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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 23 Oct 2007

Vol. 640 No. 1

Written Answers.

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 9, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 10 to 81, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 82 to 87, inclusive, answered orally.

Ministerial Appointments.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

88 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way consuls are appointed; if any consul has been replaced since 1 January 2007; and if so, the reason for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25008/07]

I understand the Deputy is referring to the appointment of Honorary Consuls rather than to the Consul positions filled at full time Consulates in the normal way by career civil servants who are transferred abroad for a temporary period.

When deciding where Honorary Consuls of Ireland are to be appointed, I have regard to whether such appointments are justified by the need to provide for the welfare of Irish citizens, both resident and visiting, or by the prospects of developing trade and economic relations with the country or region concerned.

Persons who are appointed as Honorary Consuls are generally experienced professional or business people who are well established, have good high-level contacts in Government and business circles in that country or region and have centrally-located offices suitable for use as a Consulate.

When it is considered that an appointment as Honorary Consul may be justified, suitable candidates who would be willing to undertake the duties involved are identified, usually by the Irish Embassy accredited to the country concerned. The matter is then submitted for my consideration.

If it is decided that a particular appointment as Honorary Consul should be made, it is necessary to seek the agreement of the relevant Foreign Ministry. When that agreement is received, the nominee is formally offered the position for an initial period of three years which may subsequently be extended by mutual agreement.

At present, Ireland has a total of 87 Honorary Consuls and Honorary Consuls General. As the Deputy will appreciate, from time to time, those who are appointed may resign, or their services may no longer be required if, for example, an Embassy of Ireland is established in the same location and takes over the role of providing Consular Services.

Since 1 January 2007, the process of appointing Honorary Consuls has been completed in three cases: Hong Kong; Agadir, Morocco; and Harare, Zimbabwe. In Hong Kong, the previous appointee resigned after many years of much appreciated service. In Agadir and Harare, the appointments are of our first Honorary Consuls in those locations and were made primarily to meet the consular needs of Irish citizens.

Our Honorary Consuls are not full-time officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs but are honorary appointees who undertake, in addition to their own occupations, to do invaluable work on behalf of Ireland. In particular, the dedicated and personal consular services that they provide to Irish citizens who find themselves in difficulty are greatly valued.

Human Rights Issues.

John Deasy

Ceist:

89 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he has taken or can take to raise concern about the possible violation of the Iranian people’s fundamental human rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25005/07]

Inevitably, perhaps, international attention in relation to Iran has focused recently on the nuclear issue and on developments in neighbouring Iraq. The Government believes it is important that we do not lose sight of the human rights situation in Iran, on which we have very serious concerns.

After a period in which gradual progress was evident in the overall human rights situation, the past few years have witnessed a serious and sustained erosion of human rights protections in Iran. Moderate and reformist political voices have been suppressed, and freedom of expression has been severely curtailed by actions against media outlets and individual journalists.

Against this background of reassertion of State control, a wide range of other human rights issues has also shown a marked deterioration. These include the increased use of the death penalty, including executions of minors and in some isolated cases recourse to the particularly barbaric practice of execution by stoning. There has been a notable increase in intolerance of expression of identity by national minorities, and active harassment of minority communities, including the Baha'i community. Trade unions and women's groups have been suppressed and there has been a sustained campaign against NGOs and human rights defenders. Indeed groups and individuals in Iran are now being targeted by the authorities because they have been in contact with western Embassies.

I have been seriously concerned by these developments, and I raised them very directly in my meeting with Foreign Minister Mottaki in New York on 1 October. The Government and our EU partners make frequent representations to the Iranian authorities about specific cases and issues, and about the broader principles of human rights. In recent years we have co-sponsored a Resolution at the UN General Assembly on the human rights situation in Iran, along with Canada and others. We will do so again this year.

Regrettably, Iran has shown little interest in tackling these issues. A formal Human Rights Dialogue between the EU and Iran is now effectively in abeyance. The last meeting was held under the Irish EU Presidency in 2004, and it seems clear that Iran is not now willing to engage in the dialogue.

The Government and our EU partners will continue to use every opportunity to draw attention to, and where possible to uphold, the fundamental rights of the Iranian people.

EU Treaties.

James Bannon

Ceist:

90 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason the Government chose to avail of an opt out in the areas of criminal procedure and police co-operation in the EU Reform Treaty; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25014/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

103 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposals for opting out of certain aspects of the revised EU Treaty; the beneficial impact or otherwise of such action with particular reference to mutual recognition of the need for cooperation between all Member States on particular issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25041/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

322 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the full extent to any opt out positions in the context of the European Reform Treaty; the extent to which such positions are expected to affect cooperation with other Member States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25474/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 90, 103 and 322 together.

Agreement on further Treaty provisions in the area of freedom, security and justice is one of the key features of the new Reform Treaty which was agreed to by the Taoiseach and his fellow Heads of State and Government at the informal European Council in Lisbon last week. These provisions will strengthen the Union's ability to combat cross border crime, including illegal immigration and the trafficking of people, arms and drugs which affect all Member States.

Ireland is fully committed to ensuring the effectiveness of EU cooperation against cross border crime. The House will recall that we were instrumental in forging agreement on the Constitutional Treaty and would have been happy to have ratified and implemented that Treaty, including its key elements in the justice and home affairs area. As was explained in the House last week, we must also take account, however, of the changes reflected in the Reform Treaty. These changes arise from the British decision to seek opt-in/opt-out arrangements in the areas of judicial criminal law cooperation and police cooperation.

As was explained in the House, the common law system is quite different from those of our European partners. Under the Constitutional Treaty, it was considered that the combined weight of Ireland and Britain would have been effective in shaping EU measures so as to take account of the specific character of our legal system. Under the Reform Treaty, however, we could have found ourselves, as one of a small handful of Member States with a common law tradition, at a disadvantage and unable to shape proposals in a direction palatable to us.

Faced with this situation, and after carefully weighing up all of the arguments, the Government decided to join the new opt-in/opt-out arrangement on criminal law and police cooperation. We were only willing to avail of these new arrangements because they enable us to opt in on a case-by-case basis. This is what we intend to do. We have the particular intention of participating in measures in the field of police cooperation. Accordingly, we have made a strong Declaration to be attached to the Reform Treaty underlining our firm intention to join with our EU Partners whenever possible. We have also decided that these new arrangements will not apply to measures concerning the freezing of terrorist assets.

On foot of these arrangements, we will be able to contribute to EU cooperation in this important area while, at the same time, ensuring the necessary protections for our legal system. Furthermore, as justice, freedom and security is a relatively new area of EU activity, we have decided to review our participation in these particular opt-in/opt-out arrangements after three years. This will give us time to consider the evolution of EU policy in this area and to assess further the implications of cooperation in the new policy areas for our legal system.

Middle East Peace Process.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

91 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will advance the proposal that a permanent secretariat be established in order to advance proposals for peace in the Middle East such as the road map for peace and other initiatives by the quartet and others. [24981/07]

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

108 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if Ireland supports the establishment of a Palestinian State; and the steps that can be taken to assist in the achievement of this objective. [24904/07]

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

138 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Irish Government’s position in relation to the recent decision by the Israeli Government to appropriate the land of four Palestinian villages for the purpose of building new settlements and a new highway which will cut east Jerusalem off from the West Bank, in view of the fact that such actions are in flagrant breach of the agreement that the 1967 borders will not be changed except by agreement and is also in breach of the prohibition on building new settlements on Palestinian lands. [24999/07]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

315 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent statement by UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights in the Occupied Palestinian Territories, Mr. John Dugard, that the UN should withdraw from the US dominated international quartet, in view of that body’s failure to respect Palestinian human rights and that the EU should also consider withdrawing from the quartet unless it drops its unconditional backing for Israeli positions. [25269/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

318 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will outline and report on the developing situation in relation to the Middle East with particular reference to the Israeli-Palestinian situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25470/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 91, 108, 138, 315 and 318 together.

Ireland is a long-standing and active proponent of the establishment of an independent Palestinian State. The Government has argued strongly within the EU and internationally that a comprehensive settlement in the Middle East is more urgently needed now than at any time in the past sixty years. It must be based on a peaceful, lasting and just two-State solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

There is now a real opportunity for progress. At our meetings in Luxembourg and Lisbon last week, EU Foreign Ministers reviewed progress in the dialogue between Israel and the Palestinian Authority and the preparations for the international meeting in the U.S. in November. We believe that the current opportunity must be grasped in order to restore credibility and momentum to the peace process. The EU has stated that concrete results must be achieved, leading to meaningful final status negotiations. These will have to address and resolve the most sensitive and difficult issues at the heart of the conflict.

The EU has a crucial role to play, working directly with the parties and as an active member of the international Quartet. The EU and its Member States have been the strongest supporters of the Palestinian people. Total EU assistance this year will amount to over €800 million. Irish assistance will increase to over €7 million. We will work for the success of the major international donors conference for Palestine which will be held in Paris before the end of the year. The EU is determined to provide all necessary political and humanitarian support to the establishment of an independent Palestinian State, and the building of democratic institutions and a viable economy.

I have seen the recent comments of the UN Special Rapporteur for Human Rights. The Government greatly values his work in the human rights field. However, I do not believe that it is productive at this point in the political process to enter into a debate on possible withdrawal from the Quartet by the UN or anyone else. It is no secret that we have been among those Member States which have sought to strengthen the Quartet, and the EU's voice in it. The Quartet will have a crucial role to play in the period ahead, on the Palestinian track and with Arab States working to develop the historic opportunity offered by the Arab Peace Initiative. Depending on developments, it may be that a proposal for a permanent secretariat could usefully be considered, in order to add focus to the work of the Quartet and the various international envoys active in the region. We would judge any such proposal on the contribution it can make to the achievement of the strategic objective of a settlement of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In the meantime, the EU continues to make it clear that all parties must meet their obligations under international law. We remain deeply concerned at violence in the region, the continued expansion of settlements and the construction of the security barrier on occupied land. These and other practices in the Occupied Territories are contrary to international law and threaten the achievement of a viable settlement. The EU has explicitly raised with the Israeli Government the reported decision on the expropriation of Palestinian land near the major settlement bloc East of Jerusalem. I also raised the issue of settlement expansion and the plans for the E1 corridor East of Jerusalem in the most direct terms with the Israeli Foreign Minister when I met her earlier this year. We will continue to raise our concerns on these issues with the Israeli authorities.

International Conventions.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

92 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Government’s position in relation to enacting universal jurisdiction; and if it accepts that it is the duty of every State to exercise its criminal jurisdiction over those responsible for international crimes in order to ensure that their national courts are able to investigate and prosecute anyone suspected of committing the crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, torture, extrajudicial executions and extraordinary rendition in order to ensure that their country cannot be used as a safe haven to evade justice by those perpetrating such acts. [24997/07]

The exercise of universal jurisdiction involves the prosecution by the State of a person in Ireland for a crime committed anywhere and regardless of that person's nationality. As it is an exception to the general principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of other states, it requires the sanction of international law.

Under Irish law, universal jurisdiction may be exercised in relation to certain war crimes and torture. War crimes constituting grave breaches of the Geneva Conventions of 1949 and their First Additional Protocol of 1977 may be prosecuted under the Geneva Conventions Acts 1962 and 1998. Torture, pursuant to the United Nations Convention Against Torture of 1984, may be prosecuted under the Criminal Justice (United Nations Convention Against Torture) Act 2000.

As regards genocide, the Genocide Convention of 1948 does not provide for the exercise of universal jurisdiction and it is Ireland's view that, as of yet, there is no clear rule of customary international law that provides for the exercise of universal jurisdiction in respect of genocide.

Likewise, as regards crimes against humanity, there is no international agreement that provides for the exercise of universal jurisdiction and it is Ireland's view that, as of yet, there is no clear rule of customary international law that provides for the exercise of universal jurisdiction in respect of these crimes.

On the other hand, it was for the very reason of ensuring that the most serious crimes of concern to the international community as a whole do not go unpunished that the international community, by adopting the Rome Statute, created the International Criminal Court. Ireland has been a consistent and strong supporter of the ICC, recognising it as an essential means for bringing to justice those responsible for the most serious international crimes. With the exception of a referral by the UN Security Council, however, the jurisdiction of the ICC is limited to crimes committed by the nationals of States Parties, or committed on the territory of States Parties. Accordingly, until such time as adherence to the Rome Statute is itself universal, the jurisdiction of the Court will be limited. To this end, together with our EU partners, Ireland seeks to advance the universal reach of the Court by promoting the universal ratification of the Rome Statute.

No international agreement provides for the exercise of universal jurisdiction in relation to extrajudicial executions, nor has it become a crime subject to universal jurisdiction under customary international law. It will be of interest to note, however, that the International Convention for the Protection of all Persons from Enforced Disappearances, which was signed by Ireland in March of this year, provides for the prosecution by a state of an alleged offender present in its territory, unless it extradites or surrenders him or her to another state or surrenders him or her to an international criminal tribunal. This Convention, which opened for signature in February 2007, has not yet been ratified by any state and so has not yet entered into force.

There is no agreed definition of "extraordinary rendition" in international law, nor is there any international agreement providing for the exercise of universal jurisdiction in relation to "extraordinary rendition". However, the unlawful deprivation of liberty on Irish territory is, of course, a crime under Irish law. The Government is completely opposed to the practice of extraordinary rendition. Our concerns in this matter have been made clear to the highest levels of the US Government, including by the Taoiseach to President Bush. The Government has received specific assurances from the US authorities, confirmed by Secretary of State Rice that prisoners have not been transferred through Irish territory, nor would they be, without our permission.

Freedom of Expression.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

93 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of the Government in relation to the reports of the rights to free expression and dissemination of information in Pakistan being persistently undermined through the arrest of editors and reporters from local and regional newspapers on charges of sedition. [24998/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

321 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has satisfied himself regarding the application of the normal democratic principles in Pakistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25473/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 93 and 321 together.

The Government is aware of, and concerned about, problems in Pakistan relating, amongst other things, to freedom of expression, the dissemination of information, and the ill-treatment of editors and reporters.

These problems have been well documented within Pakistan itself by the Pakistani media and by the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan in its annual report for 2006, and internationally by respected international bodies such as Reporters Without Borders, FIDH (the International Federation of Human Rights Organisations) and the Committee for the Protection of Journalists. The issues highlighted include various forms of restrictions on press freedom, restrictions on access to information, pressures from government and other sources, as well as threats to media professionals from all levels of government and extremist elements. A number of cases of killings of media figures, physical attacks, imprisonment, disappearances and various forms of intimidation have been reported.

Any obstacles to freedom of expression, and the media, are a source of concern. Nevertheless, despite the very real obstacles to freedom of expression, there is a highly impressive, strong, vibrant and independent media in Pakistan, which speaks out very openly on all aspects of Pakistani life and politics. We have seen the highly vocal and independent media at work over recent months, covering the suspension of the Chief Justice, subsequent and ongoing events in the Supreme Court, the Presidential election campaign and the return to Pakistan of opposition leaders. This is an enormous tribute to the commitment, professionalism and courage of those involved in the media in Pakistan and very encouraging for the future of democracy in Pakistan.

As regards the democratic process more generally, Pakistan is hopefully on a course back to democracy. But the road to democracy, stability and economic and social development will not be an easy one. Though democratic party politics and traditions are reasonably well established in urban and some other areas, near-feudal conditions exist in some of the more remote rural and tribal areas. Corruption at various levels is also a serious problem, affecting almost every aspect of life, including the political system. And, particularly threatening in the parliamentary electoral campaign, is the subversion and havoc that militants and extremists can create. In addition to an alarming escalation of daily attacks on the military and authorities in border and tribal areas, we have witnessed such events such as the siege at the Red Mosque in Islamabad some months ago and, last week, the appalling massacre that greeted Benazir Bhutto's return to her country. Although such militancy is shared by only a small percentage of Pakistan's population, the ability of the terrorists and radicals to inflict devastating damage is deeply troubling.

While the road back to democracy will undoubtedly a very difficult one, there are, nevertheless, some positive developments worth highlighting: President Musharraf has made a commitment to withdraw from a military role and has nominated a successor as Army Chief of Staff, which increases hopes that here will be an end to military rule in the coming months. The political parties and the public are intensely engaged in what will clearly be a hotly-contested election campaign, while the Pakistan Elections Commission has been working to put systems in place to ensure that these elections are free and fair.

Nuclear Disarmament Initiative.

Alan Shatter

Ceist:

94 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the fact that Iran is developing a nuclear weapon capability; the nature of his concern; the action taken to date by this State as a member of the European Union and at the United Nations to address this issue; and his views on whether EU and United Nations action to date is adequate. [25043/07]

The Government and our EU partners share the widespread concern at Iran's refusal to comply with its international obligations in respect of its nuclear programme. Aspects of that programme, together with Iran's pursuit of long-range missile technology, have given rise to serious concern that it is seeking to develop a nuclear weapons capability. The Government shares the clear view of Iran's neighbours that this would pose serious dangers in an already volatile region. We have consistently expressed our strong views in opposition to the presence of any nuclear weapons, or other weapons of mass destruction, in the Middle East.

The EU is firmly committed to the search for a diplomatic solution, and is working in close cooperation with the United States, Russia and China. As part of the effort to persuade Iran to meet its obligations, the EU presented a substantial package of proposals for improved relations in June 2006. It is very regrettable that Iran has so far refused to accept this offer as a basis for negotiations, but the package remains on the table.

The UN Security Council has three times issued a clear demand that Iran suspend its uranium enrichment activities, most recently in Security Council Resolution 1747 of 24 March 2007. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has reported that Iran continues to ignore the demands of the Security Council, and a range of UN sanctions have been imposed on the nuclear and military sectors. We have welcomed the Agreement reached in August between Iran and the IAEA to resolve all questions on Iran's past nuclear activities, but this can be no substitute for compliance with the international obligations clearly identified by the UN Security Council.

I have outlined the Government's position directly to the Iranian authorities, most recently during my meeting with Foreign Minister Mottaki in New York on 1 October. I emphasised the firm and united support of the EU behind the approach being articulated by High Representative Solana and the group of Member States referred to as the "EU3" — France, Germany and the United Kingdom. Together with the Foreign Ministers of Russia, China and the U.S., the EU3 have asked High Representative Solana to meet again with Iran's chief negotiator, to lay the foundation for future negotiations. They stated on 28 September that if these contacts and the efforts of the IAEA have not shown a positive outcome in November, they would proceed with a further Security Council Resolution, imposing wider sanctions.

At the General Affairs and External Relations Council which I attended in Luxembourg last week, it was agreed that the EU will consider what additional measures it might take in order to support the UN process and the shared objectives of the international community.

International Agreements.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

95 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans he has to seek to be a signatory to the Antarctica Treaty 1959; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25020/07]

The Antarctic Treaty opened for signature on 1 December, 1959 in Washington DC and came into force in 1961. The stated aim of the Treaty is to ensure "in the interests of all mankind that Antarctica shall continue forever to be used exclusively for peaceful purposes and shall not become the scene or object of international discord."

In particular the Treaty sought to prohibit nuclear testing and radioactive waste disposal, and to promote international scientific cooperation in Antarctica. It also provided that no new claims to territorial sovereignty or enlargement of standing claims would be made by States parties.

Today, the Antarctic Treaty system comprises the Antarctic Treaty of 1959, the 1991 Protocol on Environmental Protection (‘the Madrid Protocol'), the 1972 convention for the Conservation of the Antarctic Seals and the 1980 Convention on the Conservation of the Antarctic Marine Living Resources.

While the Treaty has been in operation since 1961, only 46, or fewer than one quarter of UN Member States, are States Parties.

Over the years, many of those who have chosen not to accede have argued that the Antarctic should be declared part of the common heritage of mankind and thus be treated in a manner comparable to Outer Space or the International Sea Bed Area and therefore beyond the limits of national jurisdiction. Some have called for a UN agreement to which all Member States would subscribe as the best means to ensure full accountability for actions undertaken in, affecting and concerning Antarctica. Ireland has traditionally been sympathetic to this view.

However, we are aware of the immense difficulties which would arise in seeking to negotiate a new Treaty. We have also noted that UN General Assembly Resolutions of 2002 and 2005 welcomed the practice whereby the Antarctic Treaty consultative parties regularly provide the UN Secretary General with information on their consultative meetings and their activities in Antarctica.

In all the circumstances, the Government intends to re-examine the issue, which is of relevance to a number of Government Departments. I have accordingly asked officials in my Department to study the issues involved in accession, with a view to initiating broader interdepartmental consultation on this question.

Human Rights Issues.

Joan Burton

Ceist:

96 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the answer he has given to the representations made to him regarding the continuing abuse by Government forces in Zimbabwe of political opponents and the widely reported arbitrary detentions and beatings. [24996/07]

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

100 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the initiatives the Irish Government and the European Union proposes to take to address the human and institutional crisis that has arisen in Zimbabwe; the contact the Irish Government or the European Union has had with South Africa and other neighbouring countries of Zimbabwe; and the conclusions which have flown from such contacts. [24995/07]

Seán Barrett

Ceist:

110 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he will take to highlight the violations of human rights in Zimbabwe and the suffering of its citizens as a result of the collapsing economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22326/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 96, 100 and 110 together.

I continue to be gravely concerned at the deterioration in the situation in Zimbabwe. Efforts by the Government of Zimbabwe to tackle hyper-inflation by imposing fixed prices by force have led to severe shortages in urban areas. In rural areas, millions are likely to need food aid as a result of crop failures, exacerbated by government policies. Opposition activists, including Morgan Tsvangarai, the leader of the largest faction of the Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), were seriously ill-treated in police detention in March 2007, and hundreds of lower-profile activists have been severely beaten in custody since then. Presidential and parliamentary elections are due to take place in March 2008, and the focus of international efforts must now be on pushing for a level playing field for these elections, so as to allow the people of Zimbabwe to decide who they think can best lead their country out of its current economic and political crisis.

Ireland and the EU strongly believe that African leadership is the key to improving the situation in Zimbabwe. Zimbabwe's neighbours are best placed to encourage progress towards economic and political stability, and adherence to those human rights standards on which Africa seeks to base its future development. We support the mandate given to President Mbeki by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to facilitate dialogue between the government and opposition in Zimbabwe. Talks between the two sides have been ongoing for several months, and the Government and both MDC factions have agreed to certain constitutional changes. However, international observers are concerned that these alone will not be enough to ensure free and fair elections in Zimbabwe next year. Ireland and the European Union are awaiting the outcome of the SADC/Mbeki initiative, which is expected early next month, and of the review being undertaken by SADC Finance Ministers of Zimbabwe's economy. When EU Foreign Ministers discussed the situation in Zimbabwe on 15 October, we agreed that we may need to engage further in follow-up to the SADC initiative once it is completed next month. We stand ready to respond substantively to any positive change in Zimbabwe.

The EU operates an arms embargo on Zimbabwe and a targeted visa ban against Zimbabwean leaders but does not have economic sanctions against the country, nor is there any intention to do so. The EU is a major provider of aid to the Zimbabwean people, and this commitment to their welfare will remain in spite of government actions. The EU consistently uses political contacts with countries in the region to highlight concerns about Zimbabwe. Representatives of the local EU Presidency in each of the SADC countries have this year expressed to their host governments the concern of the EU and its Member States over the developments in Zimbabwe. The Presidency Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs attended the SADC Summit in August 2007 and had talks with key figures. Zimbabwe was discussed at the EU-South Africa Troika which took place in South Africa on 10 October, and the EU expressed readiness to respond appropriately to tangible results from the SADC initiative and President Mbeki's mediation. No matter who represents Zimbabwe at the EU-Africa Summit in December, Ireland has made clear that we believe human rights and governance issues must be discussed, including as they affect Zimbabwe.

The situation in Zimbabwe is a matter of significant concern here in Ireland, and Ireland is among those EU Member States which have most strongly condemned human rights abuses and urged political and economic reform in Zimbabwe. The Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria monitors allegations of human rights abuses in Zimbabwe on an ongoing basis, and raises issues of concern with the Zimbabwean government at every available opportunity. The Irish Ambassador to South Africa most recently met Zimbabwean officials during a visit to Harare in September 2007. The Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs raised Ireland's concerns with Zimbabwean officials in Harare in June, and also had talks on Zimbabwe with South African officials in Pretoria. Ireland's Embassies in the region have highlighted our concerns about developments in Zimbabwe where possible. In particular, the Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria regularly discusses the situation in Zimbabwe with South African officials and Ministers. Ireland has also supported EU action to raise Zimbabwe in the appropriate UN human rights bodies.

The Irish Government, through Irish Aid, provides assistance for Zimbabwe for humanitarian purposes and for the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS. Irish Aid works in partnership with NGOs, missionaries and international organisations and does not provide funding to the Zimbabwean Government. Irish Aid funding for Zimbabwe amounted to €10.4 million in 2006 and €8 million so far this year. These programmes have a direct and positive effect on the lives of thousands of poor Zimbabwean people, and we are committed to continuing this assistance and expanding it when circumstances allow.

Irish Emigrants.

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

97 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the links he has with Irish emigrants in the USA; if he provides funding to them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25018/07]

James Bannon

Ceist:

117 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the links he has with Irish emigrants in Britain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25012/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 97 and 117 together.

Maintaining and strengthening links with Irish communities overseas is a key priority of my Department. An essential and positive development in the provision of services to Irish emigrants is the very substantial level of funding now available. In 2007, the unprecedented amount of €15.165 million has been provided for emigrant services, 26% greater than last year.

Grants are extended to groups in the voluntary sector who provide advice and support for Irish people abroad. Priority continues to be given to groups that support our most vulnerable and marginalised, such as our older community in Britain and undocumented Irish in the United States.

The interests of the Irish in the United States are an important priority for the Government, with the issue of the undocumented Irish being an area of particular concern. In all of our dealings with key figures in the US Administration and Legislature, we emphasise our strong support for measures that would enable the undocumented Irish to regularise their status and have open to them a path to permanent residence. Our Embassy in Washington and Consulates across the US are extremely active, on an ongoing basis, in highlighting our concerns. Close contact is also maintained with the Irish Lobby for Immigration Reform (ILIR), which also receives financial support. I, of course, availed of my recent visit to the United States to meet with ILIR, and also with a group of our undocumented citizens in New York.

My recent visit to the United States also provided me with the opportunity to discuss the situation with senior members of the Administration and with some of the key central players in Congress. While they all emphasised the extremely difficult environment at present for making progress on immigration reform in Congress, I was pleased that they were very willing to work with us in exploring further possible ways for resolving the position of our undocumented citizens. This work will now be pursued by the Ambassador and his staff in Washington and will be reviewed by me on an on-going basis.

In a broader context, my Department is working very closely with community organisations that assist the vulnerable Irish in the US. This year, over €1 million was made available to assist them in their crucial work.

Equally, the needs of the Irish community in Britain, in particular older people and those at risk of social exclusion, are a key priority for us. In 2006, the Government approved grants to over 140 groups throughout Britain amounting to €10.13 million. So far in 2007, grant allocations of €9.9 million have been announced, with further grants currently under active consideration. I met with members of most of these groups in London on 8th October when I announced this year's grants.

In addition to the very significant funding directed to Irish community groups that support our older emigrants, last year I introduced a new initiative based on the "Christmas Box" tradition, which provided additional small grants of £1,000 to £5,000 for a number of Irish clubs and associations around Britain to support their Christmas gatherings and I hope, funds permitting, to do the same again this year.

The Government is also conscious of the entitlements of some of our older Irish emigrants to Irish contributory pensions. In 2000, as Minister for Social, Family and Community Affairs, I established the pension scheme for people with pre-1953 pension contributions. Under this scheme, some €60.6 million was paid out last year to over 11,500 pensioners in Britain who benefit from this initiative.

Additional funding has also made possible support for GAA developments in Britain and North America. Over many years, GAA clubs throughout the world have helped their members and supporters to maintain and enhance their links with Ireland. Very importantly also, they help to sustain a strong sense of community and promote Irish heritage and cultural activities among our people overseas and their families.

Human Rights Issues.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

98 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is willing to call on the Chief Prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, Mr. Luis Moreno Ocampo, to prioritise the investigation and prosecution of gross and systematic incidents of sexual violence in the eastern regions of the Democratic Republic of Congo, as part of the ICC’s ongoing investigation into the situation in the DRC, both in order to bring an end to the widespread perception of impunity for sexual violence prevalent in the DRC and also to reform the international community’s ambivalent and apathetic attitude to the issue of rape and sexual violence in conflict situations. [24976/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

329 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the ongoing situation in the Democratic Republic of Congo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25481/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 329 together.

The renewed conflict in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) poses a threat to the transition process in the country and needs to be addressed urgently. A number of armed militias are preying on the population in North and South Kivu, and attempts by government troops to resolve the situation by force risk visiting further suffering on the people of the region. The EU has urged the Congolese authorities to seek a negotiated solution.

My EU colleagues and I again discussed the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo earlier this month. Following our discussion, the EU issued a Declaration urging an end to the violence in the east of the DRC and expressing its deep concern in particular over the systematic sexual violence which has become routine in this conflict. The EU expressed support for Congolese Government efforts to develop a national action plan based on UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on women and armed conflict.

Ultimately, an end to the conflict, followed by the creation of stability and the establishment of the rule of law in eastern DR Congo, will be crucial to ending these horrifying and brutal crimes against women. First, the Congolese Government will need to work towards a political solution, in co-operation with neighbouring countries, including Rwanda. I welcome in this regard the recent meeting between the DRC and Rwandan Foreign Ministers. Security sector reform, demobilisation and disarmament, and ending impunity and establishing an effective, fair and transparent system of justice are also urgently required.

The European Union, including Ireland, is fully committed to helping the Congolese government to tackle these problems. On the ground, the EUPOL DR Congo mission is assisting in police reform, and the EUSEC DR Congo mission is offering guidance on army integration and other security issues. Ireland has provided approximately €15 million for emergency purposes in the DRC since 2005, including almost €8 million so far this year. In 2006, Ireland provided €500,000 to support demobilisation and disarmament in the wider Great Lakes region. Establishing stability and justice will be a slow process, but the EU is committed to providing assistance in the long term.

Although progress is frustratingly slow, there is growing international recognition of the seriousness of rape and sexual violence in conflict situations. Since the UN Declaration on the Elimination of Violence Against Women in 1993, structures have been established which can begin to combat impunity for these and other serious crimes, starting with the appointment of a Special Rapporteur on violence against women in 1994. UN Security Council Resolution 1325 of 2000 called for special measures to protect women and girls from gender-based violence, emphasised the need to end impunity for such crimes, and urged the inclusion of women in peace processes and post-conflict rehabilitation.

The Rome Statute, which in 2002 established the International Criminal Court (ICC), includes rape, sexual slavery, enforced prostitution and other acts of gender based violence in its definition of crimes against humanity and war crimes. The entry into force of the Rome Statute has provided the international community with a permanent basis on which to act in relation to sexual violence in conflict situations. The Democratic Republic of Congo is one of four country situations where the ICC has currently decided to act, and the first person to be arrested by the ICC was a Congolese national, who was arrested in 2006 in connection with the use of child soldiers. Just last week, a second individual, Germain Katanga, was arrested in Kinshasa and flown to the Hague to face charges of murder, sexual enslavement and recruiting children as soldiers.

The Rome Statute provides that the Office of the Prosecutor shall act independently, and must not seek or act on instructions from any external source, including from states. It would therefore not be appropriate for me to call directly on the Prosecutor to act on a specific issue. However, the Office of the Prosecutor has actively engaged in a dialogue with States Parties, intergovernmental organisations and NGOs on the development of its overall prosecution policy. Ireland closely monitors the reports of the Prosecutor to the Assembly of States Parties to the ICC and to the UN Security Council.

Overseas Development Aid.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

99 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of aid given to organisations in Nepal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25027/07]

Assistance to development organisations operating in Nepal has totalled €2.6 million since 2004, as follows:

2004 €448,468

2005 €596,620

2006 €600,533

2007 €988,041

The funding has been provided under a number of different schemes, including funding for missionary organisations, volunteer programmes, and funding for long-term development under the Civil Society Fund in the areas of human rights, health, education and livelihood support. Funds were also allocated for emergency assistance dealing with flooding. In 2005, €200,000 was made available as a contribution to the establishment of a field office of the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights.

Question No. 100 answered with QuestionNo. 96.

Asylum Applications.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

101 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he is taking to address the problems forcing persons to seek asylum within the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25034/07]

I would like to direct the Deputy to my reply to Priority Question No. 86 which was as follows.

The problems that force people to seek asylum within the EU and elsewhere are many and all too common. They have to be addressed by the international community with all the instruments and resources at its disposal. All human rights violations must be condemned wherever they occur. Those responsible for persecution cannot be allowed to operate with impunity.

Persecution and conflict flourish in situations of extreme poverty and where climate change has had a disastrous impact on living conditions. These closely related factors present a complex challenge requiring a range of policy responses. Given that the great majority of the world's asylum seekers come from developing countries, it is important that the EU and other countries consider ways to support third countries in finding solutions to their problems.

Ireland, bilaterally, and in co-operation with its EU and UN partners, consistently follows a multi-faceted approach to the causes which have forced people to flee. This begins with our advocacy of the protection of human rights and continues through efforts to ensure conflict resolution, and the encouragement of policies aimed at poverty reduction, sustainable development and economic growth. The Irish Aid programme in particular is firmly focused on these objectives.

At EU level, the European Commission published last June a Green Paper on the future of the Common European Asylum System. The Green Paper, which Ireland welcomes, recognises many of the key challenges faced by Member States in relation to the operation of their asylum policies and procedures, and the need for increased co-operation on approaches at EU level so as to prevent ‘asylum shopping' while at the same time ensuring that those individuals who are in genuine need of protection receive this protection as soon as possible.

I believe that the vast majority of people have no wish to uproot themselves from their communities, frequently leaving their families behind, to undertake an often dangerous journey to an unknown and uncertain destination. If people are provided with a minimum level of economic opportunity, and the security provided by a functioning accountable Government and basic public services, they will, I believe, choose to stay in their own countries, towns and villages.

Ministerial Meetings.

Michael D'Arcy

Ceist:

102 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the discussions he had with the Secretary of State of the USA on his recent visit there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25017/07]

On 3 October, I met with the US Secretary of State, Dr Condoleezza Rice, in Washington DC. My meeting provided an opportunity to discuss a number of issues of current international concern, including the planned conference in the US next month on the Middle East as well as Iran, Iraq, and Afghanistan. Following on from meetings I had earlier that week in New York, including with UN Secretary General Ban and the Sudanese Foreign Minister, Lam Akol, and on which I briefed the Secretary, we also discussed the situations in Burma and Darfur. In discussing Darfur, I also briefed Secretary Rice on the new EU ESDP mission to Chad and the Central African Republic and of Ireland's intention to participate, subject to final Government decision and Dáil approval.

Secretary Rice and I also discussed the issue of conflict resolution and the establishment of a dedicated unit within my Department to develop Ireland's profile and expertise in this area. Secretary Rice expressed support for our efforts and the close cooperation being forged with the United Nations in developing the future work programme of the Conflict Resolution Unit.

The Government's complete opposition to extraordinary rendition, and the importance in this regard of the assurances we have received from the US authorities, including from Secretary Rice herself, were also recalled.

We also discussed recent very positive developments in Northern Ireland and I expressed the Government's appreciation of the US Administration's ongoing support and involvement. I emphasised the importance of economic success to underpin political progress in Northern Ireland and briefed on the potential benefits of North/South co-operation to contribute to economic growth and prosperity on the island of Ireland.

During the meeting, I emphasised my concern about the situation facing the undocumented Irish in the United States following the failure of efforts to pass comprehensive immigration reform legislation in the US Congress earlier this year. During the meeting, I emphasised my concern about the situation facing the undocumented Irish in the United States following the failure of efforts to pass comprehensive immigration reform legislation in the US Congress earlier this year. I made clear the Government's determination to explore possible alternative options, including bilateral arrangements. While recognising the present very difficult environment for immigration reform in Congress, we agreed to explore further the potential for resolving the position of our undocumented citizens. This work will now be actively taken forward by the Ambassador and his staff in Washington.

I also raised the case of an Irish citizen who was killed recently while serving with the United States Armed Forces in Afghanistan and requested that the full circumstances surrounding her death be made available to the family.

Question No. 103 answered with Question 90.

Human Rights Issues.

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

104 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the very serious, extensive and fundamental breaches of human rights involved he will indicate his view on the request to the Federal Government of India to address the continued impunity which it is suggested is maintained by those involved in massacres, rapes and other widespread violations in Gujarat in 2002. [24993/07]

I very much share the concerns expressed by Deputy Sherlock about the killings and serious human rights abuses which occurred in Gujarat in 2002, and the strong evidence which exists to suggest that some individuals within the State Government of Gujarat were involved.

In view of very deep concerns in this regard, and particularly in light of the strong evidence of involvement by the State authorities in the violence and rights abuses which took place, the EU agreed, shortly after these events in 2002, to refrain from any high-level EU visits to the State of Gujarat and from all direct contacts with Chief Minister Modi or his Ministers and reaffirmed this position in 2006. It was also decided that members of the Gujarat Government should not be facilitated in relation to any official visits to EU Member States. This remains our position.

The EU, individually and collectively, avails of all suitable opportunities to raise with the Indian Government a variety of areas of concern in relation to human rights and rights of minorities, including our concerns about the situation in Gujarat. The central Government in New Delhi is indeed aware of the situation and of the EU's concerns in this regard. Our concerns relate not only to the specific events of 2002 but also to the evidence of continuing discrimination and impunity in Gujarat.

State Elections will be taking place in Gujarat in December this year and we will be monitoring developments there closely, particularly to gauge if the outcome to those elections will enhance the prospects of further investigation of the events of 2002 and the bringing to justice of those who perpetrated the violence and abuses which took place at that time.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

105 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the Irish Government’s view in relation to the importance of ending the denial of the Armenian genocide and vindication of the human rights of those within Turkey who wish to discuss this issue. [24979/07]

Relations between Turkey and Armenia are complicated by a number of outstanding issues. The major dispute between the two countries centres on the different interpretations of events during the First World War which resulted in the tragic deaths of very large numbers of Armenians in the Ottoman Empire. The Turkish Government has proposed the establishment of a commission, composed of eminent academics, to investigate and determine the facts of this tragic episode in their shared history. While it has not been possible to move forward on the basis of this proposal, we would encourage both sides to explore ways to make progress on this most sensitive issue.

The Government's concerns about the human rights situation in Turkey are raised on a regular basis in our contacts with the Turkish Government and its representatives, and in cooperation with our partners in the EU. In recent years Turkey has made significant progress in the adoption of wide-ranging political and legal reforms. Important human rights reforms have been introduced and legislation enacted aimed at strengthening the enforcement of human rights, including the cultural rights of all citizens. At my recent meeting with Foreign Minister Babacan, en marge of the UN General Assembly, I emphasised the need for further progress on the reform agenda.

I am aware of recent reports of the conviction and jailing of journalists in Turkey for offences under Article 301 of the Turkish Penal Code, which apparently relate to their publication of particular views concerning the historical events referred to above. Ireland and our EU partners have made clear to Turkey our views on the need for further reform of the Turkish Penal Code to ensure full respect for freedom of expression, and we will continue to do so. In this context, I am pleased to note recent reports that the Turkish Government is considering revision of Article 301 of the Penal Code.

International Conventions.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

106 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when he will ratify the Council of Europe Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22328/07]

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

128 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when Ireland will ratify the international instruments in relation to the prohibition on trafficking. [24980/07]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

129 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when he will ratify the UN Protocol to prevent, suppress and punish trafficking in persons especially women and children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22327/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 106, 128 and 129 together.

Legislation creating offences connected with human trafficking was published by my colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, on 9th October, 2007.

It is also the intention of the Minster for Justice, Equality and Law Reform to include provisions in the forthcoming Immigration, Residence and Protection Bill which will strengthen the protections available to victims of human trafficking. In particular, it is his intention to provide the necessary framework within which a victim of trafficking can remain in the State while they recover from their ordeal. It is intended that this will also give the victim the opportunity to escape the influence of those who engage in human trafficking. In addition, this interval will allow the victim time to come to a decision on whether he or she wishes to participate in any criminal proceedings in the matter. In such circumstances, a further period of residence in the State is to be provided for so to enable this to occur.

On enactment of these pieces of legislation, which I understand are being treated as an urgent priority within the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Ireland will be in a position to ratify the international instruments on trafficking in persons.

Question No. 107 answered with QuestionNo. 87.
Question No. 108 answered with QuestionNo. 91.

Overseas Development Aid.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

109 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of aid given to organisations in Sudan; the way this funding to used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25024/07]

There has been a sharp deterioration in 2007 in the security and humanitarian situation in Sudan, particularly Darfur. The current crisis represents a significant challenge to efforts to help the people of Sudan. Humanitarian access remains very difficult for aid workers in their efforts to reach those most in need. The security situation within some of the camps remains very volatile.

In 2006 and to date in 2007, Ireland has provided funding of approximately €32.5 million to support humanitarian operations and longer-term development engagement in Sudan. The objective is to save lives and help rebuild livelihoods of some of the most marginalised and poor people in Sudan.

So far in 2007, we have provided a little over €10 million in life saving humanitarian support. This includes €3 million to the Common Humanitarian Fund for Sudan. This is a mechanism which places funds at the disposal of the Humanitarian Coordinator in Sudan in order that assistance can be rapidly deployed to those most in need. Funding has also been provided to organisations such as Concern, GOAL, Trócaire, Oxfam, UNICEF and the World Food Programme (WFP) for their humanitarian operations.

In relation to longer-term development work, the Government has provided in 2007 funding of approximately €5.8 million to three Irish Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) — Concern, GOAL and Trócaire — as part of our Multi Annual Partnership Scheme (MAPS). These programmes focus on health, education, nutrition and HIV/AIDS, water, sanitation and food security.

Assistance amounting to €2 million has also been provided to the African Peace Facility in order to support the African Union's peacekeeping efforts in Sudan.

In addition to the provision of funding, Ireland has disbursed essential, non-food relief supplies — tarpaulins for temporary shelter and mosquito nets — from our emergency stockpile in Brindisi, Italy to Kassala, northern Sudan. These supplies were delivered as part of the Government's Rapid Response Initiative and were provided to GOAL to assist in its emergency operations following serious flooding in that region.

I believe there is an urgent need for a full, rapid and successful deployment of the joint UN-AU Mission, UNAMID, to succeed the African Union Mission in Sudan. I urge the Government of Sudan to cooperate fully with the UN and AU on deployment of UNAMID and all parties to cease attacks on civilians and obstruction of humanitarian access.

It is in the context of Ireland's concern for the vulnerable of this region that the Government has decided in principle to contribute personnel to the planned European Security and Defence Policy (ESDP) mission in Chad and the Central African Republic, which will assist the many thousands of people in these countries displaced by the Darfur crisis.

My colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Dermot Ahern T.D., intends, subject to security considerations, to travel to the region next month in order to reiterate the priority Ireland attaches to assisting all the people of Sudan and the region to achieve peace and development.

I will continue to keep the evolving humanitarian crisis in Sudan under review, providing funding to save lives, while encouraging and supporting all efforts to forge the political solution, which is absolutely essential to bring about security, stability and human development.

Question No. 110 answered with QuestionNo. 96.
Question No. 111 answered with QuestionNo. 87.

Foreign Conflicts.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

112 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the reported killing in the Central African Republic by Government troops of civilians since June 2005; and if in the context of the deployment of Irish Troops in Chad he will make a statement on the regional implication of such actions. [24992/07]

The security, humanitarian and human rights challenges in the Central African Republic (CAR) remain immense, with a clear need for international support. In recent years, an already difficult situation has been exacerbated by the activities of criminal gangs, armed rebellions in the north-west and the north-east and the spill-over of instability from Darfur and Chad. However, there has been some recent political progress, with President Bozize's government initialling a peace deal with four rebel groups earlier this month.

In May 2007 the International Criminal Court opened an investigation into grave crimes, including mass killings and rape, that have occurred in the country in the context of the conflict between the Government and rebel forces. While the investigation will focus primarily on the period 2002-2003, it will also follow ongoing abuses. A number of reports of the UN Secretary General have highlighted concerns about the excessive use of force by some elements of the armed forces of the Central African Republic, which have further undermined the humanitarian situation and increased displacement in rebel areas in the north of the country. There is a clear need for reform and strengthening of the armed forces and police of the Central African Republic to allow them to provide security and achieve improved human rights protection standards. Recent UN reports have also described the conflict in the border areas between Darfur, Chad, and the CAR as a threat to overall peace and security in the region.

In response to this situation, the UN Security Council adopted Resolution 1778 of 25 September 2007, authorising the establishment of a multi-dimensional mission to provide security and protection for refugees and the displaced, allow for refugee returns and facilitate humanitarian assistance in Chad and the Central African Republic. The multi-dimensional presence is mandated to contribute to a more secure environment through monitoring, promotion and protection of human rights, and to support efforts to strengthen the capacity of both the CAR and Chadian governments in meeting international human rights standards. A specific police training element, totalling more than 300 personnel, will form part of the mission.

Resolution 1778 also authorised the European Union to establish an operation to provide the military element of the mission for a period of one year. The General Affairs and External Relations Council which I attended on 15 October approved a Joint Action establishing EUFOR TCHAD/RCA, a bridging military operation for the multi-dimensional mission, which is to work alongside UN Civilian and Police elements and reformed elements of Chadian police. EUFOR TCHAD/RCA's primary focus will be on protection for civilians in danger, particularly refugees and displaced persons, in eastern Chad and north-eastern CAR, facilitating humanitarian access and protection of UN personnel.

Ireland fully supports the deployment of EUFOR TCHAD/RCA as a means of addressing the serious security and humanitarian situation obtaining in both eastern Chad and northern-eastern CAR, as well as the broader regional dimension arising from the Darfur crisis. As Deputies are aware, Lt Gen Pat Nash has been appointed Operations Commander of the mission. Officers from the Defence Forces returned last week from a reconnaissance visit to the mission area, and will make recommendations prior to any Government decision to seek Dáil approval for a significant deployment of Irish troops to serve with EUFOR TCHAD/RCA. This will undoubtedly be a challenging mission which will need to be conducted in a balanced, impartial and independent manner but which should equally contribute to improving overall security and respect for human rights in this fragile region.

Ireland also has an established record of providing humanitarian assistance to the people of the Central African Republic. Since 2006, Irish Aid has provided over €3.8 million to support the work of UN agencies on the ground.

Human Rights Issues.

Kathleen Lynch

Ceist:

113 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he or his colleagues in the European Union are concerned or intend making a statement on the widespread concern by Human Rights Organisations and Human Rights Watch in particular over Colombian President Uribe’s interference in the Supreme Courts investigation into links between politicians and paramilitaries, and what they suggest are his repeated attacks on the Court itself and which constitute a threat to judicial independence. [24986/07]

Together with our European Union partners, Ireland is closely monitoring developments in regard to Supreme Court investigations in connection with the alleged association of members of Congress and Government officials with paramilitary groups in Colombia. Any association between elected representatives and officials and paramilitary groups is a matter of serious concern in itself, and also has the capacity further to destabilise the Colombian peace process, the success of which is essential for that country's future development. The question of how the European Union can most effectively influence developments in a positive direction is kept under careful review. Any interference with judicial independence would clearly be a matter of the most serious concern.

Question No. 114 answered with QuestionNo. 87.

International Agreements.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

115 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the United Nations instruments awaiting ratification that will be ratified in the current Dáil term and which he expects to have ratified in the lifetime of this Government. [24975/07]

As the Deputy will be aware, there is a large number of international agreements within the UN framework, covering a very wide range of subjects and falling within the functional responsibility of a number of Departments.

A list of the international agreements within the UN framework which have been signed but not ratified by Ireland (apart from those which have been superseded by subsequent agreements) is as follows, indicating the lead Government Department with responsibility in each case. I have asked my officials to check with each of the relevant Departments concerning their current plans for ratification of these instruments, and I will communicate this information separately to the Deputy as soon as possible.

UN Agreements signed but not yet ratified by Ireland

No.

Title:

Date of Signature:

Department responsible:

1

Optional Protocol to the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations, concerning the Compulsory Settlement of Disputes

18 April 1961

DFA

2

Optional Protocol to the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, concerning the Compulsory Settlement of Disputes

24 April 1963

DFA

3

Agreement concerning the Adoption of Uniform Conditions for Periodical Technical Inspections of Wheeled Vehicles and the Reciprocal Recognition of such Inspections

13 November 1997

Transport

4

Protocol to the 1979 Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution on Persistent Organic Pollutants

24 June 1998

Environment & Local Government

5

Protocol to the 1979 Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution on Heavy Metals

24 June 1998

Environment & Local Government

6

Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making, and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters

25 June 1998

Environment & Local Government

7

Protocol to the 1979 Convention on Long-Range Transboundary Air Pollution to abate Acidification, Eutrophication and Ground Level Ozone

1 December 1999

Environment & Local Government

8

Optional Protocol to the Convention on the Rights of the Child on the Sale of Children, Child Prostitution and Child Pornography

7 September 2000

D/JELR

9

UN Convention against Transnational Organized Crime

13 December 2000

D/JELR

10

Protocol to Prevent, Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons, especially Women and Children, supplementing the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime

13 December 2000

D/JELR

11

Protocol against the Smuggling of Migrants by Land, Sea and Air, supplementing the UN Convention against Transnational Organised Crime

13 December 2000

D/JELR

12

Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants

23 May 2001

Environment & Local Government

13

Protocol on Strategic Environmental Assessment to the Convention on Environmental Impact Assessment in a Transboundary Context

21 May 2003

Environment & Local Government

14

Protocol on Pollutant Release and Transfer Registers

21 May 2003

Environment & Local Government

15

UN Convention against Corruption

9 December 2003

D/JELR

16

International Convention for the Suppression of Acts of Nuclear Terrorism

15 September 2005

D/JELR

17

The International Convention for the Protection of all Persons from Enforced Disappearances

29 March 2007

D/JELR

18

The Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities

30 March 2007

D/JELR

19

Optional Protocol to the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment

2 October 2007

D/JELR

Human Rights Issues.

Joanna Tuffy

Ceist:

116 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will express to the Chinese Government, the Irish Government’s concern at attempts to suppress dissent and introduce restrictions of movement of dissidents within China in preparation of an atmosphere for international presence on the occasion of the Olympic Games. [24987/07]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

309 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the way it is proposed to reassert the opposition of the Irish people to human rights violations in China especially in the context of the forthcoming Olympic Games in Beijing. [24863/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 116 and 309 together.

My Department has already been involved in constructive discussions with the Chinese Government on the implications of the Olympic Games in Beijing next year. We have highlighted the opportunities which China's hosting of the Games present, in terms of show-casing the country and its many achievements. In that context, we have stressed that the international spotlight will be on China at that time, including on a range of international questions and on issues of human rights, fundamental freedoms and the rule of law. We have reiterated the great importance that the Government attaches to these issues, and our hope that every effort possible will be made to facilitate freedom of movement and expression, including the right to peaceful protest, in the run-up to — and during — the Games.

I welcome the decision by the Chinese authorities at the beginning of this year to lift temporarily some restrictions on foreign journalists working in China. A useful legacy of the Games would be if this easing of restrictions were made permanent and extended to all journalists working in China. This, I believe, would allow for a deeper and wider understanding of China and its development.

I am concerned by reports that the Chinese authorities may introduce restrictions on certain groups in China during the games. Whilst security issues are of course a key concern for the organisers, it is not clear that these would justify such measures.

On a more general level, concerns regarding the situation of human rights and fundamental freedoms in China are raised on a regular basis in our own bilateral contacts with the Government of China. Discussions in this regard take place at official level in Dublin and in Beijing and I myself raised my concerns in this regard when I met (then) Foreign Minister Li in Beijing last year.

Such issues are also discussed on a regular basis in the context of the EU-China Human Rights Dialogue, which is the agreed formal framework through which the EU raises human rights issues with China. The Dialogue, the most recent round of which took place in Beijing last week, has allowed the EU to engage with China on such issues as freedom of expression, the death penalty, the independence of the judiciary, freedom of religion and minority rights. The EU has used the Dialogue to press its case for Chinese ratification of such international instruments as the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), and for reform of the criminal justice system. The EU has also urged China to continue cooperation with, and to implement the recommendations of, the UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, including in particular the abolition of the "re-education through labour" system. The EU continues to use the Dialogue to raise significant individual human rights cases. These cases are followed up in subsequent contacts with the Chinese authorities.

Question No. 117 answered with QuestionNo. 97.

Nuclear Issues.

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

118 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when the next meeting of the Nuclear Supplies Group will take place; and the agenda for discussion. [24983/07]

The next Plenary Meeting of the Nuclear Suppliers' Group (NSG) is scheduled to take place in Germany in early 2008. There will be a meeting of the NSG Consultative Group in Vienna from 14-16 November this year. This is the standing inter-sessional working body of the NSG, tasked to hold consultations on issues associated with the Guidelines on Nuclear Supply and related issues.

The agenda for the November meeting includes consideration of technical developments with implications for export controls, outreach to other States, UN Security Council sanctions, and the question of NSG relations with India. Participating Governments will be invited to share information on discussions with India on possible civil nuclear cooperation with that country but it is not expected that the NSG will be asked to take any decision in the matter, in particular given recent indications that the Government of India has decided to delay pursuing implementation of its agreement with the United States. As the Deputy will be aware, we have considerable reservations about the proposed agreement and have been actively seeking clarifications across a range of issues of concern.

Humanitarian Emergencies.

John Deasy

Ceist:

119 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of personnel in the rapid response unit; the role they have; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25007/07]

The Rapid Response Corps is a key component of the Government's Rapid Response Initiative. This Initiative is designed to enhance Ireland's overall response to humanitarian emergencies. The Rapid Response Corps consists of a roster of highly-skilled individuals who can deploy at short notice to emergency situations.

The campaign to recruit members to this roster was launched in February 2007. Following a rigorous selection and interview process, 64 individuals were invited to become members of the Corps of whom 52 are now ready to deploy if needed. This group has completed its compulsory pre-departure training and checks.

The role of the Corps is to make highly-skilled and experienced professionals available, on a volunteer basis, to key humanitarian partner agencies at short notice to assist in their humanitarian response efforts. Individual members of the Corps are on standby and can be deployed, when requested, for periods of approximately three months.

Ireland can now provide essential expertise — individuals with humanitarian, logistics, information technology, engineering, environmental, public information and public health skills — to our key humanitarian partner agencies. These are the specific skills which are needed internationally to address humanitarian crises.

Question No. 120 answered with QuestionNo. 87.

Human Rights Issues.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

121 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he and the Government are in favour of establishing a regime of inspection of such civilian and military traffic in order to among other purposes, ensure Irish compliance with its international human rights and humanitarian law obligations. [25002/07]

I assume that the Deputy is referring to the issue of extraordinary rendition, which has been raised on many occasions in this House. As I have made clear repeatedly, the Government are completely opposed to the practice of the extraordinary rendition of prisoners. Our concerns in relation to this matter have been made clear to the highest levels of the US Government, including by the Taoiseach to President Bush. The Government have received specific assurances from the US authorities, confirmed by Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice, that such prisoners have not been transferred through Irish territory, nor would they be, without our permission. My most recent meeting with Secretary Rice on 3rd October provided a further opportunity to recall the Government's complete opposition to extraordinary rendition, and the importance in this regard of the assurances we have received from the US authorities.

As I have also made clear on previous occasions, the Government is satisfied that it is in full compliance with its international obligations in this respect.

I am not aware that there have been any allegations that military aircraft transiting Irish airports have been involved in extraordinary rendition. By virtue of sovereign immunity, and subject to the commonly-accepted practice of nations, military aircraft are not subject to search when they visit Irish airports. In relation to civil aircraft (which is the relevant category in this regard), where the Garda Síochána reasonably suspects that an offence is being committed, statutory powers of entry of aircraft and arrest are available. As I have previously informed the House, the decision to search a particular aircraft, if and when warranted in accordance with the law, would be a matter for the Garda Síochána.

To date, where complaints of alleged unlawful activity concerning the use of Irish airports have been made to the Garda Síochána, Garda investigations have ensued and, where appropriate, files have been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. In all these cases, no further action was found to be warranted, owing to a lack of any evidence of any unlawful activity. Finally, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform have confirmed that every support and assistance is being provided to the Garda Síochána To date, where complaints of alleged unlawful activity concerning the use of Irish airports have been made to the Garda Síochána, Garda investigations have ensued and, where appropriate, files have been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions. In all these cases, no further action was found to be warranted, owing to a lack of any evidence of any unlawful activity. Finally, the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform have confirmed that every support and assistance is being provided to the Garda Síochána to ensure Ireland's compliance with international law in respect of the use of Irish airports.

Mary Upton

Ceist:

122 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the right to water as a basic human right in the context of the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and related instruments. [24977/07]

Irish Aid, the Government's official development programme, recognises adequate water and sanitation both as a fundamental right and as essential for social and economic development. We believe that adequate water and sanitation are prerequisites to the achievement of other basic rights, such as the right to health or to the achievement of equal rights for women and children, who currently bear the bulk of the burden associated with the lack of water and sanitation.

The right to water as a basic human right is not explicit in the Universal Declaration on Human Rights. Articles 22 and 25 cover social, cultural and economic rights and the right to a standard of living adequate for health and well-being. I believe that access to water and sanitation is a vital component of that standard of living.

The provision of adequate and safe water and sanitation remains a key part of the Government's aid programme. In 2006, Irish Aid invested approximately €20 million in a wide range of activities in the sector. This work will continue as our programme expands.

Asylum Applications.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

123 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the establishment of transit and processing centres for migrants and asylum seekers outside the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25035/07]

In recent years, a number of new approaches have been suggested for the processing of mixed flows of migrants and asylum seekers that wish to enter the EU. These proposals include the establishment of transit and processing centres outside of the EU.

While there may be good reasons for these proposed centres, such as the provision of better levels of protection than are currently available and the harmonisation of asylum processing, such proposals raise many practical concerns and legal questions. These include issues such as who would be responsible for the running of the centres; who would they cater for; how would refugee status be determined; what happens after refugee status has been determined. Ireland has no plans to establish any migrant or asylum processing centres outside the State.

Human Rights Issues.

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

124 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the need to promote and protect human rights internationally by controlling more effectively the conditions under which military and security transfers take place, particularly in the context of armed conflict, he will support calls for measures to unequivocally prohibit mercenary activity of any kind by Irish citizens in an armed conflict. [24994/07]

I assume the Deputy is referring to the use by States of private military/private security companies (PMCs/PSCs) in situations of armed conflict. I am advised that both the staff of private military/private security companies and any State hiring them have responsibilities under international humanitarian law. An Irish citizen working for such a company would be bound by international humanitarian law and would, for example, have individual criminal responsibility for any war crimes committed.

The use of mercenaries is not as such prohibited under customary general international law or under any broadly ratified international treaty. International humanitarian law does not prohibit mercenaries, but rather focuses on their status if captured. Article 47 of the First Additional Protocol of 1977 to the Geneva Convention provides that "a mercenary shall not have the right to be a combatant or a prisoner of war", i.e. that a mercenary is not entitled to the privileged treatment of a prisoner of war. However, the Protocol's criteria for the definition of a mercenary make it apparent how problematic it can be to distinguish between categories of military forces.

The question of any illegal activity by private military/security companies within the State would be a matter for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and the Garda Síochána. While I would be open to considering any broadly-based international effort to clarify or regulate the complex issues involved, I do not believe that any blanket prohibition of the type proposed is likely to be practicable.

Freedom of Expression.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

125 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position of the Government in relation to the reported crackdown in Egypt on journalists and dissidents in the exercise of freedom of expression and the recent dissolution of a human rights organisation. [24989/07]

Ireland and Egypt have enjoyed very good relations for many years. The Government was particularly pleased to welcome President Mubarak to Dublin last December on the first ever visit by an Egyptian Head of State. I am in regular contact with the Egyptian Foreign Minister. We greatly value the positive role played by Egypt regionally, especially in relation to the Middle East Peace Process and the efforts to resolve the crisis in Darfur. We work in particularly close partnership as members of the New Agenda Coalition for a world free of nuclear weapons.

In our contacts with the Egyptian Government, we regularly raise human rights issues. We have welcomed the moves in recent years to introduce a greater degree of political pluralism in Egypt and to improve the protection of human rights. The EU has developed a strong institutional framework for its relations with Egypt, which is based on a joint commitment to respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. The EU-Egypt Action Plan, which was agreed earlier this year under the European Neighbourhood Policy, devotes particular attention to the promotion of these basic values. The EU has made it clear that we are ready to contribute to Egypt's efforts by providing support and technical assistance. Through our Embassy in Cairo, the Government also supports the work of a range of Egyptian human rights organisations.

Against this background, I have been disappointed, and concerned, by recent reports of action against a number of journalists and human rights organisations. There is a widespread concern that the authorities have moved to limit the freedom of expression which is essential to the development of a democratic society.

The concerns which we and our EU partners share at these developments, and other reported human rights abuses, will be specifically addressed in the political dialogue sub-committee established under the EU-Egypt Action Plan. The first meeting of the group will take place in the coming months. In the meantime, we will continue to monitor the human rights situation in Egypt through our Embassy in Cairo and in cooperation with our EU partners. We will also continue to raise issues of concern with the Egyptian Government.

Overseas Development Aid.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

126 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on purchasing a transport aircraft for the Air Corps as part of the overseas aid programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24703/07]

There are no plans, at this time, to purchase a transport aircraft for the Air Corps as part of Ireland's overseas aid programme. Such a purchase is unlikely to be a cost effective use of Irish Aid funding.

The current position is that the transportation of Ireland's supplies of essential, non-food relief items — which are stockpiled at the UN's humanitarian response base in Brindisi, Italy and at the Curragh Camp, Co. Kildare — is undertaken in accordance with a formal agreement between my Department and the UN World Food Programme (WFP) signed in October 2006.

I visited the Brindisi emergency warehouse on 19 July and, since that time, there have been shipments comprising Ireland's essential supplies to meet humanitarian needs following natural disasters in Pakistan, Sudan, Peru, Uganda, Burkina Faso and Mali.

Our shipments have, in most cases, been joint operations with other donor countries likeNorway and Italy. They have been undertaken as part of our agreement with the WFP. For such joint operations, packing lists, aircraft space and flight costs have been shared with the other donors. They have proven to be both an efficient and cost effective way of providing essential supplies to those people in real need in humanitarian emergencies.

While a review of Ireland's stockpiling process will be undertaken towards the end of 2008, it is my intention, at least until that time, to continue to transport our essential relief supplies in accordance with our agreement with the WFP.

International Conventions.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

127 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, following the damning report of the Council of Europe’s Committee for the Prevention of Torture regarding the conditions in Irish prisons, and more particularly its conclusions on the lack of sanitation, adequate space and basic safety from violence for inmates and staff in Mountjoy, Limerick Prison and St. Patrick’s Institution, Ireland is in breach of its international obligations under the Convention Against Torture, the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the European Convention on Human Rights and the European Convention on the Prevention of Torture; and if he will raise with his Government colleagues in general, and the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform in particular the issues of non-compliance that arise. [25001/07]

The report of the visit to Ireland one year ago by the Committee for the Prevention of Torture (CPT) of the Council of Europe was published along with the response of the Government on 10 October. My Department participated in an Inter-Departmental Committee on the preparation of the visit chaired by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform. I am pleased with the statement at the beginning of the CPT report that the degree of co-operation received during the visit from the Irish authorities was very good, both at central and local level. The issues raised by the Deputy arising from the report are matters for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, and I will draw them to his attention.

Questions Nos. 128 and 129 answered with Question No. 106.

Human Rights Issues.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

130 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he is in a position to comment on the recently published Human Rights Watch report Criminal Politics: Violence, Godfathers and Corruption in Nigeria, and the crisis of governance, lack of transparency and other matters referred to in the report; and if it is his Departments’s position that it can recommend to the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform that Nigeria is a country to which refugees can be returned with the assurance of all protections under international law. [24990/07]

"Criminal Politics: Violence, ‘Godfathers' and Corruption in Nigeria", Human Right Watch's report of 11 October 2007, addresses a number of genuine challenges faced in Nigeria. More needs to be done to address corruption and human rights standards in Nigeria and the conduct of Nigeria's April 2007 elections was a disappointment. These elections, as noted in the report of the EU Election Observation Mission, were marked by many irregularities and by violent incidents that led to numerous deaths and they failed to reach a significantly higher standard that the previous round of elections held in 2004.

It is important to recognise, however, that Nigeria is in a process of transition from a long and traumatic period of military rule that ended only about eight years ago. Nigeria's human rights record has improved considerably since 1999. During the period in office of former President Obasanjo, a Human Rights Violations Investigation Panel was set up to investigate all gross human rights violations dating back to 1966 while plans were also announced for establishment of Human Rights Steering and Coordination Committees. The Obasanjo Government also took significant steps to address corruption, including arresting or removing many senior officials and politicians who were found to have committed abuses.

Simultaneously, great strides have been made in economic reform and establishing sustainable growth, while Nigeria has played a leadership role in advancing the cause of peace both regionally in West Africa and in Africa as a whole. President Obasanjo was a most effective President of the African Union (AU) between 2004 and 2006. Nigeria is also a major troop contributor to AU and UN missions and will provide the Force Commander for the hybrid African Union-UN mission currently being deployed in the Darfur region of Sudan.

Since his inauguration earlier this year, President Yar'Adua has publicly acknowledged that there were flaws in the 2007 electoral process and has established an Electoral Reform Panel to come up with recommendations to try to deal with some of these flaws. The Human Right Watch report of October 2007 also notes that President Yar'Adua is known for his personal probity and has already demonstrated a commitment to transparency, not least by declaring the value of his private assets in July 2007. President Yar'Adua has also committed to reforming a range of national institutions including the police force.

Alongside other international partners, the European Union and Ireland are committed to working with Nigeria on areas of mutual concern and supporting Nigeria's efforts to achieve further reform and learn lessons from the 2007 elections. Political dialogue between the EU and Nigeria under article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement will play an important role in this engagement. This dialogue between the Union and both Government and opposition figures has covered areas including democratisation, constitutional and economic reform, human rights, international relations and trade. It was initiated under the Irish Presidency of the European Union in 2004, and Ireland and our European partners are committed to using it to the greatest possible effect.

With regard to the second part of the Deputy's question, my Department continues to monitor closely the human rights situation in Nigeria and responds to requests for information from other Government Departments as they arise.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

131 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the recent report by Humans Rights Watch in relation to the violation of ethnic Nepalese children’s rights in contrary to convention on the rights of the child in Bhutan. [24988/07]

I am deeply concerned by the situation of Bhutanese refugees in Nepal, as well as the wider issue of the situation of ethnic Nepalese in Bhutan itself. Of particular concern is the situation of tens of thousands of ethnic Nepalese children expelled from Bhutan who have been left stateless and condemned to grow up in limbo in refugee camps in the region. In this context, I greatly welcome the report by Human Rights Watch in May on the issue of Bhutanese refugees and its subsequent submission to the UN Committee on the Rights of the Child in September.

The situation of the Bhutanese refugees has its origins in the policies of the Government of Bhutan in the late 1980s and early 1990s, which resulted in the expulsion of tens of thousands of people from the south of the country to Nepal. These refugees are of Nepalese descent and Hindu, unlike the northern Bhutanese who are predominantly Buddhist. Since that time, up to 103,000 refugees have been confined to seven refugee camps in south-eastern Nepal administered by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). This protracted refugee situation remains a source of regional tension.

Many of the refugees were forced to sign so-called "voluntary migration certificates" when they were expelled, effectively forfeiting their rights to Bhutanese citizenship under the country's citizenship laws.

Although Bhutan and Nepal agreed in 1993 to set up a high level committee at foreign minister level to work towards a settlement of the refugee issue, little progress has been made. In 2001, the two sides agreed a joint process to verify the nationality of refugees. However, work has been concentrated on only one of the seven camps and the UNHCR has been excluded from the process. There have not yet been any repatriations.

Together with our EU partners, Ireland continues to call upon the governments of both Bhutan and Nepal to invite the UNHCR to participate fully in monitoring a verification and appeals process for the Bhutanese refugees in Nepal. Ireland urges all parties to work together to find a prompt, viable solution to this situation, which might include voluntary repatriation, local integration or resettlement. I would equally urge the government of Bhutan to do its utmost to protect the civil, economic and cultural rights of ethnic Nepalese in Bhutan.

Question No. 132 answered with QuestionNo. 87.

UN Conventions.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

133 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Government expects to ratify the UN Convention against Corruption in the current Dáil period or in the lifetime of the current Government. [24982/07]

The United Nations Convention against Corruption was adopted by the UN General Assembly in October 2003 and was signed on behalf of Ireland, when it opened for signature in December 2003. The Convention entered into force on 14 December 2005.

The Convention is a very broad and comprehensive treaty which provides internationally-recognised measures to prevent and combat corruption. It also seeks to support and facilitate international co-operation and technical assistance in the prevention of, and fight against, corruption, including asset recovery. More generally, it aims to promote integrity, accountability and proper management of public affairs and public property.

My colleague, the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General, is currently examining the Convention. His Department has also undertaken consultations with other Departments and Agencies. While the majority of its provisions are catered for in existing laws, it will be necessary to harmonise some aspects of Irish legislation with the criminal justice provisions of the Convention. The Government intends to bring forward the required additional legislation as part of the Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Bill and the Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill.

The Government is also examining the Convention's provisions relating to asset recovery, judicial and prosecution services and anti-corruption institutions with a view to determining if any other action will be required before Ireland can ratify this Convention.

Common Foreign and Security Policy.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

134 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the proposals he envisages in advance of the referendum on the European treaty to address the issue of the accountability deficit in relation to European Union decision making in general and CFSP in particular. [24985/07]

A key purpose of the new Reform Treaty is to enhance the democratic legitimacy of the Union. With this aim in mind, the Treaty provides for a stronger role for the European Parliament by extending the number of areas of EU legislation to be decided by co-decision between the Parliament and the Council of Ministers.

The Houses of the Oireachtas and other national Parliaments throughout the Union currently receive Commission proposals directly from the Commission itself. The Reform Treaty will strengthen current subsidiarity arrangements by giving national Parliaments longer to respond to Commission proposals and by increasing the onus on the Commission to take their reasoned opinions into account. This so-called "yellow card" system is a positive development which will enhance accountability and democratic legitimacy within the Union.

Our own European Union (Scrutiny) Act has operated successfully for over five years in providing a national framework for parliamentary oversight of proposed EU measures. In relation to CFSP measures, the Scrutiny Act applies to proposed Joint Actions and proposed Common Positions. My Department takes the lead on these issues and informs the Oireachtas as to the content, purpose and the national implications of all such measures.

56 such proposals were scrutinised in detail in 2006. In view of the specific nature of CFSP proposals, the Department from time to time has recourse to the provisions for confidentiality and urgency which are provided for in the Act.

I also meet regularly with the Joint Committee on European Affairs, in advance of each meeting of the General Affairs and External Relations Council, in order to brief members on items to be discussed, the majority of which usually relate to CFSP issues.

I particularly welcome the proposed new Joint Committee on European Scrutiny with which my Department and I will fully co-operate so as to ensure that the 30th Dáil continues to have its voice fully heard in relation to European affairs and EU legislation.

Human Rights Issues.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

135 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the recent report of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on sexual violence in southern Darfur; and if he will support the calls by the High Commissioner, Human Rights Watch, and Amnesty International that more must be done by the Sudanese Government and by UN-AU forces to provide effective protection for women and children at risk of sexual violence. [24978/07]

Since 2003, gender based violence targeted at women and girls has been a consistent feature of the conflict in Darfur. I have noted with concern the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights' (UNHCHR) recent report on the human rights situation in the Sudan which has helped to highlight further this terrible abuse and to identify means by which it may be addressed. The report documents clearly appalling acts of sexual violence which are still being committed across Darfur on an ongoing basis. The evidence of involvement by members of the Popular Defence Forces (a branch of the Government of Sudan's military) in such attacks and the failure of many of these reported crimes to be properly investigated, despite evidence presented to the local authorities, is particularly disturbing. It is incumbent on the Government of Sudan to respond to the detailed recommendations which the UNHCHR has made in her report. I also welcome the efforts which both Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have made to highlight and urge effective action to address the issue of gender-based violence in Darfur.

The Government has repeatedly called on the Sudanese Government, rebel factions and all parties to end all abuse of civilians, and in particular women and children. I emphasised this point when I met recently with the Sudanese Foreign Minister in New York and urged his Government's full co-operation in facilitating the full and rapid deployment of the joint UN-AU hybrid mission for Darfur (UNAMID). I also highlighted the importance of UNAMID's rapid deployment for improving security in Darfur in my address to the UN General Assembly on 2 October. UNAMID, authorised by UN Security Council Resolution 1769 in succession to the AU Mission, AMIS, is specifically mandated to protect civilians and strengthen local capacities to combat impunity and to ensure adequate human rights in Darfur.

Ireland has also been active at EU and UN level in highlighting the need for effective action to tackle gender based violence in Darfur. Ireland was instrumental in securing agreement at the General Affairs and External Relations Council which I attended on 15 October on the EU's willingness to consider, if required, further measures, notably in the UN framework, to ensure the protection of civilians in Darfur. Ireland has also been active within the UN Human Rights Council in highlighting this issue, most recently in an address to the Council on 24 September which condemned the use of rape and gender based violence as a tool of intimidation and urged the Government of Sudan to end the culture of impunity which exists in Darfur.

Ireland has also supported the efforts of the African Union Mission in Sudan (AMIS) to protect the most vulnerable people in Darfur. The Government has provided €5 million in assistance to support the work of AMIS, much of which has been used for the recruitment of humanitarian and human rights monitors and the construction of protective police posts in camps for the internally displaced. Nationally, Irish Aid has funded specific gender based violence response programmes in Darfur. Irish Aid is also one of the founding Members of the Joint Consortium on Gender Based Violence, which was established in 2004 in response to the appalling levels of gender based violence in Darfur and among its activities promotes training on gender based violence for military personnel.

Joan Burton

Ceist:

136 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will condemn the use of lethal injection as a method of execution in view of the current US Supreme Court cases addressing lethal injections potential status as cruel and unusual punishment in view of the fact that the combination of drugs used have been banned for use by the American Veterinary Association as being unacceptably cruel; if he will remind the Governments of the United States, China, Guatemala and the Philippines of their customary obligations under the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and call on them to abolish the death penalty, but failing this at the very least to introduce an immediate moratorium on the use of lethal injection as a method of execution. [24991/07]

Ireland, along with our EU partners, considers that the death penalty, by whatever means it is carried out, constitutes cruel and inhuman punishment and a violation of the right to life. We are committed to its abolition throughout the world. To this end, the EU is currently drafting a resolution on a moratorium on the use of the death penalty, with a view to its abolition, to be tabled at the United Nations General Assembly in the coming weeks.

UN Conventions.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

137 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the present position in relation to Irish rights in regard to the Law of the Sea as far as Rockall is concerned. [25003/07]

During the 1960s and 1970s the issue of Rockall was a source of some legal and political controversy in both Ireland and the United Kingdom. Much of that controversy arose from fears at the time that jurisdiction over Rockall and similar rocks and skerries was thought to be central in supporting claims to the mineral rights in the adjacent seabed and to fishing rights in the surrounding seas.

However, during the course of the Third United Nations Conference on the Law of the Sea, which took place from 1973 to 1982, the Irish delegation worked hard to establish a satisfactory legal regime applicable to islands. This effort was completely successful. The United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which was adopted at Montego Bay at the conclusion of the Conference on 10 December 1982, provides at Article 121, paragraph 3 that: "Rocks which cannot sustain human habitation or economic life of their own shall have no exclusive economic zone or continental shelf."

Rockall is such a rock and Article 121(3) applies to it. Ireland ratified the Convention on 21 June 1996. The United Kingdom acceded to the Convention on 25 July 1997. It is accordingly accepted by both States that Rockall cannot be used as a basis for delimiting their respective continental shelves or fisheries zones. While the United Kingdom continues to claim jurisdiction over Rockall, this claim is not accepted by Ireland. Each country remains aware of the position of the other.

Following adoption of the Law of the Sea Convention, Rockall was not a factor in the subsequent negotiations between Ireland and the UK on delimitation of the continental shelf between the two countries, which concluded in agreement in 1988. The UK also later withdrew its claim to a 200 nautical mile exclusive fisheries zone measured from Rockall when it acceded to the Convention in 1997.

In a wider context, Iceland and Denmark (on behalf of the Faroe Islands) both make claims to the continental shelf that overlaps that area in the North East Atlantic in respect of which Ireland and the UK reached agreement in 1988. The four countries have met regularly since 2002 in an effort to resolve the issues arising from overlapping claims, most recently at the end of September in Reykjavik. A further session will take place in Denmark next month. The issue of ownership of the rock of Rockall has been of no significance in these discussions.

Question No. 138 answered with QuestionNo. 91.

Census of Population.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

139 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Taoiseach the number of persons aged fifteen and over living in Dublin classified by means of travel to work as revealed by Census 1996, Census 2002 and Census 2007. [24694/07]

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

140 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Taoiseach the number of persons living in Dublin classified by means of travel to school or college as revealed by Census 1996, Census 2002 and Census 2006. [24695/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 139 and 140 together.

The following table contains the relevant Census of Population data for the years 1996 and 2002 for ‘Persons usually resident in Dublin County, classified by their means of travel to Work, School or College'. The information for 2006 is due to be published on 15th November 2007.

Persons usually resident (and present in their usual residence on census night) in Dublin County, classified by means of travel to Work, School or College, Census 2002

Means of travel

Motor car

County of Usual Residence

Total

On foot

Bicycle

Bus, minibus or coach

Train or DART

Motor cycle or scooter

Driver

Passenger

Lorry or van

Other means

Work mainly at or from home

Not stated

School Children Aged 05 -12

Dublin City

40,640

19,653

632

4,226

83

0

0

12,478

65

80

521

2,902

South Dublin

27,188

12,369

275

2,240

1

0

0

10,668

43

65

376

1,151

Dublin-Fingal

22,725

9,463

318

2,003

65

0

0

9750

31

35

286

774

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

19,453

5,282

351

1,044

168

0

0

12,070

25

55

163

295

Students Aged 13-18

Dublin City

27,485

12,998

2,212

6,553

523

104

82

3,560

14

33

351

1,055

South Dublin

20,143

8,966

1,288

5,254

19

164

120

3,417

18

31

458

408

Dublin-Fingal

16,653

6,255

684

4,655

1,140

64

98

3,346

10

22

116

263

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

14,268

3,243

1,259

3,624

1,079

117

164

4,547

13

17

87

118

Students Aged 19 +

Dublin City

21,480

7,139

2,316

7,555

1,181

261

1,493

421

12

21

348

733

South Dublin

7,420

654

556

4,046

52

218

1,139

505

7

6

93

144

Dublin-Fingal

6,913

307

92

2,623

2,288

77

908

406

8

5

86

113

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

9,637

1,381

865

3,697

1,251

232

1,465

542

7

12

107

78

School Children and Students

Total County Dublin

234,005

87,710

10,848

47,520

7,850

1,237

5,469

61,710

253

382

2992

8,034

Workers Aged 15 +

Dublin City

210,657

43,966

12,100

39,167

7,671

3,420

76,342

7,924

6,051

454

5,059

8,503

South Dublin

106,499

7,335

3,107

16,317

191

2,459

61,757

6,423

5,468

192

1,960

1,290

Dublin-Fingal

88,425

5,435

1,393

8,599

8,185

1,217

51,065

4,802

4,069

198

2,199

1,263

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

78,383

5,921

2,711

8,824

5,979

1,374

45,163

2,794

2,258

135

2,731

493

Workers Aged 15 +

Total County Dublin

483,964

62,657

19,311

72,907

22,026

8,470

234,327

21,943

17,846

979

11,949

11,549

Persons usually resident (and present in their usual residence on census night) in Dublin County, classified by means of travel to Work, School or College, Census 1996

Means of travel

Motor car

County of Usual Residence

Total

On foot

Bicycle

Bus, minibus or coach

Train or DART

Motor cycle or scooter

Driver

Passenger

Lorry or van

Other means

Work mainly at or from home

Not stated

School Children Aged 05-12

Dublin City

45,783

23,839

641

6,574

82

9,025

150

488

4,984

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

20,801

6,640

366

1,589

219

10,941

90

154

802

Fingal

24,888

12,532

343

2,948

88

7,231

91

266

1,389

South Dublin

32,182

18,738

290

3,938

6

6,969

209

375

1,657

Students Aged 13-18

Dublin City

33,520

16,273

3,724

7,359

602

13

42

2,942

85

301

2,179

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

17,147

3,826

2,303

4,113

1,263

32

77

4,785

51

302

395

Fingal

18,631

6,855

954

5,956

1,202

5

30

2,933

51

138

507

South Dublin

25,066

11,807

2,092

7,306

19

21

51

2,742

103

229

696

Students Aged 19 +

Dublin City

18,435

5,549

3,621

5,155

992

113

786

439

40

382

1,358

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

8,710

1,241

1,555

2,633

1,271

93

757

680

21

245

214

Fingal

4,604

114

112

2,045

1,472

23

285

332

19

21

181

South Dublin

5,043

350

771

2,846

44

70

339

361

11

74

177

School Children and Students

Total County Dublin

254,810

107,764

16,772

52,462

7,260

370

2,367

49,380

921

2,975

14,539

Workers Aged 15 +

Dublin City

177,153

29,850

13,945

36,876

6,220

2,080

61,598

8,987

4,213

6,164

7,220

Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown

73,872

4,647

2,989

7,458

5,441

718

41,964

4,080

1,647

3,824

1,104

Fingal

64,250

3,560

1,650

7,518

4,915

599

34,667

4,978

2,439

2,922

1,002

South Dublin

81,571

5,764

3,666

15,372

155

1,186

41,655

6,277

3,272

2,935

1,289

Workers Aged 15 +

Total County Dublin

396,846

43,821

22,250

67,224

16,731

4,583

179,884

24,322

11,571

15,845

10,615

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

141 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Taoiseach if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24746/07]

My Department's Output Statement was completed and was circulated to the Select Committee on Finance and the Public Service on 4 April last. It has been publicly available in response to requests thereafter and it has now been published on the website in association with the Department of the Taoiseach Annual Report.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

142 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Taoiseach if tenders were sought in regard to the study of the public service commissioned by him from the OECD; if he is satisfied that all Department of Finance and EU requirements regarding public procurement were met when awarding the contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24830/07]

Last December, the Government approved the initiation of a major Review by the OECD of the Irish Public Service. The objectives of this Review are to benchmark the Public Service in Ireland against other comparable countries and secondly, to make recommendations as to future directions for Public Service reform. This required a holistic, system-wide assessment of the Public Service which the OECD are uniquely positioned to undertake in terms of peer review benefits/capabilities, in-house expertise, access to extensive information databases, specialist knowledge and the level of engagement by the Governments and administrations of the 30 member states.

Against this background, it was considered that the OECD was best placed to undertake a review of this nature. Similar reviews by the OECD in the economic and regulatory areas are well established and highly regarded instruments. The Public Governance and Territorial Development Committee of the OECD, who are undertaking the Review, has also established similar peer review processes in the areas of HRM, ICT and in the area of ethics in public service, which are available to the member states.

Given that this is the first whole of Public Service Review undertaken by the OECD, the work is very extensive and requires developing new approaches and working methods. This offers the OECD the opportunity to develop a new tool kit of use to all OECD member states. In this regard, I understand that a number of countries are closely monitoring the progress of the Review.

In light of the developmental aspect of the Review, in terms of advancing the science of public management, the Government agreed to make an additional contribution towards the work of the OECD. This approach is entirely in keeping with the OECD's status as an international organisation funded by member state contributions and by additional voluntary contributions towards projects in which countries have a particular interest. Accordingly, the question of seeking tenders and the requirements regarding public procurement did not arise.

Planning Issues.

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

143 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Taoiseach the number of new houses and new apartments which received planning permission from Fingal County Council, and Dublin City Council and An Bord Pleanála for the years 2002 to 2006 and to date in 2007. [24610/07]

The number of new houses and apartments for which planning permission has been granted by Fingal County Council and Dublin City Council in each year from 2002 to the second quarter of 2007 are set out in the two tables. The figures incorporate* planning permissions granted by An Bord Pleanála in respect of the Dublin City Council and Fingal County Council areas.

Planning Permissions Granted by Dublin City Council for new houses and apartments, 2002-2007

All Houses

Of which Multi-Development Houses

Of which One-Off Houses

Apartments

Number of Permissions

Number of Units

Number of Permissions

Number of Units

Number of Permissions

Number of Units

Number of Permissions

Number of Units

2002

Q 1

62

95

14

47

48

48

48

619

Q 2

67

114

13

60

54

54

48

575

Q 3

65

96

15

46

50

50

64

717

Q 4

58

635

12

589

46

46

44

993

Year

252

940

54

742

198

198

204

2,904

2003

Q 1

82

105

11

34

71

71

49

799

Q 2

81

919

12

850

69

69

58

3,081

Q 3

117

325

23

231

94

94

54

1,524

Q 4

105

137

15

47

90

90

58

1,593

Year

385

1,486

61

1,162

324

324

219

6,997

2004

Q 1

107

488

19

400

88

88

56

2,953

Q 2

99

225

16

142

83

83

61

1,488

Q 3

124

223

21

120

103

103

64

1,456

Q 4

97

1,118

16

1,037

81

81

64

3,809

Year

427

2,054

72

1,699

355

355

245

9,706

2005

Q 1

74

122

19

67

55

55

49

1,779

Q 2

107

122

11

26

96

96

51

839

Q 3

108

157

26

75

82

82

53

1,216

Q 4

83

261

17

195

66

66

50

948

Year

372

662

73

363

299

299

203

4,782

2006

Q 1

113

187

26

100

87

87

51

1,323

Q 2

95

133

17

55

78

78

41

684

Q 3

102

178

25

101

77

77

34

1,500

Q 4

87

158

19

90

68

68

30

937

Year

397

656

87

346

310

310

156

4,444

2007

Q 1

113

176

19

82

94

94

44

496

Q 2

131

339

34

242

97

97

42

885

*The CSO does not separately identify permissions granted by An Bord Pleanála.

Ministerial Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

144 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24902/07]

In line with the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour, issued in accordance with Department of Finance circular 26/2004, benefits from this scheme may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life. The use of frequent flyer schemes by Ministers in my Department is consistent with this policy.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

145 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Taoiseach the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25148/07]

My Department has spent €156,700 on stationery in 2007 to date, of which €32,000 was spent on paper. Over 96% of paper purchased by my Department is recycled paper.

Construction Industry.

Damien English

Ceist:

146 Deputy Damien English asked the Taoiseach the number of people employed in the construction industry in County Meath in the years 2002 and 2006; if he expects this trend to continue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25189/07]

The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the table. Persons aged 15 years and over at work in Construction in County Meath for Census 2002 and 2006.

Census Year

Persons

2002

7,298

2006

11,010

Marriage Registrations.

Damien English

Ceist:

147 Deputy Damien English asked the Taoiseach the number of notifications of marriage received to date in 2007, with a breakdown of this figure for each county registrar. [25194/07]

Provisional figures for the number of marriages registered in the first 3 quarters of 2007 are given in the table. The table also shows provisional figures for the number of marriages registered in the corresponding quarters of 2006.

2006

2007

Quarter 1

3,267

3,399

Quarter 2

5,094

5,452

Quarter 3

8,341

8,698

Quarter 4

5,139

A breakdown of these figures for each county registrar is not yet available.

Garda Stations.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

148 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the special provision for access for persons with disabilities available at the Garda stations at Mountjoy, Dublin 7 andFitzgibbon Street, Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24962/07]

It is planned to undertake a full refurbishment of Fitzgibbon Street Garda Station. When the refurbishment works are being carried out Mountjoy Garda Station will be used as a temporary District Headquarters. The refurbishment works at Fitzgibbon Street will address any deficiencies in access for persons with disabilities that may currently exist there. In regard to Mountjoy Garda Station the position concerning access for persons with disabilities will be examined.

Tax Code.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

149 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if, in view of the Government’s encouragement and support to passengers who choose public transport, with the imposition of a car parking charge at railway stations which could lead to a potential 25% increase in commuting costs, he has considered introducing an annual parking ticket that could be brought into the tax saver system affording commuters the same tax breaks that they get for their tickets themselves; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25162/07]

The policy objective underlying the existing arrangements covering bus and rail passes is to encourage taxpayers to use public transport when travelling to and from work and, thus, contribute to the easing of traffic congestion and to the improvement of the environment. The extension of the scheme to include car parking costs would involve additional loss of tax revenue and it is not clear that it would contribute significantly to a reduction in traffic congestion.

Decentralisation Programme.

Damien English

Ceist:

150 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of civil servants and other public servants who have relocated from Dublin to Meath under the decentralisation programme to date; and the estimated number who will have relocated by the end of 2007. [25190/07]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that as part of the overall decentralisation programme it is intended to move approximately one hundred (100) staff to Navan. To date, seventy-nine (79) staff based in Dublin have accepted offers. It is expected that Revenue will be a position to move to Navan in the first quarter of 2008. I am informed by the Office of Public Works that it is intended to move three hundred and thirty (330) of its headquarter staff to Trim under the decentralisation programme. The building for the OPW staff is due for completion in the first quarter of 2009. No OPW staff are due to relocate to Trim between now and the end of 2007.

Departmental Properties.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

151 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will transfer the lands at Mountjoy Prison to the Mater Hospital when the prison closes in order that the hospital can acquire much needed space for development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25282/07]

The Commissioners of Public Works have appointed a multi-disciplinary Design Team, in order to seek full Planning Permission for the re-development of the Mountjoy Prison site. On foot of preliminary consultations with the Health Service Executive, the Commissioner's Design Team is currently exploring possible options for accommodating some non-core activities of the Mater Hospital on the Mountjoy Prison site.

Tax Code.

Damien English

Ceist:

152 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he has plans to reintroduce the living over the shop scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24713/07]

In Budget 2006 I announced that the existing Living Over the Shop Scheme was to terminate on 31 July 2008 subject to transitional arrangements for existing pipeline projects for expenditure incurred during the period 1 August 2006 to 31 July 2008. The Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government are currently conducting a review of the need for the introduction of a new Living Over the Shop Scheme in Gateway towns and cities. The reintroduction of the scheme in a more focused way will be considered in the light of this review.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

153 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24741/07]

The Annual Output Statement for 2007 for the Finance Group of Votes was published on my Department's website on 11th July last. It can be accessed on www.finance.gov.ie under "Financial and Economic Information".

Garda Stations.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

154 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding the proposed new Garda station at Kilfinane, County Limerick; and the stage the proposal is at. [24769/07]

A Sketch Scheme for the new station will be forwarded to An Garda Síochána for approval by the end of this year. The planning process under Part 9 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) will then follow on receipt of this approval.

Site Acquisitions.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

155 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works has ever used a compulsory purchase order to acquire land for a school or education use; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24789/07]

The Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland (OPW) have no legislative powers to acquire land for education use by compulsory purchase order.

Tax Code.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

156 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the amount it would cost to make the personal and PAYE income tax credits refundable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24790/07]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the most recent estimated cost of making the main personal and PAYE tax credits refundable when they are unused is broadly in the region of €2.7 billion annually. This estimate relates only to the cost of extending refundable tax credits to all those on Revenue's tax files. If a refundable tax credit system were to be introduced, one would have to consider those who are not on the tax files, for example, those who are of employable age but not working, including those on social welfare. If such categories were eligible this would increase the cost significantly. Apart from the issue of cost, there would be a range of other policy and practical issues arising in introducing such a system. I have no plans to introduce such a scheme at the present time.

Departmental Staff.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

157 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will ascertain from the Office of Public Works when people in certain positions within the Office of Public Works will be paid the extra money; the reason they are not getting paid currently; and the reason this matter has not been resolved to date within the Office of Public Works. [24849/07]

From my enquiries I am not aware that there are monies owing to State Industrial staff members of the Office of Public Works. However, if the Deputy can provide additional detail, then I shall be happy to look further into the matter.

Ministerial Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

158 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24897/07]

The policy of my Department in relation to frequent flyers points accrued is governed by the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour. Section 16.2 of the code which deals with the receipt of gifts by civil servants states "that benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life.''

Tax Code.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

159 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his views on a reduction in VAT and VRT on disability friendly taxis in view of the huge cost involved and the 75% reduction in the number of such taxis in recent times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24963/07]

The position is that the application of VAT to goods and services is subject to the requirements of EU VAT law with which Irish VAT law must comply. Passenger transport is exempt from VAT under the EU VAT Directive. This means that taxis cannot charge VAT on the services they supply and cannot recover VAT on the goods and services that they purchase. Essentially, only VAT registered businesses which charge VAT are able to recover VAT. VAT Refund Orders have in the past been used in a limited way to provide refunds of VAT on certain aids and appliances for the disabled and on medical equipment donated voluntarily to hospitals. However, under EU law, it is no longer possible to introduce new schemes to refund VAT on the purchase of goods or services by non VAT registered persons.

In relation to Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT), I have no plans to reduce or eliminate VRT on taxis. In this regard, it should be recognised that tax reliefs have proved at times to be a blunt, inflexible and expensive means of providing assistance and achieving policy aims which might be more effectively achieved through regulatory or direct expenditure means. VRT on vehicles helps to broaden the tax base and provides an important source of Exchequer revenue. I am asked regularly to introduce tax reliefs for one purpose or another, but to accede to all such requests would lead to an immediate narrowing of the tax base.

Damien English

Ceist:

160 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the plans he has to remove the stamp duty on financial cards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25045/07]

All stamp duties, including the stamp duties on financial cards, are reviewed in the context of the annual Budget and Finance Bill.

Damien English

Ceist:

161 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance his plans to cap the number of financial cards per person on which stamp duty must be paid, to one ATM card, debit card or combined card and one credit card or charge card per person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25046/07]

All stamp duties, including the stamp duties on financial cards, are reviewed in the context of the annual Budget and Finance Bill.

Tax Yield.

Damien English

Ceist:

162 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the amount of money raised by stamp duty on financial cards for each of the years 2004 to date in 2007 with a breakdown for each year showing the amount raised by type of card in tabular readable form. [25047/07]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the net receipt from stamp duty on financial cards from 2004 to end September 2007, broken down both by year and type of card is as shown in the table.

Card Type

2004

2005

2006

2007*

€m

€m

€m

€m

Credit/Charge

59.0

63.8

67.8

72.4

ATM

21.1

22.4

18.0

11.3

Debit

2.4

3.3

0.6

0

Combined (ATM/Debit)

11.8

12.2

17.7

15.2

Totals

94.2

101.6

104.0

98.8

*To end September.

Any apparent discrepancies in totals are due to rounding.

Tax Code.

Damien English

Ceist:

163 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the plans he has to remove VAT from solar panels for houses and from the cost of installation of solar panels. [25052/07]

The Deputy will be aware that the Programme for Government contains a commitment to examine the scope within EU law for reducing the VAT rate on environmental goods and services generally from the standard VAT rate of 21 per cent to the reduced rate of 13.5 per cent. This and other measures under the Programme for Government clearly demonstrate the Government's commitment to addressing the environmental challenges which we face.

As regards the specific point in relation to solar panels, the position is that the VAT treatment of goods and services is governed by EU law with which Irish VAT law must comply. While we can retain the zero rating provisions which were in existence on 1 January 1991, we cannot introduce any new ones. Therefore, it is not possible to apply a zero rate to the supply or installation of solar panels. In addition, while a reduced rate can be applied to certain goods and services, there is no mechanism which would allow for the reduced rating of such systems. The sale of solar panels products is therefore chargeable at the standard VAT rate of 21%.

However, I understand that since solar panels are more likely to be supplied and installed under a single contract, the reduced rate of VAT of 13.5 per cent may apply to the entire contract subject to what is referred to as the ‘two-thirds' rule. Under this rule, the reduced rate of VAT applies if the VAT-exclusive cost of the goods to the supplier does not exceed two-thirds of the overall VAT-exclusive charge made to the customer in respect of the supply and installation of these goods.

The reduced rate of VAT also applies where new premises are sold with energy systems already installed as the price paid for a premises (which is liable to the reduced rate of VAT of 13.5 per cent) is deemed to include all fixtures. In addition, where solar panels are purchased by VAT registered commercial enterprises, any VAT charged may be reclaimed by them, insofar as the equipment in question is used for business purposes.

Damien English

Ceist:

164 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he has given additional thought to introducing a tax break scheme that would encourage the provision of community facilities by individuals or business entities for voluntary community groups; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25053/07]

I have no plans to introduce any further tax breaks along the lines suggested by the Deputy. However, as the Deputy may be aware, Section 848A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides tax relief on donations made by either individuals or corporate bodies to eligible charities and other approved bodies including first and second level schools and third level institutions including universities. An eligible charity is any charity in the State which has been granted exemption from tax for a period of not less than two years and which is authorised by the Revenue Commissioners for the purpose of the scheme.

In addition, Section 847A of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997 provides tax relief for donations to certain sports bodies for the funding of capital projects. Eligibility for the relief centres on two key criteria; the sports body must be an Approved Sports Body and the donation must be for the purposes of an Approved Project. To be regarded as an Approved Sports Body, it must obtain two separate statements from the Revenue Commissioners:

a valid tax clearance certificate, and

a statement that, in accordance with section 235 of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997, the body is exempt from tax because it is established solely for the purpose of promoting athletic or amateur games or sports and its income is applied solely for that purpose.

Approved Projects are capital projects approved for the purpose of the scheme by the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism. The approval verifies that the claim is made in respect of genuine sports capital projects.

The types of projects which are eligible to be approved are as follows:

the purchase, construction or refurbishment of a building to be used for sporting or recreational activities,

the purchase of land for such activities,

the purchase of permanently based sports equipment (excluding personal equipment), and

the improvement of pitches and playing surfaces etc.

The estimated aggregate cost of the project must not exceed €40 million. The minimum qualifying donation for relief purposes to an eligible charity or an approved project is €250 per annum and there is no upper limit on the amount which can be donated. The relief on the donation will be at an individual's marginal rate of tax.

The arrangements for allowing tax relief on donations depend on whether the donor is a PAYE taxpayer or an individual on self-assessment or a company. For a PAYE taxpayer, the relief is given at the donor's marginal rate of income tax and is given on a grossed-up basis to the sports body. In the case of a donation made by an individual who is self-assessed, the individual claims the relief and there is no grossing-up arrangement. Similarly, in the case of companies, they can claim deductions for donations as if they were a trading expense.

Tax Investigations.

Damien English

Ceist:

165 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of unauthorised used car dealers in County Meath that the Revenue Commissioners are going to audit as part of the investigation into the industry. [25068/07]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that from time to time, they initiate a number of projects aimed at tackling tax evasion in specific sectors. One such project, which is ongoing and is expected to extend into 2008, involves the targeting of unauthorised trading in vehicles. Revenue are not in a position at this stage to say how many unauthorised used car dealers in County Meath will be identified as a result of this project — the numbers of cases to be targeted in each geographic area will depend on local intelligence and risk-based selection criteria. However, I am advised that since the project started, Revenue have so far identified 72 instances of unauthorised vehicle dealing nationwide, including 5 identified in County Meath.

Tax Code.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

166 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will review the tax policy in order to ensure more support for families in budget 2008. [25104/07]

The Budget is six weeks away. It has been the practice of successive Ministers for Finance not to comment on tax changes which may or may not be included in the annual Budget in the run up to that Budget and I do not propose to depart from that approach.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

167 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25143/07]

Since 1 January 2007 my Department has spent €80,846.90 on paper and stationery items such as envelopes, note pads, ruled paper, folders etc. Some €12,710.14 of this relates to expenditure on recycled paper and envelopes.

Departmental Properties.

Damien English

Ceist:

168 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the list of premises that the State is renting or leasing in County Meath; the amount of ground rents paid for each of these premises; the persons to whom these ground rents are paid and the amount paid in each case; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [25187/07]

Details of the properties that are leased by the Office of Public Works in County Meath plus the Landlord details are set out in tables 1 and 2.

Table 1: Properties Leased by the Office of Public Works in County Meath

Lease Code

Name

Address

Annual Rent

LSE0416

Kells Social Welfare Office

Headfort Place, Kells, Co. Meath

7,923.17

LSE0563

Navan VRT Commons Road

Commons Road, Navan, Co. Meath

30,550.00

LSE0564

Navan Education Office

7 Trimgate Street, Navan, Co. Meath

45,710.57

LSE0586

Oldcastle Garda Station

The Square, Oldcastle, Co. Meath

69.84

LSE0732

Trim Social Welfare Office

Town Hall, Trim, Co. Meath

1,587.17

LSE0968

Navan Social Welfare Office

Kennedy Road, Navan, Co. Meath

224,562.20

LSE1017

Navan Education Office

7 Trimgate Street, Navan, Co. Meath

6,600.00

LSE1048

Trim NCSE

Mill Street, Trim, Co. Meath

87,645.60

LSE1066

Navan NEPS Office

43 Cannon Row, Navan, Co. Meath

55,000.00

LSE1068

Navan VEC Abbey Road Carpark

Abbey Road, Navan, Co. Meath

6,000.00

LSE1072

Navan Wildlife Office

Unit 4, Navan Enterprise Centre, Navan, Co. Meath

16,954.00

LSE1162

Navan Gov Off Athlumney

Athlumney, Navan, Co. Meath

575,000.00

LSE1250

Navan VEC Abbey Road Carpark

Abbey Road, Navan, Co. Meath

7,000.00

LSE1264

Navan Education Office

Beechmount Shopping Centre, Navan, Co. Meath

60,000.00

LSE1272

Scurlockstown Temporary Agriculture Office

Unit 1, Scurlockstown Business Park, Trim, Co. Meath

67,752.06

LSE1279

Navan Car Park (Pairc Tailtean)

Brews Hill, Navan, Co. Meath

5,000.00

Table 2: Landlord Details associated with Properties Leased by the Office of Public Works in County Meath

Lease Code

Landlord Name

Address

LSE0416

Con Sweeney

Headfort Place, Ceannanus Mor, Co. Meath

LSE0563

W J Murphy

C/O P Smith & Co Solrs, Church View, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE0564

MKF Enterprises

Copse Lodge, Bellinter, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE0586

James Naper

Loughcrew, Oldcastle, Co. Meath

LSE0732

Trim U D C

Town Hall, Trim, Co. Meath

LSE0968

John Cusack

Echo Gate, Dublin Road, Trim, Co. Meath

LSE1017

Mel O’Rourke

International Mushrooms, Beechmount Industrial Estate, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE1048

Meath Co Council

County Hall, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE1066

John & Joseph Smyth

Ardsallagh, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE1072

Navan Enterprise Centre

Limekilnhill, Trim Road, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE1162

James Ring and Gerry O’Connor

Newgate, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE1250, LSE1068

County Meath Vec

Abbey Road, Navan, Co. Meath

LSE1264

Geveney Trading Ltd

C/O Midland Contractors, Cortown, Kells, Co. Meath

LSE1272

Adrian Hilliard

21 Cluain Ri, Trim, Co. Meath

LSE1279

Coiste Na Mi

Cumann Luthchleas Gael, Pairc Tailteann, Brews Hill, Navan, Co. Meath

Tax Yield.

Damien English

Ceist:

169 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of residential property sales in County Meath which were the subject of stamp duty in each of the past five years; and the aggregate duty raised. [25188/07]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that statistics on Stamp Duty transactions are not compiled by reference to the address of the property purchased and, accordingly, it is not possible to provide the information requested.

Tax Collection.

Damien English

Ceist:

170 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of PAYE employees that have claimed tax relief on refuse collection fees paid to private collectors with a breakdown for each regional tax office. [25192/07]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the most recent year for which the necessary detailed information on claimants for tax relief in relation to service charges is the income tax year 2004. In that year an estimated number of 180,215 claimants on the PAYE tax record availed of the tax relief for service charges, but it is not possible to distinguish between the numbers claiming for payments made to Local Authorities and to private contractors.

This figure relates to the number of income earners in a position to absorb the tax relief either partly or fully, but does not include the numbers of qualifying claimants who, because of the operation of other deductions and reliefs, have their taxable income reduced to nil or have their tax liability reduced to nil by the impact of other tax credits. Accordingly, potential claimants for the tax relief for service charges whose tax liability has been reduced to nil in this way are not included in the numbers given in this reply. A breakdown of the total number of claimants by reference to each tax region is in the table.

Service Charges paid to Local Authorities and Private Contractors.

Tax Region

Claimants

Dublin

64,815

Border Midlands West

33,767

East and South East

42,629

South West

38,940

Large Cases Division

41

Unallocated

23

Total

180,215

The information is based on income returns on Revenue records at the time the data was compiled for analytical purposes, representing about 96 per cent of all returns expected. A married couple which has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.

Damien English

Ceist:

171 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of PAYE employees in the State with a breakdown for each regional tax office. [25193/07]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that on the basis of P35 returns filed by employers for the income tax year 2004, the latest year for which the necessary detailed statistics are available, some 1,740,412 income earners in the State were identified as being active on the PAYE record. A breakdown by reference to each tax region is shown in the table.

Tax Region

Income earners

Dublin

575,752

Border Midlands West

393,505

East and South East

409,238

South West

361,220

Large Cases Division

160

Unallocated

537

Total

1,740,412

The information is based on income returns on Revenue records at the time the data were compiled for analytical purposes, representing about 96 per cent of all returns expected. A married couple which has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.

Flood Relief.

Damien English

Ceist:

172 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding the proposed programme of flood alleviation at Mornington, County Meath; the role of the Office of Public Works therein; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25196/07]

The Office of Public Works appointed Consultants to prepare the relevant documentation to bring a proposed flood relief scheme for Mornington to Public Exhibition. Final drafts of an Addendum to the original Preliminary Report, Cost Benefit Analysis, Environmental Impact Assessment and Drawings are currently being examined by OPW officials and on completion of this examination a meeting will be arranged to discuss the way forward. It is anticipated that the flood relief scheme will be placed on Public Exhibition early in 2008.

Departmental Properties.

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

173 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the position regarding his Department’s plans for a vacant public building (details supplied) in County Mayo. [25207/07]

It is proposed to construct new premises on the Old Garda Station site to accommodate the Department of Social and Family Affairs Local Office and Social Welfare Inspectorate. The Project is currently at the initial stages of planning.

Tax Code.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

174 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the way the rates of stamp duty applying here and in Northern Ireland compare in respect of different taxable transactions including on stock and shares, on investor purchases of land, commercial and residential property, on financial instruments and on residential sales by owner occupiers. [25304/07]

I would draw to your attention that the stamp duty rates applicable in Northern Ireland are those that apply in the UK. In this respect, I will compare the stamp duty regimes of Ireland and the UK. I would point out, however, that I cannot possess comprehensive knowledge of the tax codes of other jurisdictions.

As stamp duty has been in existence since the 17th Century, the same stamp duty regime would have originally applied to both Ireland and the UK. However, under existing arrangements there are some differences between the two regimes. Both countries apply stamp duty on property and shares; however, in the UK stamp duty on property (stamp duty land tax) is applied to a transaction and not the stamped document giving rise to a transaction, which is still the case in Ireland. The various stamp duties currently applicable in Ireland and the UK are as follows:

Ireland applies a 1% rate of stamp duty on share transactions. In the UK the rate of stamp duty on shares (stamp duty reserve tax) is 0.5%.

Ireland applies fixed stamp duties on ATM cards, debit cards, cards with combined ATM and debit functions, credit card accounts and cheques; the rates of which are outlined as follows. There is no UK equivalent to these stamp duties.

Stamp Duty

Rate

Cheques

15c

ATM Cards

€10

Laser Cards

€10

Combined ATM and Debit Cards

€20

Credit Card Account

€40

In Ireland stamp duty liability on property can vary according to the category of purchaser, where different systems apply to first-time buyers, other owner occupying purchasers, and investors. This is not the case in the UK, where the same rates and thresholds apply to both investors and owner-occupiers.

In addition, both Ireland and the UK make a number of distinctions within the overall category of property. In Ireland, stamp duty application differs between residential and non-residential property, and between new and second-hand residential property. In the UK, a more favourable lower threshold is applied to residential property in set disadvantaged areas (including set areas in Northern Ireland) and to non-residential property.

As the Irish stamp duty code provides relief for more circumstances than the UK code, the Irish regime is more complex than that in the UK. Taking these distinctions into account, the stamp duty land tax and stamp duty applicable to property in the UK and Ireland, respectively, is as follows:

UK Stamp Duty Land Tax on All Property

Non-residential property Residential property in disadvantaged areas

All other Residential property

Rate of duty

Up to £150,000

Up to £125,000

0%

Over £150,000 to £250,000

Over £125,000 to £250,000

1%

Over £250,000 to £500,000

Over £250,000 to £500,000

3%

Over £500,000

Over £500,000

4%

Irish Stamp Duty Rates on Non-Residential Property

Thresholds

Rate of duty

Up to €10,000

Exempt

€10,001 to €20,000

1%

€20,001 to €30,000

2%

€30,001 to €40,000

3%

€40,001 to €70,000

4%

€70,001 to €80,000

5%

€80,001 to €100,000

6%

€100,001 to €120,000

7%

€120,001 to €150,000

8%

Over €150,000

9%

Irish Stamp Duty Rates on Residential Property

Thresholds

First-time owner-occupiers of All residential property Other owner-occupiers of New property under 125m2

Other owner-occupiers of New property over 125m2* and of All Second-hand property Investors of All residential Property**

Up to €127,000

Nil

Nil

€127,001 — €190,500

Nil

3%

€190,501 — €254,000

Nil

4%

€254,001 — €317,500

Nil

5%

€317,501 — €381,000

Nil

6%

€381,001 — €635,000

Nil

7.5%

Over €635,000

Nil

9%

*On new properties, stamp duty is charged on site value or 25% of property value excluding VAT.

**On new properties, stamp duty is charged on the full property value excluding VAT.

In relation to the differences in stamp duty on residential property in both countries, it should be noted that Ireland, unlike the UK, does not impose additional taxation on property. In addition, the Irish system applies a much more generous system to first-time buyers and owner-occupiers of new property. Furthermore, the OECD has reported that Ireland "has some of the most generous tax provisions for owner-occupied housing" as we are the only country to allow tax relief on rent, mortgage interest payments and capital gains while not applying a property tax. In this respect, property owners in general are treated very favourably under the Irish tax code.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

175 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance the number of self-employed and proprietary directors who are eligible for income tax; the estimated cost of extending the PAYE allowance to these people. [25344/07]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the number of income earners who are self-employed or proprietary directors and expected to be on the income tax record in 2008 is projected at 239,000 and 110,900 respectively. The number given for the self-employed relates to income earners whose main source of income is from non-PAYE sources.

The cost to the Exchequer of extending the PAYE credit to the self employed and proprietary directors and is estimated at €610 million in a full year. The cost of abolishing the PAYE credit and increasing the personal credit is estimated at €750 million in a full year. The additional cost would arise because the personal credit is transferable between spouses.

The figures are estimates from the Revenue tax forecasting model using actual data for the year 2004 adjusted as necessary to take account of actual and projected income and employment growth in subsequent years and are rounded to the nearest hundred. A married couple who has elected or has been deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

176 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he will extend the TAK saver scheme in Budget 2008 to enable the purchase by employers of bicycles and electrical bicycles for the transportation of their employees to work which would have significant benefits for all concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25404/07]

There are no plans to extend the scheme referred to by the Deputy to include the purchase by employers of bicycles and electrical bicycles for their employees to travel to work.

There is provision in the existing Benefit-in-Kind arrangements to allow an employer to provide an employee with a small benefit to a value not exceeding €250 in any one year without applying PAYE and PRSI to that benefit. The purchase by an employer of a bicycle for an employee could be covered by this provision, subject to the €250 limit on the value of any such benefits.

Decentralisation Programme.

Niall Collins

Ceist:

177 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if a construction contract has been agreed and signed for the provision of a new Revenue office in Newcastle West, County Limerick; the completion date and value of the contract; and when the staff expect to commence there. [25435/07]

I am advised by the Commissioner of Public Works that a contract was placed on 12th October 2007 with Frank McGrath Construction Ltd in the sum of €2,862,100.00 inclusive of V.A.T. (two million eight hundred and sixty two thousand and one hundred Euro inclusive of VAT) for the provision of a new Revenue office in Newcastle West, Co. Limerick. It is anticipated that the building will be completed and ready for occupation by the end of 2008.

Proposed Legislation.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

178 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance if he intends introducing legislation dealing with the issues of betting exchanges here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25436/07]

Under current betting legislation, betting exchanges are not deemed bookmakers. They differ from bookmakers in that they facilitate the matching of bets between outside parties unlike a bookmaker who takes the bet and the associated risk involved. Bets entered into or accepted through an exchange are not liable to betting duty.

Education Services.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

179 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she has taken to implement Recommendation No. 5 of the Joint Committee on Education and Science second report on the provision of education services in a multi ethnic/multi cultural society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24813/07]

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and social services which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Office 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.

Violence Against Women.

Damien English

Ceist:

180 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans she has to provide additional funding for groups that front-line violence against women; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25054/07]

The Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Child Care Provision.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

181 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures in place to track the average cost of childcare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25099/07]

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

183 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the measures in place to track the average cost of childcare here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25124/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 181 and 183 together.

There is a variety of childcare services in Ireland including centre-based and home-based care. The fees in the latter sector are harder to gauge. However, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) Quarterly National Household Survey measures the average weekly prices in the Childcare sector as a whole and provides a useful source of data.

The most recent figures published by the CSO in 2005 show the average hourly cost of childcare when provided by a paid relative to be €3.05, when provided by a paid carer to be €4.06 and when provided in a Crèche/montessori school to be €4.82. The Survey indicated that the overall average hourly rate of childcare for pre-school children in 2005 was €4.15 per hour which would amount to €166 for a forty hour week.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

182 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if the domiciliary care allowance is available to children who have been diagnosed on the autistic spectrum; the criteria required to qualify; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25120/07]

Domiciliary Care Allowance may be paid, as the Deputy is aware, in respect of eligible children from birth to the age of 16 who have a severe disability requiring continual or continuous attention which is substantially in excess of that normally required by a child of the same age. Eligibility is determined primarily by reference to the degree of additional care and attention required rather than to the type of disability involved.

Question No. 183 answered with QuestionNo. 181.

Child Care Provision.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

184 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the Government has proposed a new approach to funding for playschools; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the playschool movement has been extremely successful, both in big urban areas and in small rural communities and that because of smaller numbers becoming eligible for playschools based on receipt of social welfare or other welfare payments many small rural playschools will find it impossible to survive financially; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25278/07]

The main supports the Government makes available to parents to assist them with their childcare costs are Child Benefit and the Early Childcare Supplement. The latter payment, which is in recognition of the higher childcare costs of pre-school children, is the responsibility of my Office, and it alone amounts to expenditure of over €400m in a full year. These payments are universal and benefit all parents, regardless of their income, labour market status or the type of childcare they choose and regardless of whether they live in urban or rural areas. In addition to these universal supports, Government childcare policy has also recognised the need to target additional supports towards disadvantaged families.

Under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP), which is co-funded under the EU Social Fund (ESF), targeted support was provided through the staffing support grant scheme whereby community based not-for-profit childcare providers with a strong focus on disadvantage were awarded grant aid towards their staffing costs to allow them to operate reduced fees to disadvantaged parents. Funding under this scheme was originally awarded for a limited period during which services were expected to move towards sustainability. This funding was subsequently continued to the end of 2007, where it was considered necessary to enable services to continue to make their services accessible to disadvantaged parents. This continuation funding was subject to the condition that tiered fee structures were implemented by the services in question.

With the closure of the EOCP in December 2007, to continue to support community childcare services to provide affordable childcare to disadvantaged parents, the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) is being introduced from January 2008 under the Exchequer funded National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), the successor programme to the EOCP. The CCSS has been allocated €153 million over the next 3 years, representing a 16% increase in funding over the EOCP staffing scheme, and will continue to support community childcare services to provide reduced childcare fees for disadvantaged parents, complementing the universal supports in place for all parents. Under the new scheme, it will be possible to ensure that the level of grant aid which individual services qualify for will reflect the actual level of service they provide and the profile of the parents benefiting from their service. As part of their application for funding under the new scheme, services will be required to ask parents using their services to complete a simple declaration form which will be included in a return to my Office and on which basis the level of subvention for each service will be determined. The subvention received by services will, in turn, be reflected in the reduced fees for parents who qualify as disadvantaged under the scheme.

In practice, this will mean that parents with children in such services and in receipt of most social welfare payments (or participating in a scheme such as Community Employment which demonstrates an underlying entitlement to same) will see a €80 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions in respect of shorter hour services). Parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a €30 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions). A further subvention of €30 per week will be paid where the subvented child is a baby, in recognition of the higher costs associated with the care of children aged under 1 year. Parents who do not qualify under either of these categories will be charged the cost price for their childcare service, however, as community not-for-profit services will, generally, have availed of capital grant aid under the EOCP or NCIP removing the requirement to cover rent or a mortgage, and as the services are run on a not-for-profit basis, this should still be significantly below the market price.

It is considered that the new scheme will provide an effective framework for the continued targeting of additional resources towards disadvantaged parents and their children while continuing to support community childcare services generally. The scheme has been informed by and takes account of a number of enhancements recommended by the report of the Value for Money Review of the EOCP. These include the fact that the subvention to services will be more responsive to the level of service provided as well as the degree of parental disadvantage supported and the ceiling for funding, which existed under the previous scheme, is being removed. Account will also be taken of all of the operational costs of the service rather than staffing costs alone. Services, including full-time, part-time and sessional ones, which at present are, in some cases, inaccessibly priced for disadvantaged parents, will be available to them at more appropriate rates under the new scheme.

The new scheme has clear advantages over its predecessor. There is an increase in the level of funding available under it, and a majority of services will benefit from the changes it introduces. Existing EOCP staffing grant recipients who enter the new scheme will continue to be funded at their current levels until July 2008. My Office has engaged in a series of meetings with existing grant recipients to outline to them the details of the new scheme and to gather feedback from the services themselves. A meeting with representatives of the City and County Childcare Committees has also taken place.

The Community Childcare Subvention Scheme will not discriminate against rural services and the number of parents in rural areas supported by the new scheme is not expected to be lower than in urban areas. Per capita, the majority of the social welfare benefits which are referenced by the new schemes are availed of by more people outside the Dublin area than in it and parents in receipt of Farm Assist will attract the higher level of subvention. Data available from EOCP grant applications also suggests that the costs of running a rural service, and therefore the costs charged to parents, are lower than those for services in urban areas.

Transitional arrangements have been made under which existing grant recipients will continue to be funded at their current levels until 1st July 2008. This is to ensure that existing childcare services are facilitated to adjust to the new scheme, including making any adjustments necessary to their fee structures. As signalled when I announced the new scheme in July this year, the transitional period between now and 1 July 2008 will also be used to monitor and review the impact it will have on individual groups, on the basis of the more detailed and comprehensive data which is due to be received from applicants in November. If appropriate, any adjustments necessary to the scheme to secure the best outcomes for childcare services and for disadvantaged parents and their children will be considered on the basis of this data and well in advance of the commencement of the new funding levels in July 2008.

General Medical Services Scheme.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

185 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children if, with regard to the concern expressed by pharmacists throughout Limerick west in relation to proposed reduction in the wholesale margin, she will desist from introducing her proposals until an independent impact assessment is conducted to establish the full implications of this measure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25546/07]

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

253 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the hardship being caused to many people as a result of the decision by some pharmacists to cease to operate the drug purchase scheme; the plans the Health Service Executive has to solve this impasse; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25298/07]

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

262 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the breakdown in negotiations with the pharmacists here regarding the introduction of the new reimbursement scheme. [25311/07]

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

263 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the action she is taking to communicate and negotiate with the pharmacists over the issue of reimbursement. [25312/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 185, 253, 262 and 263 together.

Pharmacists have not withdrawn from the GMS and community drug schemes and I would not accept that there is any basis for community pharmacists threatening to withdraw from these schemes.

In the Dublin area and also in the HSE North East some 180 pharmacists have withdrawn from supplying methadone to patients with threatened escalation countrywide later. This is the second time in recent years that pharmacists have targeted this scheme in response to unrelated issues although on the previous occasion the threatened withdrawal of service did not take place.

Since Monday 15th October the HSE has been implementing a contingency plan for the 3000 patients affected and has made alternative arrangements for the emergency dispensing of methadone to the patients involved in 13 centres in the Greater Dublin area. A contingency plan is also being implemented in the HSE North East. Arrangements have been put in place to enable patients affected by the pharmacists' action to be informed of these alternative arrangements. The HSE's Drug Helpline is available on a seven day week basis to provide information to clients in relation to the contingency arrangements. The situation in the rest of the country is being monitored closely and arrangements are ready to be implemented in the event of an escalation of the action nationwide. The HSE have indicated that to date the contingency plan is operating satisfactorily.

In regard to the changes recently announced by the HSE to reimbursement prices for drugs and medicines under the GMS and community drugs schemes, the main wholesaler companies have recently confirmed to the HSE they will charge community pharmacists the same price for these drugs and medicines as pharmacists will be reimbursed by the HSE for these products.

All the evidence available to the joint HSE/Department of Health and Children team dealing with this issue indicated that the State was paying a premium for this service and that the new arrangements will save the HSE about €100m in 2008.

The impact of the new arrangements on the incomes of pharmacists will depend on the extent of the discounts which individual pharmacists were getting from wholesalers under the previous arrangements. I am advised that large urban pharmacies and chains typically got discounts of up to 12% whereas small and rural pharmacies got discounts of 2-3%.

I have previously outlined in detail to the Oireachtas the legal reasons why it is not possible for the HSE to negotiate with the IPU on fees, prices or margins for their members. A detailed, fair and transparent consultation process, including independent economic analysis and public consultation, informed the final determination of the new reimbursement arrangements. The evidence available to the HSE indicates that the impact on individual pharmacies will not be detrimental, having regard to the totality of fees and mark-ups under the GMS and community drugs schemes.

A process of dialogue was established, chaired by Bill Shipsey SC, to explore ways in which concerns raised by the IPU about the implications of this legal advice might be addressed. At a meeting on 11 October, the IPU maintained that it has a fundamental right as a trade union to fully represent its members on all issues. It appears, therefore, that the Union does not accept the legal position under competition law regarding negotiation on fees.

In an effort to resolve the present impasse arising from the unilateral withdrawal of methadone services by some pharmacists' Mr Shipsey issued a statement on 19th October expressing confidence that the process of dialogue could be resumed, if these services could be restored. On foot of Mr. Shipsey's intervention, on 21st October the President of the Irish Pharmaceutical Union called on its members who have ceased providing this service, to resume service as soon as possible.

I strongly welcome both interventions and would urge all community pharmacists concerned to resume dispensing methadone as soon as possible. As soon as this is achieved it will be possible for renewed engagement to take place between the Irish Pharmaceutical Union and the HSE under the auspices of Mr. Shipsey.

The HSE contingency plan in relation to methadone dispensing will remain in operation for the present until such time as the HSE are satisfied that the necessary patient transfer controls to enable the safe return of patients to the community pharmacists, are in place. This is expected to take place within the next two days.

Health Services.

Ulick Burke

Ceist:

186 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children awaiting assessment for speech and language therapy in the Health Service Executive west; the number of children awaiting such services in HSE west following assessment of need; the number receiving speech therapy in HSE west; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24693/07]

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.

Health Service Staff.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

187 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the proposed recruitment of two psychologists for a service (details supplied) in County Dublin has been blocked by the Health Service Executive ban on recruitment; if alternative arrangements will be made to proceed with this recruitment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24701/07]

The current recruitment pause is a temporary measure initiated as part of the Health Service Executive financial break-even plan. It will be reviewed at the end of October 2007. Of course, in any instance where a critical or essential vacancy arises it may be filled through redeployment of existing staff by the Line Manager or re-assignment of responsibilities based on assessment of priority need.

Notwithstanding this, it has been recognised that there are some circumstances where appointment of staff may be necessary in frontline services. Accordingly, a process has been put in place to evaluate, monitor and approve requests for derogation from the general recruitment pause. A small group has been established including a representative of the National Hospitals Office, PCCC and other Directorates and this group will meet weekly to consider such applications.

As the Deputy may be aware, an additional sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided by the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Ambulance Service.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

188 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when the ambulance section of the Health Service Executive will fill in a form for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24710/07]

The Deputy's question relates to a human resource issue within the Health Service Executive. As this is a matter for the Executive under the Health Act, 2004, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

189 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children if patient transport will be provided to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo for their hospital appointment on 24 October 2007. [24711/07]

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.

Medical Cards.

Damien English

Ceist:

190 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people whose medical cards were replaced with general practitioner visit cards since December 2006 with a breakdown of this information on a Health Service Executive regional basis in tabular form. [24712/07]

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.

As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to arrange to address this matter and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Hospital Services.

Damien English

Ceist:

191 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people admitted to the hospital services for drink related emergency cases for each of the years 2002 to date in 2007 with a breakdown for each Health Service Executive region in tabular readable form. [24714/07]

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. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter examined and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

John Cregan

Ceist:

192 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in a neurological appointment being provided for a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24723/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to 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 this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Mental Health Policy.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

193 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if an inter Departmental working group will be established to co-ordinate action by all Government Departments in respect of the vision for change dealing with national mental health policy framework; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24724/07]

The Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, "A Vision for Change", which was launched in January 2006, provides a framework for action to develop modern, high quality mental health services for a seven to ten year period. The Report represents Government policy and is the basis for the future development of mental health services.

I have been given responsibility for mental health and disability issues in the Departments of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Enterprise, Trade and Employment and Education and Science. It is likely that the proposed new office of the Minister for Disability and Mental Health will oversee the role of interdepartmental cooperation on the implementation of "A Vision for Change".

Hospital Staff.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

194 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who have graduated through hospital attendants positions to qualified carers in hospital situations; when it is intended to remunerate these persons at their new level; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24725/07]

Nearly 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 healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.

Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of 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.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

195 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her output statement has been published on her Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24743/07]

The Department of Health and Children's Annual Output Statement was finalised and published on the departmental website, www.dohc.ie, in March 2007.

Child Care Provision.

Joanna Tuffy

Ceist:

196 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will reconsider her decision to introduce a new scheme for funding community childcare facilities as in its present form the new scheme will lead to the closure of many community childcare facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24750/07]

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

220 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the recent changed guidelines on childcare funding which have issued have led to widespread disquiet and concern; if she will rethink these guidelines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24969/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 196 and 220 together.

Under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP), which is co-funded under the EU Social Fund (ESF), targeted support was provided through the staffing support grant scheme whereby community based not-for-profit childcare providers with a strong focus on disadvantage were awarded grant aid towards their staffing costs to allow them to operate reduced fees to disadvantaged parents. Funding under this scheme was originally awarded for a limited period during which services were expected to move towards sustainability. This funding was subsequently continued to the end of 2007, where it was considered necessary to enable services to continue to make their services accessible to disadvantaged parents. This continuation funding was subject to the condition that tiered fee structures were implemented by the services in question.

With the closure of the EOCP in December 2007, to continue to support community childcare services to provide affordable childcare to disadvantaged parents, the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) is being introduced from January 2008 under the Exchequer funded National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), the successor programme to the EOCP. The CCSS has been allocated €153 million over the next 3 years, representing a 16% increase in funding over the EOCP staffing scheme, and will continue to support community childcare services to provide reduced childcare fees for disadvantaged parents, complementing the universal supports in place for all parents. Under the new scheme, it will be possible to ensure that the level of grant aid which individual services qualify for will reflect the actual level of service they provide and the profile of the parents benefiting from their service. As part of their application for funding under the new scheme, services will be required to ask parents using their services to complete a simple declaration form which will be included in a return to my Office and on which basis the level of subvention for each service will be determined. The subvention received by services will, in turn, be reflected in the reduced fees for parents who qualify as disadvantaged under the scheme.

In practice, this will mean that parents with children in such services and in receipt of most social welfare payments (or participating in a scheme such as Community Employment which demonstrates an underlying entitlement to same) will see a €80 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions in respect of shorter hour services). Parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a €30 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions). A further subvention of €30 per week will be paid where the subvented child is a baby, in recognition of the higher costs associated with the care of children aged under 1 year. Parents who do not qualify under either of these categories will be charged the cost price for their childcare service, however, as community not-for-profit services will, generally, have availed of capital grant aid under the EOCP or NCIP removing the requirement to cover rent or a mortgage, and as the services are run on a not-for-profit basis, this should still be significantly below the market price.

It is considered that the new scheme will provide an effective framework for the continued targeting of additional resources towards disadvantaged parents and their children while continuing to support community childcare services generally. The scheme has been informed by and takes account of a number of enhancements recommended by the report of the Value for Money Review of the EOCP. These include the fact that the subvention to services will be more responsive to the level of service provided as well as the degree of parental disadvantage supported and the ceiling for funding, which existed under the previous scheme, is being removed. Account will also be taken of all of the operational costs of the service rather than staffing costs alone. Services, including full-time, part-time and sessional ones, which at present are, in some cases, inaccessibly priced for disadvantaged parents, will be available to them at more appropriate rates under the new scheme.

The new scheme has clear advantages over its predecessor. There is an increase in the level of funding available under it, and a majority of services will benefit from the changes it introduces. Existing EOCP staffing grant recipients who enter the new scheme will continue to be funded at their current levels until July 2008. My Office has engaged in a series of meetings with existing grant recipients to outline to them the details of the new scheme and to gather feedback from the services themselves. A meeting with representatives of the City and County Childcare Committees has also taken place.

Transitional arrangements have been made under which existing grant recipients will continue to be funded at their current levels until 1st July 2008. This is to ensure that existing childcare services are facilitated to adjust to the new scheme, including making any adjustments necessary to their fee structures. As signalled when I announced the new scheme in July this year, the transitional period between now and 1 July 2008 will also be used to monitor and review the impact it will have on individual groups, on the basis of the more detailed and comprehensive data which is due to be received from applicants in November. If appropriate, any adjustments necessary to the scheme to secure the best outcomes for childcare services and for disadvantaged parents and their children will be considered on the basis of this data and well in advance of the commencement of the new funding levels in July 2008.

Community Pharmacy Services.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

197 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the way community pharmacists are remunerated for the methadone maintenance scheme; the amount of money paid to pharmacists participating in the scheme; the number of pharmacies involved in the scheme; the number of clients involved in the scheme; the average number of weekly visits made by clients to pharmacies to receive methadone; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24766/07]

The question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the specific matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

198 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money paid to pharmacists in professional fees for each of the past five years; the international comparisons available to the public; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24767/07]

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 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.

Medical Cards.

James Bannon

Ceist:

199 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath who has had a medical card since 1999 has lost same despite ongoing health problems; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24796/07]

Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on moderate and lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP.

Since the beginning of 2005 substantial changes have been made to the way in which people's eligibility for a medical card is assessed and these apply equally to the assessment process for a GP visit card. The income guidelines have been increased by a cumulative 29% and in addition allowance is now made for reasonable expenses incurred in respect of mortgage/rent, childcare and travel to work costs. In June 2006 I agreed a further adjustment to the income guidelines for GP visit cards. These are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards.

As the Health Service Executive has the operational and funding responsibility for these benefits, it is the appropriate body to consider the particular 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.

Hospital Accommodation.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

200 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether the relocation of female psychiatric patients currently on St. Bernadette’s ward in St. Conall’s Hospital in Letterkenny to the male St. Kieran’s ward is appropriate and that having only a nurse’s station separating both groups in a ward originally designed for one gender may lead to health and safety issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24800/07]

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. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Ambulance Service.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

201 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Health and Children when the new ambulance base will be in operation at Maynooth, County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24807/07]

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.

Misuse of Drugs Act.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

202 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a young woman collapsed and was hospitalised during the summer 2007 having consumed pills containing the substance benzlpiperazine, a substance recently banned in Britain, which are available over the counter in up to 30 shops here; and if she will make the necessary provisions to prohibit the sale of such pills. [24815/07]

The Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 and the Regulations made thereunder regulate and control the import, export, production, supply and possession of a range of named narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances listed in the schedules to the Act. Substances are scheduled under the Act in accordance with the Department's obligations under international conventions and/or where there is evidence that the substances are being misused and are causing a level of harm to public health in Ireland which could merit the criminalisation of their sale and use. The Act also limits packaging and labelling of controlled drugs. The list of scheduled substances is kept under review on an ongoing basis. In particular the Department reviews any evidence that substances are being abused and are causing significant harm to public health.

BZP is not currently a scheduled substance under Misuse of Drugs legislation, but its status is under advanced review. A specific risk assessment procedure for new psychoactive substances carried out by the European Monitoring Centre on Drugs and Drug Addiction (EMCDDA) has found that the use of BZP can lead to medical problems even if long term effects of the substance are still unknown.

The European Commission has, therefore, decided to ask the Council of Ministers to place BZP under control in accordance with the 1971 UN Convention on Psychotropic Substances. If the Council adopts the Commission's proposal, Member States must act as soon as possible, but no later than one year from the date of the decision, to introduce control measures and criminal sanctions. For Ireland, the introduction of national measures will involve declaring BZP to be a controlled substance under Irish Misuse of Drugs legislation and adding it to the schedule of controlled substances in accordance with that legislation.

Health Services.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

203 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on funding a dedicated nursing service to respond to cardiac patients who need advice, a service which was previously funded by a private source; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24820/07]

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 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.

Hospital Accommodation.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

204 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children when the plan to transfer a number of patients in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Limerick to Ashley Lodge will be implemented; if and the reason patients have instead been transferred from unit three to unit ten; the overall plans for patients currently in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Limerick; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24821/07]

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. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Service Staff.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

205 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Health and Children the percentage of people employed by all the health boards who were solely providing an administrative role; the number of people employed by the Health Service Executive at present; the percentage of those employed who are solely providing an administrative role; the way the average here compares to other European countries such as the UK, France or Germany; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24826/07]

Almost 130,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. Under Part 10 of the Health Act 2004, the health boards were dissolved and their functions and employees transferred to the Health Service Executive. 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.

The Department of Health and Children does not hold data on the percentage of staff employed in a purely administrative role in the health services in other European countries. Therefore, it is not possible to determine the way the average here compares to countries such as the UK, France or Germany. However, the Deputy may wish to note that HSE has commissioned an independent study to examine such issues as the number of clerical/administration staff, the proportion of such staff engaged in front-line services, comparisons with other jurisdictions, comparisons with non-healthcare settings and resource issues.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

206 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Health and Children the enhanced facilities that Naas Hospital will have after completion of phase three; when the project is set for completion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24827/07]

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.

Health Services.

Frank Feighan

Ceist:

207 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children the way cutbacks will affect the cardiac rehabilitation services in Sligo General Hospital in relation to County Leitrim; if she will ensure that the service is maintained; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24841/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to 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 this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

208 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will have a hip replacement operation carried out; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24846/07]

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.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

209 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an appointment. [24847/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to 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 this case investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Food Safety Regulations.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

210 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the level of compliance in the restaurant and catering sector regarding beef labelling; the number of inspections that have been carried out; the number of staff dedicated to this purpose; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24877/07]

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) is responsible for enforcing food law, including the Health (Country of Origin of Beef) Regulations 2006 (S.I No. 307 of 2006) which were amended in February 2007. These regulations are enforced by Environmental Health Officers of the Health Service Executive (HSE) on foot of a service contract with the FSAI. Some 400 Environmental Health Officers work on the enforcement of food legislation.

As the beef labelling regulations are relatively new, arrangements for recording specific checks for compliance are not yet finalised but the HSE and the FSAI are currently examining this issue with a view to ensuring that this information will be collected in 2008 and subsequent years.

The Deputy may wish to note that these Regulations do not relate to food safety but rather to consumer information.

Departmental Transport.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

211 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to her Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24899/07]

This matter is governed by the Department of Finance foreign travel rules.

Health Services.

Michael D'Arcy

Ceist:

212 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Health and Children when speech therapy services will be made available for a person (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24910/07]

As the Deputy may be aware, an additional sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal 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.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Brendan Kenneally

Ceist:

213 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding is in place in respect of the recently announced cancer control programme; the amount of funding available in 2007 and 2008; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24912/07]

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

236 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if the decision to have eight cancer centres here is Government policy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25215/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 213 and 236 together.

The implementation of the National Cancer Control Programme is a major priority for me and for this Government. I fully support the appointment by the Health Service Executive (HSE) of Prof. Tom Keane as Interim National Cancer Control Director. The delivery of cancer services on a programmatic basis will serve to ensure equity of access to services and equality of patient outcome irrespective of geography.

The recent decisions of the HSE to designate four managed cancer control networks and eight cancer centres will be implemented on a managed and phased basis. A detailed transitional plan will be put in place to facilitate the progressive, gradual and carefully managed transfer of services over the next two years or so. The HSE plans to have completed 50% of the transition of services to cancer centres by end 2008 and 80-90% by end 2009.

Prof. Keane and the HSE have emphasised the importance of mobilising existing resources and redirecting them to achieve the National Cancer Control Programme objectives. An additional €20.5m was allocated to the HSE this year for cancer control. This is an increase of 74% on the comparable 2006 investment and includes €3.5m to support the initial implementation of the National Cancer Control Programme. Further investment in cancer control will be based on the reform programme now being implemented by the HSE.

Adoption Services.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

214 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to delays and waiting lists for assessments regarding inter country adoptions; if her attention has been drawn the hardship caused by the delay to those who are waiting to adopt; and his proposals in this regard. [24920/07]

I am aware that many prospective adoptive parents are concerned about the waiting times for an assessment. I appreciate the frustration the waiting list causes to those who are anxious to adopt, and who are more than willing to participate fully in the necessary assessment procedures.

As the Deputy may be aware, requests for assessment for intercountry adoption are continuously increasing. The recent study on intercountry adoption, undertaken by the Children's Research Centre in Trinity College, revealed that Ireland has one of the highest rates for foreign adoption in Europe. In addition, as a result of the increased number of children coming from abroad, a new and increasing demand for post-adoption reports from sending countries has been created. Both assessments and post-placement reports are being undertaken by HSE social work staff.

The HSE has been assessing the provision of services in the context of moving from the health board system to a single executive. It has acknowledged that there is a divergence in the provision of services and is committed to addressing those differences. The HSE is currently conducting a review of the intercountry adoption service. They will examine inconsistencies, processes and options. I anticipate that this review will take several weeks to complete, after which the HSE will submit their proposals to streamline and improve this service.

In a number of areas, the HSE has improved waiting times by contracting assessments out to non-statutory agencies with appropriate expertise. Officials from my Office are currently engaged in discussions with the HSE to discuss the effectiveness of this approach. I have instructed my officials to maintain this positive dialogue with the HSE and to explore these and other strategies to increase capacity right across the country in order to tackle the lengthy waiting times. I would like to assure the Deputy of my attention to this issue.

Hospital Staff.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

215 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a shortage of gynaecological consultants in Cork and that this is causing serious difficulties for expectant mothers in the south west; and the immediate steps proposed to deal with the situation. [24921/07]

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.

Adoption Services.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

216 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Health and Children the reasons for the suspension of inter country adoptions from certain countries; the countries on the suspension list; and the reason therefore in each case. [24922/07]

Adoption in Ireland is regulated by the Adoption Board which is an independent, statutory body. The Board must make decisions regarding adoptions in line with its assessment of the situation in each country, and its responsibility to ensure that all activities are undertaken with the best interests of the child as a paramount consideration.

The Adoption Board has discontinued the issuing of declarations of eligibility and suitability in respect of the adoption of children from Guatemala. There are a number of documents already in the public domain regarding concerns over the trafficking of children from Guatemala. These reports cover a long period of time in which the issue of trafficking and sale of children in the context of international adoption has continued to be raised.

I should point out that a number of other countries entered reservations regarding Guatemala's accession to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption. These countries include Canada, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. These reservations date from 2003 and remain extant. This means that these countries do not accept that procedures in Guatemala reach Hague Standards regarding intercountry adoption, and therefore, have objected to or suspended acceptance of Guatemala's accession to the Convention and will not treat them as party to the Convention. This effectively means that these countries have a ban on adoptions from Guatemala.

I am of the view that the position taken by the Adoption Board is reasonable and measured in light of the long-standing and continuing concerns in relation to Guatemala which have shown little sign of improvement, despite international comment and support, over the last ten years.

The Adoption Board is also currently examining the adoption laws of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia and the Republic of Rwanda to determine if they meet the requirements for recognition in Ireland. This examination was undertaken as part of the preparations to ratify the Hague Convention, and it has highlighted a number of important legal issues which require further investigation. In the circumstances, and in order to protect the adoption process, the Adoption Board has decided, as a precautionary measure, to suspend the granting of Declarations of Eligibility and Suitability in respect of these two countries until the investigations are complete. I have been assured by the Board that this issue is being dealt with as a matter of priority. I feel that the Board's decision is an appropriate one in the circumstances.

Health Services.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

217 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when an ultra sound or scan will be carried out for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24937/07]

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.

Departmental Expenditure.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

218 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when funding approved for a group (details supplied) in County Mayo will issue to them. [24959/07]

As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP) and the National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), which are being implemented by the Office of the Minister for Children.

The Group in question has recently been approved an interim NCIP staffing grant of €31,200 for the period to 31 December 2007. I understand from enquiries made that Pobal, who manage the day to day operation of the EOCP and NCIP on behalf of my Office, have last week instructed the transfer of the Group's first staffing payment of €23,400.

Health Services.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

219 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress which has been made in resolving the dispute which has seen dentists withdrawing from the dental service treatment scheme; the contingencies that have been put in place to ensure that medical card patients receive the dental treatment to which they are entitled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24967/07]

The Dental Treatment Service Scheme (DTSS) provides for a range of dental services for adult medical card holders from participating dentists holding contracts with the Health Service Executive (HSE).

The DTSS Review Group was established in May 2006 to undertake a comprehensive review of Primary Care Oral Health Services provided under the DTSS. Represented on the Review Group are the HSE, the Health Service Employers Agency, the Department of Health and Children, the Department of Social and Family Affairs, the Department of Finance and the Irish Dental Association (IDA). The Group is chaired by Mr Finbar Flood.

Since the Group was established, a legal issue has arisen with regard to the Competition Act 2002 as it relates to the negotiation of professional fees. The issues involved are complex and my officials are working with the Attorney General's office to clarify the way forward.

The existing contractual arrangements with private dental practitioners under the DTSS for provision of dental services to eligible patients remain in place although I am aware that some dentists have indicated that they wish to resign from this scheme. It should be noted that dentists withdrawing from the scheme are obliged to work a three months notice period.

If an eligible patient cannot access the services of a dentist because the dentist has resigned from the DTSS, that patient may approach any dentist within the Scheme for treatment.

Question No. 220 answered with QuestionNo. 196.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Damien English

Ceist:

221 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made in the provision of the proposed regional hospital for the north east. [25061/07]

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.

Health Services.

Damien English

Ceist:

222 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will increase the funding available to the Health Service Executive north eastern region in order to prioritise autism assessments for pre-school children in County Meath; the numbers waiting for this service; if she will increase the staff numbers in order to clear existing back logs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25062/07]

The Government is committed to providing a high quality service to all people with a disability as illustrated by the substantial investment in the disability sector over the last number of years. As part of this commitment, the National Disability Strategy was launched in September 2004. It provides for a framework of new supports for people with disabilities and puts the policy of mainstreaming of public services for people with disabilities, which was adopted by Government in 2000, on a legal footing. The Disability Act 2005 is a central element of the National Disability Strategy. The Act is a positive measure designed to advance and underpin participation by people with disabilities in everyday life.

Part 2 of the Act commenced for children with a disability, including those with autism, aged under 5 years with effect from 1st June 2007 and provides for an independent assessment of need for such persons and for a formal statement of the services that will be provided to them arising from the assessment. This prioritisation reflects the importance of intervention early in life, which can have a significant impact on the disabling effects of a condition or impairment.

As the Deputy may be aware, a sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing, among other services, the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Services Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department had 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.

Damien English

Ceist:

223 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of clients in each Health Service Executive area waiting for methadone treatment for each clinic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25063/07]

The question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the specific matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Damien English

Ceist:

224 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of clients in each Health Service Executive area being treated at each methadone clinic; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25064/07]

The question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the specific matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

225 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the best advice in order to assist a group (details supplied). [25102/07]

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. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Medical Cards.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

226 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will address an issue (details supplied). [25103/07]

At present, medical cards are granted primarily on the basis of means and individual circumstances. Under the Health Act, 2004, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive. Persons aged seventy years and over are automatically entitled to a medical card, irrespective of means. The HSE has discretion, in cases of exceptional need, to provide assistance to individuals where undue hardship would otherwise be caused.

Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of General Practitioner (GP) services. In 2005 the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP. In June 2006 I agreed with the HSE to raise the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards. For Medical Card and GP Visit Card applications, the HSE now considers an applicant's income after tax and PRSI are deducted, rather than total income. Allowances are also made for expenses on childcare, rent and mortgage costs and the cost of travel to work. Application forms are available from the HSE, which can be contacted on its National Information Line on lo-call 1850 24 1850 or visit the HSE website at www.hse.ie.

I have no plans to provide for the granting of medical cards to any particular group as a whole. However, my Department is currently reviewing all legislation relating to eligibility for health and personal social services with a view to making the system as fair and transparent as possible.

In relation to services for people suffering from eating disorders, the Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy, entitled "A Vision for Change", which was launched in January 2006, acknowledges gaps in the current provision of services for people with eating disorders and makes several recommendations for the further improvement of these services. "A Vision for Change" provides a framework for action to develop a modern, high quality mental health service over a 7 to 10 year implementation timeframe.

Recommendations include support for health promotion initiatives that encourage greater community and family awareness of eating disorders, the further development of primary and community care services and the provision of a full multidisciplinary team in a National Centre for Eating Disorders for complex cases that cannot be managed by local child and adolescent community mental health teams.

Additional funding of €750,000 was allocated to the Health Service Executive in 2007 for the further development of designated eating disorder services and commissioning of services from agencies. Funding is also provided to Bodywhys, which provides a national helpline, regional support groups, email support and a dedicated website (www.bodywhys.ie).

Health Services.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

227 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5 will be assisted. [25105/07]

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.

Courts Service.

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

228 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the Registrar of Wards of Court is unable to apply for redress for these wards of court and that no claims can be processed due to the prohibitive clauses in the conditions for application; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that the deadline for such applications is 31 December 2007. [25116/07]

The Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006 provides that applications for repayments to Wards of Court can be made by the Registrar of the Wards of Court or the relevant County Registrar as the Circuit Court has concurrent jurisdiction in wardship matters.

The scheme administrator, the Health Service Executive and officials from my Department met with the Registrar of the Wards of Court in advance of the submission of applications on behalf of Wards of Court, to provide whatever assistance possible with the application process.

The scheme administrator is working in conjunction with the Registrar of the Wards of Court to ensure that the application process is as simple as possible.

The HSE has informed my Department that 200 applications on behalf of Wards of Court have been received to date and are currently being processed by the Scheme Administrator.

Departmental Expenditure.

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

229 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children if she read the Health Service Executive publication, Health Matters; how often this magazine is published; the cost of each edition; the persons who receive it; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25117/07]

Health Matters is the national staff magazine of the Health Service Executive. It is issued on a quarterly basis and to date there have been eight issues.

I have requested the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy in relation to the other issues raised.

Health Services.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

230 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress of the roll out of the sexual assault treatment units; the status on the units; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25127/07]

The Deputy's question relates to the funding, management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

231 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 259 of 26 September 2007, the factors that inform a cost benefit analysis in the context of facilities for patients with terminal illnesses whose life expectancy is dramatically reduced due to inadequate treatment facilities here. [25128/07]

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.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

232 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25145/07]

My Department has spent € 57,757 (VAT included ) on paper and stationery to date in 2007. All the paper and stationery purchased was recycled material.

Health Services.

Darragh O'Brien

Ceist:

233 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare. [25204/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Darragh O'Brien

Ceist:

234 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will intervene on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin. [25205/07]

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.

Lucinda Creighton

Ceist:

235 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate the circumstances of the death of a person (details supplied) and in particular the delays caused by technical problems with the ambulance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25214/07]

My Dept has been advised that, in accordance with the statutory complaints procedure, the National Ambulance Service of the Health Service Executive (HSE) has commenced an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the sad events of 26th May this year.

As operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, including the National Ambulance Service is a matter for the HSE, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 236 answered with QuestionNo. 213.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

237 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place with regard to oncology services in Sligo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25220/07]

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

238 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place with regard to chemotherapy services in Sligo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25221/07]

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

239 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place for radiation oncology services in Sligo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25222/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 237 to 239, inclusive, together.

The implementation of the National Cancer Control Programme is a major priority for me and for this Government. I fully support the appointment by the Health Service Executive (HSE) of Prof. Tom Keane as Interim National Cancer Control Director. The delivery of cancer services on a programmatic basis will serve to ensure equity of access to services and equality of patient outcome irrespective of geography. The decisions of the HSE in relation to four managed cancer control networks and eight cancer centres will be implemented on a managed and phased basis. The HSE plans to have completed 50% of the transition of services to the cancer centres by end 2008 and 80-90% by end 2009.

The HSE has designated University College Hospital Galway (UCHG) and Limerick Regional Hospital as the two cancer centres in the Managed Cancer Control Network for the HSE Western Region which includes Sligo. The designation of cancer centres aims to ensure that patients receive the highest quality care while at the same time allowing local access to services, where appropriate. Where diagnosis and treatment planning is directed and managed by multi-disciplinary teams based at the cancer centres, then much of the treatment (other than surgery) can be delivered in local hospitals, such as Sligo General Hospital.

Patients from Sligo who require radiation oncology are referred to the Radiation Oncology Department at UCHG for treatment. The Department and the HSE have been working closely on the examination of procurement options in order to expedite the delivery of the National Plan for Radiation Oncology. I have been assured that the HSE will have in place radiation oncology capacity to meet the needs of the population by 2010. After 2010 the HSE will continue to increase capacity to ensure that these needs continue to be met.

Hospital Services.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

240 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if the agreements and regulations will allow the collocated private hospital to provide oncology services and in particular breast care oncology services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25223/07]

The collocation initiative is designed to ensure that private beds in public hospitals are freed up for the use of public patients by having collocated private hospital beds built on public hospital sites. In service terms, this means that collocated hospitals will provide a full range of acute services to private patients, subject to limited exceptions, such as national specialties and services that require minimum caseloads and adherence to other standards to ensure patient safety and quality. In these exceptional cases, the public hospital system will continue to provide such services to private as well as public patients. In respect of cancer services specifically, in line with the National Cancer Control Strategy, I would expect that these will only be provided in centres that meet minimum standards, such as the recently approved National Quality Assurance Standards for Symptomatic Breast Disease Services, irrespective of whether these centres are publicly or privately financed and managed.

Health Services.

Niall Blaney

Ceist:

241 Deputy Niall Blaney asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Health Service Executive have plans to fund the life-start programme in Milford, County Donegal which is currently in a disadvantaged area and would have very low spend per head of capita; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25224/07]

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and social services which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Office 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.

Cancer Screening Programme.

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

242 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Health and Children the expected time-frame for the full roll out of BreastCheck on a nationwide basis and its availability to women over 65; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25231/07]

I am committed to ensuring that the BreastCheck service is rolled out to the remaining regions in the country as quickly as possible. I have allocated additional revenue funding of €8 million to the National Cancer Screening Service for this year to meet the additional costs involved. The full complement of 111 staff for roll-out has been approved. I have also made available an additional €26.7m capital funding for the construction of two new clinical units and the provision of seven additional mobile units and state of the art digital equipment. BreastCheck has confirmed that the roll-out will commence later this month and will take around 27 months to complete. The Programme is designed to offer repeat screening within an interval of 21-27 months.

The expert advice from BreastCheck and from the National Cancer Forum, as contained in its National Strategy for Cancer Control, is that following the national extension of the current programme, the upper age limit should be extended to women aged 69 years. The priority of BreastCheck is to screen women who have not yet been screened and accordingly it is fully focussed at present on the commencement of the first round of screening in the West and South. I will consider extending the age limit as recommended when the national roll-out of the programme is sufficiently developed and it is assured that a quality service is being delivered. Any woman irrespective of her age who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her area.

Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

243 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will investigate a situation where the health repayment scheme in Tralee is sending letters to applicants under the certificate of entitlement to extract a grant of representation without signing those letters; if she deems this to be inappropriate; and if she will investigate the situation of a letter sent to a person (details supplied) in County Cork with no personal signature on the letter and no explanation as to what the applicant family should do next in order to claim what they are entitled to. [25242/07]

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Nursing Home Subventions.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

244 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that all arrangements are in place to introduce the new uniform nursing home support scheme as promised on 1 January 2008 despite newspaper reports to the contrary; and the way assets other than the family home will be treated in ascertaining eligibility for support under this scheme. [25252/07]

The Department is currently working on the Bill for the new nursing home support scheme — A Fair Deal. It is our intention to have the legislation in place by 1 January 2008 and the scheme effective from that date.

The legislation will deal with a range of issues including the one raised by the Deputy. The Government will be considering these issues in due course.

Health Service Staff.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

245 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Health and Children when she will ensure that the salaries and allowance of Health Service Executive management teams be made available in the same way as the HSE have published the payments to chemists and general practitioners; if she will ensure that every effort is made to minimise management and administration costs in order that patient care would be a priority; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25258/07]

Nearly 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 healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.

Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of 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.

Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

246 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason persons (details supplied) are being refused payment under the nursing home repayment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25264/07]

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Grant Payments.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

247 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare was refused a grant; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25267/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The HSE's responsibility includes the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

248 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the waiting list in the Dunboyne area, County Meath for young people who are waiting access to speech therapy and that the Health Service Executive in May 2007 commenced the process of hiring a second speech therapist for this area but same can not now be proceeded with in view of the embargo upon recruitment recently imposed upon the HSE; and if in the context of a young child (details supplied) in County Meath, steps can be taken to ensure the necessary speech therapy is provided at this point in time. [25270/07]

As the Deputy may be aware, an additional sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Service Staff.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

249 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person (details supplied) in County Galway was deemed to be an employee of the Western Health Board from 1990 to 2002 in their role as supervisor over a community employment scheme at Toghermore Training Centre, Tuam, County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25275/07]

Under Part 10 of the Health Act 2004, the health boards were dissolved and their functions and employees transferred to the Health Service Executive. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case/issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

250 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the domiciliary care allowance has been withdrawn from a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that three other brothers of the applicant are in receipt of such a payment and that this low income family has to pay for the services of an outside teacher; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25276/07]

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal services, which are the responsibility 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.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

251 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if a site will be made available for the supply of services to the mentally handicapped at St. Bridget’s Hospital, Ballinasloe, County Galway in the event that the property is sold; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25277/07]

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. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Services.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

252 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place for the use of the hydrotherapy pool at Our Lady’s Hospital Manorhamilton, County Leitrim in view of the relocation of rheumatology services to Sligo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25287/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to 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 this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Question No. 253 answered with QuestionNo. 185.

Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

254 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their payment under the health repayment scheme. [25300/07]

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

255 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a full reply has not issued in respect of Parliamentary Question No. 317 of 26 September 2007 for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [25301/07]

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

The Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive have informed my Department that a reply has issued to the Deputy on 16th October 2007.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

256 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a full reply has not issued in respect of Parliamentary Question No. 319 of 26 September 2007 for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [25302/07]

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

The Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive have informed my Department that a reply has issued to the Deputy on 18th October 2007.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

257 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive payment on their claim under the health repayment scheme. [25303/07]

The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the Repayment Scheme and the information sought by the Deputy relates to matters within the area of responsibility of the Executive.

My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued to the Deputy.

Ambulance Service.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

258 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of personnel in the ambulance services; the number on leave; and the number of vacancies. [25307/07]

Nearly 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 healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the healthcare needs of the population into the future.

Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of 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.

Infection Control.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

259 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients in St. Colmcille’s Hospital who have contracted MRSA or C. difficile each year since 1997 to date in 2007. [25308/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the HSE under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall Vote. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular issue raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

260 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if budget cutbacks have affected the infection control service in St. Columcille’s Hospital. [25309/07]

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.

Hospitals Building Programme.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

261 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place to redevelop St. Columcille’s Hospital as was the case in Naas General and James Connolly Memorial Hospitals during the ERHA area board management structure. [25310/07]

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.

Questions Nos. 262 and 263 answered with Question No. 185.

Health Services.

Seán Connick

Ceist:

264 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding will be provided for an increase in occupational therapy services in County Wexford. [25325/07]

Seán Connick

Ceist:

265 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding will be provided for an increase in speech therapy services in County Wexford. [25326/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 264 and 265 together.

As the Deputy may be aware, an additional sum of €75m for revenue purposes was provided to the Health Service Executive for Disability Services in the 2007 Budget. This sum incorporates the 2007 element of the Government's multi-annual investment programme for the National Disability Strategy. This Strategy is committed to enhancing the level and range of multi-disciplinary support services to adults and children with an intellectual, physical and sensory disability and those with autism.

The Deputy's question relates to the management and delivery of health and personal social services, which are the responsibility of the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have this matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Health Service Staff.

Seán Connick

Ceist:

266 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Health and Children if a review of staff security will be undertaken in psychiatric units. [25327/07]

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. The Executive, therefore, is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Child Care Provision.

P. J. Sheehan

Ceist:

267 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will examine the concerns of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25336/07]

The main supports the Government makes available to parents to assist them with their childcare costs are Child Benefit and the Early Childcare Supplement. The latter payment, which is in recognition of the higher childcare costs of pre-school children, is the responsibility of my Office, and it alone amounts to expenditure of over €400m in a full year. These payments are universal and benefit all parents, regardless of their income, labour market status or the type of childcare they choose and regardless of whether they live in urban or rural areas. In addition to these universal supports, Government childcare policy has also recognised the need to target additional supports towards disadvantaged families.

Under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme 2000-2006 (EOCP), which is co-funded under the EU Social Fund (ESF), targeted support was provided through the staffing support grant scheme whereby community based not-for-profit childcare providers with a strong focus on disadvantage were awarded grant aid towards their staffing costs to allow them to operate reduced fees to disadvantaged parents. Funding under this scheme was originally awarded for a limited period during which services were expected to move towards sustainability. This funding was subsequently continued to the end of 2007, where it was considered necessary to enable services to continue to make their services accessible to disadvantaged parents. This continuation funding was subject to the condition that tiered fee structures were implemented by the services in question.

With the closure of the EOCP in December 2007, to continue to support community childcare services to provide affordable childcare to disadvantaged parents, the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS) is being introduced from January 2008 under the Exchequer funded National Childcare Investment Programme 2006-2010 (NCIP), the successor programme to the EOCP. The CCSS has been allocated €153 million over the next 3 years, representing a 16% increase in funding over the EOCP staffing scheme, and will continue to support community childcare services to provide reduced childcare fees for disadvantaged parents, complementing the universal supports in place for all parents. Under the new scheme, it will be possible to ensure that the level of grant aid which individual services qualify for will reflect the actual level of service they provide and the profile of the parents benefiting from their service. As part of their application for funding under the new scheme, services will be required to ask parents using their services to complete a simple declaration form which will be included in a return to my Office and on which basis the level of subvention for each service will be determined. The subvention received by services will, in turn, be reflected in the reduced fees for parents who qualify as disadvantaged under the scheme.

In practice, this will mean that parents with children in such services and in receipt of most social welfare payments (or participating in a scheme such as Community Employment which demonstrates an underlying entitlement to same) will see a €80 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions in respect of shorter hour services). Parents in receipt of Family Income Supplement (FIS), will see a €30 weekly subvention in respect of full daycare (with pro-rata reductions). A further subvention of €30 per week will be paid where the subvented child is a baby, in recognition of the higher costs associated with the care of children aged under 1 year. Parents who do not qualify under either of these categories will be charged the cost price for their childcare service, however, as community not-for-profit services will, generally, have availed of capital grant aid under the EOCP or NCIP removing the requirement to cover rent or a mortgage, and as the services are run on a not-for-profit basis, this should still be significantly below the market price.

It is considered that the new scheme will provide an effective framework for the continued targeting of additional resources towards disadvantaged parents and their children while continuing to support community childcare services generally. The scheme has been informed by and takes account of a number of enhancements recommended by the report of the Value for Money Review of the EOCP. These include the fact that the subvention to services will be more responsive to the level of service provided as well as the degree of parental disadvantage supported and the ceiling for funding, which existed under the previous scheme, is being removed. Account will also be taken of all of the operational costs of the service rather than staffing costs alone. Services, including full-time, part-time and sessional ones, which at present are, in some cases, inaccessibly priced for disadvantaged parents, will be available to them at more appropriate rates under the new scheme.

The new scheme has clear advantages over its predecessor. There is an increase in the level of funding available under it, and a majority of services will benefit from the changes it introduces. Existing EOCP staffing grant recipients who enter the new scheme will continue to be funded at their current levels until July 2008. My Office has engaged in a series of meetings with existing grant recipients to outline to them the details of the new scheme and to gather feedback from the services themselves. A meeting with representatives of the City and County Childcare Committees has also taken place.

The Community Childcare Subvention Scheme will not discriminate against rural services and the number of parents in rural areas supported by the new scheme is not expected to be lower than in urban areas. Per capita, the majority of the social welfare benefits which are referenced by the new schemes are availed of by more people outside the Dublin area than in it and parents in receipt of Farm Assist will attract the higher level of subvention. Data available from EOCP grant applications also suggests that the costs of running a rural service, and therefore the costs charged to parents, are lower than those for services in urban areas.

Transitional arrangements have been made under which existing grant recipients will continue to be funded at their current levels until 1st July 2008. This is to ensure that existing childcare services are facilitated to adjust to the new scheme, including making any adjustments necessary to their fee structures. As signalled when I announced the new scheme in July this year, the transitional period between now and 1 July 2008 will also be used to monitor and review the impact it will have on individual groups, on the basis of the more detailed and comprehensive data which is due to be received from applicants in November. If appropriate, any adjustments necessary to the scheme to secure the best outcomes for childcare services and for disadvantaged parents and their children will be considered on the basis of this data and well in advance of the commencement of the new funding levels in July 2008.

Health Services.

Jackie Healy-Rae

Ceist:

268 Deputy Jackie Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health and Children the cuts being planned for services in Kerry General Hospital; the cuts in services already in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25361/07]

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.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

269 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children the precise health facilities and ancillary health developments that will be put in place at Loosan, Athlone, County Westmeath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25407/07]

The Government's sustained high level of investment in healthcare has enabled the completion and commissioning of numerous new facilities in both the acute and the non-acute sectors. This year, overall capital funding of €546 million has been provided to the Health Service Executive.

Responsibility for the planning and management of capital projects in the health sector, including the developments referred to in the Deputy's question are a matter for the Health Services Executive under the Health Act 2004.

Accordingly, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Niall Collins

Ceist:

270 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Health and Children the range and level of services provided through home care packages; and the application procedure and qualifying criteria. [25409/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive under the Health Act 2004. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular matter raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Housing Aid for the Elderly.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

271 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application under the housing aid for the elderly will be processed for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25433/07]

Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services was assigned to the Health Service Executive (HSE) under the Health Act 2004 and funding for all health services has been provided as part of its overall vote. The HSE's responsibility includes the operation of the Housing Aid Scheme for the Elderly, on behalf of the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Therefore, the Executive is the appropriate body to consider the particular case raised by the Deputy. My Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to have the matter investigated and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.

Community Development.

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

272 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the funding supports available in his Department for community groups wishing to build a children’s playground. [25439/07]

Ready, Steady Play: A National Play Policy, which was published in 2004, provides a framework for the development of public play facilities in Ireland with the overall aim of ensuring that children have access to a range of quality play opportunities to enrich their childhood. While the Office of the Minister for Children has an overall role in supporting implementation of the Play Policy, individual Departments retain responsibility for implementation of actions falling within their remit. The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has lead responsibility in relation to the provision of funding to local authorities for playgrounds.

The Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and the HSE have co-funded the development of new playgrounds or refurbishment of existing playgrounds in RAPID areas since 2004. A new scheme for 2008 was announced in July of this year with €3m available. Local Authorities will consult with each RAPID Area Implementation Team to agree the precise nature and location of the playgrounds to be funded. When the 2008 scheme finishes a total of €12m will have been provided for the funding of playgrounds in RAPID areas since 2004.

Departmental Schemes.

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

273 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if her Department has a grant scheme or funding source to which an adoption support group (details supplied) may apply for financial assistance. [25440/07]

This group are eligible to apply for National Lottery Funding. Application forms are available from the Finance Unit in the Department of Health and Children.

Health Services.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

274 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if they will be seen as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25452/07]

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.

Motor Vehicle Registration.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

275 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport the number of vehicles registered for use on roads in Counties Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Kildare in 1996, 2002 and 2006 distinguishing cars, motor cycles and goods vehicles and classifying them by broad capacity categories. [24696/07]

The tabular statements set out the details requested by the Deputy.

Table 1: Number of Private Cars by Engine Capacity in Counties Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Kildare in 1996, 2002 and 2006.

Number of Private Cars by Engine Capacity

ENGINE CAPACITY (CUBIC CENTIMETRES)

Year

County

Up to 900

901-1000

1001-1100

1101-1200

1201-1300

1301-1400

1401-1500

1501-1600

1601-1700

1701-1800

1801-1900

1901-2000

2001-2500

2501 and over

Total

2006

Kildare

341

7,280

400

6,417

6,405

20,669

2,485

11,412

293

4,872

5,266

8,541

2,910

2,248

79,539

Meath

234

5,792

321

5,441

5,327

18,154

2,399

9,846

307

4,196

5,822

8,009

2,624

1,941

70,413

Wicklow

435

5,499

290

3,979

5,041

14,153

1,770

7,702

195

3,514

3,383

6,346

2,239

1,937

56,483

Dublin

3,097

48,315

2,796

33,804

45,579

116,703

16,506

70,070

1,263

36,536

18,478

47,202

15,614

14,989

470,952

Total (All counties)

8,989

167,774

9,488

125,190

156,675

481,809

58,104

260,134

9,217

107,569

117,929

183,860

52,645

39,478

1,778,861

2002

Kildare

458

7,394

343

5,282

6,324

16,511

1,933

7,759

390

3,095

3,652

6,652

1,643

969

62,405

Meath

317

5,646

297

4,404

5,016

13,384

1,443

6,205

406

2,283

3,769

6,245

1,529

802

51,746

Wicklow

640

5,745

256

3,522

4,630

11,079

1,225

5,341

274

2,150

2,206

4,656

1,338

770

43,832

Dublin

4,490

51,511

2,275

31,590

45,186

99,795

13,945

51,098

1,195

25,143

13,916

41,588

10,898

7,871

400,501

Total (All Counties)

12,412

169,397

8,410

119,009

156,236

382,826

42,096

192,986

12,639

73,305

77,951

150,391

32,359

17,891

1,447,908

1996

Kildare

418

7,106

729

4,592

4,920

6,764

1,101

5,373

761

2,393

1,465

4,178

765

359

40,924

Meath

362

5,669

526

3,627

3,916

5,209

861

4,846

780

1,897

1,528

3,703

700

263

33,887

Wicklow

627

5,710

626

3,631

3,691

4,665

785

3,978

577

1,668

881

2,883

619

326

30,667

Dublin

5,136

58,273

5,358

34,147

35,674

52,295

9,373

35,938

2,703

17,065

6,203

29,341

5,750

3,685

300,941

Total (All Counties)

11,821

180,538

17,451

123,035

140,369

166,017

26,726

157,142

18,883

57,891

31,676

101,297

16,858

7,679

1,057,383

Table 2: Number of Goods Vehicles by Unladen Weight in Counties Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Kildare in 1996, 2002 and 2006.

Number of Goods Vehicles by Unladen Weight in each Licensing Authority Area

Unladen Weight Expressed in Kilograms

Electric

Year

County

Up to 1270

Exc. 1270

Up to 813

814-1016

1017-1270

1271-1524

1525-2032

2033-4064

4065-8128

8129-9144

9145-10160

10161-11176

11177-12192

12193 and over

Total

2006

Kildare

1

0

93

175

2,741

1,660

5,664

2,008

516

94

125

213

272

550

14,112

Meath

0

0

49

257

2,863

1,737

5,859

1,673

529

105

112

248

235

577

14,244

Wicklow

0

0

54

171

1,448

1,298

3,752

1,643

270

56

60

105

107

255

9,219

Dublin

1

0

624

545

10,483

7,731

24,465

7,862

2,681

769

677

689

621

1,953

59,101

Total (All Counties)

2

0

2,244

6,319

64,321

43,814

127,597

37,377

11,546

2,659

2,802

3,987

4,761

11,175

318,604

2002

Kildare

0

0

77

379

2,074

1,627

3,388

1,112

464

118

124

187

192

308

10,050

Meath

0

0

81

486

2,102

1,610

3,279

800

492

81

116

191

134

257

9,629

Wicklow

0

0

75

332

1,193

1,368

2,476

796

288

51

80

99

78

135

6,971

Dublin

2

0

324

1,732

10,180

6,979

17,262

4,760

2,984

668

726

640

534

1,276

48,067

Total (All Counties)

3

1

2,340

14,074

49,670

41,117

75,848

19,118

11,295

2,361

2,908

3,793

3,503

7,038

233,069

1996

Kildare

0

0

153

808

611

1,371

1191

367

363

77

125

168

111

130

5,475

Meath

0

1

185

975

618

1,300

1100

320

326

63

85

102

84

96

5,255

Wicklow

0

0

187

694

522

1022

980

269

249

39

54

75

55

54

4,200

Dublin

5

9

1,157

4,435

4,739

7,923

6,221

2,535

2,792

559

569

442

330

687

32,403

Total (All Counties)

7

34

5,010

26,403

18,245

35,498

29,193

9,256

10,135

1,859

2,580

2,871

2,458

3,052

146,601

Table 3: Number of Motor Cycles by Engine Capacity in Counties Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Kildare in 1996, 2002 and 2006.

Number of Motor Cycles by Engine Capacity in each Licensing Authority

Year

County

Up to 75 c.c.

76 c.c. up to 150 c.c.

151 c.c. up to 250 c.c.

Over 250 c.c.

Total

2006

Kildare

142

178

111

1,367

1,798

Meath

91

116

83

1,114

1,404

Wicklow

136

174

98

1,122

1,530

Dublin

2,489

2,655

919

6,949

13,012

Total (All Counties)

4,918

5,538

2,309

22,162

34,927

2002

Kildare

357

287

98

922

1,664

Meath

164

157

67

601

989

Wicklow

262

212

114

777

1,365

Dublin

3,950

2,858

892

5,132

12,832

Total (All Counties)

8,530

7,213

2,425

14,979

33,147

1996

Kildare

214

366

75

296

951

Meath

125

249

56

198

628

Wicklow

138

329

90

299

856

Dublin

2,296

2,962

733

1609

7,600

Total (All Counties)

6,313

9,680

2,062

5,792

23,847

Departmental Projects.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

276 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the Government’s policy towards the mid-west region; and when he will sanction on the delivery of vital infrastructural projects such as key road and rail upgrades. [24697/07]

One of the main factors influencing the prioritisation of projects for Transport 21 and the National Development Plan was the need to support the Government's National Spatial Strategy objectives. Consistent with this approach, a number of national road and public transport projects, which contribute to the development of the mid-west region, were identified for implementation. They include:

M/N7 Dublin to Limerick which is one of the major interurban routes and is due for completion by 2010.

N18 Ennis to Galway is part of the Atlantic Road Corridor, which will link Donegal and Waterford via Limerick. A decision was taken in the National Development Plan to accelerate construction of this corridor and construction on the N18 project will begin in 2008, 3 years ahead of schedule.

N21 is currently being upgraded in stages between Adare and Tralee.

Western Rail Corridor which will connect Ennis to Claremorris. Work has begun on Phase 1 between Ennis and Athenry, which facilitates the introduction of a Limerick-Galway service.

Bus Eireann have ordered 160 additional new buses to enhance existing non-commercial services and provide additional city and commuter services throughout the country. These new buses will gradually enter service in Limerick and other cities.

With the acquisition of a new fleet of Intercity railcars, Iarnród Eireann will enhance its services to the mid-west region. The new railcars will be gradually introduced into service from November 2007.

Light Rail Project.

Olivia Mitchell

Ceist:

277 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport his views on allocating funding not now required for some years for the LUAS Line BX to the construction for a LUAS line for Rathfarnham; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24700/07]

Dublin City Council is currently undertaking a traffic modelling exercise as part of its examination of revised traffic management arrangements in the city centre, which will be required for the delivery of the Luas city centre link (line BX), the further extension to Liffey Junction (line D) and also Metro North.

In addition, the RPA is considering ways of streamlining and combining construction works on these projects in order to minimise the impact on the city centre.

Following completion of further detailed design work and subject to a satisfactory outcome to the city centre traffic management planning work, the RPA plans to submit a Railway Order application for Luas Line BX to An Bord Pleanála next year. Decisions on a construction timetable for Luas Line Bx will be taken by the RPA in light of the outcome of the planning process.

I understand that the RPA commenced work on examining the feasibility of a Luas line to Rathfarnham in April this year. The Agency has been progressing the study since that date and are confident that they will be in a position to make an initial view in relation to the feasibility of a Rathfarnham Luas Line available to my Department by the end of the year.

It would, therefore, be premature to consider any reallocation of funding pending the outcome of the planning process on Luas Line Bx and the feasibility study on the Rathfarnham line.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

278 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Transport if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24747/07]

While the output statement has not been published on my Department's website, the financial data from the output statement relating to 2006 was included in the Department of Transport 2006 Annual Report which was published on the Department's website on 11 June 2007.

Rural Transport Services.

James Bannon

Ceist:

279 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Transport the steps he is taking to rectify the lack of satisfactory rural transport in County Westmeath; the reason the rural transport group is failing to provide a satisfactory transport infrastructure particularly for elderly and infirm people wishing to access hospitals and so on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24798/07]

I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 221 of 10 October 2007.

Airline Charges.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

280 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the failure of airlines to refund taxes paid on flights which have been cancelled by consumers; what happens to this revenue; and if there is a process in place to address same. [24869/07]

Taxes, which are imposed by Government, should be differentiated from charges, which are imposed by airports, airlines or other agencies. There are no Government taxes levied on flights out of Ireland. However, I am aware that other countries, including the United Kingdom, impose these taxes.

Different airlines have different policies on refunds with regard to taxes and charges and some airlines impose an administration charge in respect of an application for a refund.

Essentially this is a consumer issue and would be a matter for the National Consumer Agency, a body which is within the remit of my colleague the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment.

Road Safety.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

281 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will provide funding for the provision of flashing amber lights on the road immediately outside all schools as is currently provided for in CLÁR areas by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. [24870/07]

The provision of road traffic signs, including the flashing amber warning lights in the vicinity of schools, is a matter to be determined by each road authority under section 95 of the Road Traffic Act, 1961.

I have no proposals to mirror the CLÁR programme on national and non-national roads throughout the country. It is a matter for individual road authorities to determine what warning traffic signs are desirable to be provided at any location and to assign funding for their signing programme.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

282 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24903/07]

Frequent flyer points can be retained by Departmental Officers in accordance with the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour.

Road Network.

Olivia Mitchell

Ceist:

283 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the estimated travel time by road to Shannon Airport from Dublin; when that time will be reduced and by what amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24941/07]

As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority under the Roads Act, 1993 in conjunction with the relevant local authorities concerned.

As you are aware, the NRA is currently concentrating its efforts, in line with Government policy on the Major Interurban routes including the N7 Dublin to Limerick which are on target to be completed by 2010. I understand from the NRA that the approximate expected journey time on the N7 Limerick to Dublin in 2010 will be 2 hours and 30 minutes. This time is approximate and is based on average speed of 100kph-120kph.

Light Rail Project.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

284 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding his plans to expand the LUAS into the Broadstone, Constitution Hill areas of Dublin 7; the extent to which this has been co-ordinated with the Grangegorman Development Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25040/07]

I understand that the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) maintains a close working relationship with the Grangegorman Development Agency on the development of Luas Line D. The Chief Executive Officer of the RPA made a presentation to the Board of the Grangegorman Development Agency in May of this year outlining the role that Luas Line D would play in accessibility needs for the planned major campus development. I understand the Grangegorman Development Agency is strongly supportive of Luas Line D and the associated need for Line BX.

Dublin City Council is currently undertaking a traffic modelling exercise as part of its examination of revised traffic management arrangements in the city centre, which will be required for the delivery of the Luas city centre link (line BX), the further extension to Liffey Junction (line D) and also Metro North.

In addition, the RPA is considering ways of streamlining and combining construction works on these projects in order to minimise the impact on the city centre.

Following completion of further detailed design work and subject to a satisfactory outcome to the city centre traffic management planning work, the RPA plans to submit a Railway Order application for Luas Line BX to An Bord Pleanála next year. This will influence the timing of Luas Line D, the route for which will be decided having regard to the route of Line BX.

Motor Vehicle Registration.

Damien English

Ceist:

285 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport the plans he has to make it an obligation for insurance companies to notify his Department that vehicles involved in accidents are written off; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25065/07]

The arrangements covering the treatment and notification of write-offs of vehicles are currently being examined by the RSA, the Garda Síochána, the Revenue Commissioners who are responsible for the registration of vehicles and my Department in its role in relation to the National Vehicle and Driver File (NVDF). This examination will be concluded as soon as possible and any recommendations arising therefrom will be considered.

Road Traffic Offences.

Damien English

Ceist:

286 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport his views on the Motor Insurers Bureau of Ireland’s estimate that uninsured drivers kill 20 people each year and leave a further 2,000 others seriously injured; the plans he or his Department have to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25067/07]

The figure quoted by the Deputy is an estimate by the Motor Insurers' Bureau of Ireland based on the Insurance Industry's claim that 6% of motor vehicles are currently uninsured.

Any level of uninsured driving is a matter of concern to me. Several steps have been taken in recent years to reduce the level of uninsured driving. The Garda Traffic Corps has been substantially expanded to improve compliance with all road traffic legislation including motor insurance requirements. Legislation has also been put in place to extend the powers of the Gardaí to permit the seizure of all uninsured vehicles. In addition, since the introduction of the Penalty Points system, 6,539 persons have received penalty points for uninsured driving up to the end of September 2007.

Public Transport.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

287 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the circumstances surrounding reports that his Department instructed Dublin Bus to remove three buses from the 25X morning service serving Lucan, County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25121/07]

The initiation or alteration of a bus service by Dublin Bus is subject to compliance with the necessary regulatory requirement of giving advance notice to my Department and to compliance with section 25 of the Transport Act, 1958 concerning competition with licensed private operators.

My Department wrote to Dublin Bus on 4th October, 2007 in relation to three additional Route 25X departures which the Company was operating from the Newcastle Road, Lucan Area. My Department had not been notified of these three additional departures and therefore Dublin Bus was requested to cease operation of the three services until they have been regularised.

To date, no notification has been received in my Department for these three services. My Department has advised Dublin Bus that proposals for additional services from Adamstown, which will serve the Lucan area, will require my consent under section 25 of the Transport Act 1958 and a further proposal to introduce three additional Route 25X Lucan services which differ from the services as referred to by the Deputy is currently the subject of correspondence between my Department and Dublin Bus.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

288 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the position regarding integrated ticketing for Dublin; the cost to date of all feasibility studies and planning exercises by the Railway Procurement Agency and all other bodies under his Department’s aegis currently or previously investigating integrated ticketing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25122/07]

The position in relation to the Integrated Ticketing project was set out in my response to Parliamentary Question Numbers 66 and 109 on 18th October, 2007.

Since the inception of the project in 2002 €11.9 million has been spent on the project to date. This expenditure encompasses project management, design and development costs and operator contributions. The Railway Procurement Agency advises that this expenditure included €0.2 million on consultancy.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

289 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the conditions surrounding the granting of licences to private bus operators; his future plans in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25123/07]

The Road Transport Act, 1932 provides the statutory basis for regulating the provision of public bus services by private bus operators in Ireland.

Section 11 of that Act establishes provisions relating specifically to the grant of Annual Road Passenger Licences. The criteria for the determination of applications is set out in subsections (3) of that section and provides that:—

The service is required in the public interest having regard to the passenger road services and other forms of passenger transport available to the public on or in the neighbourhood of the route of the proposed service,

Whether the service is sufficient in terms of frequency and duration to meet the requirements of the public,

Whether the applicant has the organisation and equipment necessary to carry out the service.

It is a condition of all Annual Passenger Licences that the Licensee is responsible for ensuring compliance with all conditions attached to the licence which includes adhering to the timetable and any restrictions placed on the licence in respect of pick-up and set-down of passengers.

The Programme for Government includes a commitment to improve bus services under Transport 21 by reforming bus licensing to facilitate the optimum provision of services by providing a level playing field for all market participants. The new licensing regime will be designed in a manner consistent with the recently adopted new EU Regulation on Public Service Obligations in the transport sector.

While it is not possible at this time to indicate a precise time as to when the legislative proposals on regulatory reform of the bus market will be published, applications and notifications from bus operators will continue to be processed under the provisions of the Road Transport Act, 1932, as amended.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

290 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25149/07]

The total amount spent by my Department on all office consumables, including paper, in the period January to end of September 2007 was €82,116.43. (Of this amount some €15,407.94 was spent on paper supplies.) With the exception of specialized paper supplies that are occasionally required, the bulk of the paper used by my Department is purchased under the central contract arrangement agreed by the O.P.W. In this regard, the type of paper concerned is recycled and made from post-consumer office waste paper.

Public Transport.

Darragh O'Brien

Ceist:

291 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Transport when a high frequency bus service from Swords via the Port Tunnel to the city centre will start in view of the fact that the licence has been granted for a private operator to operate; and the exact route it will serve. [25163/07]

On the 3rd October, 2007, my Department issued a licence in accordance with the Road Transport Act, 1932 to a private bus operator for bus passenger services between Swords and Custom House Quay, via The Port Tunnel.

It is a condition of the licence that the services are in operation in their entirety within 4 months from the date of issue of the licence. While it is a matter for the operator concerned to introduce the services within the timeframe, my Department understands that the operator proposes to commence operations within a matter of weeks.

Road Traffic Offences.

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

292 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Transport the steps he proposes to take to ensure persons holding a driving licence from outside this State who are guilty of a road offence can have penalty points attached to their licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25168/07]

I am conscious that enforcing penalties for road traffic offences on foreign registered drivers raises many legal, organisational and procedural issues, which make it very difficult for any one State to enforce such penalties. For that reason, my Department is pursuing this question at the European, British/Irish and North/South levels where mutual recognition and cross border enforcement possibilities are under consideration.

All drivers are subject to road traffic law and it is a matter for An Garda Síochána to enforce the law. As foreign licence holders do not have an Irish driving licence record, penalty points incurred in this State are recorded against that person on a separate record in the National Driver File. The realisation of fines and penalties imposed by the Courts is a matter for the Courts Service.

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for ensuring that penalty points are endorsed on a licence record. Data in relation to penalty points is held on the National Driver File.

Driving Licences.

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

293 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Transport his plans to amend the system of provisional driving licences. [25169/07]

Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority (RSA) has responsibility for the oversight of the operation of the driver licensing system including the preparation of proposals for draft regulatory provisions relating to driver licensing and testing.

At my request the Road Safety Authority has examined the driver licensing system, so as to identify what further reforms might be introduced in the interests of road safety and have developed proposals for a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) System and details of their proposals will be contained in their Road Safety Strategy which will be published shortly.

Road Traffic Offences.

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

294 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Transport if, as part of his new proposed legislation for mandatory alcohol levels testing at the scene of road traffic accidents, he will introduce mandatory drug testing at the scene of road traffic accidents. [25171/07]

My Department proposes to engage with the Office of the Attorney General to establish how the current legislation can be amended to achieve roadside testing of drivers involved in serious accidents subject to overriding medical circumstances.

With regard to the introduction of a comprehensive drug roadside testing programme for drivers, the Road Traffic Acts already provide that a member of the Garda Síochána may, where he or she is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample.

There is no feasible basis yet in Ireland or in Europe for the introduction of a preliminary roadside test for drugs as testing devices are still in the prototype stages. However, my Department with the Medical Bureau of Road Safety, is keeping abreast of developments in this area. When suitable technology becomes available, measures applied to the roadside testing of drivers for alcohol will be applied in relation to drugs.

Road Network.

Damien English

Ceist:

295 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport if his Department will provide outline plans for the proposed outer orbital road for the greater Dublin region. [25184/07]

I would refer the Deputy to Questions Nos. 8, 45 and 71 put to me on Thursday last in this connection. The position is unchanged.

As Minister for Transport I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme element of Transport 21. The implementation of individual national road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Act, 1993 in conjunction with the relevant local authorities concerned.

Both Transport 21 and the National Development Plan committed the NRA to carrying out a feasibility study on the Orbital Route. Earlier this year, the NRA completed an updated feasibility study which built on an earlier 2001 study, looking in particular at the costs and benefits of such a route. The updated NRA study finds that there is merit in constructing an Orbital Route linking Drogheda/Navan/Naas.

As part of the study various possible route corridors were examined in detail. A corridor linking Drogheda to Navan to Naas was identified as the optimum route having regard to the policy objectives set out in the various policy documents on the route.

Neither Transport 21 nor the National Development Plan provide any funding for the scheme to be brought through planning/ preliminary design or to construction in the period to 2015. The study is currently under detailed consideration within my Department.

Public Transport.

Damien English

Ceist:

296 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport the number of passenger journeys that have taken place on public transport originating from each of the towns Kells, Trim, Navan and Athboy to Dublin for each of the years 2002 to date in 2007 in tabular readable form. [25185/07]

Bus Éireann states that the exact numbers carried on these corridors is commercially sensitive. However, the company informs me that passenger numbers have increased by the following percentages:

Kells/Navan Corridor passenger numbers have grown by 2% to 3% per annum since 2002.

Athboy/Trim Corridor passenger numbers have grown by 3% to 4% per annum since 2002.

My Department has also licensed two private operators to provide bus services between Navan and Dublin. The operators in question are Sillan Tours Limited and McGeehan Coaches. The number of passengers carried is a commercial matter for the companies.

Damien English

Ceist:

297 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport if he will permit and fund the purchase of additional buses, not replacement buses, for Bus Éireann to provide additional routes from Meath to Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25186/07]

In September 2006 my predecessor announced expenditure of €50 million on 160 (69 additional and 91 replacement) buses for Bus Eireann as part of Transport 21. Another €23 million was approved earlier this year for the purchase of a further 75 replacement buses in 2008. The deployment of the buses are a matter for the company.

Port Development.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

298 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Transport if he will make a statement on a planning application (details supplied) in County Louth; and if it is aligned to the National Spatial Strategy. [25202/07]

In 2005/2006 my Department commissioned a unitised port capacity study. Seven ports around the country made submissions as part of that study, including one from Greenore Port. In its submission Greenore Port outlined a proposal to develop the port, including a new quay. Decisions regarding the progress of the proposal are a commercial matter for Greenore Port.

My Department has recently sought progress reports from the seven ports. Greenore has reported that a formal planning application for its proposal has not yet been made.

The National Spatial Strategy identifies strategic merit in relieving pressure on Dublin Port through targeted interventions in building up port capacity elsewhere.

The capacity study concluded that all the proposals made were generally consistent with the objectives of the National Spatial Strategy. All the proposals are located in or close to the five main gateways and six of the seven are outside Dublin city. In the case of Greenore, it is located close to the gateway town of Dundalk.

Rail Network.

Peter Power

Ceist:

299 Deputy Peter Power asked the Minister for Transport the position with regard to the proposed Shannon to Limerick rail link; when the steering group is expected to report to him; the last estimated cost his Department believed the creation of a link would cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25230/07]

Transport 21 does not provide for the construction of a rail link between Limerick and Shannon Airport. The feasibility study carried out on behalf of Iarnród Éireann with input from a steering group representative of local interests concluded that the economic case for the rail link is poor.

I understand from Iarnród Éireann that the feasibility study indicated there would be significant capital expenditure for the rail link, ranging from €245 million for a very minimal service to €633 million for a 25 minute journey to Limerick and a 65 minute journey to Galway, in addition to an ongoing increase in subvention. Iarnród Éireann has no plans to undertake any further work on the proposal at this stage.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions.

Joanna Tuffy

Ceist:

300 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Transport the progress being made by his Department to obtain statistics in respect of carbon emissions from aviation in respect of aircraft flying to and from Ireland; the information regarding aviation emissions currently available to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25273/07]

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is the lead Department on this issue. Figures for carbon emissions from aviation can be obtained from the following websites:The Environmental Protection Agency: http://www.epa.ieSustainable Energy Ireland: http://www.sei.ie

Airport Security.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

301 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport if the extension of the US customs and border protection facility is on target for Shannon Airport; if the facility will be operational for the Summer of 2008; if not, the date in 2008 the facility will be up and running; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25274/07]

For some time my Department has been in discussions with the U.S authorities on the introduction of full pre-clearance facilities for U.S. bound passengers at Dublin and Shannon Airports.

Currently my officials are in contact with a number of other Departments on certain aspects of these discussions. When introduced, the operation of these facilities would be subject to an Inter-Governmental treaty to be concluded between the two countries. At this stage, prior to receiving the formal U.S. proposals for this agreement, I am not in a position to be definitive about the date when the facilities can be introduced.

Rail Network.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

302 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the Government’s proposals for development of the Broadstone railway line; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25284/07]

Transport 21 provides for the development of a Luas line from St Stephen's Green to Liffey Junction, using the old Broadstone Railway alignment. This is consistent with the long-term transportation strategy for the Greater Dublin Area in the "Dublin Transportation Initiative" (1995) and in the Dublin Transportation Office's strategy "A Platform for Change" (2001), both of which envisaged the old Broadstone alignment being used for Luas or Metro services.

A formal proposal has recently been received by my Department from Iarnród Éireann in relation to an alternative use of the Broadstone alignment for suburban rail services.

My Department has engaged consultants Booz, Allen and Hamilton to review the transport case put forward by Iarnród Éireann for the use of the Broadstone alignment.

Road Safety.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

303 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Transport if he will ascertain from the Road Safety Authority, the budget commitment for road safety and bicycles in schools. [25313/07]

The total budget allocation for the Road Safety Authority (RSA) for 2007 was €31,124,000 to cover all matters including RSA safety awareness and educational campaigns. Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No 477 of 2006) it is a matter for the Road Safety Authority to determine how they allocate their expenditure on specific road safety measures.

Conflict Resolution.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

304 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the structure of the Centre for Conflict Resolution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25426/07]

As is set out in the Programme for Government, the Government are committed to making increased Irish engagement in international conflict resolution an important new dimension of Irish foreign policy, building on our experience of the Northern Ireland peace process, the Irish Aid programme, which already includes support for a range of conflict-related activities, and our strong tradition of peacekeeping.

I have therefore established a Conflict Resolution Unit in the Department of Foreign Affairs. Headed by a Counsellor, it is based in the Political Division of the Department, where it will draw from our experience of engagement with the United Nations and the European Union's Common Foreign and Security Policy. The Unit will work in close co-operation with the Department's Anglo-Irish Division, with Irish Aid, and with relevant Missions overseas.

For the past number of months, the Unit has been engaged in intensive analysis of international experience and best practice in this very complex area and in developing contacts with key players in the United Nations, other international organisations, and relevant experts both governmental and non-governmental. I am also anxious that the Unit work with and further develop Irish expertise both in academic institutions and in civil society. In this regard and in line with the Programme for Government, among the initiatives to which the Unit will give priority will be the establishment of an Irish academic centre for conflict resolution.

The Unit will also work to identify opportunities, particularly in the context of our development co-operation programme, for Ireland to play a concrete role in specific peace-making and peace-building activities. Of their nature, such opportunities are not easily predictable.

Both at home and in my contacts with international partners, including recently with the United Nations Secretary General and senior officials at the UN, there has been a warm welcome for Ireland's commitment to increased engagement in conflict resolution. Of necessity, building up our capacity will be a gradual process. I would like finally to say that I am very appreciative of the wide support for this initiative which has been expressed, including of course in this House.

Rapid Response Corps.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

305 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the personnel involved in the Emergency Response Unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25427/07]

The Rapid Response Corps is one element of the Rapid Response Initiative, which is itself a key component of the Government's White Paper on Irish Aid of September 2006. The overall aim is to save lives by a more effective response to humanitarian crises.

The Rapid Response Corps is a roster of highly-skilled individuals who can deploy, on a voluntary basis, at short notice to emergency situations.

The campaign to recruit members to this roster was launched in February 2007 and, following a rigorous selection and interview process, 64 people were successful. Of those, 52 are now ready to deploy if requested, having completed their pre-departure training and preparation.

Members of the Corps are individual volunteers with humanitarian, logistics, information technology, engineering, environmental, public information and public health skills, all of which are needed internationally to address humanitarian crises. They are on standby to deploy to Ireland's key humanitarian partner agencies at short notice and for periods of approximately three months to assist in their humanitarian response efforts.

The members of the Corps range in age from 26 to 65. More than half are public sector workers, with the remainder variously private sector employees, self employed, mature students or retired. Several have military experience, with one serving member of the Permanent Defence Forces. All are willing and enthusiastic volunteers with a great depth, breadth and range of experience.

Common Foreign and Security Policy.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

306 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the recent discussions he has had with respect to the situation in Kosovo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25428/07]

The issue of Kosovo's final status remains high on the EU's foreign policy agenda and is the subject of regular discussions at Foreign Minister level, most recently at the General Affairs and External Relations Council of 15 October last. It is my intention to visit Pristina and Belgrade next month to discuss the situation with key political figures there, and assess the situation further.

Together with our EU partners, Ireland has consistently expressed strong support for the work of the UN Secretary-General's Special Envoy, Martti Ahtisaari. In March, Special Envoy Ahtisaari brought forward a Comprehensive Proposal. He recommended that Kosovo's status should be independence, supervised by the international community. The proposal includes detailed provisions concerning the promotion and protection of the rights of communities and their members. It also sets out constitutional, economic and security measures, aimed at contributing to the development of a multi-ethnic, democratic and prosperous Kosovo. A key element of the proposed settlement would be a continuing international civilian and military presence in Kosovo.

Ireland welcomed this proposal, as providing the most practical basis for a settlement of the Kosovo issue by a new Resolution of the UN Security Council, to replace Security Council Resolution 1244 under which Kosovo has been governed since 1999. Regrettably however, intensive efforts within the UN Security Council to agree on a new Resolution ended in failure. In late July, the Contact Group (US, Russia, UK, France, Germany, Italy and the EU Council) established a Troika to facilitate a further four months of direct talks between Belgrade and Pristina. No agreement has yet been found, and the Troika is due to report to the UN Secretary General on the outcome of these talks on 10 December.

Ireland strongly supports the Troika-led process and we hope that these talks may yet produce an agreed way forward. In the event of failure, however, we recognise that difficult choices will need to be made which deal with the reality of the situation on the ground and safeguard the future stability and security of Kosovo and the Balkan region as a whole. Since August, we have increased our commitment to KFOR to 270 troops, following our assumption of command of Task Force Centre, which covers the capital Pristina and the surrounding area. While we will face a more complex and uncertain political and legal environment in the event that there is no agreement on final status, we very much hope to be in a position to maintain our presence in KFOR, to consider contributing members of the Garda to an ESDP Mission and also to support the future economic development of Kosovo.

Diplomatic Relations.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

307 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the dealings Ireland has with Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25429/07]

Ireland has diplomatic relations with Zimbabwe on a non-resident basis. The Irish Ambassador in Pretoria is accredited to Zimbabwe, and the Zimbabwean Ambassador in London is accredited to Ireland. Our bilateral ties reflect the friendship which Ireland holds for the Zimbabwean people, and our shared historical experience. These ties also give us an opportunity to discuss issues of concern as they arise. The situation in Zimbabwe is a matter of significant concern here in Ireland and to me personally, and Ireland is among those EU Member States which have most strongly condemned human rights abuses and urged political and economic reform in Zimbabwe.

The Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs raised Ireland's concerns about the failed political and economic policies of President Mugabe's Government with Zimbabwean officials in Harare in June 2007, and also had talks on with senior members of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC). The Irish Ambassador accredited to Zimbabwe has regularly expressed to Zimbabwean interlocutors the Irish Government's deep concern about the situation there. He most recently met Zimbabwean officials during a visit to Harare in September 2007. The Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria monitors allegations of human rights abuses in Zimbabwe and raises issues of concern in relation to human rights and governance with the Zimbabwean Government at all levels and at every available opportunity.

There have been no political-level visits exchanged between the two countries in recent years. In accordance with the EU Common Position on Zimbabwe, Member States are obliged to prevent the entry into their territories of named persons, including senior Zimbabwean politicians and President Mugabe himself.

The Irish Government, through Irish Aid, provides assistance for humanitarian purposes and for the treatment and prevention of HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe. These programmes have a direct and positive effect on the lives of thousands of poor Zimbabwean people. Irish Aid works in partnership with missionaries, NGOs — including Concern, Goal and Trócaire, and local civil society organisations –and international organisations. Ireland does not provide funding to the Zimbabwean Government. Total Irish Aid funding to the people of Zimbabwe since the start of 2006 amounts to €18.4 million, covering areas such food relief, school feeding programmes, support to those displaced by government urban clearance programmes, healthcare provision, home-based care for those living with HIV/AIDS, human rights and gender equality.

The Embassy of Ireland in Pretoria estimates that there are now approximately three thousand Irish citizens resident in Zimbabwe. Staff from the Embassy meet with members of the Irish community, Irish religious, and Irish NGOs during their regular visits to the country. In 2006, Emigrant Services funding of €20,000 was given to two Irish community organisations in Zimbabwe, to cover the costs of organising Irish community events and the alleviation of some of the most acute welfare problems affecting sick and elderly Irish citizens. I have nominated Mr. Gary Killilea to act as Ireland's Honorary Consul in Zimbabwe. His appointment will facilitate better access to consular advice and documentation for all Irish citizens resident there.

Trade between Ireland and Zimbabwe is at an extremely low level, amounting to only €2.2 million in 2006. An important element in this total was Irish exports of medical and pharmaceutical products. I am not aware of any Irish companies active in the Zimbabwean market, and I would not expect this situation to change in the foreseeable future.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

308 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24742/07]

The Department's Annual Output Statement 2007 was placed in the public domain by being formally presented to the Select Committee on Foreign Affairs on 27 March 2007. The Committee warmly welcomed the presentation of this first Output Statement and stated that it was a "detailed and comprehensive statement that will be a useful reference for members".

In the light of the interest reflected in the Deputy's question, the Output Statement was placed on the Department's website ( www.dfa.ie ) on 18 October 2007. It can now be viewed on the "Publications" page, along with the Department's Annual Report for 2006.

Question No. 309 answered with QuestionNo. 116.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

310 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24898/07]

The policy of my Department, on the issue of frequent flyer points, is in line with the guidelines set out in the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour (Circular 26 of 2004) which provide that:

". . . benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life" (Paragraph 16.2 of Circular 20/2004).

Departmental Statistics.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

311 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish citizens permanently residing here who have died in each EU country in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24907/07]

All Irish citizens, whether resident in Ireland or abroad, are entitled to seek consular assistance from my Department. As a result, statistics on deaths abroad of Irish citizens are not broken down on a residency in Ireland or overseas basis. Moreover, the assistance of the Department is on many occasions not sought by the next of kin when a death occurs abroad, particularly in the case of Great Britain.

I am setting out as follows the aggregate breakdown by EU country (other than Great Britain) of the number of deaths abroad during the period 2002 to the present where the Department's assistance was requested. This shows that assistance was sought in some 571 such cases.

Country

Number

Austria

8

Belgium

8

Bulgaria

6

Cyprus

22

Czech Republic

3

Denmark

12

Estonia

0

Finland

4

France

34

Germany

26

Greece

23

Hungary

1

Italy

39

Latvia

1

Lithuania

0

Luxembourg

0

Malta

3

Netherlands

17

Poland

9

Portugal

23

Romania

1

Slovakia

2

Slovenia

0

Spain

322

Sweden

7

Total

571

Diplomatic Relations.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

312 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the view of Ireland regarding the present legal status of Taiwan under international law; and his views on its current application for UN membership and associated bodies. [24918/07]

In common with most Member States of the UN, and all EU partners, Ireland adheres to a ‘one-China policy', recognising the government of the People's Republic of China as the sole legitimate government of China. The joint communiqué issued in 1979 on the establishment of diplomatic relations between Ireland and the People's Republic of China reaffirmed the ‘one-China policy'. Ireland does not maintain diplomatic relations with Taiwan.

Ireland opposes efforts by the authorities in Taiwan to apply for UN membership under the name of Taiwan as incompatible with the ‘one-China policy'. In its Resolution 2758 of 25 October 1971, the United Nations General Assembly recognised the Government of the People's Republic of China as the sole representative of China.

However, with our EU partners, Ireland continues to be active in seeking to ensure Taiwan's meaningful participation in international technical bodies, for example the World Health Organisation (WHO), to ensure there is no geographical gap in the important work that they carry out.

Departmental Funding.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

313 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will make a fund available for dealing with the costs of the families of Irish Citizens who have died in unexpected or tragic circumstances while temporarily visiting or residing in EU Member States; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24919/07]

Over the past decade, the number of Irish citizens travelling abroad has increased dramatically. Irish citizens are now to be found in a wider range of locations than ever before and the number of visits abroad by Irish residents in 2006 was almost 7 million. Since becoming Minister for Foreign Affairs, I have attached a high priority to the consular service we provide to our citizens who encounter difficulties while abroad and have introduced a number of practical measures to improve this service.

In situations where a death of an Irish citizen occurs abroad, my Department offers all possible assistance and support including, where necessary, with autopsies, death certificates, liaising with undertakers and airlines.

My Department, of course, strongly advises intending travellers abroad to take out adequate travel insurance prior to travel. Failure to take out insurance can lead to considerable financial and logistical difficulties for the traveller and his/her family should problems arise. In the great majority of cases, the cost of repatriation of remains is covered by the families in question. When necessary, the Department is authorised to provide financial assistance locally, on a cost recoverable basis. In addition, in some very exceptional circumstances, including natural disasters, the repatriation of remains can be undertaken at State expense.

I am very pleased to report that in the overwhelming number of cases, citizens indicate that they are extremely appreciative of the quality of the support and advice they receive from the Department and our missions overseas in these, often tragic, circumstances.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

314 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25144/07]

A total amount of €226,977.33 was spent by the Department on paper and stationery from 1 January 2007 to date: this includes €153,477.33 on paper and paper-based stationery items, of which an amount of €84,309 was spent on recycled paper.

Question No. 315 answered with QuestionNo. 91.

Cross-Border Projects.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

316 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if, in view of the Government’s announcement that work will commence in the near future to reopen the two cross-Border bridges along the Monaghan border outside Glaslough, discussion has taken place with the people who live along the road to the old Annaroe Bridge regarding the need to re-open this bridge in view of the fact that the railway bridge at the other end of this road has limited access; if the capital cost of same will be used for more beneficial cross border projects; the cost relating to the restructuring of Annaroe Bridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25360/07]

The Government is committed to ensuring that all border crossings closed by the British authorities on grounds of security in the 1970s are reopened as part of the wider process of security normalisation in Northern Ireland, and in order to facilitate regional economic development.

Of the 104 closed cross-border roads in 1994, only the crossings at Annaghroe and Knockaginney have yet to be reopened. Agreement was reached earlier this year with the Northern Ireland authorities to re-open the two roads, including the construction of the two bridges.

The Minister for Transport has given a commitment to fund the replacement of the two bridges and the approach roads in County Monaghan. The combined estimated cost of replacing both bridges is £2 million sterling and that of the approach roads in County Monaghan €340,000. The Northern Ireland Roads Service has also agreed to improve the approach roads in Northern Ireland, which are estimated to cost in the region of £200,000 Sterling.

Following a public tendering process, Monaghan County Council is now proceeding to appoint consultants to develop the design and co-ordinate the consultation process.

It is envisaged that there will be an extensive public consultation process on possible designs, including meetings in suitable locations both in Monaghan and Northern Ireland. Subject to the outcome of the consultation process, work should commence in mid 2008.

Foreign Conflicts.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

317 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he and his colleagues at EU or UN level have addressed the issue of war, genocide and starvation in the various African countries which have been the subject of concern; the degree to which agreement can or has been reached and action taken or expected to be taken on foot of such discussions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25469/07]

The main focus of Ireland's programme of development assistance is on Africa, particularly sub-Saharan Africa. Our objective is to help the poorest and most vulnerable people in developing countries, through assisting in bringing about positive and lasting changes in their lives.

There is undoubtedly a clear inter-relationship between poverty, food security and conflict. The reduction of poverty, hunger and conflict in Africa is one of the most important tasks of the international community in the 21st century. Conflict has many causes and many manifestations. However, it is nurtured, fed and strengthened by poverty, inequality and exclusion.

It is the case that most wars occur in poor countries and the causes and effects of conflict are exacerbated by poverty. Food security is undermined by the effects of conflict and instability. Furthermore, conflict and war impact on the most vulnerable in an affected society, particularly women and children.

Ireland responds to the problems of conflict and food security through several channels. We do so by delivering development support directly through our Embassies in a number of African countries, and indirectly using experienced and effective non-governmental organisations (NGOs), UN agencies and other international organisations such as the Red Cross. Our aim is to address the root causes of instability and hunger.

The launch of the Government's Hunger Task Force and the establishment in the Department of a Conflict Resolution Unit, are clear and practical manifestations of our resolve to do more in these areas, which directly affect the lives of millions throughout the developing world.

Through our membership of the European Union and the United Nations, Ireland is a strong advocate for the developing world and for international peace and security. African leadership is also crucial in this field, and the African Union is a partner of growing importance for us.

I warmly welcome the very recent adoption by the UN Security Council of Resolution 1778, which authorises the deployment of a multi-dimensional international presence in eastern Chad and north-eastern Central African Republic (CAR). This Resolution is a significant achievement of the international community and an example of good cooperation between the UN and the EU. Most importantly, it will be to the benefit of the 230,000 refugees from Darfur living in camps in Eastern Chad and the 180,000 people from Chad who are displaced by violence in the region. The forces are comprised of a UN mission, a Chadian police force trained by the UN, and a European Union military operation, part of which it is intended will be a contingent from the Irish Defence Forces, subject to the necessary Government and Dáil approval.

I believe that Ireland's comprehensive and inclusive approach to the challenges of poverty, conflict and food insecurity stands the best chance of facilitating real and positive change in the lives of millions of people living in Africa.

Question No. 318 answered with QuestionNo. 91.
Questions Nos. 319 and 320 answered with Question No. 87.
Question No. 321 answered with QuestionNo. 93.
Question No. 322 answered with QuestionNo. 90.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

323 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide an appraisal of the ongoing situation in Sudan; the extent to which the international community can assist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25475/07]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

330 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will report on the ongoing situation in Darfur; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25482/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 323 and 330 together.

The Government continues to be gravely concerned about the crisis in Darfur and its broader ramifications for Sudan as a whole and the region. We are pursuing all avenues to support international efforts to address the grave humanitarian, political and security challenges confronting Sudan.

Recent weeks have seen an upsurge in violence in Darfur in advance of the start of UN and African Union-mediated peace talks between the Government of Sudan and rebel factions in Sirte, Libya on 27 October. Ten members of the AU Mission in Sudan (AMIS) were killed, reportedly by rebel factions, in Haskanita, Southern Sudan at the end of September following which the town was subsequently burnt down by Government forces. Government forces, alongside militia groups, have also been implicated in a major attack on the town of Muhajiriya on 8 October. These incidents have resulted in many dozens of civilian deaths and significant displacement. The overall operating environment for UN agencies and NGOs is becoming steadily more difficult and has resulted, in some cases, in the withdrawal of humanitarian personnel.

The deteriorating humanitarian and security situation and the related urgent need for full, rapid and successful deployment of the joint UN-AU Mission, UNAMID, to succeed AMIS, were points which I emphasised when I met with the then Sudanese Foreign Minister, Lam Akol, in New York on 2 October. I particularly urged on the Foreign Minister the need for Sudan to cooperate fully with the UN and AU on deployment of UNAMID and to cease all offensive operations in Darfur. I also informed Foreign Minister Akol and UNSG Ban, with whom I separately discussed the situation in Sudan/Darfur, of the Government's decision in principle to contribute personnel to the planned ESDP mission in Chad and the Central African Republic which will assist the many thousands of people in these countries displaced by the Darfur crisis.

Ireland continues to make a strong contribution to international efforts to alleviate the human tragedy of Darfur. Since the start of 2006, Irish Aid has provided a total of approximately €32.5 million to support humanitarian operations and longer term development engagement in Sudan. The importance of ensuring humanitarian access and the necessity to consider possible further measures against those impeding such access, as well as the need for improved security, or political progress in Darfur were points which I also made when addressing the General Affairs and External Relations Council on 15 October and which were reflected at Ireland's request in the agreed Conclusions.

Ultimately, the resolution of the Darfur crisis requires a political settlement. I would urge all parties to the conflict to engage constructively in the forthcoming peace talks in Sirte and to be aware that the international community will not hesitate to take further measures against those who turn their face against, and refuse to participate in, this vital opportunity for peace. The UN and AU Envoys are to be commended for their efforts in organising the Sirte talks. I indicated when I met UNSG Ban and addressed the General Assembly on 2 October that Ireland intends to contribute to the Trust Fund which the SG has established in support of the current peace process.

The prospects for political progress in Darfur are not being assisted by the difficulties now besetting implementation of the 2005 Comprehensive Peace Agreement between the north and south in Sudan and which has led to the withdrawal from participation in the national unity government by the southern SPLM party. The CPA represents a template for promoting peace and development throughout Sudan and its full implementation remains crucial. Discussions are continuing between the SPLM and the NCP, the two coalition parties, to resolve the current impasse.

It remains my intention, subject to security considerations, to travel to Sudan and Darfur next month in order to review the situation on the ground and reiterate the priority Ireland attaches to advancing peace and development in this tragic region.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

324 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding the ongoing situation in Afghanistan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25476/07]

The reform process in Afghanistan is continuing. The goal of the international community, in cooperation with the Afghan government, remains to extend legitimate government, the rule of law and the benefits of government to all parts of Afghanistan though addressing issues such as infrastructure, counter narcotics programmes and training for the army and police forces. It is important that the international community maintains its commitment to the people of Afghanistan and supports the Afghan authorities' own development efforts. Though very much a long-term project, the economy appears to be improving somewhat.

The security situation remains a cause of serious concern. There is slow progress in reducing the Taliban-led insurgency and insurgents continue to impose high levels of casualties, particularly on the Afghan security forces. The International Security Assistance Force (ISAF) remains dependent on the ability of Afghan security forces — both the army and police — to maintain effective control of areas cleared by operations. It is therefore essential that the Afghan security forces are further developed to ensure the country's security. Counter-narcotics remains key to security in Afghanistan and it is one of the areas on which the international community is focused. Levels of drug production in some parts of Afghanistan remain very high.

Cross-border insurgency remains a problem. I hope that initiatives like the Pakistan-Afghanistan Peace Jirga, which took place in Kabul on 9-12 August 2007, are carried forward. Afghanistan and Pakistan have to work together if they are to address the security situation inside both their countries.

Security and stability cannot be achieved by military means alone. Long-term success depends on a comprehensive approach addressing governance and the delivery of humanitarian and reconstruction assistance. Ireland is playing its part in this through supporting strong EU engagement with Afghanistan, as well as bilaterally.

The European Union's ESDP mission on policing for Afghanistan was approved by the Council last February and was launched on 17 June 2007. It is designed to improve coordination in the international community's efforts to assist police reform and capacity building. Bilaterally, Ireland has contributed more than €31 million in humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan since 2000, covering areas such as reconstruction, drugs programmes, mine clearance, drought and flood relief, and criminal law and criminal justice support. Seven members of the Irish Defence Forces currently serve in non-combat roles with ISAF, based in Kabul.

EU Enlargement.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

325 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which discussions are taking place in the matter of EU enlargement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25477/07]

Negotiations on EU accession opened with Croatia and Turkey in October 2005. This launched a complex and lengthy negotiation process, the outcome of which cannot be guaranteed beforehand. An extensive analytical examination has been underway which involves close scrutiny of the compatibility of Turkish and Croatian legislation with that of the EU.

In all, there are thirty five negotiating chapters which deal with a range of policy areas. After each chapter has been examined, the EU decides, on the basis of a proposal from the Commission, whether or not the negotiations in that sector should proceed.

At an Intergovernmental Accession Conference in Brussels on 12 October, two further chapters were opened with Croatia. This means that a total of fourteen chapters have been opened with Croatia.

The negotiations with Turkey have made somewhat less progress than those with Croatia. To date, four chapters have been opened with Turkey. Benchmarks have been agreed for thirteen other chapters. These benchmarks must be achieved before negotiations can begin in these particular areas.

The negotiations are complicated by the fact that Turkey has not fulfilled its obligations under the Ankara Protocol which requires it to open its ports and airports to vessels and aircraft from the Republic of Cyprus. On account of Turkey's failure to implement the Protocol, in December 2006 the Council of Ministers agreed that eight specific negotiating chapters cannot be opened, nor will any chapters be provisionally concluded until the Commission verifies that Turkey has fulfilled its commitments under the Ankara Protocol.

In addition to the above, the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia became a candidate country in December 2005, but its accession negotiations have not yet commenced.

The European Commission is due to publish its annual report on Enlargement in November. This will include an assessment of the progress made by all Candidate and potential Candidate countries in meeting the requirements of EU membership. The Commission's report will inform the ongoing discussions on enlargement in the relevant EU fora.

Overseas Development Aid.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

326 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has fully satisfied himself that development aid and funding in respect of all African States is actually being received by those for whom it was intended; if there are particular exceptions to such principles; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25478/07]

The fundamental objective of Ireland's overseas aid programme is to help the poorest and most vulnerable people in developing countries, in particular in Africa, through assisting in bringing about positive and lasting changes in their lives.

To achieve this change, Irish Aid devises programmes — in close consultation with national governments and other key stakeholders — which support national poverty reduction plans and which target the poorest and most vulnerable people in developing countries. These programmes include mechanisms which allow Irish Aid to monitor their implementation for efficiency and effectiveness in meeting the needs of those for whom they are intended.

It is a fact that in some of the countries where Irish Aid works, there are concerns surrounding governance issues including corruption. These concerns are symptomatic of the level of under-development which exists. However, Irish Aid includes strategies in its programmes to promote, enhance and support good governance, as it is recognised that without it sustainable development cannot be achieved.

In addition, Irish Aid has in place rigorous accounting and audit controls, which are essential to ensuring a transparent, effective and high-quality programme. Its programmes are regularly audited and evaluated by independent audit firms, by Irish Aid's Evaluation and Audit Unit and by the independent Audit Committee of the Department. Programmes are evaluated to ensure that funds are used for the purposes intended and in respect of outcomes and value for money.

I am satisfied that the methods used by Irish Aid in devising its strategies, combined with its audit and evaluation systems, serve to protect the funding provided, in accordance with international best practice and highest standards in this area.

Human Rights Issues.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

327 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which he directly or through the aegis of the UN or EU he has examined the situation in the various African countries from whence refugees have fled in the past five years; the extent to which the situation has been normalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25479/07]

Refugee movements have many causes, including human rights abuses, conflicts and poverty. It is commonly accepted that the targeted eradication of poverty is an effective means of reducing migratory pressures from less developed countries to the developed world, thereby ensuring that migration can be effectively managed to the benefit of both sending and receiving countries.

My Department monitors the situation in Irish Aid partner countries with a particular emphasis on the impact of migration on sustainable development. Ireland participates in the global debate on population movements, including refugee movements, through a number of fora. At the EU level, the ongoing EU-Africa Dialogue on Migration and Development provides an opportunity for European and African governments to work towards greater cooperation in managing migratory flows to the benefit of all. Ireland has also played an active role in the High Level Dialogue on Migration and Development, held in New York in late 2006, the Global Forum on Migration and Development, the first meeting of which was held in Brussels in July of this year, and the Inter-Governmental Consultations on Asylum, Refugee and Migration Policies. The issue of the situation of refugees and asylum seekers in wider migration flows is increasingly a focus of attention in the migration debate internationally. My Department liaises closely with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform in these and similar fora.

Issues relating more specifically to refugees are dealt with in the context of Ireland's ongoing relationship with the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), to which Ireland is a major contributor of funding. Over US$24 million have been provided to date in 2007, making Ireland the 11th largest donor to UNHCR. Both core funding and funding for specific operations are provided. UNHCR operations in the following African countries have received funding in 2007: Burundi, the Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, Côte d'Ivoire, the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Sudan. Funding has also been provided in 2007 for regional operations in the Great Lakes Region (GLR) and West Africa. Regular contact with UNHCR in Geneva is maintained through the Permanent Mission to the United Nations, as well as through direct dialogue at the headquarters level. Regular contact is also maintained with the UNHCR representative in Ireland. Ireland is a member of the Standing Committee and Executive Committee of UNHCR.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

328 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the most commonly known African countries wherein human rights and other abuses occur on a regular basis; the extent to which he and the international community can positively influence these issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25480/07]

As has been made clear in reply to previous questions, it is not the policy of the Government to draw up any kind of "league table" of countries in relation to human rights abuses. Ireland closely monitors developments in the human rights situation throughout the world and where the situation warrants, we make known our concerns to the Governments in question, either bilaterally, through the EU, or through action at the UN General Assembly or the UN Human Rights Council.

The risk of human rights violations is of course greater where political, economic and administrative systems are weak. Development is essential to allow people the full enjoyment of their human rights, and Africa lies at the heart of Ireland's development co-operation programme. Irish Aid supports specific actions designed to promote human rights, including by strengthening government systems and in-country human rights institutions, in particular through legal training. Irish Aid has a specific focus on governance in several programme countries.

The link between security and human rights protection is a key concern in many parts of Africa. Where state authorities do not have the will or capacity to enforce the rule of law, people are extremely vulnerable to serious human rights violations, with little prospect of redress. Some of our most serious human rights concerns relate to countries which are currently suffering from conflict, or which have recently emerged from conflict, such as Sudan, Somalia and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Sustained efforts are required to restore the kind of stability within which human rights can be protected. Ireland supports the work of the UN Peacebuilding Commission in this regard, as well as the considerable efforts of the European Union. On a national basis, Ireland also promotes security and stability in Africa through our active development aid programmes and through our participation in peacekeeping, most recently as part of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) from 2003-2007. Ireland's contribution to the planned ESDP mission to eastern Chad and the Central African Republic will help improve security for the many refugees and displaced people in that region.

The EU, in its political dialogue with African countries under Article 8 of the Cotonou Agreement, regularly raises issues which arise in the development of democracy and the need for protection and promotion of human rights. The EU also pursues human rights issues when appropriate through the UN General Assembly and UN Human Rights Council. Ireland is fully associated with EU statements on human rights in these bodies. We actively supported the UN Human Rights Council's consensus resolution on Darfur, which was adopted in March 2007. Ireland and the EU have also made statements of concern about Zimbabwe at the Human Rights Council this year.

Together with our EU partners, Ireland has been a consistent and strong supporter of the International Criminal Court, recognising it as an essential means to combating impunity for the most serious violations of international humanitarian law and human rights law. The Court's Prosecutor has opened investigations in relation to four situations, in the Democratic Republic of Congo, northern Uganda, the Central African Republic and the Darfur region of Sudan, and we will continue to monitor this work closely.

In addition to the United Nations and European Union, the African Union also has an important and growing role to play in the protection of human rights in Africa. The aims of the African Union include the promotion of peace, security, and democracy on the continent, as well as the promotion and protection of human rights, in accordance with the African Charter on Human and People's Rights. The emergence of African standards in this area is a very welcome development. The African Union is an important strategic partner for Ireland and the European Union and for the international community generally.

We will continue to proactively address human rights challenges in the course of our work in support of peace, security and development for all of the people of Africa.

Question No. 329 answered with QuestionNo. 98.
Question No. 330 answered with QuestionNo. 323.

Debt Relief.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

331 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent to which promised debt relief has been delivered to the developing countries; the areas not yet delivered on; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25483/07]

The IMF and World Bank have made increasing efforts to tackle the problem of debt in developing countries since the launch of the Heavily Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) Initiative in 1996. The HIPC Initiative, which was strengthened and enhanced in 1999, sought to reduce the debt burden of qualifying countries to sustainable levels but did not entail cancellation. Ire land contributed some €30m towards the costs of implementation of the Initiative.

The Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative (MDRI), agreed by the G8 Countries at Gleneagles in July 2005 and which came into effect on 1 July last year, goes further. It is a commitment to the cancellation of the multilateral debt owed to the World Bank, the African Development Bank and the International Monetary Fund of many of the poorest and most indebted countries in the World. Most of these countries are in Africa. For the first time, the most powerful countries acknowledged that many poor countries need 100% debt relief if they are to address the development needs of their people seriously. This is an important basis from which we can continue to work for a complete and sustainable solution to the debt problem facing poor countries.

The Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative is separate from the earlier HIPC Initiative, but linked to it operationally. Under this new Initiative, cancellation of eligible debts is granted to countries which have completed the HIPC Initiative process, i.e. have already been judged as qualified to receive debt relief.

From the information available to me, we can see that progress is slow but positive. As of September 2007, 41 countries have been found to be eligible or potentially eligible for HIPC Initiative assistance. Twenty-two countries have already reached their completion points and have received or are receiving irrevocable debt relief from the IMF and other creditors. Ten countries have reached their decision points and are receiving interim HIPC Initiative debt relief. Nine countries, which have been identified as potentially eligible for HIPC Initiative assistance, have not yet reached their decision points. The 22 countries that have reached their HIPC completions points have also received MDRI debt relief from the IMF and World Bank, as well as two non-HIPC countries.

The IMF share of the Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative's costs will The IMF share of the Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative's costs will largely be met by own resources, as authorised by IMF Members including Ireland. Ireland's additional share of the costs of the Multilateral Debt Relief Initiative amounts to €58.6m out of the approximately US$37 billion total cost of debt relief to be provided by the World Bank. As a gesture of support and to underline our strong commitment to 100% debt relief for the poorest countries, this amount has already been paid over in full.

Common Foreign and Security Policy.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

332 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the extent of the current dialogue between Bosnia and the EU; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25484/07]

Dialogue between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the European Union is based on the shared agenda agreed at the EU-Western Balkans Summit in Thessaloniki in June 2003. In this context, the EU is committed to support Bosnia in its efforts to overcome the legacy of violence and division from the 1990s, and to assist it in working towards the goal of eventual integration into EU structures, initially through discussions on a Stabilisation and Association Agreement.

The June 2004 European Council adopted a comprehensive policy towards Bosnia and Herzegovina, within the framework of the European Security Strategy agreed by the European Council in December 2003. The comprehensive policy sets out practical arrangements to enhance the coherence and effectiveness of the EU's engagement in support of Bosnia and Herzegovina's European perspective. Particular attention is paid to the role of the High Representative/EU Special Representative in ensuring coherence between the Commission-led Stabilisation and Association process, the EU Police Mission, the EU Monitoring Mission and the EU military mission EUFOR. Ireland currently contributes 4 members of the Garda Síochána to the Police Mission, 2 members of the Garda to the Monitoring Mission and 40 members of the Defence Forces to EUFOR.

Negotiations on a Stabilisation and Association Agreement between Bosnia and Herzegovina and the EU began in November 2005. While considerable progress has been made, a prerequisite for conclusion of the SAA is an agreement between political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina on police reform. Negotiations between the political parties on police reform have been underway since 2004. The EU requires that the police reform must meet three principles: that all responsibility for police budgets must belong to the State; that there should be no political interference in operational policing; and that there should be functional policing regions. In late August 2007, the new High Representative/EU Special Representative, Miroslav Lajcák, presented the political parties with a paper setting out the basis for an agreement on police reform which would satisfy the Union. This proposal has not so far proved acceptable to the political leaders in Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Mr Lajcák is expected to provide a report to a meeting of the post–Dayton Peace Implementation Council (PIC) at the end of October.

Ireland encourages the political parties in Bosnia and Herzegovina to redouble their efforts to put aside the divisions of the past and find an agreement on the much needed police reform. This reform is required not only for completion of the Stabilisation and Association process but as a fundamental building block of the state itself. Further constitutional reforms will also be needed to ensure a functioning and sustainable state in Bosnia and Herzegovina and we hope that the political parties will be prepared to work with the High Representative to address these issues once the question of police reform has been settled.

Ireland remains committed to a European perspective for Bosnia and Herzegovina. We will continue to support its economic and political development, including through our participation in EUPM and EUFOR and our support for measures which facilitate trade. It is my intention to visit Bosnia and Herzegovina next month, which will allow me to make a personal assessment of the situation there.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

333 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24739/07]

My Department's Annual Output Statement for 2007 has not yet been published on my Department's website. However, I have no objection to publishing the Statement on the website and I have asked my officials to do so immediately.

Future Annual Output Statements will be published on my Department's website following their presentation to the Select Committee on Enterprise and Small Business as part of the annual Estimates process.

Visa Applications.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

334 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if there is mechanism whereby a Moldovan national who came here on a visa and work permit which both expired two years ago can be permitted to seek further employment here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24749/07]

The Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform has responsibility for immigration matters and immigration stamps. This person would need to have his/her situation regularised with that Department in the first instance. Once this is completed, my Department will consider an application for an employment permit.

Labour Force Skills.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

335 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason he refused funding to the OECD for participation in a study of the labour force skills base here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24783/07]

The Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) is a project of the OECD together with a number of member countries for the development of a new generation of household-based surveys of adult skills in selected domains of measurable ability.

Ireland declined to be involved in the OECD's PIAAC due to a number of concerns. These included the high cost of participation, reservations concerning the proposed methodology, the unclear gains in terms of additional knowledge that participation in the programme would provide, the lack of participation by virtually all EU Member States, resulting in limitations in terms of comparability at EU level and concerns regarding value for money of participating in the PIAAC. This decision reflected advice from within my own Department, Forfás and FÁS.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

336 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the research that has been carried out in relation to the skills base of the labour force here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24784/07]

The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs was established in 1997 to advise the Government on aspects of education and training related to the future skills requirements of the enterprise sector of the Irish economy. The Group is comprised of representatives of business, employees, education, Government departments and State agencies. Its mandate provides that it will act as the central national resource on skills and labour supply for the enterprise sector. Since its establishment the Expert Group has been analysing Ireland's skills base and producing reports on a variety of key issues.

In 2005 I asked the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs to identify the skills required for Ireland to reinforce our progress towards becoming a competitive, innovative, knowledge based, inclusive economy by 2020. The Group undertook a detailed programme of research and a wide consultation process. The results led to the publication of the Report "Towards a National Skills Strategy".

The work completed by the Expert Group contains a comprehensive description of Ireland's overall skills base for 2005 and a vision of Ireland for 2020. It also identified the measures necessary to make this vision a reality. The Expert Group continues to examine and report on key issues concerning the skills base of Ireland.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

337 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has a skills register for County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24805/07]

There is no skills register for County Kildare maintained under the auspices of my Department or its agencies.

Through its Quarterly National Household Survey the CSO collects statistics and information concerning skills and education qualifications at a regional level. However, this information does not give an insight to the skills of the individuals working or living at county level.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

338 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24895/07]

I am advised that frequent flyer schemes operated by the principal airlines flying into and out of Ireland operate on the basis of offering points to the named individual who is travelling and that points are not transferable. Accordingly, my Department allows frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers and civil servants to be retained by the individuals concerned.

The approach adopted by my Department is consistent with the Government Guidelines for Office Holders issued pursuant to section 15(4) of the Ethics in Public Office Act, 1995, and the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour of 2004.

Industrial Development.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

339 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 538 of 26 September 2007, if he will instruct the IDA to release information requested in view of the fact that it is not sensitive information; and if the query raised will be answered in full. [24926/07]

The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio is a day-to-day operational matter for the Agency and not one in which I have a function. As I have previously stated in my reply on 26th September, for commercial reasons, and in order to protect IDA's negotiating position in relation to any similar properties it is not appropriate for information on the commercial terms agreed by the Agency with the owner regarding the termination the lease to be divulged. In the circumstances, I am sure you will agree that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in this matter.

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

340 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of IDA supported jobs created in 2005, 2006 and to date in 2007 on a county basis; and if the IDA is still adhering to its target of 50% of backed jobs to be in the Border Midlands Western region. [24936/07]

The Forfás Annual Employment Survey records jobs gained and lost in companies supported by the Industrial Development Agencies. Data is compiled on an annualized basis and is aggregated at county level. Data in relation to 2007 will not be available until mid 2008. The information requested by the Deputy in respect of the years 2005 and 2006 is set out in the attached tabular statement.

For the duration of the National Development Plan 2000-2006 IDA Ireland committed itself to trying to achieve a target of 50% of all new Greenfield jobs to be located in the Objective 1 (BMW) Area. Despite difficult global trading conditions, substantial progress has been achieved against this target. In the period 2000-2006, 36% of all new Greenfield jobs were located in the BMW (Objective 1) Area, whereas in 1999 about 25% of all new Greenfield jobs were locating in the BMW Area. Under the current NDP the IDA Ireland approach will be to pursue a Gateway approach to regional economic development consistent with, and supportive of, the National Spatial Strategy. The challenge of achieving a good regional spread of investments increases as the higher value parts of the business value chains are targeted for Ireland. The need for a critical mass of suitably qualified talent, supporting infrastructure and sophisticated business services tend to draw investors towards cities and regions of scale.

For most investments for which IDA competes, the competition is from city regions with a population base of over a million people. In Ireland, only Dublin has a population of this size. For this reason, every location in Ireland has to think and act regionally, rather than locally, if it wishes to succeed. The National Spatial Strategy sets out the framework for development in this way and needs to be embraced actively and followed by all economic and social parties. Ultimately, decisions regarding where to locate a project are taken by investors based on a variety of criteria and on the capability of any particular location to support their business needs.

Table setting out the number of new jobs created in IDA supported companies in each of the years 2005- 2006

County

2005

2006

Carlow

44

20

Cavan

0

2

Clare

129

27

Cork

1,216

2,235

Donegal

252

106

Dublin

5,879

5,403

Galway

1,336

554

Kerry North

89

36

Kerry South

15

37

Kildare

629

465

Kilkenny

95

15

Laois

12

18

Leitrim

11

9

Limerick

374

789

Longford

213

180

Louth

110

228

Mayo

88

37

Meath

158

46

Monaghan

4

30

Offaly

56

81

Roscommon

31

10

Sligo

109

193

Tipperary North

38

8

Tipperary South

56

233

Waterford

351

702

Westmeath

332

151

Wexford

71

102

Wicklow

334

129

Community Employment Schemes.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

341 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the discussions he has had with FÁS in regard to raising the age limit for retirement from the community employment scheme from the present sixty six years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24957/07]

Community Employment (CE) is an active labour market programme designed to provide eligible long term unemployed people and other disadvantaged persons with an opportunity to engage in useful work within their communities on a fixed term basis. CE helps unemployed people to re-enter the active workforce by breaking their experience of unemployment through a return to a work routine and to assist them to enhance/develop both their technical and personal skills.

The criteria for participating on the Community Employment Programme are based on age and length of time in receipt of various social welfare payments. In line with Government policy, participation on employment schemes has an upper age limit of 65 years of age i.e. FÁS may provide funds to community based employers to cover participant costs until the day before their 66th birthday.

To cater for older workers in particular, in November 2004 I revised the 3 year CE capping to allow those of 55 years of age and over to avail of a 6-year period on CE (based on participation since 3rd April 2000). Subsequently, the participation limit for persons eligible for CE based on a Social Welfare disability linked payment (including those under 55) was increased by 1 year. These measures were introduced in recognition of the fact that older participants and participants with a disability may find it more difficult to progress into the open labour market.

CE still remains as an active labour market programme with the emphasis on progression into employment. The programme is managed within this context, with consideration to the availability of resources and the needs of participants and the community. The position in relation to eligibility of clients is regularly reviewed, including in consultation with FÁS, and there are no plans at this time to further amend the current eligibility look forward to receiving the views of the Expert Group on these measures and on their potential to contribute to meeting the targets contained in the National Skills Strategy.

In revising the Expert Group on Future Skills Need's mandate a continuing focus on the National Skills Strategy is provided for through: requiring that an annual report of work undertaken by the Expert Group be prepared each year, and that the chairperson of the Expert Group meet at least once annually with the Minister of Education and Science and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Obviously a central element of such meetings between the Ministers and the Chairperson will be to comprehensively assess the implementation of the National Skills Strategy.

Earlier this year I also established the Management Development Council, which brings together the key providers and users of SME management development training in Ireland. The Council has been charged with examining the existing management development provision, while profiling gaps and proposing solutions to address them.

Finally the Upskilling Co-ordination Group, also set up in the course of this year and chaired by an official of my Department, brings together representatives of FÁS, Skillnets, Enterprise Ireland, the County Enterprise Boards and Forfás. The core work of this group is to ensure the most effective and strategic application of public budgets provided for the continuing training of those at work.

The group is also tasked with ensuring that the emphasis placed on upskilling workers on lower rungs of the vocational ladder — as committed to in both Towards 2016 and in the National Development Plan — is progressively being realised through the training programmes administered by the organisations involved and those contracted to deliver training and development programmes on their behalf.

The Government remains fully committed to upskilling and the implementation of the National Skills Strategy. This year the State will invest approximately €70 million in the training of those in employment. This represents a significant increase in investment when you consider that in 2004 the state invested €8 million in this area.

Industrial Development.

Damien English

Ceist:

342 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of visits the IDA have made to Navan, County Meath to date in 2007; if he will provide a progress report on the creation of employment opportunities for Navan by his Department and agencies under his control; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25056/07]

State support for enterprise and job creation is channelled through the industrial development agencies. While I may give general policy directives to the development agencies, I am precluded, under the Industrial Development Acts from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others. I have been informed by IDA Ireland that to date in 2007 the Agency has sponsored two site visits by prospective overseas investors to Navan.

The development agencies are actively marketing the Mid East Gateway Region, including Navan, in order to attract new investment, to encourage the start up of new business, to grow existing business and to develop the labour market in Meath in support of relevant economic objectives as outlined in the Meath County Development Plan.

The Government is committed to achieving balanced regional development and a key regional objective included in the NDP is to support the creation of conditions necessary to extend the process of employment and productivity growth in higher value added functions to all regions. In that regard, we have made significant progress in working towards maintaining and enhancing our framework competitive conditions, and promoting new areas of competitive advantage, by developing our R&D base, investing in critical physical and communications infrastructures and, promoting tertiary education and lifelong learning. Clearly the strategies set out in the new National Development Plan, which support the continued implementation of these policies, will play a crucial role in maintaining the attractiveness of the regions as investment locations.

It is vital that national investment is partnered with local vision and leadership and that private investment also plays a role. In this regard, I particularly welcomed the launch last year of the Meath Skills Database, an initiative of the County Council, together with the industrial development agencies, to promote Meath as an attractive business location and to eliminate wasteful commuting. Meath is proving an ideal location for Dublin-based firms wishing to expand their operations as there is good infrastructure and a readily available workforce.

The announcement by Quinn-direct Insurance to create up to 1000 jobs to support the company's international development is a welcome boost to Navan and the surrounding towns, as up to 700 of these jobs will be located at a new facility in Navan. These high-value jobs will be created over the next five years. The inter-agency co-operation between Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Meath County Council made this project possible.

I am confident that the continued co-operation between the Agencies together with the roll out of the National Development Plan will continue to bear fruit in terms of job creation and investment for the people of County Meath

Company Closures.

Damien English

Ceist:

343 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made by his Department for a replacement company to take over the NEC factory plant in Ballivor, County Meath; the efforts that have been made to date to aid staff in finding replacement employment opportunities within County Meath since their employment terminated after the NEC closure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25059/07]

Following the closure of the plant in question, finding alternative employment for the area and the county was a priority for the Industrial Development agencies. In this regard, a major financial services project which will provide 700 jobs was announced for Navan in 2006. This project will be of significant benefit to the whole county. Another financial services company, which announced the creation of 290 jobs in 2005, commenced operations in Navan in October 2006.

The facility in Ballivor is being promoted for new investment and three potential investors have been introduced to the management of this facility. One of these companies is looking to relocate and expand its operation and the Ballivor facility remains on its short-list of property options.

I understand that a significant number of the former employees in Ballivor have found alternative employment with IDA Ireland supported companies in the Midlands and East and a small number of employees have returned to full time education. The State Development agencies and Meath County Enterprise Board are available to offer guidance and assistance to potential entrepreneurs wishing to set up new businesses. The Industrial Training agency FÁS has conducted one-to-one registration and guidance interviews with 323 former employees of the plant in question. The services of the agency continue to be available and all employees were given the contact details of their local FÁS office for follow up purposes.

The State Development agencies continue to work with local interests to promote investment opportunities for Ballivor and the surrounding area. I am confident that the strategies and policies being pursued in County Meath by the agencies, together with the ongoing commitment to regional development, will maximise the flow of potential investors and convert these into investment and job opportunities.

Job Creation.

Damien English

Ceist:

344 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs his Department or State bodies under his control have created in County Meath for each of the years 2002 to 2006 and to date in 2007. [25060/07]

Employment data in respect of companies supported by the Enterprise Agencies is collated by Forfás on an annual basis and accordingly there is no data available for 2007. In 2006 there were 5621 persons in permanent employment in Enterprise Agency assisted firms in Co.Meath; the table outlines the number of jobs created in the years mentioned.

In addition to these figures, the Meath County Enterprise Board has created a net total of 91 jobs in the period in question.

Full-time Job gains: Co. Meath

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

Total 02-06

Enterprise Ireland & IDA Ireland

286

558

452

677

486

2,459

Job Losses.

John Perry

Ceist:

345 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the potential job losses as a result of the failure of IDA to resolve the issue of changing a nine hundred and ninety nine year lease on premises (details supplied) in County Sligo, to a freehold lease; if he will give direct instruction on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25100/07]

The management of IDA Ireland's industrial property portfolio, including the purchase and disposal of property, is a day-to-day operational matter for the Agency as part of the statutory responsibility assigned to it by the Oireachtas and not a matter in which I have a function.

I have been informed by IDA Ireland that, in 1998, the Agency sold 1.3152 Hectares, on a leasehold basis, to Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd. In October, 2006 Ballymote Community Enterprise Ltd. requested that IDA sell the freehold interest to them.

IDA policy for land sales is to obtain market value when disposing of property assets and part of this process involves seeking an independent valuation by a national accredited valuer. IDA subsequently obtained a freehold valuation of these lands and the Agency informed the prospective purchasers, through the latter's solicitor of this valuation in March last.

I understand that the Deputy and the Agency are in correspondence over this matter. Given that the Minister of the day is specifically precluded from giving directives to the Agency concerning individual undertakings it would not be appropriate for me to intervene. I look forward to receiving the views of the Expert Group on these measures and on their potential to contribute to meeting the targets contained in the National Skills Strategy.

In revising the Expert Group on Future Skills Need's mandate a continuing focus on the National Skills Strategy is provided for through: requiring that an annual report of work undertaken by the Expert Group be prepared each year, and that the chairperson of the Expert Group meet at least once annually with the Minister of Education and Science and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Obviously a central element of such meetings between the Ministers and the Chairperson will be to comprehensively assess the implementation of the National Skills Strategy.

Earlier this year I also established the Management Development Council, which brings together the key providers and users of SME management development training in Ireland. The Council has been charged with examining the existing management development provision, while profiling gaps and proposing solutions to address them.

Finally the Upskilling Co-ordination Group, also set up in the course of this year and chaired by an official of my Department, brings together representatives of FÁS, Skillnets, Enterprise Ireland, the County Enterprise Boards and Forfas. The core work of this group is to ensure the most effective and strategic application of public budgets provided for the continuing training of those at work.

The group is also tasked with ensuring that the emphasis placed on upskilling workers on lower rungs of the vocational ladder — as committed to in both Towards 2016 and in the National Development Plan — is progressively being realised through the training programmes administered by the organisations involved and those contracted to deliver training and development programmes on their behalf.

The Government remains fully committed to upskilling and the implementation of the National Skills Strategy. This year the State will invest approximately €70 million in the training of those in employment. This represents a significant increase in investment when you consider that in 2004 the state invested €8 million in this area.

Grant Payments.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

346 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a club (details supplied) in County Dublin will receive the grant of €19,000 under the transition support programme in view of the fact that contracts have issued and been signed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25111/07]

My Department is the Managing Authority for the EQUAL Community Initiative Programme. This Programme is co-funded by the European Social Fund during the period 2000-2007. The Programme seeks to identify and address fundamental forms of discrimination and inequality in the labour market through the development of new and innovative policies and practices initiated by EQUAL Development Partnerships. Round 2 of the Programme provides co-funding to 22 projects, one of which is the Transition Supports Project referred to by the Deputy.

The day-to-day operation of a Development Partnership Project is a matter for each individual project and therefore is outside my remit.

Employment Regulations.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

347 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way he ensures that his Department’s Labour Inspectorate ensure that contracted workers working in the south of Ireland but employed by employers based in the north of Ireland are paid the industry rates as outlined in the Employment Regulation Orders or the Registered Employment Agreements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25126/07]

Ireland's comprehensive body of employment rights legislation, which protects employees against arbitrary behaviour by employers, applies to all workers employed on an employer-employee basis in Ireland. The Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act, 2001 provides that all employee protection legislation applies to a person who has entered into a contract of employment that provides for his or her being employed in the State or who works in the State under a contract of employment.

In addition, Directive 96/71/EC of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 December 1996 provides that workers posted to a Member State from another Member State are entitled to the terms and conditions of the host State. A posted worker is defined in the Directive as "a worker who, for a limited period, carries out his work in the territory of a Member State other than the State in which he normally works."

Directive 96/71/EC was transposed into Irish law by section 20 of the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act 2001, which provides that all employee protection legislation on the statute book in the State, including Employment Regulation Orders and Registered Employment Agreements, applies to posted workers in exactly the same way as it applies to Irish workers.

Inspectors from the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) pursue allegations of worker mistreatment and when evidence of non-compliance with the relevant employment rights legislation is found, the Inspection Services seek redress for the individual/s concerned and, if appropriate, a prosecution is initiated. Employers are required to maintain records in respect of employees and these records, together with other substantiating evidence, for example, a statement from an employee, provide the essentials of a basis for legal proceedings. Failure to maintain adequate records by an employer is an offence.

It should be noted also, that in many cases, employment rights legislation has provisions whereby workers who believe that they have been denied their entitlements, or otherwise unfairly treated, can, as an alternative to dealing with the Inspection Services, take the matter to the Rights Commissioner Service of the Labour Relations Commission or to the Labour Court. I urge anyone who has evidence of the mistreatment of persons working in the south of Ireland but employed by employers based in the north of Ireland to furnish all the relevant details and any related materials to the NERA's Inspection Services with a view to pursuing the matter.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

348 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25141/07]

Excluding the offices and agencies of my Department which have their own budgets, my Department has spent €59,903.85 on paper (of which €53,373.35 was spent on recycled paper) and €52,000.89 on stationery so far in 2007.

Work Permits.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

349 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the list of jobs for which a work permit can not be granted. [25337/07]

The Employment Permits Section of my Department informs me that all applications are considered upon receipt into the Department. However, the following occupations are on the Ineligible Job Categories for Employment Permit for new applicants, as it is considered their positions can be filled from within the EEA region.

All Clerical and Administrative positions.

All General Operatives / Labourers.

In the category Sales Staff:

All retail sales vacancies, sales representatives, supervisory / specialist sales.

In the category of Transport Staff:

All drivers (excluding HGV)

In the category Childcare workers:

Nursery / Crèche workers, childminders / nanny.

In the category Hotel Tourism and Catering:

All staff except qualified chefs.

In the category Craft Workers and Apprentice / Trainee Craft Worker:

Bookbinders, Bricklayers, Cabinet Maker, Carpenter / Joiner, Carton Maker, Fitter — Construction Plant, Electrician, Instrumentation Craftsperson, Fitter, Tiler — Floor / Wall, Mechanic — Heavy Vehicles, Mechanic — Motor, Originator, Painter and Decorator, Plumber, Printer, Engineer — Refrigeration, Sheet Metal Worker, Tool Maker, Vehicle Body Repair, Machinist — Wood, Plasterers and Welders.

County Enterprise Boards.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

350 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he has satisfied himself with the composition and operation of the county and city enterprise boards; his views on whether they represent value for money for the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25338/07]

The thirty-five County & City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) are the principal initial point of contact for people seeking support in setting up a new business. Their role is to provide support to micro-enterprise in the start-up and expansion phases, to promote and develop indigenous micro-enterprise potential and to stimulate entrepreneurship at local level. They can provide both financial and non-financial assistance.

Since their inception in 1993 the CEBs have played an extremely important role in the overall development of indigenous enterprise in Ireland. They successfully developed a structure capable of both generating, and tapping into, enterprise at local level and have been particularly effective in their ability to respond to the needs of micro-enterprise at local level.

Through the provision of direct financial assistance over 32,000 jobs have been created in CEB assisted companies up to the end of 2006 while almost 19,000 projects were in receipt of assistance up to the end of 2006. Of equal importance however is the provision of non-financial assistance by the CEBs. The CEBs provide a wide range of business information and training initiatives. These include Start-Your-Own-Business Programmes, Management Capability and Development courses, Sales and Marketing courses as well as one-to-one Mentoring Programme. The range and quality of these ‘soft supports' is highly valuable to any potential entrepreneur. Almost 20,000 people participated on CEB training Programmes in 2006 alone. I expect a similar strong performance in 2007.

The Board of a County Enterprise Board is highly representative of the local Community it serves. Board members are drawn from the local County Council (including the County Manager or his representative), local business organisations as well other State Agencies with an economic development remit and the Social Partners. I am satisfied that the current composition and operation of the CEBs is appropriate to their remit and in view of their success since their inception in 1993 I am of the view that they represent value for money for the taxpayer.

I should point out that a fundamental review of the role of the CEBs in the development of micro-enterprises in Ireland was conducted during 2004. This review was the most comprehensive examination of the CEBs since their inception. It largely endorsed the activities and operations of the CEBs and concluded that there is justification for continued state support to micro-enterprises and that the CEB network can continue to play a useful role in the overall national enterprise development policy. Their role in embedding an entrepreneurial culture in Ireland has been further acknowledged in both the Enterprise Strategy Group Report and the more recent Report of the Small Business Forum.

Work Permits.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

351 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the information that has been collected by his Department since the introduction of the green card scheme under the Employment Permits Act, 2006 regarding the qualifications, salaries and length of stay of those availing of the scheme; the way this compares with work permit holders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25339/07]

The Green Card scheme was introduced under the Employment Permits Act 2006 to address skills shortages in the economy in specified and identified occupation categories. Therefore, Green Card holders would normally be expected to hold a third level qualification and earn a salary in excess of €30,000.

Between February and end-September 2007, a total of 2,260 Green Cards were issued, 361 in respect of positions with salary levels over €60,000 and 1,899 in respect of positions with salary levels between €30,000 and €60,000. Green Cards can only be issued for an initial period of two years' duration.

The Work Permit scheme, on the other hand, is designed to address labour shortages and, accordingly, it is not normally required that work permits holders would be expected to have a third level qualification. All work permit holders, however, are required to possess skills and experience appropriate to their position. The Deputy should note that only in exceptional circumstances are new work permits issued for positions where the annual salary is less than €30,000. In contrast to the Green Card system, a Labour Market needs test is applied for each case. Between February and end-September 2007, 3,882 new Work Permits were issued. New Work Permits are issued for 2 years.

Training Programmes.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

352 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the share of FÁS budget directed at training those in employment in view of his stated priority of upskilling the workforce; the way this share changed in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25340/07]

The Government is committed to upskilling the Irish labour force and has substantially increased State investment in training those in employment in recent years. The attached table details the relevant FÁS expenditure on training those in employment as a share of FÁS total direct costs.

FÁS two main programmes under the in-company heading are both the apprenticeship programme and the Competency Development Programme, which is managed by FÁS Service to Business Division.

It is evident from the above figures that since 2005 the State has substantially increased the investment in training those in employment and in apprenticeship in accordance with the Government's stated priority towards upskilling the workforce. The Government will continue to do so in line with its commitment to achieving the vision contained in the National Skills Strategy and to maximising the potential of the Irish workforce.

Year

Total direct costs Budget

Training in Employment

Apprenticeships

€m

€m

€m

2007

854.32

48.4

129.0

2006

772.5

43.3

113.0

2005

726.2

23.6

101.8

Skill Shortages.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

353 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the mechanism he has put in place in view of the publication of the National Skills Strategy by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs in March 2007 to consider and give effect to its recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25341/07]

The effective implementation of the National Skills Strategy requires an integrated approach jointly led by my own Department, by the Department of Education & Science and that successfully involves all of the key agencies in the education and training sectors.

Since the publication of the Strategy progress has been made in several areas. I asked the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs to examine the potential of a number of innovative measures to incentivise both employers and employees to more fully engage in education and training. The measures under review include paid learning leave, individual learning accounts for employees, brokerage services to help firms identify training needs and source suitable training, and the potential of regional advisory groups.

I look forward to receiving the views of the Expert Group on these measures and on their potential to contribute to meeting the targets contained in the National Skills Strategy.

In revising the Expert Group on Future Skills Need's mandate a continuing focus on the National Skills Strategy is provided for through: requiring that an annual report of work undertaken by the Expert Group be prepared each year, and that the chairperson of the Expert Group meet at least once annually with the Minister of Education and Science and the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. Obviously a central element of such meetings between the Ministers and the Chairperson will be to comprehensively assess the implementation of the National Skills Strategy.

Earlier this year I also established the Management Development Council, which brings together the key providers and users of SME management development training in Ireland. The Council has been charged with examining the existing management development provision, while profiling gaps and proposing solutions to address them.

Finally the Upskilling Co-ordination Group, also set up in the course of this year and chaired by an official of my Department, brings together representatives of FÁS, Skillnets, Enterprise Ireland, the County Enterprise Boards and Forfas. The core work of this group is to ensure the most effective and strategic application of public budgets provided for the continuing training of those at work.

The group is also tasked with ensuring that the emphasis placed on upskilling workers on lower rungs of the vocational ladder — as committed to in both Towards 2016 and in the National Development Plan — is progressively being realised through the training programmes administered by the organisations involved and those contracted to deliver training and development programmes on their behalf.

The Government remains fully committed to upskilling and the implementation of the National Skills Strategy. This year the State will invest approximately €70 million in the training of those in employment. This represents a significant increase in investment when you consider that in 2004 the state invested €8 million in this area.

Telecommunications Services.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

354 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his view on the consequences for foreign direct investment of the Government’s failure to keep up with other OECD countries on the roll out of fixed broadband and the development of new technology networks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25342/07]

While the issue of broadband is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, I am informed that broadband take-up continues to grow strongly in Ireland. At the end of June 2007 there were 698,000 broadband subscriptions, which represents an annual increase of 87%.

At the end of March this year the European Competitive Telecommunications Association calculated Ireland's broadband penetration at 14.3% compared to an average of 18.1% across the EU-25 countries that are monitored. Comreg estimates that Irish broadband penetration (including mobile broadband) in June this year was 16.48%. Of much more significance, however, is how broadband penetration is growing. Our growth rate is now 38% compared to 15% for the EU15. Accelerating broadband connections at this pace is rapidly shrinking the gap between Ireland and others.

Broadband availability is expanding and is not inhibiting our attractiveness as a location for foreign direct investment. Our international connectivity is competitive in the international market place. This has been a key factor in Ireland winning ground-breaking investment from Google and Paypal among others, for example. These companies rely on robust, resilient and extensive broadband networks for their business and Ireland provides this.

Multinational investment in Ireland continues to grow, with a focus on knowledge intensive activities which provide high skilled employment. The success of Ireland's performance in attracting FDI investment remains strong with 71 new business projects being negotiated in 2006 with new and existing clients, which will involve a total investment of €2.6bn over the coming years.

While broadband rollout continues apace, the Programme for Government contains a commitment to encourage a progressive shift to Next Generation Networks. The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources is currently preparing a draft policy paper that will review current communications infrastructure policy. This will 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. IDA will provide comments on this draft paper when it is issued for consultation.

Proposed Legislation.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

355 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will consolidate the seventy pieces of employment legislation into a single Act; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25343/07]

My priority is to secure the enactment of the Employment Law Compliance Bill 2007 and the Employment Agencies Regulation Bill 2007, so as to give effect to commitments for new legislation in Sections 11 to 16 and 21 of Part 2 of TOWARDS 2016 — 10 Year Framework Social Partnership Agreement 2006-2015. Work on preparing both Bills is advancing for their publication as quickly as possible.

I propose to follow-up with an Employment Law Consolidation Bill in 2008, to simplify and codify employment law spanning more than 40 years, pursuant to Section 16.3 of Part 2 of TOWARDS 2016. Preparatory work has already started on this.

Industrial Development.

Niall Collins

Ceist:

356 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will prioritise the Shannon development site known as the Askeaton Business Park for development and location by foreign direct investors or indigenous industry to provide valuable and sustainable jobs. [25410/07]

IDA Ireland is the agency with statutory responsibility for the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) to Ireland and its regions, while Enterprise Ireland is responsible for indigenous industry in the Mid- west region. Shannon Development's remit includes the provision of property solutions to accommodate the FDI and indigenous sectors in the Mid West region. While I may give general policy directives to the agencies, I am precluded under the Industrial Development Acts from giving directives regarding individual undertakings or from giving preference to one area over others.

The Askeaton site is a Shannon Development-owned land bank, comprising 228 acres situated on the southern bank of the Shannon Estuary. The site has been identified as an important site from a business and employment perspective for both Co. Limerick and the wider Region in the Planning and Land Use Transportation Study, the Mid-West Regional Planning Guidelines and the Limerick County Development Plan.

IDA Ireland works closely with Shannon Development in the promotion and marketing of property solutions, throughout the Mid West, including the Askeaton business park. The site is being actively marketed through IDA's network of overseas offices as a solution for utility intensive projects. The investment projects which IDA Ireland seeks to win are in more advanced higher value sophisticated activities, both manufacturing and services, often related to research activities, requiring high level skills, infrastructure and business services generating more high value products, services and jobs.

Both IDA Ireland and Shannon Development are working closely concerning the provision of a strategic site for the Mid West region and are looking at a number of locations in this regard, including the Askeaton site. This process is ongoing. Shannon Development is also considering other development options for the landbank.

Ultimately decisions regarding where to locate a project, including what areas to visit are taken by investors based on the ability of the locations to support their business needs.

Swimming Pool Projects.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

357 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if there is a local contribution being sought towards a project (details supplied) in County Mayo; the amount of money being sought; and if any of this money has been collected. [24718/07]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

358 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on increasing the amount of grant aid awarded towards the refurbishment of a facility (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24719/07]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

359 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the shortfall between money allocated by his Department towards the refurbishment of a facility (details supplied) in County Mayo and the cost of the works. [24720/07]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

360 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the cost of the proposed refurbishment works for a facility (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24721/07]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

361 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of grant aid that has been awarded towards the refurbishment of a facility (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24722/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 357 to 361, inclusive, together.

Under the terms of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme grant aid is provided by my Department to local authorities towards the capital costs of a new or replacement public swimming pool or the refurbishment of an existing pool. The Programme provides for a maximum grant of €3.8million.

Under the terms of the programme, there are four stages in developing a swimming pool project. These, in order of progress, are: Feasibility Study/Preliminary Report; Contract Documents; Tender and Construction and a project may not proceed from one stage to the next without prior Ministerial approval. Grant aid is formally allocated when the tender for the project is approved and the local authority must demonstrate to my Department that the balance of funding required to complete the project is available before I can approve the tender.

The Preliminary Report submitted by Mayo County Council in respect of the proposed replacement swimming pool project in Castlebar, was approved by my predecessor in April, 2005 and this allowed Mayo County Council to prepare the Contract Documents for the project. The Preliminary Report showed that the indicative cost of the project at that time was in the region of €9m with various funding arrangements, in addition to the grant, being considered by the Council. The detailed costings for the project and the associated funding arrangements will have to be addressed in detail by the Council in the course of the preparation of the Contract Documents which are awaited by my Department.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

362 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24734/07]

The preparation of an Annual Output Statement for my Ministerial Vote Group, which includes the National Gallery of Ireland, forms part of the Budget and Estimates Reform process introduced by my Cabinet colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Finance, Brian Cowen, T.D., and the first of such statements was prepared earlier this year.

The Output Statements for my Department and for the National Gallery of Ireland were submitted to the Oireachtas Select Committee on Arts, Sport and Tourism to inform their deliberations on the 2007 Revised Estimates for my Ministerial Vote Group and the sectoral targets contained in the Statement were published in my Department's Annual Report for 2006, which was published earlier this year.

The 2007 Output Statements for my Ministerial Vote Group have not been published on my Department's website, but I have asked the relevant officials in my Department to make the 2007 Statement available on the website with immediate effect.

Arts Funding.

James Bannon

Ceist:

363 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will increase funding to the Arts Council and the Irish arts sector to €100 million to ensure growth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24799/07]

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

364 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will increase the funding for the Arts Council in 2007 in order to achieve important targets for the development of the arts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24818/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 363 and 364 together.

As Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism I am committed to securing the best possible funding for the Arts Council and the arts sector generally. The Arts Council's funding requirement for the year ahead will be addressed in the context of the 2008 Estimates. In doing so, the Government must balance competing demands from every part of our economy and society.

Funding for the Arts Council has increased from €47.67 million in 2002 to €80 million in 2007 — an increase of almost 68%. These are significant amounts of money in any context. This funding has transformed the arts, increasing access to and participation in the arts, and has provided an excellent platform for future development. My policy on the arts is to promote and strengthen the arts in all its forms, increase access to and participation in the arts and make the arts an integral and valued part of our national life. The following table shows the funding provided to the Arts Council between 1997 and 2007.

Arts Council funding — 1997 to 2007

Year

Funding (€m)

% Change

Supplementary Estimate

Total including Supplementary

1997

26.41

26.41

1998

33.14

25.5

33.14

1999

35.55

7.3

35.55

2000

45.08

26.8

45.08

2001

46.37

2.9

1.77

48.14

2002

47.67

2.8

47.67

2003

44.10

-7.5

44.10

2004

52.5

19.0

2.00

54.50

2005

61.00

16.2

5.23

66.23

2006

72.31

18.5

10.00

82.31

2007

80.0

10.6

80.00

Sports Capital Programme.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

365 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the situation regarding grant aid funded by the National Lottery available to local sporting organisations; when the next round of applications will be invited; the funds that are available for allocation under this round; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24873/07]

The sports capital programme, which is administered by my Department, allocates funding to sporting and community organisations at local, regional and national level throughout the country.

The 2007 Sports Capital Programme was advertised in the national press in October 2006. The closing date for receipt of completed applications was 24th November 2006. Over 1,530 applications were received for the Programme and provisional allocations totalling €85 million were made to 935 projects on 5th April last.

The date of the next round of the Programme has not yet been decided. As in previous years, advertisements announcing the next round of the Programme will be placed in the national press and application forms will be available at that stage.

There is also no decision at this stage regarding the level of grant allocations to be made. I will decide on the level of provisional grant allocations to be made for the next round of the programme having regard to the quality of the applications received, the pattern of grant allocations and drawdowns on foot of earlier years' approvals and the annual provision for expenditure in the Estimates for the relevant subhead in my Department's Vote.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

366 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24890/07]

The policy of my Department in relation to frequent flyer points is governed by Department of Finance Circular 26/04 — The Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour. Section 16.2 of the Code states that ‘benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life'.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

367 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of money spent on paper and stationary in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25136/07]

The information requested by the Deputy in respect of my Department to date in 2007 is estimated as follows:

Total Paper Cost

32,000

Total Stationery Cost

72,000

Recycled Paper cost

2,000

It is my Department's policy to promote the increased usage of recycled paper as much as possible. However, due to the high cost of recycled products and due to lack of availability of certain products, this has not always been possible. I would like to inform the Deputy, however, that my Department has a system in place in all of its locations to ensure that all used waste paper is issued for recycling.

Social Insurance.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

368 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of contributors in 2007 to the social insurance fund with a breakdown of this figure by PRSI class type; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24732/07]

Insured workers are required to pay PRSI contributions based on their level of income. These contributions provide entitlement to benefits and pensions under various social insurance schemes. As such, PRSI contributions are calculated as a percentage of reckonable earnings of employees — subject to various thresholds, allowances and ceilings. Both the employee and his or her employer pay a share of the contribution, and these are in turn paid into the Social Insurance Fund, which in turn provides part of the expenditure to fund social insurance schemes.

The table below provides data on the total number of contributors to the Social Insurance Fund together with a breakdown of this figure by PRSI Class type. The figures for 2005 represent the most recent out-turn of End-of-Year returns received by my Department from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners for both employees and self-employed contributors. The transfer of End-of-Year data is an ongoing process. The final figure for 2005 is likely to change as further returns are received.

I would like to point out that a provisional breakdown of the 2006 numbers will be published in my Department's Statistical Information on Social Welfare Services 2007 report next year. Provisional data for 2007 will be presented in the 2008 report due for completion in 2009.

PRSI Class

Coverage

Numbers of contributors insured — 2005(1)

Male

Female

Total

A

All benefits(2)

1,137,039

1,051,716

2,188,755

B

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), Bereavement Grant, Carer’s Benefit & limited Occupational Injuries Benefits

18,016

12,390

30,406

C

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), Bereavement Grant & Carer’s Benefit

886

165

1,051

D

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), Bereavement Grant, Carer’s Benefit & Occupational Injuries Benefits

39,113

49,427

88,540

E

All benefits except Jobseeker’s Benefit, Bereavement Grant & Occupational Injuries Benefits

138

30

168

H

All benefits on discharge. Treatment Benefit, Bereavement Grant, Carer’s Benefit & Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension (in certain cases) during service

138

30

168

J(3)

Occupational Injuries Benefits

8,175

407

8,582

K

None. Class K consists of Health Levy

11,103

12,250

23,353

M

Occupational Injuries Benefits in certain circumstances

25,388

11,044

36,432

P

Treatment Benefit & limited Jobseeker’s and Illness Benefit

89,844

64,921

154,765

S

Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory), State Pension (Contributory), Bereavement Grant, Maternity Benefit & Adoptive Benefit

7

7

Voluntary Contributors

High rate: State Pension (Transition) + (Contributory), Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment & Bereavement Grant

254,722

67,110

321,832

Low rate: Widow’s/Widower’s (Contributory) Pension, Guardian’s Payment (Contributory) & Bereavement Grant.

1,171

550

1,721

Total

1,585,602

1,270,010

2,855,612

(1) Provisional figures.

(2) This includes 178,145 persons in receipt of credited social insurance contributions.

(3) PRSI Class J includes FÁS and other trainees.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

369 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24745/07]

My Department's Output Statement for 2007 has been published on the Department's website with effect from 14th August 2007.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

370 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position of a supplementary rent allowance for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24758/07]

The purpose of rent supplement is to assist eligible people who are unable to provide for their immediate accommodation needs from their own resources and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.

The scheme is administered on behalf of my Department by the Health Service Executive. The Executive has advised that the person concerned left his local authority accommodation in July 2006 and moved to private rented accommodation. He applied for rent supplement in March 2007. The Executive is currently unable to process the application for rent supplement because the claim form was incomplete and requested documentary evidence is outstanding.

The Executive further advise that the Local Authority considers that the person concerned does not have a housing need because he vacated accommodation provided to him by the Authority. A decision on entitlement to rent supplement will be made when the person concerned provides additional information and supporting documentation as requested by the Executive.

Social Welfare Code.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

371 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on extending the over 80 allowance to persons who are qualified adult dependents on a social welfare claim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24867/07]

The Programme for Government features a number of commitments in relation to social welfare pensions including the payment of an over 80 allowance on the qualified adult portion of the pension. This measure will be addressed over the lifetime of the Government.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

372 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24901/07]

The Travel Policy of my Department is fully compliant with the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour. The code, effective from 9 September 2004, underpins the rules governing gifts, hospitality and the acceptance of appointments outside the civil service. Under section 16.2 of the code, benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life. Delegates representing my Department may therefore retain any frequent flyer points accordingly.

Departmental Properties.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

373 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the special provisions for access for persons with a disability at his Department premises at Cumberland Street, Dublin 1; the steps he is taking to improve such access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24965/07]

Plans to replace this office with a new one are at an advanced stage. The Office of Public Works, which is responsible for the provision of accommodation for my Department, has identified a replacement office on Parnell St and it is expected that these new premises will be ready for occupation by end 2008. The scale of works required to make the current building accessible to persons with disabilities could not be justified on the grounds of time and costs.

Services for People with Disabilities.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

374 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his views on appointing a disability officer at his Departments premises in Cumberland Street, Dublin 1 and other similar employment exchanges (details supplied) in view of the special needs of persons with physical or sensory disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24966/07]

The Disability Act 2005 places significant responsibilities on public bodies to make their services accessible to people with disabilities where practicable and appropriate. A number of specific provisions are contained in the Act relating to accessibility of services for people with disabilities including access to Departmental Offices and information services.

The Act also includes the requirement to have Access Officers in place to provide assistance and guidance for people with disabilities in accessing services. A total of 25 Access Officers have been appointed within my Department. They have received training and are being supported in their role to co-ordinate the provision of assistance and guidance to persons with disabilities in accessing the services of the Department including those services provided at Local Offices such as North Cumberland Street. In addition, my Department's Disability Liaison Officer has responsibility to promote the interests of staff with disabilities and co-ordinate the achievement of the Department's objective of ensuring a supportive working environment that meets the particular needs of these staff.

My Department's Disability Sectoral Plan contains a comprehensive set of actions to ensure accessibility to its services including access to information and facilities and to provide a disability friendly organisation for both customers and staff. These actions include the implementation of a building and refurbishment programme to ensure that all of our offices meet with the standards identified in the Disability Act. In this regard, plans to re-locate the services currently provided in the North Cumberland Street Local Office to new premises, in the area, are at an advanced stage. It is expected that these new premises will be ready for occupation by the end of 2008.

Social Welfare Code.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

375 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the average turnaround time in respect of cases that come before the chief medical adviser to his Department; the number of doctors employed to deal with cases in this section; if he is satisfied that the present system employed where a medical decision has to be made is in the interest of his Department’s customers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25101/07]

The Medical Review and Assessment Service (MRAS) is the principal control mechanism for all illness and disability schemes administered by my Department. The role of the Medical Assessor in the MRAS is to assess our customers to ascertain if they satisfy the prescribed medical criteria for the various illness related schemes operated by my Department.

The average turnaround time of cases processed by the MRAS varies according to the scheme concerned. Cases are prioritised to ensure that the customer awaiting a decision regarding payment for schemes such as Disability Allowance or Carer's Allowance are given top priority. The majority of cases are assessed by Medical Advisors on the basis of documentation provided by the customer and his/her doctor, and where no further examination is required, the average turnaround time is 1-2 days. Cases requiring a medical examination by a Medical Assessor may take up to 6-10 weeks.

Claims for Illness Benefit are generally put into payment without an assessment by a Medical Assessor. Cases are reviewed during the course of the claim and, as these are less time-critical, they are scheduled for examination in order of date referred. The turnaround time for these cases can vary from weeks to several months subject to availability of resources. The current cadre of Medical Assessors is 21, comprising 19 Medical Assessors, the Deputy Chief Medical Adviser and the Chief Medical Adviser. In 2006 a total of 32,835 medical examinations and 73,188 desk assessments was carried out by the Medical Assessors.

The Medical Assessment system is designed to ensure that customers claiming a disability payment meet the medical criteria for the scheme. Medical Assessors take account of all relevant and available medical information, as well as information from the medical examination, in forming their opinion of the person's capacity for work. Any information provided by the customer is taken into account and further specialist advice is obtained if this is considered necessary. Medical Review and Assessment Section operates a Help-Desk which customers are invited to contact if they wish to discuss any aspect of the examination process. On average a total of 1,200 telephone calls is received monthly from customers.

I am satisfied that claimants are treated in a fair and equitable manner having regard to the need to ensure that the conditions for entitlement to disability payments are upheld.

Pension Provisions.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

376 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he will take into account the difficulties of women who had to give up work because of the rules when they got married and now have not enough or any stamps for contributory old age pension; the number of people so affected; his views on whether they should be entitled to a full pension in their own right; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25106/07]

In order to qualify for a State Pension (Contributory) a person must enter social insurance 10 years before pension age, pay a minimum number of contributions at the appropriate rate and achieve a minimum yearly average contribution rate over their working life. The qualifying conditions are designed to uphold the contributory principle that underpins social insurance payments generally, and to ensure that those qualifying have demonstrated an ongoing commitment to an appropriate rate of social insurance throughout their working life. Non-contributory pensions are available to those without the necessary contributions who can satisfy a means test.

The Government is anxious to ensure that as many people as possible should qualify for pensions in their own right. In this regard, qualifying conditions for contributory pensions have been eased and special pensions such as the pre-53 payment have been introduced. In the last two budgets particular emphasis has been placed on the non-contributory pensions with significant improvements in the means test and a higher rate of increase being granted than that given on the contributory side. These improvements are of particular benefit to older women who make up the majority of recipients of non-contributory pensions.

In addition, from 24th September 2007, qualified adult increases paid as part of State pensions will be paid directly to the spouse or partner. This change replaces the voluntary arrangements for separate payments which have been in place since 2002 and remain available to existing claimants. The Homemakers Scheme, introduced in 1994, protects the pension entitlements of those who leave work to care for children or incapacitated adults.

Despite these various measures, a significant number of people do not at present receive any support through the social welfare pensions system, either in their own right or as qualified adults. Overall, it is estimated that there are some 47,000 people at present outside the system and about 30,000 of these are women. These include former public servants, self-employed people and/or their spouses who do not have the necessary contributions for contributory payments and cannot satisfy a means test. It is not possible to estimate how many of the group were required to leave employment when they married.

The recently published Green Paper on Pensions includes a discussion on various issues relating to social welfare pensions. This includes the position of people who do not receive any payment for various reasons related to qualifying conditions, previous policies and societal norms, together with the implications of making provision for them. Decisions in relation to this group will be made in the context of the framework for future policy which will be developed following the Green Paper consultation process which is now underway.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

377 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of money spent on paper and stationary in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25147/07]

My Department has spent €1,781,755 on paper and stationery to end-September 2007, the latest date for which figures are available. This figure includes some €145,066 which can be attributed to the purchase of paper for use in photocopies and printers, all of which is recycled paper. The Department uses almost 18,000,000 envelopes annually all of which are produced from recycled materials. The cost, to end-September for envelopes was €154,885. The amount spent on printing information booklets and application forms up to the end of September 2007 was almost €560,000. Approximately 30% of the paper used in these publications is recycled.

My Department also makes payments for publications such as reports and manuals for which records are not maintained in such a way as to enable reporting on the recycled content. Paper which is subject to post supplier processes or has a security application, such as cheques, is not sourced from recycled material. My Department is committed to using recycled materials where quality, suitability and cost considerations allow.

Pension Provisions.

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

378 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs his plans to introduce phased retirement; his views on whether workers who are nearing the statutory retirement age who wish to continue in gainful employment should be allowed to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25237/07]

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

379 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if consideration will be given to workers over the age of 65 who wish to continue in gainful employment making PRSI contributions beyond the pension age in order to gain eligibility for an old age contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25238/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 378 and 379 together.

It important that those who wish to continue in employment after normal retirement age should, as far as is possible, be facilitated and supported. Longer working can play an important role in ensuring that our pensions system is sustainable in the future and can be beneficial to the individual. The Green Paper on Pensions includes an examination of the issues surrounding retirement age and the barriers faced by older workers who wish to remain in employment.

In the context of the Green Paper on Pensions and the Agreed Programme for Government, I will be considering how to introduce flexibility into the social welfare pensions and social insurance systems to encourage and facilitate longer working. These include options such as allowing people to receive a higher rate of payment if they defer claiming pension and the question of making work after normal retirement age insurable for pension purposes. Changes to social welfare pensions represent only one aspect of the responses which will be needed in this area. Both employer and employee attitudes in relation to longer working will have to change in order for changes in the pensions area to impact. While neither employment not equality law impose a compulsory retirement age, employees may decide on a retirement age for particular employments. In future, at the workplace level, employers must seek to retain older employees and create the working conditions which will make longer working both attractive and feasible for older workers if change is to be achieved.

As already indicated, these issues are discussed in the Green Paper on Pensions. However, any legislative changes required to allow employees choices in relation to the age at which they retire, are matters for my colleague the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Social Welfare Benefits.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

380 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has been told that their rent allowance will be reduced by approximately €5 per week despite the fact that they are no longer working and instead of receiving a weekly wage, are in receipt of disability benefit. [25255/07]

The purpose of a rent supplement is to assist eligible people who are unable to provide for their immediate accommodation needs from their own resources. The scheme is administered by the Health Service Executive on behalf of my Department. Payment is subject to a means test, which is designed to encourage people to take up whatever employment opportunities are available to them. The person in question is in receipt of One-Parent Family Payment and had been working part-time until recently when she became ill and claimed Illness Benefit. While she was working, she was entitled to rent supplement of just over €75 per week. The amount payable reflected the favourable treatment of income from employment in the means test. The first €75 of her additional income was disregarded in full and 25% of the rest of her additional income was also disregarded.

In comparison, income from other sources, such as Illness Benefit, is not treated as favourably. When the person in question was not working and claimed Illness Benefit, the amount of rent supplement payable fell to just over €70. When she returns to work her entitlement to rent supplement will be reassessed and she will again become eligible for the income disregard which applies to earnings from employment.

Family Support Services.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

381 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if he has conducted a review of the provision here of rights and of financial supports for flexible parental leave which could allow parents to better balance their family and work responsibilities; the way the provision in Ireland in his area of responsibility compares with best practice, for example, in Scandinavian countries or in France; and if measures to strengthen Ireland’s provision in this respect will form a part of his five year strategy for his Department. [25292/07]

My Department commissioned research under the Government's Families Research Programme entitled “Balancing Work and Family Life: the role of flexible working arrangements.” The report of this study was launched in December 2000.

This study looked at the role of flexible working arrangements in helping families reconcile their working lives with family responsibilities. The report highlighted that flexible working arrangements, when implemented effectively, can provide benefits to both employees and employers. It found that across the EU there is a growing recognition that fundamental changes in the labour market, rapidly changing technologies and other economic and social factors focus attention on the potential role to be played by more active promotion of flexible working arrangements.

Although the report did not investigate the issue of related financial supports, it did point out the considerable onus on individual employers to respond to changing labour market conditions by offering and extending flexible working arrangements. It also highlighted the important role of Government Departments and agencies working with employers and trade unions in taking forward the development of family friendly initiatives. In particular in this regard, it highlighted the role of the national framework committee for work-life balance policies.

The national framework committee for work-life balance policies, under the auspices of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade & Employment, includes representatives from a range of Government Departments and Agencies, as well as representatives from the Trade Union movement. This group is charged with overseeing the promotion of work/life balance policies at the level of the enterprise and also hosts the website www.worklifebalance.ie

Departmental Staff.

Seán Connick

Ceist:

382 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if an audit procedure will be established to review access of personal data by Departmental staff. [25328/07]

My Department, because of the nature of it's work, is privileged to hold extensive and detailed personal information about our customers. Most employees of the Department need and have access to this information in order to deliver the Department's services.

The Department is aware of its obligations to ensure that information is collected appropriately, is maintained securely and is used only for the purpose for which it was intended. A specialist Unit within the Department has been established to oversee business information security and has developed and communicated policies and procedures governing the use of systems and data. All complaints of unauthorised access to and/or disclosure of personal data are fully investigated — including access audits.

The Department takes the strongest line in relation to the misuse of customer information by its staff. Any breach of trust with regard to the confidentiality of customer information is treated as serious misconduct under the Disciplinary Code and comes under immediate consideration for dismissal. Finally, the Department's 4,800 staff are regularly reminded of their obligations under data protection and security policies and of the penalties applied to such misuse, including dismissal.

Pension Provisions.

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

383 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the extent of supports provided to private pension schemes through addressing and retransmission of correspondence with pension scheme members in terms of the number of letters handled, the manpower costs and other costs involved; the degree to which these costs are reimbursed by pension scheme administrators; the number of pension administration companies participating in this scheme; and the guidelines or instructions provided by his Department to pension scheme administrators regarding this facility. [25369/07]

My Department was approached by third parties to assist them in contacting individuals who could not be contacted at the address held in their name on the third parties' records. In response, the Department proposed that, if it appeared to be in an individual's interests to be contacted, it would issue correspondence to an address recorded in that individual's name on the Department's records. The correspondence would contain advice as to the reason why the third party is seeking them and provide relevant contact details. At no stage would the Department pass any of the individual's personal details to the third parties.

The Data Protection Commissioner was consulted about the proposal and he approved it as it would appear to be to the individual's benefit to receive the correspondence, the Department would not be disclosing individual's details to third parties and it would be entirely up to the individual to decide whether or not they wished to contact the third party.

The specific circumstances raised by the Deputy could apply where a pension has matured and the pension company is unable to locate the policyholder. Insurance companies, non-commercial organisations such as adoption agencies and private individuals also avail of the service. The number of letters handled by my Department in respect of private pension schemes for the first nine months of 2007 is 4,891. These were processed on behalf of four specific pension companies and several individual construction companies. The manpower cost in forwarding these letters is estimated at €21,000. Other costs are estimated at €3,500.

My Department has kept the costs of providing this service under review but given the manageable numbers involved, has so far decided against applying a charge for it. That situation could change should costs in terms of demands on staff resources and postage warrant it.

Harbours and Piers.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

384 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the upgrade of a pier (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25265/07]

The cost of upgrading the pier in question, including harbour developments and a marina, was approximately €10m according to estimates prepared some years ago. The scale of the project is beyond the scope of investment that my Department would be in a position to make under the Gaeltacht Strategic Piers Programme. Furthermore, I understand from discussions that my officials had with the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources that no application for funding in respect of this pier was received from the relevant local authority under the 2007 Harbours & Coastal Development Programme.

Irish Language.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

385 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made to date by Foras na Gaeilge on the development of a new official standard of Irish language grammar and spelling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24731/07]

Statutory responsibility for promotion of the Irish language, including matters such as the development of terminology and dictionaries, rests with Foras na Gaeilge.

Earlier this year, I requested the Foras to carry out a review of An Caighdeán Oifigiúil/the Official Standard for Irish. I am informed by the Foras that it is in the process of drawing up a plan as to the most effective way of conducting the review. The existing Standard has been in use since 1958 and has served the Irish language well since then. However, in light of the rapid and ongoing developments in the texture of the living language, I think it a review is timely. This will necessarily include a comprehensive process of consultation with all interested parties, including the Irish-speaking public. As the Deputy will understand, the review is likely to take a number of years to complete. In the interim, Foras na Gaeilge, as the body with statutory responsibility in this area, can assist public bodies, Rannóg an Aistriúcháin, translators and other interested bodies with definitive advice on any particular grammatical issues that may give rise to difficulty.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

386 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24736/07]

My Department's Annual Output Statement was published on its website on 16 May 2007 and is available at the following address:

http://www.pobail.ie/en/CorporateSupportServices/ Finance/AnnualOutputStatement2007

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

387 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24892/07]

It is my Department's policy that frequent flyer points may not influence decisions taken in relation to the carriers used for official business. However, in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life, my Department allows any benefits that are received under frequent flier schemes in the course of official travel to be retained.

Dormant Accounts Fund.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

388 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a project (details supplied) in County Donegal will be considered for funding which falls under the flagship criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24928/07]

The organisation in question applied for funding under the Dormant Accounts measure supporting Jointly Funded Flagship Projects, for the purpose of extending and refurbishing the local parochial hall. The application process for this measure was managed by Pobal on behalf of my Department. The application was deemed ineligible and the organisation was informed of this decision on 1 May, 2007.

In accordance with established procedure, the organisation was offered, and availed of, the opportunity to have this decision reviewed. The application was fully reviewed and the original decision was upheld. The organisation was informed of the outcome of the review process on 2 October 2007.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

389 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of money spent on paper and stationary in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25138/07]

To date in 2007 my Department has spent approximately €22,912 on stationery items and paper. Out of this expenditure the sum of €11,726 represents the amount spent on purchases produced from 100% recycled material. My Department seeks to make use of recycled paper products to the greatest extent possible.

Inland Waterways.

Catherine Byrne

Ceist:

390 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if, in view of the long delay in proceeding with a project following agreement reached between Dublin City Council and Waterways Ireland (details supplied), he will intervene to expedite the delivery of the contracts for sale, as the price has been agreed and the tenders are ready; if he will ensure that the development, which has been delayed for over a year, will begin without further delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25251/07]

I wish to inform the Deputy that I am advised by Waterways Ireland that its solicitors are dealing with the transfer of land in this case and that the matter will be progressed as soon as possible.

Community Development.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

391 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the reason it has it has been decided to cut funding under the local improvement scheme for CLÁR areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25260/07]

Due to the significant increase in assistance for Local Improvement Scheme (L.I.S.) roads from the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government (D/EHLG) in the past number of years (approx €11m in 2002 & 2003, €12.1m in 2004, €12.5m in 2005, €25m in 2006 and €30m in 2007), my Department has decided to place a greater emphasis on funding water and sewerage schemes during 2007 under the CLÁR Programme. In this context, it is important to note that approvals under these schemes increased from €3.7m in 2005 to €6.9m in 2006 and to €7.4m in 2007 to date.

However, I recently announced a new CLÁR LIS roads measure for 2007. The Deputy should note that the total funding likely to be provided from both my Department and the D/EHLG for LIS roads in 2007 is set to increase by almost 6% on that available in 2006.

Departmental Correspondence.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

392 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will answer the query of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24844/07]

My Department has received correspondence from the person referred to by the Deputy. The correspondence raised a number of issues which require legal examination. Accordingly, the matter has been referred to my Department's legal advisors for advice. As soon as this is received, my Department will be in further communication with the person in question.

Food Labelling.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

393 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when country of origin labelling will be extended to pork, chicken and sheep meat; and if she will ensure that substantial transformation will not be used to defeat the purpose of this proposal. [24876/07]

Pat Breen

Ceist:

406 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when legislation will be put in place regarding country of origin labelling for meat and pig products; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25157/07]

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

413 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when she will take steps to honour the Government’s commitment to introduce country of origin labelling legislation for the pig meat sector, in view of the fact that currently substantial transformation allows imported pork and bacon products to be labelled as Irish thereby misleading the consumer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25408/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 393, 406 and 413 together.

Draft regulations requiring the origin labelling of pigmeat, poultrymeat and sheepmeat were prepared in my Department and forwarded to the Department of Health and Children as the Regulations will be made under the Health Act 1947. A public consultation on the proposed regulations took place during the past month via the website of the Food Safety Authority of Ireland with the final date for receipt of comments being the 19th October. These comments will now be examined and the proposed legislation will be reviewed in the light of comments received. This process will take approximately three weeks. Thereafter the draft legislation will have to be forwarded to the European Commission. The commencement date for the legislation will depend on the Commission's response and possibly that of other Member States.

In the proposed legislation ‘origin' will be defined as the country where the animal was reared and, if different, the country of slaughter. This will have to be indicated on meat and meat products containing over 70% meat. Regardless of the nature, extent or location of processing or packaging that has gone into the manufacture of the product the requirement to show actual country of rearing and slaughter of the animal will remain in place and this will not be superseded by any ‘substantial transformation'.

Fisheries Protection.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

394 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will postpone the implementation of S.I. 531 of 2007 to allow for consultation with stake-holders and an appropriate ecological impact assessment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25212/07]

Following detailed consultations that resulted in the introduction of a Management Plan for the Waterford Cockle Fishery the Fishery was opened under S.I. 531 of 2007 (Cockle (Fisheries Management and Conservation) (Waterford Estuary) Regulations 2007) with effect from 21 July 2007.

This precautionary and planned approach, that restricts the areas which may be fished and limits harvesting to one third of that potentially available, represents a fundamental change in how the Fishery is managed. The Fishery will remain open until the limit is exhausted or, at the latest, January 15th 2008. In advance of the 2008 Cockle Fishery a further assessment, inclusive of stakeholder consultation, will be carried out.

Pesticide Residues.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

395 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of mushrooms that tested positively for carcinogenic substances in 2006; and the number that were tested in total. [24715/07]

Thirteen samples of mushrooms were analysed in 2006 to check that they complied with the legislation controlling pesticide residues in food. The only pesticide residue found in the samples analysed was prochloraz and there is no evidence to suggest this is a carcinogenic substance. The prochloraz residues found in four of the samples analysed were present at levels less than or equal to 1/40th of the maximum residue level (MRL). The list of pesticides for which the mushroom samples were analysed in 2006 is as follows.

Pesticide Compounds

LCL* (mg/kg)

Pesticide Compounds

LCL* (mg/kg)

Pesticide Compounds

LCL* (mg/kg)

Acephate

0.05

dicofol

0.05

monocrotophos

0.02

aldrin

0.02

Dieldrin

0.02

myclobutanil

0.02

Alachlor

0.02

dimethoate

0.02

trans-nonachlor

0.02

Atrazine

0.02

diphenylamine

0.02

omethaote

0.02

azinphos-ethyl

0.05

disulfoton

0.02

oxadixyl

0.02

azinphos-methyl

0.05

endrin

0.02

paraoxon

0.02

azoxystrobin

0.05

endosulfan-alpha**

0.02

parathion

0.02

benalaxyl

0.02

endosulfan-beta

0.02

parathion methyl

0.02

— BHC

0.02

endosulfan-sulfate

0.02

paraoxon-methyl

0.02

— BHC

0.02

Est-fenvalerate

0.05

penconazole

0.02

— BHC

0.02

ethion

0.02

pendimethalin

0.02

bifenthrin

0.02

etrimphos

0.02

permethrin**

0.02

binapacryl

0.02

fenarimol

0.02

phosalone

0.02

biphenyl

0.02

fenbuconazole

0.02

phosmet

0.02

bitertanol

0.02

fenchlorphos

0.02

phosphamidon

0.02

bromopropylate

0.02

fenhexamid

0.05

pirimicarb

0.02

bromophos-ethyl

0.02

fenitrothion

0.02

pirimiphos ethyl

0.02

bromophos-methyl

0.02

fenpropathrin

0.02

pirimiphos methyl

0.02

Bupirimate

0.02

Fenthion

0.02

Prochloraz

0.02

Captafol

0.02

fenvalerate

0.02

Procymidone

0.02

carbaryl

0.02

fludioxinil

0.02

propachlor

0.02

captan**

0.02

flusilazole

0.02

propanil

0.02

carbendazim

0.02

fluvalinate-tau

0.02

propargite

0.02

Carbofuran

0.02

Folpet

0.02

propetamphos

0.02

chlorpfenvinphos

0.02

Fonofos

0.05

propiconazole

0.02

chlorbenzilate

0.02

heptachlor

0.02

propoxur

0.02

chlorpropham

0.02

heptachlor-epoxide

0.02

propyzamide

0.02

chlorothalonil

0.02

heptenophos

0.02

pyrazophos

0.02

chlorpyriphos

0.02

hexachlorobenzene

0.02

pyrimethanil

0.02

chlorpyriphos-me

0.02

hexaconazole

0.02

pyrifenox

0.02

cis-chlordane

0.02

iprodione

0.02

quintozene

0.02

trans-chlordane

0.02

isofenphos

0.05

quinalphos

0.02

coumaphos

0.02

iodofenphos

0.02

simazine

0.02

cyfluthrin

0.02

Kresoxim methyl

0.02

tebuconazole

0.02

—cyfluthrin

0.02

lindane (ã-HCH)

0.02

tecnazene

0.02

—cyhalothrin

0.02

Linuron

0.02

terbufos

0.02

cypermethrin

0.05

malathion

0.02

tetradifon

0.02

cyproconazole

0.05

malaoxon

0.02

thiabendazole

0.05

cyprodinil

0.02

mecarbam

0.02

tolcophos methyl

0.02

pp’DDT

0.02

metacriphos

0.02

tolyfluanid

0.02

op’DDT

0.02

metalaxyl

0.02

Triazophos

0.02

pp’DDE

0.02

methamidophos

0.05

triadimefon

0.02

op’DDE

0.02

methidathion

0.02

triadimenol

0.02

pp’DDD

0.02

methiocarb

0.02

trifluralin

0.05

op’DDD

0.02

Methiocarb sulfone

0.05

trichlorfon

0.05

deltamethrin

0.05

Methiocarb sulfoxide

0.05

vinclozolin

0.02

Demeton-s-me-sfone

0.02

methoxychlor

0.02

Diazinon

0.02

metolachlor

0.02

EBDC’s (dithiocarbamates)

0.05

dichlofluanid

0.02

mevinphos

0.02

Dicloran

0.05

Mirex

0.02

dichlorvos

0.02

* = LCL is the lowest calibrated level and is equivalent to the limit of determination.

Installation Aid Scheme.

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

396 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary who has submitted an appeal under the installation aid scheme. [24716/07]

Appeals require individual examination and are dealt with in the order in which they are received. The appeal was received in the Agriculture Appeals Office 2nd August 2007 and was assigned to an Appeals Officer on 30th August 2007. The Appeals Officer has previously been in contact with the appellant to arrange an oral hearing, however the appellant was unavailable to attend. The Appeals Officer will be in contact again in the near future to arrange an alternative date suitable to all parties.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

397 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if her output statement has been published on her Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24733/07]

The 2007 Annual Output Statement was published on my Department's website on 28 June 2007.

Fisheries Protection.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

398 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if an ICES report on fish stocks in Irish coastal waters is in the process of being prepared; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24842/07]

The Annual ICES advice was released on Friday 19th October 2007 and is available on the ICES website, http://www.ices.dk/advice/icesadvice.asp. I will carefully examine this advice which will inform the Commission's proposal for the 2008 TAC and Quota Regulation. I will be working with Industry representatives over the coming weeks to deliver the best possible TAC'S, for stocks of importance to Ireland, taking into account the scientific advice and socio-economic needs of the coastal communities dependant on fishing.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

399 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if her Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to her Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24889/07]

The Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour advises that benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life. Accordingly, my Department permits Officers travelling on official business on behalf of the Department to retain any frequent flyer points earned.

Grant Payments.

Tom Hayes

Ceist:

400 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary who has appealed the decision not to allow payment under the single payment scheme due to a delay in submitting their area aid application in 2005. [24911/07]

The Single Payment Appeals Committee considered the case and requested the appellant to provide evidence that exceptional circumstances of Force Majeure precluded him from submitting his application prior to the closing date for receipt of applications. Despite several requests, no response has been received by the Committee to date, in support of his claim. In the absence of the evidence requested, The Committee upheld the decision of the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.

Michael Lowry

Ceist:

401 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will issue payment of a farm improvement grant to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24913/07]

The person named is an applicant for grant-aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. Payment will be made by my Department to the person concernedshortly.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

402 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, further to the confusion that exists in relation to Ministerial responsibility for marine related functions, she will specify those for which she has responsibility. [24915/07]

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

408 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the person who has responsibility for different sections under the marine and fisheries; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25164/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 402 and 408 together.

In accordance with the government decision taken on the 9 October and on foot of the Sea Fisheries, Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Transfer of Departmental Administration and Ministerial Functions) Order 2007, responsibility for the following legislation and associated functions has been transferred to my department: Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 (No. 8 of 2006); Part 2 of the Maritime Safety Act 2005 (No. 11 of 2005) so far as that Part relates to a fishery harbour centre to which the Fishery Harbour Centres Act 1968 (No. 18 of 1968) applies; Fishery Harbour Centres Acts 1968 to 2006; Sea Fisheries Acts 1952 to 1982; Marine Institute Act 1991 (No. 2 of 1991) other than section 4A (inserted by section 30 of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act 1999 (No. 35 of 1999)); Fisheries (Amendment) Act 2003 (No. 21 of 2003) except Part 5; Aquaculture Acts 1997 to 2006; Agricultural and Fishery Products (Regulation of Exports) Act 1947 (No. 18 of 1947) so far as that Act relates to sea fish and aquaculture products; Agricultural Products (Regulation of Import) Act 1938 (No. 14 of 1938) so far as that Act relates to sea fish and aquaculture products; Foreshore Acts 1933 to 2005; Dumping at Sea Acts 1996 to 2006; European Communities (Quality of Shellfish Waters) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 268 of 2006) other than in respect of any function exercisable by virtue of being a prescribed public authority as referred to in Schedule 1; European Communities (Sea Fisheries) (Conservation and Rational Exploitation of Scallops) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 297 of 2005); European Communities (Sea Fisheries) Irish Sea Herring Fishing (Licensing) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 547 of 2005); European Communities (Sea Fisheries) (Conservation and Rational Exploitation of Scallop) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 464 2005); European Communities (Common Organisation of Markets in Fishery and Aquaculture Products) (Financial Compensation for Withdrawal and Carry-over Aid) Regulations 2004 (S.I. No. 398 of 2004); European Communities (Veterinary Checks on Fish and Fishery Products Imported from Third Countries) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. 548 of 2003); European Communities (Financing of Veterinary Inspections and Controls on Fresh Fish landed by Third Country Vessels) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. 547 of 2003); European Communities (Labelling of Fishery and Aquaculture Products) Regulations 2003 (S.I. No. 320 of 2003); European Communities (Minimum measures for the control of certain diseases affecting bivalve molluscs) Regulations 1999 (S.I. No. 26 of 1999); European Communities (Trade in Fish) Regulations 1997 (S.I. No. 191 of 1997); Regulations 7, 15 and 24 of the European Communities (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 (S.I. No. 94 of 1997); European Communities (Aquaculture Animals and Fish) (Placing on the Market and Control of Certain Diseases) Regulations 1996 (S.I. No. 253 of 1996) as amended by- (a) European Communities (Aquaculture Animals and Fish) (Placing on the Market and Control of Certain Diseases) (Amendment) Regulations 2000 (S.I. No. 377 of 2000); (b) the European Communities (Aquaculture Animals and Fish) (Placing on the Market and Control of Certain Diseases) (Amendment) Regulations 2001 (S.I. No. 34 of 2001), (c) the European Communities (Aquaculture Animals and Fish) (Placing on the Market and Control of Certain Diseases) (Amendment) Regulations 2005 (S.I. No. 500 of 2005), and (d) the European Communities (Aquaculture Animals and Fish) (Placing on the Market and Control of Certain Diseases) (Amendment) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No 614 of 2006).

In addition, it should be noted that some of the foreshore functions being transferred to my Department are being transferred only pending their further transfer to the Minister for and Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government in accordance a Government Decision taken on 2 October 2007. My Department is currently putting in place the necessary arrangements to ensure the efficient and effective transfer of the appropriate legislation and associated functions.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

403 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding payment of the REP scheme to a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [24945/07]

Payment dated 11 October 2007 has issued in this case.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

404 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of money spent on paper and stationary in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25135/07]

To date in 2007, my Department, through contracts arranged by the Government Supplies Agency, expended some €590,000 on all forms of stationary and office supplies including paper product, of which €135,000 was in respect of recycled paper/paper products.

Animal Feedstuffs.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

405 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps she is taking to protect the pig industry here in view of the high feeding costs and the fact that they have to compete with cheap genetically modified imported products; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25156/07]

I am aware that the price of feed materials worldwide has increased significantly in the last 12 months and that this is putting serious pressure on pig producers. The EU Council of Agriculture Ministers has, in response to the pressures on the international cereal and feed markets, agreed to suspend the obligation to set 10% of arable land aside. This will ensure that more arable land is available for cereal cultivation in 2008.

All of the nutritional diets for pigs and poultry is derived from compound feeds. A significant element of these diets is soya meal which comes from authorised GM crops grown mainly in South America and which are subjected to the stringent assessment process required by EU legislation.

My Department is engaged in a wide range of activities that are vital to the development of the pig industry. These include national animal health programmes, monitoring of food safety compliance at production premises, the certification of meat for the various markets and improving access to new markets.

Pigmeat features prominently in Bord Bia's programme of promotion on home and export market. I have asked the Bord to intensify its autumn pork and bacon promotion campaign in order to ensure that the market remains firm over the coming months. I am also working with the Minister for Health and Children towards the introduction of legislation to provide better information to consumers on the origin of pigmeat. Considerable Bord Bia resources are also devoted to the pigmeat quality assurance scheme. Additional funding is being made available for this.

The Farm Waste Management scheme was extended to the pig sector and I brought in a programme of financial assistance for the transition to welfare-friendly sow housing.

Another issue facing pig producers is how to deal with pig slurry in a manner that complies with environment protection legislation. The Intensive Livestock Working Group which I established is currently examining the possible options for the sector in this regard.

I have asked the European Commission to introduce export refunds and aids to private storage (APS) for pigmeat. I am pleased that an APS scheme was introduced last week. I, along with Ministers from some other Member States, further pressed the Commission for additional support in the form of export refunds at the Agriculture Council in Luxembourg this week.

Question No. 406 answered with QuestionNo. 393.

Pigmeat Sector.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

407 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she will provide funding to market the Irish pork and bacon products here under An Bord Bia assurance scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25158/07]

Bord Bia receives a Grant-in-Aid to assist it in fulfilling its statutory marketing and promotion functions in relation to food, drink and horticulture. Decisions on the sectoral allocation of funds are made by Bord Bia taking account of EU state aid rules. In the case of pigmeat, Bord Bia is working closely with producers to promote Quality Assured Pork and Bacon on the home market and I have asked Bord Bia to intensify this promotion campaign and am providing increased funding for this. I am pleased that the Pre-Budget outlook for 2008 provides for a Grant-in-Aid of €27.505 million (above the record €26.505 million Grant-in-Aid for 2007) to support Bord Bia in its marketing and promotion activities.

Question No. 408 answered with QuestionNo. 402.

Beef Imports.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

409 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if she plans to reconsider her position in relation to Brazilian beef, in view of the safety fears over its importation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25259/07]

Approval of countries to trade with the EU is a matter for the EU Commission and the EU Commissioner for Health has assured me that the Commission will not hesitate to take the appropriate protection measures if a product, imported from a third country represents a risk for the health of EC consumers, livestock or plants. In this context the EU Food and Veterinary Office (FVO) is to carry out a further mission to Brazil in November to assess progress in the implementation and operation of controls by the competent authorities in that country. I will continue to pursue this matter at EU level.

Milk Quota.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

410 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the situation regarding the transfer of milk quota in 2007; further to Parliamentary Question No. 204 of 1 March 2007, if she has satisfied herself that all milk suppliers have been treated fairly and that this new trading scheme has worked in the interest of all; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25359/07]

As the Deputy will be aware, the mechanism through which milk quota was transferred in 2007 was the Milk Quota Trading Scheme, which I launched at the end of last year. The Scheme is operated at Co-op area level, and is comprised of a market exchange and a priority pool. It facilitates a more market-oriented transfer of quota than had previously been the case under the Milk Quota Restructuring Scheme. Two exchanges took place in January and April of this year, allocating a total of 200 million litres, or 4 per cent of national quota, to active milk producers.

After a review of the Trading Scheme with the farming organisations and ICOS, I announced my intention to build on the success of the Scheme by holding a further two exchanges for the purpose of allocating quota ahead of the 2008/09 milk quota year. Indeed the closing date for the first exchange is this Friday, 26 October. The Scheme will remain largely unchanged, with a market exchange and a priority pool operating in each Co-op area. However, I have made two key changes that I believe will further improve its operation. In the priority pool, a new distribution ratio of 3:2 between young farmers and Category 1 producers should make increased volumes of quota available to small-scale producers. In addition, a new mechanism will be introduced to the exchanges to facilitate trade in areas where either low or no volumes of quota have been traded because of local supply/demand characteristics. I am confident that these changes will further enhance the amounts of quota traded around the country.

Grant Payments.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

411 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason the farm development service is not processing CFP and DHS grant applications. [25402/07]

Grant applications under the various on-farm investment schemes operated by my Department are being processed in accordance with the standard administrative procedures in place for such applications.

Animal Feedstuffs.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

412 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if her attention has been drawn to the fact that up to 70% of the cost of producing a pig here is associated with the costs of feed; and that feed costs have risen by over €100 per tonne in 2007; if her attention has further been drawn to the fact that the competitors to the Irish based pig industry are able to avail of cheaper maize produce and by-products; the steps she is taking to help deal with this anomalous position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25403/07]

I am aware that the price of feed materials worldwide has increased significantly in the last 12 months due to a combination of factors which include (i) the increased demand from the feed industry generally and from the biofuel industry and also increased freight costs; (ii) unfavourable weather conditions in many of the major cereal growing regions of the world; and (iii) in certain cases, the lack of synchronisation between the GM authorisation processes in the US and the EU.

The rules governing the marketing and use of GM crops for animal feed within the Community are set down in EU legislation that has been jointly adopted by the European Parliament and Council of Ministers. This legislation, which is binding on all Member States, dictates that only GM events that have been subjected to the necessary health and environmental safety assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and authorised under the relevant legislation can be placed on the market within the EU.

Indications are that the pressures on availability are easing somewhat with Irish importers securing significant supplies of whole maize and sorghum as substitutes for costly wheat and barley used in pig rations. I am hopeful that Herculex RW will be authorised in the near future for marketing within the EU and this should further assist in the availability of whole maize for importation.

Also the EU Council of Agriculture Ministers has, in response to the pressures on the international cereal and feed markets, agreed to suspend the obligation to set 10% of arable land aside. This, coupled with the prospect of farmers responding to more favourable cereal growing market conditions, should ensure that there is an increase in cereal cultivation in 2008.

Question No. 413 answered with QuestionNo. 393.

Fisheries Protection.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

414 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the Commission proposals of 17 October 2007, she has an estimate of the scale of illegal fishing within Irish waters both by non EU and EU based vessels. [25442/07]

I very much welcome the initiative from the EU Commission to address the challenge of international trade and Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated fishing.

Ireland has a very important position as custodian of some of the largest and richest waters within the EU but also in our location on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. Ireland continues to maintain high standards in the enforcement of regulations within the Exclusive Fisheries Zone using the resources of both our Naval Service and Air Corps. The use of these resources with the addition of satellite monitoring of all fishing vessels both EU and Non-EU allows a high level of monitoring and surveillance of our waters. As partners in the regional fisheries management organisation NEAFC, Ireland continues to provide monitoring resources to assist in detection of IUU activity in the Atlantic Ocean beyond EU boundaries.

In 2007 the Naval Service has detected infringements on 12 vessels which resulted in their detention. All vessels were from EU Member States.

Commonage Division.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

415 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if there is a dealing (details supplied) taking place within the Land Commission. [25468/07]

This is a complex case concerning title discrepancies on a re-arrangement scheme drawn up by the former Land Commission and involves the perfection of title of 94 plots. All necessary steps are being taken with a view to expediting the completion of the Schedule in question. I understand that the person named has not yet paid for his allotment and should contact my Department in this regard. The address is Land Commission Accounts, Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, Government Buildings, Farnham Street, Cavan.

Site Acquisitions.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

416 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if the Office of Public Works has contacted South Dublin County Council regarding a new site for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 22; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25119/07]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that agreement has been reached to provide permanent accommodation for the school in question on a V.E.C. owned site. The site is currently being master planned to facilitate both this school and two other all-Irish schools. All of the school authorities will be kept informed of progress in this regard.

Educational Projects.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

417 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science when the Music Network Feasibility Report for provision of local music education services will be implemented. [25208/07]

Among the recommendations contained in the Music Network report was that a series of Music Education Partnerships would be developed between the County/City Development Boards and the Vocational Education Committees on a phased basis.

In 2004, my Department began funding a pilot programme in both Dublin City and in Donegal VECs to test approaches to delivery of the proposed model. Resources are not available at present to expand this programme to other areas. However, the matter will be kept under review.

I believe that the arts have an important role to play in the education of the individual. Music, the visual arts and drama provide for sensory, emotional, intellectual and creative enrichment and contribute to the young person's holistic development and self esteem. Arts education (visual arts, music and drama) is one of the seven curriculum areas that comprise the primary curriculum, which was revised in 1999. At second level there are approved syllabuses for Junior Certificate in Music and Art, Craft and Design. In the senior cycle there are syllabuses in Music and Art. Modules in the Arts are also available as part of the Leaving Certificate Applied and in the Transition Year programme. In the delivery of these programmes, schools are encouraged to interact with practising artists in their own classrooms and in out of school settings.

In addition to supporting Music in the curriculum an additional allocation of the equivalent of 93 whole time teaching posts are allocated to a range of VECs to support Music education. This takes the form of individual tuition in instrumental and vocal music education, and provision of supports for choirs, orchestras and ensembles. Through this some 68,000 hours of music tuition are provided annually.

Site Acquisitions.

Niall Blaney

Ceist:

418 Deputy Niall Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science when the Office of Public Works will release payment for land (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25235/07]

The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, has been requested to source a site for a new national school in Monreagh. The title on the preferred site option is currently being investigated by the Chief State Solicitors Office. Agreement to enter a Contract for purchase of this site will be considered in the context of the Department's 2008 budget for acquisition of sites, which has yet to be finalised.

Cross-Border Projects.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

419 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if there are plans to harmonise the two educational Departments on the island allowing parents of children living in border areas the right to choose which school their children attend. [25332/07]

My Department, together with the Department of Education Northern Ireland, has responsibility for the development of co-operation and common action in the field of education between both parts of the island of Ireland, in the context of the Good Friday Agreement. My Department is required to take forward this co-operation through the North/South Ministerial Council (NSMC) and to develop, within that framework, common policies in the designated areas of special education needs, educational underachievement, teacher mobility and school, youth and teacher exchanges.

The re-establishment of the NI Assembly structures including the North South Ministerial Council will present opportunities to enrich and develop cooperative activities with Northern Ireland in the education and youth sector.

Schools Building Projects.

David Stanton

Ceist:

420 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department is in receipt of an application from a school (details supplied) in County Cork for assistance in securing a new building for the school; if she will arrange for a team from her building and planning unit to visit the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24687/07]

An application for capital funding towards the provision of new school building 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 will be required 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 required building project will be considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation programme.

State Examinations.

Ulick Burke

Ceist:

421 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the breakdown in subject area of the 2,063 successful appeals by students of the leaving certificate 2007 results; and the change in grades involved. [24692/07]

The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations, including organising the holding of examinations and issuing the results of examinations.

The Commission issued a Press Release on 10th October giving details of the 2007 Leaving Certificate appeals by subject. A copy of the Press Release is included below for the Deputy's information.

The Press Release and other examination related information is available on the Commission's website www.examinations.ie

STATE EXAMINATIONS COMMISSION

PRESS RELEASE

LEAVING CERTIFICATE APPEALS 2007

10th October 2007

The State Examinations Commission (SEC) has released the appeal results for the 2007 Leaving Certificate examination. Candidates will receive the results of their appeals today either through their school or through the on-line examination results service on www.examinations.ie. At 12 midday today the Leaving Certificate examination results available on www.examinations.ie will be updated to reflect the appeal outcomes. The appeal results are also being transmitted electronically to the Central Applications Office.

In 2007, the Leaving Certificate (Established and Vocational) examinations culminated in the issue of some 350,000 grades to 50,870 candidates. A total of 5,635 candidates made applications for appeals against 10,135, grades leading to 2,063 upgrades. Small numbers of appeals were also processed in subjects in the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme.

In the processing of appeals, the work of each candidate is fully re-marked question by question using the original marking scheme. The re-marking is performed by a different examiner to the one who originally marked the work.

Candidates may opt to view their re-marked examination scripts. Candidates are required to complete the application form that accompanies the appeal results and to return it through the school that entered them for examination by Friday 12th October. Externally entered candidates should return the form directly to the SEC. All such applications must be with the SEC by 5 PM on Tuesday 16th October 2007. The viewing will be held in the Athlone office of the SEC on Saturday 20th October between 10.00 am and 4.00 p.m.

Candidates who are dissatisfied with the outcome of their appeal have recourse to the Independent Appeals Scrutineers. The Scrutineers' role is to ensure that due process has been followed in the case of each appeal and that all of the appeal procedures were properly carried out. The Scrutineers are independent of the State Examinations Commission and they have the power to request from the SEC all documentation relating to an appeal in conducting their investigations. Application forms for an appeal review by the Independent Appeal Scrutineers have been provided with the appeal results.

NUMBER AND OUTCOME OF APPEALS 2007

A total of 10,135 individual subject appeals were processed resulting in 2,063 upgrades. Details of the number and outcome of appeals are shown below for subjects in which more than 10 appeals were made.

Leaving Certificate Appeals 2007

Subject

Level

Candidates

Appeals

Upgrades

English

H

31,070

1,862

282

Biology

H

17,521

710

196

Geography

H

17,763

722

209

Irish

H

13,831

952

180

Business

H

12,670

608

128

French

H

13,770

731

143

Mathematics

H

8,388

496

95

Mathematics

O

35,075

583

83

History

H

7,411

454

121

Chemistry

H

5,729

380

56

Physics

H

5,223

178

43

Art

H

7,531

278

64

Links Modules (Lcvp)

C

14,080

225

56

Home Economics — S+ S

H

8,348

209

40

Accounting

H

4,922

225

64

Economics

H

3,493

188

24

German

H

4,554

206

48

Engineering

H

3,361

32

8

Music

H

4,369

147

19

Agricultural Science

H

3,261

146

74

Technical Drawing

H

2,878

108

16

Irish

O

25,662

75

8

Construction Studies

H

6,326

98

19

French

O

14,035

69

11

Spanish

H

1,535

89

19

English

O

17,377

53

17

Latin

H

111

14

1

Physics & Chemistry

H

392

13

0

Spanish

O

1,127

11

2

H = Higher, O = Ordinary, C = Common.

Appeals were also made in Higher Level ;Agricultural Economics, Arabic, Classical Studies, Home Economics, Italian, Japanese, Religious Education, Romanian, and in Ordinary Level Accounting, Agricultural Science, Applied Mathematics, Art, Biology, Business, Chemistry, Classical Studies, Construction Studies, Economics, Engineering, Geography, German, History, Home Economics S&S, Italian, Physics, and Technical Drawing; and in Foundation Level Irish and Mathematics. The figures do not include a small number of appeals which have yet to be finalised.

Schools Building Projects.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

422 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress made to provide a new school building for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7. [24707/07]

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

423 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Education and Science if a new building will be provided on the site of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7 by leasing and sub leasing the land from its current occupants. [24708/07]

Joe Costello

Ceist:

429 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will provide a new school for the children of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7. [24754/07]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

444 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science the action she will take to address the accommodation needs of the pupils attending a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7. [24802/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 422, 423, 429 and 444 together.

The school to which the Deputies refer has submitted an application for a new school building and the Department is acutely aware of the need for a solution to the school's accommodation needs.

In this regard, officials in the School Planning Section are actively pursuing a number of options including the provision of a permanent structure on the school's current site. While a number of issues have arisen in relation to this proposal the Department is considering measures to address them.

In the meantime, it remains open to the authorities of school to apply to the School Planning Section of the Department for any remedial works required in respect of its existing accommodation.

Deirdre Clune

Ceist:

424 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans she has to provide a second level school in an area (details supplied) in County Cork. [24709/07]

I am advised that it is the Department's understanding that traditionally pupils from the areas referred to by the Deputy attend Post Primary Schools in the surrounding areas of Cork City and County.

Special Educational Needs.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

425 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the speech and language service currently available to a school (details supplied) in County Wexford consists of only seven sessions per week, despite the fact that a minimum of two full-time speech and language therapists is required to provide an adequate service and that with a total enrolment of 133 pupils the average speech and language service per pupil is only five minutes and thirty five seconds per week; if her further attention has further been drawn to the fact that no speech and language therapy can be made available to new students in the current situation; her views on whether irrespective of which Department delivers speech and language therapy to schools, her Department is responsible for ensuring that early intervention requirements and an adequate speech and language allocation is available to the only special education school serving County Wexford; if she will take steps to remedy this situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24726/07]

The Deputy will be aware that the provision of therapy services including speech and language therapy is a matter for the Health Services Executive (HSE) and funding is provided to the HSE for such purposes.

The matter of early intervention supports relating to speech and language therapy for the school in question is specifically a matter for the HSE.

Site Acquisitions.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

426 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science when a new premises will be provided for a school (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24729/07]

Discussions are on-going in relation to the acquisition of a site for the development of education style campus for the area to which the Deputy refers. It is intended to meet the needs of the school in question within this arrangement. Once a suitable site has been acquired, progress on its development will be considered under the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

427 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Education and Science if her output statement has been published on her Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24738/07]

My Department's Annual Output Statement for 2007 has not been published on the Department's website to date but was provided to the Education and Science Committee of the Dáil for its consideration of the Estimates.

My Department has begun the process of drafting a new Output Statement and it is envisaged that the 2008 Output Statement will be placed on the Department's website.

Schools Recognition.

John O'Mahony

Ceist:

428 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science if a school (details supplied) in County Kerry and it courses are recognised by her Department; and if the school received funding from her Department for its recent summer courses. [24753/07]

Gaelscoil Brú na Páirce, Cill Áirne officially known as Gaelscoil Faithleann is recognised as a Primary School by my Department.

The scheme for the Summer course programme for Primary teachers is administered by Drumcondra Education Centre on behalf of my Department. The main objective of summer courses is the development of teachers' pedagogic and management skills, in the context of the work of the Primary school. These courses are self financing. Drumcondra Education Centre or my Department has no record of receiving an application from Gaelscoil Faithleann for funding for it's Summer Courses.

If Gaelscoil Faithleann wishes to apply for recognition for future summer courses they should contact Drumcondra Education Centre.

Question No. 429 answered with QuestionNo. 422.

Higher Education Grants.

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

430 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will pass the necessary legislation to facilitate the transfer of responsibility for the administration of the higher education grants from local authorities to the vocational educational committees in order that the transfer of the function can take place in advance of the 2008/2009 academic year; if additional funding is to be made available to the VEC for the recruitment of staff to deal with the increased volume of applications as a result of the transfer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24757/07]

Damien English

Ceist:

489 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans she or her Department has to change the higher education grants scheme; if she will undergo a public consultation process on this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25183/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 430 and 489 together.

As the Deputies may already be aware, I plan to introduce a single unified scheme of maintenance grants for students and to consolidate the administration of this unified grants scheme in the VEC sector. This will, I believe, provide for a more coherent administrative system. The scheme, which will be underpinned by a new Student Support Bill, will facilitate consistency of application, improved client accessibility and timely delivery of grants.

The Student Support Bill is at an advanced stage of preparation, and I hope to be in a position to publish it shortly.

My Department is in consultation with the key stakeholders in order to map the most logical and effective arrangements for the future structure and administration of the student support schemes, including the arrangements for the 2008/09 academic year. These consultations are a priority for my Department at present.

Site Acquisitions.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

431 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on whether the site being proposed by Fingal County Council at Kellystown as a future post-primary school is suitable in terms accessibility, proximity to the homes of the likely student population and zoning; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24772/07]

As pointed out to the Deputy in my response to Parliamentary Question 461 on the 16th of October last, the Department works in partnership with Fingal County Council under the Fingal School Model Agreement to acquire sites for educational provision in the Dublin 15 area.

A site under this Model is being actively pursued to provide additional post primary places in the Castleknock area. The exact location of the new site has yet to be determined.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

432 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if, with reference to Parliamentary Question No. 418 of 2 October 2007, her Department keeps a copy of each county and city development plan and maps on file; if her staff are capable of reading these maps; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24773/07]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

435 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department maintains an inventory or map of sites that have been reserved for new schools by local authorities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24776/07]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

436 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science the mechanism that exists within her Department to keep a record of reserved school sites and to ensure that they are not developed for another use; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24777/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 432, 435 and 436 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, Local Authorities are obliged by statute to refer draft local area development plans to the Department for observation and comment so that lands can be zoned and reserved for future education use. This process has resulted in numerous sites being reserved for education purposes particularly in the rapidly developing areas so as to ensure that there will be sufficient land set aside and available for the future development of education infrastructure.

While the Local Area Development Plans and their associated maps are an essential tool, the process of assessing the need for new or additional educational facilities at primary and post-primary level in any given area also entails a broader consideration of all relevant factors, including enrolment and demographic trends, housing developments and the capacity of existing schools to meet the demand for school places.

In this context, officials of School Planning Section meet regularly with Local Authorities to establish the location, scale and pace of any major proposed developments to ensure, as far as possible the timely delivery of any required education infrastructure.

All relevant correspondence and local area development plans, including maps, are held in the School Planning Section of the Department.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

433 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will locate the new pilot VEC national school in Diswellstown; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24774/07]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

434 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will open a pilot VEC national school in Dublin 15 in September 2008; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24775/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 433 and 434 together.

It is still intended that the proposed new model of national community school will be introduced on a pilot basis in September 2008. A specific location for the school has yet to be decided.

Questions Nos. 435 and 436 answered with Question No. 432.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

437 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if, with reference to Parliamentary Question No. 418 of 2 October 2007, she has confirmed the existence of this reserved site which is clearly shown in the Fingal County development plan maps 2004 to 2009; if she will acquire same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24778/07]

My Department has already made significant interventions in the particular part of Dublin 15 concerned. This area is now served by served by three primary schools one of which was established by the Department this year. Another is operating from a purpose built 24 classroom building and plans are being advanced to expand the third to a 32 classroom facility. My Department is monitoring the situation and will be making extra accommodation available for 2008 if this is necessary. The site to which the Deputy refers is reserved for educational provision. However, my Department is focusing on acquiring a much larger reserved site in the area which is considered to be more suitable to the area's current and projected needs.

Rental Costs.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

438 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if, with regard to Parliamentary Question No. 416 of 2 October 2007, she will answer the question in a format of her choosing; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24779/07]

As I indicated in my reply to Question No. 416 of 2 October 2007, the information sought by the Deputy is not readily available. However, if the Deputy has a query in relation to a specific school he can contact my officials in the School Planning Section of the Department who will be happy to assist in this regard.

Schools Building Projects.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

439 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science the thirteen new schools she has promised to build in Fingal by September 2008; the communities or areas they will serve; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24780/07]

The Department been working for some time with Fingal County Council on the acquisition of sites to enable new schools to open throughout its area of functionality in 2008.

The ability of the Department to open these schools next September is contingent on the sites being acquired very soon. The Department is encouraged by the Council's recent positive statement in relation to the progress being made in this regard. The schools themselves will be provided in areas to meet the needs arising from the local authority's own County Development Plan and its various Local Area Development Plans.

The Deputy will appreciate that due to commercial sensitivities, I cannot comment on specific sites at this time, however, I can assure the Deputy that the Department will continue to work very closely with Fingal County Council to meet the needs of the Fingal area for next year and beyond.

School Placement.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

440 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if her attention has been drawn to the acute shortage of places in a school (details supplied) in Dublin 15 which had to significantly reduce its catchment area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24781/07]

The Department has made significant interventions in the Dublin 15 area in response to the acknowledged need for considerable extra school places for the area. The particular part of Dublin 15 to which the Deputy refers is now served by three primary schools one of which was established by the Department this year. Another is operating from a purpose built 24 classroom building and plans are being advanced to expand the third to a 32 classroom facility.

All three of the schools worked closely together this year to implement enrolment policies to ensure that all eligible pupils acquired places. I want to take the opportunity to commend the school authorities for their approach in this regard. The Department is monitoring the situation and will be making extra accommodation available for 2008 if this is necessary. In this regard, the Department has requested Fingal County Council to immediately acquire a reserved site under the Fingal School Model Agreement process to meet current and future needs.

Planning Issues.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

441 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of her recent criticisms of local authorities for granting too many planning permissions in areas with inadequate school places, she lodged an objection to proposals since granted to construct three hundred more houses and apartments (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24782/07]

As the Deputy will be aware, Local Authorities are obliged by statute to refer draft local area development plans to the Department for observation and comment so that lands can be zoned for future education use. There are numerous sites reserved for education purposes under this process particularly in rapidly developing areas.

Once subsequent residential planning permissions are consistent with these plans, the focus for the Department is one of collaboration with the local authority to ensure that the lands set aside for educational provision can be acquired and developed as they are needed.

The Department has prioritised the acquisition of a reserved site in the area to which the Deputy refers in light of the planned housing developments for the area.

The acquisition of a site in the area is a priority for the Department in light of the planned housing developments.

School Curriculum.

James Bannon

Ceist:

442 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will introduce a leaving certificate politics and law course as a natural follow-on to the junior certificate CSPE programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24795/07]

The Report of the Task Force on Active Citizenship includes a recommendation on the development of a senior cycle programme on citizenship for schools. Since 2005 the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment has been involved in an intensive phase of planning and development in key areas of senior cycle. As part of this, the development of a new subject "Politics and Society" is under way, which is proposed as an optional examinable full subject. A background paper on Social and Political Education in Senior Cycle was published for consultation, and the report on the consultation was completed in May 2007. Both reports are available on the Council's website at www.ncca.ie. Development work is continuing. However, I have not as yet received any formal proposals in the matter from the Council.

It should be noted that education for citizenship is covered extensively in the curriculum for primary schools as part of Social Personal and Health Education, and History, Geography and Science. At second level, these themes are continued, and have a major emphasis in Social Personal and Health Education (SPHE) and in the examinable subject of Civic Social and Political Education (CSPE) at junior cycle. Both SPHE and CSPE are mandatory for all pupils.

CSPE includes provision for an innovative action project which is assessed as part of the Junior Certificate examination. The key aim of the action project is to give students a practical experience of active citizenship. This includes fostering a sense of belonging and awareness of social inclusion and justice issues, a capacity to gain access to information and structures relating to the society in which they live, and an ability and confidence to participate in democratic society. Students choose a theme for their action project which is designed around the skills of identification and awareness of a social issue, planning, research, analysis and evaluation, reporting and engaging in joint action which develop social and political skills. These themes are further strengthened through the Young Social Innovators programme and Gaisce, the President's award, Open, a social enterprise module sponsored by the Credit Union of Ireland, in Search of Europe, St Vincent de Paul Education Pack etc., which are offered as modules in the Transition Year Programme. Within the Leaving Certificate Applied Programme, all students follow a compulsory module in Social Education.

Schools Building Projects.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

443 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to a new community school that was to be constructed in Ballinamore, County Leitrim. [24801/07]

The Office of Public Works, which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to sites 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.

Question No. 444 answered with QuestionNo. 422.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

445 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on the proposed extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24803/07]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction recently commenced on the project in question.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

446 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Education and Science when the extension to a primary school (details supplied) in County Kildare will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24804/07]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that construction recently commenced on this project and it is envisaged that it will take about 15 months to complete.

Language Support.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

447 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the resources that are available to schools where a student requiring language support arrives at a time other than at the beginning of the school year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24808/07]

In order to meet the language needs of students in our schools whose first language is not English or Irish, additional support is given to their schools which can take the form of financial assistance, additional teaching posts or portions of posts.

The level of extra financial or teaching support provided to any school is determined by the numbers of eligible non-English speaking students enrolled. I indicated in January last that the limit of two teachers per school and the limit of two years' support to an individual pupil which had applied up to then, will no longer apply. As a result, an individual school may be allocated up to six language support posts under the arrangements now in place.

Schools with between 3 and 13 eligible pupils receive grant assistance towards the cost of employing part-time teachers. Schools with 3 to 8 such pupils receive a grant of over €6,300, while schools with between 9 and 13 such pupils receive over €9,500. These amounts are based on the full school year. If the school only becomes eligible for a grant during the year, they would receive the pro-rata amount due.

Schools with 14 or more such pupils are entitled to one or more language support teachers, the number of which has increased dramatically in recent years. There are now over 1800 language support teachers in our primary and secondary schools.

In order to ensure that schools can accurately and objectively assess the language requirement of children, my Department will be sending to schools assessment materials which have been developed by Integrate Ireland Language and Training (IILT). The assessment materials will enable schools to ensure that the specific language requirements of children needing support are met in a targeted way. The IILT materials will also enable accurate initial and on-going assessment of the language proficiency of the child and his or her need for continued language support.

School Examinations.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

448 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the discussions she has had with the State Examinations Commission regarding the use of dictionaries in exams; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24809/07]

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.

The Commission operates a scheme of accommodations in the certificate examinations which includes provision for the use of bilingual dictionaries by candidates whose first language is not English or Irish. Bilingual translation dictionaries between the candidate's first language and English or Irish (i.e. without explanation of terms/definition) are permitted. Electronic bilingual dictionaries, translators, wordlists or glossaries are not permitted. This accommodation has been a feature of the scheme since 2004.

The use of a bilingual dictionary is not permitted in the case of examinations in the following subjects, viz.English Irish The candidate's first language A language closely related to the candidate's first language (Where a query arises as to the definition of a closely related language, the Commission must be consulted in advance of the examination for advice in this respect).

The following are details in relation to the level of uptake of this accommodation since 2004—

Year

Total Candidates

2004

833

2005

1,000

2006

1,046

2007

1,528

Integration Policy.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

449 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the plans she has to appoint a national coordinator to support and facilitate schools in facing the challenges of the increasing diversity of Irish society and the developing and implementation of inter-cultural education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24810/07]

In June this year, the Taoiseach appointed a Minister of State with responsibility for the development of Integration policy based in the Department of Community Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs with links to both the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and my Department.

This development will co-ordinate the response of the three Government Departments in relation to the integration of newcomers to Ireland. The appointment of the Minister and the establishment of the Office of the Minister for Integration will help ensure the provision of an efficient and effective delivery of services to assist the integration across a number of inter-related areas to minimise duplication and gaps in provision and to maximise opportunities for collaboration and co-operation.

The Office of the Minister for Integration will be involved in setting up new funding lines to address integration priorities; developing "principles" of integration; bringing Departments together to coordinate integration activities and helping all parties (local communities/local authorities/trade unions/religious groups etc.,) to play their part in building an integrated Irish society. The Minister for Integration also intends to establish a Task Force on Integration in early 2008 to identify key topics affecting immigrant communities; consult widely with immigrants and Irish people; visit communities; examine previous research and report back with recommendations which may include the question of the appointment of a national co-ordinator.

Teacher Training.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

450 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of places which are available at each training institution to train teachers in the teaching of English as a second language; if such training is available for all teachers, not just language support teachers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24811/07]

The programmes in the Colleges of Education contain a number of elements aimed at enabling student teachers to address the various needs of all pupils in the classroom, including students whose first language is not English. In particular, all students undertake a course to prepare them to teach English in accordance with the revised primary school curriculum. Two modules of this course are taken in each year of the three year B. Ed. and it includes the teaching of English as an additional language for students. In addition, the Colleges of Education address the specific issues involved in the teaching of students whose first language is not English in a variety of ways. These include intercultural education, language acquisition and specialised courses in second language teaching. St. Patrick's College provides an elective course with a specific focus on teaching English as a second language. Coláiste Mhuire Marino and Mary Immaculate College Limerick are considering options to further address the issues involved.

In addition, Integrate Ireland Language and Training has been providing training to language support teachers to date and from 2004 to 2006 nearly 1,800 teachers attended the training courses provided.

Additional downloadable material is available from the Integrate Ireland Web site at www.iilt.ie.

School Enrolments.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

451 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps that have been taken by her Department to implement Recommendation No. 6 of the Joint Committee on Education and Science second report on the provision of educational services in a multi-ethnic/multi-cultural society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24812/07]

Enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and the Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. The Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.

It is the responsibility of the managerial authorities of schools that are not in a position to admit all pupils seeking entry to implement an enrolment policy in accordance with the Education Act. In this regard a board of management may find it necessary to restrict enrolment to children from a particular area or a particular age group or, occasionally, on the basis of some other criterion. In formulating an admissions policy a school must, however, ensure it is lawful. In particular, it must act in accordance with Section 7 of the Equal Status Act 2000 which, subject to very limited exceptions, prohibits schools from discriminating against people in relation to a number of matters including the admission of a pupil to the school.

Performance Management.

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

452 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will expand on her proposals in relation to the dismissal of teachers who are not performing well; if badly performing principals are included in her proposals; the measures open to parents concerned about the performance of a principal where the board of management refuses to take action; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24819/07]

As part of the modernisation agenda for teachers under the Social Partnership Agreement Towards 2016 it was agreed to address the issue of difficulties in relation to Teacher performance. It was recognised that while the vast majority of teachers fulfil their teaching function and professional duties adequately and well, there are, as in all professions, a small number of under performing personnel in schools.

In that context discussions under the auspices of the Teachers Conciliation Council have commenced to review and revise existing procedures for the suspension and dismissal of teachers. The discussions comprehend the arrangements that will apply in the case of both teachers and Principals. One of the issues under consideration is the provision of assistance, where appropriate, to teachers who are experiencing professional difficulties as provided for in the Towards 2016 agreement.

The Teachers Conciliation Council is the recognised forum for dealing with matters relating to pay and conditions of service of teachers. The parties to the forum include representatives of the managerial authorities of schools, the teacher unions and the Departments of Education and Science and Finance.

As the proceedings of the Conciliation Council are confidential it would not be appropriate for me to make any further comment at this time.

In relation to the measures open to parents concerned about the performance of a principal any such concerns should be raised in the first instance with the board of management of the school concerned. My Department's role is limited to insuring that fair and reasonable procedures are applied by the school authority concerned. It is open to a parent who alleges a lack of fair procedure in a school authority's handling of a complaint to approach my Department in this regard.

Schools Building Projects.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

453 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress to date on the proposed extension to a school (details supplied) in County Kildare; the proposed date for completion of the project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24824/07]

I am pleased to inform the Deputy that following a recent review meeting held on Wednesday September 26 with officials from my Department, representatives of the School and their Design Team, approval in principle was given to the Stage 2 submission (Outline Sketch Scheme).

Progression of all projects to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Renewable Energy.

Áine Brady

Ceist:

454 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to include the use of solar panels or other renewable technologies in the design of schools here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24825/07]

My Department is to the forefront of design with respect to energy efficiency in school buildings. However, the length of the school day and school holiday periods generally impact on the suitability of alternative energy options in school buildings.

My Department's design guidelines set the benchmark for low energy design in schools and are clearly focused on energy efficiency and are based on solid energy research projects.

It has been demonstrated that all schools designed and built to these standards can have an energy performance that is 2.3 times more efficient than international best practice and nearly five times more efficient than schools built in the late 80's.

My Department's policy is supported by a strong research programme with over twenty research projects at various stages currently in hand.

A hybrid approach is taken with respect to low energy design in schools based on maximising natural resources and energy efficient technologies. Schools are positioned to maximise gain from the sun during the day for passive solar heating and natural daylight. Passive solar design saves 20% of early morning heating period and adequate natural daylight when combined with automated lighting systems in the classrooms can eliminate the need for electrical light for up to 80% of the schools teaching hours.

Energy efficient boilers and individual room temperature controls combined with a strong emphasis on air tight testing and high insulation levels minimise heat requirements. Water usage is minimised through automatic shut off taps and dual flush toilets, while local water blending valves are provided to prevent scalding. All of the above design features are included in the Department's Generic Repeat Design schools.

My Department has developed a number of carbon neutral schools as part of research projects involving both geothermal and wood pellet installations and further projects are currently being assessed in respect of their suitability for wider rollout.

The performance of my Department in the area of low energy design has been recognised at both National and International level with sustainable energy awards for excellence in Design and Specification.

Schools Building Projects.

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

455 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps she proposes to take to address problems at a school (details supplied) in County Laois where facilities for children with autism are required; and if the appropriate extension will be approved without delay. [24831/07]

A technical inspection was recently carried out at the school to which the Deputy refers. Progress on the building project is being considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Class Sizes.

Eamon Scanlon

Ceist:

456 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of primary schools consisting of class sizes five, six, seven and eight that have been built in the north west area within the past two years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24845/07]

The information requested is not readily available to my Department. I will arrange for the information to be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Youthreach Programme.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

457 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Education and Science, further to Parliamentary Question No. 125 of 27 September 2007, the provision made for an alternative education centre to mainstream school such as a Youthreach or Youth Train project in a town (details supplied) in County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24871/07]

An application was submitted by Wexford VEC for funding towards Youthreach in the town referred to by the Deputy. The application was unsuccessful; however, it will be considered next year in the context of competing priorities.

School Transport.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

458 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will favourably consider a school transport request by a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [24872/07]

One of my Department's objectives is to provide a reasonable level of transport service for eligible pupils to and from school. Bus Éireann, which manages school transport services on behalf of my Department, is responsible for the establishment, contracting and operation of those services.

Where it is not possible to provide a reasonable level of service, or where a service is considered unsuitable to meet the needs of the pupil/s concerned, my Department may offer a grant towards the cost of organising a private transport arrangement.

The pupil referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied has been provided with a service that is meeting his school transport requirements.

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

459 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will assess the transport needs of persons (details supplied) in County Meath; and if the current parameters for free transport in east Meath will be re-examined. [24878/07]

Under the terms of my Department's Primary School Transport Scheme, pupils who reside 3.2 kilometres or more from, and are attending, their nearest suitable school as determined by my Department, are eligible for free school transport.

The pupils referred to by the Deputy in the details supplied reside less than 3.2 kilometres from the school they are attending and, therefore, do not meet the eligibility criteria for free school transport.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

460 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Education and Science if her Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to her Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24894/07]

The Department of Education and Science's foreign travel policy currently makes no reference to the accrual by Ministers or civil servants of frequent flyer points, including the signing over to the Department or retention of these points. The Department adheres to the general Foreign Travel Policy document, issued by the Department of Finance, which states that "It will be the responsibility of each Department/Office to ensure that frequent flyer points are not allowed influence decisions taken in relation to the carriers used for official business."

Special Educational Needs.

Niall Blaney

Ceist:

461 Deputy Niall Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will intervene on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal who requires resource hours allocated to assist them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24906/07]

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers, for the establishment of special classes for autism and for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. I have arranged for the details supplied by the Deputy to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.

All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

Schools Building Projects.

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

462 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the development of a school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24932/07]

I am pleased to advise the Deputy that on 25 June, 2007 my Department gave devolved authority for the project in question to advance to Planning Permission stage and to commence preparation of tender documentation.

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

463 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of an extension for a school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24933/07]

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 required building project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

464 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the provision of a new building for a school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24934/07]

The Property Management Section of the Office of Public Works (OPW), which acts on behalf of my Department in relation to site acquisitions generally, has been requested to source a site for this Gaelscoil.

An assessment of projected enrolment trends, demographic trends and housing developments in the area will also be required in order to determine the long term projected staffing figure on which the school's accommodation needs will be based.

Once a suitable site has been secured and the long term projection has been determined and agreed with the school authorities, the project will then be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Dara Calleary

Ceist:

465 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an extension for a secondary school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [24935/07]

An application for an extension and refurbishment project has been received from the school referred to by the Deputy. An assessment of projected enrolments, demographic trends and housing developments in the area will be required in order to assist in determining the long term projected enrolment for the school on which the school's long term accommodation needs will be based. When the long-term projected enrolment has been finalised and agreed with the school authorities my Department will draw up schedules of accommodation for the project which will be notified to the school management authority. The project will then be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Schools Amalgamation.

Ulick Burke

Ceist:

466 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the proposal for a school amalgamation (details supplied) at second level in Tuam, County Galway; the progress that has been made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [24942/07]

An agreement was reached by the Patron to rationalise provision of post-primary provision in the Tuam area to establish a single boys' school. The Patron has offered to provide a site to accommodate the new school and I understand is in discussions with the County Council in relation to same. As soon as the site issue is finalised, the building project required to deliver the appropriate accommodation will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Schools Building Projects.

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

467 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Science if full and early consideration will be given to a secondary school (details supplied) in County Westmeath which has applied for the summer works scheme 2008. [24968/07]

Decisions on the scheme will be made later in the year.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

468 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will approve funding under the summer works scheme for a project (details supplied) in County Roscommon; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25031/07]

Decisions on the Scheme will be made later in the year.

Grant Payments.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

469 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive the third level maintenance grant. [25036/07]

My Department funds four maintenance grant schemes for third level and further education students. These are the Higher Education Grants (HEG) Scheme, the Vocational Education Committees' Scholarships Scheme, the Third Level Maintenance Grants Scheme for Trainees and the Maintenance Grants Scheme for Students attending Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) Courses. The HEG Scheme is administered by the Local Authorities on behalf of my Department, the other three maintenance grant schemes are administered on a similar basis by the VECs.

The PLC Scheme prescribes the terms and conditions of funding in respect of students attending courses in approved PLC Centres. The other three schemes govern the award of grants to students attending approved courses in approved third level institutions. Grant applicants must be assessed by the awarding bodies with reference to the terms and conditions prescribed in the Scheme relevant to the course being pursued and the college being attended.

Students are eligible to be considered for grant assistance in respect of one approved PLC Course. Clause 3.2 of the PLC Scheme sets out the circumstances under which grant assistance may be awarded in respect of subsequent study at PLC Level — i.e where a candidate already holds a qualification, no higher than FETAC Level 5, and is now pursuing a course that offers progression which may be deemed eligible for grant aid.

The candidate referred to by the Department should apply, if they have not already done so, to their local VEC to establish eligibility for assistance for the Level 5 Certificate course in Horticulture.

Eligibility for grant assistance, in the case referred to by the Deputy, is a matter for the relevant VEC to establish.

Third Level Education.

Damien English

Ceist:

470 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science her plans to provide a third level education campus in County Meath in order to allow the people living there to advance their skills base for the knowledge society; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25049/07]

In the State as a whole, there are over twenty publicly-funded higher education institutions, seven of which are universities and fourteen institutes of technology. In its review of Irish Higher Education published in 2004, the OECD observed that Irish Third Level Institutions were relatively small by international standards and that this posed particular challenges in terms of achieving critical mass for academic provision, infrastructure, research and support mechanisms.

In view of the current level of third level provision nationally, there are no plans to create additional third-level campuses.

Schools Building Projects.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

471 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the start date for construction work on a school (details supplied) in County Offaly under the current public private partnership programme; the length of time the work is expected to take. [25110/07]

I wish to inform the Deputy that I recently announced that Macquarie Partnerships for Ireland have been selected as the preferred tenderer for the provision of four new schools including the school in question, which form the first bundle of PPP schools projects to be delivered under my Department's 2006-2010 PPP programme.

It is envisaged subject to the planning process, that construction will commence in early 2008 and the four new schools will be available from September 2009.

School Management.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

472 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason she has directed that parents representatives on boards of management of Gaelscoileanna must be fluent in the Irish language; her views on whether this directive is discriminatory to parents not born in Ireland; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25112/07]

Firstly, I would like to assure the Deputy that I have not directed that parent representatives on boards of management of Gaelscoileanna must be fluent in the Irish language.

Under Section 14 of the Education Act 1998 it is the duty of a Patron, for the purposes of ensuring that a recognised school is managed in a spirit of partnership, to appoint, where practicable, a Board of Management.

The Patron is responsible for initiating the steps necessary for the establishment of the Board in accordance with the procedures set out in the Handbook "Boards of Management of National Schools — Constitution of Boards and Rules of Procedure". Boards of Management of primary schools are obliged to comply with the requirements set out in this handbook. The handbook is revised periodically and agreed through discussions between my Department and the education partners.

The Board of Management of a primary school is comprised of nominees of the patron and representatives of teachers, parents and the community. Apart from the requirement that they are parents of children currently enrolled in the school, there is no specific criterion set out in the handbook with regard to parents' representatives on the Board. However, in the case of Gaelscoileanna, the criterion outlined in the handbook concerning the community representatives states that "persons nominated from the community served by the school shall have an understanding of and a commitment to the ethos of the school. It is expected also that those nominated shall have a good knowledge of the Irish language".

Schools Building Projects.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

473 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 128 of 11 October 2007, when the long-term projection assessment for a school (details supplied) in County Clare will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25114/07]

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 officials in School Planning Section will be in contact with the school authority.

The building project will be considered in the context of the multi annual School Building and Modernisation programme.

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

474 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding the provision of new school facilities for a school (details supplied) in County Longford. [25115/07]

The Board of Management of the school referred to by the Deputy is the Client/Contracting Authority for their proposed building project. As client, the Board is currently overseeing the appointment of an architectural Design Team and it is my understanding that this process is at an advanced stage.

Progression of all projects to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

475 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the long delays in proceeding with the extension for a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [25125/07]

Officials in the Department have completed a technical visit of the school referred to by the Deputy with a view to determining the project brief. The future progression of the project will be considered in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

476 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of money spent on paper and stationary in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper. [25140/07]

My Department purchases paper and stationery from suppliers selected by the Government Supplies Agency.

I understand that the Deputy's question specifically relates to the cost of photocopying paper and letterhead stationery used by my Department. The amount of money spent by my Department on these supplies for the year to-date is €41,881.40 and €13,043.77 respectively. While the photocopying paper and letterhead stationery now used are not made from recycled paper, I should point out that most of the envelopes used in my Department are made from recycled paper.

A number of years ago my Department undertook a trial use of recycled photocopying paper. A number of technical difficulties arose at that time and it was decided not to continue the use of that type of paper. However, the matter is now being reviewed in light of improvements in the quality of recycled paper available to purchase.

School Transport.

Dan Neville

Ceist:

477 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will sanction the bus tickets to children (details supplied) in County Limerick waiting for same to allow them to avail of school transport from her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25165/07]

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.

My Department is aware, since the phasing out of the three for two seating arrangement on school buses, that vacant seats, where they arise, are now more conspicuous than heretofore. It is a matter of concern that some parents would reserve seats for their children and then not make full use of these seats.

In circumstances where a complaint of this nature is received, Bus Éireann arranges to monitor the situation. Those who are identified as using the school transport services on an irregular basis can be asked to surrender their tickets and make alternative transport arrangements, in order to allow their seats to be reallocated to other families in accordance with the terms of the school transport schemes. Bus Éireann rely on the cooperation and goodwill of parents to release seats for the benefit of others in these circumstances.

If the Deputy has precise information which may assist in identifying those who appear not to be using their seats on a regular basis, my Department will be pleased to have the matter investigated.

Teaching Qualifications.

Eamon Gilmore

Ceist:

478 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason her Department has narrowed the qualifying standards for tutors providing tuition to pupils for which parents are availing of home tuition grants provided by her Department; if her attention has been drawn to the adverse effects this is having on tutors who do not meet these specific qualifications and on the pupils who can no longer avail of their services as a consequence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25172/07]

The home tuition scheme provides funding to parents to provide 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. The Deputy will appreciate, that as home tuition takes place outside of the normal school framework, there is need to ensure that tuition providers are appropriately qualified to give education to the children concerned. The usual requirement is a fully qualified teacher. However, other qualifications are acceptable depending on the individual needs of the child. A list of relevant qualifications may be sourced on my Department's website on www.education.ie. It is in the interests of children to expect that home tutors funded under this scheme are appropriately qualified tuition providers. The revised standards were introduced following a review in 2006. However my Department built flexibility into the implementation of the revised arrangement to accommodate parents/guardians who were experiencing difficulties in changing to a qualified tuition provider by extending the sanction with the current tuition provider until the end of the school year 2006/07 to facilitate the recruitment process. Parents who are still experiencing difficulties in this regard should bring them to the immediate attention of the officials concerned.

The Deputy will be aware that the current Programme for Government includes a commitment to the provision of a central database of suitably trained personnel seeking employment as home tutors.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

479 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the moneys paid to primary teachers in promoted positions in the last financial year; the moneys paid to voluntary secondary school teachers in promoted positions in the last financial year; the moneys paid to community/comprehensive school teachers in promoted positions in the last financial year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25173/07]

The information requested by the Deputy is given in the following table which shows the rates of allowances for promoted posts effective since the 1 June 2007.

Principal's Allowance

Category

Point

Annual

1

1

9,328.00

2

9,328.00

2

3

10,452.00

3

4

12,261.00

4

5

14,387.00

5

6

16,737.00

6

7

19,120.00

7

8

21,427.00

8

9

23,759.00

9

10

25,475.00

10

11

27,249.00

11

12

29,833.00

12

13

31,580.00

13

14

34,959.00

14

15

36,099.00

15

16

39,154.00

16

17

40,854.00

17

18

42,550.00

Deputy Principal

Category

Point

Annual

1

1

3,776.00

2

2

4,941.00

3

3

6,533.00

4

4

8,188.00

5

5

9,791.00

6

6

11,465.00

7

7

13,076.00

8

8

14,658.00

9

9

15,904.00

10

10

17,120.00

11

11

19,002.00

12

12

20,167.00

13

13

22,689.00

14

14

23,181.00

15

15

25,328.00

16

16

26,303.00

17

17

27,268.00

Assist. PO Allowance Pay Code 22

Category

Point

Annual

1

8,536.00

Special Duties Allowance Pay Code 23 01/06/2007

Category

Point

Annual

1

3,776.00

School Management.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

480 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the training that exists for boards of management to take on positions of responsibility within a school structure; her views on providing funding for this purpose; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25174/07]

My Department administers a scheme which provides funding to Boards of Management for their training needs. It enables Management Bodies to apply for direct support in addition to the existing support provided by the Education Centre Network.

The scheme is centrally managed by a representative Steering Committee. The committee is comprised of representatives of Teacher Education Section, the Departments' Inspectorate, the school management bodies at primary and post-primary level and Drumcondra Education Centre. Drumcondra Education Centre provides administrative support to the Steering Committee and the scheme.

The areas which are covered by training are Employment Law, Health & Safety, Child Protection Guidelines, Financial Management and Roles and Responsibilities of Boards Of Management.

School Accommodation.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

481 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of temporary classrooms and prefabs which are in place within all primary schools; the cost in terms of granting these premises each year over the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25175/07]

The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the number of temporary classrooms is not readily available. The amount spent on temporary accommodation, including prefabricated accommodation in the last 5 years is as follows:

2006: €24.5M

2005: €15.7M

2004: €11.3M

2003: €9.4M

2002: €8.4M

The provision of rented accommodation provides an immediate solution to a deficit of school accommodation, and is often the only available option where extra accommodation is needed at short notice.

The demand for additional accommodation in schools has risen significantly over the last number of years mainly due to the rapid expansion in teacher numbers particularly in the area of special needs, the growth in the school-going population in rapidly developing areas and the demands to cater for diversity through the recognition of new Gaelscoileanna and Educate Together schools. The provision of rented accommodation is demand led and accordingly the number of schools in rented temporary accommodation can change on a daily basis.

The total capital expenditure at primary and post-primary level in 2006 was €524.68m, therefore, the expenditure on rental of temporary school accommodation for the same period represents only 4.67% as a % of the total capital expenditure.

Pension Provisions.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

482 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on extending the 26 week period referred to in Circular 10/048 (4)(B), to one year to facilitate teachers who took leave from service to undertake postgraduate studies and were not on the payroll during the 26 week period prior to 1 April 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25176/07]

The Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2004 was enacted following the Government's consideration of the Final Report of the Commission on Public Service Pensions. That report included a recommendation that the age of retirement for new entrants to the public service be changed from an age range of 60 to 65 years to a single retirement age of 65. There were some exceptions to this where special retirement terms apply for operational reasons.

Section 2 of that Act provides that a person appointed as a public servant on or after 1 April 2004 will be considered a new entrant. A new entrant is a public servant who will not be required to retire on grounds of age and for whom pension benefits will not normally be payable before the age of 65 years. There are a number of exceptions to this. Where a person was employed as a public servant on 31 March 2004 and was on leave or secondment on that date then that person will not be treated as a new entrant on their return to work. In addition, a person will not be considered a new entrant where he or she was serving in a public body before 31 March 2004 or leaves public service employment now and returns to the public service under the same contract of employment or within 26 weeks of having left. Therefore the 26 week rule does not apply to public servants on approved leave of absence with a right to return to their employment. The period of 26 weeks is consistent with similar provisions dealing with continuous employment in other employment law statutes. Any change to this period would require a change the primary legislation which affects public service pensions generally. This is a matter primarily for the Minister for Finance but I understand that there are no plans to amend the law in this area.

School Management.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

483 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the VEC have been debarred from applying for the potential governance of new primary schools, which may or may not be established by her Department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25177/07]

In February 2007 I announced my intention to introduce a new model of primary school patronage and that my Department would engage in a consultation process with the relevant stakeholders in relation to the implementation measures required.

Pending the completion of the consultation process and the evaluation of the pilot community primary school project, I decided as a matter of policy that no vocational education committee (with the exception of the aforementioned pilot community primary school project) should act as a patron in respect of a primary school or otherwise, establish or maintain a primary school until further notice. I therefore directed all Vocational Education Committees not to establish or maintain a primary school and not to seek recognition of a primary school or recognition as a Patron pursuant to the provisions of the Education Act 1998 until further notice or direction.

Special Educational Needs.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

484 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason there is no right of appeal in terms of decisions made by special education needs officers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25178/07]

The Special Education Appeals Board (SEAB) was established under section 36 of the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2004 to hear and determine appeals pursuant to a number of sections of the Act. Members of the inaugural appeals board have been appointed and are currently working on the development of processes and procedures which need to be in place before the relevant sections of the Act, which underpin the appellant process, are commenced.

In the interim, the NCSE will undertake to review a decision taken by a special educational needs organiser on foot of a request from a school or parents/guardians, when accompanied by relevant additional information, which may not have been to hand at the time of the decision. The NCSE has outlined this process in its Circular 01/05.

School Staffing.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

485 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the special needs assistant and resource teacher allocation in each post-primary school in the country with a breakdown between those community schools within the VEC sector and all other schools; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25179/07]

The information requested is not readily available in the format required by the Deputy. However, as the Deputy is aware, there has been enormous progress made over the past number of years in relation to increasing the number of teachers in our second level schools who are specifically dedicated to providing education for children with special educational needs.

My Department provides a range of supports to second level schools to enable them to cater for students with special educational needs. The supports in question include remedial and additional teaching support, special needs assistant support and funding for the purchase of specialised equipment.

At second level, approximately 1,943 whole time equivalent teachers are in place to support pupils with special educational needs. This compares to approximately 200 teachers that were in place in 1998 for such pupils. In addition, there are 561 whole time equivalent learning support teachers and approximately 1,724 whole time equivalent special needs assistants (SNA's) in our second level schools.

The Deputy will also be aware that with effect from 1 January 2005, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) has taken over key functions from my Department in relation to special educational provision. The NCSE was formally established as an independent statutory body on the 1st October 2005 under the Education for Persons with Special Educational Needs Act 2005. The Council acts under the broad policy direction of the Department of Education and Science but has the resources and the remit to play the leading role in the delivery of education services to children with disabilities/ special needs.

The NCSE co-ordinates with the health services, schools and other relevant bodies regarding the provision of education and related support services to children with disabilities/special needs.

The responsibilities of the NCSE include the following:

Deciding on applications for additional teaching support in respect of children with disabilities with special educational needs at second level;

Deciding on applications for special needs assistant (SNA) hours;

Processing applications for school placement in respect of children with disabilities with special education needs.

The precise model of provision made available at second level will depend on the assessed needs of the pupils involved. Some pupils are capable of attending ordinary classes on an integrated basis with additional teacher and/or special needs assistant support. In other cases, placement in special dedicated classes or units attached to the school may be the more appropriate response. Such special classes operate at significantly reduced pupil teacher ratios. Students attached to these special classes may be facilitated in attending ordinary subject classes on an integrated basis wherever possible.

The NCSE, through the local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) will process the relevant application for resources and inform the school of the outcome. It is important to note that in the case of decisions on additional teaching and SNA support, the SENO will outline the process to the school and parents, where appropriate, and will at the end of the process outline the basis on which the decision was made.

I am confident that the advent of the NCSE will prove of major benefit in ensuring that all children with special educational needs receive the support they require.

Road Safety.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

486 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science her position regarding the cost associated with establishing road markings outside schools as a means of improving student safety; if it is the case that local schools must pay for the full cost of this work to the local authority concerned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25180/07]

The issue of road safety measures outside the vested site areas of primary schools should be raised in the first instance with the relevant Local Authority.

Local Authorities have the power to decide on road safety measures outside schools and should have in place appropriate measures to ensure the safety of school attending pupils.

It is open to the Boards of Management of schools to make an application for funding under my Department's Summer Works Scheme should safety measures be required within school boundaries.

School Inspectors.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

487 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of inspectors within the primary school sector in each year over the past five years; if each primary school would receive a visit from an inspector every year or two years and so on; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25181/07]

The number of primary district and divisional inspectors employed within the Inspectorate of the Department of Education and Science on the 30 September for each of the past five years is as follows:

2003 — 72 primary inspectors

2004 — 77 primary inspectors

2005 — 71 primary inspectors

2006 — 74 primary inspectors

2007 — 82 primary inspectors

It should be noted that the number of inspectors involved in the evaluation of schools and teachers may vary throughout any given year due to assignments to other duties, secondments, or maternity leave.

The Inspectorate of my Department will conduct more than 2,500 inspections in primary schools during 2007. This figure includes 246 primary Whole-School Evaluations (WSE) and more than 2,300 inspections of primary teachers on probation. Inspectors, therefore, visit a significant proportion of the 3,284 primary schools in the country each year in the context of their inspection work and this is beneficial in terms of engaging with school principals and teachers and providing advice.

Up-to-date information on the inspections that have been carried out in primary and post-primary schools and the list of published reports are available on the Department's website (www.education.ie).

Learning Support.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

488 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason the general allocation for learning support is based on figures five years old in terms of each school’s catchment area; the reason the promise of a three yearly review has not been enforced to date; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25182/07]

As the Deputy is aware, a new general allocation system was introduced in May 2005, under which schools have been provided with resource teaching hours, based on their enrolment figures, to cater for children with high incidence special needs such as dyslexia and those with learning support needs.

This system was intended to be introduced for the 2004/2005 school year. Schools were notified of this in June 2004. However, it was not possible to introduce the general allocation system until the school year 2005/2006.

The allocation of resource teaching hours to individual schools under the system in respect of the current school year is at the same level as applied in the 2005/06 school year except in the case of schools with developing school status which qualify for an increased allocation.

A comprehensive circular (Sp Ed 02/05) issued to all Primary Schools in 2005 regarding the organisation of teaching resources for pupils who need additional support in mainstream primary schools. The main purpose of this circular was to provide guidance for schools on the deployment and organisation of the teaching resources that were allocated under the general allocation system. Reference was also made in this circular to the deployment of additional teaching resources that are allocated to schools for the support of individual pupils with low incidence disabilities. Further circulars, 0036/2006 and 0034/2007 issued to all Primary Schools regarding the updated position in relation to these teaching resources.

It is anticipated that the general allocation system will be reviewed after three years in operation.

Question No. 489 answered with QuestionNo. 430.

School Transport.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

490 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason school transport has not been provided for a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25198/07]

Under the terms of the Primary School Transport Scheme, children are eligible, subject to conditions, for free transport to their nearest national school or school of amalgamation.

Pupils not attending their nearest national school may avail of concessionary fare-paying transport to another school, provided:

(a)the written agreement of the board of management of the nearest school is secured;

(b)there are spare seats available on the bus; and

(c)no extra State cost is incurred by extending or re-routing the service.

The family referred to by the Deputy should liaise with their local Bus Éireann office to establish whether they may avail of fare-paying transport on the foregoing terms.

Departmental Correspondence.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

491 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science when a detailed response will issue to correspondence (details supplied) regarding support for deaf parents and hearing children. [25209/07]

My Department is currently considering the correspondence referred to by the Deputy, and will respond on the matter as soon as possible.

School Transport.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

492 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will respond specifically to a previous parliamentary question regarding persons (details supplied) in County Mayo; if these children will be allowed back on the school bus; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25225/07]

In my replies to previous questions on this matter, I informed the Deputy that the relevant E.U. Directives do not require the provision of child restraint systems for children travelling on buses fitted with safety belts. I also indicated that all nominated buses operating within the School Transport Scheme are fitted with safety belts, which the occupants are obliged to wear.

It is not my intention to permit the introduction of local arrangements for individual pupils, such as those proposed by the Deputy.

Bus Éireann, which operates the School Transport Scheme on behalf of my Department, has advised that the parents of the pupils referred to by the Deputy have chosen not to avail of the existing school bus service. Should they wish again to avail of transport on terms applicable to service recipients generally, they should liaise directly with the local Bus Éireann office regarding the continued availability of the pupils' seats.

Schools Refurbishment.

Niall Blaney

Ceist:

493 Deputy Niall Blaney asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding available to primary schools for the provision of renovation works such as renewal of outside walls due to dampness, replacement of windows and doors and extension to the school; the schemes under which she recommends the school apply for this funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25236/07]

As the Deputy will probably be aware, all primary schools receive an annual Minor Works Grant in the sum of €5,500 plus €18.50 per pupil. This is intended to be used by schools to address most of the type of works to which the Deputy refers.

The Summer Works Scheme (SWS), in place since 2004, also funds necessary small-scale works that, ideally, can be planned and delivered during the summer months. The closing date for the receipt of applications under the SWS for 2008 was the 28th of September 2007.

An extension to a school building is generally considered as a major capital application. The relevant application forms are available on the Department's website at www.education.ie. Where an extension project is required in conjunction with other renovation works, the approach generally taken would be to roll all the works together under one large scale project.

Special Educational Needs.

Margaret Conlon

Ceist:

494 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Education and Science the support services available to parents of children suffering from autism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25240/07]

I wish to clarify that my Department provides funding for the education of children with autism through the primary and post-primary school system, rather than any specific support services being provided for parents. Parents may contact their local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) directly to discuss their child's special educational needs using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

The Deputy is aware that the National Council for Special Education is responsible, through its network of local SENOs, for the establishment of special classes for autism and for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO.

Teaching Qualifications.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

495 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on the case of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25257/07]

The Deputy may be aware that, with effect from 28th March, 2006, the Teaching Council is the designated authority for recognition of qualifications for the regulated profession of primary and secondary teachers.

Persons wishing to be registered as a teacher in this country must apply to the Teaching Council for recognition of their qualifications. If their qualifications are recognised by the Teaching Council then my Department will assess their qualifications for salary purposes.

Higher Education Grants.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

496 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Donegal has been refused a grant upon returning to education as a mature student; if it is Government policy to penalise students who become unwell during their education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25262/07]

My Department funds four maintenance grant schemes for third level and further education students which are administered by the Local Authorities and the Vocational Education Committees. The Higher Education Grant Scheme operates under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts, 1968 to 1992. Generally speaking, students who are entering approved courses for the first time are eligible for maintenance grants where they satisfy the relevant conditions as to age, residence, means and nationality.

The decision on eligibility for third level or further education grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is desired.

Under the prescribed terms and conditions of my Department's student maintenance grant schemes, grant assistance may not generally be awarded in respect of a repeat period of study at the same level, irrespective of whether or not funding was previously awarded. However, the awarding body may waive this provision in exceptional circumstances such as cases of certified serious illness. It should be emphasised, however, that this discretion would generally only be exercised where a candidate is repeating a period of study on the same course.

However, Section 473A, Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997, provides tax relief, at the standard rate of tax, for tuition fees paid in respect of approved courses at approved colleges of higher education including certain approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in E.U. Member States and in non EU countries.

The application form (I.T. 31 Form) to claim tax relief on tuition fees is available from the Revenue Commissioners. Further information is available from the candidate's Local Tax Office or alternatively from Revenue's Internet site at www.revenue.ie.

Any general extension to the scope of the grants scheme can be considered only in the light of available resources and in the context of competing demands and priorities within the education sector. There are no plans at present to extend the scope of the student support schemes to students who have previously pursued a course but not completed it.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

497 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if there are plans to subsidise students from the north west to allow them to attend universities in Northern Ireland giving them the same educational opportunities as the students in the rest of the country; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25266/07]

Under my Department's Free Fees Initiative the Exchequer meets the tuition fees of eligible students who are attending approved undergraduate third-level courses in the State. There are no plans to extend this initiative to cover third level institutions in Northern Ireland.

Under my Department's Higher Education Grant Schemes, maintenance grants are available to eligible students pursuing approved undergraduate courses in other EU Member States, including Northern Ireland. In general, approved courses are those pursued in a third level institution, which is maintained or assisted by recurrent grants from public funds. However the payment of undergraduate tuition fees under these schemes does not extend to approved courses outside the State and there are no plans to change this position at present.

It is understood however that students attending Higher Education Institutions in Northern Ireland and who are ordinarily resident in a Member State of the European Union will be eligible for a fee loan from the Northern Ireland Authorities up to the amount charged by the Higher Education Institution. Further clarification can be sought by the individual from the Department of Employment and Learning in Northern Ireland. Their e-mail address is studentfinance@delni.gov.uk.

Section 473A Taxes Consolidation Act, 1997 also provides for tax relief on tuition fees, at the standard rate of tax in respect of approved courses at approved colleges of higher education including certain approved undergraduate and postgraduate courses in EU and non-EU member states.

Schools Refurbishment.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

498 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will report on discussions involving her Department and South Dublin County Council regarding a refurbishment project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25271/07]

The Department is in receipt of an application from the school to which the Deputy refers for the refurbishment/redevelopment of its sports complex, including the swimming pool. The project has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and has been assigned a band 4 rating. Progress on the project will be considered in the context of the multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.

Higher Education Grants.

Joanna Tuffy

Ceist:

499 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding the special rate of higher education maintenance grant and the need to ensure that all independent mature students who earned less than the income threshold for this special rate of grant would qualify for this grant without requiring to be in receipt of one of the qualifying social welfare payments or training allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25272/07]

The Report of the Action Group on Access to Third Level Education made detailed recommendations concerning the introduction of special rates of maintenance grants for disadvantaged students.

The target group of "those most in need" was defined in terms of the dependants of people receiving long-term welfare payments, where the necessary conditions are fulfilled. The special rates of grant are also available to mature students who meet the prescribed conditions.

In order to qualify for the special rate of maintenance grant a candidate must meet a number of conditions, including the following:—

(i)the candidate must already qualify for one of my Department's standard maintenance grants; and

(ii)total reckonable income must not exceed the specified limit for the academic year in question; and

(iii)on the operative date, the income into the household must include one of the specified long-term social welfare payments.

It is not proposed, at present, to change the current terms and conditions in respect of the special rates of maintenance grant.

School Staffing.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

500 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a special school (details supplied) in Dublin 8 has not reopened in autumn 2007; what has happened to the pupils; if and when it is proposed to reopen the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25280/07]

I wish to advise the Deputy that there are three teaching vacancies out of a total teaching complement of four teaching posts. Due to this exceptional number of vacancies, the school was unable to re-open in September 2007. I am informed that the Board of Management is actively engaged in a recruitment process to fill these vacancies and that every effort is being made to expedite the process with a view to re-opening the school as soon as possible.

In the interim, arrangements have been made to accommodate some children in other schools. Where this has not been possible, my Department has offered a home tuition grant to the remaining families.

Capitation Grants.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

501 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science if she will make a provision for the payment of interpreters for parents who are deaf to assist them when meeting their children’s school teachers at parent teacher meetings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25281/07]

Schools' running costs are met by my Department's scheme of capitation grants which affords schools considerable flexibility in the use of these resources to cater for the needs of their pupils. This is in my view a preferable approach to putting in place grants for specific cost items such as interpreters. These grants are intended to contribute towards the general operating costs of schools including, where necessary, the use of interpreters when dealing with parents.

The primary school capitation grant has been increased substantially in recent years. Since 1997 the standard rate of capitation grant has been increased from €57.14 per pupil to €163.58 from 1st January, 2007. This represents an increase of over 186% in the standard rate of capitation grant since 1997.

Furthermore enhanced rates of capitation funding are paid in respect of children with special educational needs who attend special schools or special classes attached to mainstream schools. The current rates range from €418 to €805 per pupil.

There have been significant improvements in recent years in the level of funding for voluntary secondary schools. With effect from January 2007, the standard per capita grant was increased by €18 per pupil and now amounts to €316 per pupil. In addition, voluntary secondary schools have benefited by the increase of €30 per pupil in 2007 in the support services grant bringing that grant to €189 per pupil.

The cumulative increase of €48 per pupil in a voluntary secondary school brings the aggregate grant to over €500 per pupil. These grants are in addition to the per capita funding of up to €40,000 per school that is also provided by my Department to secondary schools towards secretarial and caretaking services. For example in the case of a secondary school with 500 pupils, this brings annual grants towards general expenses and support service to over €290,000. This represents an increase of 83% since 2000.

Budget allocations for schools in the VEC and C&C sectors are increased on a pro rata basis with increases in the per capita grant. All schools are eligible for recurrent per capita grants towards special classes and curricular support grants.

The provision that I have made for these significant increases in the funding of schools is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources to address the needs of schools.

I have no plans to introduce a special provision for payment of interpreters as suggested by the Deputy.

Institutes of Technology.

Seán Connick

Ceist:

502 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Education and Science when the report of a person (details supplied) examining the designation of Waterford Institute of Technology as a university will be published. [25324/07]

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

504 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 454 of 16 October 2007, the level of consideration given to date to a report (details supplied) in her Department; when it is expected that the consideration at official level in her Department will conclude and she will have the final report of her officials; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25422/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 502 and 504 together.

Earlier this year the person referred to by the Deputy was asked to provide preliminary advice on the merits of the submission by WIT, having regard to;

(i)the national strategy for the development of Irish higher education,

(ii)implications for regional development in the South-East in the context of the National Spatial Strategy and

(iii)any likely implications for the overall structure of higher education in Ireland. This report is currently under consideration.

Aside from the very detailed statutory review process that is required in progressing an application, there are also significant wider issues that need to be considered in advance of any possible statutory review. For example, there have been important wider policy developments in the overall higher education sector that are relevant in this context. In particular, it is important that account is taken of the very significant recent changes in the overall legislative framework governing Irish higher education, with the commencement of the new Institutes of Technology Act 2006 on 1st February 2007, as well as wider Government policy on foot of the review of Irish higher education carried out by the OECD in 2004, the broad thrust of which was endorsed by the Government.

I am cognisant of the strong support that has been built in the south east region around the application from Waterford IT for university status. However, wider policy developments must also be central to the consideration of the appropriate next steps in relation to the application. WIT's application is currently being carefully assessed in that broad context.

Teaching Qualifications.

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

503 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application by a person (details supplied) in County Cork for registration as a post-primary teacher. [25411/07]

The Deputy may be aware that, with effect from 28 March 2006, the Teaching Council is the designated authority for recognition of qualifications for the regulated profession of primary and secondary teachers.

Persons wishing to be registered as teachers in this country must apply to the Teaching Council for recognition of their qualifications. The person to whom the Deputy's question refers is the subject of such an examination of qualifications.

In the course of examinations of this nature, applicants may be asked to make up shortfalls in their education, as I understand was the case with the person in question.

Once all requirements have been met by applicants, and their qualifications are recognised by the Teaching Council, applicants may apply to be registered as primary or post-primary teachers.

Question No. 504 answered with QuestionNo. 502.

School Staffing.

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

505 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in regard to staffing allocation approval by her Department at a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [25443/07]

Teacher allocations to second level schools are approved annually by my Department in accordance with established rules based on recognised pupil enrolment. Each school management authority is required to organise its time-table and subject options having regard to pupils needs within the limit of its approved teacher allocation.

The rules for allocating teaching resources provide that where a school management authority is unable to meet its curricular commitments within its approved allocation, my Department will consider applications for additional short term support i.e. curricular concessions.

The school in question submitted an application for curricular concessions and was allowed to retain 9.56 whole-time equivalent surplus teaching posts. An independent appeals mechanism is available to school authorities who wish to appeal the adequacy of their teacher allocation. The school in question availed of this appeals mechanism and the Appeals Committee decided that no further allocation was warranted. The school was advised of this decision in writing on 11th June 2007. The decision of the Appeals Committee is final. As the Appeals Committee operates independently of my Department in taking its decisions, you will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in any such decision.

Grangegorman Development Agency.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

506 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Education and Science her views on including An Garda Síochána as stake-holders in the development of Grangegorman; if she will include them as an additional group on the consultative forum; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25457/07]

Having consulted the Grangegorman Development Agency I am satisfied that the Agency is aware of the need to incorporate the expertise and observations of An Garda Síochána in developing the Strategic Plan for the Project. I understand that the Agency has contacted An Garda Síochána and established a channel of communication that will allow that body input into the process for developing the land use plan. The Agency has also formally invited An Garda Síochána as a guest to the next Consultative Group meeting where they can outline their general views and where also they will be advised of the opportunities to contribute to the preparation of the Strategic Plan. The Agency also envisages that another effective means of engagement with An Garda Síochána will involve direct bilateral meetings with the Agency and its advisors.

Accordingly, I am satisfied that there are satisfactory mechanisms already in place that will efficiently facilitate An Garda Síochána contributing fully to the project given the many demands on their resources.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

507 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Defence if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24737/07]

The Defence Annual Output Statement was published on my Department's website on 26th July 2007.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

508 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24893/07]

The general principles governing all travel are those set out in the Department of Finance Circular 11/82. The Circular clearly indicates that it is the responsibility of each Department to ensure that frequent flyer points are not allowed to influence decisions taken in relation to the carriers used for official business. My Department is fully compliant with the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour as contained in the Department of Finance Circular 26/04. Section 16 of that Circular states that: "Civil Servants should not accept special facilities or discounts on private purchases from suppliers with whom they have official dealings".

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

509 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Defence the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25139/07]

The amount of money spent on paper and stationery in the Department of Defence to date in 2007 is €38,872.28 of which €7,495.10 was spent on recycled paper (envelopes, folders and file covers). This does not include Defence Forces expenditure, which will be forwarded as soon as it is available.

Pension Provisions.

Bernard Allen

Ceist:

510 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the treatment being given to a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and his views on same. [25241/07]

Under the existing Defence Forces Pension Schemes, the minimum service required for an immediate pension in the case of NCOs and Privates is 21 years. The pension for 21 years' service consists of a flat rate amount which varies according to rank, together with an addition in respect of military service allowance (MSA). These elements of pension are payable for the lifetime of the pensioner.

Where service exceeds 21 years, an additional increment at a flat rate is payable for each year of service in excess of 21 years up to a maximum of 31 years. A top-up of the MSA addition is also payable in the case of personnel with 31 or more years' service. These extra payments cease to be payable when the pensioner reaches the qualifying age of 66 for a State Pension Contributory (formerly Old Age Contributory Pension) or becomes entitled at an earlier age to a State Pension Transition (formerly Social Welfare Retirement Pension). The maximum personal rate of either Social Welfare pension is currently €209.30 per week and is considerably greater than the maximum amount (currently €96.67 per week) by which the Defence Forces pension would fall to be reduced.

The person referred to served in the Defence Forces for 39 years and his Defence Forces pension included the additional increment for 31 years' service and the MSA top-up. He reached the age of 66 years on 4 October 2007 and qualified for the State Pension Contributory. In accordance with the arrangements mentioned, these additional elements of his Defence Forces pension ceased to be payable from that date.

These arrangements are in accordance with the principle of integrating occupational pensions with Social Insurance benefits in the case of employees, such as NCOs and Privates, who are fully insured under the Social Welfare Acts. This principle applies right across the public service and, indeed, in many areas of the private sector. I should say, however, that the method of applying the integration principle in the case of retired NCOs and Privates is less severe than that applying in other areas of the public service.

The general issue of integration of occupational pensions in the public service was examined by the Commission on Public Service Pensions in its Final Report, published in January 2001. The Commission accepted that integration is a fundamental component in the public service pensions framework and was strongly of the view that it should be continued. It did not make any recommendations that would affect the current integration arrangements applicable to retired NCOs and Privates.

Overseas Missions.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

511 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence his views on the concerns in regard to the Defence Forces possible service with MINURCAT (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25421/07]

On 25 September, 2007, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 1778 establishing a multidimensional UN mission in Chad and in the Central African Republic (CAR) that will help strengthen security in the region. Resolution 1778 (2007) decided that the multidimensional presence would consist of (i) a new United Nations Mission in Chad and in the Central African Republic, to be known as MINURCAT, with a mandate focusing on the security and protection of civilians — particularly refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs) and civilians in danger — and on human rights and the rule of law in eastern Chad and north-eastern CAR and (ii) troops deployed by the European Union with a robust authorisation to protect and support it.

Following Government and Dáil approval earlier this month, acting Lieutenant General Pat Nash has taken up the position of Operation Commander of the EU military operation with four support staff at EU Operational Headquarters at Mont Valérien, Paris, France.

The operation on which the EU is engaged is designed to provide for the creation of a safe and secure area for refugees and internally displaced persons and to allow for the distribution of humanitarian aid. The nature of the operation is fully in accordance with Ireland's traditional policy of support for and participation in peace support operations, our close engagement in Africa and our support for the United Nations, which has authorised the proposed deployment of the peacekeeping troops.

The safety of Irish personnel serving overseas is always of paramount concern to me. While no absolute guarantees can be given with regard to the safety of troops serving in missions, it is policy and practice to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately trained and fully equipped to carry out their mission tasking. All possible precautions are taken to ensure the safety of our troops. In addition, Standard Operating Procedures are kept under review in light of experience and best practice. A detailed reconnaissance of the mission area and tasking together with a threat assessment is currently ongoing and this will inform the final decision on the nature of our participation and the requirements in terms of force protection and other defence assets, should we decide to deploy troops on the ground in Chad.

Fisheries Protection.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

512 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Defence if he is satisfied that the Naval Service is adequately resourced to deal with illegal fishing within Irish waters. [25444/07]

The Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food has policy responsibility for sea fisheries protection, and the Naval Service provides a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. The Service is tasked with patrolling all Irish waters from the shoreline to the outer limits of the Exclusive Fishery Limits. At present, fishery protection activity accounts for roughly 90% of all Naval Service patrol time. The number of Naval vessels on patrol in Irish waters at any one time varies between three and seven. The Naval Service is committed to having at least three vessels on patrol within the Irish Exclusive Economic Zone at any one time. In 2006, the Naval Service achieved an output of 1,658 patrol days, which represents an average of 207 patrol days achieved per vessel.

It is my intention to maintain the established Government policy of ongoing and proactive recruitment to the Defence Forces. Recruitment into the Naval Service will continue to maintain the strength at the level set out in the White Paper as required to meet all Naval Service tasks including Fishery Protection duties.

The White Paper provides that "new vessels will be brought on stream to replace older ones as these fall due for replacement". Naval Service vessels are replaced when they have come to the end of their useful life, which is normally around 30 years. Three ships will fall due for replacement over the next 3 to 5 years. Following a detailed examination of the needs of the Naval Service, a vessel replacement strategy has been put in place to cover the period up to 2012. The vessel replacement strategy combined with a continuous process of refurbishment will ensure that the operational capability of the Naval Service is maintained at a very high level.

I am satisfied that the Naval Service is fully resourced, on an on-going basis, to meet all its operational requirements.

Legislative Programme.

Ciaran Lynch

Ceist:

513 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will introduce the governing legislation for management companies and appoint a regulator of management companies to regulate all management companies, oblige vendors to provide clear information about the levels, changes in fee levels and the duration of the management company contract, and compel service providers to give detailed invoices for services supplied. [24730/07]

In December 2006, the Law Reform Commission published a Consultation Paper on Multi-Unit Developments which drew attention to a broad range of issues arising in relation to the governance and operation of such developments, including problems arising from the manner in which company law currently applies to property management companies. The Paper makes it clear that action to address these problems will be required across several policy fields, including company law, consumer protection law and the development of regulatory structures.

In recognition of the cross-cutting nature of many of the issues identified by the Law Reform Commission in its Paper, a high-level interdepartmental committee has been established to assist in the development of a coherent and comprehensive response to the problems arising in this area. A key task of this committee will be to identify the legislative and administrative actions to be taken in response to definitive recommendations for legislative reforms which, following a lengthy consultation process, will be set out in the Law Reform Commission's forthcoming Report on Multi-Unit Developments and to determine a timescale for their implementation. I expect that this Report will be published later this year.

Visa Applications.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

514 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if there is a mechanism whereby a Moldovan national who came here on a visa and work permit which both expired two years ago can be considered for a visa extension to enable them to remain here and to seek employment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24748/07]

Any foreign national in the State has a responsibility to ensure that his/her permission to remain in Ireland is kept up to date. A person without such permission is in the State unlawfully and must leave. However, if the person believes that he/she has a valid reason for remaining in the State they could write to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service explaining the circumstances in which their permission to remain expired, backed up by relevant documentation, and explaining what their future plans are should they wish to remain in the State. Each case will be assessed on its merits.

It is understood that in this case the person involved is the fiancé of an EU national. EU Treaty rights may apply in this case but more information would be required in order to make that assessment. However, it should be noted that a person who is unlawfully present in the State and who later meets and marries an EU citizen does not in doing so either qualify for EU Treaty rights or indeed render their presence in the State lawful.

Decentralisation Programme.

Damien English

Ceist:

515 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of civil servants and other public servants who have relocated from Dublin to Meath under the decentralisation programme to date; and the estimated number who will have relocated by the end of 2007. [25190/07]

Under my Department's Decentralisation Programme, sixty-eight posts will move to Navan by the end of 2007.

Departmental Schemes.

John O'Mahony

Ceist:

516 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the future plans which the Government has for accepting refugees; the nationalities and numbers involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25210/07]

I take it that the Deputy is referring to the Government's scheme of "resettlement" or "quota" refugees. In May 2005, the Government decided to increase Ireland's annual quota of resettlement refugees from 10 families (around 40 persons) to 200 persons. Decisions on nationalities and source countries are made in close consultation with the Department of Foreign Affairs and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) who advise us annually on their priorities.

Ireland is one of 18 countries world-wide and one of six EU countries that participates in this UNHCR-led resettlement programme. Other EU countries are currently in the process of joining the programme.

Driver Testing.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

517 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties being experienced by members of the public in acquiring a public service vehicle licence as outlined in correspondence (details supplied); if he will take steps to streamline the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25297/07]

In the time available it has not been possible for the Garda authorities to supply the details requested by the Deputy. I will be in contact with the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Ministerial Transport.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

518 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of ministerial cars converted to environmentally friendly and fuel efficient alternatives; the Departments they belong to; the number of Ministerial cars that are diesel; the number that are hybrid; the number powered by biofuels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25367/07]

Damien English

Ceist:

548 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he plans to instruct the Office of Public Works to source a biofuel or hybrid vehicle when Ministerial vehicles are replaced. [25080/07]

Damien English

Ceist:

549 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the date Ministerial vehicles were acquired by the State; the number of miles that have been accumulated since this date by Minister; the vehicles engine specification; and the expected disposal date of the vehicles. [25095/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 518, 548 and 549 together.

The requirements for the fleet of cars provided for Members of the Government are subject to regular review and assessment in order to ensure that the most suitable vehicles are purchased having regard to a range of criteria including whole-of-life cost, fuel efficiency, economy and environmental considerations, bearing in mind the function of the vehicles and their suitability for the specific transport requirements involved.

The details requested with regard to the cars for Members of the Government are set out in the following table.

Government Member

Date vehicle assigned to fleet

Kms (09/07)

Engine Specification

Taoiseach

April 2006

69,350

Petrol

Tánaiste and Minister for Finance

April 2005

140,950

Petrol

Minister for Health and Children

December 2006

49,750

Petrol

Minister for Transport

December 2003

235,840

Petrol

Minister for Foreign Affairs

December 2005

186,960

Petrol

Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment

November 2005

166,465

Petrol

Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism

March 2004

189,872

Petrol

Minister for Social and Family Affairs

March 2004

132,980

Petrol

Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs

February 2005

294,200

Petrol

Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food

March 2005

212,900

Petrol

Minister for Education and Science

April 2005

147,500

Petrol

Minister for Defence

December 2005

86,950

Petrol

Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform

September 2004

134,835

Petrol

Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government

July 2007

11,870

Petrol-Electric

Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources

July 2007

11,800

Petrol-Electric

Minister of State with Special Responsibility as Government Chief Whip

June 2006

99,999

Petrol-Electric

Minister of State with Special Responsibility for Children

August 2006

89,600

Petrol-Electric

Attorney General

June 2006

43,200

Petrol-Electric

The kilometrage figures are the latest readily available and refer to the distance covered by the vehicles. Ministers may from, time to time, be assigned a replacement car to cover service periods or other events and the assignment of vehicles may change with new appointments. In general, cars are considered for replacement when they are two years old and/or have travelled 160,000 kms.

An open tender competition for the supply of large executive saloon cars was held recently and a policy decision was taken to tender for diesel-powered vehicles on that occasion. No biofuel-powered cars are in use at present. Hybrid petrol-electric cars are already in use and more of these or biofuel cars may be purchased as appropriate.

Asylum Applications.

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Ceist:

519 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Dublin will be informed of a decision made on the family reunification application for persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24688/07]

The person in question made an application for Family Reunification in January 2006. The application was forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. This investigation is completed and the Commissioner has forwarded a report to my Department. This application will be considered by my Department and a decision will issue in due course. At the present time Family Reunification applications are taking up to 24 months to process.

Citizenship Applications.

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

520 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for citizenship in respect of a person (details supplied). [24689/07]

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 November 2005. Officials in that section are currently processing applications received at the beginning of 2005 and have approximately 3,700 applications on hand to be dealt with before that of the person concerned. These are generally dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. It is likely, therefore, that further processing of this application will commence in the first half of 2008. I will inform the applicant and the Deputy when I have reached a decision on the matters.

Visa Applications.

John Deasy

Ceist:

521 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position with regard to a spouse visa for a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and when this visa will issue. [24690/07]

The application referred to by the Deputy for a "Join Spouse" visa was received in the Visa Office, Dublin on 27 September 2007. Visa applications are processed as speedily as possible having regard to the numbers on hand and the resources available to process them. The application referred to by the Deputy is currently pending examination by a Visa Officer. I would expect a decision on the application in this case within the next two weeks.

Citizenship Applications.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

522 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on the applications for naturalisation by persons (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24706/07]

Applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's Question were received in the Citizenship Section of my Department in September 2007. Officials in the Citizenship Section inform me that the applications have not been examined in detail. Examination of the residency requirement will take place in the near future and the applicants will be contacted at that time informing them when their applications will be further examined or of any shortfall in their residency.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

523 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24744/07]

The output statement for my Department was published on the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform's website in May 2007.

Firearms Theft.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

524 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number and type of legally held firearms which ended up in the hands of criminals every year for the past five years. [24814/07]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the tabular statement which shows the number of firearms recorded as stolen in years 2002 to 2007. The category of "Other" includes Starting Pistols, Starting Revolvers, Stun Guns and similar guns.

The number of firearms recorded as stolen for years 2002 to 2007*

2007*

2006

2005

2004

2003

2002

Rifles

67

69

84

68

99

97

Shotguns

176

215

278

267

346

332

Others

7

10

9

3

18

9

* Statistics provided for 2007 are provisional, operational and liable to change and are up to and including 16th October 2007.

State Laboratories.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

525 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will publish the review (details supplied) into the resource needs of the forensic laboratory; and if he will make a statement on the delay in building a state of the art forensic laboratory. [24816/07]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

572 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will address the personnel shortages at the State Forensic Laboratory in an effort to speed up Garda preparation of books of evidence which in turn could help reduce the numbers absconding while on bail. [25464/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 525 and 572 together.

The position is that my Department works closely with the Forensic Science Laboratory in assessing and responding to its needs. To this end an additional 10 staff were sanctioned for the Laboratory in December of last year and, on foot of the analysis referred to by the Deputy, it is expected that staffing will be increased further in the near future. The review in question, which was carried out by an international expert, addressed a range of issues and is currently under consideration in my Department, in conjunction with management at the Laboratory. The relevant staff associations have been provided with a copy of its findings. I can also inform the Deputy that arrangements are in place between the Laboratory and the Garda which provide for high priority cases to be examined immediately upon receipt. These arrangements are reinforced by ongoing interaction between the Laboratory and the Garda authorities with a view to ensuring that the needs of crime detection and prosecution are met.

In so far as the provision of a new Laboratory is concerned, plans to provide this facility within the Garda Headquarters complex were found not to be feasible. It remains a priority, however, to provide a new facility for the Forensic Science Laboratory and development of this project will proceed as a matter of urgency.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

526 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on comments made by the director of the State Forensic Laboratory which will operate the Government’s proposed DNA database who stated that the DNA database poses no threat to human rights, in particular given the conflicting grave concerns raised by the Human Rights Commission who pointed to far reaching implications for human rights; and if the first step in the protection of human rights must be a full recognition of all the threats posed to same. [24817/07]

Last February the Government approved the Heads of the Criminal Justice (Forensic Sampling and Evidence) Bill. The Bill will provide for the establishment of a DNA database. The Heads as approved by the Government were sent to the Irish Human Rights Commission and the Commission was invited to submit its comments on the proposal. I was very pleased to receive those comments in early August. They are being examined by my Department and where possible, I would propose to take as many as possible of the Commission's recommendations into account while the Bill is being drafted.

I have noted the comments of the Director of the Forensic Science Laboratory on the proposal and on the Commission's comments. She usefully points to the contribution DNA sampling can make to the investigation of crime.

The objective when framing the proposals was to ensure we provided the Garda with a comprehensive database that could be relied on as a source of reliable intelligence while also ensuring the safeguards that are included were strong, verifiable and effective. I am satisfied that balance has been achieved.

Citizenship Applications.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

527 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for naturalisation by a person (details supplied) in County Louth will be processed; the expected period of time to complete the processing of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24829/07]

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 2005. Officials in that section inform me that processing of the application has commenced and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in the coming months.

Garda Operations.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

528 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will put in place a safety and security plan in an area (details supplied) in Dublin 5 as a matter of priority. [24858/07]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that several incidents in the area referred to have been reported to them. These incidents are under investigation and have resulted in a number of arrests.

I am further informed that the area is inRaheny Garda District and is patrolled by Garda foot and mobile patrols. Members of the local Community Policing Unit are also allocated to this area and liaise with the local community providing crime prevention and security advice. Additional Garda patrols, including patrols by the District patrol car, District Detective and Drug Units, the Community Policing Unit and the Mountain Bike Units have been directed to pay particular attention to this area.

Current policing policy in the area is predicated on the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property, the prevention of public order offences and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of the quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of the policing service in this area.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

529 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will clarify the situation regarding people who give information to the Gardaí but who are themselves involved in crime; and if a blind eye is turned on these individuals. [24859/07]

The use of intelligence sources by members of An Garda Síochána is under the direct operational control of the Garda authorities. I am informed by the Garda authorities that policy and procedures which reflect best international practices have been introduced for the management and use of such sources by members of An Garda Síochána.

All members of the public, including those who provide information to An Garda Síochána, are subject to investigation and/or prosecution by the law enforcement agencies of the State where a criminal offence is disclosed. The question of whether or not a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The Director, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of Garda findings viewed against the background of common and/or statute law.

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

530 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will put in place a safety and security plan in a location (details supplied) as a matter of priority. [24860/07]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management is aware of anti-social behaviour and other public order offences in the area referred to. These incidents are under active investigation and have resulted in a number of arrests for public order offences, criminal damage and drug-related offences.

I am further informed that the area is inCoolock Garda District and is patrolled by Garda foot and mobile patrols from that station. Members of the local Community Policing Unit are also allocated to this area and liaise with the local community providing crime prevention and security advice. Additional Garda patrols, including patrols by the District patrol car, District Detective and Drug Units, the Community Policing Unit and the Mountain Bike Units have been directed to pay particular attention to this area.

Current policing policy in the area is predicated on the prevention of crime including crimes of violence against persons and property, the prevention of public order offences and the maintenance of an environment conducive to the improvement of the quality of life of the residents. This strategy is, and will continue to be, central to the delivery of the policing service in this area.

Residency Permits.

Ned O'Keeffe

Ceist:

531 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will grant long term residency to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [24864/07]

The position in relation to granting long term residency is as follows: Persons who have been legally resident in the State for over five years on the basis of work permit/work authorisation/work visa conditions may apply to the Immigration Division of my Department for a five year residency extension. In that context they may also apply to be exempt from employment permit requirements.

The dependants of the aforementioned, who have been legally resident in the State for over five years may also apply for long term residency. This particular long term permission does not grant an exemption from employment permit requirements to any such dependants.

Time spent in the State on student conditions cannot be counted towards long term residency. While applications for long term residency are under consideration, the person concerned should ensure that their permission to remain in the State is kept up to date.

An application for long term residence from the person referred to by the Deputy was received in October 2006. I understand that applications received in early July 2006 are currently being dealt with.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

532 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24900/07]

I can refer the Deputy to the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour (Department of Finance Circular 26/2004) and to Section 16.2 in particular, which deals with the receipt of gifts by Civil Servants, and provides that ‘‘benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual Civil Servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life''.

Prisoner Transfers.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

533 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the stage the repatriation process has reached for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24908/07]

I can inform the Deputy that my Department has recently received the High Court warrant which allows for the transfer of this individual into this country and the continued enforcement of his prison sentence under the Transfer of Sentenced Persons legislation. I have been assured that this transfer will be effected as soon as is practically possible.

Garda Investigations.

Joe Costello

Ceist:

534 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on a newspaper article (details supplied); if he will ensure that the Garda authorities clarify that the person who is the subject of that article was not involved in any criminality in order that the person can clear their good name and rebuild their career; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24909/07]

The position remains as stated in my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 923 of 26 September, 2007. A Garda investigation file relating to the proceeds of the Northern Bank robbery has been submitted to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), and directions are awaited thereon. As the DPP is independent in the exercise of his functions, it would not be appropriate to comment further.

Prison Committals.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

535 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of people who were committed to prison for penalty point violations recorded since their introduction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24914/07]

As the Deputy will be aware there is no relationship between penalty points and committal to prison. Consequently, the Irish Prison Service does not record information relating specifically to the imposition of penalty points.

Foreign Lotteries.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

536 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the extent to which foreign lotteries are operating here; the number of prosecutions under the Gaming and Lotteries Act,1979 over the past ten years in this regard; and if he has proposals to warn the public about fraudulent operators contacting people on the basis of bogus lottery wins with a view to obtaining their bank account numbers. [24923/07]

The Gaming and Lotteries Act, 1956, as amended, covers gaming and lotteries other than the National Lottery, which is governed by the National Lottery Act 1986. In addition, the Betting Act, 1931 governs matters relating to betting. In general, all forms of gaming are illegal in this jurisdiction except where specifically permitted by law.

Sections 21, 26 and 34 of the 1956 Gaming and Lotteries Act disallow the promotion and purchase in this country of tickets for a foreign lottery. This restriction applies to all lotteries in any country outside of the Irish State.

I have asked the Garda authorities to provide details of prosecutions under the Act, over the past ten years, and I will forward these to the Deputy once they have been provided to me. However, in relation to the supervision and monitoring of the operation of foreign lotteries, I have been informed by an Garda Síochána, when information is received by them concerning the running of illegal lotteries in this jurisdiction enquiries are conducted by an Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and any evidence found in support of such allegations is acted upon.

The National Consumer Agency contains information on how to avoid being taken in by lottery scams, and it recently issued a public warning following complaints about a fraudulent multi-million euro Spanish Lottery scam. The website of the National Consumer Agency is: www.consumerconnect.ie.

I am informed that An Garda Síochána has received a number of complaints from members of the public relating to fraudulent withdrawals from their bank accounts. The offences are committed using a technique known as "phishing" — i.e. the theft or attempted theft of personal information using e-mail and "bogus" web-sites. It is a relatively recent phenomenon. The act of "phishing" constitutes a number of offences contained in the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001.

I am informed that a number of persons have been prosecuted on charges of theft offences relating to "phishing" incidents where the proceeds of fraudulent withdrawals have been transferred to an apparently legitimate account which has been used to facilitate the withdrawal of the stolen funds. An Garda Síochána is working with the Banking industry to counteract this phenomenon. A High-Tech Crime forum has been established with all relevant stakeholders including An Garda Síochána and the Financial Services Industry including the banking sector. This forum facilitates the rapid dissemination of information related to "phishing" and other methods being used in an attempt to compromise banking services.

I am also informed that The Irish Bankers Federation participates in the MakeITSecure campaign, a national information campaign aimed at educating consumers on how to use IT securely, particularly in relation to financial transactions. MakeITSecure is a coalition of partners including from the private sector led by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. The campaign was launched in November 2005 and focused on four areas — identity theft, "phishing", spyware and child safety on-line. MakeITSecure aims to help individuals, families and businesses protect themselves by showing the main risks and offering some solutions to make their internet experience more secure.

I am also informed that the Financial Regulator issues press releases on the topic from time to time. Consumers are advised how to protect themselves from fraud and scams on the Financial Regulator's website site at www.ifsra.ie. The Irish Payment Services Organisation is also very active in raising awareness of such issues. I understand that most financial institutions publish warnings on their own website when they are the subject of such activities. Victims of “phishing” attacks are advised by An Garda Síochána and the industry to report any such attack immediately to An Garda Síochána for investigation.

An Garda Síochána's primary function relates to the investigation of the criminal conduct through which the monies have been lost by the injured parties as opposed to the recovery of funds. However criminal courts may make orders restoring funds which have been identified as the proceeds of crime following conviction of the offender. I am confident that every assistance is given by An Garda Síochána to injured parties and their representatives in their effort to recover monies. If a consumer is a victim of this crime, he or she should report the matter to the Gardaí and to their bank. The best line of defence against this type of fraud is to educate consumers so they are aware that they should not disclose their personal financial information to anyone.

Garda Investigations.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

537 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position of the property of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24950/07]

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that, as a result of a complaint received by the Gardaí in Kildare, the property referred to was seized and is currently retained at Kildare Garda Station.

Proposed Legislation.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

538 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will use his influence to ensure that the Criminal Evidence Act, 1992 is amended in order to ensure that persons with intellectual disabilities are provided with greater protection with regard to sexual abuse and specifically to ensure that the section that refers to sexual intercourse is amended to include other forms of abuse. [24954/07]

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

544 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will amend the Criminal Evidence Act, 1992 to include provisions to deal with sexual assault or any kind of sexual offence against an adult with an intellectual disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25028/07]

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

545 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the legislation, in view of the decision delivered by Judge Patrick McCartan in the Circuit Criminal Court in Dublin (details supplied) he proposes enacting and enable a person who is the victim of rape or sexual abuse and who suffers from an intellectual disability to properly process a claim for damages against an alleged perpetrator or have such claim processed on their behalf; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25029/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 538, 544 and 545 together.

I am examining the implications of a recent decision in the Dublin Circuit Court to ascertain whether any legislative change is required.

Citizenship Applications.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

539 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason a person (details supplied) who has been seeking naturalisation since 2004 is not being processed for consideration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24955/07]

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. On examination of the application it was determined that the person concerned did not satisfy the residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. A letter informing the applicant of this issued to him on 4 July 2007. I am informed by my officials that there is no record of a previous application for naturalisation from the person referred to in 2004. It is open to the individual in question to lodge a new application if and when he is in a position to meet the statutory residency requirement applicable at that time.

Proposed Legislation.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

540 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has proposals to provide for the offence of corporate manslaughter arising from the proposals of the Law Reform Commission of October 2005. [24956/07]

Proposals to provide for the offence of corporate manslaughter arising from the Law Reform Commission's Report published in October 2005 are included in the Government's Autumn Legislative Programme for 2007. These proposals are at a preliminary stage of examination. In due course, they will be brought to Government for approval after consultations with relevant parties have been completed, in particular with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, where much of the expertise on company and corporate matters resides.

Residency Permits.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

541 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will award stamp four or temporary residency status in the case of a person (detail supplied) in Dublin 22; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24961/07]

I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 929 & 985 of Wednesday, 26 September, 2007. As stated in that reply the person in question has been granted temporary leave to remain in the State for three years until 9 May, 2010, subject to certain conditions. This was notified to her by letter dated 9 May, 2007.

Garda Training.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

542 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if specific training is part of the programme for Garda recruits at the Templemore training facility to enable them to more correctly understand the special needs of persons with a sensory or physical disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24964/07]

I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the Student Probationer School delivers a training programme in Social and Psychological Studies to all Students/Probationers on meeting and communicating with people who have special needs. Instructors from Rehab Enterprises deliver the training programme with regard to dealing with persons with the following disabilities:

1.Wheelchair users.

2.Disabled persons.

3.A person who has polio, cerebral palsy or learning difficulties.

4.Persons with mental health illness or mental health difficulties.

5.People with learning difficulties.

6.Persons with Down's Syndrome

7.People who are blind, visually impaired, hard of hearing, with a hearing impairment or hearing disabled.

Closed Circuit Television Systems.

Mary O'Rourke

Ceist:

543 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when precisely closed circuit television will be installed in Athlone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24971/07]

Athlone is one of 14 locations into which the Garda town centre CCTV programme is being expanded. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the tenders received for the provision of a town centre CCTV system for Athlone are currently being evaluated and this process is expected to be completed shortly. Following approval of the preferred suppliers it is planned that the contract for the system will be awarded before the end of 2007. Works on the installation of the CCTV system should commence shortly after that, subject to planning permissions, wayleaves and any civil works required.

Questions Nos. 544 and 545 answered with Question No. 538.

Garda Training.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

546 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his plans to provide funding to the Garda to provide a dedicated firearms range; the facilities available to the Garda for such training; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25032/07]

The provision of firearms training and related facilities for members of An Garda Síochána who are authorised to carry firearms are matters for the Garda Commissioner in accordance with his identified operational requirements.

I am informed that An Garda Síochána has ordered two Prefabricated Modular Firearms ranges at a cost of €3.2 million. Delivery and installation of the new ranges is expected before the end of this year and they will be put into operation early in 2008. These prefabricated ranges are newly designed products that will facilitate live fire shooting for up to four persons in a carefully contained environment which adheres to all range safety requirements.

I am further informed by the Garda authorities that three Firearms Automated Training Systems (FATS) units were purchased in January 2006 at a cost of €512,878 and are currently in use. FATS training has allowed the development of judgmental firearms training as well as traditional marksmanship training in a non-live fire environment. Members of An Garda Síochána and the Garda Specialist Training Unit also make use of Military ranges countrywide. Firearms training and facilities are constantly reviewed to ensure sufficient and appropriate training is provided and that training compares favourably with international best practice.

Garda Investigations.

Damien English

Ceist:

547 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if Garda investigations into PIPS, a bogus investment scheme, are ongoing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25048/07]

An Garda Síochána continues to investigate complaints from members of the public as they arise relating to the operation of bogus investment schemes such as PIPS which may involve fraudulent withdrawals from persons' bank accounts, offences which are committed using a technique known as "phishing". This is a term used to describe the theft or attempted theft of personal information using e-mail and bogus web sites. It is a relatively recent phenomenon.

An Garda Síochána continues to work with the banking industry to counteract the phenomenon. All the banks offering on-line banking services have posted warning notices on their websites to the effect that this activity is occurring and that members of the public should not respond to any request relating to their personal banking security details.

Victims of "phishing" are advised by An Garda Síochána and the industry to report any such activity immediately to An Garda Síochána for investigation. Every assistance to recover monies is given by An Garda Síochána to injured parties and their representatives.

Garda investigations to date have resulted in a number of persons being prosecuted for theft offences related to "phishing" incidents in which the proceeds of fraudulent withdrawals have been transferred to an apparently legitimate account which has been used to facilitate the withdrawal of the stolen funds.

An Garda Síochána, through the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation, has participated in a number of initiatives by various Government Departments and the financial institutions which have as their primary aim the raising of public awareness of this type of criminality. These include:

A website entitled ‘Safecard', which was launched in partnership with the Irish Payment Services Organisation. This website addresses many issues around payment card fraud, in particular the issue of identity theft. The Garda website (www.garda.ie) also provides advice to members of the public on how to avoid this type of criminal activity.

The ‘MakeITSecure' Programme, in conjunction with the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources which, inter alia, produced advice booklets including one on identity theft, for the public and which have been distributed to every Garda Station.

Questions Nos. 548 and 549 answered with Question No. 518.

Citizenship Applications.

John Curran

Ceist:

550 Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will make a decision regarding applications for naturalisation made by persons (details supplied) in Dublin 22. [25109/07]

Processing of applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's question are at an advanced stage and I expect to be in a position to advise the Deputy and the applicants of my decision in respect of each application in the near future.

Garda Operations.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

551 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the plans there are to move the Garda divisional headquarters from Roscommon Town; if he will review the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25113/07]

In accordance with section 22 of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, decisions on the establishment or relocation of a Garda Divisional Headquarters are matters for the Garda Commissioner in the first instance, in the context of his Annual Policing Plan. The Annual Policing Plan will be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas in due course.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

552 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25146/07]

I can inform the Deputy that, based on an analysis of payments to the main suppliers of paper stationery products to my Department, it is estimated that in the region of €288,000 has been spent on such products to date in 2007. A very wide range of products are covered under this heading and it is not readily possible to ascertain in all cases whether the particular product contained recycled material. I can confirm, however, that at least €87,000 of this expenditure does relate to recycled products.

Visa Applications.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

553 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has placed new restrictions on the issue of holiday visas; and if he will examine the case of a person (details supplied) where only two weeks have effectively been granted. [25167/07]

I would inform the Deputy that the criteria for consideration of visa applications have not been changed and each application is considered on its merits. In the case referred to, I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the application has been re-examined and the applicant has been granted a visa valid for ninety days.

Residency Permits.

Damien English

Ceist:

554 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 225 of 27 March 2007, if his Department will reassess if a person (details supplied) in County Meath qualifies for long term residency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25195/07]

The Immigration Division of my Department has recently been in contact with the person concerned requesting further documentation. On receipt of a response the application will be processed further.

Garda Strength.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

555 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí on active duty at the end of September 2007 and the same figure for October 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25200/07]

As of the 30 September 2007, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the personnel strength on An Garda Síochána was 13,531. The personnel strength of An Garda Síochána on 30 October 2006 was 12,709.

Citizenship Applications.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

556 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the application for a certificate of naturalisation for a person (details supplied) in Cork south west; and if same will be granted. [25206/07]

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 on the 9 January 2007.

Officials in that Section are currently processing applications received in the beginning of 2005 and have approximately 11,300 applications on hand to be dealt with before that of the person concerned. These are generally dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. It is likely, therefore, that further processing of the application will commence in the second half of 2009. I will inform the Deputy and the person in question when a decision is reached in the case.

Visa Applications.

Peter Power

Ceist:

557 Deputy Peter Power asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for refusing the granting of a holiday visa to a person (details supplied); the evidence that would satisfy to grant such a visa; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25228/07]

I refer the Deputy to my answer to Parliamentary Question 355 of the 17 October 2007, in which I listed the reasons why a visa had not been approved in this case. The decision of the Visa Officer may be appealed within two months of the date of the original decision — in this case before 11 December, 2007. An appeal should be submitted to the Visa Appeals Officer and should address all the reasons for the original refusal.

Departmental Reports.

Michael D'Arcy

Ceist:

558 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the Gaming Commission will be set up; where it will be located; the time schedule as to when it will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25246/07]

The Deputy will be aware that in August, 2006, the Government agreed to the proposal of my predecessor for the establishment of a Committee (the Casino Regulation Committee) to report on the possibilities for a legislative basis for the strict regulation of casino-style operations in the State.

The Casino Regulation Committee completed their Report in April of this year. It is a lengthy document which deals with a range of complex and inter-related public policy issues which are now being considered within my Department. Following consideration of the issues, I intend bringing the Report before the Government. As the Report has yet to be presented to Government I do not propose to comment on the Report or any of its recommendations at this time.

Garda Stations.

James McDaid

Ceist:

559 Deputy James McDaid asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the situation regarding the new Garda station at Buncrana County Donegal. [25248/07]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that plans for the new Garda station in Buncrana are well advanced. Contracts for additional land for the new station are being processed by the Chief State Solicitors Office and tenders for the provision of the new building are currently being evaluated by the Office of Public Works. It is expected that work will commence as soon as contracts have been put in place.

Prison Building Programme.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

560 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the estimated date for the completion of the new prison facility to replace Cork Prison; and the approximate cost of same. [25249/07]

Allowing for the steps still to be taken, including the tendering process as well as the design and construction phase, it is unlikely that a new prison facility to replace Cork prison will be completed at Kilworth before 2011. In relation to the approximate cost, the Deputy will appreciate that the terms and scope of the project have not yet been finalised. In addition, this project will be procured by means of a public tender competition and the Deputy will be aware that, accordingly, it is not appropriate for a number of reasons to publish estimates of the cost at this point.

Ground Rents.

Tony Gregory

Ceist:

561 Deputy Tony Gregory asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department will assist a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9; if he will take action to resolve the general ground rent issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25253/07]

In relation to ground rents in general, the law already provides for a statutory scheme for the acquisition of the fee simple in dwelling houses which is set out in the Landlord and Tenant (Ground Rents) (No. 2) Act 1978. Part III of that Act provides a special procedure, operated by the Property Registration Authority, whereby a person may acquire the fee simple in their dwelling house. Under this legislation I am also precluded from any involvement in specific cases.

Ground rents legislation makes clear that when the lease has only a few years to run or has expired the purchase price of the fee simple increases. It also means that the rent, were it to continue, will be substantially greater than previously existed. The principle inevitably involved in the legislation is one of compensation that is reasonable in all the circumstances. A legal challenge to the constitutionality of certain provisions of existing ground rents legislation was heard in the High Court during 2005. The Court's judgment upholding the constitutionality of the legislation was delivered in early 2006 but it has been appealed to the Supreme Court. It is likely that the appeal will be heard later this year.

Operation of the law in relation to ground rents continues to be reviewed in my Department. There are no proposals for change pending the outcome of the appeal that I have mentioned.

Parental Leave Provisions.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

562 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has conducted a review of the provision here of rights and of financial supports for flexible parental leave which could allow parents to better balance their family and work responsibilities; the way provision in Ireland in his area of responsibility compares with best practice, for example in Scandinavian countries or in France; and if measures to strengthen Ireland’s provision in this respect will form a part of his five year strategy for his Department. [25294/07]

The development of work life balance policies in Ireland is addressed on two fronts. Firstly, appropriate legislative measures provide for statutory entitlements such as maternity leave, adoptive leave, carer's leave, parental leave, maximum working hours, rest periods, annual leave and public holiday entitlements.

In accordance with section 28 of the Parental Leave Act 1998 and a Government commitment in the Programme for Prosperity and Fairness, a review of the Act of 1998 was conducted by a Working Group chaired by my Department, which comprised the social partners, relevant Government Departments and the Equality Authority. The Report of the Working Group on the Review of the Parental Leave Act 1998 was published on 29 April, 2002. The Working Group as part of its work researched the practice in other countries.

Parental Leave provisions were subsequently increased in 2006 giving a statutory entitlement to take the 14 weeks parental leave in separate blocks of a minimum of 6 continuous weeks, or on more favourable terms with the agreement of the employee. Additional provisions raised the maximum age of the eligible child from 5 to 8 years; increased the maximum age of the eligible child to 16 years in the case of children with disabilities; extended parental leave entitlements to persons acting in loco parentis in respect of an eligible child; and extended the force majeure provisions to include persons in a relationship of domestic dependency, including same-sex partners.

The Government and the social partners are committed in the new social partnership agreement, Towards 2016, to review the level of provision of maternity/paternity leave again before the end of 2008. In this review, as in the previous exercise, note will be taken of comparative provisions and best practice across Europe. Moreover, the Government is committed in its Agreed Programme for Government to increase paid maternity leave by five weeks, to make all leave after the first 26 weeks available to either parent and to examine the possibility of introducing paternity benefit and shared parental leave.

Work life balance policies are also supported on a second front, through the voluntary approach which is supported by the work of the National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance Policies. The Committee, which was established under Social Partnership and chaired by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, is charged with supporting and facilitating the development of family friendly policies at the level of the enterprise through the development of a package of practical measures that can be applied. One of the tasks of the Committee is to examine how best to improve access to family friendly working arrangements in order to realise the potential benefits that these arrangements would offer from both an equality and competitiveness perspective.

The Agreed Programme for Government includes a commitment to work with the social partners to promote the greater availability of family-friendly work practices. This is being pursued through the work of the National Framework Committee for Work Life Balance Policies. My Department's Strategy Statement will be drawn up in a manner consistent with the Government's commitments under the Agreed Programme for Government and Towards 2016.

Garda Stations.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

563 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of Garda stations that have internet access; the number that have e-mail accounts; the number generally equipped with broadband capability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25295/07]

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the Garda Information System (GIS) which includes access to PULSE, the Garda National Immigration Bureau Systems, is also used to deliver external Email and internet access on a user by user basis as operational needs dictate. Internet access is currently availed of in all District and Divisional Headquarters.

External email is available to all Gardaí from the rank of Inspector upwards and is also available to other Gardaí and civilian staff as operational needs require. A total of 1,066 external email addresses are currently being utilised by Gardaí and civilian staff. The Garda Wide Area Network (WAN) provides broadband performance levels in delivering these services and is available at 338 locations nationwide.

I am further informed by the Garda Authorities that a pilot project to facilitate email communications between An Garda Síochána and members of the public using mailboxes assigned to individual sections and stations is currently underway. The pilot will assess the various factors that need to be addressed with regard to greater use of external email by An Garda Síochána, including the type and volume of Garda business that can be transacted using email, the potential uses for Section and Station emails and the security and resource implications for the Garda network.

Following the pilot project external email facilities will be rolled out on a phased basis to all stations in the DMR and to District HQ stations and other stations outside the DMR where the necessary network infrastructure is in place. The roll-out will also include making external email facilities available for all members of Sergeant rank of whom there are over 2,100 in active service.

Garda Training.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

564 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the proportion of serving Gardaí who have information technology training; if basic competence in information technology is required for recruitment to the force; the proportion of the force that has regular resort to IT; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25296/07]

I have requested the information sought by the Deputy from the Garda Commissioner. I will write to the Deputy directly when this information is to hand.

Visa Applications.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

565 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason an application for a visa by a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath was recently refused; if this application will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25319/07]

The application for a "Join Spouse" visa referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Dublin on 31 July 2007. It was refused on 14 August 2007 because the Visa Officer was not provided with satisfactory evidence of a pre-existing relationship. As no appeal was received within two months of the refusal decision being communicated to the applicant, no further review of the application can take place. It is open to the applicant, however to make a fresh application.

Residency Permits.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

566 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if non-EU nationals who enter the State as the spouse of an Irish citizen are entitled to a C or a D visa while their application for residency is pending; if the Garda National Immigration Bureau are empowered to grant Stamp 4 status to such spouses; if so, the grounds upon which it may or may not be granted; if the nationality of the spouse is a factor in determining what visa or status is granted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25330/07]

Marriage to an Irish national does not grant any automatic right to enter or reside in the State solely on that basis. Non-EEA nationals who have no current permission to remain within the State are required to make an application for residence on the basis of marriage to an Irish national to the Immigration Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department. Such applicants cannot register with the Garda National Immigration Bureau until their application for residency has been processed and cannot therefore be given Stamp 4 status while the application is pending.

As such persons are already in the State, the question of a "C" or "D" visa does not arise. However, a visa-required national will not normally be given a re-entry visa while the application for legal residence based on marriage is pending. The nationality of the non-EEA spouse has no bearing on the immigration status which is granted to such applicants.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

567 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the processing times for applications for residency based upon marriage to an Irish citizen; if his attention has been drawn to the hardship posed to these families due to the denial of employment rights while these applications are pending; if his attention has further been drawn to reports that some Irish emigrants are refusing to return home due to the fact their families can not afford to live on one income while waiting for the non-EU spouse to be granted employment rights; and his views on allowing these spouses the right to work pending the outcome of their application, as is the case in many other countries including the USA and Britain. [25331/07]

Marriage to an Irish national does not grant any automatic right to enter or reside in the State solely on that basis. Non-EEA nationals who have no current permission to remain within the State are required to make an application for residence on the basis of marriage to an Irish national to the Immigration Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department. Applications, in fairness to all other such applicants, are dealt with in chronological order and are currently taking 12 months to process.

The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department has growing experience of marriages being entered into for the sole purpose of enabling the non national spouse to enter and remain in the State. Frequently in these circumstances, the Irish national may be totally unaware that this is the primary intention of the non national and will feel aggrieved by the perception that the immigration authorities are interfering with their private life in refusing to allow their spouse to enter or remain in the State. On occasion the Irish national may be a willing party for their own personal benefit. ‘Convenience' marriages for the purpose of circumventing normal immigration controls are experienced by immigration jurisdictions worldwide.

In order to prevent abuses of the system, insofar as is possible and without unduly interfering with the Irish citizen's private circumstances, the Immigration Division will seek to establish various matters. These include the context in which the marriage took place, the validity of the marriage and whether the couple are residing together in a family unit. This will involve requesting documentation in support of the application for residence and may also require an interview of either or both parties by the immigration authorities.

It has always been the case that non EU nationals could not enter employment pending the outcome of an application for residence based on marriage to an Irish national. I do not envisage any change in this practice at this time.

Citizenship Applications.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

568 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the naturalisation application by a person (details supplied) will be processed; and if same can be expedited as the applicant, a spouse of an Irish citizen, reports regular harassment on their visits to their native country including demands for bribes from local immigration officials, which foreign passport holders are not generally subjected to. [25459/07]

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 on the 12 May 2007. Officials in that Section are currently processing applications received in the beginning of 2005 and have approximately 12,800 applications on hand to be dealt with before that of the person concerned. These are generally dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. It is likely, therefore, that further processing of the application will commence towards the end of 2009.

Departmental Expenditure.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

569 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of the €3 million promised to the graffiti removal operation launched in June 2006 that was actually spent before it was decided by his Department to wind it up. [25461/07]

As the Deputy will be aware, primary responsibility for the removal and cleaning of graffiti rest with Local Authorities under the Litter Pollution Act, 1997. This Department in association with the Departments of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs has over the past year been operating a pilot Graffiti Removal scheme, in — Bray Town, Dublin City and Galway City. This scheme supplements the local authorities in their efforts to combat graffiti.

Far from being wound up, the scheme is being restructured in line with the evaluation of the scheme which was carried out by the Institute of criminology, UCD. The overall total spent by the Department on the scheme since it began is approximately €1,421,000.

Garda Deployment.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

570 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the comments by a senior Garda Officer (details supplied) to the effect that the local drugs units are re-directed into other policing tasks which emerge thereby disrupting their focus on drugs; and if, in view of the scale of the drugs crisis and associated gangland crime, he will bring this matter to the attention of the Garda Commissioner and ask him to urgently ensure that the full capacity of all drugs units, national and local, are directed at disrupting drug supply. [25462/07]

As the Deputy will appreciate, policing operations and the deployment of Garda resources are matters for the Garda Commissioner. It is and must remain the responsibility of Garda management to allocate personnel within the Garda organisation on a priority basis in accordance with overall policing requirements.

Since the publication of the Government's National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008, Garda resources generally in the fight against illicit drugs have increased. This is particularly evident with the creation of additional Divisional Drug Units in areas of particular need. These Drugs Units operate in Divisions throughout the country with a primary focus on local drugs activities.

These units are also supported in their work by officers from other national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation and the Criminal Assets Bureau. In addition, all Gardaí are tasked with confronting drugs related issues as they arise.

Furthermore, I can assure the Deputy that additional Garda resources are coming on stream all the time and that these additional human resources will facilitate the Garda Commissioner in the allocation of additional manpower to areas most in need, including in the fight against illegal drugs.

Finally I can also assure the Deputy that the enforcement of the law relating to drugs and public order continues to be a key element in the Government's policing priorities.

Courts Service.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

571 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make additional resources available to the Courts Service for the Circuit Criminal Court to speed up the acquirement of hearing dates in an effort to reduce the numbers absconding while on bail. [25463/07]

The Deputy will be aware that evidence in relation to the likelihood of an accused person absconding whilst on bail is one of the factors which may be taken into account by a court in refusing bail. Section 13 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984 (as amended) provides that if a person who has been released on bail in criminal proceedings fails to appears before a court in accordance with his recognisance, he shall be guilty of an offence and shall be liable on summary conviction to a fine not exceeding €5000 and/or imprisonment for a term not exceeding 12 months. The section also treats this offence as an offence committed on bail which must attract a consecutive sentence.

The Courts and Court Officers (Amendment) Act 2007 enacted earlier this year provided for 14 additional judges, of whom four are judges of the Circuit Court. These additional judges were appointed to deal with delays and generally speed up the judicial process. I understand that the President of the Circuit Court has given priority to the clearing of criminal cases and that six Circuit Court Judges are currently dealing with criminal matters on a full-time basis in Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

The Courts Service is responsible for the day to day management of the courts and I am responsible for ensuring that the Service has adequate provision. I am firmly committed to ensuring that the Courts Service has resources adequate to the demands placed on it and in this regard I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the recently announced pre-budget estimates include a 4.9% increase in current spending for the Courts Service.

Question No. 572 answered with QuestionNo. 525.

Joint Policing Committees.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

573 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to his response to Parliamentary Question No. 349 of 17 October 2007, the person who will be invited to participate in the consultation seminar on the experiences gained in the operation of the pilot Joint Policing Committee projects; his views on whether the broadest participation possible would contribute to the quality of findings; and if all JPC members can expect an invite. [25465/07]

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

575 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will make a statement detailing what the €500,000 funding for Joint Policing Committees provided for in Budget 2007 has been spent on to date. [25467/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 573 and 575 together.

Officials from my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government are currently engaged in organising a consultation seminar on Joint Policing Committees to be held before the end of November. My colleague the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and I will participate in the seminar, which will examine the experience gained in the operation of the committees which were established in the pilot phase. It is proposed to invite members of An Garda Síochána, local authorities, the Oireachtas and the community and voluntary sector who are involved in Joint Policing Committees, as well as inviting the participation of the representative associations for local authority members and city and county managers. I share the Deputy's view that the broadest participation possible in the seminar would contribute to its success. At the same time I believe that the numbers of those attending should not exceed the level at which all will have the opportunity of participating fully.

The Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, in conjunction with my Department, is in discussion with the local authority representative bodies concerning the disbursement of the funding being made available by the two Departments.

Statutory Inquiries.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

574 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the date he expects to publish the report of the statutory inquiry headed by Mr. Hugh Hartnett SC into the death of a person (details supplied) following Garda custody. [25466/07]

The report was submitted to me on 3 October last.

At present my officials are in consultation with the office of the Attorney General regarding the legal implications of the report's contents for any further course of action that might be adopted by me.

While it is my intention to publish the report, I am unable to be definitive about a date at this stage.

Question No. 575 answered with QuestionNo. 573.

Water Pollution.

Damien English

Ceist:

576 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the processes that are in place to stop water pollution in Meath’s rivers and lakes; the new measures that will be introduced soon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25057/07]

Primary responsibility for the protection and improvement of water quality is assigned statutorily to local authorities, which in the case of Meath's rivers and lakes is the responsibility of Meath County Council. In this regard local authorities act under the supervision of the EPA. Measures for the protection and improvement of water quality are being progressed on a systematic basis, in the context of the Water Framework Directive (WFD) which provides generally that there must be no deterioration in the status of any waters and that all waters achieve at least "good status" by 2015. A comprehensive programme of activities is currently underway by local authorities, the EPA, my Department and other relevant bodies for full implementation of the Directive. This is being supported by river basin district projects, led by local authorities, together with a wide range of other measures including ongoing investment under the Water Services Investment Programme, implementation of the Nitrates Action Programme, and new regulatory controls in relation to the licensing of aerial fertilisation of forestry and discharges from local authority wastewater treatment plants.

Further information on the measures being taken to stop pollution in Meath's rivers and lakes may be obtained from Meath County Council.

Aarhus Convention.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

577 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status on the adoption of the Aarhus Convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25201/07]

Ireland signed the Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters on 25 June 1998. Progress towards ratification of the Convention is closely aligned with work at EU level and, in that context, the European Union has adopted two Directives as part of the ratification process for the Convention. These deal with public access to environmental information (2003/4/EC) and public participation in certain environmental decision-making procedures (2003/35/EC).

Regulations transposing the European Communities (Access to information on the Environment) Directive 2003/4/EC were signed and came into effect on 1 May 2007.

The process to transpose Directive 2003/35/EC is well advanced with legislation completed to amend the majority of the relevant consent systems. The remaining work on the outstanding consent systems will be completed at the earliest possible date.

Having regard to the above, I will ensure that the instrument of ratification of the Aarhus Convention is submitted to Government and laid before the Dáil as soon as possible.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

578 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his proposals to allow tenants of voluntary housing agencies who are living in three bedroom houses which are not adequate to their needs and where the voluntary housing agency does not have larger houses to become approved applicants of local authorities that have four bedroom houses, to facilitate transfers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24704/07]

The provision of accommodation by approved voluntary and co-operative housing bodies is an integral part of my Department's overall response to delivering on social housing need. In cases where a particular social housing need exists and where a voluntary housing body is unable to meet this need from its existing housing stock, the person or family concerned should apply to the relevant housing authority for social housing appropriate to their needs. It is a matter for housing authorities to determine the eligibility of all applicants for social housing including applicants who may be tenants of voluntary housing bodies.

In keeping with the lifecycle framework introduced in the new Partnership Agreement, Towards 2016, which has been reflected in my Department's housing policy statement, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, we are working to put in place a graduated and flexible system of housing supports to meet the housing needs of applicants over their lifetimes including strengthening appropriate mechanisms to cater for those households already in receipt of housing support who require a change in the support being provided on foot of their changing circumstances.

Road Network.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

579 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views regarding the concerns of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford relating to the M3 project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24705/07]

I have no statutory remit in relation to the approval, or otherwise, of a road development, such as the M3. That is a matter for An Bord Pleanála, whose decisions in this regard are subject to challenge only by way of judicial review.

Following the approval of a road development by An Bord Pleanála, section 14A of the National Monuments Act, 1930, as amended, provides for two situations in which Ministerial directions relating to works of an archaeological nature associated with the road development fall to be issued.

Firstly, archaeological works, as identified in the Environment Impact Statement (EIS) for the scheme as necessary to mitigate the impacts of the scheme, carried out in respect of an approved road development must be carried out in accordance with Ministerial directions issued following consultation with the Director of the National Museum.

Secondly, Ministerial directions may be issued where, as in the case of Lismullin, a national monument is discovered during the carrying out of a road development subsequent to its approval by the Board, and neither the approval under the Roads Act, 1993, nor the EIS prepared for the scheme dealt with the newly discovered monument. The question of determining whether any such directions require a material change to the road development, and whether any such change is likely to have significant adverse effects on the environment is by law a matter for determination by An Bord Pleanála. In the Lismullin case, An Bord Pleanála has made a determination that no material alteration arises to the approved road development as a consequence of the direction issued by my predecessor in respect of the national monument at Lismullin.

In the course of a Reasoned Opinion received in June 2007 the EU Commission expressed its view that under the requirements of the EIA Directive a new environmental impact assessment was required before a decision was taken on how to proceed in relation to the newly discovered National Monument at Lismullin. Ireland responded in detail to the concerns raised by the Commission, indicating that the Irish authorities consider that the provisions of EU and Irish Law were fully complied with in this case and that they are supported in that view by legal advice from the Attorney General as well as judgements from the High and Supreme courts. The Commission has now decided to refer its case to the European Court of Justice and it will be a matter for that Court to determine the legal issues involved in due course.

There is a commitment in the Programme for Government to maximise and clarify the protection provided to our archaeological heritage. On foot of this commitment I have initiated a comprehensive review, in consultation with relevant stakeholders, of archaeological policy and practice in Ireland. It is my intention, following the review, to bring forward any necessary measures, including legislative proposals, to enhance the protection we afford to our archaeological heritage.

Local Authority Funding.

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

580 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason the local authority playground grant was suspended for 2007/2008; if the scheme will be re-introduced in 2009; if there are plans to replace the suspended funding with a similar scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24727/07]

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

621 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the funding supports available in his Department for community groups wishing to build a children’s playground. [25438/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 580 and 621 together.

I refer to the reply to Question No. 121 of 10 October 2007. The position is unchanged.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

581 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24740/07]

The Department's Annual Output Statement for 2007 has not been published on the Department's website but copies have been laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas and have been made available on request. I have now asked that the Annual Output Statement be put on the Department's website.

Management Fees.

Joanna Tuffy

Ceist:

582 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the high cost of management fees for people living in apartments and developments owned by management companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24764/07]

My Department has no function in relation to the cost of management and maintenance of private accommodation. Property management companies, consisting of the owners of dwellings, are generally constituted under the Companies Acts and are required to operate in compliance with company law, which comes within the area of responsibility of the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.

Determination of management charges is primarily a matter for individual management companies. My Department does not have a role in this or other aspects of company governance.

Library Projects.

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

583 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the submissions he has received from Kildare County Council in relation to the provision of a new branch library in Kildare Town; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the local branch library is temporarily located in a business campus at a considerable distance from the town centre and that a newly built facility intended for library use stands vacant in the town centre for more than two years; his views therefore on the level of library service available to the rapidly growing population of Kildare Town; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24765/07]

In 2006, a request for Approval-in-Principle for a revised library project in Kildare was received in the Department. It was proposed by the library authority that this project be undertaken as a leasing arrangement with a private developer. For such an arrangement to be considered for sanction, however, the proposal must represent the best value for money taking all options into account. The proposal from Kildare County Council was examined by inspectors in the Department who concluded that the proposed leasing arrangements did not represent value for money when compared with the option of building or acquiring a facility which would remain in the ownership of the local authority.

I am aware that the library in Kildare Town is currently operating from a Business Park and the Department remains open to considering assisting the library authority with any reasonable project to improve the library service in Kildare town.

The Department has provided funding of almost €1 million to Kildare County Council for a Library Headquarters in Newbridge, which is located 5 miles from Kildare Town. In addition, the Department has recently awarded €200,000 to Kildare County Council for a replacement Mobile Library and a replacement Delivery Van for the library service which will allow it to augment service to all areas of the county, including Kildare town.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

584 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that buyers of affordable housing can not change their mortgage provider; if he will make changes to the scheme to enable them to do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24785/07]

The question of facilitating arrangements for persons in affordable housing wishing to re-mortgage with private lenders has been the subject of discussions between my Department and a number of the financial institutions. The current practice requires that if a private lender agrees to provide re-mortgage finance it will be on the basis that their mortgage charge will rank below the clawback charge where such a charge exists. This is consistent with the time sensitive nature of property charges under which the priority of charges is determined by the sequence in which they were placed on the property. The private financial institutions have indicated an unwillingness to advance re-mortgage finance on this basis.

Accordingly, my Department is examining the feasibility of introducing a set of arrangements under which a local authority would agree to its clawback charge ranking in second place behind a new, or topped-up, mortgage charge, in certain circumstances. The practicalities of this will have to be considered in consultation with the local authorities and the lending institutions. It is likely that any new set of arrangements that may be introduced will require enabling legislation.

Election Management System.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

585 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will enact section 22 of the Local Government Act, 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24786/07]

I refer to the reply to Question Nos. 509 and 510 of 2 October 2007. The position is unchanged.

Planning Issues.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

586 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has produced guidelines for local authorities in setting the level of bonds that must be paid by developers of new residential developments; if he has satisfied himself at the level at which bonds are being set; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24787/07]

Sections 34(4)(g) and 180(2)(b) of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provide that a planning authority may attach a condition to a planning permission requiring the giving of adequate security for the satisfactory completion of a development, and, if the development is not subsequently completed satisfactorily, may apply the security to that satisfactory completion. The determination of an adequate amount to complete any particular development is a matter for the relevant local authority, having regard to the circumstances in its area. However, in the interests of those purchasing a property in a development, it is essential that the bond be adequate, to enable the local authority carry out the work if the developer defaults.

In circular letter PD1/06, issued on 25 January 2006, my Department informed planning authorities that it was necessary for all planning authorities to establish, as a priority, a policy on taking in charge of estates, to be approved by the members of the authority and reviewed at least once a year. This circular further stated that the policy should, among other requirements, provide that:

an acceptable level of security be provided by the developer towards the completion of a development,

the security not be released until the estate is completed to the specified standards, and

the bond obtained from the developer be applied to carry out any outstanding work where needed to ensure the estate is completed.

My Department issued further guidance to planning authorities on this issue in the Development Management Guidelines, published in June 2007 under section 28 of the Planning and Development Act 2000. The Guidelines provide specific recommendations on attaching conditions relating to grants of permission for residential development including that:

a planning condition requiring an acceptable security by way of bond, cash or otherwise is essential so as to secure satisfactory completion of the development,

the amount should be specified and should be index linked,

the amount should enable the planning authority, without cost to itself, to complete the necessary services to a satisfactory standard,

the condition should require lodgement of the security coupled with an agreement enabling the local authority to realise the bond,

the bond should be of sufficient duration to allow inspection of the development and still call in the bond if necessary, and

the bond should be refunded on satisfactory completion of the development.

My Department also established a Working Group, representative of local authorities, architects, planners and consumer interests to consider this issue and other related issues around taking in charge of estates. The Group has now completed its work and the draft guidance has been submitted to me. I expect to be in a position to issue revised guidance on taking in charge shortly.

Election Management System.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

587 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when current district electoral divisions for the purpose of the census were last reviewed; if he will carry out a review of the same in view of the change in the pattern of development across Ireland in the past few decades; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24788/07]

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

616 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the proposed commission in relation to local electoral areas will mean the change of local electoral boundaries; and if not, if local representatives or representation within existing boundaries will change. [25334/07]

Deirdre Clune

Ceist:

622 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will alter local electoral boundaries prior to the next local elections; if so, when he will do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25445/07]

Deirdre Clune

Ceist:

623 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the next local elections will take place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25446/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 587, 616, 622 and 623 together.

Unlike for Dáil and European Parliament constituencies, there are no legal requirements in relation to the frequency of local electoral area reviews. The last review of local electoral areas was carried out in 1998; the next local elections are required under the terms of section 26 of the Local Government Act 2001 to take place in May or June 2009. I am at present considering the issues around a review of local electoral areas and I expect to be in a position to make a statement on the matter shortly.

The last significant revision of electoral divisions was carried out in 1994. There are no current proposals to undertake a review of electoral divisions.

Incinerator Safety.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

588 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether there are significant health risks associated with incineration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24843/07]

Incinerators are subject to independent statutory planning and waste licence approval processes. My Department is aware that the Environmental Protection Agency takes human health issues into account when considering waste licence applications. The Agency takes the view that if the licensed emission limits are complied with, then human health is adequately protected in line with best practice.

Election Management System.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

589 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the financial cost of breaking the contracts with the storage providers of the electronic voting machines in each constituency; the cost of transporting electronic voting machines to the centralised storage location in Gormanstown; the cost of the upkeep for the centralised storage location in Gormanstown; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24854/07]

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

590 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the plans the Government has for a second centralised storage facility in view of the fact that the Gormanstown site does not have enough room to store all the election voting machines that were originally planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24855/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 589 and 590 together.

Significant progress has been made in the transfer of the electronic voting equipment to centralised premises in Gormanstown; arrangements are being made to transfer further such equipment to Gormanstown. The total transport costs available at present amount to €25,118 (VAT inclusive). It is anticipated that ongoing costs associated with the upkeep of the storage premises will be minimal. 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.

It has been known from the outset that, while the majority of the electronic voting equipment could be stored at Gormanstown, an additional premises would be required to store the remainder; this matter is under consideration at present.

Local Authority Housing.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

591 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the names and addresses of all housing estates that were deemed to be unfinished arising from the request for such information in a letter (details supplied) circulated to local authorities in January 2006; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24856/07]

The information requested is not available from my Department and was not sought from planning authorities by circular letter PD 1/06.

Construction Materials.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

592 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the role of the EPA in relation to investigating quarries for pyrite in stone; if he will outline reports available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24880/07]

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

593 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a certification procedure in respect of stone products in view of recent problems associated with house construction in Dublin and the discovery of pyrite; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24881/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 592 and 593 together.

I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 1150, 1151, 1153, 1155 and 1167 of 26 September 2007.

The certification of products is the responsibility of the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI). The NSAI is giving urgent consideration to publication of additional guidance in relation to appropriate protocols for testing underfloor infill material, whether by way of a new standard, amendment to an existing standard or a standard recommendation, as found appropriate. It is my intention to adopt any recommendation of the NSAI in this regard, when available, in the relevant Technical Guidance Document to the Building Regulations.

The Environmental Protection Agency has no role in relation to this matter.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

594 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24896/07]

In accordance with the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour, benefits under frequent flier schemes may be retained by individual civil servants in recognition of the fact that official travel is disruptive to personal and family life. Nevertheless, in accordance with my Department's travel policy the availability of frequent flyer points is not allowed to influence decisions taken in relation to using any particular airline for official business.

Local Authority Housing.

John Deasy

Ceist:

595 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the checks carried out by local authorities to determine whether or not housing applicants both national and non Irish national are property owners in another country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24943/07]

The assessment of housing need, including verification of the relevant circumstances of applicants, is a matter for the local authority concerned. As standard procedure, local authorities seek information on applicants' accommodation history and have powers under Section 15 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1997 to seek information from a range of relevant bodies in relation to applicants.

John Deasy

Ceist:

596 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on putting a cap on rent for local authority tenants who due to financial circumstances in the past were unable to purchase their homes and who have remained tenants for over 30 years and due to age and the increase in house valuations find that they are still unable to purchase their home but are paying rents in some instances the equivalent of a mortgage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24944/07]

Local authorities are responsible for the adoption of their differential rents schemes and my Department has no direct function in their administration. While my Department's circular letter HRT 3/2002 laid down broad principles in relation to the content of local authority differential rents schemes, including that the rent payable should be related to income with a smaller proportion of income being required from low income households, the placing of a cap on rent charged under a scheme is a matter for each individual local authority.

Local Authority Funding.

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

597 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is proposed to address the issue of local authorities which have very low commercial rate bases and which are overly dependent on inadequate central funds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24958/07]

The unprecedented expansion in the economy in recent years, supported by the Government's economic policies, has resulted in growth in local authorities' commercial rates bases by some 60% in the period 1997–2006. The additional income provided through this growth has assisted local authorities in expanding and improving the services they provide to their customers. The income that each authority generates from commercial rates and from charges for goods and services is taken into account in determining annual general purpose grants from the Local Government Fund. These grants are my Department's contribution towards meeting the cost to local authorities of providing an acceptable level of day to day services for their customers. Some €948m has been allocated in general purpose grants to local authorities in 2007, an increase of 8% over the amount provided in 2006 and an increase of 116% over the level of grant provided in 1999 when the Fund was established. I am satisfied that the general purpose allocations from the Local Government Fund notified to local authorities for 2007, together with the income available to them from other sources, will enable all local authorities to provide an acceptable level of services for their customers.

Waste Management.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

598 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the new information he received which led to the claim that 1.3 million tonnes of Irish municipal waste, 40% of all municipal waste generated, can be dealt with through mechanical biological treatment; the person from whom he received that information; if he will make that information available for the public record; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25030/07]

My Department in the normal course of business provides me with information and projections based on data from various sources but principally the National Waste Report produced annually by the Environmental Protection Agency. Such projections allow the impact of various policy options to be assessed. The scenario cited is based on projections to 2016 which take account of planned progress in waste prevention and recycling in order to quantify the amount of residual waste requiring pre-treatment and/or final disposal. This is estimated at 1.7m tonnes. High quality mechanical and biological treatment (MBT) capacity of just under 1 million tonnes per annum will enable Ireland to meet the landfill diversion targets under the Landfill Directive while reducing the amount requiring further treatment to about 400,000 tonnes; while MBT capacity of between 1.3m and 1.4m tonnes will enable us meet the more challenging Programme for Government target to landfill only 10% of all waste.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Damien English

Ceist:

599 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of money awarded to Meath County Council as payments in lieu of the requirements of Part V of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 to date; the number of affordable homes delivered in each area to date; and the breakdown of affordable homes by those given under Part V and those built directly by the local authority in tabular readable form. [25050/07]

Information on payments in lieu of land transfers under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2006 and a breakdown of the number of houses provided under the various affordable schemes in each local authority area up to end June 2007, is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. Information is also published in my Department's Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library.

Damien English

Ceist:

600 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of new social housing family units excluding affordable and senior citizens housing which have been completed by Meath County Council for each of the years 2002 to date in 2007; and if he will provide a breakdown by electoral area in tabular readable form. [25051/07]

Information on social housing completions in County Meath in each of the years 2002 to 2006 is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie. Information is also published in my Department's Annual Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas Library. There were 52 social housing completions in County Meath in the 9 months to end September 2007.

A breakdown of this information by electoral areas is not available in my Department.

Local Authority Funding.

Damien English

Ceist:

601 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of additional funding allocated to Meath County Council during October 2007 for DPG’s and ERG’s. [25055/07]

A capital allocation of €2.2 million was made available to Meath County Council for funding of disabled persons and essential repairs grant schemes in 2007.

Following an application for additional funding from Meath County Council, that authority's capital allocation was increased in October 2007 by €1.8 million, to give a total capital allocation of €4 million for 2007.

Recycling Centres.

Damien English

Ceist:

602 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to introduce additional recycling bring centres to the Johnstown, Beechmount, Windtown, Blackcastle areas of Navan in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25058/07]

The identification of sites for the location of recycling bring banks is a matter for the relevant local authority in accordance with the objectives set out in the particular statutory waste management plan. My Department has no function in the determination of the location of these sites. However, my Department understands that bring banks are already in operation in Johnstown, Windtown and Blackcastle and proposals are in place for the introduction of a bring bank in the Beechmount area. Further information on these facilities may be obtained from Meath County Council.

National Parks.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

603 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to develop a national park along the River Liffey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25118/07]

The Office of Public Works, in association with Dublin City Council and Fingal, Kildare and South Dublin County Councils, commissioned ERM Consultants to draw up a strategy for the Liffey Valley. The report, Towards a Liffey Valley Park, was published in November 2006.

The report does not recommend the designation of the Liffey Valley as a National Park nor would this be possible at present given that only State lands are comprised in Irish National Parks. However, the Department is keeping the proposal for the creation of a National Park under review.

The Development Plans of the relevant local authorities provide the primary land use protection for the Liffey Valley. In addition, parts of the Valley are covered by special designations. The area between Chapelizod and Lucan is protected by a Special Area Amenity Order and part of the Valley is designated as a Natural Heritage Area (site code 128).

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

604 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25142/07]

The total cost of paper supplies including headed paper, compliment slips, envelopes and photocopying paper was €238,700 in the period January to October 2007. Of this figure €104,300 was expended on recycled paper. The cost of other stationery items such as pens, pencils, erasers, paper clips, staples and miscellaneous office supplies was €51,300. It is the policy of my Department to purchase recycled products whenever possible. Due to its texture recycled paper is not compatible with the automated mailing equipment used in the Vehicle Registration Unit in Shannon (now part of the Department of Transport) and this accounted for some €130,000 spent on non-recycled paper.

Building Regulations.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

605 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is a need to introduce additional fire protection features in buildings such as automatically activated sprinkler systems in order to reduce the risk of fire hazard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25166/07]

Part B (Fire Safety) of the Building Regulations sets out the legal requirements in relation to fire safety in the design and construction of new buildings and the extension of, material alteration to, and certain changes of, use of existing buildings. The related Technical Guidance Document B (TGD-B) provides guidance on how to comply with the requirements of Part B.

Automatic sprinklers can play an important role in fire protection, and TGD-B recommends their use in specific circumstances. Where sprinkler systems are fitted in buildings, TGD-B requires that the sprinkler system should meet the relevant recommendations of British Standard 5306: Fire extinguishing installations and equipment on premises: Part 2: 1990 specification for sprinkler systems. TGD- B allows for a fire engineering approach as an alternative to following its own specific recommendations; this approach may include the use of sprinkler systems as part of an overall flexible package of fire protection measures, even where there is not a requirement to have sprinkler systems. The Building Regulations and associated technical guidance are reviewed as necessary; a review of certain aspects of Part B and TGD-B was completed in 2006.

Water and Sewerage Schemes.

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

606 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the preliminary report for the Bundoran sewerage scheme, County Donegal; when the report was received; the position of same; when it is expected that approval will be given to allow the scheme to proceed to tender and construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25203/07]

The Bundoran Sewerage Scheme is included in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 as a scheme to commence construction in 2008. The wastewater treatment plant for Bundoran is being procured under a single Design/Build/Operate contract that also includes Killybegs and Glencolmcille. Donegal County Council's Preliminary Report for Bundoran was received in my Department in February 2006. Since then detailed discussions have taken place between my Department and the Council in relation to the apportionment of costs between the domestic and non-domestic sectors in the context that my Department will meet the domestic element of the capital costs. I expect a decision on the Preliminary Report to be conveyed to the Council shortly. The Preliminary Report for Glencolmcille is also under consideration in the Department and is being dealt with as quickly as possible. The Preliminary Report for Killybegs has already been approved. Once the Preliminary Report for Bundoran has been approved the Council will be in a position to prepare Contract Documents for the collection system which will be procured under a separate contract. Tender documents for the three treatment plants can be drawn up when all Preliminary Reports have been approved.

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

607 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the fact that the sewage treatment plant at Osberstown in County Kildare is at full capacity, he will intervene to prevent the proposed further zoning of land for residential use at Prosperous, County Kildare as the waste water from any development there would have to be pumped to and treated at the Osberstown plant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25211/07]

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

617 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the Osberstown sewage treatment plant in County Kildare is at full capacity and that the water supply in the county is at near maximum capacity; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that there are 2000 acres of land zoned for development in the county and that the River Liffey is at capacity in its ability to assimilate further phosphates from sewerage treatment plants or to have further water abstracted for human consumption; the plans in place to pipe water for human consumption in County Kildare from the River Shannon and to pump the sewerage to a marine outfall for treatment; if he will declare a moratorium on further zoning of land for development in County Kildare until such time as there is an adequate water supply and capacity to treat waste water; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25366/07]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 607 and 617 together.

The current position in relation to water services schemes in Kildare is set out in Question No. 559 of 16 October 2007 and previous replies. The Draft Prosperous Local Area Plan was published for public consultation in April 2007. Zoning of land is addressed in the Draft Plan. I understand from Kildare County Council that the Draft Plan is currently at amendments stage and will shortly be presented to the elected members for adoption. In accordance with section 20 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended by the Planning and Development (Amendments) Act 2002, the making of a local area plan is a reserved function of the planning authority for the area and I have no function in relation to this. Furthermore, under the above Acts, reviewing or varying the Kildare County Development Plan 2005-2011 is also a reserved function of the elected members of Kildare County Council.

Planning Issues.

Peter Power

Ceist:

608 Deputy Peter Power asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding council development plans requesting that only people living within or from a specified distance of the site of proposed development be granted planning permission while that distance is less than the size of the actual locality parish; his views on whether this rule is too inflexible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25227/07]

In accordance with Part II of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2002, the making, reviewing and varying of development plans and local area plans are a reserved function of the elected members of a planning authority. Guidelines for Planning Authorities on Development Plans and Development Management were published by my Department in June 2007 in order to assist planning authorities in carrying out their responsibilities in these regards. I have no function in relation to the issue raised in the question.

Environmental Policy.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

609 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there are plans to push for an international agreement to keep the rise in global temperature to two degrees celsius or less and to support developing countries to adapt to the unavoidable effects of climate change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25263/07]

At this year's Spring meeting of the European Council, EU Heads of State and Government agreed to reduce EU greenhouse gas emissions by at least 20% on 1990 levels by 2020. They also committed to a reduction of 30% of greenhouse gas emissions by 2020 compared to 1990 as the EU contribution to a global and comprehensive agreement for the period beyond 2012, provided that other developed countries commit themselves to comparable emission reductions, and economically more advanced developing countries adequately contribute to the global response according to their responsibilities and respective capabilities.

At the forthcoming meetings of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and to the Kyoto Protocol, which take place in Bali in December, the EU will emphasise the urgency of making progress towards a comprehensive international agreement to succeed the Kyoto Protocol. The fundamental EU position is that this new post-Kyoto agreement should be based on commitments to bring global greenhouse gas emissions down to a level that is consistent with limiting the increase in global average temperature to not more than 2° C above pre-industrial levels.

Departmental Programmes.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

610 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 1140 of 26 September 2007, when an application will be completed for a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [25268/07]

The contracts for this sale have been executed by my Department. I am hopeful that the case will be finalised by the Chief State Solicitor's Office shortly.

Local Authority Housing.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

611 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the works undertaken in an estate (details supplied) in County Louth in the course of the remedial scheme undertaken there; the number of houses affected by the service road realignment works or other such infrastructural works carried out in the course of said scheme; the number of houses that were in local authority ownership at the time of the works approval; if this number changed in the course of the works undertaken; the nature of works undertaken at privately owned homes in the estate that were 100% funded; the number of such houses that benefited to that extent; if there were privately owned properties in the estate that had front external works carried out and did not receive 100% finance support; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25288/07]

A programme of remedial works at the estate in question was undertaken in four phases from January 2003, with work still ongoing. To date almost €7 million in Internal Capital Receipts and Exchequer funding has been expended on the works. The refurbishment works broadly include the provision of external insulation, replacement of windows and doors, removal of external panelling, provision of central heating and roof and wall insulation. The project also includes extensive external and site development works. The breakdown of the information relating to the individual houses as requested in the question is not available in my Department. This information has been sought from the local authority concerned who are responsible for the management of the project and I will communicate the information to the Deputy when it becomes available.

Noxious Weeds.

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

612 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 310 of 10 October 2007, when the regulations referred to will be drawn up; when the invasive weed referred to will be banned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25291/07]

It is my intention to make the regulations under section 52(6)(a) of the Wildlife Act 1976 (as amended) in the first quarter of 2008, and to provide for a short lead in time, after which possession or introduction of Lagarosiphon major will be prohibited.

National Parks.

Andrew Doyle

Ceist:

613 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has prepared a deer management plan for the Wicklow Mountains National Park since the previous management plan expired in 2006. [25306/07]

The deer management strategies for Wicklow Mountains National Park are set out in the Wicklow Mountains National Park Management Plan 2005 to 2009. There is no separate plan for deer management within the national park, nor did such a plan exist previously.

Social and Affordable Housing.

Pat Rabbitte

Ceist:

614 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take to deal with the matter of the affordable housing clawback clause in relation to the proceeds of the sale of an affordable home should the market value of the home be less than when the home owner purchased it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25329/07]

Where an affordable home is sold within a period of 20 years from the initial purchase, a proportion of the proceeds must be repaid to the relevant local authority. This requirement, known as clawback, is necessary to ensure that there is no short-term profit taking on the resale of houses provided under the various affordable housing schemes at a discount from market value. Where the clawback amount payable would reduce the proceeds of the sale below the initial price actually paid, the legislation provides for the amount payable to be reduced to the extent necessary to avoid that result.

Architectural Heritage.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

615 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding an abbey (details supplied) in County Donegal. [25333/07]

The abbey is listed on the statutory Record of Monuments and Places for County Donegal. Section 12(3) of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1994 provides for the protection of monuments and places listed on the statutory Record of Monuments and Places. Two months notification in writing must be given to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government of any proposed works at or in relation to such monuments or places. It is understood that the local authority owns the graveyard in which the recorded monument is located. Both the care and maintenance of the graveyard and the protection of the monument are matters for the local authority in the first instance. My Department will draw the concerns relating to the condition of the monument to the attention of the county council and is available to provide archaeological advice in the matter if required.

Question No. 616 answered with QuestionNo. 587.
Question No. 617 answered with QuestionNo. 607.

Local Authority Staff.

Frank Feighan

Ceist:

618 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a gratuity scheme for retiring councillors similar to the 1999 scheme for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25368/07]

Following a review of financial supports available to councillors, a range of improvements was introduced with effect from 1 January, 2007. These improvements resulted from a careful and detailed review of the expenses allowances system and the retirement gratuity scheme for councillors and involved extensive consultation with the elected members' associations. The amendments to the gratuity scheme provided for:

an increase in the maximum retirement gratuity from three times to four times the rate of the Representational Payment after twenty years of service,

a minimum death in service benefit of one year of the prevailing rate of Representational Payment, and

an ex-gratia payment of 75% of the appropriate annual rate paid under the provisions of the first ever retirement gratuity scheme for serving councillors in 1999 for service pre May 2000.

As a result, councillors retiring at the 2009 local elections will have the benefit of these significant improvements to their retirement gratuity scheme.

Local Authority Housing.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

619 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of resources that have been allocated to Athlone Town Council in respect of proposals submitted by them for the regeneration renewal of an estate (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25406/07]

My Department wrote to Athlone Town Council in January 2007 in relation to the proposed regeneration of the estate in question, seeking a review of the objectives of the regeneration project, taking into account Athlone's Gateway status. Discussions on the project between my Department and the Council are ongoing, after which it is expected that a revised submission will be prepared by the Council.

Fire Service.

Aengus Ó Snodaigh

Ceist:

620 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is his or the local authority whose responsibility it is to set up a full-time fire service in a county. [25432/07]

The provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs, the provision of a premises and the making of such other provisions as it considers necessary or desirable, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981. The Department has no direct role in the matter.

The Department's role is one of supporting and assisting local authorities in delivering fire services through the setting of general policy and the provision of capital funding. Under the Fire Services Change Programme a risk-based approach to the provision of fire cover is being developed. It is expected that when this system is available it will inform future policy development in this area and assist local authority management in its functions under section 10 of the Act.

Question No. 621 answered with QuestionNo. 580.
Questions Nos. 622 and 623 answered withQuestion No. 587.

Energy Resources.

Liz McManus

Ceist:

624 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has received representations from the Italian based environmental organisation, OPEN, asking that he would support the inclusion in the new EU Treaty, an article that would include the objectives of the Trans-European Network on Renewable Energy Sources in regard to the reduction of greenhouse gas levels; his views on the request; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24702/07]

I understand that representations were received by An Taoiseach from OPEN, requesting support for the inclusion of an Article in the new EU treaty, in relation to a Trans European Network on Renewable Energy Sources. The existing programme run by the European Commission for Trans-European Networks in Energy (TENS-E) makes provision for feasibility studies for energy networks with a cross-border component in both electricity and gas. In the electricity sector, the networks are technology neutral, and so their support is of equal benefit to renewable energy as any other generation technology.

Departmental Schemes.

James Bannon

Ceist:

625 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford is being penalised in relation to a reduction in the grant-aid under the greener homes scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24797/07]

I issued a press release on 3rd September last announcing that Phase I of the Greener Homes Scheme had fulfilled all of its initial objectives and surpassed its targets ahead of schedule. My Department's website was updated accordingly. Sustainable Energy Ireland's (SEI) website was also updated on that day with information on the scheme and all suppliers were notified directly by SEI. Dissemination of the details on Greener Homes was by way of leaflets for Phase I and was made available to all applicants. A similar approach has been adopted for Phase II.

Administration of the Greener Homes Scheme is an operational matter for SEI. SEI has advised my Department that the individual to whom the Deputy refers requested an information pack on 28th August. Phase I of the scheme subsequently closed on 3rd September. Anyone who had sought an information pack at this time would have received a letter at the time of closure explaining that Phase I was now closed for applications. They would also have received an information pack and new application form for Phase II after October 1st.

SEI further advise that as with any such announcement, there has to be some reference date and in this instance applications received date stamped September 3rd were accepted to allow for forms which may have already beendispatched in the post at time of the announcement.

Prospecting Licences.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

626 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a person in a commonage holding situation can stop an activity (details supplied). [25037/07]

Issues relating to access to lands arise occasionally in relation to mineral prospecting. These often come to attention in the context of public consultation phases of applications for prospecting licences. In the case of prospecting under licence, a landowner does not have the legal right to refuse access. I have no applications for State mining leases for gold mining at present but the onus would be on the developer to resolve any issues relating to access or ownership of lands.

Energy Efficiency.

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

627 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there are grants available to householders to install the appropriate insulation procedures in particular where the dwelling houses are old and do not have appropriate insulation installed; if it is his intention to grant aid such work particularly in view of heat conservation that is involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25318/07]

The Government is committed to promoting and incentivising energy efficiency in the residential sector. In the context of the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan and the Programme for Government, we will be giving particular priority to upgrading the energy efficiency of older housing stock. I have mandated my Department to develop detailed proposals for the requisite scheme and related measures, working with Sustainable Energy Ireland.

Departmental Reports.

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

628 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his output statement has been published on his Department’s website; and the date on which it was put up on the website. [24735/07]

The 2007 Annual Output Statement in respect of the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources was published on 18th April 2007 on my Department's website.

Departmental Travel.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

629 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his Department has a policy with regard to frequent flyer points accrued by Ministers or civil servants; if these must be signed over to his Department or if they can be retained by the individual concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24891/07]

The general principles governing all travel are those set out in Department of Finance Circular 11/82 and those set out in travel policy document and accompanying letter of 31 March 1998. While there is no specific policy in relation to the collection or surrender of frequent flyer points, it is a general principle of the Department that the best value for money in respect of each official trip undertaken should be obtained, consistent with the requirements of official business.

Departmental Responsibilities.

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

630 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if, further to the confusion that exists in relation to ministerial responsibility for marine-related functions, he will specify those for which he has responsibility. [24916/07]

I would like to assure the Deputy that there is no confusion over Ministerial responsibility for marine related functions. As of the 19th of October, responsibility for Sea Fisheries, Aquaculture Policy, Marine Engineering and the Foreshore passed to my colleague, the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food. As soon as primary legislation can be prepared and passed by the Oireachtas, responsibility for foreshore licensing, in so far as it relates to energy related projects, mineral or aggregate extraction or within certain harbours, will pass to the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Responsibility for Inland Fisheries will remain with my Department, pending the completion of a review.

Telecommunications Services.

John O'Mahony

Ceist:

631 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when service will be available from the Kiltimagh metropolitan area network; the obligations of a company (details supplied) as regards the delivery of service over the MAN’s generally; the situation as regards the provision of backhaul; the costs of connection and the different levels of service to be made available; and if the company are not in a position to provide service over the Kiltimagh MAN by the end of 2007, if another management entity can be appointed which would include the local community development company and Mayo County Council. [24924/07]

The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation, (ComReg). 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 investment in Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs). The MANs constructed under Phase I of the MANs Programme, including Kiltimagh are complete and are fully open for business. They have been handed over to the Managed Services Entity, eNet, who manage, market, operate and maintain the networks on behalf of the State. Services available on these networks include, dark fibre, ducting and co-location facilities. I understand that connectivity to backhaul services would be available to operators using the MAN in this area from at least one backhaul provider.

Fisheries Protection.

Joe McHugh

Ceist:

632 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the Loughs agency will award a payment to a person (details supplied) in County Donegal who has signed up for compensation under the hardship scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24940/07]

The Salmon Hardship Scheme is being administered by the Loughs Agency of the Foyle Carlingford Irish Lights Commission. I have no role in the scheme or information about individual applications.

Departmental Expenditure.

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

633 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of money spent on paper and stationery in 2007: the amount of this money spent on recycled paper; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25137/07]

To date in 2007 the Department has spent €85,043.17 on supplies of paper and stationery. The Department has made no purchases of recycled paper in the period in question as we are carrying a significant stock of recycled paper, bought previously, which is in regular use. In addition, since 2003 the Department has operated a rigorous waste management policy aimed at reducing the use of paper, reusing as much as possible and recycling of paper for use within the Department.

Telecommunications Services.

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

634 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there are plans to provide broadband services to a location (details supplied) in County Donegal; if it is expected that this service will be made available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25286/07]

The provision of broadband services is, in the first instance, a matter for the private sector. Broadband service providers operate in a fully liberalised market, regulated 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 during 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.

Broadcasting Legislation.

Seán Connick

Ceist:

635 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will designate all competitive sporting events staged here and all competitive sporting events involving Irish international teams as free to air sporting events. [25323/07]

The Television Without Frontiers Directive provides that Member States of the European Union may take measures to ensure wide access by the public to television coverage of national or non-national events of major importance for society. The events designated are available to qualifying broadcasters to provide coverage on free television services. The events are designated under The Broadcasting (Major Events Television Coverage) Act, 1999 (Designation of Major Events) Order 2003. These include a number of significant sporting events. When carrying out a review of events to be designated, consideration is specifically given to the extent to which the event has a special general resonance for the people of Ireland and the extent to which the event has a generally recognised distinct cultural importance for the people of Ireland. The legislation specifies that a review should be carried out every three years. The next review will take place in 2009.

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