up to the required standard in terms of extra space and facilities at both primary and second level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13544/06]
The Government has invested in the largest school building programme in the history of the State. Between 1998 and the end of 2004, almost €2 billion was invested in school buildings and in the region of 7,500 large and small projects were completed in schools, including 130 brand new schools and 510 large-scale refurbishments or extensions. Funding for schools building and renovation projects has increased fivefold since 1997. In 2006, €491 million will be spent on school building projects, compared to just €92 million in 1997. This, in its own right, is an increase of over 9% in real terms on the 2005 allocation.
As the Deputy will be aware, at the end of last year I outlined my spending plans for primary and post-primary schools for 2006. With €491 million to be spent on schools buildings, there will be over 1,300 projects active in schools all over the country. This significant investment will allow me to continue to progress our major programme of school building and modernisation which includes improving equipment needed for new technologies and ICT.
I have already started to outline individual schools around the country that will benefit under the various parts of the programme throughout the year with the announcement of 62 schools that have been given the go-ahead to start architectural planning, 740 schools that are being given funding under the summer works scheme to carry out essential small-scale projects and 210 primary schools that will receive approval for devolved funding under the small school and permanent accommodation initiatives during the coming year. This is in addition to the 153 schools that will have projects at construction during 2006 under these initiatives.
Small school and permanent accommodation initiatives, which were piloted over the past two years, will become a permanent feature of the building programme. This will enable schools to get works done faster by allowing them to run the projects themselves.
I will announce details of the other aspects of the programme as we move through the year. The principal features of the 2006 building and modernisation programme include: €277 million to be targeted at primary schools and €204 million in the post-primary sector; almost 200 major school building projects to be at construction during 2006, with 105 primary school projects and 62 post-primary projects advancing in architectural design; and the further use of fast-track design solutions for primary schools.
It is expected that up to 12 primary schools will be built using a standardised design model or a design and build process. The first school built under this model opened in Balgaddy, Lucan, in September 2005, having taken just ten months to build.
The Government is fully committed to continuing the work that it has started and to consolidating the substantial progress that has already been made to ensure that the needs of schools throughout the country are met over time.
561 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects to meet in full the requirement in respect of special needs teachers and assistants in all schools here with particular reference to speech and language therapy requirements, remedial, resource or other special needs; the optimum number of positions awaiting to be filled in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13545/06]
562 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when she expects to be in a position to meet the requirements in terms of accommodation, staff, remedial, resource or special needs teachers and classroom assistants in each of the schools at primary and post-primary level in Leixlip, Kilcock, Celbridge, Maynooth, Naas and Clane; her plans over the course of the next 12 months in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13546/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 561 and 562 together.
My Department's policy is to ensure the maximum possible integration of children with special educational needs, SEN, into ordinary mainstream schools. Where mainstream provision is not appropriate children can be catered for in special schools that are dedicated to particular disability groups. There are 106 special schools in the country. These schools cater for children from four to 18 years of age and each school enjoys a significantly reduced pupil-teacher ratio and other staffing supports. Additional special needs assistant, SNA, support is provided if deemed necessary. Special schools also receive increased rates of capitation funding.
Children with SEN can also attend special classes attached to certain ordinary mainstream schools. All special classes enjoy the same increased levels of staffing and funding as are made available to the special schools. Children with SEN attending special classes attached to ordinary schools may also, where appropriate, be integrated into ordinary classes for periods of the school day.
As the Deputy is aware, a general allocation scheme has been introduced under which mainstream primary schools have been provided with resource teaching hours, based on enrolment figures, to cater for children with high incidence SEN such as dyslexia, and those with learning support needs. All schools were notified of their general allocation for the 2005-06 school year last May.
The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education, NCSE, through the local special educational needs organiser, SENO, is responsible for processing applications from schools for special needs supports such as resource teaching hours and SNA support for children with low-incidence SEN, based on applications in respect of individual pupils. Once a school has been advised of its general allocation and the SENO has allocated hours and SNA support, if appropriate, in respect of pupils with low incidence SEN, it is a matter for the school authority to recruit the relevant staff.
There has been enormous progress in recent years in increasing the number of teachers in our schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with SEN. At primary level there are now approximately 5,000 teachers in our primary schools working directly with children with special needs, including those requiring learning support. This compares to fewer than 1,500 in 1998. One out of every five primary school teachers is now working specifically with children with special needs.
In the area of second level provision, my Department provides a range of supports for second level schools to enable them to cater for students with special educational needs transferring from primary level. The supports in question include learning support and resource teaching support, special needs assistant support and funding for the purchase of specialised equipment. At second level, approximately 1,653 whole-time equivalent additional teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to approximately 200 teachers in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 532 whole-time equivalent learning support teachers.
The precise model of provision made available at second level will depend on the assessed needs of the pupils involved. Some pupils are capable of attending ordinary classes on an integrated basis with additional teacher and-or SNA support. In other cases, placement in special dedicated classes or units attached to the school may be the more appropriate response. Such special classes operate at significantly reduced pupil-teacher ratios. Pupils attached to these special classes may be facilitated in attending ordinary subject classes on an integrated basis wherever possible.
Enormous progress has also been made in increasing the number of SNAs in our schools who specifically cater for the care needs of children with special educational needs. There are over 7,300 whole-time equivalent SNAs in primary and second level schools supporting children with special needs. I confirm that I will continue to prioritise the issue of special needs education and, in co-operation with the National Council for Special Education and the education partners, ensure that all children with special educational needs are adequately resourced to enable them to meet their full potential.
I advise the Deputy that responsibility for the provision of therapy services rests with the Health Service Executive.
The areas to which the Deputy refers, like many areas located within close proximity to Dublin, continue to experience population growth, a position that almost inevitably places some strain on existing educational provision. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that a range of significant measures has been undertaken by my Department to address the current and future need for pupil places in the areas in question. The following is an outline of the measures undertaken by my Department to ensure that there are adequate places available in these areas to meet demand.
In the Naas locality, at primary level, an entire new school has been provided at Killashee, while temporary accommodation has been provided at Scoil Corbáin, St. Conleth's and St. Mary's national school and St. Conleth's Naofa. Temporary accommodation has also been approved at Caragh national school, St. Corban's national school, Gaelscoil Nás na Ríogh and Scoil Naomh Brighde. A brand new state-of-the-art 16-classroom school, together with a double autistic unit, was also opened this September in Naas town. This project, in particular, will assist in easing any difficulties for primary pupil places in Naas. Additionally, there are proposals to improve accommodation at St. David's national school and Two Mile House national school. The long-term accommodation needs of the national schools at Ballycane, Caragh and the Convent of Mercy are also being assessed.
At post-primary level, the management authority of St. Patrick's post-primary school, County Kildare VEC is progressing plans to relocate the school and extend capacity to 1,000 pupil places. Additionally, an extension project is under construction at St. Mary's College, which will increase capacity at the school to 900 pupils. A similar extension is under construction at Meánscoil Iognáid Rís and further accommodation needs at the school are in planning.
In Clane, in 2004, St. Patrick's boys' school was given capital funding which enabled the school to build two mainstream classrooms and three resource rooms. The school authority recently applied for further additional accommodation. At post-primary level, Clane community school has applied for additional accommodation. Both applications are currently being assessed in the school planning section of my Department.
In addition to the above and as the Deputy will be aware, following widespread local consultation, my Department recently published an area development plan for the N4-M4 corridor. This plan covers the area from Leixlip to Kilbeggan and includes Kilcock, Celbridge and Maynooth. The plan outlines my Department's long-term educational strategy at both primary and post-primary level for these areas and the implementation of the recommendations in the plan is being considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006 onwards subject to the prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects.
In Kilcock an extension project at Gaelscoil Uí Riada is under way and the extension project at Gaelscoil Choca Naofa has been approved to commence architectural planning this year. At post-primary level an extension project at Scoil Dara was recently completed which has increased capacity to 875 pupils.
In Maynooth a new 16-classroom school is to be provided for Scoil Uí Fhiaich. The project has been approved to commence architectural planning this year. An extension project at Maynooth Presentation Convent is at an advanced stage of architectural planning.
Other schools in these areas are also being examined to ensure that the existing accommodation is adequate to meet the current and future needs of the area. All of these initiatives represent huge capital investment and demonstrate my Department's commitment to meeting the needs of the areas concerned. The school planning section of my Department will keep the position under review to ensure that any additional emerging needs are met as expeditiously as possible.
563 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the degree to which school places and facilities at primary and second level are available in Clane, County Kildare to meet requirements; the degree to which current or proposed facilities are available to fulfil this need at present and for the foreseeable future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13547-06]
Applications for major capital funding have been received from two schools in the Clane area. As part of the assessment of those applications, consideration has been given to the long-term demand for pupil places in the area to ensure that any extra provision being made will meet its needs well into the future. Progress on individual projects will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme from 2006, subject to the prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects.
564 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to bring pupil-teacher ratios into line with commitments entered into at the 2002 general election at primary and second level here, with particular reference to County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13548-06]
The primary pupil-teacher ratio for the 2004-05 school year in County Kildare was 20.2:1. The Deputy should note that part-time teachers and teachers in special schools are not included in those PTR figures. The information regarding the pupil-teacher ratio on a county basis for post-primary level is not available in my Department.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has dramatically improved staffing in primary schools throughout the country, including Kildare. As well as reducing average class size, the putting in place of over 5,000 extra primary teachers in recent years has also greatly improved the services provided for children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas. Under DEIS, Developing Equality of Opportunity in Schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion launched last May, there will be a reduction in class sizes to 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 180 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage. With more than 600 extra resource teachers put in place this term, children with special needs are getting more support than ever before. It should be acknowledged how much progress has been made in the area in recent years.
At the time of the 2006 Estimates, I announced that I had secured sufficient funding to provide even smaller classes in our primary schools in the next school year, and that the Minister for Finance had committed himself to a further reduction in class size in the following year. Accordingly, over the 2006-07 and 2007-08 school years, my Department will put 500 extra teachers into primary schools to reduce class size and tackle disadvantage. That will be done by changing the staffing schedule. As the Deputy will be aware, 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, which is issued annually to all primary schools.
The general rule is that the schedule provides at least one classroom teacher for every 29 pupils in the school. Schools with only one or two teachers have much lower staffing ratios than that — with two teachers for just 12 pupils in some cases — but the general rule is that there is at least one classroom teacher for every 29 children in the school. Next year that is being reduced to 28 children per classroom teacher, and in 2007-08 it will be reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.
In speaking about staffing in our schools, we have consistently said that priority would be given in the first instance to children in disadvantaged schools and those with special needs. We have done that and now in line with the Government commitment mainstream class sizes are also being reduced.
565 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the way in which pupil-teacher ratios in County Kildare compare with other countries; her plans to address the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13549-06]
The primary pupil-teacher ratio for the 2004-05 school year in County Kildare was 20.2:1. The Deputy should note that the pupil-teacher calculation does not include part-time teachers or teachers working in special schools. The Deputy asked how pupil-teacher ratios in Kildare compare with other countries. Up-to-date international comparisons on pupil-teacher ratios are not available to my Department.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government has dramatically improved staffing in primary schools throughout the country, including Kildare. As well as reducing average class size, the putting in place of over 5,000 extra primary teachers in recent years has also greatly improved the services provided for children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas. Under DEIS, Developing Equality of Opportunity in Schools, the new action plan for educational inclusion launched last May, there will be a reduction in class sizes of 24:1 at senior level and 20:1 at junior level in 180 primary schools serving communities with the highest concentrations of disadvantage. With more than 600 extra resource teachers put in place this term, children with special needs are getting more support than ever before. It should be acknowledged how much progress has been made in the area in recent years.
At the time of the 2006 Estimates, I announced that I had secured sufficient funding to provide even smaller classes in primary schools in the next school year, and that the Minister for Finance had himself committed to a further reduction in class size in the following year. Accordingly, over the 2006-07 and 2007-08 school years, my Department will put 500 extra teachers into primary schools to reduce class size and tackle disadvantage. That will be done by changing the staffing schedule. As the Deputy will be aware, 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, which is issued annually to all primary schools.
The general rule is that the schedule provides at least one classroom teacher for every 29 pupils in the school. Schools with only one or two teachers have much lower staffing ratios than that — with two teachers for just 12 pupils in some cases — but the general rule is that there is at least one classroom teacher for every 29 children in the school. Next year that is being reduced to 28 children per classroom teacher, and in 2007-08 it will be reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.
In speaking about staffing in our schools, we have consistently said that priority would be given in the first instance to children in disadvantaged schools and those with special needs. We have done that and now in line with the Government commitment mainstream class sizes are also being reduced.
566 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in the matter of the commissioning of a project (details supplied) in County Kildare; if her Department has recognised the urgent nature of the issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13551-06]
I am most anxious to advance the matter referred to by the Deputy. In that regard, my officials wrote to the school in question on 22 March confirming the support available from my Department to facilitate the opening of an autism unit in the school. A response to that correspondence is awaited.
567 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the progress to date in regard to the application for extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13552-06]
As part of the expansion of the devolved scheme for primary school building works, a grant was sanctioned to enable the management authorities of the school in question to provide additional permanent accommodation.
The initiative allows boards of management to address their accommodation and building priorities with a guaranteed amount of funding and gives boards of management control of the building project. I understand that the board of management has received planning permission and expects that the project will be on site after Easter. My Department has had no request for any further facilities for the school.
568 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of children in primary school classes of over 30 pupils and in what counties; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13569-06]
Information on the number of classes of over 30 pupils in the current school year is not yet available in my Department.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government's commitment to improving staffing in primary schools has been unprecedented. We have put over 5,000 more primary teachers in our schools in the last few years. Those have been targeted at pupils with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas to ensure that they are getting the extra help that they need to reach their potential. That has resulted in a major improvement in the pupil-teacher ratio, which counts all the teachers in a school, including special needs teachers, school principals, etc. In 1997 the pupil-teacher ratio was 22:1, meaning that there was one teacher for every 22 primary school children in our schools. By 2004-05 we had reduced that to 17:1, or one teacher for every 17 pupils.
The average class size nationally has also been reduced to 23.9, while significantly smaller class sizes have been introduced in disadvantaged schools, with approximately 47,000 pupils in 243 schools participating in the Giving Children an Even Break — Breaking the Cycle programme, benefitting from reduced class sizes of either 15 or 20 pupils per class.
Under the new action plan for tackling disadvantage published last May, more children in disadvantaged schools will be in smaller classes in the current school year. With the more than 600 extra resource teachers put in place this school year, children with special needs are getting more support than ever before.
In speaking about staffing in our schools, we have consistently said that priority would be given in the first instance to children in disadvantaged schools and those with special needs. We have done that and now in line with the Government commitment mainstream class sizes are also being reduced.
The Deputy should note that 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.
To ensure openness and transparency in the system an independent appeals board is now in place to decide on any appeals on mainstream staffing. The criteria under which an appeal can be made are set out in Department Primary Circular 19-02, which is also available on my Department's website.
It is proposed that the first meeting of the appeals board will be held in May. Further meetings will be held in July and October. The closing dates for receipt of appeals are 12 May, 24 June and 18 October, respectively. 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. The standard application form is available from primary payments section or on my Department's website.
The appeals board operates independently of the Minister and my Department, and its decision is final.
569 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements which are being made to pay redundancy to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13571-06]
My Department has reached agreement on the terms of a redundancy package for special need assistants, SNAs, employed in primary and second level schools. I expect that confirmation of the provisions of the redundancy arrangements will issue to schools shortly.
In this case, I can confirm that an application form for redundancy payment has been received in my Department. As soon as the final arrangements for payment of redundancy are confirmed, a decision will be communicated directly to the special needs assistant concerned.
570 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science the funds with which she intends to implement the McIver report; the timeframe for fully implementing the recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13572-06]
Government commitment to the PLC sector, by reference to the resources applied in teachers' pay, non-pay running costs, student support and certification costs, is very significant. The Government's support for this very important sector is clear from the fact that we have increased the number of PLC places by 60% since 1996-97. The number of PLC places approved for 2005-06 is up by more than 1,600 on the 2004-05 level. The number of approved places in the sector now stands at 30,188.
We also extended the provision of maintenance grants to PLC students with effect from September 1998. The PLC maintenance grants scheme operates on the same basis as in higher education. There were nearly 8,000 PLC grant-holders in 2005, and they received some €23 million in direct support. Tuition fees for PLC courses are also waived.
PLC students are included in the calculation of non-pay budgets issued to schools in respect of running costs. A supplementary non-pay grant towards running costs specifically for PLC schools is also payable. That amounted to €5.5 million in 2005.
Other developments funded by my Department of direct benefit to the PLC sector include the provision of national certification under the Further Education and Training Awards Council and the development of progression links with higher education in the institutes of technology.
The McIver report contains 21 overarching recommendations, incorporating 91 sub-recommendations. It has been estimated, in consultation with management and staff interests, that the recommendations for staffing would involve at a minimum the creation of at least 800 new posts at a cost of over €48 million. That level of additional provision cannot be considered in isolation from other areas of education.
In their consideration of the future needs of the PLC sector, my officials have been examining, inter alia, the non-teaching educational tasks particular to PLC teachers, the demands on the management side and the challenges presented by the variation in size of the more than 200 PLC providers.
Officials in my Department recently met representatives of management. Among the many topics discussed at that meeting was the needs of the PLC sector. Further discussions with management and also the union side will be necessary. The timing and extent of implementation will depend on the outcomes of those discussions.
571 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is satisfied that the capitation grant of €133 per pupil is sufficient to cover the basic costs of running a primary school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13573-06]
Primary schools' running costs are met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants. The grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of national schools. The capitation grant has been increased substantially in recent years. The standard rate of capitation grant increased from €57.14 per pupil in 1997 to €133.58 with effect from 1 January 2005, and it has been further increased by €12 per pupil with effect from 1 January 2006, bringing the standard rate to €145.58. That represents an increase of almost 155% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 1997.
The significant increase in the funding of schools in the primary sector in recent years is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of primary schools.
572 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Defence the groups or persons who have been invited to join the parade down O’Connell Street for the 90th anniversary of the 1916 Rising; and the measures which have been taken to ensure that the parade is inclusive. [12849-06]
The Easter Rising of 1916 will be commemorated by a military parade in Dublin on Sunday, 16 April. Preparations for the parade, as announced by the Taoiseach last October, are being made by the Defence Forces. Approximately 2,500 personnel representing all branches of the forces, together with representatives of ex-service personnel and veterans of UN service, will be included. The parade will also include members of the Garda Síochána, representing their service abroad with the United Nations. A fly-past by the Air Corps is also envisaged.
A total of 60 military vehicles are scheduled to participate in the parade. The vehicles selected are drawn from all corps and formations and are representative of the equipment in use in the Defence Forces.
The Defence Forces' record of service with the United Nations will be marked by the carrying of flags of all nations in which Defence Force Personnel have served on UN duty. The unit colours of all military units of the Defence Forces that were deployed overseas will also be carried. A representative group of approximately 150 personnel from the Irish United Nations Veterans Association will march in the parade.
The parade will depart from Dublin Castle, passing through Dame Street, College Green and O'Connell Street. There will be a reading of the proclamation outside the GPO, and appropriate military honours will be rendered. The event will be televised live, and it will be possible to view the parade along the route from Dublin Castle to O'Connell Street.
This 90th anniversary of the rising will also be marked by a wreath-laying ceremony in Kilmainham Gaol earlier that morning and by a Government reception at Dublin Castle that evening.
Officials of my Department and officers of the Defence Forces are represented on an interdepartmental working group, chaired by the Department of the Taoiseach, which is overseeing all the logistical arrangements for the parade and associated events. That group meets regularly and includes, inter alia, representatives from the Garda Síochána, Dublin City Council, the fire services and the Office of Public Works. As the Deputy will appreciate, many logistical issues such as the parade route, road closures, health and safety regulations, publicity, etc., have to be addressed, as well as the security arrangements for the event, and the group is dealing with them.
573 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for Defence if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13282-06]
The Deputy will be aware that there has been a 3% target for employing people with disabilities in the Civil Service since 1994.
The definition of a person with a disability for the purposes of the 3% target is the positive action definition set out in the Code Of Practice for the Civil Service, 1994. In that context, the term "people with disabilities" means people with a physical, sensory or psychological impairment which may: "have a tangible impact on their functional capability to do a particular job; or have an impact on their ability to function in a particular physical environment; or lead to a discrimination in obtaining or keeping employment of a kind for which they would otherwise be suited."
My Department has consistently exceeded the target of 3%, and there are 14 persons with disabilities employed in it, representing 3.29% of its total Civil Service staff.
My Department expects to participate in the WAM, Willing Able Mentoring, project during the summer. The project aims to give between three and six months' quality work experience to graduates with disabilities. The project is part-funded under the EQUAL initiative and has partners from the public, private and voluntary and community sectors.
574 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence if his attention has been drawn to the intelligence from the Defence Forces military intelligence section G2 which predicted a riot in Dublin in connection with the Love Ulster rally on 25 February; the action he took to inform the Garda Síochána authorities or the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform of those predictions prior to the date of the Love Ulster rally; and the contact which he has had with the Defence Forces military intelligence section G2 on this matter since. [13375-06]
The Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces perform complementary roles regarding the protection of the security of the State, and there is ongoing and close liaison. However, it has never been the policy for the Minister for Defence to comment publicly on such matters. I do not intend to depart from that policy on this occasion.
575 Ms Harkin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the analysis contained in the recent Environmental Protection Agency report on water quality, which found that agriculture is a more significant contributor to river and lake pollution than services such as those provided by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13261-06]
The Phosphorus Regulations National Implementation Report 2005 was published by the EPA on 22 March 2006. The Government is committed to tackling water pollution from all sources, and the report identifies a general improvement in compliance levels with the regulations, which has increased by 3.4% since the mid-1990s, to the current 63.4% compliance rate nationally.
The improvements in recent years can be attributed to several factors, including some reduction in agricultural inputs owing to improved farm practices and improved investment in wastewater infrastructure under my Department's water services investment proposal. However, agriculture remains the most significant source of nutrient pollution of waters, representing some 73% of all phosphorus and 82% of all nitrates input to waters; there remains the need to tackle agricultural source pollution on a broad, systematic basis. The European Communities (Good Agricultural Practice for the Protection of Waters) Regulations 2005, which give legal effect to Ireland's nitrates action programme, came into effect generally on 1 February 2006. The regulations apply to all farms. Progress will be monitored on an ongoing basis by reference to water quality and agricultural practices.
With regard to local authority services, some €2 billion has been invested under my Department's water services investment programme on the provision of new and upgraded wastewater infrastructure since 2000. That has made a significant contribution to the protection and improvement of Ireland's water quality and has resulted in provision of secondary wastewater treatment capacity for a population equivalent of 3 million, seven times more than under the previous national development plan; an increase from 25% to 90% in Ireland's compliance with the treatment standards required under the EU urban wastewater treatment directive; and a reduction of 45,000 tonnes per annum, or 123,000 kg per day, in the volume of polluting discharges to river, lake and sea waters.
Where new municipal wastewater infrastructure is required to resolve identified pollution problems, proposals by local authorities are given a high priority under my Department's water services investment programme.
Overall, I am confident that we are tackling the issue of water quality on a broad front and that we will see significant improvements in water quality in the coming years.
576 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when persons who were compelled to give up their turbary under the EU directive which focused on the presentation of high or raised bogs and the implementation of NHA and SAC by Dúchas will be awarded their compensation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13410-06]
Compensation through the purchase by agreement of the turbary rights or of the full title of the designated bogs has now been paid in almost 400 cases. The procedure involves the preparation of a contract for sale by the vendor's solicitor and the processing of that contract, including, inter alia, proof of legal title, through the Chief State Solicitor’s office. Subject to that sometimes time-consuming procedure, my Department will seek to advance purchases from, and payments to, landowners as quickly as possible regarding both current and future land acquisitions.
577 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, regarding Parliamentary Question No. 838 of 21 March — the address was Maddenstown Terrace, Maddenstown, Curragh, County Kildare instead of the address of Caragh, County Kildare as per the question — there would be an application with his Department in regard to refurbishment of houses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12841-06]
There are no proposals with my Department from Kildare County Council for the refurbishment of houses in the scheme in question.
578 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the sewerage schemes (details supplied) in County Westmeath will progress; the reason for the delays with those schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12851-06]
The Coole sewerage scheme is included in my Department's water services investment programme 2005-07 as a scheme to advance through planning at an estimated cost of €3.08 million.
My Department is awaiting some additional information requested from Westmeath County Council regarding the council's preliminary report and water services pricing policy report for the scheme. Following approval of the preliminary report, the council will be in a position to advance the scheme to construction without further reference to my Department in accordance with the revised procurement procedures that I have recently introduced under the water services investment programme for schemes costing less than €5 million.
In April 2005 my Department conveyed approval to Westmeath County Council to proceed with the Castletown-Geoghegan sewerage scheme, an independent project. That had previously been part of a pilot programme to test new, small-scale wastewater treatment systems. The scheme is being funded under my Department's devolved rural water programme. It is, accordingly, a matter for the council to arrange for the invitation of tenders and the commencement of work.
579 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received details from local authorities regarding vacant housing stock in local authority areas; if so, the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12897/06]
The most recent figures available to the Department from local authorities indicate that at the end of December 2004 there were 4,182 local authority dwellings vacant nationwide of which 2,349 were de-tenanted for planned refurbishment or major regeneration programmes in run-down estates.
580 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 600 of 7 March, the level of divergent views submitted to the working group on the monitoring of dog breeding establishments; when he expects the examination of the responses to his Department on this matter to be completed; when he is likely to determine an appropriate response; his views on whether there is ongoing and unnecessary animal suffering due to the vacuum in the legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12981/06]
The report of the working group which was established to review the management of dog breeding establishments was submitted to me on 7 September 2005. The report contains a number of recommendations, including recommendations on the introduction of statutorily enforceable standards for the dog breeding industry in Ireland, and proposes the introduction of a registration system for dog breeding establishments. However, three of the members of the working group disagreed with the main recommendations and submitted three separate minority reports. It was in the light of those divergent views that I decided to canvass public opinion more widely before taking final decisions on the matter. An advertisement inviting submissions was placed in the national newspapers on Monday, 24 October 2005 and the closing date for receipt of submissions was Friday, 16 December 2005.
The responses received, which also represent a range of different views, are at an advanced stage of examination in the Department and, as soon as this exercise is completed, I will consider further the recommendations in the report of the working group. I will determine an appropriate response within the next two months.
581 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a project (details supplied) in County Laois. [12988/06]
The Department has approved the invitation of tenders by Laois County Council for the provision of 23 units of accommodation for the elderly in Durrow, which will be carried out under the capital assistance scheme available for voluntary and co-operative housing projects.
582 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is information in his Department regarding the number of housing estates which are expected to be taken in charge by local authorities in 2006; the number of houses which will be affected by this move; the number of housing estates which will remain to be taken in charge in 2007 and subsequent years; the number of houses which will be affected by same; if he will provide these figures on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12989/06]
The information sought in the question would not normally be compiled by the Department. On 25 January, the Department issued circular letter PD 1/06 to planning authorities reminding them of their obligations under section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 in taking in charge estates.
The circular letter also directed each planning authority to submit a report to the Department setting out how it is performing in the taking in charge of estates. A total of 31 planning authorities have now submitted these reports. As the table below shows, these planning authorities report that they anticipate taking in charge 388 housing estates in 2006, affecting 18,924 houses. As the table also shows, these planning authorities report that there are 1,413 housing estates not yet taken in charge, for which planning permission expired more than two years ago, affecting 52,062 houses.
|
1. |
2. |
3. |
4. |
|
|
Area |
Number of housing estates to be taken in charge in 2006 |
Number of houses affected in estates under 1 |
Number of estates not yet taken in charge for which planning permission has expired more than 2 years |
Number of houses affected in estates under 3 |
|
County Cavan |
8 |
320 |
25 |
684 |
|
County Clare |
14 |
579 |
128 |
5,478 |
|
County Cork |
*47 |
*2,150 |
232 |
7,304 |
|
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown |
10 |
Not Supplied |
42 |
2,500 |
|
County Kildare |
38 |
4,314 |
109 |
5,666 |
|
County Kilkenny |
18 |
744 |
Not Supplied |
Not Supplied |
|
County Leitrim |
6 |
131 |
15 |
Not Supplied |
|
County Limerick |
47 |
1,216 |
62 |
2,748 |
|
County Longford |
9 |
*361 |
30 |
245 |
|
County Louth |
17 |
401 |
*33 |
*2,517 |
|
County Mayo |
10 |
222 |
78 |
Not Supplied |
|
County Meath |
15 |
907 |
112 |
4,187 |
|
County Roscommon |
6 |
109 |
Not Supplied |
Not Supplied |
|
County Sligo |
26 |
514 |
38 |
1,024 |
|
South Dublin |
16 |
2,046 |
35 |
4,000 |
|
Tipperary North |
Not Supplied |
Not Supplied |
Not Supplied |
Not Supplied |
|
County Waterford |
8 |
360 |
3 |
160 |
|
County Westmeath |
18 |
1,096 |
26 |
1,824 |
|
County Wexford |
13 |
326 |
169 |
*3,000 |
|
County Wicklow |
19 |
402 |
62 |
1,459 |
|
Cork City |
16 |
835 |
30 |
1,147 |
|
Dublin City |
1 |
325 |
121 |
5,039 |
|
Galway City |
15 |
647 |
47 |
2,198 |
|
Waterford City |
11 |
919 |
16 |
882 |
|
Total |
388 |
18,924 |
1,413 |
52,062 |
*Approx.
583 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the progress to date on delivering the 10,000 affordable housing units as promised under Sustaining Progress; the exact locations and numbers agreed to date; if he will further report on the status of each such development; the qualifying criteria and the conditions governing the sale of houses under this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12990/06]
Substantial progress continues to be made on delivering the 10,000 housing units promised under the Sustaining Progress affordable housing initiative. Over 70 projects on State and local authority lands are planned which, together with the projected 2,500 housing units under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2004, gives over the 10,000 housing unit target figure that was proposed by the parties to the pay agreement.
The information requested on the exact location, potential numbers of housing units and the current status of each development under the initiative is set out in the following table. In addition to these, my colleague, the Minister for Health and Children, has released a series of Health Service Executive lands to the initiative which have the potential to realise 1,400 housing units. These lands are being examined by the relevant local authorities to determine their suitability for affordable housing.
The qualifying criteria for applicants under the initiative are broadly similar to the arrangements which apply under Part V. Individuals are eligible to apply for housing units under the initiative where the cost of servicing a mortgage on a market value house in the area would exceed 35% of their net disposable income.
|
State lands |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Local Authority Area |
Department |
Site |
Size (hectares) |
Potential no. of housing units |
Current position |
|
Cork City |
OPW / D/Agriculture & Food |
Model Farm Road |
3.897 |
250 |
To be considered as a land swap option |
|
D/Defence |
Old Youghal Road/Camp Field, Collins Barracks |
0.8 |
30 |
Site identification process to be completed. |
|
|
Cork County |
D/Agriculture & Food |
Clonakilty |
15 |
80 |
Feasibility study on site completed and approved by Council. Amendment to the Local Area Plan was advertised on 20 Feb ’06 and was on public display until 3 April ’06. |
|
Dublin City |
OPW |
Jamestown Road |
2.63 |
240 |
Closing date for receipt of tenders was 16 Jan-06. Decision imminent on the selection of a preferred bidder. |
|
OPW |
Infirmary Road |
1.1 |
160 |
Preferred bidder selected. Contract signed on 8 December ’05. Planning process has begun. |
|
|
D/Agriculture & Food |
Harcourt Terrace Phase 1 |
0.35 |
193 |
Swap process completed. Sale of 193 units in South Dublin underway. |
|
|
D/Defence |
St. Bricin’s |
1 |
250 |
Preferred bidder selected. Contract negotiations ongoing. |
|
|
Fingal |
D/Health & Children |
Portrane, Co. Dublin (not serviced) |
4 |
150 |
Land zoned in Development Plan June 2005 — Long term project |
|
Galway County |
D/Agriculture & Food |
Athenry |
22 |
500 |
Galway County Council agreed to rezone the site for residential purposes on 19 December ’05. Part VIII approval advertised in Feb 06 for 60 units on 3 hectares of the site. Remainder of the site to be put forward as a land swap option. |
|
South Dublin |
D/Agriculture & Food |
Backweston |
6 |
250 |
To be considered as a land swap option. |
|
Current Status of Projects |
|||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Local Authority Area |
Department |
Site |
Size (hectares) |
Potential no. of housing units |
Current position |
|
Dublin City |
OPW |
Broc House |
0.22 |
** |
Site advertised for a land swap on 16 November 05. |
|
OPW |
Harcourt Terrace Phase 2 |
0.5 |
** |
Swap preparatory work being undertaken. |
|
|
Kildare |
D/Defence |
Magee Barracks |
19.4 |
350 |
Local Area Plan adopted Nov 05 |
|
D/Agriculture & Food |
Backweston |
13 |
250 |
To be considered as a land swap option. |
|
|
Meath |
D/Defence |
Gormanston |
81 |
350 |
To be considered as a land swap option. |
** The potential number of housing units for these two projects is dependent on the swap procurement process.
|
Local Authority lands |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Local Authority Area |
Site |
Potential no. of housing units |
Current position |
|
Clare |
Shannon |
40 |
Masterplan for the area being developed. |
|
Cork City |
Togher |
200 |
Planning process due to be completed in May-06 |
|
Kilnap Rd/Old Whitechurch Rd |
200 |
Masterplan to be developed for the area by early ’06 |
|
|
Blackpool, Cork |
20 |
Construction currently underway. |
|
|
Shanakiel |
240 |
Planning process completed in Nov-05. Construction commenced Feb-06 |
|
|
Buckleys Field, Blackrock |
32 |
Construction completed. Housing units allocated |
|
|
Cork County |
Castletreasure |
20 |
Construction commenced July 05 |
|
Greenfield |
10 |
Planning process completed. Construction commenced Nov-05 |
|
|
Poulavone (formerly Carriganarra) |
20 |
At the pre-planning stage |
|
|
Kilnagleary |
50 |
At preliminary design stage |
|
|
Dublin City |
Cedarbrook, Phase II |
250 |
Planning process to be completed by mid-06 |
|
Cherry Orchard Hospital Lands |
200 |
Land transferred from Health Service Executive to Dublin City Council. Planning application to be submitted in ’06. |
|
|
Finglas Road |
154 |
Under Construction. 50 units were offered for sale in Nov 05 |
|
|
Malahide Road |
300 |
Proposals on the development of this site are to be prepared |
|
|
Dún Laoghaire/ Rathdown |
Site at Harolds, Grange Road, Sandyford |
100 |
Negotiations are underway with adjoining land owner in relation to reaching an agreement under Part V which may result in the developer constructing affordable units on this site. |
|
Fingal |
Blanchardstown — Tyrellstown |
80 |
Planning phase due to commence during 2006 |
|
Balbriggan — Flemington Ph. 1 |
49 |
Construction completed and housing units allocated in November ’05 |
|
|
Balbriggan — Flemington Ph. 2 |
30 |
Planning process completed in Jul-05. Tender documentation being prepared. |
|
|
Balbriggan — Balrothery |
50 |
Construction underway |
|
|
Balbriggan — Castlelands |
100 |
Planning process to be completed by Sep-06 |
|
|
Donabate (not serviced) |
100 |
Planning process to be completed by Nov-06 |
|
|
Blanchardstown Cappagh |
50 |
Area Action Plan adopted by Council. |
|
|
Galway City |
Headford Road |
54 |
Currently in discussions with voluntary body with a view to their undertaking a project on the same site. |
|
Kerry |
Balyard, Tralee |
10 |
Proposals to be prepared |
|
Pinewood/Deerpark, Killarney |
20 |
Site to be reviewed by architect to provide 20 units instead of the original 10 |
|
|
Kildare |
Athy |
50 |
Planning process to be completed by end 06 |
|
Clane |
50+ |
Planning process to be completed by mid 06 |
|
|
Meath |
Kilmessan |
25 |
Construction on these 4 sites could possibly be underway in the 2nd half of 2006 |
|
Ballivor |
6 |
||
|
Navan |
25 |
||
|
Kells |
25 |
||
|
Sligo |
Ballinode, Sligo Town |
100 |
PPP process underway. Risk workshop took place on March 10 ’06. |
|
Carney |
10 |
Planning process in progress. Shortlisting completed — Tender documentation to issue shortly |
|
|
South Dublin |
Tallaght — Kiltepper |
390 |
Preliminary aspects of work underway |
|
Tallaght — Hazelgrove, Killinarden |
300 |
Constraints Study underway |
|
|
Tallaght — Fortunestown |
60 |
Preliminary aspects of work underway |
|
|
Lucan / Clondalkin — Balgaddy |
50 |
Preliminary aspects of work underway. |
|
|
Corkagh/Grange |
200 |
Preliminary aspects of work underway |
|
|
Waterford City |
Knockboy (Ballygunner) |
50 |
Construction underway |
|
Logloss |
50 |
Contract signed in Dec-05. Construction underway |
|
|
Wexford |
Coolcotts, Wexford Town |
30 |
Licensing agreements signed on 8 December ’05. Construction underway. |
|
Creagh, Gorey |
30 |
||
|
Wicklow |
Newtown Mount Kennedy |
20 |
Site development currently underway |
|
Blessington |
30 |
Planning permission granted subject to construction of a relief road. |
The potential yield from sites depends on site characteristics; housing mix and other facilities; and sustainable development, i.e. in terms of local development and in terms of meeting peoples' needs. The final number of units will, therefore, be determined through the planning process.
These figures do not include Part V affordable units, 2,500, and the range of Health Service Executive lands which have the potential to yield over 1,400 units to the initiative and which are being examined by the relevant local authorities to determine their suitability for affordable housing.
584 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 205 of 23 March 2005, if there is an independent verification available to the Department to support the figures given in his reply that 20 or more hunting groups kill in total two to three hares in a month. [13053/06]
The figures cited in reply to Question No. 205 of 23 March 2005 are based on information provided by the Irish Masters of Beagles Association on foot of a requirement of their annual licence. As no prior capture of hares from their natural habitat is involved in beagling, this activity has not raised significant conservation concerns. My Department has no evidence upon which to doubt the accuracy of the figures supplied.
585 Mr. McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department will approve the tender documents in relation to the design, build and operation of a sewerage plant (details supplied) in County Galway; when it is envisaged construction of the works will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13233/06]
589 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position concerning the proposed new sewerage schemes at Kilkerrin and Dunmore, County Galway; if all the contracts are signed to complete the projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13293/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 585 and 589 together.
The Dunmore and Kilkerrin sewerage schemes are approved for funding in the Department's water services investment programme 2005-07 under the rural towns and villages initiative. The treatment plants for both schemes are being procured as a single design-build-operate contract that also includes Leenane. Galway County Council's revised tender documents for the treatment plants and water services pricing policy report for the three locations were received in the Department in January and are being dealt with as quickly as possible. Approval of the tender documents will allow the council to invite tenders for the construction of the treatment plants from a panel of short-listed contractors already in place.
I approved Galway County Council's tender recommendations for the construction of the collection networks for both schemes by way of a single contract in September 2005. The network in Kilkerrin is substantially complete and the works are under way in Dunmore.
586 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if planning permission is required to locate a new slipway in County Mayo (details supplied); and if public consultation is required for this proposal. [13252/06]
Development by or on behalf of a local authority which requires environmental impact assessment must be submitted to An Bord Pleanála for approval.
Where a local authority proposes to carry out development which is of a specified type or is above €126,000 in value and which does not require environmental impact assessment, the manager of the planning authority must consult the public and prescribed authorities. The manager must submit to the elected members of the local authority a report on the proposed development which describes the nature and extent of the development, evaluates whether it would be consistent with the proper planning and sustainable development of the area and summarises the issues raised in any submissions or observations made on the proposed development. The development may proceed unless the elected members vary or modify it or decide not to proceed with it.
As Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, I am generally precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to any individual matter with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is or may be concerned. It would not, therefore, be appropriate to comment on an individual case.
587 Mr. Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding a scheme (details supplied) in County Laois. [13267/06]
The Laois towns and villages sewerage schemes feasibility study, which is to assess the viability of a range of wastewater infrastructure proposals being considered by Laois County Council, is nearing completion. The study findings will be inform the selection of new schemes for approval under the water services investment programme.
588 Mr. Dennehy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department is meeting the agreed national target figures for employment of persons with a disability; his views on whether that figure is adequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13283/06]
The Department exceeds the Government's 3% target for the employment of people with disabilities. In addition, it has agreed to take part in the willing able mentoring, WAM, project. This project aims to give between three and six months quality work experience to graduates with disabilities.
590 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that he and his Department have given approval to Kildare County Council and other local authorities to charge €20,000 per site to qualified applicants for private sites and impose a clawback, allow no reduction in cases where no off-street car parking is available, in contrast with the cost of housing sites to Respond which he has also approved and where no clawback applies; the method whereby the capital funding for the construction of Respond housing schemes has been approved by his Department; the details of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13383/06]
The level of low cost site subsidy provided by the Department for a local authority under the low cost site scheme varies from location to location depending on factors, including the acquisition and development costs of the sites. The price at which the local authority intends to sell such sites to housing applicants is a matter to be determined by individual local authorities. The sale of such sites to individuals is subject to phased clawback arrangements designed to prevent short-term profiteering by owners of subsidised sites.
The clawback arrangements do not apply to sites provided under the scheme to voluntary, co-operative and other non-profit housing groups as houses constructed by these bodies are not provided for sale. I refer to the reply to Question No. 275 of 30 March 2006 which details the capital funding available from the Department to voluntary bodies to construct houses.
591 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he proposes to offer further funding to Kildare County Council by way of capital allocation to assist with the implementation of group water schemes; if funds will be provided as requested by the local authority; if such allocation will include sufficient funds to facilitate the Ballyna group water scheme and other such schemes in view of the fact that the Department’s allocation to date of €1 million is far short of requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13384/06]
Responsibility for the operation of the rural water programme, including the prioritisation, approval and payment of grants to group schemes, has been devolved to county councils since 1997. I have provided an overall block grant allocation of €2.327 million to Kildare County Council under the 2006 rural water programme, an increase of 41% on the council's expenditure last year.
Kildare County Council requested an allocation of €1.541 million for 11 new group water schemes, three at construction and eight at pre-tender stage, in the 2006 rural water programme proposals submitted to the Department in December 2005. The council indicated that no funding would be required for the Ballyna scheme until 2007 as it is dependent on prior commissioning of new wellfields and completion of trunk mains under the Kildare water supply strategy, phase 1.
I have approved an allocation of €1 million under this measure of the rural water programme for the current year which I expect will be sufficient to meet all likely expenditure. However, as in previous years, I will consider making, from any savings elsewhere, increased allocations to councils where progress is ahead of schedule.
592 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the voluntary organisations to which grant assistance was allocated for housing units since 2002; the units which amount to a total of 259; further to his reply to Parliamentary Question Nos. 1445 and 1452 of 25 January, the named directors of each such organisation; the beneficial ownership of the units in question as being vested in the organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13419/06]
I refer to Question No. 203 of 23 March. The information requested has been forwarded to the Deputy.
593 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has completed its examination of Cork County Council’s revised preliminary report and cost estimate for water supply works for the Killeagh water and sewerage scheme which is included in the Department’s water services investment programme 2005-07 under the serviced land initiative; when he will be in a position to give his approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13529/06]
The sewerage element of the Killeagh water and sewerage scheme, which is being funded under the Department's water services investment programme 2005-07 as part of the serviced land initiative, has been completed.
Cork County Council's revised preliminary report for the water supply works is being examined in the Department and is being dealt with as quickly as possible. Once the preliminary report has been approved, the council will be in a position to prepare contract documents for these works.
594 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on requiring local authorities to charge schools for water only where there is evidence of water being wasted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13558/06]
It is a requirement of water pricing policy that the cost of providing water services for the non-domestic sector should be fully recovered by local authorities by means of a meter based volumetric charge. This is an equitable approach which promotes maximum environmental efficiency and also incentivises non-domestic users, including schools, to conserve their use of water. The national water services pricing policy framework does not provide for the exemption of any classes of non-domestic users from the charging policy.
595 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the communication he has had from the European Commission in relation to removing the possibility to retain structures built without planning permission for which retention has been sought; what he intends to do in response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13560/06]
A reasoned opinion was received from the European Commission on 5 January 2005 regarding planning enforcement procedures for unauthorised developments for which environmental impact assessments (EIA) are required. A formal response issued to the Commission on 8 March 2005. The Department has not received any further formal communication from the Commission or the European Court of Justice.
I had very useful and informal discussions with Environment Commissioner Dimas during his visit to Ireland last month on a wide range of issues, including that referred to in the question. It would not be appropriate for me to disclose the detail of these discussions, which were without prejudice to any legal proceedings that may continue between Ireland and the European Commission.
