John Gormley
Ceist:45 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the end of year expenditure on the CLÁR programme for 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42917/06]
Written Answers.
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 9, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 10 to 35, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 36 to 44, inclusive, answered orally.
Departmental Expenditure.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:91 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the way a reduction in 2007 in funding under the CLÁR programme can be justified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42871/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:264 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if it is intended to enhance spending or increase scope and scale of activities or works under the CLÁR programme; the way this is expected to manifest itself in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43211/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 45, 91 and 264 together.
A budget of €22.95m was provided for the CLÁR Programme in 2006 based on the projected level of expenditure and the expansion of the areas covered by the Programme where was announced in April 2006.
Expenditure under the Programme this year is expected to reach approx. €20.5m. The under-spend is mainly due to some of the new areas not progressing with projects as quickly as anticipated earlier in the year.
My Department's Estimates for 2007 provide for a budget of €20.183m for the Programme next year. This is in keeping with the outturn for this year and will, I believe, be sufficient to meet the demands under the Programme in 2007.
I have no plans at present for a further review of the Programme in terms of expanding the areas covered. However, the measures being operated under the Programme are kept under on-going review by my Department who are in regular contact with other Government Departments/Agencies in relation to the possible introduction of new measures relevant to the remit of the Programme.
Departmental Funding.
John Ellis
Ceist:46 Mr. Ellis asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the services available to local communities under his Department’s new community services programme; the funding that has been provided for the programme in the abridged Estimates volume 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42641/06]
My Department took over the operation of the Social Economy Programme, now renamed the Community Services Programme, at the beginning of 2006. Projects that operated at the time of the transfer of responsibilities continue to be supported. These include community childcare services, services for the elderly, services for people with disabilities, rural transport for isolated rural communities, managing community halls and facilities, rural tourism, community radio, and recycling and environmental projects.
€52 million has been allocated to the Community Services Programme in the 2007 Estimates. This represents an increased allocation of €10 million on 2006. The 2006 Estimates already included an extra €5 million for the Community Services Programme.
To utilise this additional funding (€15 m in total) applications were invited from eligible community groups in May 2006. Interested groups were directed to make application through their local Partnership, Údarás na Gaeltachta, Community Partnership or LEADER office.
The following categories of projects were eligible to apply for this additional €15m funding:
Community childcare services (excluding those groups currently funded under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme except for activities not eligible under this programme).
Community services for the elderly (excluding healthcare provision).
Community services, which support or employ people with disabilities (excluding healthcare provision).
Projects, which support and employ stabilised and recovering drug misusers (excluding healthcare provision).
Community services or community enterprises for island communities.
Community radio.
Community enterprises, which support or employ Travellers (excluding healthcare provision).
Supervising community halls and facilities with a priority focus on disadvantaged areas
Community heritage centres
Managed rural walks
243 expressions of interest were received by Pobal, who administer the Programme on behalf of my Department. Following appraisal of these expressions of interest 125 Projects were recommended for funding. Funding will, in all cases, be subject to these organisations submitting satisfactory business plans, which meet the Programme requirements.
National Drugs Strategy.
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:47 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on Estimate 2007 for his Department; if he will account for the failure to increase funding for the drugs initiative and the young peoples services and facilities fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42836/06]
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:109 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the funding to be allocated to the Regional Drug Task Forces in 2007; the way this money will be spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42876/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 47 and 109 together.
The 2007 Estimates provision of just over €43m represents a continuation of the increased level of funding that I have secured to tackle the problem of drugs misuse in recent years. The similar allocation for the Drugs Initiative/Young People's Facilities and Services Fund in 2006 represented an increase of 37% on the original 2005 allocation and a massive 61% increase on the 2004 figure. The 2007 allocation will allow us to consolidate and build on previous investment and to continue our efforts to tackle the drug problem.
Tackling the problem of drugs misuse is a key priority for Government and will continue to be so. When mainstreamed projects are included, the Government is spending €70m per year on projects that originated at community level.
An initial total allocation of €5m was allocated to the ten Regional Drugs Task Forces (RDTFs) in 2006 to commence the implementation of their action plans and significant progress has been made. It is envisaged that funding will be increased on an incremental basis to achieve the full rollout of the RDTF plans.
A total of 96 projects have been started across the ten regions this year. The projects involved range from prevention initiatives and work with youth to treatment services and outreach work, in line with the actions identified in the plans.
Furthermore, capital funding is now available to Regional Drugs Task Forces through the Premises Initiative Fund, which was established to address the accommodation needs of community based drugs projects.
Fostaíocht Gaeltachta.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:48 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Gilmore den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an mó post a cruthaíodh i nGaeltacht Chiarraí le cabhair ó Údaras na Gaeltachta i ngach bliain ó 2002 go dtí 2006, an meánchostas ar phost a chruthú i ngach bliain; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42857/06]
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:70 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Gilmore den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an mó post, a cruthaíodh le cabhair ó Údarás na Gaeltachta i nGaeltacht Chiarraí, a cailleadh i ngach bliain ó 2002 go dtí 2006; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42858/06]
Tógfaidh mé Ceisteanna Uimh. 48 agus 70 le chéile.
De réir an eolais atá curtha ar fáil ag Údarás na Gaeltachta óna shuirbhéanna fostaíochta bliantúla, tháinig glanmhéadú 108 ar líon na bpost lánaimseartha i gcuideachtaí a fuair cúnamh ón Údarás sa tréimhse 2002-2005, i.e., cruthaíodh 462 post agus cailleadh 354 post. Níl an suirbhé fostaíochta curtha i gcrích maidir le 2006 go fóill ach tuigim ón Údarás go mbeidh an t-eolas sin ar fáil go luath i mí Eanáir 2007.
Tugtar sa Tábla leis seo an briseadh síos de réir bliana mar atá iarrtha ag an Teachta. Mar eolas breise don Teachta, tháinig méadú ar lion na bpost páirtaimseartha/séasúracha ó 437 i 2002 go 483 ag deireadh 2005.
|
Bliain |
Poist nua |
Poist caillte |
Meán-chostas an phoist |
|
€ |
|||
|
2002 |
89 |
69 |
4,771 |
|
2003 |
122 |
99 |
1,611 |
|
2004 |
92 |
91 |
4,141 |
|
2005 |
159 |
95 |
7,045 |
Irish Language.
Pat Carey
Ceist:49 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has received submissions from Conradh na Gaeilge on the draft regulations in relation to signage, stationery and public announcements under section 9 of the Official Languages Act 2003; and his views on whether these regulations will have an essential role in making the Irish language easily available in a customer friendly way to Irish speakers in the State’s capital city. [42644/06]
As I have already indicated on the record of the House, these regulations have been published and laid before each House of the Oireachtas in draft form. This was in order to give Deputies and Senators the opportunity to debate the draft regulations and to make suggestions for amendments, if they so wish, before I sign them.
The measures proposed in the draft regulations would make the Irish language more easily available in a measured way to Irish speakers throughout the State.
I had the opportunity to debate the draft regulations at the Committee Stage on 29 November 2006 and again today. As I indicated at the Joint Committee today, the debate on the draft regulations has been very useful and I welcome the contributions made by the participants. I will consider all the points made and I intend to make a further announcement in relation to these draft regulations in due course.
Decentralisation Programme.
John Carty
Ceist:50 Mr. Carty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made to date on the decentralisation of his Department’s headquarters to Ireland West Airport, Knock, County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42645/06]
My Department is committed to relocating 140 posts to new headquarters at Knock Airport. OPW have indicated that the headquarters building will be in place there by mid 2008. To further the decentralisation process, 70 posts have already been assigned to temporary offices in Tubbercurry, Co Sligo, which opened in July of this year. The intention is that these posts will be relocated to Knock Airport when the new building is ready.
Question No. 51 answered with QuestionNo. 44.
Departmental Funding.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:52 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the way he will allocate the additional €5 million to be provided in 2007 to further support volunteering; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42852/06]
My Department has been allocated an additional €5 million in 2007 to further support the development of volunteering in Ireland. This is in keeping with the Government's commitment under Towards 2016.
My Department will continue to focus on building on the existing volunteering infrastructure, including the Volunteer Bureaux, promoting Volunteering among young people and developing volunteering through the community and voluntary sector.
The funding will take cognisance of the recommendations of the task force on Active Citizenship, which will be presented early in the new year.
Question No. 53 answered with QuestionNo. 44.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:54 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason funding for the Gaeltacht improvement scheme has been reduced by 37% for 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42869/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, much of the work completed on Gaeltacht Improvement Schemes was carried out under the seven year NDP programme. However, 2006 was an exceptional year in that more projects than anticipated were completed due to a number of factors, including the good weather we enjoyed earlier in the year. At this stage, it is expected that in excess of €22m will have been spent on these schemes before the end of this year, an increase of almost 40% on the 2006 allocation. This means that the overall programme is well ahead of the targets originally set for the period to end-2006 — indeed, it is estimated that a total of €97m will have been spent on Gaeltacht improvement works in the period 2000-2006 and clearly this has knock-on effects on the amount of funding required for the schemes in 2007. The result of this investment is plain to be seen in all Gaeltacht areas in the form of improved roads, marine works, and community and leisure facilities.
Drugs Seizures.
Liz McManus
Ceist:55 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent comments from a senior member of the Garda Síochána that heroin is so readily available even in rural areas that two of the biggest seizures to date of the drug in recent months have had no impact on its availability or price on the street; his views on whether Ireland is fast approaching a heroin epidemic here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42843/06]
Mary Upton
Ceist:56 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has had discussions with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Department of Finance in regard to the number and value of drugs seizures here in 2006; his views on the increased number of drugs hauls in recent times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42855/06]
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:99 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to new Garda figures showing that the illegal drugs trade here has grown to record proportions in 2006 following an unexpected increase in the availability of heroin; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that the trade in softer drugs such as cannabis and ecstasy are being displaced by sales of cocaine and heroin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42842/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55, 56 and 99 together.
I am fully aware, through my own contacts and that of my officials with the relevant Departments and Agencies involved in the roll-out of the National Drugs Strategy, of the increase in the number of large drug seizures by An Garda Síochána and I congratulate them on these successes. I am in regular contact with the Department of Justice Equality & Law Reform through the National Drugs Strategy structures in relation to Garda work and other drug-related matters. Furthermore, I periodically meet with senior members of An Garda Síochána who are involved in the drugs area. Meanwhile, contact with the Department of Finance is maintained in relation to funding issues.
Varying views have been expresses on the impact of recent drug seizures on price and availability. It is not possible at this point to conclusively identify the degree of such impact, especially in a situation where an above average harvest has lead to increased supplies of heroin globally.
The drug problem in Ireland continues to evolve and I have been aware for some time of the emergence of cocaine as an increasing problem, as well as the increasing issue of polydrug use. While there is anecdotal evidence about a possible substitution effect with respect to cocaine, no hard evidence is available to back this up. However, I am certainly not aware of any substitution effect from cannabis or ecstasy to heroin and I would not accept that we are facing a heroin epidemic.
The nature of any relationship between the level of drugs seizures and the prevalence of drug usage is extremely difficult to determine. Our most comprehensive figures for the misuse of drugs arise from the Drug Prevalence Survey 2002/2003. Fieldwork for the second such Survey is currently in progress and will be completed in April 2007, with first reports becoming available in the Autumn. With respect to heroin specifically, the Capture Recapture Study was published by the National Advisory Committee on Drugs in 2003 and a further such study is to be commissioned in 2007. These surveys will give us a much clearer view of the prevalence and changing nature of drug misuse in Ireland.
Údarás na Gaeltachta.
Michael Ring
Ceist:57 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will introduce measures to ensure that Údarás na Gaeltachta follow best practice in relation to its recruitment procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42878/06]
As the Deputy is aware, Údarás na Gaeltachta is a non-commercial State body which comes under the aegis of my Department and is governed by the legislative provisions of the Údarás na Gaeltachta Acts 1979 to 1999, in addition to national and European law, regulations and guidelines. Accordingly, while my Department holds responsibility for the body in regard to corporate governance matters, it has no function in the management of its day-to-day administration.
I understand from Údarás na Gaeltachta that its recruitment procedures, which take into account best practice, legal requirements and the objectives of the organisation, are kept under active review. In addition, I am assured that Údarás will continue to review employment, staff development and recruitment policies and procedures, in consultation with staff representatives, as part of the Framework Social Partnership Agreement Towards 2016.
Security of the Elderly.
Ivor Callely
Ceist:58 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the level of moneys available to approval groups or companies for installation of security in the homes of elderly people in 2006; if he will give a breakdown of the allocated moneys; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42802/06]
The Scheme Community Support for Older People is operated by my Department and provides funding to local community and voluntary groups who identify vulnerable older people in their communities and arrange for the installation of socially-monitored alarms and other items of psychical security equipment.
€3 million has been made available to the Scheme of Community Supports for Older People in 2006 and the maximum funding available to each community group is €30,000.
A full list of the community groups funded to date in 2006 under the Scheme — and for previous years — is available on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.
National Drugs Strategy.
Seán Ryan
Ceist:59 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on whether there should be a review of the capacity of senior civil servants to lead a cohesive drugs strategy; his further views on whether senior Gardaí and judges should be given specialised training and education in relation to the national drugs problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42846/06]
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:64 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the recent statement from the Drug Policy Action Group that the Government and Garda authorities need to completely rethink and liberalise their approach to the illicit drug trade due to the fact that current practices are doing more harm than good; if his attention has been drawn to the group’s analysis that the war on drugs is in large part being lost because senior Government officials, judges and the Gardaí at the coalface of the problem do not understand the issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42844/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 64 together.
I do not accept the conclusion of the Drug Policy Action Group paper that the Government and Garda authorities need to completely rethink and liberalise their approach to the illicit drug trade nor do I agree that senior Government officials, judges and Gardaí at the coalface of the drugs problem do not understand the issues.
In the first instance, I would point out that the paper includes a disclaimer advising that the views expressed are those of the authors only and are not necessarily the views of all members of the Drugs Action policy Group.
The Mid-Term review of the National Drugs Strategy (NDS), which was completed in 2005, found that the current aims and objectives of the Strategy are fundamentally sound and that progress is being made across the pillars. The Steering Group for that review included representatives from the NDST and the community and voluntary sectors, and an extensive public consultation process was also undertaken at that time.
I believe that there are encouraging signs of progress over the past couple of years — be it in the areas of drug seizures, the expansion of treatment services, the establishment of the Regional Drugs Task Forces, prevention programmes in schools or the increasing focus on rehabilitation.
With respect to an international perspective on whether a policy of containment works, the United Nations Office for Drugs Control (UNODC) in its 2006 report argues that there is ample evidence that the approach of making drugs illegal, which is broadly adopted internationally, is effective and this rebuts a fundamental plank of the paper's thesis on the need for a liberalisation of the approach in place.
Illegal drug use is a global issue and so our efforts to tackle it in Ireland must be seen in that context. Against this background, I feel that it is naïve to believe that Ireland can be kept totally drug-free. It is my view that a change in the law regarding the possession of cannabis, or a reclassification of the drug, would be of no benefit whatsoever in tackling drug use here — in fact, I think that it would aggravate the problem.
While cannabis may not be as dangerous as some other drugs, the evidence is that it is damaging to the physical and mental health of the user, particularly the young and those who are heavy users. A recent report by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Arts, Sport, Tourism, Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs emphasises these points.
Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:60 D’fhiafraigh Ms O’Sullivan den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén dul chun cinn atá déanta i leith chur i bhfeidhm Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 i rith 2006; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42861/06]
Tá dul chun cinn suntasach bainte amach i rith na bliana seo maidir le forálacha Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 a chur i bhfeidhm ar bhonn céimiúil. I measc na bpríomh-chéimeanna a baineadh amach i mbliana tá an méid seo a leanas:
Tá forálacha uilig an Achta i bhfeidhm ó 14 Iúil 2006. Tháinig gach foráil den Acht nach raibh tugtha i bhfeidhm agam roimhe sin — ba iad sin ailt 7, 8 agus 9(3) — i bhfeidhm go huathoibríoch an lá sin i gcomhréir le forálacha na reachtaíochta.
Ó thús na bliana, tá 17 scéim teanga daingnithe agam le comhlachtaí poiblí agus foilsithe. Sa bhreis air sin, tá fógra seolta agam chuig os cionn 60 comhlacht poiblí eile ag iarraidh orthu dréacht-scéim teanga a ullmhú agus a sheoladh chugam le daingniú. Tá oifigigh mo Roinne ag plé leis na comhlachtaí sin faoi láthair. Ní miste domsa rá go bhfuil 39 scéim san iomlán aontaithe agam anois le comhlachtaí poiblí. Ta na scéimeanna seo uilig ar fáil ar shuíomh Idirlín an Choimisinéara Teanga.
I mí Aibreáin 2006 rinne mé Na Rialacháin um Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 (Comhlachtaí Poiblí) 2006 a thug an liosta de na comhlachtaí poiblí atá clúdaithe faoin Acht suas go dáta trí chomhlachtaí nua a thabhairt faoi fhorálacha an Achta agus aon tagairt do chomhlachtaí nach bhfuil ag feidhmiú a thuilleadh a scrios.
Ar 28 Meán Fómhair 2006, d'fhoilsigh mé rialacháin i bhfoirm dréachta atá le déanamh agam faoi alt 9(1) den Acht agus leag mé os comhair Thithe an Oireachtais iad. Baineann na dréacht-rialacháin seo le húsáid na Gaeilge amháin, nó na Gaeilge agus an Bhéarla le chéile, i bhfógairtí béil réamh-thaifeadta, ar stáiseanóireacht agus ar chomharthaíocht ag comhlachtaí poiblí, Ranna Stáit, údaráis áitiúla, srl. Mar is eol don Teachta, bhí deis ann na dréacht-rialacháin a phlé os comhair an Chomhchoiste do na hEalaíona, Spóirt, Turasóireacht, Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta ar 29 Samhain 2006 agus arís inniu. Mar a thug mé le fios don Chomhchoiste inniu, bhí an díospóireacht ar na dréacht-rialacháin thar a bheith fiúntach agus fáiltím roimh an ionchur a rinneadh. Tá i gceist agam machnamh a dhéanamh ar na pointí éagsúla atá déanta agus tá rún agam ráiteas eile a dhéanamh maidir leis na dréacht-rialacháin amach anseo.
Ar iarratas uaim, tá Foras na Gaeilge tar éis córas creidiúnaithe d'aistritheoirí Gaeilge a fhorbairt. Is é seo an chéad chóras dá leithéid a bheidh ar fáil d'aistritheoirí Gaeilge na tíre seo. Reáchtáladh scrúdú i mí Aibreáin 2006 mar chéad chéim den phróiseas agus foilsíodh an chéad phainéal d'aistritheoirí ar shuíomh Idirlín an Fhorais i mí Iúil. Tuigim go raibh scrúdú eile le déanaí agus go bhfuil i gceist tuilleadh scrúduithe a reáchtáil amach anseo ag tráthanna rialta. Is cinnte gur cúnamh praiticiúil fíor-thábhachtach a bheidh sa phainéal seo do chomhlachtaí poiblí a úsáideann seirbhísí ó aistritheoirí príobháideacha, go háirithe i ndáil lena ndualgais faoin Acht a chomhlíonadh.
Ar an iomlán, mar sin, táim sásta leis an dul chun cinn atá déanta go dtí seo maidir le cur i bhfeidhm fhorálacha Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla ar bhonn céimiúil. Táim sásta go n-éireoidh leis na comhlachtaí poiblí na dualgais reachtúla a thitfidh orthu faoin Acht a chomhlíonadh go céimiúil agus, go deimhin, go nglacfaidh said leis an dúshlán le meon dearfach agus sa spiorad ceart. Ar ndóigh, beidh gach scéim teanga dréachtaithe ag na comhlachtaí poiblí i gcomhthéacs agus ar bhonn na n-acmhainní — idir airgead agus foireann — atá acu nó a bheidh ar fáil dóibh le linn thréimhse na scéime. Ní féidir gach rud a bhaint amach thar oíche agus, mar a dúirt mé ón dtús, is í an aidhm atá agam ná go mbeidh feabhsúcháin á mbaint amach — thar thréimhse roinnt scéimeanna, b'fhéidir — ar leibhéal agus ar chaighdeán na seirbhísí poiblí a bhíonn á gcur ar fáil trí Ghaeilge, de réir éilimh. An méid sin ráite, is gnó do na comhlachtaí poiblí féin, ar ndóigh, a chinntiú go gcomhlíonfar na dualgais a thitfidh orthu faoin Acht seo sa chaoi chéanna agus a chomhlíontar dualgais faoi aon reachtaíocht eile.
Departmental Programmes.
Joe Callanan
Ceist:61 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will continue the RAPID programme in the Ballinasloe RAPID area beyond the end of the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006. [42640/06]
Peter Kelly
Ceist:71 Mr. Kelly asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will continue to implement the RAPID programme in the Longford RAPID area beyond the end of the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006. [42642/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 71 together.
I have indicated that the RAPID Programme should continue into the future under the new NDP and that its current refocused form provides long-term support for disadvantaged communities. It is proposed that the designation of Ballinasloe and Longford as RAPID Areas will continue.
Departmental Funding.
Eamon Ryan
Ceist:62 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason for an increase of 13% funding for the Western Development Commission Estimates 2007. [42914/06]
As the Deputy notes, an increase of 13% — €295,000 — has been provided in the Estimates of my Department for the Western Development Commission (WDC) for 2007.
An element of the overall increase has been allocated to cover the usual year on year administrative increases incurred by organisations like the WDC in order for them to carry on their business. The WDC is also involved in increased activity in a number of areas, for example, their ‘Look West' campaign, which adds to their overall administrative costs.
The allocation for 2007 also provides for the additional resources required to continue to effectively minimise the investment risks involved in the administration of the Western Investment Fund. The Fund was set up to provide seed and venture capital to businesses in the Western Region. The investments are high risk in nature but are made on a commercial basis and repayment of the investment with a return is expected.
Departmental Schemes.
Joe Callanan
Ceist:63 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of places on the rural social scheme that have been filled in the Galway Rural Development Company’s operational area; the main types of projects that they have been working on; and if he will increase the number of places on the rural social scheme. [42639/06]
There are currently 170 participants employed in the 9 Rural Social Scheme (RSS) projects in the Galway Rural Development Company's operational area. The participants are working on the following types of projects:
Maintenance and enhancement of waymarked ways, agreed walks, bog roads etc;
Village and countryside enhancement projects;
Social care and care of the elderly, community after school groups and community pre-school groups;
Projects relating to not for profit cultural and heritage centres;
Environmental maintenance work — maintenance and caretaking of community and sporting facilities; and
Other community based projects.
At present, there are 2,593 participants on the RSS from the overall number of 2,600 currently available and the remaining places are expected to be filled in early 2007. The number of places available under the Scheme is being kept under on-going review by my Department.
Details of the nine projects, the number of participants and the areas served are detailed in the following table.
|
Name of Project |
Number of Participants |
Areas Served |
|
Slieve Aughty |
25 |
Derrybrien, Woodford and general Loughrea area |
|
Belclare |
18 |
Belclare area |
|
Dunmore |
16 |
Dunmore area |
|
North East Galway |
25 |
Newbridge, Ballygar and towards the County Roscommon border |
|
North Connemara |
12 |
Clifden and the general North Conemara area |
|
Milltown / Kilconly |
19 |
Milltown and Kilconly areas |
|
Abbeyknockmoy / Monivea |
21 |
Ballyglunnin Railway Station, Abbeyknockmoy and Monivea areas |
|
Headford |
10 |
Headford area |
|
St. Brendan’s |
24 |
Ballinasloe area |
Question No. 64 answered with QuestionNo. 59.
Departmental Expenditure.
John Gormley
Ceist:65 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the end of year expenditure on the RAPID programme for 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42916/06]
As I have indicated to the House on a number of occasions, it is a matter for individual Departments to report progress with their projects under the RAPID programme. In support of my Department, Pobal collects data from each RAPID area in respect of funding allocations received by projects from Government Departments and local state agencies. The latest data in respect of the programme is available on Pobal's website under the RAPID section (http://www.pobal.ie/live/RAPID). The Deputy may find it helpful to access this information. I understand that full data in respect of the year 2006 will not be collected until early 2007.
The Deputy will be aware that I launched the RAPID Leverage Fund in 2004 to support small-scale projects identified by the Area Implementation Teams. The Exchequer provides the funding for these schemes.
The following are the allocations I have approved for each of the Leverage Schemes. Expenditure relates to the position at the end of November 2006. While some expenditure is expected in the month of December, I do not expect the final outcome for 2006 to differ greatly from the position indicated.
|
Leverage Scheme |
Allocation |
Expenditure in 2006 |
|
€m |
€m |
|
|
Housing Estate Enhancement 2004 |
1.15 |
0.08 |
|
Housing Estate Enhancement 2005/06 |
2.03 |
0.38 |
|
Playground 2004 |
3.00 |
0.29 |
|
Playground 2005 |
2.97 |
1.38 |
|
Traffic Measures 2005 |
1.01 |
0.07 |
|
Traffic Measures 2006/07 |
1.01 |
0.17 |
|
Health Sector Co-Fund |
2.30 |
0.58 |
|
Sports Capital 2004 |
2.20 |
0.59 |
|
Sports Capital 2005 |
2.30 |
0.57 |
|
Sports Capital 2006 |
3.70 |
0.03 |
Of course RAPID areas benefit from spending under programmes other than the RAPID. Disbursements from the Dormant Accounts Fund are made within the overall framework of the Disbursement Plan provided for in the legislation. Under the initial round of funding, the Dormant Accounts Fund Disbursements Board approved 521 projects for funding totalling over €60 million. Consistent with the direction given by Government when approving the Disbursement Plan, approximately €32 million of these approvals were in respect of projects based within RAPID areas.
Following the enactment of the Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Act 2005, further funding was ring-fenced to support priority projects in RAPID areas under the 2006 round of funding €11.35 million was subsequently allocated in support of 188 projects.
My Department also has responsibility for the work of the 14 Local Drugs Task Forces (LDTF) and 10 Regional Drugs Task Forces. The LDTFs were established in the areas experiencing the worst levels of drug misuse, particularly heroin, and many of them have RAPID areas within them. Over €150 million has been allocated to the Task Forces to implement two rounds of local action plans. A further €14.36 million has been allocated to capital projects under the LDTF Premises Initiative, which is designed to meet the accommodation needs of community-based drugs projects.
Approximately €108 million has been allocated to-date to support the work of the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund in LDTF areas and four other urban centres. The main aim of the Fund is to attract "at risk" young people in disadvantaged areas into recreational facilities and activities and divert them away from the dangers of substance misuse. It is not possible to quantify the exact spend in RAPID areas.
Drug Use.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:66 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs regarding the widespread availability of illegal drugs his views on whether a trend is emerging whereby people believe it acceptable to drive vehicles while under the influence of such drugs; if he has had discussions with the Department of Transport in relation to same; if a joint initiative between his Department and the Department of Transport will be undertaken to address drug-driving; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42837/06]
The Deputy will appreciate that the matter raised is primarily one for my colleague, the Minister for Transport. I can assure the Deputy, however, that I certainly do not think that driving under the influence of drugs is acceptable nor do I believe that there is a trend towards acceptance of driving while under the influence of drugs among the general public.
A report "Driving under the Influence of Drugs in Ireland: A Nationwide Survey 2000 — 2001", which was published in 2004, highlighted the issue as a cause for some concern. That survey involved drug analysis of 2,000 specimens, 1,000 of which had tested under the limit for alcohol and 1,000 of which were over that limit. The survey found that 15.7% tested positive for some drug, with cannabinoids being involved in 60% of these cases.
It is illegal to drive while under the influence of drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of a vehicle. There are currently no means available to Gardaí to carry out roadside tests for the presence of drugs in drivers. However, I understand that new equipment will be tested by the Gardaí next year under an EU pilot initiative organised by TISPOL, the European network of police forces.
Walking Routes.
John McGuinness
Ceist:67 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the supports provided through his Department in the development of the Nore Valley walking route which passes through Kilkenny City; if he envisages a role for such walking routes in his Department’s countryside recreation strategy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42635/06]
Eamon Ryan
Ceist:98 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the negotiations with landowners who have expressed concern regarding public access along the soon to be opened national walking route in the river Nore valley in County Kilkenny. [42915/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 67 and 98 together.
The River Nore Valley Walking Route will cover the approximate 35 kilometres between Kilkenny City and the village of Inistioge. The project is a jointly-funded partnership between the LEADER agency Barrow Nore Suir Rural Development (BNS) and Kilkenny County Council, through the River Nore Valley Walking Route Committee. The project committee has representatives from and is also actively supported by Fáilte Ireland, other development agencies, leisure interest clubs and local community groups. The Board of BNS Rural Development has allocated €92,000 of LEADER+ funding towards the completion of a series of walking route projects in its region of Kilkenny and southeast Tipperary.
The project is supported by a team of four workers from the Rural Social Scheme (RSS), which undertake the actual construction work on the Nore Walk. This team of local farmers live in the area of the walk and thanks to the project are employed in developing a major support to rural tourism in the region. The project is an example of the supports that the Department has made available to rural tourism interests to develop walking routes in the country.
The development committee has been very happy with the support they have received from most of the landowners on the route. The committee's policy has been to develop the walk as far as is possible, by securing permission from landowners to cross their property. As the promoters have put in place a comprehensive insurance and maintenance regime for the walk, the ‘permissive path' approach to developing the route has been largely successful.
There are a small number of landowners, who have declined permission for the route. The promoters are endeavouring to negotiate with these landowners to reach a mutually satisfactory accommodation. The promoters have been aware of the concerns of landowners and have been prepared, where possible to address these. If in the near future, permission cannot be secured on the basis of permissive path status, the promoters will look at all other legitimate options to allow the successful completion of the route by spring of 2007 in time of the next tourist season.
Nationally, I do envisage a role for walking routes in the Countryside Recreation Strategy, which I received from Comhairle na Tuaithe in September and I am taking a number of immediate actions arising from my initial consideration of the report. I have made €1.5 million funding available for capital work under the rural social scheme and I will ask implementing bodies, which are in most cases Leader companies, to give particular priority to walkways and ancillary services.
My Department is also actively pursuing the possibility of using former railway infrastructure as recreational trails for cycling etc. with the Department of Transport and Iarnród Éireann.
Fáilte Ireland has already identified a selection of looped walks which it has publicised in its brochure — Walking Ireland — and on its website. My Department in consultation with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, Fáilte Ireland, Comhar LEADER na hÉireann and the National Waymarked Ways Advisory Committee are identifying further looped walks and waymarked ways for development.
National Drugs Strategy.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:68 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has examined the findings and recommendations of the report on social care and drug users here, recently published by the Drug Policy Action Group. [42918/06]
I am aware of the recommendations of the report of the Drug Policy Action Group on "Social care and drug users in Ireland". The recommendations therein are broadly in line with Actions of the National Drugs Strategy, focusing primarily on providing a continuum of care for clients and ensuring that quality standards are achieved in the services provided.
As the Deputy will be aware, a Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation was established, arising from the Mid-Term Review of the National Drugs Strategy, to examine the existing provision of rehabilitation services in Ireland, identify best practice, identify gaps and recommend actions to develop an integrated rehabilitation service. The Group has taken a holistic view of rehabilitation and, while recognising the importance of clients being activated and prepared to fulfil their role in the effort towards rehabilitation, sees the empowering of recovering drug users, so that they can re-engage with society in a manner consistent with their needs and expectations, as a key aim of the process.
It is likely that the report of the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation, which will be completed shortly with a view to initiating the implementation of its recommendations in 2007, will address the broad issues raised in the Drug Policy Action Group report.
An Coimisiún Logainmneacha.
Donal Moynihan
Ceist:69 D’fhiafraigh Mr. D. Moynihan den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé sásta go dtugann an tOrdú Logainmneacha (Ceantair Ghaeltachta) 2004 stádas oifigiúil agus oibre do logainmneacha Gaeltachta Chorcaí den chéad uair ó bunaíodh an Stát; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42668/06]
Máire Hoctor
Ceist:87 D’fhiafraigh Ms Hoctor den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé sásta go dtugann an tOrdú Logainmneacha Contae Thiobraid Árainn 2005 faoi Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 stádas oifigiúil agus oibre do logainm Gaeilge bhailte fearainn i gContae Thiobraid Árann den chéad uair ó bunaíodh an Stát; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42637/06]
Tá i gceist agam Ceisteanna 69 agus 87 a thógáil le chéile.
Faoi Chuid 5 d'Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003, féadfaidh mé, mar Aire, an leagan Gaeilge de logainm a dhearbhú le hOrdú. Chomh luath agus a bhíonn a leithéid d'Ordú reachtúil déanta i leith aon logainm in aon limistéar lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht, is é éifeacht na reachtaíochta ná go mbíonn comhstádas agus comhfheidhm dhlíthiúil ag leaganacha Gaeilge agus Béarla an logainm. I gcás go ndéanaim Ordú reachtúil i leith logainm i limistéar laistigh den Ghaeltacht, bíonn stádas oifigiúil ag an leagan Gaeilge amháin (ar ndóigh, ní chuireann an tAcht stop le húsáid leaganacha Béarla de logainmneacha Gaeltachta i mbeagnach gach cás).
Ta sé tábhachtach a thabhairt chun cuimhne gur ag leaganacha Béarla na logainmneacha amháin, laistigh agus lasmuigh den Ghaeltacht, a bhí seasamh oifigiúil roimh theacht i bhfeidhm Cuid a 5 den Acht.
Tá 10 gcinn d'Orduithe déanta agam de réir fhorálacha Cuid 5 den Acht go dáta. Ina measc seo, tá An tOrdú Logainmneacha (Contae Thiobraid Árainn) 2005, a tháinig i bhfeidhm ar 21 Nollaig 2005, agus An Ordú Logainmneacha (Ceantair Ghaeltachta) 2004, a tháining i bhfeidhm ar 28 Márta 2005 agus a bhfuil logainmneacha Ghaeltacht Chorcaí san áireamh ann.
Is cúis áthais dom go dtugann na hOrduithe atá déanta agam stádas oifigiúil don leagan Gaeilge de na logainmneacha uilig atá i gceist, ina measc logainmneacha i gContae Thiobraid Árainn agus i nGaeltacht Chorcaí, den chéad uair ó bunaíodh an Stát. Tá sé mar chuspóir ag mo Roinnse go gcuirfí an chuid eile den taighde, mar aon leis na hOrduithe riachtanacha i leith na gcontaetha ar fad atá fágtha, i gcrích laistigh de 7 go 10 mbliana.
Question No. 70 answered with QuestionNo. 48.
Question No. 71 answered with QuestionNo. 61.
Travellers Rights.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:72 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the supports provided to enable Traveller communities access employment through his Department’s community development programme since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42675/06]
Travellers are one of a number of target groups that benefit under the Community Development Programme. While a significant number of the 182 projects currently within the Programme would identify Travellers among beneficiaries of their activities and services, 21 projects specifically focus on providing Traveller support.
Training courses, support groups, provision of information, work experience, and childcare provision are examples of the type of supports typically made available. Traveller projects also provide employment opportunities for Travellers as Co-ordinators and/or Development Workers within the projects.
Funding for Traveller projects under the Programme from 2002 to 2006 is outlined in the following appendix.
Furthermore, community development projects act as a conduit for funding from other statutory agencies. In this way, many further employment opportunities also exist for outreach workers/health workers and so on for the Travelling Community. It would not be possible for me to provide a breakdown of such instances as projects do not provide information to the Department in respect of the background of employees.
In addition to this, my Department, with the assistance of Community Development Projects, introduced a scheme of work placements for Travellers in 2005. The objective of the scheme is to provide positive short-term work experiences and training opportunities for Travellers that will prepare, encourage and support participants in seeking employment.
During 2005, twenty-two Travellers in 17 Community Development Projects benefited from an eight week-long work placement scheme. This scheme received funding of approximately €58,000. In light of the positive results achieved during the 2005 scheme, I have provided funding to facilitate Community Development Projects with further placements in 2006. Fifteen projects employing 26 workers for a 12 week period will receive funding of approximately €108,000.
In addition to the Community Development Programme, several projects related to the Travelling community are funded by my Department as part of our support for the community and voluntary sector under the White Paper on Supporting Voluntary Activity. The National Traveller Women's Forum receives approximately €47,000 per annum under the multi-annual funding arrangement. This arrangement is for three and a half years, ending mid-2007. The National Association of Travellers Centres receives €35,000 per annum towards their provision of informal education to the Travelling Community in Ireland through its youth work services. Their aims are to support the provision of a comprehensive Youth Work Programme of Activities throughout the country for young travellers.
The Exchange House Travellers Service receives €20,000 per annum. This is an organisation of Travellers and settled people working together which aims to provide quality outreach family support, a welfare rights service and to assist in community development, youth services, money and advice and budgeting. The Department also provides multi-annual funding to the Irish Traveller Movement of €150,220 per annum. Their objective is to ensure Traveller human rights issues are put on Government policy agendas through the participation in a wide range of Government Committees and within the wider Community and Voluntary Sector.
In addition, quite a few projects related to the Travelling community are provided with once-off funding by this Department under the Programme of Grants for Locally-Based Community and Voluntary Organisations. Projects which provide employment opportunities for Travellers are also funded under the Community Services Programme.
|
Project |
2002-from 25/06/02 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Galway Traveller Movement |
144,350 |
202,883 |
108,720 |
155,600 |
122,900 |
|
Tullamore Traveller Movement |
50,950 |
108,562 |
109,061 |
110,740 |
117,700 |
|
National Traveller Women’s Forum |
41,918 |
79,850 |
47,000 |
86,400 |
91,000 |
|
St. Margaret’s Traveller Centre |
20,350 |
91,361 |
75,202 |
89,380 |
94,500 |
|
TravAct (Northside Traveller CDP) |
18,768 |
63,092 |
92,090 |
93,800 |
94,700 |
|
Ballyfermot Travellers Action Project |
Nil |
71,789 |
62,000 |
64,927 |
77,000 |
|
Donegal Traveller Project |
43,290 |
88,100 |
91,600 |
104,500 |
113,900 |
|
Southside Travellers Action Group |
25,350 |
28,464 |
54,974 |
84,177 |
98,040 |
|
Tallaght Travellers CDP |
45,000 |
98,554 |
98,800 |
102,800 |
111,000 |
|
Pavee Point |
182,860 |
160,967 |
160,967 |
160,967 |
170,600 |
|
Blanchardstown Travellers |
28,750 |
83,900 |
83,100 |
88,829 |
96,800 |
|
Cork Traveller Visibility Group |
113,050 |
91,220 |
91,920 |
266,656 |
105,900 |
|
Kerry Travellers |
74,850 |
110,705 |
109,450 |
123,400 |
125,600 |
|
Limerick Travellers |
76,850 |
89,500 |
93,100 |
96,900 |
100,800 |
|
West Cork Travellers |
22,100 |
45,703 |
49,280 |
69,538 |
60,200 |
|
Bray Travellers |
40,350 |
74,700 |
78,000 |
97,768 |
102,800 |
|
Clondalkin Travellers |
45,700 |
107,148 |
102,130 |
102,699 |
111,600 |
|
TACCTIC (renamed Clonmel Traveller Action Group in 2006) |
39,000 |
142,947 |
78,433 |
50,700 |
15,210 |
|
Tipperary Rural Action Project |
0 |
6,000 |
70,299 |
70,500 |
97,550 |
|
Waterford Travellers |
35,629 |
109,175 |
118,527 |
123,758 |
145,846 |
|
Wicklow Travellers |
80,000 |
84,925 |
91,208 |
102,100 |
113,500 |
|
1,129,115 |
1,939,545 |
1,865,861 |
2,246,139 |
2,167,146 |
Question No. 73 answered with QuestionNo. 42.
Rural Development.
Ciarán Cuffe
Ceist:74 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures being covered by the €5 million allocated in the Estimates for the Leader rural economy sub-programme 2007 to 2013. [42913/06]
The final phase of the public consultation for the Rural Development Programme 2007-13 concluded on December 7th and it is hoped that the draft Programme for Ireland will be sent to the European Commission by the end of this year.
The funding available through the estimates for the new Programme will be used to fund the administration costs of the Local Action Groups selected to deliver the Programme and the initial projects funded under the Programme.
National Drugs Strategy.
Jack Wall
Ceist:75 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on whether the introduction of a UK style drugs classification system would assist efforts to combat the spread of serious drugs such as heroin and cocaine; if he has had discussions with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform on the potential benefits of such a system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42845/06]
While I have not had detailed discussions with either the Department of Justice Equality & Law Reform nor the Department of Health & Children on the specific issue of the introduction of a UK style drugs classification system, I do not think that the introduction of such a system would assist efforts to combat the spread of serious drugs such as heroin and cocaine and there are no plans at present to adopt such an approach.
Under the Misuse of Drugs Acts 1977 and 1984, the various offences created have associated penalties depending on the seriousness of the offence. These range from possible life imprisonment in the case of serious crimes involving drugs to lesser penalties for offences such as the possession of cannabis for personal use.
Possession of any controlled drug, without due authorisation, is an offence under section 3 of the Misuse of Drugs Act 1977. The legislation makes a distinction between possession for personal use and possession for sale or supply. Penalties for possession also depend on the type of substance and the penal proceedings involved (whether a summary conviction or a conviction on indictment is obtained).
I again stress the seriousness with which the Government is addressing the issue of substance misuse in Ireland and I do not think that the application of a UK style drugs classification system would strengthen our response in that regard.
Rialacháin um Shábháilteacht Dóiteáin.
Dinny McGinley
Ceist:76 D’fhiafraigh Mr. McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an dtuigeann sé go bhfuil deacrachtaí á gcothú ag na rialacha nua maidir le sábháilteacht dóiteáin i dtithe Gaeltachta agus an mbeidh sé sásta breis ama le cois dhá bhliain a thabhairt chun deis a thabhairt do na mná tí a dtithe a chur in oiriúint chun cloí leis na rialacha. [42638/06]
Mar is eol don Teachta, tá aitheantas speisialta tugtha ag an Roinn Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil do na tithe atá aitheanta ag mo Roinnse faoi Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge chun foghlaimeoirí a choinneáil. I gcomhréir leis an aitheantas speisialta sin, tá treoirlínte nua do 2007 agus dá éis eisithe ag an Roinn Comhshaoil, Oidhreachta agus Rialtais Áitiúil dar teideal "Sábháilteacht Dóiteáin i dTithe Gaeltachta a chuireann Lóistín ar fáil d'Fhoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge".
Tá cóipeanna de na treoirlínte nua curtha chuig na hOifigigh Dóiteáin cuí chomh maith le gach Coláiste agus teaghlach atá cláraithe faoin Scéim. Ar ndóigh, níl aon fhreagracht maidir le sábháilteacht dóiteáin ar mo Roinnse. Leagann na hAchtanna Seirbhisí Dóiteáin 1981 agus 2003 an fhreagracht áirithe sin ar an duine atá i gceannas ar theach ina bhfuil foghlaimeoirí Gaeilge ar iostas ann agus ar na hOifigigh Dóiteáin féin.
Tuigim go maith na deacrachtaí atá luaite ag an Teachta agus ba ar an gcúis sin a chuir mo Roinnse cúnamh deontais ar fáil le cuidiú le Coláistí Gaeilge éagsúla innealtóirí a fhostú chun suirbhéanna cuimsitheacha a dhéanamh ar a gcuid tithe. Beidh cúnamh ar fáil ó mo Roinnse freisin d'iarratasóirí cáilithe faoi Achtanna na dTithe (Gaeltacht) 1929-2001 sa chás go mbeidh obair fheabhsúcháin le déanamh le go mbeidh na tithe ag comhlíonadh na dtreoirlínte. Tuigim chomh maith gur reachtáil Comhchoiste na gColáistí Samhraidh (CONCOS) cruinnithe eolais ar fud na Gaeltachta, ar ar fhreastail innealtóirí agus oifigigh ó mo Roinnse, chun na treoirlínte nua agus gach a bhaineann leo a mhíniú.
Departmental Funding.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:77 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of funding from his Department that has gone to supporting social options for those who choose to socialise in a drug and alcohol free environment in particular late opening cafes targeted at teenagers. [42864/06]
As the Deputy will be aware my Department administers and delivers a wide range of programmes and measures targeted at social or economic deprivation and its consequences in either rural or urban areas and at community development, both local and national. Funding has been made available or is potentially available, for the specific purposes adverted to by the Deputy under a number of these programmes and measures.
In pursuance of the National Drugs Strategy, Drugs Task Forces covering all parts of the country have developed detailed strategies and plans which aim to oversee a co-ordinated response to illicit drugs use having regard to the level of existing services. Many of the plans developed include actions to engage young people to participate in programmes and activities in drug and alcohol free environments, many with an educational preventative content.
The Young People's Facilities and Services Fund is targeted at young people in the age range of 10 to 21 years who are defined as "at risk" due to factors such as family circumstances, educational disadvantage, or involvement in crime or substance misuse. Under the Fund, the Department has supported approximately 460 facility and services projects with a total allocation to date of over €108m. Among the facilities involved are drop in facilities for young people and a small number of youth cafés.
Disbursements from the Dormant Accounts Fund are targeted at, inter alia, those affected by economic or social disadvantage and those affected by educational disadvantage. Among the measures approved by Government for assistance from Dormant Accounts in 2006 is one which provides for the ring-fencing of up to €11.5 million for projects identified as priorities by RAPID Area Implementation Teams. In this regard, details of the 188 projects approved under this measure were announced in July 2006, including 5 projects which involved the allocation of funds to support youth cafes.
In addition, funding totalling €204,227 was allocated to Youth Projects under Cohesion and Volunteering during 2004 and 2005.
Funding may also be sought from the Community Development Programme. This is a programme which was designed to reduce social exclusion by targeting support at disadvantaged and socially excluded communities in order to improve their capacity to benefit from social and economic development.
Some €24 million has been allocated to the Programme in 2006. This will bring funding to approximately €148m under the Programme through the current National Development Plan since the foundation of the Department in 2002.
Funded projects are expected to:
act as a resource within the communities of which they are a part
be managed by local voluntary management committees made up predominantly of people from the local area/target groups who themselves have experience of disadvantage and social exclusion
CDPs provide resources/facilities for over 700 local community organisations, including groups representing youth groups, and other miscellaneous groups working with disadvantaged communities.
Rural Development.
David Stanton
Ceist:78 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of participants in the rural social scheme and the success of the initiative in combating poverty in rural areas; the other initiatives operated by his Department to combat social exclusion in rural communities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42947/06]
David Stanton
Ceist:89 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the efforts his Department is making to combat poverty among farmers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37644/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 89 together.
My Department is committed to combating poverty amongst farmers and to this end, two specific schemes are targeted at the most vulnerable farmers i.e. the Rural Social Scheme (RSS) and the Smallholder Initiative.
The RSS was introduced to allow low-income farmers and fishermen who are unable to earn an adequate living from their farm holding/fishing, to earn a supplementary income. The Scheme aims to encourage farmers and fishermen to continue to farm and fish while providing them with additional financial support. In addition, the talents and skills widely available amongst our farmers and fishermen are being harnessed for the benefit of rural communities.
The Scheme has proven to be very popular and as of Friday, 1st December, there were 2,593 participants on the RSS out of the 2,600 places currently available. I expect the remaining places to be filled in early 2007. The number of participants on a county basis is set out in the following table.
As part of the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme, 25 rural Partnerships implement a dedicated Smallholder Initiative — formerly known as the Low Income Smallholder Household Initiative (LISHI). The LISHI was established by rural Partnerships in 1996 in response to a recognition that many farm families were becoming increasingly marginalised and their needs were not being met through existing supports / service provision mechanisms.
The LISHI works with the most disadvantaged farming households. It provides facilitation, support and guidance to disadvantaged households to help them adapt to changing economic realities. It provides flexible, local responses, and it complements and makes use of existing mainstream services. The focus is on the household as a whole, with a view to securing a viable household income — be it from farming and/or off-farm opportunities. Elements of the Initiative include:
Outreach to the most marginalised farm households;
Ensuring households are aware of their entitlements;
Exploring available options in line with family circumstances;
Making agreed referral and follow-up support to mainstream agencies;
In some cases (if not locally available) the provision on an outreach basis of training and up-skilling courses for family members.
Between 2002 and 2005, 7,415 people (2,098 women and 5,317 men) were actively supported under the Initiative. Over this period, 37% were supported into education and training, 9% were place in employment, and 4% started up new enterprises.
Other programmes operated by my Department — such as the CLÁR Programme — also tackle social exclusion in rural communities. CLÁR funds or co-funds, together with other Departments, State agencies and local authorities, investment in selected priority developments. These investments support physical, economic and social infrastructure across a wide range of measures and reflect the priorities identified by the communities in the selected areas. This funding helps rural communities overcome local difficulties and achieve access to a range of essential services such as water supply, sewerage disposal, road access, broadband communication, community and economic infrastructure, etc.
|
County |
Participants |
|
Carlow |
14 |
|
Cavan |
81 |
|
Clare |
115 |
|
Cork |
168 |
|
Donegal |
229 |
|
Galway |
270 |
|
Kerry |
279 |
|
Kildare |
22 |
|
Kilkenny |
19 |
|
Laois |
25 |
|
Leitrim |
100 |
|
Limerick |
75 |
|
Longford |
56 |
|
Louth |
10 |
|
Mayo |
574 |
|
Meath |
15 |
|
Monaghan |
38 |
|
Offaly |
47 |
|
Offshore Islands |
15 |
|
Roscommon |
146 |
|
Sligo |
122 |
|
Tipperary |
66 |
|
Waterford |
11 |
|
Westmeath |
34 |
|
Wexford |
43 |
|
Wicklow |
19 |
|
Total |
2,593 |
Departmental Funding.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:79 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason funding in 2007 to the RAPID programme will not keep pace with inflation growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42872/06]
The RAPID Programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion within the 45 designated RAPID areas. In addition, RAPID priority status was recently extended to Ballyfermot. My Department, with the support of Pobal, has overall responsibility for the co-ordination of the RAPID programme.
As I have indicated to the House on a number of occasions, it is a matter for individual Departments to report on the provision of funding and progress on delivery with respect to projects under their responsibility in the RAPID areas. The provision in my Department under Subhead O of the Vote funds administrative costs in RAPID Area Implementation Teams and Pobal and the RAPID Leverage schemes. I initiated these schemes in 2004 in order to support small-scale projects identified by the Area Implementation Teams in each of the RAPID areas. These schemes, which are co-funded by the relevant agencies, fund projects that are chosen locally and focus on estate enhancement, graffiti clean-up, traffic calming measures, CCTV, health facilities, top-up grants to sports facilities and the provision of playgrounds. I am satisfied that the capital allocation of €7.8 million in 2007 is sufficient to meet the funding commitments I have approved for these schemes.
The allocation should be seen in the context of an increase of 8% or €17.3 million under the Community Affairs heading of my Department's Vote.
Drug Use.
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:80 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will provide an estimated number of cannabis users here; his views on whether this figure is in the region of 300,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42854/06]
A definitive estimate of the number of cannabis users in Ireland is not available. The first Drug Prevalence Survey 2002/2003 that was carried out among the 15-64 year age group provides the only national evidence available.
Of the 4,900 people interviewed for that survey, just over 17% reported some past use of cannabis, with males being almost twice as likely to report such use. Lifetime exposure to cannabis was substantially higher in younger adults aged 15-34 years (24% compared to 11% for adults over 35 years). This mirrors findings from earlier research and confirms the fact that cannabis use by Irish people as they enter early adulthood is a relatively new phenomenon.
The last year prevalence was 5% in the overall population, and the last month prevalence was 2.6%. Of those who reported use in the past month, 40.7% had only used on a couple of occasions, 14% used several times a week while 22.2% were using on an almost daily basis. Using the latter two figures as a best estimate of regular use (36.2% using several times a week/daily), this would suggest that 0.94% of the population aged 15-64 are regular users of cannabis. Such a percentage would indicate a much lower figure than 300,000.
As stated, these figures date back to 2002/2003 and so are of limited use at this stage. However, they provide base information to facilitate the monitoring of trends going forward. Fieldwork for the second Drug Prevalence Survey is currently in progress and will be completed in April 2007, with first reports becoming available in the autumn. This survey will give a clearer view of the prevalence and changing nature of drug misuse, including cannabis, in Ireland.
Charities Regulation.
Seán Ardagh
Ceist:81 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will provide the proposed charities regulatory authority with powers to facilitate and advise charitable organisations in relation to their compliance with the proposed charities regulation legislation; the expected date of publication of the Charities Regulation Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42643/06]
The General Scheme for the Charities Regulation Bill is available on my Department's website at http://www.pobail.ie/en/ Charities Regulation/HeadsofBill/.
The General Scheme provides that the proposed new Regulatory Authority will have the power to encourage, facilitate and monitor compliance with the forthcoming Act. Encouragement and facilitation of compliance may include the provision of information such as guidance notes or best practice guidelines, or any such information as the Authority considers appropriate, to encourage and facilitate the better administration and conduct of charities in the new regulatory framework.
It is anticipated that the Charities Regulation Bill, which is currently being drafted, will be published in early 2007.
Foclóir Béarla-Gaeilge.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:82 D’fhiafraigh Mr. M. Higgins den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta cén dul chun cinn ata déanta leis an bhFoclóir Béarla-Gaeilge; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42859/06]
Tuigim ó Fhoras na Gaeilge go bhfuil céimeanna glactha acu chun Bainisteoir Tionscadail agus Eagarthóir Foclóireachta a fhostú le Céim a Dó den tionscadal foclóra a bhogadh ar aghaidh. Fógraíodh an post i mí Dheireadh Fómhair agus bhí na hagallaimh ann ar 6 Nollaig. Táthar ag dul i dteagmháil leis an iarrthóir rathúil faoi láthair agus beifear ag súil leis an gceapachán a dhéanamh go luath san athbhliain. Is faoin mBainisteoir Tionscadail a bheidh sé an comórtas tairisceana le haghaidh Chéim a Dó a eagrú agus a reáchtáil, conraitheóir(í) oiriúnacha a aimsiú agus an obair a chur sa tsiúl thar ceann Fhoras na Gaeilge.
Rural Development.
John Carty
Ceist:83 Mr. Carty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the supports that have been provided from his Department’s vote to Ireland West Airport, Knock since 2002; the role these have played in fulfilling the rural development objectives of his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42646/06]
Funding to Ireland West Airport Knock (IWAK) has been provided through the Western Investment Fund (WIF) and the CLÁR Programme. The WIF is a key element of the Western Development Commission's strategy for accelerating the economic and social development of the Western Region. The Fund aims to target flagship projects and initiatives with the potential to have a major impact on the region and to accelerate the development of small and medium sized enterprises in the region.
To date, €2,317,000 has been invested in IWAK through the WIF, in three tranches:
In December 2003, €317,000 was provided for working capital purposes to enable the airport to develop its master plan and strengthen its management team;
In December 2005, €1,000,000 was provided for capital purposes to enable the airport to realise its business plan goals; and
In September 2006, €1,000,000 was provided for the acquisition of land for a business park development.
In terms of the CLÁR Programme, funding of €353,400 was provided to IWAK in 2003 for the upgrade of the car park facilities at the Airport. In 2005, further funding of €1,006,500 was approved for the purchase of two fire tenders at IWAK.
I am happy that the funding provided to IWAK is helping to fulfil the rural development objectives of my Department, as well as contributing to the continued safe and smooth operation of Airport. IWAK is a growing international airport with an opportunity to provide a stimulus for economic activity in the Western region. International air access supports and facilitates growth in tourism, in foreign direct investment as well as supporting indigenous enterprise. It also helps to achieve better regional development, which is one of the key aims of my Department.
Overall, therefore, I strongly support the on-going investment in IWAK which is a major boost for both local business interests and tourism and also for the general economic development of the West.
Drug Use.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:84 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on the recent 2006 annual report of the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction; his views on its finding that drugs in Europe are at their cheapest for five years and are probably cheaper than ever before; his further views on the levels of drug use here that are instanced in the report, particularly in relation to cocaine use among young urban males; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42841/06]
I welcome the European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) annual report for 2006 as it provides us with a contextual framework through which to examine our experience of problem drug use from an overall European perspective.
Any finding that drugs are at their cheapest for five years, and are probably cheaper than ever before, serves to emphasise the scale of the challenge we face in dealing with the global problems of illicit drugs. Having said that, and as the report points out, data on street prices is difficult to collect and to interpret as there is considerable potential for variation due to purity, quantity and variety of substance bought. I would also point out that data from Ireland was not included in that part of survey.
The prevalence statistics for Ireland used in the report arise from the 2002/2003 Drug Prevalence Survey and so the information has been available for some time.
The figures for the broad category of psycho-stimulants (amphetamine, cocaine, ecstasy) indicate that, while lifetime prevalence among young adults (15-34 years) for ecstasy was significantly higher than for cocaine, there was little difference between the last year prevalence rates, while the last month rates showed cocaine slightly ahead of ecstasy. These figures would suggest an increasing preference for cocaine.
I have been aware for some time of the anecdotal evidence of increased cocaine prevalence and, for this reason, last year I asked the National Advisory Committee on Drugs and the National Drugs Strategy Team to prepare a Briefing Paper on cocaine. This Paper was presented at the last Inter-Departmental Group on Drugs (IDG) meeting in September 2006 and the matters arising from it will be followed up further at the next IDG meeting, which is being held tomorrow.
The second Drug Prevalence Survey, which will provide much information on the extent of the illicit drugs problem and the trends emerging, is now in progress and first reports from this will become available in autumn 2007.
National Drugs Strategy.
Damien English
Ceist:85 Mr. English asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the working group on the rehabilitation tier of the national drugs strategy has completed its report; when the report will be published and acted upon by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42874/06]
The Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation is nearing the completion of its work and it is expected that their report will be finalised before the end of the year. Arrangements will then be made for its publication.
The Group has taken a holistic view of rehabilitation and, while recognising the importance of clients being activated and prepared to fulfil their role in the effort towards rehabilitation, sees the empowering of recovering problem drug users, so that they can re-engage with society in a manner consistent with their needs and expectations, as a key aim of the process.
Some of the key recommendations of the Group are likely to focus on ensuring that Actions 47, 48 and 50 of the National Drug Strategy are met. These Actions largely relate to providing a continuum of care for clients through planned progression paths for each problem drug user, while ensuring that quality standards are achieved in the services provided. The Group is also likely to deal with wider supports needed by recovering problem drug users in areas such as involvement in community employment schemes, educational supports and support with progression to employment, housing and childcare, while recognising the need to involve the families of problem drug users in the process.
The implementation of the report, which will involve several Departments and Agencies, will be considered on its completion and it is envisaged that progress in that regard will be made in 2007.
Community Development.
Liz McManus
Ceist:86 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the local authority areas and Gaeltachta where unified structures have not been fully agreed in regard to local and community development agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42853/06]
At this stage, 24 of the local authority areas and na Gaeltachtaí have fully agreed the unified structures which will cover their areas. I have provided €3,373,527 in 2005 and €4,168,362 in 2006 to support groups in implementing their agreed cohesion plans. I have also provided €1,975,488 in support of volunteering across most local authority areas.
The final arrangements have not been fully agreed in the following local authority areas: Co. Cork; South Tipperary; Co. Kilkenny; Co. Roscommon, Co. Leitrim, Co. Mayo, Co. Cavan, Co. Monaghan, Co. Galway and Fingal. Consultations are ongoing and I expect to be in a position to make a decision on these areas in the coming weeks.
Question No. 87 answered with QuestionNo. 69.
Question No. 88 answered with QuestionNo. 44.
Question No. 89 answered with QuestionNo. 78.
Suicide Incidence.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:90 Ms Lynch asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to recent comments from the secretary of the Irish Association of Suicidology that drug taking is a key factor in the rising rate of suicide among young women; his views on increasing funding to allow for an education campaign targeted at young women about the dangers of the drug culture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42839/06]
I am aware of comments of the Irish Association of Suicidology that binge drinking in particular, and illicit drug taking, are factors in the rising rate of suicide among young women. While dealing with suicide is a matter for the Health Services Executive in the first instance, tackling the issue of illicit substance misuse among young people is a key element of the National Drugs Strategy 2001/08.
Under the Strategy, a number of preventative measures have been put in place to address the issue of substance misuse among children, teenagers and young adults. In respect of the education sector, the main focus of the National Drugs Strategy is on preventative strategies around the misuse of all substances. Thus programmes have been developed targeting the primary and secondary school levels, as well as the informal education sector. All schools now have substance misuse prevention programmes, namely the Walk Tall programme and the Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) programme, included on their curricula. As a consequence of this, all students are being equipped with knowledge about the dangers of substance misuse.
In my own Department, under the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund, over €1.5 million has been allocated to a number of the major youth organisations to recruit Drugs Education Officers, or to put drugs education programmes in place. The aim of the Young Peoples Facilities and Services Fund is to divert young people who are in danger of misusing drugs away from that path. To date, over €107 million has been allocated under the Fund to approximately 460 facility and services projects employing approximately 325 people.
A series of awareness campaigns, focused particularly on young people and their parents, was undertaken in the three-year period from May 2003 to
raise awareness about drugs among the general population;
empower parents to facilitate more open communication with their children;
address the issue of cocaine in the 15-34 age group; and
address the issue of cannabis in the 13-17 age group.
I am open to considering the issue of further such campaigns in association with the Health Service Executive, which is primarily responsible for such initiatives, and, as stated previously, for the issue of suicide.
Question No. 91 answered with QuestionNo. 45.
Community Development.
Ivor Callely
Ceist:92 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures in place and the measures under consideration to assist in financial supports and grants available for community development projects; the criteria of the funding schemes for the voluntary sector and community schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42801/06]
As the Deputy will be aware my Department administers and delivers a wide range of programmes and measures targeted at community development, both local and national. For details regarding these programmes and measures and the criteria for funding, I would refer the Deputy to the information on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.
If the Deputy has a specific question in relation to any scheme or programme, I will be happy to assist him. The schemes and programmes are developed and refined to meet new or changing needs as required and, again, if the Deputy has a specific concern in this regard, I will be happy to assist him.
The following is a summary of the main increases in funding for my Department's schemes and programmes relevant to the Deputy's question as provided in the recently published Abridged Estimates Volume for 2007.
Extracts from statements on the Estimates
Community Development:
In line with Towards 2016, an extra €25m has been provided in additional support for the Community and Voluntary Sector in 2007 this represents an 8% increase for community affairs in the 2007 estimates.
€25m for the Community and Voluntary Sector in 2007.
Highlights of the extra funding are:
the provision of €5m for Volunteering,
€10m under the new Partnership Programme for supports for the Community & Voluntary Sector
an increase in the Community Services Programme of €10m on top of the extra €5m already provided in 2006.
The Community Services Programme provides employment and vital services to communities throughout the country. This €10m is part of an increase agreed in the Partnership talks, which will see this programme expand from its expenditure of €37m in 2006 to €72m at today's costs in 2009.
LDSIP goes nationwide:
A major part of the Government policy has been the extension of the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme nationwide and a further €7m has been provided for this purpose, bringing the total funding for this programme to be delivered through integrated local development agencies (incorporating Partnership companies) next year to €81.5m.
Drugs:
The Government are also continuing to provide increased funding for the Drugs Programme. The funding provided for the Drugs Initiative — Young People's Facilities and Services Fund in 2007 is over €43m which maintains the 36% increase on the 2005 estimate and is a dramatic increase on the €14m allocated in 2002.
RAPID:
Continued funding has also been made available for the RAPID programme with the Leverage Fund, (for small capital projects in RAPID areas), now becoming an established part of the estimates process. The allocation for the Leverage schemes has increased from €5.8m in 2004 when the schemes were introduced to €9.3m in 2007
€43m for the Rural Social Scheme:
Continued commitment to the Rural Social Scheme, which will involve an expenditure of over €43m in 2007. There are at present 2,600 people on the Rural Social Scheme and it is providing a range of comprehensive services in rural areas.
€20m for CLÁR:
€20m for the CLÁR programme under this programme for the development of areas that have sustained continuous loss in population since the foundation of the State. The €20m provided for, allied to funds it leverages from other Departments and agencies, will ensure €50m approximately of investment in basic infrastructure in CLÁR areas including roads, water, community facilities, 3-phase electricity etc.
€31m for LEADER:
€26m has been provided for the LEADER 2000-2006 programme. The bulk of this money is being provided for the payment of outstanding claims, and it includes €6m for new actions under the current programme.
A further €5m has also been provided for the LEADER Rural Economy Sub-Programme 2007-2013 for the initial phases of this programme. This programme will be three times larger than the current programme and it is hoped to have it in operation in the Spring or early Summer of 2007. As is understandable, the lead-in time between first approval and payments is considerable with any of these programmes and the bulk of the expenditure under the LEADER Rural Economy Programme 2007-2013 will incur in later years of the programme.
13% Increase in Current Funding for the Western Development Commission:
There is also provision in the Estimates for a 13% increase in current funding for the Western Development Commission and a further €4m being invested in the Western Investment Fund.
18% increase for Social and Cultural Schemes in the Gaeltacht:
The funding available for 2007 for social and cultural schemes in the Gaeltacht has been increased by 18%. This provision has increased from €8.35m in 2006 to €9.85m in 2007. Payments are made to ‘mná tí' under Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge from this fund. This fund also provides for language planning, various cultural schemes, language assistants and third level education in the Gaeltacht.
27% increase in Údarás na Gaeltachta's current expenditure fund for Gaeltacht projects:
Údarás na Gaeltachta's current expenditure fund for Gaeltacht initiatives is to be increased by €1m (27%). This fund provides for payments to co-operatives, community based organisations, youth clubs and other cultural services throughout the Gaeltacht.
€50m of capital funding for the Irish Language, the Gaeltacht and Islands:
Almost €50m of capital funding, i.e. funding invested in piers, roads, island infrastructure, village enhancement and Údarás na Gaeltachta's capital provision, has been provided for 2007.
Irish Language.
Joan Burton
Ceist:93 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the details of the new Irish language scheme agreed with the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland under Section 11 of the Official Languages Act 2003; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42851/06]
The first language scheme of the Central Bank and the Financial Services Authority of Ireland, under section 11 of the Official Languages Act 2003, was recently confirmed by me. The scheme commenced on the 1 December 2006 and, as is provided for in the Act, is effective for a 3 year period from that date or until a new scheme has been confirmed, pursuant to section 15 of the Act, whichever is the earlier.
The scheme has been published and is available on the website of the Coimisinéir Teanga at www.coimisineir.ie.
Departmental Programmes.
Máire Hoctor
Ceist:94 Ms Hoctor asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the areas of County Tipperary included in the 2006 extension of the CLÁR programme; the measures and schemes that have benefited those areas to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42636/06]
Under the CLÁR Programme, County Tipperary is divided into North Tipperary and South Tipperary. Prior to the extension of the Programme in April 2006, there were 13 district electoral divisions (DEDs) covered in North Tipperary and 3 DEDs in South Tipperary. Following the extension of the Programme, the number of DEDs covered rose to 42 in North Tipperary and 42 in South Tipperary.
The measures that are currently open to the extended CLÁR areas are as follows:
Local Improvement Scheme Roads;
Flashing Amber Safety Lights at Schools;
Small Public Water & Sewerage Schemes;
Group Water Schemes;
Group Sewerage Schemes;
Water Conservation Measure;
Village and Countryside Enhancement Scheme;
Bi-lingual Signage Scheme;
Gaeltacht Grants Top-up;
Single to Three phase Electricity Conversion; and
Community Initiatives of a Capital Nature.
The following tables illustrate the measures under which County Tipperary has benefited in 2006.
|
Measure |
Amount Approved in 2006 |
Total Paid in 2006 (can relate to approvals from 2002 onwards) |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
LIS Roads (old and new areas) |
72,808.00 |
72,808.00 |
|
Class II &III Roads (old areas only) |
34,722.00 |
21,053.00 |
|
Flashing Lights (old and new areas) |
98,000.00 |
26,280.44 |
|
Sports Top-up Sports Capital Grant (old areas only) |
5,000.00 |
10,000.00 |
|
Schools (old and new areas) |
11,250.00 |
15,000.00 |
|
Village Enhancement (old and new) |
Nil |
10,175.00 |
|
Measure |
Amount Approved in 2006 |
Total Paid in 2006 (can relate to approvals from 2002 onwards) |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
LIS Roads (old and new areas) |
41,004.00 |
37,962.00 |
|
Class II &III Roads (old areas only) |
15,000.00 |
15,000.00 |
|
Flashing Lights (old and new areas) |
133,000.00 |
94,518.00 |
|
Sports Top-up Sports Capital Grant (old areas only) |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Schools (old and new areas) |
33,192.50 |
13,725.00 |
|
Village Enhancement (old and new areas) |
Nil |
Nil |
Inland Waterways.
Niall Blaney
Ceist:95 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on recent comments on restoring the Ulster Canal; the progress made to date on this project by Waterways Ireland; the benefits it will have for North-South development and co-operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42669/06]
I wish to advise the Deputy that Waterways Ireland have produced a number of studies and reports in recent years on the possible restoration of the Ulster Canal. The latest reports were published in February 2006 and were welcomed by the then Minister for Culture, Arts and Leisure in Northern Ireland, David Hanson, M.P., and myself at our meeting last March. We noted the potential these reports give for the canal to be developed and for boosting its social and economic potential.
Subsequently, further work has been carried out in relation to the restoration and re-opening of the stretch of the Ulster Canal from Lough Erne to Clones, including proposals put forward by our Government. In light of this and in line with the Taoiseach's recent announcement, my Department and the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure are now taking forward further work on these proposals.
National Drugs Strategy.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:96 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the measures he has taken to advance the roll out of confidential anti-drug dealing phone lines in local drug task force areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42875/06]
Following on from the evaluation of the confidential anti-drug dealing phone line established by Blanchardstown Local Drugs Task Force with funding provided by my Department, the Steering Group of the project proposed, as one of a number of recommendations, that the campaign be piloted nationwide. The recommendations arising are being considered by the National Drugs Strategy Team and on receipt of their views I will consider the matter further.
In considering the issue going forward I will be particularly interested in the views of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and An Garda Síochána. It may be the case that initiatives such as this have maximum impact when strongly targeted at specific local areas for defined short periods, rather than being rolled out generally with no specific time frame.
Teorainn na Gaeltachta.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:97 D’fhiafraigh Mr. M. Higgins den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil an tuarascáil faighte aige go fóill i leith theorainn na Gaeltachta; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42860/06]
Dírím aird an Teachta ar an bhfreagra a thug mé ar Cheist Uimh. 366 den 28 Samhain 2006. Tá an dréacht-thuarascáil fós á meas ag an gcoiste stiúrtha agus bheinn ag súil leis go gcuirfear os mo chomhair í san athbhliain.
Question No. 98 answered with QuestionNo. 67.
Question No. 99 answered with QuestionNo. 55.
Contaminated Heroin.
Joe Costello
Ceist:100 Mr. Costello asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on reports that cheaper, less pure heroin imported illegally from Afghanistan is currently widely for sale in towns and cities here; if his attention has been drawn to the danger this poses and the possible link between this contaminated heroin and the recent deaths of a number of heroin users in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42838/06]
I am fully aware of the dangers posed if cheaper and either less pure or more pure heroin is available for sale in Ireland, but, as yet, there is no clear evidence that this is the case.
I acknowledge with regret the recent tragic deaths of a number of heroin users in Dublin. However, toxicology reports are still awaited and Garda and HSE investigations are ongoing. No links have yet been established between these deaths and contaminated heroin, or heroin of different purity to the norm.
Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla.
Trevor Sargent
Ceist:101 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Sargent den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil sé sásta na Rialacháin um Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 (Alt 9) 2006 a leasú maidir le síneacha tráchta, fógraíocht, lógónna, gnó lasmuigh den stát agus comharthaí reatha mar atá molta ag Conradh na Gaeilge. [42910/06]
Mar atá curtha in iúl agam don Teach cheana, tá na rialacháin seo foilsithe agus leagtha os comhair gach Tí den Oireachtas agam i bhfoirm dréachta. Rinne mé é seo le deis a thabhairt do Theachtaí agus do Sheanadóirí na dréacht-rialacháin a phlé agus leasuithe a mholadh, dá mba mhian leo, sula síneoinn iad.
Bhí deis agam na dréacht-rialacháin a phlé os comhair an Chomhchoiste do na hEalaíona, Spóirt, Turasóireacht, Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta ar 29 Samhain 2006 agus arís inniu. Mar a thug mé le fios don Chomhchoiste inniu, bhí an díospóireacht ar na dréacht-rialacháin thar a bheith fiúntach agus fáiltím roimh an ionchur a rinneadh. Tá i gceist agam machnamh a dhéanamh ar na pointí éagsúla atá déanta agus tá rún agam ráiteas eile a dhéanamh maidir leis na dréacht-rialacháin amach anseo.
National Drugs Strategy.
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:102 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on a new study from the National Advisory Committee on Drugs that states that though there have been improvements in the drugs situation in Dublin, certain communities are still frightened and at risk of being overwhelmed by their drugs experience; if he will respond to their recommendation that a new set of indicators to identify emerging drug problems earlier in order that they can be tackled more quickly should be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42840/06]
I welcome the report ‘A Community Drugs Study: Developing Community Indicators for Problem Drug Use' as a contribution to the development of an appropriate set of community indicators that would reflect the changes in communities' experience of drug related issues. The study related to issues raised in 2004 and to services provided in 1996–2002. Further significant investment has been made by the Government since then, resulting in much increased service provision.
The aim of the report was to garner the experiences of three communities, Bray, Crumlin and Ballymun, with respect to drugs issues and to derive proposals from this regarding indicators that, if developed, might facilitate the better monitoring of changes in drug issues in communities.
Within the communities researched, it was heartening to see that so many improvements had been achieved, even at that stage, in regard to the expansion of drug treatment services, school leaving age, reduction in crime and improved employment figures over the period researched. Having said that, the report also outlines concerns and fears within the communities regarding changing patterns in drug use, binge drinking, anti-social behaviour and violent drug related crime.
The development of appropriate indicators is a difficult task and the National Advisory Committee on Drugs (NACD) is currently exploring with the relevant Departments and Agencies the issues involved, from both a quantitative and a qualitative perspective, in developing such indicators and in establishing the extent to which these indicators would provide more timely and useful information than is already garnered through the consultative processes utilised through the National Drugs Strategy Framework.
Question No. 103 answered with QuestionNo. 42.
Countryside Access.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:104 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made in relation to opening up the rural countryside to walkers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42877/06]
The Deputy may wish to refer to the priority question No. 40, which I answered earlier this afternoon. In order to achieve its work programme, Comhairle na Tuaithe established separate working groups, which reported regularly to the full Comhairle, to address the three specific areas of its mandate. The group that worked on the issue of access to the countryside, was chaired by my Department and comprised a representative of;
Comhar LEADER na hÉireann
Fáilte Ireland
the Irish Cattle and Sheep Farmers Association,
the Irish Farmers Association
Keep Ireland Open and
the Mountaineering Council of Ireland
Through discussion, debate and co-operation they agreed a set of access parameters which Comhairle na Tuaithe formally endorsed and which it believes will act as a basis for conflict prevention and integrate a variety of needs and responsibilities.
In its recent work on the formulation of the National Countryside Recreation these access parameters helped inform Comhairle na Tuaithe's discussion around the issue of access. In its report on the strategy it made the following recommendations:
That the Attorney General be requested to examine restating and/or reflecting in legislation the current common law position in relation to the protection of landowners' property rights where recreational access is allowed on their land.
That the Law Reform Commission be requested to make recommendations on the broader issues of access to the countryside for recreational users focussing on the constitutional and legal position pertaining in Ireland.
Comhairle na Tuaithe considered that no cost burden or liability, within the meaning of the Occupiers Liability Act, 1995, should attach to farmers/landowners as a result of allowing recreational users on their land.
Comhairle na Tuaithe also recognised that farming organisations would continue to pursue direct compensation for access to land by recreational users of the countryside.
I am concerned to ensure that these issues are addressed as a matter of priority, so to expedite matters I am establishing an expert group, comprising a Senior Counsel and officials from the Office of the Attorney General, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and my own Department to urgently advise on tackling each of the legal issues raised. I will be asking them to consider each of the recommendations and to report back to me by 30 April 2007.
The Group is made up as follows:
Chairperson: Mr. Roger Kenny, Barrister
Mr. Damien Moloney, Advisory Counsel, Office of the Attorney General
Mr. Seamus Carroll, Principal, Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform and an officer from my Department.
My Department is also actively pursuing the possibility of using former railway infrastructure as recreational trails for cycling etc. with the Department of Transport and Iarnród Éireann.
The Deputy will be aware that last year Comhairle na Tuaithe agreed the key features necessary for countryside code development with a focus on the potential application of the internationally-recognised Leave No Trace initiative. A branch of Leave No Trace has recently been established in Ireland and I am pleased to announce that my Department will be supporting that organisation by allocating €30,000 towards the employment of a Strategic Co-ordinator. The Co-ordinator will be involved in actively promoting the Leave No Trace message among the many countryside recreation groups around the country.
Fáilte Ireland has already identified a selection of looped walks which it has publicised in its brochure — Walking Ireland — and on its website. My Department in consultation with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, Fáilte Ireland, Comhar LEADER na hÉireann and the National Waymarked Ways Advisory Committee are identifying further looped walks and waymarked ways for development. Details will be made available over the coming weeks and months of the work required to bring these up to the best international standards. I have set aside a further €1.5 million for this purpose.
I have reached agreement with Fáilte Ireland for the employment of up to 10 Walk Managers under the Community Services Programme to promote walking tourism in areas where there are clusters of suitable, accessible walks.
Programme for Peace and Reconciliation.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:105 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason funding in 2007 to the Programme for Peace and Reconciliation has been cut by 55%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42870/06]
I wish to advise the Deputy that the existing Programme for Peace and Reconciliation is drawing to a close over the next two years. Accordingly, it is expected that next year's funding demands for projects under this Programme will be significantly reduced. The AEV allocation to fund the Programme was considered in the context of the overall allocation for the Vote and, as with all spending programmes, expenditure will be kept under review by my Department during 2007.
I can assure the Deputy that spending commitments certified in 2007 for projects arising under the Programme will be honoured.
Irish Language.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:106 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the findings of the linguistic study of Irish usage in the Gaeltacht areas presented to his Department; the recommendations contained in this report; when these will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42868/06]
As I indicated in reply to a similar Question from the Deputy on 28 November 2006, the report in question is currently being studied by the project steering committee. I expect that the report will be submitted to me in the New Year.
National Drugs Initiative.
Joan Burton
Ceist:107 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his attention has been drawn to a new drugs initiative launched in Blanchardstown, West Dublin, that aims to limit the harmful effects of drugs such as cocaine, cannabis and ecstasy among regular users; if such an initiative is a model for other communities here where drug use is a major or emerging problem; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42848/06]
I recently received a copy of the report "Harm Reduction Strategies and Young People in Blanchardstown" prepared by the Blanchardstown Local Drug Task Force, which was launched by my colleague, the Minister of State at the Department of Health & Children, while opening the Blanchardstown Drug Awareness week in November.
The report proposes the use of harm reduction messages to young people at risk of polydrug use in the Blanchardstown area. It then envisages building on existing services through developing a range of harm reduction measures and programmes, in conjunction with appropriate drug services and youth services, to minimise the negative consequences of drug use for the individual, the family and the community.
Funding of €60,000 for the provision of an education service to assist the implementation of the harm reduction strategy, building on existing preventative services, has been provided by my Department under the Emerging Needs Fund, bringing the total provided to Blanchardstown LDTF under that Fund to €244,000.
As the Deputy is aware, the National Drugs Strategy is based on a "bottom up" approach with Drug Task Forces, both Local and Regional, developing programmes of actions appropriate to their own areas of operation. The rollout of an initiative such as the harm reduction strategy in Blanchardstown to other areas would depend on the degree of success of the initiative and whether other Drug Task Forces consider it to be an appropriate response to their problems regarding illicit drugs. This can only be determined after the strategy has been implemented and subsequently evaluated.
Renewable Energy.
Ciarán Cuffe
Ceist:108 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his views on whether it is pivotal to include specific renewable energy enterprise measures and targets in the list of sectoral niches that could address the issue of sustainable employment in rural areas as outlined in the draft Rural Development Plan 2007 to 2013. [42912/06]
Rural Ireland is particularly vulnerable to over-reliance on non-renewable energy sources because of the low density of the rural population and extended transport systems. The challenge, therefore, will be to increase natural resource usage for energy production. Renewable energy production can create economically and environmentally sustainable enterprises and play an important role in the provision of employment in the coming years.
More specifically, initiatives at local level with regard to adapting new technologies can provide a meaningful contribution in securing energy supplies to rural communities. The main focus on renewable energy initiatives under the Rural Economy heading of the National Rural Development Programme, running from 2007 to 2013, will be on the development and adaptation of indigenous local natural resources to provide energy sources and options to local rural communities. The Leader methodology can play a significant role in this regard through the development of local awareness of the benefits of renewable energy — both to communities and to supporting small scale enterprises.
Some funding will be available through local Leader partnerships to support analysis of local needs, matching these with the availability of renewable energy resources and providing some capital assistance to suitable community and enterprise-based projects.
Question No. 109 answered with QuestionNo. 47.
Western Rail Corridor.
Jimmy Devins
Ceist:110 Dr. Devins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the funding provided by his Department for the preservation of the right of way of the western rail corridor from Claremorris, County Mayo to Collooney, County Sligo; and the progress made on the project to date. [42624/06]
An amount of €5m is being provided by my Department under the CLÁR Programme towards the development of the Western Rail Corridor. The funding is being provided towards essential clearance and preservation site works on the unused railway line between Claremorris and Collooney.
The purpose of this work, which commenced in September last, is to re-establish the boundaries, prevent further deterioration of the line section and prevent any development that may otherwise impinge on the proposed detailed works required for the eventual reopening of the line. Specifically, the works include fencing, hedge cutting, renewal of level crossing gates as well as the provision of some essential drainage, removal of ivy and overgrowth from bridges and the provision of mile posts.
I understand from Iarnród Éireann that almost 50 miles of the corridor have been cleared to date. I am happy that progress on the remaining part of the line is proceeding as planned and is in line with the budget and timescale set out initially.
Dublin-Monaghan Bombings.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:111 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Taoiseach the situation regarding the delays in the McEntee Report. [43014/06]
At the request of the Sole Member of the Commission of Investigation into the Dublin and Monaghan Bombings, Mr. Patrick MacEntee SC QC, I have granted a further extension of the timeframe for completion of the Commission of Investigation's report to 14 February, 2007.
On each occasion, that the timeframe has been extended, Mr. MacEntee has written to me and provided an interim report, as required by law. Those interim reports have set out progress in his work and have also outlined the reasons he has needed more time to complete it.
On this occasion, additional time is required to allow Mr. MacEntee to pursue additional evidence and other material which has been disclosed to the Commission at a late stage.
I have published each of the interim reports. The most recent interim report was published on 12 December, 2006.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:112 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43231/06]
The amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to end of November 2006 is as follows:
|
Year |
Expenditure |
|
€ |
|
|
1997 |
328,825 |
|
1998 |
637,336 |
|
1999 |
149,811 |
|
2000 |
304,012 |
|
2001 |
779,673 |
|
2002 |
771,098 |
|
2003 |
313,694 |
|
2004 |
435,861 |
|
2005 |
147,155 |
|
2006 (to end November) |
48,576 |
These consultancies in the main related to the modernisation of the Civil Service, both as it relates to my Department and across the Civil Service generally. These included for example Employee and Customer Surveys, Regulatory Reform initiatives etc.
Consultants were also engaged to deal with aspects of Ireland's Presidency of the EU in 2004, as well as to provide expertise and advice on matters relating to the successful implementation of Social Partnership Agreements.
Every effort is made by my Department to minimise expenditure on Consultancy Services. However, where it is necessary to engage consultants in order to avail of their particular expertise or experience, the procurement of consultancy services is subject to tendering procedures as laid down in Public Procurement Guidelines and, where applicable, EU procurement rules and guidelines.
The procurement of consultancy services in my Department is subject to Public Procurement Guidelines from the Department of Finance as set out in "Guidelines for Engagement of Consultants in the Civil Service — 1999". Procurement of outside expertise in the public relations field is also subject to Public Procurement Guidelines as set out in the 2004 Department of Finance publication "Public Procurement Guidelines — Competitive Process", which replaced the previous Department of Finance guidance entitled "Public Procurement — 1994 Edition (Green Book)". In addition, the procurement of these services is also subject to applicable EU Procurement rules and guidelines. There are also additional guidelines agreed by Government specifically for PR and communication type consultancies which are now incorporated into the Cabinet Handbook.
The application of these guidelines requires that appropriate competitive procurement procedures are carried out in order to select the best service available, taking account of a number of important criteria including cost, the ability to undertake the work required and other relevant criteria, which may vary from project to project. This is an objective process, which results in selection of a provider, which should provide good value for money.
Every effort is also made to reduce the cost of consultancy by providing, where possible, any administrative or other support from existing resources within the Department. It is also our policy that skills-transfer from consultants to Departmental staff takes place as an integral part of all consultancy engagements. The purpose of this is to increase the knowledge and expertise of Departmental staff and to reduce and, if possible, eliminate future dependance on consultants in the areas concerned.
There are a number of safeguards in place which give assurance that value for money is obtained. These include:
Competitive selection processes in accordance with the Guidelines for engagement of consultants, which ensure that the most economically advantageous proposal is selected;
Monitoring of the work of consultants on a regular basis throughout the engagement and the use of appropriate project management techniques to ensure that the work is proceeding according to schedule;
Placing of Department staff to work on project teams alongside consultants to benefit from skills transfer;
Payment of fees according to the achievement of pre-agreed milestones; and
Approval of expenditure on consultancy projects at the appropriate level depending on the scale and nature of each engagement.
I am satisfied that these guidelines and procedures are followed in my Department and are fully reflected in the Department's internal procedures including the training provided to relevant staff.
I consider that the relatively small provision made for consultancy services in my Department's Vote is necessary and appropriate for the effective discharge of its functions.
Departmental Staff.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:113 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the number of staff in the Office of the Attorney General with a breakdown of the number of barristers, solicitors and non-lawyers. [43237/06]
Currently there are 117 staff (from an authorised complement of 120) in the Office of the Attorney General, which includes the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel to the Government. Of these, 44 are barristers and 11 are solicitors.
Crime Statistics.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:114 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will furnish the crime statistics for the Clonakilty Garda District for the years 2000 to 2005 respectively in view of the fact that such statistics are not separately contained in the Garda Annual report. [42969/06]
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:129 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will furnish the crime statistics for the Bandon Garda district for the years 2000 to 2005 respectively in view of the fact that such statistics are not separately contained in the Garda Annual Reports. [43234/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 114 and 129 together.
Headline crime statistics for the years 2000 to 2005 for the Garda Division of Cork West, which includes the Garda Districts of Bandon and Clonakilty, are contained in the relevant Garda Annual Reports, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library.
Headline crime statistics have not yet been published in the manner requested by the Deputy.
Following the submission to me in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, I decided that the compilation, production and publication of crime statistics should be taken over by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, from the Garda Síochána. The Garda Síochána Act, 2005 consequently makes provision for this and the CSO established a dedicated Unit for this purpose. Following the setting up of the necessary technical systems and auditing of the data from which the statistics are compiled, I am pleased to note that the CSO are now compiling and publishing criminal statistics and have published the figures for the third quarter of this year.
I understand that the CSO are examining how the crime statistics published might be expanded and made more comprehensive.
Citizenship Applications.
John McGuinness
Ceist:115 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 160 of 6 December 2006, if he will review this application and approve it based on the up to date information submitted by the applicant which clearly shows that they qualify; the timeframe for such a review and decision; and if he will expedite the matter. [43010/06]
An application for naturalisation from the person concerned was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in September 2004.
On examination of this application it was discovered that the applicant did not meet the statutory residency requirement of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956 as amended as he did not have 60 months residence in the State. Further enquiries have established that since April 2005 he has been granted permission to remain in the State for study purposes only. Under the above Act no period of residency may be taken into account where a non-national had permission to remain for the purpose of study whether or not such study necessitated the employment of the non-national during the whole or part of the period of study. The documentation submitted by him simply confirms his permission to remain is for study purposes only.
Courts Service.
Billy Kelleher
Ceist:116 Mr. Kelleher asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of District Court judges in each district from 1997 to date in 2006. [43011/06]
The District Court is composed of the Dublin Metropolitan District and 23 other Districts. The Minister may from time to time, after consultation with the President of the District Court, alter the number of judges permanently assigned to any District.
In 1997, the Dublin Metropolitan District had a complement of 14 permanently assigned judges. This was raised to 16 in 1998 and since 2004 it has been 18. In the case of the Cork District, the complement of permanently assigned judges was 2 in 1997 and since 2002 it has been 3. The practice is to permanently assign one judge each to the remaining Districts (i.e., Districts other than the Dublin Metropolitan District and Cork) and, accordingly, one judge has been assigned to each of the Districts in question throughout the period referred to by the Deputy. In addition, the President of the District Court may temporarily assign ‘moveable' District Court judges to any District as the need arises.
Citizenship Applications.
Pádraic McCormack
Ceist:117 Mr. McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; when a decision will be made on this application as the applicant has been resident in the State for seven years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43047/06]
I am pleased to inform you that I have approved this application and the Citizenship Division of my Department has written to the person, via their nominated Solicitor, requesting certain documentation and the prescribed fee. When the documentation and the fee is received, a certificate of naturalisation will issue to her.
Visa Applications.
Michael Noonan
Ceist:118 Mr. Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a holiday visa will be granted to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43077/06]
The application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Dublin Visa Office on 18th October, 2006. The decision of the Visa Officer to refuse the application was taken on 6th November, 2006.
It is open to the applicant to appeal the decision. Comprehensive guidelines on making an appeal can be found on my Department's website (www.justice.ie). All appeals must be made within two months of the initial refusal date.
Garda Deployment.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:119 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding Garda patrols and anti-social activity in the vicinity of a club (details supplied) in Dublin 3; and if he will work with the local residents on this matter. [43084/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that Gardaí from Raheny and Clontarf Garda stations police the area referred to. The Gardaí maintain regular contact with management of the premises referred to in order to address any public order issues which may arise. Additional Gardaí are deployed in this area, particularly at weekends, and when events are being held.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that current policing plans in the area are predicated on the prevention of anti-social and public order offences, the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of quality of life of the residents. Garda Units are directed to pay particular attention to areas where youths tend to congregate. This strategy will continue to be central to the delivery of a policing service to the area.
Liaison is being maintained between Gardaí and local residents and it is intended that An Garda Síochána will convene a meeting of relevant stakeholders in the near future to address all relevant issues arising in relation to the premises referred to.
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 provides for the establishment of a joint policing committee in each local authority administrative area. The purpose of these committees is to provide a forum where members of a local authority and the senior Garda officers responsible for the policing of that area, with the participation of Oireachtas members and community interests, can consult, discuss and make recommendations on matters affecting the policing of the area including the levels and patterns of anti-social behaviour such as the misuse of alcohol and drugs.
Garda Operations.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:120 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there are systems in place to counter foreign intelligence agencies infiltrating An Garda Síochána; and the number of incidents that have been dealt with over the past twenty years. [43085/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the Garda Síochána is aware of and vigilant to the potential risks of infiltration by non-national intelligence agencies and that appropriate measures are in place to counter such risks.
I am further informed that there have been no confirmed incidents of such infiltration in the period referred to by the Deputy.
Jack Wall
Ceist:121 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of arrests for drugs offences in the Carlow and Kildare division over the past five years; the number of successful prosecutions arising from theses arrests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43102/06]
I am informed by An Garda Síochána that the following table shows the statistics for arrests, proceedings commenced and convictions recorded for drug offences in Carlow/Kildare Garda Division for the years 2001 to 2005.
|
Year |
Arrests |
Proceedings Commenced |
Convictions |
|
2005 |
66 |
127 |
41 |
|
2004 |
60 |
102 |
29 |
|
2003 |
74 |
99 |
47 |
|
2002 |
78 |
94 |
31 |
|
2001* |
14 |
15 |
8 |
* Figures recorded during 2001 appear low due to the phased implementation of a new computer crime recording system. The first full year captured on the new system is in 2002.
Crime Levels.
Jack Wall
Ceist:122 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of assaults and burglaries committed in the Carlow and Kildare division over the past five years; the number of successful prosecutions arising from these crimes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43103/06]
The figures for the headline offences of assault and burglary in each Garda Division are available in the relevant Garda Annual Reports, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas library.
Garda Stations.
Jack Wall
Ceist:123 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans for a temporary Garda station in Monasterevin in view of the fact that the current station is closed for renovation and that the residents of Monasterevin have to travel the considerable distance to Rathangan or Kildare to conduct their business with the Gardaí; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43104/06]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 256 of 1st November, 2006. I understand from OPW that tender competitions relating to their proposals to determine the remedial works required to re-open the Station are nearing completion.
When proposals are received from the Board and examined by Garda Authorities, a decision can be taken on how best to proceed, including the provision of temporary accommodation, if appropriate.
Garda Deployment.
Jack Wall
Ceist:124 Mr. Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 432 of 16 May 2006, the number of additional Gardaí appointed to each of the stations in the Kildare and Carlow division over the past five years; the opening hours of each of these stations; the number of Gardaí in each station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43105/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength (all ranks) of the Carlow/Kildare Division as at 31 December, 1997 and as at 12 December, 2006 was 281 and 367 respectively. This represents an increase of 86 (or 30.6%) in the number of Garda personnel assigned to the Carlow/Kildare Division during that period.
The personnel strength of each Garda Station in the Carlow/Kildare Division as at 31 December, 2001 and as 12 December, 2006 was as set out in the following table:
|
Carlow/Kildare |
2001 |
12/12/06 |
+/- |
|
District: Naas |
|||
|
Naas |
76 |
91 |
+15 |
|
Celbridge |
19 |
20 |
+1 |
|
Clane |
6 |
7 |
+1 |
|
Kill |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Maynooth |
14 |
17 |
+3 |
|
District: Kildare |
|||
|
Kildare |
29 |
32 |
+3 |
|
Robertstown |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Kilcullen |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Monasterevin |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Newbridge |
30 |
32 |
+2 |
|
Rathangan |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Carbury |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District: Carlow |
|||
|
Carlow |
46 |
59 |
+13 |
|
Leighlinbridge |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballon |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Myshall |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Muinebheag |
7 |
7 |
|
|
Athy |
18 |
19 |
+1 |
|
Castledermot |
1 |
2 |
+1 |
|
District: Baltinglass |
|||
|
Baltinglass |
23 |
24 |
+1 |
|
Blessington |
14 |
18 |
+4 |
|
Dunlavin |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Hollywood |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Donard |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Shillelagh |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Tinahely |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Hacketstown |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Rathvilly |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballymore Eustace |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Tullow |
8 |
9 |
+1 |
|
Ballytore |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Total |
321 |
367 |
+46 |
I am further informed that the official opening hours of each Garda Station in the Carlow/ Kildare Division are as set out in the following table:
|
Stations |
Weekday Opening Hours |
Sunday Opening Hours |
|
Naas |
24 Hours |
24 Hours |
|
Celbridge |
10am-1pm 2pm-6pm 7pm-9pm |
12 Midday-2pm |
|
Clane |
10am-1pm |
12 Midday-2pm |
|
Kill |
10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Maynooth |
10am-1pm 2pm-6pm 7pm-9pm |
12 Midday-2pm |
|
Kildare |
24 Hour |
24 Hour |
|
Robertstown |
Mon, Thur & Sat 3pm-6pm Tue, Wed & Fri 10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Kilcullen |
Mon, Tue & Sat 3pm-6pm Tue, Wed & Fri 10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Monasterevin |
Mon, Thur & Sat 3pm-6pm Tue, Wed & Fri 10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Newbridge |
24 Hour |
24 Hour |
|
Rathangan |
Mon, Thur & Sat 3pm-6pm Tue, Wed & Fri 10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Carbury |
Mon, Thur & Sat 3pm-6pm Tue, Wed & Fri 10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Carlow |
24 Hour |
24 Hour |
|
Leighlinbridge |
10am-1pm |
10am-1pm |
|
Ballon |
6pm-7.30pm |
6pm-7.30pm |
|
Myshall |
10am-1pm |
10am-1pm |
|
Muinebheag |
10am-1pm 6pm-8pm |
10am-1pm 6pm-8pm |
|
Athy |
9am-10pm |
9am-10pm |
|
Castledermot |
10am-1pm |
Not Open |
|
Baltinglass |
24 Hour |
24 Hour |
|
Blessington |
10am-1pm |
11am-1pm |
|
Dunlavin |
3pm-5pm |
3pm-5pm |
|
Hollywood |
8pm-10pm |
8pm-10pm |
|
Donard |
11am-1pm |
11am-1pm |
|
Shillelagh |
3pm-5pm |
3pm-5pm |
|
Tinahely |
3pm-5pm |
3pm-5pm |
|
Hacketstown |
11am-1pm |
11am-1pm |
|
Rathvilly |
11am-1pm |
11am-1pm |
|
Ballymore Eustace |
2pm-4pm |
Not Open |
|
Tullow |
10am-1pm |
11am-1pm |
|
Ballytore |
3pm-5pm |
Not Open |
Garda Management state that the opening hours as set out in the table are dependent on the availability and rostered tour of duty of the members attached to each station.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:125 Mr. Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an area (details supplied) in County Longford will have a full time Garda presence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43146/06]
Paul McGrath
Ceist:131 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda squad cars based at Ballymahon Garda Station, County Longford. [43316/06]
Paul McGrath
Ceist:132 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm that Ballymahon Garda Station, County Longford has been downgraded and that normal Garda business for this station is handled from Athlone. [43317/06]
Paul McGrath
Ceist:133 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and rank of Gardaí stationed at Ballymahon Garda Station in County Longford each year for each of the past 10 years. [43318/06]
Paul McGrath
Ceist:134 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm that Ballymahon Garda Station, County Longford has very limited opening hours and that Gardaí attached to this Garda station are regularly deployed to Athlone Town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43319/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 125 and 131 to 134, inclusive, together.
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
Local Garda Management report that Ballymahon Garda Station has not been downgraded. The personnel strength was augmented in May 2006 with the allocation of an additional Garda member to Ballymahon Garda Station.
I am further informed that the personnel strength (all ranks) of Ballymahon Garda Station as at 12 December, 2006 was 4. The personnel strength (all ranks) of Ballymahon Garda Station (by rank) from 1997 to the latest date for which figures are available was as set out in the following table:
|
Year |
Total Strength |
Sergeant |
Garda |
|
31/12/97 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/98 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/99 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
31/12/00 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/01 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/02 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/03 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/04 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
31/12/05 |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
12/12/06 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
Ballymahon Garda Station forms part of the Athlone District. The personnel strength of the Athlone District as at 31st December 1997 and as at 12th December 2006 (all ranks) was 58 and 69 respectively. This represents an increase of 11 (or 18.9%) in the number of Gardaí allocated to the District since that date.
It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed along with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy. This ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and that the best possible service is provided to the public.
The normal opening hours of Ballymahon Garda Station are as set out in the following table:
|
Tour |
Time |
|
Early |
9am to 5pm |
|
Late |
2pm to 10pm |
|
Night |
6pm to 2am and 8pm to 4am weekends |
The extension of the opening hours at individual Garda Stations is a matter for the Divisional Officer. Garda management advise that the extension of opening hours at any Garda Station necessitates the employment of additional personnel on indoor administrative duties and consequently a loss to outdoor operational policing.
Local Garda Management report that Ballymahon Garda Station has not been downgraded. The personnel strength was augmented in May 2006 with the allocation of an additional Garda member to Ballymahon Garda Station.
I am further informed that there is one car permanently assigned to Ballymahon Garda Station. Local Garda Management also report that they have introduced a patrol system whereby members from Ballymahon, Ballymore and Glasson provide a service to all three sub-districts with the use of the patrol car from Ballymahon. This system has proved to be very successful and provides a suitable Garda presence for the entire area.
Local Garda Management state that personnel attached to Ballymahon Garda Station are not deployed in Athlone, other than to attend District/Circuit Courts. Resources are augmented from within the District/Division as required. The area is also patrolled by the Divisional Traffic Unit based at Longford Garda Station and the District Detective Unit based at Athlone Garda Station.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:126 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extra policing measures that will be put in place in the surrounding residential areas following the opening up of Croke Park to extra matches in soccer and rugby; and if he will work with Dublin City Council on this matter. [43181/06]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, including personnel, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,000 on Thursday, 16 November, 2006, following the attestation of 299 new members. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) as at 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,298 (or 21.5%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The induction of 280 new Garda recruits to the Garda College on 6 November, 2006 resulted in a combined strength, of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training, of 14,137. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.3 billion, a 13% increase on 2005 and an 85% increase since 1997 in real terms.
I am further informed that the personnel strength of the Dublin Metropolitan Region North Central Garda Division as at 31st December 1997 and as at 12th December 2006 (all ranks) was 585 and 673 respectively. This represents an increase of 88 (or 15%) in the number of Gardaí allocated to the Division since that date.
The Garda Síochána is responsible for security, public order, and traffic control at major events. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí assigned to police major sporting events, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, is continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible service is provided to the public.
Garda management state that during each major event in Croke Park specific operational plans and additional policing measures, including additional traffic management and enforcement and public order patrols are put in place in the surrounding areas. Issues of particular concern to local residents are specifically addressed as part of this planning process.
As is the case with regular fixtures at Croke Park, local Garda management work closely and maintain on-going liaison with Dublin City Council.
Garda management further state that relevant matters, including expected attendance, fan-base / patrons, as well as the teams involved, are taken into account when preparing the policing plans for each event. This will dictate the level of policing required for regular and additional fixtures to be held in Croke Park.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:127 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43229/06]
The amount spent on Consultancy under Vote 19, Office of the Minister of Justice, Equality and Law Reform to the end of October 2006 is €592,806.
The following table outlines the amount spent under Vote 19 each year between 1997 and 2005:
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
1997 |
265,000 |
|
1998 |
99,000 |
|
1999 |
424,561 |
|
2000 |
972,117 |
|
2001 |
1,732,511 |
|
2002 |
3,213,356 |
|
2003 |
2,572,178 |
|
2004 |
2,523,706 |
|
2005 |
1,781,269 |
Witness Protection Scheme.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:128 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of proceedings commenced and convictions obtained in each of the past four years under Section 40 of the Criminal Justice Act 1999 covering offences relating to attempting to contact relocated witnesses under the Witness Protection Scheme. [43233/06]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that there have been no proceedings commenced or, therefore convictions obtained in the past four years pursuant to Section 40 of the Criminal Justice Act 1999 in relation to attempting to contact relocated witnesses under the Witness Security Programme.
Question No. 129 answered with QuestionNo. 114.
Visa Applications.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:130 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm that a person (details supplied) in County Cork has permission to remain in the State following their marriage to a citizen of the EU and their formal application being lodged on 23 March 2006. [43235/06]
The person concerned submitted an application for residence on the basis that he is the spouse of an EU citizen, having married the EU citizen in Ireland on the 25th January, 2006.
The application has been examined under the provisions of the European Communities (Free Movement of Persons) Regulations 2006.
An examination of the documentation submitted shows that the person concerned who is subject to Irish entry visa requirements did not obtain the appropriate Irish entry visa prior to arrival in the State. It is therefore the case that the person entered the State illegally, and has remained illegally in the State.
I understand that the Immigration Division of my Department has recently informed the person concerned that he does not qualify for residence on the basis sought.
Questions Nos. 131 to 134, inclusive, answered with Question No. 125.
Garda Stations.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:135 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the provision of a new Garda area headquarters at Castleisland, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42971/06]
It is expected that a sketch scheme for the new Garda Area Headquarters at Castleisland will be ready by the end of the year for the approval of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Authorities. On approval of the sketch scheme a Part 9 planning process will be initiated in early 2007.
Flood Relief.
Michael Ring
Ceist:136 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance the reason a report which was promised to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo over two years ago still has not been provided by Mayo County Council. [43045/06]
OPW has been requested by Mayo County Council to provide funding for flood relief works based on the report in question.
It is understood the flooding in question affects the road and some gardens but that no residences or other buildings have been flooded. OPW has a substantial and growing list of areas seeking flood relief where flooding of houses and other premises is causing hardship and priority is being accorded to such cases.
The area in question falls within the Bleachyard Drainage District, which is part of the Camcloon Drainage District. OPW believes that maintenance of the watercourse which is the responsibility of the Drainage District Board would considerably improve the situation in this case and will be advising the County Council accordingly.
Decentralisation Programme.
Jack Wall
Ceist:137 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the purchase of a site for the transfer of the Department of Defence to Newbridge as part of the decentralisation programme; if a site has been chosen; if the price of the site has changed since the purchase negotiation started; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43089/06]
The Office of Public Works has identified a suitable site in Newbridge town for the Department of Defence for 271 staff and negotiations to acquire it are at an advanced stage.
OPW are hopeful, subject to all the outstanding planning, legal, technical and negotiation issues being resolved over the coming weeks, that the site can be acquired in time to allow construction to commence next year.
Tax Code.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:138 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Finance if approval from the European Commission for a VAT exemption on private companies providing home care packages is necessary; if so, when he obtained approval or when he will obtain approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43144/06]
Irish VAT law must comply with the EU Sixth VAT Directive and accordingly, consultations are ongoing between my Department, the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Health and Children with a view to introducing an exemption for home care services provided by private companies, while complying with the Directive. Consequently, approval is not required from the European Commission for the proposed exemption.
Planning Issues.
Michael Ring
Ceist:139 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works has contacted the developer who built without planning permission on a riverbank (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if so, the outcome of this contact. [43348/06]
Michael Ring
Ceist:140 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will ascertain from the Office of Public Works the effect a development (details supplied) on a river in County Mayo had in relation to the recent flooding problem which occurred there; the action the OPW will take in relation to the unauthorised development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43349/06]
Michael Ring
Ceist:141 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will ascertain from the Office of Public Works the legal position in relation to an issue (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if the OPW will be taking legal action against the developer for the unauthorised development that is on the river bank. [43350/06]
Michael Ring
Ceist:142 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will ascertain from the Office of Public Works if it has made contact with the local authority to find out the action that will be taken to enforce the planning laws in relation to a possible alteration of a flood plain (details supplied) in County Mayo. [43351/06]
Michael Ring
Ceist:152 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if he will ascertain from the Office of Public Works if a hydrological analysis of alternations to the flood plain as part of a development in County Mayo was carried out (details supplied); and if not, if the OPW intends to carry out this report as part of its work to identify possible measures to reduce future flood risk at this location. [43201/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 to 142, inclusive, and 152 together.
Planning and development control is a matter for the appropriate planning authorities and not for the Office of Public Works. The Office of Public Works has not carried out a hydrological analysis on the development in question. Staff from the Office of Public Works have held preliminary discussions with Mayo County Council staff regarding the flood event in Crossmolina. However, it is not possible to say at this stage what studies and analysis will be required to determine the cause of the flooding and the measures necessary to prevent a recurrence.
Decentralisation Programme.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:143 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance the position of the decentralisation of Revenue Commissioners jobs to Listowel, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42965/06]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the Commissioners of Public Works have agreed terms on a suitable premises in Listowel. A programme of works has also been agreed with a view to having the premises ready for occupation in the early part of 2007.
Garda Stations.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:144 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the acquisition of a site for a new Garda station at Tralee, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42970/06]
The Commissioners of Public Works are in the process of sourcing a suitable site for the development of a new Garda station in Tralee, Co. Kerry. The Commissioners are currently advertising publicly in the official journal of the European Union and on the Government website (www.etenders.gov.ie) for a suitable site or development proposal. The advertisement will also be placed in National newspapers early in the new year. Following this advertisement the Commissioners will give full consideration to whatever responses are received
Tax Clearance Certificates.
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:145 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance when the C2 for a company (details supplied) in County Wexford will be issued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42994/06]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a C2 certificate for the company in question was cleared for issue on 6 December 2006. Due to security considerations in the printing of C2 certificates the anticipated date on which the certificate will become available is 15 December 2006. Immediately the C2 certificate becomes available for collection a letter will be sent to the company advising them of this.
Tax Code.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:146 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the situation of a first time co-buyer with two friends who had switched their mortgage to a lower interest rate; and if they will qualify for the increased tax relief in Budget 2007 or it they have missed same. [43007/06]
As I announced in the Budget last Wednesday, the ceiling on mortgage interest relief for first-time buyers is being increased from €4,000 per year in the case of a single person and €8,000 per year in the case of married or widowed persons to €8,000 and €16,000, respectively, with effect from 1 January 2007. This increased support will be available to all those currently in receipt of first-time buyers relief who are in the first seven years of their mortgage. A "first time buyer" is an individual not previously entitled to relief in respect of interest paid on a loan used for the purchase or improvement of a sole or main residence.
Where, within the first seven years, a person switches his or her mortgage to benefit from a lower interest rate, he or she remains a first time buyer in respect of the remainder of the seven-year period which commenced on taking out the original loan. Accordingly, in the question posed by the Deputy, the first time buyer stands to benefit from the increased relief for the remainder of this seven year period. Of course, the extent to which such a person will be in a position to avail of the increased level of relief will depend on the extent to which interest arises on his or her mortgage.
I might also mention to the Deputy that the ceiling on mortgage interest relief for non first-time buyers is also being increased to €3,000 in the case of single person and to €6,000 in the case of married or widowed persons.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:147 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the estimate of the cost of a child care tax credit of €10,000 against personal income tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43027/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that assuming the enactment of the changes announced in the 2007 Budget the full year cost to the Exchequer of allowing a tax credit of €10,000 to each family unit with children, irrespective of the numbers of children in the unit, would be in the region of €2 billion. These figures are provisional and subject to revision.
Tax Yield.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:148 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the expected yield from the two per cent insurance levy in 2006; the revenue he anticipates in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43028/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the yield of stamp duties from the 2 per cent Non-Life Insurance Levy in 2006 is estimated at €83 million. The corresponding yield in 2007 is expected to be of the same order.
Tax Code.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:149 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer of increasing the home carers tax credit to the same rate as the PAYE tax credit in 2007. [43029/06]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that assuming the enactment of the changes announced in the 2007 Budget the full year cost to the Exchequer of the increase mentioned by the Deputy is estimated at approximately €82 million. This figure is provisional and subject to revision.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:150 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Finance the cost of providing tax relief at the top rate to all taxpayers who are contributing to pensions, subject to a contribution cap of €250,000. [43030/06]
Tax relief on individual pension contributions is allowed at the taxpayer's marginal tax rate, that is, at the standard or higher rate as appropriate in each case. It is assumed that the change mentioned by the Deputy is to provide tax relief at a rate of 41 per cent, assuming the enactment of the changes announced in the 2007 Budget, for all pension contributions by individuals, including those currently relieved at the standard rate.
It is not possible to provide an estimate of the cost in income tax foregone of the higher rate of relief proposed by the Deputy in respect of employee contributions to occupational pension schemes because the relevant data in relation to contributions is not captured in such a way as to provide a dedicated basis for compiling this information. Tax relief for pension contributions by employees is normally given by way of a deduction from total income in arriving at income for tax purposes i.e. the income for tax purposes of employees is net of their pension contributions (the ‘net pay' arrangement).
Provisions were included in Finance Act 2004 with a view to improving data quality and transparency without overburdening taxpayers/ employers. The Act includes provisions that require employers to provide data on superannuation contributions in the P35 form to be filed by employers in February 2006 in respect of 2005. Work on developing the necessary technical enhancements to the Revenue computer system to enable this data to be captured is ongoing. This data will yield additional information regarding the overall cost of tax relief for pension contributions but as the returns will be aggregated at employer level they will not provide a precise basis for measuring the potential impact on the Exchequer of proposals for change in the rate of relief at individual level such as that mentioned by the Deputy.
As regards the self-employed and certain employees in pensionable employment, there is data available in relation to relief on contributions for Retirement Annuity Contracts (RACs) and Personal Retirement Savings Accounts (PRSAs) for the income tax year 2003. RACs and PRSAs are subject to a current contribution cap of €254,000. On that basis, the full year cost to the Exchequer of providing tax relief at 41 per cent in respect of contributions to RACs and PRSAs is tentatively estimated at about €29 million in terms of income tax forgone, but could be considerably higher if the change resulted in new pension contributors claiming the relief.
Decentralisation Programme.
Jack Wall
Ceist:151 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the purchase of a site for the transfer of his Department to Kildare as part of the decentralisation programme; if a site has been chosen; if the price of the site has changed since purchase negotiations started; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43097/06]
The Commissioners of Public Works are currently assessing a number of possibilities for a permanent accommodation solution for the Revenue staff, who will be decentralised to Athy. They have also recently completed the evaluation of a number of accommodation proposals for an advance group of Revenue staff, and, in light of this have made a recommendation to the Revenue Commissioners. A response from the Revenue Commissioners is expected shortly. The latest Decentralisation Implementation Group Report of September 2006 specifies an indicative timeframe of mid 2009 for the completion of a building in Athy for the decentralised Revenue Office.
Question No. 152 answered with QuestionNo. 139.
Departmental Expenditure.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:153 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43226/06]
The table sets out the costs of contracts with consultants to my Department's Vote in the period from the July 1997 to the end of 1997, each of the years 1998 to 2005 and the year 2006 to date.
|
Year |
Amoun |
|
€ |
|
|
1997 (from July 1) |
566,625 |
|
1998 |
826,761 |
|
1999 |
1,748,275 |
|
2000 |
10,549,526 |
|
2001 |
3,940,471 |
|
2002 |
4,136,277 |
|
2003 |
1,954,477 |
|
2004 |
2,139,961 |
|
2005 |
2,473,472 |
|
2006 (year to date) |
1,494,685 |
The figures include expenditure from my Department's Vote on contracts entered into by the National Development Plan/Community Support Framework (NDP/CSF) Evaluation, Information and IT units which operate within my Department and by the Euro Changeover Board of Ireland. In 2000 expenditure on consultancy services for design and delivery of the euro changeover advertising campaign and purchase of media space for the euro changeover advertising accounted for some €8m of the total for that year.
Vaccination Programme.
Pat Breen
Ceist:154 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on funding the provision of a hepatitis B inoculation for the staff of a school (details enclosed), in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43108/06]
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.
Health Services.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:155 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children when the existing Health Service Executive health centre in Listowel will be replaced by a new centre due to a lack of space and other facilities for both providers and users of various community care services in the north Kerry area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42966/06]
The Primary Care Strategy aims to develop services in the community to give people direct access to integrated multi-disciplinary teams of general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists and others. It has been estimated that up to 95% of people's health and social services needs can be properly met within a primary care setting and the establishment of new Primary Care Teams can contribute greatly to enhancing community based health services in these areas.
The provision of the appropriate infrastructure for the effective functioning of the teams is being considered by the HSE, having regard to a number of factors. These include the type and configuration of the services involved, the mixed public/private nature of our health system, the suitability of existing infrastructure and the capital requirements of the health services generally over the coming years.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for Primary Care services, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Cancer Screening Programme.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:156 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children when BreastCheck will become available to Kerry women; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42967/06]
I am committed to ensuring that the BreastCheck service is rolled out to the remaining regions in the country as quickly as possible. I have approved additional revenue funding of €8 million for 2007 to meet the additional costs involved, bringing BreastCheck's revenue budget to €21.7 million in 2007. I have also made available an additional €26.7 million capital funding to BreastCheck for the construction of two new clinical units, five additional mobile units and the provision of state of the art digital equipment. I am pleased that screening will commence in the South and West in the Spring of next year. In relation to the roll out to County Kerry, my Department has requested the Director of the Programme to respond directly to the Deputy.
Health Services.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:157 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if refunds under the health repayment scheme arise in relation to disabled persons maintenance allowances being taken by residential institutions in respect of disabled people in their charge at the time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42968/06]
The Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006 came into effect on 30 June 2006 and provides a clear legal framework to repay recoverable health charges for publicly funded long term residential care. All those fully eligible persons who were wrongly charged for publicly funded long term residential care who are alive and the estates of those wrongly charged and who have died since 9 December 1998 will have the charges repaid in full together with an amount to take account of inflation. The scheme covers those in contracted beds in private nursing homes and patients in receipt of in-patient services in community based facilities.
Recoverable health charges are charges which were imposed on persons with full eligibility under the Health (Charges for In-patient Services) Regulations 1976 as amended in 1987 or charges for in-patient services only, raised under the Institutional Assistance Regulations 1954 as amended in 1965. It is only these charges which will be the subject of repayment under the scheme. Any other charges not covered by the Supreme Court decision of 16 February 2005 will not be repaid.
Medical Cards.
Seán Ardagh
Ceist:158 Mr. Ardagh asked the Minister for Health and Children when the medical card will be awarded to a person (details supplied). [42974/06]
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.
Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed with the Health Service Executive a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Child Care Services.
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:159 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of young people who attend the out of hours crisis intervention service in Dublin on a nightly basis; the number of beds available at this service centre; the programmes these young people are involved in during daytime hours in view of the temporary nature of the out of hours crisis intervention service; the efforts made to assist these young people to return to their own communities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42976/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and 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.
Telecommunications Masts.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:160 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is proposed to investigate the circumstances of the failing health of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on proposals she may have on this matter. [42977/06]
The investigation of any issues arising with the health of the person referred to by the Deputy is a matter for that person and their doctor. With regard to the issue of mobile phone masts, the current consensus of authoritative scientific literature is that there is no evidence of a causal relationship between exposure to emissions from these masts and ill health.
The World Health Organisation has assessed the many reviews carried out in this area and has indicated that exposure below the limits recommended by the International Commission on Non-Ionising Radiation Protection in their 1998 Guidelines does not produce any known adverse health effects. These guidelines are based on a careful analysis of all peer-reviewed scientific literature including thermal and non-thermal effects. Telecommunication companies licensed to operate in Ireland are obliged to comply with these guidelines. Research is ongoing in relation to this issue and my Department will continue to monitor developments concerning the possible health effects of exposure to electromagnetic fields.
Health Services.
Michael Ring
Ceist:161 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when the first floor of a building (details supplied) in County Mayo will be refurbished for use as a health centre; the long-term proposals in place for this building; if it is proposed to use it as a full time day care centre; if so, the proposed timeframe for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42978/06]
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 considering new capital proposals or progressing those in the health capital programme. Accordingly, my Department is requesting the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Michael Ring
Ceist:162 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when orthodontic treatment will commence for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that they were placed on treatment waiting list on 20 December 2005. [42979/06]
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.
Departmental Communications.
Liz McManus
Ceist:163 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason her Department’s website press area is not regularly updated on all topics; her views on the lack of press statements on all areas of interest on daily health topics; her further views on the fact that not one press statement was released from 12 September to 6 October 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42981/06]
Press releases are issued primarily in conjunction with the announcement of major policy initiatives and significant service developments. The corresponding press releases are made available on my Department's website immediately following such announcements. To date in 2006, one hundred and thirty press releases and thirty four speeches have been made available in the press area of my Department's website. In addition, seventy two press releases have been published on the website of the Office of the Minister for Children, including seven press releases during the specific period referred to in the Deputy's question. During this period, I personally addressed the media on eight separate occasions at various public engagements.
The press area of the website is just one source of information on health issues available to the media or the public. General information on the broad range of health services, information on current health policy issues and details of legislation since 1997 are available in other areas of the website. Thirty three publications have also been uploaded to the website to date in 2006. The websites are updated regularly. The Deputy may wish to note that the Health Service Executive also issues press statements in regard to national and local health service issues. These statements are made available on the Executive's website (www.hse.ie) on a regular basis.
Medical Cards.
John McGuinness
Ceist:164 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will expedite a decision relative to an application for a medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Carlow in view of the medical circumstances of the case. [42990/06]
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP. Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed with the Health Service Executive a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Medical Aids and Appliances.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:165 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has been told that they can not obtain a wheelchair which was recommended by their occupational therapist on the grounds that the Health Service Executive does not have the necessary finance to purchase the wheelchair. [42995/06]
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.
Mental Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:166 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason that people with a mental illness received very little contact or follow-up with counsellors and psychiatrists after receiving treatment in hospital. [43008/06]
The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched on 24th January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million was provided for the development of our mental health services in line with "A Vision for Change". A further sum of €25 million has been allocated for 2007 to continue this development.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:167 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will deal with the waiting lists for patients with a mental illness; and if she will put in place proper services on the northside of Dublin. [43009/06]
The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled ‘A Vision for Change', was launched on 24th January 2006. This provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million was provided for the development of our mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'. A further sum of €25 million has been allocated for 2007 to continue this development.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Primary Care Services.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:168 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding being provided for community and primary care in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43031/06]
The Primary Care Strategy is the road map for the future development of primary care services in Ireland over a period of some ten years, both as the appropriate service for the delivery of the majority of people's health and social care needs, and to complement the services provided by acute hospitals. At the heart of the Strategy is the aim of developing services in the community to give people direct access to integrated multi-disciplinary teams of general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists and others.
The HSE received an additional €10m in funding in 2006 to enable the establishment of up to 100 Primary Care Teams; a further €13m is being provided in 2007 to enable the full year costs of these developments and of additional GP co-operative services funded in 2006 to be met. The HSE has indicated that it expects substantial progress in regard to the establishment of the Primary Care Teams to have been achieved by the end of the year.
I recently announced details of a further package of investment in Primary Care services in the context of Budget 2007. An additional €20m has been committed for the development of a further 100 new multi-disciplinary Primary Care Teams; €12m of which will be provided in 2007, with the additional €8m being provided in 2008 to enable the full year costs of these developments to be met. This funding is, of course, in addition to the very substantial resources already in the funding base for a wide range of primary care services.
The new funding will enable the total number of Primary Care Teams to reach 200 thereby demonstrating the Government's commitment to the achievement of the objectives in Towards 2016 of establishing 300 Primary Care Teams by 2008; 400 by 2009; and 500 by 2011.
Health Service Allowances.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:169 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on introducing a Dublin weighting allowance of 10% for doctors and nurses; the expected cost thereof; her views on whether it is likely, if she introduced such an allowance, other health services staff would seek such an allowance; the expected cost of such an allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43032/06]
A claim for Dublin weighting allowance for nurses and midwives was one of number of claims heard by the Labour Court on 20 June 2006. It was estimated that concession of this claim to nurses would have cost in excess of €50m per annum. The Court issued its recommendation on 9 November 2006. The Court did not recommend concession of the claim for a Dublin weighting allowance. I have no doubt that if a Dublin weighting allowance were to be conceded to nurses that all other health service grades would seek a similar allowance. I would also expect knock-on claims from the wider public service. It is estimated that providing a weighting allowance to all health service employees in Dublin would cost approximately €144m per annum. If such an allowance were extended to other Dublin based public servants the estimated cost would increase to approximately €252m per annum.
Health Services.
Gerard Murphy
Ceist:170 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason despite a foundation’s (details supplied) best efforts there is a substantial shortfall in funding required and no certainty regarding future funding which will allow for proper planning and development of these services. [43046/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular funding issue raised by the Deputy. 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.
Departmental Funding.
Jack Wall
Ceist:171 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason her Department has not provided funding to a mental health association (details supplied) in County Kilkenny in relation to one of their annual events in view of the fact that for the past number of years funding has been provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43056/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. 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.
Hospital Waiting Lists.
John Perry
Ceist:172 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene with Merlin Park Hospital on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo and have them called for their operation in view of the fact that his condition has deteriorated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43065/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. 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.
Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:173 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if speech and language therapy, occupational therapy and other supports will be provided for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if she will work with the family on obtaining proper services. [43082/06]
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.
Alcohol Advertising.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:174 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are clear guidelines dealing with alcohol advertising in residential areas (details supplied); and her views on this kind of advertising having an influence on children coming up to Christmas 2006. [43083/06]
A number of the recommendations contained in the Interim Report of the Strategic Task Force on Alcohol concern a reduction in the exposure of children and adolescents to alcohol advertising, marketing and sponsorship. In response to these, my Department entered into negotiations with the broadcasting, media and drinks industries while at the same time pursuing the development of legislation to restrict alcohol advertising, sponsorship and sales promotions / marketing practices. It was agreed that the industry would respond on an incremental basis. This has resulted in the establishment of Central Copy Clearance Ireland which addresses the issue of the content of advertisements, the development of a Voluntary Code of Practice on Advertising which addresses the issue of placement and the establishment of the Alcohol Marketing and Communications Monitoring Body to oversee the implementation of the Voluntary Code.
The monitoring body is overseeing the implementation of and adherence to the Voluntary Codes of Practice. The Annual Report of the Monitoring Body is due to be completed in the Spring of 2007 and will be submitted to the Minister for Health and Children for consideration. Future actions in relation to legislation on this issue will be decided based on the findings of this report. Breaches or suspected breaches of the Voluntary Code should be reported to the Chair of the Monitoring Body on Alcohol Advertising, Advertising Standards Authority for Ireland, IPC House, 35/39 Shelbourne Road, Dublin 4.
Medical Cards.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:175 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the medical card and doctor only card income guidelines that will apply in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43088/06]
The assessment guidelines used by the Health Service Executive (HSE) in respect of applications for medical cards and GP visit cards are subject to review by the Executive and my Department from time to time, having regard to the need to ensure that persons intended to benefit under these arrangements can do so. Such reviews have regard to factors such as changes in income levels generally, the nature of typical household outgoings and also changes which may be made to the various social welfare schemes.
Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. In 2005 the income guidelines were increased incrementally by a cumulative 29%. Other significant changes which I have introduced are that applications are now considered on the basis of income net of tax and PRSI and that allowance is made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work. In June 2006 I agreed with the Executive a further adjustment to the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards. The table gives details of Medical Card and GP Visit Card income guidelines as at 11 December, 2006.
|
Medical Card (with effect from October 2005) |
GP Visit Card (with effect from June 2006) |
|
|
Single Person Living Alone |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
184.00 |
276.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
201.50 |
302.00 |
|
Single Person Living with Family |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
164.00 |
246.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
173.50 |
260.00 |
|
Married couple/Single Parent Families with dependent children |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
266.50 |
400.00 |
|
With 1 Child |
304.50 |
457.00 |
|
With 2 Children |
342.50 |
514.00 |
|
With 3 Children |
383.50 |
575.00 |
|
With 4 Children |
424.50 |
637.00 |
Health Services.
Jack Wall
Ceist:176 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to upgrade the health centre at Monasterevin, County Kildare in view of the increase in the population of Monasterevin as of Census 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43098/06]
The Primary Care Strategy aims to develop services in the community to give people direct access to integrated multi-disciplinary teams of general practitioners, nurses, health care assistants, home helps, occupational therapists and others. It has been estimated that up to 95% of people's health and social services needs can be properly met within a primary care setting and the establishment of new Primary Care Teams can contribute greatly to enhancing community based health services in these areas.
The provision of the appropriate infrastructure for the effective functioning of the teams is being considered by the HSE, having regard to a number of factors. These include the type and configuration of the services involved, the mixed public/private nature of our health system, the suitability of existing infrastructure and the capital requirements of the health services generally over the coming years.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for Primary Care services, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Jack Wall
Ceist:177 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 185 of 16 May 2006 the waiting time in the accident and emergency department of Naas General Hospital; the number of patients attending the accident and emergency department over the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43099/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised by the Deputy. 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.
Health Services.
Jack Wall
Ceist:178 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of inspections carried out of private nursing homes by the Health Service Executive in the Kildare and west Wicklow in the past year; the number of private nursing homes in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43100/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the request for the information sought by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Jack Wall
Ceist:179 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of complaints registered with the K-Doc service in the Kildare and west Wicklow in the past year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43101/06]
Out of hours co-operatives allow general practitioners to put in place arrangements to provide services to their patients, while their surgeries are closed in the evenings, on weekends and bank holidays. The development of GP co-operatives is in line with the overall health service policy of strengthening primary care services and ensuring that to the greatest extent possible, people's care needs are met in the primary care setting. Out of hours co-operatives are now in place in all Health Service Executive (HSE) areas, providing coverage in all or in part of all counties. Between 2000 and 2005 approximately €105 million was allocated to the HSE for out of hours GP co-operatives and in 2006 almost €34 million is available to the Executive for these services.
As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for this service, it is the appropriate body to provide the information sought by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Pat Breen
Ceist:180 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 148 and 202 of 21 February 2006, her views on the provision of insulin pump therapy for diabetics in the mid western Health Service Executive area; her plans to introduce such a therapy service in that area; the other policies she is considering implementing in that regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43109/06]
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.
Tony Gregory
Ceist:181 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children the respite grants available to parents of children with special needs; and the number of such grants paid out in 2005 and to date in 2006. [43147/06]
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. However, as the Deputy is aware, not all Respite Care Grants are paid by the Health Service Executive. A substantial amount are paid by the Department of Social and Family Affairs, therefore the Deputy may wish to contact that Department.
Departmental Reviews.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:182 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that she has received a number of requests for a meeting from the Parents for Justice group; the date she will hold this meeting; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43173/06]
Enda Kenny
Ceist:183 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will make available to the Parents for Justice group the contents of the 54 boxes presented to her by a person (details supplied) on 31 March 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43174/06]
Enda Kenny
Ceist:184 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will publish the Dunne Report into organ retention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43175/06]
Enda Kenny
Ceist:185 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will appoint an independent review group to establish whether a public inquiry into organ retention is needed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43176/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 182 to 185, inclusive, together.
Parents for Justice wrote to me on 21st November last to request a meeting but due to pressure of business I am unable to accede to their request at this time. However I have informed the organisation that my officials will be happy to meet them and discuss the issues of concern to them.
When Ms Anne Dunne SC presented her report on post-mortem practice to me in March 2005, I was advised by the Attorney General that it could not be published for legal and natural justice reasons. Some sections of the report were released on 18 July last in response to a request under the Freedom of Information Acts from Parents for Justice. However, in the light of the legal advice available to me, I have no plans to publish the full report, nor do I believe there is anything to be gained from the establishment of a Statutory Inquiry.
Dr. Deirdre Madden, a distinguished expert on medical law, was appointed by Government in May 2005 to provide a report on key issues relating to post-mortem practice and procedures and her report on Post-Mortem Practice and Procedures was published on 18 January this year. Considerable progress has already been made by the Health Service Executive in implementing the recommendations of the Madden Report in hospitals across the country and my officials will continue to liaise with the Executive to monitor progress in this regard.
A key recommendation of the report was that a Working Group be established to examine issues not included in the original terms of reference, that is post-mortem issues relating to babies who died before or during birth, minors and adults. This Group, chaired by Dr. Madden, was set up in March, 2006 and its membership included representatives of Parents For Justice and the Irish Stillbirth and Neo-natal Death Society, together with healthcare professionals from a range of disciplines. I published the Report from the Working Group on 7th November last.
Both Reports stressed the need for legislation to be introduced to ensure that no post-mortem examination will be carried out and no tissue or organ retained from a post-mortem examination for any purpose without appropriate authorisation. I have asked my Department to prepare proposals for consideration by Government in relation to the legislation required to give effect to these recommendations.
Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:186 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason there are still elderly patients in hospitals waiting for nursing home places; and if she will act on this matter urgently. [43177/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Services for People with Disabilities.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:187 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding attempts to end the waiting lists for people with an intellectual disability where 1,906 require a residential place and 1,877 require a respite service. [43178/06]
Under the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy which is committed to providing some €900m over the period 2005-2009, €41 million has been provided in the 2007 budget for the provision of services to persons with an intellectual disability and those with autism. This funding will provide 255 new residential places; 85 new respite places and 535 new day places. A similar number of extra places were provided during 2006 as part of a programme to develop key services and meet emerging needs. The funding includes €2.2m for the transfer of persons with an intellectual disability from settings which are inappropriate to their needs.
The Deputy's question also 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.
Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:188 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will urgently invest in both reform and providing more beds the health system in 2007. [43179/06]
The health services are undergoing a period of major change and reform. The National Health Strategy, the Primary Care Strategy as well as the Prospectus, Brennan and Hanly Reports lay out the overall direction for the major changes which are now under way. Government policy is to provide safe, high-quality and accessible services that provide the best possible outcomes for patients and which represent good value for the resources available. This will mean rebalancing service delivery so that those services that can be safely delivered locally are delivered locally and in the most appropriate setting. The Primary Care Strategy provides the road map for the future development of primary care services in Ireland over a period of some 10 years, both as the appropriate service for the delivery of the majority of people's health and social care needs, and to complement the services provided by acute hospitals.
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has informed my Department that the following additional in-patient beds and day treatment places are due to be brought into use in 2007:
Midland Hospital Tullamore — 27 in-patient beds and 30 day treatment places in the new hospital
Wexford General Hospital — 19 in-patient beds
St. Vincent's University Hospital, Elm Park — 12 day treatment places and 4 intensive care beds
Our Lady's Children's Hospital Crumlin — 7 oncology day treatment places
University College Hospital Galway — 3 in-patient beds in the new burns unit.
In addition, the HSE is fast-tracking the provision of admission units to alleviate pressures in a number of A & E departments. Admission lounges have been developed at St. James's Hospital (15 beds), Connolly Memorial Hospital (8 beds), St Vincent's Hospital (20 beds), Tallaght Hospital (40 beds), Cork University Hospital (10 beds) and the Mercy Hospital in Cork (4 beds). These admissions lounges enable patients awaiting admission to an acute hospital bed to be managed safely while preserving their right to dignity and privacy. Further admission lounges are scheduled to come on-stream in 2007.
A Steering Group under the chairmanship of the National Director of the National Hospitals Office is reviewing our acute hospital bed requirements up to the year 2020. The Group includes representatives of the Health Service Executive, my Department, the Department of Finance and the Economic and Social Research Institute.
John Perry
Ceist:189 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide details on all the Health Service Executive leased and rented property; if she will set out the details in respect of each property, the address of the property, the duration of lease to date of expiry, the cost of lease or rent per year and the purpose or usage of the property; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43183/06]
The Deputy's question relates to the exercise by the Health Service Executive of its functions under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information sought.
Mental Health Services.
John Perry
Ceist:190 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide information in respect of the introduction of the Mental Health Act 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43184/06]
John Perry
Ceist:192 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide information in respect of the new Mental Health Act 2001 that was activated into law on 1 November 2006; the advice she was given by the Mental Health Commission and the Health Service Executive on the state of readiness of the HSE for the go live on 1 November 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43186/06]
John Perry
Ceist:193 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the advice she received from the Health Service Executive and Mental Health Commission on the state of readiness of the HSE in respect to availability of second opinion consultant psychiatrists and authorised officers; if she will provide details on the provision of assisted admissions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43187/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 190, 192 and 193 together.
The Mental Health Act 2001 provides a modern framework within which people who have a mental disorder and require treatment or protection can be cared for and treated. It puts in place mechanisms by which the standards, care and treatment in mental health services can be monitored, inspected and regulated.
Sections 1 to 5, 7 and 31 to 55 of the Mental Health Act 2001 were commenced in April 2002. These involved the establishment of the Mental Health Commission to promote, encourage and foster the establishment and maintenance of high standards and good practice in the delivery of mental health services and to protect the interests of people detained under the 2001 Act. It also provided for the establishment of the Office of the Inspector of Mental Health Services (replacing the former Inspector of Mental Hospitals).
The remaining provisions of the Act were commenced on 1 November 2006. This included the establishment of Mental Health Tribunals, under the auspices of the Mental Health Commission. The Tribunals will conduct a review of each decision by a consultant psychiatrist to detain a patient on an involuntary basis or to extend the duration of such detention. The review will be independent, automatic and must be completed within 21 days of the detention/extension order being signed. This brings Irish mental health legislation into line with the European Convention for the Protection of Human Rights and Fundamental Freedoms.
My Department, the HSE and the Mental Health Commission worked closely together to ensure the successful implementation of the Act. The Health Service Executive established a National Steering Group supported by a Liaison Team to prepare for the full implementation of Act. These groups worked closely with mental health service managers, clinicians and service users to ensure the smooth transition to the legislative environment. The HSE also convened a Working Group to develop a proposal for a framework to ensure that second opinions would be sought in a demonstrably independent fashion.
Over €2.2m was provided for staff training and provided intensive and accredited programmes for over 5,000 staff on the Mental Health Act. Tribunal rooms were prepared and equipped in all acute Admission Units and additional Consultant led teams are being recruited. The Mental Health Commission provided extensive training to staff in the mental health services and produced a number of reference guides to the Act which are available on the Commission's website at www.mhcirl.ie.
Regulations setting out minimum standards for centres in relation to the care of residents and the provision of adequate and suitable accommodation were introduced from 1 November 2006. Compliance with these regulations will be monitored by the Inspector of Mental Health Services. Regulations in relation to authorised officers took effect from 1 November 2006. For the purposes of Section 9 of the Mental Health Act 2001 the rank and grade of "authorised officer" is prescribed as Local Health Manager, General Manager, Grade VIII, Psychiatric Nurse, Occupational Therapist, Psychologist or Social Worker.
Under the Mental Health Act 2001, the HSE is obliged to provide an assisted admission service. Where an assisted admission is required, the Approved Centre seeks to establish an Assisted Admissions team from its own staff in the first instance. If this is not possible, the Approved Centre contacts the External Contractor to provide the service. My Department has been informed by the HSE that this arrangement has been working well and is being kept under ongoing review.
In addition, guidance has been provided by the Commission on the following areas:
Involuntary Admission Procedures for Adults
Your Guide to the Mental Health Act 2001
Reference Guide to the Mental Health Act 2001: Part 1 — Adults
Reference Guide to the Mental Health Act 2001: Part 2 — Children.
John Perry
Ceist:191 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of new consultant psychiatrists, psychiatric nurses, social workers, clinical psychologists, occupational therapists and clerical grade posts that have been appointed to date to implement the Mental Health Act 2001; the costs to date on the implementation of the Mental Health Act 2001 and extra spending under each heading; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43185/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Questions Nos. 192 and 193 answered with Question No. 190.
John Perry
Ceist:194 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the names and grade for each local health office of the appointed authorised officers as required by the Mental Health Act 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43188/06]
The Mental Health Act 2001 (Authorised Officer) Regulations 2006 took effect from 1 November 2006. For the purposes of Section 9 of the Mental Health Act 2001 the rank and grade of "authorised officer" is prescribed as Local Health Manager, General Manager, Grade VIII, Psychiatric Nurse, Occupational Therapist, Psychologist or Social Worker.
Under the Health Act 2004, operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive. The arrangements in relation to the appointment of authorised offices at local level is a matter for the Health Service Executive. 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.
Questions Nos. 195 and 196 withdrawn.
John Perry
Ceist:197 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children currently being admitted to adult mental health units nationally; the information she was provided with by the Health Service Executive as to its assessment of the number of children being admitted that would be classified as children under the Mental Health Act 2001; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43191/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
John Perry
Ceist:198 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the provision she is making to have separate facilities to meet the needs of children that require to be admitted to adult units; the details and timeframe as to when the Health Service Executive will have in place the requirements to meet the needs of children as specified by the Mental Health Commission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43192/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Health Service Staff.
John Perry
Ceist:199 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the details of national directors, assistant national directors, Health Service Executive LHO and network managers in receipt of extra allowances above their salary; the details and purpose of such allowances; the costs associated with such allowances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43193/06]
John Perry
Ceist:200 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of CEOs, assistant CEOs, programme managers, general managers, assistant general managers and grade eights employed in the health boards on establishment day of the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43194/06]
John Perry
Ceist:201 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of CEO grade, assistant CEO grade, general manager grade, assistant general manager grade and grade eights currently employed by the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43195/06]
John Perry
Ceist:202 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of national directors, assistant national directors, LHOs, network managers and grade eights currently employed by the Health Service Executive; the details of the grading and salary of each grade; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43196/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 199 to 202, inclusive, together.
Over 120,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the numbers of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. The Executive is the appropriate body to consider the matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Health Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:203 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in the case of a person (details supplied) in view of the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 95 of 22 June 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43213/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised by the Deputy. 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.
Mental Health Services.
Seán Haughey
Ceist:204 Mr. Haughey asked the Minister for Health and Children her strategy in relation to mental health; the progress being made regarding the implementation of A Vision for Change; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43214/06]
The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy entitled ‘A Vision for Change' was launched on 24th January 2006. The Government has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of our mental health services. ‘A Vision for Change' provides a framework for action to develop a modern high quality mental health service over the next 7 to 10 years. In 2006, a sum of €26.2 million was provided for the development of our mental health services in line with ‘A Vision for Change'. A further sum of €25 million has been allocated for 2007 to continue this development.
In March 2006, I appointed an independent monitoring group to monitor progress on the implementation of the recommendations of ‘A Vision for Change'. The group will monitor and assess progress on the implementation of all the recommendations including those which fall under the responsibility of the HSE, government departments and other relevant agencies.
Implementation of the recommendations in ‘A Vision for Change' is a matter primarily for the HSE. The HSE recently established an implementation group to ensure that mental health services develop in a synchronised and consistent manner across the country and to guide and resource service managers and clinicians in making the recommendations in ‘A Vision for Change' a reality. Both of these groups will play an important role in ensuring that the recommendations are implemented in a co-ordinated and timely manner.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:205 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43228/06]
The information requested is being collated in my Department and will be forwarded directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Hospital Accommodation.
Paul McGrath
Ceist:206 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to a number of beds at St. Joseph’s Hospital, Longford which are currently vacant due to a failure to negotiate agreed staffing levels at this hospital; the length of time these beds are empty; the effort that has been made to resolve the impasse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43304/06]
Paul McGrath
Ceist:207 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will give details on the recent renovation and extension at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Longford; the cost of these works; the completion date; and the number of extra beds available at this hospital as a result of those works. [43305/06]
Paul McGrath
Ceist:208 Mr. P. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the bed compliment at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Longford each year for the past five years; the expected bed compliment when beds in the recently renovated and new building section are brought on stream. [43306/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 206 to 208, inclusive, together.
The Government's sustained high level of investment in healthcare has enabled the completion and commissioning of numerous new facilities in both the acute and the non-acute sectors. This year, the sum available for expenditure in health under the Health Service Executive's capital plan is €555 million.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. This also includes responsibility for the planning and management of capital projects in the health sector, including the development(s) referred to in the Deputy's question. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have all the matters raised by the Deputy investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Community Care.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:209 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the rates for domiciliary care allowance that will apply in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43307/06]
As a result of Budget 2007 the rate of payment for Domiciliary Care Allowance for 2007 will be €281.30, an increase of 12.1% on 2006. This increased rate of payment will come into effect on the 1st January 2007. All DCA recipients who are not in receipt of Carers Allowance or Carers Benefit from the Department of Social and Family Affairs will receive a Respite Care Grant Payment of €1,500 during the first week of June 2007.
Foster Care.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:210 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the rates for foster payments that will apply in 2007. [43308/06]
My Office is currently in discussions with the Department of Finance concerning the rate of the foster care allowance to apply for 2007. Following these discussions, my Office will provide the Deputy with any revised rates of the foster care allowance.
Medical Cards.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:211 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken to ensure that non-contributory old age pensioners who avail of the disregard incentive on their pension to take up employment worth €200 per week do not as a result lose their entitlement to a medical card. [43309/06]
Under Section 45 of the Health Act 1970, as amended, persons aged 70 or over are statutorily entitled to a medical card regardless of income. In all other cases, in assessing eligibility, the Health Service Executive use guidelines based on people's means, which includes their income, certain allowable outgoings and the effect of factors such as medical need. These guidelines are not statutorily binding and a decision to refuse an application or renewal of a medical card may be appealed to the Executive for further consideration.
Health Services.
John Deasy
Ceist:212 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of nursing home residents who are entitled to repayments, or if deceased, whose families are entitled to repayments, under the national repayments scheme; the number of applications for repayments received to date; if she will ensure that her Department or the Health Service Executive will directly communicate with all those who have not applied to inform them of their entitlements under the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43313/06]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:213 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans to upgrade palliative care and other services at Naas General Hospital specifically; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43315/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. 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.
Accident and Emergency Services.
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:214 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children if special arrangements are in place to address the problems experienced in Naas General Hospital’s accident and emergency department, where incoming patients must spend significant periods of time on hospital trolleys prior to their being allocated a bed; if, in view of the level of demand for service additional staff resources, facilities and equipment will be allocated to Naas General Hospital; if so, when this will occur; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43323/06]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised by the Deputy. 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.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:215 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the way the interests of adult children of nursing home subvention applicants, who reside in their parents' home and act as their carer are protected under current regulations and the proposals contained in the Health (Nursing Homes) (Amendment) Bill 2006. [43324/06]
As the Deputy may be aware, under the current Regulations, when considering an application for subvention, the Health Service Executive carries out a means test which takes into account the means (including assets) of the applicant and his or her spouse/ cohabiting partner, where appropriate.
Under Paragraph 13 of the Second Schedule of the Nursing Homes (Subvention) Regulations 1993, the HSE may impute an income of 5% of the estimated market value of the principal residence of an applicant for subvention, regardless of market value, unless the residence is occupied by a spouse or son or daughter aged less than twenty one years or in full time education or in receipt of certain social welfare pensions/ allowances/benefits, and generally does so unless there are exceptional circumstances. The Health (Nursing Homes) (Amendment) Bill 2006 provides that the same categories of people are protected. The Bill also contains a new provision that gives the HSE discretion not to impute where doing so could lead to the destitution or homelessness of a person closely linked to the applicant. This Bill was prepared on a "no policy change" basis.
A new scheme to support the financing of Long Term Residential Care was launched on 11 December 2006. I understand that the details of the new Scheme are being circulated to all Deputies and I will ask officials in the Department of Health and Children to ensure that the Deputy receives the relevant information as a matter of urgency.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Jack Wall
Ceist:216 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if a party has expressed an interest in setting up and developing an ethanol business in south Kildare in view of the recent problems experiences by the tillage farmers of the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43093/06]
It is not possible to identify from the Deputy's question any specific individual or proposed project.
On the 23 November I announced details of the successful applicants in the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme II. Details of the successful applicants are provided in the following table:
|
Category |
Company |
|
Bioethanol |
Cooley-Clearpower, 162 Clontarf Road, Dublin 3 |
|
Bioethanol |
Maxol Ltd., 3 Custom House Plaza, IFSC, Dublin 1 |
|
Bioethanol |
One Fifty One Ltd., 151 Thomas Street, Dublin 8 |
|
Bioethnol |
Topaz Energy Ltd., Topaz House, Beechill Office Campus, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4 |
|
EN590 |
Conoco Phillips Whitegate Refinery Ltd., Whitegate, Midleton, Co. Cork |
|
EN590 |
Biodiesel Production Ireland/Topaz Energy Limited, Beech Hill Office Park, Clonskeagh, Dublin 4 |
|
EN590 |
Green Biofuels Ireland Ltd., Blackstoops, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford |
|
EN590 |
Irish Food Processors Ltd., 14 Castle Street, Ardee, Co. Louth |
|
Pure Plant Oil |
Biogreen Energy Products Ltd., The Leap, Adamstown, Co. Wexford |
|
Pure Plant Oil |
Eilish Oils Ltd., Kilmurry, Newtownmountkennedy, Co. Wicklow |
|
Pure Plant Oil |
Goldstar Oils Ltd., Oldcourt, Inistioge, Co. Kilkenny |
|
Captive Fleets |
Emo Oil Ltd., Clonminam Industrial Estate, Portlaoise, Co. Laois |
|
Captive Fleets |
Greyhound Recycling and Recovery Ltd., Knockmitten Lane, Western Industrial Estate, Dublin 12 |
|
Captive Fleets |
EcoOla, Innovation in Business Centre, Galway Mayo Institute of Technology, Dublin Road, Galway |
|
Captive Fleets |
Eco Fuels Ltd., Crohane, Fossa, Killarney, Co. Kerry |
|
Captive Fleets |
Bord na Móna plc, Main Street, Newbridge, Co. Kildare |
Post Office Network.
Pat Breen
Ceist:217 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the policy changes he is considering in conjunction with An Post to reverse the decline of rural sub-post offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43106/06]
I have no function in this matter. Matters relating to the post office network are, in the first instance, a matter for the Board and management of An Post.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:218 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43220/06]
In the time available, it has not been possible to identify and assemble the information requested.
My Department is compiling the data sought by the Deputy in this regard and I shall forward it to him as soon as possible.
Telecommunications Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:219 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the present status of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983, Section 45 (1)a and b(2)(3) with reference to commitments given therein, in particular future developments in respect of salary, pay or conditions for persons covered under the Act; the manner or extent of the circumstances by which this section has been set aside, altered, devolved or varied and by whom; if, prior to such alternation, in accordance with the statutory requirements, negotiations were entered into with the relevant bodies referred to prior to the making of Ministerial Orders, statutory instruments or regulations; if there has been amending legislation or if it is intended to regularise the situation; the extent to which statutory procedure was followed in respect of Section 46(1)(2)(3)(4)(5)(7); if he or his Department have made regulation, statutory instrument or Ministerial Order by way of removal of the statutory undertakings from the statute book; if the setting aside of such articles or sections is in accordance with the provisions in this and other legislation without reference to amending legislation, Dáil debate or compliance with the section regarding conditions imposed or statutory requirements with particular reference to dialogue with the interested parties referred to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43322/06]
All matters relating to pay are for the Board and management of the individual companies to decide on in consultation with the trade unions and staff associations where appropriate and this is an area in which I have no statutory function. In relation specifically to the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983, there is an obligation on the board and management of each company to ensure compliance with the Act.
Northern Ireland Issues.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:220 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will call in the British Ambassador to deal with the collusion issues raised in the Barron Reports. [43013/06]
The issue of collusion features prominently in our on-going discussions with the British Government at all levels. During his meeting with Prime Minister Blair in London on 4 December last, the Taoiseach discussed the issues raised in the four reports prepared by Mr. Justice Barron and the follow-up reports published by the Oireachtas Sub-Committee. I also had a follow-up discussion with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland at the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference meeting in London yesterday, during which I received a promise of full cooperation by the British Government in addressing this issue. We will continue to press the British Government on these matters in order to achieve progress on these very disturbing cases.
Foreign Conflicts.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:221 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will clarify Ireland’s position regarding the US harbouring persons (details supplied). [42997/06]
The individuals to whom the Deputy refers, Mr. Orlando Bosch and Mr. Luis Posada Carriles, were detained in Caracas in 1976, and charged with the bombing of Cubana Airlines flight 455 on 6 October 1976, in which all 73 people on board died. Mr. Carriles escaped detention in 1985, while Mr. Bosch was released two years later.
Since May 2005, Mr. Carriles has been detained in US custody, charged with illegally entering US territory. The US Government has decided not to grant the extradition requests for Mr. Carriles submitted by the Venezuelan and Cuban authorities; it is my understanding that this U.S. decision is based on the principle of non-refoulement. This principle, which is contained in Article 3.1 of the United Nations Convention against Torture, requires States not to expel, return ("refouler") or extradite persons to another State where there are substantial grounds for believing that they would be in danger of being subjected to torture.
These cases are legal, bilateral matters between the countries concerned and not ones on which it would be appropriate for the Government to take a position.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:222 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if it is correct that Ireland does not have a position on the 3,478 Cubans killed and 2,099 maimed at the hands of US based terrorists groups following his dismissive answers to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 373 and 374 of 5 December 2006; and if he will clarify Ireland’s position on this matter. [42998/06]
As the Deputy is aware, Ireland, along with our EU partners, condemns all acts of terrorism, regardless of their target or motivation. Terrorism can never be justified by any cause, reason or ideology. However, as I made clear in my reply to the Deputy's Parliamentary Question No. 373 of 5 December, in the absence of any specific information regarding the allegations made by him, I am not in a position to make a more detailed comment on the matter.
Human Rights Issues.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:223 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action his Department is taking in conjunction with Bulgarian officials to investigate the illegal trade of bodily organs as referred to in a newspaper (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43171/06]
Enda Kenny
Ceist:224 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his plans to combat the illegal trade of organs of Irish people who die abroad; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43172/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 223 and 224 together.
On being contacted by a member of the family, I have taken a close personal interest in the case concerning the removal of the internal organs of an Irish citizen who had died in Bulgaria. I am also deeply conscious of the distress suffered by this family.
On learning of the case, I immediately instructed our Embassy in Sofia to raise the issue with the Bulgarian authorities to establish the reasons for the removal of the organs, and to secure their release and return to the family. I also instructed that the issue be raised with our partners at EU level, through the Consular Affairs Working Group.
As a result of our initiative, a working group of EU countries was mandated to look at repatriation of remains from Bulgaria. It was clear from the discussions at EU level that some other countries, including the UK and the Nordic countries, were experiencing similar problems.
On 10 October of this year, following sustained efforts by the Embassy in Sofia, the Regional Prosecutor in Varna informed the Embassy that the investigation into the death had concluded, and that the hospital in Varna had been ordered to ensure that the remaining organs were preserved properly in preparation for release and transportation. The organs were subsequently returned to the family on 1 November.
On 22 November, the Bulgarian Minister for Health informed our Embassy that he had drafted an ordinance that would ensure that in future all organs are repatriated with the body following autopsy. I very much welcome this response to the initiatives we have taken, supported by our EU colleagues.
Dublin-Monaghan Bombings.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:225 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the report from the sub-committee of the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women’s Rights that British Forces colluded to plant bombs on the streets of Dublin and Monaghan and in the murder of the Miami Showband members; and the action he will take on this urgent matter. [43182/06]
These events were the subject of extensive investigation by an independent Commission of Inquiry headed by Justice Barron. That Commission presented four separate reports to the Taoiseach and a Sub-Committee of the Oireachtas has considered each of them in turn. The reports of the Sub-Committee highlight issues of deep concern. On foot of the first of these reports, the Government appointed Mr. Patrick MacEntee S.C. as Sole Member of a Commission of Investigation to examine specific matters relating to the Dublin and Monaghan Bombings of 1974. This Commission of Investigation is in the closing stages of its work.
The Government has made the issue of collusion a continual feature of our contacts with the British Government at all levels. The Taoiseach discussed the issue when he met with Prime Minister Blair in London on 4 December last. I also had a follow-up discussion with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland at the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference meeting in London yesterday, during which I received a promise of full cooperation by the British Government in addressing this issue. We will continue to press the British Government on these matters in order to achieve progress on these very disturbing cases.
The Taoiseach and I have already announced our support for a full debate in the Dáil and Seanad on collusion, as recommended by the Joint Committee on Justice, Equality, Defence and Women's Rights. I look forward to that debate and to the opportunity it will give for the various issues of concern to be further considered in this House.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:226 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43227/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following tables in respect of the two Votes for which this Department is responsible: Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and Vote 29 (International Cooperation).
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€m |
|
|
1997 |
0.06 |
|
1998 |
0.08 |
|
1999 |
0.10 |
|
2000 |
0.05 |
|
2001 |
0.06 |
|
2002 |
0.60 |
|
2003 |
0.72 |
|
2004 |
0.47 |
|
2005 |
0.57 |
|
2006 (to date) |
0.28 |
|
Year |
Amount |
|
(€m) |
|
|
1997 |
1.54 |
|
1998 |
1.52 |
|
1999 |
1.47 |
|
2000 |
2.00 |
|
2001 |
3.10 |
|
2002 |
3.00 |
|
2003 |
2.60 |
|
2004 |
2.76 |
|
2005 |
2.60 |
|
2006 (to date) |
2.38 |
Under Vote 28, the bulk of the expenditure on consultancies in recent years relates to the upgrading of the Department's information technology infrastructure and to the development of an Automated Passport System (APS).
Under Vote 29, the consultancies undertaken by the Department's Development Cooperation Division cover a wide range of sectors including HIV/AIDS, health, education, governance and rural development. A high proportion of them concern the monitoring, review and evaluation of development programmes and projects commissioned at HQ. Given the scale of Ireland's development aid programme, the related consultancy expenditure is both prudent and proportionate.
Roads Projects.
Ciarán Cuffe
Ceist:227 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the meeting or correspondences that his Department has had in relation to the purchases or exchange of lands or other compensation paid to organisations (details supplied) for the building of the M50, by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council acting as an agent for the National Roads Authority. [43053/06]
My Department has had no meetings or correspondence in relation to the issue referred to by the Deputy. The Deputy will be aware that Horse Racing Ireland is the statutory body responsible for the horse racing industry and any issues in relation to the purchases or exchanges of lands or other compensation for the building of the M50 are between HRI and the Local Authority. I have no role in such issues.
Sports Funding.
Tony Gregory
Ceist:228 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the grants available to persons and organisations involved in the sport of racing pigeons; if this is classified as a sport here as it is in other EU countries; if this matter will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43148/06]
The Irish Sports Council (ISC) was set up as a statutory body in July 1999 with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. The Sports Council allocates funding to recognised National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of sport on an annual basis, following a detailed analysis of their application form.
Under the Irish Sports Council Act 1999, the ISC cannot provide financial assistance or otherwise to a body other than to a Governing body that satisfies its criteria for recognition as a sport. In order to gain eligibility, an organisation must meet the criteria that have been established by the Irish Sports Council as required under Section 8 (1) of the Irish Sports Council Act, 1999. I understand that no such application for recognition has been made to the Sports Council.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:229 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43219/06]
Since the establishment of my Department in June 2002 the following expenditure on consultancy has been incurred.
2002 (part of) €106,686
2003 €759,119
2004 €2,165,932
2005 €406,103
A total of €156,308 has been charged to date in 2006 to subhead A7 for consultancy services.
Grant Payments.
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:230 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the grant aid available to garden centre or nursery owners for extending their business; the agencies that give grant assistance to such businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43000/06]
My Department does not provide direct funding or grants to businesses but provides funding to a number of State Agencies, including the County and City Enterprise Boards, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon Development and FÁS, through whom assistance is delivered directly to businesses.
The County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) provide support to micro-enterprises with 10 employees or fewer. The function of the CEBs is to develop indigenous enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity at local level. Subject to certain eligibility criteria, enterprises may qualify for financial support from the CEBs in the form of feasibility, employment and capital grants or for non-financial support such as business advice and information, management development, training and mentoring.
All of the CEBs operate to the same criteria in relation to the assistance which they can offer i.e. they can support the establishment and/or the development of new and existing enterprises by individuals, firms and community groups provided that the projects, that should generally be in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sector, have the capacity to achieve commercial viability and which over time may develop into strong exporting entities. In this regard, therefore, funding is unlikely to be available towards the costs of extending a garden centre or nursery business.
In order to qualify for Enterprise Ireland assistance client companies must be Irish owned, be a manufacturing or an internationally trading services enterprise or be an overseas company in the food, drink and timber sectors seeking assistance to locate in Ireland, must employ more than 10 people or be a high growth start-up according to criteria defined by the Board of Enterprise Ireland. In addition Enterprise Ireland must be satisfied that the company will:
produce products for sale primarily in world markets
produce products of an advanced technological nature for supply to internationally trading or skilled sub-supply firms within the State
produce products for sectors of the Irish market which are subject to international competition or is a service industry, as defined by relevant ministerial order.
County Enterprise Boards.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:231 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the findings of the recently published Economic Indicators for Kerry, which was issued by the Kerry Enterprise Action Team; the action he proposes to take in view of the findings of the publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42961/06]
I am aware that the Kerry Enterprise Action Team is a sub-committee of the Kerry County Development Board. The County Development Boards come under the aegis of the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
I understand that the document in question is a synthesis of key economic/enterprise statistics for Co. Kerry, including performance by the Industrial Development agencies, and that the preparation of such a document is in line with the role and function of the County Development Board. Indeed, I am aware that the Industrial Development agencies under the aegis of my Department contributed data for the document which was prepared in October.
Any action that is taken on foot of the document is a matter for the relevant agencies. In this regard, the agencies will continue to adopt a co-ordinated approach to employment creation in Co. Kerry. The co-ordinated approach has two objectives. The first is to enhance and facilitate the future employment prospects of the workforce and the second is to identify and support individuals who wish to start their own business.
Grant Payments.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:232 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of money allocated by his Department or by agencies under the aegis of his Department to a group (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43005/06]
The issue of grant payments is a day-to-day operational matter for the Industrial Development agencies. However, I understand that Enterprise Ireland has paid a total of €2.6 million to the company in question.
Community Employment Schemes.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:233 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost of an extra 5,000 places on community employment schemes in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43021/06]
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:235 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost in 2007 of bringing the total places on community employment to the level of placement at year end 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43023/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 233 and 235 together.
I am informed by FÁS that the cost of an additional 5,000 places on Community Employment Schemes would be about €80 million. In addition the cost of providing the same number of places as at year end 2002 would be about €40 million.
Local Employment Service.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:234 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the funding allocated to FÁS local employment services in 2007. [43022/06]
The Budget for the Local Employment Service (LES) for 2006 is €18.430m. The provisional allocation for 2007 is €19.250m.
Question No. 235 answered with QuestionNo. 233.
Redundancy Payments.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:236 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost of providing for the payment of three weeks’ statutory redundancy payment for every year of service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43024/06]
The total cost to the Social Insurance Fund of providing for statutory redundancy payments for the first eleven months of 2006 was €150.8m.
From these figures, which were based on statutory redundancy payments of two weeks pay for every year of service (together with the usual bonus week), it can be estimated that the current total cost of redundancy payments for the full year will amount to €165m approximately.
The cost of statutory redundancy based on three weeks pay per year of service can be further extrapolated from these figures. Thus, the total cost for the year would amount to €248m approximately.
Redundancy entitlements were last discussed in the context of Sustaining Progress and agreed at two weeks pay per year of service plus a bonus week. There are no plans at present to increase statutory redundancy entitlements.
Job Creation.
Jack Wall
Ceist:237 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his plans to establish a task force for the Naas area in view of the recent closure of a factory (details supplied) resulting in job losses for the area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43094/06]
According to the most recent Quarterly National Household Survey published by the Central Statistics Office on 30 November, the numbers in employment in the Mid-East region, of which Naas is a part, continue to grow. The numbers increased from 225,600 people in the second quarter of 2006 to 231,800 in the third quarter. This represents a continuing strong rise of over 20,000 in the number of people in employment in the region over the last two years.
In recent years, a number of world class manufacturing companies such as Intel, Wyeth Medica and Hewlett Packard have been attracted to County Kildare. As regards Naas itself, in May of this year, I announced a major investment of €28m by Dawn Farm Foods Ltd with support from Enterprise Ireland. A total of 100 new jobs will be created. A major expansion by Green Isle Foods is under way and on target. The Millennium Park in the town has three modern advance office buildings available for marketing to investors. A financial services company has already established in the Park.
I am satisfied that the efforts of the Industrial Development agencies will continue to attract investment and job opportunities to the area.
Industrial Development.
Jack Wall
Ceist:238 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number and location of vacant IDA factories in County Kildare; the number of visits to these factories over the past year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43095/06]
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment to Ireland and its regions. Since 1996, the Agency has been disposing of its landlord's interest in buildings throughout the country. This policy was reviewed as part of the 2004 expenditure review of IDA Ireland's property portfolio and the Steering Group was satisfied that the approach, which seeks to have the provision of buildings funded by the private sector, is appropriate.
I have been informed by IDA Ireland that the last remaining IDA advance unit in county Kildare, which is located in Athy, is now occupied and negotiation is ongoing regarding the purchase of the unit by an Irish company.
In addition, IDA has sites in Kildare Town, Monasterevin and Castledermot that are available for industrial promotion. In the past 12 months two companies visited Kildare; one in food processing and the other one in financial services. Ultimately decisions regarding where to locate are taken by investors themselves and IDA will continue to promote these sites.
IDA Ireland strategy for the County is to:
Progress development in the area towards a knowledge economy in order that the County can compete both nationally and internationally for foreign direct investment.
Encourage increased cooperation between foreign direct investment companies and the third level institutions in the County e.g. University College Maynooth;
Work with the existing client base in the County to expand their presence.
I am satisfied that the strategy which IDA Ireland has adopted and put in place for the County is delivering results in terms of additional jobs for the people of Kildare. In the period 1996 to 2005, the permanent jobs base in IDA overseas companies in the County has risen from 6,797 to 10,818, an increase of 4,021 jobs.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:239 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43224/06]
The following table supplies the information requested by the Deputy in relation to the amount of expenditure by my Department on consultancy in the years 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006.
|
Name of Consultants/experts/advisers |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for Year |
|
£ |
||
|
Baker Consultants |
Network / Security Consultancy |
1,943 |
|
Clear Systems Solutions |
Application Support — Enhancement/maintenance of systems in Patents Office |
7,713 |
|
Coopers & Lybrand |
Business Process Re-engineering project in the Patents Office |
107,702 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Development of an IT system for Redundancy, Insolvency and Recoveries Division |
25,834 |
|
Interact |
System design and development of website for Department |
15,530 |
|
Oracle Europe Manu Ltd |
System development of an IT system for the Insurance Regulatory Authority |
55,164 |
|
Quest Computing Ltd |
Enhancements to Employment Appeals Tribunal IT system |
26,305 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Service for the Office of the Director of Consumer affairs (ODCA) |
27,647 |
|
C.S. Kelly and Company |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
293 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Advice and opinions provided to aid the Director with Section 149 bank charges notifications under the Consumer Credit Act 1995. |
1,995 |
|
Brian Murray |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
272 |
|
Liam Mac Hale |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
3,569 |
|
Brian Murray |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
332 |
|
PJ Connellan and Co |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
211 |
|
Michael McDowell S.C. |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
302 |
|
PJ Connellan and Co |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
272 |
|
Michael McDowell S.C. |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
302 |
|
Gerald Daly and Company |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
181 |
|
Woodgrande Consultants |
Irish Times business 2000 project case study and business education for the ODCA |
11,495 |
|
Rory Hayden and Company |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
233 |
|
PJ Connellan and Co |
Legal Service for the ODCA |
292 |
|
Avid Hayes and Associates |
Designing new corporate look for Consumer Affairs for the ODCA |
3,472 |
|
Lyndon McCann BL (Authorised Officer) |
Investigation under S.14 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
28,352 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems upgrade & Project Development |
536,507 |
|
Graham Computing Ltd |
Software development on Wang System |
2,565 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
£ |
||
|
Pat Kearney, The SME Partnership |
The evaluation of County Enterprise Boards Action Plans |
2,539 |
|
Mr. Brendan Murphy, Abbott International Consultancy Services Ltd, Kells, Co. Meath |
Provisional assessment of County Enterprise Boards Action plans |
2,793 |
|
Ms. Ciara McCarthy |
Provisional assessment of County Enterprise Boards Action plans |
2,793 |
|
Mr. Pat Kearney |
Training needs assessment of Assistant CEOs of County Enterprise Boards |
5,078 |
|
Mr. Ron Immink, TASC Enterprise Development |
Business Survey of childcare facilities funded by the County Enterprise Boards |
5,078 |
|
Coopers & Lybrand |
Process modelling exercise Patents Office |
40,000 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Business Process Re-engineering Review of Redundancy & Insolvency System (IT) |
87,000 |
|
Ernst & Young |
System development and Organisation review project |
36,000 |
|
Interact |
System Development of Dept Website |
36,025 |
|
Progressive Systems Ent Ltd |
Progress database of Department’s Financial Management System |
13,400 |
|
Sword Ltd |
System Development for Patents Office |
155,000 |
|
Philip Flynn and Dan J McAuley |
Enquiry under Section 38(2) of the Industrial Relations Act 1990 |
78,816 |
|
National Minimum Wage Commission |
Implementation of a National Minimum Wage |
42,000 |
|
Exelan Computer Systems |
Computer software supply and maintenance for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
9,976 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial Consultancy for the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs (ODCA) |
77,278 |
|
BDOSimpsonXavier |
Bank Charges Project Consultancy for the ODCA |
59,999 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the office of the ODCA |
45,733 |
|
Thomas E Tighe |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
195 |
|
Gerard Daly & Co |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
181 |
|
Martin Linnane & Co. |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
1,089 |
|
CS Kelly & CO. |
Legal Services — ODCA |
1,111 |
|
Machales Solicitors |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
393 |
|
Brian Moore |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
3,214 |
|
Michael McDowell |
Legal Services -costs cover legal for the ODCA |
4,356 |
|
Cahill Flynn |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
290 |
|
James W Houlihan BA |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
150 |
|
Martin Giblin |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
1,270 |
|
Gerard Hogan SC |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
484 |
|
CS Kelly & CO. |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
338 |
|
Gerard Hogan SC |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
242 |
|
John Brosnan & Co |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
1,339 |
|
James W Houlihan BA |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
447 |
|
James E Cahill |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
780 |
|
Machales Solicitors |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
363 |
|
CS Kelly & CO. |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
355 |
|
Augustus Cullen & Son |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
263 |
|
Peter D Jones |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
363 |
|
Emily Egan BL |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
647 |
|
Liam McHale |
Legal Services — for the ODCA |
363 |
|
Lyndon McCann BL (Authorised Officer) |
Investigation under S.14 of the Companies Act, |
91,357 |
|
William Fry Solicitors (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under Sections 14 & 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
42,765 |
|
O’Hare & Associates Solicitors (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under Sections 14 & 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
46,248 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems upgrade & Project Development |
345,311 |
|
Ms Fidelma Macken |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
495 |
|
Mr Raymond Fullam |
CopyrightArbitration Fees |
18,150 |
|
Dáil Court Reporters |
VerbatimReporting, Services of Stenographer |
2,978 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State. |
2,607 |
|
Eustace Patterson |
Evaluation of the Local Employment Service |
29,854 |
|
Deloitte & Touché |
Review of Community Employment |
54,450 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
£ |
||
|
Kilroys Solicitors and other legal advisers. |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
60,354 |
|
CARA computers |
IT System development |
25,410 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Development of Case Tracking System for Registrar Friendly Societies |
120,486 |
|
Ernst & Young |
Business Modelling Study |
27,043 |
|
IBM Ltd |
Year 2000 Mail System conversion |
25,713 |
|
Oracle Europe Manufacturing |
IT System Development — Insurance System |
62,012 |
|
Oracle Europe Manufacturing |
IT System Development |
180,000 |
|
Quest Computing Ltd |
IT System Development for Employment Appeals Tribunal |
40,000 |
|
Sword |
IT System Development for Patents Office |
141,527 |
|
Vision Consulting |
Business Analysis of European Social Fund (ESF) Section |
14,978 |
|
Baker Consultants |
Website Development |
20,803 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems upgrade & Project Development |
559,900 |
|
Siemens Ltd |
Oracles Receivables Development Companies Registration Office (CRO) |
22,506 |
|
Filenet Ltd |
Image System upgrade Work CRO |
1,512 |
|
Hewlett Packard Irl Ltd |
IT System upgrade for CRO |
7,562 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the Director for the ODCA |
54,810 |
|
Michael McDowell |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
544.50 |
|
Donal Dunne, Solicitor |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
459.80 |
|
James Houlihan |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
254 |
|
Gerard Hogan SC |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
423 |
|
Emily Egan BL |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
10,832 |
|
Paul Gallagher |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
10,285 |
|
James Dwyer SC |
Legal Services for the ODCA |
786 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial Consultancy for the ODCA |
25,883 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser for the ODCA |
10,073 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
General Product Safety Testing Services for the ODCA |
14,431 |
|
O’Hare & Associates Solicitors / Eugene F. Collins Solicitor (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under Sections 14 & 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
89,580 |
|
Quinn & Hampson Attorneys at Law (Legal advice) |
Investigation under S.19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
5,277 |
|
Ms Fidelma Macken |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
330 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd Trade Mark & Patent Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State |
11,850 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Review of Job Initiative Scheme |
20,000 |
|
Fitzpatricks |
Final Evaluation of the Adapt Community Initiative |
21,810 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
€ |
||
|
RGC Technologies |
Software Consultants employed to supply, maintain and support the Department with a legal software package for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
23,929 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
159,714 |
|
Exelan Computer Systems |
Computer software supply and maintenance for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
8,135 |
|
Baker Consultants |
Website design |
7,682 |
|
Brindley Advertising |
Advertising Designs |
731 |
|
CARA Computers |
IT System Development & Organisational review projects |
95,425 |
|
Clear Systems Solutions |
IT System Development |
1,935 |
|
Connect Business Solutions |
IT System Development |
2,539 |
|
Connect Business Solutions |
IT System Development Ministerial Representation & Invitation Tracking System |
33,039 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Business Process Re-engineering Review of Competition Authority |
78,356 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Application Support System Remedial work — Redundancy, Insolvency, Recoveries |
16,884 |
|
EPS Ltd |
IT System Development General System Maintenance & Development |
28,814 |
|
Flextime |
IT System Development Time and Attendance |
7,764 |
|
IBM Ltd |
IT System Development Year 2000 Mail Conversion |
22,206 |
|
Oracle Europe Manufacturing |
IT System Development System Development — Insurance System |
33,417 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Business Process Re-engineering Review for ODCA (part I payment) |
100,787 |
|
PROSE |
IT System Development System Enhancements — Financial Management System |
20,657.00 |
|
PROSE |
IT System Development System Development — Asset Register |
28,861.00 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of Community Trade Mark Search System |
144,284 |
|
Sword |
IT System Development & Maintenance Patent Office System |
177,636 |
|
Version 1 software |
IT Database Support consultancy |
11,062 |
|
EDI Factory |
Electronic filing project |
18,411 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems Development |
482,500 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT System Development |
733,172 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Research project on consumer representation |
7,681 |
|
Independent Group into Allegations of Anti-Competitive Practice in the Irish Beef Industry |
Investigation into allegations of Anti-Competitive Practice in the Irish Beef Industry |
129,69Z |
|
The Competition & Mergers Review Group |
Final Report of the Competition & Mergers Review Group |
221,703 |
|
James Devlin Barrister at law |
Preliminary technical work on consolidated companies legislation |
35,560 |
|
O’Hare & Associates Solicitors (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under Sections 14 & 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
44,615 |
|
Quinn & Hampson Attorneys at Law (Legal assistance) |
Investigation under S.19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
984 |
|
Antonio Bueno (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under S.19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
111,340 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the Director of Consumer Affairs |
82,597 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial Consultancy for the ODCA |
70,522 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser to the ODCA |
15,978 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
General Product Safety Testing Services |
35,124 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Business Process Review for the ODCA |
100,786 |
|
Aidan Judge State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
783 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald Solicitors |
Legal Services |
1,845 |
|
Luan Ó Braonáin |
Legal Services |
483 |
|
Emily Egan BL |
Legal Services |
5,418 |
|
James Dwyer SC |
Legal Services |
768 |
|
Julie Sutherland |
Survey on personal injury compensation in other countries for the Personal Injuries Tribunal Special Working Group |
31,743 |
|
Mr Paul Coughlan |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
1,760 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State. |
959 |
|
Irish Management Institute (IMI) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) |
To evaluate, by way of a staff perceptions and attitudes survey, the nature and extent of past and continuing change within the Department |
€25,395 of which €10,158 was recouped from the Change Management Fund, resulting in net expenditure of €15,237 |
|
Fitzpatricks |
Final Evaluation Employment Community Initiative |
50,639 |
|
Chapman Flood Mazars |
Audit of Employment and Adapt Community Initiative Round 2 |
52,371 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
€ |
||
|
Ernst & Young |
Development and Production of a Procedures Manual for the Productive Sector Operational Programme |
75,190 |
|
Xwave |
EPublic Services Strategy of Dept |
53,329 |
|
Chapman Flood Mazars |
An audit of the Small Business Operational Programme |
19,503 |
|
Xwave Solutions Ireland |
To develop a common system, database and associated software application to deliver an acceptable Management Information System for use by the Department and the County and City Enterprise Boards |
95,230 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Provision of financial accounting assistance in the closure of Sub-Programme 1 for the Local, Urban and Rural Development OP 1994-1999 |
35,290 |
|
Deloitte and Touche (Belfast) |
Consultancy re: Recruitment of Chief Executive for Inter TradeIreland |
11,017 |
|
Tom Walsh |
Production of revised health & safety legislation, as well as provision of advice to the Dept on other occupational health and safety matters. |
€74,303 Paid in 2002 includes payment for the period Sept.-Dec., 2001 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
Business Analysis and Reform of the Financial Management Function of the Department |
155,680 |
|
Institute of Public Administration (IPA) |
Customer Care Research |
40,607 |
|
RGC Technologies |
Software Consultants employed to supply, maintain and support the Department with a legal software package for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
12,759 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
64,296 |
|
System Dynamics |
Specialist Training Course for Departmental staff in relation to the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
2,273 |
|
Astron Consulting |
Euro business impact analysis |
2,765 |
|
Baker Consultants |
Redesign of network routing structure |
1,524 |
|
Bark Design |
Advertisement layout design |
3,383 |
|
Bianconi Research Ltd. (RITS) |
IT Security Review |
22,093 |
|
CARA computers |
IT System Development |
16,042 |
|
Client Solutions |
Consultancy and Development of BASIS website |
48,368 |
|
Client Solutions |
Ongoing support and maintenance of BASIS Website |
36,568 |
|
Connect Business Solutions |
IT Systems Enhancement |
2,541 |
|
Connect Business Solutions Ltd |
General System Maintenance & Development (IT) |
33,275 |
|
Core International |
Implementation of new Payroll system |
36,152 |
|
Decision Support Systems |
Netware IT consultancy |
26,664 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
Upgrade of Redundancy Insolvency & Recoveries system and Euro conversion project (IT) |
202,994 |
|
Eircom Plc |
IT services support |
60,948 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Formulation of Intranet Strategy |
130,835 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Development of BASIS, including the development of the BASIS Website, and two reports — ‘Cross-Departmental Study on Public Services to Business’ and ‘Cross-Departmental Study on Content Management’ |
1,598,994 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Business Process Re-engineering for ODCA (part II payment) |
50,129 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Business Process Re-engineering for Employment Rights Enforcement System |
126,714 |
|
PROSE |
Euro remedial work and enhancements for the Financial management, Asset register and Social Insurance Fund systems. |
41,495 |
|
Quest computing Ltd |
Euro remedial work to Employment Appeals Tribunal System |
54,578 |
|
Renaissance |
Mail Security Consultancy |
1,143 |
|
Sword |
Maintenance and Development of the Patents Office System |
225,460 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of Madrid Protocol Amendments to the Patents Office Administration and Search Systems |
121,240 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of Phase 1 of a Financial Management Module to the Patents Office Administration Systems |
212,222 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Oracle Database Administration System consultancy (IT) |
52,022 |
|
Vizor Ltd |
System Development — Insurance Regulation Web system (IT) |
63,679 |
|
Xwave |
E-public services strategy |
53,329 |
|
Baker Consultants |
Website development CRO |
26,414 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Various IT systems upgrade and project developments for the CRO |
710,926 |
|
Siemens Ltd |
Oracles Receivables Development CRO |
28,576 |
|
EDI Factory |
Electronic filing project |
18,411 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems Development |
482,500 |
|
EDI Factory |
Electronic filing project |
24,125 |
|
James Devlin Barrister at law |
Preliminary technical work on consolidated companies legislation |
66,040 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the ODCA |
84,961 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial Consultancy for the ODCA |
87,832 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser for the ODCA |
50,285 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
General produce safety testing services |
15,474 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
BPR Consultancy /Report |
50,129 |
|
Michael M. Collins |
Legal Services |
192 |
|
Edward O’Sullivan |
Legal Services |
1,142 |
|
Emily Egan BL |
Legal Services |
11253 |
|
CS Kelly |
Legal Services |
672 |
|
John Brosnan State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
495 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald Solicitor |
Legal Services |
304 |
|
Gerard Daly & Co |
Legal Services |
252 |
|
Gerard Hogan SC |
Legal Services |
1,209 |
|
CS Kelly |
Legal Services |
670 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald |
Legal Services |
304 |
|
Vincent O’Reilly Solr |
Legal Services |
1,512 |
|
J.M. McEvoy & Co |
Legal Services |
186 |
|
James W. Houlihan |
Legal Services |
243 |
|
Brendan Nix SC |
Legal Services |
11,427 |
|
D H Sheridan |
Legal Services |
685 |
|
Gerard Hogan SC |
Legal Services |
228 |
|
John P Trainor SC |
Legal Services |
1,279 |
|
Oisin Quinn BL |
Legal Services |
799 |
|
Michael Collins SC |
Legal Services |
20,188 |
|
James Dwyer |
Legal Services |
14,543 |
|
John Hennessy BL (Legal Advice) |
Various investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
50,312 |
|
William Fry Solicitors (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
255,247 |
|
O’Hare & Associates Solicitors (Legal Advice) |
Investigation under Sections 14 & 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
48,034 |
|
PriceWaterhouseCoopers (Consultancy) |
Study of the remaining functions of the Registry of Friendly Society following the transfer of Credit Unions to Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority |
22,855 |
|
Capita Business Services Ltd. (Consultancy) |
Consultancy review of an accountancy body (IIPA) |
6,349 |
|
Baker Consultants |
Configuration of I.T. Systems for Office of Director Corporate Enforcement |
3,066 |
|
Bark |
Design Consultants — Publications, Logo and web site for Office of Director of Corporate Enforcement |
32,075 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Development of I.T. Case Management System for Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
98,537 |
|
Webtrade |
Development of ODCE Web site odce.ie |
17,988 |
|
OSG Chartered Loss Adjusters |
Assessment of Damages caused in ODCE search of premises |
440 |
|
Cyril Connolly |
Statistical analysis for Motor Insurance Advisory Board Report |
12,697 |
|
Mr Paul Coughlan |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
1,815 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State. |
272 |
|
Irish Management Institute (IMI) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) |
Evaluation of staff perceptions and attitudes survey, conducted to measure the nature and extent of past and continuing change within the Department. |
€12,698 of which €5,079 was recouped from the Change Management Fund, resulting in net expenditure of €7,619 |
|
Irish Management Institute (IMI) |
Design of Senior Management Development Programme |
96,043 |
|
Fitzpatricks |
Use of a Market Driven approach to European Social Fund |
21,530 |
|
CAPITA |
Equal Community Initiative Programme Complement |
7,313 |
|
CAPITA |
Ex-Ante Evaluation of Equal Community Initative |
12,697 |
|
CAPITA |
Report on Interreg Community Initiative |
19,909 |
|
Vision Consulting |
Business Analysis of European Social Fund Business Unit of the Department |
19,018 |
|
Tom Martin & Associates |
Review of Sheltered Employment for People with Disabilities |
32,580 |
|
Circa Group |
Evaluation of the Training Networks Programme (Skillnets) |
88,980 |
|
Enviros Consulting Limited |
Enterprise Ireland commissioned a research project on developing new products from waste streams. |
£25,000 (part contribution by Department) |
|
Indecon/ Enviros Consulting Limited |
Forfás commissioned a study on the competitiveness of the enterprise sector and the use of taxation and negotiated agreements for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in Ireland |
60,000 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
€ |
||
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Creation of Spreadsheets for the Productive Sector Operational Programme |
4,840 |
|
Ryan Glennon & Co Ltd |
Research on Shannon Development |
29,754 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Provision of financial accounting assistance in the closure of Sub-Programme 1 for the Local, Urban and Rural Development OP 1994-1999 |
166,700 |
|
Mercer Human Resources Consulting |
Review of Staffing, Recruitment, Grading and Business Processes of the Labour Relations Commission |
96,558 |
|
Tom Walsh |
Production of revised health & safety legislation, as well as provision of advice to the Dept on other occupational health and safety matters |
74,303 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
Consultancy Advice in the Specification & Selection of a new Financial Management System |
35,337 |
|
Institute of Public Administration (IPA) |
Customer Care Research |
22,682 |
|
Eustace Patterson |
Fastrack to IT Consultancy |
Cost divided between DETE, FAS and DES,cost to DETE €21,000 |
|
Chapman Flood Mazars |
Audit of Employment & Adapt Community Initiative Round 1 |
20,720 |
|
Work Research Centre Ltd |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company Training funding |
3,146 |
|
Indecon International EcoNomic Consultants |
Overall Review of Active Labour Market Programmes |
57,130 |
|
The Circa Group |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company Training funding |
3,146 |
|
AC Network |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company Training funding |
2,988 |
|
Internet Business Ireland |
Development of European Social Fund Website |
8,407 |
|
ESRI & Goodbody Economic Consultants |
Impact Evaluation of the European Employment Strategy in Ireland |
155,461 |
|
Bearing Point |
Review of Vocational Training provision for People with Disabilities |
83,975 |
|
Fitzpatricks |
Interim & Mid-Term Evaluation Equal Community Initiative |
€71,148 (€23,716 in 2002, €47,432 in 2003) |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Consultation on staffing requirements for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
15,288 |
|
A&L Goodbody |
Legal services to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Implementation Group |
37,124 |
|
RGC TechNologies |
Software Consultants employed to supply, maintain and support the Department with a legal software package for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
36,224 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
404,899 |
|
Baker Consultants |
Network & Security consultancy for Patents Office online systems |
13,110 |
|
Bianconi Research Ltd (RITS) |
Implementation work on network security |
53,565 |
|
Bark Design |
Advertisement layout design |
139 |
|
Blue Wave Technology |
Access IT system development |
1,473 |
|
Blue Wave Technology |
IT System development standards/system development |
22,648 |
|
Bunnyfoot Ltd. |
Usability / Accessibility study of BASIS website |
26,228 |
|
Cap Gemini Ernst & Young |
Preparation and presentation of condensed report of Public Services Broker Phase 2 feasibility study |
14,520 |
|
Cap Gemini Ernst & Young |
Public Services Broker Phase 2 feasibility study |
256,218 |
|
Client Solutions |
Consultancy and Development of BASIS website |
50,673 |
|
Client Solutions |
Ongoing support and maintenance of BASIS Website |
20,281 |
|
Computer Associates |
Implementation work on network storage |
34,588 |
|
Connect Business Solutions Ltd |
Intranet Development |
45,738 |
|
Connect Business Solutions/System Dynamics Solutions Ltd |
Lotus Notes IT System Development & Maintenance |
90,204 |
|
Connect Global Solutions |
Work Permit Applications feasibility review (IT) |
2,723 |
|
Core International |
Enhancements to Payroll System |
3,157 |
|
Curach Technologies |
Development and implementation of new Employment Rights case tracking system |
804,555 |
|
Decision Support Systems |
Network consultancy & implementation work |
76,020 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT System Development — Redundancy web calculator |
5,813 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Euro Remedial work/IT system enhancement |
18,436 |
|
Eircom |
Provision of IT Helpdesk Services |
103,455 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Development and implementation of new financial management system (MIF) |
475,404 |
|
Keith Kelly |
SQL server consultancy (IT) |
3,000 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
ICT Strategy for the Department |
76,835 |
|
Propylon |
Development of Patents Office Online Journal System |
87,577 |
|
PROSE |
Euro Remedial work- Financial management IT System and asset register |
41,981 |
|
RITS |
Security Review of Department’s Network |
32,735 |
|
Similarity Systems Ltd. |
Patents Office Data Cleanup |
17,607 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of Phase 1 of a Financial Management Module to the Patents Office Administration Systems |
94,209 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of Patents Office Online Registers & Databases |
56,195 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of Phase 2 of a Financial Management Module to the Patents Office Administration Systems |
97,860 |
|
Sword |
Maintenance and Development of the Patents Office IT Administration System |
268,328 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Database Administration (IT) |
39,722 |
|
Vizor |
System enhancement — In-Reg (IT) |
3,630 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Registration Services System development for Companies Registration Office |
675,974 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Electronic Filing development for CRO |
285,604 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Imaging Software maintenance for Companies Registration Office |
83,295 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
Software Development for Companies Registration Office |
214,780 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
Development of a proposal for the elimination of the annual return registration backlog |
52,198 |
|
MRBI |
Market Research for CRO to determine the level of awareness of company officers and professional advisers of their statutory obligations |
23,838 |
|
Margaret O’Driscoll |
Drafting Unit Pricing Regulations |
1,371.33 |
|
Declan Murphy |
Advice on preparation of draft Heads on incorporation and corporate governance |
10,160 |
|
James Devlin Barrister at law |
Preliminary technical work on consolidated companies legislation |
15,875 |
|
PricewaterhouseCoopers |
Examination of criteria for determining public interest companies |
38,236 |
|
PE Consulting |
Assistance to interim Board of the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority in selection process for CEO |
10,200 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
94,638 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial Consultancy for the ODCA in order to aid the Director with Section 149 bank charges notifications under the Consumer Credit Act 1995. |
73,051 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser to the ODCA |
38,192 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
General Product Safety testing services |
2,160 |
|
System Dynamics |
IT Consultancy on Spec and development of Integrated Database |
42,531 |
|
System Dynamics |
IT Consultancy — bankcharge database |
4,658 |
|
Creative Inc |
Web Consultancy — New ODCA website |
27,401 |
|
System Dynamics |
Support for Lotus Notes |
18,150 |
|
Creative Inc |
Web Consultancy — New ODCA website & hosting |
27,673 |
|
Emily Egan |
Legal Services |
21,532 |
|
James A Boyle |
Legal Services |
242 |
|
Edward O’sullivan |
Legal Services |
689 |
|
Michael D Murray |
Legal Services |
868 |
|
James Dwyer |
Legal Services |
302 |
|
John Brosnan |
Legal Services |
121 |
|
O’Doherty Warren & Associates |
Legal Services |
120 |
|
Peter D Jones |
Legal Services |
1,229 |
|
Oisin Quinn |
Legal Services |
27,158 |
|
John Hennessy BL (Legal Advice) |
Various investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
53,724 |
|
PriceWaterhouseCoopers (Consultancy) |
Study of the remaining functions of the Registry of Friendly Society following the transfer of Credit Unions to IFSRA |
33,526 |
|
A. M. Bourn (Consultancy) |
Review of procedures and practices of an accountancy body (IIPA) |
8,350 |
|
Eoghan Fitzsimons |
Counsel Fees for Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
41,987 |
|
Mark Sanfey B.L |
Counsel FeesOffice of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
28,072 |
|
Michael Cush S.C |
Legal Advice and Court Appearances Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
15,125 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Development of I.T. Case Management System Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
31,997 |
|
BARK |
Design of the ODCE Annual Report and other publications, together with some design and layouts for advertisements. There would have been small amounts also for design of business cards. |
6,982 |
|
Rochford Brady |
Search Fees, Summons Serving Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
46 |
|
John J. Allen |
Consultancy-Accountancy case Work Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
1,361 |
|
Webtrade |
Website Development, Maintenance and HostingOffice of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
3,194 |
|
Brian Cregan |
Consultation and Counsel Fees Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
4,591 |
|
Doyle Court Reporters Ltd. |
Transcripts ODCE |
1,218 |
|
Grainne Clohessy |
Legal Opinion Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
544 |
|
Gwen Malone Stenography |
Stenography Service |
4,851 |
|
Investec Ireland |
Company Investigation |
4,004 |
|
Kerida Naidoo |
Fee for Consultation for ODCE |
699 |
|
Paul Anthony McDermott |
Legal Advice |
3,025 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Draft Sumons and Letters of Advice For ODCE |
1,638 |
|
Shane Murphy |
Counsel Fees and Legal Advice For ODCE |
1,573 |
|
Burtenshaw Kenny Consultants |
Human Resource Consultancy |
4,159 |
|
Mr Paul Coughlan |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
1,330 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State |
575 |
|
Irish Management Institute (IMI) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) |
Continuation of evaluation of a staff perceptions and attitudes survey, conducted in 2000 to measure the nature and extent of past and continuing change within the Department |
€13,459 of which €5,078 was recouped from the Change Management Fund, resulting in net expenditure of €8,380. |
|
Clean Technology Centre, Cork Institute of Technology |
Research Project to investigate factors influencing take up by Irish Enterprises of funding for research in sustainable production, technology, innovation and practices |
€48,581.50 (payments made in 2002 and 2003) |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Preparation of Report on Mainstreaming Equal Community Initiative |
47,998 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
€ |
||
|
Indecon |
Mid-Term Review of the Productive Sector OP |
173,358 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Creation of Spreadsheets, Testing and Validation of financial returns for 2002 &2003 |
7,503 |
|
Chapman Flood Mazars |
To conduct some audit work on the Small Business Operational Programme in the context of the closure of the programme |
37,625 |
|
Tom Walsh |
Production of revised health & safety legislation, as well as provision of advice to the Dept on other occupational health and safety matters. |
64,396 |
|
Tom Walsh |
The provision of advice and support to the Department on the EU Chemicals (REACH) legislation proposals. |
9,603 |
|
Corporate Solutions |
Management of catering for the Irish Presidency of the E.U. |
25,255 |
|
Institute of Public Administration (IPA) |
Customer Care Research |
48,827 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Review of Interreg Maritime European Social Fund measure |
1,331 |
|
Mercer Human Resource |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company Training funding |
4,200 |
|
Work Research Centre |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company Training funding |
5,182 |
|
The Circa Group |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company fundingTraining |
5,168 |
|
AC Network |
Assessment of proposals for In-Company Training |
5,148 |
|
Fitzpatricks |
Midterm Evaluation of the Employment & Human Resources Development Operational Programme |
266,200 |
|
Irish Management Institute (IMI) and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) |
Conduct a staff perceptions and attitudes survey, in preparation for the integration of a system of Upward Feedback within the Performance Management and Development System (PMDS). |
€25,000 of which €10,000 was recouped from the Change Management Fund, resulting in net expenditure of €15,000 |
|
Mr Paul Coughlan |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
1,540 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State. |
659 |
|
Saville and Holdsworth |
Consultancy/interviews for SO Competition |
74,497 |
|
Saville and Holdsworth |
Consultancy /interviews for PO Competition |
15,245 |
|
Riona Carroll |
Evaluation of Department’s Teleworking scheme |
4,598 |
|
Cyril Connolly |
Statistical research for Motor Insurance Advisory Board |
1,500 |
|
System Dynamics Ltd |
Analysis of IT requirements for PIAB |
25,712 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Recruitment of CEO for PIAB |
37,828 |
|
Europe Economics (in conjunction with Competition Authority) |
Study into Insurance Industry |
99,220 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
40,656 |
|
Insurance Services Office Ltd |
Development of Book of Quantum for PIAB |
€35,000 and €50,000 1st stage payment for licence fee |
|
City University London (Cass Business School) (in conjunction with Competition Authority) |
Report on insurance industry |
€41,534 (In conjunction with the Competition Authority) |
|
RGC Technologies |
Software Consultants employed to supply, maintain and support the Department with a legal software package for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
157,489 |
|
SISI |
Provision of a service for specialised document transmittal, scanning and indexing for the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
69,908 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Professional Services for the Department’s defence in a legal action in relation to the Export Credit Insurance Scheme. |
19,952 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
590,336 |
|
Advanced Systems Ireland |
IT System Enhancements — Time and Attendance |
2,650 |
|
Bark Design |
Advertisement layout design |
303 |
|
Blue Wave Technology |
Access IT system development |
908 |
|
Client Solutions |
Consultancy and Development of BASIS website |
49,111 |
|
Client Solutions |
Ongoing support and maintenance of BASIS Website |
14,520 |
|
Client Solutions Ltd. |
Technical review of feasibility of BASIS / OASIS website integration |
2,299 |
|
Connect Business Solutions Ltd |
Intranet Development |
88,693 |
|
Core International |
IT System Enhancements — Corepay |
14,484 |
|
Decision Support Systems |
Design of Windows XP image |
25,000 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT System enhancements — Registry of Friendly Societies |
6,715. |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Enhancements to Redundancy, Insolvency, Recoveries IT system |
4,174 |
|
Eircom |
Provision of IT Helpdesk Services |
379,137 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Development and implementation of new financial management system (MIF) |
1,021,377 |
|
Keith Kelly |
SQL server consultancy (IT) |
2,360 |
|
Oak Tree Press |
Development of “Growing Your Own Business” content for BASIS Website |
2,420 |
|
Prose |
Support & maintenance of Financial Management System |
33,621 |
|
Sabeo |
Unix Support (IT) |
18,812 |
|
Sword |
Development of Patents Office Online System |
68,190 |
|
Sword |
Maintenance and Development of the Patents Office Administration System |
340,024 |
|
System Dynamics Ltd |
Ministerial Database system enhancements |
11,314 |
|
User Friendly Computer Company |
Department IT Training |
12,372 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Database Administration Consultancy |
26,608 |
|
Vizor |
System enhancements — Insurance Regulation (IT) |
4,991 |
|
Xwave |
Development and implementation of new personnel IT system (Peoplesoft) |
197,849 |
|
EDI Factory Limited T/A Celerity |
E-Filing Development for Companies Registration Office |
130,298 |
|
Zerflow Limited |
E-security for Companies Registration Office |
15,479 |
|
NRD Ireland Limited |
IT Systems Maintenance for Companies Registration Office |
306,260 |
|
Concept Design |
Website Development |
36,300 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
RSS Development for Companies Registration Office |
380,409 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
E-Filing Development for Companies Registration Office |
310,338 |
|
Tns/MRBI |
Market Research for Companies Registration Office |
32,978 |
|
Carr Communications |
Effective Communication with Companies Registration Office clients |
29,108 |
|
Ailill O’Reilly |
Preliminary work on consolidation of Winding up provisions of company law |
6,350 |
|
Mc Cann Fitzgerald |
Legal advice re: Sect 182 of Companies Act |
10,285 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Legal advice — ethics legislation |
4,840 |
|
CDG Design |
Logo design for the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA) |
6,050 |
|
Rachel McLoughlin |
Project Management advice for IAASA |
6,680 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Legal Advice on the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority (IAASA) — Memo and Articles of Association |
9,680 |
|
PE Consulting |
Selection and Recruitment of CEO for IAASA |
34,180 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Legal Advice on CEO employment contract for Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority |
4,598 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
107,098 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial Consultancy for ODCA |
48,190 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser for the ODCA |
4,033 |
|
Enterprise Ireland |
General Product Safety Testing Services |
182 |
|
System Dynamics |
IT Consultancy — Integrated Database Development |
48,500 |
|
Creative Inc |
Web Consultancy — New website for the Office of the Director of Consumer Affairs |
14,669 |
|
System Dynamics |
Support on Lotus Notes (IT) |
24,200 |
|
Creative Inc |
Web Consultancy — New ODCA website- hosting and support |
17,164 |
|
Kathryn E Keane |
Legal Services |
1,000 |
|
Paul Gardiner |
Legal Services |
38,901 |
|
Oisín Quinn |
Legal Services |
4,295 |
|
Emily Egan |
Legal Services |
49,93 |
|
Oisín Quinn |
Legal Services |
605 |
|
Brian Murray |
Legal Services |
2,165 |
|
Cyril O’Neill |
Legal Services |
9,091 |
|
Eugene Tormey |
Legal Services |
916 |
|
Vincent O’Reilly |
Legal Services |
393 |
|
Malachy F Boohig |
Legal Services |
302 |
|
Paul Gallagher |
Legal Services |
3,509 |
|
Edward JP Hanlon |
Legal Services |
605 |
|
Thomas McLoughlin |
Legal Services |
450 |
|
Seamus F Hughes |
Legal Services |
500 |
|
Maguire McNeice |
Legal Services |
1,002 |
|
John Hennessy BL (Legal Advice) |
Various investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
60,016 |
|
Quinn & Hampson Attorneys at Law (Legal assistance) |
Investigation under S.19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
21,708 |
|
NRD Ireland Ltd |
Development of Software to search Companies Registration Office database For ODCE |
29,766 |
|
MRBI |
Corporate Compliance Research Survey for ODCE |
18,453 |
|
Grainne Clohessy |
Consultations and Court Appearances For ODCE |
23,020 |
|
John McBratney |
Legal Advice For ODCE |
19,178 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Legal Opinion For ODCE |
12,997 |
|
Mark Sanfey |
Legal Advice For ODCE |
11,446 |
|
Shane Murphy |
Legal Opinion For ODCE |
11,040 |
|
Bark |
Design work for ODCE |
14,701 |
|
Webtrade |
Website Services |
8,675 |
|
Rochford Brady |
Legal Services For ODCE |
4,837 |
|
Epsilon Consulting |
Consultation For ODCE |
3,630 |
|
Michael Cush |
Legal Opinion For ODCE |
1,815 |
|
Paul Anthony Mcdermott |
Consultation For ODCE |
1,815 |
|
Michael Collins |
Legal Advice For ODCE |
1,512 |
|
Patrick Charles Gageby |
Legal Advice For ODCE |
1,270 |
|
Roger Sweetman |
Opinion and Advice For ODCE |
766 |
|
Pádhraic Harris |
Legal Fees For ODCE |
641 |
|
Barry Galvin |
Legal Fees For ODCE |
605 |
|
Cyril O’Neill |
Advice |
326 |
|
William Abrahamson |
Legal Advice For ODCE |
300 |
|
ICF Consulting / Byrne O’Cleirigh |
Dept Environment, Heritage and Local Government commissioned the study on determining the Share of National GHG Emissions for Emissions Trading in Ireland |
€41,673 Part contribution by DETE |
|
Indecon/ Enviros Consulting Limited |
Payment made to Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government for part contribution to Environmental Protection Agency commissioned study relating to the preparation of Ireland’s First National Allocation Plan |
49,308 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
€ |
||
|
Environmental Efficiency Consultants |
Consultancy commissioned by Omagh — Sligo Partnership on energy efficiency and environmental issues — Small Business Environmental Programme |
€1,350 part contribution bythis Department to SligoCounty Enterprise Board |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Audit of Financial Spreadsheets for Productive Sector Operational Programme |
2,420 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates |
Evaluation of Chambers of Commerce or Ireland PRISM III |
32,791 |
|
Amárach Consulting |
Research conducted into the Legal Framework as a barrier to online trading |
42,350 |
|
Chapman Flood Mazars |
Financial checking of expenditure under the Small Business Operational Programme |
6,000 |
|
Professor Helen O’Neill |
An independent evaluation of the expenditure review report on IDA Ireland’s Property Programme and separate independent evaluation of the expenditure review of Enterprise Ireland’s overseas office network |
1,936 |
|
DTZ Pieda Consultancy and DTZ Sherry Fitzgerald |
An analysis of the role of property in attracting Foreign Direct Investment in overseas jurisdictions |
60,500 |
|
Ms. Tara Downer |
In the context of the expenditure review of Enterprise Ireland’s overseas offices network, an analysis of the findings of questionnaires regarding the agency’s overseas office networks and Department of Foreign Affairs missions |
3,000 |
|
Tom Walsh |
Production of revised health & safety legislation, as well as provision of advice to the Dept on other occupational health and safety matters. |
66,719 |
|
Tom Walsh |
The provision of advice and support to the Department on the EU Chemicals (REACH) legislation proposals as well as chairing the European Council Ad Hoc Working Group during the Irish Presidency of the EU. |
19,396 |
|
Una Tighe Barrister |
Technical legal advice provided in the drafting of secondary legislation. |
7,018 |
|
Forfás |
Study on the “Impact Assessment of the proposed EU Chemicals Policy (REACH) on Irish industry”. |
€14,188 (part contribution) |
|
Health and Safety Authority |
For the support work provided by two of its technical experts in examining the provisions of the REACH Regulation and its implications. |
50,000 |
|
Corporate Solutions |
Management of catering for the Irish Presidency of the E.U. |
231,102 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates, Economic Consultants |
Review of Export Licensing of Military and Dual Use Goods in Ireland |
€70,000** D/ETE: €35,000 Forfás: €35,700 |
|
Fujitsu Consulting |
Change Management and Operating Procedures for new Oracle Financials System |
€112,772 (€84,590 net to D/ETE, balance of €28,182 was received from the Change Management Fund |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Training on ORACLE Financial Management system |
7,767 |
|
Venn Finance |
Development of reporting templates on ORACLE Financial Management system |
16,464 |
|
Deloitte |
To assist the Dept. in the Implementation of a formal risk management system |
34,182 |
|
Institute of Public Administration (IPA) |
Customer Care Research |
10,000 |
|
TNS/ MRBI |
Customer Care Research |
42,374 |
|
H.R. Training and Support Services |
Preparation of Report on Mainstreaming Equal Community Initiative |
34,364 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Preparation of Report on Mainstreaming Equal Community Initiative |
48,767 |
|
AC Network |
Expert to Equal Community Initiative Round 2 Selection Committee |
3,630 |
|
Tom Martin & Associates |
Review of Workway Initiatives |
35,000 |
|
Indecon International Economic Consultants |
Review of National Employment Action Plan Preventative Strategy |
€39,811 (The review was jointly funded by DETE, FÁS and DSFA, costing €167,706 in total) |
|
Mr Paul Coughlan |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
1,330 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State. |
993 |
|
Saville and Holdsworth |
Development of Competititve based Promotion system |
3,920 |
|
Institute of Public Administration |
Review of Department’s draft Human Resources Strategy 2005-2007 |
7,018 |
|
O’Mara, Geraghty and McCourt |
Provision of legal advice to staff member |
302 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
IT Systems for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
136,566 |
|
LJD Contract Interiors |
Design Consultancy for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
6,715 |
|
Maria Gilsenan & Co |
Recruitment of staff for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
20,597 |
|
Robert Thompson, Brook Consulting |
Service Centre for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
10,285 |
|
Insurance Services Office Ltd (Contract continued from 2003) |
Development of Book of Quantum for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
€80,000 final stage payment; €4,640.28 reimbursement employee expenses; €7,130.06 training |
|
Peter G White Ltd |
Media Advice for Personal Injuries Assessment Board |
1,270 |
|
Concept Design Group |
Design of Personal Injuries Assessment Board Logo and Corporate Guidelines |
6,292 |
|
Dr Brian Greenford |
Advice on Personal Injuries Assessment Board operations |
2,829 |
|
System Dynamics |
Development of an e-mail management system for Companies Registration Office |
19,582 |
|
Carr Communications |
Effective Communication with Companies Registration Office clients |
64,493 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
IT Systems maintenance for Companies Registration Office |
434,833 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
Software development of the Registration Services System for CRO |
287,432 |
|
Norway Registers Development |
Software development of the Electronic Filing System for Companies Registration Office |
399,226 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Evaluation of CVs in tenders for IT system development partners |
14,883 |
|
John Breslin |
Study of Unfair Commercial Practices Directive |
7,260 |
|
Nathan Reilly |
Review of Consumer Legislation |
2,523 |
|
Neil Kennedy |
Examination of case in relation to Sect 191 of the Companies Act 1990 |
9,500 |
|
Prof. Robert Kirk |
Examination of case in relation to Sect 191 of the Companies Act 1990 |
4,500 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Legal advice re case in relation to Sect 191 of the Companies Act 1990 |
3,950 |
|
CDG Design |
PowerPoint slides for Companies Registration Office |
484 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Development of Work Programme for the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority |
60,500 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial advice to the ODCA |
16,789 |
|
System Dynamics |
IT Consultancy — System Development |
19,239 |
|
System Dynamics |
Consumer Credit Database Clean up |
15,488 |
|
System Dynamics |
Support on Lotus Notes (IT) |
24,200 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser for the ODCA |
55,539 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Adviser to the Director of Consumer Affairs (Consultancy) |
107,081 |
|
9th Square Web Development Ltd. |
Web development, Hosting and Support |
15,379 |
|
9th Square Web Development Ltd. |
Web development |
5,335 |
|
Cathy Maguire BL |
Legal Services |
3,690 |
|
Gerard Hogan BL |
Legal Services |
605 |
|
Oisin Quinn BL |
Legal Services |
3,932 |
|
Martin G Linnane |
Legal Services |
726 |
|
Emily Egan BL |
Legal Services |
738. |
|
Martin G Linnane State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
986 |
|
Paul Fitzpatrick State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
1,415 |
|
David Humphries BL |
Legal Services |
1,391 |
|
Paul Gardiner BL |
Legal Services |
726 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald Solicitors |
Legal Services |
484 |
|
Gillece Callanan & Co |
Legal Services |
1,300 |
|
Michael D Murray State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
1,019 |
|
Martin G Linnane State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
363 |
|
Gerald Meaney State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
484 |
|
SF Hughes & Co |
Legal Services |
302 |
|
J. Buckley & Company Solicitors |
Legal Services |
23,550 |
|
Steen O’Reilly Solicitors |
Legal Services |
728 |
|
Paul Fitzpatrick State Solicitor |
Legal Services |
1,022 |
|
Rosario Boyle BL |
Legal Services |
1,694 |
|
John Hennessy BL (Legal Advice) |
Various investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
73,629 |
|
Quinn & Hampson Attorneys at Law (Legal assistance) |
Investigation under S.19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
3,676 |
|
CTI Partners |
Development of Database Phase 1 |
20,302 |
|
Baker Tilly O’Hare |
Consultancy– Accountancy case Work For ODCE |
47,470 |
|
Price Waterhouse Coopers |
Consultancy– Accountancy case work For ODCE |
268,415 |
|
MRBI |
Corporate Compliance Research Survey for ODCE |
17,445 |
|
Caroline Costello |
Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
19,239 |
|
Éanna Molloy |
Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
15,648 |
|
Michael Cush |
Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
15,367 |
|
Bark |
Design work for ODCE |
7,320 |
|
Brian Murray |
Legal Consultation Fees For ODCE |
8,318 |
|
Connolly Lowe |
Legal Consultation Fees |
798 |
|
NRD |
IT Systems Development for ODCE |
4,174 |
|
Paul Anthony McDermott |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
5,505 |
|
Richard Law Nesbitt S.C. |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
4,416 |
|
WI Design |
Design work for ODCE |
499 |
|
William Abrahamson B.L. |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
3,630 |
|
Conor Bourke |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
6,050 |
|
Cyril O’Neill & Co. |
Legal Costs Accountancy Assignments,Court Appearances For ODCE |
9,688 |
|
Dixon Quinlan |
Legal and Prosecution Costs For ODCE |
121 |
|
Edward J.P. Hanlon |
Legal Services For ODCE |
393 |
|
Eileen Barrington S.C. |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
4,718 |
|
Grainne Clohessy |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
4,235 |
|
Mannion Aird & Co. |
Legal Services For ODCE |
48 |
|
Michael Murray S.C. |
Legal Services For ODCE |
60 |
|
Patrick P. Murphy |
Legal Services For ODCE |
500 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
2,722 |
|
Rochford Brady |
Legal Searches and Services For ODCE |
2,414 |
|
SF Hughes |
Legal Services For ODCE |
154 |
|
Una Tighe |
Legal Consultation For ODCE |
1,028.00 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
81,505 |
|
Client Solutions |
Ongoing support and maintenance of BASIS Website |
29,040 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
Development of interface from RIR to Oracle Financials financial management system |
83,715 |
|
Deloitte and Touche |
Development of interface from Redundancy Payments system to Oracle Financials financial management system |
60,785 |
|
Eircom |
Provision of IT Helpdesk Services |
403,927 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Development and implementation of new financial management system (MIF) |
463,841 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Support and maintenance of Oracle Financials system |
124,912 |
|
HELM Consultancy |
Disaster Recovery/Business Continuity Plan |
84,172 |
|
Intertech Ireland Ltd |
E-Mail Archiving Solution |
85,148 |
|
Prose |
Support & maintenance of Financial Management IT System |
2,592 |
|
Sabeo |
Unix Support (IT) |
78,632 |
|
Sword |
Maintenance and Development of The Patents Office Administration IT System |
343,080 |
|
System Dynamics Solutions Ltd |
Lotus Notes System Development & Maintenance |
109,792 |
|
User Friendly Computer Company |
Department IT Training |
91,761 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Database Administration Consultancy |
32,125 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Development and implementation of online Redundancy Payments system |
507,340 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Analysis and design of a new Work Permit Management IT System for DETE |
160,845 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost for year |
|
€ |
||
|
Fitzpatrick Associates |
Final Evaluation of the Productive Sector Operational Programme |
74,415 |
|
ESRI |
Assessment of impact of recommended Minimum Wage increase |
10,000 |
|
Tom Walsh |
Production of revised health & safety legislation, as well as provision of advice to the Dept on other occupational health and safety matters. |
70,623 |
|
Indecon |
Economic Impact Assessment on the impact of health and safety legislation on competitiveness and the economy. |
79,376.0 |
|
Health and Safety Authority |
Support work provided by two technical experts in examining the provisions of the REACH Regulation and its implications. |
52,000 |
|
Institute of Public Administration (IPA) |
Customer Care Research |
26,378 |
|
Training and Evaluation Services |
Equal Community Initiative Mainstreaming Strategy |
9,559 |
|
Fitzpatricks |
Update of the Midterm Evaluation Equal Community Initiative |
61,468 |
|
Arekibo Communications |
Redesign and development of the European Social Fund Website |
19,481 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Updated Evaluation of Employment & Human Resources Development Operational Programme |
58,812 |
|
Tom Higgins |
External Quality Assessment of Expenditure Review of Science & Technology spend by the Department |
3,000 |
|
Mr Andrew Parkes |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
70 |
|
Mr Paul Coughlan |
Setting and Correcting of certain examination papers relating to trade marks and patents |
1,820 |
|
Tomkins & Co Ltd, Trade Mark & Patents Attorneys |
Legal services engaged to defend the Irish State Emblems (the Harp and the Shamrock) from unauthorised use or misuse in cases arising either within or outside the State. |
750 |
|
Burtenshaw Kenny Associates |
Human Resources Consultancy |
6,382 |
|
Carr Communications |
Effective Communication with CRO clients |
38,722 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions |
IT Systems maintenance for CRO |
502,865 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions |
Software development of the Registration Services System for CRO |
188,767 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions |
Software development of the Electronic Filing System for CRO |
460,582 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions |
Development of an electronic filing application for the annual return for CRO |
65,743 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions |
Special Scanning Project for CRO |
19,909 |
|
System Dynamics |
Upgrade of the Lotus Notes Issues Log for CRO |
9,806 |
|
Faculty of Human & Social Sciences, Trinity College Dublin |
Assistance in preparing report on the review Groceries Order |
12,100 |
|
PricewaterhouseCoopers |
Consultancy concerning the Recruitment of the Chair of the Competition Authority |
31,914 |
|
PricewaterhouseCoopers |
Consultancy concerning the Recruitment of a Member of the Competition Authority |
10,000 |
|
William Fry Solicitors – |
Provision of legal advice in relation to implementation of the Prospectus Directive |
68,321 |
|
Aillil O’Reilly BL |
Advice re consolidation of existing liquidation legislation |
1,512 |
|
Nathan Reilly Ian Walsh |
Review of Consumer Legislation |
30,064 |
|
PE Consulting |
Selection & Recruitment of Senior staff for the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority |
38,478 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Legal Advice re the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority Memo and Articles of Association |
5,445 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Examination of case in relation to Sect 191 of the Companies Act 1990 |
5,324 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Services re recruitment of Legal Adviser to the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority |
907 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Advice re levies to be imposed on companies by the Irish Auditing & Accounting Supervisory Authority |
1,815 |
|
McCann Fitzgerald |
Employment related advice |
9,680 |
|
O’Donovan Associates |
Financial advice to ODCA |
9,982 |
|
Caden Communications |
Communications Adviser for the ODCA |
47,371 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal Advisor to the ODCA |
97,270 |
|
System Dynamics |
Support on Lotus Notes (IT) |
36,300 |
|
9th Square Web Development Ltd. |
Web hosting and Support |
5,717 |
|
James E Cahill & Co |
Legal Services |
907 |
|
Matheson Ormsby Prentice |
Legal Services |
116,005 |
|
Kennedy Fitzgerald Solicitors |
Legal Services |
302. |
|
Jonathan Kilfeather BL |
Legal Services |
1,554 |
|
Niall J O’Neill BL |
Legal Services |
2,565 |
|
Cathy Maguire BL |
Legal Services |
907 |
|
Patsy Gallagher & Co |
Legal Services |
1,694 |
|
Rory Hayden & Co. |
Legal Services |
302 |
|
Cathy Maguire BL |
Legal Services |
302 |
|
Elizabeth Cogan BL |
Legal Services |
19,783 |
|
Billy Loughnane |
Legal Services |
1,281 |
|
Edward O’Sullivan Solicitors |
Legal Services |
30,297 |
|
Emily Egan BL |
Legal Services |
1,270 |
|
Gerard Daly & Co Solicitors |
Legal Services |
3,025 |
|
Paul Gardiner SC |
Legal Services |
23,050 |
|
John Hennessy BL (Legal Advice) |
Various investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
9,922 |
|
Denis McDonald SC (Legal Advice) |
Investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
1,906 |
|
Matthias Kelly (Legal Advice) |
Investigations under Section 19 of the Companies Act, 1990 |
194,817 |
|
Arekibo |
Re-design of ODCE website |
28,715 |
|
CTI Partners |
Development of Database Phase II |
25,410 |
|
Caroline Costello B.L. |
Legal Consultation Expenses For ODCE |
36,663 |
|
Eileen Barrington |
Fees to Counsel For ODCE |
11,071 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Fees to Counsel For ODCE |
40,867 |
|
Baker Tilly O’Hare |
Accountancy Assignment For ODCE |
10,890 |
|
Connolly Lowe |
Accountancy Assignment For ODCE |
441.00 |
|
Milward Brown |
Milward Brown are conducting a survey for ODCE on compliance with Company Law and the impact of the operations of the ODCE on such compliance — the survey is not yet complete. |
27,862 |
|
Owen O’Connor |
IT Consultancy |
500 |
|
Barry Healy & Co. |
Legal Services For ODCE |
181 |
|
Denis McDonald |
Legal Consultation For ODCE |
3,630 |
|
Bark |
Design work for ODCE |
10,196 |
|
Eoghan Fitzsimons |
Legal Consultation For ODCE |
1,210 |
|
Gwen Malone |
Legal Services For ODCE |
178 |
|
Hugh Hartnett |
Legal Consultations For ODCE |
32,670 |
|
Michael Cush |
Legal Consultations For ODCE |
8,712 |
|
Paul Anthony McDermott |
Legal Consultations For ODCE |
847 |
|
Shane Murphy |
Legal Consultations For ODCE |
9,801 |
|
Rochford Brady |
Legal Services For ODCE |
5,109 |
|
Seán O’Ceallaigh & Co. |
Legal Services For ODCE |
96 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
32,000 |
|
Arekibo Communications |
Development of the Employment Appeals Tribunal website & extranet |
33,755 |
|
Arekibo Communications |
Redevelopment of the Patents Office website |
26,495 |
|
Bark Design |
Advertisement layout design |
3,423 |
|
CARA |
Provision of IT Helpdesk Services |
80,828 |
|
Client Solutions |
Consultancy and Development of BASIS website (Upgrade of Content Management System) |
123,571 |
|
Client Solutions |
Ongoing support and maintenance of BASIS Website |
28,961 |
|
Core International |
IT System Enhancements — Corepay |
3,770 |
|
Curach Technologies |
Implementation of Disaster Recovery for Oracle systems and system upgrade (IT) |
3,358 |
|
Eircom |
Provision of IT Helpdesk Services |
418,411 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Development and implementation of new financial management IT system (MIF) |
60,500 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Support and maintenance of Oracle Financials IT system |
50,819 |
|
Fujitsu-Siemens |
Implementation of Disaster Recovery for Financial systems and system upgrade (IT) |
13,650 |
|
Oak Tree Press |
Development of content for BASIS Website |
9,983 |
|
Prose |
Support & maintenance of Travel & Subsistence IT System |
11,680 |
|
RITS |
Work Permits Security Assessment (IT) |
7,079 |
|
Sabeo |
Unix Support IT) |
87,768 |
|
Sword |
Maintenance and Development of The Patents Office Administration System |
279,330 |
|
Sword |
Implementation of version 8 of the International Patent Classification (IPC) system. (IT) |
11,493 |
|
System Dynamics Solutions Ltd |
Lotus Notes System Development & Maintenance |
40,872 |
|
User Friendly Computer Company |
Department IT Training |
102,736 |
|
Version 1 |
Implementation of Disaster Recovery for Oracle systems (IT) |
19,550 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Database Administration Consultancy (IT) |
28,913 |
|
Version 1 Software |
Analysis and design of a new Work Permit Management IIT System for DETE |
28,278 |
|
XML Workshop |
Development of the Department’s website |
3,267 |
|
Kilroys Solicitors |
The provision of legal advice on issues arising in the operation of the Export Credit Insurance Scheme as and when required. |
32,000 |
|
Ecofys |
Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government commissioned a comparative study of EU Members States National Allocation Plans |
€17,724 (part contribution by this Department to Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Govt.) |
|
Envirotrain |
Training consultants engaged to train relevant Department and Agency staff in Strategic Environmental Assessments |
295 |
|
FGS Consulting |
Update existing database on Work Life Balance and related publications and report on practices in other EU countries |
11,336 |
|
Parallel Information Technology |
Re-development and maintenance of existing website for the National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance Policies — www.worklifebalance.ie |
5,178 |
|
Transition Management |
Transition Management Report on the outcome of consultations regarding the Employment Rights Bodies Group Report |
11,616 |
|
Anthony Kerr |
Legal Services for Employment Rights Group |
3,025 |
|
Indecon |
Economic Impact Assessment on the impact of health and safety legislation on competitiveness and the economy |
79,376 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Training on ORACLE Financial Management System |
4,356 |
|
Indecon International Economic Consultants |
Review of National Employment Action Plan Preventative Strategy |
53,082 |
|
System Dynamics |
Development of an e-mail management system for the Companies Registration Office |
9,806 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Total Cost to date |
|
Nathan Reilly |
Legal Consultancy Services in Connection with Preparation of New Consumer Protection Legislation |
22,207.78 |
|
Tom Walsh |
Production of revised health and safety legislation as well as provision of advice to the Department on other occupational health and safety matters |
70,631.60 |
|
Deloitte |
Review of Operation of Risk Management |
3,129.06 |
|
Indecon |
Economic Impact Assessment on occupational health and safety legislation and its effect on competitiveness and the economy |
39,688.00 |
|
Crowleys DFK Chartered Accountants |
Review of Internal Financial Controls of ITI Inter Trade Ireland |
40,080.00 |
|
Joseph G Sloane & Associates |
Survey to measure existing accommodation and storage facilities in decentralising business units |
26,620.00 |
|
PriceWaterhouse Coopers |
Measuring the Administrative Burdens of Regulation using the Standard Cost Model (SCM) Pilot |
100,000 |
|
Tom Ferris |
Case Studies of Six Companies for the Business Regulation Forum |
8,991 |
|
EnviroTrain |
Presentation to the Management Board on the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive and its implications for this Department. |
650 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Ex-ante Evaluation of EHRDOP 2007-2013 and Performance Indicators Exercise |
57,158 |
|
Noel Travers BL |
Transpose the Measuring Instruments Directive |
937.75 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Prepare report on Work Life Balance Practices in the EU and update existing database of publications on www.worklifebalance.ie |
5,668.25 |
|
HELM Corporation Ltd. |
Optimisation of ORACLE financial system |
10,376.81 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose of Consultancy |
Cost to Date |
|
€ |
||
|
Arekibo Communications |
Continued Development of the EAT website & extranet |
13,912 |
|
Arekibo Communications |
Continued Redevelopment of the PO website |
17,542 |
|
BARK |
Design of BASIS poster |
974 |
|
Bluewave |
Database programming for restored European Patents |
484 |
|
CARA |
Continued Provision of IT Helpdesk Services |
275,000 |
|
Client Solutions |
Continued Support & Maintenance of BASIS Website |
65,340 |
|
Computer Associates |
IT Disaster Recovery and Backup |
26,620 |
|
Core International |
Disaster Recovery work on Corepay payroll system |
1,691 |
|
Curach Technologies |
Implementation of Disaster Recovery for Employment Rights Enforcement System |
9,045 |
|
Deloitte & Touche |
Upgrade of Redundancy Insolvency Recoveries System |
110,775 |
|
ESAT BT |
Continued provision of Web-farm and Firewall Services |
32,857 |
|
IKEN |
Disaster Recovery for Labour Relation Commission’s Case Management System |
2,000 |
|
Maule System Consulting |
Novell Support and Maintenance |
53,257 |
|
Quest Computing |
Enhancements to Employment Appeals Tribunal System |
3,025 |
|
Sword |
Continued Maintenance and Development of The Patents Office Administration System |
259,243 |
|
Sword |
Migration of Patent Office Systems to .NET |
84,730 |
|
Sword |
Re-Development of Patents Office Journal Production system |
47,161 |
|
System Dynamics Solutions Ltd |
Continued Maintenance and Development of Lotus Notes Applications and Infrastructure |
213,121 |
|
Tekenable |
Audit of Ptolemy system and Net Migration |
2,420 |
|
Version 1 |
Implementation of Disaster Recovery for Redundancy Payments System |
5,354 |
|
Version 1 |
Development of an Online Export Licence Application System (OELAS) |
121,397 |
|
Version 1 |
Enhancements to Redundancy Payments System |
1,573 |
|
O’Mara Geraghty McCourt |
Legal consultants to the Director ODCA |
102,603.37 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions Ltd |
IT Systems maintenance for CRO |
368,590 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions Ltd |
Software development of the Registration Services System for CRO |
308,7300 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions Ltd |
Software development of the Electronic Filing System for CRO |
525,339 |
|
Enterprise Registry Solutions Ltd |
Website development |
847 |
|
Carr Communications |
Communication advice |
33,123 |
|
Lansdowne Market Research |
Market research on paper-based filers |
20,449 |
|
Mason Hayes and Curran, Solicitors |
For legal advice |
49, 269.67 |
|
Areikbo |
IT Development |
16,015.57 |
|
Brendan Byrne |
Summons Service |
1,285.00 |
|
Brian Murray |
Professional Legal Services |
24,986.50 |
|
Caroline Costello |
Professional Legal Services |
13,884.75 |
|
Columba Global Systems |
IT Development |
20,086.00 |
|
Connolly Lowe |
Legal Costs Accountancy |
496.10 |
|
Conor Bourke |
Professional Legal Services |
3,025.00 |
|
CTI |
IT Development |
700.00 |
|
Cyril O’Neill |
Legal Costs Accountancy |
2,326.43 |
|
Declan Murphy |
Professional Legal Services |
35,090.00 |
|
Eileen Barrington |
Professional Legal Services |
33,858.22 |
|
Eoghan Fitzsimons |
Professional Legal Services |
15,185.35 |
|
Epsilon Consulting |
Professional Legal Services |
605.00 |
|
Grainne Clohessy |
Professional Legal Services |
38,720.00 |
|
Gwen Malone |
Stenography Services |
12,468.48 |
|
John McCarroll |
Professional Legal Services |
44,824.44 |
|
Michael M. Collins |
Professional Legal Services |
3,025.00 |
|
Milward Brown |
Market Research |
30,650.43 |
|
Michael Cush |
Professional Legal Services |
423.50 |
|
PriceWaterhouse Coopers |
Company Investigations |
151,250.00 |
|
Quin & Hampson |
Company Investigatrions |
1,039.71 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Professional Legal Services |
136,121.50 |
|
Rochford Brady Legal Services |
Legal Services |
4,805.20 |
|
Shane Murphy |
Professional Legal Services |
4,235.00 |
|
Tom Mallon |
Professional Legal Services |
242.00 |
|
Úna Tighe |
Professional Legal Services |
7,683.50 |
Social Welfare Benefits.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:240 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the decision of the British Government to extend child benefit to pregnant women from the seventh month of their pregnancy, to assist them in meeting their extra nutritional requirements during that time; his plans to introduce a similar benefit here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43314/06]
Child benefit in the Irish welfare system is a universal child income support payment which is payable in respect of qualified children up to the age of 16 years or up to 19 years if the child is in full-time education. It should be noted that Irish child benefit rates compare favourably with UK child benefits. In the year 2007-2008 the rate of payment in the UK will be the equivalent of €115.99 per month for the first child and €77.54 for subsequent children whereas increases announced in Budget 2007 will bring the Irish rate to €160 for each of the first two children and €195 for subsequent children.
There are no plans to expand child benefit in the manner proposed.
Michael Ring
Ceist:241 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an appeal by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be dealt with. [42984/06]
A claim for unemployment assistance (since renamed jobseekers allowance) by the person concerned was disallowed by a Deciding Officer on the grounds that he was not genuinely seeking work and that he was not available for full-time employment. Following his appeal against this decision the appeals office sought the comment of the deciding officer on the case. On receipt of this response the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer for early consideration.
Under Social Welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
Pension Provisions.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:242 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to the complaints lodged to the Ombudsman regarding the conduct of his Department and the Pensions Board which is under his responsibility complaining that his Department has failed in its obligation to defend retirees’ interests and to ensure the integrity of a pension scheme being operated by a company (details supplied) and that his Department was aware of the problem for four years and failed to take corrective action in the workers’ interests. [42996/06]
I am aware of the circumstances of the case to which the Deputy refers and of the complaint recently lodged with the Public Service Ombudsman and previously investigated by the Pensions Ombudsman. The case has also been discussed before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social and Family Affairs. The case relates to a provision of section 48(3) of the Pensions Act 1990, which enables the trustees of a pension scheme in wind-up to make a transfer payment to another occupational pension scheme without the consent of the members rather than to purchase an annuity on behalf of the retired members.
My Department has responded to enquiries received from one of the retired members of the scheme in question and to representations made on his behalf. The scheme member has expressed dissatisfaction with the action taken by the trustees of the executive pension plan to secure his benefits after deciding to wind up the scheme in July 2002.
The trustees chose to exercise their right under section 48 (3) of the Pensions Act 1990 to transfer his membership and the payment of his pension to the staff pension scheme. The Pensions Board advised the scheme member on a number of occasions that it is satisfied that the trustees acted in accordance with the provisions of the Act in discharging the liabilities of the scheme in wind-up. I understand that to date no financial loss has been suffered by any of the retired members of the scheme.
Under current actuarial guidance, which entered into force after the particular executive scheme was wound up, the full actuarial cost of purchasing an annuity on behalf of pensioners of a scheme in wind up must now be transferred to the new scheme.
Arising from this case the Pensions Board conducted a review of section 48(3) of the Pensions Act. It is considered that this section should be amended to require advance disclosure by trustees to scheme members, of their intention to wind up a scheme and to make a transfer payment to another pension scheme. While there has been no evidence of any widespread abuse of this particular provision of the Pensions Act, I.will examine its operation further, taking account of the views of the Pensions Board and the Pensions Ombudsman.
The next opportunity to make an amendment to the Pensions Act, if required, will be by way of the Social Welfare and Pensions Bill, due to be published in early 2007.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:243 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of increasing the cap on rent allowance by 50%; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43033/06]
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:244 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of increasing rent allowance thresholds by €100 weekly in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43034/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 243 and 244 together.
It is not possible to provide an accurate cost of an increase of €100 per week in the level of rent limits or of a 50% increase in the rent limits due to the unquantifiable impact of such increases on general market rent levels. However, as an indicative guide by reference to the number of rent supplement claims currently in payment, a €100 increase in weekly rent supplement could add some €312 million to scheme costs in a full year, while a general 50% increase in rent supplement limits could cost some €198 million.
My Department is currently reviewing levels of rent limits in order to develop proposals regarding what limits should apply from January 2007 onwards. The review is taking account of prevailing rent levels in the private rental sector generally, together with detailed input from the Health Service Executive on the market situation within each of its operational areas.
The review will also include consultation with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Private Residential Tenancies Board. In addition, a number of the voluntary agencies working in this area have made detailed submissions. This process will ensure that the new rent limits reflect realistic market conditions throughout the country, and that they will continue to enable the different categories of eligible tenant households to secure and retain suitable rented accommodation to meet their respective needs.
Increases of €100 per week in the level of rent limits or 50% increases of the rent limits would be both unrealistic and unjustified in terms of the current rental market. Given the significant share of the private rented accommodation that is occupied by households receiving rent supplement, any such increases would have a major distorting effect on rent levels charged, not just for rent supplement recipients but for all tenants. There would be a very significant increase in rent supplement expenditure, with no net financial gain accruing to the people who rely on the scheme for their accommodation needs.
John Deasy
Ceist:245 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to accommodate those entitled to free travel but who do not live near a bus or train route; his views on issuing travel vouchers which could be used in taxis to people in this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43048/06]
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 age 66 who are in receipt of certain disability type welfare payments, such as disability allowance, invalidity pension and blind person's pension.
The scheme provides free travel on the main public and private transport services for those eligible under the scheme. These include road, rail and ferry services provided by companies such as Bus Átha Cliath, Bus Éireann and Iarnród Éireann, as well as Luas and services provided by over 80 private transport operators. The vast majority of private contractors providing services under the scheme operate in rural areas, including those in the Rural Transport Initiative. I am always willing to consider applications from licensed private transport operators who may wish to participate in the free travel scheme.
Various alternatives to the existing system, including the use of vouchers, have been examined. A study, "A Review of the Free Schemes," published in 2000 under the Department's programme of expenditure reviews concluded that a voucher type system, which would be open to a wide range of transport providers including taxis and hackneys, would be extremely difficult to administer, open to abuse and unlikely to be sufficient to afford an acceptable amount of travel. This position remains unchanged.
The issue of access to public transport in rural areas is being addressed at present through the Rural Transport Initiative, which is being managed by Pobal, formerly Area Development Management (ADM) on behalf of my colleague, the Minister for Transport. My Department contributed €500,000 to the initiative in 2004, €750,000 in 2005 and is contributing €850,000 for the initiative in 2006, to ensure that free travel passholders continue to have access to community based transport services.
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.
Pension Provisions.
John Deasy
Ceist:246 Mr. Deasy asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has plans to treat women who have worked only in the home as being independent of their spouse when being assessed for the State non-contributory pension; his views on whether using their husband’s income when assessing their means compounds the sacrifice made be women in this situation who have given up their own careers to look after their families; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43049/06]
The social welfare system comprises two types of payment, social insurance based schemes, which require those eligible to reach a certain standard in terms of the social insurance contributions paid or credited on their record, and non-contributory payments designed for those without the necessary social insurance record for contributory schemes who can satisfy a means test. Within that basic structure the Government is anxious to ensure that as many people as possible, particularly women, can qualify for a pension in their own right and a number of measures are in place to support this objective.
The state pension (non-contributory) is a social assistance scheme and, in common with all other such schemes, features a means test. In assessing eligibility for social assistance payments, the means test is based on household income. This is to ensure that resources committed to social assistance payments are used to provide support and improve the position of those who are most in need.
However, as already indicated, I am anxious to see as many as possible qualifying for payments in their own right and improvements have been made to the means test in pursuit of this objective. The new enhanced state pension (non-contributory) for those over 66 years, which I introduced at the end of September, features significant improvements in the means test which will allow some who are currently outside the social welfare pensions system to qualify for a payment. Further improvements were made to the means test in last week's Budget by increasing the means disregard by €10 to €30 per week. In addition, I increased the employment earnings disregard by €100 to €200 per week. Both of these disregards are doubled for pensioner couples.
With regard to pensions generally, the Government is committed to producing a Green Paper on pensions as part of the new social partnership agreement Towards 2016 with a view to developing a framework for future pensions policy. This will deal with pensions in general but it will also address outstanding issues relating to social welfare pensions, including the position of those who remain outside the system. The Green Paper will be published within months. A consultation process will then take place and the Government will subsequently publish a framework for future pensions policy.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Tony Gregory
Ceist:247 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if qualifying persons using home heating oil obtain the same supports as those based on units of electricity and gas. [43149/06]
Approximately 340,000 pensioner and other households qualify for the electricity or gas allowances through the household benefits package. In recognition of the recent increases in the price of natural gas and electricity, I have recently announced significant increases to the gas and electricity allowances.
In order to cover the 33.8% increase in the cost of natural gas, from October 1st, I increased the value of the natural gas allowance to cover increased standing charges and the associated VAT as well as additional kilowatt hours usage. This means that the value of the natural gas allowance to a household has increased from €313.17 to €516 per year.
At present, the electricity allowance covers normal standing charges and up to 1,800 units of electricity. The allowance also covers the VAT applicable to these charges. In the light of the recent increase in electricity charges, the allowance will be increased to cover increased standing charges and the units will also increase from 1,800 to 2,400 with effect from January 2007. I am confident that these increases will be of major benefit to these recipients.
In addition to the electricity and gas allowance my Department also pays a fuel allowance for 29 weeks from end-September to mid-April to assist householders on long-term social welfare or Health Service Executive payments with meeting the cost of their additional heating needs during the winter season. In Budget 2006, I provided for an increase in the rate of fuel allowance of €5, from €9 per week to €14 per week and to €17.90 in designated smokeless areas. In Budget 2007 I have provided for a further increase of €4 per week to €18. This means that the level of the fuel allowance will have doubled in the last two years and can be used for any form of heating fuel. I have also increased the income threshold for eligibility for fuel allowance from €51 to €100 per week over and above the contributory pension to enable more people to qualify for the payment. In Budget 2007 my colleague the Minister for Finance also followed through on his commitment to reduce the excise duty on Kerosene and LPG for heating purposes to zero from next month.
This position with regard to energy and heating charges generally is kept under review.
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:248 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason for the delay in awarding child benefit to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare. [43168/06]
The person in question is a Latvian national who is working in Ireland. His family is residing in Latvia.
Under EU regulation 1408/71, an employed person who is working in a Member State is entitled to family benefits provided by that State even though the worker's family may be residing in another member state.
Claims processed under EU regulations generally take a longer time to finalise due to the need to communicate with the parent or carer of the child(ren) in the other member state, and also the need to communicate separately with the authorities in the other member state. It is necessary to obtain relevant birth certificates along with confirmation of the worker's employment in this country.
In the case of persons from non-English speaking countries further delays and complexities can arise due to the language barriers involved.
The volume of claims to be processed under EU regulations has increased significantly over the last two years — in 2005 the weekly average intake of such claims was 30 whereas in 2006 the average intake was 300. These volumes have also put pressure on resources in the claim processing area.
My Department is currently examining measures to streamline and speed up the processing of claims under EU regulations, including overtime working and increasing the numbers of staff involved in dealing with such applications.
My Department has also engaged, on a trial basis, a small number of clerical staff who are fluent in EU languages other than English. This trial has proven successful to date and the outcome is being reviewed to see how such staff could best be deployed.
The claim in respect of the person concerned will be dealt with as soon as possible and he will be informed of the outcome, including details of any arrears due.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:249 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43230/06]
My Department engages consultancy support in a range of areas including policy development, business and organisation change and in the area of information and communications technology (ICT). The bulk on expenditure in the last two years has been on consultancy support for the delivery of strategic ICT and business programmes such as REACH and the Service Delivery Modernisation programme.
The following table outlines the amount of expenditure on consultants in each year by my Department from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006:
|
Year |
Amount paid on consultants |
|
1997 |
IEP 614,595 |
|
1998 |
IEP 577,000 |
|
1999 |
IEP 1,251,000 |
|
2000 |
IEP 1,876,000 |
|
2001 |
IEP 3,605,000 |
|
2002 |
EUR 4,704,000 |
|
2003 |
EUR 1,975,000 |
|
2004 |
EUR 2,822,000 |
|
2005 |
EUR 3,894,000 |
|
2006 (to end Nov) |
EUR 7,747,000 |
Social Welfare Code.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:250 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the circumstances in which an exemption from rule five can be obtained by a person immediately after they are in receipt of disability benefit; and if such an exemption can be obtained without having to wait for the six month period, where there is strong medical evidence in support. [43236/06]
A person who is paid Illness Benefit is required to comply with "Rules of Behaviour" specified in regulations. These "Rules of Behaviour" ensure that Illness Benefit is paid only to people who are unable to work because of illness or disability. The purpose of exemptions to the rules of behaviour is to allow a person to return to work on a part-time basis after a prolonged absence for rehabilitative and occupational therapeutive purposes with a view to equipping themselves to return to the workplace on a full-time basis.
I understand that the person to whom the Deputy refers wishes to seek an exemption to engage in part-time employment.
A customer who wishes to undertake part-time employment while claiming illness benefit must be in receipt of the benefit for at least six months before an application for an exemption can be considered. This is based on the advice of the Chief Medical Adviser that it is only after such a period that it would be apparent whether rehabilitation or work of a therapeutic nature would equip him/her to return to the work-place on a full-time basis.
The person concerned has only been in receipt of illness benefit since 13 November 2006 and therefore cannot be considered for an exemption from Rule 5 of the Rules of Behaviour to undertake part-time work at this time.
Pension Provisions.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:251 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the steps he has taken to ensure that non-contributory old age pensioners who avail of the disregard incentive on their pension to take up employment worth €200 per week do not as a result loose secondary benefits such as fuel allowance. [43310/06]
From January 2007 persons in receipt of state pension (non contributory) can also augment their income by up to €200 per week (or €10,400 annually) in earnings from insurable employment and still maintain their pension entitlements in addition to their entitlement to fuel allowance. This new disregard, relating to earnings from employment, is an incentive to facilitate state pension (non-contributory) recipients who wish to continue working or to re-enter the workforce. This income limit was increased to €200 per week in Budget 2007.
Eligibility to the fuel allowance scheme is subject to means and other conditions. The main conditions that apply to the fuel allowance scheme are that a person must be in receipt of a qualifying payment, must satisfy a means test and must either be living alone or with a qualifying dependant.
People who qualify for means-tested pensions or allowances such as state pension (non-contributory), long-term jobseeker's assistance or one-parent family payment do not have to undergo a further means test to qualify for fuel allowance. The majority of people who receive fuel allowances qualify because they satisfy the relevant means test for their primary weekly payment. This ensures that people who avail of the disregard incentive on their own state pension (Non-Contributory) to take up employment worth EUR 200 per week do not lose fuel allowance.
In the case of recipients of contributory pensions, any earnings from insurable employment and/or occupational pensions are normally regarded as means for the purpose of determining an individual's entitlement to a fuel allowance. From January 2007 a person may have a combined household income of up to €100 per week, or savings/investments of up to €58,000, over and above the maximum rate of state pension (contributory) and still qualify for fuel allowance. This income limit was increased to €100 per week in Budget 2007.
In Budget 2007, I have also provided for an increase in the rate of fuel allowance of €4 from €14 to €18 (€21.90 in designated smokeless areas) in addition to the increase in the income thresholds.
Rural Transport Initiative.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:252 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if he will take initiatives to address the issue of rural isolation with particular reference to transport in areas lacking in public transport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43204/06]
The Rural Transport Initiative (RTI) was launched on a pilot basis in 2002. Under this scheme, thirty-four community transport groups throughout the country are being funded to address the particular transport needs of their rural areas. Pobal administers the scheme on behalf of my Department.
The pilot phase of the Initiative will conclude at the end of this year and in line with Government announcements in the matter, preparations are now being made to mainstream the provision of rural transport from 2007 onwards. This work is based on the experience with the pilot RTI and the outcome of a recent public consultation process in the matter.
In line with commitments in Towards 2016 and in parallel with the implementation of Transport 21, Euro 9 million is being provided for the RTI in 2007. This funding will facilitate the transition of the RTI from the end of its pilot phase into the beginning of the mainstreaming process. In making specific allocations to the individual RTI project groups from this funding, I expect Pobal to work closely with the existing groups to maximise the impact of the funding through, among other things, increased service provision and wider area coverage as well as ensuring continued value for money.
I hope to announce details of the mainstreaming of rural transport early in the New Year.
Road Safety.
Shane McEntee
Ceist:253 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for Transport if he has satisfied himself with the number of inspections carried out by the relevant vehicle inspection authorities in the United Kingdom on Irish registered carriers vehicles while travelling in the UK and their economic impact on Irish carriers; the way the inspection rates compare with inspection rates on carriers from other EU Member States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42986/06]
I have no function in relation to the roadside inspection of vehicles in the United Kingdom. As a consequence of the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority is now responsible for matters relating to vehicle standards in Ireland.
Road Network.
Ciarán Cuffe
Ceist:254 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport the meeting or correspondences that his Department has had in relation to the purchases or exchange of lands or other compensation paid to organisations (details supplied) for the building of the M50, by Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council acting as an agent for the National Roads Authority. [43054/06]
No records have been found in my Department of any meetings or correspondence in relation to the matters raised by the Deputy since the NRA came under the remit of my Department in June 2002.
Public Transport.
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:255 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport the names of the company or companies granted public transport licences, both for new routes and existing routes, each year since 2002 to date in 2006; the routes for which such licences were granted; the number of licences granted to each company in each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43215/06]
The Road Transport Act, 1932 provides the legislative basis for the licensing of coach and bus services provided by private bus operators. Bus services provided by Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus are not subject to the provisions of the 1932 Act. However, both companies are required by Ministerial direction under the Transport Act 1958 to notify my Department of proposed new services or proposed changes to existing services and require my consent where a service competes with an existing authorised service by another operator.
The numbers of passenger licences issued for new routes and the number of amendments to existing licensed routes finalised in the years 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005 and to date in 2006 are shown in the following table.
|
Year |
New Licences |
Amended Licences |
|
2002 |
79 |
4 |
|
2003 |
113 |
18 |
|
2004 |
146 |
51 |
|
2005 |
156 |
70 |
|
2006 |
133 |
82 |
In view of the short notice involved, it has not been possible for my Department to provide all of the detailed data requested by the Deputy in this reply. However the Department will contact the Deputy directly to discuss the provision of additional information.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:256 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Transport the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43232/06]
The Department of Transport was established in June 2002. Information sought by the Deputy in relation to 2002 to date is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
Expenditure €m |
|
2002 |
2.142 |
|
2003 |
4.637 |
|
2004 |
2.544 |
|
2005 |
1.160 |
|
2006 (to date) |
1.507 |
Departmental Funding.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:257 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which he will improve, enhance or extend the funding or activities through the various schemes sponsored by his Department with particular reference to addressing social or economic deprivation in either rural or urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43203/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:261 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the full extent of the community based programmes currently run or funded by his Department; his intentions to expand or extend such activity in 2007 or 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43208/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 257 and 261 together.
As the Deputy will be aware my Department administers and delivers a wide range of programmes and measures targeted at social or economic deprivation in either rural or urban areas and at community development, both local and national. For details regarding these programmes and measures and the criteria for funding, I would refer the Deputy to the information on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.
If the Deputy has a specific question in relation to any scheme or programme, I will be happy to assist him. The schemes and programmes are developed and refined to meet new or changing needs as required and, again, if the Deputy has a specific concern in this regard, I will be happy to assist him.
The following is a summary of the main increases in funding for my Department's schemes and programmes relevant to the Deputy's questions as provided in the recently published Abridged Estimates Volume for 2007.
Extracts from statements on the Estimates
Community Development
In line with Towards 2016, an extra €25m has been provided in additional support for the Community and Voluntary Sector in 2007 this represents an 8% increase for community affairs in the 2007 estimates.
€25m for the Community and Voluntary Sector in 2007.
Highlights of the extra funding are:
the provision of €5m for Volunteering,
€10m under the new Partnership Programme for supports for the Community & Voluntary Sector
an increase in the Community Services Programme of €10m on top of the extra €5m already provided in 2006.
The Community Services Programme provides employment and vital services to communities throughout the country. This €10m is part of an increase agreed in the Partnership talks, which will see this programme expand from its expenditure of €37m in 2006 to €72m at today's costs in 2009.
LDSIP goes nationwide
A major part of the Government policy has been the extension of the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme nationwide and a further €7m has been provided for this purpose, bringing the total funding from for this programme to be delivered through integrated local development agencies (incorporating Partnership companies) next year to €81.5m.
Drugs
The Government are also continuing to provide increased funding for the Drugs Programme. The funding provided for the Drugs Initiative — Young People's Facilities and Services Fund in 2007 is over €43m which maintains the 36% increase on the 2005 estimate and is a dramatic increase on the €14m allocated in 2002.
RAPID
Continued funding has also been made available for the RAPID programme with the Leverage Fund (for small capital projects in RAPID areas), now becoming an established part of the estimates process. The allocation for the Leverage schemes has increased from €5.8m in 2004 when the schemes were introduced to €9.3m in 2007.
€43m for the Rural Social Scheme
Continued commitment to the Rural Social Scheme, which will involve an expenditure of over €43m in 2007. There are at present 2,600 people on the Rural Social Scheme and it is providing a range of comprehensive services in rural areas.
€20m for CLÁR
€20m for the CLÁR programme under this programme for the development of areas that have sustained continuous loss in population since the foundation of the State. The €20m provided for, allied to funds it leverages from other Departments and agencies, will ensure €50m approximately of investment in basic infrastructure in CLÁR areas including roads, water, community facilities, 3-phase electricity etc.
€31m for LEADER
€26m has been provided for the LEADER 2000-2006 programme. The bulk of this money is being provided for the payment of outstanding claims, and it includes €6m for new actions under the current programme.
A further €5m has also been provided for the LEADER Rural Economy Sub-Programme 2007-2013 for the initial phases of this programme. This programme will be three times larger than the current programme and it is hoped to have it in operation in the Spring or early Summer of 2007. As is understandable, the lead-in time between first approval and payments is considerable with any of these programmes and the bulk of the expenditure under the LEADER Rural Economy Programme 2007-2013 will incur in later years of the programme.
13% Increase in Current Funding for the Western Development Commission
There is also provision in the Estimates for a 13% increase in current funding for the Western Development Commission and a further €4m being invested in the Western Investment Fund.
18% increase for Social and Cultural Schemes in the Gaeltacht
The funding available for 2007 for social and cultural schemes in the Gaeltacht has been increased by 18%. This provision has increased from €8.35m in 2006 to €9.85m in 2007. Payments are made to "mná tí" under Scéim na bhFoghlaimeoirí Gaeilge from this fund. This fund also provides for language planning, various cultural schemes, language assistants and third level education in the Gaeltacht.
27% increase in Údarás na Gaeltachta's current expenditure fund for Gaeltacht projects
Údarás na Gaeltachta's current expenditure fund for Gaeltacht initiatives is to be increased by €1m (27%). This fund provides for payments to co-operatives, community based organisations, youth clubs and other cultural services throughout the Gaeltacht.
€50m of capital funding for the Irish Language, the Gaeltacht and Islands
Almost €50m of capital funding, i.e. funding invested in piers, roads, island infrastructure, village enhancement and Údarás na Gaeltachta's capital provision, has been provided for 2007.
Drug Treatment Programme.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:258 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will increase support for community groups involved in the fight against drugs and drug rehabilitation programmes with particular reference to the Greater Dublin Area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43205/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:260 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the percentage of expenditure by his Department in 2006 in respect of drug rehabilitation programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43207/06]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:262 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number and location of community based drug rehabilitation programmes currently funded by his Department; his proposals in this regard in 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43209/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 258, 260 and 262 together.
In the current year across the 14 Local Drugs Task Force areas, 361 projects, including those under the Emerging Needs Fund, are receiving interim funding totalling €20.2m from my Department. Of these, 191 projects deal with the issues of treatment and rehabilitation, with a total value of over €13m.
I have also allocated €5m in 2006 to the ten Regional Drugs Task Forces (RDTFs) to facilitate the initiation of the implementation of their action plans. A total of 96 projects have been initiated across the ten regions. 76 of these deal with the issues of treatment and rehabilitation and have a total value of over €1.6m.
The tables outline the number and location of those projects on a Task Force basis.
With respect to 2007 and 2008, the Working Group on Drugs Rehabilitation, chaired by my Department, is currently finalising its report and it is expected that it will be published early next year. It is envisaged that the recommendations of this report will form the basis for further focused action with respect to rehabilitation.
|
Local Drugs Task Forces |
Numbers of Treatment / Rehabilitation Projects |
|
Ballyfermot LDTF |
13 |
|
Ballymun LDTF |
9 |
|
Blanchardstown LDTF |
11 |
|
Bray LDTF |
7 |
|
Canal Communities LDTF |
18 |
|
Clondalkin LDTF |
30 |
|
Cork LDTF |
15 |
|
Dublin 12 LDTF |
5 |
|
Dublin North East LDTF |
8 |
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown LDTF |
8 |
|
Finglas / Cabra LDTF |
18 |
|
North Inner City LDTF |
22 |
|
South Inner City LDTF |
16 |
|
Tallaght LDTF |
10 |
|
Cross Task Force |
1 |
|
Total |
191 |
|
Regional Drugs Task Forces |
Numbers of Treatment / Rehabilitation Projects |
|
East Coast Area RDTF — South County Dublin and East Wicklow |
9 |
|
Northern Area RDTF — North County Dublin |
1 |
|
South-Western Area RDTF — West County Dublin and West Wicklow |
5 |
|
Mid-West RDTF |
10 |
|
Midlands RDTF |
8 |
|
North East RDTF |
8 |
|
North West RDTF |
5 |
|
South East RDTF |
10 |
|
Southern RDTF |
16 |
|
Western RDTF |
4 |
|
Total |
76 |
Departmental Funding.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:259 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of applications for funding under the various schemes operated by his Department from County Kildare in 2006; the extent to which it is expected to meet these requirements in full; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43206/06]
As the Deputy will be aware my Department administers and delivers a wide range of programmes and measures. The Deputy will also be aware that expenditure under these programme areas takes place across a wide range of schemes and projects countrywide, descriptions of which are available on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie. It is not possible to give a county by county breakdown as many schemes operate across county boundaries.
In view of the significant resources that would be required to provide the Deputy with the details he has requested, I am not in a position to provide this information to the Deputy. However, I can assure the Deputy that each application is assessed on its merits and in accordance with the eligibility and assessment criteria for each funding stream.
If the Deputy would like information in relation to a particular application and/or a particular scheme, I would be glad to arrange to have this provided to him.
Question No. 260 answered with QuestionNo. 258.
Question No. 261 answered with QuestionNo. 257.
Question No. 262 answered with QuestionNo. 258.
Dormant Accounts Fund.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:263 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs his intentions for expenditure for 2007 of funds accruing from the dormant accounts fund; if this is expected to be replicated in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43210/06]
To date €120m has been allocated from the Dormant Accounts Fund in the period 2003-2006. The level of expenditure and the priorities to be supported from the Dormant Accounts Fund in 2007 are currently under consideration. In this regard, the legislation requires the Minister to consult other appropriate Ministers for the purpose of developing a proposal for submission to Government for approval. This process is almost complete and the intention is to submit a proposal to Government in January concerning the 2007 round of funding. The level of expenditure in 2008 and beyond will be decided with reference to the value of the Fund and estimated inflows on an annual basis.
Question No. 264 answered with QuestionNo. 45.
Community Development.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:265 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the extent to which he will increase his spending under the RAPID programme; if he will initiate new schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43212/06]
My Department, with the support of Pobal, has overall responsibility for the co-ordination of the RAPID programme. It is a matter for each Department to respond to issues of increased funding within their area of responsibility. I introduced the Leverage Schemes in 2004. My Department directly funds schemes to provide playgrounds, improve traffic measures, improve health facilities, provide CCTV, support sporting organisations as well as improve local authority housing estates and flat complexes. All funds are matched by funding from other Departments and Agencies. The schemes are aimed at small-scale capital works — works that require relatively small amounts of funding but can produce real and concrete benefits to communities. Since the introduction of these Schemes I have increased the amount of money allocated annually from some €6.5m in 2004 to some €11.0m in 2006. Drawdown of the funds takes place when works are completed and not necessarily in the year of allocation. The timing of completion of works is obviously outside of the control of my Department. I am satisfied that the provision in the Abridged Estimates Volume for 2007 will enable me to maintain this level of commitment. I am constantly reviewing the Schemes available to ensure that they are serving the needs of the RAPID communities. I have this year amended the Playground Scheme to allow provision of MUGAs (Multi-User Games Areas) which has proved very popular. I am actively considering a number of other Leverage Schemes and I will publish full details of these Schemes when these are launched.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:266 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount spent on consultants in each year between 1997 and 2005 and to date in 2006. [43221/06]
The Deputy will be aware that the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs was established in June 2002. My Department has made available on its website details regarding consultancies (excepting those of minor value, i.e., less than €5,000 excluding VAT) relating to the period since its establishment in June 2002 up to the end of November 2006. The relevant link, which will take the Deputy directly to these details, including the information for the three years sought by him, in relation to expenditure paid by my Department is: www.pobail.ie/en/CorporateSupportServices/ Finance/Consultancies. For the Deputy’s convenience, I have arranged for a copy of the material in question to be sent directly to him at his Oireachtas e-mail address.
Departmental Programmes.
Dan Boyle
Ceist:267 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if the provision of a comprehensive, integrated, environmental monitoring programme as recommended under the Strategic Environmental Assessment of the draft Rural Development Programme 2007 to 2013 will be included in the final version of the document. [42957/06]
The public consultation process on the draft Rural Development Programme and its associated environmental report has just been completed. The comments and suggestions arising from that process are under consideration. This includes consultation with the Environmental Protection Agency on environmental issues. I intend to submit the definitive Rural Development Programme to the EU Commission shortly. It will provide for a comprehensive monitoring programme encompassing environmental and other issues. The exact nature of that programme will be determined in negotiation with the Commission in the coming months.
Grant Payments.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:268 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will qualify for payment from the 2005 single farm payment scheme national reserve; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42959/06]
The person named submitted an application for an allocation of entitlements from the 2005 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under Category C.
Category C caters for farmers who sold their milk quota into the Milk Quota Restructuring Scheme and converted their enterprise to a farming sector for which a direct payment under Livestock Premia and/or Arable Aid Schemes would have been payable during the reference period 2000 to 2002.
The father of the person named sold his milk quota in April 2004 and ceased farming. He leased his farm and any associated Single Payment entitlements to the person named in March 2004. As the person named was neither an active milk producer nor the owner of a milk quota he did not therefore satisfy the criteria for Category C.
The person named submitted an appeal against this decision and provided additional documentation in support of his appeal. In all such cases, the procedure is that all contentions put forward in support of an appeal are first of all reviewed within my Department to see whether there is sufficient evidence to warrant any change to the original decision. In this case the documentation was examined by my Department but did not provide grounds for a change to the original decision. This case has since been forwarded to the Independent Single Payments Appeals Committee who will carry out a full review of the case and will correspond directly with the person named following the outcome of their review.
However, we note that the person named leased land in 2004 and in the 2006 National Reserve there is provision for New Entrants to farming who have leased land. This category (category B) caters for farmers who commenced farming after 31 December 2002 or who, while farming during 2002, did not receive any direct payments in respect of that year. The income and educational qualification that applied in 2005 will again apply to this category. In addition, new entrants who are farming leased / rented land will be eligible for an allocation provided they can demonstrate a genuine commitment to farming. In this context the leased/rented land must have been declared on the 2004 Area Aid application and on the 2005 and 2006 Single Payment Scheme applications.
My Department has forwarded a 2006 National Reserve application form to the person named for his attention. Should the person named feel that he qualifies for the 2006 National Reserve he should return the completed application form to my Department offices in Portlaoise as soon as possible.
Michael Ring
Ceist:269 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a transfer of single payment entitlements will be complete for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that all the necessary information has been submitted; the full list of entitlements drawn on the farm from 2004 and 2005 on the old herd number for this person; and if this person received all of their payments. [42973/06]
The position is that an application for the Transfer of Entitlements under the Single Payment Scheme by way of inheritance to the person named was submitted on the 15th of May 2006.
Following examination of the application the person named was written to requesting further documentation.
Upon receipt of this documentation, my Department will process the Transfer application and will correspond directly with the person named.
In relation to 2004 applications, the position is that another person under herd number P1740421 applied for a number of the coupled direct payment schemes then in place and full payment issued in respect of each scheme.
Under the 2005 Single Payment Scheme the position is that another person under herd number P1740421 applied for the Single Payment Scheme on the 22nd April 2005. The person concerned had been allocated a total of 16.26 entitlements of which 16.08 were used in 2005. Payment in respect of 16.08 entitlements issued on the 1st December 2005.
David Stanton
Ceist:270 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a payment will be made under the national reserve to a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42993/06]
The person named submitted an application for an allocation of entitlements from the 2005 Single Payment Scheme National Reserve under Category B.
Category B caters for farmers who made an investment in production capacity in a farming sector for which a direct payment under Livestock Premia and/or Arable Aid schemes would have been payable during the reference period 2000-2002. Investments can include purchase or long term lease of land, purchase of suckler and/or ewe quota or other investments. The person named applied under Category B(i) in relation to investment in land and B(iii) in relation to the purchase of ewe quota and has been deemed successful under both measures.
The Regulations governing the Single Payment Scheme provide that checks must be made to ensure that an allocation from the National Reserve, to an applicant who has already benefited under other measures associated with the Single Payment Scheme, does not result in double benefit. An applicant may only benefit from the measure that is most beneficial. The person named has already benefited from another measure (New Entrant during the reference period) and an allocation from the Reserve would result in double benefit. Therefore, the New Entrant has been rescinded in favour of an allocation from the Reserve which is more beneficial.
A formal letter of decision together with relevant payment due will issue shortly to the person named.
Joe Walsh
Ceist:271 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when payment of the single farm payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [43041/06]
The position is that an application for the Transfer of Entitlements under the Single Payment Scheme to the person named was submitted on the 21st April 2006.
This application has now been fully processed and payment in respect of 26.49 entitlements transferred by way of gift will issue shortly.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:272 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the single farm payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43068/06]
An application for the Transfer of Entitlements to the person named under the Single Payment Scheme was submitted on the 9th November 2006. The application was accepted even though the closing date for the receipt of completed applications to transfer entitlements was 16th May 2006.
The application is now fully processed and payment in respect of 12.95 standard entitlements transferred by way of gift, will issue shortly.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:273 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when the area based payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43069/06]
An application under the 2006 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 3 May 2006. The processing of this application has now been finalised and payment is expected to issue shortly to the person named.
Horseracing Industry.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:274 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if there is a list of the names and addresses of thoroughbred breeds available to members of the public who might wish to market such breeders relevant information in relation to the availability of new thoroughbred stallions; if so, if same will be furnished; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43114/06]
Under the provisions of The European Communities (Equine Stud-Book and Competition) Regulations 2004, SI 399 of 2004, I am empowered to grant approval to a person, an international association or organisation for the purposes of maintaining a stud-book subject to compliance with the requirements of the relevant legislation in force. Weatherbys Ireland GSB Limited is the organisation approved to maintain the Thoroughbred studbook in Ireland. Some information on thoroughbred breeders may also be held by the Irish Thoroughbred Breeders Association and by Irish Thoroughbred Marketing Ltd. All these organisations would be limited in passing on information from their files under the Data Protection Act.
The Irish Field publishes the Irish Field Directory which contains information that might be helpful to people wishing to make contact with breeders and stud farms. The latest edition of the Directory was published on 2 December 2006.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:275 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43218/06]
Details of the expenditure by my Department for the years 1997-2006 on consultancy involving the provision of advice or the drawing up of an external report are set out in the following table. The provision of a service by an external resource, due to lack of internal skills or resources is treated as contracting or outsourcing and is not included in these figures.
|
Year |
Payments £/€ |
|
1997 |
£373,630 |
|
1998 |
£263,067 |
|
1999 |
£500,797 |
|
2000 |
£246,970 |
|
2001 |
£455,718 |
|
2002 |
€484,038 |
|
2003 |
€616,986 |
|
2004 |
€684,742 |
|
2005 |
€243,084 |
|
2006 (To date) |
€280,645 |
Grant Payments.
Michael Ring
Ceist:276 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo submitted their application for REP scheme three; the length of time it has been with her Department; and when this person can expect payment. [43321/06]
This application was received in my Department on 3 October 2006 and is being processed in the normal way. Payment will issue within the agreed period.
David Stanton
Ceist:277 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food, further to Question No. 442 of 5 December 2006, if she will ensure that officials of her Department make contact with the person in question, as promised, as soon as possible in order to resolve the outstanding issues mentioned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43329/06]
The person in this case benefited under the New Entrants provision of the Single Payment Scheme, in that his Entitlements were established on the basis of the exclusion of 2000 and 2001. An issue subsequently arose in relation to the incorporation of the sugar compensation into his Single Payment, where it was found that he had been farming during 2001. It is necessary, therefore, to recalculate the Entitlements of the person involved, following which my Department will be in direct contact with the person.
Third Level Places.
Joe Walsh
Ceist:278 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to increase places for Irish students wishing to study drama and theatre studies at University College Cork. [43001/06]
The universities are autonomous institutions. My Department does not have any function in their day-to-day operational affairs. The universities receive a block grant from the Higher Education Authority. It is a matter for each institution to determine how it is allocated internally.
School Accommodation.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:279 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a new primary school (details supplied) in County Kerry; if her attention has been drawn to the accommodation crisis at the school at present; the action she will take to improve the situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42960/06]
The accommodation needs of the school referred to by the Deputy are under consideration by my Department. In order to ensure that the appropriate level of accommodation is provided, officials in the School Planning Section are assessing the long-term projected staffing figure on which the accommodation needs will be based. In this regard, a recent technical visit to the school was carried out by my officials to inform a decision on its long-term accommodation needs.
School Transport.
Pat Breen
Ceist:280 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science when a student (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated with school transport; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42988/06]
My Department has been informed by the Transport Liaison Officer for County Clare that the student referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied has applied for catchment boundary transport. My Department also understands that there are no spare seats available on the relevant transport service to accommodate this student. However, as the position with regard to spare seats may change from term to term, the parent/student should keep in touch with the local Bus Éireann office in this regard.
Schools Recognition.
John McGuinness
Ceist:281 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Science the policy of her Department relative to an application for a multi-denominational school for Carlow Town; if a timeframe of September 2007 is realistic for the provision of such a school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43002/06]
I can confirm to the Deputy that a Notice of Intention to apply for the recognition of a new primary school for Carlow town, to commence operation next September, has been submitted to the New Schools Advisory Committee (NSAC). As with all such applications, a full application must be submitted to the NSAC no later than 31st of January 2007. Following the NSAC's report to me in the matter and as in previous years, I expect to announce my decision in relation to successful applications in mid-April of 2007.
Psychological Service.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:282 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress that has been made in filling posts for educational psychologists in the mid-west region; the number currently in place; the number of vacancies; the number specifically assigned to schools in Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43003/06]
The Deputy will be aware that all primary and post primary schools have access to psychological assessments either directly through NEPS or through the Scheme for Commissioning Psychological Assessments (SCPA). Consequently 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 the fees for this assessment directly.
In respect of the Mid-West Region four additional psychologists were appointed in September 2006 bringing the complement of Psychologists serving schools to eight (five sited in the Limerick and three in Ennis). A further psychologist post for the region is currently being recruited, from the panel established in this regard, by the Public Appointments Service. Six of the psychologists, currently serving in the region, are assigned to varying extents to schools in Limerick City and County.
I can inform the Deputy that my Department's 2007 estimates provision in relation to NEPS shows an increase of 17% which will allow some further expansion in the number of psychologists next year. The actual number of extra staff will be determined shortly.
School Accommodation.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:283 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of money spent by her Department on the renting of prefabs in 2005 and to date in 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43004/06]
Expenditure on the rental of temporary school accommodation is as follows:
2005: €15.7m
2006 — to end of November: €22.1m.
The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly over the last number of 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 provision of rented accommodation provides an immediate solution to a deficit of school accommodation, and is often the only available option where extra accommodation is needed at short notice.
However, the current focus within my Department is to empower schools to resolve their accommodation needs, wherever possible by way of permanent accommodation. In order to reduce the amount of temporary accommodation at primary level a new devolved initiative was launched in 2003. The purpose of this initiative is to allow schools to undertake a permanent solution to their classroom accommodation needs and to achieve the best value for money. Since the introduction of the devolved initiative over 200 schools have been allocated funding under this scheme.
As can be seen from the table below the spend on temporary accommodation represents a very small fraction of the overall yearly spend on school buildings.
|
Year |
Total Capital Expenditure at Primary & Post-Primary Level |
Expenditure on Temp. Accommodation |
Temp. Accom. as a % of total Capital Expenditure |
|
€m |
€m |
% |
|
|
2003 |
326.96 |
25.84 |
7.90 |
|
2004 |
333.12 |
12.71 |
3.82 |
|
2005 |
501.26 |
6.47 |
1.29 |
|
**2006 |
361.36 |
2.55 |
0.71 |
**2006 figures to end of October.
Literacy Levels.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:284 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding being provided for improving literacy in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43015/06]
An increase of €7.5 million, or 21%, is being provided in the budget for Adult Literacy and Community Education, which will allow for 3,000 additional literacy places in 2007. This will bring the total number of literacy places to 38,000. In addition to increasing the numbers of participants in the general literacy services, the increase will allow for a special intensive literacy project that was initiated in 2006 to be offered on twice the scale in 2007 and for a special family literacy project, which is being conducted under the DEIS programme (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools).
In order to support schools in improving literacy my Department is providing funding in excess of €4m through the Teacher Education Section in 2007. This funding will enable the expansion of the following programmes in line with the terms of the DEIS Action Plan:
Reading Recovery Programme to a further 84 Primary Schools
First Steps Programme (Reading and Writing) to a further 80 Primary Schools
Demonstration Library Project to a further 10 Post-Primary Schools
Junior Certificate Schools Programme and its Literacy and Numeracy Strategies to a further 30 Post-Primary Schools
Leaving Certificate Applied Programme, the number of schools to be included in 2007 is yet to be determined.
Education Welfare Service.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:285 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of education welfare officers employed; the cost to the Exchequer of such employment; the additional cost of increasing the number to 300 education welfare officers nationwide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43016/06]
The National Educational Welfare Board is developing a nationwide service on a continuing basis that is accessible to schools, parents/ guardians and others concerned with the welfare of young people. For this purpose, Educational Welfare Officers (EWOs) have been deployed throughout the country to provide a welfare-focused service to support regular school attendance and discharge the Board's functions locally. The total authorised staffing complement of the Board is 94 comprising 16 HQ and support staff, 5 regional managers, 12 Senior EWO's and 61 EWO's. Since September 2005 every county in Ireland is served by an educational welfare service.
The Board operates through 5 regional teams, with bases in Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway and Waterford. A service is provided from 26 locations nationwide. Staff are deployed in areas of greatest disadvantage and in areas designated under the Government's RAPID programme. In addition, the Board follows up on urgent cases nationally where children are not currently receiving an education. Educational Welfare Officers play a pivotal role in implementing the service provided by the NEWB through monitoring school attendance and working to improve it. The EWOs also help parents that are experiencing a difficulty with getting a school place for their child.
In addition to the NEWB personnel there are some 490 staff, within the education sector, deployed in education disadvantage programmes whose work involves an element of school attendance and significant scope exists for integrated working between these personnel and Educational Welfare Officers. My Department is anxious to ensure that the maximum benefit is derived from these substantial personnel resources. Consequently work is ongoing to develop appropriate protocols for all agencies and services to work together in collaboration and to ensure that optimum use is made of the resources deployed including NEWB resources. It is anticipated that the outcome of this work will inform my Department on the staffing requirement for the NEWB into the future.
The current cost to the Exchequer of providing this service is €8.15 million. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that my Department's Estimates for 2007 include a provision of €9.8 million for the National Educational Welfare Board. This represents an increase of 20% on the 2006 allocation and of 50% on the 2004 level.
This substantial increase in funding is a clear indication of this Government's commitment to prioritise investment in favour of those most at risk. Through increased investment and improved services we are determined to optimise access, participation and educational outcomes at every level of the system for disadvantaged groups.
The increase in funding for the Board will allow it to expand its services further and increase staffing. This government is determined to do all that is possible to ensure that every child gets all the opportunities and support they need to enable them to achieve their potential and participate fully in education. I will be keeping the issue of the NEWB's staffing under review in light of the rollout of services, the scope for integrated working and any proposals that the Board may put to me in relation to clearly identified priority needs.
In relation to the Deputy's specific question regarding the cost to the Exchequer of employing the 73 service delivery staff mentioned above, and the additional cost of increasing the number to 300 education welfare officers nationwide, I am currently awaiting data on payroll costs from the NEWB in respect of these service delivery staff. I will respond directly to the Deputy when this information is available.
Psychological Service.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:286 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of psychologists currently employed by the National Education Psychological Service; the cost of increasing the number to 200; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43017/06]
Since the establishment of the National Educational Psychological Service in 1999, the number of NEPS psychologists has increased from 43 to 127 at present (including 4 psychologists currently seconded to the National Behavioural Support Service).
The estimated cost of expanding the number of psychologists in the service to 200 would be in the region of €6m in a full year in terms of direct salary costs, not including the range of ancillary support costs relating to accommodation, training, administration, etc.
I can inform the Deputy that my Department's 2007 estimates provision for NEPS shows an increase of 17% which will allow some further expansion in the number of psychologists next year. The actual number of extra staff will be determined shortly.
Strategic Innovation Fund.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:287 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in relation to the strategic innovation fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43018/06]
The Strategic Innovation Fund was established by the Government to promote collaboration, support change and enhance quality in Irish higher education so that it is equipped to meet the challenge of driving Ireland's development as a leading knowledge economy. It reflects the reality that for Irish higher education to attain world class standards, we need to identify creative approaches that build on the collective strengths of our institutions, working together as a cohesive system. The Strategic Innovation Fund involves the provision of €300 million over five years.
In July 2006 a first call for proposals under this Fund was issued by the Higher Education Authority to third level institutions. Two further calls of €130 million each are envisaged.
On 24 October 2006 I announced details of the allocation of over €42 million to third level institutions across the country under this first cycle of funding from the €300 million fund. A total of fourteen major projects have been approved for funding following an independent assessment conducted by a panel of international experts.
The projects approved are aimed at enhancing collaboration between higher education institutions, improving teaching and learning, supporting institutional reform, promoting access and lifelong learning and supporting the development of fourth level education. Due to the collaborative nature of the projects approved, all seven universities, thirteen institutes of technology and the DIT will be involved in a number of projects. This strong level of collaboration between universities and institutes of technology is particularly encouraging.
Detention Centres.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:288 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding being allocated in 2007 for the provision of spaces for young offenders; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43019/06]
My Department, in the Abridged Estimates published on 16 November 2006, estimates that the amount required to meet the operational costs of the five children detention schools for the year ending 31 December 2007 is €31.75 million.
Education Courses.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:289 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science the demand for PLC courses in 2006; the extent to which demand exceeded the cap on places on the courses; the additional funding required to meet such demand; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43020/06]
We have increased the number of PLC places by 60% since 1996/97. Indeed, the number of PLC places approved for 2005/2006 was up by more than 1,600 on the 2004/05 level. The number of approved places in the sector now stands at 30,188.
Applications are received from providers each year for PLC courses and based on these applications an allocation for a particular number of places is sanctioned. These allocations are made to the VECs where colleges are under their remit or directly to Secondary and Community Schools. Some courses are not proceeded with due to insufficient interest from students therefore the number of applications does not necessarily reflect the demand for courses. It should be noted that 725 of the allocated places were not used in 2005.
The level of resources for the PLC sector will be determined in the light of resources generally and the implications for other areas of education. The scope for rationalisation of provision, will also be examined having due regard to ensuring appropriate provision, on a geographic basis and the necessary critical mass for delivery of a quality education service.
Residential Institutions Redress Scheme.
John Curran
Ceist:290 Mr. Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of claims that have been awarded by the redress board; the average amount of each award; the number of remaining claims; when she expects to have these finalised; if any awards were rejected; and if so, the grounds for same. [43042/06]
The Residential Institutions Redress Board was established under statute in 2002 to provide financial redress to victims of child abuse in residential institutions in order to assist them in their recovery and enhance the quality of the remainder of their lives.
The Board received a total of 14,541 applications by the 15th December 2005, the final date for receipt of applications. Up to the 8th December 2006 the Board had completed the process in 7,168 cases. 5,256 awards have been made following settlement talks and 1,567 awards have been made following hearings. 5 applicants have rejected their awards. Information in relation to why an individual rejected an award is not available to my Department due to the confidential nature of the redress process. 345 applications were withdrawn, refused or resulted in no award.
The average value of awards to date is €71,000, the largest award being €300,000.
Currently, some 7,373 cases remain to be considered by the Board. The original term of office of the Board was for a period of three years up to December 2005. I have extended that period to December 2007 and will be advised by the Board whether it will be necessary to provide a further extension at that time.
Higher Education Grants.
Michael Ring
Ceist:291 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo can get grant assistance for their third level studies in view of the fact that they live in an isolated disadvantaged area and there are two members of the family in third level education and they are not able to manage financially. [43043/06]
The Maintenance Grant Scheme for Students attending Post Leaving Certificate courses is administered by the Vocational Education Committees on behalf of my Department.
Under the terms of the Maintenance Grants Scheme for Post Leaving Certificate Courses 2006, grants are available to eligible candidates who are entering approved PLC courses for the first time in the 2006/2007 academic year. Candidates are ineligible if they already hold a FETAC Level 5 qualification (formerly known as a FETAC (NCVA) Level 2 qualification) a FETAC Level 6 qualification (formerly known as a FETAC (NCVA) Level 3 qualification) or a third level qualification at Level 6 or higher. However, notwithstanding this condition candidates who already hold a qualification no higher than FETAC Level 5 (formerly known as a FETAC (NCVA) Level 2) and are now pursuing a course that offers progression may be deemed eligible for grant aid.
My Department understands that the candidate, referred to by the Deputy, holds a FETAC Level 5 in Secretarial Studies. As outlined above, the candidate is ineligible for grant assistance in respect of the PLC Montessori course being pursued in the current academic year as it leads to a second FETAC Level 5 qualification.
The Deputy will appreciate that the terms of the schemes are of general application and it is not open to me or my Department to depart from the terms of the scheme and make exceptions in individual cases.
Departmental Schemes.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:292 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the case of a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary on behalf of which applications have been submitted under the devolved grant for smaller school and summer works scheme. [43055/06]
I can confirm that the Department is in receipt of applications from the management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers for both the Small Schools Scheme 2007 and the Summer Works Scheme 2007. Applications for both of these schemes are currently being assessed and lists of successful applicants under each scheme will be published when this process is complete.
Special Educational Needs.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:293 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in regard to students with dyslexia, she will impose notation on Leaving and Junior Certificates in 2007; the reason her policy is that appeals against notation cannot be successful; the purpose for allowing appeals that cannot be successful; the reason children with specific learning disabilities must make appeals in writing and cannot meet the appeals board; the reason the integrity of the certificates and resultant notation is necessary for the disabled but not for those undertaking exams through Irish; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43058/06]
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:294 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether university diplomas, certificates and degrees lack integrity if they do not include notation, particularly where a student enters university or a course requiring higher points on the basis of additional marks in Irish; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43059/06]
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:295 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the purpose in supplying details of children with disabilities to the CAO; if similar information has been provided where students received additional marks for Irish; the reason for the differentiation; if the practice in relation to children with disabilities breached confidentiality and data protection standards; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43060/06]
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:296 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on facilitating end users by making available a database of students who undertook exams through Irish and who otherwise would have failed the examinations or failed to secure sufficient points to enter college; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43061/06]
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:297 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in regard to the treatment of students with dyslexia, her Department declined to consult with an equality officer as recommended in the task force report of July 2001; if legal advice received indicated that the policy of imposing notation was flawed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43062/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 293 to 297, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware, this Government has shown an unrivalled commitment to ensuring that children and young people with special needs get the extra support they need in order to reach their full potential at school. We have dramatically expanded investment in special education in recent years and we have improved access to the state examinations for young people with special needs.
Annotations on certificates only apply in situations where a core area of a subject is not assessed, or where the mode of assessment used has the same effect. The scheme was introduced following the report of an expert advisory group, and the introduction enabled opportunities to be provided for exemptions where a candidate was not in a position to demonstrate achievement in a core area of assessment. This change, for example, enabled a hearing impaired student to be exempt for the first time from the aural component of language subjects. His/her marks on the balance of the examination would be grossed up proportionately towards 100%, and the certificate would include a note to the effect that all elements of the subject were assessed except the aural component. Spelling and grammar waivers in language subjects were provided to cater for students with dyslexia on a similar basis, with annotation of the certificates. The aim of these changes was to facilitate the operation of a responsive and flexible system which enables all candidates to demonstrate their achievements, while preserving the integrity and fairness of the exams by ensuring that special arrangements are operated in a transparent manner.
In relation to the Equality Tribunal's recent findings, the legal position is that they must either be implemented in full or appealed within the specified timeframe under the Equal Status Act 2002. My Department has examined the findings and is concerned both that the widening of access through the use of exemptions coupled with annotations has not been fully understood in this case and that the fundamental nature of the accommodations being provided has been questioned. It has therefore been decided to appeal the findings.
When the scheme of accommodations was expanded in 2000 an appeals system was provided for, enabling candidates to appeal decisions within the framework of principles recommended by the Expert Advisory Group. It is normal practice for appeals systems to operate with a clear mandate, and the set of principles adopted in this respect was in keeping with international practice.
The policy of awarding bonus marks awards in the state examinations was introduced by the government in the 1920s as one of a number of initiatives to promote the study of subjects through Irish, reflecting the Constitutional position of Irish as the first language. This continues to the present day in the context of wider public policy to promote the Irish language, and is a facility open to all students. In such cases the candidates have been assessed in all components of the examination.
Neither the Department nor the State Examinations Commission provides information on pupils with disabilities to the CAO. Cases where all components in the subject were not assessed were flagged to the CAO at the outset, but this practice ended when it was indicated that the information was not required. The Educational Welfare Act allows for the sharing of information for the purpose of recording a person's educational progress. The Equal Status Act 2000 had been subject to wide ranging consultation before it was enacted, and information on its requirements was available within the Department at the stage when the recommendations of the Expert Advisory Group was adopted. No difficulty was envisaged. The issue of annotation had been fully explored in advance of the Report on the Task Force on Dyslexia.
I am aware that it is not the practice in third level institutions to include notations on certificates. The position is not analogous in that third level awards are not centrally marked and subject to a published marking scheme. As a general rule, third level colleges do not provide for exemptions from a core area of assessment. Given that this case is to be appealed to the Circuit Court, it is not appropriate that I make any further comment in the matter.
John Perry
Ceist:298 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the provision being made for school leavers with significant intellectual disability to continue their education in third level centres in the Health Service Executive west area supported by the appropriate statutory partners in view of the Governments commitment to inclusion of people with disabilities and their obligation through the Disability Act 2005; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43063/06]
The participation rate of students with a disability in third level education has improved significantly over the past ten years. In 1994, there were just 400 students with a disability in the sector (about 0.5% of full-time undergraduates), while recent indications from the Association for Higher Education Access and Disability (AHEAD) are that there are now over 2,700 students with a disability in higher education (about 2.4% of full-time undergraduates). Key measures which have contributed to this increase in participation have been the allocation by my Department through the HEA of dedicated strategic and core funding for the development of access and disability support services to higher education institutions. In addition, funding is allocated to a range of student supports and services through the Fund for Students with a Disability. In 2005/6, €1,631,979 was allocated to 408 students with a disability in 10 third level institutions in the HSE West area.
Figures from the National Office for Equity of Access to Third Level Education and AHEAD indicate that, on average, over half (52%) of all students with a disability in higher education have a specific learning disability (for example, dyslexia), about 16% of students have a mobility disability, 8% have mental health difficulties, 7% are deaf or hard of hearing, 5% are blind or visually impaired and 12% have other disabilities, including, I understand, a small number of students with intellectual disabilities.
Support structures across the education system, in particular systems of needs assessment and educational planning, are also being progressed by the National Council for Special Education, which was established on a statutory basis following the enactment of the Education for Persons with Special Needs Act 2004. The plan of work of the NCSE will ensure that the needs of young people with a disability in primary and secondary education are being met from the very earliest stages of their education.
Under the Disability Act, 2005, the Council, in conjunction with the Health Service Executive, has a key role in supporting young people and adults with a disability in progressing their studies beyond school into further and higher education, the legislation also places important obligations on education providers in accommodating the needs of students with a disability. With improved systems of assessment and support for students in first and second level education, combined with the continuity of support provided for under the Disability Act 2005, I am confident that we will see more students with a disability, including those with an intellectual disability, progressing to further and higher education in the years to come.
School Accommodation.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:299 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science if as a result of extra information supplied by a committee (details supplied) in County Galway parents will be guaranteed that their first year students will be accepted into the college in September 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43070/06]
On 12 October, 2006, the Trustees of this school announced that they would be phasing the closure of this school from September, 2007. The school in question is a voluntary secondary school and the decision to withdraw as providers of Education is within the remit of the Patron body, that is the Sisters of Mercy. My Department is examining the information supplied by the committee, referred to by the Deputy, in the light of the Trustees' decision.
Third Level Fees.
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:300 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the financial assistance that will be offered to a person (details supplied) who wishes to commence a PhD in the UK; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43081/06]
The Third Level Student Support Schemes were extended to provide maintenance grants to eligible students pursuing approved full-time undergraduate courses of at least two years duration (pursued in a university or a third level institution which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds) in other EU Member States with effect from the 1996/97 academic year. The extension of the Schemes at that time did not include courses at postgraduate level and, accordingly, there is no grant aid available under the schemes for students pursuing postgraduate studies outside of Ireland.
Any extension of the current arrangements to provide for students pursuing postgraduate courses outside of Ireland could only be considered in the light of available resources and other competing demands within the education sector. At present, there are no plans, to expand the provisions in the grant schemes in relation to postgraduate study abroad.
However, Section 473A, Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997, provides tax relief, at the standard rate of tax, for tuition fees paid in respect of approved courses at approved colleges of higher education including certain approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in E.U. Member States and in non EU countries.
The application form (I.T. 31 Form) to claim tax relief on tuition fees is available from the Revenue Commissioners. Further information is available from your Local Tax Office or alternatively from Revenue's Internet site at www.revenue.ie.
Schools Amalgamation.
Jack Wall
Ceist:301 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to discussions with primary schools (details supplied) in County Kildare regarding a possible rationalisation of re-configuration of primary educational facilities in the area where the schools are located; the stage the discussions are at; the agreements that have been reached; if it is her intention that the school will be given a new school building; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43087/06]
Discussions are on-going with the authorities of the schools to which the Deputy refers in relation to their accommodation needs. Meetings have also taken place with both Kildare County Council and Athy Town Council with a view to ensuring that the appropriate level of educational provision is made in the context of planned housing developments.
The Department expects to be in a position to make a decision on the long term needs of the area shortly.
Schools Building Projects.
Jack Wall
Ceist:302 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of a school building programme for a post primary school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43090/06]
Construction of an extension at the school to which the Deputy refers commenced in August 2006. The project is expected to be completed in 12 months.
Jack Wall
Ceist:303 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the position of a school building programme for a primary school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43091/06]
The project for the School to which the Deputy refers is one of sixty two projects that I approved for the commencement of architectural planning in January of this year. The brief for the project consists of a 16 classroom Generic Repeat Design model with an additional bolt-on Special Education Tuition room. A Design Team was appointed to the project in June of this year. Approval has been given to the Design Team to proceed to stage 3 (detailed design with costings).
When the stage 3 documentation is received and approved, the project can be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme to proceed to advanced design and then on to tender and construction.
Pupil-Teacher Ratio.
Jack Wall
Ceist:304 Mr. Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the average national school class size in Kildare over the past five years; the average national school class size in the Republic of Ireland over the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43092/06]
As the Deputy will be aware, this Government has made huge progress in increasing the staffing in our primary schools both nationally and in Kildare.
Nationally, there are now no less than 4,000 more primary teachers than there were in 2002, and nearly 7,000 more than there were in 1997. This represents the largest increase in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education.
The number of primary teachers in Kildare has increased by 60%, under this Government.
While the average class size in Kildare is slightly above the average, as detailed below, nonetheless major improvements have been made. When we came into office, there were 3,397 children in classes of 35 or more in Kildare schools. This has been dramatically reduced to 531 children in the 05/06 school year. The average class size has also been reduced, while the number of children in classes of 30 or more has significantly decreased also.
The information requested by the Deputy on average class size is included below.
|
School Year |
National |
Kildare |
|
1996/1997 |
27 |
29 |
|
2001/2002 |
24 |
27 |
|
2002/2003 |
24 |
27 |
|
2003/2004 |
24 |
27 |
|
2004/2005 |
24 |
27 |
|
2005/2006 |
24 |
27 |
I want to assure the Deputy that I am very conscious of the particular pressures on schools in Kildare and that addressing their needs is a priority for me. In the past two years, I have put in place specific measures to address the needs of growing schools by making it easier to qualify for a developing school post. Over 300 such posts were sanctioned for the 2006/07 school year, compared to 170 in 2005/06. This change specifically addressed the needs of schools which are seeing large increases in their enrolments year on year.
While I appreciate the need to make further progress in reducing class size, it should be acknowledged just how much has been achieved.
In recent years, priority has rightly been given to providing extra support for children with special needs, those from disadvantaged areas and those that need help with their English.
Special education provision in particular has undergone a level of expansion the extent of which nobody could have predicted a few years ago — and this was only right. If we had put all 4,000 of the teachers hired since 2002 into classroom teaching, our average class size would be a lot smaller than it is now. But we would have done a great disservice to those children who need extra help the most. I am sure the Deputy would accept that we have taken the right approach.
Now that children with special needs are finally getting the support they deserve, we are providing extra teachers this year and next specifically to reduce class sizes, through a reduction in the mainstream staffing schedule.
This has meant that, whereas all primary schools were staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom teacher for every 29 children in the 05/06 school year, in the current school year there is a general rule of at least one teacher for every 28 children. Of course, schools with only one or two teachers have much lower staffing ratios than that — with two teachers for just 12 pupils in some cases and so on — but the general rule is that there is at least one classroom teacher for every 28 children in the school. Next year, we are committed to hiring even more extra teachers in order to reduce this to a general rule of at least one teacher for every 27 children.
The improvements we have made in school staffing in recent years are absolutely unparalleled. But we are determined to go even further, and so the 2007 Estimates include provision for another 800 primary teachers. About 500 of these will be classroom teachers, which includes our commitment to reduce class sizes.
I assure the Deputy that we will continue to prioritise further improvements in school staffing going forward. We will also continue our focus on measures to improve the quality of education in our primary schools to ensure that increased resources lead to better outcomes for our children.
Departmental Inquiries.
Pat Breen
Ceist:305 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will make public the inquiry established by her for the County Clare Vocational Educational Committee; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43113/06]
The inquiry report referred to by the Deputy was forwarded earlier this year to a number of individuals specifically referred to in the report and also to County Clare Vocational Education Committee. I do not propose at this stage to formally publish the report or to circulate it more widely than heretofore.
Schools Building Projects.
Pat Breen
Ceist:306 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a new school in Ennistymon, County Clare; if a site for the school has been purchased; and when the new school will be opened; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43169/06]
Three post primary schools in Ennistymon have agreed to amalgamate to form a new Community School. The new school is expected to cater for up to 650 pupils. The amalgamation will proceed when a new school building has been provided.
The Property Management Section of my Department is in the process of acquiring a site under the terms of the Residential Institutional Redress Act with a view to facilitating this amalgamation. The transfer of ownership of the site is currently being dealt with by the Chief State Solicitor's Office. When a suitable site has been secured the project will be considered for progression in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme 2007-2011.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:307 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43223/06]
The information requested by the Deputy is being compiled in my Department and will be sent to him as soon as possible.
Institutes of Technology.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:308 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 171 of 7 December 2006, if she will confirm that a person (details supplied) will complete their work on the preliminary assessment of the submission made by the governing body of Waterford Institute of Technology under section 9 of the Universities Act 1997 before the next general election; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43311/06]
As the Deputy is aware, the date of the next General Election has not been yet been determined. In requesting the independent advice of Dr. Jim Port, I have asked him to conduct a thorough assessment of the submission made by the Governing Body of Waterford Institute of Technology having regard to national strategy for the development of Irish higher education, implications for regional development in the South East in the context of the National Spatial Strategy and any likely implications for the overall structure of higher education in Ireland.
While I have not set a specific deadline for the completion of his work, I do expect to receive Dr Port's advice in the first half of 2007.
Schools Building Projects.
Liam Aylward
Ceist:309 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve the application for major capital works from the management authority of a national school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny to ensure the project proceeds to the design stage in view of the fact the long-term staffing has been projected by her Department and taking into account the rapid growth in population in this area over the past number of years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43312/06]
The School Planning Section of the Department is in receipt of an application for major capital works 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 and has been assigned a Band 2 rating.
Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme from 2007 onwards.
Bullying in the Workplace.
Johnny Brady
Ceist:310 Mr. J. Brady asked the Minister for Education and Science if in view of recent media reports which reveal that a seven-month UCC governing body sub-committee investigation into allegations of bullying and harassment was not co-operated with by complainants, she has plans to introduce a system which investigates allegations to the full, make a clear determination on them and insist that complainants, under the terms of their employment, are obliged to co-operate with such a system; and her views on whether the existing system is not effective and can lead to lingering reputation damage to both persons, universities here and higher education institutions without the matter ever being cleared up. [43325/06]
The position is that issues relating to the staff of a university, other than pay and conditions, are matters within the remit of the university itself. Each university is required to have in place adequate staff grievance procedures, including procedures for investigating allegations of bullying. My Department does not have a role in putting such procedures in place.
I am informed, however, by the Higher Education Authority that such procedures are in place in all the universities and in general are effective. The strength of any such procedures lies in the preparedness of all concerned to co-operate fully with them.
Schools Building Projects.
David Stanton
Ceist:311 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received an application to extend a school (details supplied) in County Cork; when she will be in a position to approve this extension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43327/06]
A re-assessment of the school's projected enrolment and the long term projected staffing has been initiated in my Department. This assessment will take account of all the relevant factors such as current and projected enrolment, demographic trends and the likely impact of ongoing and proposed housing developments in the area. The management authority has recently provided additional information in support of the case for such a re-assessment and this will be examined by the School Planning Section of the Department.
Defence Forces Pensions.
Michael Noonan
Ceist:312 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for Defence if he will confirm that of the 9,727 persons in receipt of pensions under the Defence Forces pensions schemes approximately 3,630 of these are pre August 1990 pensioners who do not qualify for the MSA in their pension as a different figure for this category is in circulation among former military personnel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43076/06]
As I indicated in my reply to Dáil Question No. 271 on 23 November 2006, Military Service Allowance (MSA) was made pensionable in the case of Defence Forces personnel retiring on or after 1 August 1990 on foot of a recommendation made by the Commission on Remuneration and Conditions of Service in the Defence Forces (the Gleeson Commission). This approach was fully consistent with settled public service pensions policy which provides that the benefit of an allowance being made pensionable for serving personnel does not extend to existing pensioners and there is no scope for departing from this policy in the case of MSA.
I can confirm that, of the 9,727 persons in receipt of pensions under the Defence Forces Pensions Schemes, approximately 3,630 are pre-August, 1990 pensioners who do not qualify for MSA in their pension. It is estimated that about 50% of this latter number retired (or died) while in receipt of the MSA as serving members of the Defence Forces, i.e. between 1 May 1979 (when the allowance was first introduced) and 1 August 1990 (the commencement date of the MSA being made pensionable).
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:313 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43222/06]
The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
Name |
Cost |
|
€ |
||
|
1996/1998 |
O’Shea Business Consultants |
386,615 |
|
1996/1998 |
Staff Relations Services (Mr. D. Rochford) |
2,009 |
|
1997 |
Mary Murphy Associates |
3,133 |
|
1997/2000 |
Aer Rianta |
14,655 |
|
1998/1999 |
Staff Relations Services (Mr. D. Rochford) |
37,470 |
|
1998 |
Ernst & Young |
608,839 |
|
1998 |
BDO Simpson Xavier Consultants |
19,666 |
|
1999/2004 |
Brady, Shipman, Martin |
128,902 |
|
1999/2005 |
Sir Frederick Snow & Partners Ltd |
21,938 |
|
1999/2000 |
Mr. L. Dunbar |
4,360 |
|
1999/2000 |
Anti-Bullying Centre Trinity College |
6,599 |
|
2000 |
Mr. Mike Ginn |
121,682 |
|
2000/2001 |
Exselan Computer Systems |
22,093 |
|
2000/2004 |
Brian Meehan & Associates |
20,682 |
|
2001 |
Intercontinental Aviation Consultants |
55,442 |
|
2001 |
Deloitte & Touche |
127,925 |
|
2001 |
Saville & Holdsworth Ltd. |
44,268 |
|
2001/2002 |
Dr. Eileen Doyle |
63,000 |
|
2001/2002 |
Gallagher & Kelly Public Relations |
32,048 |
|
2001 |
Margaret Considine |
4,920 |
|
2002 |
Sweeney Communications |
12,235 |
|
2002/2004 |
Dr. Eileen Doyle |
161,259 |
|
2003 |
Mr. Colm Dunne |
3,220 |
|
2003/2004 |
Mr. Martin McCoy |
10,150 |
|
2003 |
Deloitte & Touche |
26,740 |
|
2003 |
Ray Byrnes B.L. |
1,800 |
|
2004 |
Connolly, Sellors & Geraghty |
4,598 |
|
2004 |
Goldsmith Fitzgerald Partnership |
1,800 |
|
2005 |
Occupational Health Consultants |
35,869 |
|
2005 |
Dr. Charles O’Malley (Set fee per annum) |
6,400 |
|
2005 |
Millward Brown IMS |
22,264 |
|
2006 |
Grayling |
14,520 |
It should also be noted that the Department has never included the under-mentioned projects as "Consultancies":
Payment of €2.59m to date to Oracle EMEA Ltd. in respect of implementation services for installation of new financial and management information systems for the Department and the Defence Forces (on-going). The full value of the contract is €2.7m.
There is an ongoing capital building programme in my Department designed to modernise the living, training, operational and accommodation facilities available to the Defence Forces, both Permanent and Reserve. There has been an unprecedented level of spending on the programme to date with over €200 million spent between 1999 and 2005. This year will see a further €21.8 million invested in the programme.
As a result of this significant increase in the building programme consultants with appropriate expertise are engaged by the Department as necessary to provide technical services in connection with building, engineering and equipment projects etc. and in connection with psychometric testing for Army, Naval Service and Air Corps cadetships and trainee technicians.
It should be noted that (as per Comptroller and Auditor General Report on Value for Money "Consultancies in the Civil Service" 1998) such design and engineering consultancies for capital projects are better examined in association with the construction projects to which they relate.
Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:314 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme in Finuge Village, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42962/06]
Finuge Village is part of Phase 1 of the Kerry Villages Waste Water which is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 as a scheme to commence construction in 2007. My Department is currently awaiting submission by Kerry County Council of a Preliminary Report for the scheme. I understand that the Council is also developing a countywide strategy to optimise the delivery of wastewater services to up to 90 towns and villages, including Finuge. Any proposals emerging from this strategy will be considered by my Department in conjunction with the recommendations of the Preliminary Assessment.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:315 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme in Tarbert, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42963/06]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 686 of 24 October 2006. The position is unchanged.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:316 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme in Ballylongford, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42964/06]
Funding for a Preliminary Assessment of Phase I of Kerry County Council's Villages Sewerage Scheme Refurbishment proposals, which includes Ballylongford, has been approved under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007.
My Department is awaiting submission of Kerry County Council's report on the Preliminary Assessment. I understand that the Council is also developing a countywide strategy to optimise the delivery of wastewater services to up to 90 towns and villages, including Ballylongford. Any proposals emerging from this strategy will be considered by my Department in conjunction with the recommendations of the Preliminary Assessment.
Special Areas of Conservation.
Michael Ring
Ceist:317 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to the survey work undertaken in both 2004 and 2005 for the mapping of special areas of conservation which involved the assistance of a helicopter, the overall price tendered for this contract and the cost of helicopter hire contained within the contract; when this contact was advertised for tender; the number of applications received; when the contract was awarded; the person it was awarded to; the proposed completion date of this contract; the terms of the contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42975/06]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 521 of 5 December 2006. The total cost to my Department of work undertaken in both 2004 and 2005 for the mapping of special areas of conservation which involved the assistance of a helicopter was €64,117 inclusive of VAT @21%. This total relates, as required by my Department's tender specification, to inclusive costs for data capture and analysis per kilometre of river. The cost element of helicopter hire was not separately priced.
My Department sought tenders for this work in November 2004. Three companies submitted a tender. Following assessment, 2 were deemed to meet the tender requirements. Contracts for some of the GPS related survey work proposed were awarded in December 2004 to RSK Orbital Ltd. and Gaelic Helicopters Ltd. Work under both contracts was completed by March, 2005.
Environmental Policy.
Ciarán Cuffe
Ceist:318 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when Circular IPPP 12/2006 was circulated to county and city managers by his Department. [42999/06]
This circular was issued electronically to County and City Managers and Directors of Services on 29 November, 2006.
Tribunals of Inquiry.
Billy Kelleher
Ceist:319 Mr. Kelleher asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the costs to date for the Flood and Mahon Tribunals including third party costs; the costs for each legal team; and the costs for each member of each legal team. [43006/06]
As of 8 December 2006, the overall cost of the Tribunal of Inquiry into Certain Planning Matters and Payments amounted to €61,345,491.42, of which legal costs for third parties amounted to €6,668,070.
Fees paid to the legal team engaged by the Tribunal are as follows:
|
Legal Team Member |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
Senior Counsel |
|
|
John Gallagher* |
2,860,694.84 |
|
Desmond O’Neill |
3,673,673.26 |
|
Patrick Quinn |
2,457,887.66 |
|
Patricia Dillon |
3,350,015.61 |
|
Henry R Murphy |
1,074,026.25 |
|
Patrick Hanratty* |
1,460,343.98 |
|
Felix McEnroy* |
531,855.19 |
|
Junior Counsel |
|
|
Eunice O’Raw |
2,549,250.25 |
|
Annette Foley |
1,094,027.44 |
|
Sarah O’Connell |
505,993.28 |
|
Adele Murphy |
907,545.55 |
|
Fergal Doyle |
730,568.83 |
|
Cathal Murphy |
706,035.00 |
|
Mairéad Coghlan* |
1,781,717.42 |
|
Solicitors |
|
|
Susan Gilvarry |
1,041,218.96 |
|
Marcel Gribben |
413,632.50 |
|
Donal King |
497,310.00 |
|
Máire Áine Howard* |
974,216.21 |
|
Legal Researchers (Junior Counsel) |
|
|
Emma Dalton |
358,047.00 |
|
Helen Johnson |
245,025.00 |
|
Thomas Hannon |
256,278.00 |
|
Imelda Higgins |
297,297.00 |
|
Geraldine Stack |
315,810.00 |
|
Padraig Dillon |
146,652.00 |
|
Damien Keaney* |
64,501.46 |
|
Nicola Lowe* |
57,062.07 |
|
Michael Ramsey* |
14,665.53 |
|
Total |
28,365,350.29 |
* Resigned from Tribunal Legal Team.
Payments made to the legal team are inclusive of VAT, with withholding tax deducted at the appropriate rate.
Local Authority Housing.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:320 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost of maintaining local authority estates in 2006. [43025/06]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
The management and maintenance of local authority rented dwellings is the responsibility of the housing authority concerned.
Based on returns to my Department, it is estimated that local authorities expended €130.7 million on maintenance and repair of their dwellings in 2005. Data in respect of 2006 is not yet available.
Housing Grants.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:321 Mr. O’Connor asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the estimated cost of the disabled persons building grant in 2007; the annual cost of increasing it to €30,000; the proportion of building work costs covered by the disabled persons housing grant; the estimated annual cost of increasing the disabled persons housing grant to cover 100% of actual building work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43026/06]
Minister of State at the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (Mr. N. Ahern)
Estimates for the 2007 housing programme are set out in the Abridged Estimates Volume, which was recently published. Details in relation to disabled persons, essential repairs and improvement grants will be published as part of the Revised Estimates for the Public Service early in 2007.
My Department does not have detailed estimates available of the costs associated with an increase in the allowable maximum grant under the disabled persons grant scheme to €30,000 or the cost of increasing the grant to cover 100% of the cost of works. Factors such as the demand led nature of the scheme, the number and value of grants paid in any one year, differences in buildings costs across the country, the percentage of grant paid by each local authority and the percentage of the work covered by the current maximum grant in individual cases, would have significant impact on the calculation of these estimates.
Under the terms of the scheme, the maximum grant of €20,320 can cover up to 90% of the cost of the works to private houses. The grant may cover the full cost of the works to local authority dwellings.
A review of the Disabled Persons Grant scheme, which incorporates the conditions governing the Essential Repairs Grant scheme and the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly Scheme, was recently finalised within my Department. Proposals for the future operation of the schemes are being prepared and are expected to be announced early next year.
Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:322 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the present position of the proposed sewerage scheme at Glenamaddy, County Galway; when it will go for tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43071/06]
The Glenamaddy Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 as a scheme to start construction in 2007.
I approved Galway County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme earlier this month. Under new procedures I have introduced to speed up progress with the Programme, the Council is now free to advance the scheme to construction without further reference to my Department.
Pat Breen
Ceist:323 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the water services pricing policy report for the Doolin, Ballyvaughan and Corofin sewerage schemes has been submitted by Clare County Council; if so, when he expects it to be approved by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43110/06]
Pat Breen
Ceist:325 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when his Department expects to approve the preliminary report and water services pricing policy report on the Ennistymon, Liscannor, Miltown Malbay and Spanish Point sewerage schemes; the position in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43112/06]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 323 and 325 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 582 of 21 November 2006.
Pat Breen
Ceist:324 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the proposed Quilty, Scariff and Feakle sewerage schemes with regard to Clare County Council’s revised proposals; if a pricing structure has been agreed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43111/06]
These schemes are included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007.
I have approved Clare County Council's revised proposals in relation to the scope and scale of the new infrastructure to be provided in each of the locations involved and agreement has been reached with the Council in relation to the funding of the scheme towards which €8.808m will be provided by my Department.
The Council's Contract Documents for the scheme, received in the Department last month, are being examined and will be dealt with as quickly as possible.
Question No. 325 answered with QuestionNo. 323.
Consultancy Contracts.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:326 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount spent on consultants in each year from 1997 to 2005 and to date in 2006. [43225/06]
The information requested is set out in a table.
|
€ |
|
|
January to date 2006 |
3,030,593 |
|
2005 |
2,387,589 |
|
2004 |
3,141,139 |
|
2003 |
17,190,665 |
|
2002 |
5,771,127 |
|
2001 |
7,255,079 |
|
2000 |
4,063,875 |
|
1999 |
696,393 |
|
1998 |
741,674 |
|
1997 |
165,748 |