Vol. 635 No. 3
11 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if in view of the recent Census of Population he will set up an Electoral Boundary Commission to review Dáil Constituencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13437/07]
The Electoral Act 1997 provides that a Constituency Commission shall be established upon the publication by the Central Statistics Office, following each census of population, of the report which contains the final population figures classified by area. The appropriate detailed population statistics that are necessary to conduct a review of existing constituencies are contained in Volume 1 of the census publications which classifies the population by area.
I intend to establish such a Commission to review and report on Dáil and European constituencies as soon as possible after the relevant report is published by the CSO. Under the Act, the Commission is required to report to the Ceann Comhairle as soon as may be and, in any event, within 6 months of its establishment; the reports will then be laid before each House of the Oireachtas.
12 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if in view of the contamination of the public water supply in Galway he will immediately introduce new regulations requiring increased monitoring and testing of public water supplies in all areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13441/07]
Regulatory regimes have been in place for many years in Ireland prescribing strict EU based standards for drinking water quality and monitoring. Reports on Irish drinking water quality are regularly compiled by the EPA and are regarded as among the most comprehensive within the EU. In its latest (2002) Synthesis Report on the Quality of Drinking Water in the Member States of the European Union, the EU Commission identified Ireland and the United Kingdom as the two member states in which improvements in drinking water quality were significant and obvious. The latest relevant EPA report verifies the high quality of Irish drinking water, with 98.9% of public supplies being in compliance with all microbiological standards.
The Drinking Water Regulations 2000 consolidated and updated earlier regulations, and they transposed the 1998 EU Drinking Water Directive and prescribed drinking water standards and monitoring regimes to meet the requirements of this Directive.
On 8 March 2007, prior to the Cryptosporidium outbreak in Galway City, I made the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations 2007 to update and replace the 2000 Regulations. In particular, the 2007 Regulations require local authorities to monitor all water supplies, under the supervision and direction of the Environmental Protection Agency, and to ensure that any non-compliance with quality standards is immediately investigated and appropriate remedial action taken.
I am satisfied that the new Regulations will underpin the provision of comprehensive monitoring regimes for all water supplies and that further detailed requirements can also be addressed when the Water Services Bill, now at Dáil Report Stage, is enacted.
13 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce legislation or regulations on management companies and management charges in private housing developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13269/07]
50 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the response from local authorities to his directive in relation to management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13444/07]
562 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the dialogue he has had with county and city managers regarding the issues surrounding management companies for traditional houses; if there is a general strategy to accelerate taking estates in charge that are subject to management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13877/07]
576 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress to date in updating legislation to facilitate the regulation of management companies in apartment complexes. [13974/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 13, 50, 562 and 576 together.
In relation to its responsibilities, my Department has advised planning authorities that they should not attach planning conditions requiring management companies for "traditional" housing estates, except in very exceptional circumstances. My Department understand that this advice is now accepted by all planning authorities. A Working Group chaired by my Department, and involving relevant interests, has been considering issues relating to the taking in charge of developments, including responsibility for the maintenance of certain shared facilities in newer type mixed estates. It is intended that further guidance for planning authorities, based on the Group's deliberations, will be issued shortly.
My Department is not responsible for the wider range of legislation and regulation relevant to management companies in apartment complexes. Such companies, consisting of the owners of dwellings, are generally constituted under the Companies Acts and are required to operate in compliance with company law.
The Director of Corporate Enforcement published a report on the operation of management companies in December 2006, which includes guidance for directors and members on company governance.
I understand also that the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment is considering changes in company law to deal with the specific circumstances of licensing management companies. In addition, a paper on issues relating to property management in multi-unit developments was published by the Law Reform Commission in December 2006: the public consultation is still in progress. Finally, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform is chairing an inter-Departmental committee to consider legislative responses to issues generally relating to property management companies. My Department is represented on this committee and will make every possible contribution to its work.
The Government have already decided that property managing agents will be regulated by the Property Services Regulatory Authority under legislation currently being prepared by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. Property managing agents are commercial firms engaged by management companies to provide management and maintenance services for which management charges are paid.
14 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the target of 10,000 new social and affordable houses per annum will be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13429/07]
The Government's new housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, and the National Development Plan 2007-2013 (NDP) reflect the strong commitment to expand social and affordable housing provision contained in the social partnership agreement Towards 2016. The NDP provides the resources — some €18 billion in total, which will enable increased output from social and affordable housing measures resulting in the needs of some 140,000 new households being met in this period.
These resources will be used to meet the needs of some 100,000 households by commencing/ acquiring 63,000 new social homes in the period 2007-2013, through a combination of local authority, voluntary and co-operative housing and new units for the Rental Accommodation Scheme. Further households will benefit as they transfer to the Rental Accommodation Scheme with their existing landlords or from naturally occurring vacancies. Over the period 2007 to 2009, sufficient resources will be made available to commence/acquire some 27,000 new units of social housing. In addition over the period of the NDP some 40,000 households will benefit from affordable housing. 17,000 of these will be delivered in the first three-year period, in line with the agreement in Towards 2016.
To ensure that these programmes are delivered in a coherent and coordinated manner City and County Councils have put in place multi-annual Housing Actions plans which encompass delivery of social and affordable housing in their area, including Town Councils.
15 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce legislation to amend planning laws here to allow local authorities decision making powers on the location of sex shops and lap dancing clubs in order to not allow such businesses to operate close to schools and in residential areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13389/07]
The issues of adult entertainment and the regulation of associated venues require consideration because of the recent growth of this sector. Given the relevance of a number of different statutory codes to this matter, it is not clear that planning regulation alone can adequately support a local control regime with regard to these activities, and the interaction of these various codes needs to be examined to ensure we take the best possible approach.
To that end, in January this year I wrote to the Tánaiste proposing the establishment of a task force to examine the regulatory context around the siting and location of adult entertainment venues. The first meeting of that group will be taking place shortly. When the task force completes its work, we will have a clearer picture of the issues involved, their interaction and the possible way forward.
In advance of any new proposals, local authorities should use the powers currently available to them under the planning code, such as the development plan process, to ensure that new late night entertainment venues are not inappropriately located, for example in quiet residential areas.
16 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has abandoned taking further legal action seeking the closure of Sellafield. [13250/07]
The threat posed by the large and complex nuclear facility at Sellafield has long been a concern to the people of Ireland. The actions of this Government have reflected that concern over many years.
In 2001, and in response to the imminent commissioning of the MOX plant, Ireland instituted legal proceedings against the United Kingdom under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The action related, among other things, to the inadequacy of the environmental impact assessment carried out by the United Kingdom for the MOX Plant as well as the failure of the United Kingdom to take all steps necessary — and cooperate with Ireland in doing so — to protect and preserve the marine environment of the Irish Sea.
The UNCLOS Tribunal hearing began in June 2003 but was suspended to facilitate resolution of an issue raised by the European Commission that the case was more appropriate to matters of EU, rather than UNCLOS, competence.
Pending hearing of the substantive case, and following an application by Ireland, the UNCLOS Tribunal issued a Provisional Measures Order, which made provision for, inter alia, a review by Ireland and the UK of the mechanisms for inter-Governmental notification and co-operation. Under this process, over the following three years, a series of co-operative measures were developed, agreed and put in place.
These measures are very valuable from Ireland's viewpoint. They are working well and represent real added value to the necessarily co-operative relationship to which we believe Ireland is entitled on nuclear issues. The Bi-Lateral Agreement on Early Notification of a Nuclear Incident, direct access to the UK Radiation Monitoring System (RIMNET), access for the Garda Síochána to Sellafield, access for the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) to Sellafield and other facilities, significantly improved information exchanges, co-operation on emergency planning with the UK, and improved contacts at regulator and official level on nuclear issues, all provide objective evidence of real improvements.
The judgment of the European Court of Justice of 30 May 2006, inter alia, declared that Ireland, by instituting proceedings against the UK under UNCLOS, had failed to fulfill its obligations under Community Law. This judgment established that certain provisions of UNCLOS form part of the Community legal order and that the ECJ has exclusive jurisdiction to determine disputes between Member States on their interpretation and application. Following consultation with the Attorney General, the case taken by Ireland against the UK under UNCLOS will not now proceed. The Commission and the UNCLOS Tribunal were informed accordingly on the 16 February last.
The case taken by Ireland under UNCLOS has served the purpose of identifying the concerns of Ireland in relation to Sellafield on the international stage and more particularly at EU level. It has also led to significant improvements in the level of co-operation and information received from the UK in relation to Sellafield. Lack of co-operation and information from the UK on the issue was one of the significant claims made by Ireland in the UNCLOS case.
The ECJ in its judgement against Ireland provided clarity in that certain international agreements now fall exclusively within the Court's remit insofar as disputes arise under them. This applies not only to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (which was in dispute in this case) but also potentially to other international conventions whose aim is to protect the environment. Accordingly, the ECJ and the European Commission are now placed centre stage in respect of Ireland's concerns regarding discharges and safety at Sellafield. In my meeting with Commissioner Piebalgs in January 2006, I made clear to the Commissioner that the Commission needs to respond to these concerns and become more proactive on the Sellafield issue.
Since Ireland began its case against the UK under UNCLOS in 2001, the Commission has instituted two actions against the UK in relation to Sellafield under the terms of the EURATOM Treaty. Following my meeting with Commissioner Piebalgs, the Commission issued a Decision (15 February 2006) against Sellafield in respect of the THORP leak. This follows the Directive issued by the Commission against the UK in March 2004 in respect of the B30 ponds.
The UK have lodged an appeal in the ECJ (April 2006) against the Commission Decision on the THORP leak claiming inter alia that the Commission does not have the competence to adopt the decision because it is based on safety concerns.
While the broad legal landscape regarding disputes between Member States has changed, this Government's fundamental position has not. Our policy continues to reflect the firm position that Sellafield is an unacceptable threat to Ireland and that it should be closed in a safe and orderly manner.
I will continue to ensure that the concerns of Ireland are represented directly to the European Commission in relation to Sellafield at Commissioner and Senior Official level and that the current actions against Sellafield by the Commission are continuously monitored to ensure that they are sustained and effective. The Attorney General will also monitor developments at the European Court of Justice. The Government, as in the past, will continue to explore all legal, diplomatic and political options open to it on an ongoing basis in order to ensure the concerns and interests of the Irish people are represented and protected in relation to the continued operation of the Sellafield Plant.
17 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the success or otherwise of the measures in place and operated by the local authorities to assist people in purchasing their own home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13256/07]
The Government consider that home ownership should be made available to as many people as possible where this is their preferred option. Local authorities play a key role supporting paths to home ownership for lower income groups. Over 23,000 households were assisted through all measures between 2002 and 2006 with activity in 2006 up over 30% on the 2002 figure.
This includes paths from social housing such as tenant purchase and mortgage allowance, as well as house purchase loans. The new incremental purchase scheme announced in Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities will provide a new option in this area.
In more recent years, there has been an emphasis on the provision of affordable housing. The Affordable Homes Partnership (AHP) is assisting authorities to increase the delivery of affordable housing. The AHP and local authorities are working to deliver some 17,000 new affordable homes over the period 2007 to 2008.
It is evident that the needs of a broad range of home purchasers are being addressed through these schemes. I am satisfied that they provide a strong foundation for achieving the Government's ambitious targets for the delivery of support to home purchasers in the coming years.
18 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding phase two of Castleisland sewerage scheme, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13312/07]
Kerry County Council's Castleisland Sewerage Scheme Stage 2 is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 as a scheme to commence construction in 2007, at an estimated cost of €5.57m. The scheme involves the upgrading of the existing town sewerage system in Castleisland and the extension of the sewer network to cater for unserviced existing and future development in the town environs for the next 25 years.
In January of this year, my Department asked Kerry County Council to review certain aspects of the Preliminary Report. Because of the large scale of the provision for future development in the current proposal the council was asked to review, in particular, the scope of the scheme and to consider carrying out the work in a number of phases. My Department also asked the Council to review its Water Services Pricing Policy Report for the scheme. This review will allow the value of the Exchequer and the non–domestic sector capital contributions towards the overall cost of the scheme to be determined and should result in a reduced cost to the County Council. My Department is awaiting a response from the Council.
19 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he intends to take to extend the closing date for special area of conservation appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13271/07]
Under the Habitats Regulations 1997, a landowner may seek review of a proposed designation of land as a Special Area of Conservation (SAC) by making an objection in writing, and based on scientific grounds, to my Department along with a clear map of the land in question. The Regulations provide that such objections must be made within a three-month period of the site being notified and it is now necessary in the context of EU infringement proceedings against Ireland under the Habitats Directive to strictly enforce this three-month limit. There are no proposals to amend the Regulations at this time. However, I understand that a new mechanism for amending boundaries to SACs, post-adoption, is to be devised by the European Commission in consultation with Member States; at that stage the position will be reviewed.
20 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the expenditure to date, including purchase, storage, training and public relations costs, for the proposed electronic voting system; the Election, at which he expects the system to be next used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13266/07]
39 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the type and length of lease put in place for the storage of the electronic voting machines, prior to their move to Gormanstown military base; the amount it cost the State to nullify these leases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13392/07]
536 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the costs incurred to date by the Exchequer arising from the electronic voting programme including the costs of the storage of the machines. [13761/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 20, 39 and 536 together.
The total cost incurred to date in the development and roll-out of the electronic voting and counting system is €51.3 million (including some €46 million in respect of hardware costs, €2.6 million in respect of awareness and education initiatives and €0.1 million in training costs for returning officers and their staff). In addition, information provided by returning officers to my Department indicates that the annual storage costs for the electronic voting machines and ancillary equipment is currently some €706,000, with figures for 2005 and 2004 amounting to some €696,000 and €658,000 respectively.
Arrangements are now underway for the storage of electronic voting equipment at centralised premises in Gormanston and machines from a number of constituencies have already been transferred to the Gormanston facility. It is not possible to detail conclusively at this stage the total costs which will be associated with the centralised storage arrangements. Arrangements have been made for the procurement of 48 metal storage containers and ancillary items for Gormanston Aerodrome at a cost of €112,750 (excluding VAT). In addition, preparatory work has been carried out on the hangar at a cost of some €7,000.Responsibility for the security and safe storage of manual voting equipment is a matter for returning officers, who are statutorily responsibility for conducting the polls. Accordingly, similar responsibility was assigned to them in relation to the storage of the electronic voting machines and equipment. In the majority of cases, returning officers entered into leases in respect of storage premises for the machines. I propose to circulate with the Official Report a tabular statement setting out information provided by returning officers regarding storage arrangements entered into by them in each of the 25 locations involved. It would not be appropriate to comment at this stage on detailed costs that might be involved in the buy-out of leases given the commercial considerations involved.
The timing of the further use of the system is dependent on the outcome of the ongoing work of the Cabinet Committee on Electronic Voting, the associated decisions arising in this regard, and the dates on which future polls may be held.
|
City/County |
Duration of Lease |
|
Carlow-Kilkenny |
2 years |
|
Cavan-Monaghan |
25 years |
|
Clare |
Monthly basis |
|
Cork City |
10 years |
|
Cork County |
Annual basis |
|
Donegal |
Annual basis |
|
Dublin City |
8 years |
|
Dublin County |
Annual basis |
|
Galway |
N/A (Voting Machines stored in the courthouse) |
|
Kerry |
10 years |
|
Kildare |
9 years 9 months with 5 year break clause |
|
Laois-Offaly |
5 years |
|
Limerick |
4 years 9 months |
|
Longford |
4 years 9 months |
|
Roscommon |
2 years 6 months |
|
Louth |
N/A (Town council premises) |
|
Mayo |
Annual basis |
|
Meath |
9 years 9 months |
|
Sligo |
N/A (Voting Machines stored in the courthouse) |
|
Leitrim |
1 year |
|
Tipperary (N&S) |
5 years |
|
Waterford |
10 years |
|
Westmeath |
4 years 9 months |
|
Wexford |
Monthly basis |
|
Wicklow |
Annual basis |
21 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of households who have been enabled to purchase a home, under the shared ownership scheme, for each years since 1997 to date in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13262/07]
Information to end September 2006 on the number of transactions completed under the shared ownership scheme is published in my Department's Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library, and also on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
Since 1997, 10,546 transactions have been completed under the shared ownership scheme. The following is the number of transactions annually from 1997 to 2006:
|
Year |
1997 |
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
No. |
1,042 |
805 |
1,314 |
1,190 |
1,611 |
1,686 |
998 |
798 |
730 |
372* |
*Provisional.
The income limit for the shared ownership and affordable housing schemes was increased with effect from 1 January 2006. Persons whose income in the previous tax year was €40,000 or under for a single income household or €100,000 or under for a two income household, using the formula of 2½ times the main income plus once the secondary income, are eligible for the schemes.
The maximum loan a local authority may advance in respect of the share of a dwelling being purchased (minimum 40%) under the Shared Ownership Scheme is €185,000. This maximum loan amount could facilitate the purchase of a home costing €462,500. Accordingly, certain local authorities impose a maximum house price limit for shared ownership transactions in their area where they deem it necessary.
The core objective of housing policy in Ireland is to enable every household to have available an affordable dwelling of good quality, suited to its needs, in a good environment and, as far as possible, at the tenure of its choice. While the take-up on the shared ownership scheme has declined in recent years, possibly due to the availability of affordable housing under other delivery mechanisms and the availability of cheaper finance in the market due to historically low interest rates, I am satisfied that the scheme, by assisting individuals seeking to acquire their own home, continues to play an important part in contributing towards the achievement of this objective.
22 Mr. Neville asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will create new elected councils for areas where population growth has increased very significantly as shown in the recent Census of Population and where there is presently no urban council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13440/07]
The Local Government Act 2001 modernises the legislative framework, supports community involvement with local authorities in participative local democracy and underpins generally the programme of local government renewal. The Act also facilitates improved access, interaction, linkages and service provision for all towns and areas with their respective county councils. Local authorities, as part of the local government modernisation programme, have extensive capacity to innovate and adapt to changing circumstances and local demands, including those of economic and population growth.
I am continuing to keep the matter of new town councils under review, while consolidating progress on quality customer service measures, with the aim of ensuring good accessible local government service delivery for all towns.
23 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of social inclusion units in local authorities and the locations of same; and the dates on which he will extend the units to half of all county and city councils by the end of 2008 in line with a commitment in Towards 2016. [13465/07]
A total of eight local authority social inclusion units have been established to date, with assistance from my Department. These units are located in the following local authorities:
Cork City Council
Dublin City Council
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council
Limerick City Council
Louth County Council
South Dublin County Council
Waterford City Council
Wicklow County Council
Arrangements are currently being put in place with a view to having such units extended to half of all county and city councils by the end of 2008, in line with the commitment in Towards 2016.
24 Dr. Twomey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will change Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to include within its remit any proposal to build five or more housing units regardless of the size of the site thus removing any existing exemption; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13449/07]
86 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will change Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to include within its remit any development of five or more houses which are proposed for locations which are not zoned for housing and for which permission is being granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13450/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 24 and 86 together.
Under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006, each local authority is required to prepare a housing strategy identifying the full range of housing needs in the authority's area and is obliged to zone sufficient land to meet the needs identified. The housing strategy also provides the basis for determining the percentage, up to 20%, of land zoned for residential development or for a mix of residential and other uses that may be reserved for social and affordable housing purposes under Part V.
Part V establishes a firm legal basis through which a proportion of the benefit accruing from both the zoning and granting of planning permission can be captured to support the achievement of the desirable public policy objective of delivering social and affordable housing. It balances the objective of focusing delivery with the requirement that needs in this regard are clearly identified in the housing strategy and that delivery takes place in a plan-led manner through each local authority fulfilling its statutory obligation to zone sufficient land to meet the identified requirements.
The overall approach underpinning Part V has been considered by the Supreme Court and found to be Constitutional. I am satisfied that the balanced approach involved provides a robust basis for the effective operation of Part V, as evidenced by the increasing levels of delivery now being achieved. Accordingly, I have no proposals to amend the legislation to apply Part V to unzoned land.
In relation to the minimum size threshold for sites to which Part V applies, the initial threshold of 0.2 hectares was reduced to 0.1 hectares under the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2002. This change was made in order to take account of the potential for increased housing delivery on smaller sites arising from the implementation of policies in relation to increased residential densities. I am not aware of any significant loss of delivery under Part V due to a widespread incidence of housing developments of 5 or more units being achieved on sites of less than 0.1 hectares. Accordingly, I have no proposals to amend the legislation in this regard, but will keep its operation under review.
25 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the situation in Galway where the drinking water has become contaminated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13414/07]
43 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on his recent meeting with the Mayor and officials of Galway City in relation to the serious contamination of the water supply in that county; the urgent and immediate action which will be taken to resolve this crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13438/07]
69 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reports he has received from the Environmental Protection Agency or the Galway local authorities regarding the water pollution crisis in Galway City and County; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13270/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 25, 43 and 69 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 4 of today.
26 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the content of the register of risks for his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13446/07]
My Department has developed a formal risk management framework and maintains a register of risks in line with the recommendations of the 2002 Report of the Working Group on the Accountability of Secretaries General and Accounting Officers. The register of risks contains a description of each risk identified, an assessment of the likelihood of each risk occurring, the potential impact of such an occurrence and the actions required to minimise or eliminate such risks. The Department is currently undertaking a review and update of its risk management framework and risk register.
27 Mr. Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the discussions he has had with the chairman of the Mahon Tribunal regarding legal fees for lawyers at the tribunal; the reason the reduced scale of fees did not come into operation on 31 March 2007 as planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13268/07]
77 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason behind his decision of 28 March 2007 to defer the planned reduction in the fees paid to lawyers at the Mahon tribunal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12988/07]
I propose to take Question Nos. 27 and 77 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 277 of 4 April 2007.
28 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress made over the past ten years on recycling and other environmental friendly measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13255/07]
There has been a marked improvement in recycling performance in Ireland over the past ten years. Government policy on waste management is set out in a suite of policy documents — Changing Our Ways (1998), Delivering Change (2002), Taking Stock and Moving Forward (2004) and the National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste (2006) — published over the course of the past decade. The provision of an expanded network of civic amenity sites and bring banks, the provision of segregated collections for dry recyclables to more households, the roll out of Pay-by-Use and increased awareness through the Race Against Waste have combined to help achieve many national and EU targets for recovery and recycling of municipal waste.
National waste statistics for all waste streams are published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) with the most recent National Waste Report being in respect of 2005. EPA waste statistics indicate the following progress in waste recovery and recycling in Ireland:
9% of our municipal waste was recycled in 1998; this has risen to 34.6% in 2005, essentially meeting the target of 35% set for 2013 in Changing Our Ways;
59.6% of packaging waste was recycled in 2005, compared with 15% in 1998. This is some 10% in excess of the European Union target set for 2005 and essentially achieves Ireland's 2011 mandatory EU target of 60% six years ahead of schedule;
in 2005, construction and demolition waste recycling exceeded the 2013 target of 85% by 2%;
the quantity of waste deposited at bring banks and civic amenity sites in 2005 grew by 12% and 25% respectively in comparison with 2004;
kerbside collection grew by 46% in 2005 while glass recycling jumped by 9% over the 2004 level to reach 64%;
2.3m items of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) was recycled in the first year of operation of a new Producer Responsibility Initiative and broke the EU target of 4kg per inhabitant by 2.7kg set for 2008;
the numbers of bring banks grew from 837 in 1998 to 1937 in 2005 and the number of civic amenity facilities grew from 30 to 81 over the same period;
since 2002 my Department has allocated almost €100 million in capital grants to assist local authorities in the provision of recycling and recovery services. The projects assisted include bring bank networks, civic amenity sites, materials recovery, composting and biological treatment facilities;
the amount of waste going to landfill has dropped by 8.4% since 2001;
successive National Waste Reports suggest a decoupling of waste generation from economic growth. Since 2001 economic growth has exceeded the rise of waste generation by 5.3%;
a farm plastics recovery scheme operated by the Irish Farm Films Producers Group has made consistent progress since its establishment in 1997 with an estimated 12,500 tonnes collected for recycling in 2005. The arrangements for the scheme were enhanced in 2006 to improve collection and recovery systems, including the operation of local authority bring centres;
the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006 governing the recycling of scrap cars were introduced in 2006 and came fully into operation on 1 January 2007. Over 65 authorised treatment facilities are currently permitted by local authorities;
a multi-annual National Waste Prevention Programme was established in 2004 within the EPA. This programme aims to deliver substantive results on waste prevention and minimisation.
a Market Development Group was established in 2004 with the aim of realising the full potential of collected recyclable material by establishing new markets for that material. The Market Development Programme is currently being finalised and will be published shortly.
The Government is determined to drive forward and build on these recycling achievements, supported by appropriate infrastructure to deal with waste that cannot be prevented or recycled. Waste-to-energy treatment can make an environmentally valuable contribution in this context, given requirements on diversion of waste from landfill under the EU Landfill Directive. The National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste, published in April 2006, sets out a series of measures through which these targets can be achieved.
The following table summarises progress towards municipal waste recycling targets in recent years.
|
Municipal Waste (Household & Commercial) |
||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Year |
Landfilled (tonnes) |
Recovered (tonnes) |
Recycling Rate |
National Targets |
|
% |
||||
|
1998 |
1,685,766 |
166,684 |
9.0 |
35% recycling by 2013 |
|
2001 |
1,992,050 |
305,554 |
13.3 |
|
|
2002 |
1,901,864 (down 4.5% on 2001) |
496,905 |
20.7 |
|
|
2003 |
1,832,625 (down 3.6% on 2002) |
726,763 |
28.4 |
|
|
2004 |
1,818,536 (down 0.8% on 2003) |
885,068 |
32.7 |
|
|
2005 |
1,824,066 (up 0.3% on 2004) |
964,367 |
34.6 |
|
Year |
Landfilled (tonnes) |
Recovered (tonnes) |
Recycling Rate |
National Targets |
|
% |
||||
|
1998 |
1,125,698 |
37,518 |
3.2 |
50% diversion from landfill by 2013 |
|
2001 |
1,254,857 |
74,887 |
5.6 |
|
|
2002 |
1,294,061 |
132,602 |
9.3 |
|
|
2003 |
1,231,109 (down 4.9% on 2002) |
185,753 |
13.1 |
|
|
2004 |
1,214,908 (down 1.3% on 2003) |
285,134 |
19.0 |
|
|
2005 |
1,193,872 (down 1.7% on 2004) |
349,596 |
22.7 |
|
Year |
Landfilled (tonnes) |
Recovered (tonnes) |
Recycling Rate |
National Targets |
|
% |
||||
|
1998 |
— |
— |
— |
Landfill (tonnes) restricted to— 967,433 by 2010 644,956 by 2013 451,469 by 2016 |
|
2001 |
1,257,272 |
233,852 |
15.7 |
|
|
2002 |
1,186,632 |
361,862 |
23.4 |
|
|
2003 |
1,145,533 |
537,944 |
32.0 |
|
|
2004 |
1,304,426 |
596,860 |
31.4 |
|
|
2005 |
1,311,314 |
700,289 |
34.8 |
|
Year |
Recovered (tonnes) |
Recovery Rate |
National Targets |
|
% |
|||
|
1998 |
1,171,572 |
43.3 |
50% recycling by 2003 85% recycling by 2013 |
|
2001 |
2,364,866 |
65.4 |
|
|
2002 |
— |
— |
|
|
2003 |
— |
— |
|
|
2004 |
9,513,962 |
85.2 |
|
|
2005 |
12,979,337 |
86.9 |
|
Year |
Recovered (tonnes) |
Recovery Rate |
National Targets |
|
% |
|||
|
1998 |
93,259 |
14.8 |
25% recovery by end July 2001 50% recovery by end December 2005 60% recovery by end December 2011 with 55% by way of recycling |
|
2001 |
221,266 |
27.0 |
|
|
2002 |
296,389 |
35.0 |
|
|
2003 |
419,600 |
44.2 |
|
|
2004 |
479,540 |
56.4 |
|
|
2005 |
554,632 |
59.9 |
|
Year |
Bring Banks |
Civic Amenity Sites |
Households with Segregated Collection |
Landfills accepting Municipal Waste |
|
1998 |
837 |
30 |
70,000 |
76 |
|
2001 |
1,436 (up 71.8% on 1998) |
46 (up 53.3% on 1998) |
200,000 (up 185.7% on 1998) |
48 (down 36.8% on 1998) |
|
2002 |
1,636 (up 13.9% on 2001) |
49 (up 6.5% on 2001) |
300,000 (up 50% on 2001) |
39 (down 18.8% on 2001) |
|
2003 |
1,692 (up 3.4% on 2002) |
60 (up 24.5% on 2002) |
564,000 (up 86.7% on 2002) |
35 (down 10.3% on 2002) |
|
2004 |
1,824 (up 7.8% on 2003) |
69 (up 15.0% on 2003) |
— |
34 (down 2.9% on 2003) |
|
2005 |
1,937 (up 6.2% on 2004) |
81 (up 17.4% on 2004) |
— |
32 (down 5.9% on 2004) |
29 Ms Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if in view of the recent population census results he will review the local electoral boundaries and the number of councillors representing areas which have very high population growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13436/07]
Unlike for Dáil constituencies, there are no constitutional or statutory requirements in relation to the frequency of local electoral area reviews. The last review of local electoral areas was carried out in 1998. The June 2004 local elections took place on the basis of the existing local electoral areas.
The next local elections are due to take place in 2009. Consideration can be given to reviewing the local electoral areas in the light of the final results from Census 2006 when they become available and other relevant factors.
30 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the recent survey, carried out among apartment dwellers by the UCD Department of Urban and Regional Planning, which found significant levels of dissatisfaction with noisy neighbours, external storage space, gardens, litter, pollution and anti-social behaviour; the changes he will make to the planning guidelines for apartments as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13452/07]
62 Mr. English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the recent survey among apartment dwellers which found that only 25% of respondents think they will be living in an apartment in the future, and the need to upgrade design standards for apartments to include good parks and playgrounds, schools, clean streets, safe streets and good grocery or supermarket shopping; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13453/07]
70 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his Department’s plans to improve the design of new apartments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13418/07]
88 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the recent figures from Census 2006 showing a large increase in the numbers living in apartments will lead to a shift in planning policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13420/07]
92 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the recent results of a quality of life survey commissioned by Dublin City Council which found strong dissatisfaction among apartment dwellers with inadequate storage space, sound insulation, kitchen size, external views and security; if he will improve the guidelines for apartment construction to address these serious issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13451/07]
94 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the recent figures from Census 2006 showing a large increase in the numbers living in apartments will lead to a shift in housing policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13419/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 30, 62, 70, 88, 92 and 94 together.
Draft Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Design Standards for Apartments were published by my Department for public consultation on 9 January this year, with the closing date of 5 March for receipt of comments and submissions. Forty submissions have been received and are currently being considered by my Department. It is intended to finalise the guidelines for publication as soon as possible.
The primary aim of the draft Guidelines is to promote sustainable urban housing by ensuring that the design and layout of new apartments will provide satisfactory accommodation for a variety of household types and sizes — including families with children — over the medium to long term. The guidance focuses on the apartment building itself and on individual units within, and sets recommended target average floor areas and a mix of unit types/sizes in apartment developments to help to ensure sustainable residential communities and facilitate integrated developments for different categories of occupants.
The new guidelines form part of a suite of guidance being prepared by the Department within a wider housing/planning context, which will also include:
new sustainable residential development guidelines which will incorporate a revision of the 1999 residential density guidelines;
a new best practice urban design handbook illustrating, with examples drawn from current practice, how the policies set out in the residential development guidelines should be implemented; and
the Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities guidelines (published last week) which revise and update the 1999 Social Housing Design Guidelines, focussing on the process surrounding the delivery of quality housing for sustainable communities.
The final apartment design guidelines will be issued under Section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. This will require planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála to have regard to them in the performance of their functions. However, pending finalisation of the guidelines, planning authorities are being requested to have regard to the recommended standards for new apartment schemes, when preparing or varying development plans and local area plans, particularly when their current plans incorporate older standards.
31 Mr. Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the impact for his projections of the need to purchase carbon credit in view of the new EU agreement to cut emissions by 20% on 1990 levels by 2020. [10197/07]
I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 102, 147 and 183 of 27 February 2007.
At its Spring meeting this year, the European Council endorsed the need for developed countries to collectively reduce their greenhouse gas emissions in the order of 30% by 2020 compared to 1990. It also agreed that until a global and comprehensive post-2012 agreement is concluded, the EU should adopt an independent commitment to achieve at least a 20% reduction of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 compared to 1990.
The process of breaking down the 20% commitment and allocating a 2020 target to each Member State has not yet commenced. Therefore, it is too early to give an accurate indication of the likely 2020 target for Ireland or any Member State.
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 presents two indicative scenarios based, respectively, on a 20% and 30% reduction, and assuming that the further cut required of Ireland, in comparison to its Kyoto target, is pro-rata to that of the EU as a whole. Under those assumptions, further emissions reduction of between 9 million and 16 million tonnes would be required by 2020.
It is also too early to estimate the extent to which the Government may opt to use carbon credits to supplement domestic greenhouse gas emission reduction measures in the period post-2012.
32 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his view on the ESRI’s latest quarterly commentary that predicts a slowdown in new home construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13427/07]
82 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the reports of a slow down in residential construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13259/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 32 and 82 together.
The significance of the construction industry, including the housing sector, to the Irish economy is acknowledged. In addition, the strength of Ireland's economic performance, which most commentators consider is likely to continue, is itself a key factor underpinning the strength and stability of the housing market. Government policy is supportive of the continued stable development of the housing sector.
A key policy objective has been to achieve an appropriate level of housing supply to meet demand. The record shows that this has been achieved amidst unprecedented growth over the past ten years. Moreover, high levels of housing output in recent years must be viewed in the context of a relatively low ratio of housing stock to population compared with other EU States.
Both economic and demographic factors are likely to continue to underpin demand for housing into the future with all commentators expecting that house completions in 2007 will be lower than 2006. This would appear consistent with a view expressed by various commentators that housing output should ease to a more sustainable long-term pattern as supply and demand come into better balance. Forecasts prepared for my Department suggest that the population could increase by one million over the next 15 years. Commentators have, therefore, suggested that demand for housing may be for some 600,000 additional homes for the nine-year period up to 2015.
I would also expect that any easing in residential construction employment will be offset to a great extent by an increase in non-residential construction. This will be partly underpinned by the impressive level of financial funding available under the largest ever infrastructure investment programme in the new National Development Plan 2007–2013.
My Department will also be playing its part, and has already made a substantial commitment of over €18 billion investment, to ensure that 140,000 new households will benefit from housing programmes over the period of the NDP. This will be done in a way consistent with market conditions and having regard for the building of sustainable communities.
33 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his view on exchanging his Ministerial car for a hybrid vehicle, or a car that runs entirely on bio fuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13410/07]
The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, which organises the purchase of the Ministerial Fleet through the Government Supplies Agency, has purchased 5 hybrid cars for the Ministerial Fleet, one of which has been assigned to me. Factors such as fuel efficiency and safety are taken into account in making purchases for the Ministerial Fleet. Hybrid vehicles which are electric/petrol combination vehicles have significantly better fuel consumption and significantly reduced emissions compared to equivalent conventional models.
More generally and in accordance with the National Climate Change Strategy, which I launched earlier this week, the Government is developing a Sustainable Transport Action Plan under which public sector fleet operators will be required to publish strategies to reduce emissions from their fleets including the increased use of biofuels.
34 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether noise insulation in new dwellings is at an acceptable standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13422/07]
Part E (Sound) of the Building Regulations 1997, and the related Technical Guidance Document E (1997 Edition), sets out minimum requirements in relation to sound insulation in buildings, including new dwellings.
Home Bond is carrying out a major study of sound insulation standards in Ireland and selected other EU Member States, which is due to be completed by mid-2007. I intend to initiate a review of Part E and the related TGD E, in the light of the results of the Home Bond Study and in consultation with the Building Regulations Advisory Body (BRAB).
35 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the findings of the Environmental Protection Agency that sea levels around Ireland will rise by six meters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13435/07]
40 Mr. Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his view on the latest climate change report from the Environmental Protection Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13434/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 35 and 40 together.
The recent report by the Environmental Protection Agency demonstrates the seriousness of the threat posed by climate change.
The EPS report clearly identifies a range of impacts on Ireland that could result from sustained temperature increases. These include increased river and coastal flooding, water shortages in summer, negative impacts on water quality, changes in the distribution and viability of species in Ireland, and serious potential impacts on Irish fish stocks.
These impacts highlight the urgent need for a global response to climate change. The Government strongly supported the EU's call for a global and comprehensive post-2012 agreement consistent with meeting the 2 Celsius objective. In this regard, the Government has endorsed the EU's proposal to commit to a reduction of 30% of its greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 compared to 1990 as its contribution to a global and comprehensive post-2012 agreement, provided that other developed countries commit themselves to comparable emissions reductions and economically more advanced developing countries adequately contribute to the global effort.
Notwithstanding the significant international efforts to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions, some change in the global climate system is inevitable due to current and historic emissions. Potential impacts in Ireland are already being addressed in a number of policy-making areas. The Government has appointed the Office of Public Works as the lead agency to implement flooding policy in Ireland, which includes a combination of structural works where flooding is already a problem, non-structural measures and awareness raising. Local authorities now have the power to consider adaptation initiatives in relation to their development plans and to provide that development in areas at risk of flooding may be regulated, restricted or controlled.
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 commits the Government to developing a national adaptation strategy by 2009, to provide a framework for the integration of adaptation issues into decision-making at national and local level.
36 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has concluded his examination of the option of including radon remediation measures in the homes of elderly people where there is a high concentration of radon gas, under the housing aid for the elderly scheme. [13245/07]
My Department is still continuing its examination of the possibility of including radon remediation measures as eligible works under the new scheme of Housing Aid for Older People.
My Department undertook to examine the possibility that where a suite of works is grant aided to make an older persons home habitable, radon remediation measures may be allowable in areas where radon levels are of serious concern. My Department is currently exploring the potential implications of such a measure and will be meeting the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland shortly to progress the matter.
37 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the way in which the €6.9 million allocated to the Environmental Research, Technological Development and Innovation Programme, funded under the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006 is being spent; his further plans to provide funding for climate change research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13467/07]
The Environmental Research, Technological Development and Innovation programme (ERTDI) is administered by the Environmental Protection Agency with funding provided by my Department from the Environment Fund. Cumulative expenditure by the Agency at the end of the 2000 — 2006 period amounted to €39.76 million.
The ERTDI consists of four sub-measures, namely:
Sub-measure 1 — Environmentally Sustainable Resources Management
Sub-measure 2 — Sustainable Development
Sub-measure 3 -Cleaner Production
Sub-measure 4 — National Environmental Research Centre of Excellence.
Under the ERTDI 2000 — 2006, a total of 466 projects have been grant awarded with a breakdown as follows: 256 projects in sub-measure 1; 84 projects in sub-measure 2; 100 projects in sub-measure 3; and 26 projects in sub-measure 4.
In addition to the funding provided by the ERTDI, my Department has committed Exchequer funding of €8 million over the 2007 — 2008 period for research into a range of projects related to climate change. This funding is being provided under the public sector research initiative established under the Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation 2006 — 2013.
38 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of mox shipments to and from Sellafield in 2006, which passed through the Irish Sea, and which he was notified of on a confidential basis; if he has satisfied himself that the figure is true; and if the Navy monitored the shipments at his request. [13247/07]
The Mixed Oxide (MOX) Plant at Sellafield utilises plutonium, separated during reprocessing of spent fuel for foreign customers at Sellafield, and returns it, predominantly by sea, to those customers in the form of MOX fuel for use in their nuclear reactors.
Such shipments of radioactive material are subject to international maritime regulations including the right of innocent passage and to strict international safety standards applicable to the marine transport of such material.
The continuing concerns of the Irish Government in relation to all transports of radioactive material through the Irish Sea are regularly and repeatedly conveyed to the UK Government at Ministerial and official level. Ireland also co-operates on this issue with like minded coastal States at international fora such as the International Atomic Energy Agency. Our concerns relate to safety, security and environmental risk from a potential accident or incident.
Arising from our efforts over the years, information is made available to Ireland on a voluntary and confidential basis by the Governments of shipping States, principally, Japan, France and the UK, in relation to shipments of radioactive material including MOX fuel. The Irish Government in response makes clear that such shipments are unwelcome, and seeks and obtains assurances from shipping States that such shipments will not enter Irish territorial waters and that they comply with the stringent system of regulation established in line with internationally agreed standards and practices.
During 2006, there were two shipments of MOX fuel from Sellafield. In accordance with normal practice, information was made available to Ireland regarding each of these shipments. The information received was made available to the relevant Government Authorities including the Coast Guard Service. It is a matter for the Coast Guard Service to determine and carry out any monitoring or other requirements in respect of these shipments. The Coast Guard has access to Naval resources (and other resources of the State) as and when required to address operational requirements on a case by case basis.
The arrangements whereby information is made available to Ireland on a voluntary and confidential basis by the Governments of shipping States, including the UK, are long standing and welcome. There is no reason to doubt the veracity of the information made available on a Government to Government basis to Ireland under this process.
41 Mr. Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the tardiness in proceeding to the commencement of work on a social and affordable housing scheme at Clonakilty, County Cork; and if he will take steps to expedite the project. [13272/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 163 of 27 February 2007.
Cork County Council, who have lead responsibility for planning and developing this project on State land provided under the Affordable Housing Initiative, held interviews on 23 March last to appoint consultants to advance a number of issues relating to the project. These include the preparation of the documentation associated with the process of public consultation and approval by the elected members required under Part VIII of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, along with the preparation of cost plans, tender documentation and the construction contract.
Following the interview process, I understand that the Council has selected a consultant to undertake this work. The completion of the Part VIII process will be the principal factor determining when construction can commence on site. My Department is continuing to closely monitor this project and is remaining in regular contact with the Council with a view to having this project advanced to the construction stage as quickly as possible.
42 Mr. Sargent asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in determining the criteria for the designation of projects to be completed under the clean development mechanism or joint implementation as part of the State’s Kyoto obligations, he has prioritised those projects adhering to a gold standard such as those recommended by the WWF initiated Gold Standard Foundation or has given the Environmental Protection Agency guidelines to this effect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13382/07]
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012, which I published earlier this week, includes a National Policy Framework for the purchase of Kyoto Units by the State for the purpose of compliance with the Kyoto Protocol in the commitment period 2008-2012.
The purchasing framework provides that purchases shall be made in accordance with a number of specific objectives including "that they contribute to the ultimate objective of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, i.e. stabilisation of greenhouse gas concentrations in the atmosphere at a level that would prevent dangerous anthropogenic interference with the climate system".
In purchasing Kyoto Units, therefore, the key consideration is to ensure that projects from which allowances are generated have been approved by the relevant authority for the flexible mechanism concerned; for example, by the CDM Executive Board in the case of the Clean Development Mechanism.
As Purchasing Agent for the State, it will be a matter for the National Treasury Management Agency to develop and implement an appropriate purchasing programme, having regard to the purchasing framework set out in the National Climate Change Strategy. I have no plans at this time to give any further Direction to the Agency in relation to purchases for compliance purposes in the Kyoto Protocol commitments in the period 2008-2012.
The purchase of carbon allowances is a new departure for Ireland and a number of other Kyoto Parties, and it is very early in the process. My Department will keep the matter under review as the new international carbon matures and settles down, and experience builds up among Kyoto Parties who proposed to purchase carbon allowances.
44 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the nature of his involvement in the negotiations on the proposed Soil Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13433/07]
90 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the Government’s position on the proposed Soil Directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13432/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 44 and 90 together.
Consideration of the EU Commission's proposal for a directive establishing a framework for the protection of soil is in the early stages. The proposal for a directive is part of a package adopted by the Commission in September 2006 arising from the EU's 6th Environmental Action Programme. Although soil protection provisions exist in the body of Community legislation there is no specific legislation on soil protection. The package aims to fill this gap and has the objective of establishing a common strategy for the protection and sustainable use of soil based on the principles of integration of soil concerns into other policies, preservation of soil functions within the context of sustainable use, prevention of threats to soil and mitigation of their effects, as well as restoration of degraded soils to a level of functionality consistent at least with the current and approved future use.
In general the Government welcomes the proposal and accepts that it is appropriate to have an EU wide initiative in this area but that, given the diverse nature and condition of soils in the Member States, policies should be flexible and adaptable. My Department has had input from the Department of Agriculture and Food on the Commission's proposal and will continue to liaise closely with that Department as consideration of the proposal progresses.
45 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that according to Central Statistics Office figures four out of every 10 houses here are vacant while there are almost 44,000 households on the social housing waiting lists across the State; his plans to produce the amount of social housing needed according to NESC recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13468/07]
I am aware of the figures regarding vacant houses outlined in the recently published report by the Central Statistics Office. My Department will be fully considering this data, and other information to be released by the CSO over the coming months, as part of ongoing housing policy development. Details of an initial analysis of these data are contained in reply to Question No. 61 on today's order paper.
The key components of our housing policy, which are centred on ensuring that there is sufficient supply to meet demand and providing support to those who cannot meet their accommodation needs without assistance, are outlined in the Government's new housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities.
The housing policy statement and the National Development Plan 2007-2013 (NDP) also provide for a significant expansion of social and affordable housing to meet accommodation needs of households which are not served by the market, as already envisaged in Towards 2016. The NDP provides the resources — some €18 billion in total which will enable needs of some 140,000 new households to be met in this period.
These resources will be used to meet the needs of some 100,000 households seeking social housing by commencing/ acquiring 63,000 new social homes in the period 2007-2013, through a combination of local authority, voluntary and co-operative housing and new units for the Rental Accommodation Scheme. Further households will benefit as they transfer to the Rental Accommodation Scheme with their existing landlords or from naturally occurring vacancies. Over the period 2007 to 2009 sufficient resources will be made available to commence/acquire some 27,000 new units of social housing.
In addition over the period of the NDP some 40,000 households will benefit from affordable housing. 17,000 of these will be delivered in the first three-year period, in line with the agreement in Towards 2016. In accordance with the NESC report we are also ensuring that these new homes are delivered to a standard which will result in the kind of high quality integrated sustainable communities which are worth building.
46 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take to increase recycling in the construction industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13417/07]
64 Mr. Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take to increase recycling amongst businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13416/07]
76 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he intends to take to increase recycling amongst households; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13415/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46, 64 and 76 together.
There has been remarkable progress in recycling in Ireland in the past decade. National waste statistics for all waste streams are published by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). National Waste Reports have been published in respect of the years 1998, 2001 and 2004 with interim reports published in respect of 2002, 2003 and 2005. EPA waste statistics indicate the following progress in waste recovery and recycling in Ireland since 1998:
9% of our municipal waste was recycled in 1998; this has risen to 34.6% in 2005, essentially meeting the target of 35% set for 2013 in Changing Our Ways;
59.6% of packaging waste was recycled in 2005, compared with 15% in 1998. This is some 10% in excess of the European Union target set for 2005 and essentially achieves Ireland's 2011 mandatory EU target of 60% six years ahead of schedule;
in 2005, construction and demolition waste recycling exceeded the 2013 target of 85% by 2%;
the quantity of waste deposited at bring banks and civic amenity sites in 2005 grew by 12% and 25% respectively in comparison with 2004;
kerbside collection grew by 46% in 2005 while glass recycling grew by 9% over the 2004 level to reach 64%;
2.3m items of waste electrical and electronic equipment (WEEE) was recycled in the first year of operation of a new Producer Responsibility Initiative and broke the EU target of 4kg per inhabitant set for 2008 by 2.7kg;
the numbers of bring banks grew from 837 in 1998 to 1937 in 2005 and the number of civic amenity facilities grew from 30 to 81 over the same period;
since 2002 my Department has allocated almost €100 million in capital grants to assist local authorities in the provision of recycling and recovery services. The projects assisted include bring bank networks, civic amenity sites, materials recovery, composting and biological treatment facilities;
the amount of waste going to landfill has dropped by 8.4% since 2001;
successive National Waste Reports suggest a decoupling of waste generation from economic growth. Since 2001 economic growth has exceeded the rise of waste generation by 5.3%;
a farm plastics recovery scheme operated by the Irish Farm Films Producers Group has made consistent progress since its establishment in 1997 with an estimated 12,500 tonnes collected for recycling in 2005. The arrangements for the scheme were enhanced in 2006 to improve collection and recovery systems, including the operation of local authority bring centres;
the Waste Management (End-of-Life Vehicles) Regulations 2006 governing the recycling of scrap cars were introduced in 2006 and came fully into operation on 1 January 2007. Over 65 authorised treatment facilities are currently permitted by local authorities;
a multi-annual National Waste Prevention Programme was established in 2004 within the EPA. This programme aims to deliver substantive results on waste prevention and minimisation.
The Government is committed to continued support for recycling. The following measures, which are being put in place by the Government, will support the achievement of higher recycling rates in future years:
the National Strategy on Biodegradable Waste was published in April, 2006 and sets out measures to progressively divert biodegradable municipal waste (BMW) from landfill in accordance with the agreed targets in EU Directive 1999/31/EC on the landfill of waste. The Strategy is based on the integrated waste management approach established as Government policy since the publication of Changing Our Ways in 1998. The preferred options for dealing with BMW are:
prevention and minimisation — avoiding generating the waste;
recycling — mainly of paper and cardboard but also of textiles;
biological treatment — mainly of kitchen and garden waste including composting ("brown bin" collections and home composting); and
residual treatment — thermal treatment with energy recovery or by way of mechanical-biological treatment.
The Strategy sets specific objectives for the contributions that each of these measures will contribute to the achievement of the 2016 target for diversion of BMW from landfill.
a Market Development Group was established in 2004 with the aim of realising the full potential of collected recyclable material by establishing new markets for that material. The Market Development Programme is currently being finalised and will be published shortly;
the Best Practice Guidelines on the Preparation of Waste Management Plans for Construction and Demolition Projects, was published last July. The primary purpose of the Guidelines is to promote an integrated approach to construction and demolition (C&D) waste management, throughout the duration of a project. The Guidelines are designed to promote sustainable development, environmental protection and optimum use of resources. They provide guidance on the preparation of construction and demolition waste management plans for certain classes of project which exceed specified threshold limits. While the Guidelines may operate generally on a voluntary basis, planning authorities may attach a condition to permissions for the types of development outlined above;
to ensure the continued success of packaging waste in Ireland, new draft regulations which aim to optimise the recovery and recycling of packaging waste in Ireland were formally submitted to the European Commission in February 2007. Under the formal notification procedures to the Commission, a three-month standstill period will apply before the draft regulations can be made. This allows EU Member States and other interested parties to comment on the draft regulations before they come into effect. The new Regulations are the culmination of a review of the Waste Management (Packaging) Regulations 2003 which has been taking place over the last two years in consultation with the industry and public sector stakeholders;
my Department is also working with the relevant sectors of industry in developing similar initiatives for other waste streams such as tyres, newsprint and batteries.
I am satisfied that implementation of the above measures, in conjunction with the successful initiatives put in place in recent years, will further enhance Ireland's strong recycling performance across all sectors.
47 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to increase the availability of housing for first time house buyers and those on the local authority housing lists; the extent to which it is intended to build family sized homes in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13363/07]
The Government's new housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, reiterates the Government's strong commitment to ensuring a sufficiency of housing to meet demand, particularly from first time buyers. Investment in infrastructure and streamlining of the planning system, has underpinned the strong supply response to the unprecedented demand which has arisen due to economic and demographic changes. 2006 saw record housing output with over 93,000 completions.
The housing policy statement and the National Development Plan 2007-2013 (NDP) also provide for a significant expansion of social and affordable housing to meet accommodation needs of households which are not served by the market. The NDP provides the resources — some €18 billion in total which will enable needs of some 140,000 new households to be met in this period.
These resources will be used to meet the needs of some 100,000 households seeking social housing support, by commencing/acquiring 63,000 new social homes in the period 2007-2013, through a combination of local authority, voluntary and co-operative housing and new units for the Rental Accommodation Scheme. Further households will benefit as they transfer to the Rental Accommodation Scheme with their existing landlords or from naturally occurring vacancies. Over the period 2007 to 2009 sufficient resources will be made available to commence/ acquire some 27,000 new units of social housing.
In addition over the period of the NDP some 40,000 households will benefit from affordable housing. 17,000 of these will be delivered in the first three-year period, in line with the agreement in Towards 2016.
To ensure that these programmes are delivered in a coherent and coordinated manner City and County Councils have put in place multi-annual Housing Actions plans which encompass delivery of social and affordable housing in their area, including Town Councils.
While it is a matter for individual local authorities to decide on the types of housing to be provided by them, having regard to the composition of their housing waiting lists, my Department continues to advise local authorities of the need to provide a reasonable mix of dwellings suited to the different kinds of households already on waiting lists and to plan their future programmes taking account of the estimated size and type of households likely to be seeking housing in the future.
48 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the initiatives his Department will take on foot of the National Housing Conference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13430/07]
The National Housing Conference, which was jointly organised by my Department and the RIAI, had as its central theme the Government's recently published housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities. The policy statement sets out a vision to guide the transformation of the Irish housing sector over the next ten years, by delivering more and better quality housing responses and by doing this in a more strategic way focused on the building of sustainable communities — as reflected in the agenda of the Conference. This approach responds to housing need in a way that improves choice and encourages individual responsibility within communities and delivers housing programmes more effectively.
The chief purpose of the Conference was to debate implementation issues which need to be addressed if we are to transform the Irish housing environment to meet the challenges ahead that are identified in the policy statement. The conference and associated study tours, demonstrated considerable evidence of integrated approaches being made to the delivery of housing and greater consciousness of quality in urban design. As part of the process, I launched new guidance on delivery entitled Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities. This is part of a suite of guidance which my Department will issue to drive this critical quality agenda.
49 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of electricity used in the Customs House each year for the years 2002 to 2006 inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13405/07]
53 Mr. Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the energy bill paid by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13404/07]
81 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the share of his Department’s energy needs met from renewable sources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13406/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 49, 53 and 81 together.
The total energy bill paid in respect of energy consumption in my Department's main offices in 2006 amounted to €502,036. I propose to circulate with the Official Report a tabular statement setting out details of electricity consumption in the Custom House for the period 2002 to 2006 inclusive. Increased consumption in 2006, following reductions in 2005, is mainly attributable to substantial refurbishment works taking place in the building during this period.
As I indicated in reply to Questions Nos. 946 and 948 of 20 March 2007, ambitious targets for renewable energy in the electricity, transport and heating sectors are contained in the Government's recently published White Paper, Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland. The White Paper proposes that one third of electricity consumed in this economy will come from renewable sources by 2020. In this regard, my Department is already committed to obtaining its electricity from renewable sources. Following a tender process, under the auspices of the Office of Public Works, a contract is in place since October 2006 with Energia for the supply of electricity from renewable sources to the Department's main offices and this accounted for 44% of the energy (kWh) consumed in these offices in the last quarter of 2006.
|
Year |
Consumption (kWh) |
|
2002 |
971,000 |
|
2003 |
982,000 |
|
2004 |
1,003,564 |
|
2005 |
948,635 |
|
2006 |
1,074,277 |
51 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the percentage of water lost through leaks in water mains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13413/07]
71 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the volume of water lost through leaks in water mains; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13412/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 51 and 71 together.
My Department's National Water Study audited 91 water supply schemes outside the Greater Dublin Area serving more than 5,000 consumers and operated by some 38 local authorities. The study reported on all aspects of water supply, including availability of raw water, treatment capacity, water distribution systems and associated management issues. The study report published in 2000 found, inter alia, that unaccounted for water levels varied significantly between regions but were generally in the range of between 40% to 50%. The corresponding figure in the Dublin region in 1996 was 42.5%.
Not all unaccounted for water is lost through leakage. Heretofore, a significant proportion would have related to unauthorised or unrecorded connections. However, the universal metering of all non-domestic consumers, which is expected to be completed in 2007, coupled with ongoing improvements in local authorities' water management systems, will significantly reduce unaccounted for water levels.
My Department has undertaken a number of initiatives over the years to assist local authorities to optimise the management, quality and efficiency of their water supply systems. In 1996 capital funding was introduced under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme to help reduce unaccounted for water levels in local authority distribution networks, to improve the quality of supply to consumers, to lower operating costs and to maximise the value of investment in new treatment works. A series of pilot schemes to identify potential improvements, as well as some network rehabilitation, was undertaken. Project locations included Dublin, Cork, Galway, Waterford, Limerick, Athlone and Clonmel. Capital funding of €63m was provided by my Department. The results showed that the levels of unaccounted for water were reduced considerably. For example, in Dublin they fell from 42.5% to 28.7%, in Donegal from 59% to 39%, in Meath from 47% to 34% and in Kilkenny from 45% to 29%.
A further €281m is now available to local authorities to identify and reduce unaccounted for water in public supply networks. The bulk of this allocation, €194m, is for network rehabilitation or replacement works by authorities that have already carried out water management system studies under the earlier pilot phase. The balance of €87m will enable the remaining authorities to complete water management system studies as a necessary precursor to structural rehabilitation works. In November 2005, I increased the recoupment available to local authorities from my Department for certain water conservation activities from 75% to 90% to encourage and facilitate greater progress on water conservation generally. Details of current allocations to individual authorities for water conservation measures are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
52 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend the compulsory purchase order legislation to reduce the cost of new transport infrastructure; if he is satisfied at the prices that have been paid for parcels of land under existing CPO legislation; if it would be preferable to have land valued on the basis of existing use values rather than on hope values dependent on potential rezoning changes or a future planning application approval; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [12720/07]
In many cases in which a local authority compulsorily acquires land, the quantum of compensation is agreed between the parties concerned. Where there is no such agreement, the matter is referred to an official property arbitrator for determination.
Generally, a claim for compensation in respect of the compulsory acquisition of land will comprise one or more of the following heads of claim:
the market value of the land;
damage to other lands of the claimant through severance or other injurious affection; and
disturbance and other matters not based on the value of land.
The market value of land is assessed in accordance with rules of compensation specified in the Acquisition of Land (Assessment of Compensation) Act 1919, as amended.
In general, factors influencing an assessment of the market value of land include:
location, area and quality,
market conditions and trends,
development potential,
availability of services, and
planning status.
The Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006 amended the 1919 Act to provide that in the assessment of any compensation, the value of any land lying 10 metres or more below the surface of that land shall be taken to be nil, unless the contrary can be shown by the claimant. This provision is intended to reduce the cost of proposed Metro infrastructure.
I have no proposals at this time to further amend the rules of compensation. However, the matter of land costs arising in the provision of transport infrastructure is to be considered by the Cross-Departmental Team on Housing, Infrastructure and PPPs.
54 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to regenerate the central areas of cities and towns and to accelerate the development of key urban centres such as Cork and Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13454/07]
In support of balanced regional development, a key aim the National Development Plan 2007-2013 (NDP) is to enhance the growth capacity of the nine Gateway cities and towns designated under the National Spatial Strategy (NSS), and to strengthen their role as drivers of the development of their wider regions.
A Gateway Innovation Fund (GIF) is being established under the NDP to help fund targeted strategic investments that can trigger the accelerated development of the Gateways and their wider regions.
The Fund will operate initially on a pilot basis over the three-year period (2008-2010) with €100m of Exchequer funding being made available per annum for qualifying proposals. Lead local authorities, on behalf of each of the Gateways, will be expected to bid on a competitive and "added-value" basis for central funding for projects that stimulate Gateway development, with a significant element of co-funding to be provided locally.
This dedicated funding will facilitate, encourage and accelerate Gateway development, and will be a powerful instrument in rewarding innovation and cooperation at local level from all the stakeholders in each Gateway, including local authorities, State agencies and the private sector.
Following on the success of previous urban renewal programmes, the NDP also provides for a new, targeted urban regeneration programme with a particular focus on the NSS Gateways and Hubs. Some €170m in funding will be provided in support of local authorities engaged in significant upgrading and renewal of the public realm. Priority will be accorded to projects encompassing and demonstrating good urban design, innovation, appropriate scale and cost effectiveness.
The possibility of tax incentivisation in support of particular urban renewal objectives remains under consideration.
55 Ms McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of households that have been transferred to the RAS scheme; when he will publish the legislation to underpin the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13261/07]
The Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) is designed to cater for the accommodation needs of persons in receipt of rent supplement who have a long-term housing need. It is a collaborative project between my Department, local authorities, the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Health Service Executive. All housing authorities are now mobilised and practically all have begun to transfer cases. Since transfers commenced in September 2005, 3,200 households have been provided with RAS accommodation and a further 2,450 rent supplement households have been allocated local authority housing. To date over 20,000 cases equivalent of 60% of the current target of recipients of rent supplement of over 18 months have been reviewed by local authorities for transfer to RAS.
The Government have approved the drafting of the Social Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2006, which provides, inter alia, for the Rental Accommodation Scheme. The drafting of the Bill is being advanced as quickly as possible and it is expected that it will be published by early summer this year.
56 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of bilingual publications published by his Department since 2002 to date in 2007; the print run for each publication; if there are copies remaining in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13445/07]
I propose to circulate with the Official Report a tabular statement listing the bilingual publications published by my Department since 2002. Copies of the publications are available on request from my Department.
|
Name of Bilingual Publication |
Print Run |
|
Code of Conduct for Employees (Local Authorities) |
1,000 |
|
Code of Practice between Coillte and the Minister of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government |
1,000 |
|
Code of Practice between ESB National Grid and the Minister of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in relation to Archaeological Heritage |
1,855 |
|
Code of Practice between the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Railway Procurement Agency |
1,000 |
|
Customer Charter |
9,400 |
|
Customer Complaints Guidelines for Local Authorities |
3,000 |
|
Customer Consultation Guidelines for Local Authorities |
3,000 |
|
Customer Service Action Plan 2006-2008 |
500 |
|
Design: Thinking it through |
10,000 |
|
Earthen Banks and Broken Walls-our legacy of Ancient Monuments |
5,000 |
|
Energy: the Ultimate Source |
10,000 |
|
ENFO Brochure |
15,000 |
|
Environment Fund Accounts 2001& 2002 and Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Environment Fund Accounts 2003 and Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Environment Fund Accounts 2004 and Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Environment Fund Accounts 2005 and Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Fire Services Council Annual Report 2003 |
250 |
|
Fire Services Council Annual Report 2004 |
250 |
|
Fire Services Council Annual Report 2005 |
20 |
|
Foodweb posters |
20,000 |
|
Hedgerow posters |
60,000 |
|
Insect posters (Set of four) |
85,000 |
|
Irish Bulletin of Vehicle and Driver Statistics 2004 |
1,800 |
|
Irish Bulletin of Vehicle and Driver Statistics 2005 |
1,500 |
|
Irish Language Scheme 2005 -2008 |
600 |
|
Litter Posters |
25,000 |
|
Living with Nature — The Designation of Nature Conservation Sites in Ireland |
200,000 |
|
Local Government Fund Accounts — 2003 And Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Local Government Fund Accounts — 2004 And Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Local Government Fund Accounts — 2005 And Comptroller and Auditor General Report |
300 |
|
Met Éireann Annual Report 2005 |
100 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of County Carlow |
5,000 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of County Kerry |
5,000 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of County Kildare |
5,000 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of County Laois |
5,000 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of County Meath |
5,000 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of Fingal County |
5,000 |
|
National Inventory of Architectural Heritage, Survey of the Architectural Heritage of South County Dublin |
5,000 |
|
National Planning for Nuclear Emergencies Information Booklet |
50,000 |
|
National Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee — Annual Report 2004 |
1,250 |
|
Statement of Strategy 2005-2007 |
600 |
|
Sustainability begins at home |
10,000 |
|
Sustainable Supplies, small things, big picture |
10,000 |
|
The Bioregion: Our Place in the natural world |
10,000 |
|
The Greener Garden: Blurring the Boundary |
10,000 |
|
The Healthy Home: Breathing Freely |
10,000 |
|
Vital Communities: Valuing Each Other |
10,000 |
|
Waste: a most unnatural world |
10,000 |
|
Water: Natural Flows |
10,000 |
57 Mr. Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will give city status to towns like Drogheda and Dundalk where there has been enormous growth in population since the last Census of Population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13439/07]
The Local Government Act 2001 modernises the legislative framework, supports community involvement with local authorities in participative local democracy and underpins generally the programme of local government renewal including the position of county and city councils as the primary units of local government.
Under the Act, borough councils, such as Drogheda, and town councils which are former urban district councils, such as Dundalk, are responsible for a significant range of functions in their respective areas as well as contributing to local development in co-operation with their respective county council.
The Act takes account of the recommendations of the 1996 Report of the Reorganisation Commission Towards Cohesive Local Government — Town and County regarding improved accessibility, interaction and linkages for all boroughs and towns with their local county council areas as the way forward. A modernised legal framework and structures at both regional and local level are now in place and these provide the necessary powers and flexibility to local authorities to work in partnership to co-ordinate the provision of integrated public services. In these circumstances I have no proposals for amending legislation, which would be necessary to establish new city councils.
58 Mr. McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether heating insulation in new dwellings is at an acceptable standard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13421/07]
The amended Part L (Conservation of Fuel and Energy) of the Building Regulations 2002 and the related Technical Guidance Document L (2002 Edition) came into effect on 1 January 2003 and set significantly higher insulation levels and thermal performance standards for new dwellings. Part L was amended, with effect from 1 July 2006, to provide for an overall limit on carbon dioxide emissions from dwellings, in accordance with requirements of the EU Directive on the Energy Performance of Buildings (2002/91/EC).
My Department has initiated a further review of Part L as part of Ireland's Climate Change Strategy. It is intended that the upgraded standards will come into effect in 2008 and will improve energy efficiency of new Irish homes by 40% relative to current standards.
59 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he or his Department have monitored the availability and quality of the domestic drinking water supply in all areas throughout the country; if he has received in the past five years submissions from the Environmental Protection Agency or the various local authorities with specific requests for augmentation or improvement of the supply; the degree to which his Department has responded; if his Department or the various local authorities have particular or specific plans to address such issues as a matter of urgency with particular reference to the need for a readily available and safe drinking water supply in compliance with accepted international standards, free of harmful pollutants or cryptosporidiosis; if he has specifically identified the full extent of the requirements in respect of domestic drinking water and its sources and purification systems for the next 20 years having particular regard to increased demands arising from population increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13364/07]
558 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he has taken to ensure the adequacy and quality of supply in respect of the drinking water; if he has received communication from the various local authorities seeking funding for augmentation, improvement or upgrading; if he has replied positively to all such requests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13868/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 558 together.
Information on the quality of drinking water supplies is regularly compiled and provided by the Environmental Protection Agency. The latest relevant EPA report The Quality of Drinking Water in Ireland — A Report for the Year 2005, which is available in the Oireachtas Library, confirms the fundamentally good quality of drinking water supplies in Ireland. The report shows that public water supplies have an overall compliance rate of 98.9% with bacteriological standards.
Management of public drinking water supplies is generally the responsibility of the local authorities, which have a range of instruments and measures available to them to produce and conserve sufficient stocks to meet anticipated needs and to ensure quality standards. In addition, my Department coordinates and finances a major programme of investment in improved water supply infrastructure, active leakage control, telemetry and rehabilitation of watermains. The Water Services Investment Programme 2005–2007, and previous phases of the Programme, are available in the Oireachtas Library.
The schemes included in the Water Services Investment Programme are derived mainly from regular assessments of needs undertaken by local authorities, at my Department's request, as an input to the overall strategy for meeting water supply and treatment requirements. Local authorities were requested to carry out new assessments in 2006 and these will inform project selection in the next phase of the Programme. In undertaking their assessments, authorities were asked to have regard to specific criteria, including relevant national and EU environmental, public health and drinking water quality statutory requirements and standards.
Contamination of drinking water by cryptosporidium is an ongoing risk in relation to which water authorities in Ireland and other countries must exercise constant precaution and vigilance. In 1998, my Department published detailed guidelines for local authorities on Minimising the Risk of Cryptosporidium in Water Supplies. These guidelines were prepared in consultation with the Department of Health and Children and the Environmental Protection Agency to provide clear advice to local authorities on preventing cryptosporidium getting into water supply systems. The guidelines cover all aspects of water supply management, including source protection, monitoring, treatment processes, storage and distribution as well as responding to an outbreak.
In November 2004, the National Disease Surveillance Centre published a report on waterborne cryptosporidiosis. This was circulated to all local authorities by the EPA with the request that they update their risk assessments based on the revised methodology of the report. Almost 400 such updated risk assessments were carried out by local authorities in response to this request.
Explicit requirements in relation to monitoring of drinking water for clostridium perfringens — an indicator of possible contamination of the water by cryptosporidium — are now set out in the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations 2007. My Department's Water Services Investment Programme provides full capital funding for improvements of the water infrastructure of local authorities. Identified deficiencies posing relatively greater risk to human health or the environment would be prioritised in this context.
The overall Exchequer commitment to water services infrastructure is reflected in the very substantially increased funding provided for the sector in recent years. Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under the National Development Plan 2000 — 2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under the National Development Plan 2007-2013. Very significant improvements across the sector are being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment, including substantial increases in water treatment and storage capacity. Overall, the resources being put in place by my Department will ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water supply infrastructure is adequate to meet current and anticipated demands.
60 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on his recent meeting with the Environment Ministers of Ireland, Norway, and Austria at Dublin Castle. [13463/07]
97 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress to date made by him in conjunction with other EU member States in opposing the expansion and use of nuclear power in Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13442/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 60 and 97 together.
I hosted a meeting of Environment Ministers from Iceland, Norway and Austria on 26 March in Dublin Castle. We were joined by the Parliamentary State Secretary of the Environment for Germany who also participated in our discussions on our shared concerns in relation to nuclear energy.
I have for some time held the view that the recently renewed debate on nuclear energy, which has been prompted by concerns regarding energy security and climate change, has not reflected all the issues inherent in the nuclear energy option. I had on occasion raised these views informally at international meetings with international environment colleagues and I received significant support.
While Ireland is opposed to the use of nuclear energy, Ireland, Austria, Iceland and Norway all acknowledge that it is the sovereign right of countries to choose their own mix of energy supplies. The primary objective of the Ministerial meeting in Dublin was to express our collective concerns that nuclear is being put forward as the solution to the climate change problem. We are also concerned that the current debate often seeks to downplay the serious issues of waste, adverse environmental impacts, proliferation, liability and safety, that go hand in hand with the nuclear industry.
We also discussed in some detail the issue of trans-boundary risks arising from nuclear. We were agreed that the safety issues and environmental impacts from radioactive discharges to the sea arising from the Sellafield plant in the UK were of significant concern and that continued reprocessing operations at the plant are economically and environmentally untenable.
Ireland, Austria, Iceland and Norway issued a joint statement following this meeting which illustrates and underlines the importance we attach to the presentation of a different view of nuclear. The very fact this joint statement was issued clearly shows that Ireland is not by any means alone in the views that we hold on nuclear.
We agreed to meet again in Vienna in the autumn, along with the Environment Ministers of other States that may be interested. I expect that further meetings of concerned Ministers will provide a particularly important opportunity to contribute to a real debate on the nuclear option.
61 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his view of the statistics in Census 2006 that show a high number of vacant dwellings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13426/07]
The Census of Population results, which were issued by the Central Statistics Office on Thursday 29 March 2007, are the first of a series of reports that will issue over the coming year, all of which will have to be evaluated as part of policy development.
The CSO report indicated that about 266,000 dwellings were vacant on the Census night in April 23 2006. These statistics are derived from an analysis of the Enumerators' books in an attempt to capture the reasons why a Census form has not been received from a given housing unit.
The housing stock data indicate that approximately 50,000 of the vacant units were holiday homes. For example, the highest rate of vacancies is recorded in counties along the Atlantic Coastal and Shannon regions where holiday homes are common. Such dwellings are an important part of the country's broader tourism infrastructure, and along with other forms of tourist accommodation such as Bed and Breakfast and Hotel accommodation generate employment and tourist activity in these areas.
The remaining 216,000 vacant dwellings made up about 12% of the total housing stock. In a growing dynamic housing market, fuelled mainly by rapid economic growth and demographic changes, it may be expected that a certain level of vacant dwellings will be recorded on any given night. This may arise, for example, when houses are used to accommodate family members closer to their work or study locations, when properties are for sale or during periods of vacancy between tenancies.
Further analysis of the data is required before drawing conclusions on the policy implications. My Department is in discussion with the CSO on this issue. What is clear from the information, is that the policy of increasing housing supply has been a success with almost 300,000 dwellings completed in the inter census period — an average of 75,000 dwellings per year. This is a phenomenal response to the rapid increase in our population and shows a strong capacity to respond to the continuing needs of our growing population.
63 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to regulate the operation of the private waste collection and waste treatment industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13263/07]
In August 2006, my Department published a consultation paper on options for future regulation of the waste sector. Submissions were invited on whether there is a need for a regulator for the sector, if so on what model of regulator might be most appropriate and on what powers any such regulator should be given. Over fifty, many very detailed, submissions were received addressing the range of complex issues which surround the regulation of the sector. Following consideration of these submissions I intend to finalise further policy proposals.
65 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of waste generated by his Department on an annual basis for the years 2002 to 2006 inclusive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13407/07]
I propose to circulate with the Official Report a tabular statement setting out details of general waste generated in my Department's Headquarters which shows a reduction of 20% between 2002 and 2006.
In accordance with its Environmental Policy Statement, my Department is fully committed to the effective management of waste including prevention, reduction and recycling. This is a critical element of our ongoing accreditation to ISO 14001:1996 which we achieved for our headquarters offices in 2003. A number of strategies guide our activities in this regard across the Department, including prevention and reduction in the amount of waste generated and maximising all opportunities for the re-use and recycling of all waste arising. A contract is in place for the collection and recycling of paper and cardboard packaging from my Department's main offices. In relation to redundant electronic IT equipment, the Department arranges for the reuse of suitable equipment and where this is not possible avails of the take back facilities under the WEEE Regulations for the dismantling and recycling of such equipment. Arrangements are in place in my Department's Headquarters under which cans and bottles are collected and recycled by Dublin City Council. There are also arrangements in place for recycling glass and for the safe disposal of batteries. My Department is also availing of the recently introduced brown bin collection scheme being run by Dublin City Council, which provides for the segregation of organic kitchen waste for composting.
|
Year |
General waste (litres) |
|
2002 |
499,200 |
|
2003 |
449,280 |
|
2004 |
449,280 |
|
2005 |
399,360 |
|
2006 |
399,360 |
66 Mr. Morgan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the new owners of Sellafield are examining plans to store radioactive waste underground in the hope that it will be recyclable and recoverable in future years; his views on this short sighted and ill advised proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13462/07]
A review of the long-term options for radioactive waste management in the UK was undertaken by the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management, an independent body established in November 2003 by the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, along with the Environment Ministers for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland.
The Committee was not mandated to select a site or sites for long-term storage of radioactive waste and no site has to date been selected for this purpose. This Committee's main task was to recommend, by July 2006, how best to manage the very significant stocks of radioactive waste held in the United Kingdom.
Ireland accepted a number of invitations to participate in various consultative fora put in place by the Committee. Most recently, departmental officials together with a senior scientific officer from the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII) met with the chairman of the Committee on Radioactive Waste Management in June 2006. My Department has also contributed on a number of occasions to written consultation procedures put in place by the Committee as part of their extensive stakeholder engagement process.
My policy was to monitor closely the work of this Committee and to use the consultation process to articulate the views of the Irish Government in relation to any proposals arising for the management and disposal of radioactive waste in the UK insofar as they might have implications for Ireland. My officials have consistently impressed upon the Committee that, given our proximity to the UK and our ongoing concerns and interest in relation to the management of radioactive waste in the UK, Ireland considers it has a significant interest in the issues under deliberation. My officials have also emphasised that Ireland is a unique stakeholder with distinct responsibilities in terms of protecting its population from the risks of ionising radiation and for planning protective and remedial measures in respect of such risks.
In my view a primary consideration in addressing waste management issues of any origin or type must involve the question of waste reduction. This is particularly relevant for the nuclear industry given the nature and toxicity of the wastes arising. The role of reprocessing within the industry requires particular consideration in this regard. However, I understand that the remit of the Committee did not extend to this issue and on this basis the range of issues raised and addressed by the Committee must be considered less than complete.
The Committee delivered its recommendations to the UK Government on 31 July 2006. The principal recommendations of the Committee were that geological disposal is currently the best form of long term management of UK's high level radioactive waste and that there should be a commitment to the safe and secure interim storage of the waste during the time it will take to plan and construct the geological disposal facility. The UK Government accepted the recommendations of the Committee and decided that it will further develop and consult on the process for implementation of such recommendations including site selection criteria. It also decided that the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority will be given the responsibility for developing and ensuring delivery and implementation of the programmes for interim storage and geological disposal. The Nuclear Decommissioning Authority is the UK State Body charged with ownership of 20 civil public sector nuclear sites including Sellafield and ensuring they are decommissioned and cleaned up safely, securely, cost effectively and in ways that protect the environment.
There is a clear need and obligation for the UK to manage the significant volumes of radioactive waste which have arisen as a legacy of their long standing nuclear programme safely and without adverse impact on the environment. Insofar as such plans could impact on Ireland, I will continue to engage proactively with all relevant UK Authorities and articulate clearly our legitimate views and concerns in relation to the development of long term radioactive waste management options in the UK so as to ensure that such options do not compromise the health or environment of Irish people.
67 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of planning applications submitted to planning authorities, for each quarter since the beginning of 2005 to date in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13258/07]
The table, based on returns made by all planning authorities, sets out the number of planning applications received by planning authorities for each of the 4 quarters of 2005 and 2006. Returns for the 1st quarter of 2007 are currently being compiled by the planning authorities.
|
Planning Applications |
Quarter 1 |
Quarter 2 |
Quarter 3 |
Quarter 4 |
|
2005 |
18,447 |
22,135 |
21,410 |
22,185 |
|
2006 |
20,468 |
24,781 |
24,289 |
27,689 |
68 Mr. Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to introduce a mechanism for transferring from social housing in the North to social housing in this State; the date on which this mechanism will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13469/07]
There are currently no proposals to introduce a specific mechanism for transferring households from social housing in Northern Ireland. The allocation of social housing in individual cases is a matter for the housing authority concerned in accordance with its scheme of letting priorities and authorities have discretion to accept housing applicants from outside their functional area.
72 Mr. Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a national waiver scheme, to provide financial relief for households, including pensioners who are experiencing hardships arising from the payment of waste charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13264/07]
Waste management services have traditionally been provided at a local level, with individual arrangements being locally determined and tailored to local circumstances. The present legal framework, as determined by the Oireachtas, reflects this. In accordance with section 52 of the Protection of the Environment Act 2003, the determination of waste management charges, and any associated waiver scheme, is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it acts as the service provider. Similarly, where a private operator provides the collection service, it is a matter for that operator to determine charges. Section 60(3) of the Waste Management Act, 1996 specifically precludes the Minister from any involvement in anything for which a local authority has statutory responsibility. However, my Department has asked local authorities to engage with commercial waste collectors to agree on arrangements to assist lower income households by offering alternatives to periodic lump-sum payments.
73 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department will assist companies in the marketing of products made from recycled vehicle tyres such as crumb rubber; the methods they will use to assist them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13471/07]
One of the main barriers to an improved and sustainable recycling performance is the lack of stable and economically attractive markets and outlets for recyclable materials and products manufactured from recycled products. The need for the establishment of a Market Development Group, which would oversee the development of a Market Development Programme, was outlined in my Department's Delivering Change policy statement and the Agreed Programme for Government.
The Market Development Group was established in 2004 and has been working on the development of a National Market Development Programme. Among the key issues to be addressed are promoting stable demand for recovered materials, supporting the achievement of economies of scale in the production of products made from recycled materials and the need for more recycling infrastructure in Ireland to reduce reliance on overseas markets.
The National Market Development Programme, which the Group is developing, will identify new applications and markets for recyclable material and secondary recycled products. While the Programme's primary focus will be on paper, plastics and organics there will be scope for initiatives in respect of recycled materials derived from other waste streams, including waste tyres. The Group has been asked to identify barriers to the use and marketing of recyclable material and to develop strategies to address these. The Market Development Programme is being finalised at present for publication shortly.
I have publicly stated my concerns about inappropriate practices in the way waste tyres are managed. It is important that a proper regulatory framework be put in place to track waste tyre flows and to encourage the recovery and recycling of this waste resource. My Department has had discussions with the Irish Tyre Industry Association (ITIA) with a view to establishing a Producer Responsibility Initiative (PRI). These discussions are continuing with the intention of concluding the necessary arrangements for such an initiative later this year. Draft Regulations which will provide a regulatory framework for this PRI have been developed and were published for public consultation last month. In preparing the draft Regulations the Department consulted with the tyre industry and the farming organisations.
The closing for submission of comments under the consultation process is 26 April. Following this my Department will examine the various submissions made and proceed with the process of finalising the Regulations
74 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to ensure Ireland’s compliance with the Public Participation Directive 2003/35/EEC to guarantee public participation in the EU environmental decision making process in view of the European Commission’s decision to refer the matter to the European Court of Justice and the Irish Courts’ refusal to recognise the directive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13390/07]
580 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the European Commission referring Ireland to the ECJ for failing to give adequate rights to citizens to legally challenge decisions in cases involving environmental impact assessments and integrated pollution prevention and control; his difficulty with implementing the Aarhus Declaration in Irish law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13998/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 580 together.
Ireland signed the Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters on 25 June 1998. Progress towards ratification of the Convention is closely aligned with work at EU level and, in that context, the European Union has adopted two Directives as part of the ratification process for the Convention. These deal with public access to environmental information (2003/4/EC) and public participation in certain environmental decision-making procedures (2003/35/EC).
I have recently made the European Communities (Access to information on the Environment) Regulations that will give effect in Ireland to Directive 2003/4/EC (the AIE Directive).
The process to transpose Directive 2003/35/EC is already well advanced with legislation already completed to amend a range of consent systems. The remaining work will be finalised by the earliest possible date.
With regard to the access to justice provisions of Directive 2003/35/EC, I am satisfied, having regard to the legal advice available to me, that Irish law complies with these provisions and that no additional legislation is required.
When full transposition of Directive 2003/35/EC is completed, the instrument of ratification of the Aarhus Convention will be submitted to Government and laid before the Dáil.
75 Mr. Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to update and amend the regulations on the standards of private rented accommodation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13260/07]
Reform and development of the private rented sector is an important element of the Government's housing policy and we have undertaken a range of action to promote greater quality in various aspects of the sector, including accommodation standards. The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 provides a modern framework of landlord and tenant legislation. The Private Residential Tenancies Board was established to provide a range of services for the sector, including dispute resolution, registration and information. Following on a commitment in Towards 2016, I have launched a comprehensive Action Programme to promote further improvement in standards of private rented accommodation.
An important element of this Programme is the updating of the existing standards regulations in consultation with local authorities and other relevant interests. This work is progressing. Views on the updating of the regulations were invited from local authorities and relevant groups. To date a limited number of submissions on the matter has been received and these are being considered. Recommendations in relation to the regulations will also be provided by the Centre for Housing Research, which is carrying out a study of measures to promote improvement in private rented accommodation standards as part of the Action Programme. I hope to have draft revised regulations around the middle of this year.
78 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress nationally to date in implementing Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13447/07]
Information to end September 2006 on activity under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 is published in my Department's Quarterly Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library, and also on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
Provisional annual data indicate that some 2,200 social and affordable homes were delivered under Part V last year, an increase of 60% on the corresponding level of delivery in 2005. A total of 3,845 homes were under construction under Part V at end-2006, while a further 3,392 homes were proposed under agreements entered into with developers. In addition, it is estimated that land/sites transferred to local authorities and voluntary housing bodies in 2006 were capable of yielding over 400 additional homes, while over €35 million was received by local authorities in-lieu of land.
79 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of litter wardens employed in the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13408/07]
Returns from local authorities indicate that, as at the end of June 2006, 408 litter wardens were employed. A total of 128 wardens were employed on a full time basis.
80 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has satisfied himself that the sum of €40,000 spent in 2006 by the RPII in highlighting public awareness of the dangers of radon gas; his views on the instigation of a new campaign to highlight the dangers of radon with a particular view to promoting remediation measures. [13252/07]
Over the years, the Government, largely through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), has committed significant resources to assessing the incidence of radon throughout the country and highlighting public awareness of radon and the health risks associated with prolonged exposure to high concentrations. These are core activities of the Institute. The figure of €40,000 relates only to direct expenditure on awareness-raising and does not include all staffing costs and overheads associated with the Institute's radon related activities. The RPII estimates that its total 2006 expenditure in this area is approximately €190,000.
In addition, during the 1990s RPII carried out a nationwide survey of radon in domestic dwellings. The cost of this has been estimated at approximately €900,000.
Other Government Departments are also involved in highlighting the dangers of radon and promoting remediation measures. For example, the Radon Remediation Programme in schools, which is funded by the Department of Education and Science, has cost approximately €6million to date.
It is clear from the above, therefore, that considerable resources are being expended by Government on promoting public awareness of radon. Government efforts and resources, together with the RPII, will continue to focus on highlighting public awareness of radon and on improving information to householders and employers so as to enable and encourage them to address monitoring or remedial requirements effectively and economically.
83 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has co-ordinated a risk assessment strategy with the Department of Defence in the event of a US military aircraft containing depleted uranium ammunition crashing in the Shannon region (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13386/07]
The transport by air of munitions of war through Irish territory or Irish airspace requires the approval of the Minister for Transport, in the case of civil aircraft, or the Minister for Foreign Affairs, in the case of military aircraft. I understand from the Department of Foreign Affairs that neither that Department nor the Department of Transport has received any request for permission to transport depleted uranium ammunition through or above Irish territory from the period up to the Iraq war to the present day.
There are comprehensive emergency plans in place to respond to any accident or disaster in Ireland. In the event, therefore of an aircraft carrying such cargo crashing in Ireland, these emergency plans would be activated.
As part of an ongoing focus on major emergency preparedness and response, the Government, in September 2006, published A Framework for Major Emergency Management. The purpose of the new Framework is to put in place arrangements that will enable the three principal response agencies, namely, An Garda Síochána, the Health Service Executive and the local authorities to coordinate their efforts in the event of a major emergency. The Government put in place a Major Emergency Development Programme to implement these new arrangements. My Department chairs a National Steering Group to oversee and drive this Programme and to maintain the Framework into the future. As part of this Programme the National Steering Group are currently engaged with a number of Government Departments and Agencies to support them in the risk assessment process.
84 Mr. Gilmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of dwellings completed here from 1999 to date in 2007; the number of dwellings delivered to date under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13257/07]
Information to end September 2006 on the number of house completions and activity under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 is published in my Department's Quarterly Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library, and also on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
Full-year data indicate that there were 93,419 new home completions in 2006. Provisional annual data indicate that some 2,200 social and affordable homes were delivered under Part V last year, an increase of 60% on the corresponding level of delivery in 2005.
85 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the percentage of persons on the housing waiting list for Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council who are single persons; the percentage who are couples; the percentage who are families of three persons; the percentage who are families of four persons; the percentage who are families of five persons; the percentage who are families of six or more persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13387/07]
The most recent assessment of need for social housing was undertaken by local authorities in March 2005. The results of that assessment indicated that there were 43,684 households on local authority housing waiting lists. More comprehensive data in relation to the 2005 assessment at an individual local authority level were published in the Annual Bulletin of Housing Statistics 2005, a copy of which is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
The table sets out the percentage of persons on Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council's waiting list, broken down by family size.
|
Household Structure |
No. of Households |
% Total Net Need |
|
% |
||
|
Single Persons |
1,142 |
47.7 |
|
Single Person with children |
773 |
32.3 |
|
Couples |
115 |
4.8 |
|
Couple with 1 child |
125 |
5.2 |
|
Couple with 2 children |
119 |
5 |
|
Couple with 3 children |
72 |
3 |
|
Couple with 4 children |
25 |
1 |
|
Couple with 5+ children |
24 |
1 |
|
Total Net Need |
2,395 |
100 |
87 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of vehicles operated by his Department that run on bio fuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13409/07]
In accordance with the National Climate Change Strategy, which I launched earlier this week, the Government is developing a Sustainable Transport Action Plan under which public sector fleet operators will be required to publish strategies to reduce emissions from their fleets including the increased use of biofuels. In this regard, the entire fleet of the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department numbering some 150 vehicles is now capable of running on biodiesel.
Contract arrangements for the supply of biodiesel are currently being finalised following which the National Parks and Wildlife Service can begin to order supplies for use by its vehicles
89 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his assessment of the quality of drinking water here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13411/07]
The most recent report on Drinking Water Quality in Ireland for the year 2005 was published by the EPA in January 2007 and a copy is available in the Oireachtas Library. The report confirms that the overall quality of Ireland's drinking water remains generally high.
For drinking water produced and distributed by local authorities the overall rate of compliance was 97.6%, with major population centres having a compliance rate of 99.8%. However the report indicates that drinking water supplied by the private group water scheme sector remains unsatisfactory. While this sector serves less than 7% of the population a major Rural Water Investment Programme is underway with the objective of improving standards substantially for consumers served by the private group water scheme sector.
91 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the prospect that first time buyers will be excluded from the housing market if interest rates increase as forecasted to 4.75% in the coming year, causing first time mortgage limits to fall substantially; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10216/07]
Housing affordability is influenced by a range of factors such as house prices, interest rates and income levels. House prices have stabilised since the last quarter of 2006, following generally high rates of increase since the June 2005 quarter. ECB interest rates have increased from 2% to 3.75% since December 2005. Economic commentators do not at present predict further significant increases in interest rates. Recent house price moderation, increased mortgage interest relief, increases in take home pay and competitiveness in the mortgage market are assisting housing affordability. I expect that these factors and continuing economic growth will continue to have a positive effect on affordability in the coming year.
We are also assisting housing affordability by promoting housing supply, particularly affordable housing, as part of the integrated policy approach set out in the Government's new statement on housing policy Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities. We have put in place a range of targeted schemes to assist first time buyers, directed specifically at those who are unable purchase on the open market. These include the Shared Ownership Scheme, the 1999 affordable housing scheme, affordable housing delivered through Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 and the Affordable Housing Initiative. The Affordable Homes Partnership is co-ordinating and accelerating the delivery of affordable housing in and around Dublin. The increasing momentum of delivery, particularly through Part V, will be sustained and accelerated in order to support the achievement of the ambitious target set in Towards 2016 to deliver some 17,000 homes over the period 2007 to 2009. This is a substantial commitment to meeting the needs of first-time buyers seeking affordable housing.
93 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason for the delay in enacting the Water Services Bill, introduced in 2003 in view of the contamination of the Galway water supply; if he will enact it as a matter of urgency to ensure a higher standard of environmental protection for water supplies here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13391/07]
The Water Services Bill has been passed by the Seanad and is waiting scheduling for Report and Final Stages in the Dáil. I anticipate that final stages of the Bill will be taken in the Dáil soon after the Easter recess.
As an interim measure, pending the implementation of the new arrangements provided for under the Bill in relation to drinking water, I have replaced the Drinking Water Regulations 2000, by the European Communities (Drinking Water) Regulations 2007. These new Regulations contain strengthened provisions in relation to drinking water supplies.
The Regulations also provide for a new supervision and enforcement role by the Environmental Protection Agency in relation to local authorities' monitoring and management of drinking water generally, and for the supervision by local authorities of group water supplies.
95 Ms Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the directions he will give to the NTMA with regard to the purchase of Kyoto limits of carbon; the advice he has received from the NTMA, in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13267/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 10 on today's order paper.
The Carbon Fund Bill 2006 makes provision, inter alia, for the designation of the National Treasury Management Agency as Purchasing Agent for the State. At this stage, I would not expect, or have I received, any communication from the Agency on foot of its new function.
96 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his future plans to build municipal waste incinerators throughout the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13466/07]
Under the Waste Management Acts it is the statutory responsibility of local authorities, generally acting in regional groupings, to prepare waste management plans which include the identification of necessary waste management facilities. Where such facilities are not being provided by the private sector a local authority, subject to public policy in regard to procurement, may seek to provide such a facility by way of a public private partnership.
Incineration with energy recovery forms an important part of a modern, integrated and sustainable approach to waste management consistent with the internationally accepted waste hierarchy. Its role is fully recognised within the EU environmental framework which moreover regulates waste incineration in accordance with strict environmental standards. As such waste to energy plants would at a minimum be subject to the very stringent emission limits provided for in the EU Incineration Directive and be required to undergo statutorily independent physical planning and environmental licensing processes which can rightly be regarded as among the most rigorous and transparent in Europe.
98 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he expects the planned incinerators to come into operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13265/07]
Under the Waste Management Acts, responsibility for the determination and implementation of waste management plans rests with the local authority (or local authorities) concerned and my Department has no direct involvement. Thermal treatment with energy recovery in accordance with the internationally accepted waste management hierarchy is a key element of Irish waste management policy and this is reflected in the relevant regional waste management plans.
The identification and delivery of necessary waste infrastructure, including waste to energy plants, is a matter for the local authorities in each region and the private sector. The timing of plant development is a matter for individual public and private promoters, having regard also to the requirements of the applicable planning and environmental licensing regulatory processes.
99 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of employing one Garda, including training and pension benefits. [13770/07]
The estimated annual cost of employing a newly attested Garda, which includes basic salary, rent, boot, uniform and unsocial hours allowances along with Employer's PRSI and pension overhead costs is €53,230. It is not possible to determine the training and other costs relating to an individual attested member, as the annual costs of running the Garda College and other related costs are not broken down in this manner.
100 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of employing one probation officer, including pension benefits. [13771/07]
The annual estimated cost of employing a Probation Officer at the first point of the salary scale along with pension overhead costs and Employers PRSI is €43,737.
101 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of employing one prison officer, including pension benefits. [13781/07]
The estimated annual salary cost of employing a Prison Officer, following service as a Recruit Prison Officer for a three year period, including basic salary, allowances and additional hours payment along with Employer's PRSI is €47,762. Pension overhead costs calculated at 25% of gross pensionable salary amount to approximately €11,095.
102 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of birth certificates currently in the possession of his Department due to applications for permission to remain in the State; and the rationale for not returning the birth certificates to the people involved. [13525/07]
It was administrative practice in such cases not to return birth certificates to applicants. The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available and could only be obtained by a disproportionate expenditure of time and resources.
103 Ms C. Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons reported missing in 2005; the number who remained untraced at the end of 2005 in view of the fact that according to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 143 of 29 March 2007, those numbers were 4319 and 48, respectively, whereas the Garda Annual Report of 2005 states that 5,997 persons were reported missing in 2005 with 75 persons left untraced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13526/07]
The clarification sought will be communicated to the Deputy as soon as the information is received from the Garda authorities.
104 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will issue a temporary visa to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo to allow them to return home for a two week period for a family graduation while their residency application is pending. [13527/07]
I refer the Deputy to my previous reply of 20 March 2007 in relation to the person in question. The position remains unchanged.
However, a person who is awaiting a decision on a residency application based on marriage to an Irish national is free to leave the State at any time. As a visa required national the person in question must be in possession of a valid Irish re-entry visa to allow her return to the State. While it is not the normal practice of my Department to assist persons who do not have residency in the State with a re-entry visa prior to travelling, in certain exceptional circumstances assistance may be given to the spouse of an Irish national. Applications of this nature are considered on a case by case basis by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department.
105 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí responsible for policing Loughlinstown County Dublin during each shift including specifically the number of community officers on duty during each respective shift. [13533/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
106 Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the number seven bus has stopped going into Loughlinstown on the grounds of anti-social behaviour; the steps that will be taken by Gardaí to ensure the resumption of this vital service; and if he has satisfied himself regarding policing in the area. [13534/07]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is in the Shankill Garda sub-district. The area is patrolled by uniform and plain-clothes personnel supplemented as necessary by the District Detective and Drug Units, the Community Policing and Garda Mountain Bike Units, the Divisional Crime Task Force and Traffic Corps Units.
Local Garda management is aware that Dublin Bus is providing only restricted bus services in the Loughlinstown Park area late at night due to public disorder and other anti-social behaviour.
The local Community Policing Unit is liaising with the local community and Dublin Bus. The District Officer has met the Dublin Bus Operations Manager, the Regional Manager and the Inspector with responsibility for this area.
A special initiative by the Divisional Public Order Unit has been directed by local Garda management, targeting previously identified public disorder hot-spots in the area. This has resulted in a number of arrests for anti-social behaviour offences in recent weeks.
Local Garda management will continue to monitor the situation and liaise with the local community and Dublin Bus management.
107 Mr. Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a car sales business has been investigated for the sale of an unregistered 01 van; if they are in breach of legal requirements; if the Gardaí will be of assistance to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 who purchased the van and who reported the matter to Mountjoy Garda Station, Dublin 7. [13560/07]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management confirm that a complaint was made at Mountjoy Garda station by the person referred to concerning the firm mentioned. The Garda investigation is continuing.
108 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a business permission visa renewal will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13564/07]
The person in question made an application for renewal of their permission to engage in business in the State in May 2006. An initial request for documentation in this regard issued in May 2006. There was no response to this request. Further requests were made in June 2006 and August 2006 and a final reminder issued in September 2006. No response was received until January 2007 with supporting documentation forwarded in March 2007. The renewal application of the person concerned is now under consideration and it is expected that a decision will issue shortly.
109 Mr. Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will confirm receipt of an application for family reunification for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny and the receipt of medical evidence in support of that application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13567/07]
A medical certificate was received by my office on the 6th March, 2007 and forwarded to the Immigration Division of my Department.
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the application for Family Reunification under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996 by the person in question is under consideration by my Department.
I expect that a decision will be reached in this matter shortly.
110 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the population held in prison either on remand or serving a sentence; and the same figures for five, ten, fifteen and twenty years previously. [13581/07]
The following table gives the daily average number of prisoners in custody for the years requested by the Deputy.
|
Year |
Daily average number of prisoners in custody |
|
1987 |
1,943 |
|
1992 |
2,185 |
|
1997 |
2,424 |
|
2002 |
3,165 |
|
2007 to date |
3,238 |
111 Mr. Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the application by a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13599/07]
The person in question made an application for permission to remain in the State on the basis of family dependency in May 2006. An initial request for documentation issued in November 2006 and although some documentation was received in December 2006, it was insufficient to finalise the application. The necessary supporting documentation has now been received by my Department from the person in question. The application is currently under consideration and is expected to be finalised within a short period of time.
112 Mr. T. Dempsey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Wexford; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007; and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13659/07]
121 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Kerry by division and location; the increase in Garda numbers in each division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13731/07]
132 Mr. Carey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in each of the Dublin Metropolitan districts; the numbers of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13838/07]
134 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in Counties Cavan and Monaghan; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13840/07]
136 Mr. Wilkinson asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Waterford; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13842/07]
137 Mr. P. Power asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Limerick; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13843/07]
138 Mr. J. Brady asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Meath; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13844/07]
139 Ms Hoctor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Tipperary; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13845/07]
140 Mr. Carty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Mayo; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13846/07]
143 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Kilkenny; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13849/07]
144 Mr. Kirk asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Louth; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13850/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 112, 121, 132, 134, 136 to 140, inclusive, 143 and 144 together.
The allocation and deployment of Garda officers are the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner.
The following table shows the numbers of Gardaí attached to the relevant stations in question on 31 December 1997, 31 December 2002 and on the latest date for which figures are available in 2007. The number of community Gardaí, where appropriate, in each District/Division on the latest date for which figures are available in 2007 is also shown. I am informed by the Garda authorities that it is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division. Garda Personnel assigned throughout the country, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, are continually monitored and reviewed. Such monitoring ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources, and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.
Community Policing is a central feature of current policing policy and members of Community policing units are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are assigned. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of 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. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. All Gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as they arise.
|
Dublin Metropolitan Region |
Strength 31/12/1997 |
Strength 31/12/2002 |
Strength on latest date for which figures available |
Community Police |
|
D.M.R. SOUTH CENTRAL |
38 |
|||
|
District “A” |
||||
|
Kevin St. |
124 |
117 |
131 |
|
|
Kilmainham |
75 |
76 |
87 |
|
|
District “B” |
||||
|
Pearse St |
231 |
214 |
268 |
|
|
Harcourt Tce. |
91 |
79 |
85 |
|
|
District “E” |
||||
|
Donnybrook |
126 |
114 |
125 |
|
|
Irishtown |
60 |
49 |
55 |
|
|
D.M.R. NORTH CENTRAL |
63 |
|||
|
District “C” |
||||
|
Store St. |
231 |
225 |
289 |
|
|
District “D” |
||||
|
Bridewell |
156 |
157 |
164 |
|
|
District “U” |
||||
|
Fitzgibbon St. |
120 |
116 |
117 |
|
|
Mountjoy |
78 |
82 |
94 |
|
|
D.M.R. SOUTH |
46 |
|||
|
District “G” |
||||
|
Crumlin |
82 |
88 |
100 |
|
|
Sundrive Rd. |
54 |
57 |
74 |
|
|
District “M” |
||||
|
Rathfarnham |
63 |
74 |
72 |
|
|
Tallaght |
133 |
159 |
177 |
|
|
District “P” |
||||
|
Rathmines |
90 |
67 |
76 |
|
|
Terenure |
49 |
84 |
103 |
|
|
D.M.R. NORTH |
59 |
|||
|
District “H” |
||||
|
Santry |
93 |
91 |
117 |
|
|
Whitehall |
45 |
40 |
41 |
|
|
Ballymun |
57 |
64 |
69 |
|
|
Dublin Airport |
50 |
19 |
22 |
|
|
District “R” |
||||
|
Coolock |
93 |
84 |
107 |
|
|
Malahide |
43 |
43 |
45 |
|
|
Swords |
45 |
57 |
71 |
|
|
District “J” |
||||
|
Raheny |
64 |
64 |
70 |
|
|
Clontarf |
57 |
64 |
69 |
|
|
Howth |
30 |
41 |
41 |
|
|
D.M.R. WEST |
73 |
|||
|
District “K” |
||||
|
Blanchardstown |
89 |
132 |
181 |
|
|
Cabra |
82 |
76 |
68 |
|
|
Finglas |
76 |
78 |
89 |
|
|
District “Q” |
||||
|
Lucan |
58 |
73 |
72 |
|
|
Leixlip |
11 |
24 |
26 |
|
|
Ronanstown |
58 |
72 |
91 |
|
|
District “L” |
||||
|
Ballyfermot |
72 |
73 |
90 |
|
|
Clondalkin |
56 |
82 |
95 |
|
|
Rathcoole |
11 |
21 |
24 |
|
|
D.M.R. EAST |
57 |
|||
|
District “F” |
||||
|
Dún Laoghaire |
109 |
106 |
103 |
|
|
Dalkey |
27 |
29 |
26 |
|
|
Kill-O-Grange |
35 |
36 |
33 |
|
|
Cabinteeley |
42 |
39 |
34 |
|
|
District “N” |
||||
|
Bray |
76 |
79 |
104 |
|
|
Enniskerry |
6 |
5 |
5 |
|
|
Shankhill |
50 |
53 |
63 |
|
|
Greystones |
28 |
28 |
38 |
|
|
District “W” |
||||
|
Blackrock |
71 |
66 |
82 |
|
|
Dundrum |
62 |
69 |
75 |
|
|
Stepaside |
40 |
36 |
34 |
|
Eastern Region |
Strength 31/12/1997 |
Strength 31/12/2002 |
Strength on latest date for which figures available |
Community Police |
|
LOUTH/MEATH |
15 |
|||
|
District: Drogheda |
||||
|
Drogheda |
82 |
89 |
96 |
|
|
Castlebellingham |
1 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Clougherhead |
1 |
3 |
1 |
|
|
Dunleer |
2 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Laytown |
6 |
7 |
10 |
|
|
District: Dundalk |
||||
|
Dundalk |
90 |
96 |
110 |
|
|
Carlingford |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Hackballscross |
13 |
14 |
11 |
|
|
Dromad |
15 |
13 |
8 |
|
|
Omeath |
11 |
14 |
7 |
|
|
Louth |
2 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
Blackrock |
3 |
4 |
5 |
|
|
District: Kells |
||||
|
Kells |
30 |
31 |
38 |
|
|
Crossakeel |
2 |
1 |
0 |
|
|
Athboy |
4 |
6 |
6 |
|
|
Oldcastle |
3 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Nobber |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
District: Trim |
||||
|
Trim |
25 |
24 |
26 |
|
|
Kilmessan |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
|
Summerhill |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Longwood |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
Enfield |
20 |
16 |
14 |
|
|
Ballivor |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
District: Ashbourne |
||||
|
Ashbourne |
23 |
37 |
51 |
|
|
Dunboyne |
15 |
15 |
15 |
|
|
Dunshaughlin |
12 |
11 |
9 |
|
|
Kilcock |
6 |
6 |
5 |
|
|
District: Balbriggan |
||||
|
Balbriggan |
31 |
35 |
32 |
|
|
Skerries |
8 |
10 |
12 |
|
|
Lusk |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Rush |
5 |
4 |
7 |
|
|
Garristown |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
District: Navan |
||||
|
Navan |
52 |
47 |
52 |
|
|
Ardee |
9 |
9 |
9 |
|
|
Collon |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Duleek |
4 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Slane |
3 |
4 |
3 |
|
South Eastern Region |
Strength 31/12/1997 |
Strength 31/12/2002 |
Strength on latest date for which figures available |
Community Police |
|
WICKLOW/WEXFORD |
||||
|
District: Wexford |
||||
|
Wexford |
58 |
68 |
87 |
|
|
Taghmon |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Baldwinstown |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Castlebridge |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kilmore Quay |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Glynn |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Rosslare Strand |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
Rosslare Pier |
8 |
9 |
7 |
|
|
District: Gorey |
||||
|
Gorey |
35 |
41 |
47 |
|
|
Bunclody |
3 |
5 |
6 |
|
|
Courtown Harbour |
3 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Arklow |
22 |
28 |
32 |
|
|
Carnew |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Enniscorthy |
||||
|
Enniscorthy |
28 |
31 |
5 |
|
|
Blackwater |
5 |
6 |
6 |
|
|
Ferns |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Kiltealy |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Oylegate |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Oulart |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Clonroche |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District: New Ross |
||||
|
New Ross |
28 |
32 |
37 |
|
|
Ballycullane |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Carrick-On-Bannow |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Duncannon |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
Carrickbyrne |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Campile |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District: Wicklow |
||||
|
Wicklow |
33 |
41 |
46 |
|
|
Ashford |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Rathdrum |
4 |
4 |
3 |
|
|
Newtownmountkennedy |
4 |
4 |
2 |
|
|
Avoca |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Roundwood |
3 |
3 |
4 |
|
|
Aughrim |
3 |
0 |
2 |
|
|
WATERFORD/KILKENNY |
21 |
|||
|
District: Waterford |
||||
|
Waterford |
117 |
131 |
155 |
|
|
Dunmore East |
2 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Ferrybank |
6 |
6 |
4 |
|
|
Passage East |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Mooncoin |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Glenmore |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kilmacow |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Dungarvan |
||||
|
Dungarvan |
28 |
35 |
40 |
|
|
Cappoquin |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Tallow |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Ballymacarberry |
3 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Aglish |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ring |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Lismore |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
District: Tramore |
||||
|
Tramore |
23 |
27 |
32 |
|
|
Kill |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kilmacthomas |
3 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Kilmeaden |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Portlaw |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
Rathgormack |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Leamybrien |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Kilkenny |
||||
|
Kilkenny |
53 |
64 |
81 |
|
|
Freshford |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Callan |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Castlecomer |
7 |
7 |
7 |
|
|
Ballyragget |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Goresbriddge |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
District: Thomastown |
||||
|
Thomastown |
19 |
19 |
21 |
|
|
Bennetsbridge |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Graiguenamanagh |
6 |
6 |
7 |
|
|
Stonyford |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballyhale |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Inistioge |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kilmoganny |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Mullinavat |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Borris |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
TIPPERARY |
10 |
|||
|
District: Thurles |
||||
|
Thurles |
62 |
62 |
67 |
|
|
Ballingarry South |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Holycross |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Killenaule |
4 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Ballinure |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
|
Johnstown |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Urlingford |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Littleton |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
G.C.V.U. |
N/A |
N/A |
||
|
District: Clonmel |
||||
|
Clonmel |
38 |
39 |
48 |
|
|
Kilsheelan |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Mullinahone |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Grangemockler |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Fethard |
3 |
3 |
2 |
|
|
Carrick-On-Suir |
16 |
16 |
16 |
|
|
Piltown |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District: Cahir |
||||
|
Cahir |
22 |
25 |
38 |
|
|
Ardfinnan |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Ballyporeen |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
New Inn |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Cashel |
12 |
12 |
13 |
|
|
Clogheen |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
District: Nenagh |
||||
|
Nenagh |
29 |
32 |
33 |
|
|
Ballingarry North |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
|
Borrisokane |
6 |
5 |
4 |
|
|
Cloughjordan |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Dolla |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Portroe |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Toomevara |
1 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
Terryglass/Ballinderry |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Templemore |
||||
|
Templemore |
17 |
26 |
28 |
|
|
Templetuohy |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Roscrea |
17 |
18 |
19 |
|
|
Moyne |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Templederry |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Borrisoleigh |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Shevry |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
|
Moneygall |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Tipperary Town |
||||
|
Tipperary Town |
31 |
30 |
33 |
|
|
Dundrum |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Emly |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Golden |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Cappawhite |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Bansha |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Oola |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Doon |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Galbally |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Southern Region |
Strength 31/12/1997 |
Strength 31/12/2002 |
Strength on latest date for which figures available |
Community Police |
|
KERRY |
||||
|
District: Tralee |
||||
|
Tralee |
76 |
86 |
99 |
|
|
Ardfert |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
Fenit |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Abbeydorney |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
|
Dingle |
7 |
9 |
8 |
|
|
Clochan |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Castlegregory |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Annascaul |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballyferriter |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Camp |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Caherciveen |
||||
|
Caherciveen |
18 |
22 |
22 |
|
|
Ballinskelligs |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Valentia Island |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Glenbeigh |
2 |
3 |
2 |
|
|
Portmagee |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Killorglin |
6 |
8 |
11 |
|
|
Waterville |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Sneem |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Castlemaine |
3 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
District: Killarney |
||||
|
Killarney |
36 |
48 |
59 |
|
|
Kilgarvan |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kenmare |
6 |
7 |
8 |
|
|
Castleisland |
7 |
9 |
11 |
|
|
Farranfore |
2 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
Barraduff |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Beaufort |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Lauragh |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Listowel |
||||
|
Listowel |
23 |
31 |
34 |
|
|
Ballyheigue |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Ballylongford |
1 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
Ballybunion |
7 |
7 |
8 |
|
|
Ballyduff |
3 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Brosna |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Knocknagoshall |
0 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Lixnaw |
6 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Moyvane |
2 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
Tarbert |
3 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
LIMERICK |
42 |
|||
|
District: Henry Street |
||||
|
Henry St |
156 |
184 |
217 |
|
|
Mary St |
14 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Castleconnell |
4 |
4 |
5 |
|
|
Ardnacrusha |
3 |
3 |
4 |
|
|
Mayorstone Pk. |
27 |
41 |
62 |
|
|
District: Roxboro Road |
||||
|
Roxboro Rd |
87 |
91 |
110 |
|
|
Patrickswell |
5 |
4 |
3 |
|
|
Ballyneety |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Caherconlish |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District: Askeaton |
||||
|
Askeaton |
18 |
22 |
24 |
|
|
Adare |
4 |
4 |
3 |
|
|
Pallaskenry |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Croom |
3 |
4 |
3 |
|
|
Foynes |
3 |
3 |
2 |
|
|
Glin |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Shanagolden |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Rathkeale |
7 |
6 |
6 |
|
|
District: Bruff |
||||
|
Bruff |
19 |
18 |
25 |
|
|
Kilfinane |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Ballylanders |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Hospital |
3 |
3 |
2 |
|
|
Bruree |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Kilmallock |
5 |
4 |
5 |
|
|
Pallas |
4 |
4 |
3 |
|
|
Cappamore |
3 |
3 |
2 |
|
|
Murroe |
1 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
District: Newcastlewest |
||||
|
Newcastlewest |
25 |
24 |
28 |
|
|
Dromcollogher |
0 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Abbeyfeale |
12 |
12 |
13 |
|
|
Ballingarry |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Tournafulla |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Athea |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kilmeedy |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Castletown |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Western Region |
Strength 31/12/1997 |
Strength 31/12/2002 |
Strength on latest date for which figures available |
Community Police |
|
MAYO |
||||
|
District: Castlebar |
||||
|
Castlebar |
58 |
61 |
68 |
|
|
Ballyvary |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballyglass |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Balla |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Partry |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Glenisland |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Tourmakeady |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Ballina |
||||
|
Ballina |
33 |
36 |
43 |
|
|
Killala |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Ballycastle |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Bonnicconlon |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Crossmolina |
4 |
4 |
3 |
|
|
Lahardane |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Enniscrone |
4 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Easkey |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
District:Belmullet |
||||
|
Belmullet |
20 |
19 |
24 |
|
|
Blacksod |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Bellacorrick |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Bangor Erris |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Ballycroy |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Glenamoy |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Claremorris |
||||
|
Claremorris |
25 |
23 |
26 |
|
|
Kilmaine |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballindine |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Knock |
4 |
3 |
3 |
|
|
Ballinrobe |
7 |
9 |
9 |
|
|
Cong |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Shrule |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Hollymount |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
|
District: Swinford |
||||
|
Swinford |
19 |
22 |
27 |
|
|
Kiltimagh |
3 |
23 |
3 |
|
|
Charlestown |
4 |
4 |
5 |
|
|
Kilkelly |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Ballyhaunis |
10 |
9 |
9 |
|
|
Foxford |
3 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District:Westport |
||||
|
Westport |
21 |
27 |
29 |
|
|
Newport |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Achill Sound |
4 |
4 |
4 |
|
|
Mulranny |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Louisburgh |
3 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Keel |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Northern Region |
Strength 31/12/1997 |
Strength 31/12/2002 |
Strength on latest date for which figures available |
Community Police |
|
CAVAN/MONAGHAN |
2 |
|||
|
District: Monaghan |
||||
|
Monaghan |
92 |
106 |
106 |
|
|
Clones |
19 |
15 |
10 |
|
|
Newbliss |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Clontibret |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Scotstown |
15 |
7 |
5 |
|
|
Emyvale |
17 |
10 |
4 |
|
|
Smithboro |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
District: Carrickmacross |
||||
|
Carrickmacross |
36 |
36 |
42 |
|
|
Ballybay |
3 |
5 |
4 |
|
|
Castleblaney |
27 |
25 |
31 |
|
|
Shantonagh |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Corrinshigagh |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Rockcorry |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
District: Cavan |
||||
|
Cavan |
42 |
57 |
66 |
|
|
Ballinagh |
3 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
Arva |
3 |
2 |
3 |
|
|
Stradone |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Redhills |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Kilnaleck |
4 |
1 |
3 |
|
|
Finea |
3 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
District: Baileboro |
||||
|
Baileboro |
23 |
27 |
40 |
|
|
Kingscourt |
4 |
4 |
6 |
|
|
Mullagh |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Shercock |
2 |
2 |
1 |
|
|
Tullyvin |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
|
Virginia |
4 |
4 |
5 |
|
|
Cootehill |
7 |
8 |
8 |
|
|
Ballyjamesduff |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
|
District: Ballyconnell |
||||
|
Ballyconnell |
23 |
24 |
25 |
|
|
Belturbet |
2 |
3 |
2 |
|
|
Swanlinbar |
15 |
7 |
3 |
|
|
Killeshandra |
2 |
1 |
2 |
|
|
Bawnboy |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Ballinamore |
7 |
6 |
6 |
|
|
Carrigallen |
2 |
2 |
2 |
113 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for subsidiary protection for a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13664/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 21 December, 2003 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, he was informed by letter dated 29 October, 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
To date, no application has been received from or on behalf of the person concerned for Subsidiary Protection under the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (Statutory Instrument No. 518 of 2006).
114 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for leave to remain here for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13665/07]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 260 of Tuesday, 13th February, 2007, and 218 of Tuesday, 3rd October, 2006 and the written replies to those Questions. The position is unchanged.
115 Mr. Perry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the half share in the fee of simple interest in the property for a person (details supplied); the status of the registration of the administration of the estate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13668/07]
As the Deputy will be aware, under the provisions of the Registration of Deeds and Title Act 2006, the Property Registration Authority was established as and from 4 November, 2006. The Property Registration Authority replaces the Registrar of Deeds and Titles as the registering authority in relation to property registration in Ireland and, subject to the above Act, is independent in the performance of its functions.
In order to be of assistance I forwarded the Deputy's query to the Authority for its attention and direct reply. I understand that a reply has already issued.
I would also like to refer the Deputy to my letter of 26 May, 2006 to members of the Oireachtas regarding a new service for T.D.s and Senators concerning the current status of applications of this type. As outlined in my letter, the service was introduced, inter alia, to provide a speedier and more cost effective alternative to submitting Parliamentary Questions.
116 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when original documents regarding a family reunification application will be returned to persons ( details supplied) in County Mayo. [13695/07]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the original documents relating to the review of an application for Family Reunification, were recently returned to the person in question.
117 Mr. Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when long term residence will be granted to persons (details supplied) in County Mayo. [13696/07]
As outlined in Parliamentary Question No. 417 put down for answer on 31st January 2007, persons who have been legally resident in the State for over five years on the basis of work permit/work authorisation/work visa conditions may apply to the Immigration Division of my Department for a five year residency extension. In that context they may also apply to be exempt from employment permit requirements.
While applications for long term residency are under consideration, the person concerned should ensure that their permission to remain in the State is kept up to date.
An application for long term residence from the persons referred to by the Deputy was received in July 2006. I understand that applications received in June 2006 are currently being dealt with.
118 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will re-examine an application for a certificate of naturalisation for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford as they claim to have been here for the required period of time. [13707/07]
Section 15 of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, requires that the applicant must have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of the application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years.
In the context of naturalisation, certain periods of residence in the State are excluded. These include:
periods of residence in respect of which an applicant does not have permission to remain in the State
periods granted for the purposes of study
periods granted for the purposes of seeking recognition as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Act, 1996.
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's question was received in the Citizenship section of my Department on 8 September 2006. On examination of the application it was determined that the person concerned did not satisfy the statutory residency requirements and was deemed ineligible to apply. The applicant was informed of this on 23 January 2007.
It is open to the applicant to lodge a new application if and when he is in a position to meet the statutory requirements applicable at that time.
119 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans that have been made to provide an appropriate and adequate Garda station and an expanded Garda presence to police the increased population of Stepaside and Kiltiernan which is designated for further growth in population; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13708/07]
There are plans to undertake a development project at Stepaside Garda Station under the Garda Building Programme. Projects are progressed under the Garda Building Programme on the basis of agreed priorities. This is achieved by consensus and with the cooperation and commitment of the Garda authorities and the Office of Public Works from whose Vote the capital works for Garda properties are funded and in consultation with the Garda Representative Associations. As with all such projects within the Garda Building Programme, Stepaside will be progressed as quickly as overall priorities and resources allow.
It is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions on a priority basis in accordance with the requirements of different areas. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends, administrative functions and other operational policing needs. Garda management state that 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.
I am 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 13,178 following the attestation of 273 new members on Wednesday 14 March, 2007. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) on 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,476 (or over 23%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The combined strength (all ranks), of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training on 14 March, 2007 was 14,258.
120 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Kildare; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to the same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13730/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
122 Mr. Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of sexual assaults, common assaults, burglaries and thefts reported in County Kerry since 2002 to date in 2007; the number of drugs seizures in Kerry since 2002; the corresponding conviction rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13738/07]
Following the submission to me in 2004 of a report and recommendations by an expert group on crime statistics, I decided that the compilation 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 has 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 is now compiling and publishing criminal statistics and has published provisional headline crime statistics for the third and fourth quarters of 2006. In addition, it has compiled and published a series of quarterly and annual statistics for the period starting with the first quarter of 2003. I understand that the CSO are examining how the crime statistics published might be expanded and made more comprehensive.
I have requested the CSO to provide the information sought by the Deputy directly to him.
123 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of new Garda diversion schemes established since June 2002. [13763/07]
Garda Youth Diversion Projects are community-based, multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which seek to divert young people from becoming involved (or further involved) in anti-social and/or criminal behaviour by providing suitable activities to facilitate personal development and promote civic responsibility. The Garda Youth Diversion Projects are funded by my Department and administered through the Community Relations Section of An Garda Síochána. 20 new Garda Youth Diversion Projects have been established since June 2002, bringing the total number of projects to 84.
The Garda Commissioner brings forward proposals to me for the establishment of new Garda Youth Diversion Projects following assessment of applications received from community groups etc. The locations for new Projects are selected on the basis of factors including an increase in the level of juvenile crime in the area and the number of young people referred to the Juvenile Diversion Programme. It is my intention to ensure that 100 projects will be established nationwide before the end of 2007. A number of proposals are currently under consideration in the context of this further expansion of the programme. The successful projects will be announced within the next two months.
124 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of new Garda stations opened since June 2002; and the number closed in the same period. [13764/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
125 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations in the country; the number which are open on a 24 hour basis, seven days per week; the number open seven days per week, for some period; the number open for five days per week; and the number open for less than five days per week. [13765/07]
The following table provides the information required by the Deputy. It shows the opening hours for each station in the country broken down by Region, Division and district.
|
D.M.R. SOUTH CENTRAL |
|
|
District “A” |
|
|
Kevin St. |
24 hours |
|
Kilmainham |
24 hours |
|
District “B” |
|
|
Pearse St |
24 hours |
|
Harcourt Terrace |
24 hours |
|
District “E” |
|
|
Donnybrook |
24 hours |
|
Irishtown |
24 hours |
|
D.M.R. NORTH CENTRAL |
|
|
District “C” |
|
|
Store St. |
24 hours |
|
District “D” |
|
|
Bridewell |
24 hours |
|
District “U” |
|
|
Fitzgibbon St. |
24 hours |
|
Mountjoy |
24 hours |
|
D.M.R. SOUTH |
|
|
District “G” |
|
|
Crumlin |
24 hours |
|
Sundrive Rd. |
24 hours |
|
District “M” |
|
|
Rathfarnham |
24 hours |
|
Tallaght |
24 hours |
|
District “P” |
|
|
Rathmines |
24 hours |
|
Terenure |
24 hours |
|
D.M.R. NORTH |
|
|
District “H” |
|
|
Santry |
24 hours |
|
Whitehall |
24 hours |
|
Ballymun |
24 hours |
|
Dublin Airport |
24 hours |
|
District “R” |
|
|
Coolock |
24 hours |
|
Malahide |
24 hours |
|
Swords |
24 hours |
|
District “J” |
|
|
Raheny |
24 hours |
|
Clontarf |
24 hours |
|
Howth |
24 hours |
|
D.M.R. WEST |
|
|
District “K” |
|
|
Blanchardstown |
24 hours |
|
Cabra |
24 hours |
|
Finglas |
24 hours |
|
District “Q” |
|
|
Lucan |
24 hours |
|
Leixlip |
12.30 p.m. to 1.30 p.m. and 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. Monday to Saturday |
|
Ronanstown |
24 hours |
|
District “L” |
|
|
Ballyfermot |
24 hours |
|
Clondalkin |
24 hours |
|
Rathcoole |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. daily |
|
D.M.R. EAST |
|
|
District “F” |
|
|
Dún Laoghaire |
24 hours |
|
Dalkey |
24 hours |
|
Kill-O-Grange |
24 hours |
|
Cabinteeley |
24 hours |
|
District “N” |
|
|
Bray |
24 hours |
|
Enniskerry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Shankhill |
24 hours |
|
Greystones |
24 hours |
|
District “W” |
|
|
Blackrock |
24 hours |
|
Dundrum |
24 hours |
|
Stepaside |
24 hours |
|
EASTERN REGION |
|
|
Louth/Meath |
|
|
District: Drogheda |
|
|
Drogheda |
24 hours |
|
Castlebellingham |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
Clougherhead |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
Dunleer |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
Laytown |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
District: Dundalk |
|
|
Dundalk |
24 hours |
|
Carlingford |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Hackballscross |
24 hours |
|
Dromad |
Station party operating from HBX |
|
Omeath |
6 p.m. to 9 p.m. daily |
|
Louth |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Blackrock |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
District: Kells |
|
|
Kells |
24 hours |
|
Crossakeel |
Station open for 2 hours 3 days a week depending on rostered tours of duty |
|
Athboy |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Oldcastle |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Nobber |
Open 4 Mornings weekly between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. depending on rostered tours of duty |
|
District: Trim |
|
|
Trim |
24 hours |
|
Kilmessan |
Opened at various hours depending on the rostered tour of duty of the members attached to the Station |
|
Summerhill |
Opened at various hours depending on the rostered tour of duty of the members attached to the Station |
|
Longwood |
Opened at various hours depending on the rostered tour of duty of the members attached to the Station |
|
Enfield |
2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Friday & 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday and Sunday |
|
Ballivor |
Opened at various hours depending on the rostered tour of duty of the members attached to the Station |
|
District: Ashbourne |
|
|
Ashbourne |
24 hours |
|
Dunboyne |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Dunshaughlin |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Kilcock |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
District: Balbriggan |
|
|
Balbriggan |
24 hours |
|
Skerries |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
Lusk |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
Rush |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
Garristown |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday & 12 midday to 1 p.m. Sunday |
|
District: Navan |
|
|
Navan |
24 hours |
|
Ardee |
10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m. and 7 p.m. 8 p.m. Monday, 9.30 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, 1 p.m. to 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday, 10 a.m. to 12 noon Friday and Saturday |
|
Collon |
Opened at various hours depending on the rostered tour of duty of the members attached to the Station |
|
Duleek |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mon to Saturday 12 noon to 1 p.m. Sundays |
|
Slane |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mon to Saturday 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sundays |
|
Carlow/Kildare |
|
|
District: Naas |
|
|
Naas |
24 hours |
|
Celbridge |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday |
|
Clane |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 noon to 2 p.m. on Sundays |
|
Kill |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday to Sunday |
|
Maynooth |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday to Saturday and 12 noon to 2 p.m. on Sundays |
|
District: Kildare |
|
|
Kildare |
24 hours |
|
Robertstown |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Kilcullen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Monasterevan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Newbridge |
24 hour |
|
Rathangan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Carbury |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
District: Carlow |
|
|
Carlow |
24 hours |
|
Leighlinbridge |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. 6 p.m.-7.30 p.m. daily |
|
Ballon |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. 6 p.m.-7.30 p.m. daily |
|
Myshall |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. 6 p.m.-7.30 p.m. daily |
|
Muinebheag |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. 6 p.m.-7.30 p.m. daily |
|
Athy |
9 a.m.-10 a.m. daily |
|
Castledermot |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. 6 p.m.-7.30 p.m. daily |
|
District: Baltinglass |
|
|
Baltinglass |
24 hours |
|
Blessington |
Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sun 11 am-1 p.m. |
|
Dunlavin |
Mon-Sat 3 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Hollywood |
Mon-Sat 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. |
|
Donard |
Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Shillelagh |
Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Tinahely |
Mon-Sat 3 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Hacketstown |
Mon-Sat 11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Rathvilly |
Mon-Sat 3 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Ballymore Eustace |
Mon-Sat 2 p.m.-4 p.m. |
|
Tullow |
Mon-Sat 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Sun 11 am-1 p.m. |
|
Ballytore |
Mon Wed Sat 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Tue 3 p.m. 5 p.m. |
|
Laois/Offaly |
|
|
District: Portlaoise |
|
|
Portlaoise |
24 hours |
|
Mountmellick |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. mon to Sat 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Sun |
|
Mountrath |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. mon to Sat 12 p.m.-1 p.m. Sun |
|
Portarlington |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. 8 p.m.-9 p.m. daily |
|
Stradbally |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. daily When Possible |
|
Clonaslee |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. daily When Possible |
|
District: Abbeyleix |
|
|
Abbeyleix |
24 hours |
|
Ballacolla |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Durrow |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Rathdowney |
9 a.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Ballylinan |
9 a.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Arles |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Ballinakill |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Borris-On-Ossory |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
District: Birr |
|
|
Birr |
24 hours |
|
Banagher |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Cloghan |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Ferbane |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Kilcormac |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Kinnitty |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Shinrone |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Shannonbridge |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Lorrha |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
District: Tullamore |
|
|
Tullamore |
24 hours |
|
Clara |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Clonbologue |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Daingean |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Edenderry |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Rhode |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Geashill |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Longford/Westmeath |
|
|
District: Mullingar |
|
|
Mullingar |
24 hours |
|
Killucan |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Kinnegad |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Rochfortbridge |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Castletown Geoghegan |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Delvin |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
District: Athlone |
|
|
Athlone |
24 hours |
|
Ballinahown |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Ballymore |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Glasson |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Kilbeggan |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Moate |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Ballymahon |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
District: Longford |
|
|
Longford |
24 hours |
|
Ardagh |
3 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Drumlish |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Kenagh |
3 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Newtowncashel |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Lanesboro |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Tarmonbarry |
3 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
District: Granard |
|
|
Granard |
24 hours |
|
Ballinalee |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Edgeworthstown |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Smear |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Ballynacargy |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Castlepollard |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Multyfarnham |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Rathowen |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
SOUTH EASTERN REGION |
|
|
Wicklow/Wexford |
|
|
District: Wexford |
|
|
Wexford |
24 hours |
|
Taghmon |
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and 6 p.m.-2 am daily |
|
Baldwinstown |
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and 6 p.m.-2 am daily |
|
Castlebridge |
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and 6 p.m.-2 am daily |
|
Kilmore Quay |
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and 6 p.m.-2 am daily |
|
Glynn |
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and 6 p.m.-2 am daily |
|
Rosslare Strand |
10 a.m.-6 p.m. and 6 p.m.-2 am daily |
|
Rosslare Pier |
6 a.m.-2 p.m. |
|
District: Gorey |
|
|
Gorey |
24 hours |
|
Bunclody |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. and 6 p.m.-7 p.m. daily |
|
Courtown Harbour |
10 a.m.-2 p.m. |
|
Arklow |
24 hours |
|
Carnew |
10 a.m.-2 p.m. |
|
District: Enniscorthy |
|
|
Enniscorthy |
24 hours |
|
Blackwater |
2 p.m.-4 p.m. |
|
Ferns |
11 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Kiltealy |
4 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Oylegate |
10 a.m.-11 am |
|
Oulart |
4 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Clonroche |
2 p.m.-3 p.m. |
|
District: New Ross |
|
|
New Ross |
24 hours |
|
Ballycullane |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Carrick-on-Bannow |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Duncannon |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Carrickbyrne |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Campile |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
District: Wicklow |
|
|
Wicklow |
24 hours |
|
Ashford |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Rathdrum |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Newtownmount-kennedy |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Avoca |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Roundwood |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Aughrim |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Waterford/Kilkenny |
|
|
District: Waterford |
|
|
Waterford |
24 hours |
|
Dunmore East |
1 hour per day |
|
Ferrybank |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. |
|
Passage East |
1 hour per day |
|
Mooncoin |
1 hour per day |
|
Glenmore |
1 hour per day |
|
Kilmacow |
1 hour per day |
|
District: Dungarvan |
|
|
Dungarvan |
24 hours |
|
Cappoquin |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday to Friday and 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. Sunday |
|
Tallow |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday to Friday and 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. Sunday |
|
Ballymacarberry |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday to Friday and 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. Sunday |
|
Aglish |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday to Friday and 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. Sunday |
|
Ring |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday to Friday and 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. Sunday |
|
Lismore |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Monday to Friday and 12.30 p.m.-1.30 p.m. Sunday |
|
District: Tramore |
|
|
Tramore |
24 hours |
|
Kill |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. when member is rostered early |
|
Kilmacthomas |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. daily |
|
Kilmeaden |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. when member is rostered early |
|
Portlaw |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. when member is rostered early |
|
Rathgormack |
if possible |
|
Leamybrien |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. when member is rostered early |
|
District: Kilkenny |
|
|
Kilkenny |
24 hours |
|
Freshford |
10 a.m. 1 p.m. Mon to Sat |
|
Callan |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mon to Fri . |
|
Castlecomer |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mon to Sat |
|
Ballyragget |
10 a.m. 1 p.m. Mon to Sat |
|
Goresbriddge |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
District: Thomastown |
|
|
Thomastown |
24 hours |
|
Bennetsbridge |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Graiguenamanagh |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Stonyford |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Ballyhale |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Inistioge |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Kilmoganny |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Mullinavat |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Borris |
4.30 p.m. 5.30 p.m. daily |
|
Tipperary |
|
|
District: Thurles |
|
|
Thurles |
24 hours |
|
Ballingarry South |
1 hour daily |
|
Holycross |
1 hour daily |
|
Killenaule |
1 hour daily |
|
Ballinure |
Not Opened |
|
Johnstown |
1 hour for each tour of duty |
|
Urlingford |
1 hour daily |
|
Littleton |
1 hour daily |
|
G.C.V.U. |
N/A |
|
District: Clonmel |
|
|
Clonmel |
24 hours |
|
Kilsheelan |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Mullinahone |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Grangemockler |
1 hour daily |
|
Fethard |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. or 2 p.m.-5 p.m. |
|
Carrick-On-Suir |
9 a.m.-1 p.m. 2 p.m.-6 p.m. and 7 p.m.-10 p.m. |
|
Piltown |
10 a.m.-12 p.m. |
|
District: Cahir |
|
|
Cahir |
24 hours |
|
Ardfinnan |
3 hours per day |
|
Ballyporeen |
3 hours per day |
|
New Inn |
3 hours per day |
|
Cashel |
9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily |
|
Clogheen |
3 hours per day |
|
District: Nenagh |
|
|
Nenagh |
24 hours |
|
Ballingarry North |
1 hour daily |
|
Borrisokane |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. daily |
|
Cloughjordan |
1 hour daily |
|
Dolla |
1 hour daily |
|
Portroe |
1 hour daily |
|
Toomevara |
1 hour daily |
|
Terryglass/Ballinderry |
1 hour daily |
|
District: Templemore |
|
|
Templemore |
24 hours |
|
Templetuohy |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. Mon to sat and 12 p.m. -2 p.m. Sun |
|
Roscrea |
24 hours |
|
Moyne |
10 a.m.-1 p.m. or 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. |
|
Templederry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m.-2 p.m. daily |
|
Borrisoleigh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m.-2 p.m. daily |
|
Shevry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m.-2 p.m. daily |
|
Moneygall |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 12 p.m.-2 p.m. daily |
|
District: Tipperary Town |
|
|
Tipperary Town |
24 hours |
|
Dundrum |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
Emly |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
Golden |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
Cappawhite |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
Bansha |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
Oola |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
Doon |
Opened at various hours depending on the rostered tour of duty of the members attached to the Station |
|
Galbally |
9 a.m. to 11 am. and 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. |
|
SOUTHERN REGION |
|
|
Cork City |
|
|
District: Anglesea Street |
|
|
Anglesea Street |
24 hour |
|
Barrack Street |
Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. 10 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Bridewell |
24 hours |
|
Blackrock |
Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
District: Gurranabraher |
|
|
Gurranabraher |
24 hours |
|
Blarney |
Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 1.15 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 6.45 p.m. to 10 p.m. |
|
Ballincollig |
Monday to Friday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Rathduff |
Open 2 hours daily on roster |
|
District: Mayfield |
|
|
Mayfield |
24 hours |
|
McCurtain Street |
No service |
|
Watercourse Road |
Open daily 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Mallow Road |
Not open to Public |
|
District: Togher |
|
|
Togher |
24 hours |
|
Douglas |
Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. |
|
Bishopstown |
Monday to Saturday 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday and Bank Holidays 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Carrigaline |
Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday 11 am to 2 p.m. |
|
Passage West |
Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sunday 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. |
|
Crosshaven |
Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Cork North |
|
|
District: Fermoy |
|
|
Fermoy |
24 hours |
|
Mitchelstown |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Ballynoe |
2 hours per day |
|
Kilworth |
2 hours per day |
|
Kildorrery |
2 hours per day |
|
Castletownroche |
2 hours per day |
|
Rathcormack |
2 hours per day |
|
Ballyduff |
2 hours per day |
|
District: Cobh |
|
|
Cobh |
24 hour |
|
Carrig na bhFear |
2 hours per day |
|
Carrigtowohill |
2 hours per day |
|
Glanmire |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Watergrasshill |
2 hours per day |
|
Glenville |
2 hours per day |
|
District: Midleton |
|
|
Midleton |
24 hour |
|
Ardmore |
2 hours per day |
|
Youghal |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Cloyne |
1 hour per day |
|
Whitegate |
1 hour per day |
|
Killeagh |
2 hours per day |
|
Ballycotton |
2 hours per day |
|
District: Mallow |
|
|
Mallow |
24 hour |
|
Buttevant |
2 hours per day |
|
Doneraile |
1 hour per day |
|
Milford |
2 hours per day |
|
Charleville |
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. |
|
Glantane |
1 hour per day |
|
Liscarroll |
2 hours per day |
|
Cork West |
|
|
District: Bandon |
|
|
Bandon |
24 hour |
|
Ballineen |
Opening hours vary |
|
Ballinhassig |
Opening hours vary |
|
Ballinspittle |
Opening hours vary |
|
Ballyfeard |
Opening hours vary |
|
Innishannon |
Opening hours vary |
|
Kilbrittan |
Opening hours vary |
|
Kinsale |
10 a.m. 6 p.m. |
|
Timoleague |
Opening hours vary |
|
District: Bantry |
|
|
Bantry |
24 hour |
|
Adrigole |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ballydehob |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Castletownbere |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Drimoleague |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Durrus |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Glengarrif |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Goleen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kealkil |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Schull |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Clonakilty |
|
|
Clonakilty |
24 hour |
|
Ballygurteen |
1 hour per day |
|
Baltimore |
1 hour per day |
|
Castletownsend |
1 hour per day |
|
Drinagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dunmanway |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Roscarbery |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Skibereen |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
District: Kanturk |
|
|
Kanturk |
24 hour |
|
Ballydesmond |
6.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Not open Sunday |
|
Boherbue |
2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. Not open Sunday |
|
Knocknagree |
3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Not open Sunday |
|
Meelin |
6.30 p.m. to 8.30 p.m. Not open Sunday |
|
Millstreet |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Open Sunday |
|
Newmarket |
10.30 am to 12.30 p.m. Not open Sunday |
|
Rathmore |
2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. Not open Sunday |
|
District: Macroom |
|
|
Macroom |
24 hour |
|
Ballingeary |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am. |
|
Ballyvourney |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am |
|
Coachford |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am |
|
Crookstown |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am |
|
Inchigeela |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am |
|
Stuake |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am |
|
Tarelton |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 2 am |
|
Kerry |
|
|
District: Tralee |
|
|
Tralee |
24 hour |
|
Ardfert |
1 hour each day |
|
Fenit |
1 hour each day |
|
Abbeydorney |
1 hour each day |
|
Dingle |
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. |
|
Clochan |
1 hour each day |
|
Castlegregory |
1 hour each day |
|
Annascaul |
1 hour each day |
|
Ballyferriter |
1 hour each day |
|
Camp |
1 hour each day |
|
District: Caherciveen |
|
|
Caherciveen |
24 hour |
|
Ballinskelligs |
10 hours per week |
|
Valentia Island |
10 hours per week |
|
Glenbeigh |
20 hours per week |
|
Portmagee |
10 hours per week |
|
Killorglin |
48 hours per week |
|
Waterville |
20 hours per week |
|
Sneem |
20 hours per week |
|
Castlemaine |
10 hours per week |
|
District: Killarney |
|
|
Killarney |
24 hour |
|
Kilgarvan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kenmare |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Castleisland |
9.30 am to 5.30 am |
|
Farranfore |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Barraduff |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Beaufort |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Lauragh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Listowel |
|
|
Listowel |
24 hour |
|
Ballyheigue |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Ballylongford |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Ballybunion |
Open 48 Hours per week |
|
Ballyduff |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Brosna |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Knocknagoshall |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Lixnaw |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Moyvane |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Tarbert |
Open 10 hours per week |
|
Limerick |
|
|
District: Henry Street |
|
|
Henry St |
24 hour |
|
Mary St |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Castleconnell |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Ardnacrusha |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Mayorstone Pk. |
Monday to Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sundays-3 Relief System |
|
District: Roxboro Road |
|
|
Roxboro Rd |
24 hour |
|
Patrickswell |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Ballyneety |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Caherconlish |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
District: Askeaton |
|
|
Askeaton |
24 hour |
|
Adare |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Pallaskenry |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Croom |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Foynes |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Glin |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Shanagolden |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Rathkeale |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
District: Bruff |
|
|
Bruff |
24 hour |
|
Kilfinane |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Ballylanders |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Hospital |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Bruree |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Kilmallock |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Pallas |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Cappamore |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Murroe |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
District: Newcastlewest |
|
|
Newcastlewest |
24 hour |
|
Dromcollogher |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Abbeyfeale |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Ballingarry |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Tournafulla |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Athea |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Kilmeedy |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
Castletown |
Open less than 30 hours per week |
|
WESTERN REGION |
|
|
Clare |
|
|
District: Ennis |
|
|
Ennis |
24 hour |
|
Crusheen |
2 hours 3 Days per week |
|
Lissycasey |
2 hours 3 Days per week |
|
Newmarket On Fergus |
2 hours 3 Days per week |
|
Quin |
2 hours 3 Days per week |
|
Shannon |
24 hour |
|
Sixmilebridge |
10 a.m. to 12 p.m. 4 Days a Week |
|
District: Kilrush |
|
|
Kilrush |
24 hour |
|
Carrigaholt |
2 hours 2 Days per week |
|
Doonbeg |
2 hours 2 Days per week |
|
Kilmihil |
2 hours 2 Days per week |
|
Labasheeda |
2 hours 2 Days per week |
|
Kildysart |
2 hours 2 Days per week |
|
Kilkee |
2 hours 2 Days per week |
|
District: Killaloe |
|
|
Killaloe |
24 hours |
|
Broadford |
2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. |
|
Newport |
10.30 am 12.30 p.m. |
|
Scariff |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Mountshannon |
7 p.m. and 8 p.m. daily |
|
Tulla |
2.30 p.m. to 4.30 p.m. |
|
Rearcross |
2.30 p.m.-4.30 p.m. |
|
District: Ennistymon |
|
|
Ennistymon |
24 hours |
|
Ballyvaughan |
10 a.m. to 12 midday |
|
Corofin |
10 a.m. to 12 midday |
|
Inagh |
10 a.m. to 12 midday |
|
Lahinch |
10 a.m. to 12 midday |
|
Lisdoonvarna |
10 a.m. to 12 midday |
|
Miltown Malbay |
10 a.m. to 12 midday |
|
Galway West |
|
|
District: Galway |
|
|
Galway |
24 hour |
|
Oranmore |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Carndolla |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Lough George |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Headford |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Athenry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Monivea |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kiltullagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Clifden |
|
|
Clifden |
24 hour |
|
Recess |
3 hours daily |
|
Letterfrack |
3 hours daily |
|
Lennaun |
3 hours daily |
|
Carna |
3 hours daily |
|
Mam |
3 hours daily |
|
Roundstone |
3 hours daily |
|
District: Loughrea |
|
|
Loughrea |
24 hour |
|
Tynagh |
11.30 am to 12.30 p.m. daily |
|
Killimor |
1.30 p.m. to 3.30 p.m. |
|
Woodford |
10 a.m. to 11 am daily |
|
New Inn |
2.30 p.m. 3 p.m. daily |
|
Eyrecourt |
4 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily |
|
Portumna |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. daily |
|
Kilrickle |
4 p.m. to 5 p.m. daily |
|
District: Salthill |
|
|
Uachtarard |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Moycullen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Carraroe |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ros Muc |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Inverin |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Spiddle |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Leitir Mor |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Salthill |
24 hour |
|
Cill Ronain |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Gort |
|
|
Gort |
24 hour |
|
Ardrahan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Craughwell |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kinvara |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Peterswell |
|
|
Kilchreest |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kilcolgan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Shanaglish |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Roscommon/Galway East |
|
|
District: Roscommon |
|
|
Roscommon |
24 hour |
|
Athleague |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Knockcroghery |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Strokestown |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Ballyforan |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Creggs |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Ballygar |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
District: Ballinasloe |
|
|
Ballinasloe |
24 hour |
|
Ahascragh |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Kilconnel |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Kiltormer |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Menlough |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Mountbellew |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Taughmaconnel |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Clonark |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Moylough |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
District: Boyle |
|
|
Boyle |
24 hour |
|
Ballyfarnan |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Cootehall |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Elphin |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Frenchpark |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Keadue |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Tulsk |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
District: Castlerea |
|
|
Castlerea |
24 hour |
|
Ballaghadereen |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Ballinlough |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Loughlynn |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Ballintubber |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Ballymoe |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
District: Tuam |
|
|
Tuam |
24 hour |
|
Williamstown |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Milltown |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Kilconly |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Glenamaddy |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Dunmore |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Corofin |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Barnadearg |
1 to 2 hours daily |
|
Mayo |
|
|
District: Castlebar |
|
|
Castlebar |
24 hour |
|
Ballyvary |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Ballyglass |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Balla |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty. |
|
Partry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Glenisland |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Tourmakeady |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Garda Info Services |
24 hour |
|
District: Ballina |
|
|
Ballina |
24 hour |
|
Killala |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Ballycastle |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. And 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Bonnicconlon |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Crossmolina |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Lahardane |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Enniscrone |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Easkey |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
District: Belmullet |
|
|
Belmullet |
24 hour |
|
Blacksod |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Bellacorrick |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Bangor Erris |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Ballycroy |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Glenamoy |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
District: Claremorris |
|
|
Claremorris |
24 hour |
|
Kilmaine |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Ballindine |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Knock |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Ballinrobe |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Cong |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Shrule |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Hollymount |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
District: Swinford |
|
|
Swinford |
24 hour |
|
Kiltimagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Charlestown |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kilkelly |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or l8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Ballyhaunis |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Foxford |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
District: Westport |
|
|
Westport |
24 hour |
|
Newport |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Achill Sound |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Mulranny |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Louisburgh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
Keel |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. or 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. depending when members are rostered for duty |
|
NORTHERN REGION |
|
|
Sligo/Leitrim |
|
|
District: Sligo |
|
|
Sligo |
24 hour |
|
Collooney |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Skreen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Coolaney |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Cliffoney |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Rosses Point |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Grange |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Ballymote |
|
|
Ballymote |
24 hour |
|
Tubbercurry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Gurteen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Riverstown |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Aclare |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Bunnanadden |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Carrick On Shannon |
|
|
Carrick-on-Shannon |
24 hour |
|
Cloone |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dromod |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Drumshambo |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Keshcarrigan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Mohill |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Roosky |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Manorhamilton |
|
|
Manorhamilton |
24 hour |
|
Kiltyclogher |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Drumkerrin |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kinlough |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Glenfarne |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dromahair |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dowra |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Blacklion |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Donegal |
|
|
District: Letterkenny |
|
|
Letterkenny |
24 hour |
|
Carrigans |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Castlefin |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Brocach |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Newtowncunningham |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Raphoe |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Lifford |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ballybofey |
24 hour |
|
Convoy |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Buncrana |
|
|
Buncrana |
24 hour |
|
Burnfoot |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Carndonagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Clonmanny |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Malin |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Culdaff |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Moville |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Muff |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Milford |
|
|
Milford |
24 hour |
|
Carrigart |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kerrykeel |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kilmacrennan |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Churchill |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dunfanaghy |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Craosloch |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Falcarragh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ramelton |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Rathmullen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Glenties |
|
|
Glenties |
24 hour |
|
Annagry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ardara |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Bunbeag |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Burtonport |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Clougher |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Doochary |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dungloe |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Carrick |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Gleann Cholmcille |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Ballyshannon |
|
|
Ballyshannon |
24 hour |
|
Ballintra |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Bundoran |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Donegal Town |
24 hour |
|
Pettigo |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Dunkineely |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Na Cealla Beaga |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Mountcharles |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Cavan/Monaghan |
|
|
District: Monaghan |
|
|
Monaghan |
24 hour |
|
Clones |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Newbliss |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Clontibret |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Scotstown |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Emyvale |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Smithboro |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Carrickmacross |
|
|
Carrickmacross |
24 hour |
|
Ballybay |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Castleblaney |
24 hour |
|
Shantonagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Corrinshigagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Rockcorry |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Cavan |
|
|
Cavan |
24 hour |
|
Ballinagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Arva |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Stradone |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Redhills |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Kilnaleck |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Finea |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Baileboro |
|
|
Baileboro |
24 hour |
|
Kingscourt |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Mullagh |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Shercock |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Tullyvin |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Virginia |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Cootehill |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ballyjamesduff |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
District: Ballyconnell |
|
|
Ballyconnell |
24 hour |
|
Belturbet |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Swanlinbar |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Killeshandra |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Bawnboy |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Ballinamore |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
|
Carrigallen |
10 a.m. to 1 p.m. |
126 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations equipped with email. [13766/07]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 100 of 4 April 2007 which sets out the position.
127 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the average basic earnings of a prison officer in respect of each year since 2002 to date in 2007; and the average earnings of a prison officer, including overtime. [13767/07]
As the Deputy will be aware, a situation had developed in the Prison Service whereby the capital budget and every other budget within the system was being highly subsidised to fund overtime expenditure.
In order to reverse this wholly unsustainable dependence on overtime, on my appointment I put in place a number of measures including major cutbacks in overtime expenditure and new attendance arrangements. Following prolonged negotiations the POA, in August 2005, accepted a proposal for organisational change eliminating overtime working and introducing new organisational and working arrangements which will provide long term savings to the Exchequer of up to €25m per annum.
Accordingly, while overtime in respect of the Prison Officer grade amounted to €44.3m in 2002, the corresponding figure for overtime and additional hours payments in 2006 amounted to €23.8m. This represents a saving, for this grade of staff, of €20.5m in cash terms. Obviously, this saving would be significantly more in real terms.
The average basic earnings and the average earnings including allowances and overtime of the Prison Officer grade in respect of each year from 2002 to 2006 are as follows:
|
Year |
Average Basic Earnings |
Average earnings including allowances and overtime/additional hours |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2002 |
28,161 |
52,893 |
|
2003 |
30,972 |
57,408 |
|
2004 |
32,372 |
55,201 |
|
2005 |
34,049 |
57,598 |
|
2006 |
35,776 |
59,299 |
As I have stated, following agreement on the Proposal for Organisational Change in the Prison Service in August 2005, overtime was replaced by a system of additional hours based on the concept of "annualised hours". As the roll-out of the new system commenced towards the end of 2005 and continued into 2006, the full year impact will not be felt until 2007. The Deputy should also note that the above figures include year-on-year general round increases under the various National Wage Agreements and awards made under the Benchmarking process.
Finally, the Deputy should note that figures for 2007 have not been included in the table above because one quarter only would not provide a true reflection of Prison Officer earnings relative to 2002-2006 which are shown on a year-on-year basis.
128 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of posts occupied by Gardaí in 2001 that are now occupied by civilians; his plans to fill further such posts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13768/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
129 Mr. Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí that have been reassigned from clerical, administrative or other non-core duties to front-line policing since 2001. [13769/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
130 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Gardaí stationed at Ballymun, Finglas, Santry and Whitehall Garda Station respectively; and the number of Community Gardaí stationed in each of these stations. [13812/07]
I am 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 13,178 following the attestation of 273 new members on Wednesday 14 March, 2007. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) on 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,476 (or over 23%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. The combined strength (all ranks), of both attested Gardaí and recruits in training on 14 March, 2007 was 14,258. Furthermore, I should say that on 19 December, 2006, as part of a package of anti-crime measures, the Government approved the continuation of the existing Garda recruitment programme to achieve a total Garda strength of 15,000. The accelerated intake of approximately 1,100 new recruits per annum into the Garda College will continue until this target is met. The Garda Budget now stands at €1.4 billion, an 11% increase on 2006.
I have been further informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of Ballymun, Finglas, Santry and Whitehall Garda Stations on 31 December, 1997 and on 4 April, 2007 and also the number of Community Gardaí on 4 April, 2007 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Station |
31/12/97 |
4/04/07 |
Community Gardaí 4/04/07 |
|
Ballymun |
57 |
69 |
11 |
|
Whitehall |
45 |
41 |
4 |
|
Santry |
93 |
117 |
3 |
|
Finglas |
76 |
89 |
10 |
Community Policing is a central feature of current policing policy and members of Community policing units are encouraged to engage with the local communities where they are assigned. Current policing policy is predicated on the prevention of 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. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of a quality policing service. All Gardaí have a responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as they arise.
The Deputy will appreciate that, as with any large organisation, on any given day, the overall strength of the organisation may fluctuate due, for example, to retirements, resignations etc.
I should add that it is the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel to and within Divisions. These personnel allocations are determined by a number of factors including demographics, crime trends 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.
131 Mr. Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a timeframe is available as to when a decision will be made on a family reunification application for persons (details supplied) in County Dublin in view of current events in their home country, Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13813/07]
The person in question made an application for Family Reunification under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996 on behalf of his wife and child.
I understand from the Immigration Division of my Department that a decision has been reached in relation to the application in question. The refugee will be informed of the details of the decision shortly.
133 Mr. Callanan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Galway; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13839/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
135 Mr. McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Carlow; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13841/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
141 Mr. Kelly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in Counties Longford and Westmeath; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13847/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
142 Mr. Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the strength of the Garda force employed in County Laois; the number of community Garda by location; the increase in Garda numbers in this division between 1997, 2002 and to date in 2007 and the Garda stations in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13848/07]
I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this information is to hand.
145 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to the application to remain in the State in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13851/07]
I would refer the Deputy to my previous Dáil replies of 27 September 2006, 9 November 2006 and 31 January 2007 in respect of the person concerned.
The position is that the person referred to by the Deputy applied for permission to remain in the State on the basis of parentage of an Irish born child. This application was received by my Department on 28 February 2005 and refused on 7 December 2005.
The deportation order signed by me on 28 October 2003 was never served on the person concerned. My officials will write to him in the immediate future concerning his status in the State.
146 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for naturalisation in the case of persons in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13854/07]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 250 on Tuesday 13 February 2007. The position remains as stated.
147 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to an application for family reunification in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13870/07]
The person in question made a Family Reunification application in respect of his nieces which was refused in July 2004.
At present there are no Family Reunification applications pending in respect of any family members of the person referred to by the Deputy.
148 Mr. O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 84 of 1 February 2007, if the file of the person concerned has been passed on to him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13896/07]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 84 of Thursday, 1st February, 2007 (ref: 3284/07) and the written reply to that Question. The position is unchanged.
149 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that headline crime increased by 12% in 2006 in the Carlow/Kildare division or nearly nine times the national increase; his views on same and whether increased Garda manning has an effect on reducing crime in areas; his further views on whether the Carlow/Kildare division is the worst manned Garda division in the State per head of population; and if he will do anything regarding these serious matters. [13909/07]
The provisional headline crime statistics for 2006, published by the Central Statistics Office in 2006, show that the rate of increase declined from 3% in 2005 to 1.4% in 2006. The quarterly figures for 2006 show a similar encouraging picture, with increases of 10.1% and 0.8% in the first and second quarter respectively and decreases of 1.5% and 3.2% in the third and fourth quarters. The Garda Commissioner has reported that there was an increase in the detection rate in 2006, with the overall detection rate at 40%, compared with rates of 36% in 2003 and 35% in 2004 and 2005.
It is instructive to examine some trends in crime. For example, the crime rate per 1,000 of the population in 1996, the last full year of the Rainbow Government, was 27.8. By contrast, over the period since 2003, the first full year of this Government, using CSO census data and inter-census estimates of population, the crime rate per 1,000 of the population dropped from 26 in 2003 to 24.5 in 2006, with the figures for 2004 and 2005 being 24.5 and 24.8 respectively. The crime rate per 1,000 of the population in 2006 was therefore the lowest in the period of office of this Government, and compares very favourably with the record of the last rainbow Government.
The headline crime figures for the fourth quarter of 2006 show that there has been no increase in the number of robberies of cash and goods in transit, compared with the same quarter in 2005. There were also decreases in the high volume crimes of burglary (down 14.6%) and theft from the person (down 22%). Detections in possession of firearms increased by 34.1%, which I believe contributed to the reduction of 3.4% in discharges of firearms. Detection of possession of drugs for sale or supply has increased by 32.3% . These figures show that the trend in the third quarter of the year continued, and are part of the effect of Operation Anvil.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Gardaí management closely monitors crime trends in each Garda Division. The Gardaí have put in place a series of initiatives within the South Eastern Region, of which the Carlow/Kildare Division forms a part, targeting criminal activity — in particular criminals travelling through the Region and burglary and theft. These initiatives have contributed to similar reductions in headline crime in the Carlow/Kildare Division as have occurred at national level.
I am informed by the Garda authorities, who are responsible for the detailed allocation of resources, that the personnel strength (all ranks) of An Garda Síochána increased to a record 13,178 following the attestation of 273 new members on 14 March, 2007. This compares with a total strength of 10,702 (all ranks) on 30 June, 1997 and represents an increase of 2,476 (or over 23%) in the personnel strength of the Force during that period. I am also informed that the personnel strength of the Carlow/Kildare Division on 31 December 1997 and on 31 March 2007 was 281 and 390 (all ranks) respectively. The next allocation of Probationer Gardaí will take place on 8 June, and the needs of the Carlow/Kildare Division will be fully considered within the context of the overall needs of Garda Divisions throughout the country.
I am further informed that it is expected that the continuing allocation of additional personnel in conjunction with special initiatives targeting criminal activity being introduced by local Garda management under the auspices of Operation Anvil, as well as the constant monitoring of crime trends in the Division by senior and local Garda management, will result in a continued reduction in crime levels.
150 Mr. Stagg asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the information sought under Parliamentary Question No. 484 of 31 January 2007 will be provided. [13915/07]
A reply to Parliamentary Question No. 484 of 31 January, 2007 was issued to the Deputy on 4 April, 2007.
151 Mr. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if original documentation submitted with an application for naturalisation by a person (details supplied) in County Waterford will be returned to them while their application is pending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13935/07]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person concerned was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department on 26 April 2006.
In making an application for naturalisation, applicants are specifically requested that only copies of supporting documentation such as passports, travel documents, etc should be submitted. I am advised by officials in the Citizenship Division that there is no record of any original documentation being received from the applicant in this case.
I will inform the Deputy and the person concerned when I have reached a decision on the application.
152 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for a declaration of death in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13 who disappeared from the Rosslare to Pembroke ferry in September 1994; if such a declaration is expected to be made in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13936/07]
I can inform the Deputy that I have no authority to issue a declaration that a missing person is dead, nor do I have information on the status of any such application that may have been made to the Courts in this regard.
A provision does exist under section 23 of the Coroners Act, 1962 that, where a coroner has reason to believe that a death has occurred in or near his district in such circumstances that an inquest is appropriate but the body is either destroyed or irrecoverable, the Minister may direct that an inquest be held in relation to that death. As far as I am aware no such direction has been sought by a coroner and in the absence of further details I am unable to comment on what application if any this section would have in this case.
153 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the basis on which a memorandum of understanding was concluded between An Garda Síochána and one motor insurance company (details supplied); if the public was made aware of the existence of such a memorandum; if any other insurance company was offered a similar arrangement; the way the accrued savings of €10,000 to the Gardaí arose; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13939/07]
The information sought by the Deputy is being compiled by the Garda authorities. When the information is to hand I will write to the Deputy.
154 Mr. Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to a newspaper report (details supplied) in which it is claimed that an insurance company had been using former and serving gardaí to negotiate early settlement of motor insurance claims and that these former and serving gardaí had the ability to access, source and relay detailed information on road traffic accidents through the Garda computer system and records; if an investigation has been held or is planned into these claims; the steps he is taking to ensure the confidentiality of records in the Garda computer system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13940/07]
I can confirm that the Garda Commissioner has appointed a senior officer at Assistant Commissioner level to investigate these allegations and the Garda Síochána would welcome the receipt of any information that would assist the investigation.
The Commissioner takes his responsibility to safeguard information in the possession of the Gardaí very seriously and every allegation such as this has to be investigated. Anyone found to have been in dereliction of their duty in this regard will be subject to the full rigours of the law.
Serving and former members of the Force are subject to the prohibition on the disclosure of information contained in the Garda Síochána Act 2005. Section 62 of that Act was enacted for the purpose of specifically prohibiting a person who is or was a member of the Garda Síochána or of its civilian staff, from disclosing information obtained in the course of his or her duties. The section provides stiff penalties, fines up to €75,000 and/or up to 7 years imprisonment for conviction on indictment, for persons who contravene its provisions and receive any gift, consideration or advantage as an inducement to disclose any information. These penalties are severe and I believe will act as a real deterrent and cause people to think twice before they consider releasing such information. The provision, in its original draft form, attracted a considerable degree of public controversy during its passage through the Oireachtas on the grounds that it would be unnecessarily restrictive. However, I am satisfied that the section as enacted strikes the right balance and I know that the great majority of members of the force would instinctively support its fundamental policy aspect.
In addition to section 62 of the Garda Síochána Act, serving and former Gardaí are also governed by the provisions of the Official Secrets Act and the Data Protection Acts.
At an operational level, I understand from the Garda Authorities that members' log-on accounts for the Garda Information System (PULSE/ GNIB/FCPS) are disabled upon their retirement. This ensures that they cannot access any of the Garda IT systems.
155 Ms Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason no progress has been made in providing a full closed circuit television system for Finglas Village in view of the fact that it has been promised for the past ten years; and the time scale for the provision of all nine cameras. [13961/07]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 206 of 3rd April 2007 which sets out the position.
156 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the course of studies required for persons working in the security industry following the introduction of legislation by his Department to regulate the industry; the location at which these courses are available; if there are arrangements in place to facilitate people already working in the industry to take these courses, especially for those who live in parts of the country where these are not available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14008/07]
As the Deputy may be aware, the Private Security Authority, PSA, is currently licensing individuals in the Door Supervisor and Security Guarding sectors of the private security industry.
Applicants for a licence in the above sectors must hold a relevant Further Education and Training Awards Council, FETAC, qualification or equivalent. Training is provided nationwide by a number of FETAC accredited training providers, contact details of which can be obtained from the PSA's website at www.psa.gov.ie.
I am informed that, in order to facilitate the large number of individuals working in the industry who require training and to allow sufficient time for employees to obtain the relevant qualification, the Private Security Authority invited employers to enter into training agreements with it. I am further informed that a significant number of companies have taken advantage of this option.
157 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14032/07]
I understand that the Attorney General's Office has advised that the judgement in the case referred to relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act, 1993 and that the question as to whether the judgement has implications for other legislation is under review.
158 Mr. Lowry asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made regarding an application (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14041/07]
I launched the Community-based CCTV Scheme in June 2005, in response to a demonstrated demand from local communities across Ireland for the provision of CCTV systems. The Scheme is designed to provide financial assistance to qualifying local organisations towards meeting the capital costs associated with the establishment of local community CCTV systems.
The Scheme offers both pre-development grants of up to €5,000 to enable qualifying applicants to investigate the need for CCTV in their area and to complete a detailed proposal, and substantive grants of up to €100,000 from my Department to install a CCTV system in their area. In addition, the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs provides successful applicants from RAPID areas with a further grant to a possible maximum of €100,000. Pobal has been engaged to administer the Scheme on behalf of this Department and it carries out thorough assessments of all applications received.
Following the success of the first round of the Scheme I was pleased to advertise a new round of funding in December 2006. Interest in the second round of the Scheme is very high with 50 groups applying for pre-development grants and 27 groups applying for full grant-aid funding, including the applicants referred to by the Deputy.
Pobal are now evaluating all of the proposals and I am informed that they expect to have a substantial number of recommendations ready for submission to my Department around mid-May 2007.
159 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 181 of 5 December 2006, in relation to a person (details supplied) in west Cork who married a citizen of the EU and lodged an application to remain in this State in April 2006, if he will ensure that the letter outlining the various options open to the person referred to in his reply are now sent to them without further delay. [14049/07]
I understand from the Immigration Division of my Department that the letter referred to by the Deputy will issue shortly.
160 Mr. J. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of an application for leave to remain in the State by a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15. [14050/07]
This applicant applied for asylum on 11 August, 1998. Her application was refused and a Deportation Order was made on 5 September, 2003.
The applicant instituted Judicial Review proceedings on 18 December, 2003 challenging the Deportation Order made in respect of her and accordingly, as the matter is sub judice, I do not propose to comment further.
161 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the fact that Gardaí who retired prior to 1992 do not qualify for four types of allowances for time spent working unsocial hours, namely bank holidays, Sunday and Saturday hours, and night time hours, although those who retired later do; the reason for this anomaly; the progress being made in his Department to redress this anomaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14064/07]
Garda superannuation benefits are paid in accordance with the Garda Síochána Pensions Orders and Agreed Reports of the Garda Conciliation Council. Agreed Report 499 provides that members, who were serving on or after 1 January, 1993 would be entitled to a pension, based on unsocial hours allowances earnings with effect from 1 January, 1994. This Agreement, which was agreed with the Garda Representative Bodies, did not make provision in respect of members, who retired prior to 1 January, 1993.
162 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the case of a person (details supplied) who had applied for asylum in 2006 and was rejected by his Department on the basis that they could have sought medical treatment in their country of origin rather than here; if he will re-examine the case in view of the fact that the application was not made on health grounds but on a humanitarian basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14066/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 24 January, 2005 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, she was informed by letter dated 25 August, 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a deportation order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State; leaving the State before an order is made or consenting to the making of a deportation order. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.
This person's case file, including all representations submitted, will be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (Prohibition of Refoulement). I expect the file to be passed to me for decision in due course.
163 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the case of persons (details supplied); if he will grant them a visitor’s visa in the circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14074/07]
The applications referred to by the Deputy were received in the Ukraine on 12th March 2007 and were sent on to the dedicated Visa Office in Moscow for decision.
The decisions of the Visa Officer to refuse the applications were taken on 29th March, 2007. The applications were refused because the Visa Officer could not be satisfied, on the basis of the documentation supplied, that the applicants had demonstrated a sufficient obligation to return home following the visit. In addition it was considered that the applicants' plans were not genuinely short-term in nature.
It is open to the applicants to appeal this decision. Should they opt to do so, the appeal must be submitted within two months of the initial refusal decision. The applications will then be re-examined by an appeals officer in due course.
164 Mr. Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 47 of 22 February 2007, if the National Women’s Strategy has been published; if not, when it will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14083/07]
I can inform the Deputy that the National Women's Strategy will be published very shortly.
165 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether there will be greater problems with flooding in future years as a result of global warming particularly in the town of Enniscorthy, County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13592/07]
166 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the measures with regard to flooding from the River Slaney in Enniscorthy, County Wexford that have been put in place by his Department and the Office of Public Works to address flooding since the last major flood in November 2000; the costs associated with such measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13593/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 165 and 166 together.
While there is a broad consensus among the specific community engaged in research on the matter, that global warming will result in increased frequency and severity of flooding there is at this stage no specific guidance on the likely extent of the impact or on how it will vary between different regions.
The Office of Public Works therefore, in designing flood relief schemes, design for the present climate condition but use measures that can be easily and economically altered for climate change, if and when it should occur. These measures include building foundations of sufficient strength to allow for wall heights to be increased and similarly, embankment footprints are selected with a view to having the embankments heightened, if so required.
With regard to Enniscorthy, the Office of Public Works carried out a Feasibility Study to examine the viability of implementing a flood relief scheme in the town. This study considered various options and was overseen by a Steering Committee comprising officials from OPW, Wexford County Council and Enniscorthy Town Council. An Environmental Impact Study was also commissioned and copies of the "Draft Feasibility Report" together with a "Draft Environmental Options Report" have been forwarded to the local authorities for consideration. A meeting of the Steering Committee is currently being arranged to discuss the recommendations of these reports and to agree the final format. A decision will then be taken as to whether the preferred flood relief option will be proceeded with which will involve the preparation of a full Environmental Impact Statement for the preferred option and preparation of documents to take the scheme to Public Exhibition.
167 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Finance when he expects the introduction of a prohibition on credit card providers from raising credit limits except at the request of the customer; the reasons for the delay of same; and the interim measures that have been taken to raise consumer awareness and reduce vulnerability to this practice. [13619/07]
The Financial Regulator issued its Consumer Protection Code in August 2006. The Code comprises a number of general principles and some more detailed requirements specific to particular financial sectors. The general principles came into effect immediately. Since the introduction of the Code the Financial Regulator has been engaged in a programme to roll out the Code to industry.
One of the requirements of the Code states that:
"A regulated entity may only increase a consumer's credit card limit following a request from the consumer."
The provision in question will come into effect on 1 July 2007.
Since the Financial Regulator was established, it has been working to inform consumers about the risks of credit card debt. On 29 March this year, it commenced a new credit card campaign, highlighting the implications of using credit cards to meet longer term borrowing requirements. The Financial Regulator has also produced a booklet on credit cards and has conducted and published the results of a number of credit card cost surveys. These surveys compare the interest rates and charges on cards in the Irish market and provide consumers with the information to select the card that suits them best.
As part of a wider project to improve the transparency of financial products, the Financial Regulator is currently examining credit card statements to assess the adequacy and usefulness of the information contained in them.
168 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the time-scale for the building of the new Garda stations in Finglas and Ballymun. [13969/07]
The Commissioners of Public Works expect to place a contract very soon for the construction of the new Garda Station at Finglas. The anticipated completion date is the end of 2008.
The contract for the construction of a new Garda Station in Ballymun was placed in October, 2006. The project is on programme for completion at the end of 2007.
169 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Finance if there are proposals and funding being made available for the upgrading of the Magazine Fort in the Phoenix Park; and if so, the timescale and amount that is proposed. [13546/07]
The Office of Public Works wishes to develop and restore the Magazine Fort in the Phoenix Park at a future date. A proposal has been received relating to the use of the Fort but no definitive decision has been made as to the nature of any future restoration, bearing in mind the status of the Phoenix Park as a National Historic Park and no funding is yet in place.
170 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works has responsibility for the river wall (details supplied) in Dublin 3; if the OPW has responsibility for the now collapsing railings set in the river wall; if the OPW has agreed to replace these railings at the rear of just four houses; and if this matter will be reinvestigated and the work carried out. [13559/07]
The Office of Public Works is carrying out the works on the River Tolka in the Dublin City area in conjunction with Dublin City Council. The City Council is the Authority dealing directly with the public on any issues arising. Major emergency work was previously undertaken in this general area to the flood defences which required work to attached railings. The information to hand in OPW is that there are no problems with the flood defences in this particular area and so any issues with connecting railings would be a matter for the affected property owners. However, my Officials have brought the matter to the attention of the relevant Officials in Dublin City Council and have asked that the matter be investigated.
171 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance his plans to tax aviation fuel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13606/07]
Aviation fuel is currently exempt from taxation on international air travel under the terms of the 1944 Chicago Convention, which still governs much of international aviation regulation, and to date there has been no consensus among governments on introducing an international jet kerosene tax.
172 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance the names and addresses of those authorised as moneylenders within the State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13607/07]
Fifty licences were issued by the Financial Regulator to moneylenders under Section 93 of the Consumer Credit Act 1995 for the current year. The Financial Regulator does not collate this information on a county by county basis. However, my Department has arranged for the Deputy to be forwarded a copy of the Financial Regulator's register of moneylenders which provides details of the business addresses and the applicable Court Districts Number of each licencee. This information is also publicly available from the Financial Regulator, including the Regulator's website www.financialregulator.ie.
173 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance the reason VAT is charged on the public service obligation for energy providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13608/07]
The position is that the application of VAT to goods and services is subject to the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. The method through which VAT must be calculated has been transposed from the VAT Directive by section 10 of the Value Added Tax Act 1972 as follows;
"...the total consideration which the person supplying goods or services becomes entitled to receive in respect of or in relation to such supply of goods or services, including all taxes, commissions, costs and charges whatsoever, but not including value-added tax chargeable in respect of the supply".
Any standing charges included in utility bills are therefore legally subject to VAT.
174 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance the number of people in his Department who have been constructively dismissed in the past five years. [13609/07]
A total of 3 staff members of my Department were dismissed in the last five years in accordance with Civil Service rules and regulations. No case of constructive dismissal has been brought against my Department.
175 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance his Department plans to allow regular bus traffic to use the Phoenix Park, in view of the fact that it is used daily by thousands of commuter cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13610/07]
The introduction of public transport in the Phoenix Park was among the recommendations of the Phoenix Park Transportation Study of 2006. Discussions with Dublin Bus are taking place about a bus route running through the Park from Parkgate Street to Castleknock Gate with stops along Chesterfield Avenue
176 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance his views on eliminating or reducing the rate of value added tax on condoms and other prophylactics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13611/07]
The position is that the scope for reducing or removing the VAT rate applicable to any good or service is determined under EU VAT law, with which Irish law must comply. It is not possible under EU law to introduce new zero rates of VAT, as we can only retain the zero rating that was in existence on 1 January 1991. Therefore it would not be possible to apply the zero rate of VAT to condoms.
However, Member States are permitted to apply the reduced VAT rate to goods or services listed in Annex III of the EU VAT Directive. In Ireland the reduced VAT rate is 13.5%. Certain pharmaceutical products including condoms are included in Annex III.
In any event, if there was a reduction in the rate of VAT applying to condoms, I am not convinced, given the mark ups in the sector, that any rate reduction would necessarily be fully reflected in retail prices for condoms.
177 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Finance if information from the Office of Public Works has been sent to a local authority; and if a copy of that information will be provided to this Deputy. [13692/07]
Information on the condition of the channel of the River Deel prior to the development in question is being provided by the Local Authority.
The area where the development took place is not within the OPW maintainable channel and the information held by the OPW is therefore limited.
A copy of the information provided to the Council will be provided to the Deputy.
178 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. [13754/07]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that it is expected that all of the work required will be completed in June so that Revenue staff can occupy the building in Listowel. Once the building is ready for occupation Revenue will be in a position to commence the move of staff without delay.
179 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the yield in 2006 from stamp duty on residential properties paid at each stamp duty rate, distinguishing between amounts paid by first-time buyers and other buyers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13783/07]
180 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the yield in 2006 from stamp duty on residential properties paid by owner-occupiers at each stamp duty rate, distinguishing between amounts paid by first-time buyers and other buyers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13784/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 179 and 180 together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the available information with regard to the yield in 2006 from stamp duty on residential properties broken down by reference to the consideration price bands corresponding to the rates of stamp duty, and between first-time buyers and other buyers, is set out in the following table. It is not possible to distinguish owner-occupiers from other buyers, excluding first-time buyers, as the same rates of stamp duty apply and the yield relating to both are included together as "Other" in the table.
|
Consideration Price Bands: |
Stamp Duty Yield from sales of Residential Property |
Stamp Duty Yield where First-Time Buyer Relief applied* |
Stamp Duty Yield — Other Buyers |
|
€ million |
€ million |
€ million |
|
|
€127,001-€190,500 |
52.9 |
Negligible |
52.9 |
|
€190,501-€254,000 |
98.2 |
0.3 |
97.9 |
|
€254,001-€317,500 |
114 |
0.4 |
113.6 |
|
€317,501-€381,000 |
153.4 |
25.9 |
127.5 |
|
€381,001-€635,000 |
339.2 |
39.6 |
299.6 |
|
Over €635,000 |
543.1 |
— |
543.1 |
*First-time buyers are identifiable where they have qualified for the first-time buyer relief and paid stamp duty at a lower rate than other buyers. As stamp duty rates for property transactions exceeding €635,000 (on or after 2 December 2004) were the same for all residential purchasers, it is not possible to distinguish first time buyer transactions in excess of these values.
The figures provided in the table are based on the yield arising from transaction documents stamped at any time during 2006. The total yield accounted for in this way does not coincide entirely with other figures supplied for the total yield from residential property which are based on cash receipts brought to account in a year.
181 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the capital spending across all programmes allocated to the Border Midland Western region in respect of the National Development Plan 2000 to 2006; the amount actually spent; if he will give in each case the percentage this represents of the total notational allocation and spending; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13785/07]
The National Development Plan/Community Support Framework (NDP/ CSF) 2000-2006 is an integrated investment plan and strategy for economic and social development for Ireland. The Plan is delivered through seven Operational Programmes (OPs), the Economic and Social Infrastructure OP, the Employment and Human Resources OP, the Productive Sector OP, the Southern and Eastern (S&E) Regional OP, Border, Midland and Western (BMW) Regional OP, the PEACE OP and the Technical Assistance OP.
Under the National Development Plan/Community Support Framework 2000-2006 the total amount allocated to the Border, Midlands and Western region is €18.2 billion of which €14.5 billion is Exchequer and EU spending.
The most recent information for capital expenditure in the BMW Region is from the December 2006 reports to the NDP/CSF Monitoring Committee which relate to the period January 2000 to end June 2006. The table below sets out the BMW Region capital expenditure to end June 2006 for the ESIOP, EHRDOP and the BMW Regional OP.
Information in relation to capital expenditure under the Productive Sector Operational Programme and the PEACE Operational Programme is currently being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy in due course.
|
Original Forecast |
Total Capital Expenditure |
% of capital expenditure as compared to original forecast |
|
|
€ (Millions) |
€ (Millions) |
% |
|
|
ESIOP |
7,069 |
5,866 |
83 |
|
EHRDOP |
628 |
865 |
138 |
|
PSOP* |
See comment below |
||
|
BMW OP |
4,100 |
2,060 |
50 |
|
PEACE OP* |
See comment below |
||
|
Technical Assistance |
0 |
0 |
0 |
*Information in relation to capital expenditure under the Productive Sector Operational Programme and the PEACE Operational Programme is currently being compiled.
Further information in relation to capital expenditure across all programmes will become available when data is analysed following the spring 2007 meetings of the Operational Programmes Monitoring Committees in the April/May period.
The final position on capital expenditure across all programmes will not be available until expenditure under the Plan is completed in 2008, as provided for under EU rules.
182 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the number and percentage of income earners who paid tax at the higher rate and the standard rate in respect of each year since 2002 to date in 2007. [13786/07]
183 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the expected distribution of income earners for income tax payments for 2007, broken down in number and percentage terms into the categories of exempt, marginal relief, standard rate and higher rate; the comparative figures for each year since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13787/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 182 and 183 together.
The information requested by the Deputy in a format which presents the data in terms of the effective tax rates actually paid by taxpayers is set out in the following table. This is the same format as used for the presentation of pre-Budget 2007 and post-Budget 2007 distributions of earners in the 2007 Budget booklet.
|
Tax Year |
Exempt(1) |
Paying at 20% or less(2) |
Paying at greater than 20% |
Total |
|
2002 |
632,70033.56% |
907,40048.14% |
344,90018.30% |
1,885,000 |
|
2003 |
649,30033.69% |
894,30046.40% |
383,60019.91% |
1,927,200 |
|
2004* |
677,10033.97% |
878,20044.06% |
437,90021.97% |
1,993,200 |
|
2005* |
732,40035.11% |
895,70042.94% |
458,00021.95% |
2,086,100 |
|
2006* |
776,10035.92% |
937,70043.40% |
446,70020.68% |
2,160,500 |
|
2007* |
845,90038.19% |
930,60042.02% |
438,20019.79% |
2,214,700 |
Notes
(1)Standard rate liability fully covered by tax credits or Age Exemption limits.
(2)Higher rate tax liability fully covered by tax credits and includes those who face a gross liability for tax at the marginal relief rate of taxation.
*Figures for these years are provisional and subject to revision.
Figures in the table are rounded to the nearest hundred and any apparent discrepancies in totals are due to this.
The figures for the years 2002 and 2003 are based on incomes data derived from income tax returns held on Revenue records and have been grossed-up to an overall expected level to adjust for incompleteness in the numbers of returns on record at the time the data was extracted for analytical purposes.
For the years 2004 to-date, the figures are estimates from the Revenue tax forecasting model using actual data for the year 2003 adjusted as necessary for income and employment growth for the years in question.
It should be noted that a married couple who has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.
184 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the average amount of income tax paid by a PAYE employee, a self employed person and a farmer in respect of each year since 2002 to date in 2007. [13788/07]
Figures of the average amount of income tax paid in the categories mentioned by the Deputy in each of the years 2002 to 2006 inclusive, the latter year being the latest year for which the necessary detailed information is available, are set out as follows:
|
Year |
(a) PAYE |
(b) Farmers |
(c) Other Self-employed |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2002 |
4,008 |
1,956 (i) |
10,210 (i) |
|
1,829 (ii) |
9,592 (ii) |
||
|
2003 |
4,180 |
1,833 (i) |
8,154 (i) |
|
1,693 (ii) |
6,911 (ii) |
||
|
2004* |
4,549 |
1,507 (i) |
11,070 (i) |
|
1,161 (ii) |
8,100 (ii) |
||
|
2005* |
4,609 |
1,628 (i) |
11,891 (i) |
|
1,343 (ii) |
9,662 (ii) |
||
|
2006* |
4,826 |
1,523 (i) |
11,871 (i) |
|
1,456 (ii) |
11,394 (ii) |
* Figures for these years are provisional and subject to revision.
Figures at (i) include yield from special Revenue investigations relating to bogus non-resident accounts, offshore accounts and single premium insurance products (where applicable), and figures at (ii) exclude these amounts.
The amounts paid by each sector must be seen in the context of the relative numbers of taxpayers in the PAYE and self-employed (including farming) sectors.
Notes on table
(a)PAYE figures
(i)Income tax collected through the PAYE mechanism covers more than income tax on ordinary wages and salaries. It includes tax paid by directors of close companies who are akin to the self-employed as well as tax on "other income" of employees such as rent and other investment income. It also includes the tax paid under PAYE on the income from employment of farmers and other self-employed individuals.
(ii)The average tax payment for each year in column (a) is obtained by dividing the net receipt of PAYE tax in each calendar year by the total number of income earners on the PAYE tax record for the corresponding income tax year including those who are exempt from tax.
(b)Farming figures
(i)In calculating the figures in this column the estimated net receipt of income tax paid by full-time farmers in each calendar year has been divided by the number of full-time farming tax units assessed to tax for the income tax year corresponding to the calendar year e.g. the 2002 receipt is divided by the number assessed for the income tax year 2002. These numbers exclude cases who are not required to file annual tax returns and whose position is reviewed periodically because their incomes are clearly too low to attract a tax liability on an individual basis.
(ii)The figures for averages do not take into account the tax attributable to the farming profits of farmers who, or whose spouses, carry on another trade or profession. Farm tax represents a fraction of their overall tax liability and the emerging average farm tax payments could not be regarded as representative of the normal average tax yield from the farming sector.
(iii)Income tax on farming profits is collected with Schedule D tax generally and because of this it cannot be precisely distinguished. Accordingly, the figures shown for tax payments by farmers are estimated.
(c)Other Self-employed figures
(i)The figures contained in this column are obtained by dividing the estimated net receipt of income tax in each calendar year from tax units whose main source of income is from self-employment, other than full-time farming, by the estimated number of those units assessed to tax for the corresponding income tax year as explained in note (i) for column (b).
These numbers exclude cases who are not required to file annual tax returns and whose position is reviewed periodically because their incomes are clearly too low to attract a tax liability on an individual basis.
General Notes
(i)A married couple who has elected or has been deemed to have elected to have the income of both spouses assessed on the husband is counted as one tax unit.
(ii)Some figures in the columns differ from those given previously. This is due to more accurate information becoming available in the meantime.
(iii)Receipts of deposit interest retention tax and dividend withholding tax are not included in the calculations. Basic data are not available which would enable the amounts of these taxes referable to interest paid or credited to particular classes of taxpayers to be ascertained.
185 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the date of the most recent study by the Revenue Commissioners of tax paid by high earners; the principal findings of that study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13789/07]
The most recent report on the effective tax rates of the top 400 earners was published on 26 June 2006 and covered the tax year 2002.
The main findings of the report were that the numbers in lower effective rate bands for 2002 increased when compared with the 2001 results:
The number of taxpayers with a zero effective rate increased from 5 to 6.
The number of taxpayers with an effective rate of less than 15% increased from 55 to 79.
The number of taxpayers with an effective rate of less than 20% increased from 75 to 95.
The number of taxpayers with an effective rate of less than 30% increased from 115 to 150.
This data underlined the valid reasons for my decision in Budget 2006 to introduce a restriction on the use of tax reliefs by high income individuals, effective from 1 January 2007. This action complemented the various measures taken by the Government since 1997 to curb abuses, curtail reliefs, reinforce equity and restore confidence in the fairness of the tax system.
A copy of the report is available on my Department's website at:
http://www.finance.gov.ie/viewdoc.asp?fn=/ documents/Publications/other/revtop400jun06.htm.
186 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when full restoration works will be undertaken in Connolly’s Folly, Maynooth, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13856/07]
As I outlined in my response to PQ 135 of 8th March, 2007 a contract has been placed for a measured survey and record of Conolly's Folly. Site work related to this survey is scheduled for completion on 6th April and I would expect delivery of the completed survey within two weeks of that date.
187 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he has received requests for the alleviation of flooding at various locations throughout the country with particular reference to locations where such flooding might become a pollution threat; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13863/07]
The Commissioners of Public Works are working with Local Authorities in relation to requests for the alleviation of flooding in several areas throughout the country. While risk of pollution is inevitably a consideration in any situation where flooding occurs, no requests for works have been received based specifically on a pollution threat. In general, the elimination of the source of the pollution where feasible, rather than flood alleviation measures would be a more appropriate response to such risk.
188 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Finance if his Department will assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3 who requires a tax clearance certificate to return to work and who cannot clear their relatively minor tax arrears before returning to work. [13872/07]
It is a fundamental requirement of the tax clearance process that an applicant's tax affairs are in order before a certificate can issue.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, in this case, there are Income Tax payments outstanding for the years 2000-2004 totalling €2,389. Since March 2006, no payments have been made to try and reduce these arrears. In the period since then, there have been contacts with the taxpayer in an effort to agree an instalment arrangement over a period of time to discharge the arrears. However, the taxpayer has not agreed to any of the instalment arrangements that have been proposed.
Therefore, I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that in the absence of a commitment from the applicant to enter into a reasonable arrangement to discharge his arrears, it is not possible to issue a tax clearance certificate in this case.
189 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the position in relation to reports of widespread drainage pipes being installed alongside or in the Tolka River in the Dublin 15 area to facilitate drainage work being proposed by Meath and Kildare County Council; if the Office of Public Works has been consulted regarding this project; the impact on the river of same; the other works proposed in relation to the Tolka River; the steps being taken to ensure the viability of the Tolka as a fishing and amenity river; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13986/07]
The Office of Public Works is not aware of any widespread drainage pipes being installed alongside the Tolka River in the Dublin 15 area. If the Deputy can be more specific I will be happy to clarify OPW's position.
Most of the major works between Dunboyne, Co Meath to the East Wall area of Dublin City have been carried out except the required works in the Mulhuddart area, including the new wall and embankment which will be undertaken this year and the replacement of the bridge which will occur in 2008.
Works are also to be undertaken in the Huntstown area which will include the construction of an embankment and supplementary flood channel alongside and at a higher elevation than the riverbed. This proposed work, currently on public display, will not require any interference with the existing riverbed and has been endorsed by the Central and Eastern Regional Fisheries Board.
It is important to state that the works undertaken on the River Tolka so far will provide not only a greater level of flood protection to properties previously under threat, but will also have the effect of enhancing the river's fishing status. Rehabilitation work has already been carried out on sections of the river with a fish pass soon to be completed at Finglas Weir which will help with the migration of fish upstream, thereby further enhancing the fishing amenities on the river.
190 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance the details of his most recent discussions with the European Commission in relation to the establishment of a common European business tax base; his position in relation to the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13987/07]
As the Deputy is aware, a technical working group, chaired by the EU Commission, is working towards the development of a Common Consolidated Corporate Tax Base (CCCTB). Ireland, along with a number of other Member States, opposes the idea of creating common rules for the calculation of company profits for both principled and practical reasons. That said we are participating in the meetings of the technical working group strictly on a without prejudice basis. In this regard, my officials are in regular contact with the European Commission on its work on a common consolidated corporate tax base.
The Deputy should be aware that a Proposal from the Commission on the CCCTB is not anticipated until 2008 and that no policy decisions have been taken on the project at the level of the Council of Ministers.
191 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Finance his views on reports that the cost of administering the Financial Regulator is running at three times the cost of inflation; if he will address calls from the regulator’s industry panel to review the relationship between the Financial Regulator and the Central Bank; his views on whether the State is getting value for money for the service provided by the regulator; if he will implement a review of procedures in the Financial Regulator; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13988/07]
I presume that Deputy's question refers to the projected increase in Financial Regulator's expenditure for 2007 as compared to its estimated outturn for 2006. This was raised in the Financial Services Industry Consultative Panel's observations on the Financial Regulator's budget for 2007, furnished to my Department in December 2006. The 2007 budget is based on the activities which the Financial Regulator proposes to undertake to achieve the goals detailed in the Strategic Plan 2007 — 2009 published in November 2006. I have been informed by the Chairman of the Regulatory Authority that the increase in the Financial Regulator's budget for 2007 is largely attributable to the objective, noted in the Industry Panel's submission, of filling of its full staff complement of 350 staff in 2007.
The Chairman of the Financial Regulatory Authority has advised me that the Authority views it as a critical part of its role to ensure that a robust annual budgetary process for the Financial Regulator is undertaken and, in addition, that costs are kept under regular review. The budgetary process is, accordingly, conducted under the guidance of a Budget Committee consisting of non-Executive Members of the Authority. The Chairman also pointed out that the Financial Regulator's projected expenditure for 2007 represents an increase of 6.1 per cent as compared to the budgeted figure for 2006 and that staff costs account for about 70 per cent of the Financial Regulator's overall expenditure.
As far as the issue of shared services is concerned, the relationship between the Financial Regulator and the Central Bank derives from the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Act 2003 which established the Financial Regulator. The corporate structure of the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority enables the Financial Regulator and the Central Bank to share the corporate resources and support services of a single organisation. This sharing of resources and services achieves savings by avoiding unnecessary duplication of support services and corporate infrastructure. This structure promotes the highest level of cooperation and communication across the organisation and realises economies of scale through the sharing of services and resources. The Central Bank and the Financial Regulator have confirmed that they are committed to ensuring effective and efficient management of shared corporate and support services.
I understand that the Comptroller and Auditor General is undertaking a value for money examination of the Financial Regulator. The Deputy may wish to note that the Financial Regulator has undertaken to establish an action plan to address any recommendations arising from this report. Finally the Financial Regulator is committed under its Strategic Plan 2007-2009 to the development of a more comprehensive set of indicators which will further enhance the monitoring of all aspects of its performance.
192 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the maximum value of cash which can be transferred to a niece or nephew which is exempt under inheritance tax: when the level was last increased; his plans to increase this threshold; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13990/07]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that for the purposes of both Gift and Inheritance Tax, the relationship between the person who provided the gift or inheritance (i.e. the disponer) and the person who received the gift or inheritance (i.e. the beneficiary), determines the maximum tax-free threshold — known as the "Group threshold". Three Group thresholds were are based on the relationship of the beneficiary to the disponer and these Group thresholds are indexed annually by reference to the Consumer Price Index. The following are the Group thresholds for 2007:
Group A: €496,824 — applies where the beneficiary is a child (including certain foster children) or minor child of a deceased child of the disponer. Parents also fall within this threshold where they take an inheritance from a child.
Group B: €49,682 — applies where the beneficiary is a brother, sister, niece, nephew, or lineal descendant of the disponer.
Group C: €24,841 — applies in all other case.
In relation to the specific question raised by the Deputy, it is important to note that all gifts / inheritances that might have been received by the niece or nephew in question from within the same Group B (i.e. from brothers, sisters, uncles, aunts or grandparents) since 5 December 1991 will also be taken into account when applying the threshold for the purpose of calculating whether any inheritance tax arises. If there have been none, other than "small gifts", then the maximum value of cash, which can be transferred to a niece or nephew, without a liability to Inheritance Tax arising, is €49,682, which is the current Group B threshold.
"Small Gifts" are gifts from any source of less than €3,000 in any one year. These are exempt from Gift/Inheritance tax.
I have no plans to increase the Group B thresholds.
193 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the reply to Parliamentary Question No. 306 of 20 March 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13994/07]
Contracts for Sale have been received from the vendors solicitors and are currently being examined as in the normal process of conveyancing. This process will be completed as quickly as possible.
194 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14029/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the judgement in this case relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act 1993. Whether the judgement has implications for other legislation is under review by the Attorney General. However, the case has no implications for the European Communities Act 1972 and regulations made thereunder or the European Communities Bill 2006, now in the Houses of the Oireachtas.
195 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the number of ports and harbours on the coast of Ireland not constantly monitored by the customs authority with a view to preventing the illegal import of drugs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14047/07]
196 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Finance the work of the customs authority in tackling the importation of illegal drugs into Ireland; the measures that have been put in place in this regard at airports and ports, in particular small ports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14048/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 196 together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that their Customs Service has primary responsibility for the prevention, detection, interception and seizure of controlled drugs intended to be smuggled or illegally imported into the State. The Deputy will be aware of the numerous small ports, harbours, piers, landing points, creeks, etc. that exist along Ireland's long and indented coastline. Revenue has deployed Customs Officers at the following ports throughout the country: Letterkenny, Killybegs, Sligo, Galway, Limerick, Foynes, Tralee, Bantry, Cork, Waterford, Bellview, Rosslare, Arklow, Wicklow, Dublin, Drogheda, Dundalk and Greenore. In respect of airports, there is a permanent Customs presence at Dublin, Cork and Shannon airports. Other smaller ports, airports and coastal areas are monitored by mobile Enforcement units on the basis of risk analysis.
Since the introduction of the Single Market in 1993, Customs Services, taking account of the Internal Market freedom of movement principles, have been required to adapt from a full gatekeeper mode of manning all internal frontiers of the EU to an approach based on intelligence led controls. In this regard Revenue has placed particular emphasis on developing its intelligence base through a strong risk analysis focus at national and regional level and deploying its resources at areas of highest risk. This risk analysis in turn is regularly benchmarked against good practice standards in other jurisdictions at European and global level.
The Customs Drugswatch and Memorandum of Understanding programmes, which are key supports to this work, seek to engage the maritime community and logistics sectors in assisting Customs by reporting suspicious activity on a confidential basis. The work of Customs Officers in detecting drugs is also supported by the deployment of the Revenue Customs Cutter Suirbhéir, a mobile X-ray scanner that can scan freight containers, and detector dog teams. In addition intelligence is exchanged and operations are conducted with other law enforcement agencies both nationally and internationally. The deployment of such resources and the fostering of such intelligence exchange and co-operation are wholly in keeping with Revenue's commitment to the Government's National Drugs Strategy.
Since 1996, Revenue's Customs Service has seized illegal drugs with a total street value of over €470m. Customs Officers have also seized significant amounts of cash that was linked with drug trafficking and other criminal activity.
197 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of employing one nurse, including pension benefits. [13774/07]
198 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of employing one public health nurse, including pension benefits. [13775/07]
199 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of employing one nursing assistant. [13776/07]
200 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost to the State of employing one occupational therapist, including pension benefits. [13777/07]
201 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost to the State of employing one physiotherapist, including pension benefits. [13778/07]
202 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of employing one social worker, including pension benefits. [13779/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 197 to 202, inclusive, together.
The information provided in the tables below gives the cost of employing each grade specified by the Deputy for one year at current pay levels. The figures include basic pay plus employer PRSI. The mid-point of the salary scale for each grade has been used. Premium pay has also been included for a general staff nurse and the specialist qualification allowance for a public health nurse. The request for information on the cost of a nursing assistant has been assumed to mean a health care assistant. The pension cost expressed as a percentage of total lifetime pay cost assumes that staff join at 25 years and work full-time until retirement with 40 years service at age 65 and are female.
|
Mid-point Staff Nurse (General) Salary Scale effective 1/12/2006 |
Premium Pay @ 23% |
Basic Pay + Premium Pay |
Employers PRSI @ 10.75% |
Basic Pay + Premium Pay + Employers PRSI |
Annual % of gross pay required to be set aside to provide sufficient pension benefits after 40 years |
|
€36,981 |
€8,506 |
€45,487 |
€4,890 |
€50,376 |
12.5% |
It should be noted that nurses directly employed in certain specialist areas with specialist qualifications are paid an additional €2,741 per annum while a location payment to nurses engaged in particular duties is €1,825 per annum.
|
Mid-point Public Health Nurse Salary Scale effective 1/12/2006 |
Specialist Qualification Allowance |
Basic Pay + Specialist Qualification Allowance |
Employers PRSI @ 10.75% |
Basic Pay + Specialist Qualification Allowance + Employers PRSI |
Annual % of gross pay required to be set aside to provide sufficient pension benefits after 40 years |
|
€49,224 |
€2,741 |
€51,965 |
€5,586 |
€57,551 |
14.5% |
|
Mid-point Salary Scale Physiotherapist/Occupational Therapist effective 1/12/2006 |
Employers PRSI @ 10.75% |
Basic Pay + Employers PRSI |
Annual % of gross pay required to be set aside to provide sufficient pension benefits after 40 years |
|
€42,918 |
€4,614 |
€47,532 |
14.6% |
|
Mid-point Salary Scale Social Worker (professionally qualified) effective 1/12/2006 |
Employers PRSI @ 10.75% |
Basic Pay + Employers PRSI |
Annual % of gross pay required to be set aside to provide sufficient pension benefits after 40 years |
|
€49,141 |
€5,283 |
€54,424 |
14.6% |
|
Mid-point Salary Scale Health Care Assistant effective 1/12/2006 |
Employers PRSI @ 10.75% |
Basic Pay + Employers PRSI |
Annual % of gross pay required to be set aside to provide sufficient pension benefits after 40 years |
|
€30,067 |
€3,232 |
€33,299 |
9.2% |
203 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a provision made under the increases announced in Budget 2007 for an allocation to ensure the continuity, maintenance and development of a service, if a group (details supplied) in County Cork providing support for women experiencing domestic violence are forced to terminate their service due to lack of funding. [14078/07]
237 Ms O. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to increase the funding to a group (details supplied) in County Cork in view of the valuable work they do in supporting women experiencing domestic violence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13706/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 203 and 237 together.
The Deputy's question relates to the funding, 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.
204 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if contracts will be irreversibly finalised in respect of the provision of private hospitals on public grounds before the imminent General Election; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13505/07]
On foot of a Government decision, I issued a policy direction to the Health Services Executive in July 2005 on the co-location of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals which will result in the provision of an additional 1,000 beds for public patients. It is a matter for the HSE to implement the policy of the Government.
In May 2006, the Health Service Executive published a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union inviting expressions of interest from private consortia wishing to become involved in this initiative. The Health Service Executive are at an advanced stage in a public procurement process in relation to the co-location of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals. I understand that the HSE proposes to issue Invitations To Tender to the shortlisted bidders shortly. Following receipt of the tenders the HSE will evaluate the tenders and select the successful bidders. Following that a "stand still" period of 2 weeks is required by procurement law before agreements can be signed by the HSE with the successful bidders.
205 Mr. Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children if the drug Subutex is approved for the treatment of drug addicts; if not, if it is her intention to use or approve it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13522/07]
I am aware that the drug Subutex (active ingredient buprenorphine) is an alternative choice to methadone in the treatment of opiate dependent addicts. The current position is that Subutex can only be prescribed to opiate users by addiction service consultants in specialist drug treatment clinics, where the prescription and dispensing of Subutex is tightly controlled. Another alternative drug Suboxone (buprenorphine and naloxone combined) was recently granted a European Medicines Agency licence. Its use is currently confined to certain drug treatment clinics. An expert group has been set up in the Department to consider the use of Subutex and the new drug Suboxone as alternative treatments for opiate dependency.
206 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if dental treatment is included under the National Treatment Purchase Fund; if she will include it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13523/07]
The National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) was established to arrange treatment for patients who have been waiting longest on surgical, in-patient waiting lists. Under the provisions of its establishment order, the NTPF currently arranges hospital-based treatment. As dental treatment does not normally require in-patient care, it does not fall currently within the remit of the NTPF.
My Department is in discussions with the NTPF at present in relation to the possible involvement of NTPF in sourcing orthodontic treatment.
207 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if further funding can be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford towards the vital works needed to their home; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13524/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The HSE's responsibility includes the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. 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.
208 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Health and Children the average length of time a patient has to wait to see an occupational therapist; and if there are plans in place to cut the waiting times for occupational therapists in the public service. [13548/07]
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.
Demand for occupational therapy in the health services is very significant, hence the substantial investment which has been provided over the last number of years. The number of occupational therapists employed in the public health service has grown from 288 WTEs in 1997 to 928 WTEs at end December 2006, a growth of 222%. The Government has also committed to further investment in disability services — via the multi-annual investment plan — and in primary care services. These services will see further increases in the occupational therapy resources available.
A particular priority for my Department and the Department of Education and Science in recent years has been the expansion of the supply of therapy graduates, including occupational therapists. Additional courses in occupational therapy were established in three universities. UCC, NUIG and UL each established courses in occupational therapy with an initial intake of 25 places on each of the 3 courses. The UL courses are at masters level and the first cohorts graduated in 2005. The first cohort from the bachelor degree programmes in UCC and NUIG will graduate this year. This investment represents an increase in training capacity of 240% in occupational therapy. The latest information available to my Department indicates that the total number of occupational therapy training places now stands at 120.
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.
209 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children the means testing for home care grants and any changes that may have been made to means testing recently; the amount of home care grants given per region; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13549/07]
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.
210 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the lack of treatment facilities for persons with cystic fibrosis; and when she will address the issue. [13550/07]
211 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the delay in providing a cystic fibrosis unit at St. Vincent’s Hospital; her further views on the lack of funding given to cystic fibrosis generally; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13551/07]
265 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the action taken to date to upgrade the wards, improve hygiene and generally improve the delivery of service to, and health outcomes for cystic fibrosis sufferers at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13967/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 210, 211 and 265 together.
I have identified the enhancement of services for people with cystic fibrosis as a key priority in 2006 and again in 2007. Development funding of €4.78 million was provided to the Health Service Executive in 2006 to facilitate the recruitment of additional medical, nursing and allied health professional staff to improve services for cystic fibrosis patients. Additional funding of €2 million has been allocated this year to build on the investment provided in 2006.
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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 issues raised by the Deputies. 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 Deputies.
212 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the provision of pensions for general practitioners; if this is an adequate provision; her further views on the fact that this pension has not been reviewed for about four years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13552/07]
General Practitioners, including those who hold contracts to provide services to public patients under the terms of the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme, work in the private sector as independent service providers. General Practitioners are not employed by the State. As such, GPs, in common with other professional groups are, in the first place, solely responsible for making provision for many aspects of their professional careers including their pension on retirement from practice.
Many GPs, while operating as private practitioners, also hold contracts for service under the GMS Scheme. The vast majority of such GPs hold the GMS GP Capitation contract, the terms of which reflect the agreed outcome of negotiations between my Department and the GP representative body, the Irish Medical Organisation (IMO). This type of contract was first introduced in 1989. Included in the GMS GP Capitation contract is a provision relating to a scheme of superannuation as follows: ‘A scheme of superannuation shall be established which shall be administered by the Irish Medical Organisation. The Health Boards shall pay into such a scheme a sum equivalent to 10% of total capitation fees payable to medical practitioners under the scheme. In addition, each medical practitioner shall contribute 5%. which sum shall be deducted from the capitation payments due to the medical practitioner and shall be paid on his behalf and for his benefit into the aforementioned scheme by the Board'.
In accordance with this contract provision, the IMO appoints Trustees to administer the superannuation scheme which is known as the ‘GMS Superannuation Plan'. From October 2001, under the terms of the Plan, members were allowed to make additional voluntary contributions giving them the opportunity to augment benefits accruing at retirement. In 2005, the contribution made by the HSE to the ‘GMS Superannuation Plan' amounted to over €20 million. It will be noted that this was in addition to capitation payments and other fees paid to some 2,200 GPs under the GMS Scheme which (excluding the superannuation contribution) totalled over €382 million in 2005.
Seventeen GPs hold Fee-per-Item GMS Scheme contracts with the HSE. This contract for service was introduced in 1972 when the GMS Scheme was first established. The Fee-per-Item GP contract was also agreed on foot of negotiations between the then Department of Health and the IMO. It did not contain provision for a scheme of superannuation. It fell to each GP to make arrangements in this respect as they felt appropriate. It will be noted that in 1989, on the introduction of the GMS GP capitation contract, those GPs with Fee-per-Item contracts were given the option of taking up the former.
213 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children if there are plans to address the shortage of social workers in the south east area and in particular those dealing with families seeking to apply for international adoption; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13582/07]
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.
214 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to make further funding available to provide supports in the area of post adoptive services or support structures for inter-country adopted children and their families; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13583/07]
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 (HSE) 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.
215 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason persons (details supplied) in County Wexford were refused a grant under special housing aid for the elderly; if there is assistance available to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13594/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The HSE's responsibility includes the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. 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.
216 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of applications that have been made for a primary medical certificate in each year from 2000 to 2006; the number that were refused in each year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13595/07]
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.
217 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when the current development is completed will the through road going through the grounds of Wexford General Hospital be reinstated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13596/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
218 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Wexford will be called for their appointment; the efforts being made to reduce waiting times; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13597/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
Patients waiting more than three months on a surgical waiting list may qualify for treatment under the National Treatment Purchase Fund. It is open to the person in question or anyone acting on her behalf to contact the Fund directly in relation to this case.
219 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children when will the repayment of nursing home charges be made for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13598/07]
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.
220 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of times the Adoption Board meets; the number of people who have applied in the past year to adopt; the number of people currently on the waiting list to adopt; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13612/07]
The Adoption Board meets every Tuesday with the exception of the Tuesdays following a Bank Holiday Monday. The Deputy's question on the number of people who have applied in the past year to adopt and the number of people currently on the waiting list to adopt relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive (HSE) 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.
221 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will make available to this Deputy a hard copy of the revised child care regulations; when copies of the regulations were made available through the Government Publications Office; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13613/07]
The Child Care (Pre-School Services) Regulations 2006 will be going to print shortly and will be available in a matter of weeks. Copies of the regulations were made available through the Government Publications Office in December 2006. I will arrange for a printed version of the regulations to be forwarded to the Deputy upon publication.
222 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the persons who own the hospital lands of St. Vincent’s Hospital in Elm Park, St. Michael’s Hospital, Dún Laoghaire and St. Colmcille’s Hospital in Loughlinstown; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13614/07]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for estate management, including the matter referred to in the Deputy's question. 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.
223 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to a person (details supplied); if she will confirm that her Department has responded to this person as outlined in her reply to parliamentary question of 12 December 2006; the position in relation to this case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13624/07]
My Department has replied to the person to whom the Deputy refers in relation to the matter raised in the correspondence.
224 Ms Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the present position on behalf of person (details supplied) in County Offaly; the progress which has been made since the submission of a parliamentary question on 23 January 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13625/07]
The Department of Health and Children has made efforts to address this situation referred to in the Deputy's question over the last number of months and have taken actions including the following: Detailed examination of archived files to verify what documentation currently exists in the Department of Health and Children in relation to the individual; detailed examination of the files generally to provide background information on the matter; initial examination of the possibility of the establishment of a panel of medical personnel to assess the individual should the need be required; contact with hospitals to provide facilities for such an examination should it take place; assessment of the financial implications of the issue; assessment of the archived files generally to provide historical context on the matter.
In regard to an initial examination of the possibility of the establishment of a panel of medical personnel to assess the individual should the need be required, the Department of Health and Children has identified two Irish based doctors willing to participate in this process. However, they have advised that recognised international expertise in Thalidomide needs to be resourced. To this end, the Department has sought to identify such expertise internationally with assistance from thalidomide organisations overseas. While an appropriate professional could be available in the UK, it is noted that this individual has already provided medical opinion for the subject of this question and therefore cannot be utilised in this regard.
The Department of Health and Children has, over the last number of weeks, sought to make contact with one of two medical experts identified. The Department of Health and Children hopes to finalise this process in the coming weeks. Officials of my Department have briefed the individual referred to in the Deputy's question on this matter and have: Provided her with certain historical documentation; made her aware of other documentation that she may view if she wishes. The Department of Health and Children will revert to the individual as soon as the expertise above has been retained.
225 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the recent outbreak of cryptosporidium in drinking water supplies, she remains content that the recruitment process by Safefood in employing a consultant in this area was correct; and if the Dáil Éireann record in relation to responses given to this process will be corrected. [13656/07]
The Food Safety Promotion Board (Safefood) is a North/South Implementation Body established under the Good Friday Agreement. As part of its legislative remit in respect of research into food safety, Safefood appointed coordinators for research networks on five specific food safety topics, one of which is cryptosporidium. In each case the coordinator's role is to facilitate the setting up and maintenance of the research network but it is not considered by Safefood to be a contract of employment. I have received assurances from Safefood that the process employed in appointing the coordinator to the cryptosporidium research network was transparent and valid. Consequently, I do not see any reason to amend the Dáil Éireann record in respect of this process.
226 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an ultra sound on their gall bladder; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13666/07]
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.
227 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on issuing a blue card to the thirty women nationwide suffering from Hepatitis C symptoms but testing negative; her further views on whether the number of women nationwide requesting this is manageable; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13667/07]
267 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide a facility to a group of people (details supplied). [13976/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 227 and 267 together.
The issue of an extension of the Health (Amendment) Act 1996 to provide free healthcare for the women referred to by the Deputies has been carefully examined and advice taken from relevant experts. While I am sympathetic to the women in question, the current eligibility requirements for a Health Amendment Act Card (Blue Card) are set in primary legislation. It is therefore not possible to extend these requirements. Following communication earlier this year with the Support Group representing the women in question and on recently receiving more details on these women, my officials have informed me that a proportion of the women have initiated cases with the Tribunal prior to 20 June, 2006 and any of these who receive an award through the Tribunal/courts process will be entitled to receive a Health Amendment Act Card.
Men, women and children who contracted Hepatitis C through the administration within the State of blood or blood products are entitled to a Health (Amendment) Act Card. Cardholders are entitled to avail of a broad range of healthcare services, without charge. The requirements for eligibility for the Card are set out in the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal (Amendment) Act 2006, which defines a positive diagnosis for Hepatitis C based on a positive Hepatitis C test result, or if the person displayed symptoms of acute infection by reference to the presence of jaundice or raised alamine aminotransferase (ALT) levels, not later that 16 weeks after the person was administered anti-D. The person needs to show evidence of a positive ELISA, RIBA, or PCR test result at any time since the administration of the blood or blood product.
The Bill for the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal Amendment Act was published on 20 June, 2006. The eligibility criteria set out in the 2006 Act do not apply in relation to claims for compensation made to the Tribunal before 20 June. All applicants who receive an award in accordance with the Hepatitis C Compensation Tribunal Acts 1997 and 1992 Acts, and the 2006 amended Act are entitled to receive a Health Amendment Act Card.
228 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene with the Health Service Executive western area officials to ensure that the student medical cards are granted to persons (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13673/07]
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 moderate and 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 a further adjustment to the income guidelines for GP visit cards. 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 cases raised by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address the matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
229 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the studies and costing her Department has carried out on the introduction of universal health insurance; if she will supply this Deputy with details of this costing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13675/07]
My Department has from time to time examined the broad principles underlying different health funding mechanisms, including universal health insurance and this would include studies of papers, international and otherwise, on these different mechanisms.
In regard to costing it is not possible to provide a detailed costing of specific proposals on universal health insurance. To do so it would be necessary to have clear information on particular issues like benefits, levels of reimbursement, including contracts with service providers etc.
230 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of providing the extra public acute beds required to deal with the accident and emergency crisis and waiting list problems; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13676/07]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) is undertaking a review of acute bed capacity requirements for Ireland until the year 2020. This will enable the HSE to plan for future needs based on evidence and international best practice. The review will: Identify the acute bed capacity needs to the year 2020; identify the number and type of acute beds required; identify capital and revenue cost implications; advise on to how to meet the identified need, including timing and feasibility.
231 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of dealing properly with the increasing numbers of children with ADHD and autism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13677/07]
As the Deputy may be aware, recent Budgets have provided for substantial additional investment in services for people with a disability as part of the Government's Multi Annual Investment Programme 2005-2009. An extra €100m was provided in both 2006 and 2007 for the development of services in the areas of physical and sensory disability, intellectual disability and mental health.
Included in this figure is sum of €75m for revenue purposes which was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multidisciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.
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.
232 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Health and Children when she will make Lyme disease notifiable, making it obligatory for doctors to report cases to their local Director of Public Health; the actions being taken to raise public awareness of this disease; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13678/07]
Lyme Disease (also known as Lyme borelliosis) is an infection caused by a spiral shaped bacterium called Borrelia burgdorferi that is transmitted to humans by bites from ticks infected with the bacteria. The infection is generally mild affecting only the skin, but can sometimes be more severe.
Lyme Disease has been reported from North America, Europe, Australia, China and Japan. They feed by biting and attaching to the skin and sucking blood, normally from animals such as sheep and deer. Infected ticks are most likely to be encountered in heath land and lightly forested areas of North America and Northern Europe. Ramblers, campers and those who work in such areas especially if they come into contact with large animals are at greatest risk of being bitten by ticks and of going on to develop disease. Cases of Lyme Disease appear in Ireland every year.
Lyme disease is not a notifiable infectious disease in Ireland. This means that there is no legal requirement on doctors to report cases to their local Director of Public Health, so this makes estimates of incidence difficult. The schedule of infectious diseases is reviewed on a periodic basis and inclusion of Lyme disease will be considered in the next review.
Many infected people have no symptoms at all. The commonest noticeable evidence of infection is a rash called erythema migrans that is seen in about three-quarters of infected people. This red, raised skin rash develops between 3 days and a month after a tick bite and spreads outwards from the initial bite site. This rash can last up to a month and be several inches in diameter. People can also complain of ‘flu-like symptoms such as headache, sore throat, neck stiffness, fever, muscle aches and general fatigue. Occasionally, there may be more serious symptoms involving the nervous system, joints, the heart or other tissues.
In Ireland, researchers have tried to determine levels of Lyme borelliosis; it has been estimated that there were about 30 human cases per year in the mid-1990s. Data, however, from the National Virus Reference Laboratory which is responsible for undertaking testing for B. burgdorferi has confirmed that there were only 11 positive cases in 2003; these numbers have been steady at that level for the last couple of years. There were, however, more than 1,000 requests for testing for B. burgdorferi in 2003. Over the last several years, the NVRL confirms that virtually all positive cases were associated with travel in the US. It is felt that there is some, unknown degree of underreporting and under diagnosis of this condition.
It would, therefore, appear on initial review, that despite confirmed Irish cases of Lyme borelliosis having been principally associated with travel to North America, there is the potential for individuals to be exposed to biting ticks in Ireland. It would seem sensible for this reason, to recommend that simple, straightforward information should be made available that will assist those who may potentially be exposed (whether as a result of occupational or leisure activities) to take necessary precautions. As a response to this in 2004, the Vectorborne Subcommittee of the Scientific Subcommittee of the Health Protection Surveillance Centre's (HPSC) Scientific Advisory Subcommittee was established. One of its terms of reference was to identify and determine the burden of certain significant vectorborne diseases in Ireland and to make recommendations in relation to the provision of advice and guidance.
A fact sheet on Lyme Disease has been made available on the HPSC's website to provide members of the General Public and Media with advice on minimising the risk of Lyme Disease (additional incidence information appears here). In addition, part of the work of the Vectorborne Subcommittee will be the development of Clinical Guidance on the management of Lyme Disease and raising awareness of this condition among clinicians.
233 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the publication date for the Report of the National Review of Laboratory Medicine; the reason for the development of hot and cold laboratories; the extent to which private operators will be used for these laboratories; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13684/07]
I am informed by the Health Service Executive that Teamwork Management Services were commissioned by the Executive to prepare a report, on an independent basis, to determine the optimum configuration of laboratories throughout Ireland in line with best practice.
I am also informed that the Review is scheduled to be submitted to the Board of the Health Service Executive shortly and that, subject to the approval of the Board, the HSE intends to publish the Review shortly thereafter.
Pending publication of the Review it would not be appropriate to comment on its content at this time.
234 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide statistics on the incidence of neural tube defects in the new born; if she will take public health measures to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in the newborn and to choose, as possible interventions, the mandatory fortification of foodstuffs with folic acid or a folic acid awareness raising campaign; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13685/07]
Ireland has one of the highest incidence rates of neural tube defects in Europe, with evidence of between 0.8 and 1.5 per 1000 births annually: this amounts to between 49 and 93 babies affected each year.
Following publication of the report of the National Committee on Folic Acid Food Fortification, an implementation group was established to move forward the recommendations of the National Committee. This Group is chaired by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. The work of the Implementation Group includes advising and assisting with the preparation of legislation for the introduction of mandatory fortification of bread with folic acid and the setting up of a National Congenital Anomalies Register. The Implementation Group is also in the process of developing an action plan for health promotion needs in relation to food supplements.
235 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a reply has not issued to Parliamentary Question No. 359 of 20 March 2007. [13693/07]
My Department is advised by the Health Service Executive that a reply issued to the Deputy on 3rd April 2007.
236 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive a payment under the national repayments scheme. [13694/07]
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.
238 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients in Kerry currently awaiting hip replacement surgery, cataract operations, vascular surgery; the corresponding figures for April 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13735/07]
Statutory responsibility for the collation, management and publication of data on waiting times for surgical procedures rests with the National Treatment Purchase Fund. My Department has, therefore, asked the Chief Executive of the National Treatment Purchase Fund to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested.
239 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the improvement of services in the accident and emergency department of Kerry General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13736/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
240 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children if provision will be made for respite care or home help in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13739/07]
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 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.
241 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kerry has been refused the home care package; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13741/07]
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 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.
242 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will take steps to have an appointment for a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath which had to be postponed due to unforeseen circumstances, rescheduled for an earlier date as this person is in urgent need of having the said appointment due to their health; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13744/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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.
243 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children if 30 acres of Health Service Executive land at Ballydribeen, Killarney, Co. Kerry will be made available to accommodate social housing along with facilities for a number of voluntary, social care and sporting organisations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13747/07]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for its estate management, including the matter referred to in the Deputy's question. 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.
244 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the waiting time for orthodontic assessment; the waiting time for orthodontic treatment for persons in need of orthodontic assessment and treatment in County Kerry ; the figures in comparison with the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13755/07]
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.
245 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. [13756/07]
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 allocated additional revenue funding of €8 million for this year to meet the additional costs involved and I have approved an additional 69 posts for the roll-out. BreastCheck appointed the Clinical Directors for the South and West last November and has recently appointed three Consultant Radiologists, two Consultant Surgeons and two Consultant Histopathologists, all with a special interest in breast disease. The recruitment of Radiographers and other staff is underway.
I have also made available an additional €26.7m capital funding for the construction of two new clinical units and the provision of five additional mobile units and state of the art digital equipment. The static unit at the South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital in Cork is on schedule for hand-over in September followed by a three week commissioning period. It will be operational in October.
Screening in individual counties will be dictated by BreastCheck's management and operational considerations. In advance of the commissioning of the static unit in the South, BreastCheck is making every effort to achieve earlier roll-out through the use of a mobile unit. Early deployment of a mobile unit in advance of the completion of the regional screening unit gives rise to particular and unique operational and recruitment challenges for BreastCheck in the South. At present these challenges have not been overcome and as a result it is not possible to indicate at this stage when an early mobile unit will be deployed. BreastCheck is continuing to make every effort to achieve early deployment in the South.
246 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the estimated cost of constructing the one thousand extra hospital beds provided for under the co-location initiative; the amount of construction cost expected to be eligible for tax relief; the cost to the Exchequer of that tax relief; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13790/07]
The information requested by the Deputy will only be known when the competitive procurement process for co-located private hospitals has been completed and the Health Service Executive selects the successful bidder for each public hospital site.
There will be a rigorous value for money assessment of any proposal and this will take account of the value of the public site and the cost of any tax expenditure. Any transaction will be on a commercial basis and will fully protect the public interest. In addition, there will be full adherence to public procurement law and best practice.
247 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the yield to the Exchequer expected from the sale or lease of lands on the sites of public and voluntary hospitals under the co-location initiative; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13791/07]
The Health Service Executive are currently in the procurement process in relation to the co-location of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals. It is only when this process is completed that the value of the lease of land will be known. The initiative will not involve the sale of public land.
248 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of general practitioner cards issued to date at the latest date for which figures are available, broken down on a county basis. [13792/07]
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 moderate and 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, child care and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed 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 arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
249 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of medical cards issued at the latest date for which figures are available; and the numbers issued at January 1997, January 2002, January 2003, January 2004, January 2005 and January 2006. [13793/07]
Details of the numbers of medical cards are provided to my Department each month by the Health Service Executive's Primary Care Reimbursement Service. The most recent figures provided are as at 1st March, 2007. In 2002 and in 1997, details of the number of medical card holders were provided to my Department on a quarterly basis and accordingly the table I attach for the Deputy shows figures for December 2001 and December 1996 in lieu of 1st January 2002 and 1st January 1997. These quarterly figures reflect the number of medical card holders on 30th November of the relevant year.
|
Date |
Number of Medical Cards |
|
1st March 2007 |
1,228,468 |
|
1st January 2006 |
1,155,727 |
|
1st January 2005 |
1,145,083 |
|
1st January 2004 |
1,152,908 |
|
1st January 2003 |
1,164,453 |
|
December 2001 |
1,199,454 |
|
December 1996 |
1,252,384 |
There are a number of contextual factors which must be taken into account in interpreting this data.
The Health Strategy Quality & Fairness committed to making improvements in the income guidelines in order to increase the number of persons on low incomes eligible for the medical card and to give priority to families with children. In November, 2004 I set out my priorities for new health initiatives in 2005 including the provision of medical cards to an additional 30,000 people and GP visit cards to 200,000 people. Funding of €60 million was provided to the HSE for these measures. The two initiatives were intended to assist those on low and moderate incomes in accessing GP services and to help remove disincentives to people taking up work or progressing to better paying work.
In recent years there have been significant improvements to the way in which people's eligibility for medical cards and GP visit cards is assessed. Since the start of 2005, the income guidelines used in the assessment of medical card applications have increased by a cumulative29%. Other significant changes in 2005 mean that, on a standardised basis nationally, assessment is now based on an applicant's and spouse's income after tax and PRSI, and takes account of reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent or mortgage payments, child-care and travel to work. Initially the GP visit card guidelines were 25% higher than the medical card guidelines however in June, 2006 I agreed with the HSE to further increase the income guidelines for GP visit cards and they are now 50% higher than those used for medical cards.
The HSE (and before 2005 the health boards) have undertaken a substantial programme of work in recent years to improve data quality in the GMS client database. For example, in 2003 and 2004, work carried out by the health boards led to a deletion of approximately 104,000 inappropriate entries where, for example, there were duplicate entries for the same person, the expiry date on the card had passed, the person had moved away or was deceased. This exercise did not involve any reduction in the actual number of people who held medical cards but rather resulted in a more accurate picture of the number of individuals in receipt of GP services under the GMS Scheme.
250 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of new acute in-patient hospital beds opened since June 2002. [13794/07]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services is a matter for the Health Service Executive 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 question 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.
251 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of new step down beds opened since June 2002. [13795/07]
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 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.
252 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money spent to date on the PPARS project; if an estimate is available of the final cost; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13796/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of the health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Services Executive under the Health Act 2004.
Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Health Service Executive to have the matter investigated and to provide the details requested directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
253 Dr. Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of the National Working Party on home births; the number of reports on the issue that have been issued; the number of meetings of the working group that have taken place since 14 February 2006; if she will provide this Deputy with copies of any reports the working group has produced; when the situation, whereby customers in one part of the country might avail of home birth grants whereas others in another part of the country may not, will be resolved; and her views on whether home birth grants should be available in all parts of the country. [13810/07]
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 (HSE) 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.
254 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the ongoing delay in increasing the medical card eligibility limits at least in line with increases in the cost of living; the policy in relation to renewals of medical holders who now find themselves in excess of the guidelines as a result of annual increases in their State pension, welfare, or occupational pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13811/07]
Since the beginning of 2005 the medical card assessment guidelines have been increased 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, child care and travel to work. 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 used in respect of medical cards.
My Department and the HSE are at present considering whether any further changes to the guidelines are required, having regard to factors such as changes in income levels generally, the nature of typical household outgoings and also changes to the various social welfare schemes.
In assessing eligibility, the HSE uses national guidelines to assess people's means, which includes their income, certain allowable outgoings and the effect of other factors which may impact on people's ability to meet the cost of GP services. Under the assessment arrangements, persons whose sole income is derived from Department of Social and Family Affairs payments or HSE payments, even if these exceed the assessment guidelines, qualify for a medical card.
255 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide funding at the County Hospital Roscommon for the development of a support unit and continuing care unit for palliative patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13885/07]
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 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.
256 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of contractors who expressed an interest in tendering for the contract for phase 3C of Naas General Hospital; and when actual tenders will be invited for the project. [13902/07]
The HSE has responsibility for the planning and management of capital projects in the health sector, including the development referred to in the Deputy's question. 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.
257 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the fact that waiting times for hearing tests for children at Newbridge and Tallaght Health Centres are now back to a waiting list of four months, she will arrange for the provision of additional clinics to reduce waiting times. [13912/07]
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.
258 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children if the two additional speech and language therapists approved for County Kildare have been recruited following the re-advertising of the posts. [13923/07]
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 health care 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 health care 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.
259 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children when a reply will issue to Parliamentary Question No. 940 of 31 January 2007. [13925/07]
My Department has been informed by the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Health Service Executive that a reply has issued to the Deputy.
260 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will request a report from the Health Service Executive stating the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 who has asperger syndrome is four years waiting on an occupational therapist service in the Child and Family Guidance Centre, Castleknock; when this service will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13933/07]
As the Deputy may be aware, a sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.
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.
261 Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive to Parliamentary Question No. 258 of 6 March 2007. [13938/07]
My Department has been advised by the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Health Service Executive that a reply to the Deputy's question of 6 March 2007 will issue shortly.
262 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the inadequate facilities in the Rotunda Hospital, Dublin where expectant mothers have to endure primitive conditions which put them and their babies at serious risk; and her plans to improve conditions at this hospital. [13959/07]
263 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will seek an explanation from the Rotunda Hospital as to the reason for the restriction in options for women giving birth there; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13962/07]
266 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the case of a person as outlined in an article (details supplied); if she will seek an explanation from the Rotunda Hospital as to the reason the scanning machine at the hospital is only available by appointment; and when the facilities at the hospital will be upgraded to provide a proper public service to pregnant women. [13968/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 262, 263 and 266 together.
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 issues 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.
264 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps that have been taken to reduce waiting periods for patients attending the accident and emergency unit at the Mater Hospital; the target maximum waiting time in operation; the basis on which this is set; the percentage of days in the past year when this target was met for all patients; if her attention has been drawn to the continuing lengthy waiting times for patients attending the accident and emergency unit in the hospital; and the target date for when the accident and emergency unit will offer a satisfactory public service. [13963/07]
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 address the particular issues 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.
268 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department has made additional provision for a CT scanner, MRI and other imaging equipment for Connolly Hospital Blanchardstown; the funds that will be allocated; when the equipment will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13989/07]
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 address 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.
269 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation regarding plans to improve speech therapy services on the north side of Dublin. [14016/07]
As the Deputy may be aware, a sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.
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.
270 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will grant all families of children with a disability a medical card regardless of income. [14017/07]
At present, medical cards are granted primarily on the basis of means and individual circumstances. Under the Health Act, 2004, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive. Persons aged seventy years and over are automatically entitled to a medical card, irrespective of means. The HSE has discretion, in cases of exceptional need, to provide assistance to individuals where undue hardship would otherwise be caused.
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, child care 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.
I have no plans to provide for the granting of medical cards to any particular group as a whole. However, my Department is currently reviewing all legislation relating to eligibility for health and personal social services with a view to making the system as fair and transparent as possible.
271 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if the DTSS is under threat due to the Government’s failure to complete a full review of the scheme; and if she will urgently support the scheme for medical cardholders. [14018/07]
The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr Finbar Flood.
Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. My Department has sought legal advice from the Attorney General in this regard. In the meantime, the management side has offered to continue discussions on the non-fee element of the review. The IDA has not accepted this offer.
I understand that the IDA has balloted its members on a proposal to withdraw the association's support from the DTSS and that this proposal has been carried. The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for the provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place.
272 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14031/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the judgement in this case relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act 1993. Whether the judgement has implications for other legislation is under review/consideration. However, the case has no implications for the European Communities Act 1972 and regulations made thereunder or the European Communities Bill 2006, now in the Houses of the Oireachtas.
273 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Health and Children when payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reasons for any delays; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14040/07]
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.
274 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the counties in which the BreastCheck service is available; and the estimated percentage of women to which the service is now available. [14062/07]
BreastCheck, the National Breast Screening Programme, is currently available in fourteen counties in the Eastern, North Eastern, Midland and parts of the South Eastern regions. The counties covered are Cavan, Carlow, Dublin, Kildare, Kilkenny, Longford, Laois, Louth, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Wicklow, Westmeath and Wexford. Screening is offered free of charge to all women in the 50-64 age group in these counties, which is approximately 56% of the national target population.
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 allocated additional revenue funding of €8 million for this year to meet the additional costs involved and I have approved an additional 69 posts for the roll-out. BreastCheck appointed the Clinical Directors for the South and West last November and has recently appointed three Consultant Radiologists, two Consultant Surgeons and two Consultant Histopathologists, all with a special interest in breast disease. The recruitment of Radiographers and other staff is underway.
I have also made available an additional €26.7m capital funding for the construction of two new clinical units and the provision of five additional mobile units and state of the art digital equipment. The static units at the South Infirmary/Victoria Hospital in Cork and University College Hospital Galway are on schedule for hand-over in September followed by a three week commissioning period. They will be operational in October.
In advance of the commissioning of the static unit in the South, BreastCheck is making every effort to achieve earlier roll-out through the use of a mobile unit. Early deployment of a mobile unit in advance of the completion of the regional screening unit gives rise to particular and unique operational and recruitment challenges for BreastCheck in the South. At present, these challenges have not been overcome and as a result it is not possible to indicate at this stage when an early mobile unit will be deployed. As regards the West, BreastCheck expects the roll-out to commence in April.
275 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans held by her Department with regard to reports of the imposition of private hospitals on the grounds of public hospitals in Galway City and County; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14071/07]
The co-location initiative involves the building and operation of private hospitals on the sites of public hospitals, the transfer of private activity in the public hospital to the new co-located private hospital with the resultant freeing up of additional public beds for public patients in the public hospital.
In May 2006, the HSE published a notice in the Official Journal of the European Union inviting expressions of interest from private consortia wishing to become involved in this initiative on 11 hospital sites including University College Hospital Galway. As part of the competitive dialogue, with consortia who expressed an interest in the initiative in Galway, the pre-qualified bidders decided, for commercial reasons, not to continue with the process in respect of Galway. However, this does not preclude the Health Service Executive from entering into another procurement process in respect of co-location at University College Hospital Galway in the future.
276 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide assistance to persons (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14089/07]
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.
277 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views regarding a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry in view of the fact that the habitat of sand martin’s was destroyed in cliff collapses caused by the developer’s dramatic alteration of drainage in the area, including the diversion of a waterfall on several occasions. [13630/07]
288 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views regarding a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry in view of the fact that the habitat of sand martin’s was destroyed in cliff collapses, shellfish were clogged with silt, large portions of the adjoining Ballinskelligs Bay was discoloured on many occasions and fishing in the Fineghlais River has deteriorated caused by the developer’s dramatic alteration of drainage in the area, including the diversion of a waterfall’s site over a sea cliff on several occasions. [13647/07]
289 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the illegal construction of a barricade of boulders along 800 metres of beach, the illegal knocking of part of the scenic sea cliff, the illegal and dangerous reconstruction of the knocked part of the sea cliff outside of the plans allowed and the resulting collapse of a structure onto the beach at a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry. [13648/07]
290 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his views on the illegal and dangerous reconstruction of the illegally knocked part of the sea cliff at a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry blocking access to a beach that is an important surfing and angling location at the landmark known as Patsy Mac’s Cottage. [13649/07]
291 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the lessons he, his Department and the Government will learn from the incidents at a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry; and the measures he will take to ensure that similar episodes will not be repeated by the developer and others. [13650/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 277, 288, 289, 290 and 291 together.
The Department is aware of the matters raised by the Deputy in the questions referred to. The Department's Engineering Division has been requested to provide a full technical report on the matters in question as a matter of urgency.
278 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the incentives he is introducing to encourage people to use biofuels and drive environmentally friendly cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13881/07]
The Government is firmly committed to the development of an Irish biofuels market and to the development and deployment of bio-energy generally in Ireland. A range of initiatives is already in place to support the development of the biofuels sector.
The 2005 pilot mineral oil tax relief scheme for biofuels has resulted in eight projects being awarded excise relief for a two year period under the scheme. Building on the success of this scheme a further Biofuels Mineral Oil tax Relief Scheme II was introduced in 2006, valued at over €200m. Under this scheme sixteen projects have been awarded excise relief to the period 2010. The scheme will enable us to reach the initial target of 2.2% market penetration of biofuels by 2008. When fully operational the relief is expected to support the use and production of some 163 million litres of biofuels each year therefore increasing the market penetration of Biofuels to the public. As a result of this scheme, biofuels are already being mainstreamed in blends of up to 5% at existing petrol and diesel pumps, and higher blends are being sold to identified vehicle fleets. The Government has also introduced a 50% VRT relief on Flexible Fuel Vehicles, which are capable of running on blends of up to 85% ethanol in petrol. These vehicles are now available in Ireland from a number of car manufacturers. The National Climate Change Strategy also commits to a re-alignment of VRT and Motor Tax to favour more energy efficient cars. The planned introduction of a Biofuels Obligation by 2009, will require all fuel suppliers to ensure that biofuels represent a certain percentage of their annual fuel sales.
Grants for the conversion of diesel engine vehicles to use Pure Plant Oil (PPO) have been made available by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), working with the four companies who were granted excise relief under the PPO category in the Pilot Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Scheme. The Department of Transport is also funding specific biofuels initiatives and will publish a Sustainable Transport Action Plan later in 2007.
In tandem with these developments the Bioenergy Action Plan commits to the introduction of biofuels in blends of up to 5% in existing Local Authority and CIE fleets and in the range of 30% in new vehicle purchases. As highlighted in the recently published National Biomass Action Plan it is the Government's intention to encourage the use of biofuels in public service vehicles and this will be done through the following: CIE transport companies to ensure that all of their new fossil fleet purchases are capable of using biofuels at blends of at least 30% by including the requirement for such technical capability to be specified in procurement tenders; CIE transport companies mandated to move as soon as possible towards a 5% blend in all their existing diesel fleet; Promote the use of biofuels at up to 5% blends in Local Authority fleets and when purchasing new fossil fuel vehicles ensure that they are capable of taking much higher biofuel blends, in the range of 30% and higher; Publication of a Sustainable Transport Action Plan before the end of 2007 which will identify further measures that will help a switch to biofuels and more energy efficient forms of fuel for transport.
279 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the measures in place to encourage households to have greener homes; the grants available for improved energy efficient homes and the installation of renewable technologies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13883/07]
The Greener Homes Scheme is providing support to homeowners to invest in a range of renewable energy heating technologies including solar technology, wood biomass boilers and stoves, and heat pumps. Funding of €47m has been provided for the scheme. There have been almost 14,000 applications received since the scheme was launched. Grant aid of €1,100 to €6,500 is being provided under the scheme, depending on the individual technology used. The grant for solar panels is €300 per m 2. The scheme is being administered on behalf of my Department by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) and all applications are being processed through SEI. Details and application forms are available on the SEI website (www.sei.ie/greenerhomes), and a dedicated low-call phone line is also open.
Funding is also provided, through SEI, under the Warmer Homes Scheme which provides insulation and other energy efficiency measures to low income homes across Ireland. Eligible householders are typically in receipt of the Fuel Allowance, Invalidity or Disability Benefit. The service is delivered principally through community based organisations that typically secure the labour through a FÁS or Rural Social Scheme. SEI provides funding towards materials and overheads for the operation of the service, which is provided at little or no cost to the homeowner.
The Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) provides the following services to eligible households: Draught proofing, Attic insulation, Lagging jacket, Low energy light bulbs, Cavity wall insulation, where appropriate. Since the start of the scheme in 2000 almost 13,000 low income households have benefited. Currently there are 18 such service providers approved for funding in the in the scheme with two each in counties Dublin, Donegal, Roscommon, Cork and Mayo, and one each in counties Cavan, Kerry, Leitrim, Galway, Westmeath, Limerick, Clare and Wexford.
The Warmer Homes Scheme is adding further capacity through two different initiatives. The first is a pilot which took place in Dundalk and has addressed 161 homes to date with private contractors with substantial insulation measures. The final phase is currently under way at the moment. Dundalk was an area which was not covered by a community based organisation and the insulation services were provided by two contractors appointed following a tender process.
The second initiative resulted from a Budget allocation of €2M, by my colleague the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, which allowed the expansion of the service through delivery by the private sector of a whole house approach, to addressing fuel poverty The range of services included under this new initiative includes the installation of high efficiency central heating as well as substantial insulation measures. This initiative is currently underway in Waterford City and County in approximately 400 eligible homes.
SEI's House of Tomorrow Programme provides funding to developers of groups of housing, where the housing units have energy efficient features that significantly exceed current building regulations. 1,187 new social housing dwellings, 3,198 new private dwellings and 365 social housing refurbishments have been completed to date under this programme. The range of renewable technologies installed include: Condensing oil and gas boilers (2922), Solar water heating (1634 homes,Heat recovery ventilation (2,065 homes), Ground source heat pumps (731 homes), Wood pellet boilers (724 homes).
280 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the funding provided to Energy Action; if his attention has been drawn to a long waiting list for these services; and if he will substantially increase the funding for 2007. [13983/07]
Under the current funding agreement, for the period October 2006 to October 2007, up to €312,138 is available to Energy Action to substantially address up to 600 low income households with energy efficiency measures. The measures provided include: Draught proofing, Attic insulation, Hot water cylinder Jackets, Low energy light-bulbs, Energy Advice. A further €25,000 capital grant was provided to Energy Action for the purchase of two vehicles for the services crews in February 2007.
Since the start of the scheme in 2000 almost 13,000 low income households have benefited. Approximately 69% of the households were located in Dublin or the surrounding areas and were serviced by the two Dublin based community organisations, Energy Action and CHIP (based in Clondalkin).
The Warmer Homes Scheme is adding further capacity through two different initiatives. The first is a pilot which took place in Dundalk and has addressed 161 homes to date with private contractors with substantial insulation measures. The final phase is currently under w ay. Dundalk was an area which was not covered by a community based organisation and the insulation services were provided by two contractors appointed following a tender process. The second initiative resulted from a Budget allocation of €2M which allowed the expansion of the service through delivery by the private sector of a whole house approach, to addressing fuel poverty. The range of services included under this new initiative includes the installation of high efficiency central heating as well as s substantial insulation measures. This initiative is currently underway in Waterford City and County in approximately 400 eligible homes.
The current Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) delivery is through community based organisations (CBOs). The CBOs receive funding from Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) as well as core funding from FÁS through Community Employment or other programmes, or through the Rural Social Scheme.
The Energy Policy White Paper ‘Delivering A Sustainable Energy Future For Ireland' sets out 13 specific actions in relation to addressing fuel poverty. The two key actions relating to the Warmer Homes Scheme represent an ongoing commitment to the Warmer Homes Scheme with an increase in both the capacity and the range of services available. Specifically we have committed to finalising a framework for significant extension of the Low Income Housing Schemes which will accelerate the pace of remedial actions and to building on the results of the €2 million Waterford Fuel Poverty Research Project being undertaken by SEI.
281 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the sum spent on coastal erosion in the past five years for each local authority area; the sum allocated in the same year; and the sum sought by the local authorities. [14061/07]
Details of amounts spent for each of the years from 2002 to 2006 for coastal protection in each Local Authority area under the Department's Coastal Protection Programme is set out in the following table.
|
Local Authority |
Sum spent on Coastal Protection projects 2002-2006 inclusive |
|
€ |
|
|
Sligo C.C. |
847,281 |
|
Donegal C.C. |
1,056,183 |
|
Galway C.C. |
1,381,084 |
|
Mayo C.C. |
580,990 |
|
Louth C.C. |
1,952,441 |
|
Waterford C.C. |
1,325,121 |
|
Wexford C.C. |
2,003,469 |
|
Cork C.C. |
2,284,458 |
|
Kerry C.C. |
2,360,533 |
|
Clare C.C. |
1,052,405 |
|
Wicklow C.C. |
997,334 |
|
Dublin City Council |
523,549 |
|
Fingal C.C. |
60,922 |
|
Meath C.C. |
63,580 |
|
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown C.C. |
879,825 |
The information sought in relation to the amounts allocated for the past five years under the Department's Coastal Protection Programme is set out in the following table:
|
Year |
Sum allocated |
|
€ |
|
|
2002 |
6,280,125.5 |
|
2003 |
1,844,076.0 |
|
2004 |
2,398,750.0 |
|
2005 |
3,101,355.7 |
|
2006 |
5,409,238.6 |
Information on the sum sought by the Local Authorities is not available in the format requested. In July 2002 the Department requested all coastal Local Authorities to submit proposals, in order or priority, for coast protection works for the period 2003 to 2006. In all 195 proposals with an estimated cost of over €120 million were submitted.
282 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the proposals brought to Government in relation to replacement or amendment to the Foreshore Act 1933. [14063/07]
297 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if the Government’s action programme for the Millennium 1999 Commitment in relation to legislation for a comprehensive integrated management of the coastal zone remains Government policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14056/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 282 and 297 together.
The Department's Statement of Strategy 2005-2007 indicates that procedures will be developed for enhanced coordination and cooperation between public bodies on management of the coastal zone. This is in response to the increasing demands and pressures on coastal areas and their resources, and the fact that a wide range of public bodies and agencies have roles to play in managing and regulating various aspects and dimensions of the coastal zone.
The need for action in this area has been recognised at EU level also, with the adoption in 2002 of a Recommendation on Integrated Coastal Zone Management. This asks Member States to undertake a stocktaking of the laws, institutions, agencies/bodies etc that impact on coastal areas, and, based on the results of the stocktaking to develop a strategy or strategies for Integrated Coastal Zone Management. The stock take for Ireland has been largely completed and will be published in due course. This stock take will allow work to commence on the regulatory framework to support an integrated approach to coastal zone management.
A consolidation and streamlining of the Foreshore Acts is also proposed. This will modernise these regulatory processes and procedures and provide a modern and effective legal framework for the management of the State's foreshore estate in the future. It will also allow for the provision of any necessary legislative underpinning of more integrated approaches to management of coastal areas. Preparation of these proposals will take account, among other things, of the principles in the EU Recommendation, the outcome of the EU Maritime Green paper and the EU Marine Strategy Directive.
In addition, the Department will shortly commission a consultancy on the future development of coastal zone management in Ireland which will assist in a major strategic review of the legislative framework, structures, and procedures in place to manage the State-owned foreshore.
283 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the Government’s policy on any proposal to in-fill 52 acres of Dublin Bay; and if his Department will direct the port company on this matter. [13501/07]
An application from Dublin Port Company for approval under the Foreshore Acts for the proposed reclamation of an area of some 21 hectares of foreshore was made to the Department in March 2002. Since then, Departmental officials have held periodic discussions with Dublin Port Company's management regarding issues arising from the application. This is a normal feature of most major foreshore applications.
The application is being considered in accordance with the appropriate procedures. These include a process of public consultation in which it will be open to interested persons to make submissions on the proposal. Developments of this nature require planning permission before any determination can be made on the foreshore application. Issues associated with ownership of the foreshore as well as environmental matters will form an important part of the Department's consideration of the proposal.
284 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources further to his reply of 28 March 2007 in relation to appointments to State boards and bodies, the relevant boards and other entities where the 55 vacancies which he proposes to fill arise, and the number of such vacancies in each such body or entity. [13509/07]
Further to my reply of 28 March regarding appointments the information sought is set out in the following table.
|
State Board/Agency |
Vacancies at 26/03/2007 or falling due on or before 31 May 2007 |
|
ESB |
2 |
|
Bord Na Móna |
1 |
|
Bord Iascaigh Mhara |
5 |
|
Bord Gais Éireann |
3 |
|
Aquaculture Licenses Appeals Board |
3 |
|
Mining Board |
2 |
|
Marine Institute |
4 |
|
Regional Fisheries Boards |
10 |
|
Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Loughs Commission |
2 |
|
Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland |
3 |
|
Commission for Energy Regulation |
1 |
|
Commission for Communications Regulation |
1 |
|
TG4 |
9 |
|
Irish National Petroleum Corporation |
4 |
|
National Oil Reserves Agency |
5 |
285 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of times in 2006 samples were taken by fisheries and EPA inspectors of water courses down stream of effluent treatment discharge points from waste water treatment plants in County Wexford; the number of samples that were at an acceptable standard for discharge; the recommendations that were made; the parameters to which analysis is carried out and the results that were obtained on analysis for each parameter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13587/07]
The primary responsibility of the Regional Fisheries Boards is the conservation, protection, management and development of the inland fisheries resource. I am advised by the Eastern Regional Board that they do not have a monitoring role in respect of waste water treatment plants other than sampling on occasions where a serious discharge incident is reported, with a view to prosecution. No such effluent discharge was brought to the attention of the Eastern Regional Fisheries Board in 2006.
The EPA operates under the aegis of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
286 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the number of people employed in the collection of television licenses; their remuneration; the amount of money raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13603/07]
An Post acts as an agent for my Department in respect of the sale of television licences. The number of people employed by An Post for this purpose, and their remuneration, are matters for An Post and are commercially sensitive. I have no statutory function in this regard.
An Post sold 1,004,805 licences in 2006 and my Department received €156.397 million from An Post in respect of these. As the Deputy is aware, the Department of Social and Family Affairs (DSFA) is now responsible for the issuing of lifetime "free" licences in respect of those eligible under the household benefits package. DSFA paid my Department €48.7 million in 2006 for "free" licences issued.
287 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources when the ban on the driftnetting of salmon will commence; and the arrangements in place to ensure compliance with these regulations. [13618/07]
A variety of instruments apply to the management of the wild salmon fishery. In the case of the commercial fishery, there are two key instruments, the Wild Salmon and Sea Trout Tagging Scheme (No. 2) Regulations 2006 — S.I. No. 672 of 2006 and the Control of Fishing for Salmon Order 2007 — S.I. No 129 of 2007. The former contains provisions for the regulation of salmon river quotas and the latter details the number and type of commercial fishing licences that may be allocated in any fisheries district.
As that order contains no provision for the allocation of drift net licences and limits the number of other licences, this effectively closes the mixed stock fishery for salmon. The tagging scheme regulations have been in operation since the beginning of 2007. The Control of Fishing for Salmon Order 2007 came into force on 22 March 2007. The commercial fishery does not commence until May this year.
292 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the cost to the ESB to install smart meters for every consumer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13687/07]
The Government's White Paper on Energy Policy commits to the introduction over the next five years of smart meters for all electricity customers, informed by a technical, economic and cost review to be completed this year. In that context the most appropriate funding mechanism to meet the cost of installation will be determined.
293 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources his proposals to expedite the processing of the applications for the foreshore licences required for the proposed sewerage schemes at Cappoquin, Ballyduff/Kilmeaden, Ardmore, Sradbally, Cheekpoint, bearing in mind the long delays in the process and the need for the construction of these schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13895/07]
Draft specific conditions for inclusion in the foreshore licence for the Cheekpoint sewerage scheme have been issued to Waterford County Council and communications are ongoing between the Department and the Council regarding the conditions to be included in the licence.
There are two applications for foreshore permissions in respect of the Cappoquin sewerage scheme. The first application relates to the outfall from the waste water treatment plant. The second application relates to the outfall from the surface/stormwater collection system. The current position regarding these applications is that additional information sought by the Department's Engineering Division has been provided, and is now being examined. The final observations from the Development Applications Unit (DAU) of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government (DoEHLG) are also awaited.
For Ballyduff/Kilmeaden, the application relates to the additional use of an existing scour outfall in connection with the waste water treatment plant. The application has been referred to the Department's consultees. Responses are awaited from the Department's Engineering Division and from DoEHLG in relation to the archaeological aspects. The Development Applications Unit of the DoEHLG has made observations regarding the location of the discharge point from a nature conservation perspective and these observations have been referred to the Council's consulting engineers. The Southern Regional Fisheries Board has raised issues regarding the effect of the discharge on the water quality in the area, and their observations have been referred to the Council's consulting engineers.
There are two applications for foreshore licences in respect of the Ardmore sewerage scheme. The first application relates to the outfall from the waste water treatment plant. The second application relates to the outfall from the surface/stormwater collection system. The current position regarding the first application is that additional information sought by the Department's Engineering Division has been provided, and is now being examined. Final observations from DoEHLG regarding archaeological aspects of the application are also awaited. With regard to the second application, the Department's Engineering Division recommended an amendment to the proposals. A response is awaited from the Council. Final observations from DoEHLG regarding archaeological aspects of the application are also awaited.
There are two applications for foreshore licences in respect of the Stradbally sewerage scheme. The first application relates to the outfall from the waste water treatment plant. The second application relates to the outfall from the surface/stormwater collection system. The current position regarding these applications is that additional information sought by the Department's Engineering Division has been provided, and is now being examined. Final observations from DoEHLG regarding archaeological aspects of the application are also awaited.
294 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if he has reviewed the European Commission’s 12th annual report on the telecoms sector which ranks Ireland 16th out of 25th for broadband take-up and with the highest monthly line rental charges across Europe; the measures he will put in place to address this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13943/07]
I have reviewed a copy of the EU Commission's 12th report on the EU's telecom markets. I note the report's finding concerning Ireland that "broadband penetration is still below the EU-25 average, but has improved substantially." I would like to point out that the speed of take-up of broadband in Ireland is extraordinary. The data used by the Commission for the report shows that the rate of growth in broadband in Ireland was running at 105% per annum (to Q3 2006) while the rate of growth for the EU-25 was only 32%. This means that Ireland is actually growing three times faster than the EU-25.
The latest official figures from the Communications Regulation (ComReg) which were released last week show that Quarter 4 of 2006 saw the highest number of new subscribers added in any single period since the launch of broadband services in Ireland, with an additional 80,600 new subscriptions added. At the end of 2006 Ireland had 517,300 broadband subscribers.
The EU report also refers to broadband penetration of 10.3% for October 2006 compared to the EU-25 average of 15.7%. As a result of Ireland's rapid growth in the last quarter of 2006 the penetration rate at the end of 2006 stood at 12.19%. I am heartened by industry estimates that show that we are now very close to 14%. Based on the current rate of growth, Ireland is on course to pass the EU-25 average of 15.7% by the end of the year.
While the provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, by private sector companies is a matter for the companies themselves, the Government has recognised that in some areas of the country the market has failed to invest in broadband roll-out. To that end the Government has intervened with various initiatives to facilitate broadband in these regions. So far, this Government has invested in (i) international connectivity; (ii) regional backhaul; (iii) metropolitan area networks (MANs); and (iv) group broadband schemes.
In addition to these interventions, I recently announced a National Broadband Scheme. This scheme will target the last 10-15% of the population who are without a broadband service and who would remain without a service without intervention. The Scheme will, when it is rolled out, ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband are met. The Department will commence the tender process as soon as possible. In addition, the Communications Regulation (Amendment) Bill, which has been passed by both Houses, will shortly be enacted into law giving ComReg enhanced powers which should help to alleviate the Local Loop Unbundling (LLU) bottleneck and result in even stronger broadband growth.
I have no function in relation to pricing, including line rental charges. This is a matter for the service providers concerned, who are regulated by the independent regulator, ComReg.
295 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if there are future plans to in-fill 52 acres of Dublin Bay in Clontarf, Dublin 3. [14014/07]
An application from Dublin Port Company for approval under the Foreshore Acts for the proposed reclamation of an area of some 21 hectares of foreshore was made to the Department in March 2002. Since then, Departmental officials have held periodic discussions with Dublin Port Company's management regarding issues arising from the application. This is a normal feature of most major foreshore applications.
The application is being considered in accordance with the appropriate procedures. These include a process of public consultation in which it will be open to interested persons to make submissions on the proposal. Developments of this nature require planning permission before any determination can be made on the foreshore application. Issues associated with ownership of the foreshore as well as environmental matters will form an important part of the Department's consideration of the proposal.
296 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14023/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the judgment in this case relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act 1993. Whether the judgment has implications for other legislation is under review/consideration. However, the case has no implications for the European Communities Act 1972 and regulations made thereunder or the European Communities Bill 2006 now in the Houses of the Oireachtas.
298 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the steps that are being taken to put in place a legislative and management structure for the extended shelf off the western and southern land mass. [14057/07]
Under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) the continental shelf is that part of the seabed over which a coastal State exercises sovereign rights with regard to the exploration and exploitation of natural resources including oil and gas deposits as well as other minerals and biological resources of the seabed.
Where the continental shelf extends beyond 200 nautical miles a State is required by the Convention to make a submission to the UN Commission on the Limits of the Continental Shelf. The Commission assesses the limits and data submitted by the coastal State and makes recommendations, which are final and binding. For the purposes of preparing its submissions, Ireland has divided its extended continental shelf into three sub-areas — Zone A (Hatton-Rockall area), Zone B (Porcupine Abyssal Plain — "western area") and Zone C (Celtic Sea/Bay of Biscay — "southern area") and has made submissions in respect of Zones B and C (see below).
In relation to Zone B, or the "western area", Ireland made a submission for the central undisputed portion of its extended continental shelf in the area of the Porcupine Abyssal Plain in May 2005. We expect final recommendations from the Commission in April 2007. The preliminary findings of the sub-commission examining the submission indicate acceptance of the outer limits as submitted, with some minor modifications. Although Ireland was the fourth country to make a submission (after the Russian Federation in 2001, and Brazil and Australia in 2004) this will result in Ireland becoming the first state to receive final and binding recommendations on an outer limit from the Commission.
Zone C, or the "southern area", was the subject of a joint submission to the Commission, made by Ireland together with the UK, France and Spain in May 2006. It is hoped that the Commission will issue its final recommendations in August 2007. It is expected that the major part, if not all, of the outer limit will be accepted by the Commission. Thereafter, the question of delimitation of this zone established on the basis of these recommendations will be considered by the four states concerned.
The current Irish designated area is set out in S.I. No. 657 of 2001 and the relevant legislation exists in the Continental Shelf Act No. l4 of 11 June l968. Until the recommendations are formally issued by the Commission, Ireland is not in a position to amend its designated continental shelf. Furthermore, until delimitation negotiations are completed in Zone C, the exact area in the Celtic Sea/Bay of Biscay — "southern area" under Irish jurisdiction is unknown.
The Irish designated continental shelf area has previously been mapped and surveyed under programmes undertaken by my Department under the Irish National Seabed Survey (INSS). It is anticipated that these newly awarded areas would be surveyed by the INSS successor programme, INFOMAR, being undertaken jointly by the Geological Survey of Ireland and the Marine Institute. Such surveys are the basis for the development of a comprehensive management plan.
299 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources the sum allocated, the sum drawn down and the related works completed to combat coastal erosion each year for the past ten years. [14058/07]
Details of amounts allocated and drawn down on a project basis for each of the years from 1997 to 2006 under the Department's Coastal Protection Programmes are set out in the following tables. In addition, each local authority contributed 25% of the cost of the projects in their areas. In 2005 and 2006 this Department co-funded with the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (37.5% each Department) coast protection projects in CLÁR areas under the Coastal Development Measure. These are identified in the following tables.
|
County |
Location |
Project |
1997 Allocation |
1997 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Aerial survey/ mapping of coastline |
24,752.27 |
24,752.27 |
|
Courtown |
Rock revetment |
52,326.46 |
53,326.46 |
|
|
Rosslare |
Maintenance |
85,000 |
84,969.60 |
|
|
Waterford |
Tramore |
Strengthening of clay cliffs, sand dunes, improvement works to main promenade |
142,845.53 |
141,649.44 |
|
Wicklow |
Murrough |
Rock armour revetment |
142,845.53 |
45,193.79 |
|
Bray |
Beach nourishment/ groyne protection |
52.969.66 |
52,969.66 |
|
|
Sligo |
Enniscrone |
Planting of grass |
6,012.21 |
6,012.21 |
|
Strandhill |
Wind fencing |
38,092.14 |
38,092.14 |
|
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Rock revetment |
12,501.84 |
12,501.84 |
|
Donegal |
Inver |
Completion of sea wall |
12,697.38 |
12,697.38 |
|
Rye/ Rathmullen |
Seawall protection |
49,519.79 |
49,519.79 |
|
|
Teelin |
Seawall protection |
76,184.26 |
76,184.26 |
|
|
Meath |
Laytown |
Study |
19,046.07 |
19,040.99 |
|
Mayo |
Bertra |
Dune protection |
52,376.70 |
52,376.70 |
|
Claggan |
Dune protection |
14.284.55 |
14,284.55 |
|
|
Dublin |
Burrow |
Study |
19,790.14 |
19,790.14 |
|
Cork |
Glandore |
Seawall protection |
154,922 |
154,922.01 |
|
Clare |
Rinvella |
126,973.81 |
126,973.81 |
|
|
GENERAL |
||||
|
CZM |
Study |
0 |
57.14 |
|
|
Sensitivity Study |
19,571.74 |
19,571.74 |
||
|
ECOPRO manual |
1,537.65 |
1,537.65 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
1998 Allocation |
1998 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Dublin |
Burrow |
Study |
6,840 |
6,840 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Study |
179,038.15 |
179,038.15 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Aerial survey/ mapping of coastline |
9,803.65 |
9,803.65 |
|
Rosslare |
Maintenance |
59,215.51 |
59,215.51 |
|
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Breakwater and groyne |
940,214 |
940,214 |
|
Murrough |
Rock armour |
3,405.44 |
3,405.44 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
1999 Allocation |
1999 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Detailed design of Phase 2 protection scheme |
19,046.07 |
19,046.07 |
|
Fingal |
Portrane |
Dune protection |
19,046.07 |
0 |
|
Portrane |
Study |
9,523 |
0 |
|
|
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
Vico Road |
Protection works at Vico Road (Design) |
266,645 |
13,343.49 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray-Coast Prot. |
Phase 1 |
775,175 |
489,057 |
|
Bray |
Harbour Wall |
952,304 |
298,306 |
|
|
Wexford |
Courtown |
Dune protection |
57,138 |
67,614 |
|
Curracloe |
Study for coast management |
38,092 |
28,569.11 |
|
|
Ballyconnigar |
Cliff protection |
95,230.36 |
95,230.36 |
|
|
Rosslare Strand |
Beach protection |
128,561 |
0 |
|
|
Wave Buoys Maintenance |
Maintenance |
9,523.04 |
11,963.47 |
|
|
Rosslare |
Beach protection work |
14,284.55 |
23,067.08 |
|
|
Rosetown |
Cliff protection (Design) |
95,230.36 |
4,791.57 |
|
|
Cullenstown |
Detailed design for protection works |
28,569.11 |
21,902.98 |
|
|
Rosslare |
New scheme |
0 |
5,534.79 |
|
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Further study of protection options |
38,092.14 |
26,664.50 |
|
Roscarberrry Owennahincha |
Road protection |
42,853.66 |
42,853.66 |
|
|
Barley Cove |
Study of required dune protection works |
19,046.07 |
19,046.07 |
|
|
Roscarberry Warren |
Groyne |
109,514.91 |
16,452 |
|
|
Kerry |
Waterville |
Protection works |
152,368.57 |
152,368.57 |
|
Baile an Rannaigh |
19,046.07 |
0 |
||
|
Clare |
Quilty |
Protection works |
952,303.56 |
771,987.74 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin Isl. |
Road protection |
95,230.36 |
98,820.54 |
|
Aughinish Isl. |
Causeway protection |
38,092.14 |
38,092.14 |
|
|
Roundstone/ Gorteen |
Dune re-instatement |
19,046.07 |
20,783.07 |
|
|
Tawin Isl. |
42,853.66 |
0 |
||
|
Mweelon/Ballynacloghy |
82,136.82 |
109,514.91 |
||
|
Mayo |
Claggan Isl. |
Dune reinstatement |
28,569.11 |
27,503.62 |
|
Belmullet/Elly Bay |
Study |
19,046.07 |
22,022.97 |
|
|
Sligo |
Mullaghmore |
Road protection |
114,276.43 |
22,761.33 |
|
Strandhill |
Study |
33,330.63 |
34,568.62 |
|
|
Donegal |
Bundoran |
Road protection |
190,460.71 |
114,276.43 |
|
Mountcharles |
Coast protection |
82,850.41 |
82,850.41 |
|
|
Inver |
Coast protection |
80,945.80 |
57,138.21 |
|
|
Waterford |
Tramore |
Coast protection |
32,222.33 |
32,222.33 |
|
GENERAL |
||||
|
Louth |
Coastal survey |
50,789.52 |
66,706.96 |
|
|
Waterford |
Coastal survey |
76,184.29 |
0 |
|
|
East Coast |
Aerial survey |
101,579.05 |
51,909.43 |
|
|
GIS |
Initial setup |
33,013.19 |
40,074.38 |
|
|
Marine Institute |
Coastal viewer system |
12,697.38 |
12,697.38 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2000 Allocation |
2000 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Phase 2 Protection Scheme |
285,691.00 |
88,724.59 |
|
Coastal Survey |
2,500 |
2,343.03 |
||
|
Fingal |
Portrane |
176,176 |
0 |
|
|
Dún Laoghaire/ Rathdown |
Vico Road/Killiney |
Cliff Protection works |
571,382 |
38,124.72 |
|
Dublin Corporation |
Bull Island causeway |
Study of effects of breaching causeway |
142,846 |
41,943.26 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Phase 1 |
476,152 |
94,734.31 |
|
Harbour wall Phase 3 |
190,460 |
355,322.67 |
||
|
Phase 2 Beach nourishment |
2,095,068 |
1,555,026.45 |
||
|
Wexford |
Courttown |
95,230 |
0 |
|
|
Rosslare strand N end Spit |
Beach Protection |
238,076 |
56,756.48 |
|
|
Cullenstown |
Revetment works and training walls |
476,152 |
109,229.22 |
|
|
Rosslare |
Maintenance |
20,500 |
19,656.33 |
|
|
Waterford |
Tramore |
Promenade wall strengthening |
442,821 |
46,119.29 |
|
Cunnigar |
Design of protection works |
33,331 |
13,894.35 |
|
|
Cunnigar |
0 |
12,656.36 |
||
|
Kerry |
Rossbeigh |
Consultancy study |
38,092 |
38,092.14 |
|
Waterville |
Upgrade and road protection |
76,184 |
80,568.08 |
|
|
R561 Dingle to Castlemaine |
Rock armour |
1,396,712 |
1,396,711.89 |
|
|
Clare |
Quilty |
Protection scheme |
185,699 |
202,163.57 |
|
Seafield |
Dune protection works |
19,046 |
20,474.53 |
|
|
Ballyvaughan |
Road protection works |
152,369 |
116,734.32 |
|
|
Galway |
Aughinish Island |
Causeway protection works |
57,138 |
58,566.67 |
|
Cleggan |
Beach road protection |
95,230 |
98,620.30 |
|
|
Tawin Island |
Beach road protection |
38,092 |
49,519.79 |
|
|
Gorteen Beach |
Beach protection |
47,615 |
48,567.48 |
|
|
Renville |
Coast protection to public recreation area |
42,854 |
50,282.58 |
|
|
Clifden Beach |
Coast protection to public recreation area |
95,230 |
95,706.51 |
|
|
Inishbofin |
95,230 |
0 |
||
|
Inishmore Island |
Beach road |
95,230 |
57,138.21 |
|
|
Galway |
Oranmore/ Mweelon |
Road protection works |
53,329 |
39,520.60 |
|
Oranmore/ Mweelon 1999 |
0 |
20,066.94 |
||
|
Mayo |
Westport/Bertra |
19,046 |
0 |
|
|
Achill |
Dune protection works |
28,569 |
31,838.36 |
|
|
Elly Bay |
Seawall repairs/dune protection |
123,799 |
102,108.93 |
|
|
Bertra Beach |
Dune protection works |
28,569 |
47,799.92 |
|
|
Fahy-Ballycroy |
Sea outfall renewal and coast protection |
57,138 |
59,142 |
|
|
Bundoola Belmullet |
Repairs to sea wall |
95,230 |
20,144.08 |
|
|
Carrowmore Beach |
28,569 |
0 |
||
|
Keel Beach |
Dune protection works |
14,284 |
18,114.72 |
|
|
Mulranny Causeway |
85,707 |
0 |
||
|
Sligo |
Strandhill |
Dune protection works |
19,046 |
17,427.16 |
|
Mullaghmore |
Road protection works |
141,893 |
112,989.28 |
|
|
Strandhill |
Dune protection works |
104,753 |
0 |
|
|
Pollacheeney |
Protection works |
71,423 |
68,565.86 |
|
|
Donegal |
Bundoran |
Road/Cliff protection |
266,644 |
296,173.07 |
|
Kerrykeel |
Repairs to sea wall |
71,423 |
61,628.32 |
|
|
Mountcharles |
Rock armour |
95,230 |
101,098.01 |
|
|
Rye, Rathmullen |
Sea wall rock armouring |
119,038 |
144,427.31 |
|
|
Inver |
Coast protection |
23,807 |
25,743.62 |
|
|
GENERAL |
East Coast |
88,8882 |
0 |
|
|
Coastal Surveys |
126,974 |
45,705.48 |
||
|
GIS System |
25,395 |
224.91 |
||
|
GIS Maintenance |
0 |
16,811.33 |
||
|
Wave Buoy |
25,395 |
17,300.35 |
||
|
Pilot Project |
for project dissemination |
12,697 |
3,802.55 |
|
|
Research Startup |
25,395 |
5,743.77 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2001 Allocation |
2001 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Sligo |
Strandhill |
Slipway |
133,322.50 |
14,284.55 |
|
Sligo |
Strandhill |
Shoreline Protection |
485,674.81 |
69,994.31 |
|
Sligo |
Mullaghmore |
Road Protection Works +add fund |
423,775.08 |
385,546.76 |
|
Sligo |
Pollacheeny |
Study & Detailed Design |
30,473.71 |
29,616.64 |
|
Donegal |
Drung, Quigley's Point |
Rock Armour Work |
190,460.71 |
207,652.65 |
|
Donegal |
Keadue, Kincasslagh |
Seawall |
238,075.89 |
31,746.80 |
|
Donegal |
Mountcharles |
Road protection works |
285,691.07 |
233,435.54 |
|
Donegal |
Mahery, Dungloe |
Road protection works |
95,230.36 |
23,662.38 |
|
Donegal |
Kerrykiel, Rossakill |
Road protection works |
119,037.94 |
118,048.50 |
|
Donegal |
Kerrykeel |
Sea wall repairs |
0 |
1,645.58 |
|
Donegal |
Inver |
Concrete slab & Low level wall |
23,807.59 |
36,186.58 |
|
Donegal |
Carrickaroary |
Repointing existing sea wall |
16,189.16 |
3,176.88 |
|
Donegal |
Lagg, Malin Head |
Study of coastal processes in the area |
19,046.07 |
0.00 |
|
Donegal |
Bundoran |
Shoreline protection (UDC) |
0 |
87,528.52 |
|
Donegal |
Rye Rathmullan |
Sea Wall |
0 |
5,482.41 |
|
Galway |
Auginish Island |
Causeway Protection Works |
38,092.14 |
38,092.14 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Protection Works to |
95,230.36 |
95,230.36 |
|
Galway |
South Facing Shore |
|||
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Erosion Study of South/facing shore |
38,092.14 |
28,355.82 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Road Protection Works |
47,615.18 |
0.00 |
|
Galway |
Renvyle |
Road Protection at Ard na Greevagh |
46,980.31 |
47,615.18 |
|
Galway |
Rusheenduff Renvyle |
Coastal Protection |
104,753.39 |
0.00 |
|
Galway |
Sailin to Silver Strand |
Protection Works |
142,845.53 |
0.00 |
|
Galway |
Inishmore |
Airstrip Protection |
7,618.43 |
8,281.87 |
|
Galway |
Ballyconnelly |
Road Protection Works |
85,707.32 |
85,707.32 |
|
Galway |
Cleggan |
0 |
59.73 |
|
|
Galway |
Roundstone Pier |
Study |
31,743.45 |
18,411.20 |
|
Mayo |
Westport / Bertra |
Dune Protection |
28,569.11 |
28,569.11 |
|
Mayo |
Carrowmore Beach |
Dune Protection |
19,046.07 |
19,046.07 |
|
Mayo |
Roonagh, Louisburg |
Road Protection Works |
28,569.11 |
28,569.11 |
|
Mayo |
Belmullet Town |
Repair Seawalls |
95,230.36 |
95,230.36 |
|
Mayo |
Mulranny Causeway |
Repairs to side/surface of causeway/repair stones |
85,707.32 |
85,707.32 |
|
Mayo |
Bundoola Belmullet |
Repairs to seawall |
75,085.96 |
75,085.96 |
|
Mayo |
Claggan Island |
Dune protection work |
50,024.51 |
53,759.02 |
|
Mayo |
Elly Bay |
Seawall Repairs & Dune Protection |
133,322.50 |
76,673.57 |
|
Mayo |
Bunnafolly |
Protection works |
19,046.07 |
0.00 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Phase 2 Protection Works |
190,460.71 |
149,908.10 |
|
Louth |
Salterstown |
Protection works |
38,092.14 |
33,454.68 |
|
Waterford |
Ballyvoile |
Study of Road Protection Works |
33,330.62 |
31,484.01 |
|
Waterford |
Tramore |
Promenade Wall Strengthening |
904,688.38 |
880,041.04 |
|
Tramore |
Additional funding for Prom. wall |
155,165.48 |
0.00 |
|
|
Wexford |
Courtown |
Detailed Design of offshore breakwater protection scheme |
190,460.71 |
0.00 |
|
Wexford |
Courtown |
Revetment Works+ add funding |
95,230.36 |
86,899.68 |
|
Wexford |
Cullenstown |
Revetment Works & training walls |
557,097.58 |
685,612.85 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Study of Nth end of Spit |
76,184.28 |
51,999.57 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Maintenance |
0.00 |
22,771.86 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Revetment works |
142,845.53 |
71,422.77 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
New Scheme |
0 |
188.78 |
|
Cork |
Garretstown |
Road Protection Works |
190,460.71 |
0.00 |
|
Cork |
Durrus to Ahakista |
Road protection works |
190,460.71 |
66,314.61 |
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Preparation of tender and planning documents |
19,046.07 |
19,046.07 |
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Sea wall repairs |
28,569.11 |
28,569.11 |
|
Kerry |
R561 Dingle to Castlemain Rd |
Revetment Works |
634,869.04 |
1,386,430.06 |
|
Clare |
Quilty |
Protection Scheme |
47,615.18 |
73,815.11 |
|
Clare |
Clahanes, Liscannor |
Concrete Wall |
142,845.53 |
175,086.91 |
|
Clare |
Rinvalla Bay |
Road protection works |
190,460.71 |
240,929.66 |
|
Clare |
Aughinish Island |
Causeway protection works |
47,615.18 |
39,276.27 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Phase 2 Coast Protection |
285,691.07 |
647,673.60 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Pier Remedial Works, Ext of harbour wall works |
1,097,053.70 |
792,131.26 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Coast Protection Scheme |
0 |
20.02 |
|
Dublin |
Bull Island |
Study |
100,902.28 |
63,880.52 |
|
Dún Laoghaire / Rathdown |
Vico Road |
Cliff Protection Works |
666,612.49 |
0.00 |
|
GENERAL |
||||
|
East Coast |
Aerial Survey-Carnsore to Killiney |
63,281.12 |
63,281.12 |
|
|
Coastal Surveys |
General Coastal & Project Related |
10,240.44 |
10,240.44 |
|
|
GIS System |
Customisation, Maintenance & Training |
2,384.52 |
2,384.52 |
|
|
GIS System 2001 |
Customisation, Maintenance & Training |
0 |
33,284.28 |
|
|
Wave Buoys |
Maintenance & Deployment |
3,000 |
2,989.61 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2002 Allocation |
2002 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Sligo |
Strandhill |
Shoreline Protection |
532,500.00 |
532,500.00 |
|
Sligo |
Mullaghmore |
Road Protection |
67,500.00 |
67,286.25 |
|
Donegal |
Keadew Kincaslagh |
Sea Wall |
157,500.00 |
183,974.90 |
|
Donegal |
Maghery Dungloe |
Road Protection |
75,000.00 |
82,330.31 |
|
Donegal |
Mountcharles |
Road Protection |
0 |
9,249.64 |
|
Donegal |
Kerrykeel |
Road Protection |
0 |
1,180.65 |
|
Donegal |
Carrickaroary |
Repointing existing sea wall |
0 |
16,705.54 |
|
Donegal |
Drung, Quigleys Point |
Rock Armour |
0 |
11,606.83 |
|
Donegal |
Lagg, Malin Head |
Study of coastal processes |
0 |
23,293.18 |
|
Donegal |
Inver |
Protection works |
0 |
991.29 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Protection Works to Sth Facing Shore |
142,875.00 |
142,875.00 |
|
Galway |
Salin to Silverstrand |
EIS\Study |
78,500.00 |
79,830.46 |
|
Galway |
Tawin Island |
Road Protection |
57,150.00 |
53,913.51 |
|
Mayo |
Claggan Island |
Repair works |
20,000.00 |
24,869.00 |
|
Mayo |
Bunnafolly |
Protection Works |
22,500.00 |
27,108.00 |
|
Mayo |
Lacken |
Cliff\Road Study |
22,500.00 |
22,500.00 |
|
Mayo |
Elly Bay |
Installation of ECAB Units |
172,500.00 |
148,608.00 |
|
Louth |
Bellurgan |
Embankment Reinstatement |
225,000.00 |
170,151.75 |
|
Louth |
Louth Coastline |
Survey of Coastline |
9,000.00 |
7,568.25 |
|
Louth |
Whitestown |
Rock Armour Protection |
37,500.00 |
37,335.64 |
|
Louth |
Blackrock |
Seawall Protection |
22,500.00 |
32,487.75 |
|
Louth |
Salterstown, Cruisetown, Dunany |
Repairs & Protection of Road Verge |
390,000.00 |
393,617.25 |
|
Louth |
Seapoint |
Dune Protection Works |
75,000.00 |
75,000.00 |
|
Louth |
Blackrock to Dundalk |
Study |
37,500.00 |
36,300.00 |
|
Louth |
Shelling Hill/Gyles Quay |
Protection works |
11,250.00 |
34,419.00 |
|
Louth |
Carlingford Harbour |
Damaged navigation light |
7,500.00 |
623.25 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan Harbour |
Protection works |
7,500.00 |
26,068.50 |
|
Waterford |
Tramore |
Promenade Refurbishment |
93,750.00 |
228,194.88 |
|
Waterford |
Cunnigar |
Rock Revetment |
266,250.00 |
244,273.60 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Study of North End Spit |
147,607.00 |
114,435.00 |
|
Wexford |
Courtown |
Detailed design of offshore breakwater |
165,000.00 |
133,810.34 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Revetment Works |
186,187.00 |
77,846.49 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Maintenance |
0.00 |
13,292.00 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Capital |
63,281.25 |
0.00 |
|
Wexford |
Cahore |
Rock Groynes & Beach Nourishment |
112,500.00 |
42,966.58 |
|
Wexford |
Ballyconnigar |
Rock Revetment |
57,375.00 |
21,750.00 |
|
Cork |
Garrettstown |
Road Protection Works |
116,250.00 |
209,259.83 |
|
Cork |
Durrus to Ahakista |
Road Protection Works |
132,750.00 |
135,179.00 |
|
Cork |
Warren |
Beach Groynes |
123,750.00 |
112,500.00 |
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Planning/Contract documents/Foreshore |
37,500.00 |
37,500.00 |
|
Kerry |
Ballyheigue/Inch |
Road Protection Works |
375,000.00 |
414,243.46 |
|
Kerry |
Knightstown |
Protection Works |
37,500.00 |
37,856.12 |
|
Clare |
Carrigolt |
Protection Works to National Monument |
193,000.00 |
45,897.00 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Pier Repair works |
423,000.00 |
440,244.00 |
|
Dublin |
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
Shanganagh Study |
19,125.00 |
7,482.91 |
|
Dublin |
Dún Laoghaire/Rathdown |
Vico Road Revetment |
262,500.00 |
212,718.05 |
|
Dublin |
Portmarnock Dunes |
Protection Works |
40,500.00 |
37,487.86 |
|
GENERAL |
||||
|
Coastal Study |
Consultancy Study |
80,000.00 |
2,955.00 |
|
|
Coastal Surveys |
General Coastal & Project Related |
20,000.00 |
4,212.00 |
|
|
GIS System |
Customisation, Maintenance & Training |
20,000.00 |
9,537.00 |
|
|
Wave Buoys |
Maintenance & Develop |
20,000.00 |
7,391.00 |
|
|
Beach Monitoring |
Monitoring of nourished Beach, Bray, Co Wicklow |
40,000.00 |
5,816.00 |
|
|
East Coast |
Aerial Survey-Carnsore to Killiney |
21,785.00 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2003 Allocation |
2003 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Mayo |
Elly Bay |
Installation of ECAB Units |
75,000.00 |
69,182.59 |
|
Mayo |
Devlin Townland |
Installation of rock armour, retaining wall |
60,000.00 |
60,000.00 |
|
Louth |
Bellurgan |
Embankment Reinstatement |
7,500.00 |
5,736.00 |
|
Louth |
Salterstown |
Repairs & protection of Road Verge |
90,000.00 |
90,000.00 |
|
Louth |
Carlingford Harbour |
Damaged Navigational Light |
5,250.00 |
2,253.00 |
|
Louth |
Shore Rd Dundalk |
Sea Defence Embankment |
56,250.00 |
58,500.00 |
|
Louth |
Blackrock |
Rock armour |
41,250.00 |
40,905.00 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Protection Works |
7,500.00 |
6,706.50 |
|
Louth |
Cruisetown |
Extend coastal protection |
60,000.00 |
60,738.00 |
|
Louth |
Salterstown pier |
Protection works |
18,750.00 |
22,527.25 |
|
Donegal |
Drung, Quigleys Pt. |
Road Protection Works |
40,000.00 |
40,277.59 |
|
Donegal |
Meenacross |
Rebuild portion of wall, repoint wall |
15,000.00 |
15,000.00 |
|
Donegal |
Muckross |
Rock armour revetment to protect public road |
60,000.00 |
60,000.00 |
|
Clare |
Carrigaholt Castle |
Protection Works to National Monument |
30,000.00 |
32,661.50 |
|
Clare |
Cappagh |
Road Protection Works |
75,000.00 |
74,700.00 |
|
Clare |
Carrigaholt |
Reconstruction of rock revetment |
22,500.00 |
21,753.00 |
|
Clare |
Doonbeg |
Rock armour |
15,000.00 |
17,011.50 |
|
Clare |
Liscannor |
Rock armour |
15,000.00 |
13,710.53 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Study |
15,000.00 |
8,616.23 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Capital Works including rock armour revetment |
14,290.46 |
|
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Strand |
Maintenance |
20,000 |
7,957.54 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
New Scheme |
155.38 |
|
|
Wexford |
Cahore |
Rock groynes, beach nourishment |
43,286.42 |
|
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Revetment works |
27,821.01 |
|
|
Wexford |
Ballyconnigar |
Rock revetment |
22,239.00 |
|
|
Cork |
Warren Strand |
Beach Groynes |
120,000.00 |
120,000.00 |
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Coastal protection Phase , prep.contract docs. |
22,687.52 |
22,687.50 |
|
Cork |
Warren Strand |
Complete Phase 2 groyne |
41,623.31 |
41,623.31 |
|
Waterford |
Tramore |
Promenade Refurbishment |
20,700.00 |
17,572.30 |
|
Waterford |
Cunnigar |
Balance of 2001 grant |
1,004.40 |
|
|
Dublin |
Dublin City Council |
Contribution to Risk Assessment Study |
80,000.00 |
80,000.00 |
|
Kerry |
Ballyheigue |
Road Protection Works |
150,000.00 |
150,000.00 |
|
Kerry |
Ballyheigue |
Complete Phase 1 |
225,000.00 |
225,000.00 |
|
Kerry |
Ventry |
Coastal protection works |
22,500.00 |
21,785.48 |
|
Kerry |
Kenmare |
Sea wall |
15,000.00 |
11,269.77 |
|
Wicklow |
Brittas Bay |
Update study, Extension of scheme |
37,500.00 |
37,351.79 |
|
Fingal |
Burrow, Portrane |
Repairs to embankment etc. |
7,500.00 |
7,500.00 |
|
Fingal |
Portmarnock to Malahide |
Repairs to Coastal walkway |
3,750.00 |
3,750.00 |
|
GENERAL PROJECTS |
||||
|
Coast Protection Strategy Study |
200,000.00 |
370,470.75 |
||
|
GIS System |
Maintenance & Customisation |
20,000.00 |
26,725.88 |
|
|
Wave Buoy |
Maintenance & Deployment |
10,000.00 |
0.00 |
|
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Beach Monitoring |
15,000.00 |
4,646.40 |
|
Basic Research |
Tide Gauge Review Statistical analyses |
40,000.00 |
9,800.00 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2004 Allocation |
2004 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Emergency work |
262,500.00 |
144,932.87 |
|
Meath |
Laytown |
Laytown Study (Drogheda port material) |
30,000.00 |
30,000.00 |
|
Louth |
Drogheda |
Erosion of R167 |
26,000.00 |
28,986.00 |
|
Louth |
Bellurgan |
Erosion (Road) |
7,500.00 |
8,226.34 |
|
Louth |
Cooley (Whitetown/ Ballagan) |
Replacement of Rock Armour |
37,500.00 |
43,873.50 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan,ËStrand Road |
Concrete underpinning & rock armour |
112,500.00 |
112,499.13 |
|
Louth |
Salterstown |
County Road Erosion to road edge |
52,500.00 |
52,837.50 |
|
Mayo |
Elly Bay |
24.45 |
||
|
Kerry |
Kilfinora |
Revetment works |
150,000.00 |
117292.49 |
|
Kerry |
Baile an Rannaig,ËBurial Place |
Provision of Rock Armour |
112,500.00 |
88,090.30 |
|
Dublin |
Dún LaoghaireËRathdown CC |
Coastal Survey |
18,000.00 |
19,239.00 |
|
Dublin |
Corbawn Lane |
Contract documents etc; |
22,500.00 |
30,855.00 |
|
Cork |
Warren |
Coast Protection works |
187,500.00 |
142,828.42 |
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Phase 1 |
375,000.00 |
379,458.88 |
|
Waterford |
Helvic Pier |
Emergency Works and Diving Survey |
90,000.00 |
70,902.76 |
|
Wexford |
Courtown |
Design of breakwaters etc; |
296,250.00 |
368,204.08 |
|
Wexford |
Curracloe |
Dune Protection |
56,250.00 |
31,030.92 |
|
Wicklow |
Brittas Bay |
Brittas Bay Study |
30,000.00 |
0.00 |
|
Wicklow |
Greystones |
Coast protection Site Investigation |
52,500.00 |
52,500.00 |
|
GENERAL PROJECTS |
Coast Protection Strategy Study |
248,000.00 |
174,220.62 |
|
|
GIS System |
Maintenance & Customisation |
40,000.00 |
31389.95 |
|
|
Wave Buoy |
Maintenance & Deployment |
15,000.00 |
45188.39 |
|
|
Beach Monitoring |
Monitoring of Nourished Beach at Bray |
15,000.00 |
16992.27 |
|
|
Basic Research |
Tide Gauge |
Installation of gauge for monitoring mean sea level |
60,000.00 |
11335.64 |
|
Coastal Video Survey |
Video Survey of National Coastline |
20,000.00 |
30991.5 |
|
|
Detailed Survey of Selected Coastal Areas |
Selected Coastal Areas |
40,000.00Ë |
||
|
Wexford |
Rosslare Maintenance |
Beach and Compound Maintenance work |
60,000.00 |
83198.63 |
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2005 Allocation |
2005 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Donegal |
Curransport, Meenalaragh |
Protection Works |
37,500.00 |
0.00 |
|
Donegal |
Curransport, Meenalaragh |
Protection Works |
15,000.00 |
52,500.00 |
|
Donegal |
Gweebarra Bends |
Protection to sea wall |
30,000.00 |
30,000.00 |
|
Donegal |
Inver Village |
Extension to protection wall |
37,500.00 |
52,500.00 |
|
Donegal |
Inver Village |
Extension to protection wall |
15,000.00 |
0.00 |
|
Donegal |
Lagg |
Beach Protection Works |
45,000.00 |
45,000.00 |
|
Donegal |
Moville |
Green amenity area and path |
4,500.00 |
4,500.00 |
|
Donegal |
Rosbeg |
Protection Works |
15,000.00 |
15,000.00 |
|
Donegal |
Rye, Rathmullen |
Protection Works |
105,000.00 |
105,000.00 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Strand Road |
3,000.00 |
28,377.27 |
|
Louth |
Salterstown |
Road Protection Works |
63,750.00 |
48,193.50 |
|
Louth |
Port Beach |
Study |
11,250.00 |
11,253.00 |
|
Mayo |
Bertra Beach, Westport |
Protection Works |
75,000.00 |
75,000.00 |
|
Sligo |
Mullaghmore |
Dune Management Scheme |
11,250.00 |
11,340.75 |
|
Sligo |
Rathlee |
Coast Protection works |
45,000.00 |
31,352.88 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Design, tenders, etc for emergency works |
53,123.89 |
53,123.89 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Road Protection Works additional funding |
55,156.58 |
55,156.58 |
|
Donegal |
*Aranmore |
Protection Works |
18,750.00 |
31,875.00 |
|
Donegal |
Aranmore |
Protection works |
13,125.00 |
0.00 |
|
Donegal |
*Maghery |
Protection Works |
37,500.00 |
37,500.00 |
|
Donegal |
*Muckross |
Protection Works |
9,375.00 |
9,375.00 |
|
Galway |
*Inishboffin |
Road Protection Works |
75,000.00 |
75,000.00 |
|
Cork |
Gyleen |
Village Protection Works |
187,500.00 |
148,553.90 |
|
Cork |
Youghal |
Phase 1 completion |
225,000.00 |
232,892.50 |
|
Clare |
Ross/Kilbaha |
Installation of rock gabians & rock revetment |
75,000.00 |
88,987.50 |
|
Clare |
Carrigaholt |
Road Protection Works |
45,000.00 |
54,232.50 |
|
Kerry |
Killelan Caherciveen |
Road Protection Works |
15,000.00 |
15,000.00 |
|
Kerry |
Baile an Rannaig |
Provision of rock armour |
2,007.39 |
1,968.88 |
|
Dublin City Co. Co. |
Merrion Gates |
Provide banking/ramping to seal opening |
187,500.00 |
36,386.09 |
|
Clontarf Promenade |
Flood Defences Detailed Design |
30,219.75 |
||
|
Spencer Dock |
Sea Surge Defence Barrier |
120,894.16 |
||
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Co. Co. |
Killiney |
Repairs to beach gabions |
202,500.00 |
109,275.00 |
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown Co. Co. |
Corbawn/Shankill |
Repairs to beach access |
101,250.00 |
29,947.50 |
|
Waterford |
Bunmahon |
Protection Works/Scheme Design |
30,000.00 |
17,825.77 |
|
Waterford |
Cunnigar, Dungarvan |
Protection Scheme/Design |
75,000.00 |
69,493.58 |
|
Wexford |
Cahore |
Continuation of Revetment works |
22,500.00 |
16,616.87 |
|
Wexford |
Kilpatrick |
Soft engineering Works to Beach |
15,000.00 |
15,271.43 |
|
Wicklow |
Arklow |
South Beach |
42,750.00 |
44,356.15 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray to Greystones |
Cliff path works |
138,750.00 |
69,665.25 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Promenade flood prevention wall at Bray |
60,000.00 |
55,500.00 |
|
Kerry |
Reen Ballinskelligs |
Protection Works |
7,500.00 |
7,500.00 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Premliminary Design at Rosslare |
75,000.00 |
0.00 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Soft engineering Works to Beach |
22,500.00 |
10,118.96 |
|
Kerry |
Maharees |
Road Protection Works |
150,000.00 |
74,821.48 |
|
Kerry |
Kilfenora |
Rock Revetment |
25,546.88 |
21,100.12 |
|
GENERAL PROJECTS |
||||
|
Coastal Protection |
Strategy Study |
200,000.00 |
132,816.27 |
|
|
Consultancy |
Studies |
100,000.00 |
0 |
|
|
GIS System |
Customisation, Maintenance and training |
55,000.00 |
18,929.16 |
|
|
Wave Buoys |
Maintenance and Deployment |
15,000.00 |
8,556.06 |
|
|
Beach Monitoring |
Monitoring of Nourished beach at Bray, Co Wicklow |
10,000.00 |
4,646.40 |
|
|
Tide Guage |
Installation of gauge for monitoring mean sea level |
40,000.00 |
19,723.00 |
|
|
Detailed Survey of Selected Coastal Areas |
75,000.00 |
41,881.85 |
||
|
Rosslare Maintenance |
Rosslare maintenance works |
30,000.00 |
14,832.08 |
*Co-funded with Dept. Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs — 37.5% each Dept.
|
County |
Location |
Project |
2006 Allocation |
2006 Outturn |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Donegal |
Bundoran Pier |
Construction of retaining wall |
78,375.00 |
1,815.00 |
|
Donegal |
Kincasslagh |
Repairs to dunes system |
15,000.00 |
15,271.09 |
|
Louth |
Port Beach |
Study |
29,250.00 |
29,071.50 |
|
Louth |
Annagassan |
Rock revetment Phase 3 |
97,500.00 |
97,698.00 |
|
Meath |
Bettystown-Laytown |
Coastal Protection Study |
18,141.00 |
18,141.00 |
|
Meath |
Laytown-Seafield Road |
Coastal Protection Study |
9,000.00 |
2,723.00 |
|
Mayo |
*Mulranny Beach |
Repairs to causeway and bridge |
37,500.00 |
37,500.00 |
|
Galway |
Inishboffin |
Protection works |
450,000.00 |
500,034.63 |
|
Sligo |
Dunmoran Strand |
Work at Ardnaglass river |
337,500.00 |
35,344.93 |
|
Dublin City Council |
Clontarf |
Studies/advanced design/site investigations |
187,500.00 |
151,339.90 |
|
Fingal County Council |
Portrane |
Repairs to dunes at the Burrow |
75,000.00 |
0.00 |
|
Dún Laoghaire Rathdown |
Killiney |
Gabians at Killiney Beach |
215,981.00 |
294,342.46 |
|
Wicklow |
The Murrough |
Coastal Studies |
41,250.00 |
41,250.00 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray |
Flood prevention works to promenade |
4,500.00 |
4,500.00 |
|
Wicklow |
Bray to Greystones |
Protection works to cliff walk (cont.) |
69,085.00 |
0.00 |
|
Wicklow |
Clogga Beach |
Protection works at access |
52,500.00 |
52,500.00 |
|
Wexford |
Courtown |
Project planning & design stage for majorprotection scheme |
75,000.00 |
35,984.65 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Rock revetment |
375,000.00 |
368,615.63 |
|
Wexford |
Ballinamona |
Restore access to beach |
37,500.00 |
18,387.00 |
|
Wexford |
Carne |
Rock revetment |
108,000.00 |
108,108.80 |
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Study of coastal dynamics & protection requirements |
150,000.00 |
797.14 |
|
Wexford |
St Helen's Bay |
Rock revetment |
300,000.00 |
95,680.50 |
|
Waterford |
Bonmahon |
Reconstruction of sand dunes, protection works scheme design |
656,200.00 |
321,689.91 |
|
Waterford |
Ballyquin |
Rock armour and gabian wall |
75,000.00 |
0.00 |
|
Waterford |
Cunnigar |
Protection Works |
1,608.90 |
1,608.90 |
|
Waterford |
Helvick Pier repairs |
Cliff stabilisation |
187,500.00 |
87,530.74 |
|
Cork |
Gyleen |
Cliff protection works (cont'd) |
206,250.00 |
245,082.80 |
|
Kerry |
Rossbeigh |
Cliff & road prot. studies and design etc. |
15,000.00 |
5,082.00 |
|
Kerry |
Maharees |
Revetment works |
13,500.00 |
22,579.84 |
|
Baile an Rannaig |
12.24 |
|||
|
Kerry |
*Baile an Rannaig |
Prot. to sand dunes in Smerwick Harb. |
26,250.00 |
26,086.39 |
|
Kerry |
Cooncrome |
Prot. works to car park |
18,750.00 |
0.00 |
|
Kerry |
*Gleesk |
Repairs and strengthen sea wall |
11,250.00 |
11,250.00 |
|
Kerry |
Ballyteigue/Dromatoor |
Cliff road protection works |
375,000.00 |
637,500.00 |
|
Clare |
Cloghauninchy Beach Road |
Sea Wall construction |
7,500.00 |
0.00 |
|
Coastal Protection |
Strategy Study |
225,000.00 |
204,135.07 |
|
|
Detailed survey |
of selected coastal areas |
450,000.00 |
266,560.99 |
|
|
GIS system |
40,000.00 |
19,178.50 |
||
|
GIS maintenance & development |
593.65 |
|||
|
Student Engineer |
40,000.00 |
|||
|
Wave buoy and tide gauge deployment |
55,000.00 |
2,501.92 |
||
|
Wexford |
Rosslare |
Maintenance |
45,000.00 |
5,492.92 |
*Co-funded with Dept. Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs — 37.5% each Dept.
300 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department will assist persons (details supplied) by making representations to the Mongolian authorities as to the whereabouts of a child who is an Irish citizen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13932/07]
I have asked our Ambassador in Beijing, who is also accredited to Mongolia, to look into this matter, particularly in regard to the welfare of the child. My Department will assist in any way possible and I will keep the Deputy informed of the Ambassador's findings.
301 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action currently being taken by the Government through membership of European and global institutions such as the UN to promote human rights in Burma and to bring about the release of Aung San Suu Kyi; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13941/07]
Ireland and our EU partners apply a range of sanctions and restrictive measures to Burma, referred to as the EU Common Position. These measures, first introduced in April 2004, reflect our concerns about the political and human rights situation in the country, the continued detention of Aung San Suu Kyi and other political detainees, and restrictions placed on the operation of international organisations and NGOs. In view of the current political situation in Burma, and the lack of progress on democracy and human rights, Ireland supports the retention of these measures. The EU will reconsider the Common Position in light of genuine and substantial improvement in the political and human rights situation in Burma.
Ireland and the EU continue to raise the issue of the situation in Burma in all relevant fora, and to work closely with partners to effectively engage international organisations in addressing the situation in that country. The EU has supported action by the International Labour Office (ILO) to address reports of widespread and systematic forced labour practices, including child labour, and that individuals who lodged complaints of forced labour have subsequently been prosecuted and their appeals systematically rejected. I welcome in this context the supplementary understanding agreed between the ILO and the Government of Burma on 26 February to seek to enable victims of forced labour to seek redress, and urge the Burmese Government to ensure the full implementation of this agreement.
The EU-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting in Nuremberg on 14-15 March provided a further opportunity to raise the issue with our ASEAN partners, and also directly by Minister of State Noel Treacy with the Foreign Minister of Burma/Myanmar in a bilateral discussion. Ministers in Nuremberg encouraged Burma to make greater progress towards national reconciliation as well as to involve constructively all political parties and ethnic groups in an inclusive dialogue. Ministers also called for a lifting of restrictions on political parties and the early release of those under detention. I welcome ASEAN's continued efforts to encourage reform and reconciliation in Burma.
With EU partners, I strongly support the use of the UN Secretary General's good offices to bring about peaceful political change in Burma. It is vitally important that the Burmese government allow the UN to play a role in promoting common ground between the government and the National League for Democracy, so that the National Convention, whose task is to draft a new constitution, can proceed in a more inclu With EU partners, I strongly support the use of the UN Secretary General's good offices to bring about peaceful political change in Burma. It is vitally important that the Burmese government allow the UN to play a role in promoting common ground between the government and the National League for Democracy, so that the National Convention, whose task is to draft a new constitution, can proceed in a more inclusive way. Without broader representation, the usefulness of the National Convention will be very severely limited. This would, of course, be greatly facilitated by the release of Aung San Suu Kyi and other opposition political leaders.
Clearly, other UN bodies should continue to monitor the situation in Burma, and I would see real value in the Human Rights Council (HRC) examining the situation in Burma at one of its sessions this year.
Finally, Irish Aid also supports human rights and democratisation in Burma through its Civil Society Fund and Multi-Annual Programme Scheme. From 2003 to 2005, Irish Aid has allocated Trócaire funding of €1,123,307 in support of its programme to strengthen civil society in Burma and in support of Burmese refugees in Thailand. Irish Aid is also providing over €290,000 to the Voluntary Service Overseas organisation for a three year programme promoting democratisation, human rights and reconciliation among five ethnic groups on the Burma/Thailand border.
302 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the location where a person (details supplied) in County Mayo can apply for a visa. [13977/07]
The nearest Irish Embassy at which a person who is resident in Cameroon can apply for a visa is located in Abuja, Nigeria. The visa application together with the supporting documentation should be submitted to the Embassy at the following address:
Embassy of Ireland
11 Negro Crescent
Maitama
Abuja,
Nigeria
Telephone 234 9 413 1751.
303 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14030/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the Supreme Court judgement in this case relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act 1993. Whether the judgement has implications for other legislation is under review. The Office has also advised that the case has no implications for the European Communities Act 1972, for which my Department is responsible, and regulations made thereunder. They have confirmed their earlier advice to us that there are no implications for the European Communities Bill 2006, which passed all stages in the House last week and was passed by the Seanad last evening.
304 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on a campaign (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14039/07]
I am aware of the campaign for the establishment of a Parliamentary Assembly at the United Nations. However, I am not convinced of the merits of the proposal.
The Interparliamentary Union already brings parliaments together and has regular meetings in the margins of the UN General Assembly. Irish parliamentarians are very active in its important work, of which I believe all of us in the Oireachtas are supportive. Therefore I do not see what value added a UN Parliamentary Assembly would bring. Furthermore, the 2004 Report of the High Level Panel on UN Reform did not come forward with such a proposal. Nor was there any support for the proposal from UN Secretary-General Annan in his reform initiatives of 2005.
305 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if information is available to him concerning the circumstances that led to the detention of 15 naval personnel in waters between Iran and Iraq; the territorial waters in which the incident took place and the purposes of the exercises involved; and such other factors as led him to adopt the position stated on behalf of the General Council of the European Union. [14052/07]
I warmly welcome yesterday's announcement by President Ahmadinejad of the release of the fifteen British sailors.
The Government, and our EU partners, strongly supported the intensive diplomatic efforts by the British Government to achieve the release of the naval personnel who were detained by the Iranian authorities on 23 March. They had been conducting an anti-smuggling naval patrol as members of the multinational force in Iraq, under the mandate reaffirmed most recently by UN Security Council Resolution 1723, which was adopted unanimously on 28 November 2006.
306 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in regard to the funding for the proposed swimming pool at Leixlip, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13858/07]
308 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in regard to the provision of the proposed new swimming pool at Leixlip, County Kildare; the full extent of the funding available; the level of agreement reached in regard to the provision of this facility; when he expects the project to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13871/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 306 and 308 together.
Public swimming pools are funded under the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme which is administered by my Department. The current round of the programme was closed to applications on 31 July 2000 and no application was made in respect of a public swimming pool for Leixlip before that date.
My Department is completing an Expenditure Review of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme at present. The Review is examining, among other things, how the programme has worked to date and what changes, if any, are required to ensure its effective and efficient delivery. The Review is currently being finalised and it is my intention to publish it as soon as possible. Following consideration of the recommendations in the review it is my intention to launch a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. When the programme is re-opened, it will be open to all local authorities including Kildare County Council on behalf of Leixlip, to submit applications under the terms that will apply.
307 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of local swimming pools expected to be funded by his Department in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13864/07]
Funding is provided by my Department to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool under the terms of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. This Programme is funded from Subhead C2 of my Department's Vote, where the provision for 2007 is €25m. The Programme provides for a maximum grant of €3.8million and there are four stages in the development of a swimming pool project. These are, in order of progress, Feasibility Study/ Preliminary Report; Contract Documents; Tender and Construction. Grant aid is formally allocated when the tender for the project is approved.
The current round of the Programme closed to applicants on 31 July 2000. Of the 57 projects within the current round, 41 projects have been approved grant aid, of which 23 have been funded and completed. The remaining 18 projects that are under construction or due to start construction shortly will continue to draw down their grant allocation in during 2007 and beyond. 3 projects are out to tender and are likely to seek formal grant approval in 2007. The remaining 13 projects are at earlier stages in the approval process of the programme.
The drawdown of moneys under the programme depends on the speed at which local authorities press ahead with projects and submit grant drawdown claims.
309 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will look favourably on a grant application made by a theatre (details supplied) in County Limerick; the criteria that has to be satisfied to qualify for grant aid; if the application made by the theatre meets the required criteria; and when he will make a decision on the funding. [13571/07]
An application for funding was received from this project under the Arts and Culture Capital Enhancement Support Scheme II (ACCESS II). This is the successor to the highly successful ACCESS I scheme, introduced in August 2001, under which funding of almost €43 million was allocated to 40 projects nationwide. ACCESS has been widely acknowledged as a significant intervention in the provision of high quality arts and culture infrastructure around the country. Under the new Access Scheme, 70% of the funds will be directed towards the enhancement and/or refurbishment of existing facilities, with 30% available for new facilities.
An independent Selection Committee has just completed its assessment of the applications and has, submitted its report for my consideration. I am currently examining this report and hope to make an announcement regarding the successful applicants shortly.
310 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the location to which it is intended to move the Abbey Theatre; his views on whether O’Connell Street would be a more appropriate site, rather than occupying reclaimed land in one of the canal basins; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13602/07]
The Government's decision to relocate the National Theatre to the George's Dock site, which was offered free of charge for this purpose by the Dublin Docklands Development Authority (DDDA), was made following careful and thorough examination of a number of alternatives.
Following this decision, the Government authorised investigative surveys to be carried out at the George's Dock site. At my request, the Office of Public Works arranged detailed examination of the site, including archaeological, geotechnical and structural surveys. On the basis of the favourable conclusions emerging from these studies the Government approved the redevelopment of the Abbey Theatre at George's Dock.
311 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if funding or grant aid for the development of a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry arranged through his Department or related bodies or projects for example, National Lottery funding; if so, when and the grounds on which it was arranged; and the amount in relation to same. [13635/07]
The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national levels. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.
While it is open to golf clubs to apply for funding under the programme in respect of the development of facilities, funding for private golf clubs would not generally be regarded as a priority under the programme and no private golf club has benefited under the programme since 2003. No funding has been provided under my Department's sports capital programme for the golf course in question.
My Department does not provide direct funding in respect of tourism product developments. Such funding is channelled through the two State Agencies, Tourism Ireland and Fáilte Ireland.
312 Mr. Connaughton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when a decision will be made on an application by a group (details supplied) in County Galway under the sports capital programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13679/07]
The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country. The programme is advertised on an annual basis.
Applications for funding under the 2007 programme were invited through advertisements in the Press on October 15th and 16th last. The closing date for receipt of applications was November 24th 2006. All applications received before the deadline, including one from the organisation in question, are currently being evaluated against the programme's assessment criteria, which are outlined in the guidelines, terms and conditions of the programme. I intend to announce the grant allocations for the programme as soon as possible after the assessment process has been completed.
313 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when the expenditure review of the local authority swimming pool programme will be completed; and when it is expected that a new round of the local authority swimming pool programme will be launched. [13904/07]
My Department is completing an Expenditure Review of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme at present. The Review is examining, among other things, how the programme has worked to date and what changes, if any, are required to ensure its effective and efficient delivery. The Review is currently being finalised and it is my intention to publish it shortly.
Following consideration of the recommendations in the review it is my intention to launch a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme as soon as possible.
314 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will report on the programme for the grant aiding of local authority swimming pools and bodies supported by local authorities; when the current programme was advertised; the names of the successful applications that have been approved under the scheme; when the next scheme will be advertised; and if it will provide for the refurbishment of existing pools. [13951/07]
Funding is provided by my Department to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool under the terms of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. The Programme provides for a maximum grant of €3.8million. Where a project is being undertaken by an organisation other than a local authority, the proposal must be considered, supported and submitted by the local authority. Before supporting such a project, the local authority would have to be satisfied that the proposal is viable, that the balance of funding required to complete the project is available and that the project when completed, would have a suitable level of public access.
There are 57 projects within the current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, which closed to applicants on 31 July 2000. Of these, 23 have been completed, 18 are under construction or about to start construction, 3 are out to tender and the remaining 13 are at earlier stages in the process. Full details are as follows:
Projects Completed (23)
Arklow (Refurbish) — official opening January 2000
Courtown/Gorey (New) — official opening 2001
Dundalk (New) — official opening March 2002
Ennis (New) — official opening September 2003
Enniscorthy (New) — official opening January 2000
Monaghan (Refurbish) — re-entered programme for replacement
Navan (New) — official opening August 2000
Wicklow (New) — (Sept 99) official opening June 2001
Roscommon (Refurbish) — official opening April 2002
AquaDome, Tralee (Refurbish) — opened 2003
Ballinasloe (Replace) — official opening October 2003
Finglas, Dublin (Replace) — opened 04
Grove Island, Limerick (New) — opened 04
Sports and Leisure Centre, Tralee (Refurbish) — opened 04
Clonmel (Refurbish) — opened 04
Churchfield, Cork City (Refurbish) — opened 05
Ballymun, Dublin City (Replace) — opened 05 (limited opening)
Tuam, Co Galway (Replace) — opened Sept 05
Drogheda, Co Louth (Replace) — opened May 2006
Monaghan town (Replace) — opened 19 August 2006
Cobh, Co Cork (Replace) — opened 30 August 2006
Youghal, Co Cork (New) — opened 18 September 2006
Jobstown, South County Dublin (New) — opened 13 November 2006
Under Construction or about to Start Construction (18)
1. Ballyfermot, Dublin City (Replace)
2. Letterkenny, Co. Donegal (Replace)
3. Ballybunion, Co Kerry (New)
4. Clondalkin, South County Dublin (Replace)
5. Killarney, Co Kerry (New)
6. Askeaton, Co. Limerick (Replace outdoor pool)
7. Portlaoise, Co. Laois (Replace)
8. Portarlington, Co. Laois (Refurbish)
9. Longford, Co.Longford (Replace)
10. Thurles, Co Tipperary (Replace)
11. Michael's House, Dublin (New)
12. Athy, Co. Kildare (Replace
13. Birr, Co. Offaly (Refurbish)
14. Naas, Co. Kildare (Replace)
Kilkenny City (Replace)
Tullamore, Co. Offaly (Replace outdoor pool)
Bray, Co. Wicklow (Replace)
Greystones, Co. Wicklow ( New)
Out to Tender (3)
Claremorris, Co. Mayo (Replacement)
Roscrea, Tipperary, NR (New)
Dundrum, Co. Dublin (Replace)
Preparing Contract Documents (7)
Skerries, Fingal (New)
New Ross, Co. Wexford (Replace)
Buncrana, Co. Donegal (Refurbish)
Glenalbyn, Co. Dublin (Refurbish)
Castlebar, Co. Mayo (Replace)
Dunmanway, Co. Cork (Refurbish)
Ferrybank, Co. Wexford (Refurbish)
Preliminary Report Stage (6)
Edenderry, Co. Offaly (Replace)
Clara, Co. Offaly (Refurbish)
Ballybofey, Co. Donegal (New)
Ballaghadereen, Co. Roscommon (New)
Loughrea, Co. Galway (New)
St. Joseph's School for Deaf Boys.
While the priority under the current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme is to continue to support those projects remaining within the programme, my Department is also completing an Expenditure Review of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme. The Review is examining, among other things, how the programme has worked to date and what changes, if any, are required to ensure its effective and efficient delivery. The Review is currently being finalised and it is my intention to publish it as soon as possible. Following consideration of the recommendations in the review it is my intention to launch a new round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme as soon as possible. When the Programme is re-opened and advertised, it will be open to all local authorities to submit applications under the terms that will apply.
315 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will come up with a plan to develop sports in disadvantaged areas. [14013/07]
The budget for sport has increased from €17 million in 1997 to over €295 million in 2007. By the end of 2006, the Government had invested over €900 million directly into sport since 1997, to support the promotion and development of Irish sport and the provision of a modern sporting infrastructure with high quality facilities catering for the participation, coaching, training and competition needs of all levels and types of sport. Furthermore the National Development Plan 2007-2013 includes a commitment to provide €991m for sport under the aegis of my own Department during the period up to 2013. This is an unprecedented level of funding in the history of Irish sport and is largely directed at ensuring that opportunities for participation in sport exist for all communities in every part of Ireland.
The increased funding provided by the Government to the Irish Sports Council from €13 million in 2000 to over €54 million this year has enabled a number of significant interventions for the benefit of disadvantaged areas. Examples include the Local Sports Partnerships network, development officers in National Governing Bodies and special funding to the FAI, GAA and IRFU aimed at increasing participation among children and young people.
The Local Sports Partnerships have received over €16.2 million in Government funding since they were first set up in 2001 and they represent a major opportunity to engage socially disadvantaged people in sport. The Sports Partnership network will be a national network by the end of 2007. One major initiative for this network will be the investment of funds from the Dormant Accounts for disability officers and for areas of disadvantage, with €2 million available under each initiative.
The Irish Sports Council's Buntús programme is now rolling out to primary schools in Local Sports Partnership areas. The programme aims to support the primary PE curriculum by providing equipment, resource cards and training to teachers. Feedback through the LSP network for the programme has been extremely positive. The Buntús approach to introducing children to sport has also been adopted by the FAI as Buntús soccer, by the IRFU as Buntús Tag Rugby and is also being delivered in programmes with golf, badminton and basketball. "Buntús Start" has also been introduced for pre-school children (3-5 year olds) and is delivered in cooperation with the HSE and County Childcare Committees.
The Irish Sports Council's investment in programmes, such as Women in Sport and Sport for Older People, is more evidence of the targeted approach to sports development, seeking to advance those who face the biggest barriers in sport.
The FAI, in particular, supported by the Government is carrying out valuable work in disadvantaged areas. A further €1 million is being provided by the Government to the FAI this year towards the continued implementation of its Technical Development Plan. Since the launch of the plan in 2004, the FAI has made excellent progress in increasing participation at all levels for all sectors of society thus making a positive impact on social and community issues throughout the country.
Some of the key successes include the recruitment of more than 20 Football in the Community Development Officers, in cooperation with local authorities, to work in the most disadvantaged areas in the country through programmes such as Midnight leagues, inner city Futsal and street leagues targeting the at risk youth communities. The recently launched FAI Mini-Pitch Programme involving the FAI, various Local Authorities and my own Department and providing 64 enclosed small-sized pitches all around the country is another excellent example.
The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country to put in place sporting facilities or purchase sporting equipment.
As part of the evaluation process of the programme, prioritisation is given to projects from urban and rural disadvantaged areas. Disadvantaged areas are those that have been designated by Government for special support through the RAPID, Local Drugs Task Force and CLÁR Programmes. In addition, applicants from these areas only have to provide evidence of 20% own funding for the projects for which they are applying as against 30% for applicants from non-disadvantaged areas. Furthermore, my colleague, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, makes available additional allocations to successful applicants from disadvantaged areas.
Since 2003, when the current system of prioritisation for applicants from disadvantaged areas was put in place, over €91.75 million has been allocated to projects from RAPID, CLAR and Local Drugs Task Force areas under the programme and additional allocations of over €12 million have been made by the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
The Government has invested heavily in capital and current programmes to support sport. Significantly, we have also responded to the needs of those who are viewed as being outside the traditional sports sector.
316 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14022/07]
As no regulations have been made transposing EU legislation into Irish law in respect of the areas for which my Department has responsibility the Supreme Court decision to which the Deputy refers will have no impact.
317 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the net saving to the Exchequer by not recruiting a further 20 employees to the Office of Corporate Law Enforcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13782/07]
The Director of Corporate Enforcement (ODCE) sought 20 additional staff, including 6 Gardaí. In advance of approval of these posts, full detailed costings have not been itemised. The full pay costs would depend on the exact grades and scale points which would apply to any additional staff allocated. The following table outlines the staff grades requested by the ODCE; the numbers at each grade; the pay scale pertaining to each grade and the midpoint of each pay scale for each grade.
|
Grade |
Numbers |
Pay scale |
Mid point of scale |
Total |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
||
|
HEO |
4.5 |
43,445-55,147 |
47,393 |
213,269 |
|
EO |
5.0 |
28,523-45,262 |
36,819 |
184,095 |
|
CO |
2.5 |
22,766-36,913 |
29,139 |
72,848 |
|
AccGr1 |
1 |
65,066-81,199 |
71,198 |
71,198 |
|
IT Systems |
1 |
49,535-58,738 |
53,218 |
53,218 |
|
Total D/ETE staff |
14 |
594,628 |
||
|
Total Gardaí |
6 |
Gardaí are paid by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform (D/JE&LR) |
545,143 |
|
|
Overall total |
1,139,771 |
Based on the figures above, the net saving to the Exchequer by not recruiting a further 20 employees to the Office of Corporate Law Enforcement would be of the order of €1m per annum.
318 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the further action available in the event of a recommendation from the Labour Court in favour of an employee (details supplied) when the employer refuses to abide by the recommendation; the reporting mechanism that exists between his Department and the Labour Court and Labour Relations Commission; his views on further legislation aimed at adding further protections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13578/07]
Under the relevant provisions of the Industrial Relations Acts, the Labour Court conducts a hearing on a trade dispute and then issues a recommendation setting out its opinion on the dispute and the terms on which it should be settled. The law on industrial relations disputes does not generally seek to impose a solution on the parties to a dispute but rather seeks to assist them in arriving at a solution.
I understand that the Labour Court held a hearing in relation to the dispute referred to by the Deputy and its Recommendation on the matter issued in August 2006. As it is a Court of last resort in the industrial relations process, it is expected that the parties come to the process in good faith and consequently are prepared to give serious consideration to the Court's recommendations.
Recommendations of the Labour Court are not legally binding however, and, under our voluntarist approach to industrial relations, responsibility for the settlement of a trade dispute ultimately rests with the parties to the dispute. There are no plans to change the legislation in this regard.
Memoranda of Understanding between the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Labour Court and the Labour Relations Commission have been agreed which set out a formal framework for relations between the Department and the bodies. These memoranda are concerned with the administrative operations of the bodies and have regard to the fact that both the Labour Court and the Labour Relations Commission are independent statutory bodies and, therefore, act independently of the Department in carrying out their statutory functions. In accordance with Industrial Relations legislation, both bodies are required to submit an annual report to the Minister.
319 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount spent on trade trips abroad by his Department and the State agencies under its aegis over the past four years, including to date in 2007; and if he will provide a categorical breakdown of the expenses incurred. [13620/07]
A wide variety of different trade activities is undertaken by Enterprise Ireland (EI) on behalf of my Department. This includes Outward Trade Missions, some of which are led by a Minister, usually either by myself or by Minister Martin; there have been 74 such Ministerial-led Missions since 2003. In addition, Inward Missions organised by EI are made of behalf of buyers and business partners. EI also organises participation in Trade Fairs and other marketing activities on behalf of its client companies. The latter make a financial contribution towards their involvement in most events. The following table gives details of Enterprise Ireland costs in organising these various trade events since 2003, as well as the income received from participants.
The information set out in the table below represents the vast bulk of the expenditure on trade events over the years in question. The Deputy will appreciate that while there are likely to be some additional incidental costs, which have arisen in both the Department and EI, these are relatively minor in terms of the overall activity.
|
Year |
Expenditure |
Income |
Net costs |
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
2003 |
5.134 |
2.478 |
2.656 |
|
2004 |
5.276 |
1.930 |
3.346 |
|
2005 |
5.466 |
1.639 |
3.827 |
|
2006 |
6.875 |
1.918 |
4.957 |
|
2007 to date |
1.773 |
0.669 |
1,104 |
320 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the criteria that has been set down for the awarding of the R and D vouchers to small Irish Businesses; the involvement firms will have in the research process following the initial assignment to the university or State funded body; the monitoring mechanism that will be introduced to oversee the proper execution of the scheme; and the targets that have been set for the scheme. [13621/07]
The objective of the Innovation Voucher initiative, which I launched in March and which is being administered by Enterprise Ireland, is to build links between Ireland's public knowledge providers and small businesses to create a cultural shift in the small business community's approach to innovation whilst creating greater synergies between the two.
This initiative, which is based on a recommendation by the Small Business Forum, will operate initially in pilot phase commencing April 2007. The target set for this phase of the scheme is to issue 200 vouchers worth €5,000 each. The vouchers can be exchanged for advice and expertise from the research provider and will be available to the widest range of small businesses in Ireland. On completion of the pilot, a full evaluation and review will be completed to see how the initiative can be developed and improved.
In order to be successful in an application for an Innovation Voucher, the company's project must require an innovative solution, provide additional value for the company and have on-going benefits. Enterprise Ireland's assessment process will ensure that those applications that demonstrate clear added-value for their business and that are innovative in nature will be awarded a voucher.
An advantage of this initiative is that a small business can continue to concentrate on running its business whilst its chosen knowledge provider works on the innovative solution to the firm's identified problem or business opportunity. Through the process of assigning the voucher to the knowledge provider in exchange for the provider's advice and expertise, linkages will be built between the small firm and the research organisation.
321 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of applications for voluntary decentralisation that have been received by his Department and the State agencies under its aegis; and the number of requests that have been granted and executed. [13622/07]
My Department is required to relocate 250 posts to Carlow under the Government's Decentralisation Programme and this is planned to occur by the end of 2009.
As at 4th April 2007, there have been 321 applications to decentralise to Carlow with my Department. There are 108 Carlow-bound applicants assigned within the Department, with a further 73 Carlow-bound applicants yet to be assigned to the Department. 140 applicants have for a variety of reasons withdrawn or changed their applications to decentralise to Carlow.
The following is the current position relating to the State Agencies under the aegis of my Department as at 4th April 2007:
Health and Safety Authority
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is required to move 110 posts to Thomastown, Co. Kilkenny as part of the Government's decentralisation programme. To date, a total of 62 applicants have expressed an interest through the Central Application Facility (CAF) process in transferring to Thomastown.
In anticipation of the move to Thomastown, the Authority established an interim office in Kilkenny city in August 2006. 18 staff are now located in that office.
The only decentralisation requests that have been granted to date relate to internal HSA staff. Of the 18 staff currently based in the interim office, 6 are internal HSA staff who have decentralised from other HSA offices and the remaining 12 are newly recruited staff that were contractually obligated to decentralise.
FÁS
Under the Government's decentralisation programme, FÁS is due to transfer its head office including some 383 posts to Birr, Co Offaly by 2009.
To date, a total of 110 FAS staff have expressed an interest in relocating to Birr, broken down as follows:
26 FAS staff have volunteered to move (outside of CAF)
6 FAS staff have signed up through the CAF
44 New Entrants have signed contracts with the relocation clause
34 Promoted staff have signed contracts with the relocation clause. However these cases are being examined by the parties and the matter has been referred to the Labour Court.
To date, 3 staff members have re-located to Birr, Co. Offaly, and it is anticipated that between 40 and 50 staff will be located in Birr by the middle of the year.
Enterprise Ireland
Under the Government's decentralisation programme, Enterprise Ireland is required to move 300 posts to Shannon, Co Clare. The total number of civil and public servants who have indicated an interest in decentralising to Enterprise Ireland in Shannon amounts to 28. To date, no requests have been granted and executed.
National Standards Authority of Ireland
The National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) is required to move 132 posts to Arklow, Co Wicklow. The number of NSAI staff who have applied to move to a decentralised location in Arklow is 9. The number of non-NSAI staff who have applied under the CAF system for decentralisation to Arklow is 79. To date, no requests have been granted and executed.
322 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount and detail of resources he will invest in retraining workers who have been made redundant; and the timeline he has set out for the allocation of said resources. [13623/07]
FAS in cooperation with other State agencies provide support and assistance for persons being made redundant. This includes, information sessions, skills analysis, training/retraining courses and job placement. One to one guidance interviews are also available which help to provide an individual response to the needs of each worker.
A budget of approximately €445 million has been allocated to FAS in 2007 for training and integration programmes. These funds are used on a variety of long and short-term training programmes, which take into account the specific needs of the participants. Redundant workers are provided with training either on specially designed courses or on existing FAS courses.
323 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if funding or grant aid for the development of a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry was arranged through his Department or related bodies; if so, when and the grounds on which it was arranged; and the amount in relation to same. [13640/07]
I have been informed by the development agencies under the remit of my Department, that no funding or grant aid for the development of the Skellig Bay Golf Course (formerly Atlantic Links and previously Hog's Head Golf Course) in the townlands of Baslickane and Ballybrack, Waterville, Co. Kerry, was provided.
All funding or grant aid pertaining to the development of sporting projects or facilities are the responsibility of my colleague, Mr John O'Donoghue, TD, Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism.
324 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views in relation to a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry in view of the recent collapse of an illegal structure on the golf course sea cliff edge that was previously condemned as unstable and dangerous by one of the country’s most qualified and experienced geotechnical engineers and that the Health and Safety Authority particularly as they were unable to ensure that the structure was made safe due to the developer’s exploitation of grey areas in the HSA’s legislation and remit that easily allows employers and developers to endanger staff and the general public. [13641/07]
325 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if the developer of a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry exploited grey areas in the Health and Safety Authority’s legislation and remit to evade prosecution and immediate action; and the steps or punitive measures that were or are being taken to address the developer’s illegal removal of these signs and this protective fence. [13642/07]
326 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the lessons he, his Department and the Government will learn from the incidents at a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry; and the measures he will take to ensure that similar episodes will not be repeated by the developer and others. [13643/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 324 to 326, inclusive, together.
The Health and Safety Authority is an independent statutory body which is charged with the inspection and enforcement of occupational safety, health and welfare standards under the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005.
I understand that the Health and Safety Authority received a complaint which alleged that a rock bund at the place concerned was unsafe. The place was visited by an Inspector of the Authority in May 2005.
The inspector requested a copy of a consultant's report on the structure which had already been prepared. On receipt of the report the HSA inspector took immediate action to prevent danger to workers, or to members of the public resulting from work activity, on the site, by issuing prohibition notices prohibiting work activity on top of the bund which might destabilise it.
I also understand that the inspector wrote to the local authority concerned informing them of the situation. It appears that the structure was recently demolished.
Following the fencing off of the area in question and its non-use as a place of work the Health and Safety Authority had no further role in the matter. I am satisfied that the provisions of the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act 2005 were fully adequate to allow the Authority to discharge its remit to protect workers and others from danger resulting from work activities in this case.
327 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the value of public funds provided to date to a group (details supplied) in County Leitrim by his Department or agencies under the control of his Department; the source of such funding and its purpose; when did the facility commence operation; the number and details of the commercial food enterprises operating from the centre and the staffing level in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13661/07]
I understand that in 2003, the Drumshanbo Community Council received a grant for a Feasibility Study from Leitrim County Enterprise Board to a total value of €6,350. The purpose of this grant was to investigate the feasibility of renovating the Laird/Kepak Food Facility into a food village, now known as the Drumshanbo Food Hub.
Drumshanbo Food Hub was also approved for assistance amounting to €300,000 in 2003 under Enterprise Ireland's Community Enterprise Centre Scheme. Drumshanbo Food Hub opened in 2006 and there are currently three food enterprises operating from the Centre, employing a total of 13 people. In addition, a number of site visits to The Food Hub by inward investors have been facilitated by Enterprise Ireland. The agency will continue to promote this quality food production incubation space.
328 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of IDA assisted jobs that have been lost and created in County Kerry in 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13748/07]
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) to Ireland and its regions. The marketing of individual areas for new or expansion FDI investments and jobs is a day-to-day operational matter for the agency. While I may give general policy directives to the agency, I am precluded under the Industrial Development Acts from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others.
During 2006, there were 73 new jobs created and 176 jobs lost in IDA supported companies in Country Kerry. At the end of 2006 there were 1785 people employed in seventeen IDA assisted companies in the County. Total permanent employment in all enterprise agency assisted firms in Kerry stood at 6,928 at the end of 2006.
The attractiveness of Kerry for inward investment has to be seen within a regional context. In line with the National Spatial Strategy, the locations of emphasis for IDA in Kerry are the linked Hubs of Tralee and Killarney. The Agency promotes the County as part of an integrated region with access to a population of approx. 140,000, as well as the expanded population of the Mid-West and South-West regions. Based on the strengths of the region, IDA is particularly targeting the ICT (incl. software), and Globally Traded Business sectors.
The Strategic Competitiveness Programme that is operated by IDA is designed to help consolidate and grow client companies existing operations in the region by achieving substantial productivity improvements or the addition of new business functions such as R&D, marketing, logistics management, shared service centres and customer or technical support activities.
In addition, IDA Ireland is engaged with the Kerry Employment Action Team and the newly formed inter-agency Expert Group on Kerry to plan for the County's future economic growth. Both groups are focussed on how Kerry can best position itself in the context of the National Spatial Strategy, which is at the heart of the new National Development Plan.
I am confident that the current policies and strategies in place will deliver the best results in terms of investment and jobs for the people of the region.
329 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14027/07]
The Judgement of the Supreme Court delivered on the 29th March, 2007, in the case of Tector and Quinn, is confined to the issue as to whether the Minister for Agriculture and Food may amend Regulations which have statutory effect by further Regulations made under Section 8 of the Animal Remedies Act, 1993, or whether such amendments may be made by statute only.
Accordingly, the Attorney General's Office has advised that the effect of the Judgment is confined only to Regulations made under Section 8 of the 1993 Act and only to those such Regulations which attempt to amend previous such Regulations. I understand that the Department of Agriculture and Food is considering the full implications of the Judgement in conjunction with the Attorney General's Office.
330 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the urgent measures he will take to attract much needed foreign investment into north Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14037/07]
IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) to Ireland and its regions. The marketing of individual areas for new or expansion FDI investments and jobs is a day-to-day operational matter for the agency. While I may give general policy directives to the agency, I am precluded under the Industrial Development Acts from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others.
North Tipperary is marketed for inward investment within a regional context, with proximity to Limerick and Cork and its location along the Limerick/Dublin and Cork/Dublin corridors. The National Spatial Strategy (NSS) provides a framework for the achievement of this goal. IDA Ireland's regional strategy reflects the NSS, with an emphasis on the gateway and hub locations. International access through Shannon Airport continues to play a major role in the economic development of the Mid-West region.
The transition to a knowledge based economy both in Ireland as a whole and in North Tipperary, can only be achieved by winning new FDI in innovation driven, high value, high skills sectors. The development of Gateway and Hub locations, as laid out in the NSS, is crucial to the development of the regions. These regions must possess the population, skills base, business services, infrastructure and vibrant enterprise base that is capable of attracting and winning FDI in competition with similar locations internationally.
In moving the Mid-West to a more knowledge based economy, IDA Ireland is partnering with educational institutions in the region, in particular UL, LIT and TI, in developing the skill-sets necessary to attract high value-added employment in activities such as R&D, corporate services, shared services, supply chain management, treasury management,
Responsibility for the provision of industrial property solutions within the Mid-West region also lies with Shannon Development. IDA Ireland works closely with Shannon Development in the promotion and marketing of these tailored property solutions. Initiatives undertaken by Shannon Development include the Development of the Tipperary Technology Park in Thurles. Shannon Development has also acquired a 29 acre site in Roscrea with a view to developing a Business Park appropriate to the needs of the area.
At the end of 2006, there were five IDA supported companies in North Tipperary, employing 610 people. I am confident that the policies and strategies currently in place will deliver the best results in terms of investment and jobs for the people of the Region.
331 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of actual job losses that were successfully identified in advance by the early warning system operating under his Department; the action taken following said identification and the outcome thereof; and the number of potential job losses predicted by the EWS for the year end 31 December 2007. [14079/07]
The Early Warning System of potential job losses and firms in difficulty operating in my Department is an internal system based on material provided on a confidential basis through IDA Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and Shannon Development. Not only is the information confidential, but it is also very sensitive. Indeed, the information is provided initially by the relevant companies on the basis that it will be treated as both confidential and sensitive. It is important for the companies in question that no advantage is given away to their competitors.
Notification of firms in difficulty can range from a number of hours to a number of months. Clearly, the earlier the notification the more time there is for the Industrial Development agencies to work with the companies to minimise potential job losses or avoid them completely if alternative business can be secured. The actions of the agencies in this regard are handled on a one to one basis with each individual client and it is of the utmost importance that the client / agency confidential working relationship is upheld.
I am satisfied with the system that is currently in operation but I am acutely aware that it can only continue to operate if all parties continue to respect the sensitive and confidential nature of this work.
332 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the criteria that will apply to the public sector R and D projects, which will receive funding under the Competitive Fund of the STI strategy; the parties outside of the respective Government Departments to be involved in the projects; the monitoring mechanism that will be introduced to oversee the proper execution of the fund; and the targets that have been set for the fund. [14080/07]
The comprehensive STI Strategy launched by Government on 18 June last year, and supported to the amount of 8.2bn euro in the current National Development Plan, included a new Competitive Fund of 40 million euro for additional public sector research in 2007 and 2008.
Following submissions to the Interdepartmental Committee on STI and consultation with the Minister for Finance, this Fund has now been allocated across the four research performing/funding Departments covering; agriculture and food, energy, the marine, environment and health research. The emphasis is very much on collaboration between relevant sectors for added value and this innovative Fund exemplifies our whole of government approach to STI policy. The Fund will continue in 2009 and 2010.
Fundamental to this new Fund is its cross-cutting nature, promoting synergies between a number of departments and sectoral research areas such as food and health or energy and the environment. It is the first time that research funds have been allocated to the sectoral Departments in this way and it has proven to be a very effective and stimulating process for all concerned, leading to an exciting range of new projects and programmes. Examples of valuable cross-cutting research supported by the new Fund include the development of marine functional foods and research related to climate change, including aspects of early warning using the facilities of the Marine Institute. The Fund is also supporting linked research projects and programmes in the areas of Food & Health, Agri-Environment, and Bio-Energy. This research will underpin the development of Agri-Food & Forestry policy in areas of shared interest between the Departments involved.
Apart from the Government Departments concerned the public sector research agencies who will draw on the fund include Teagasc, COFORD (National Council for Forest Research and Development for Ireland), the Environmental Protection Agency, the Marine Institute and the Health Research Board.
Monitoring of investment under this programme will, in the first instance, be supervised by the parent Department. Like the rest of the STI Strategy, the Fund will be monitored by the Interdepartmental Committee on STI, lead by my Department, which reports to the Cabinet Subcommittee on STI, which I chair. This is the first such allocation arising under the competitive fund. The information to be gleaned from ongoing monitoring and from ex-post review will help us refine the Competitive Fund model for future tranches of investment.
Details of the agreed allocations for 2007 and 2008 are attached in tabular form and additional detailed information on the research supported by this Fund is available to the Deputy from the individual departments concerned.
Over 2007-2008 an additional total €40 million funding is being provided for public sector research, having regard to the priorities and linkages between sectors identified in Chapter Six of the STI Strategy, the importance of competition and peer review and the strategic requirements of relevant Departments. The agreed allocations from this fund are as follows:
|
Lead Dept./ Agency |
2007 |
2008 |
Total Bid from Competitive Fund (€m) |
Linked Dept. — Funding from Competitive Fund |
Linked Dept. — Funding from own resources |
Project Proposed |
|
|
1 |
DAF |
0.70 |
1.30 |
2.00 |
DHC €2.00m See Item 22 |
Development/Updating databases (Gene library, adult food consumption |
|
|
2 |
DAF |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
HRB 1.00 |
Nutritional Health in Elderly |
|
|
3 |
DAF |
0.46 |
0.86 |
1.32 |
HRB 1.00 |
Nutrigenomics |
|
|
4 |
DAF |
0.20 |
0.35 |
0.55 |
Food Safety — Monitoring and Surveillance |
||
|
5 |
DAF |
0.20 |
0.35 |
0.55 |
HRB |
Consumer Cognitive response to food |
|
|
6 |
DAF |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
Crop Production Studies |
||
|
7 |
DAF |
0.175 |
0.325 |
0.50 |
Biogas from anaerobic digestion |
||
|
8 |
DAF/COFORD |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
Supply chain management for bioforest derived biomass |
||
|
9 |
DAF/COFORD |
0.70 |
1.30 |
2.00 |
Impact of intensive farming on groundwater |
||
|
10 |
DAF |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
EPA |
GM releases to environment |
|
|
11 |
DAF |
0.265 |
0.485 |
0.75 |
Farming aspects of biodiversity |
||
|
12 |
DAF |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
Soils |
||
|
13 |
DAF |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
EPA 1.00 See Item 19 |
Transboundary and air pollution |
|
|
14 |
DCMNR |
0.77 |
1.43 |
2.20 |
Marine Environment and Climate Change |
||
|
15 |
DCMNR |
1.10 |
2.20 |
3.30 |
Integrated Marine Exploration |
||
|
16 |
DCMNR |
0.90 |
1.80 |
2.70 |
DAF |
Marine Functional Foods |
|
|
17 |
DEHLG/EPA |
2.20 |
4.50 |
6.70 |
DCMNR |
Climate Change |
|
|
18 |
DEHLG/EPA |
0.10 |
0.20 |
0.30 |
Developing National Response to GMES |
||
|
19 |
DEHLG/EPA |
0.33 |
0.67 |
1.00 |
DAF 1.00 See Item 13 |
Transboundary Air Pollution |
|
|
20 |
DHC |
0.35 |
0.65 |
1.00 |
Development of Health Research Networks |
||
|
21 |
DHC |
1.50 |
2.50 |
4.00 |
Clinical Research Centres, Cork and Galway |
||
|
22 |
DHC |
0.72 |
1.28 |
2.00 |
DAF 2.00 See Item 1 |
Genelibrary |
|
|
23 |
DHC |
0.60 |
1.20 |
1.80 |
Ph. D. Programmes |
||
|
24 |
DHC |
0.63 |
0.70 |
1.33 |
R&D Partnerships |
||
|
Total |
14.00 |
26.00 |
40.00 |
|
Estimates Allocation by Department |
€m |
|
DAF |
13.67 |
|
DCMNR |
8.20 |
|
DEHLG |
8.00 |
|
DHC |
10.13 |
|
Total |
40.00 |
333 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of labour inspectors currently operational; the number of inspectors to be allocated to each regional centre; the number of the existing labour inspectors to be decentralised and the number of these that have agreed to decentralisation; and the overall cost of the relocation of labour inspectorates to the regional centres. [14081/07]
The number of Labour Inspectors will be progressively increased from 31 at present (two of whom are on extended leave) to 90 by end-2007 with the expectation that assignments will be made from the second quarter of 2007. An additional 7 new inspectors will take up appointment on the 16th April. The necessary arrangements and selection processes for the remainder are being progressed at present.
The number of inspectors to be allocated to each regional office is set out in the following tabular statement.
Existing Inspectors are currently considering decentralisation options. When material in relation to the number of inspectors decentralising is available, I will arrange to have the information made available to the Deputy.
Accommodation for the regional offices to be located in Cork, Sligo and Shannon is currently being sought. Inspectors based in the South East region will be accommodated in the National Employment Rights Authority head office in Carlow while Dublin based inspectors will be accommodated in their existing Dublin office.
Details of the overall costs of setting up the inspectorate on a regional basis are not available at this stage. It is very early in the process and as actual office accommodation has not yet been secured in three of the locations, it is not possible to provide an accurate cost or an estimate of the overall cost at this time.
|
Region |
Regional Office |
Number of Inspectors to be allocated |
|
South East |
Carlow (Head Office) |
24 |
|
North West |
Sligo |
10 |
|
South |
Cork |
16 |
|
Mid East |
Dublin |
28 |
|
Mid West |
Shannon |
12 |
|
Total |
90 |
334 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons from Romania and Bulgaria that have been allocated personal public service numbers since 1 January 2007 that have applied for permission to work in Ireland and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14082/07]
For the first three months of this year, 15 new employment permits were issued in respect of Romanian nationals, and 4 new employment permits in respect of Bulgarian nationals.
I understand that for the same period the Department of Social and Family Affairs issued 6,265 Personal Public Service (PPS) numbers to Romanian nationals and 289 to Bulgarian nationals.
My Department has been monitoring this situation and has been in on-going contact with the Department of Social and Family Affairs. We have been informed by that Department that the PPS numbers issued to Romanian nationals in March 07 were 50% lower than in February 2007 and almost 70% lower than in January 2007.
335 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of personal public service numbers allocated to entrants from Romania and Bulgaria since 1 January 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14082/07]
The numbers of PPS Numbers allocated to nationals of Romania and Bulgaria since the beginning of January 2007 are as follows: Bulgaria, 291; Romania, 6471.
The Personal Public Service Number (PPS No.) is the unique personal identifier for transactions between individuals and Government Departments and other public bodies specified in the Social Welfare Acts.
Approximately 310,000 PPS Numbers were issued by Department in 2006. PPS Numbers are issued automatically to Irish born children when their birth is notified to the Department via the General Registers Office (GRO)
Foreign nationals coming to live and work in Ireland are allocated PPS Numbers on application to the Department. During 2006 some 180,000 such numbers were allocated.
336 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if assistance will be given to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 in relation to their benefits. [13506/07]
352 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will urgently assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 with their benefits and support them. [14020/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 336 and 352 together.
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on behalf of my Department by the Community Welfare Division of the Health Service Executive.
There is no record of the person concerned having applied for a Rent Supplement. He is currently in receipt of disability allowance at the maximum weekly rate of €185.80.
If he wishes to make an application for rent supplement he should contact the local Community Welfare Officer who will also advise him of any other entitlements he might have.
337 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to his reply of 28 March 2007 in relation to appointments to State boards, bodies and other entities, if in relation to the five statutory agencies, operating under the aegis of his Department, he envisages making or nominating appointments up to 31 May 2007; and if so, if he will indicate same. [13528/07]
The five statutory agencies operating under the aegis of my Department are the Pensions Board, the Combat Poverty Agency, the Citizens Information Board (formerly Comhairle), the Family Support Agency and the Social Welfare Tribunal. In addition the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of my Department.
On 30th March 2007 I appointed Ms. Patricia Walshe and Ms. Laurie Cearr as members of the Citizens Information Board.
No further vacancies will arise on any boards under the aegis of my Department up to 31st May 2007.
338 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on assisting those who are eligible for the telephone allowance with the cost of the line connection fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13531/07]
The telephone allowance is one component of the household benefits package which also comprises the electricity or gas allowance and the free television licence schemes.
The telephone allowance provides a payment towards telephone service costs. It is applied as a cash credit on recipient's telephone bills. The value of the allowance is set at €20.41 per month (€24.70 including VAT) or €40.82 for those who are billed on a 2-monthly basis (€49.40 including VAT).
In Budget 2007 I provided for the telephone allowance to be extended to cover mobile phones. Under this new arrangement, which takes effect from this month, customers will have the choice to opt either for a direct credit to a telephone company for their landline as at present or for a cash payment in respect of their mobile phone.
The proposal to extend the telephone allowance to include the line connection fee is one of a number of proposals which have been made in relation to the household benefits package. I will continue to examine such proposals in a budgetary context and in light of the objectives of the scheme.
339 Mr. McCormack asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on whether the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act, 2005 Paragraph 1, Part 2 discriminates against a married woman where she is working with her husband who is a sole trader and in that situation is unable to pay the relevant PRSI contribution required to qualify her for maternity benefit while if she was single and living with the sole trader but not married to him, she would be eligible to pay the relevant contribution and qualify for maternity benefit; if this clearly discriminates against a married woman in this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13553/07]
Under social welfare legislation, three diverse scenarios could apply to a couple working together with different consequences arising. Firstly, where spouses are actively engaged in a commercial activity as a business partnership, they are treated as individual self-employed contributors and are liable to social insurance contributions at PRSI Class S — providing that income is above the annual threshold of €3,174. These contributions enable them to build up an insurance record in their own right and to receive accruing benefits — including Maternity Benefit. This would apply equally to unmarried couples.
Secondly, where a business is incorporated as a limited company, spouses involved in the business can establish a PRSI record either as employees or as self-employed contributors — depending on whether a contract of service exists or not. Again, this is equally relevant to unmarried couples working together.
Thirdly, where a person provides help and assistance to a spouse under a contract of service, i.e. as an employee, or in a contract for services i.e. as a self-employed person, the co-helping spouse is viewed as an ‘excepted' contributor under social welfare legislation. The exception applies to both men and women in family employments and recognises the practical difficulties in establishing the existence of a genuine contract in such circumstances.
The PRSI exception from liability where a spouse is working with the other is a longstanding provision and mirrors similar exclusions under employment protection legislation.
With regard to whether these provisions are discriminatory, this issue will be considered in the context of a wide ranging review of the social welfare code which is currently under way and which will examine the compatibility of the code with the Equal Status Act, 2000 (as amended), and to identify any instances of direct or indirect discrimination on any of the nine grounds identified in that Act — including marital status. In instances where differences in treatment are identified, the review will examine whether they are justified by legitimate social policy objectives.
340 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the payment being awarded to a person (details supplied) is the maximum payment available to them; and the payment that would be available to them in the event of them not being assessed on their spouse’s pension entitlement. [13653/07]
The person concerned applied for State Pension (Contributory) in September 1997. According to the records of my Department, he has a total of 353 contributions recorded over the 36-year qualification period from 1953 to 5th April 1989, giving him a yearly average of 10 contributions. This entitles him to 50% of the maximum rate of pension, payable at the current rate of €104.70 per week. In addition a further €10 per week is payable as he is over 80 years of age. A yearly average of at least 48 contributions is required to qualify for maximum rate pension.
The person concerned has no social insurance contributions recorded from 1960 to 1989. He was self-employed during this period and would not have been liable to pay PRSI up to the 6th April 1988, when PRSI for self-employed persons was introduced for the first time.
There is no record of any contributions paid by the person concerned for the period from 6th April 1988 to 5th April 1989. Even if contributions had been paid for this period the rate of pension would not be improved as the additional 53 contributions, would increase the yearly average to 11 which would have no effect on the rate of pension payable.
The State Pension (Contributory) is based on a person's own social insurance record and not on their spouse's record. A spouse's record can only be used when assessing entitlement to Widow(er)s pension.
341 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to introduce pro rata payments. [13654/07]
342 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the restrictions that exist in qualifications for employees stamps paid by persons who had worked in the 1940s and 1950s; and his plans to remove these restrictions. [13655/07]
I propose to take Question Nos. 341 and 342 together.
In general, all contributions paid or credited, at the appropriate rate, on a person's social insurance record are assessed when his/her entitlement to a pension is being examined. There is a range of reduced rate and pro-rata pensions available to cater for people with less than complete insurance records, or where they have insurance from different countries or from different contribution classes.
However, while pre-1953 insurance contributions may be counted towards the basic number of paid contributions required for pension purposes, they may not be used to satisfy the average contributions test. Contributions made prior to 1953 are different in nature to those made under the unified system introduced at that time, and do not contain any provision for pensions.
A special half rate state pension (contributory) was introduced in 2000 to enable people with pre-1953 insurance, who could not qualify for a payment under normal qualifying conditions, to receive a pension. In order to be eligible for the payment, a person requires 260 paid contributions at the appropriate rate, which can comprise a mixture of pre and post 1953 contributions. People already qualifying for pensions at less than half rate can also benefit from the scheme.
The pre-1953 pension is a special measure designed to benefit a particular group of people, with very limited social insurance records, who would not otherwise qualify for a contributory pension. I consider that the pre-1953 pension, as it is currently structured, affords an appropriate recognition for the contributions which those in question have made. There are no plans to give additional recognition to pre-53 contributions or to introduce pro-rata pensions based on such contributions.
343 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the outcome of a reassessment of means of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in relation to their claim for an old age non-contributory pension. [13697/07]
State Pension (Non-Contributory) is a means tested payment and all income is assessable as means. This includes cash income, private pensions, foreign pensions, the value of any property (excluding the claimant's own home) and the value of any investments and capital which the claimant may have.
If a pensioner is married or is living with someone as husband and wife, the means of the spouse or partner is also taken into account as well as the claimant's own means. A pensioner is obliged to declare all means, and to inform this Department of any change in his/her circumstances.
An assessment of this customer's means was made by a Social Welfare Inspector on the 22nd March 2007. Based on this assessment, a Deciding Officer found that the customer was not entitled to State Pension (Non-Contributory) as her means, arising from her spouse's Garda Pension, exceeded the statutory limit of €227.50 per week.
The customer was informed in writing of the decision on the 3rd April 2007, and of her right of appeal against it if she is not satisfied.
344 Mr. Penrose asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department are only paying all pensions on Friday rather than some of them being paid on a Thursday; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this is causing inconvenience to some people; if he will have same reconsidered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13710/07]
I introduced legislation (under the Social Welfare Law Reform and Pension Act 2006) whereby all persons in receipt of State Pension (Transition) would transfer automatically to the State Pension (Contributory) on attaining age 66. State Pension (Transition) is paid on a Thursday and State Pension (Contributory) is paid on Friday.
The change was implemented from January 2007, for customers receiving payment by electronic fund transfer. Customers paid by personal payable order were transferred to State Pension Contributory from 30th March 2007. An additional one day's payment was included in the first order in their new book.
Pensioners can collect their payment on the Friday or the Saturday. Generally, the new arrangements are working satisfactorily and there are no plans to revert to the previous arrangement.
345 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the funding allocated for MABS, the number of persons who sought advice, and the number who received financial assistance in respect of each year since 2002 to date in 2007. [13809/07]
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) provides assistance to people who are overindebted and need help and advice in coping with debt problems.
In 2006, €16.4 million was provided to fund the service and in 2007 I have further increased the annual allocation to €17.67 million to assist the MABS in dealing with its workload.
In 2006, MABS provided services to some 12,600 new clients. The number of active cases at the end of the year was 14,600. Some 3,100 new clients have approached the service in 2007 to date.
Details of funding allocated to MABS in each year since 2002 is set out in the following table. Information in relation to the numbers of clients of the service for those years is not available.
|
Year |
Funding |
|
€ |
|
|
2002 |
9,702,069 |
|
2003 |
9,867,000 |
|
2004 |
11,401,000 |
|
2005 |
13,620,000 |
|
2006 |
16,416,000 |
|
2007 |
17,670,000 |
346 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of supplementary welfare allowance payable in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; if same is under review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13853/07]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE).
The Dublin/Mid-Leinster Area of the HSE has advised that the person concerned is an asylum seeker in receipt of a direct provision allowance of €19.10 granted to her when she resided at accommodation provided previously through the Reception and Integration Agency of the Department of Justice Equality and Law Reform. She has left the accommodation provided and moved to reside with relatives.
Her application for asylum has been refused and she has appealed the decision. Payment at the rate of€19.10 will continue pending a decision on her appeal.
347 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the entitlement offered to those persons who work beyond the age of 65 who become ill, when illness benefit stops at age 65; his plans to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13869/07]
Illness Benefit is a payment for people under 66 years who cannot work due to illness and who satisfy the relevant PRSI conditions. A person who continues to work beyond age 66 may qualify for the State Pension (contributory), based on their social insurance record and this payment is not affected if the person subsequently becomes ill and is unable to work. Alternatively, a person who does not have the requisite number of contributions to qualify for State Pension (contributory) may qualify for the State Pension (non-contributory), subject to satisfying the means test. In recent budgets the means test for non-contributory pensions has improved significantly. The basic income disregard has increased to €30 per week and a specific earnings disregard of up to €200 per week has been introduced. Entitlement to the State Pension (non-contributory) is similarly unaffected in the case where a person who has been working becomes ill.
348 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his policy in relation to the backdating of credits for the purposes of calculating pension entitlement for those women who were forced to leave their posts as part of the old marriage rule; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13966/07]
The social welfare pension rights of those who take time out of the workforce for caring duties are protected by the homemaker's scheme which was introduced in and took effect from 1994. The scheme allows up to 20 years spent caring for children or incapacitated adults to be disregarded when a person's social insurance record is being averaged for pension purposes. However, the scheme will not of itself qualify a person for a pension. The standard qualifying conditions, which require a person to enter insurance 10 years before pension age, pay a minimum of 260 contributions at the correct rate and achieve a yearly average of at least 10 contributions on their record from the time they enter insurance until they reach pension age, must also be satisfied.
Women who left the workforce through the operation of the marriage bar were, in the main, public servants who were never insured for social welfare pension purposes. A person whose only contributions were at the modified rate paid by public servants up until 1995 will not benefit from the homemaker's scheme as such contributions did not include cover for contributory pensions. Accordingly, any loss of pension rights in their case relates more to their occupational position rather than social welfare pension entitlements.
It is estimated that there are some 47,000 people who are not receiving a social welfare pension payment in their own right, or as a qualified adult on the pension of their spouse or partner. These include people affected by the marriage bar, public servants in general, self-employed people who were close to retirement or had retired before 1988, when the self-employed were brought within the social insurance system, together with their spouses.
The issues in relation to this group will be discussed in the forthcoming Green Paper on pensions. Decisions regarding pension provision for them will be made in the context of the framework for long-term pensions policy which will be developed after the Green Paper has been published and a consultation process has been completed.
349 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will ensure a positive response to an application for funding from a centre (details supplied) in Dublin 9 in view of the fact that it is the only service in the area which provided access to legal advice and services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13972/07]
My Department administers a scheme of grants for the development and promotion of information and welfare rights. Under the scheme grants are awarded to assist organisations in the provision of information on social services and in particular social welfare services.
Organisations wishing to be considered for funding under this scheme should apply to my Department for that purpose.
350 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the living alone allowance will be awarded retrospectively to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [13978/07]
The person concerned was awarded a reduced rate of state pension (non-contributory) and a living alone allowance from 20/10/06.
She appealed to the Social Welfare Appeals Office against the decision not to award the pension and allowance from an earlier date and in accordance with the statutory requirements, the relevant papers and comments from my Department were sought. These have now been provided and the case has been 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.
351 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will introduce a nationwide refuse charge waiver scheme for the elderly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14012/07]
The setting of waste management charges and the introduction of waivers in respect of waste charges is, as stated by my colleague the Minister for Environment, Heritage and Local Government, a matter for each local authority.
The introduction of a national social welfare scheme to address the issue would be complex given the wide range of charging regimes and cost structures that exist in respect of waste management throughout the State. Charges vary across local authorities and within local authorities where there is more than one provider. In addition, some local authorities and private operators already operate waiver schemes.
My officials have discussed this issue with their counterparts in the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. While there are no plans at present for the introduction of a waiver scheme through the social welfare system, I intend to keep the issue under close review.
353 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14033/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the judgement of the Supreme Court in this case, given on Thursday last, 29th March 2007, relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act, 1993. The issue of whether the judgement has implications for other legislation (including social welfare and occupational pensions legislation) is under review by the Attorney-General's Office. However, the case has no implications for the European Communities Act, 1972 and any regulations made under this Act.
354 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 70 of 20 June 2006, if the Maintenance Recovery Unit has completed its special report; if not, when it will be completed; if so, the findings of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14085/07]
355 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of one parent family payment recipients; the number of liable relatives making payments directly to the Maintenance Recovery Unit; the number of OFP recipients receiving maintenance payments from the liable relative; the number receiving reduced payments as a result of receiving maintenance payments; the number of widows or widowers receiving OFP; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14086/07]
356 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of staff employed in the Maintenance Recovery Unit of his Department; the cost of running the unit in 2005 and 2006 respectively; the amount of money his Department saved or recouped in 2005 and 2006 respectively as a result of receiving maintenance directly from liable relatives or by reducing payments as a result of maintenance received by one parent family payment recipients; the amount of money paid out in OFP in 2005 and 2006 respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14087/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 354 to 356, inclusive, together.
The one-parent family payment is an income support scheme for separated, unmarried and widowed persons and also for prisoners' spouses who are bringing up a child or children without the support of a partner. Expenditure on the one-parent family payment scheme was €751.1 million in 2005 and €834.3 million in 2006. At the end of February 2007, the total number of one-parent family payment recipients being paid by my department was 83,780. Included in this figure are payments to 848 widowed persons.
In every case where a one-parent family payment is awarded, other than those for widowed persons, the maintenance recovery unit seeks to trace the other parent, referred to as the liable relative, in order to ascertain whether he or she is in a financial position to contribute towards the cost of the one-parent family payment. All liable relatives assessed with maintenance liability are contacted by maintenance recovery unit and issued with a determination order setting out the amount of contribution assessed. Some 2,350 contributors have made payments directly to my department since the unit was established and approximately 700 liable relatives make contributions on a regular basis.
During the period June to August 2006 the maintenance recovery unit undertook an in-depth analysis of the cases referred to it to establish the number of cases where the liable relative was making cash or non-cash payments to the lone parent. Some 3,160 applications for one-parent family payment received during the period were examined and the liable relatives contacted.
It is not possible to give an exact number of one-parent family payment recipients who receive maintenance payments directly from liable relatives or the number receiving reduced payments as a result of getting maintenance payments. In many instances contributions received by one-parent family payment recipients do not result in a reduced rate of payment. However, findings from the project indicated that some 40% of liable relatives, i.e. 1,275 of the number contacted, were making a direct cash contribution to the support of their children, with a further 2% (62 liable relatives) providing contributions in indirect fashion by contributing to the costs of the child(ren)s' education, sporting activities, etc. A further 42% of parents could not be identified or could not be pursued for other reasons. The balance of 16% are those who could be followed up by the maintenance recovery unit but a proportion of those would not be liable to contribute because they are on low incomes or in receipt of a social welfare payment.
Arising from the work of the maintenance recovery unit savings, in the form of direct contributions by liable relatives and reductions/ terminations of one-parent family payment claims, to the value of €417.8 million in 2005 and €20.3 million in 2006 were achieved. A total of €1,958,000 was received by the maintenance recovery unit in the form of direct cash payments from liable relatives during 2006.
There are currently 15 staff working in the maintenance recovery unit. While the precise overall operating costs of the maintenance recovery unit in 2005 and 2006 are not available, the estimated staffing costs of running the unit in 2005 and 2006 are of the order of €500,000 for each year.
357 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if dialogue has occurred between his Department and the Taxi Regulator specifically regarding the issue of provision of taxi ranks; his views on whether there is a need for a joint approach to developing good quality taxi ranks in view of the fact that the taxi licence fee is now paid to the regulator yet provision of ranks still falls to the local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13875/07]
Decisions regarding the location and operation of taxi ranks on public roads are matters for consideration by the relevant local authority. Under section 84 of the Road Traffic Act 1961, as substituted by section 15 of the Road Traffic Act 2002 and amended by section 42(10) of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003, a local authority is empowered to make bye-laws in respect of any specified area in its functional area appointing the places at which taxis may stand for hire. The making of such bye-laws is a reserved function of a local authority. The provision of funding for taxi ranks is primarily a matter for local authorities.
Section 11 of the Taxi Regulation Act 2003 provides that the Commission for Taxi Regulation may provide financial assistance to local authorities to support the development or provision of infrastructure to facilitate and support the operation of small public service vehicles. The preparation of proposals for a scheme of financial support under this section in relation to the provision of taxi ranks is a matter for the Commission for Taxi Regulation.
358 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if it is open to local authorities to provide by-laws for the introduction of a preferential parking scheme, permit or otherwise, for traders and their staff at spaces in front of shops and other outlets. [13535/07]
The legislative framework through which restrictions and prohibitions may be applied to traffic and parking of vehicles on public roads is contained in sections 35 and 36 of the Road Traffic Act, 1994. Section 35 empowers me to make regulations for the control of traffic and parking while section 36 provides for the making of bye-laws by road authorities in relation to paid parking. The Road Traffic (Traffic and Parking) Regulations, 1997 to 2005, made under Section 35 of the 1994 Act, set out the specific range of controls which apply to the parking of vehicles.
In the case of paid parking schemes, it is open to road authorities to provide for residents parking permits which can provide an exemption for holders from the need to pay for parking on roads where they live. There is no legal provision permitting road authorities to provide for a preferential parking scheme to ‘reserve' a specified space on the public road for traders and their staff at spaces in front of shops and other outlets. Such a provision could be seen to give proprietorial rights to parking in a specified location on specified public roads and there are no proposals to change this situation.
359 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the assurances he can give that the North Esk freight facility and freight yard will remain connected to the Cork-Cobh line; and the proposed location of the park and ride facility proposed under the Midleton plan. [13536/07]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 71 of 3 April, 2007. This is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann. I understand from Iarnród Éireann that there are at present no rail freight activities at the North Esk rail freight depot. Iarnród Éireann have also informed me that while it is planned to disconnect the terminal as part of track and signalling upgrading on the Cork-Cobh line the depot can be re-connected at any stage in the future if viable rail freight traffic arises.
I also understand from Iarnród Éireann that three new stations are planned on the Cork-Midleton line at Midleton, Carrigtwohill andDunkettle and that it is planned to provide 350, 220 and 400 car parking spaces at these stations respectively.
360 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport the steps he will take in view of the recent signing of the Open Skies agreement and the attendant changes in transatlantic air services at Shannon Airport, to implement the recommendations in the Shannon Tourism and Economic Development Plan; the funding mechanism he will put in place for the plan; and the projected timeline for implementation of the plan. [13539/07]
I announced my intention to prepare an Economic and Tourism Development Plan for Shannon in the context of the EU-US negotiations on Open Skies when negotiators initially signed off on the text of a draft EU-US agreement in November 2005. That draft agreement provided for a transitional arrangements for Ireland, relating to the phasing out of the ‘Shannon Stop'.
In preparing the Plan, my Department has consulted with the Department of Arts, Sports and Tourism, the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment, the Department of Communications and Natural Resources and the Department of Finance. A liaison group, established by the Mid West Regional Authority, has separately prepared a report on the future development of the Shannon region as an input to the Plan.
Following the endorsement of the EU-US Air Transport Agreement by the Council of Transport Ministers on 22 March I expect to be in a position to bring the Tourism and Economic Development Plan for Shannon to finalisation shortly.
361 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport his view on the recent report by the British Vehicle and Operator Services Agency that up to 55% of Irish registered vehicles, including public service vehicles, travelling to the UK are in breach of safety regulations; the explication for the discrepancy between the number of detections here and in the UK in view of the similarity of the regulatory standards; and the response he will make to the VOSA’s report. [13540/07]
I refer the Deputy to my answer to Question Nos. 61, 69, 105 and 106 on 3 April 2007. Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 responsibility for matters relating to vehicle standards has passed to the Road Safety Authority. The Road Safety Authority has advised my Department that while it has not been provided with the report in question by the UK authorities it is aware of the situation relating to the performance of Irish vehicles inspected by the UK Vehicle Operating Standards Agency (VOSA) for compliance with vehicle standards requirements.
While not wishing to excuse or down-play the seriousness of the findings in relation to Irish vehicles, I understand that the nature of the problems identified in the UK are not unique to Irish vehicles. Insofar as improving vehicles standards and enforcement in this State is concerned, the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 strengthens the institutional framework for improving enforcement levels for vehicle and driver legislation and for increasing cooperation with the Garda Síochána, which has responsibility for enforcement of road traffic law, including vehicle standards. The Road Safety Authority, which was formally established on 1 September 2006, has now taken over responsibility for matters relating to vehicle standards, roadworthiness testing and enforcement of drivers hours, tachograph and licensing regulations. The Chief Executive Officer of the Authority is putting in place the necessary resources to fulfil its mandate and in that regard four (4) vehicle testers have been recruited by the Authority. The addition of these testers will significantly strengthen the capacity of the Authority in relation to vehicle standards and it is the intention to provide further resources for that area. It is a priority for the Road Safety Authority in conjunction with the Garda Síochána to increase and enhance the arrangements for enforcement of vehicle standards. The CEO has met with the UK Department for Transport and VOSA to agree protocols for joint working. Insofar as enforcement is concerned, the Garda Síochána has brought the Traffic Corps within a more unified structure, under the direction of an Assistant Commissioner. There has been a significant increase in the strength of the Garda Traffic Corps. The Corps has been increased from 500 in early 2005 to 805 by the end of 2006 and will reach 1,200 by 2008.
In August 2006 the Road Safety Authority engaged consultants to conduct a fundamental review of the scheme of compulsory periodic roadworthiness testing of goods vehicles and buses. My Department has been informed by the Authority that it has received the report from the consultants and that it is being examined by the Authority. I expect to receive the report and recommendations from the Road Safety Authority shortly.
362 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport if he will amend legislation to allow Dublin City Council or Dublin Bus to install closed circuit television on bus lanes and allow buses to use front facing cameras in order to enforce bus lane compliance. [13541/07]
Under the Road Traffic Acts, enforcement of road traffic offences in relation to all moving vehicle offences, including the regulations in relation to the use of bus lanes, is the responsibility of the Garda Síochána.
363 Mr. Eamon Ryan asked the Minister for Transport when he will supply the 200 extra buses requested by Dublin Bus in the Dublin Bus Network review of February 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13542/07]
Dublin Bus is currently bringing into service the 100 additional buses for which Exchequer funding was approved in September last. The need for additional buses, over and above this 100, is being considered in the context of the legislation being prepared for the replacement of the Road Transport Act 1932.
364 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport if there is a plan to re-open the long mile tunnel which connects Heuston to Connolly stations; and if there is a plan to provide a new railway station along the line at Cabra. [13556/07]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the Phoenix Park tunnel. I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 82 of 3 April 2007.
365 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Transport the timescale under Transport 21 for implementing the Luas line to Broadstone and reactivating the Broadstone line to Liffey junction. [13557/07]
366 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport when he expects the first passenger service on the joined up red and green Luas lines in Dublin City Centre; if passengers will be able to travel between Heuston Station and St. Stephen’s Green and vice-versa without changing trams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13617/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 365 and 366 together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply on Tuesday last, 3 April 2007, to Dáil Questions Nos. 143 and 101 (answered together): The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) began a public consultation on five potential routes, A to E, for connecting the two existing Luas lines in November 2005. During public consultation a new option, F, was identified. Options A and F emerged as the better options and RPA launched a second phase of public consultation in January 2007 involving an open-day, display days, newspaper notices and distribution of newsletters focusing on the selection of the best of these two route options.
I also understand that the RPA engaged in dialogue with Dublin City Council, Dublin Bus and the Dublin Transportation Office in relation to the implications of the potential routes for bus services and other road users. Arising from these discussions, Dublin City Council and the Dublin Transportation Office recommended that a traffic management plan for the city centre be initiated, to facilitate light rail, bus and metro development. Dublin City Council will undertake the necessary traffic modelling and is committed to delivery of early results from this work, by Autumn of this year.
The Board of the RPA recently decided that their preferred route option for the cross-city Luas line is option F. The RPA now plan to commence detailed design work on the project based on this option. This will take account of the results of the City Council's traffic modelling results as they become available. Following completion of this design work, and subject to a satisfactory outcome to the city centre traffic management planning work, the RPA will submit a Railway Order application to An Bord Pleanala. The construction timescale will be dependent on the outcome of this statutory approval process.
A second stage of this project will extend the line to Liffey Junction via Grangegorman and Broadstone. The selection of an emerging preferred route for the cross-city link will facilitate the commencement of work on the route selection for the onward extension to Liffey Junction. Subject to an enforceable Railway Order, the scheduled completion date for the overall project is 2012.
It is untrue to say that funding has not been provided for the linking of the Luas lines in the 2007 Estimates. My Department has allocated €173m towards the advancement of all Luas and Metro projects, including funding for the continuing planning and design work on the cross-city link.
Regarding travel between Heuston Station and St. Stephen's Green, I understand from the Railway Procurement Agency that while the operating pattern on the Luas system has yet to be finally determined, it is not currently envisaged that Luas services will operate between Heuston and St. Stephens Green without interchange. However, the Deputy will be aware that Transport 21 also includes funding for a Rail Interconnector which will connect the existing DART lines on the eastern side of the City to the lines running out from Heuston Station. New stations will be constructed at Docklands, St. Stephen's Green and High St. and these will link with Pearse and Heuston Station. When the Interconnector is in place, passengers wishing to travel from Heuston Station to St. Stephen's Green and vice versa will be able to do so without changing trains. The Interconnector project is due for completion by 2015.
367 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied with testing arrangements for the safety of buses operated by Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus; if similar testing standards apply in each company; and his views on whether such testing should be carried out by an independent agency. [13651/07]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 responsibility for matters relating to vehicle standards, including vehicle testing, has passed to the Road Safety Authority. I have instructed the RSA to undertake a comprehensive review of the compulsory roadworthiness testing scheme for goods vehicles and lorries and I expect to receive their report and recommendations in the matter shortly. I am informed that Bus Éireann has been withdrawing from the roadworthiness testing of its own vehicles, though there are still some vehicles at some locations roadworthiness tested to the RSA standard by the company. Dublin Bus no longer undertakes its own testing or uses the services of Bus Éireann in this regard.
368 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport the cost of purchasing one hundred double deck buses for Dublin Bus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13797/07]
369 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport the number of additional buses added to the Dublin Bus fleet annually since 2002; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13798/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 368 and 369 together.
The procurement of buses by Dublin Bus is an operational matter for Dublin Bus. I understand from Dublin Bus that the cost of a double deck bus in 2006 was €300,000 per bus. The number of new buses added to the Dublin Bus fleet since 2002 is as follows:
|
Year |
Additional |
Replacement |
|
2002 |
— |
53 |
|
2003 |
— |
90 |
|
2004 |
— |
36 |
|
2005 |
20 |
50 |
|
2006 |
100 |
100 |
The capacity of the Dublin Bus fleet, taking into account the 100 additional buses recently purchased, is now more than 106,000 passengers, an increase of over 20% since the beginning of 2002. This increase in capacity reflects the fact that many of the replacement buses purchased over this period were of higher capacity than the smaller, single decker buses being replaced.
370 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Transport the cost to the Exchequer of the Dublin Port tunnel; if all payments have now been made; the payments or claims that are under dispute; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13800/07]
Overall responsibility for the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the Dublin Port Tunnel, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned, in this case, Dublin City Council. In particular, the allocation of funding in relation to the construction or maintenance of national roads is a matter for the NRA under section 19 of the Roads Act, 1993. I understand from the NRA that the estimated cost of the Tunnel remains at €751 million.
371 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Transport if he will respond to the correspondence (details supplied) on train capacity and overcrowding on the transport service here. [13894/07]
I have noted the correspondence referred to by the Deputy. A direct reply will issue shortly.
372 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport the expected increased services on the Maynooth suburban line, serving Maynooth and Leixlip, when diesel railcars currently being used on the Sligo line are reassigned following the entry into service of the new intercity railcars. [13903/07]
The first of the 183 Intercity Railcars being purchased by Irish Rail arrived in Ireland last month. They are now undergoing testing and commissioning and will be introduced into service later in the year. The first train sets will enter service on the Sligo and Rosslare Intercity routes and will replace the modern commuter railcars currently operating on those routes. The displaced commuter railcars will be redeployed onto the Northern Commuter line i.e. Dundalk/Drogheda services and the Western Commuter line i.e. Maynooth services. As a first step, two sets of four carriages each will be redeployed to each line bringing all trains up to 8 cars sets thus increasing capacity.
373 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of the decision to purchase the Westlink Toll Bridge, he will continue with the tolling system on this State owned road; if he has received reports from engineers into the expected effects on traffic flows along the M50 if the toll was removed. [13905/07]
As the Deputy is aware, the planning, design and implementation of national road improvement projects, including the M50, is a matter for the Nation Roads Authority (NRA) and the local authorities concerned. Also, the statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads, including the M50 is vested in the NRA under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000). Traffic management in general is a matter for the appropriate local authority.
374 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if the contracts have been signed for the Kildare Route Project. [13906/07]
The placing of contracts for the Kildare Line Upgrade Project is a matter for Iarnród Eireann. I am informed by the Company that the main construction contracts will be placed in April and June.
375 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if he has received an amended application for a licence from Dublin Bus to operate a service from Adamstown, County Dublin; and when he will make a decision on same. [13910/07]
Dublin Bus is not subject to licensing in accordance with the Road Transport Act, 1932, as amended, however, the initiation or alteration of a bus service by the Company is subject to compliance with the necessary regulatory requirement of giving advance notice to my Department and to compliance with the provisions of Section 25 of the Transport Act 1958 concerning competition with licensed private operators.
Dublin Bus first notified my Department on the 22nd August, 2006 of its proposal to extend three of its existing 25X Newcastle Road departures to serve Adamstown. On that day my Department informed Dublin Bus that it could proceed with the proposed change.
On the 22nd March, 2007 Dublin Bus notified my Department again of their proposal to further alter the three Adamstown services. This was duly noted by my Department on the 28th March, 2007. It is an operational matter for Dublin Bus to introduce the proposed changes and until then the details remain confidential.
Two additional notifications for proposed services to Adamstown were received on the 4th April, 2007. My Department has been in contact with Dublin Bus seeking clarification relating to certain aspects of their proposals. The submissions from the Company will be considered further on receipt of the information that has been requested.
376 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if he will clarify correspondence from an official of his Department (details supplied) which was sent to local residents in relation to works associated with the Dublin Port Tunnel; and the extent of the stone cladding works which will be carried out. [13960/07]
The correspondence concerned made it clear that while the Minister has responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the National Roads Programme, the implementation of individual projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority and the local authorities in whose areas the roads concerned are situated. In this case the relevant local authority is Dublin City Council.
377 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Transport when and the way the contract was awarded to the publisher of the support material for the driver theory test; the revenue the State has gained from this arrangement; the way the retail price of the CD-ROM and booklet breakdown in terms of cost to the State, cost to the publisher, and profit margin of the publisher; his plans to make this material free to download on the internet; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13965/07]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the delivery of the driver theory test.
The contract to operate the driver theory test was awarded in 2001 following an EU wide tender. The contractor operating the Driver Theory Testing Service was granted an exclusive licence to publish and distribute the theory test question bank under the terms of the contract, which is now the responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. Any profits on sales of the book and the CD-ROM are taken into account in determining the amount of the test fee. I understand that there are no plans to make the material freely available on the internet.
While my Department and the RSA developed the question bank which is now the property of the Road Safety Authority there is no direct cost to the State arising from the publication of the question bank. Revenue generated by sales of the question bank are retained by the contractor except where revenue exceeds a set amount, when a percentage of the excess is payable to the RSA.
Revenue to the State since the inception of the contract in relation to sales of the question bank has amounted to almost 300,000 euros.
378 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Transport if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14035/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the judgement in this case relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act 1993. Whether the judgement has implications for other legislation is under review/consideration. However, the case has no implications for the European Communities Act 1972 and regulations made thereunder or the European Communities Bill 2006, now in the Houses of the Oireachtas.
379 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there are proposals being prepared for the stretch of the canal from Cross Guns Bridge to O’Reilly’s Bridge on the Ratoath Road. [13547/07]
I understand that Waterways Ireland have had discussions with Dublin City Council with regard to developing proposals for improving the stretch of the Royal Canal towpath between Cross Guns Bridge and Broomebridge. The proposals for this stretch of the canal are at preliminary stage. The question of extending improvement works to Reillys Bridge will be kept under review in the light of other needs and priorities along the navigation.
380 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs further to his reply of 28 March 2007 in relation to appointments to State boards, bodies and other entities and his reference to the possible retention of certain existing members of a particular board, the board that is involved; and the number of individuals involved. [13510/07]
Further to my reply to Parliamentary Question Number 229 on 28 March last, the body I referred to regarding the possibility of retaining certain existing members was Pobal. As a result of the ordinary rotation of members, four directors of the board are required to retire at the company's forthcoming annual general meeting. The Government has decided to re-appoint these members for a further term with effect from the date of the next annual general meeting.
381 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if funding or grant aid for the development of a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry was arranged through his Department or related bodies or projects, for example, CLÁR funding; if so when and the grounds on which it was granted; and the amount in relation to same. [13644/07]
No funding or grant aid for the development of this golf course was arranged by my Department or through any related bodies or projects for which my Department has responsibility.
382 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the value of public funds provided to date to a group (details supplied) in County Leitrim by his Department or agencies under the control of his Department; the source of such funding and its purpose; when did the facility commence operation; the number and details of the commercial food enterprises operating from the centre and the staffing level in each case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13662/07]
The Drumshanbo Food Hub is a food manufacturing facility promoted by Drumshanbo Community Council on the site of the former Laird factory. The following funding for the Food Hub project has been made available through my Department's Programmes: Phase 1 — €100,000 from the LEADER Area Based Rural Development Initiative and €100,000 under the CLÁR Programme; and Phase 2 — €74,750 from the LEADER Area Based Rural Development Initiative and €74,750 from CLÁR. Phase 1 opened in January 2006 and phase 2 is expected to open this month.
I understand that 4 commercial food enterprises are now operating from the Food Hub:
Lough Allen Foods with 10 employees;
Irish Organic Herbs with 3 employees;
Glenboy Sausages with 2 employees; and
Gourmet d'Or with 2 employees.
I have visited the facility and consider that the development is very positive in terms of the progression of the small food producer sector in the area.
383 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when funding will be provided to a group (details supplied) in County Mayo. [13690/07]
In accordance with the dormant accounts legislation, the Government approved a grant for the group concerned under the alcohol related harm funding measure at its meeting last Tuesday, 3rd April 2007. Pursuant to the decision, the group will be advised in relation to the grant and any specific conditions attaching.
384 Mr. M. Moynihan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Cork; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13711/07]
385 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Carlow; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13712/07]
386 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Cavan; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13713/07]
387 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Kerry; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13714/07]
389 Mr. Cregan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Clare; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13716/07]
390 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Donegal; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13717/07]
391 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Galway; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13718/07]
392 Mr. Moloney asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Laois; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13719/07]
393 Mr. P. Power asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Limerick; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13720/07]
394 Mr. J. Brady asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Meath; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13722/07]
395 Mr. Wilkinson asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Waterford; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13723/07]
396 Mr. P. Power asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Westmeath; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13724/07]
397 Dr. Devins asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Sligo; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13725/07]
398 Mr. Carty asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Mayo, the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13726/07]
399 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in County Monaghan, the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13727/07]
400 Mr. Finneran asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the CLÁR programme in Counties Roscommon and Leitrim, the investment made in these counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13728/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 384 to 387, inclusive, and 389 to 400, inclusive, together.
Details of all CLÁR funding approved from 2002-2005 is available on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie. The 2006 CLÁR Annual Report containing details of all approvals made in 2006 will be available shortly. Details on a county basis of total funding approved and paid to date for CLÁR areas from 2002 to 2007 is set out in the following table:
|
County |
Allocated |
Paid |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Carlow |
139,281 |
47,039 |
|
Cavan |
7,397,995 |
3,811,352 |
|
Clare |
9,992,828 |
4,433,312 |
|
Cork |
7,941,132 |
5,530,054 |
|
Donegal |
9,259,167 |
6,103,846 |
|
Galway |
8,511,473 |
5,314,996 |
|
Kerry |
8,318,600 |
5,966,848 |
|
Laois |
349,609 |
2,538,080 |
|
Leitrim |
10,534,025 |
7,954,593 |
|
Limerick |
1,005,059 |
460,823 |
|
Mayo |
17,336,438 |
9,249,725 |
|
Meath |
265,163 |
174,224 |
|
Monaghan |
2,395,342 |
1,575,174 |
|
Roscommon |
7,573,086 |
5,450,908 |
|
Sligo |
5,223,126 |
4,357,469 |
|
Waterford |
377,941 |
82,666 |
|
Westmeath |
695,248 |
237,895 |
Records of projects under the CLÁR Programme are held on a scheme-by-scheme basis. It is not possible to provide lists of projects by county. Further details in relation to the Programme are available from the CLÁR Section of my Department by contacting 071 9186700.
388 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projects undertaken by the RAPID programme in County Kerry; the investment made in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13715/07]
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 extended to Ballyfermot in 2006. This 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 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.
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.
I can confirm that a total of €599,503 has been allocated to Tralee RAPID area through Leverage funding to-date, for the provision of playgrounds, estate enhancement, traffic calming measures, health and sports facilities and CCTV provision. I can provide the Deputy with details of the various projects.
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 and some €200,099 has been allocated to Tralee.
|
Payment Date |
Amount funded by D/CRGA |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
€ |
|||
|
07/12/2004 |
20,000.00 |
LAHEES 2004 |
2004 Scheme |
|
28/11/2006 |
45,000.00 |
LAHEES 2005/2006 |
Tralee Town Council |
|
16/12/2004 |
60,000.00 |
Playgrounds 2004 |
2004 Scheme |
|
25/01/2006 |
66,000.00 |
Playgrounds 2005 |
2005 Scheme |
|
16/11/2005 |
22,500.00 |
Traffic Measures 2005 |
2005 Scheme |
|
Total |
213,500.00 |
|
Payment Date |
Amount funded by D/CRGA |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
€ |
|||
|
not yet claimed |
45,000.00 |
LAHEES 07/08 |
Claim not yet received with DCRGA |
|
not yet claimed |
66,000.00 |
Playgrounds 06/07 |
Spa Road/Balloonagh |
|
not yet claimed |
41,650.00 |
Traffic Measures 06/07 |
Full Amount to be drawn down |
|
Total |
152,650.00 |
|
Payment Date |
Amount funded by D/CRGA |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
€ |
|||
|
not drawn down |
13,500.00 |
Cumann Iosaef Community Centre — to improve access to Community Centre |
Matching Funds of €13,500. Total funding of €27,000 |
|
not drawn down |
12,500.00 |
Shanakill Family Resource Centre — Extension for the Elderly |
Matching Funds of €12,500. Total funding of €25,000 |
|
not drawn down |
10,000.00 |
St. Brigid’s Childcare — to extend the facility |
Matching Funds of €10,000.Total funding of €20,000 |
|
not drawn down |
2,500.00 |
St. Martin’s Park- refurbish to give greater access |
Matching Funds of €2,500.Total funding of €5,000 |
|
not drawn down |
1,500.00 |
Rahoonane Residents Community Play Area, Willow Maze |
Matching Funds of €1,500. Total funding of €3,000 |
|
Total |
40,000.00 |
|
Payment Date |
Amount funded by D/CRGA |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
€ |
|||
|
not yet claimed |
50,000.00 |
Tralee Town Council — 3 RAPID Areas of Tralee |
Matched funding of €50,000 from D/JELR. Total funding of €100,000 |
|
Total |
50,000.00 |
|
Payment Date |
Amount funded by D/CRGA |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
€ |
|||
|
31/03/2006 |
10,273.00 |
John Mitchel’s Hurling & FC |
2004 scheme |
|
14/09/2005 |
14,280.00 |
Shanakill Family Resource Centre |
|
|
14/12/2005 |
21,000.00 |
St. Brendan’s Park FC |
|
|
Total |
45,553.00 |
|
Payment Date |
Amount funded by D/CRGA |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
€ |
|||
|
not yet claimed |
24,000.00 |
Austin Stacks GAA Club |
2005 scheme |
|
not yet claimed |
21,000.00 |
Cumann Iosaef Teoranta |
|
|
not yet claimed |
10,800.00 |
Na Gael CLG |
|
|
Total |
55,800.00 |
||
|
not yet claimed |
22,500 |
St. Brendan’s Park F.C |
2006 scheme |
|
not yet claimed |
19,500 |
Tralee Harriers Athletic Club |
|
|
Total |
42,000 |
|
Dormant Accounts Fund 2006, Economic and Social Disadvantage Measure — Additionality Under the RAPID Programme |
||
|
Payment Date |
Scheme |
Remarks |
|
Kerry Travellers Development Project |
Community project (Mitchels Cres/Martins Pk) |
Current €33,333.00 |
|
Partnership Trá Lí Ltd |
Community Project (Spa Road/Balloonagh) |
Current €33,333.00 |
|
Tralee CDP (Community Development Project) Ltd. |
Community project (Shanakill / Rahoonane) |
Current €33,333.00 |
|
Báile Mhuire Ltd |
Site work for capital development project |
|
|
Cumann Iosaef Teoranta |
Refurbishment works |
Capital €15,000.00 |
|
Partnership Trá Lí Ltd |
Feasibility study for development project |
Capital €26,240.00 |
|
Shanakill Family Resource Centre |
Refurbishment works |
Capital €14,077.00 |
|
St Brigid’s Community Centre |
Refurbishment works |
Capital €20,103.00 |
|
Total €200,099.00 |
Capital €24,680.00 |
401 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress to date in updating charity legislation. [13975/07]
I can confirm that the Government has now approved the publication of the Charities Bill 2007. The Bill itself is currently being printed and I anticipate that it will be published shortly after Easter. I have circulated an information note on the Bill to each member of the Oireachtas today.
402 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the schemes available from his Department for a group of people (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13979/07]
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department provides funding for a wide range of community projects, through a number of schemes and programmes. Each of the schemes and grant programmes operated by my Department are governed by rules and eligibility criteria, which projects have to meet in order to qualify for funding.
With regard to the specific project referred to by the Deputy, elements of such a project may be eligible for funding under my Department's Programme of Grants for Locally Based Community and Voluntary Organisations, or the Local Development Social Inclusion Programme. Funding may also be available through The Dormant Accounts Fund.
Detailed information in respect of these programmes can be found on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.
403 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14024/07]
As the Deputy is aware, my Department was established in June 2002. Since that date, the Department has not transposed any EU regulations into Irish law by regulations and, therefore, no analysis regarding the impact of the recent Supreme Court Decision is required.
404 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is eligible for installation aid grant. [13508/07]
My Department has no record of having received an application form under the Installation Aid Scheme from the person named. His eligibility under the Scheme cannot therefore be determined at present.
405 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the supports available from within her Department for the development of renewable and alternative energies; if, in this regard, there are any incentive schemes available for the planting and growing of willows which then could be used for woodchip or similar type heating. [13543/07]
Wood biomass is one of the most versatile of renewable energy sources and has the potential to play a major role in Ireland's future energy strategy. My Department actively encourages the development of the wood-energy sector through a range of support measures. These measures complement the schemes introduced by the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources targeting the user side of the chain through the Pilot Bio-heat Boiler Deployment Programme and the Greener Homes Scheme.
A new capital grant scheme to support developing enterprises in the wood chip supply sector was launched earlier this week in my Department. The Wood Biomass Harvesting Machinery Grant Scheme will grant aid the purchase of medium-scale wood chippers and self-contained chippers by providing up to 40% of the purchase price of this equipment. As more businesses switch to wood chip to meet their energy needs, this machinery grant scheme will provide critical investment to build our domestic woodchip supply. Full details of the Scheme including application forms are available on the forestry pages of the Department's website.
My Department is also supporting a number of wood energy pilot projects which aim to encourage increased use of wood fuel, primarily in the form of woodchip, with a particular emphasis on the development of effective and efficient wood fuel supply chains from private growers to end users. Examples of the pilot projects being funded include the County Clare Wood Energy Project and the Forest Link project in Donegal.
COFORD, (the National Council for Forest Research and Development), which is wholly funded by my Department, is running a series of thinning and chipping demonstrations across the country. In addition, COFORD hosts and manages a website (www.woodenergy.ie) dedicated to providing factual information on using wood biomass as a carbon neutral, renewable energy source.
Biomass crops such as willow and Miscanthus can also contribute to Ireland's renewable energy strategy. Production of these crops in Ireland is relatively undeveloped mainly due to the initial high costs of establishment. For this reason, I have introduced a new Bioenergy Scheme to provide establishment grants to farmers for up to 50% of the costs associated with establishing willow. The aid is payable on set-aside land and on areas that have been subject to an application under the EU Energy Crops Scheme. The maximum payment rate is up to €1,450 per hectare and will be paid in two instalments:
A maximum of 75% of the aid (€1,088 per hectare) will be paid when the crop is established.
The remaining 25% of the aid (€362 per hectare) will be paid one year after the payment of the 1st instalment grant, provided the applicant has adequately maintained and managed the crop, including the first year cut back.
Willow and miscanthus are also eligible for the EU premium of €45 per hectare available under the EU Energy Crops Scheme and for the new €80 per hectare national payment, which I intend to introduce in 2007. The €80 payment will be paid as a top-up to the €45 EU premium and increases the overall payment available to €125 per hectare. The additional €80 payment is available for 3 years and is subject to a maximum ceiling per producer over the 3 years. The current ceiling is 37.5 hectares per producer. I am pursuing EU approval to increase this ceiling.
REPS payments apply to the planting of willow or miscanthus up to a maximum area on REPS holdings of 10 hectares or 25%, whichever is greater, provided the overall area planted does not exceed 20 hectares per applicant. On the REPS area farmers growing willow or miscanthus can receive an adjusted REPS 3 payment of €155 per hectare, increasing to €189 per hectare under REPS 4 in addition to the establishment grant and the €125 premium. Following contact with the EU Commission, my Department has also received confirmation that land used for growing willow or miscanthus is eligible to benefit from the Single Farm Payment.
406 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the number of inspectors for farm inspections that were employed by her Department for each of the years 1997 to date in 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13585/07]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available and will take some time to compile. My Department will forward the information requested to the Deputy as soon as possible.
407 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the minimum and maximum number of questions that a farmer applying for the single direct payment answers on an annual basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13586/07]
The position is that all farmers applying for the Single Payment Scheme must complete an application form. These forms are preprinted using information from the previous year's application. Farmers need only amend the application form where necessary to reflect any changes in their situation from the previous year.
The position in relation to the inspections is that the inspection checklist on cross-compliance is not a document for completion by the farmer but is an internal document to be completed by the official carrying out the inspection. The checklist is currently being reviewed by my Department with a view to simplification where possible while, at the same time, ensuring compliance with the EU regulatory requirements. The results of the review will be discussed with the farming organisations in advance of commencement of this year's inspections.
408 Mr. G. Mitchell asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the value of public funds provided to date to a group (details supplied) in County Leitrim by her Department or agencies under the control of her Department; the source of such funding and its purpose; when did the facility commence operation; the number and details of the commercial food enterprises operating from the centre and the staffing level in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13660/07]
Bord Bia has supported the project in the form of a number of targeted marketing initiatives, including pre-launch publicity and website and promotional brochure development, while individual client companies of the hub have also been supported in their marketing efforts. My Department, while supportive of the efforts of the group in question, has not provided funding.
409 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the core documentation relating to an application by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo that remains outstanding as indicated in a previous reply. [13686/07]
The person named was issued with approval to proceed with the works concerned under the Farm Waste Management Scheme on 9 October 2002. However, notification of completion of the work (Card C) or the required receipts have not yet been received from the person concerned.
No decision in relation to grant-aid can be made without these documents.
410 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when payment of the 2006 EU single farm payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [13700/07]
The position is that an application for lease of Single Payment Scheme entitlements for 2006 to the person named was received in my Department.
Under EU Regulations, entitlements may only be leased from one farmer to another if accompanied by an equivalent number of hectares of eligible land. My Department is not satisfied that this condition has been met in this case and my officials will contact the parties with a view to having the matter clarified. The person named also submitted an application under the Consolidation measure of the 2006 Single Payment Scheme. This application will be processed on completion of all other outstanding issues.
411 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the reason for the delay in having payment of the 2006 EU single farm payment issued to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [13701/07]
The person named submitted applications under the Trading and Consolidation measures of the 2006 Single Payment Scheme. Both of these applications have been processed and payment will issue in the coming days.
412 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when she expects the new revised early farm retirement scheme will be introduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13749/07]
Proposals for a new Early Retirement Scheme, with a maximum annual pension payment rate of €15,000, have been included in the draft Rural Development Programme for the period 2007-2013. The draft Programme was sent to the Commission in late December,2006 to begin the approval process. I cannot be definite as to how long this process will take but I continue to pursue early approval and my officials are in ongoing contact with their counterparts in the Commission services.
413 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food the stage of the application to transfer single farm entitlements for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; if the application will be complete before the applications for the 2007 single farm payment need to be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13981/07]
The second person named has received his full Single Payment for 2006. His payment was based on his standard entitlements.
An application for the Transfer of Entitlements under the 2007 Single Payment Scheme from the second named person to the first named was submitted on the 26th January 2007. Applications for the Transfer of Entitlements under the 2007 Single Payment Scheme may be accepted up until the closing date of the 4th May. I can confirm however, that this particular application is in order provided that the Single Payment Scheme application is submitted on or before the closing date and that the land parcels in question are declared by the first named.
414 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14021/07]
The Supreme Court delivered its judgement in a case relating to animal remedies legislation on 29 March. A further hearing before the Court is to be held when the courts resume after the Easter break in relation to the implications of the judgement. In the interim, my Department is considering the full implications of the judgement in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General.
However, as an immediate step, particularly since the legislation concerned is fundamentally about protection of public health, on 2 April, I brought into effect regulations to replace the animal remedies regulations which were the subject of the Supreme Court ruling with a view to ensuring continuation of the regime governing the approval and distribution of veterinary medicines and associated matters.
415 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food when, in view of the recent Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government decision to designate hen harrier special protection areas, approval will be given to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14036/07]
The site in question is in an area which the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government has identified as one of a number of areas around the country which are important for the survival of the Hen Harrier, which is a protected species. The European Commission had expressed the gravest concern at any further planting within these areas until it was possible to fully assess the impact of forestry on the species. In order to do that, it was necessary to work out what type of management regime needed to be put in place to accommodate both forestry and the hen harrier in the areas being proposed as Special Protection Areas.
This regime has now been agreed and a key component is the complete preservation of areas of heath-bog which have been shown to be of critical importance to the survival of the bird. The site in question appears to be completely heath-bog habitat, as defined by the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Forest Service cannot approve an application to establish a forest here. My Department has written to the person in question to formally notify him of the decision in this matter. It is open to the person in question to appeal this decision and any such appeal should be addressed to the Appeals Unit of the Forest Service of my Department at Johnstown Castle Estate, Wexford.
416 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food her views on water meters being installed on farms; her further views on whether farmers costs are increasing all the time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14045/07]
In the first instance, the issue of water meters on farms is a matter for the Local Authorities. However, I am aware of the concerns expressed by the farming community in regard to this issue and I am conscious of the need to ensure that usage of metered water on farms for agricultural purposes is kept to a minimum. Thus, for example, the technical specifications for farm buildings operated by my Department for the purposes of the Farm Waste Management Scheme require the installation of adequate arrangements for the separation of clean and dirty water as part of the conditions of any new investment. In addition, I extended the terms of that Scheme in March 2006 to include the provision of grant-aid for the installation of guttering on existing buildings as a further new eligible item.
As far as the new 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme is concerned, I have provided that grant-aid will be available under the new Farm Improvement Scheme for, inter alia, the installation of water retention equipment on farms. This Scheme will be introduced as soon as EU approval is received for the Programme.
417 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Agriculture and Food if she will change the farm inspection guidelines as it is widely felt by farmers that this is too confining; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14046/07]
The position is that the introduction of the Single Payment Scheme and my Department's commitment in the Charter of Rights for farmers to ensure maximum integration of inspections across schemes and for cross-compliance has resulted in a drop in annual farm inspection levels from 18,000 under the coupled regime to less than 8,000 in 2006. I agree that the inspection requirements linked to cross-compliance are complex and I am committed to negotiating significant changes in the context of the simplification exercise which is currently underway in the Commission. I think it needs to be made clear however that the inspection checklist on cross-compliance is not a document for completion by the farmer but is an internal document for completion by officials of my Department carrying out inspections.
It is important also to bear in mind that the controls under the various direct payment schemes are set out in EU Regulations. Failure to ensure a satisfactory control environment leaves a member State open to serious financial penalty — a fact that cannot be lightly dismissed given the magnitude of annual payments of €1.9 billion to Irish farmers under the Single Payment Scheme, the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and REPS. Nonetheless, I believe that the cross-compliance inspection requirements are overly demanding on farmers. It is my clearly held view that some practical amendments can be secured without in any way undermining the objectives of cross-compliance or putting accountability in the disbursement of EU and national funds at risk.
As I have made clear already, I have raised my concerns about the Single Payment Scheme — particularly the inspection arrangements and the need for advance notice — with Commissioner Fischer Boel on a number of occasions. I have also discussed the problems with Minister Seehofer, the German President of the Agriculture Council and I am assured of his commitment to dealing with the issues over the next few months.
The Commission has finalised a review document on cross-compliance. The report will be formally presented to the Agriculture Ministers meeting on 16th April. In tandem with this, my Department is carrying out a full review of the inspection arrangements and checklists for the Single Payment Scheme with a view to simplification of the arrangements (including paperwork) where possible while, at the same time, ensuring compliance with the regulatory requirements. The review of the inspection report forms together with the outcome of the Commission's review of the cross-compliance arrangements generally, will be fully discussed with the farming organisations before the Single Payment Scheme inspections for 2007 get under way.
418 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of employing one primary school teacher, including pension benefits. [13772/07]
The cost of employing a primary school teacher depends on a number of factors. These include the point on the common basic scale, the qualification and other allowances held by the teacher.
It is estimated that currently the average cost of employing a primary school teacher is €60,000 per annum. Based on an average salary of €60,000, the annual pension payable at retirement for each year of reckonable service would be €750 in the case of a teacher paying Class D PRSI and €475 in the case of a teacher paying Class A PRSI. In both instances a retirement lump sum of the same value is payable at a current rate of €2,250 per year of service. The maximum service reckonable for pension at retirement is forty years.
419 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of employing one secondary school teacher, including pension benefits. [13773/07]
The cost of employing a teacher employed in a Secondary or Community/Comprehensive school depends on a number of factors. These include the point of the teacher on the common basic scale, the qualification and other allowances held by the person.
It is estimated that currently the average cost of employing a teacher employed in a Secondary or Community/ Comprehensive school is €63,000 per annum. Based on the current average salary of €63,000 the annual pension payable at retirement for each year of reckonable service would be €787 in the case of a teacher paying Class D PRSI and €515 in the case of a teacher paying Class A PRSI. In both instances a retirement lump sum of the same value is payable at a current rate of €2,363 per year of service. The maximum service reckonable for pension at retirement is forty years.
420 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of employing one university lecturer, including pension benefits. [13780/07]
The cost of employing a University Lecturer depends on a number of factors including the point of the scale held by the Lecturer.
An indicative mean cost of a University Lecturer based on incremental salary is estimated at €74,000 per annum. Based on the indicative cost of €74,000 the annual pension payable at retirement for each year of reckonable service would be €925 in the case of a Lecturer paying Class D PRSI and €652 in the case of a Lecturer paying Class A PRSI. In both instances a retirement lump sum of the same value is payable at a current rate of €2,775 per year of service. The maximum service reckonable for pension at retirement is forty years.
421 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason children in a class of 22 at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9 will be in a class of 34 in September 2007; and if recent announcements on extra teachers will assist this school before September. [13502/07]
497 Mr. F. McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason children at a school in Dublin 9 (details supplied) will be in a class of 34 in September 2007; and the situation regarding recent announcements of a pupil teacher ratio of 20:1. [14015/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 421 and 497 together.
The mainstream staffing of a primary school is determined by reference to the enrolment of the school on 30th September of the previous school year. The actual number of mainstream posts sanctioned is determined by reference to a staffing schedule which is issued to all primary schools each year.
Data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management of the school referred to by the Deputy, indicates that the enrolment in the school on 30th September 2005 was 325 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule (Circular 0023/2006), which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2006/07 school year is a Principal and 12 mainstream class teachers.
According to data submitted to my Department by the Board of Management of the school, the enrolment in the school on 30th September 2006 was 305 pupils. In accordance with the staffing schedule (Circular 0020/2007), which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie and has issued to all primary schools, the mainstream staffing in the school for the 2007/08 school year will be a Principal and 11 mainstream class teachers.
Within the terms of the staffing arrangements for primary schools there is provision for additional posts, referred to as developing school posts, to be assigned to schools on the basis of projected enrolments for the next school year. Under these arrangements, a developing school post may be sanctioned provisionally where the projected enrolment at 30th September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30th September, sanction for the post is withdrawn.
It is open to the Board of Management to submit an appeal under certain criteria to an independent Appeal Board which was established to adjudicate on appeals on mainstream staffing allocations in primary schools. Details of the criteria and application dates for appeal are contained in the staffing schedule. They are also available in Circular 0024/2007 (Appeal Board for Mainstream Staffing in Primary Schools) which is available on my Department's website. Hard copies of this circular will issue to primary schools as soon as possible.
It is proposed that the first meeting of the Appeal Board will be held in May, 2007. Further meetings will be held in July and October, 2007. The closing dates for receipt of appeals are 11 May, 22 June and 12 October respectively. Appeals must be submitted to Primary Payments Section, Department of Education and Science, Athlone, on the standard application form, clearly stating the criterion under which the appeal is being made. The standard application form is available from Primary Payments Section or on my Department's website. The Appeal Board operates independently of the Minister and my Department and its decision is final.
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in the operation of the independent Appeal Board.
422 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of special projects for youth funded by her Department in County Louth; the location and number of such staff funded by her Department; if these staff and funding are of a temporary nature; her plans to increase such funding in County Louth and in particular in Drogheda, Dundalk and Ardee towns; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13511/07]
There are three (3) special projects for youth in County Louth currently in receipt of ongoing grant in aid funding under my Department's Special Projects for Youth Scheme. Details of these projects are outlined here in tabular form.
|
Project |
Grant |
|
|
€ |
||
|
1. |
Coxes Demesne Community Youth Project, Dundalk |
102,043 |
|
2. |
Southside Community Youth Project, Drogheda |
102,043 |
|
3. |
Craobh Rua Community Youth Project, Dundalk |
49,642 |
In 2005, Coxes Demesne Youth Project was up-graded to two workers and in 2006 the Craobh Rua Youth Project was also up-graded as recommended in the National Youth Work Development Plan 2003-2007.
The Youth Affairs Section of my Department has received two (2) applications for funding in the 2007 round of grants under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme on behalf of the Ferdia Park Project, Ardee and the Northside Community Youth Project, Drogheda. Funding allocations for 2007 are currently being examined and theserequests will be considered in light of available financial resources, existing commitments in the youth sector and other applications. My Department's objective is to finalise decisions on such applications before the end of spring.
423 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the counties that are not in receipt of any youth information grant; the reason County Louth has not received a youth information grant to date; the proposals she has to address this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13512/07]
The Youth Affairs Section of my Department provides grant-in-aid assistance to support the operation of 32 Youth Information Centres throughout the country whose purpose is to provide young people with information on a wide range of issues in a suitably conducive atmosphere.
There are no Youth Information Centres in Counties Leitrim, Longford, Cavan, Meath, Louth, Offaly, Laois and Carlow. Applications were received for funding for a Youth Information Centre in County Louth but it has not been possible to provide funding for this centre because of finite financial resources and in light of other commitments to the youth work sector.
A consultant's review has recently been completed for my Department which will help inform the future direction of youth information provision. Future funding applications for proposed new centres will be examined having regard to the outcomes of this review process. I would like assure the Deputy of my commitment to continued support of the youth sector in Ireland and its work.
424 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will publish the Youth Information Grant Review carried out by her Department, and the funding review that has been carried out under the National Youth Work Development Plan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13513/07]
Two reviews, viz. a Review of Youth Information Provision and a Review of Funding for the Youth Work Sector have recently been completed by external consultants on behalf of my Department.
With regard to the Youth Information review, the youth information steering group (a sub-committee of the National Youth Work Advisory Committee (NYWAC)) are at present reviewing the final document to ensure that the terms of reference have been appropriately dealt with by the consultants. It is expected that the NYWAC will then consider the contents of the report, which together with the views of NYWAC, will be presented to me for my consideration.
A similar process is underway in respect of the Funding Review report, which is at present being considered by the relevant NYWAC steering group. Following due consideration of all aspects of these reports and the views expressed by the NYWAC, decisions in relation to the next stages with regard to these reviews will then be made.
425 Mr. P. Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on including teaching experience in private second level schools for incremental pay purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13514/07]
The scheme for the award of incremental credit to teachers was agreed at the Conciliation Council for Teachers which is comprised of representatives of the teacher unions, school management, the Department of Finance and the Department of Education and Science. The scheme, as agreed, makes no provision for the award of incremental credit in respect of teaching service in educational establishments other than those recognised by competent State authorities.
426 Mr. Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding the provision of an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [13515/07]
An application for an extension has been received in the Department from the school to which the Deputy refers.
A re-assessment of projected enrolments, demographic trends and housing developments in the area is currently under way. This will assist in determining the long term projected staffing for the school, on which the school's long term accommodation needs will be based. Once the long term projection is finalised and agreed with the school authorities the Department will draw up schedules of accommodation and the project will be progressed in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
427 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of school places available in secondary schools in the Lucan area; the number of students in sixth class attending primary schools in the Lucan area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13516/07]
There are twelve primary schools in the Lucan area with a combined 6th class enrolment of 501 pupils. With regard to post primary capacity, the four Post-Primary providers in Lucan had a combined first year enrolment of 481 pupils in 2006. However, Coláiste Cois Life has capacity for 600 pupils in total but only enrolled 68 first year students in 2006. In addition, a Design Team will be appointed shortly for an extension project for Lucan Community College. The project will increase capacity at this school by 200 students overall. In the circumstances, I am satisfied that there is adequate provision at post primary level in Lucan into the future. The Department will, however, continue to monitor the situation to ensure that any future emerging needs are addressed in a timely manner.
428 Mr. Aylward asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve the application by a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny for a physical education hall as part of a sports complex and leisure facility which will meet the needs of the students at this college and the community at large; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13517/07]
I can confirm that 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 for the provision of a PE hall. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale works and was assigned a band 4 rating. Progress on the proposed works will be considered in the context of the multiannual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
429 Mr. J. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science further to her reply of 28 March 2007 regarding appointments to State boards and bodies, if she will furnish the information requested in relation to the number of appointments to such State bodies or other similar entities which she has made, envisages making or nominating in the period from 26 March to 31 May 2007; and if she will identify each such board, body or entity. [13518/07]
The information requested by the Deputy in his PQ No. 11974/07 was provided in my reply of 28 March 07 as an attachment. The information requested is set out again in the table.
|
Board |
No. of Appointments |
Notes |
|
National council for Curriculum and Assessment |
1 |
Appointed on Nomination of Chief Inspector |
|
Further Education and Training Awards Council |
1 |
|
|
Board of the Advisory Council on English Language Schools |
1 |
Appointed on Nomination of Dublin Tourism |
|
Residential Institutions Redress Board |
1 |
|
|
Board of Léargas |
1 |
|
|
National Educational Welfare Board |
1 |
Delegated Appointments by Minister of State for Children |
430 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for Education and Science if arrangements could be made for a meeting to be set up between a club (details supplied) and Dublin City Council regarding the site for a new building as soon as possible. [13544/07]
The Department is considering a number of options to address the long term accommodation needs of the school to which the Deputy refers. One of the options proposed by the schools Board of Management is the building of a permanent structure on the school's current site which is based at the local GAA club. The Department acknowledges the need for a solution to the schools accommodation difficulties and is committed to working to achieve a satisfactory solution as soon as possible.
431 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the directive she has issued to her Department officials regarding a school (details supplied) in County Leitrim in view of the circumstances outlined in correspondence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13561/07]
DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated School Support Programme (SSP). The School Support Programme will bring together, and build upon, a number of existing interventions in schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage. The process of identifying primary and second-level schools for participation in the SSP was managed by the Educational Research Centre (ERC) on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the Inspectorate. As a result of the identification process, 840 schools were invited to participate in the SSP. These comprised 640 primary schools (320 urban/town schools and 320 rural schools) and 200 second-level schools. A review mechanism was put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in the School Support Programme but regarded themselves as having a level of disadvantage which is of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process operated under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review.
An application for review was received from the school referred to by the Deputy and was thoroughly examined by the Review Group. In accordance with the recommendations of the Review Group, the school has not been identified for inclusion in the School Support Programme and the Principal was informed by letter on 4 August 2006. Unsuccessful schools were advised at an early stage that they would be allowed to keep the supports that they have under pre-existing schemes for the current school year. I have also given a commitment that my Department will, for the duration of the DEIS action plan, continue to support these schools in their efforts to deal with educational disadvantage among their students. The school to which the Deputy refers will continue to receive grant assistance for the duration of the DEIS action plan to assist it with its level of dispersed disadvantage. I am satisfied not only that this Government has provided for a major increase in supports to our most disadvantaged schools through DEIS, but we have addressed the concerns of schools that did not qualify for the new initiative.
432 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a new primary school at Blennerville, Tralee, County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13563/07]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the school to which he refers is included in today's announcement of 56 large scale building projects countrywide which have been approved to progress under the School Building and Modernisation Programme. These will be progressed by way of the appointment of a design team.
433 Mr. G. Murphy asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide the necessary funding in 2007 for a school (details supplied) in County Cork; when funding was provided to the school previously; the amount and what the funding was for; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13570/07]
An application for capital funding towards the provision of a permanent extension has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. The school planning section of the Department is currently carrying out an assessment of projected enrolments, demographic trends and housing developments in the area which will assist in determining the school's long term accommodation needs. Once this assessment is completed, the project will be progressed in the context of the multiannual School Building and Modernisation Programme. In 2002, the Department funded the purchase of temporary accommodation at the school at a cost of approximately €147,500. Approval was recently given to the school authority to rent a mainstream classroom in temporary accommodation to cater for increased enrolments at the school for September next.
434 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if teachers working in national schools are private employees or public servants; if they are in fact private employees answerable to the board of management of the school they work in; the reason they are denied access to the Labour Court; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13601/07]
Teachers working in national schools have a contract of employment with the board of management of the school in which they are employed. The board of management, as employer, has the power to appoint such and so many persons as teachers as the board from time to time thinks necessary for the performance of its powers and functions. An employee/employer relationship exists between the teacher and the board of management and the teacher is answerable to the board of management of the school. The numbers and qualifications of teachers who are paid from monies provided by the Oireachtas are subject to the approval of the Minister for Education and Science with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance. Such teachers are regarded as public servants. The terms and conditions of employment of such teachers, appointed by the board of management, and who are paid from monies provided by the Oireachtas are determined by the Minister for Education and Science with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance.
Access to the disputes settling agencies- Labour Relations Commission, Labour Court and Rights Commissioner Service- is governed by the definition of "worker" in Section 23(1) of the Industrial Relations Act 1990. At present teachers do not have access to these agencies as they are specifically excluded from the definition of "worker". Teachers are instead served by an agreed scheme of conciliation and arbitration for teachers which operates to provide a means acceptable to the managerial authorities of national and second level schools, the teacher unions and the Ministers for Education and Science and Finance for dealing with claims and proposals relating to the salaries and conditions of service of teachers. The scheme provides for conciliation, facilitation and, if agreement does not prove possible, arbitration by the Teachers Arbitration Board. The Arbitration Board is appointed by the Government.
An individual serving as a teacher continues to have a right to submit through the normal channels any statement he or she may wish to make to his or her employer on any matter affecting his or her official position or, if appropriate, to have the matter pursued through appropriate grievance procedures agreed between the teacher unions and the managerial authorities of schools. Accordingly claims by or on behalf of individuals are excluded from the scope of the conciliation and arbitration scheme. The grievance procedures, agreed between the managerial authorities of schools and the teacher unions, provide access to a dispute resolution mechanism as the last stage of the procedure. In addition individual rights based legislation such as the Maternity Protection Act 2004 provides that an employee (including teachers) may refer a complaint to a Rights Commissioner and on appeal to the Employment Appeals Tribunal.
435 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the ownership and future plans for the former Coláiste Mhuire secondary school on Parnell Square in Dublin 1; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13604/07]
The former Coláiste Mhuire Secondary School (Number 23 Parnell Square Dublin 1) was included as a property contribution under the terms of the Indemnity Agreement with the religious congregations dated 5 June 2002 as the Office of Public Works confirmed to the Department that it was prepared to accept title to the property. In accepting this property the State will own numbers 22 to 28 Parnell Square. The Office of Public Works is currently examining proposals for the future use of these buildings.
436 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the ownership and future plans of a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13605/07]
The Department is in the process of procuring the property to which the Deputy refers for continued Education use.
437 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has had an application for a home school community liaison officer for a school (details supplied) in County Cork; when a decision will be made on the application; if she will consider this application favourably; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13626/07]
I recently received representations on behalf of the school to which the Deputy refers and a reply will issue shortly. Under DEIS, (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the new Action Plan for Educational Inclusion, which is currently being implemented by my Department, 80 additional posts have been allocated in order to extend Home School Community Liaison services to all 338 urban/town primary and 203 second level schools participating in DEIS that do not currently have a HSCL service, in addition to the 370 local coordinators already in place. To facilitate local HSCL co-ordinators working with the families of disadvantaged children, for the first time posts are being shared across the two sectors — primary and post-primary level. I have also given a commitment to schools not selected to participate in DEIS but already in the HSCL Scheme, that they will continue to receive HSCL services after 2006/2007. HSCL services will be provided to some 652 schools in total (282 second level and 370 primary schools) for the duration of the DEIS Action Plan. The school to which the Deputy refers was not selected to participate in DEIS, however, it will continue to receive grant assistance to assist them with their respective levels of dispersed disadvantage.
438 Mr. Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in County Cork has been expelled from a school; her plans to provide this person with an education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13627/07]
Section 24 of the Education (Welfare) Act, 2000 requires a school to notify it's Educational Welfare Officer before expelling any student. The Educational Welfare Officer concerned is then required to make all reasonable efforts to ensure that provision is made for the continued education of the student, including consulting with the school authorities, the student concerned and his or her parents. Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board expels a student. Where a school expels a student, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. It is only where an appeal under Section 29 is upheld that the Secretary General of my Department may direct a school to re-admit a student. My Department has not received any notification or request for appeal in respect of the student referred to by the Deputy. The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The details provided by the Deputy have been forwarded to the NEWB for appropriate attention. The NEWB can be contacted at National Educational Welfare Board, National Headquarters, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7 or by telephone at 01-8738700.
439 Ms O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason teachers are precluded from access to the Labour Court to pursue individual grievances; if, as the arbitration and conciliation process that is in place only deals with teachers as a group, there is a forum to which an individual teacher can take their case if they are not satisfied with the response they receive from their board of management; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13663/07]
Access to the disputes settling agencies- Labour Relations Commission, Labour Court and Rights Commissioner Service- is governed by the definition of "worker" in Section 23(1) of the Industrial Relations Act 1990. At present teachers do not have access to these agencies as they are specifically excluded from the definition of "worker". Teachers are instead served by an agreed scheme of conciliation and arbitration for teachers which operates to provide a means acceptable to the managerial authorities of national and second level schools, the teacher unions and the Ministers for Education and Science and Finance for dealing with claims and proposals relating to the salaries and conditions of service of teachers. The scheme provides for conciliation, facilitation and, if agreement does not prove possible, arbitration by the Teachers Arbitration Board. The Arbitration Board is appointed by the Government. An individual serving as a teacher continues to have a right to submit through the normal channels any statement he or she may wish to make to his or her employer on any matter affecting his or her official position or, if appropriate, to have the matter pursued through appropriate grievance procedures agreed between the teacher unions and the managerial authorities of schools. Accordingly claims by or on behalf of individuals are excluded from the scope of the conciliation and arbitration scheme. The grievance procedures, agreed between the managerial authorities of schools and the teacher unions, provide access to a dispute resolution mechanism as the last stage of the procedure. In addition individual rights based legislation such as the Maternity Protection Act 2004 provides that an employee (including a teacher) may refer a dispute to a rights commissioner and on appeal to the Employment Appeals Tribunal.
440 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science the directive she has issued to her Department officials regarding the application submitted by a school (details supplied) under the school building programme 2006; if she will give a firm commitment that the necessary works will be sanctioned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13669/07]
An application for capital funding has been received from the school to which the Deputy refers. This application will be assessed with reference to factors such as current and projected enrolments at the school, the likely impact of ongoing and proposed housing developments and existing provision in the general area. When this assessment is complete, a decision will be taken on how best to provide for the current and emerging accommodation needs at the school. The proposed project will be considered in the context of the multiannual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
441 Mr. Perry asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will reconsider the decision made on the application submitted by a school (details supplied) in County Sligo for the refurbishment of the outdoor step as it is a serious health and safety issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13670/07]
The school referred to by the Deputy applied under the Summer Works Scheme 2007 for the replacement of access steps to the sports pitch and other areas. On the 8 January 2007 I announced details of the schools to receive funding to improve facilities under the Summer Works Scheme 2007. However, due to the volume of applications received it was not possible to allocate funding to all proposed projects. The Department has received an appeal on this decision from the school authority which will be considered further.
442 Mr. Gormley asked the Minister for Education and Science if she is committed to ensuring the future of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 2 as a stand-alone school; the steps she will take to ensure that this happens; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13674/07]
The school to which the Deputy refers is one of two post primary providers in the area. The current enrolment in the school referred to by the Deputy stood at 130 as of September 2006. The future of this school will be dependent on enrolments as well as overall school planning provision in the area.
443 Mr. Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science the applications for funding on file for a school (details supplied) in County Mayo; when funding will be provided for the school; the stage their application is at; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13691/07]
The school referred to by the Deputy originally applied for an extension and refurbishment to provide improved ancillary accommodation. The school submitted an application under the Small Schools Scheme 2007 for additional accommodation. On 5 March 2007, I announced details of the schools to receive funding under this Scheme. Due to the volume of applications received in the Department it was not possible to allocate funding to all proposed projects and the school referred to by the Deputy was not successful in this instance. It is open to the school authority to apply for funding under the 2008 scheme, details of which will be announced later this year. The Department received an appeal from the school on the 4 April 2007 in relation to the initial decision which will be considered further.
444 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to relax the rules regarding home tutors for pre-school children with autism; the reason for the need for a tutor working with pre-school children with autism spectrum disorder to have primary teaching qualifications; and if she plans to set up an applied behaviour analysis course here which could be done by tutors, unlike at present where the only ABA course is a post-graduate course in Trinity College. [13702/07]
The Deputy will be aware that the home tuition scheme provides funding to parents to facilitate the provision of education at home for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme was extended in recent years to facilitate tuition for children awaiting a suitable educational placement and also to provide early educational intervention for pre-school children with autism. A review in 2006 of a number of applications for home tuition highlighted some cause for concern regarding the qualifications of proposed tuition providers. Following the review of qualifications, which took place in consultation with my Department's Inspectorate, an extended list of qualifications acceptable under the scheme has been published. This list is available on my Department's website. Aside from recognised teaching qualifications such as the Bachelor in Education and approved Montessori training, the list includes certain qualifications in autism and in applied approaches to teaching children with autism, such as ABA, PECS and TEACCH. Third level qualifications in relevant areas such as psychology may also be appropriate depending on circumstances. I have requested the Special Education Support Service to put in place courses for teachers in the wide range of educational interventions available to meet the needs of children in their classes. To this end I am committed to ensuring that all teachers of children with autism will be enabled to implement a combined skills approach, including ABA, to meeting their learning and teaching needs.
445 Mr. N. O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the planned extension to a national school (details supplied) in County Cork. [13703/07]
A technical inspection of the school to which the Deputy refers was carried out by officials from the Department. The proposed building project will be progressed in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
446 D’fhiafraigh Mr. Kehoe den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta cén méid dalta atá ag freastal ar Ghaelscoileanna agus ar Ghaelcholáistí faoi láthair; freisin, cén fáth nach bhfuil gach téacsleabhar ar fáil as Gaeilge do na daltaí sin agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh; agus an bhfuil plean aici athruithe a dhéanamh ar na téacsleabhair atá ann cheana féin chun iad a bheith níos simplí agus níos éasca a thuiscint ag na daltaí. [13704/07]
Tá tuairim is 39,883 mac léinn i mbunscoileanna agus i scoileanna dara leibhéal atá ag fáil oideachais trí Ghaeilge ar fad.
Tá feabhsaithe suntasacha dá ndéanamh i dtaca le soláthar téacsleabhar agus áiseanna múinteoireachta oiriúnacha ar ardchaighdeán le n-úsáid go sonrach i scoileanna Gaeltachta agus i nGaelscoileanna taobh amuigh den Ghaeltacht, go háirithe ó bunaíodh Scéim na nDearthóirí i 2001 agus ó cuireadh An Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta ar bun i 2002.
Tá mo Roinn tar éis tuairim is €1 milliún a infheistiú sa bhliain, faoi Scéim na nDearthóirí, i sraith nua ábhar do bhunscoileanna ar a dtugtar Séideán Sí, agus tá ábhair do naíonáin suas go daltaí rang a dó ar fáil cheana féin, agus ábhair do dhaltaí rang a trí le teacht amach i Meán Fómhair 2007. Leanfaidh an infheistiú seo ar aghaidh go dtí go mbeidh sraith iomlán acmhainní don timthriall ocht mbliana bunscoile ar fáil.
I 2007, leithdháiligh mo Roinn €945,000 ar An Chomhairle, €400,000 de ainmnithe go sonrach do sholáthar téacsleabhar agus acmhainní eile chun tacú le múineadh agus foghlaim. Tamall ina dhiaidh sin, d'fhógair mé go leithdháilfí €1 milliún eile ar An Chomhairle thar na trí bliana romhainn. Ceann de na feidhmeanna is práinní a bhainfear as na hacmhainní comhaontaithe seo ná comhordú agus coimisiúnú a dhéanamh ar eagráin Ghaeilge de théacsanna Ardteistiméireachta atá ann cheana féin agus áiseanna nua teagaisc agus foghlama a dhearadh le haghaidh raon iomlán na n-ábhar Ardteistiméireachta.
Oibríonn An Chomhairle go dlúth leis na háisíneachtaí bainteacha go léir chun aghaidh a thabhairt ar an easnamh acmhainní agus ábhar i nGaeilge. Tá eolaí leathan acmhainne foilsithe aici ar a suíomh gréasáin (www.cogg.ie) ar acmhainní atá ar fáil anois chun tacú le múineadh na Gaeilge sa churaclam, agus múineadh ábhar eile trí Ghaeilge, i mbunscoileanna agus in iarbhunscoileanna araon.
Is léir dom go bhfuil na bearta seo tar éis feabhas suntasach a chur ar an soláthar téacsleabhar agus acmhainní Gaeilge do dhaltaí i scoileanna Gaeltachta agus Gaelscoileanna taobh amuigh den Ghaeltacht.
447 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if sport and physical education will be included as an examination subject in the 2007 and 2008 academic year at leaving certificate level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13721/07]
Physical Education and sport, although closely linked, are not synonymous. Sport begins with play and develops through games, competition and challenges. Competition in sport contributes to the holistic development of the student, provided that the opportunities presented are such that he/she is progressing towards the achievement of his/her potential. It is government policy to encourage and promote sport for all in schools. The policy of my Department is to facilitate this by means of a broad and balanced physical education curriculum for schools.
The focus in the Physical Education curriculum in our schools is on the learner's holistic development, with an emphasis on personal and social development, physical growth, and motor development. Goal-setting, within the curriculum, focuses on individual improvement rather than on winning or being the best. The creation of a positive attitude to sport and physical activity, with the overall aim of promoting long term involvement, is of paramount importance.
In accordance with the Rules and Programme for Secondary Schools, all second level schools should offer Physical Education as part of the curriculum. The programme should be based on the Department's approved syllabuses and teaching hours should be registered on the school timetable. The syllabuses in Physical Education have been developed on the basis of a time allocation of two hours per week.
The phasing in of a revised Physical Education syllabus (non-examination) at Junior Cycle level commenced in September 2003. The Junior Cycle Physical Education Support Service has been in place since then to support teachers in the implementation of this syllabus. There are no plans to introduce Physical Education as an examination subject at Leaving Certificate level in the 2007/08 academic year.
448 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a new primary school at a 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. [13737/07]
The building project for the school referred to by the deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. The long term projected enrolment has recently been re-assessed for this school. Accordingly, the brief for the project has been amended to provide adequate accommodation for a Principal + 7 Classroom Teachers + 1.5 Learning Support/Resource teachers.
My Department's technical team are currently assessing how best to progress this project. A number of options are being considered. When this assessment is completed, my Department will be in contact with the school authorities as to the next steps involved in progressing this building project.
Progression of all projects to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
449 Mr. O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve the application of a youth project (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13740/07]
The Youth Affairs Section of my Department has received an application for funding on behalf of the project in question. This application was submitted for consideration in the 2007 round of grants under my Department's Special Projects for Youth Scheme.
Funding allocations for 2007 are currently being examined by my Department and consideration will be given to this application in light of available financial resources, existing commitments in the youth sector and other applications. My Department's objective is to finalise decisions on such applications before the end of Spring.
450 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the replacement of existing prefabs at a school (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13746/07]
An application for capital funding has been received from the school to which the Deputy refers. This application will be assessed with reference to factors such as current and projected enrolments at the school, the likely impact of ongoing and proposed housing developments and existing provision in the general area. When this assessment is complete, a decision will be taken on how best to provide for the current and emerging accommodation needs at the school. The proposed project will be considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
451 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will confirm that a technical team from her Department will visit a school (details supplied) in County Kerry in the near future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13750/07]
An application for capital funding towards the provision of an extension at the school to which the Deputy refers was received and assessed. The long term projected staffing, on which the future accommodation needs of the school will be based, has been determined and notified to the school authority.
In order to determine how best to provide for the school's accommodation needs into the future, it will be necessary to have a technical assessment of existing buildings carried out. Officials from the Department will be in contact with the school authority to arrange a date as soon as this is feasible.
452 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of new adult literacy places created since 2002; the cost of the number of places which have been created; the number of adult literacy places in the State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13801/07]
Adult Literacy and Basic Education are my top priority in Adult Education. The Adult Literacy services are funded by my Department through annual grants to the Vocational Education Committees, which deliver the services locally. The disbursement of funds is a matter for each VEC, which, subject to its budget, decides the nature and extent of the Adult Literacy services to be provided in its area and the manner in which funds for these services should be spent. The organisation and location of courses are also matters for decision by the VECs.
I am providing for an increase of €7.4 million, or 21%, this year for Adult Literacy and Community Education. This will allow for 3,000 additional literacy places in 2007. It will bring expenditure on adult Literacy up to €30 million, and the number of participants up to 38,000, compared to 28,000 in 2002, when expenditure on Adult Literacy was €16.7 million.
The increased provision this year also includes an additional €1million for an Intensive Tuition in Adult Basic Education Programme, bringing the total funding for this programme up to €2 million. This programme provides participants with 6-8 hours tuition, rather than the normal 2 hours per week.
To cater for the literacy and basic education needs of immigrant groups, literacy funds may be used by Vocational Education Committees to teach English to speakers of other languages. Almost 10,000 students availed of tuition in English under the English for Speakers of Other Languages programme in 2005, comprising 27% of participants in adult literacy programmes.
453 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of people who left school before sitting their junior or intermediate certificate exams currently participating in education or training; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13802/07]
According to the Quarterly National Household Survey carried out by the CSO in the Autumn (Q4; Sept-Nov) of 2006, approximately 19,600 persons aged 16-64 years, who had not attained either Junior or Intermediate certificates, were either students or apprentices in the 4 weeks prior to the survey. This number represents 5% of the total number of persons in the age group who had not attained either Junior or Intermediate certificates. Of these the vast majority, 87%, were aged 16-19 years.
Given the clear link between leaving the system without formal qualifications and continued socio-economic disadvantage in adult life, the Government is determined to do all that is possible to ensure that children and young people get the opportunities and supports they need to enable them to complete their education and secure their future economic and personal well being. Against the background of our continuing economic success, our increasingly well educated population (with over 40% of 25-34 year olds having a third-level qualification, among the highest in the EU) and inward migration, those who leave school early without adequate qualifications face serious difficulties and challenges. CSO data show that the educational profile of 20-24 year olds in Ireland has improved steadily over the last five years, as increasing opportunities have been made available in the further education and training sector. By 2005, 85.8% of 20-24 year olds had attained upper second-level education or equivalent, up from 82.6% in 2000 and putting Ireland way ahead of the EU average of 77.5%.
My Department has adopted a broad-based approach to tackling early school leaving. We established the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) to monitor attendance and help to get young people back to school. We have widened the range of curricula available to students by promoting the Junior Certificate Schools Programme, the Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme, and the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme in addition to the traditional Junior and Leaving Certificate curricula.
We have also put preventative measures in place such as the School Completion Programme and the Home School Community Liaison Scheme (HSCL). Under the School Completion Programme children at risk of early school leaving are targeted for a variety of extra supports, educational and non-educational, during and outside of school time- all aimed at encouraging them to stay in school. The Home School Community Liaison Scheme helps to get parents involved in their children's education, which as we all know is a crucial component of convincing young people of the value of education.
Enhancing attendance, progression, retention and attainment are central to DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools) the action plan for educational inclusion, which is being implemented at present. The action plan represents a shift in emphasis away from individual initiatives, each addressing a particular aspect of the problem, with the new plan adopting a multi-faceted and more integrated approach. This is the first time that an integrated educational inclusion strategy has been developed for 3-18 year olds in this country.
In relation to second chance educational opportunities for young people who left school early, this Government has shown a sustained commitment to providing greater opportunities in the adult and further education sectors. Many such young people take up places in Youthreach centres, while others pursue options such as FAS apprenticeships.
I would like to assure the Deputy that we have greatly intensified our efforts in recent years both to keep more young people in school and to provide increased educational opportunities for those who left school early. I will continue to prioritise further progress in this area.
454 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the national average pupil teacher ratio in junior infants, senior infants, first class, second class and third class respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13803/07]
Information in relation to class sizes is provided in the annual census of primary schools. The details for the current school year (2006/2007) are currently being compiled by my Department and the information requested is not readily available.
As the Deputy will be aware, major improvements have been made in staffing at primary level in recent years. There are now 5,000 more primary teachers than there were in 2002. The average class size in our primary schools is 24 and there is now one teacher for 17 pupils at primary level, including resource teachers etc. Children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas are getting more support than ever before to help them to make the most of their time at school.
Indeed, with the thousands of extra primary teachers hired by this Government, recent years have seen the largest expansion in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. Furthermore, the Government is committed to providing even more primary teachers next year to reduce class sizes.
As you know all primary schools are staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom 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 (2007/2008 school year) this is being reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.
A further initiative that has been of direct benefit to primary schools has been the change in the criteria for developing schools. For the current school year the threshold for getting a developing school post was reduced specifically to help schools that are seeing large increases in enrolments each year. Over 280 such posts were sanctioned in the 2006/07 school year compared to 170 in 2005/06.
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.
455 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of mature students attending third level in 2002; the number of disadvantaged students attending third level in 2002; the number of mature students attending third level in 2006; the number of disadvantaged students attending third level in 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13804/07]
The number of mature students enrolled in third level courses in 2002/2003 was 31,000 while the number in 2005/2006 was of the order of 38,000. Using the top-up grant system as a measure of disadvantage, the number of students qualifying for the grant in 2002/2003 was 8,300 and, in 2005/2006, was of the order of 10,000. A comprehensive national survey of New Entrants to Higher Education in 2004 was published by the HEA in 2006 and I will arrange to have a copy sent to the Deputy.
456 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary school pupils in classes of 1-24, 25-29, 30-39 and 40 plus. [13805/07]
457 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary school pupils in classes of 1-24, 25-29, 30-39 and 40 plus broken down on a county basis. [13806/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 and 457 together.
Information in relation to class sizes is provided in the annual census of primary schools. The details for the current school year (2006/2007) are currently being compiled by my Department and the information requested is not readily available.
As the Deputy will be aware, major improvements have been made in staffing at primary level in recent years. There are now 5,000 more primary teachers than there were in 2002. The average class size in our primary schools is 24 and there is now one teacher for 17 pupils at primary level, including resource teachers etc. Children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas are getting more support than ever before to help them to make the most of their time at school. Indeed, with the thousands of extra primary teachers hired by this Government, recent years have seen the largest expansion in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. Furthermore, the Government is committed to providing even more primary teachers next year to reduce class sizes.
As you know all primary schools are staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom 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 (2007/2008 school year) this is being reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.
A further initiative that has been of direct benefit to primary schools has been the change in the criteria for developing schools. For the current school year the threshold for getting a developing school post was reduced specifically to help schools that are seeing large increases in enrolments each year. Over 280 such posts were sanctioned in the 2006/07 school year compared to 170 in 2005/06.
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.
458 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the first and second level schools in respect of which new schools or major refurbishment or extensions were approved in the period between 17 May 2001 and 16 May 2002; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13807/07]
459 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number in respect of approval for new schools or major refurbishment extensions in the period between 17 May 2001 and 16 May 2002 that have not yet commenced and have not yet been completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13808/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 458 and 459 together.
The information is not readily available in the format sought by the Deputy for the period in question. I can assure the Deputy, however, that the Government has made a record investment of over €2.6 billion in the period from 2000 to 2006 in upgrading existing school infrastructure and providing new school accommodation at both first and second-level. Over 7,800 projects were delivered in this period. In addition the investment covered site purchases; the minor works grant issued to all primary schools annually, dust/asbestos and radon remediation programmes, science and technology initiatives, contingency works and grants for the purchase of furniture and equipment. This year alone over 1,500 building projects will be delivered.
The capital budget for 2007, at over €540m for first and second level schools, is the first year of the rollout of the new NDP which will involve an investment of over €4.5 billion in school buildings over the next 7 years. This multi-annual funding is proof of my continuing commitment to educational infrastructure and will enable my Department to continue to take a proactive approach to the provision of modern school accommodation.
I am also pleased that over recent years my Department has streamlined its processes for delivering projects with a particular emphasis placed on devolving the delivery of projects to local school management level. This enables a faster and more cost effective delivery of projects with minimum interaction with my Department.
460 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is assistance available to students wishing to study abroad as part of their undergraduate course, if they have been awarded a scholarship by an overseas university; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13814/07]
Under the terms of my Department's Higher Education Grants Scheme and the Vocational Education Committees' Scholarship Scheme, grant assistance is available to eligible students attending approved third level courses in approved institutions. An approved course for the purpose of the schemes means a full-time undergraduate course of not less than two years duration and a full time postgraduate course of not less than one year duration pursued in an approved institution.
My Department's Third Level Student Maintenance Grant 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.
By reference to clause 2.2 of the Higher Education Grants Scheme and clause 2.1 of the Vocational Education Committees' Scholarship Scheme, a candidate is not eligible to hold a grant if s/he holds:
(i) a scholarship/grant awarded by another Local Authority, a Vocational Educational Committee or the Department of Education, or
(ii) any other award payable from public funds, or
(iii) the equivalent of (i) or (ii) from another E.U. Member State.
The provisions at (ii) or (iii) do not include awards such as scholarships, prizes or bursaries, made by the institution being attended or postgraduate research grants where the grant received does not exceed a specified amount, which for the 2006/07 academic year, is specified to be €12,700. In addition the provision at (ii) does not include awards to candidates under the Student Assistant Fund, the Millennium Partnership Fund and the Fund for Students with Disabilities.
461 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will write to the management of South Dublin County Council supporting calls by local representatives for a compulsory purchase order to be made on lands at St. Edmundsbury, Lucan in County Dublin. [13815/07]
It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to the lands at St. Edmundsbury Lucan in the context of a requirement for a site for St. Andrew's National School. The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of the Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, has been asked to source a site for the school to which the Deputy refers. A number of site options have emerged and the Department is currently examining a report from the OPW which identifies a preferred site option. In the circumstances, the issue of a compulsory purchase does not arise in relation to this matter at this time.
462 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science if the higher education grant is available to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13852/07]
The decision on eligibility for third level grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired. It appears that no such advice or instruction has, to date, been sought in the case of the student referred to by the Deputy.
Officials in my Department have been in contact with Fingal County Council and County Dublin VEC the authorities who administer the Schemes for that area to date they have not received an application for the student referred to by the Deputy.
If an individual applicant considers that s/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, s/he may appeal to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the relevant local authority or VEC, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, a letter outlining the position may be sent to my Department. Alternatively, as already indicated, the local authority or VEC may, itself, in exceptional circumstances, seek clarification on issues from my Department.
However, it is not open to me, or my Department, to depart from the terms of the maintenance grants schemes in individual cases.
463 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for the construction of a new community school in Ballinamore, County Leitrim; her plans to progress the project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13887/07]
495 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the application for the construction of a new community school in Ballinamore, County Leitrim; her plans to progress the project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13993/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 463 and 495 together.
The Department recognises the need for a new Community School in Ballinamore. The Office of Public Works (OPW) is acting on behalf of the Department in relation to the acquisition of a site for the project and the acquisition of same is currently at contract/conveyancing stages. On completion of the site acquisition process the project will progress in the context of the Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
464 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when, in view of the fact that planning permission was granted on 20 March 2007, and a short list of contractors is available, tenders will be invited for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13899/07]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that devolved authority has been given to the school in question to take their project to tender stage. Therefore, it is a matter for the school and their Design Team to decide on the date that tender will be invited.
465 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when, in view of the fact that planning permission was granted on 27 March 2007, and a short list of contractors is available, tenders will be invited for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13900/07]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that devolved authority has been given to the school in question to take their project to tender stage. Therefore, it is a matter for the school and their Design Team to decide on the date that tender will be invited.
466 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received the stage one and two submission in relation to the building of a new school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she has sanctioned the advancement of the project to stage three. [13901/07]
The new School Building project referred to by the Deputy is at early stage of architectural planning. My Department wrote to the Design Team on the project on the 20th September 2006 requesting a stage 1/2 submission (Outline sketch scheme with costing) and this submission is expected in my Department by the end of April this year.
When this stage 1/2 submission is received in my Department, my Officials will arrange a meeting with the School Authorities and their Design Team in order to evaluate the documentation. It is envisaged that unless there are very exceptional circumstances involved, the meeting will be sufficient to authorise the project to progress to the next stages of architectural planning.
Progression of all projects to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
467 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received the stage one and two submission in relation to the building of the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she has sanctioned the advancement of the project to stage three. [13907/07]
The building project for the School referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. A Design Team was appointed on the project on the 28th November 2006 and the School Authorities were instructed to inform their Design Team to prepare a stage 1/2 submission (Outline sketch scheme with costing).
The stage 1/2 documentation is now awaited and when this is received in my Department, my Officials will arrange a meeting with the School Authorities and their Design Team in order to evaluate the documentation. It is envisaged that unless there are very exceptional circumstances involved, the meeting will be sufficient to authorise the project to progress to the next stages of architectural planning.
Progression of all projects to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
468 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has received the stage three submission in relation to the building of a new school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she has sanctioned the further advancement of the project. [13908/07]
The building project for the School referred to by the Deputy was one of the 62 projects that I announced to start the architectural planning process in January of 2006 and to proceed to tender and construction as indicated in my announcement of November 2006.
The brief for the project consists of a 16 classroom Generic Repeat Design school building with an additional special education facility. A Design Team was appointed on the project in July of last year and following a briefing seminar in my Department's Offices in Tullamore, the Design Team were instructed to proceed to stage 3 (detailed design with costing) of my Department's Design Team Procedures.
The stage 3 documentation is awaited and when received my Officials will, if necessary, arrange a meeting with the School Authorities and their Design Team in order to evaluate the documentation. Once the stage 3 is approved, the project will proceed to advanced design and subsequently to tender and construction.
469 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there are only 35 pupils in classes of less than 20 out of a combined pupil population of 4,949 pupils in the national schools in Celbridge, Leixlip and Maynooth, County Kildare; and if she will immediately address this issue in view of the fact that the area is growing at a tremendous rate. [13914/07]
Information in relation to class sizes is provided in the annual census of primary schools. The details for the current school year (2006/2007) are currently being compiled by my Department and the information requested is not readily available.
As the Deputy will be aware, major improvements have been made in staffing at primary level in recent years. There are now 5,000 more primary teachers than there were in 2002. The average class size in our primary schools is 24 and there is now one teacher for 17 pupils at primary level, including resource teachers etc.
Children with special needs and those from disadvantaged areas are getting more support than ever before to help them to make the most of their time at school.
Indeed, with the thousands of extra primary teachers hired by this Government, recent years have seen the largest expansion in teacher numbers since the expansion of free education. Furthermore, the Government is committed to providing even more primary teachers next year to reduce class sizes.
As you know all primary schools are staffed on a general rule of at least one classroom 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 (2007/2008 school year) this is being reduced to 27 children per classroom teacher.
A further initiative that has been of direct benefit to primary schools has been the change in the criteria for developing schools. For the current school year the threshold for getting a developing school post was reduced specifically to help schools that are seeing large increases in enrolments each year. Over 280 such posts were sanctioned in the 2006/07 school year compared to 170 in 2005/06.
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.
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 including the impact of inward migration and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new Gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools.
As you will be aware, the local area development plan for the N4/M4 corridor (running from Leixlip to Kilbeggan and including Maynooth, Celbridge, Kilcock, Edenderry, Enfield, Longwood, Kinnegad, Killucan, Milltownpass, Rochfortbridge and Tyrellspass), which was published in May 2005 by the Commission on School Accommodation, is the framework document for the Department's long-term educational strategy at both primary and post-primary level for the area concerned. The recommendations in the plan are being actioned in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme subject to the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale building projects.
470 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of additional educational psychologists recruited to date following her announcement of the recruitment of 31 additional psychologists, and in view of the fact that the National Educational Psychological Service are aware of these additional recruitments for three months and they must have drawn up and allocation for same per county; and if she will advise on same. [13916/07]
The number of psychologists in the Department has increased from 43 since the establishment of NEPS in 1999 to a current figure of 127, including 4 psychologists assigned to the National Behavioural Support Service. There are also a further 16 Whole-time-equivalent educational psychologists providing service through the Dublin City and County VECs. Taken together, there are currently 143 educational psychologists working in services paid for by my Department.
I announced recently in this connection my intention to expand the number of NEPS psychologists by a further 31 in 2007. This will represent a significant increase in the number of psychologists in NEPS and bring the total number of psychologists in the system to 174.
The Public Appointments Commission is recruiting the extra psychologists and officials of my Department are also in the process of prioritising the Regions and locations where these new recruits will be based.
In line with the Government's ‘Towards 2016' commitments, the number of NEPS psychologists will be increased even further in each of 2008 and 2009, to a total of 193. At this point, including the 16 psychologists in the Dublin VEC areas, it is expected that the number of educational psychologists in the system as a whole will be 209.
471 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when a design team will be appointed for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13918/07]
The Department is in receipt of an application for large-scale capital funding from the school to which the Deputy refers. The project has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large-scale capital projects. Progress on the proposed works is being considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
472 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has concluded her examination of the NCSE implementation report in relation to the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004. [13920/07]
As the Deputy is aware, the National Council for Special Education submitted its implementation report which sets out its views and recommendations on a plan for the implementation of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act, 2004. My Department has not yet concluded its consideration of this detailed report.
473 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science when a design team will be appointed for a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13921/07]
Representatives of the Board of Management of the school to which the Deputy refers attended an Information Seminar in Tullamore on 13 December 2006 hosted by the School Building Section of the Department. The steps necessary to initiate the design phase of the eighty building projects announced by me in November last were discussed at that meeting and all schools were advised that architectural design teams would be appointed to their projects over the coming months. The School Building Section will begin advertising for these design teams shortly through the public procurement portal, www.etenders.gov.ie.
474 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science the expected completion date for the extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13922/07]
This project is substantially complete with the exception of some minor works which are being completed over the Easter holidays.
475 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science if she has approved the stage three submission for the required extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare. [13924/07]
My Department recently issued a letter to the school in question authorising the Board of Management in conjunction with its Design Team to proceed to Stage 4/5 (Detailed Design/Bill of Quantities) and on to tender stage.
476 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made in the past two months in terms of the school building programme by a school (details supplied) in County Carlow which was promised a new school in 2002. [13930/07]
The management authority of the school to which the Deputy refers has applied to the Department for funding for major capital works. This 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 multi annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
477 Mr. Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science if the difficulty experienced by pupils of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 1 in obtaining places in a second level Irish speaking school have been resolved; if her Department has been able to assist; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13931/07]
Three all-Irish schools currently serve the needs of Dublin City and North City area at post primary level i.e. Scoil Chaitríona, Baile Átha Cliath 9, Coláiste Mhuire, Baile Átha Cliath 7 and Gaelcolaiste Reachrann, Baile Átha Cliath 13.
These three schools between them have spare capacity in the region of 100+ places and in that context I am satisfied that there is adequate all-Irish provision in the area.
The post primary school to which the deputy refers accepted over 63% of all 6th class students from the primary school to which the deputy refers into first year in the academic year 2006/07. The post primary school in question has not sought additional accommodation from School Planning and Building Unit at the Department.
Enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and the Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. The Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. In formulating an admissions policy a school must, however, ensure it is lawful. In particular, it must act in accordance with Section 7 of the Equal Status Act 2000 which, subject to very limited exceptions, prohibits schools from discriminating against people in relation to a number of matters including the admission of a pupil to the school.
Currently, under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, parents of a student who has been refused enrolment in a school may appeal that decision to the Secretary General of this Department. Such appeals are dealt with within 30 days of their receipt and where an appeal is upheld the Secretary General is empowered to direct the school to enrol the student.
Otherwise, the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. However, enrolments are a matter for individual Boards of Management.
478 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when school placement for September 2007 will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13934/07]
Enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and the Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. The Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. In formulating an admissions policy a school must, however, ensure it is lawful. In particular, it must act in accordance with Section 7 of the Equal Status Act 2000 which, subject to very limited exceptions, prohibits schools from discriminating against people in relation to a number of matters including the admission of a pupil to the school.
Currently, under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, parents of a student who has been refused enrolment in a school may appeal that decision to the Secretary General of this Department. Such appeals are dealt with within 30 days of their receipt and where an appeal is upheld the Secretary General is empowered to direct the school to enrol the student.
Otherwise, the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child.
I can confirm to the Deputy that an application for the recognition of a new parish primary school for the Celbridge area to commence operation next September has been submitted to the New Schools Advisory Committee (NSAC). The NSAC report has been received in the Department and I expect to announce my decision in relation to successful applications in mid-April.
479 Mr. Broughan asked the Minister for Education and Science the measures she is undertaking to ensure that a school (details supplied) in Dublin 5 is retained for community and educational purposes after the school’s proposed closure in June 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13942/07]
A decision was taken by the Trustees of the school to which the Deputy refers that it will close in June 2007.
This decision was taken because, in line with demographic changes in the area, the school has experienced a steady decline in enrolments in recent years. Current enrolments in feeder primary schools indicate that this decline will continue. In fact, a general decline in enrolments in the area where the school is located has resulted in considerable spare capacity at post primary level. Coupled with the decline in enrolments, the Department was also concerned about the ability of the school in question to offer a broad and balanced curriculum given the relatively small number of pupils enrolled.
In all of the circumstances, the Department concurred with the Trustees decision to close the school.
When it closes, ownership of the school property, which is currently vested in the trustees, will revert to the Department. The Department is currently considering all available options with regard to its future use.
480 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the need for a primary school to accommodate the children from the new housing development within the Nevinstown area action plan, Swords, County Dublin; and when she will sanction the much needed school for this area. [13945/07]
The Department recently published an Area Development Plan in draft format which sets out the educational infrastructural requirements of the North Dublin, East Meath and South Louth area into the future. This draft Plan, which is available on the Department's website, www.education.ie, includes the area to which the Deputy refers.
The Commission on School accommodation has commenced a public consultation process on the draft document. Interested parties can participate in this process by either forwarding written submissions and/or by making oral presentations to the Commission. Arrangements will be made to hear oral presentations locally.
The consultation process will culminate in a final infrastructural Plan which will become the framework against which capital investment for the areas concerned will be made for the foreseeable future including the acquisition of the reserved site in Nevinstown and delivery of a school for that area if this is deemed necessary.
481 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the shortfall of primary school places in Skerries, County Dublin; her proposals to accommodate children for September 2007 and 2008 in this regard; and when she will sanction the school indicated in the Barnageera area action plan. [13946/07]
The Department recently published an Area Development Plan in draft format which sets out the educational infrastructural requirements of the North Dublin, East Meath and South Louth area into the future. In this draft Plan, which is available on the Department's website, www.education.ie, the Department has set out its recommendations for the Skerries area. The Department has stated that a site is being acquired under the Fingal School Model process for permanent accommodation for a special school in the area. It also states that the need for the provision of one new primary school may also arise.
The Commission on School accommodation has commenced a public consultation process on the draft document. Interested parties can participate in this process by either forwarding written submissions and/or by making oral presentations to the Commission. Arrangements will be made to hear oral presentations locally. The consultation process will culminate in a final infrastructural Plan which will become the framework against which capital investment for the areas concerned including Skerries will be made for the foreseeable future.
With regard to 2007 accommodation needs, it is open to schools in the area to apply for additional temporary accommodation to cater for increasing enrolments if they deem that this is warranted. Officials in the School Planning Section of my Department will liase with Principals in the Skerries area with a view to ensuring that all eligible pupils seeking places for 2007 will have access to them.
482 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the frustration of the parents of the children attending a school (details supplied) in County Dublin at the lack of progress in the provision of a permanent 16 mainstream teacher building; and if the new permanent building will be completed for September 2008. [13947/07]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the Department recently completed the purchase of the site on which the school in question is currently located in temporary accommodation. The completion of this transaction will enable the building project for a new school building to progress. Officials in the School Building Section of the Department will be moving to appoint a design team for the project in the near future.
483 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science the discussions she had with the board of management and Fingal County Council in respect of a proposed school (details supplied) in County Dublin. [13948/07]
It is assumed that the Deputy is referring to discussions in relation to a site for a permanent building for the school in question. As the school only has temporary recognition, it is not entitled to capital funding and discussions in relation to site acquisition do not arise. When permanent recognition is awarded, the question of a site for a permanent building for the school will be addressed.
484 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals for a second level school in Lusk, County Dublin and if, in this regard, she has received correspondence from County Dublin VEC recommending the need for such a facility in one of the fastest growing areas in Fingal. [13949/07]
The Department recently published an Area Development Plan in draft format which sets out the educational infrastructural requirements of the North Dublin, East Meath and South Louth area into the future. In this draft Plan, which is available on the Department's website, www.education.ie, the Department recommends the provision of a 1,000 pupil post primary school for the Lusk area.
The Commission on School accommodation has commenced a public consultation process on the draft document. Interested parties can participate in this process by either forwarding written submissions and/or by making oral presentations to the Commission. Arrangements will be made to hear oral presentations locally. The consultation process will culminate in a final infrastructural Plan which will become the framework against which capital investment for the areas concerned will be made for the foreseeable future.
485 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in her Department responding to proposals from the boards of management of schools (details supplied) in Dublin 9 which were submitted in June 2006; and if she will now ensure that a response is provided. [13952/07]
486 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide approval for the provision of security fencing at schools (details supplied) in Dublin 9 in view of concern among local residents in relation to anti-social activity in the school grounds. [13953/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 485 and 486 together.
Discussions are ongoing among the parties concerned to agree the structure of the amalgamation of the schools to which the Deputy refers. A technical inspection of the buildings concerned was recently carried out to determine the scope of works required to facilitate the amalgamation and to accommodate another school in one of the buildings which will be vacated post amalgamation. Following this inspection, the Department appointed an architect directly to carry out the refurbishment works required. This will include implementation of appropriate security measures. The Department will be liaising with the school authorities concerned to advance the projects as quickly as possible.
487 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to accommodate a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11 in another school building, in view of the fact that the school is not able to accommodate its intake in September 2007. [13954/07]
The Department is currently in negotiation around the possibility of acquiring the building to which the Deputy refers. This process is complex involving as it does suitability assessment, valuations, price negotiations and attendant legal formalities. The Department is keenly aware that the issues concerned are commercially sensitive and that it is not a foregone conclusion that the building can or will be acquired. It would be remiss of it to make any firm plans for the building or to create unrealistic expectations until it is absolutely clear that the acquisition can be made. In the circumstances, the Department will be in contact with the proposed users of the building at the appropriate time.
488 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date in acquiring a school premises for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11; her proposals for its future use; and the time-scale proposed. [13955/07]
489 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in the context of negotiations to acquire a premises for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11, she has plans for the use of the adjoining playing fields; and her views on making these available to a club for its use. [13956/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 488 and 489 together.
The Department is currently in negotiation around the possibility of acquiring the building to which the Deputy refers. This process is complex involving as it does suitability assessment, valuations, price negotiations and attendant legal formalities. The Department is keenly aware that the issues concerned are commercially sensitive and that it is not a foregone conclusion that the building can or will be acquired. It would be remiss of it to make any firm plans for the building or to create unrealistic expectations until it is absolutely clear that the acquisition can be made. In the circumstances, the Department will be in contact with the proposed users of the building at the appropriate time.
490 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science her proposals to accommodate a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9 in view of the inappropriate nature of its current accommodation; and the time-scale proposed. [13957/07]
My Department intends to permanently accommodate the school referred to by the Deputy in a building which it expects to be vacated post an amalgamation of three schools in the immediate area. Discussions are ongoing among the parties concerned to agree the structure of the amalgamation.
A technical inspection of the buildings concerned was recently carried out to determine the scope of works required to facilitate the amalgamation and to accommodate the school in question. Following this inspection, the Department appointed an architect directly to carry out the refurbishment works required. The Department will be liaising with the school authorities concerned to advance the projects as quickly as possible.
491 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will review the status of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 9 in view of the socioeconomic profile of the school pupils and in view of the fact that all local schools have disadvantaged status. [13958/07]
DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and a new integrated School Support Programme (SSP). DEIS will bring together and build upon a number of existing interventions in schools with a concentrated level of disadvantage.
The process of identifying schools for participation in DEIS was managed by the Educational Research Centre (ERC) on behalf of my Department and supported by quality assurance work co-ordinated through the Department's regional offices and the Inspectorate. A review mechanism was put in place to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in DEIS but regarded themselves as having a level of disadvantage which was of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process operated under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification processes and procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The closing date for receipt of review applications was 31 March, 2006. The Group submitted a report and the review is now concluded. Schools that applied for a review were informed of the outcome in August, 2006.
My Department is considering putting separate arrangements in place to address exceptional situations arising up to the time of the next identification process which will be held in 2009/2010. These arrangements will apply to new schools, such as the school referred to by the Deputy, (including those created through amalgamation), opening in 2005/2006 or thereafter. The arrangements may also apply to schools located in certain communities which have suffered significant socioeconomic decline since the commencement of DEIS. Consideration will be given to such changes at the mid-way point between the 2005/2006 and 2009/2010 identification process i.e. in 2007/2008.
492 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science the options, including appeal procedures, open to a parent who is unhappy with the expulsion, suspension or other disciplinary action taken against their child; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13964/07]
Each Board of Management is responsible for formulating, in consultation with parents, a fair and efficient code of behaviour. Among other things, the current guidelines provide that Codes of Behaviour should be considered in the context of the school being a community in which mutual respect, co-operation and natural justice are integral features.
The Guidelines stress that poor behaviour can stem from a range of causes, some of them external to the school, some possibly arising from the home environment, and some from emotional or physical problems. It is important to identify problems as early as possible. Good parent-teacher and home-school links are vital in this context. The Guidelines advise that Parents should be encouraged to visit the school to familiarise themselves with the environment, to discuss their children's progress and, when necessary, aspects of their behaviour in a spirit of mutual co-operation. The guidelines also advise that schools must ensure that the rules of natural justice apply. Pupils and, when necessary, their parents, should be advised of the nature of any complaint and be given an opportunity to respond.
The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is at present developing further guidelines for schools on Codes of Behaviour, as provided for under section 23 of the Education (Welfare) Act 2000. This work is nearing completion and I expect that the revised Guidelines will soon be available to schools. Parents also have the right, under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, to appeal to the Secretary General of my Department, against a decision made by a school's Board of Management to expel a student or to suspend a student from the school for a period which would bring the cumulative period of suspension to 20 school days in any one school year.
493 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the numbers of children without school places for September 2007 in Dublin 15; the measures she is planning to take to address this problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13984/07]
494 Ms Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in respect of parents obtaining a place for their children in their neighbouring school; if she will confirm if schools are continuing to decide admissions based only by date of birth or if other selection criteria are being applied; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [13985/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 493 and 494 together.
Enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and the Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. The Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.
It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. In formulating an admissions policy a school must, however, ensure it is lawful. In particular, it must act in accordance with Section 7 of the Equal Status Act 2000 which, subject to very limited exceptions, prohibits schools from discriminating against people in relation to a number of matters including the admission of a pupil to the school.
Currently, under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, parents of a student who has been refused enrolment in a school may appeal that decision to the Secretary General of this Department. Such appeals are dealt with within 30 days of their receipt and where an appeal is upheld the Secretary General is empowered to direct the school to enrol the student. Otherwise, the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child.
I am conscious that there is considerable pressure for school places in the Dublin 15 area in general. Adding to this pressure is the fact that a number of parents have enrolled their children in more than one school. This has the result of inflating the number of children apparently seeking places. Officials in the School Planning Section of the Department are liaising with school principals in the area with a view to ensuring that all eligible pupils seeking places for 2007 will have access to them.
496 Ms McManus asked the Minister for Education and Science when the building of a school (details supplied) in County Wicklow will be sanctioned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14007/07]
This project referred to by the Deputy was listed on the 2005 School Building Programme to go to tender and construction for a new 10 classroom school building, when the architectural planning was completed. As this is a special school the brief for the project has evolved over time with input from the school, my Department's Technical staff and Inspectorate. My Department is anxious that the facilities to be provided will be of a very high standard and suitable for use by pupils with special needs.
In June 2006 a meeting was held between the Board of Management, the project's Design Team and officials from my Department. The purpose of the meeting was to agree the brief for the project. It was also decided at that meeting that once the Board and the Design Team have indicated that the stage 3 documentation was ready for examination a round table meeting will be held, the main aim of which will be to try and approve the submission. In December 2006 the Design Team forwarded some revised drawings to my Department for review. A reply issued to the Design team on the 18th December 2006 instructing them to proceed on the basis of their submission and incorporating the comments of my Department's Technical Staff. My Department is currently awaiting a revised stage 3 submission. When this is received a meeting will be arranged with a view to getting the submission cleared.
My Department's main role is concentrated on ensuring that the design solution presented at stage 3 meets the requirements of the brief and complies with my Departments technical documents. Once the formal stage 3 submission is received, it will be appraised to ensure it meets these criteria and thereafter devolved approval will be given to the school authorities to deliver the project to planning permission, tender and construction.
498 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14026/07]
The judgment in question was delivered on the 29th of March 2007. My Department is currently considering the judgment and any implications it may have.
499 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the continued underfund in the areas of student supports and the infrastructure of colleges and the fact that Ireland invests less public money in undergraduate education compared to other leading European economies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14051/07]
Higher education in Ireland has come through a period of major expansion. Overall investment in the sector on a per annum basis has more than doubled since this Government took Office in 1997. In 1997, the amount of funding provided to the Higher Education level sector was approx. €850 million. The funding being provided in 2007 represents an increase of over €1 billion or 124% on the 1997 provision. Investment in the sector now stands at some €1.9 billion for this year.
Support for reform and development at third level and the creation of world class excellence at fourth level are now central Government priorities. The new National Development Plan 2007-2013, recognises the critical role of higher education in the national innovation system that will be the basis of Ireland's economic and social development. The Plan identifies the full funding of the sector — over €13 billion through the period — as a key strategic investment under the Plan.
The ongoing development and expansion of the sector under the Plan will be supported by enhanced investments in the development of campus infrastructure — with an almost €2 billion dedicated building programme — and through further support for the programme of reform and development that is under way in the sector.
Major improvements have been made by this Government in both the income limits for eligibility and the actual grant levels for third level student support. This includes the introduction of the special rate of maintenance grant. The higher rate of this grant is now at a record level of nearly €6,000 for the 2006/07 academic year — compared to just over €2,000 in 1996/97. The allocation for student support schemes in this current year is in excess of €241m.
The targeted investments that this Government is now making in our higher education infrastructure, in promoting excellence through system wide collaboration and change, in widening access and in creating a vibrant fourth level sector is a clear demonstration of this Governments support for the higher education sector.
500 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if she proposes to change the Education Act 1998 in such a way as will establish conformity with European and international equality norms in relation to the hiring, promotion, and working conditions of teachers. [14055/07]
In accordance with the Education Act, schools are managed by the Patron and the Patron is responsible for the direct governance of a school. The Patron nominates a Board of a Management to manage a school on its behalf.
Section 24 (1) of the Education Act 1998 provides that the Board of Management "may appoint such and so many persons as teachers and other staff of a school as the board from time to time thinks necessary for the performance of its powers and functions under this Act". Section 24(3) of the Act also states that "A board shall appoint teachers and other staff, who are to be paid from monies provided by the Oireachtas, and may suspend or dismiss such teachers and staff, in accordance with procedures agreed from time to time between the Minister, the patron, recognised school management organisations and any recognised trade union and staff association representing teachers or other staff as appropriate". There are no plans to change the position in this regard.
The forum for dealing with claims for improvements in the conditions of service for teachers is the Teachers' Conciliation Council. Such claims are processed through the Council in accordance with the terms of the revised Conciliation and Arbitration Scheme for Teachers.
501 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science further to previous parliamentary questions, the work which has been initiated with regard to the necessary upgrading, specifically extension, of a school (details supplied) in County Galway; the work which has been carried out at this school and the work that remains; when this work will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14067/07]
An application for capital funding has been received from the school to which the Deputy refers. This application will be assessed with reference to factors such as current and projected enrolments at the school, the likely impact of ongoing and proposed housing developments and existing provision in the general area. When this assessment is complete, a decision will be taken on how best to provide for the current and emerging accommodation needs at the school. The proposed project will be considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
502 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale for the provision of sites, repairs and extensions and if projects are included in the capital programme in such a way as to improve the conditions for pupils, parents and teachers of a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14068/07]
The Department is actively engaged in sourcing a suitable site to facilitate the construction of a new school building for the school referred to by the Deputy and to that end is in ongoing discussions with the GMIT in relation to the availability of lands for the provision of a 16 classroom primary school. The Deputy can be assured that the permanent accommodation needs of the school in question is being addressed as expeditiously as possible and the provision of a permanent building for the school will be progressed in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
503 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale for the provision of sites, repairs and extensions and if projects are included in the capital programme in such a way as to improve the conditions for pupils, parents and teachers of a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14069/07]
An application for a new build school in respect of the school referred to by the Deputy has been assessed and the long term projected staffing, on which the accommodation needs will be based, has been determined and notified to the school authority. The current position regarding the site acquisition is that the Office of Public Works (OPW), is currently in negotiations on the purchase of a suitable site for the school.
504 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science the timescale for the provision of sites, repairs and extensions and if projects are included in the capital programme in such a way as to improve the conditions for pupils, parents and teachers of a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14070/07]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the school to which he refers is included in todays announcement of 56 large scale building projects countrywide which have been approved to progress under the School Building and Modernisation Programme. These will be progressed by way of the appointment of a design team.
505 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of pupils in each school in respect of each second level school in Dublin 2, 4, 6 and 8; the number of teachers, associate teachers, classroom teachers and special needs teachers in each school; the number of principal teachers not engaged in day to day full time teaching activities in each school; the number of principal teachers engaged in part-time teaching activities in each school; the number of classroom assistants in each school; the number of secretarial and administrative staff in each school; the number of teachers who are permanent, temporary and substitute in each school listed; the number of teachers in each school who are on job-share or part time contracts; the number of hours of special needs teaching available to each listed school per week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14075/07]
The information sought by the Deputy is not readily available as it is not compiled in the format sought. However, the ‘List of Post Primary Schools' which contains detailed information on all post primary schools, is provided to the House each year for distribution to each member of the Oireachtas and includes school enrolment details. I will arrange for a copy of the most recent publication, 2005/2006, to be forwarded to the Deputy immediately.
506 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of pupils in each school in respect of each primary school in Dublin 2, 4, 6 and 8; the number of teachers, associate teachers, classroom teachers and special needs teachers in each school; the number of principal teachers not engaged in day to day full time teaching activities in each school; the number of principal teachers engaged in part-time teaching activities in each school; the number of classroom assistants in each school; the number of secretarial and administrative staff in each school; the number of teachers who are permanent, temporary and substitute in each school listed; the number of teachers in each school who are on job-share or part time contracts; the number of hours of special needs teaching available to each listed school per week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [14076/07]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available in my Department and would take an inordinate amount of administrative time to compile.
507 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Defence the refuse disposal procedures in place in each army barracks; the annual cost of refuse disposal in each facility to either a local authority or private registered contractor; if he will assure Dáil Éireann that all refuse is disposed of in a manner compliant with environmental laws; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13503/07]
Following a detailed study of the needs of the Defence Forces in 2002 commissioned by the Dept of Defence, a comprehensive Waste Management Strategy was implemented for the Defence Forces.
The Waste Management Strategy is based on a combination of recycling and where necessary disposal. A Recycling Centre is located in each of our 23 main Barracks/Posts. Each recycling centre has a compactor baler capable of baling dry recyclables, i.e. Cardboard, Paper, Plastic, and Aluminium Cans. They also have segregated storage areas for Wood, Metal, and an area for a Skip, Compactor Skip or Wheelie Bins for General Waste depending on size of the Barracks/Post. Each Barracks/Post also segregates Glass Bottles, Waste Cooking Oil, and in larger Barracks/Posts only, Food Waste is collected for composting.
The Defence Forces Waste Management Strategy was first implemented in 2003 with the awarding of a Single Waste Disposal/ Management Contract for all of the Defence Force locations. Ipodec Ireland Ltd (now Veolia) held this contract from 01 August 2003 to 31 July 2006.
Following a tender competition, a contract was awarded to Greyhound Recycling & Recovery Ltd for a period of three years from 01 August 2006 to 31 July 2009. I have been assured by the Military Authorities that Greyhound Recycling & Recovery Ltd hold the relevant Environmental Protection Agency Licences and Waste Permits.
The Waste Management Strategy for the Defence Forces has been extremely beneficial both in terms of the environment and costs. An average overall recycling figure of 37% was achieved in 2006. It is intended to improve on this figure in the coming years. The total cost of Waste Disposal for the Defence Forces in 2006 was €648,000 compared to €1,300,000 in 2002 — a saving of over 50% in the space of 4 years.
The waste disposal costs for each Barracks/Posts for 2005 and 2006 are set out beneath in the form of a tabular statement which I propose to circulate with the Official Report.
|
Total Expenditure for 2005 and 2006 by Barracks/Post |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Barracks/Post |
2005 |
2006 |
|
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Eastern Brigade |
Cathal Brugha Bks |
28,614.58 |
26,345.57 |
|
Kilbride Camp |
5,607.36 |
4,263.74 |
|
|
McKee Bks |
41,728.58 |
46,492.86 |
|
|
Monaghan Bks |
5,519.24 |
9,053.98 |
|
|
Dundalk Bks |
10,860.49 |
10,318.91 |
|
|
Gormanston |
15,532.12 |
9,014.25 |
|
|
St Bricin’s Hosp |
12,612.68 |
13,896.60 |
|
|
Rockbrae House |
1,512.95 |
851.01 |
|
|
Southern Brigade |
Collins Bks |
21,622.55 |
18,521.68 |
|
Sarsfield Bks |
16,882.11 |
13,714.19 |
|
|
Tralee |
1,625.34 |
1,540.34 |
|
|
Lahinch |
1,422.15 |
1,507.62 |
|
|
Kilworth Camp |
6,856.38 |
10,616.94 |
|
|
Kickham Bks |
10,527.14 |
12,794.34 |
|
|
Kilkenny Bks |
6,751.44 |
7,241.24 |
|
|
Bere Island |
5,436.92 |
6,978.03 |
|
|
Wexford Bks |
609.50 |
324.37 |
|
|
Waterford Bks |
1,828.49 |
1,422.16 |
|
|
Western Brigade |
Athlone Bks |
18,794.43 |
15,526.53 |
|
Cavan Bks |
7,880.34 |
6,365.13 |
|
|
Longford Bks |
5,097.40 |
4,951.05 |
|
|
Galway Bks |
15,719.22 |
14,969.42 |
|
|
Finner Camp |
13,059.09 |
9,935.35 |
|
|
Rockhill Hse |
3,652.91 |
4,319.96 |
|
|
Lifford |
2,011.91 |
2,515.17 |
|
|
Mullingar Bks |
12,402.79 |
16,498.29 |
|
|
Defence Forces Training Centre, Curragh |
Coolmooney Camp |
15,119.56 |
10,084.69 |
|
DFTC |
271,799.14 |
241,241.27 |
|
|
Naval Base |
Haulbowline |
55,022.20 |
49,724.02 |
|
Air Corps |
Baldonnel |
32,683.12 |
29,049.54 |
|
Miscellaneous |
Miscellaneous Services |
57,855.23 |
47,757.67 |
|
Total |
706,647.36 |
647,835.92 |
508 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for Defence the location and address of each of the Defence Forces firing ranges; the additional functions of each range, other than for Defence Force training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13504/07]
Defence Forces Firing Ranges are located at the following locations:
Kilbride, Co. Wicklow
Kilpeddar, Co. Wicklow
Gormanston, Co. Meath
Red Barns, Co. Dundalk
Kilworth, Co. Cork
Kilcoran, Co. Cork
Bere Island, Co. Cork
Barnane, Co. Tipperary
Ballymullen, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois
Ballywilliam, Co. Wexford
Carnagh, Co. Roscommon
Oranmore, Co. Galway
Finner Camp, Co. Donegal
Cushla, Co. Roscommon
Columb Barrack, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
Rockhill House, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal
Glen of Imaal, Co. Wicklow
DFTC Ranges, Curragh Camp, Co. Kildare
An Garda Síochána make use of a number of Firing Ranges by arrangement.
509 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for Defence if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14025/07]
This question does not apply to my Department at this time.
510 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to offset the carbon emissions arising from Ministerial air travel; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13616/07]
512 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on following the example of the British Government and putting in place carbon offsetting measures to counteract travel undertaken by Government officials and civil servants when travelling on behalf of State. [10149/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 510 and 512 together.
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 commits the Government to the introduction of a voluntary carbon offsetting scheme from the beginning of 2008. This scheme will apply to all air travel associated with Government business, including flights by Ministers and by civil servants.
511 Mr. O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason the targets outlined in the first climate change strategy were not met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13820/07]
583 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the efficacy of the National Climate Change Strategy 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14001/07]
I propose to take Question Nos. 511 and 583 together.
Measures put in place since the publication of the first National Climate Change Strategy in 2000 will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 8.6 million tonnes per annum during the Kyoto Protocol Commitment Period 2008-2012. A further annual reduction of almost 5 million tonnes will be achieved over the same period as a result of additional measures set out in the National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012. When combined with Ireland's purchase of additional allowances through the Kyoto Protocol flexible mechanisms, annual emissions savings of over 17 million tonnes will be achieved during the 2008-2012 period.
513 Mr. Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the nationwide net need for local authority housing in the years 2002 to 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13388/07]
A statutory assessment of housing need is undertaken by local authorities on a triennial basis. The most recent assessment of need for social housing was undertaken by local authorities in March 2005. The results of that assessment indicated that the net need for local authority housing was 43,684. The corresponding figure for 2002 was 48,413. Further data from the 2005 assessment is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
514 Mr. McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his proposals or projects to meet the current and future water and sewerage treatment needs of County Meath that have been approved or are awaiting approval by his Department since 2002; the status of same; the financial commitment made to these projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13519/07]
Details of approved schemes in County Meath, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
The most complete statement of future proposals for the county are set out in the Assessment of Needs produced by Meath County Council in response to my Department's request to all local authorities last year to review their requirements and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the Members of Meath County Council in that context will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
515 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason the entire area of the Croaghrimbeg bog has been designated as a special area of conservation; the scientific reason for this proposal; the nature and extent of consultation that took place with landowners involved; the arrangements for traditional turf cutting that took place on this bog for generations to be continued; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13520/07]
I assume that the Question refers to an area within the candidate Special Area of Conservation (cSAC) 001932 known as Mweelrea/Sheeffry/Erriff Complex. The Croaghrimbeg bog area contains both wet heath and active blanket bog. Most of the area was proposed for designation as an SAC in March 1997; and affected landowners were notified at that time. The site was transmitted to the European Commission in May, 1999 and adopted by Commission decision of 7 December 2004, pursuant to Council Directive 92/43/EEC, as one of the list of sites of Community importance for the Atlantic biogeographical region.
The proposal to designate the SAC was re-notified on 1 December, 2006 to further propose the inclusion of a previously omitted short and narrow stretch of the Derrycraff River. This proposed amendment was based on scientific advice that the river is an important habitat for salmon. As the site has already been adopted by the European Commission, any amendment of the SAC boundary will require the agreement of the Commission.
Owners of bog in an SAC are permitted, subject to certain conditions, to cut turf for their own domestic use from the time of proposal for designation until the end of 2008. My Department operates a scheme for compensation and purchase of turbary rights.
516 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding that has been allocated by his Department to an organisation (details supplied) for the provision of emergency accommodation in Mitchel Street, Thurles, County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13521/07]
My Department's decision to approve to a grant of €1,095,218 for the provision of 10 units of accommodation at Mitchel Street, Thurles, was notified to North Tipperary County Council on 23 March, 2007.
517 Mr. Crowe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he, his Department or the Government have plans to acquire St. Joseph’s School for the Deaf and the surrounding lands for recreational facilities and housing needs in the Dublin 7 area. [13545/07]
My Department is not aware that the lands concerned have been made available for sale. A decision in this regard is a matter for the owners of the land in the first instance. In the event of the lands being made available for sale, their possible purchase for recreational or housing purposes would normally be a matter for the relevant local authority.
518 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the embargo on local authority staff recruitment is having a detrimental affect on the quality of services and infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13579/07]
570 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has written to the Minister for Finance seeking the lifting of the embargo on the recruitment of local authority staff in the greater Dublin area and other areas experiencing large population growth. [13917/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 518 and 570 together.
I am continuing to keep the overall employment position in the local government sector under regular review, having regard to the need to deliver quality front line services and achieve value for money within the parameters of Government policy on public service employment generally. My Department maintains appropriate contact with the Department of Finance in this matter.
519 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans, in view of water pollution difficulties in Galway City and County to provide for the multi-annual testing of septic tanks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13580/07]
Septic tanks installed on or after 1 June 1992 must comply with Part H of the National Building Regulations which requires septic tanks to be so sited and constructed that they do not pollute, so as to endanger public health, any water (including groundwater) which is used as a source of supply for human consumption. Guidance on septic tank drainage systems for single houses is contained in Irish Standard Recommendations S.R. 6: 1991 for Domestic Effluent Treatment and Disposal from Single Dwellings issued by the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). For septic tanks serving groups of houses, British Standard B.S. 6297: 1983, a Code of Practice for the Design and Installation of Small Sewage Treatment Works, issued by the British Standards Institute applies.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is developing a comprehensive Code of Practice on Waste Water Treatment Systems for Single Houses and expects to publish the draft code for public consultation shortly. Following public consultation, the EPA will publish the document as a Code of Practice under section 76 of the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992 as amended. It is intended that this code will then supersede the NSAI standard for single house installations.
The Water Services Bill currently at Dail Report Stage contains a number of significant provisions in relation to the operation of septic tanks. It places a duty of care on the occupier or owner of a premises to ensure that all drains, manholes and treatment systems, including a septic tank, serving the premises are kept in such a condition as not to cause a risk to human health or the environment or create a nuisance due to odours. It also requires the occupier or owner to notify the water services authority where any leak, accident or other incident occurs relating to discharges of sewage from the premises to a drain or treatment system, including a septic tank, where it is likely to cause a risk to human health or safety or the environment. An authorised person appointed by a water services authority may direct the owner or occupier to take such measures as are considered by the authorised person to be necessary to deal with the risk. Refusal to comply with such a direction or obstruction of the authorised person is an offence.
In addition, it would be open to local authorities to make and adopt bye-laws to require periodic inspections of septic tanks and other on-site proprietary treatment systems under the general powers available to them under the Local Government Act 2001 to make bye laws. Such bye-laws may require septic tanks to be inspected by a competent person at prescribed intervals and set out frequencies for de-sludging based on the number of residents in a household and the size of the septic tank.
520 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of money being made available by his Department to local authorities to cover the cost of the recently announced once off collection of farm plastics; the local authorities to which the payment is being made; the amount each individual local authority is expected to receive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13589/07]
To address the issue of accumulated backlogs of farm plastic, designated facilities are being provided on a temporary, once-off basis by local authorities where farmers may deposit stockpiled farm film plastic and silage wrap. These special arrangements operated on a pilot basis in the first instance in counties Clare, Galway, Mayo, Offaly and Waterford during June and July of last year. The service was provided free to the farmer and funding to assist the local authorities is being made available from my Department through the Environment Fund.
The collections were well supported by farmers in the counties participating in the pilot phase, leading to large quantities of plastic being deposited at designated sites. A significant finding from the pilot scheme was that it is not possible to operate collections in a large number of counties at the same time due to capacity constraints on the part of recovery operators. Accordingly, it was necessary to roll out the scheme to other areas on a staggered basis. Arising from a comprehensive examination of the information available, I approved further collections of waste silage / bale wrap in September last by Carlow, Leitrim, Longford, North Tipperary, Roscommon and Wicklow County Councils which concluded in January of this year.
An estimated 9,300 tonnes of farm plastics were recovered by the five local authorities that participated in the initial phase of the pilot scheme. The cost associated with the collection and recovery of this plastic amounted to circa €1.8 million of which €312,712 has been recouped by two of the local authorities to date. A further 6,100 tonnes was estimated to have been collected for recycling by the six local authorities operating the second phase of the scheme at an approximate cost of €1.4 million.
Following a review of the outcome of the second round of collections, I have recently announced that collections of waste silage / bale wrap will now be put in place in the remaining 18 county council areas over the next 6 months. When the final phase is completed, collections will have taken place in all 29 county council areas. This arrangement allows for phased collections while at the same time creating certainty in the minds of farmers as to when their backlog will be cleared. It also allows local authorities and local farming organisations sufficient notice to agree and put in place the necessary arrangements for collections in their areas.
The collections will now be rolled out as follows:
|
Dates |
Counties |
|
|
Phase One |
March/April 2007 |
Donegal, Cork (West), Cavan, Sligo, Kilkenny, South Tipperary, Meath |
|
Phase Two |
June/July 2007 |
Kerry, Limerick, Cork (East), Westmeath, Monaghan, Wexford, Laois |
|
Phase Three |
September/October 2007 |
Fingal, South Dublin, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown, Kildare, Louth |
The costs incurred by the local authorities arising from the operation of these special once-off farm plastics collection and recovery arrangements will be met by my Department from the Environment Fund.
521 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the locations in County Wexford at which partially treated, incompletely treated or untreated sewerage or effluent which does not meet criteria set down as minimum standards for discharge by the EPA, is being discharged from local authority treatment plants into water courses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13590/07]
The most recently published information in this regard is set out in the Environmental Protection Agency's report Urban Waste Water Discharges in Ireland: A Report for the Years 2004 and 2005 which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
522 Mr. Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding proposed upgrades or new installations of sewerage schemes in County Wexford to include date of sanctioning by his Department and the total cost of works in County Wexford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13591/07]
Details of approved wastewater schemes in County Wexford, including the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 which was published in December 2005 and is available in the Oireachtas Library.
523 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry, or parts of it, have been designated an area of national beauty or special area of conservation; if so, the conservation steps being taken to ensure the continuing status and beauty of this area during the construction and operation of this golf course; if the golf course is located in a designated area of national beauty or special area of conservation, if it was necessary that the then Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government authorise such a development; if the then Minister was approached for such authorisation; if so, if it was granted; and if so, when and the grounds on which it was granted. [13628/07]
524 Mr. Boyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps being taken to ensure the conservation of the protected Gallauns on a golf course (details supplied) in County Kerry in view of the fact that the protective steps required by the planning permission seem not to have been taken. [13629/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 523 and 524 together.
The golf course referred to is not itself part of a designated area, but does border the Ballinskelligs Bay and Inny Estuary cSAC (SAC 000335), which was designated in May 2000.
In relation to the protected Gallauns, my Department was in contact last year with the County Archaeologist for Kerry County Council on how best to protect the recorded monument referred to (RMP No: KE098-044 Standing Stone). From enquiries made with the County Council it is understood that the Council inspected the site on 20 February 2007 and was of the view that there is no threat currently to this recorded monument. My Department is in regular contact with Kerry County Council on archaeological issues and is available to further advise the Council on this matter as appropriate. Enforcement of conditions attached to planning permissions is a matter for the relevant planning authority.
525 Mr. Blaney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Donegal since 1997 to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13657/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €119.87 million to Donegal County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in County Donegal, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Donegal County Council will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Muff Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Buncrana (Pollan Dam) Water Supply |
1998 |
|
Bundoran Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Ballybofey/Stranorlar Sewerage Scheme |
1999 |
|
Ballybofey/Stranorlar Sewerage Scheme — Cappry Extension |
2000 |
|
Bundoran Sewerage Scheme — Railway Extension |
2000 |
|
Dungloe Sewerage Scheme — Gweedore Road Extension |
2000 |
|
East End Water/Sewer Upgrade |
2000 |
|
Donegal Water Conservation |
2001 |
|
Dungloe Water Supply — Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2001 |
|
Lisfannon/Ludden Sewer — Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2001 |
|
Malinmore Sewerage Improvement Scheme |
2001 |
|
Falcarragh Water/Wastewater Facilities Upgrade |
2002 |
|
Letterkenny Sewerage Scheme- Oldtown Extension |
2002 |
|
Oldtown Sewerage Scheme Phase II |
2002 |
|
Carndonagh Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
|
Killea Sewer and Water Network — Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2003 |
|
Malinmore- Provision of Wastewater Treatment |
2003 |
|
Manorcunningham Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
526 Mr. McEllistrim asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Kerry since 1997 to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13658/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €79.73 million to Kerry County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in County Kerry, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Kerry County Council will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Killarney Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Tralee Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Kerry North-East Water Conservation |
1999 |
|
Caherciveen Water Supply Extension |
2000 |
|
Castleisland Sewerage Extension |
2000 |
|
Killarney Sewerage Scheme (Sludge Centre) |
2000 |
|
Brosna/Knocknagoshel Water Supply |
2001 |
|
Cahermoneen & Knocknacuig Water & Sewerage — Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2001 |
|
Rathmore Sewerage — Rural Towns & Villages Initiative Scheme |
2001 |
|
Tralee Sewerage Scheme– Ultra Violet Contract |
2002 |
|
Ballyheigue Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
|
Listowel (Clieveragh) Sewer upgrade — Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2004 |
|
Rathass Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2004 |
|
Farranfore sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages Initiative Scheme |
2005 |
|
Listowel Regional Water Supply Scheme Stage 4. |
2006 |
|
Firies/ Scartaglen Regional Water Supply Southern Section Part B |
527 Mr. Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 602 of 27 March 2007, when he issued regulation or law that insisted that schemes such as Donaghmoyne were not entitled to grant aid due to the fact that they opted out of the newly introduced system; if consumers are not entitled to the long term savings due to them through a twenty year contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13705/07]
My Department published a Procurement Guidance Document for Small Water Services Schemes in November 2002 with the objective of ensuring that procurement in each case is fair and transparent and accords with national and EU procurement requirements. The document provides specific guidance on the implementation of public procurement rules in the rural water sector and I am arranging to have a copy forwarded to the Deputy.
The procurement of the Donaghmoyne Group Water Scheme's water treatment plant did not comply with these requirements in relation to appointment of the client's representative, the submission and opening of tenders and the selection of the contractor. In all such cases prior approval is required from both my Department and the local authority to the brief, the selection and appointment of the client's representative and the proposed scale of fees. Local authority and Departmental approval of the Technical Specification and Contract Documents is also needed before tenders may be invited. The Donaghmoyne Group Water Scheme did not seek or obtain these approvals. Neither did the group comply with the requirement for sealed tenders to be submitted and opened by the local authority or for approval to be obtained to the award of a contract. In the circumstances, and under the terms of the Rural Water Programme, no grant may be paid in this case.
528 Mr. Carey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Dublin City and Fingal since 1997 to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13729/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €456.8 million and €149.34 million respectively to Dublin City and Fingal County Councils under the Water Services Investment Programme in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Dublin City and Fingal, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Dublin City and Fingal County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Dublin Bay Interim Sludge |
1999 |
|
Dublin Bay Ct. 7 (Garage /Work Shop) |
2000 |
|
Roundwood Wavewall |
2000 |
|
Dublin Bay Submarine Pipeline (Ct 4) |
2002 |
|
Dublin Bay North Fringe (Ct 6) |
2003 |
|
Dublin Bay Ringsend (Ct 2) |
2003 |
|
Dublin Bay Sutton Pumping Station (Ct 3) |
2003 |
|
Water Source Dev Planning Short Term Sources |
2004 |
|
Bohernabreena Spillways |
2005 |
|
Pelletstown W&S Scheme Serviced Land Initiative |
2005 |
|
Ballymore Eustace Water Treatment Plant — Interim Upgrade |
2006 |
|
Water Source Dev Planning Long Term Sources |
2006 |
|
Dublin Water Supply Strategic Storage Study |
2006 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Howth Water Supply Scheme |
1998 |
|
Clonsilla Surface Water |
2000 |
|
Leixlip Water (Phase II) (4,5,6,7,& 9) |
2000 |
|
Swords Sewerage |
2002 |
|
Balbriggan/Skerries Interim Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Bog of the Ring Groundwater Development |
2003 |
|
Malahide Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
|
Swords Trunk Main Augmentation — Serviced Land Initiative |
2006 |
529 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme in Milltown, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13751/07]
Milltown is part of Phase 1 of Kerry County Council's proposal to refurbish a number of village sewerage schemes which is being funded under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005 –2007.
I understand that the Council has appointed a contractor for the pipelines element of the Milltown scheme and that the work is expected to commence this month. The closing date for receipt of tenders for the sewage treatment plant contract is 20 April 2007.
530 Mr. Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the provision of a sewerage scheme in Boolteens Village, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13752/07]
Phase 1 of the Kerry Villages Waste Water Project which will provide improved wastewater infrastructure in fourteen villages, including Boolteens, is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007 at an estimated cost of €8.5m. My Department is awaiting the submission by Kerry County Council of a Preliminary Report for the scheme.
531 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. [13753/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 265 of 8 February 2007.
532 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of houses or apartments completed which have a floor area of less that 80 square metres in relation to house completions from 2002 to date in 2007; the number having between 80 and 100 square metres; and the number with a floor area over 100 square metres. [13757/07]
My Department does not collect floor area data in relation to new house or apartment completions.
533 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of housing completions and in each case the total that were social housing and affordable housing in respect of each year since 2002 to date in 2007. [13758/07]
Data on the number of house completions, including social and affordable housing, for each year from 2002 to 2005, are published in the Housing Statistics Bulletins, which are available in the Oireachtas Library and on the Department's website at www.environ.ie.
Data for 2006 is currently being finalised. However, provisional indications are that of the new house completions of 93,419 some 5,200 were social housing and some 3,200 were affordable housing units.
534 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of such houses started to date and the number completed and occupied in respect of the 10,000 additional houses promised in the Sustaining Progress Affordable Housing Initiative. [13759/07]
A range of State and local authority lands were assigned to the Affordable Housing Initiative provided for under the Sustaining Progress social partnership agreement. These lands, together with 2,500 affordable homes to be delivered under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006, provide the basis for reaching the 10,000 affordable home target included in the agreement.
While the agreement did not specify the target period within which the 10,000 homes were to be delivered, my Department has been working actively with the State agencies and local authorities concerned with a view to achieving the earliest possible delivery of completed homes. To that end, in excess of 70 projects on State and local authority lands are being progressed, with innovative approaches, such as land exchanges, being utilised, where appropriate, to accelerate delivery.
The data available to my Department, including provisional data for 2006, indicate that 3,125 homes had been completed under the Initiative up to the end of 2006, with a further 557 units under construction at that stage. Significant work has also been progressing on the planning and procurement aspects associated with a range of other projects that have yet to get to construction, providing a strong platform for additional future delivery.
535 Mr. Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount allocated to voluntary housing associations for construction programmes in respect of each year from 2002 to date in 2007. [13760/07]
Funding is provided under my Departments Capital Assistance Scheme and Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme to approved voluntary and co-operative housing bodies to provide accommodation to meet housing needs as well as special housing needs such as the elderly, homeless or persons with disabilities. The administration of the schemes and the certification that particular projects comply with the terms of the schemes, are the responsibility of the appropriate local authority.
Details of the amounts recouped to local authorities over the period 2002 to 2006 are set out in the following table:
|
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
Capital Assistance Scheme |
78.126 |
95.864 |
86.555 |
80.661 |
99.361 |
|
Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme |
91.681 |
114.700 |
95.968 |
85.538 |
83.545 |
In view of the increased output envisaged for the voluntary and co-operative housing sector in 2007, some €253 million is being provided for these schemes in the current year.
537 Mr. T. Dempsey asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Wexford since 1997 to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13824/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €121.92 million to County Wexford under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the table below. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in County Wexford, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Wexford County Council will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year Completed |
|
Fardystown Water Supply Scheme Contract 2 |
1999 |
|
Wexford Water Conservation Works |
1999 |
|
Wexford Water Conservation Works |
2000 |
|
Blackwater Sewerage Treatment Works improvements |
2001 |
|
Gorey (Rehabilitation) Water Conservation |
2001 |
|
Kilmuckridge Sewerage Treatment Plant SLI |
2001 |
|
Courtown/Riverchapel Sewerage |
2002 |
|
Rosslare Strand Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Fardystown Water Supply |
2003 |
|
Ballymurm Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
|
Gorey Main Drainage — pipeline ext. |
2003 |
|
Wexford Main Drainage |
2003 |
|
Carrick-on-Bannow Sewerage Scheme |
2005 |
538 Mr. Wilkinson asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Waterford since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13825/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €70.29 million to Waterford County Council and €40.19 million to Waterford City Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Waterford County and City, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Waterford County and City Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year Completed |
|
East Waterford Water Supply Scheme — Contract 5 |
2000 |
|
East Waterford Water Supply Stage 2 Phase 1 |
2000 |
|
Extension of Sewer along Coolagh Road Dungarvan |
2000 |
|
Extension of Sewer in Ballymacarbry |
2000 |
|
Development of Crobally Upper Tramore Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Scheme |
Year Completed |
|
East Waterford Water — Emergency Contract (Civil Works) |
1999 |
|
East Waterford Water — Emergency Contract (Mechanical & Electrical) |
1999 |
|
East Waterford Water Conservation – |
1999 |
|
East Waterford Water Supply Scheme — Contracts 6 & 7 |
1999 |
|
East Waterford Water Supply Stage 2 Phase 1 |
2000 |
|
Logloss/Bawndaw Development area |
2000 |
|
Waterford Main Drainage (Collection) |
2000 |
|
Kilbarry Development Area |
2002 |
|
East Waterford Water Supply Contracts 17A & B1 |
2003 |
539 Mr. Davern asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Tipperary since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13826/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €57.98 million to North Tipperary County Council and €89.14 million to South Tipperary County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in County Tipperary, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of North Tipperary and South Tipperary County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year Completed |
|
Nenagh Water |
1997 |
|
Nenagh Phosphate Removal |
1998 |
|
Roscrea Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Templemore Water |
2000 |
|
Thurles (TRBDI) Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Thurles Sewerage — Surface water sewer at Ballycurrane Road |
2000 |
|
Nenagh Sewerage Treatment Plant Improvement |
2001 |
|
Roscrea Water |
2001 |
|
N52 Outer Ring Watermain SLI |
2004 |
|
Nenagh Sewerage Scheme Stage 2 |
2004 |
|
Scheme |
Year Completed |
|
Cahir Sewerage |
1997 |
|
Clonmel Sewerage |
1998 |
|
Galtee Water |
1998 |
|
Cashel Sewerage |
1999 |
|
Ardfinnan Water Supply Scheme |
1999 |
|
Clonmel Serviced Land Sewerage Ext. SLI |
2001 |
|
Clonmel Water Conservation |
2001 |
|
Tipperary Town Sewerage |
2001 |
|
Carrick on Suir Sewerage (Collection System) |
2003 |
|
Limerick Junction Sewerage |
2003 |
|
Ardfinnan Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Ballyclerihan Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Ballyporeen Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Cahir Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Carrick-on-Suir Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Clogheen Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Clonmel Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Fethard Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Killenaule Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Kilsheelan Sewerage |
2005 |
540 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Galway City and County since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13827/07]
547 Mr. Callanan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Galway since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13834/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 540 and 547 together.
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €103.61 million and €195.23 million to Galway City and Galway County Councils respectively under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Galway City and County, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Galway City and County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Galway Main Drainage — Knocknacarra Eastern |
1997 |
|
Inish Oirr Water Supply Scheme |
1997 |
|
Tuam Regional Water Supply Scheme — Stage 1 |
1997 |
|
Williamstown Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Ballinasloe Phosphorus Removal |
1998 |
|
Spiddal/Rossaveal Water Supply Scheme |
1998 |
|
Galway Main Drainage — Causeway to Mutton Island |
1999 |
|
Galway Main Drainage — Oranmore Sewers |
2000 |
|
Oughterard Sludge Facilities (Water Scheme) |
2000 |
|
Portumna Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Tuam Main Drainage — Stage 2 (Galway Road) Serviced Land Initiative Scheme |
2000 |
|
Galway City Water Conservation (Phase 1) |
2001 |
|
Loughrea Sewerage Scheme |
2001 |
|
Terryland River Valley Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Tuam Regional Water Supply — Phase 3 |
2001 |
|
Tuam Regional Water Supply — Ext to Athenry |
2001 |
|
Ballinasloe (Laurencetown) Water |
2002 |
|
Inishmore Water Supply Scheme |
2002 |
|
Loughrea — Serviced Land Initiative |
2002 |
|
Moycullen Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Tuam Main Drainage Stage 2 — Balgaddy Road (part) Serviced Land Initiative |
2002 |
|
Galway Main Drainage — Mutton Island Plant |
2003 |
|
Galway City Water Supply — Tuam Interlink |
2003 |
|
Barna Sewerage Scheme — Advance Works |
2004 |
|
Galway Main Drainage — Knocknacarra Integration |
2004 |
|
Gort Regional Water Supply Scheme — Advance Works |
2004 |
|
Tuam Main Drainage Stage 2 — Killaloonty Serviced Land Initiative |
2005 |
541 Dr. Devins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Sligo since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13828/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €92.89 million to County Sligo under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in County Sligo, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Sligo County Council will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Enniscrone Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Lough Talt Water Supply Scheme |
1997 |
|
North Sligo Regional Water Scheme |
1999 |
|
Sligo Main Drainage — Caltragh Ext. |
2000 |
|
Curry WS Rural Towns & Villages Initiative (Rhue/Curry/Bellaghy WSS) |
2001 |
|
Sligo & Environs Water Supply Stage 1 |
2001 |
542 Mr. Finneran asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Counties Roscommon and Leitrim since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13829/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €78.15 million to County Roscommon and €53.99 million to County Leitrim under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Counties Roscommon and Leitrim, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Roscommon and Leitrim County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme Name |
Year of Completion |
|
Boyle/Arcarne Water Supply Scheme |
1997 |
|
North East Roscommon Water Extension to Ballagh/Ballybeg |
1999 |
|
North East Roscommon Water Extension to Tarmonbarry |
1999 |
|
North Roscommon Water Supply Scheme Intake |
1999 |
|
Ballaghderreen Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Boyle Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Monksland Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Roscommon Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Tarmonbarry Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Ballinagare Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2001 |
|
Ballintubber Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2001 |
|
Charlestown Road, Ballaghderreen — Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Roscommon North Regional Water Supply Scheme (Fairymount/Loughglynn) |
2001 |
|
Monksland Townland Provision of Services — Serviced Land Initiative |
2002 |
|
Warren or Drum Townland, Boyle Provision of Services — Serviced Land Initiative |
2002 |
|
Falladeen Road, Ballinlough, Provision of Services — Serviced Land Initiative |
2004 |
|
Castlerea Sewerage Scheme Stages 1 & 2 |
2006 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Keshkerrigan Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Newtowngore Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Carrick-on-Shannon Sewerage Scheme (Sludge Press) |
1999 |
|
Newtowngore/Keshcarrigan Sewerage Scheme |
1999 |
|
Dromod Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Lurganboy Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2001 |
|
Drumsna Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2003 |
|
Fenagh Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
|
Lurganboy Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2003 |
|
North Leitrim Rural Water Supply Scheme |
2004 |
543 Mr. McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Counties Carlow and Kilkenny since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13830/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €27.87 million to County Kilkenny and €31.78 million to County Carlow under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Counties Kilkenny and Carlow, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Kilkenny and Carlow County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Kilkenny Main Drainage (Treatment Plant Works) |
1997 |
|
Gowran/Paulstown Water (Source Protection) Scheme |
1998 |
|
Kilkenny Sewerage Scheme |
2001 |
|
Graiguenamanagh Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2002 |
|
Thomastown Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Graiguenamanagh Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2004 |
|
Urlingford Sewerage Scheme |
2005 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Carlow Water Conservation |
2000 |
|
Graiguecullen Sewerage Scheme Serviced Land Initiative |
2000 |
|
Extension to Carlow Sewage Treatment Plant — Mortarstown |
2002 |
|
Hacketstown Water Supply — Rural Towns and Villages Initiative |
2003 |
|
Tullow Rising Main Replacement |
2006 |
544 Mr. Moloney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Counties Laois and Offaly since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13831/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €42.82 million to County Laois and €58.41 million to County Offaly under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Counties Laois and Offaly, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Laois and Offaly County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Mountmellick Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Portlaoise Sewerage Scheme (Colliers Lane) |
1998 |
|
Portlaoise Water Supply Scheme |
1998 |
|
Graiguecullen Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2000 |
|
Portlaoise Sludge Dewatering |
2000 |
|
Sleaty Road Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Knockmay Mains Water Supply Scheme |
2000 |
|
Stradbally Sewerage Improvement Scheme |
2002 |
|
Ballyroan Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages Initiative |
2003 |
|
Graiguecullen Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2004 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Birr Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Birr Sewerage (Phosphorus Removal) Scheme |
1998 |
|
Clara Water Supply Scheme |
1998 |
|
Tullamore Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Banagher Sewerage Scheme |
1999 |
|
Cloncollig Water Supply Scheme |
2000 |
|
Kilcormac Water and Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2000 |
|
Silver River (Collins Lane/Arden) Water Supply Scheme |
2000 |
|
Ferbane Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Ferbane Water Supply Scheme |
2002 |
|
Edenderry Interim Sewage Treatment Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages Initiative. |
2003 |
|
Clara Sewerage Scheme |
2005 |
|
Ferbane Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages Initiative |
2005 |
|
Collins Lane (Tullamore) Surface Water Sewerage Scheme |
2005 |
|
Tullamore Water Supply Scheme Contracts 1&3 (Sillogue Well) |
2006 |
545 Mr. Kelleher asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Cork City and County since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13832/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €324.76 million to Cork City Council and €67.64 million to Cork County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Cork City and County, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Cork City and County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Chetwynd Water (Cork CB) |
1998 |
|
Cork Main Drainage Site Investigations |
1999 |
|
Cork City Water — Chetwynd Main |
1999 |
|
Glen/Bride/Kiln River — Phase 3&4 |
1999 |
|
Blarney Street/Road (Improvement in Services) |
2000 |
|
Cork Main Drainage — Atlantic Pond Civil Contract |
2002 |
|
Cork Main Drainage — Boreenmana Road/Blackrock/Centre Park |
2002 |
|
Cork Main Drainage (Phase 1) Interceptor Sewer — River Lee Siphon |
2002 |
|
Cork Main Drainage (Collection and Treatment Works) |
2003 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Cloyne Sewerage |
1997 |
|
Ballincollig Water Supply |
2000 |
|
Ballincollig, Greenhills, Foul Sewer |
2000 |
|
Ballyviniter Water Scheme |
2000 |
|
Blarney Water |
2000 |
|
Cobh Water Tower |
2000 |
|
Cork Water Conservation Phase A |
2000 |
|
Fermoy Storm Water (Pike Road) |
2000 |
|
Fermoy Storm Water Sewer (Cork Road) |
2000 |
|
Fermoy Water |
2000 |
|
Fethard Town — Killenaule Road |
2000 |
|
Glanmire Water Supply, Castlejane |
2000 |
|
Glashaboy Water Supply, Caherlag |
2000 |
|
Kinsale Water Supply Ardbrack |
2000 |
|
Bandon Foul Sewerage Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Carrigaline Storm Drain SLI |
2001 |
|
Carrigrohane-sewage pumping station Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Castlemartyr Treatment Plant Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Clonakility Water Stage 1 |
2001 |
|
Conna STP upgrade Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Cork Water Conservation (Phase 1) |
2001 |
|
Glasheen River |
2001 |
|
Mallow Rd. Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Midleton Sewerage |
2001 |
|
Passage West Storm Drain Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Western Rd, Clonakility Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Blarney — Water Supply and Sewerage |
2002 |
|
Buttevant Water Supply - |
2002 |
|
Clonakility Water — Sludge Treatment |
2002 |
|
Mitchelstown Services Extension — Serviced Land Initiative |
2002 |
|
Watergrasshill Serviced Land Initiative |
2002 |
|
Poundhill St. (Market St.) Serviced Land Initiative |
2003 |
|
Crosshaven Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Mitchelstown Sewerage Scheme (Nutrient Removal) |
2006 |
|
Cork Lower Harbour Sewerage Scheme (Crosshaven SS) |
2006 |
|
Mallow/Fermoy/Blarney Treatment Plant Upgrading Serviced Land Initiative |
2006 |
|
Sally’s Cross Sewerage Scheme Serviced Land Initiative |
2006 |
|
Kilbrin Sewerage Scheme |
2006 |
546 Mr. P. Power asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Counties Limerick and Clare since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13833/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €295.26 million, €71.14 million and €100.43 million, respectively, to Limerick City and County Councils and Clare County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Limerick City and County and in County Clare, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Limerick City and County Councils and Clare County Council will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Askeaton/Pallaskenry (Phase 1) Water |
1998 |
|
Limerick City Water Conservation (Phase 1) |
1999 |
|
Limerick Trunk Mains Rosbrien |
2000 |
|
Limerick Water (Phase 2) Newcastle |
2000 |
|
Rhebogue/Bloodmill Road — Serviced Land Initiative |
2000 |
|
Surface Water Sewer at Annacotty — Serviced Land Initiative |
2000 |
|
Castletroy Water Supply Scheme — Low level area Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Fedamore Sewerage (Rural Towns & Villages Initiative) |
2001 |
|
Clareville to Newcastle Reservoir Rising Main |
2002 |
|
Foynes Water Supply Scheme |
2003 |
|
Castleconnell Sewerage Scheme |
2003 |
|
Limerick Main Drainage (Collection & Treatment Works) |
2003 |
|
Croagh Sewerage Scheme |
2004 |
|
Southern Ring Watermain |
2004 |
|
Limerick Main Drainage Contract 4.3 |
2005 |
|
Castletroy Water Supply High Level Demand Serviced Land Initiative |
2007 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Kilkee Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Kilkee Water Scheme |
1997 |
|
Killaloe Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Lahinch Sewerage Scheme |
1997 |
|
Sixmilebridge Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Lisdoonvarna Water Supply Stage 1 |
2001 |
|
Kilkishen Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Lisdoonvarna Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Newmarket on Fergus Water (Advance) |
2003 |
|
Gillogue Water Supply Serviced Land Initiative |
2007 |
548 Mr. Kirk asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Counties Louth, Cavan and Monaghan since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13835/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €175.72 million, €107.63 million and €68.38 million respectively to Counties Louth, Cavan and Monaghan under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Counties Louth, Cavan and Monaghan, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Louth, Cavan and Monaghan County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Carlingford Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Clogherhead Water/Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Dunleer Sewerage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Dunleer Sewerage Scheme Phase 2 |
2000 |
|
Drogheda Main Drainage |
2001 |
|
Drogheda Water Supply |
2001 |
|
Dundalk Main Drainage |
2001 |
|
Greenhills W&S Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Ardee Link Road Sewer |
2002 |
|
Mount Avenue Drainage |
2002 |
|
Dunleer/Mid-Louth RWSS Advance Works |
2004 |
|
Termonfeckin/Baltray Sewerage Rural Towns & Villages Initiative |
2004 |
|
Tulllyallen Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2006 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Ballyconnell Sewerage |
1998 |
|
Virginia Sewerage |
1998 |
|
Ballyjamesduff Water |
2000 |
|
Cullies/Drumlark Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2000 |
|
Cootehill Sewerage Scheme |
2001 |
|
Bailieborough Regional Water Supply Stage 1 |
2001 |
|
Lough Gowna Village Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages |
2001 |
|
Rathardrum, Dublin Rd. Virginia Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Swellan Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Tanderagee/Curkish Water & Sewerage |
2002 |
|
Bailieboro RWSS — Stage 2 |
2003 |
|
Redhills Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages |
2006 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Carrickmacross Sewerage (Improvement — Phase 2) |
1998 |
|
Castleblayney Water Supply Improvement Scheme |
1999 |
|
Monaghan Water Contract 1 — Pipelines |
1999 |
|
Carrickmacross- Convent Lands sewerage |
2000 |
|
Monaghan Water Supply |
2001 |
|
Tydavnet Sewerage (Reedbed) |
2001 |
|
Clones Water Scheme |
2003 |
|
Monaghan Town Sewerage (Peter’s Lake) |
2003 |
549 Mr. Kelly asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in Counties Longford and Westmeath since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13836/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €22.92 million to County Longford and €62.01 million to Westmeath County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Councils. Full details of currently approved major schemes in Counties Longford and Westmeath, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Longford and Westmeath County Councils will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Ardnacassa Scheme |
2000 |
|
Longford Water Conservation Scheme |
2000 |
|
Ballymahon Sewerage Scheme |
2001 |
|
Granard Sewerage Scheme |
2002 |
|
Clondra Sewerage Scheme — Rural Towns & Villages Initiative |
2006 |
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Moate Sewerage Scheme |
1998 |
|
Tyrellspass Water Supply Scheme |
1998 |
|
Athlone Sewerage (Westbank) Scheme |
2000 |
|
Athlone Water (Annagh/Baylin) Supply Scheme |
2000 |
|
Coosan Athlone Surface Water Drainage Scheme |
2000 |
|
Athlone Water Conservation Scheme |
2001 |
|
Coosan Athlone Surface Water Drainage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Mullingar/Marlinstown Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2001 |
|
Mullingar Water (Taughmon) Supply Scheme |
2001 |
|
Kinnegad Sewerage Extension Scheme |
2003 |
|
South Westmeath Regional Water Supply Scheme — Advance Works at Moate |
2003 |
|
Tyrellspass Sewerage Scheme — Serviced Land Initiative |
2004 |
|
Lough Owel Treatment Plant |
2005 |
|
Mullingar Regional Water Supply Scheme — South Western High Level Area |
2005 |
550 Mr. Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the water schemes completed and in planning in County Kildare since 1997, to date in 2007; and the investment made, and future allocation. [13837/07]
The Government has committed substantially increased funding for water services infrastructure over the past decade and again in the new National Development Plan (NDP). Some €3.7 billion was invested in new and upgraded water services infrastructure under NDP 2000-2006. €4.7 billion, an increase of 27%, has been provided under NDP 2007-2013. Real improvements being achieved on foot of this ongoing investment include:
Rapid progress in meeting targets under the EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Compliance with the end 2005 deadline for the provision of secondary treatment, which stood at 25% in 2000 had risen to some 90% at the end of 2006, with all remaining schemes needed to ensure full compliance included in the Water Services Investment Programme.
The extensive programme of wastewater treatment works has reduced the pollutant load from municipal discharges to rivers, lakes and sea (measured as Biochemical Oxygen Demand) by 45,000 tonnes per annum in a period of unprecedented economic and population growth.
Wastewater treatment capacity was increased since 1997 by an equivalent to the needs of a population of 3.3 million; the increase in drinking water treatment capacity over the same period was equivalent to the needs of a population of 1.2 million.
By the end of December 2006 of some 85,000 sites had been provided under the Serviced Land Initiative, with a further 100,000 sites at construction stage.
Massive investment under the Rural Water Programme has resulted in great progress in upgraded and renewed rural water supply systems and improved water quality in private group water schemes.
Overall, my Department is committing sufficient resources to ensure that the coverage and quality of the national water infrastructure will be able to fully meet current and anticipated demand in the future.
My Department provided a total of €171.10 million to Kildare County Council under the Water Services Investment and Rural Water Programmes in the period 1997 to 2006. Major schemes completed during that period are set out in the following table. In addition, many more schemes, smaller in scale, were completed under the devolved Rural Water Programme, of which details may be obtained from the County Council. Full details of currently approved major schemes in County Kildare, including the value of the investment proposed in each case, are set out in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, which is available in the Oireachtas Library.
New Assessments of Needs were undertaken last year in response to the Department's request to all local authorities to review the needs for capital works in their areas and to prioritise their proposals on the basis of the assessments. The priorities adopted by the members of Kildare County Council will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
|
Scheme |
Year of Completion |
|
Naas Water |
1997 |
|
Castledermot Water |
1998 |
|
Leixlip NE Kildare Water |
1998 |
|
Calverstown Sewerage Improvement |
2000 |
|
Castlecomer Road to Glendine Water Supply |
2000 |
|
Kilcullen Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Kildare/Rathangan Water Supply |
2000 |
|
Kilkenny East Environs |
2000 |
|
Kill Sewerage Improvement |
2000 |
|
Leixlip Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Monasterevin Water |
2000 |
|
Morristown, Newbridge Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Osberstown Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Prosperous Sewerage |
2000 |
|
Prosperous Water Improvement |
2000 |
|
Castletown Celbridge Pumping Station |
2001 |
|
Derrinturn Sewerage |
2001 |
|
Kildare Planning and Dev. of Phases 1A and 1B of Water Supply Strategy |
2001 |
|
Maynooth Pumping Station |
2001 |
|
Kilcock Water Improvement |
2002 |
|
Kilcullen Water |
2002 |
|
Nurney Water |
2002 |
|
Coill Dubh Sewerage Treatment Plant |
2003 |
|
Athy Sewerage (Nutrient Reduction) |
2004 |
|
Castledermot Water Stage 2 |
2004 |
|
Kildangan Sewerage Scheme |
2004 |
|
Monasterevin Sewerage |
2005 |
|
Monasterevin Sewerage Scheme |
2005 |
|
South Kildare Water Supply Scheme |
2005 |
|
Castledermot Sewerage Scheme — Sewer Network Contract |
2006 |
|
Monasterevin Sewerage Scheme (extension of Treatment Plant and attendant network improvements) |
2006 |
|
Allenwood Sewerage Scheme (construction of Treatment Olant and network) |
2006 |
|
Lower Liffey Valley Regional Sewerage Scheme — Straffan Sewerage Scheme (connection of Straffan to regional network sending waste to Leixlip Treatment Plant) |
2006 |
551 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of affordable houses acquired under Part 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 and allocated through the various local authorities throughout County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13857/07]
556 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of affordable houses provided under Part 5 of the Planning and Development Act 2007 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13866/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 551 and 556 together.
Information to end September 2006 on activity under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 in each local authority area is published in my Department's Quarterly Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library, and is also available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. Provisional data for 2006 indicate that 1,600 affordable housing units were completed under Part V nationally, 76 of which were in County Kildare.
552 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason he has reduced the allocation to Kildare County Council in respect of non-national roads in 2007 having particular regard to the serious damage to such roads over the winter months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13859/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 676 of 3 April 2007.
553 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he expects to meet the Kyoto principles in regard CO2 emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13860/07]
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 which I published earlier this week confirms that Ireland will meet its Kyoto Protocol commitments in the period 2008-2012. The Strategy shows clearly the measures by which this will be achieved and how these measures position us for post-2012 emission reductions. It also outlines the areas in which further measures are being researched and developed in anticipation of more demanding greenhouse gas emission reduction targets for 2020 and beyond.
554 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which the funds allocated by his Department in 2007 to the various local authorities in respect of non national roads represents an increase or decrease on the amount allocated for 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13861/07]
There have been significant increases in recent years in the level of State funding provided to local authorities for the provision, improvement and maintenance of non-national roads. State funding in 2007 for non-national roads, at over €607.5 million, is at its highest ever level, and represents a very substantial increase of 9%, or almost €50 million, on last year's record allocation.
In determining the annual non-national road grant allocations, the overall objective is to resource each local authority appropriately in relation to their ongoing and special needs.
Details of the 2006 non-national road grant payments and the 2007 allocations to each local authority are set out in the following table:
|
Local Authority |
2006 Non-National Road Grant Payments |
2007 Non-National Road Grant Allocations |
2007 Non-National Road Grant Allocations Increase/Decrease on 2006 Payments |
|
€ |
€ |
% |
|
|
County Councils |
|||
|
Carlow |
7,397,633 |
7,667,071 |
4 |
|
Cavan |
19,756,943 |
18,853,428 |
-5 |
|
Clare |
22,325,832 |
22,144,959 |
-1 |
|
Cork |
55,269,684 |
60,726,347 |
10 |
|
Donegal |
38,179,934 |
44,595,166 |
17 |
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown |
7,418,881 |
14,841,650 |
100 |
|
Fingal |
5,834,504 |
7,119,239 |
22 |
|
Galway |
29,990,818 |
33,623,386 |
12 |
|
Kerry |
29,013,635 |
25,250,677 |
-13 |
|
Kildare |
23,041,196 |
23,685,337 |
3 |
|
Kilkenny |
11,864,719 |
15,131,887 |
28 |
|
Laois |
11,011,603 |
12,935,313 |
17 |
|
Leitrim |
13,820,454 |
13,375,901 |
-3 |
|
Limerick |
18,209,030 |
18,666,457 |
3 |
|
Longford |
8,596,563 |
9,444,621 |
10 |
|
Louth |
6,802,469 |
8,874,488 |
30 |
|
Mayo |
31,603,785 |
31,625,821 |
— |
|
Meath |
22,204,520 |
29,653,934 |
34 |
|
Monaghan |
17,000,469 |
17,006,610 |
— |
|
North Tipperary |
11,893,322 |
12,775,794 |
7 |
|
Offaly |
14,218,788 |
11,563,685 |
-19 |
|
Roscommon |
16,563,014 |
17,938,263 |
8 |
|
Sligo |
15,498,529 |
15,371,958 |
-1 |
|
South Dublin |
7,058,607 |
12,594,380 |
78 |
|
South Tipperary |
14,451,331 |
14,662,008 |
1 |
|
Waterford |
11,956,797 |
16,189,769 |
35 |
|
Westmeath |
13,140,380 |
16,148,885 |
23 |
|
Wexford |
17,581,481 |
17,576,319 |
— |
|
Wicklow |
13,497,309 |
20,147,558 |
49 |
|
City & Borough Councils |
|||
|
Cork City Council |
7,506,343 |
7,797,795 |
4 |
|
Dublin City Council |
8,174,092 |
14,727,000 |
80 |
|
Galway City Council |
1,768,847 |
2,795,000 |
58 |
|
Limerick City Council |
4,132,544 |
5,590,655 |
35 |
|
Waterford City Council |
1,653,747 |
6,060,859 |
266 |
|
Clonmel Borough Council |
569,490 |
707,000 |
24 |
|
Drogheda Borough Council |
641,658 |
676,200 |
5 |
|
Kilkenny Borough Council |
561,000 |
625,000 |
11 |
|
Sligo Borough Council |
1,158,535 |
3,565,000 |
208 |
|
Wexford Borough Council |
663,461 |
673,250 |
1 |
|
Town Councils |
|||
|
Arklow |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Athlone |
563,000 |
581,000 |
3 |
|
Athy |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Ballina |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Ballinasloe |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Birr |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Bray |
606,000 |
624,000 |
3 |
|
Buncrana |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Bundoran |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Carlow |
587,000 |
605,000 |
3 |
|
Carrickmacross |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Carrick-On-Suir |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Cashel |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Castlebar |
379,000 |
287,000 |
-24 |
|
Castleblaney |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Cavan |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Ceannanus Mor |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Clonakilty |
196,709 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Clones |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Cobh |
261,683 |
287,000 |
10 |
|
Dundalk |
606,000 |
624,000 |
3 |
|
Dungarvan |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Ennis |
587,000 |
605,000 |
3 |
|
Enniscorthy |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Fermoy |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Killarney |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Kilrush |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Kinsale |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Letterkenny |
563,000 |
581,000 |
3 |
|
Listowel |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Longford |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Macroom |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Mallow |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Midleton |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Monaghan |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Naas |
587,000 |
605,000 |
3 |
|
Navan |
587,000 |
605,000 |
3 |
|
Nenagh |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
New Ross |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Skibbereen |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Templemore |
197,000 |
204,000 |
4 |
|
Thurles |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Tipperary |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Tralee |
582,001 |
605,000 |
4 |
|
Trim |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Tullamore |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Westport |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Wicklow |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
|
Youghal |
279,000 |
287,000 |
3 |
555 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of houses allocated by the various local authorities, excluding those provided through voluntary or charitable housing agencies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13865/07]
Detailed figures on the number of local authority houses constructed and acquired in 2006 will be published shortly in my Department's Annual Housing Statistics Bulletin for 2006 and on the Department's website at www.environ.ie.
557 Mr. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an investigation has taken place with a view to determination of the extent to which overloaded sewerage treatment plants are a pollution threat to the waterways; the action taken in response; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13867/07]
The Environmental Protection Agency is required under section 61(3) of the Environmental Protection Act 1992 to report on a biennial basis on the quality of effluents being discharged from treatment plants, sewers or drainage pipes which are vested in, controlled or used by local authorities. The Agency's latest report — Urban Waste Water Discharges in Ireland — A Report of the Years 2004 and 2005, (which is available in the Oireachtas Library), reviews all agglomerations with a population equivalent exceeding 500 and trends for the period 1998 to 2005.
Management of sewerage schemes is generally the responsibility of the relevant local authority, which has a range of instruments and measures available to ensure quality standards are maintained. In addition, my Department coordinates and finances a major programme of investment in new and improved wastewater infrastructure, as set out in the Water Services Investment Programme 2005-2007, (also available in the Oireachtas Library). The schemes included in the Programme are derived mainly from regular assessments of needs undertaken by local authorities, at my Department's request, as an input to the overall strategy for meeting identified water services needs. Local authorities were requested to carry out new assessments in 2006 and these will inform project selection in the next phase of the Programme. In undertaking the assessments, authorities are asked to have regard to specific criteria, including relevant national and EU environmental and public health statutory requirements and standards.
Finally, I propose in the near future to make Regulations establishing a new authorization regime for discharges from waste water works operated by local authorities.
559 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in addition to the amount of development levies demanded by local authorities, he collects data on the amount collected and the planned commitments of each planning authority; if the new internal audit system includes both revenue and capital accounts; the amount by county that has been demanded in the event of the data above being available; the amount collected; the projected planned commitments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13873/07]
Details of local authorities' receipts from development contributions for the period 1994-2005, based on annual planning statistical returns from planning authorities, are available on my Department's website. Annual returns for 2006 are currently being compiled by planning authorities. The table, which will be forwarded to the Deputy, sets out the projections that were provided by all City and most County, Borough and Town Councils in mid 2006 on the application of development contributions for the years 2007-2010. A number of Councils were unable to provide projections; all local authorities will shortly be asked for updated projections. Data for Borough and Town Councils are included in the county figures. My Department does not collect information on development contributions demanded by planning authorities.
Under article 16 of the Local Government (Financial Procedures and Audit) Regulations 2002, local authorities are required to maintain an adequate and effective system of internal audit of their accounting and control systems covering both capital and current expenditure and income.
|
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Counties |
||||
|
Carlow |
5,250,000 |
6,075,000 |
5,715,000 |
5,690,000 |
|
Cavan |
4,550,000 |
5,000,000 |
4,000,000 |
4,000,000 |
|
Clare |
7,850,000 |
6,950,000 |
7,050,000 |
8,050,000 |
|
Cork |
50,208,000 |
30,790,000 |
25,890,000 |
24,940,000 |
|
Donegal |
16,695,000 |
16,155,000 |
16,775,000 |
17,395,000 |
|
Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown |
43,671,231 |
59,994,203 |
60,192,657 |
17,804,244 |
|
Fingal |
51,484,000 |
53,984,000 |
49,900,000 |
49,900,000 |
|
Galway |
14,700,000 |
13,830,000 |
13,991,500 |
14,686,075 |
|
Kerry |
12,713,000 |
14,139,000 |
12,862,000 |
13,818,000 |
|
Kildare |
34,010,000 |
34,010,000 |
— |
— |
|
Kilkenny |
22,310,726 |
14,604,933 |
14,392,430 |
14,209,301 |
|
Laois |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
Leitrim |
4,791,052 |
4,675,850 |
2,100,000 |
1,050,000 |
|
Limerick |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
Longford |
4,750,000 |
5,850,000 |
6,050,000 |
4,960,000 |
|
Louth |
26,800,000 |
18,250,000 |
18,700,000 |
18,700,000 |
|
Mayo |
9,500,000 |
6,800,000 |
6,200,000 |
6,350,000 |
|
Meath |
29,807,899 |
29,538,648 |
— |
— |
|
Monaghan |
3,150,000 |
2,550,000 |
2,757,500 |
2,675,375 |
|
Offaly |
4,092,800 |
13,122,920 |
19,992,181 |
6,240,800 |
|
Roscommon |
8,422,794 |
7,264,945 |
6,500,000 |
6,500,000 |
|
Sligo |
— |
— |
— |
— |
|
South Dublin |
75,000,000 |
95,000,000 |
105,000,000 |
70,000,000 |
|
Tipperary NR |
9,033,000 |
6,731,000 |
6,226,000 |
5,691,000 |
|
Tipperary SR |
10,450,000 |
8,825,000 |
8,450,000 |
5,975,000 |
|
Waterford |
2,889,000 |
3,235,000 |
3,364,000 |
3,632,000 |
|
Westmeath |
8,550,000 |
12,550,000 |
7,550,000 |
7,550,000 |
|
Wexford |
19,402,987 |
14,350,000 |
24,850,000 |
30,300,000 |
|
Wicklow |
8,366,850 |
117,989,539 |
11,072,624 |
4,122,624 |
|
Cities |
||||
|
Cork |
12,200,000 |
12,000,000 |
11,000,000 |
11,000,000 |
|
Dublin |
78,246,535 |
65,650,000 |
69,500,000 |
66,000,000 |
|
Galway |
8,180,000 |
5,880,000 |
4,750,000 |
4,750,000 |
|
Limerick |
7,486,866 |
6,548,064 |
5,938,432 |
5,500,395 |
|
Waterford |
6,700,000 |
6,782,000 |
7,000,000 |
2,700,000 |
|
Total |
601,261,740 |
699,125,102 |
537,769,324 |
434,189,814 |
560 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the local authorities that have applied for increases in each year since 2002 to date in 2007; the categories they have been for; if his Department has agreed to such recruitment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13874/07]
The information requested is not readily available and its compilation would involve an inordinate amount of staff time and cost. My Department continues to keep staffing levels in the local government sector under review within the framework of overall government policy on public sector staff numbers.
561 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Section 180 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as it relates to petitioning to have an estate taken in charge is two years or seven years after the planning permission has exhausted; if he is considering reducing the timeframe for such a petition; his views on whether more strenuous protections need to be put in place to protect house purchasers from rogue developers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13876/07]
The Planning and Development Act 2000 sets the framework within which planning authorities must take in charge estates. Section 180 of the Act distinguishes between estates which have been completed to the satisfaction of the planning authority in accordance with the planning permission and estates which have not been so completed.
In the case of the former there is no set time limit for taking in charge: the developer, or a majority of the residents, may request that the estate be taken in charge as soon as it is completed in accordance with the permission and on foot of such a request the planning authority is required to initiate the taking in charge procedures.
Where estates have not been completed to the satisfaction of the planning authority in accordance with the planning permission, section 180 provides that, where the planning authority has not taken enforcement action within 7 years of the expiration of the permission, it will be required to initiate taking in charge procedures at the request of a majority of the residents. This timeframe was granted to give planning authorities time, after the expiration of the planning permission, to take action to compel developers to finish estates in accordance with the planning permission.
In addition to the legal framework, my Department has also issued policy guidance on taking in charge of estates in the form of circular letter PD 1/06. Planning authorities were reminded of their responsibilities in this area and were asked as a priority to establish a policy on taking in charge to be approved by the members of the authority, and reported on to those members on a regular basis or at least once annually.
On the issue of enforcement of planning control, the substantial powers already given to planning authorities to deal with unauthorised development have been significantly strengthened in the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006. This effectively reverses the burden of proof in relation to the refusal of planning permission to a developer who has substantially failed to comply with a previous planning permission. Under the amended provisions, the authority may refuse permission in such a case and the developer will have to go to the High Court if he or she wishes to apply to have this decision annulled. I am satisfied that planning authorities now have very substantial powers to compel the completion of housing estates by developers in accordance with the terms of the planning permission.
563 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will report on the progress to reduce CO2 emissions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13878/07]
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012 which I published earlier this week sets out the progress towards meeting Ireland's Kyoto Protocol commitments and the preparations being made in anticipation of more demanding greenhouse gas emission reduction requirements in the period post-2012. The Strategy shows that the range of existing and additional measures which have already been developed, will reduce Ireland's greenhouse gas emissions by over 17 million tones of carbon dioxide equivalent in the Kyoto Protocol commitment period 2008-2012. A copy of the Strategy is available in the Oireachtas Library and on my Department's website www.environ.ie.
564 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the operation of carbon credit purchasing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13879/07]
The National Climate Change Strategy 2007-2012, which I published earlier this week, includes limited provision for the purchase of Kyoto Units by the State so as to assist compliance with the Kyoto Protocol in the period 2008-2012. The Strategy also sets out an explicit National Policy Framework for this purpose; this will inter alia guide the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA), which will act as a National Purchasing Agent for the State in the conduct of its role.
To date, my Department has committed to investing €20m in the Multilateral Carbon Credit Fund offered by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and a further €20m in Funds offered by the World Bank. In the case of the World Bank, €10m is committed to the second tranche of the BioCarbon Fund and €10m to the new Carbon Fund for Europe.
The Carbon Fund Bill 2006, which came into effect this week, makes provision for the designation of the National Treasury Management Agency as Purchasing Agent for the State. Further purchases will be a matter for the Agency, having regard to the purchasing framework set out in the National Climate Change Strategy.
565 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the work he has done with regard to the public concerns here over the activities of BNGS; the current activities at Sellafield and Thorp; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13880/07]
I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 6 and 8 of today's date.
Currently, the principal activities at Sellafield include the storage and reprocessing of spent nuclear fuel, the storage of plutonium and uranium, the fabrication of mixed oxide (MOX) fuel and decommissioning operations. Reprocessing at THORP remains suspended following the leak at the plant, which was detected in April 2005.
566 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress he has made to clampdown on illegal dumping; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13882/07]
Considerable progress has been made by the relevant statutory agencies in dealing with illegal waste activity. In particular, since the establishment of the Office of Environmental Enforcement in 2003, enforcement has been better structured through the establishment of a national Enforcement Network. The OEE and the Enforcement Network has greatly raised awareness and brought about better practice and a more coordinated and consistent approach to environmental enforcement by the relevant authorities. Annual supporting funding from my Department's Environment Fund of over €7.5m has led to some 120 additional local authority enforcement personnel and a greatly enhanced response on the ground. Since its establishment the OEE has conducted 282 investigations into local authority statutory performance issues relating to waste management and served 142 advice and recommendation notices in relation to these investigations. Four directions have been served on local authorities in relation to waste management issues and the directions have all been complied with.
In October 2005 the OEE published a major study, The Nature and Extent of Unauthorised Waste Activity in Ireland, which concluded that large scale illegal dumping is no longer occurring but local authorities now have to cope with problems such as fly-tipping and backyard burning.
Where illegal deposition is discovered, the policy direction which I issued in 2005 sets the standard in terms of the expected response from the regulatory authorities, who are obliged to ensure that the necessary remedial measures will be taken to ensure that sites are restored and that waste illegally deposited is appropriately disposed of or recovered.
In support of this policy a code of practice has been prepared by the EPA and will be launched later this month. This guidance elaborates on a number of issues set out in the direction and will provide a framework for assessing the environmental risk of both illegal and historic landfills so that informed decisions can be taken in relation to the optimal environmental outcome for these sites. As a further measure the Agency has also led the development of a new national complaints procedure to facilitate members of the public in reporting illegal waste activity, which embodies a national free phone number.
In addition, under regulations which I made in 2006, the landfill levy has been increased for illegal waste activities. The regulations provide that the levy payable on waste disposed of at an unauthorised landfill after 28 July 2006 is increased to €20 per tonne, an increase of €5 per tonne on the rate which had applied.
Finally the OEE, through the use of its own powers to oversee the statutory performance of local authorities, is ensuring that actions are being taken which will ensure that situations of general and persistent failure to act on illegal waste deposition will not in the future be allowed to happen.
567 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to develop a wilderness park in the north midlands (details supplied); the progress to date on the proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13886/07]
577 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to develop a wilderness park in the north midlands (details supplied); the progress to date on the proposal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13992/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 567 and 577 together.
I understand that a local community group in the midlands has developed a proposal to establish what it calls a ‘National Wetlands Wilderness Park' in the cutaway area of the Bord Na Móna-owned Mount Dillon group of bogs. With an estimated 80,000 hectares of cutaway Bord na Móna bog to become available by 2050, I very much welcome any arrangement between Bord na Móna and local groups to restore the natural and amenity value of harvested bogs. Such an arrangement already exists at Lough Boora, County Offaly.
The Mount Dillon land concerned is not currently prioritised for designation under the Wildlife Acts or the relevant European Directives. Accordingly, its management would not be appropriate to the National Parks and Wildlife Service of my Department. Nevertheless, officials from my Department have met with the committee several times to learn more about the proposal and to assist and liaise on relevant nature conservation issues.
568 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has visited Maynooth Castle, Maynooth, County Kildare in his capacity as Minister; and if he will reconsider his decision regarding the provision of funding for phase two of the restoration works. [13911/07]
Restoration works, representing an investment of some €2m, have been carried out to date at Maynooth Castle. This scheme consisted of a programme of conservation and adaptation works to the ground floor, the provision of access to the first floor and the provision of an exhibition and reception point. This has facilitated visitor access and provided a guide service. The site is now open to the public on a seasonal basis.
I am advised that further facilities, including the provision of toilets, would be required if there was to be greater use of the Castle. It is not feasible to provide these at the site in the current circumstances. However, if opportunities were to arise to overcome this problem through the acquisition of land, my Department would examine these in conjunction with the Office of Public Works.
569 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 1909 of 31 January 2007, if he will issue the regulations before the General Election. [13913/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 1909 of 31 January 2007.
I am continuing to keep this matter under review, while consolidating progress on quality customer service measures, with the aim of ensuring good accessible local government service delivery for all towns.
571 Mr. Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will announce new proposals for the operation of the disabled persons grant. [13919/07]
Details of the revised housing adaptation grant schemes for older people and people with a disability were announced recently as part of the Government's new housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities.
My Department is currently preparing administrative guidance in relation to the operation of the revised schemes and this will be issued to local authorities in due course. My Department is also in the process of assessing the additional resources that may be required by local authorities, if any, as a result of the transfer of the Special Housing Aid for the Elderly scheme from the Health Service Executive to the local authorities.
The revised schemes will come into operation during 2007. The existing Disabled Persons, Essential Repairs and Special Housing Aid for the Elderly grant schemes will continue to operate until the new schemes become effective.
572 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the estimate of the resource implications for local authorities in the context of the disability audit; if additional staff were approved over and above the public service embargo; if any local authority has sought an increase in staff numbers to carry out the audit; when the audit is estimated to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13926/07]
As required under the Disability Act 2005, my Department's sectoral plan was approved by the Houses of the Oireachtas in October 2006. The plan, covering my Department, its partner bodies and local authorities, provides for a range of positive measures which will promote and pro-actively encourage equal opportunities for persons with disabilities to participate in the economic, social and cultural life of the community.
Under the sectoral plan each local authority is committed to carrying out an accessibility audit, by the end of April 2007, of all roads and streets, pavements and pedestrian crossings, public buildings, public parks, amenities and open spaces, heritage sites, public libraries and harbours within its control and to identifying the remedial action necessary to make them accessible. The accessibility audits also cover access to services and information. Additional resources have been provided since 2005, as part of the National Disability Strategy multi-annual funding programme, to support work on accessibility audits and implementation undertaken by local authorities. I am providing a further €15 million in 2007 for this programme, which complements existing funding available to local authorities for mainstream public services. Each local authority will, within three months of completing the accessibility audit, draw up an implementation plan setting out a programme of actions and detailed costings to give effect to the commitments and objectives contained in the 2005 Act and in the sectoral plan.
Local authorities have been encouraged to build their own internal capacity to conduct accessibility audits, while making judicious use of external expertise as necessary, and the ongoing funding programme has supported this combined approach. As set out in the plan, roles and functions in relation to access for people with disabilities are assigned at local level to specified staff, cross-functional teams and groups building on existing local authority structures. It is a matter for the City or County Manager concerned to make the necessary staffing and organisational arrangements for this purpose.
In line with Government policy on public service employment and subject to rigorous criteria, it is open to local authorities to set out priority short term staff needs and a number of local authorities have had short term posts approved to support the disability strategy.
573 Ms C. Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if an assessment has been carried out on the resource implications for local authorities in relation to the new demands under the area of health and safety; if so, the implications of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13927/07]
I am satisfied that the record level of funding that is available to local authorities in 2007 through grants from central government and income from local sources enables them to provide an acceptable level of services to their customers while meeting all reasonable demands, including requirements for health and safety. Assessments of the funding needs of local authorities for future years will be carried out as required and these assessments will have regard to all factors affecting such needs.
574 Mr. S. Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will make a decision in respect of the grant application from Fingal County Council in respect of the replacement of the steel windows in and the refurbishment of the houses in an estate (details supplied) in County Dublin. [13950/07]
My Department recently met with Fingal County Council as part of the Housing Action Plan process for 2007. It is now a matter for the local authority to forward a programme of improvement works for 2007 to the Department.
575 Ms Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress to date in amending legislation to allow all local authority tenants purchase their own home. [13973/07]
The Government has approves the drafting of the Social Housing (Miscellaneous provisions) Bill 2006, which provides, inter alia, for the sale of local authority apartments to tenants under certain conditions. The drafting of the Bill is being advanced as quickly as possible and it is expected that it will be published by early summer this year.
578 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason he has a levy on landfill and not on incineration; his views on the amounts raised by the landfill levy; the use the levy is being and will be used for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13996/07]
A levy of €15 per tonne on the landfill of waste was introduced on 1 June 2002 under legislation approved by the Oireachtas. The levy is designed to encourage the diversion of waste away from landfill and generate revenues that can be applied in support of waste minimisation and recycling initiatives. Similar landfill levies are being applied in other countries, and in particular by a number of EU member states having regard to the requirement of the EU Landfill Directive for significant reduction by member states in the use of landfill. No such EU policy or legal requirement applies to the incineration of waste with energy recovery.
The landfill levy which has to date generated €132m for the Environment Fund is used, and will continue to be used, to help achieve the targets set in the Government's policy document Changing Our Ways, by encouraging the diversion of waste away from landfill towards recycling and biological treatment options; in support of waste minimisation and "high-in-hierarchy" recycling initiatives and to support improved enforcement initiatives by local authorities with regard to control of unauthorised waste activities.
579 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Strategic Infrastructure Act’s implementation is being delayed by human resource issues in An Bord Pleanála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13997/07]
The remaining provisions of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006, came into force on the 31st of January 2007, providing for the introduction of a single consent process for certain strategic infrastructural projects of national importance.
The Act also provided for a range of supporting measures, including the restructuring of An Bord Pleanála to allow for the establishment of a Strategic Infrastructure Division. The Board is now being given greater flexibility to handle infrastructure consent applications, including the possibility for pre-application discussions with the applicant.
While the processing of individual cases under these new provisions is a matter for An Bord Pleanala, my Department understands that the new procedures are already being deployed by the Board and that implementation is proceeding normally.
There are ongoing human resources issues within the Board, including those related to the introduction of the Strategic Infrastructure Act; these are being dealt with within the normal structures.
581 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the European Commission’s action in sending Ireland a final written warning for failing to comply fully with a 2002 European Court of Justice ruling requiring drinking water supplies to be kept free of e.coli bacteria, and a similar warning for failing to comply with a 2005 ECJ ruling requiring greater controls on polluting discharges to surface water by local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [13999/07]
Following from the 2002 ECJ judgement in case C-316/00 that Ireland had failed to comply with certain micro-biological parameters of Council Directive 80/778/EEC relating to water intended for human consumption, my Department agreed on a number of measures with the European Commission in order to comply with the requirements of the judgment.
A national strategy consisting of a range of legislative, operational and investment initiatives to remedy deficiencies in drinking water supplies was put in place. My Department has reported regularly to the Commission on implementation and progress of that strategy and has submitted regular drinking water monitoring reports in respect of specific parameters for the public and group water supply schemes cited in the judgment, these have demonstrated overall improvement in compliance with the E. coli parameter. For example the E. coli rate for public schemes cited in the Commission application to the Court has improved from 77% to 98.3%.
Notwithstanding the ongoing communications with the Commission about the programme of remediation measures, the Commission has issued an Article 228 Reasoned Opinion which, though acknowledging the significant capital investment and year on year improvements in water quality made by Ireland, nonetheless takes the stance that compliance with the judgment requires Ireland to ensure that E. coli is totally absent from drinking water. A response to this Reasoned Opinion is being prepared.
In relation to the 2005 ECJ judgment in case C-282/02 that Ireland had failed to take all of the necessary measures to transpose Council Directive 76/464/EEC on pollution caused by certain dangerous substances discharged into the aquatic environment, I propose to make Regulations establishing a new authorisation regime for discharges from waste water works operated by local authorities in the near future. Extensive consultations are taking place with the Commission on the terms of these draft regulations.
582 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his reasons for failing to reduce the fees paid to legal representatives at the Mahon Tribunal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14000/07]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 277 of 4 April 2007.
584 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the details of the latest contract entered into by his Department and local authorities with a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14002/07]
Directive 94/62/EC on packaging and packaging waste (as amended by as amended by Directive 2004/12/EC) is based on the principle of producer responsibility, which is intended to require producers to contribute to the waste management costs at end-of-life of products which they have placed on the market. Under the Directive, Ireland was required to achieve a 25% recovery rate of packaging waste by 1 July 2001, increasing to a 50% recovery rate by 31 December 2005 and to 50% by 2011. The Directive is transposed into national legislation by the Waste Management (Packaging) Regulations 2003 (as amended in 2004 and 2006) which replaced earlier regulations introduced in 1997.
Under the regulations, ‘major producers' of packaging waste — i.e. manufacturers, importers, distributors, wholesalers and retailers (representing all participants in the packaging chain) who place more than 25 tonnes of packaging on the market each year and who have an annual turnover exceeding €1m excluding VAT — are required to take steps individually to recover their packaging waste (i.e. self-compliance) or alternatively to contribute to, and participate in, compliance schemes set up to recover packaging waste. Repak Limited was established by Irish industry in 1997 to promote, co-ordinate and finance the collection and recovery of packaging waste with a view to achieving Ireland's packaging waste recovery and recycling targets under the Directive and is the only such approved compliance scheme in Ireland. Repak membership income is used to subsidise the collection of packaging waste from both the household and commercial sectors. In the household sector, subsidy is provided towards the collection of packaging waste from bring banks and civic amenity recycling centres, as well as segregated kerbside collection of packaging waste from households.
Repak have reported consistent progress since 1997 and in 2001 Ireland met the 25% packaging waste recovery target required by the Directive. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has reported in the National Waste Report 2005, published in January 2007, that Ireland exceeded the recovery and recycling targets for end 2005 by some 10%. The number of tonnes of packaging waste recovered in 1998 was 93,259. This increased six-fold to 554,632 in 2005. The number of households served by segregated collection grew from 70,000 in 1998 to over 560,000 by 2003. In the period 1998 to 2005, the number of bring banks grew from 837 to 1,937 while the number of civic amenity sites grew from 30 to 81.
Last Autumn, Repak agreed with local authorities increased subsidy rates for the next five years. This will give certainty to everyone involved — Repak, members of the compliance scheme, local authorities and waste operators – in relation to the level of resources that are available to support recycling over the period leading up to the 2011 deadline for meeting Ireland's latest recycling target. While the Department facilitated discussions between the local authorise and Repak on this matter, it is not a party to the agreement.
585 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action which is being taken regarding products returned for recycling under the WEEE regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14003/07]
The WEEE scheme came into effect in August 2005 and has been a remarkable success.
In the first 12 months of operation, 27,700 tonnes of household WEEE was collected. This represents approximately 2.3 million electrical and electronic products or 6.7kg per inhabitant, surpassing the EU target of 4kg per person set for the end of 2008. This contrasts to the 5,510 tonnes of this waste type which was recovered in 2004 and indicates widespread public support for the scheme.
Under the terms of the WEEE Directive, financing the recycling of electrical and electronic equipment is solely a producer responsibility. Two collective compliance schemes, functioning under the responsibility of producers, are operating in Ireland. These compliance schemes, WEEE Ireland and the European Recycling Platform, are responsible for the recycling of all household WEEE deposited at designated collection points. These include civic amenity facilities and retail outlets.
The compliance schemes are also responsible for ensuring that recovered WEEE is recycled in an environmentally sound manner and for putting in place tracking and auditing systems for materials recovery in line with the requirements of the Directive.
An increasing proportion of this WEEE is now recycled in Ireland following the establishment of three new WEEE recycling and treatment facilities since August 2005.
586 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amounts and names of those local authority senior staff who received bonus payments in the last year for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14004/07]
The Committee for Performance Awards in the Local Government Sector was established to deal with the assessment of performance awards for senior managers in local authorities. The Committee's reports for 2003, 2004 and 2005, which are available in the Oireachtas Library, include details of the distribution of awards as a percentage of pay, the range of monetary value of awards and the number of recipients. The Committee's 2005 report includes details of total awards and number of participants by local authority.
In accordance with advice provided by the Information Commissioner in relation to the corresponding civil service scheme, information naming officials and individual amounts paid to them is deemed a personal record and consequently is not made publicly available.
587 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to make changes in the regulation of waste charges such as those operating in Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown whereby the annual waste charges paid by householders availing of the council’s own service is in effect subsidising the provision of public recycling facilities that are available for use by those who use a private waste company for the collection of their domestic waste; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14005/07]
Rapid growth and consolidation of the waste industry in recent years has enabled the private sector to expand its services in the domestic waste collection market. It is generally acknowledged that the involvement of the private sector in providing key waste infrastructure and services has benefited the environment and increased efficiency in the waste sector as a whole by providing a range of alternatives. However, we also face challenges in balancing the right of the private sector to compete freely in a competitive market with the need to provide the most efficient and effective service for consumers.
In August last year, my Department published a consultation paper on options for future regulation of the waste sector. Submissions were invited on whether there is a need for a regulator for the sector, on what model of regulator might be most appropriate and on what powers any such regulator should be given. Among the possible powers discussed in the paper is the power to impose a public service obligation. This is a feature of regulation in some other sectors, and effectively requires contractors to operate cross-subsidisation so that services can be provided where they would not otherwise be economically feasible. Over fifty, many very detailed, submissions were received addressing the range of complex issues which surround the regulation of the sector. Following consideration of these submissions I intend to finalise further policy proposals.
588 Mr. Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his future plans for providing guidelines under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14006/07]
My Department has issued comprehensive guidelines to assist local authorities in the implementation of Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 on a number of occasions since December 2000, with the most recent guidance issuing in November 2006. While I have no immediate plans to issue further guidance, the matter remains open for consideration on an ongoing basis in the context of my Department's oversight of the implementation of Part V generally.
589 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps which he is taking to ensure pay by weight refuse charges are introduced by local authorities; when he plans to have such a system in place throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14009/07]
In accordance with section 52 of the Protection of the Environment Act 2003, the determination of waste management charges is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it acts as the service provider. Similarly, where a private operator provides the collection service, it is a matter for that operator to determine charges. The Minister has no function in relation to the setting of waste charges either by local authorities or by private collectors.
However, to ensure that waste collection charging systems more fully embody the polluter pays principle, my Department asked waste service providers to move to a system of use-based charging from 2005 onwards. Service providers were given discretion as to the types of systems to be used, provided that the key principle of use based charging is respected. Some service providers have opted for weight based charging while others have opted for volume based charging. My Department does not routinely compile information on the charging methods employed by the many service providers but understands that local authorities generally have now adopted some form of use based charging as have most private sector service providers, whose regulation is a matter for the relevant local authority.
590 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a nationwide water charge waiver scheme for schools and community organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14010/07]
Article 9.1 of the EU Water Framework Directive requires Member States to take account of the principle of water services cost recovery, including environmental and resource costs, in accordance with the polluter pays principle. The Directive is being implemented in Ireland in relation to the non-domestic sector on the basis of recovery of all non-domestic water services costs from non-domestic users of the services through water charges.
This is being achieved by means of a meter based volumetric charge to ensure water charging of users according to actual consumption. Metering should also encourage water conservation. This framework does not provide for the exemption of any classes of non-domestic users from the charging policy.
591 Mr. Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a nationwide refuse charge waiver scheme for the elderly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14011/07]
Waste management services have traditionally been provided at a local level, with individual arrangements being locally determined and tailored to local circumstances. The present legal framework, as determined by the Oireachtas, reflects this. In accordance with section 52 of the Protection of the Environment Act 2003, the determination of waste management charges, and any associated waiver scheme, is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it acts as the service provider. Similarly, where a private operator provides the collection service, it is a matter for that operator to determine charges. Section 60(3) of the Waste Management Act, 1996 specifically precludes the Minister from any involvement in anything for which a local authority has statutory responsibility. However, my Department has asked local authorities to engage with commercial waste collectors to agree on arrangements to assist lower income households by offering alternatives to periodic lump-sum payments.
592 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of a recent Supreme Court decision (details supplied) an analysis has been carried out as to the impact this decision will have on all EU regulations transposed into Irish law by regulations since joining the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14028/07]
The advice of the Office of the Attorney General is that the judgment in this case relates solely to the Animal Remedies Act 1993. Whether the judgment has implications for other legislation is under review. However, the case has no implications for the European Communities Act 1972 and regulations made thereunder or the European Communities Bill 2006, now in the Houses of the Oireachtas.
593 Mr. Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to a previous parliamentary question, when a floor area certificate will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14038/07]
The certificates were issued by my Department on Tuesday 3 April 2007.
594 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the instructions as have been given by his Department for the implementation of European directives in relation to waste water and clean drinking water; and the measures he has taken with Galway City Council and Galway County Council in this regard. [14053/07]
595 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his proposals for upgrading the sewage systems in County Galway. [14054/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 594 and 595 together.
Ireland's obligations under the EU Urban Waste Water and Drinking Water Directives have been transposed into national law in a series of regulations made under the European Communities Act, 1972, and the Environmental Protection Agency Act, 1992. The statutory requirements in relation to monitoring and operational standards have been communicated by my Department to the local authorities, including Galway City and County Councils, who are responsible for the management of public their water supply and waste water infrastructure. Authorities have received separate detailed guidance from my Department, the Environmental Protection Agency and the Health Protection Surveillance Centre in relation to the management and avoidance of the risk of cryptosporidium in water supplies.
Details of approved sewerage schemes in Galway are set out in the Water Services Investment Programme 2005 – 2007 which is available in the Oireachtas Library. The sewerage schemes in the Programme are derived mainly from regular assessments of needs undertaken by local authorities, at my Department's request, as an input to the overall strategy for meeting water and sewerage needs. The priorities adopted by the Members of the Galway local authorities in their most recent assessments will be taken into account in the framing of the next phase of the Water Services Investment Programme.
596 Mr. M. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans his Department holds for the necessary cleansing of the south park area in Galway; the funding that will be made available to the local authority to assist in this matter; the additional funding that has been sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [14073/07]
Correspondence has been received in my Department from Galway City Council in relation to the long closed unlicensed landfill at Southpark in Galway City. It is understood that a risk assessment is currently being undertaken by the Council, under the supervision of the Environmental Protection Agency, and that a formal submission, including costings, will be forwarded to the Department once this is concluded.
In 2006 Exchequer funding of €10m was provided for the first time to local authorities to assist in the remediation and aftercare of a number of closed landfills. This new funding line was in recognition of the considerable expense being incurred by local authorities in remediating these landfills to the highest environmental standards. A further €10.5m will be allocated in 2007. Under the NDP 2007-2013 the Government will continue to prioritise landfill remediation by providing Exchequer assistance to local authorities towards certain landfill remediation costs. Any proposals received from Galway City Council will be assessed for grant aid in this context.
