P. J. Sheehan
Ceist:13 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the outcomes from his recent visit to the United States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23129/07]
Written Answers.
The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 12, inclusive, answered orally.
Official Engagements.
I travelled to the United States from 24-27 July last to make contacts and garner information on best policy practice in the area of telecommunications and energy, including energy sustainability.
I used the opportunity to also visit a number of Irish community centres in the Bronx and Yonkers to speak to the ‘undocumented Irish' and reported their situation to Minister for Foreign Affairs, Dermot Ahern.
Amongst the meetings in New York, I met Ms. Christine Quinn, the Speaker of the New York City Council, Mr. Marty Mack from the New York Governor's Office and Mr. Rohit Aggarwala from the Mayor's Long-Term Planning and Sustainability Office to discuss Mayor Bloomberg's plans for a greener New York. It was agreed that my Department would be in further contact with the Mayor's office on the issue of sustainable cities and that we would institute an ‘Exchange of Officials' programme to progress this initial link-up.
In Washington, I met with the European-American Business Council. This group comprises many large companies engaged in transatlantic business. The main purpose of this meeting was to portray Ireland as an excellent location for further expansion of these companies, particularly in the growing energy and telecommunications sectors.
On Capitol Hill, I met with Congressman Edward Markey who is Chairman of the Select Committee on Energy Independence and Global Warming. We agreed on further cooperation between both our offices to maximise our efforts on energy investment and efficiency.
In the telecoms area I met with Brian Thompson, a former member of the telecom advisory council who advised the Irish government on previous telecoms developments. I had a meeting with Mr. Richard Beaird of the State Department which focused on current issues in the telecommunications sector, including international broadband statistics, net neutrality and cyber security issues. I also met with Mr. John Kneuer of the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and we discussed current US policy on wireline, broadcasting and Next Generation Networks.
I also met with US Energy Secretary Mr. Sam Bodman to discuss US plans for negotiating a successor agreement to Kyoto in 2012.
I met with both Bob Nordhaus of the Van Ness Institute who specialises in federal electric, gas and environmental regulation and the John Podesta Centre for American Progress.
Both of these meetings, and indeed my entire visit, advanced the expressed purpose of my visit: namely, to learn from the experience of the United States in the areas under my portfolio and to strengthen ties between Ireland and the US in both directions on the issues of energy and telecommunications development.
Energy Policy.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:14 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the nature of communications he has had with union representatives in the ESB in recent weeks and months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23128/07]
I met with the ESB Group of Unions on 23rd July in relation to the energy policy objectives set out in the Programme for Government and the Energy Policy White Paper which impact on ESB.
In inviting the Unions to meet me, it was my intention to hear any concerns that they might have on the issues and to provide a clear outline of my own position and that of the Government.
I have made it clear to the Group of Unions that I am willing to discuss constructively any legitimate issues of concern that they may have. I intend to work closely and positively with the ESB Board, Management and staff in progressing the Government's stated energy policy objectives and in that context ensure a dynamic and viable future for ESB. I look forward to that process of engagement and to further meetings as appropriate with the Group of Unions.
Telecommunications Services.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:15 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has progressed plans for achieving the 100% broadband enablement of Ireland; if he has had contact with broadband service providers in this regard; the amount he estimates the 100% enablement will cost and through which method he will achieve and finance same; if there will be a public tender process; if he will implement a universal service obligation for broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23089/07]
Michael Creed
Ceist:19 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way he proposes to improve broadband availability to rural areas, at an affordable price. [17994/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 15 and 19 together.
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services by competing private sector service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
Broadband penetration has increased significantly in recent years. Penetration levels have increased to 698,000 subscribers which, by OECD measures, is the equivalent of 16.48% of the population. This compares to less than 1% in 2002.
As a result Ireland has improved its position internationally and Government action through provision of an optimal regulatory regime and targeted infrastructural investment will continue to support this performance.
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, the procurement process for a National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is under way. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met.
The first phase of the procurement process, the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) phase, is now complete and four candidates have pre-qualified. As my Department indicated on 2 September, the four candidates are, in alphabetical order, BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium, eircom Ltd, Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and IFA/Motorola Consortium.
The next phase of the procurement process involves inviting candidates to participate in a competitive dialogue process. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process.
The broadband product to be provided under the NBS will be broadly equivalent to the tariffs and products typically available on the Irish market. The most appropriate mechanism to achieve this aim will be decided during the competitive dialogue process.
Financial modelling has been undertaken to establish the estimated cost for the Scheme. I do not propose to make that figure public as knowledge of the estimated cost could influence the negotiation process.
Broadband connections are excluded from the Universal Service requirements. The implementation of such a requirement would be the responsibility of ComReg.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:16 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will direct ComReg to intervene directly on behalf of end users where service contracts or the universal service obligation have been broken and to ensure compliance by undertaking with the terms of those contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23062/07]
Ciaran Lynch
Ceist:24 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will bring forward measures to implement a statutory basis for notice of withdrawal to ensure that all operators provide at least thirty days prior notice for the withdrawal of electronic communications services or electronic communications product to an end user; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23078/07]
Ciaran Lynch
Ceist:68 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will direct ComReg to ensure that the universal service obligation for telecoms services is fully upheld and that no residential public service telephone network provision requests is not granted within a maximum three month time period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23079/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 16, 24 and 68 together.
I have no function in regulating the provision of services in the telecommunications market.
Primary responsibility for consumer protection falls within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the National Consumer Agency. A function of the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, is the investigation of complaints from consumers in relation to the supply of, and access to, electronic communications networks, electronic communications services and associated facilities.
ComReg also has an objective to promote the interests of users of these services within the European Community.
Under the EU Framework Regulations, ComReg shall, where appropriate, consult and cooperate with the Director of Consumer Affairs on matters of common interest in connection with the protection of consumer interests. I am informed by ComReg that discussions are ongoing between both parties at present with a view to the development of a memorandum of understanding on the matter.
ComReg, in consultation with the service providers, are examining the possibility of amending the conditions of the general authorisation of service providers in an effort to minimise disruption to consumers in the event of a service provider exiting the market.
The amendments being considered would include a minimum period of notice of service termination, which service providers must give, during which it would be their responsibility to work with ComReg to ensure that any disruption to customers is minimised.
ComReg have informed my Department that it plans to issue a direction concerning this matter to service providers by early next month.
Given ComReg's undertaking in this matter, I have no plans to bring forward measures to implement a statutory basis for notice of withdrawal of electronic communications services or any electronic communications product to an end user.
The regulation of Universal Service Obligations and quality of service is the responsibility of ComReg, in accordance with the requirements of the Universal Service and User's Rights Regulations 2003.
The principal obligation, in relation to access to a public telephone service, which Eircom has to fulfil as Universal Service Provider is:
To satisfy any reasonable request to provide at a fixed location connections to the public telephone network and access to publicly available telephone services.
Electricity Supply.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:17 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on ESRI warnings that electricity capacity is at a stage where forced shutdowns of ageing plants during winter peak demand could result in shortages; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23090/07]
The ESRI comment, originally contained in an article published last year, underlines the necessity to ensure adequate capacity margins on the generation system. The Government is committed to ensuring that electricity supply consistently meets the needs of Irish consumers and business. My Department liaises closely with the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which has key functions with regard to security of electricity supply, and with EirGrid as the independent Transmission System Operator. Reporting to the CER, EirGrid has responsibility for managing generation adequacy and monitoring generation capacity. EirGrid produces an annual Winter Outlook Report, which provides a rigorous analysis of Ireland's electricity generation capacity to meet expected demand over the peak winter months.
The Winter Outlook Report for this coming winter was published by EirGrid in August and business and enterprise organisations were briefed. Based on their analysis and on detailed contact with each of the power generators, EirGrid forecasts that electricity generating capacity will be sufficient to meet demand this winter. This is in line with EirGrid's previous medium-term generation adequacy forecasts.
The report assumes a peak demand this winter of 5,250 Mega Watts. This compares with the peak demand last winter of 5,035 Mega Watts. EirGrid calculates that generating capacity of 5,930 MW will be available. This includes the new 400 Mega Watt facility at Huntstown, which is now in service.
It is also expected that connected wind capacity will reach 900-1000 Mega Watts by year end, which will represent a very significant increase of over 25% of installed wind capacity since the start of the year.
As with any power generation system, it is not possible to give definitive guarantees that generation adequacy will always be maintained. By their nature, high level forced outages on the system cannot be predicted.
Plant outage, whether planned or unforeseen, must at all times be critically managed to maintain security of supply. EirGrid operates a range of demand control measures in place to assist in managing demand at peak times. These could include reducing demand by agreement with large users in the interests of ensuring domestic customer supply is maintained.
Our generating capacity must ensure an adequate margin between electricity supply and demand. Medium term capacity will be enhanced with the base-load plants currently under construction as well as the new electricity interconnectors scheduled for 2011 and 2012. The provision of new flexible plant and the continued strong growth in wind and other renewable energy is critical in that context.
Key imperatives for electricity supply and demand are energy efficiency and a diverse fuel mix. Radically improving energy efficiency and achieving the ambitious renewable energy target set by the Government will significantly enhance security of supply and ensure that demand itself is more sustainable.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Lucinda Creighton
Ceist:18 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to remove limits on the fixed price tariff for wind farms, biomass and anaerobic digester power plants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23119/07]
Section 39 of the Electricity Regulations Act 1999 permits the offering of financial guarantees to developers of new renewable energy powered electricity generating projects, to be selected in a competitive process. On foot of this process, the Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) programme is a fixed price support model designed to bring greater certainty to project developers. It includes a quantitative limit which delivers the competitive element required by the legislation. However, the REFIT rules also permit the extension of the total capacity supported from time to time. This discretion will be exercised to ensure that the support programme offers assistance to all qualifying projects submitted into REFIT which have already secured a connection offer and projects which receive a connection offer in the current Gate 2 connection offer programme.
This level of capacity and market interest are capable of assisting delivery of the 2010 renewable energy target of 15% contribution to electricity. I consider that there is an imperative to significantly increase both the scale and pace of development to ensure our 2020 target of 33% of renewable sourced electricity is achieved and indeed surpassed.
In order to maximise the scale of development from renewable energy resources and to deliver the 2020 target, I have already made clear my intention to extend REFIT to cover additional renewable technologies. These include the offshore energy resource both wind and ocean, additional biomass categories including cofiring at the peat stations and support for additional or hybrid technologies as they emerge from research and development programmes.
The REFIT programme is being kept under constant review and will be adapted as needed to ensure that it supports the accelerated development of indigenous renewable energy resources, through positive signals to the market. Renewable energy together with energy efficiency is key to lower carbon intensity in electricity generation, enhanced security of supply, fuel diversity and sustainability and overall competitiveness.
Question No. 19 answered with QuestionNo. 15.
Broadcasting Services.
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:20 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if arrangements have been agreed with RTÉ for the provision of RTÉ broadcasting in Great Britain in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22460/07]
Section 16 of the Broadcasting Authority Act 1960, as amended, requires RTÉ to provide a national television and radio service and permits RTÉ the discretion to provide "broadcasting services of a local, community or regional character". Section 28 of the Broadcasting Act 2001 expands this remit to the provision of a television and radio service to the whole of the island of Ireland.
Section 3 of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Act 2007, enacted and commenced in April of this year, further amends RTÉ's public service remit, requiring it to provide a television and radio service to Irish communities abroad, and stipulating that any such television service must be representative of the existing RTÉ One, RTÉ Two and TG4 channels.
Section 14 of the Broadcasting (Amendment) Act 2007 empowers RTÉ to utilise the public funding it receives in respect of television licence fee income in pursuance of this amended public service remit.
RTÉ's initial focus in fulfilling its new mandate is on ensuring the provision of a television service to Irish communities in Britain.
RTÉ is currently planning the establishment of an international channel for such a purpose and has an active group working on the project.
This group is currently exploring the various options available including the cost and availability of space on the broadcasting transmission platforms of third parties, and the cost and acquisition of certain rights associated with the broadcast of programmes outside of Ireland.
Upon completion of this process I expect that RTE will come forward with specific proposals to meet their mandate under section 3 of the 2007 Act.
Electricity Generation.
Joe Costello
Ceist:21 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on his policy to remove the transmission network from the ESB; if he will bring forward legislation to divest ownership of the ESB transmission network to Eirgrid; his proposed time-frame for carrying out this action; the way he will guarantee the objective of achieving lower prices for consumers through breaking up the ESB; his views on whether the splitting of the ESB is unnecessary for generating competition and that splitting the ESB will endanger the long-term energy security of the people here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23045/07]
The White Paper on Energy Policy and the Programme for Government endorse the case for a process of structural change in the electricity sector. The effective working of the all-island market, the competitiveness of energy costs, the interests of consumers and the economy require it. We need to create the conditions which will deliver more competition, real consumer choice and support greater innovation in the electricity market and the strategic development of the distribution and transmission networks.
The Government is committed to the transfer of the electricity transmission network assets from ESB to EirGrid establishing EirGrid Company by end 2008. EirGrid already manages the assets as a fully independent entity. Combining the ownership and operation of the transmission assets makes sense. It will ensure that the system operates transparently and effectively giving confidence to all market players. The present structure is complex and cumbersome and adds to costs. It creates additional overheads and transaction costs, duplication of skills and activities and the risk of blurred accountability. It also makes for more complex regulation.
The mechanisms to implement the transfer to EirGrid of ownership of the assets comprise a range of legislative, commercial, legal and financial dimensions. The detailed implementation process will involve my Department working with both ESB and EirGrid with the involvement, as necessary, by the CER.
I intend to bring the necessary legislation forward for Government approval over the coming months. The Bill will include provisions enabling EirGrid to own infrastructure and undertake any necessary borrowing. The legislation is also likely to include a range of amendments to existing electricity legislation to fully reflect the new arrangement. The advice of the Attorney General on the precise parameters of the legislation will determine the scoping of legislation.
In line with successive Partnership Agreements, there will be a full process of engagement with the Management and Unions of both ESB and EirGrid on implementation of the Government's policy decision. The process will also include engagement on legitimate concerns of the ESB's Employee Share Ownership Trust (ESOT).
The transfer of ownership of the transmission assets will be implemented in a way that ensures the future of both EirGrid and ESB as strong semi-State companies, as well as reflecting the position of the State and the ESOT as shareholders. There is no question of breaking up the ESB. The ESB Group will remain a strong, commercially viable and integrated entity after completion of this process. I have no doubt that the ESB has a vibrant future ahead. Given its prominence and central role in the Irish energy sector, ESB has a crucial contribution to make in the challenges ahead. It is equally the case that EirGrid, has a crucial national role to play in the new energy landscape.
Both ESB and EirGrid will be stronger and better placed strategically as a result of the Government's actions.
We will have a healthier more transparent energy market which will reinforce the benefits of the Single Electricity Market and encourage investment. Transparency in relation to access to the Grid and Transmission assets will attract more players into the market and encourage competition. Competition on its own is not necessarily a panacea for lower energy prices but a more competitive and transparent environment will benefit the energy sector and Irish business and the consumer.
The Energy Policy White Paper and the Programme for Government contain a range of actions to deliver energy security of supply and a low carbon future for Ireland. ESB, EirGrid and Bord Gais Eireann together with all the players in the energy sector have crucial contributions to make in the collective challenge to address security of supply, competitiveness and climate change.
Nuclear Power.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:22 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the increasingly pro-nuclear position that the EU is taking; his further views on the use of nuclear and the need for a debate on this issue; the Government position regarding importing electricity generated by nuclear power; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23092/07]
The Government considers that nuclear power is neither sustainable nor an answer to Ireland's energy needs irrespective of the position of a number of Member States. Our position is shared by several Member States and the EU Commission has made repeatedly clear that it is for Member States to determine their own energy mix. The President of the Commission Jose Barroso publicly restated this message on 1 October.
The Energy Policy Framework and the Programme for Government make it clear that the Government fully intends to maintain the statutory prohibition on nuclear generation in Ireland. My own position on the question of a debate on the nuclear issue has long been consistent. As with all aspects of energy policy, I have no difficulty with a debate on nuclear power set in the full context of an overall review of our energy use in transport, heating and power generation. In each of the three areas of energy use I believe we have the solutions, it is a matter of accelerating delivery of renewable energies and energy efficiency first and foremost. I believe a rational debate on our future energy options will help reconfirm this case.
The use of nuclear fission for the generation of electricity in Ireland is statutorily prohibited under Section 18(6) of the Electricity Regulation Act 1999. This prohibition does not, however, include the importation of electricity generated by nuclear energy. Legal advice received by my Department states that such a prohibition would be in breach of Article 28 of the EC Treaty, which prohibits quantitative restrictions on imports and all measures having equivalent effect between Member States.
I am therefore advised that a prohibition on the importation of electricity generated with the use of nuclear energy would be highly unlikely to have a legal justification even if it were technically feasible.
I am further advised that it is not technically possible to guarantee that electricity imported over an interconnector is not generated from nuclear sources as it is not physically possible to prevent the flow of nuclear generated electricity onto the network. Nor is it possible to distinguish the flow of electricity across interconnectors by reference to the original source of supply or generation.
Postal Services.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:23 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will issue a directive to ComReg to ensure that the postal universal service obligation is upheld and that the next day delivery rate target of 94% is met; if he has received information from ComReg or An Post regarding the conflicting accounts of the actual next day delivery rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23058/07]
Matters relating to quality and levels of postal service in An Post are a matter in the first instance for the management and board of the company and one in which I have no statutory function.
An Post operates within a regulatory framework as enshrined in EU and Irish law and therefore the universal service obligation is a statutory requirement for An Post, as the designated universal service provider. This is set out in Statutory Instrument 616 of 2002, the European Communities (Postal Services) Regulations.
The Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, in accordance with these regulations, is responsible for the monitoring, measurement and regulation of the postal sector including measuring the levels of service achieved by An Post and ensuring that the company abides by its statutory universal service obligations.
The regulations provide that ComReg may issue directions to An Post in relation to its obligations including quality of service targets. In the event that ComReg is of the belief that An Post, as universal service provider, is not in compliance with such a direction, it may, under the current regulatory framework, apply to the High Court requesting an order to direct An Post to comply with the direction. This Government, as set out clearly in the Programme for Government, wants to see much improved next day delivery rates. The Programme states also that ComReg should be empowered to impose financial penalties in the event that delivery targets are not met. I am currently considering the options available in this regard.
In regard to the methodology used to measure quality of service, I understand that An Post and ComReg are currently working together to ensure that a uniform methodology is used for this measurement.
Question No. 24 answered with QuestionNo. 16.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Michael Creed
Ceist:25 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the potential of energy crops, in particular wood and biomass, as an energy fuel; his strategy to promote growth in this sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23117/07]
The Programme for Government commits to the full implementation of the National Bioenergy Action Plan which will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by at least 2 million tonnes per annum and develop the potential for energy crops, including wood and biomass.
My colleague the Minister for Agriculture and Food also has responsibility for the development of energy crop potential and in this context introduced energy crop payments on top of the existing EU Energy Crops Pemium.
Services for People with Disabilities.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:26 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has received and reviewed the National Council for the Blind of Ireland’s general election manifesto for 2007; if he will bring forward measures to implement the NCBI’s recommendations to improve access to communications and information technology for persons who are blind or vision impaired; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23082/07]
I have received the National Council for the Blind's General Election manifesto for 2007.
My Department's Disability Sectoral Plan 2006–2009, under the Disability Act 2005, sets targets for improving the range of accessible services in the all sectors under its aegis including communications. The Plan will be reviewed every three years and amended, and updated as necessary.
The Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), in conjunction with the National Disability Forum, recently launched a Consumer Guide, "Phones and Broadband — A Guide for People with Disabilities and Older People". This guide is an initial output of a Forum on Services for People with Disabilities, which ComReg established last year as part of their commitment to my Department's Sectoral Plan. Under the European Communities (Electronic Communications Networks and Services) (Universal Service and Users' Rights) Regulations 2003, the Universal Service Provider is required to implement specific measures for disabled end-users. Responsibility for the enforcement of these regulations lies with ComReg.
Telecommunications Services.
James Reilly
Ceist:27 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when 100% broadband penetration will be achieved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23126/07]
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:32 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to review the national broadband scheme to include areas that to date can only access expensive and slow broadband with no competition in the same area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23087/07]
I propose to take questions 27 and 32 together.
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, the procurement process for a National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is under way. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met.
The first phase of the procurement process, the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) phase, is now complete and four candidates have pre-qualified. As my Department indicated on 2 September 2007, the four candidates are, in alphabetical order, BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium, eircom Ltd, Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and IFA/Motorola Consortium. The next phase of the procurement process involves inviting candidates to participate in a competitive dialogue process. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process.
EU State Aid regulations do not allow for State intervention into areas that are already served by a provider. However, any area that is only served by Satellite broadband will be covered by the NBS.
Natural Gas Grid.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:28 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there are plans to bring gas pipelines from Northern Ireland into the Border counties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22758/07]
Under the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is a statutory independent body, has been charged with all aspects of the assessment and licensing of prospective operators who wish to develop and/or operate a gas distribution system within the State. There are currently no plans to extend the natural gas pipeline from Northern Ireland into the border counties. However, I can advise the Deputy that in 2006 the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) directed Bord Gáis Éireann (BGÉ) to implement a new Gas Connections Policy, which allows for the appraisal of connecting new towns in relative proximity to the gas network, either on their own or as part of a regional group of towns.
Having regard to this new policy, BGÉ is carrying out a comprehensive review of towns being considered for connection to the national gas network. The review is being carried out in three Phases, with the final phase of the study, Phase 3, due to commence shortly. This phase is expected to take some 12 months to complete and it will include the following border counties; Cavan/Monaghan, Donegal and Leitrim. The final report is due to be published in late 2008 and it will outline what towns or groups of towns are economically viable for connection, within the revised connection policy criteria.
Telecommunications Services.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:29 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on reports that his Department is examining the way private-sector investment in broadband can be encouraged; the implications of same for Government intervention in the broadband market; his views on whether this is an admittance of the Government’s failure to implement broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23094/07]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to encourage a progressive shift to Next Generation Networks. My Department is currently preparing a draft policy paper that will review current communications infrastructure policy, and analyse policy options, in light of industry developments, in relation to the optimum role for the Government in the planning and rollout of next generation broadband.
A National Advisory Forum of telecoms experts will be established towards the end of the year to critically evaluate the policy options contained in the draft paper. The paper will be published thereafter.
Renewable Energy Resources.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:30 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the contribution for renewable energy resources including hydro power at less than 9% of gross electricity consumption in 2006 indicates very modest progress over the past ten years in the development of new renewable energy resources; the main reasons for such limited progress; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22760/07]
The development of renewable energy in the electricity sector represents significant challenges for the Government, the energy sector, investors and EirGrid and ESB Networks. I am giving priority to addressing the barriers and realising the opportunities in order to deliver on our ambitious targets.
Significant progress is being made. The installed capacity of renewable energy has more than doubled in the last three years. In 2004 electricity generated from wind exceeded that from hydro for the first time. Wind is now the dominant renewable energy technology.
The current Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) support programme will complete or surpass a target to increase the contribution of renewable powered electricity to 15% of consumption by 2010. It is estimated this will require installed capacity in the region of 1,650 megawatts (MWs). There are in excess of 1,000 MWs built and approximately 600 MWs already accepted into REFIT with planning permission and connections offers. When the Gate 2 connection process is completed in the coming months this latter figure is expected to more than double thereby delivering and most likely surpassing the 2010 target.
Telecommunications Services.
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:31 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the National Advisory Forum on Next Generation Networks; the regularity with which this forum will meet; the time-frame for publication of its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23060/07]
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:59 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he will bring forward to facilitate the progression of IP based next generation networks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23059/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 31 and 59 together.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to encourage a progressive shift to Next Generation Networks. My Department is currently preparing a draft policy paper that will review current communications infrastructure policy, and analyse policy options, in light of industry developments, in relation to the optimum role for the Government in the planning and rollout of next generation broadband.
A National Advisory Forum of telecoms experts will be established towards the end of the year to critically evaluate the policy options contained in the draft paper. The paper will published thereafter.
Question No. 32 answered with QuestionNo. 27
Anti-Poverty Strategy.
Jack Wall
Ceist:33 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will address the skyrocketing levels of fuel and energy poverty in society here; when he will publish the 2006 Fuel Poverty Action Research Project; his views on a formal mechanism to review utility prices on an ongoing basis in the context of fluctuating prices on global oil and gas markets and the harsh impact of utility prices on low income families and senior citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23050/07]
As stated in the White Paper on Energy Policy, the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion 2007-2016 sets the overall policy framework for tackling poverty and social inclusion up to 2016 and includes measures targeted at fuel poverty.
Within that overall framework the relevant Departments and Agencies as well as energy suppliers will continue to work together to systematically address Energy Efficiency and Affordability challenges through existing schemes and new measures as required.
The 2006 Fuel Poverty Action Research Project will be completed by the end of this year. This Project aims to improve energy efficiency in 300 houses in Cork and Donegal and will provide a detailed economic evaluation of the Warmer Homes scheme, with particular focus on household benefits taken in the form of reduced energy costs and improved health status. The report will be published early next year and the results will inform further initiatives.
The Statutory responsibility for the regulation of electricity and gas tariffs lies with the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), and includes a formal review process. As Minister, I have no function in setting, regulating or reviewing these tariffs.
Telecommunications Services.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:34 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the idea of an all island broadband system will be put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22759/07]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector in both the Republic of Ireland and in Northern Ireland. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by independent regulators.
Currently, there are no barriers preventing any service providers from entering either market, and many of the service providers operating in Northern Ireland are also operating in the Republic of Ireland.
Energy Conservation.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:35 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way progress on the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan will be monitored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23130/07]
There are over 60 actions identified in the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan 2007-2020, which I launched for public consultation on 3 October. A range of Departments and agencies are involved in the roll-out of the Action Plan which will be finalised and published following the consultation process. Delivering on our target of reducing energy demand across the economy by at least 20% by 2020, requires a fully integrated approach.
To ensure this coherent approach, I will establish a high level group comprising the key delivery Departments and agencies. The Group will oversee progress and report regularly on implementing the Action Plan and achievement of the national energy efficiency targets across all sectors.
Post Office Network.
Liz McManus
Ceist:36 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of postal units and their locations that have closed down since 1997 to date in 2007 broken down by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23043/07]
I have no function in this matter. Matters relating to post office closures are for the board and management of An Post.
As set out in Section 12(3) of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983 ‘the company shall have power to do anything which appears to it to be requisite, advantageous or incidental to, or which appears to it to facilitate, either directly or indirectly, the performance by it of its functions as specified in this Act or in its memorandum of association and is not inconsistent with any enactment for the time being in force.
Offshore Exploration.
Sean Sherlock
Ceist:37 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding plans for exploration of oil in the Porcupine Basin; the companies interested in this exploration; if he is satisfied that a full public consultation will take place; the safeguards put in place to ensure accountability in the tendering process for oil exploration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23081/07]
I recently launched a new Licensing Round in the Porcupine Basin inviting applications for exploration licence from interested parties. The closing date for applications is 18 December 2007. The Licensing Round offers the industry an opportunity to obtain exploration licences to invest in exploration activity in the Porcupine Basin which has recognised hydrocarbon bearing potential. The Round is an open competitive process that will be managed by my Department in accordance with best practice in public procurement and in which I have every confidence. By definition, I have no information on which companies are likely to apply.
The acreage now on offer in the Porcupine Basin covers unlicensed blocks in an area of approximately 63,500 square kilometres, in which there are currently four licensed operators. The area has been classified as frontier acreage because of the challenging environment of Ireland's Atlantic Margin.
In advance of decisions on the award of licences, a comprehensive Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) of the region is being undertaken by independent expert environmental consultants. As part of this process, a six week public consultation phase was held. The public consultation phase was publicised through notices in national and local newspapers. Notification was also sent to over one hundred stakeholder interests. During the week commencing 17 September, public consultation workshops were held in Dublin, Galway, Limerick and Bantry. All submissions received through the public consultation process are being considered by the independent consultants and will be addressed in the post consultation report on the SEA. Applicants under the Licensing Round are required to factor the findings of the SEA into their applications for licences.
Telecommunications Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:38 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to extend and improve broadband availability to the standards applicable throughout the Eurozone; if he has had further discussions with the service providers, the Regulator or others in regard to the need to meet international standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23144/07]
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:64 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason for the delay in the nationwide roll out of wired broadband to rural Ireland; Ireland’s present rating in international standards of wired broadband availability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22683/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 64 together.
The provision of telecommunications services, including wired broadband, is a matter for the service providers that provide wired broadband services. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. Difficulties surrounding the roll out of wired broadband services are a matter for Service Providers.
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, the procurement process for a National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is under way. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met.
The first phase of the procurement process, the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) phase, is now complete and four candidates have pre-qualified. As my Department indicated on 2 September 2007, the four candidates are, in alphabetical order, BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium, eircom Ltd, Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and IFA/Motorola Consortium. The next phase of the procurement process involves inviting candidates to participate in a competitive dialogue process. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process. There were 698,000 broadband subscribers in Ireland at end of quarter two of 2007 according to official figures from ComReg. This is equivalent to 16.48% of the population. At the start of 2005 only 3% of population had broadband and 6.76% of the population at the start of 2006.
Ireland has narrowed the gap behind the EU average dramatically. At the end of Q2 06 the EU-25 average was 14% and our rate was 8%. At the end of Q2 07, the EU-25 Average was 18.2% and our rate was at 16.48%. According to the latest OECD Broadband Statistics (end-Dec 2006), the strongest per-capita subscriber growth over the year came from Denmark, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Ireland. Each country added more than 5.8 subscribers per 100 inhabitants during 2006.
Proposed Legislation.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:39 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the Broadcasting Bill; when it will be published; his views on abolishing the RTÉ authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23083/07]
The draft general scheme of the Broadcasting Bill was submitted to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in September 2006 for the purposes of public consultation under the eConsultation initiative. The Joint Oireachtas Committee published its conclusions on the draft general scheme in April 2007.
It is proposed to publish the consequent Broadcasting Bill in early 2008 having considered the Joint Oireachtas Committee's conclusions on the outcome of the eConsultation process, with a view to ensuring the appropriate regulatory structure for the growth and development of public service, commercial and community broadcasting in Ireland.
Telecommunications Regulation.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:40 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the introduction of legislation to incorporate Regtel into ComReg in order to properly regulate the content, promotion and pricing information for all premium rate telecom services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23077/07]
Responsibility for the regulation of the content and promotion of premium rate telecommunications services, including subscription-based services, is a matter for the Regulator of Premium Rate Telecommunications Services (RegTel), an independent self-regulatory body.
RegTel does not report to me as Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. The area of consumer protection within which RegTel operates, falls mainly under the remit of my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and the National Consumer Agency.
If consumers are targeted by unsolicited electronic communications for direct marketing purposes, they should contact the Office of the Data Protection Commissioner, who has strong investigatory and prosecution powers in this area.
The Data Protection Commission is an independent State body, under the remit of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, which has responsibility for the implementation of the regulations controlling the sending of unsolicited electronic communications for direct marketing purposes.
It is now illegal within the EU to target individuals/natural persons by unsolicited means. Unsolicited communications for the purpose of direct marketing, with a limited exception covering existing customer relationships, is only allowed with prior consent.
EU Directive 2002/58/EC the Directive on Privacy and Electronic Communications, transposed into Irish Law on 6 November 2003 via the Electronic Communications (Electronic Communications Networks and Services)(Data Protection and Privacy) Regulations 2003 (S.I. 535 of 2003) provide for restrictions on unsolicited direct marketing by telephone, fax, automated calling systems, email, SMS and MMS. Monitoring compliance with and enforcement of the provisions of the regulations is a function of the Data Protection Commissioner.
Telecommunications Services.
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:41 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the review of the cost effectiveness and performance of the MANs will be completed and published; when he will decide on the progression of a further phase of the MANs; the amount a further phase of the MANs will cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23061/07]
My Department is continuing to undertake a Value for Money and Policy Review on Phase I of the Metropolitan Area Networks Programme. The review is being carried out in close co-operation with the Department of Finance. This Review, which is expected to be completed by the end of 2007, along with other policy analysis being undertaken at present, will help to inform my decisions on future investment in broadband infrastructure.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:42 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the tendering process for the State’s emergency call service; when it will be implemented; the amount it will cost; if there will be a period when some people may be left without this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23084/07]
The tender for the provision of the emergency call answering service was launched in September 2007. The closing date for the receipt of applications is the 7th December 2007.
It is not possible to provide details of the cost of the provision of the service at this stage. The tender requires a potential operator to detail the transition arrangements for the provision of the new service. Given the importance of this critical service the management of the transition will be carefully planned.
Telecommunications Security.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:43 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the security failure from Eircom regarding its 250,000 wi-fi customers; his further views on Ireland’s vulnerability to cyber terrorism; his plans to ensure Ireland’s information technology and communications infrastructure is secure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23091/07]
Security issues in relation to public communications networks provided by eircom and other service providers are matters in the first instance for the service providers who are regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).
A function of ComReg is the investigation of complaints from consumers in relation to the supply of, and access to, electronic communications networks, electronic communications services and associated facilities.
ComReg also has an objective to promote the interests of users of these services within the European Community.ComReg are required to take all reasonable measures which are aimed at achieving this objective including, inter alia, ensuring that the integrity and security of public communications networks are maintained.
My Department has been working with industry to launch a public awareness campaign in relation to Information Communications Technology (ICT) in the next few months. This will be an all Ireland campaign advising end users how to mitigate security risks when using computers and the Internet.
Telecommunications Sector.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:44 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the splitting up of Eircom in order to separate the wholesale network from the retail business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23132/07]
The provision of telecommunications services is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), the independent regulator.
I recently received a discussion paper from eircom on the communications sector in general which includes their proposals to separate its retail and wholesale arms which I am currently examining. After an in-depth and comprehensive examination of the eircom material, I will engage with eircom on any issues relevant to my Department. Any matters of a regulatory nature would be progressed between eircom and ComReg.
Broadcasting Services.
Mary Upton
Ceist:45 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will publish the Deloitte and Touche and William Fry report on the future of TG4; the way he envisages TG4 will be financed in the long term; the arrangements for the independence of TG4; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23057/07]
The Deloitte and Touche and William Fry report referred to by the Deputy, was prepared to aid the establishment of TG4 as an independent statutory body. It has always been the intention to publish the report at an appropriate time.
TG4 became an independent statutory body from 1 April last, a result of a Government decision taken in July 2006. A Project Management Group, chaired by my Department and comprised of representatives from the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, RTÉ and TG4, oversaw the process.
Given that the process has now been completed, arrangements are being made to publish the report. The report itself contains some commercially sensitive information that might not be published.
In relation to financing, TG4 will continue to receive public funds to finance its operations, along with the income it receives from advertising.
Biofuels Industry.
Mary Upton
Ceist:46 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will work with the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to address the continued decimation of the retail service station network across the country and ensure that this critical infrastructure remains an integral part of the key national infrastructure for energy security and also as a key driver of an expanding nationwide biofuels network; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23056/07]
Alan Shatter
Ceist:56 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to require biofuels used in transport to comply with a new environmental certification system looking at their impacts on biodiversity and the amount of carbon reduction they achieve; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23120/07]
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:60 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the measures he will introduce to improve the sustainability profile of the fuel transport sector here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23049/07]
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:61 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason the biofuels obligation will be delayed until 2009; the measures he will introduce in the interim to accelerate the level of biofuels in the fuel mix here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23052/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:186 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he proposes to take action to encourage the development of bio-fuels such as bio-ethanol and bio-diesel; if he proposes specific measures to encourage the growth of such crops in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23287/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 46, 56, 60, 61 and 186 together.
The Programme for Government commits to the development of an Irish biofuels industry and to the development and deployment of bio-energy generally in Ireland. In this context, the Government has announced its intention to introduce a Biofuels Obligation in 2009, which will require all fuel suppliers to ensure that biofuels represent a certain percentage of their annual fuel sales. Implementation of the obligation will require detailed consultation and development of appropriate legislation. Fuel suppliers will also require time to make the necessary logistical and supply adjustments to facilitate meeting their biofuels targets. The 2009 timeline reflects these requirements.
The obligation will build on the results of the 2005 and 2006, mineral oil tax relief schemes for biofuels, which saw a total of 18 projects being awarded excise relief between 2005 and 2010. The schemes, valued at over €200m aim to ensure that we reach an initial target of over 2% market penetration of biofuels by 2008. They were designed as interim measures to accelerate the level of biofuels in the fuel mix, in advance of the introduction of a biofuels obligation in 2009.
As a result of these schemes, biofuels are already being mainstreamed in blends of up to 5% at a number of existing petrol and diesel pumps, and higher blends are being sold to identified vehicle fleets.
One of the aims of the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax relief schemes and the Biofuels Obligation is to mainstream the availability of biofuels within the existing fuel station supply network and provide market players with long-term certainty and a stable investment climate. The Irish oil industry is fully privatised, liberalised and deregulated. There is free entry into and out of the market. There is no price control on oil products and this is to ensure that the market is fully competitive. Current trends in the petrol station network including the development and retention of individual retail units are a matter for the commercial companies themselves, I have no statutory function in the matter.
The biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief schemes are complemented by a range of other support measures including a 50% VRT relief on Flexible Fuel Vehicles, which are capable of running on blends of up to 85% ethanol in petrol, and a commitment in the Bioenergy Action Plan to the introduction of a minimum requirement for the use of biofuels in State owned and public transport vehicles. Grants for the conversion of diesel engine vehicles to use Pure Plant Oil (PPO) have also been made available by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) and the Department of Transport. The Department of Agriculture and Food has also introduced €6m energy crop "top-up" payment of €80 per hectare on top of the existing EU Energy Crops Premium of €45 per hectare.
As we move towards higher targets for biofuels, the issue of sustainable global development of Biofuels is coming increasingly into focus. It is expected that the European Commission's forthcoming renewable energy legislative proposals, will contain targets for biofuels market penetration, subject to the introduction of sustainability criteria and the coming on stream of second-generation biofuels.
Ireland's biofuels obligation will take account of EU sustainability initiatives in relation to biofuels and I intend to work very closely with my EU colleagues in addressing this highly complex challenge for biofuels policy.
Question No. 47 answered with QuestionNo. 7.
Energy Market.
Damien English
Ceist:48 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the preparedness of his Department and Ireland for the opening of the all-island energy market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23125/07]
Chris Andrews
Ceist:179 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on the progress of the single electricity market which is due to come on stream on 1 November 2007. [23218/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 48 and 179 together.
Preparations are fully in train for the establishment of the Single Electricity Market and actual market trials are underway by the industry North and South in the run-up to the actual commencement date for the market. The market is on track to ‘go-live' on 1 November 2007. A formal decision in that regard is to be taken by the two Regulatory Authorities North and South by mid October.
My Department officials are continuing to work intensively with their Northern Ireland counterparts in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Industry on the administrative matters that need to be finalised in advance of the ‘go-live' date. These include finalisation of the relevant commencement orders in relation to the respective primary legislation and conclusion of the formal appointment process of the Members of the statutory Single Electricity Market Committee. The Committee will have legal responsibility for the joint regulation of the Single Electricity market on behalf of the two regulatory authorities North and South. The Committee will comprise representatives of the two Regulatory Authorities as well as an Independent and Deputy Independent Member.
Postal Services.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:49 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he will introduce a system of postcodes; if he will publish the National Postcode Project Board’s feasibility study and cost-benefit analysis on the potential introduction of postcodes; if the report put a price tag of €80 to €90 million for the full implementation of postcodes; the amount of this that will be financed by the taxpayer; if there will be a general consultation process before a system of postcodes is introduced; the type of postcode system he favours; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23046/07]
A proposal on postcodes was brought to Government earlier this year. Before the project can proceed however, the Government decided that further analysis and quantification of the benefits of postcodes is required. The upfront cost of establishing a postcode address database, implementing and promoting the postcode has been estimated in the region of €15m. There would also be ongoing annual maintenance costs but these would be met from revenues generated by the postcode manager. As part of its work on the project, the National Postcode Project Board carried out an extensive consultation with stakeholders, both within the postal sector and outside it. In addition to this, a public consultation will also be held before a postcode system is introduced.
The commitment to introduce a postcode system in Ireland is contained in the programme for Government and I am currently considering the issues involved and the next steps.
Renewable Energy Resources.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:50 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will confirm comments by a senior advisor from Sustainable Energy Ireland that Ireland’s real target for renewable energy for electricity for 2020 is 6% rather than 33% as outlined in the Energy White Paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23047/07]
The Programme for Government reaffirms the Energy Policy White Paper target for Ireland of 33% of gross electricity consumption from renewable energy sources by 2020.
As was clarified at the time, the comment by an officer of Sustainable Energy Ireland earlier this year related to the contribution from renewable energy sources to overall energy use i.e. the electricity, heat and transport sectors.
In 2005 the contribution by renewable energy sources to gross electricity consumption was nearly 7%. For 2006 it is estimated to have reached over 8% and will increase further in 2007. We are well on track to achieve 15% of gross electricity consumption from renewable energy sources by 2010 and 33% by 2020.
Water Supply.
James Reilly
Ceist:51 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will undertake and fund a comprehensive survey and reclassification immediately of the potentially large clean aquifer in the area of the Nevitt, Lusk, County Dublin, in order to quantify and protect this potentially national water resource for the future needs of the extensive horticultural industry in the area and residential water supply going forward; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22311/07]
Groundwater resources are assessed by the Geological Survey of Ireland, a division of my Department, through their aquifer classification and groundwater vulnerability mapping. Groundwater in Ireland is protected under European Community and national legislation, and local authorities and the Environmental Protection Agency are responsible for enforcing this legislation.
The Geological Survey of Ireland undertook a major review of aquifer classifications across Ireland in 2002-2004, as part of the Water Framework Directive. All available data were carefully examined to arrive at the current aquifer classifications using considerable experience, knowledge and assessment of many data nationally according to a clear set of criteria.
The area around Nevitt, Lusk, County Dublin was part of this study. The quality and extent of the data used to classify the aquifer which includes the Nevitt area significantly exceeded the minimum data requirements of the classification criteria.
The data were re-examined, together with additional well information provided by the Nevitt-Lusk Action Group, in October 2006. This reassessment confirmed the existing aquifer classification. On the basis of the information currently available, the aquifer classification remains "locally important bedrock aquifer which is generally moderately productive (Lm)". This information has been made available to the relevant local authority and all other interested parties. Any further re-examination of the aquifer which includes the Nevitt, Lusk, County Dublin area would not necessarily lead to a reclassification.
Electricity Generation.
Jack Wall
Ceist:52 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will bring forward a microgeneration strategy in the context of figures that indicate that there are just 21 microgeneration units connected to the energy system here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23051/07]
Phil Hogan
Ceist:62 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way he will facilitate the introduction of net metering to allow consumers to sell electricity back into the grid from a renewable power supply that they possess while also taking power from the national grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23133/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52 and 62 together.
The programme for Government commits to developing Ireland's considerable potential for distributed generation, including micro-generation. In terms of international best practice we have a considerable distance to make up. The first step in implementing the programme for Government commitment, in relation to micro-generation, is the facilitation of a net metering system whereby local producers can sell surplus electricity they generate back to the grid. This will be made easier by the introduction of smart meters to all micro-generation sites.
My Department is working with Sustainable Energy Ireland, the Commission for Energy Regulation, ESB Networks and the Electro-Technical Council of Ireland, to put in place these and all other administrative, technical and safety standards and practices to underpin the widespread deployment of micro generation technologies.
Electricity Market.
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:53 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the stage discussions on the creation of a north west European electricity market are at; the estimated percentage of the market the ESB would hold in such a scenario; if this development would entail the incorporation of CER into a regional regulatory body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23048/07]
As a peripheral island energy market, Ireland fully supports the progressive integration of European markets and European energy networks. The Energy Policy White Paper underlines the Government's commitment to the progressive development of a regional electricity market with UK and North West Europe over the coming years The all-island Single Electricity Market from November this year and the East West Electricity Interconnector by 2012 are key steps in this development.
My Department, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) and the Transmission System Operator, EirGrid, along with their UK and French counterparts, are working towards the development of a regional electricity market, as part of the EU Commission's initiative to develop regional energy markets through ERGEG (European Regulators Group for Electricity and Gas).
The objective of the ERGEG Regional Initiative is to make concrete improvements in the development of a single energy market in Europe by first integrating national markets in electricity and gas into regional markets. This is achieved through the identification and removal of impediments to trade at a regional level.
The France, Ireland and UK electricity Regional Electricity Market initiative is led by the British Energy Regulator (Ofgem) and aims to integrate national markets in the three countries. The Irish authorities are actively participating through the Regional Coordination Committee and Stakeholder and Implementation Groups. Progress is being made in addressing the key priorities of congestion management and intra day trade, balancing and transparency issues.
Annual electricity consumption in France, Ireland and the UK is around 30% of the EU 25 electricity market. At present ESB has a total installed generation capacity of just over 60% of the generation market in Ireland. The CER /ESB Asset Strategy agreement, which includes an agreement for ESB to divest 1,300 MW of its existing capacity, in conjunction with the SEM, will ensure that ESB's share of the all-Island power generation market falls to approximately 40% by 2010
It is in this context that ESB Powergeneration will continue to compete in the island of Ireland and, eventually, as the regional energy markets progress, the wider single energy market in the EU. The scope for European-wide competition is determined also by the availability of physical interconnection between systems. Ireland endorses the priority being given to interconnection under the Energy Policy for Europe.
The European Commission published proposals for a third package of energy legislation on 19 September. As part of this package, the Commission proposes to establish an Agency for the Cooperation of National Energy Regulators (ACER), with relevant powers and duties, to complement National Regulators. This is a welcome initiative in terms of the high level principles and will support both the ERGEG Regional Market Initiative and the All-island Energy Market. The detail of the Commission's proposals is the subject of on-going discussions at EU level on the draft legislation.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:54 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for Bord na Móna and in particular its role in the growth of energy crops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23123/07]
The Government's objective for Bord na Móna is to ensure the long-term viability of the company having regard to the finite nature of its existing businesses. It was clear in 2005 that new strategic directions were needed to ensure a sustainable future for the company.
With Government approval, Bord na Móna is actively developing opportunities in the renewable energy, waste management and environmental solutions areas. Bord na Móna is pursuing the development of a waste management facility at Drehid, Co. Kildare, and progressing the co-fuelling of Edenderry Powerstation. In the context of developing opportunities in biomass the Company is carrying out trials on the potential for growing some energy crops including Miscanthus, on unused cutaway boglands in the midlands. The potential to utilise naturally occurring growth on bogland such as birch and willow is also being investigated.
Liz McManus
Ceist:55 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for the development of the Arklow wind bank; the time-frame for development; the current number of wind farms; the plans for further wind farms; the number of grid connections with wind farms; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23044/07]
The commercial development of a proposed large scale wind-farm on the Arklow Banks is primarily a matter for the project developers. A proposal for a smaller phase 1 project of 25 megawatts (MW) on the same site has been submitted into the offshore wind category of round 6 of the Alternative Energy Requirement support programme (AER 6), operated by my Department. Evaluation of applications in this category by my Department is currently ongoing which precludes me from commenting on the project.
Currently Ireland has over one thousand Megawatts of renewable capacity connected. This consists of approximately 793 MW of wind powered plant, 236 MW of hydro powered plant with the balance (c. 34 MW) made up of different biomass technologies. Grid connections are awarded by EirGrid and ESB Networks. The network operators are overseen by the Commission for Energy Regulation. Currently there is over 3,000 MW of renewable generation in the grid connection application process, the vast bulk of which is wind-powered technology.
The accelerated development of renewable energy technologies and the realisation of commercial projects both onshore and offshore will be critical to meeting our objectives for security of supply sustainability and a low carbon future.
Question No. 56 answered with QuestionNo. 46.
Electricity Generation.
Joe Costello
Ceist:57 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the plans in place to implement a policy of installing smart electricity meters in every home to allow households to manage their electricity use better; the amount this system would cost; the way he will implement same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23093/07]
In line with the Programme for Government commitment to ensure that the ESB installs smart electronic meters in every home, I have mandated my Department to work as a priority with the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), ESB Networks, and Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) to expedite a costed national smart meter roll-out programme, building on research and pilot projects to date as well as best international practice.
The issue of cost will be fully addressed in the context of developing and rolling out the national smart meter programme. It will factor in the real benefits which smart metering can deliver for consumers by allowing them to reduce their bills by cutting back on unnecessary use of electricity as well as the benefits which will accrue for the economy and society as a whole in terms of enhanced security and sustainability of energy supply.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:58 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for enhancing the development of the alternative energy sectors with particular reference to the need to meet internationally accepted targets towards the reduction of fossil fuels and less reliance on the use of carbon credits; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23143/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:190 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his preferred options for the development of the alternative energy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23291/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 58 and 190 together.
The Programme for Government commits to a range of measures included in the White Paper on Energy, which provides a comprehensive roadmap for the development of the energy sector. Alternative energy development is critical to addressing the key challenges of climate change, competitiveness and security of energy supply. The White Paper on Energy Policy supports the targets and strategic approach in the Bio Energy Action Plan with the objective of delivering a fully integrated approach to the sustainable use of bioenergy resources.
The Government has committed to ambitious but achievable targets and a range of policies and programmes to meet those goals are already firmly established. A series of renewable energy support programmes valued at over €400m have already been introduced and are designed to be accessible to all energy users, from householders, to community and voluntary groups, the commercial and industrial sector and renewable electricity producers. They will be backed up by support for investment in research and development into renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency initiatives.
We have increased the EU target for renewable energy sourced electricity from 13.2% to a national target of 15%, which will be delivered through the REFIT programme, and further increased the target to 33% of gross electricity consumption from renewable energy sources by 2020.
In Biofuels for transport, we have committed to a target of 5.75% by 2010, in keeping with the EU Biofuels Directive and to a further target of 10% by 2020 in line with current EU proposals. These targets will be delivered through a Biofuels Obligation which will be introduced in 2009. In the heat sector, targets of 5% and 12% market penetration by 2010 and 2020 respectively are being delivered through the successful Greener Homes, ReHeat and CHP grants programmes, as well as measures to encourage the growing and processing of energy crops. These targets have been established in advance of any EU targets or legislation in this area.
Renewable energy and energy efficiency are key priorities in the twin goal of reducing carbon emissions and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Question No. 59 answered with QuestionNo. 31.
Questions Nos. 60 and 61 answered with Question No. 46.
Question No. 62 answered with QuestionNo. 52.
Energy Resources.
Joan Burton
Ceist:63 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is confident that Ireland will meet renewable and climate change targets as set down in the Government’s energy plans; if he will report on those plans; the position in relation to same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23085/07]
I am confident we can meet the Renewable and Climate Change targets in the Government's White Paper on Energy Policy and the Programme for Government. The targets should not be seen as a limit on our ambitions but rather a baseline from which further progress can be achieved.
The Government has also set a national target of a 20% reduction in energy demand across the economy by 2020, including the electricity, transport and heating sectors. We have also set a specific national target of 33% improvement in the public sector in order to demonstrate its leadership and exemplar role.
I have launched the Energy Efficiency Action Plan for consultation. It demonstrates how Ireland proposes to achieve and exceed energy efficiency targets through a mixture of ongoing actions. Achievement of our targets will require integrated policy action across Departments and Agencies. Ultimately, success in this endeavour will help reduce our dependence on imported fossil fuels and increase Ireland's competitive position in the global economy, while contributing to a more sustainable future.
The REFIT support programme is capable of delivering and surpassing a target to increase the contribution of renewable powered electricity to 15% of consumption by 2010. It is estimated this will require installed capacity in the region of 1,650 megawatts (MW). There are in excess of 1,000 MW built and approximately 600 MW already accepted into Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) with planning permission and connections offers. When the Gate 2 connection process is completed in the coming months this latter figure is expected to more than double.
We have also set ambitious 2020 targets to further increase the contribution of renewable energy at that time as quantified in the following table.
|
Technology/Market |
Target 2010 |
Target 2020 |
|
Biomass including Biofuels |
5.75% |
10% general 30% co-firing |
|
Electricity |
15% |
33% |
|
Heat |
5% |
12% |
The challenges inherent in achieving these increased targets will require sustained delivery by all concerned. We will be regularly reviewing and reporting on progress in light of technological and other developments.
Question No. 64 answered with QuestionNo. 38.
Broadcasting Legislation.
Sean Sherlock
Ceist:65 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will issue a directive to the BCI to ensure that general campaigning advertising such as a campaign (details supplied) will not be subjected to censorship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23080/07]
The Oireachtas has decided, through various broadcasting legislation that broadcasters cannot accept advertisements which are directed towards any religious or political end or has any relation to any industrial dispute.
Section 9 of the General Advertising Code prepared by the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland under section 19(1)(b) of the Broadcasting Act, 2001 and published in April 2007 restates the prohibition on political advertising. The provisions of the General Advertising Code apply to all broadcasters licensed in the State. As an independent statutory body, I have no function in the matter.
Question No. 66 answered with QuestionNo. 7.
Telecommunications Services.
Pádraic McCormack
Ceist:67 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the recent State of the Net report which described the north west as a broadband black spot; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23121/07]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers. I have reviewed the recent State of the Net report. I note the report's findings that the north west is behind most of the rest of the country in broadband take up. A rural lag is generally a feature across the EU and beyond, due to the private sector being unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services in some rural areas.
My Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage, including providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme, the building of Metropolitan Area Networks and, more recently, the development of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS).
The NBS, for which the procurement process is underway, will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process.
Question No. 68 answered with QuestionNo. 16.
Broadcasting Legislation.
Shane McEntee
Ceist:69 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he will establish a unified broadcasting authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23124/07]
The draft general scheme of the Broadcasting Bill, which proposes the establishment of a single broadcasting content regulator to be known as the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, was submitted to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in September 2006 for the purposes of public consultation under the eConsultation initiative. The Joint Oireachtas Committee published its conclusions on the draft general scheme in April 2007.
It is proposed to publish the consequent Broadcasting Bill in early 2008 having considered the Joint Oireachtas Committee's conclusions on the outcome of the eConsultation process.
Architectural Heritage.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:70 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the reason the historic Swiss cottage in Cahir County Tipperary remains closed; when it will reopen; the costs of recent works carried out in the cottage and the adjacent bridge; the estimated loss of revenue to the area while the cottage remains closed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23167/07]
The Swiss Cottage remains closed as landscaping and ancillary works are ongoing. A formal re-opening will take place at the Swiss Cottage in March 2008 and the site will be open from mid March to mid October. Final accounts are not yet available as works are not completed. However, €295,450 has been spent to date on the repair to the bridge. This office is not in a position to evaluate the overall economic effects of its activities in any specific area.
Tax Code.
Niall Collins
Ceist:71 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if a stamp duty refund will be made to persons (details supplied) in County Kilkenny as soon as possible. [22474/07]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the persons in question purchased a site for the purposes of building a house thereon by way of deed dated 7 April 2006 They subsequently entered into a building agreement for the construction of the house.
Section 91A Stamp Duties Consolidation Act, 1999 grants exemption to new houses whose floor area does not exceed 125 square metres and where the purchaser has certified on the deed that they will use the house as their principal private residence from the effective date of the deed.
While the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government confirmed that the floor area of the house did not exceed 125 square metres, the deed of transfer did not contain a certificate to the effect that the house would be used as a principal private residence. As a result, stamp duty was charged at the rate applicable to an investor.
If the relevant certificate was omitted by mistake, the persons should contact the Revenue Commissioners and set out the full facts with a request to have the matter reviewed. However, if the house will not be used as a principal private residence by the persons in accordance with the legislation, there are no grounds on which a refund of stamp duty can be made.
Pension Provisions.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:72 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his plans to introduce additional relief for people on low incomes who wish to purchase back years of pension rights so as to incentivise such prudence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23215/07]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that pension schemes fall into two general categories, namely, occupational pension schemes such as a scheme provided by an employer for his/her employees, and other pension schemes, for example, for those employees who are not in an occupational pension scheme and the self employed. Under current tax law, an individual may claim tax relief on his/her contributions to a pension scheme up to the aggregate limits as set out below. Subject to a range of conditions, (which vary, for example as between occupational and other pensions schemes) and depending on timing, this relief may include additional contributions to purchase back-year pension rights.
|
Age |
Limits |
|
Under 30 years old |
15% of remuneration |
|
Up to and including 39 years |
20% of remuneration |
|
Up to and including 49 years |
25% of remuneration |
|
Up to and including 54 years |
30% of remuneration |
|
Up to and including 59 years |
35% of remuneration |
|
60 years or older |
40% of remuneration |
I have no plans to introduce additional relief in this area at this time.
Flood Relief.
Michael Creed
Ceist:73 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his Department has received a request for funding for flood relief at a location (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23235/07]
The Office of Public Works was approached in relation to the flood problem at the location referred to. This area is included in an in-depth study that is currently being carried out by the OPW in conjunction with Cork City and County Councils to assess the flood risk throughout the River Lee catchment and identify measures to address it. It is expected that options for mitigation measures will be available for consideration by the Local Authorities in mid-2008.
Tax Code.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:74 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if a refund of income tax is due in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23292/07]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they have no record of receiving a request for a refund of income tax from the individual concerned. However, if this person wishes to seek a refund, he should make a claim, with supporting documents, to the Revenue Commissioners, Kildare Revenue District, Grattan House, Lower Mount Street, Dublin 2.
Pharmacy Regulations.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:75 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will honour Clause 12 of the Pharmaceutical Contractors Committee of the IPU which supports consultation with the IPU. [23180/07]
Lucinda Creighton
Ceist:80 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the studies that were carried out by the Health Service Executive or her Department in advance of the announcement of cuts in the reimbursement to pharmacies for medicines dispensed under the GMS scheme to study the effect these cuts will have on the sustainability of community pharmacies; the outcome of such studies; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23205/07]
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:81 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the possible impact on each pharmacy of the Health Service Executive plans to reduce the drug reimbursement to pharmacists despite the fact that their real target is the pharmaceutical wholesalers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23220/07]
M. J. Nolan
Ceist:86 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene in the ongoing dispute between the Health Service Executive and IPU in relation to the proposed changes in the payment scheme to pharmacists for the delivery of its service to medical card patients; if her attention has been drawn to the impact this decision will have on the ability of pharmacists to negotiate terms for the supply of medicines with their wholesalers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23261/07]
Willie Penrose
Ceist:89 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that as a result of the unilateral decision by the Health Service Executive to reduce the price paid to pharmacists by the HSE for medicines dispensed to patients on the community drugs schemes, that as and from the 1 December 2007, it will no longer be viable for pharmacists to provide same on the medical card scheme to patients; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that from 1 December 2007, it will be uneconomical for pharmacists to dispense medicines which must be kept in a fridge such as insulin for diabetics; the way she plans to ensure that these patients continue to have access to their medicines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23275/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 75, 80, 81, 86 and 89 together.
My Department and the HSE have been reviewing the pharmaceutical supply chain, with a view to seeking value for money in the State's drugs bill in order to better fund existing and innovative therapies without compromising continuity of supply or patient safety. An HSE-led negotiating team, including officials from my Department, engaged with the Irish Pharmaceutical Healthcare Association (IPHA) and the Association of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers of Ireland (APMI), representing the proprietary and generic supplier representative bodies, and completed new agreements with these bodies in mid-2006. These agreements are in place.
As wholesale margins are not addressed in the new IPHA and APMI Agreements, it was intended to negotiate direct formal arrangements with the wholesale sector. Following completion of the manufacturer agreements, the negotiating team entered talks with the wholesaler representative body, the Pharmaceutical Distributors' Federation (PDF).
Early in discussions, PDF refused to negotiate a new margin for community supply, based on its own legal advice that this was a contractual matter between individual wholesalers and retailers. Subsequent legal advice to the HSE, confirmed by legal advice to my Department, indicated that, under section 4 of the 2002 Competition Act, PDF as an association of undertakings may not collectively negotiate fees, prices or margins on behalf of its members. Given the fact that the Irish Pharmaceutical Union (IPU) is also an association of undertakings, it is not possible for the State to negotiate with PDF or the IPU on fees or margins as such negotiations would place these bodies at risk of prosecution. Consultation with the IPU Pharmaceutical Contractors' Committee, under Clause 12 of the Community Pharmacy Contractor Agreement, in relation to fees, prices or margins, would also be excluded under Section 4 of the 2002 Competition Act.
In light of the legal position arising from the wholesaler legal advice, the negotiating team re-considered how best to address the review of pharmaceutical supply. Based on the legal advice, a consultation process accompanied by independent economic analysis was considered the most appropriate means to allow for the determination of new reimbursement arrangements. The consultation process involved direct discussion with wholesaler companies and a call for public submissions, published on 20th December 2006, in response to which a total of 161 submissions (including 143 from community pharmacy contractors) were received.
Following the completion of public consultation, and informed by independent economic analysis, carried out by Indecon Economic Consultants, new reimbursement arrangements were announced by the HSE on 17th September 2007. The new price arrangements involved revised rates for community and hospital supply, as follows: Community supply — reimbursement of cost of drugs and medicines to pharmacy contractors reduced from ex-factory price plus 17.66% for wholesale supply (previous mark-up), to ex-factory price plus 8% from 1st January 2008 and 7% from 1st January 2009 (new mark-up); Hospital supply — new interim mark-up of 5% for wholesale supply from 1st January 2008, with further discounts for efficient ordering and supply in that sector.
Community pharmacies are paid the ex-factory price of drugs and medicines, as determined under the IPHA and APMI agreements, plus a percentage mark-up to cover distribution costs by wholesalers. There is no direct arrangement between wholesalers and the HSE for community delivery, as the HSE does not buy medicines directly for the community schemes. In addition to the foregoing, community pharmacies are paid a dispensing fee per item for dispensing to GMS medical care patients, and a fee plus 50% mark-up on each item dispensed under the DPS and LTI schemes.
In its examination of the issues involved and in determining the new arrangements, the negotiating team considered a reimbursement level that reflects the market value of pharmaceutical wholesale services, and security and continuity of supply at current levels to patients. The evidence on which the decision is based, following examination of the issues, direct consultation and independent economic analysis, all indicates that the State is currently paying a premium for the services in question. It is possible and necessary for revised arrangements to be put in place without a substantial impact on the delivery of such services. Information available to the negotiating team indicates that small and rural pharmacies typically receive discounts of 2-3% on the existing wholesale markup, while larger urban pharmacies and chains typically receive discounts of up to 12%. Therefore, smaller and rural pharmacies would be proportionately less affected by the revised arrangements.
I would also point out that pharmacists' arrangements with wholesalers for the supply of drugs and medicines is a private commercial arrangement, and that the HSE's role is confined to setting the most appropriate reimbursement rates for pharmacies. The basis for the new reimbursement arrangements was set out in detail by the CEO, HSE on the 17th September 2007, including: a note on achieving better value for money in the supply of medicines, and a detailed presentation on reducing the cost of medicines.
I will arrange for copies of these documents to be forwarded to the deputies. The HSE also intends to publish the report of Indecon Consultants "Review of Pharmacy Wholesale Margins" as soon as concerns by wholesalers, regarding commercially sensitive information, have been addressed. The negotiating team met with the IPU on the 3rd October to discuss implementation issues arising from the recent announcement of new wholesaler arrangements, and in particular the position of wholesalers in relation to their pricing structures under the new arrangements. I understand that clarification has been received from each of the main wholesalers on their processes for compliance with the new arrangements.
In the light of the legal advice received, and following consultation with the IPU, a separate procedure was also agreed to examine available options for advancing contractual negotiations in compliance with Irish and EU competition law. This process is being chaired by Mr. Bill Shipsey, SC and is continuing.
Health Services.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:76 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will get an appointment for physiotherapy in Claremorris; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23183/07]
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 the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Health Service Staff.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:77 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children when a physiotherapist will be appointed to the D’Alton Home Claremorris; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23184/07]
Almost 130,000 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 number 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 the 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 to the Deputy.
National Treatment Purchase Fund.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:78 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients from County Kildare treated under the National Treatment Purchase Fund since its inception; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23191/07]
As the Deputy's question relates to the operation of the National Treatment Purchase Fund, my Department has asked the Chief Executive of the Fund to reply directly to the Deputy in relation to the information requested.
Medical Cards.
John Perry
Ceist:79 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of a medical card appeal for persons (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23200/07]
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 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 case raised by the Deputy. My Department has therefore requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Questions Nos. 80 and 81 answered with Question No. 75.
Health Services.
Michael Creed
Ceist:82 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) is waiting over twelve months for an MRI scan; and if she will expedite an appointment for same in view of the urgency of the matter. [23236/07]
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.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Michael Creed
Ceist:83 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the disproportionate capital value of land relative to its capacity to generate an income, she will abandon proposals to charge land owners for long-term hospital stay of their elderly relatives in a matter which is directly related to the capital value of the land rather than the income generated therefrom. [23237/07]
I assume the Deputy is referring to A Fair Deal, the new Nursing Home Support Scheme which is due to commence on 1 January 2008. The current system of nursing home support is not predictable or sustainable. People who need care face different costs depending on whether they are in public or private nursing homes. People in private nursing homes may qualify for a nursing home subvention but are otherwise required to meet the full costs of their care. Subventions are means-tested and take a person's income and assets into account. In particular, the means test imputes an income of 5% from housing assets, and effectively assumes people have a higher assessable income than they currently have.
Therefore, many people who do get support, as subvention payments cannot afford to pay the balance of their costs. As a result, people are sometimes forced to sell or mortgage their homes to pay for their care, or must rely on contributions from their family or friends. Many people do not receive any support from the State
The Fair Deal aims to remedy the above situation. Under the new scheme, a person will make a contribution towards their care costs and the State will meet the full balance of cost in homes approved for the purpose. This will ensure that long-term residential care is affordable for all who need it. The means assessment for the scheme will work out how much the applicant can contribute to the cost of their care by taking into account their income and assets. For the purposes of equity, it is important that the means assessment takes account of both types of means.
The immediate contribution by the applicant towards the cost of their care will be based on 80% of their assessable income, i.e. Old Age Pension, private pensions, etc. Depending on the amount of assessable income, there will also be a Deferred Contribution of up to 5% on the applicant's assets, such as their home. The contribution is deferred because it will not have to paid during the applicant's lifetime. Of course, the person can choose to pay the contribution on assets at the time of receiving care if they so wish. Under A Fair Deal, anyone who is assessed as needing long-term nursing care can apply for support under the scheme. The scheme is voluntary. Every person will make a fair contribution to the cost of their care, based on their means.
Health Services.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:84 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason transport is not provided to enable a person (details supplied) in County Galway to travel to and from Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23246/07]
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.
Pat Breen
Ceist:85 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason funding was withdrawn for services (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23253/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Question No. 86 answered with QuestionNo. 75.
National Treatment Purchase Fund.
M. J. Nolan
Ceist:87 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Carlow can avail of the treatment purchase scheme to have orthodontic treatment carried out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23262/07]
The Programme for Government contains a commitment that orthodontic cases can be referred to the National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) by creating an orthodontic fund to treat children who have been waiting the longest for treatment. Officials from my Department will examine the steps involved in advancing this issue while also having discussions with the National Treatment Purchase Fund.
Hospital Services.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:88 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if a specialist ward will be made available at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Dublin for cystic fibrosis sufferers. [23271/07]
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.
Question No. 89 answered with QuestionNo. 75.
Health Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:90 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) will be offered a long stay bed at Maynooth Community Care Unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23293/07]
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 the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:91 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when urgent home help will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23294/07]
The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
Pharmacy Regulations.
Eamon Scanlon
Ceist:92 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children when legislation will be enacted to allow chemists who trained outside of Ireland to operate chemist shops here. [23320/07]
The 2007 Pharmacy Act allows for the removal of the restriction on pharmacists educated in other EU or EEA countries owning, managing or supervising a pharmacy in Ireland that is less than three years old — the derogation under Article 2.2 of Council Directive 85/433/EEC. My motivation in removing this derogation was to facilitate the many Irish pharmacy graduates who, because of the shortage of pharmacy undergraduate places available in the State, went abroad to train. On their return these graduates found that they were at a disadvantage to their Irish trained colleagues in not being able to establish a new pharmacy business, having instead to confine themselves to ones which had already been in operation for at least 3 years, a situation that was clearly unfair and unsustainable.
The Pharmacy Act will be commenced in 3 stages. The 1st Stage of the process has put in place the Council of the new Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland, the 2nd Stage will put in place a new Registration regime for pharmacists and pharmacies, including offences and powers of investigation and the 3rd Stage will deal with complaints, inquires and discipline (Fitness to Practice Provisions). A three stage process allows flexibility in implementation dates, given the complexity and number of new policies and procedures that the new PSI Council must have in place to accommodate each stage.
In relation to the removal of the derogation, new policies and procedures must be in place before the second stage of implementation of the Act, including the removal of the derogation, can proceed. The second stage of the implementation of the Act will deal with the new procedures for registration of pharmacists and pharmacy businesses under Part 4 of the Act, the conditions for conduct of a retail pharmacy business, including 3 years post-registration experience for supervising pharmacists, Part 7 of the Act on the investigation of alleged offences, breaches of codes or professional misconduct, regulations for supervision of the sale and supply of medicinal products and, in the interest of public safety, new conditions for registration of pharmacists in terms of forensic and linguistic competency. Once these new policies and procedures and the new regulatory regime for pharmacists and pharmacy businesses, are put in place by the Council, it will be possible to revoke the 1962 Pharmacy Act and remove the derogation.
Road Network.
Michael Creed
Ceist:93 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has received a request for funding from County Cork Council for a project (details supplied); and if this project will proceed in 2008. [23233/07]
The provision or improvement of non-national roads in its area is a matter for Cork County Council to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State grants.
Cork County Council was allocated a total of €60,726,347 in non-national road grants in 2007. Included in this overall allocation is a grant of €100,000 towards Millstreet Relief Road. Progression of the project is a matter for theCouncil.
In August this year, local authorities were invited to submit applications for funding under the Specific Improvements Grant scheme in 2008. Among the applications received from Cork County Council was a submission for additional grant aid for Millstreet Relief Road. The 2008 non-national road grant allocations to local authorities will be announced early next year.
Michael Creed
Ceist:94 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has received funding regarding the construction of a bridge (details supplied) from Cork County Council; and if funding will be made available to proceed with this project in 2008. [23234/07]
The provision or improvement of non-national roads in its area is a matter for Cork County Council to be funded from its own resources supplemented by State grants. Cork County Council was allocated a total of €60,726,347 in non-national road grants in 2007. Included in this overall allocation is a grant of €200,000 towards Kanturk Relief Road and Bridge. Progression of the project is a matter for the Council.
In August this year, local authorities were invited to submit applications for funding under the Specific Improvements Grant scheme in 2008. Among the applications received from Cork County Council was a submission for additional grant aid for the Kanturk Relief Road and Bridge. The 2008 non-national road grant allocations to local authorities will be announced early next year.
Rail Network.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:95 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Transport his plans in place to replace the rolling stock on the Westport to Dublin line; when this will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23185/07]
John O'Mahony
Ceist:96 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Transport the reason the numbers of carriages have been reduced on the Westport to Dublin line on 30 September 2007 leading to overcrowding on this service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23186/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 95 and 96 together.
The replacement of rolling stock and the allocation of carriages is an operational matter for Iarnród Éireann and I have no role in relation to them. I have been informed by the company that they intend to introduce new rolling stock on the Dublin to Westport service during 2008 and that this will enable them to increase the daily frequency of service on the line from the current level of three services each way to five services each way.
Road Network.
Frank Feighan
Ceist:97 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Transport the plans in place and when is it envisaged the N61 from Roscommon to Boyle will be upgraded from a national secondary road to a national primary road. [23264/07]
I have no plans to reclassify the N61 as a national primary road.
Diplomatic Representation.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:98 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had contact with the American authorities regarding the recent violent death of a person (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the concern and interest which this case has generated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23242/07]
I am aware of the tragic death of the person referred to by the Deputy and would like to offer my sincere condolences to the family concerned. I raised the person's death in my meetings in Washington on 3 October with the US Secretary of State, Dr Condoleezza Rice, and with Senator Edward Kennedy, who is the Senator for the area in which she resided.
In addition, since receiving news of the tragedy, officials from my Department have been in direct contact with the US authorities in Dublin and in Washington to express the Government's interest in the case and to seek assurances that the circumstances surrounding the death will be fully investigated. Officials also attended the funeral wake in the Boston area.
The US authorities have informed us that they are in direct and ongoing contact with the family and that a detailed investigation has been ordered. I understand that this investigation may take quite some time to complete. I am assured that the family will be entitled to receive a copy of the findings once the investigation is concluded.
Question No. 99 withdrawn.
Employment Statistics.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:100 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of people of employed in the manufacturing industry in County Kildare in the years 1997 to 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23188/07]
The tabular statement below sets out the number of full time permanent jobs in manufacturing in Enterprise Agency (Enterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland) assisted firms in Co. Kildare for each of the years between 1997 and 2006. This data indicates an increase of nearly 3000 manufacturing jobs or 25% over the period. Kildare has in recent years attracted some world class manufacturing companies such as Intel, Braun, Oral-B and Hewlett Packard. These companies continue to invest in the area. This is reflected in the 2006 announcement by Hewlett-Packard Financial Services of the expansion of their EMEA headquarters in Leixlip. Similarly Intel announced in 2007 its plans to establish the Technology Research for Independent Living (TRIL) Centre in Ireland. Approximately $30 million will be invested in the TRIL Centre over a period of three years and Intel will collaborate with several leading Irish universities, including UCD, TCD and NUI Galway to create one of the largest research efforts of this type in the world. IDA Ireland is also working to attract the International Services, Software, Financial Services and Pharmaceuticals sectors.
The enterprise development agencies are committed to promoting Kildare as a location for investment as part of an integrated East Region, with access to a population base of 1.5 million people, as well as supporting and developing businesses already present in the county. In general, IDA Ireland's strategy for County Kildare is to:
Progress the development of a knowledge economy;
Encourage increased co-operation between foreign direct investment companies and third level institutions in the county; e.g University College Maynooth and the establishment of the Innovation Value Institute;
Work with the existing client base in the county to expand its presence;
Provide modern property solutions with supporting infrastructure;
Work with Local Authorities and relevant infrastructure providers to influence the delivery of appropriate infrastructure to the county.
In terms of job creation, Enterprise Ireland activity is focussed on the creation of new jobs through supporting entrepreneurs in manufacturing and internationally traded services companies who are setting up new High Potential Start-Up Companies, the retention and creation of new jobs in existing companies and in enhancing the innovation capability of Ireland at national and regional levels through supporting research in companies and third level institutions. Since the beginning of 2003, EI has approved over €12m in support to companies in Kildare to help them grow their sales and exports and improve innovation and new product development in order that they can compete on world markets.
New companies — now leaders in the consumer products market — have been established and have created new employment. The consumer foods sector in particular, has shown rapid growth in recent years. Over the last two years we have seen significant investment by Green Isle Foods and Dawn Farm Foods Ltd, both supported by Enterprise Ireland, leading to significant employment increases in both of these state of the art facilities.
|
Permanent Jobs |
1997 |
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
|
All Agencies |
12,003 |
12,017 |
12,184 |
14,050 |
13,707 |
14,090 |
14,186 |
14,473 |
14,864 |
14,960 |
Grocery Industry.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:101 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has assessed the impact of the abolition of the Groceries Order on the retail sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23189/07]
Following the enactment of the Competition (Amendment) Act 2006 which revoked the Restrictive Practices (Groceries) Order 1987, I asked the Competition Authority to review and monitor developments in the grocery sector in light of the new regulatory environment. Later this year the Authority intends to publish an analysis of developments in the sector focusing on pricing trends, market structures and barriers to entry.
During the debate that surrounded the removal of the Order I indicated that increased competition in the market should lead to prices being cheaper than they would be if the Order remained in place. CSO figures are consistent with this view, particularly when grocery price inflation is compared with overall inflation.
Sports Funding.
Tony Gregory
Ceist:102 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 554 of 26 September 2007, if he will arrange for the organisation in question to be furnished in writing with the decision of the ISC Eligibility Committee; the reason they were turned down; and the appeal procedure available to the organisation. [23238/07]
Tony Gregory
Ceist:103 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 554 of 26 September 2007, the name of the international sporting federation referred to. [23239/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 102 and 103 together.
The recommendation of the Eligibility Committee of the Irish Sports Council (ISC) must first be considered formally at a plenary meeting of the Council before it can inform the organisation in writing of its decision. It is expected that this recommendation will be discussed at the next meeting of the Irish Sports Council, which is scheduled for 16 October 2007. When a decision is taken, a letter will immediately issue to the organisation in question to inform it of the decision of the Eligibility Committee.
Eligibility is based on complying with a number of criteria and while there is no formal appeals mechanism, sports organisations may reapply if the situation has changed from their previous application and if, therefore, they consider themselves to be satisfying all the eligibility criteria. The international sporting federation referred to is the Federation Colombophile Internationale.
Social Welfare Benefits.
John Perry
Ceist:104 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason persons (details supplied) in County Sligo who are seeking mortgage relief payments were asked to submit a letter to the Health Service Executive from Sligo Borough Council explaining the reason they re-mortgaged their home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23201/07]
The Health Service Executive has stated that it has received an application for mortgage interest supplement from the persons concerned in respect of their residence which was re-mortgaged with a new mortgage provider in December 2006. The property was originally financed by a local authority loan. The Executive has advised that it has requested the persons concerned to provide documentation from the local authority stating the amount outstanding on the original mortgage, immediately prior to the transfer of the loan, so it can establish the correct entitlement. The requested documentation has not yet been received. The Community Welfare Officer (CWO) offered to provide an exceptional needs payment pending a decision on the claim, but this offer was refused.
The Supplementary Welfare Allowance (SWA) scheme, administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare Division of the Health Service Executive, provides for short-term weekly or monthly income support to eligible people who are unable to meet their mortgage interest repayments in respect of their sole place of residence. The supplement assists with the interest portion of the mortgage repayments only. In making a decision on entitlement, the Executive must be satisfied that the amount of mortgage interest payable by the claimant does not exceed such amount as the Executive considers reasonable to meet his or her residential needs.
Family Support Services.
Chris Andrews
Ceist:105 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on extending the household budget scheme to include people over 65; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23206/07]
The Household Budget scheme is available to all social welfare customers, including those aged over 65, who are paid by means of Electronic Information Transfer (EIT) at a post office. The Household Budget scheme is a free service operated by An Post and provides an easy-pay facility for such social welfare customers to pay household bills.
If the Deputy is aware of a person aged over 65 who wishes to avail of the Household Budget scheme, s/he should contact the Department and the necessary arrangements can be made for payment by EIT at a post office.
Social Welfare Fraud.
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:106 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his attention has been drawn to reports in a country (details supplied) that people from that State, are claiming child benefit both here and in that State; if he will carry out an investigation to ensure that this cannot occur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23249/07]
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:107 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the checks that are carried out to ensure that adults claiming child benefit for children either living here or in another EEA State are not claiming child benefit in another State; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23250/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 106 and 107 together.
I am not aware of the reports mentioned by the Deputy regarding Irish Child Benefit but I am aware of a recent report in the Daily Express, dated 24th September last, regarding UK Child Benefit. Claims for Child Benefit are only put into payment when all necessary documents including original birth certificates have been obtained and verified and enquiries regarding entitlement are confirmed by the other member state. Regular checks are carried out to ensure that those in receipt of benefit continue to be entitled to it. These include the use of mailshots and follow up Social Welfare Inspector visits as required. Child Benefit customers are also informed at the time of their claim, and in ongoing communications, of their obligation to inform the Department of any change in circumstances that may affect their entitlement to benefit.
EEA migrant workers in Ireland with entitlement to Child Benefit fall into one of two categories — those who have their families living with them in Ireland and those whose families reside in their home country. Applications for child benefit from EEA migrant workers who come to live in Ireland with their families are dealt with under domestic legislation. Entitlement is based on the applicant satisfying the Habitual Residency condition and the child being ordinarily resident in Ireland. Before Child Benefit is awarded, the Department confirms that the applicant or spouse is in insurable employment in Ireland and that the children are resident in the country. Employment status is confirmed with the employer or via the commencement of employment data held by the Department. The residency of the child is normally confirmed with the school the child is attending. If the child is not yet school age, the parent will be asked to provide confirmation from the family doctor or other nominated professional, of the child's residency in Ireland.
When the Department is satisfied that the qualifying conditions have been met, the claim is put into payment and a notification is sent to the EEA country where the family previously lived to inform them that the family now reside in Ireland and that Child Benefit is being paid here. The authorities in the other member state will then take any necessary action to regularise the customer's payments (if any) in that jurisdiction. EU regulations do allow for partial payment of Child Benefit from more than one State — where a top-up amount is paid by one State in addition to Benefit paid by the other one — so it is possible to receive Child Benefit payments legitimately from more than one State. However this would very rarely arise in the case of Poland as, due to the means-tested nature of the Child Benefit payments in that country, the entitlement from Ireland would almost invariably eliminate any entitlement in Poland. Migrant workers who are not EEA nationals are dealt with in the same manner as EEA nationals but the Child Benefit section also confirms if the person is registered with the Garda National Immigration Board (GNIB) as legally resident in Ireland.
EEA nationals who come to work in Ireland but whose family remain in their home country may have an entitlement to Family Benefits in Ireland under EU regulation 408/71. When an application is received from an EEA migrant worker whose family is resident in another member state, the Child Benefit Office contact the relevant authorities in the member state where the worker's family reside. The authorities are asked to verify details of children being claimed for, and any family benefits being paid in that country. This information is used to calculate the amount of Child Benefit to be paid to the customer. The payment issues either as a primary payment or a supplement top-up as appropriate and the relevant authority is notified of the Irish Child Benefit payment.
Regular periodic reviews are carried out to confirm that the claimant is still in employment and has entitlement to Irish Child Benefit. The Department is currently enhancing its IT systems under the Service Delivery Modernisation (SDM) programme to record the certification of non-Irish national customers in the terms of their residency and employment status as appropriate. This will further enhance the scheme control capabilities. These enhancements, coupled with the scheme review policy being drafted this year, will enable the Department to better focus control and review activity on selected segments or customer groupings as appropriate.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:108 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the categories in which his Department fund or part-fund courses for recipients of social welfare payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23311/07]
My Department assists and encourages the unemployed, particularly the long term unemployed, lone parents and other social welfare recipients to return to training or education through a range of measures administered by my Department's social and family support service.
These measures include the payment of income support through the back to education allowance scheme to customers who are undertaking a full-time course of education. The scheme is an educational opportunities scheme for unemployed people, lone parents and people with disabilities in receipt of particular payments from DSFA and its objective is to enhance the employability skills of vulnerable groups who are distant from the labour market
In addition my Department through its special projects funds provides funding to third parties to assist welfare recipients, as well as members of their families, improve their employability, personal and family situations through education, training and personal development courses. The fund is focused on assisting people most marginalised in social and economic terms and is operated in a manner that enables a quick response to any needs identified. The projects have given much help by way of intensive training, counselling and other supports to groups at risk of developing long-term welfare dependency. Groups who need special help of this type include the very long-term unemployed, travellers, people with literacy difficulties, lone parents, the long-term ill and people with disabilities. From January to December 2006, over 160 projects were funded at a total cost of €2.9 million.
The funding focuses on assisting people most marginalised in social and economic terms and gives much help by way of intensive training, counselling and other supports to groups at risk of developing long-term welfare dependency. Groups who need special help of this type include the very long-term unemployed, travellers, people with literacy difficulties, lone parents, the long-term ill and people with disabilities and their families.
The initiatives funded demonstrate the positive results of a partnership approach between my Department, the Voluntary and Community Sector and other local players in identifying and addressing local needs in terms of education, training and development.
Grant Payments.
Michael Lowry
Ceist:109 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a farm waste management grant will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for any delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23177/07]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme but did not comply with the deadlines for submitting applications under the Scheme and has therefore been deemed ineligible to participate in the Scheme. The applicant has been advised of his right to appeal the decision concerned to the Agriculture Appeals Office.
Michael Lowry
Ceist:110 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a farm waste management grant will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the reason for any delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23178/07]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme but did not comply with the deadlines for submitting applications under the Scheme and has therefore been deemed ineligible to participate in the Scheme. The applicant has been advised of his right to appeal the decision concerned to the Agriculture Appeals Office.
Michael Lowry
Ceist:111 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a single farm payment in respect of 2006 will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23179/07]
The person named submitted a 2006 National Reserve application under Categories A and B. Category A catered for farmers who inherited land or received land free of charge or for a nominal sum from a farmer who had retired or died by 16th May 2005 and who had leased out his/her holding to a third party during the reference period 2000-2002. The person named is not eligible for an allocation as the leased land has not been received free of charge or for a nominal amount.
Category B catered for farmers who commenced farming after 31 December 2002 or who commenced farming in 2002 but who did not receive any direct payments in respect of that scheme year. In addition, the 2006 National Reserve had provisions for New Entrants who were farming leased/rented land provided they could demonstrate a genuine commitment to farming. In this context the applicant must have declared the leased/rented land on the 2004 Area Aid application and on both the 2005 and 2006 Single Payment applications. The person named was deemed not eligible under this category as he only commenced farming in 2006 and therefore had not been leasing the land for the three requisite years, i.e. 2004, 2005 and 2006.
A letter outlining my Department's decision has issued to the person named and if he is dissatisfied, he now has the opportunity to appeal the decision to the Independent Appeals Committee setting out the facts and contentions on which he relies in support of his appeal. An appeals application is available from any of my Department's offices or on the Department's website at www.agriculture.gov.ie.
Questions Nos. 112 and 113 withdrawn.
Rural Development Programme.
Michael Creed
Ceist:114 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will make a statement regarding the use of funds by her Department from modulation; the amount of money collected each year under this measure; the projects that it funds; and the amount that is available directly to farmers. [23231/07]
Modulated funds of €225.5m are an integral part of the overall funding available for the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme. The total funding for this programme amounts to €5.778bn from three sources: EU co-funding €2.114bn, Modulation €0.225bn, Exchequer €3.439bn. The programme addresses three priorities, competitiveness, the environment and the wider rural economy, and encompasses the following main measures: REPS, compensatory allowances, early retirement, installation aid, farm modernisation. The funding provided for these farmer payment schemes took full account of the amount available from modulation and was agreed with the farm organisations in the social partnership agreement. The Programme was approved by the EU Commission in July of this year.
It should be noted that the Rural Development Programme includes only those measures that are co-funded by the EU. The National Development Plan includes additional measures which are funded entirely by the exchequer. The total value of the NDP agri-food package is €8.7 billion.
Departmental Staff.
Michael Creed
Ceist:115 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of staff working at her Department headquarters at Kildare Street; the number of these staff who have expressed an interest in relocation under the planned decentralisation programme to Portlaoise; the timeframe for this move; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23232/07]
There are currently 667 Department staff in Kildare Street. However not all of these staff are due to move to Portlaoise, e.g. the Animal Health and Welfare Division, and other posts, are due to move to the Department's new offices in Backweston. In total some 600 posts are due to move to Portlaoise. My Department's decentralisation programme has been underway since 2004 so most of those who initially expressed interest have since transferred. The Department's Decentralisation Implementation Plan allowed for a phased movement to Portlaoise, i.e. the transfer of functions and posts over a number of years, as outlined below.
|
Phase |
Target No. of Posts |
Status |
|
2005 |
50 |
Achieved |
|
2006 |
50 |
Achieved |
|
2007 |
50 |
In progress |
|
2008 (original estimate for new building completion) |
Balance (450) |
As the building is now scheduled for completion by the end of 2009 (revised OPW estimate), this will not be possible. Therefore a 2008 phase is now being prepared. |
In addition, to facilitate the decision to decentralise to Portlaoise, all new activity within the Department, particularly work relating to the Single Payment Scheme, is being focused in Portlaoise. There has also been a significant increase in the number of posts there. In total there has been an increase of some 200 full-time posts in Portlaoise to over 400 since the decentralisation programme began. To cater for the increase in staff numbers, the Department has taken temporary accommodation in Portlaoise.
Grant Payments.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:116 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position of an application for the 2007 area based payment in the name of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23247/07]
An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Schemes was received from the person named on the 3 May 2007. The application was selected for a ground eligibility and cross compliance inspection, during the course of which, errors were discovered with regard to the identification and registration of bovine animals. This resulted in a 1% cross compliance penalty being applied to the applicant's payments in accordance with the provisions of the relevant EU Regulations. The applications are now being processed for payment on this basis, with payments due to issue in the coming week.
The person named has been advised of his right of appeal, which may be done by contacting his Local Office. To date no such appeal has been lodged. He also has the right to appeal the outcome of any such review to the Agriculture Appeals Office.
State Examinations.
Jack Wall
Ceist:117 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Kildare has to pay six hundred euro for an assessment in relation to exemptions for their leaving certificate examinations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23181/07]
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations.
I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the Certificate Examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students. These applications include a range of pertinent information supporting the case including attainment tests undertaken by the school and relevant samples of the student's work. This documentation is examined by psychologists from the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) who make a recommendation as to whether an accommodation is warranted under conditions set out by the Commission. If such a determination is not possible from the material provided in this regard, the NEPS psychologist will seek to have it augmented or clarified and may visit the school to undertake relevant observation and tests of the student up to and including full assessment.
There is no imperative for an assessment to be undertaken prior to submission of an application for an exemption in the Leaving Certificate examination. For the Deputy's information, I have been informed by the State Examinations Commission that an application for an exemption has not been received by the Commission in relation to the student in question.
Site Acquisitions.
John Curran
Ceist:118 Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the acquisition of a site for a replacement school for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin. [23194/07]
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:126 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding advertisements placed on behalf of her Department by the Office of Public Works calling for proposals from landowners for sites for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin ; if proposals were received; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23255/07]
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:127 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has considered making a request to South Dublin County Council to initiate compulsory purchase procedures in respect of a site for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23256/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 118, 126 and 127 together.
The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works, which generally acts on behalf of the Department in relation to site acquisitions, was asked to source a site for the school to which the Deputies refer. 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 at this time.
John Curran
Ceist:119 Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress on her Department's efforts to secure a new site and school building for a school (details supplied) in County Dublin. [23195/07]
The Department has acknowledged the need to relocate the existing primary school referred to by the Deputy to a green-field site. The acquisition of a site for this development is being actively pursued with South Dublin County Council and the relevant landowners. When this matter has been finalised, progress on the proposed project can be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Special Educational Needs.
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:120 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of applications by ABA schools for recognition within her Department; the number of ABA schools funded by her Department; the number of centres within the ABA pilot scheme; when she anticipates a decision on the pilot schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23196/07]
The scheme to which the Deputy refers is an Applied Behavioural Analysis (ABA) pilot scheme which is funded by my Department. My Department has received 12 applications for inclusion in this scheme.
With regard to specific provision for children with autism, the Government believes that as each child with autism is unique; such children should have access to a range of different interventions to meet their individual needs. ABA is one of the methodologies used in special classes for children with autism.
Advice received from international experts on autism, the National Educational Psychological Service and the inspectorate inform the Department of Education and Science's view that a range of approaches should be used, rather than just one. An analysis of research, including the report of the Irish Task Force on Autism, also supports this approach, and autism societies in other countries also caution against relying on just one intervention. By enabling children in special classes to have access to a range of methodologies, including ABA, the Government is doing what we are advised is in the best interests of such children.
The use of ABA as part of the range of interventions is particularly useful for addressing behavioural issues. My Department therefore supports the use of ABA and training is provided for teachers in its use. It is important that children have access to a range of methods so their broader needs can be met. Whereas ABA helps to improve behaviour, other interventions, such as TEACCH and PECS, are important in developing children's communication skills.
Children in special classes have the benefit of fully-qualified teachers trained in educating and developing children generally and who have access to additional training in autism-specific approaches, including ABA. The level of such training available to teachers has significantly improved in recent years and is a major priority for the Government. Children in special classes also have the option, where possible and appropriate, of full or partial integration into mainstream classes and of interaction with other pupils.
In excess of 265 autism-specific classes have now been approved around the country at primary and post primary level and the National Council for Special Education will continue to establish more such classes where the need arises. At primary level there are a maximum of six children in each special class with a teacher and at least two special needs assistants (SNAs). Extra assistants are provided where the children need them. An individual child can have access to full-time support from an individual SNA if he or she needs one. The scheme referred to by the Deputy was established in the absence of this network of special classes in our schools. She will be aware that the Programme for Government commits to the long-term funding for the twelve centres that are currently in the ABA pilot scheme subject to agreement with my Department on standards that will enable the Department to support them as primary schools for children with autism. I am pleased to advise that the issue is being actively progressed.
In terms of autism provision in other locations, we will continue to work to ensure that all children can have access to a broad programme, with provision for ABA as appropriate, in special classes.
Chris Andrews
Ceist:121 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason it has taken until now for a reply to be communicated to the principal of a school (details supplied) in relation to special educational needs resources; and if these 24 children are to be denied their special educational needs resources that they are legally entitled to. [23208/07]
As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers, for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. I understand that the National Council for Special Education received a number of applications for resource teaching support from the school referred to by the Deputy, the extent of which required further consideration in view of the level of resources already allocated to the school. The National Council for Special Education will liaise with the school in order to progress the matter.
Schools Refurbishment.
Michael Ring
Ceist:122 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if there is progress on the provision of funding towards new facilities for a primary school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [23219/07]
The school referred to by the Deputy originally applied for an extension and refurbishment to provide for improved ancillary accommodation, such as a General Purpose Room, a Multi-purpose/Staff Room, a Remedial Room and a General Office. The project proposed did not include additional mainstream classrooms and having regard to competing demands on the building programme the application was not progressed further.
An application was received from the school in question under the Small Schools Scheme 2007 for additional accommodation including mainstream classrooms. Earlier this year, 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 make an application for funding towards additional accommodation/refurbishment under the Major Capital Programme in relation to the provision of mainstream accommodation. The application form may be downloaded from the Department's website.
Special Educational Needs.
Eamon Scanlon
Ceist:123 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Sligo can not be awarded the full rate for giving home tuition to a child with special needs. [23221/07]
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.
Further detail on the tutor in question is required to establish the applicable rate of payment. Officials in my department are communicating directly with the Deputy's office in this regard.
School Transport.
Niall Collins
Ceist:124 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Limerick; and when the issue will be resolved. [23229/07]
Under the terms of my Department's Post Primary School Transport Scheme, a pupil is eligible for transport if s/he resides 4.8 kilometres or more from her/his local post primary education centre.
The scheme is not designed to facilitate parents who choose to send their children to a post-primary centre outside of the catchment area in which they reside. However, children who are fully eligible for transport to the post-primary centre in the catchment area in which they reside, may apply for transport on a concessionary basis to a post-primary centre outside of their own catchment area — otherwise known as catchment boundary transport. These children can only be facilitated if spare seats are available on the bus after all other eligible children travelling to their local post-primary centre have been catered for. Such children have to make their own way to the nearest pick up point within that catchment area.
The Transport Liaison Officer for Co. Limerick and Bus Éireann have advised that the transport service under the school transport scheme is operating to capacity. The families in question should continue to liaise with Bus Éireann regarding the availability of catchment boundary seats in the future.
Schools Building Projects.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:125 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the fact that the State has completed the purchase of a site (details supplied) she will appoint a design team; her timetable for the projects construction; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23252/07]
The Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions, has secured a site for the provision of a new school. The building programme required to deliver the new school building will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Questions Nos. 126 and 127 answered with Question No. 118.
Pat Breen
Ceist:128 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a school (details supplied) in County Clare that was lodged with her Department in early February 2005; if the school Planning Section have authorised a technical inspection of the school and a date as to when her Department will grant this extension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [23279/07]
An application for capital funding towards the provision of an extension has been received from the school authority referred to by the Deputy. An assessment of projected enrolment trends, demographic trends and housing developments in the area is currently underway in order to determine the long term projected staffing figure on which the school's accommodation needs will be based.
Once the long term projection has been determined and agreed with the school authorities, the building project will be considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
Irish Language.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:129 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether there is a need to repeal or amend Section 3 of the Legal Practitioners (Qualification) Act 1929; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23174/07]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 294 of 10 October 2007.
Residency Permits.
Joe Costello
Ceist:130 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23175/07]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that following a review of the application for residence in the State based on EU Treaty Rights a decision has recently issued to the person concerned.
The person concerned did not meet the criteria for eligibility for residence in the State in accordance with Regulation 3(2) SI 656/2006 European Communities ( Free Movement of Persons) No.2, Regulations 2006. In order to avail of rights of residence in the State under the Regulations, applicants must submit evidence showing lawful residence in another EU Member State prior to arrival in Ireland. The vires of this Regulation was recently upheld in the High Court. The matter is under appeal to the Supreme Court.
Although the applicant is not eligible under the above Regulations for residence in the State, Stamp 4 conditions have been granted for a two year period to the person concerned.
Stamp 4 conditions entitle the person concerned to take up employment without the need for a work permit and to set up a business without the need for permission from the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Refugee Status.
Joe Costello
Ceist:131 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the application for refugee status for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23176/07]
It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications.
As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
Closed Circuit Television Systems.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:132 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of towns in County Kildare included in the closed circuit television scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23192/07]
CCTV systems are an important support to policing in ensuring public safety and can act as a useful deterrent to crime and public disorder. As the Deputy is aware, the Community-based CCTV Scheme was put in place in June 2005 in response to a demonstrated demand from local communities across Ireland for 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 operates at two levels: initial funding for the assessment of needs and substantive funding for fully developed proposals. Matching funding for RAPID areas is available from the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
I have been informed by Pobal who are engaged to administer the Scheme on behalf of my Department, that to date, three local groups from County Kildare (Athy Town Council, Maynooth Business Association and Rathangan Community Alert Group) have applied for and been granted funding under the scheme.
It is intended to invite applications for funding under the Community-based CCTV Scheme on a periodic basis and it is open to any group from County Kildare or other counties to submit an application for funding. Further details of the scheme and the relevant documentation are available on my Department's website (www.justice.ie) or on Pobal's website (www.pobal.ie).
Visa Applications.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:133 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date with regard to an application for visa extension in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23210/07]
The person concerned was granted permission to remain, however I understand that the Immigration Division of my Department are currently reviewing the case. They will be in touch with the person in question shortly.
Citizenship Applications.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:134 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress to date in the application for naturalisation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23211/07]
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 in February 2005.
Officials in that Section inform me that processing of the application has commenced and further documentation requested from the applicant has been received. It is likely, therefore, that the application will be submitted to me for a decision in the coming months.
I will inform the Deputy of the outcome of this application.
Garda Reserve.
John Curran
Ceist:135 Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda Reserves who have been assigned to Clondalkin Garda Station, Dublin 22; if there are further plans to assign more; the details on their daily duties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23212/07]
There are currently two attested Reserve Gardaí attached to Clondalkin Garda Station. Recruitment for the Garda Reserve is ongoing and when additional resources become available, consideration will be given to the assignment of further Garda Reserve personnel to Clondalkin District.
The Garda Commissioner has initially determined that the duties of a Garda reserve member shall include the following:
Station duty, other than the care and custody of prisoners.
Assistant to the station orderly.
Communications room duty, to include monitoring CCTV.
Foot patrol, accompanied by a member of the full-time Garda service.
Static security duty.
Road Traffic checkpoint duties, accompanied by a full time member.
Duty at the outer cordon of major events such as festivals and major sporting events.
Assisting in the event of accidents, fires and major emergencies.
Giving evidence in court.
Community / Neighbourhood Policing.
John Curran
Ceist:136 Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda Reserves who have been assigned to Lucan Garda Station, County Dublin; if there are further plans to assign more; and the details of their daily duties as Garda Reserves. [23213/07]
There are currently two attested Reserve Gardaí attached to Lucan Garda Station. There is also one Garda Reserve student on Phase 4 training who is due to be fully qualified and operational in Lucan Garda Station by 20th October 2007. Recruitment for the Garda Reserve is ongoing and when additional resources become available, consideration will be given to the assignment of further Garda Reserve personnel to Lucan District.
The Garda Commissioner has initially determined that the duties of a Garda reserve member shall include the following:
Station duty, other than the care and custody of prisoners.
Assistant to the station orderly.
Communications room duty, to include monitoring CCTV.
Foot patrol, accompanied by a member of the full-time Garda service.
Static security duty.
Road Traffic checkpoint duties, accompanied by a full time member.
Duty at the outer cordon of major events such as festivals and major sporting events.
Assisting in the event of accidents, fires and major emergencies.
Giving evidence in court.
Community / Neighbourhood Policing.
Garda Deployment.
John Curran
Ceist:137 Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí added to the force in Ronanstown Garda Station, Dublin 22, in the years 2005, 2006 and to date in 2007. [23214/07]
As of 31 August 2007, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the number of gardaí assigned to Ronanstown Garda Station was 81 (all ranks). The personnel strength at year end for 2005 and 2006 was 92 and 88 (all ranks) respectively. The substantive decrease in personnel in this Garda station is due to the realignment of the area which the Station patrols.
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. It is the responsibility of the Garda Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his or her Division taking everything into account.
The situation will be kept under review by the Garda Commissioner and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Ronanstown Garda Station will be fully considered by him within the overall context of the needs of Garda Divisions throughout the country.
Visa Applications.
Eamon Scanlon
Ceist:138 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision is expected to be made on the visa application of a person (details supplied) in County Sligo. [23222/07]
The Immigration Division of my Department issued a letter to the person concerned in September 2007 requesting documentation.
The application will be further processed upon receipt of these documents.
Garda Investigations.
Charlie O'Connor
Ceist:139 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has offered additional resources to An Garda Síochána in respect of the investigation of a double murder (details supplied) on 5 October 2007; the contacts with the Garda Commissioner in the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23243/07]
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that he is satisfied that sufficient resources are available to the Senior Investigation Officer. The incident referred to is under investigation at Crumlin Garda Station and a number of lines of inquiry are being pursued by the Investigation Team, assisted by other specialist Garda Units, as required.
Compensation Payments.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:140 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if action will be taken to resolve the case of a person (details supplied). [23244/07]
As the Deputy has been informed previously, this matter has been through the courts and a conviction recorded. The court also ordered compensation to be paid, and I understand this was done. As the Deputy is aware, the courts are, subject only to the Constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions, and it is not open to me to comment or intervene in any way on the conduct or decision of any individual court case, which is entirely a matter for the presiding judge.
As the Deputy is also aware, a meeting was held between the person referred to and the previous Minister to discuss the circumstances which led to him commencing his hunger strike.
Garda Operations.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:141 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is a proper safety and security plan in place when clubs (details supplied) meet. [23245/07]
Policing arrangements for public events are a matter for the Garda Commissioner.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that, as with all major sporting events, an operational plan is put in place both inside and around the grounds when the clubs referred to meet. Consultations are held between the clubs, event controllers and the Gardaí, and a full risk assessment is carried out. A segregation plan is put in place both inside and outside the grounds. The Garda authorities work closely with others to avoid as much disruption as possible for residents in the immediate area and the surrounding community.
Significant Garda resources, including uniform patrols, public order units and specialist services are deployed at these events.
Citizenship Applications.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:142 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for naturalisation from a person (details supplied) in County Louth will be complete; the average time for processing naturalisation applications; the measures being introduced to expedite the processing of such applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23263/07]
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 in March 2007.
Officials in that Section are currently processing applications received at the beginning of 2005 and have approximately 13,700 applications on hand to be dealt with before that of the person in question. These are generally dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. There is nothing contained in the Deputy's Question that would warrant taking this application out of sequence and treating it expeditiously.
It is likely, therefore, that further processing of the application will commence in the second half of 2009. I will inform the Deputy when a decision is reached on this application.
Deportation Orders.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:143 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) is being deported; if he will review the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23273/07]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 6 July 2005 and was granted temporary permission to remain until 15 July 2005. He remained in the State beyond that date and failed to register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau as he was required to do. He has therefore been illegally present in the State since 15 July 2005.
The person concerned signed a consent to deportation form on 23 January 2007 which was witnessed by a member of An Garda Síochána. A request was then made to my Department by An Garda Síochána requesting the making of a deportation order.
On receipt of this request, the case of the person concerned was examined under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 on the Prohibition of Refoulement. On 1 May 2007, my predecessor refused temporary leave to remain in the State and signed a deportation order in respect of him. Notice of this order was served by registered post requiring him to present himself to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB), 13/14 Burgh Quay, Dublin 2, on 29 May 2007, in order to make travel arrangements for his deportation from the State. The person concerned failed to present himself as required and was classified as evading his deportation. In the meantime he has resumed contact with the Gardaí and is due to present himself to the GNIB on 15 October 2007. The effect of the deportation order is that the person concerned must leave the State and remain thereafter outside the State. The enforcement of the deportation order is now an operational matter for the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
Visa Applications.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:144 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the procedure for a person who is the father of an Irish new born child to re-enter the country on a holiday visa following deportation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23274/07]
In instances where a deportation order has been executed, it would be the general policy of my Department not to grant a visa to such a person. However it is open to an individual who wishes to re-enter the country, to write to my office detailing why they consider the deportation order should be revoked.
Citizenship Applications.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:145 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for citizenship by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be processed; if his attention has been drawn to fact that additional information by way of letter dated 27 August 2007 has been sent to his Department; if he will take steps to have this application expedited and have the applicant's original passport returned to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23276/07]
Officials in the Citizenship Section of my Department inform me that having checked their records, no trace of an application for a certificate of naturalisation for the person referred to in the Deputy's Question can be found.
Refugee Status.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:146 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if and when travel documentation, green stamp or other documentation will be returned to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23295/07]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that officials from my Department returned the document in question to the individual concerned on 9th October, 2007.
Deportation Orders.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:147 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will arrange for return of travel documentation and stamp four restoration in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23296/07]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 957 of Wednesday, 26 September, 2007 and the written reply to that Question. The status of the person concerned remains as set out in that reply.
Citizenship Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:148 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he expects a decision to issue in the application for citizenship in the case of persons (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23297/07]
Applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's Question were received from the Citizenship Section of my Department in August 2005.
Officials in that Section inform me that processing of the applications has commenced and the files will be forwarded to me for a decision in the near future. I will inform the Deputy of the outcome of the applications.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:149 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 947 of 26 September 2007, if he will arrange for the restoration of stamp four status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23298/07]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 947 of Wednesday, 26 September, 2007 and the written reply to that Question.
As outlined in my previous response to the Deputy, the person in question has submitted Representations under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999, as amended. I expect the file to be submitted to me for decision in due course.
Refugee Status.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:150 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the Refugee Applications Commissioner who examined the application for refugee status in the case of a person (details supplied) has been known to have approved such applications previously; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23299/07]
As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising two independent statutory offices; the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
All applications are considered in line with the provisions of the Refugee Act 1996. Section 2 of the Act defines a refugee, subject to stated exclusions, "as a person who, owing to a well founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his or her nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of that country; or who, not having a nationality and being outside the country of his or her former habitual residence, is unable or, owing to such fear, is unwilling to return to it".
Every asylum applicant is guaranteed an investigation and determination of his or her claim at first instance. Each application is assessed on the basis of the circumstances of the individual case and having regard to both the subjective elements (the applicant's own account or personal history) and objective elements (up-to-date information on the applicant's country or place of origin). This country of origin information comes from a wide variety of sources. Applicants are also guaranteed a de novo hearing with the Refugee Appeals Tribunal where necessary and have access to legal advice throughout the process.
While it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications, I would point out to the Deputy that delays in finalising cases can occur for a variety of reasons, including giving applicants and appellants the fullest opportunity possible to present their cases and the determination of Judicial Review proceedings.
I would also like to point out that the heads of the two independent offices, namely, the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Chairperson of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal occupy independent statutory positions under the Refugee Act, 1996 and are independent in the performance of their functions under that Act. As such, it would be inappropriate for me to comment any further on the matter.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:151 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will award stamp four or similar status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23300/07]
An application from the person concerned for extension of her permission to remain is currently being processed in conjunction with an application from her parent, on whom her residence depends, for renewal under the IBC05 scheme. I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the permissions sought will issue shortly.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:152 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will offer temporary residency or stamp four status to enable participation in employment in the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23301/07]
The persons in question submitted applications on 1st March, 2005 for permission to remain in the State under the revised arrangements for parents of Irish children born prior to 1st January, 2005, commonly referred to as the IBC/05 scheme. As the Irish child in this case was born after this cut-off point, both applications were considered ineligible and were refused accordingly.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:153 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress in the family reunification case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23303/07]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person in question made a Family Reunification application in January 2006. Further documentation was requested in February 2007 and was received in July 2007.
In the course of processing the application, questions arose in relation to the authenticity of certain documents submitted. This issue is currently being investigated. This application is under consideration and a decision will issue in due course.
Visa Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:154 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the missing documentation required to validate a new visa application in the family reunification case in the name of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23304/07]
I refer the Deputy to my answers to Parliamentary Question 313 of 31st January 2007 and Parliamentary Question 122 of 24th April 2007. The applications referred to were received in the Visa Office, Dublin on 4th January 2007. They were refused by the Visa Officer on 7th March 2007.
On re-examination of the file it has come to light that the documentation requested was in fact received at the Visa Office in Dublin and was taken into consideration when the decision was being made.
The applications were refused because the Visa Officer could not be satisfied, on the basis of the documentation supplied, that the reference could financially support the applicants. In addition it was considered that the granting of the visas could result in a cost to public funds and public resources.
While the time scale for appeal has passed in this instance, if the applicant has futher information which they feel may alter the decision, my office will facilitate a review of the applications.
Citizenship Applications.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:155 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the immigration section of his Department continues to insist that the applicant came to the adverse attention of An Garda Síochána in respect of motor offences when no offence was committed in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23305/07]
I refer the Deputy to my answer to Parliamentary Question 459 on 9 October 2007.
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. One such condition is that the Minister must be satisfied that the applicant is of good character. In pursuance of this condition, the Citizenship section of my Department routinely request reports from An Garda Síochána on each applicant.
An application for a certificate of naturalisation was received in the Citizenship Section of my Department from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question in May 2004.
Checks with the Garda National Immigration Bureau revealed that the person in question has come to the adverse attention of the Gardaí with regard to certain road traffic offences. In the exercise of my absolute discretion, I decided to refuse the application received from the person in question. A copy of the submission with my decision annotated upon it was forwarded to the applicant on 11 December 2006.
Asylum Support Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:156 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the particular dietary needs of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 2 cannot be met at their present location; if he will arrange transfer to alternative accommodation with ability to meet these needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23306/07]
The Reception and Integration Agency (RIA) is responsible, inter alia, for the provision of accommodation and ancillary services to asylum seekers through the Government policy of direct provision. The RIA is a cross-departmental Agency which coordinates service provision in areas including health, education and welfare. The RIA is currently accommodating almost 7,000 people in 60 centres in 22 counties.
In addition to direct provision accommodation, the Agency operates a very limited number of self-catering accommodation centres in certain parts of the country. This accommodation is reserved for special needs and extreme medical cases in the main.
The person referred to in the details supplied applied for asylum in February, 2004. She has made 4 requests for self-catering accommodation in the past 20 months. The first 3 were made on the basis of the length of time she was residing in direct provision accommodation. The most recent request dated 22nd August, 2007 was referred to our independent medical referee who was of the opinion that she did not have adequate medical grounds to be considered for self-catering accommodation. As her request referred to her medical condition and wanting to cook for herself she has been asked to provide centre management with a diet sheet from her doctor which she has failed to do to date. It should be noted that she has never complained to management about the food or asked for any special dietary concessions. Once she complies with this request centre management will do everything in their power to facilitate her dietary requirements.
In relation to food, the RIA places particular emphasis on meeting, to the greatest extent possible, the dietary needs of residents and, in this regard, 28-day menu cycles are in place in all large centres. The menus offered reflect the reasonable needs of the different ethnic groups and the reasonable prescribed dietary needs of any person accommodated in centres.
All contractors are required to serve, breakfast, lunch and dinner each day. At the centre where the person referred to above is accommodated breakfast consists of eggs, a choice of 4 cereals, a choice of 2 juices, a selection of fruit, milk, tea, coffee, toast, brown and white bread, and a selection of spreads, jams and preserves. Lunch consists of a choice of 3 light main courses (varied daily) together with vegetables, pasta, rice, potatoes, juice, tea and coffee. Dinner includes a choice of 2 starters (1 hot and 1 cold) or dessert or yogurt and a choice of 3 main courses (varied daily) to include a meat dish, a fish dish and a vegetarian dish. Tea, coffee and toast are made available outside of normal meal times.
All contractors are required to consult regularly with residents to ascertain what foods they prefer and how such foods should be cooked. These meetings are particularly important where many ethnic groups may be accommodated in the same centre and where there are residents who have special dietary requirements. Menus are kept under review and are revised from time to time with a view to meeting the ethnic and special dietary needs of residents to the greatest extent possible.
Regular inspections of centres by RIA staff and by an Independent Inspectorate are carried out and appropriate measures are taken where the requirements of residents are not being met. In addition, RIA staff, including senior management, regularly eat in centres to ensure that the fare on offer is of the standard required.
In relation to the running of centres, residents are provided with a copy of the House Rules and Procedures, which incorporates a complaints procedure. Management organises regular meeting with residents where issues can be addressed. Moreover, RIA staff regularly hold 'clinics' in centres where residents can raise issues in relation, inter alia, the running of the centre, the provision of services at the centre and any problems with quantity, variety or quality of the food.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:157 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status in the matter of residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23307/07]
The person concerned holds the status of refugee in the State. He claimed asylum on 5/12/1996. His claim was examined by the then Asylum Division which recommended that he should be recognised as a refugee. He was informed he had been granted refugee status and of the rights and entitlements accompanying refugee status in the State. He was advised at the time to obtain his green alien's book from the Aliens Office at Harcourt Square, or his local Garda Station. He also would have been advised by his local Immigration Officer to renew his registration in a timely fashion.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:158 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current or expected residency status in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23313/07]
The Immigration Division of my Department has recently been in contact with the person concerned requesting documentation. The application will be further processed upon receipt of these documents.
Forestry Sector.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:159 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in respect of advice provided by his Department to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food for the issuing of a felling licence (details supplied) in County Tipperary, a wildlife official of his Department visited the site; if a written report was compiled; if he will lay all documentation before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23166/07]
A wildlife officer of my Department visited the site on 4 December 2006 and made a written report to the Felling Section of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on 18 December. This report did not note any grounds for refusing the felling licence. The site is not a designated conservation area. It is not normal practice to lay routine reports of this nature before the Houses of the Oireachtas.
Ministerial Appointments.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:160 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the concerns of the Irish Rural Dwellers Association regarding the appointment of members to An Bord Pleanála; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23173/07]
The procedures for the appointment of ordinary members of An Bord Pleanála are set out in the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended by Sections 14-16 of the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006. In addition, Article 11 of the Planning and Development Regulations, 2006 amended the list of prescribed bodies for the purposes of making nominations to the Board and the Irish Rural Dwellers Association are now included on the list. I am satisfied that the current nomination and appointment processes are fair and transparent. Furthermore, as the legislative provisions underpinning these processes have only recently been endorsed by the Oireachtas, I have no proposals to make any further amendments at this time.
Wildlife Conservation.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:161 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if Section 46 of the Wildlife Amendment Act, 2000 applies in the case of unauthorised developments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23190/07]
Section 40 of the Wildlife Act 1976, as amended by Section 46 of the Wildlife Amendment Act, 2000, provides protection for vegetation on uncultivated land such as hedgerows by providing that "it shall be an offence for a person to cut, grub, burn or otherwise destroy, during the period beginning on the 1st day of March and ending on the 31st day of August in any year, any vegetation growing on any land not then cultivated or in course of cultivation for agriculture or forestry".
The purposes of these provisions include protection of bird life during the nesting season, prevention of forest fires, and protection of vegetation and wildlife habitats during the months of growth and reproduction. While it is not illegal to destroy vegetation while preparing or clearing a site for lawful building or construction works, including road construction, the destruction of vegetation on uncultivated land in the course of unauthorised development is an offence.
Members of the public are encouraged to contact their local wildlife ranger and report instances where hedgerows are being destroyed during the prohibited period.
Grant Payments.
Michael Ring
Ceist:162 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the situation in relation to the essential repairs grant administered by Mayo County Council as the scheme criteria state that the applicant must be aged 65 or over (details supplied); if this is discrimination; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23198/07]
The regulations governing the essential repairs grant scheme, which is operated by local authorities, do not specify an age qualification. The scheme is designed to enable older people whose houses cannot be made habitable in all respects at a reasonable cost to have basic repairs carried out. In determining priority between grant applicants, local authorities would have regard to relative means and needs and they generally restrict payment of essential repairs grants to older persons.
The administration of the scheme in individual cases is a matter for the local authority concerned within the framework laid down in the regulations, which as far as is practicable, is designed to give an appropriate degree of flexibility to authorities at local level. In addition, local authorities are encouraged to operate the scheme in a sympathetic and flexible manner, having regard to the needs of the applicant.
Rural Renewal Scheme.
John Perry
Ceist:163 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when an inspection by his officials will take place for rural renewal eligibility for persons (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23199/07]
A further inspection with a view to issuing a Certificate of Reasonable Cost, if in order, will be carried out as soon as possible.
Architectural Heritage.
Phil Hogan
Ceist:164 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the support of the Irish walled towns initiative; the locations and projects that will benefit from this grant scheme in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23223/07]
My Department provided just over €2m this year to fund conservation works on Irish Medieval Walled Towns. The funding is being administered by the Heritage Council.
The Council drew up a list of 18 walled towns to be assisted namely Athlone, Athenry, Carlingford, Cashel, Clonmel, Cork, Drogheda, Dublin, Fethard, Galway, Kilkenny, Kilmallock, Limerick, New Ross, Trim, Waterford, Wexford, and Youghal. Funding is being provided to support capital works, conservation plans and in some cases public realm plans. Further information is available directly from the Heritage Council; general information in relation to Irish Medieval Walled Towns is available on the Council's website at www.heritagecouncil.ie.
Heritage Council.
Phil Hogan
Ceist:165 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will make funds available in respect of implementing a report by the Heritage Council in respect of archeological research; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23225/07]
As I indicated in the reply to Question No. 323 of 10 October 2007, for each of the years 2006 and 2007, my Department provided an annual subvention of €200,000 for archaeological research purposes disbursed through the Royal Irish Academy.
In 2006, my Department requested the Heritage Council to prepare a report and recommendations on archaeological research needs. The Heritage Council submitted a detailed report in January 2007 recommending, inter alia, the establishment of a dedicated archaeological research fund to be administered by the Council. I am examining the report with a view to considering how its recommendations might be further advanced.
Phil Hogan
Ceist:166 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied with the level of staffing in the National Heritage Council in view of additional responsibilities that was conferred on that particular agency in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23226/07]
Under the terms of the Heritage Act 1995 the Heritage Council, with the consent of the governing Minister and the Minister for Finance, is required to employ its own staff, to determine the grades of the staff of the Council and the number of staff in each grade. The Council may employ such consultants or advisers on contract for services as it considers necessary for the proper discharge of its functions.
The current staffing structure of the Council is under consideration by the Council in consultation with my Department and the Department of Finance.
Local Authority Housing.
Tony Gregory
Ceist:167 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 1098 of 26 September 2007, if it is the case that clarifications have been sought by his Department regarding the precinct improvement scheme for a site (details supplied) in Dublin 1 and that approval to proceed awaits that clarification. [23240/07]
Tony Gregory
Ceist:168 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if approval to proceed with improvement works at a site (details supplied) in Dublin 1 is currently under discussion between his Department and Dublin City Council; and when a decision regarding approval to proceed will be made. [23241/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 167 and 168 together.
Subject to compliance with the normal requirements in relation to the appraisal and management of capital projects, including public procurement and fixed price contracts, local authorities have been given direct control over their internal capital receipts to be used primarily for their improvement works programme, as set out in the reply to Question No. 1098 of 26 September.
Precinct improvements, including the projects referred to in the questions, are part of the works programme approved by my Department on 24 April 2007.
My Department continues to engage with Dublin City Council on the advancement of the precinct improvement programme. On foot of a meeting on 27 June 2007, my Department wrote to Dublin City Council on 3 July, reminding them of the revised arrangements for managing the programme and of the need to carry out a cost benefit analysis, including a social and economic assessment of the programme. Approval to proceed with detailed design is contingent on completing the assessment. A number of design and planning issues have also been raised with Dublin City Council on individual projects.
Election Management System.
Michael Ring
Ceist:169 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if in relation to each of the venues at constituency level, there is a long-term lease involved for the storage of the e-voting machines; the location involved; the term involved in the lease; the cost implications on the termination of these leases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23314/07]
Michael Ring
Ceist:170 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the costs of the centralised storage of the e-voting machines per annum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23315/07]
Michael Ring
Ceist:171 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for centralising the storage of the e-voting machines with details of the location of such central storage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23316/07]
Michael Ring
Ceist:172 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the costs of storing e-voting machines in each constituency in the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23317/07]
Michael Ring
Ceist:173 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the storage costs at each location in relation to the e-voting machines for 2005 and 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23318/07]
Michael Ring
Ceist:174 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the e-voting machines and where they were stored in 2006, giving details of the exact locations and names of the venues and the costs involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23319/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 169 to 174, inclusive, together.
Information provided by returning officers to my Department indicates that the total annual storage costs incurred by them in respect of the electronic voting machines and ancillary equipment in 2006 amounted to some €706,000, with figures for 2005 and 2004 amounting to some €696,000 and €658,000 respectively.
The following table sets out information provided by returning officers regarding storage arrangements entered into by them in each of the 25 locations involved:
|
City/County |
Location of Storage Premises |
Storage Costs 2005 (incl. VAT) |
Storage Costs 2006 (incl. VAT) |
Lease |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Carlow-Kilkenny |
Mortarstown |
29,595.00 |
30,166.00 |
2 years |
|
Cavan-Monaghan |
Monaghan Town |
25,828.00 |
27,075.32 |
25 years |
|
Clare |
Ennis |
3,600.00 |
3,600.00 |
Monthly basis |
|
Cork City |
Togher |
42,499.50 |
53,942.33 |
10 years |
|
Cork County |
Ballygarvan |
37,609.30 |
35,124.00 |
Annual basis |
|
Donegal |
Letterkenny |
15,714.00 |
16,685.80 |
Annual basis |
|
Dublin City |
Ballycoolin |
72,350.00 |
71,265.00 |
8 years |
|
Dublin County |
Finglas |
62,938.66 |
49,034.86 |
Annual basis |
|
Galway |
Galway City |
5,253.00 |
Nil |
N/A |
|
Kerry |
Tralee |
26,125.00 |
22,624.96 |
10 years |
|
Kildare |
Clane |
27,125.86 |
31,984.21 |
9 years 9 months with 5 year break clause |
|
Laois-Offaly |
Portlaoise |
28,178.00 |
27,647.60 |
5 years |
|
Limerick |
Limerick City |
57,675.86 |
64,465.30 |
4 years 9 months |
|
Longford |
Longford Town |
15,095.16 |
18,439.88 |
4 years 9 months |
|
Roscommon |
Roscommon Town |
10,374.98 |
9,816.00 |
2 years 6 months |
|
Louth |
Dundalk |
298.00 |
593.47 |
N/A |
|
Mayo |
Castlebar |
34,930.00 |
37,426.00 |
Annual basis |
|
Meath |
Navan |
20,366.00 |
21,976.51 |
9 years 9 months |
|
Sligo |
Sligo Town |
Nil |
Nil |
N/A |
|
Leitrim |
Carrick-on-Shannon |
3,000.00 |
3,150.00 |
1 year |
|
Tipperary (N&S) |
Clonmel |
42,700.00 |
31,200.00 |
5 years |
|
Waterford |
Waterford City |
52,888.48 |
57,699.17 |
10 years |
|
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
22,805.34 |
21,772.62 |
4 years 9 months |
|
Wexford |
Drinagh |
16,876.00 |
19,064.76 |
Monthly basis |
|
Wicklow |
Kilcoole |
42,455.80 |
54,241.29 |
Annual basis |
Significant progress has been made in the transfer of the electronic voting equipment to centralised premises in Gormanston; arrangements are being made to transfer further such equipment to Gormanston. It is not possible to detail conclusively at this stage the total costs which will be associated with the centralised storage arrangements. Costs incurred in respect of the work to date are some €254,000. Further costs will be incurred in relation to the completion of the centralised storage arrangements, including buy-out costs. 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 Government decision to proceed with the movement of the electronic voting equipment to centralised premises was made taking into account a range of factors, including costs of current and centralised arrangements and the likely benefits to be realised.
Electricity Network.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:175 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of all island electricity interconnector project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23193/07]
The development of the second electricity interconnector with Northern Ireland is being undertaken jointly by the independent system operator, EirGrid, and its northern counterpart SONI.
The most recent progress report provided by EirGrid to my Department indicates that considerable preparatory work is now underway. Issues currently being progressed include the examination of tower types, the selection of preferred routes and sites, and the development of the necessary Environmental Impact Assessments.
I am informed that the overall project is on schedule for delivery in 2012.
Coastal Erosion.
Michael Ring
Ceist:176 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will sanction funding for coastal erosion works in County Mayo (details supplied) in view of the fact that the machinery, manpower and fill is available at that location due to other works currently ongoing. [23197/07]
The area at Achill Sound, Westport, Co. Mayo is owned by Mayo County Council and responsibility for its maintenance and development is a matter for the Local Authority in the first instance.
The Harbours and Coastal Infrastructure Programme has already been announced for 2007. Under the terms of the Programme, all Coastal Local Authorities are invited to submit funding priorities for each county. Mayo County Council did not this year submit a funding proposal in respect of Achill Sound. If Mayo Co. Co. makes an application for funding at this or any other location, it will be considered for inclusion in the 2008 Programme.
Approval of funding is based on Exchequer allocation and overall national priorities going forward.
Telecommunications Services.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:177 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans in place to upgrade telephone exchanges to broadband standard in areas (details supplied) to ensure proper broadband facilities for home and business users; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23182/07]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter in the first instance for the private sector companies operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, the independent regulator. I have no function in the matter of the enabling of exchanges owned by private companies.
As a private company, Eircom is not obliged to inform my Department about its plans concerning future upgrades to its broadband service. However, I welcome the recent announcement by Eircom that it is committing an extra €30 million to enabling 319 exchanges over the next coming years, in order to allow up to 140,000 new customers to connect to a broadband enabled exchange.
Electricity Network.
Chris Andrews
Ceist:178 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on the progress of the east west interconnector. [23217/07]
The Government is giving high priority to the development of the East West electricity interconnector between Ireland and Britain. The Energy Policy White Paper and the Programme for Government underline this commitment, which will contribute to security of supply and competitiveness. Greater interconnection between Member States is also a key priority for the European Union to ensure the effective working of the Internal Market.
I can advise the Deputy that work on the project is progressing well. On foot of the Government decision in 2006 the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) is arranging the design of a competition to secure the construction of the 500 megawatt interconnector at the earliest possible date before 2012. The Government also decided that the interconnector will, as a national strategic asset, remain in public ownership and will be owned by EirGrid.
EirGrid is progressing work on route selection and technical specification of the interconnector and has recently announced that Woodland in County Meath is the most favoured connection point on the Irish side. Work is also advancing, with the relevant authorities on finalising the connection point on the west coast of Britain. EirGrid, overseen by the CER, is also finalising the competition structure, documentation and related contractual arrangements, with a view to going to market to the end of 2007.
To oversee and ensure delivery of the interconnector to schedule, a high level co-ordination group has been established under the Chairmanship of the CER and comprising representatives of EirGrid and my Department.
The Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure Act) 2006, which provides for a streamlined planning process for strategic infrastructure developments, includes special provisions designed to expedite the planning process for electricity interconnector projects. To underpin the interconnector development process, new arrangements have been made in respect of the construction and governance under licence of interconnector operators by the CER in the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2006. In particular, the Act provides that the CER may, with Ministerial consent, secure the construction of an interconnector. Such consent will be contingent on final Government approval. As regards funding, the CER and EirGrid are working to determine the most cost-effective and efficient solution and this will be part of the submission for Government offered to proceed with construction.
Question No. 179 answered with QuestionNo. 48.
Telecommunications Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:180 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects high quality broadband availability here to be on par with the service available in leading European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23280/07]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:181 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he proposes to take steps to bring the quality of broadband service here into line with that in other European jurisdictions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23281/07]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 181 together.
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg. The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs). Despite these Government initiatives there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, the procurement process for a National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is under way. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met.
The first phase of the procurement process, the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) phase, is now complete and four candidates have pre-qualified. As my Department indicated on 2 September 2007, the four candidates are, in alphabetical order, BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium, eircom Ltd, Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and IFA/Motorola Consortium. The next phase of the procurement process involves inviting candidates to participate in a competitive dialogue process. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process.
There were 698,000 broadband subscribers in Ireland at end of quarter two of 2007 according to official figures from ComReg. This is equivalent to 16.48% of the population. At the start of 2005 only 3% of population had broadband and 6.76% of the population at the start of 2006. Ireland has narrowed the gap behind the EU average dramatically. At the end of Q2 06 the EU-25 average was 14% and our rate was 8%. At the end of Q2 07, the EU-25 Average was 18.2% and our rate was at 16.48%. According to the latest OECD Broadband Statistics (end-Dec 2006), the strongest per capita subscriber growth over the year came from Denmark, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and Ireland. Each country added more than 5.8 subscribers per 100 inhabitants during 2006.
A draft policy paper on next generation broadband is being prepared by my Department, which will review current communications infrastructure policy, and analyse policy options in light of industry developments. This will give guidance in relation to the optimum role for Government in the planning and rollout of broadband.
Postal Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:182 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his preferred options for the provision of a next day delivery postal service throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23283/07]
The universal service obligation, enshrined in European and Irish law, provides that each Member State is obliged to provide a postal service whereby the minimum level of service that must be provided is a clearance and delivery every working day to the home or premises of every person. Under Irish regulations, An Post is designated as the Universal Service provider. There are no plans to change this.
Liberalisation of the mail market in Ireland has already commenced and the Council of the European Union recently agreed that the postal sector should fully liberalise and be fully open to competition by 1 January 2011. The development of the postal market requires the availability of competitive, high quality products. The current level of market opening has introduced new players with offerings that meet consumer needs and further market opening will provide further opportunities for new and existing players. The development of further competition allied with a modernised and customer-focussed An Post will provide the basis for the further development of the postal sector.
Post Office Network.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:183 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has reviewed the number of post office closures throughout the country; his proposals to ensure the retention of the maximum number of post offices and sub-offices with a view to the protection of the integrity of the postal service and its viability in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23284/07]
The number of post office closures and the retention of the maximum number of post offices and sub-post offices are operational matters for the Board and management of An Post and ones in which I have no statutory function.
As set out in Section 12(3) of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act 1983 "the company shall have power to do anything which appears to it to be requisite, advantageous or incidental to, or which appears to it to facilitate, either directly or indirectly, the performance by it of its functions as specified in this Act or in its memorandum of association and is not inconsistent with any enactment for the time being in force".
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:184 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if it is his intention to retain the post offices and the postal service in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23285/07]
In regard to the retention of post offices in the future, this is a matter for the Board and management of An Post and one in which I have no statutory function. As is set out in the Programme for Government, this Government is committed to ensuring that Irish customers continue to enjoy high quality postal services. The current regulatory framework, which is enshrined in EU and Irish law, sets out the requirement for the provision of a universal postal service and An Post, as the designated universal service provider has statutory responsibility for providing the universal service. The draft third postal directive proposes to maintain the universal service obligation at its current level, a position strongly supported by the Government.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:185 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way his recent decision to slash the grants for the provision of alternative energy heating systems in dwelling houses is likely to encourage a reduction in consumption of fossil fuels; if a cost benefit analysis was undertaken; the results of such study; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23286/07]
The intention of Greener Homes scheme is to stimulate consumer investment in renewable heating solutions and to develop the market for renewable technologies and fuels, thereby reducing CO2 emissions in the domestic sector. Over 16,000 grants were approved under Phase I which ran from April 2006 to August 2007.
Since the scheme was launched there has been a dramatic increase in renewable technology suppliers and a ten-fold expansion in the number of renewable energy products available on the market. This clearly demonstrates the very significant level of market development since the scheme was first launched. The first phase of the scheme has achieved all of its objectives speedily and within budget. Consequently, the grant levels are being reduced for some technologies where it is clear that the market has reached a level of maturity to allow it to continue at a lower rate of support. Other grant levels remain unchanged.
The objective in Greener Homes Phase II is to consolidate the market, underpinning it with quality standards and training and providing for a long-term future that is not grant-dependent. The aim is to ensure that the market for these products, services and fuels continues to develop strongly, allowing suppliers and installers to consolidate their market offerings ahead of an unsubsidised market.
The new building regulations announced recently by my colleague, John Gormley T.D., Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, will mandate the use of renewable heating systems in all new buildings which should provide a further boost to the development of these technologies. From a cost-benefit perspective the Greener Homes Grant Scheme will continue in terms of CO2 reductions, market development and access to cleaner renewable technologies and fuels by consumers.
Question No. 186 answered with QuestionNo. 46.
Electricity Generation.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:187 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his preferred options for the future of the ESB, Eirgrid, the entire generation and transmission systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23288/07]
The task of providing a competitive, secure, and sustainable energy future for Ireland poses considerable challenges for Ireland's electricity industry. It also presents exciting opportunities for the sector. Both EirGrid and ESB have critical roles to play.
The ESB Group will remain a strong, commercially viable and integrated entity with a leading role to play in supporting the development of renewable energy and demand side and management strategies. ESB International will be strongly growing its UK, European and international business. ESB Group will continue to compete successfully with Viridian, Airtricity and all other independents in power-generation and electricity supply in the all-island electricity market.
EirGrid, as the independent owner and operator of the national grid, is securely positioned in that strategic role so that it can fully contribute to supporting an effective competition environment and transparency in the electricity market, a stable investment as well as ensuring security of supply and generation adequacy.
The Programme for Government, together with the White Paper on Delivering a Sustainable Energy Future for Ireland, explicitly confirms the Government's position that the electricity and gas networks, as strategic national assets, will remain in State ownership and will never be privatised. The transfer of ownership of the transmission assets to EirGrid is taking place by end 2008 in that context.
In relation to generation, the establishment of a gross mandatory pool in the context of the Single Electricity Market — which is to commence operation on 1 November — is designed to deliver an efficient and fully competitive all-island generation market. The CER-ESB Asset Strategy, which was agreed between the Commission for Energy Regulation and ESB in November 2006, is an important step in ensuring that the optimum conditions prevail to underpin the establishment of real competition in that market. The Strategy is designed to ensure the progressive reduction in ESB's market share in power generation to around 40% in an all-island market context by 2010. In addition to the expected positive impact on market conditions, it is the expectation that ESB Power Generation will also become more efficient and commercial in the process.
Electricity Supply.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:188 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the uncertainty regarding the ready availability of electricity for major industrial users, including local authority sewage treatment systems; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23289/07]
I understand that the Deputy is referring to a connection for a new site or facility to the ESB Distribution Network. ESB connections are a day-to-day operational matter for the ESB and not one in which I have a function.
Mineral Exploration.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:189 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans for the future development of the mining and exploration sectors on and off-shore, having due regard for the need to encourage mining exploration and at the same time give a fair return to the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23290/07]
Last week I announced a new Licensing Round opening acreage in the Porcupine Basin to the west of Ireland for exploration for oil and gas. The area covers unlicensed blocks in an area of approximately 63,500 square kilometres. The Porcupine Licensing Round is part of an ongoing strategy of offering regular opportunities for licensing in the basins of the Atlantic Margin.
Ireland's oil and gas is a resource of the people and I want to ensure that our waters are fully explored and also that we get a proper return to the State where commercial finds are made. To this end, in August I announced changes to the tax regime which are designed to provide the Exchequer with potentially greater funds if commercial finds are made.
Under the new regime profitable fields will pay up to 40% in taxation to the Exchequer which represents a top rate increase of 15%.
I have also recently introduced new non-fiscal licensing terms for oil and gas exploration that are designed to encourage more vigorous exploration proposals from the industry while ensuring that there are sufficient incentives to maintain ongoing interest by the oil companies in Ireland as a location for oil and gas exploration.
With regard to non-petroleum minerals, it is Government policy to stimulate discovery of economic mineral deposits and to maximise the contribution of the mining sector to the national economy, with due regard to its social and environmental impact. Exploration and development is undertaken by private enterprise and regulated under the Minerals Development Acts, 1940 to 1999. New exploration is continuously undertaken as part of my requirements to holders of Prospecting Licences, of which there are currently 331. Details of these Licences can be found in the six monthly report to the Oireachtas, which I am obliged to lay before the House under the Minerals Development Acts, 1940 to 1999. The last such report was in respect of the six-month period ended 31 December 2006. I will shortly lay before this House the report for the six months to 30 June 2007.
All extraction of minerals under the Acts is subject to payment of royalties to the State. These are negotiated individually. They reflect current international practice and the economics of the specific deposit to give a fair market-based return.
While it is my intention to consolidate and update the Minerals Development Acts in a new Minerals Development Bill currently being drafted in the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel which will further encourage mineral exploration in Ireland, I do not propose to change policy in relation to royalties.
Question No. 190 answered with QuestionNo. 58.
Telecommunications Services.
Frank Feighan
Ceist:191 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the plans in place for the provision of broadband in the Croghan/Elphin area of County Roscommon; when it is envisaged this work will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [23312/07]
The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband, is a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated, where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg.
The role of the Government is to formulate regulatory and infrastructure policies to facilitate the provision of high quality telecommunications services, by competing private sector service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These include providing grant-aid under the recently concluded Group Broadband Scheme and investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs).
Despite these Government initiatives there are still some parts of the country where the private sector will be unable to justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, the procurement process for a National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is under way. The NBS will provide broadband services to areas that are currently unserved and will ensure that all reasonable requests for broadband in unserved areas are met.
The first phase of the procurement process, the Pre-Qualification Questionnaire (PQQ) phase, is now complete and four candidates have pre-qualified. As my Department indicated on 2 September 2007, the four candidates are, in alphabetical order, BT Communications Ireland Ltd Consortium, eircom Ltd, Hutchinson 3G Ireland Ltd and IFA/Motorola Consortium. The next phase of the procurement process involves inviting candidates to participate in a competitive dialogue process. My Department is anticipating that the award of the NBS contract will be Quarter 2 of 2008, with rollout of the services due to begin as soon as possible thereafter. This timeline is subject to negotiations with candidates during the competitive dialogue phase of the procurement process.