Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:83 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made regarding net meters across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4621/09]
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 17, inclusive, answered orally.
Questions Nos. 18 to 75, inclusive, resubmitted.
Questions Nos. 76 to 82, inclusive, answered orally.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:85 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the proposal from a group (details supplied) for locally dispersed wind energy schemes. [3490/09]
Deirdre Clune
Ceist:89 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the action he is taking to promote the decentralisation of power through encouraging microgeneration at a domestic and business level. [4613/09]
P. J. Sheehan
Ceist:93 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when a feed-in tariff will be available; and the pricing level at which domestic microgeneration units can sell power back into the grid. [4624/09]
Joan Burton
Ceist:105 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the creation of a tariff that would allow microgeneration facilities in homes and businesses to sell power back onto the grid; when a conclusion to this matter will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4561/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83, 85, 89, 93 and 105 together.
Net-metering enables the use of small scale renewable energy projects for domestic households. It allows the export of electricity back to the grid, reversing the electricity meter in the process. The result is to offset the cost of electricity bought by the householder.
The standard electricity meter installed by ESB Networks in the past does not operate in reverse and cannot therefore support a net-metering programme. My Department is working with Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), ESB and the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) to bring forward alternative ways of encouraging the use of micro-scale renewable energy technologies.
An alternative approach is to provide a guaranteed price for electricity exported to the grid from micro-scale projects. The REFIT support scheme, which is administered by my Department, provides fixed prices for electricity from new renewable energy powered plants. However, generators must source and contract with an electricity supplier such as ESB or Viridian to purchase the power. The supplier in turn is compensated at pre-set fixed levels for the additional costs they incur in purchasing and trading the electricity.
The commercial interest of Electricity suppliers is in purchasing power from larger scale projects producing electricity in commercial quantities only. Micro-scale plants are of a much smaller size requiring a different solution.
My Department is currently working closely with the CER and other stakeholders to put in place in the short term an appropriately structured payment system for micro-generated electricity exported to the grid, which will operate separately from the REFIT mechanism.
SEI is also implementing a Micro-generation Pilot Programme, involving research and field trials, including support for between 50 and 60 installations on a pilot basis of micro-scale projects. The field trials will address a range of issues including grid connection and technical standards to ensure the power security, safety and quality of installations.
The CER and ESB Networks have amended the rules for the connection of micro-scale plants to the grid. Generators of less than 6kW on single phase cables and 11kW on three phase electricity supply cables may now connect to the grid without prior authorisation.
The rollout of a national smart meter programme is progressing in line with the commitment in the Government's Energy Policy Framework and in the Programme for Government. The Smart Meter programme is a central component of the strategy to significantly enhance management of energy demand and to achieve greater energy efficiency through the use of cutting-edge technology. Testing the capability of advanced meters to distinguish between the import and export of electricity will also form a key part of the technology trial. This will facilitate the development of micro-generation where consumers generate their own electricity and sell their surplus back to the grid.
Following these changes, SEI is publishing a guide to connecting renewable and CHP electricity production plants to the electricity network. This includes advice for micro-generators, which will be of assistance to those connecting micro scale plant to the network.
In addition, revised planning guidelines from my colleague the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, establishes an exemption from planning consent requirements for domestic-scale projects of suitable heights.
Following completion of the work to which I have referred, I expect to announce the detailed arrangements, including the proposed payment system for micro-scale projects in the coming weeks.
Electric Vehicles.
David Stanton
Ceist:84 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his policy on the use of electric cars and vehicles; the efforts he is making to encourage the use of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46403/08]
Alan Shatter
Ceist:92 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the action he is taking to encourage an increase in the number of electric cars; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4632/09]
Thomas P. Broughan
Ceist:113 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will report on the recent proposals for a national rollout of electric cars; when the rollout of charge points and other necessary infrastructure will commence; if he has had contacts with the ESB on this matter; the person who he will appoint to the board of the National Task Force on electric vehicles; when it will be established; when it will have to report to him; the charging point infrastructure that will be necessary for the national rollout of electric vehicles; if a tendering competition for a roll-out of charging infrastructure will be held; if contacts have been established with Denmark, Israel and other leading transport countries on this matter in view of the electric vehicles programmes that these States have already established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [46353/08]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 84, 92 and 113 together.
Major deployment of electric vehicles will have a hugely positive impact in reducing our carbon emissions and our reliance on imported fossil fuels in the transport area. In association with the Minister for Transport, I announced targets last year for the deployment of electric vehicles in Ireland. We have set a target of 10% of all vehicles to be powered by electricity by 2020, which will represent up to 250,000 cars on Irish roads over the next 12 years. A number of initiatives to advance our policy in this area have already been put in place. The Minister for Finance has provided a new tax incentive for businesses to purchase electric vehicles in the 2009 Finance Act. This enables businesses to write off 100% of the cost of purchase against tax under the Accelerated Capital Allowance Scheme. SEI is also developing a €1 million project on alternative transport technologies including electric vehicles.
I have established an inter-departmental agency taskforce to progress the framework for deployment of electric vehicles in Ireland chained by my Department. The first meeting of the taskforce was held in October 2008 and it has met on a number of occasions. All relevant Departments, including the Department of Transport, are members of the taskforce. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), ESB, the IDA and Enterprise Ireland and other stakeholders and agencies are also represented on the taskforce.
The ESB and SEI have been working intensively within the taskforce and visited Israel and Denmark last year to learn from their approaches to fast tracking the deployment of electric vehicles.
The taskforce is assessing the infrastructure options for the national roll-out of electric vehicles. The Government is sending out the message that Ireland is open for business in this area and we will also take account of global developments as the technologies mature. The taskforce will report its initial findings and advise on next steps in the next few months.
I am determined that the targets we have set in this area will be achieved.
Question No. 85 answered with Question No. 83.
Telecommunications Services.
Sean Sherlock
Ceist:86 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the recent Forfás competitiveness report that placed Ireland 12th out of 14 countries in terms of broadband cost, and 9th in terms of speed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4553/09]
The Deputy is referring to Figure 3.39 titled "Fastest ADSL Business Download Speed Available by the Incumbent and Annual Cost, October 2008", which was printed in the "Annual Competitiveness Report 2008", published jointly by the National Competitiveness Council and Forfás.
This is a very specific business broadband product available only from incumbents in the countries included in the survey for this particular figure in the report. It would be inaccurate to suggest that Ireland's ranking for this particular product is representative of broadband costs and speeds.
I understand the Commission for Communications Regulation, ComReg, which publishes a detailed quarterly report on the electronic communications market, will be meeting with Forfás and the National Competitiveness Council to outline the importance of broader, more relevant analysis and reporting of broadband speeds and costs.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps — 10mbps. At the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Most of those SMEs, 72.6%, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps — 10mbps.
As regards the cost of broadband, it is important to note that ComReg, in its last quarterly report (issued for Q3 2008), ranked Ireland in 8th place in the "DSL and Cable basket" used for international comparison purposes and compared favourably with the EU24 average.
Energy Costs.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:87 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he has taken or proposes to take nationally or through the aegis of the EU to ensure that energy prices here including electricity, gas and motor fuel prices reflect the downward trend in the price of oil on world markets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4569/09]
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:98 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on calls to instruct the regulator to set a price ceiling for ESB and Bord Gáis prices and replace the current practice of setting a fixed actual price in order to allow the ESB and Bord Gáis to supply cheaper energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4566/09]
Noel Coonan
Ceist:108 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way in which he plans to lower utility and energy prices in order to increase business competitiveness in north Tipperary and nationwide; his plans to set price ceilings for ESB and gas companies and increase competition in the energy sector by encouraging new companies to enter the market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4570/09]
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:112 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views in respect of the Competitiveness Council report which found that energy costs here are the second highest out of 15 countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4540/09]
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:123 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if energy costs will be reduced in view of the recent decrease in oil prices; if he will seek to curb rising ESB and gas prices in order to ease the burden on consumers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4539/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 87, 98, 108, 112 and 123 together.
The regulation of ESB customer supply electricity tariffs and BGÉ gas tariffs is the statutory responsibility of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and the Gas (Interim) Regulation Act 2002.
I welcome the fact that the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) announced on 1 December 2008 that there would be no further increase in the price of gas from January 2009 and that there would be a small average decrease from that month of just less than 1% in the price of electricity supplied by ESB Customer Supply. This decision is reflective of recent easing in international fossil fuel prices, which follows a period of exponential increases in global oil, gas and coal prices.
I also welcome the substantial rebate of about €400m provided by ESB to all electricity customers, irrespective of which supplier, which has helped to stabilise electricity prices for 2009.
The CER made the decision to end tariff regulation for large electricity users in September 2006. It concluded that there is a sufficient level of generation capacity in the upper end of the market to allow customers to receive offers of a competitively priced supply of electricity. As a result, the vast majority of large industrial and commercial electricity customers are currently supplied by independent suppliers and companies and are free to negotiate alternative supply offers with the alternative suppliers in the marketplace. Many of these large industrial consumers are on fuel variation tariffs and have experienced the benefits of falling gas prices in recent months.
The legislation is not prescriptive in terms of the methodology to be used by the CER in reaching its decisions on regulating residential and small business customers. The legislation does not preclude the regulator from reviewing prices more frequently nor does it preclude the regulator from adopting alternative approaches.
The CER is required to examine the costs underlying the regulated tariffs to ensure they are cost reflective and to make decisions, which do not disturb the market through a review of tariffs. I have asked CER to undertake an immediate review of options to bring forward a reduction in electricity prices. As I stated in this House last week, if current trends in energy prices, particularly gas continue, I would expect a double-digit cut in electricity and gas this year.
Encouraging a competitive energy supply is a key policy objective for the Government. Rising energy costs are a major concern for all sectors of the economy and for consumers. It is a major concern for the European Union and globally.
In this context, I welcome the National Competitiveness Council's investigation into electricity prices. This report, along with other recently published research, provides a valuable insight into the drivers of higher energy costs in our market. In particular, they underline the imperative to reduce Ireland's dependence on imported fossil fuels and our exposure to volatile international market prices for these commodities.
The Government's Energy Policy Framework and the Programme for Government set out the actions being taken to deliver security, sustainability and competitiveness of energy supply. We will promote energy efficiency, deliver on our ambitious renewable targets and progress vital strategic energy infrastructure such as the East West Electricity Interconnector.
Much needed long overdue investment in energy infrastructure contributes to the cost of energy. The provision of this infrastructure to schedule and at least cost will however, deliver secure, sustainable, competitive and cost efficient electricity and gas supplies for the benefit of Irish business and consumers.
In relation to oil prices the Government does not control, or seek to control prices at the petrol pump. The National Consumer Agency recently undertook an investigation into diesel and petrol price movements in Ireland. This report concluded that there is little evidence to suggest unwarranted delays in the passing on of wholesale price changes to the consumer at the pump. My Department is reviewing the methodology for collecting oil price statistics in Ireland with a view to ensuring this information is fully reflective of current market conditions, taking into account significant changes in the structure of the oil market in recent years. The EU is also reviewing price collection data across EU Member States to ensure greater consistency and transparency of published oil price data.
Broadcasting Services.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:88 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will confirm that the south east of the country will be prioritised in the digital terrestrial television switch over in view of the switch off in Wales later in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4556/09]
Planning for the rollout of Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) services in Ireland is the shared responsibility of RTÉ, Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI), ComReg and my own Department.
The Broadcasting (Amendment) Act, 2007, provides for the development of DTT in Ireland and for the closure of the national analogue TV network. Under this Act, RTÉ is required to provide a national DTT system with capacity to carry RTÉ, TG4 and TV3. This new service will replace the existing analogue free to air television service.
The legislation also requires the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) to seek commercial applicants who are interested in providing commercial DTT services. The BCI ran a competition for three national DTT multiplex contracts in March 2008.
Arising from this competition, the BCI is currently in the process of negotiating a contract with Boxer (DTT) Limited, in relation to the development of DTT services in Ireland.
RTÉ is building out a national DTT network and has indicated that it is on target to launch services to 85% of the population — including the South East of Ireland, in autumn 2009.
RTÉ is also in the process of negotiating a contract for carriage of Boxer's DTT services on its DTT network.
Wales is set to switch off its analogue television services in autumn 2009. This is likely to impact viewers along the South East of the country who currently receive overspill of the UK television signals. Viewers on cable and satellite will not be affected.
Both RTÉ and the BCI are aware of the situation in Wales and of the importance of providing DTT along the South East of Ireland, as a matter of priority. Depending on the DTT package available, persons who subscribe to commercial DTT services should be able to receive UK television channels currently available via analogue overspill.
Question No. 89 answered with Question No. 83.
Television Licence Fee.
Catherine Byrne
Ceist:90 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has met RTÉ recently to discuss an increase in the television licence fee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4606/09]
I have not met with RTÉ recently to discuss an increase in the television licence fee.
In the past, annual reviews of RTÉ's performance have been carried out by independent consultants, engaged by the Department. These reviews have traditionally examined RTÉ's performance against its published Statement of Commitments. The recommendations arising out of these reviews have aided Government's decisions in relation to any adjustments to the licence fee.
The last independent review was carried out in 2007 in respect of RTÉ's 2006 performance. My Department is currently reviewing RTE's 2007 performance and the outcome of this review will inform any decision in relation to the licence fee.
Telecommunications Services.
James Bannon
Ceist:91 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he is satisfied that, in the context of the national broadband scheme, mobile broadband technology will be able to provide broadband speeds that will prevent an urban rural divide in broadband infrastructure. [4595/09]
The objective of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is to provide access to affordable scaleable broadband services to rural areas, many of which do not currently have any broadband service.
Following the conclusion of a technology neutral procurement process, which was open to all broadband service providers from across all platforms, my Department has entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the NBS.
3 will extend their network to provide mobile broadband services into the NBS area. The mobile broadband service will be delivered using Internet High Speed Packet Access (I-HSPA) technology and will cover up to 95% of the NBS coverage area. The service will have a minimum upload speed of 200kpbs. The 200kpbs product is the minimum speed available and is comparable to what is typically used by residential broadband users in urban areas. Additionally, the service will have a minimum download speed of 1.2mbps, a maximum contention ratio of 36:1, a latency of 120 milliseconds and a 15 gigabit (12 down, 3 up) inclusive monthly allowance limit.
Businesses currently without any broadband service will benefit by being able to send and receive emails and files, surf the web, and update their own websites. Under the NBS contract the broadband products will be upgraded to higher specifications (speeds, contention and data caps) in July 2010 and again in October 2012 without any increase in the monthly recurring charge. NBS subscribers will experience minimum download speeds of 1.6Mbps and 2.3Mbps and minimum upload speeds of 1.2Mbps and 1.4Mbps subsequent to these upgrades in 2010 and 2012 respectively.
In recognition of the fact that some areas will be very difficult to reach using standard infrastructure, 3 will make available a satellite product which is expected to cover around 5% of the NBS areas. The satellite product will have a minimum download speed of 1mbps, a minimum upload speed of 128kbps, a maximum contention ratio of 48:1, latency of 800 milliseconds and an 11 gigabit (10 down, 1 up) inclusive monthly allowance limit.
I am satisfied that the NBS will provide speeds comparable with products available in the market for urban areas and greatly assist in bridging the digital divide.
Question No. 92 answered with Question No. 84.
Question No. 93 answered with Question No. 83.
Offshore Exploration.
Joe Carey
Ceist:94 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the forum that he established in relation to the bringing ashore of gas from the Corrib gas field; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4610/09]
The North West Mayo Forum is an initiative involving the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs and myself. It was established in November last following Government approval. The forum is chaired by Mr Joe Brosnan, a former Secretary General of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
The Forum has, as its objectives, to further the socio-economic development of the North West Mayo Region and to provide an opportunity for dialogue between parties with an interest in the Corrib Gas project. The Forum will also help promote an understanding of how the project is regulated by providing an opportunity for a coordinated engagement with the Government Departments and other State bodies that have a regulatory role in relation to the Corrib Gas Project.
Membership of the Forum is comprised of representatives of a wide range of local groups; elected public representatives; Government Departments, State bodies and Shell E&P Ireland Limited. A number of local groups opposed to the current configuration of the gas project have so far declined to participate in the Forum.
The Forum has met on two occasions. These meetings on 5 December 2008 and 2 February 2009 allowed discussion and debate on a range of issues as follows: the detail of the statutory consents that are in place in relation to the Corrib Gas Project; and development opportunities in North West Mayo, including potential energy related projects.
Thus far the Forum has, I believe proven to be a useful vehicle for engagement on issues of relevance to the project and the region.
Electricity Generation.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:95 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the level of grant aid that will be received here from the European Commission Energy Security Fund. [4629/09]
The European Commission has included interconnection between Ireland and Wales on its list of proposed energy projects under the European Economic Recovery Package, which is currently being negotiated in Brussels. EirGrid, as the National Transmission System Operator, will procure the construction of the interconnector, at the Government's request.
I welcome the Commission's recognition of the strategic importance of the East West interconnector in its proposals. Negotiations in Brussels are ongoing on the Commission's overall proposals, which have implications for the EU Budget. In that context I will be working with the Minister for Finance and other Ministerial colleagues to ensure the best outcome for Ireland on the overall package.
Delivery to schedule of the East-West Electricity Interconnector is a key Government priority. The interconnector will underpin regional energy market development and the all-island Single Electricity Market. It will ensure that Ireland can benefit from the development of a strong internal energy market in Europe.
East West interconnection will also give Ireland direct and secure access to the UK energy market and onwards also to the EU mainland markets. This will increase Ireland's security of electricity supply and enhance the competitive energy market. Over time the interconnector should exert downward pressure on prices in the all-island electricity market.
The Government has set the ambitious target of 40% of our electricity consumption from renewable sources by 2020. The East West Interconnector will support the increased penetration of renewable generation, particularly wind generation in the Irish market. It will offer opportunities for export of Irish wind generated electricity.
Question No. 96 answered with Question No. 82.
Energy Resources.
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:97 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he took at EU level in respect of the gas supply dispute between Russia and Ukraine; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4544/09]
Some 80% of Russian gas imports to the EU are transported through the Ukraine. This represents about 23% of total EU consumption.
Ireland's demand for gas is met almost entirely by imports from the UK with declining production and storage at Kinsale, now supplying around 4%, accounting for the remainder. Irish imports account for around 5% of the UK gas market. The vast bulk of UK gas demand is currently being met by indigenous North Sea production and imports from Norway. The UK is also interconnected with continental Europe and receives some gas from Russia. I understand this would account for less than 2 % of the gas in the UK system. As a result, Ireland experienced no adverse impact on our gas supplies as a result of the recent Russia/Ukraine dispute.
Ireland participated fully in the discussions required for the EU evaluation and response to the recent Russia/Ukraine gas dispute. We consistently supported the EU position, as voiced by President Barosso, that the actions of the parties who are involved in contractually supplying gas to the EU have been unacceptable and that the interests of the EU in dealing with all third countries can only be served by all Member States speaking with one voice. To this end, Ireland has also voiced support on a number of occasions for the call by the European Commission for increased transparency in the sharing of data on gas metrics in the EU in order to provide a strong basis for solidarity arrangements to be developed.
The development of an EU energy emergency response mechanism, and robust arrangements for solidarity between Member States in the event of an energy emergency, will remain very high on the EU agenda for the foreseeable future. It is critical that, as part of its energy policy and to complement the proper functioning of the internal energy market, the EU develops the capability to respond effectively to energy disruptions and provide support for Member States affected by such events. Ireland — as one of the most peripheral energy markets in the EU — will participate fully in this work.
Question No. 98 answered with Question No. 87.
Broadcasting Services.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:99 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he will take to ensure that the benefits of the digital dividend can be availed of here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4555/09]
In the context of the transition from analogue to digital terrestrial television (DTT), I am preparing a policy framework for identifying the spectrum required for television broadcasting in the UHF band as well as identifying the spectrum that could be released for use by other services.
The policy framework will require ComReg to take appropriate actions, in conjunction with the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland and RTÉ, to identify what spectrum can be made available for the Digital Dividend and to advise me accordingly in a timely manner on what uses could be made of spectrum not required for Broadcasting in the band in order for me to make an informed assessment of the policy options for promoting various objectives.
The capacity of our spectrum resources to facilitate the development of existing and innovative applications and technologies in the information and communications sector is enormous and I intend ensuring that the full potential of the digital dividend will be realised for the national good.
Smart Metering Project.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:100 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the smart metering project; the cost of same; the timeframe involved; the specifications of the smart meter model proposed; if he has liaised with An Bord Gáis in relation to smart meters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4548/09]
Denis Naughten
Ceist:489 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress he has made in rolling out electricity smart meters; when the pilot project will be finished; the provisional findings from this project which have been established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4378/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 100 and 489 together.
The rollout of a national smart meter programme is progressing in line with the commitment in the Government's Energy Policy Framework and in the Programme for Government. The Smart Meter programme is a central component of the strategy to significantly enhance management of energy demand and to achieve greater energy efficiency through the use of cutting-edge technology.
The pilot phase is a very important element in the determination of a decision to proceed with the launch of a national smart meter scheme. This is a highly complex technological project and the trials are essential to ensure that we have the right technology and systems for the full launch and implementation of a national smart meter scheme.
The pilot phase, for both electricity and gas, was launched on 15 September 2008. The results of the pilot will inform both the timing of a national roll out, and the technology to be adopted. It is important to have a trial that captures seasonal changes in usage for peak demand management purposes. The pilot phase is expected to be completed at end December 2010 and the outcome should be a fully informed decision on the most suitable model of smart meter(s)/IT system(s), tariffing structure, communications system and demand stimuli, all of which works effectively and has the capability to deliver the anticipated benefits of smart metering in the Irish market.
The pilot phase encompasses two strands — a technology trial, which is testing a number of advanced metering systems and their associated IT and communications infrastructure — and a customer behaviour trial, which will determine the potential of smart meters to achieve measurable change in consumer behaviour.
The technology trial will examine meter functionality and supporting information and communications systems. There are many challenges involved in developing a metering system for Ireland that will reflect the dispersed nature of our population and, as a result, by extension, the electricity network. This trial will involve the installation of up to 10,000 meters.
Testing the capability of advanced meters to distinguish between the import and export of electricity will also form a key part of the technology trial. This will facilitate the development of microgeneration where consumers generate their own electricity and sell their surplus back to the grid.
Participants for the customer behaviour trial are being selected to ensure that the sample is representative of Ireland's electricity consumers both in terms of usage profiles and geographical spread. Invitations to participate in the trial are being issued on a phased basis with 8000 letters of invitation issued thus far. To date the response has been very positive with 37% of electricity customers contacted expressing an interest in participating. The number of participants needed for the electricity customer behaviour trial is 6,000. Installation of electricity meters for this strand of the pilot phase is under way and is expected to be completed by mid 2009.
The participation of gas customers into the pilot phase is being progressed, with the procurement process for gas smart meters now underway. This should allow for the completion of the installation of meters for the gas element of the pilot phase before the end of 2009.
For the purposes of the pilot phase 4 models of electricity smart meter are being trialled. The specifications of these metering systems will allow the testing of a range of functions, including, interval metering reading, time of use tariffing and the use of In Home Display devices, which, in turn, can facilitate demand management and increased energy efficiency. They will also provide data on actual energy use of an amount and quality necessary to drive improvements in service to consumers through better fault monitoring and outage recording, power quality monitoring, reduced theft and losses and improved network planning. In addition, as highlighted above, the capacity of these smart metering systems to distinguish between the import and export of electricity will facilitate the development of microgeneration.
As part of the preparation for the ‘go live' of the pilot, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) is near completion of its review of submissions from ESB Networks, ESB Customer Supply, Sustainable Energy Ireland, Bord Gáis Networks and industry participants, on the budget for the entire pilot phase. I expect to receive confirmation of the finalised budget of the pilot phase from the CER in the coming weeks.
The cost of a national rollout will be quantified when the pilot phase has been completed.
Telecommunications Services.
Ciaran Lynch
Ceist:101 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the adequacy of the upload speed as part of the national broadband scheme; if he is satisfied that the coverage map used for the national broadband scheme is an accurate reflection of the areas not served by broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4552/09]
The objective of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is to provide access to affordable scaleable broadband services to rural areas, many of which do not currently have any broadband service.
Following the conclusion of a technology neutral procurement process, which was open to all broadband service providers from across all platforms, my Department has entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the NBS.
3 will extend their network to provide mobile broadband services into the NBS area. The mobile broadband service will be delivered using Internet High Speed Packet Access (I-HSPA) technology and will cover up to 95% of the NBS coverage area. The service will have a minimum upload speed of 200kpbs. The 200kpbs product is the minimum speed available and is comparable to what is typically used by residential broadband users in urban areas. Additionally, the service will have a minimum download speed of 1.2mbps, a maximum contention ratio of 36:1, a latency of 120 milliseconds and a 15 gigabit (12 down, 3 up) inclusive monthly allowance limit.
Businesses currently without any broadband service will benefit by being able to send and receive emails and files, surf the web, and update their own websites. Under the NBS contract the broadband products will be upgraded to higher specifications (speeds, contention and data caps) in July 2010 and again in October 2012 without any increase in the monthly recurring charge.
In recognition of the fact that some areas will be very difficult to reach using standard infrastructure, 3 will make available a satellite product which is expected to cover around 5% of the NBS areas. The satellite product will have a minimum download speed of 1mbps, a minimum upload speed of 128kbps, a maximum contention ratio of 48:1, latency of 800 milliseconds and an 11 gigabit (10 down, 1 up) inclusive monthly allowance limit.
I am satisfied that the NBS will provide speeds comparable with products available in the market for urban areas and greatly assist in bridging the digital divide.
As regards the accuracy of the mapping undertaken for the scheme, a comprehensive mapping process has been undertaken. The process involves:
contacting service providers for details of their broadband coverage;
inserting service provider data on a broadband coverage map using specialist expertise and software;
consulting with Regional Authorities to request that they confirm, as far as was possible, the broadband coverage information provided in the maps;
requesting from the Regional Authorities information on any other service providers excluded from the mapping process; and
contacting additional service providers identified by the Regional Authorities and including their coverage on the map.
The resulting broadband coverage led to the creation of the map which was updated during the procurement process as appropriate, in consultation with the service providers. I am satisfied that all reasonable steps have been taken to maximise the accuracy of the map.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:102 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he will take to ensure that households that are not covered by the national broadband scheme and that do not benefit from any proposed upgrading of exchanges will be able to access broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4538/09]
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps — 10mbps. It is also encouraging that, at the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Over 70% of those SMEs, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps — 10mbps.
Following the conclusion of a technology neutral procurement process, which was open to all broadband service providers from across all platforms, my Department has entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS).
EU State Aid and competition rules govern how states can intervene in areas that are already substantially served by broadband. While recognising that some premises within substantially served areas may have difficulties for a variety of reasons (including long lines, pair gains, no line of sight etc.) in receiving a broadband service, the NBS cannot cater for such limited instances as to do so would give rise to an unacceptable level of market distortion. It is therefore a matter for service providers in an area to address, where possible, such instances of non access to broadband.
Ireland's energy policy framework identifies energy efficiency as the most cost effective means of reducing our dependence on imported energy, as well as mitigating harmful green house gas emissions. Government has set a target of 20% energy efficiency by 2020 and, recognising that the public sector must act as exemplars in the field of energy usage, has set a more stretching target of 33% energy efficiency, for the public sector, by 2020.
I previously indicated to the House that I anticipated publishing the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan prior to Christmas but finalisation of the Plan has taken somewhat longer than I then anticipated. Inter-Departmental consultation is nearing completion on the issue and, after Government approval, I expect to publish the Plan within weeks. In the interim I would draw the Deputy's attention to the important announcement on grant aid for home insulation measures, which I made on Sunday, 8th February.
Energy Efficiency.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:103 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to introduce a national insulation scheme; if so, the form that this scheme will take; the cost and timeframe involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4564/09]
Joe Costello
Ceist:118 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the home energy saving scheme; when it will be extended nationwide; the level of funding which will be available for this scheme; the regions in which this scheme applies; the number of people who have applied to this scheme; the number of those who have benefited from the scheme; the amount available in grants and the types of grants involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4536/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 103 and 118 together.
The improvement of energy efficiency in the housing stock is internationally recognised as one of the most cost effective ways of reducing emissions and energy bills. Energy efficiency measures to tackle deficiencies in households also support and strengthen employment in the construction and energy services sectors.
I launched the national Home Energy Savings Scheme on Sunday last with a budget of €50 million in 2009. This is expected to support the upgrade of at least 27,500 homes and with other building insulation programmes in my own Department and the Department for the Environment will contribute to the creation of 4,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Experience from the pilot phase of the Home Energy Saving Scheme in 2008 has demonstrated that there is considerable demand for a support scheme for energy efficiency measures, not only among householders, but also among building energy rating assessors, product manufacturers, installers and other market players. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) estimates that demand among householders across the country could well exceed 100,000 homes over the lifetime of the scheme. Homeowners can expect to save up to €700 on their energy bills if they implement the full suite of measures being proposed under the national scheme.
This Scheme offers grants of up to 40% of the typical cost of energy efficiency upgrade measures, varying depending on the measure concerned. Owners of homes built prior to 2006 can now contact SEI on 1850 927000 or hes@sei.ie to register their interest in this scheme. A list of eligible measures and fixed grant rates is set out below:
|
Measure |
Fixed grant rate |
|
€ |
|
|
Roof Insulation |
250 |
|
Cavity Wall Insulation |
400 |
|
Internal Wall Insulation |
2,500 |
|
External Wall Insulation |
4,000 |
|
High Efficiency Boiler with Heating Controls Upgrade |
700 |
|
Heating Controls Upgrade Only |
500 |
|
Building Energy Rating Assessment |
200 |
Alternative Energy Projects.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:104 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he is taking to promote the use of domestic renewable energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4494/09]
Joe Costello
Ceist:127 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the greener homes scheme; the number of applications that were made for grants in 2007 and 2008; the number of applicants awarded grants in 2007 and 2008; the cost of the grants given under this scheme per month from April 2006 to date in 2009; if he will provide this information in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4535/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 104 and 127 together.
The development of domestic renewable energy is a key priority and is being supported by a range of actions and programmes ranging from Research and Development, investment incentives and mandatory requirements.
I have launched a microgeneration pilot scheme being undertaken by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI). The programme will assess technical, financial and regulatory issues surrounding the deployment of small and microgeneration technologies in Ireland and will provide grant aid for around 50 pilot installations.
The initiation of the pilot trial of micro- and small-scale generation technologies that will lead to successful implementation of good quality projects yielding meaningful information in a short timeframe is a priority action in the microgeneration programme.
The pilot field trial will investigate and test technical, market and regulatory issues associated with their installation, network connection and operation and generation.
An associated primary objective is to assess measures required for supplier and product qualification to minimise the risk of adverse outcomes at small-scale and microgeneration installations, hence promoting the robust growth of a microgeneration supply base. In the absence of relevant European Standards for technologies or robust qualifications for installers, interim arrangements will be put in place for the pilot.
A call for expression of interest is currently open for the Low Carbon Housing Programme administered by SEI. In addition to having a minimum requirement of a Building Energy Rating of A2 or higher the targets also include provision for onsite generation.
The Revised Building Regulations brought into force in July 2008 now include a compulsory renewable energy component for all new houses. This will not only ensure that renewables are integrated into the housing stock but will also encourage individuals to consider a range of renewable options when purchasing a new home. This is further underpinned by the introduction of the Building Energy Rating which provides information to house purchasers on energy performance and to which renewables will contribute.
The Government's Greener Homes Scheme, administered by SEI, provides support to individuals wishing to install renewable energy heating technologies in their homes. This scheme, now in operation since early 2006, has already helped establish a very strong supply industry for renewable energy products, services and fuels while the application of strict product standards and installer training and quality schemes has ensured that consumers are informed in relation to their choices. The following is the detail sought by the Deputy in relation to the scheme.
|
Year |
Number of Applications received |
|
2007 |
10,000 |
|
2008 |
11,000 |
|
Year |
Number of Payments made |
|
2007 |
8,385 |
|
2008 |
9,643 |
|
Year |
Value of Payments made |
|
€ |
|
|
2007 |
26,755,446 |
|
2008 |
21,792,268 |
The following table shows the total amount of grant paid and the number of payments to householders per month since the launch in 2006 of the Greener Homes Scheme to end December 2008.
|
Paid |
Number of applications |
|
|
€ |
||
|
June |
10,900 |
5 |
|
July |
150,346 |
50 |
|
Aug |
328,304 |
107 |
|
Sep |
577,578 |
188 |
|
Oct |
709,606 |
219 |
|
Nov |
1,390,748 |
426 |
|
Dec |
1,139,511 |
346 |
|
2006 |
4,306,993 |
1,341 |
|
Paid |
Number of applications |
|
|
€ |
||
|
Jan |
1,285,534 |
379 |
|
Feb |
1,720,197 |
510 |
|
Mar |
1,971,200 |
572 |
|
Apr |
1,858,614 |
551 |
|
May |
2,058,025 |
598 |
|
June |
2,510,842 |
730 |
|
July |
1,597,794 |
476 |
|
Aug |
2,378,771 |
753 |
|
Sep |
2,278,989 |
782 |
|
Oct |
2,635,747 |
838 |
|
Nov |
3,801,759 |
1270 |
|
Dec |
2,657,974 |
926 |
|
2007 |
26,755,446 |
8,385 |
|
Paid |
Number of applications |
|
|
€ |
||
|
Jan |
1,927,443 |
675 |
|
Feb |
1,946,585 |
715 |
|
Mar |
1,696,239 |
625 |
|
Apr |
1,534,356 |
566 |
|
May |
2,032,357 |
807 |
|
June |
1,596,210 |
638 |
|
July |
1,394,855 |
601 |
|
Aug |
1,684,125 |
773 |
|
Sep |
1,777,421 |
829 |
|
Oct |
1,967,552 |
936 |
|
Nov |
1,144,974 |
635 |
|
Dec |
3,090,151 |
1,843 |
|
2008 |
21,792,268 |
9,643 |
Question No. 105 answered with Question No. 83.
David Stanton
Ceist:106 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the production of ethanol for use as an alternative fuel and energy source; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4590/09]
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:116 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on biofuels; his further views on the biofuels targets at an EU level following the concerns regarding food prices and land use; his further views on the feasibility of second generation biofuels produced here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4545/09]
Seán Connick
Ceist:500 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of excise relief and other forms of subsidies granted in respect of imported biofuel in each of the years 2006, 2007 and 2008. [4804/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:510 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of companies currently licensed and approved for the production of bio-diesel or other forms of plant oil or motor or heating fuel; the total production from all such sources in each of the past three years to date; the number, if any, of such companies that have, as yet, not supplied any products in the same period; the number of similar companies, though not approved, that have started production; the extent of any such production; when it is intended that those with a proven production record are likely to be recognised and supported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4950/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 106, 116, 500 and 510 together.
Sustainable biofuels will play an important part in delivering the 10% renewable energy target for transport fuels by 2020.
The Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Schemes have resulted in 18 projects being awarded excise relief between 2005 and 2010 with four of these projects in the bioethanol category. The schemes were designed as interim measures to accelerate the level of biofuels in the fuel mix, in advance of the introduction of a biofuels obligation. Biofuels are already being mainstreamed in blends of up to 5% at a number of existing petrol and diesel pumps, and higher blends are being sold to identified vehicle fleets. Given the fact that bioethanol is the generally approved replacement for petrol, it has a valuable role to play in national bioenergy policy.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to imported biofuels is not available. The Office of the Revenue Commissioners advises that the total cost of these excise relief schemes to date is estimated at €40m. I am committed to the development of an Irish biofuels industry and to the sustainable development and deployment of indigenous bioenergy resources.
In relation to licensing of biofuel companies, I have no function on this matter. Consents for the construction of a Biofuel production facility would obviously be required from a number of sources, such as the local authority and possibly the Environmental Protection Agency (depending on the feedstock), while in due course, compliance with the EU Sustainability Criteria will become a condition of biofuels being counted towards EU targets.
The planned introduction of a Biofuels Obligation will require all fuel suppliers to ensure that biofuels represent a certain percentage of their annual fuel sales. The biofuels obligation is designed to provide a long-term market based framework for the development of a biofuels sector and delivery of biofuels targets to 2020.
The public consultation process in relation to the Biofuels Obligation Scheme has recently been completed and there were 40 submissions received as part of the consultation process. My Department is now analysing the submissions with a view to preparing specific details for a final Biofuels Obligation Scheme which will be cognisant of the views expressed by stakeholders. I will bring a proposal to Government soon and introduce the necessary legislation required in order that the Biofuels Obligation Scheme can be introduced in January 2010.
Through the full application of the EU sustainability criteria, the Biofuels Obligation Scheme mechanism will allow us to ensure that the biofuel we use is sustainably sourced, and evolving technologies will allow us to increase the penetration rate without any impacts on food prices. Given that biofuels will form an increasingly important component of European transport fuels in the coming years, it is vital that these criteria are not alone robust and effective in protecting those most at risk in the developing world, but that they also set the agenda for further investment in more efficient biofuel production, and for investment in second generation biofuels.
Through appropriate RD&D schemes such as the Charles Parsons awards, we are incentivising the development of second generation biofuels, which will not use food stocks as raw material input. Work is currently underway to determine what the marine environment might contribute to developing the national biofuels capacity. The analysis will include identifying the necessary research, development and demonstration projects to realise any such potential. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) is commissioning analysis of the potential of marine algae as a source of biofuels for Ireland and my Department is also supporting the Interreg project "Biomara", which will be examining all potential opportunities for biofuel production from marine sources. This work will provide a comprehensive basis on which to inform research and development work on the potential use of marine algae for renewable energy. It will also provide data in relation to the biofuels capacity that could potentially be derived from the marine environment.
Telecommunications Services.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:107 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the expected publication date of the draft policy paper on next generation broadband networks; if he will implement the value for money and policy review of phase one of the MANs programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4537/09]
Joan Burton
Ceist:125 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the publication of a report into the recommendations of the International Broadband Advisory Forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4562/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 107 and 125 together.
In July 2008 I launched a consultation paper on Next Generation Broadband. This paper, which took account of the recommendations of the International Broadband Advisory Forum, contained proposed policy actions in relation to optimal use of State assets, fibre connections to second level schools and new premises, strong regulation and innovative spectrum licensing, government investment, demand stimulation and evidence based research.
The consultation period closed in October and my officials have examined the written submissions received and the contributions made at a one day consultation forum that I hosted on 30th September 2008.
I intend to publish a finalised report shortly having regard to the contributions we have received.
The findings and recommendations of the Value for Money and Policy Review of Phase I of the Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) Programme will be fully taken account of in the implementation of Phase II of the MANs Programme and in the event that it is decided to invest in further phases of the MANs Programme.
Question No. 108 answered with Question No. 87.
Energy Resources.
Jack Wall
Ceist:109 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has met with a group (details supplied); the outcome of that meeting; if he has not met this group, if he will meet with them and when; the position on underground and over ground lines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4542/09]
While I have no direct role in the planning and construction of transmission system infrastructure, the Government's overriding policy objective is to ensure that energy is consistently available at competitive prices with minimal risk of supply disruption to meet the needs of businesses and domestic consumers. It is EirGrid's role, as the transmission system operator, to develop and upgrade the transmission system in order to meet ongoing and future electricity needs.
The two 400 kV transmission line projects from Meath to Cavan and Cavan to Tyrone are vitally important to the North East region for security of supply, regional and national economic development and the integration of renewable electricity on to the Grid. I am aware of concern in local communities about the impact of overhead lines, and I was happy to be able to facilitate a meeting with North East Pylon Pressure, which was attended by EirGrid. The meeting was held on 16 January and all parties engaged in an active and constructive discussion on practical issues relating to the projects and ongoing consultations. The meeting resulted in a series of agreed action points, including an intensification of the engagement between EirGrid and North East Pylon Pressure on the issues of concern.
As regards the issue of underground cables and overhead lines, EirGrid has undertaken to publish a detailed report, which it has commissioned jointly with Northern Ireland Electricity, in relation to undergrounding for the Meath Cavan and Cavan Tyrone projects. While the independent Ecofys Study provided a generic analysis of underground/overhead transmission infrastructure issues, this report will provide a detailed, site specific analysis of undergrounding issues relating to the entire route for both projects. The report, which has been prepared over a long timescale, will form part of the documentation that will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála as part of EirGrid's planning application for the two projects. The report will be published in the coming weeks and a period of consultation by EirGrid on its findings will follow.
I understand that EirGrid has also agreed to facilitate a meeting between North East Pylon Pressure's consultants (Askon) and EirGrid's own technical experts, and will fund the costs of Askon attending the meeting. I would hope that this level of engagement between EirGrid and North East Pylon Pressure will assist greatly in resolving issues of concern and moving the projects forward.
EirGrid have stressed that consultations will continue with stakeholders over the coming months, until such time as planning consent application is submitted to An Bord Pleanála, which is the Statutory Planning Authority in relation to strategic infrastructure projects.
Broadcasting Services.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:110 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the implications for viewers of RTÉ in Northern Ireland in view of the fact that the digital terrestrial television technology to be used here is different from that in the UK; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4557/09]
The Broadcasting (Amendment) Act 2007 provides for the development of national Digital Terrestrial Television (DTT) services in Ireland and for the closure of the national analogue TV network.
Under the new Broadcasting Bill 2008 due to be enacted shortly, RTÉ continues to have an all-island remit. Section 114 of the Bill provides that one of the principle objects of RTÉ is "to establish, maintain and operate a national television and sound broadcasting service, which shall have the character of a public service, be a free-to-air service and be made available, in so far as it is reasonably practicable, to the whole community on the island of Ireland".
The first phase of DTT services will launch in autumn this year with coverage of about 85% of the country. The analogue network will continue to operate alongside the new digital network for a transition period until an analogue switch off date is reached. Information on the development of this network is available from RTÉ's own website, www.rte.ie.
My Department is working with the Department of Foreign Affairs and our UK counterparts to coordinate a smooth transition from analogue to digital services in both jurisdictions.
Analogue switch off is currently planned for end 2012 in Northern Ireland, which is the target EU analogue switch-off date. I am confident that Ireland can meet that target and that RTÉ, by way of DTT technology, will continue to be available in Northern Ireland.
Energy Efficiency.
Ciaran Lynch
Ceist:111 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the publication of the national energy efficiency action plan which was promised by the end of 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4551/09]
Ireland's energy policy framework identifies energy efficiency as the most cost effective means of reducing our dependence on imported energy, as well as mitigating harmful green house gas emissions. Government has set a target of 20% energy efficiency by 2020 and, recognising that the public sector must act as exemplars in the field of energy usage, has set a more stretching target of 33% energy efficiency, for the public sector, by 2020.
I previously indicated to the House that I anticipated publishing the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan prior to Christmas but finalisation of the Plan has taken somewhat longer than I then anticipated. Inter-Departmental consultation is nearing completion on the issue and, after Government approval, I expect to publish the Plan within weeks. In the interim I would draw the Deputy's attention to the important announcement on grant aid for home insulation measures, which I made on Sunday, 8th February.
Question No. 112 answered with Question No. 87.
Question No. 113 answered with Question No. 84.
Energy Costs.
Mary Upton
Ceist:114 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the publication of the Fuel Poverty Action Research Project report; the contact he has had with poverty groups to ensure that those at risk of fuel poverty in winter 2009 are included in schemes such as the warmer homes scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4550/09]
The Fuel Poverty Action Research Project was established by Combat Poverty and Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) to inform public policy on the merits of domestic energy efficiency programmes. The project involves an integrated and systematic ex-post assessment of the energy, environmental, thermal comfort and health benefits of the SEI-administered Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS), which retrofits low income private homes with insulation and other energy saving measures. The report of the Fuel Poverty Research Project is due to be published for consultation at the end of March 2009 following a presentation to the interdepartmental working group on energy affordability.
The Warmer Homes Scheme provides energy efficiency improvements to homes in, or at risk of, fuel poverty and is delivered by community based organisations (CBOs). The CBOs work in partnership with their local network of poverty and community support organisations including public health nurses, MABS and St Vincent De Paul to identify and address vulnerable homes.
The Government is committed to protecting vulnerable consumers from the impact of high energy costs through a combination of institutional supports and investment in improving the energy efficiency of the housing stock. I am working closely with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs to deliver a fully cohesive approach across Government.
I established last year, an Inter Departmental/Agency Group led by my Department and the Department for Social and Family Affairs, and which also includes the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and Health and Children, the Commission for Energy Regulation, SEI, ESB and BGÉ and the Institute of Public Health. This intensive cooperation and coordinated working by all the relevant Departments, agencies and the utilities is ensuring the effective delivery of a comprehensive approach to addressing energy affordability. The Group has been conducting a series of meetings with representative groups and agencies including Age Action Ireland and Energy Action in addition to relevant groups and agencies in Northern Ireland.
The Group has finalised an advisory booklet to inform and assist those seeking advice about supports in relation to energy affordability. The booklet will be published this month alongside a new complementary website and will be widely disseminated.
To date more than 20,000 homes have been substantially addressed by the Warmer Homes Scheme. In 2009 there is €20 million available to the WHS with a further 15,000 homes expected to be completed. SEI, in consultation with ESB, BGÉ and other stakeholders, is reviewing the operation of the Scheme with the aim of ensuring that maximum impact is delivered from the enhanced funding.
Telecommunications Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:115 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps he has taken or proposes to take to bring the standard and quality of communications here up to best international practice; his plans to encourage sufficient infrastructural investment in the industry to bring this about; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4568/09]
The role of the Government in the electronic communications market in Ireland is to formulate policy to facilitate the provision of high quality services by competing service providers.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps — 10mbps. At the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Most of those SMEs, 72.6%, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps — 10mbps.
The latest OECD report, which includes data up to June 2008 is also testament to the considerable improvement of recent years. It shows that Ireland had the fourth strongest per capita broadband subscription growth of the 30 countries ranked. With similar fast uptake of broadband noted in previous reports, Ireland has closed the gap on the OECD average with our improvement over the past 2 years. Additionally, it should be noted that mobile broadband, which is very popular with Irish broadband subscribers, is not yet published for the purposes of international statistical comparisons. However, mobile broadband statistics are expected to be published by the OECD in the future reports. The publication of mobile broadband statistics is expected to improve Ireland's ranking further.
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector cannot justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, my Department has undertaken to implement the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) and has entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the NBS. 3 will be required to provide services to all residences and businesses that are within the NBS area and who seek a service. Services will begin to be rolled out in April 2009 and the entire NBS area will be served by September 2010.
Internationally, electronic communications markets are moving to provide next generation broadband in order to deliver greater quality, speed and service to consumers. This is happening where there is strong competition and incentives to innovate. The policy framework for future broadband development in Ireland is set out in the consultation paper on Next Generation Broadband, which I published last July. The consultation period on the paper has now concluded and I will publish the final policy paper shortly.
I am also actively engaged with the EU Commission's review of the regulatory framework for electronic communications. Effective regulation, and more consistency in regulatory approaches across all the Member States, will enhance the conditions necessary for investment in communications technology and allow Ireland exploit the opportunities such technology brings for the benefit of our economy and society.
Question No. 116 answered with Question No. 106.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Jack Wall
Ceist:117 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the funding available within his Department to research and develop a biomass boiler that uses renewable energy feed stock; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4541/09]
Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) operates a number of grant schemes in this area. These include the Renewable Energy Research Development and Demonstration programme, which provides grant support for the development of new renewable energy technologies, including the development of advanced biomass energy systems. Individuals or companies can contact SEI and apply for support under this scheme.
SEI also operates a number of other support schemes for the commercial deployment of biomass heating systems, for the domestic user. SEI operates the Greener Homes Scheme, which provides fixed grant support for biomass boilers. At the commercial level, SEI operates the Renewable Energy Heating scheme, which provides 30% grant support for boilers up to 1 Mega Watt in size. Boilers at a size larger than this also qualify for grant support with a slightly reduced rate. Both programmes are designed to stimulate the deployment of renewable energy heating in Ireland and will assist in achieving the target of delivering 12% of heat from renewable energy sources by 2020.
Question No. 118 answered with Question No. 103.
Departmental Expenditure.
Liz McManus
Ceist:119 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the annual cost of printing reports by his Department and the agencies under its control; the corresponding figure in respect of annual reports; the cost of posting these reports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4533/09]
Details of the cost of printing reports during 2008, by my Department, are contained in the following table. The table includes details of annual reports published and where identifiable, postage costs. It should be noted that the level of reports published will vary from year to year.
Reports produced by bodies operating under the aegis of my Department, are a day to day operational matter for those bodies and one in which I have no function.
|
Reports published in 2008 |
Cost of Publication |
Postal Costs |
|
€ |
||
|
Consultation Paper on Next Generation Broadband |
2,481.73 |
n/a |
|
Third Strategic Environmental Assessment for Oil and Gas Activity in Ireland’s Offshore Atlantic Waters: Rockall Basin |
5,687.00 |
Nil |
|
Ecofys Study on the Comparative Merits of Overhead Electricity Transmission Lines versus Underground Cables |
No external costs — report printed within Department |
€475 (approx. 500 copies to members of public @ 0.95 per copy) |
|
Handbook on Oil Supply Contingency Measures |
Nil — published on Department’s website |
Nil |
|
Minerals Development Acts, 1940-1995 — Report by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources for the six months ended 31 December 2007 |
342.00 |
75.00 |
|
Minerals Development Acts, 1940-1995 — Report by the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources for the six months ended 30 June 2008 |
502.00 |
75.00 |
|
State Mining and Prospecting Facilities 1st May 2008 Competition |
350.00 |
130.00 |
|
State Mining and Prospecting Facilities 1st November 2008 Competition |
460.00 |
130.00 |
|
State Mining and Prospecting Facilities 1st February 2008 Competition |
60.00 |
130.00 |
|
State Mining and Prospecting Facilities 1st August 2008 Competition |
60.00 |
130.00 |
|
An Energy Research Strategy for Ireland |
13,618.56 |
Nil |
|
Statement of Strategy 2008-2010 |
9,631.00 |
104.60 approx. |
|
DCENR Annual Report 2007 |
12,465.00 |
97.10 approx. |
|
GSI Annual Report 2007 |
7,000 |
n/a |
|
Gaining Ground |
2,142 |
n/a |
|
All-Island Grid Study |
17,021 (incl. VAT)* |
n/a |
Energy Resources.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:120 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on whether there is a need for stocks of gas supplies to be mandatory, similar to the reserves for oil through NORA; the position in relation to gas supplies here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4559/09]
There is currently no requirement under EU legislation for Ireland to hold strategic reserves of natural gas i.e. reserves that could not be accessed under normal market conditions, as is the case with oil under IEA obligations. Recent European Commission analysis, undertaken as part of the Second EU Strategic Energy Review, shows that the cost of strategic gas storage is very high, at 5 times that of oil storage. The potential for gas storage facilities is also dependent on geological conditions. Therefore depleted gas fields (such as is the case with the storage facility at Kinsale) are often good options for storage. This also means that some countries do not have the potential to store gas. For these reasons the European Commission has indicated it will not impose EU obligations regarding strategic gas stocks.
The existing commercial gas storage facility at Kinsale has the capacity to hold 198 million cubic metres, licensed for use by Bord Gáis Éireann, which could supply around 50% of residential and SME gas needs for up to 50 days in the event of a disruption to our gas imports.
While the prognosis for the security of our gas supplies is relatively secure in light of the stability of the UK gas market, it is nevertheless prudent, in light of our dependence on gas imported from the UK, to seek to reduce our reliance on this source. In this regard, the question of gas storage, including Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), is being considered on an All Island basis. My Department is working with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland, and energy Regulators North and South, to examine the medium to long term position with regard to security of gas supply on the Island of Ireland.
In addition, there is interest in providing further gas storage on a commercial basis. Shannon LNG — a wholly owned subsidiary of the US firm Hess LNG — proposes to construct an LNG re-gasification terminal at a site located on the Shannon Estuary between Tarbert and Ballylongford in County Kerry. The project, which could potentially provide up to 40% of Ireland's gas requirements, is being planned on a "merchant" basis. This means that the project is private sector development which would be run on a commercial basis. LNG has the potential to improve connectivity to the global gas market, which would be a critical factor in the event of a major supply disruption.
However, any discussion of this issue clearly underlines the strategic importance of diversifying our sources of gas supply — not least indigenous production — including the importance of bringing the Corrib Gas field into production. At full production this field is estimated to meet 60% of our annual demand for gas for circa five years.
Energy Costs.
Olwyn Enright
Ceist:121 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made by the inter-departmental group on energy affordability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3265/09]
The Government is committed to protecting vulnerable consumers from the impact of high energy costs through a combination of institutional supports and investment in improving the energy efficiency of the housing stock. I am working closely with the Minister for Social and Family Affairs to deliver a fully cohesive approach across Government.
I established, last year, an Inter Departmental/Agency Group led by my Department and the Department for Social and Family Affairs, and which also includes the Departments of Finance, Taoiseach, Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and Health and Children, the Commission for Energy Regulation, Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), ESB and BGÉ and the Institute of Public Health. The Group is also liaising with relevant groups and agencies in Northern Ireland.
This intensive cooperation and coordinated working by all the relevant Departments, agencies and the utilities is ensuring the effective delivery of a comprehensive approach to addressing energy affordability. The Group has been conducting a series of meetings with representative groups and agencies including Age Action Ireland and Energy Action.
The Group has finalised an advisory booklet to inform and assist those seeking advice about supports in relation to energy affordability. The booklet will be published this month alongside a new complementary website and will be widely disseminated.
In 2009 there is €20 million available to the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) and this is expected to support energy efficiency interventions in up to 15,000 low income homes this year alone. At the request of the Group, SEI in consultation with ESB and BGÉ and other stakeholders, is reviewing the operation of the WHS to ensure that maximum impact is delivered from the enhanced funding.
Telecommunications Services.
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:122 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on reports of a stimulus package from the EU proposal for rural broadband projects; if this fund will help the areas currently unable to get broadband but that are also not covered by the national broadband scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4543/09]
The EU Commission has proposed that the recently announced Economic Recovery Plan would contain measures aimed at enhancing rural broadband infrastructure. While Ireland is supportive of the proposal, other Member States are opposed and a proposal has not, as yet, been agreed between the Commission and all Member States.
In the event that the proposal is agreed, any funding available to Member States would be distributed under the Rural Development Fund administered in Ireland by the Department of Agriculture and Food. Officials from the Department of Agriculture and Food and my officials have proposed possible initiatives to the EU Commission that could be considered for inclusion in the proposal should it be agreed. These include an initiative to help residences and businesses not covered by the national broadband scheme and which are unable to access broadband.
Question No. 123 answered with Question No. 87.
Energy Efficiency.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:124 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to merge the Power of One and the Change.ie websites in view of the cost of maintaining both; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4560/09]
The Power of One campaign aims to bring about more energy efficient behaviour by domestic consumers and other energy using sectors to achieve energy and CO2 savings. The campaign has been operating since August 2006 and has brought about a significant increase in awareness of energy efficiency and best practice energy behaviour. Since the beginning of 2009, Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has assumed responsibility for the campaign. This is likely to see the campaign evolve in different directions, though the website will continue to be an important information hub.
The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government is responsible for the Change campaign. The objective of the campaign is to raise public awareness of climate change, its causes, impacts and implications for Ireland, as well as to drive significant behavioural change to reduce and avoid greenhouse gas emissions in how we live, work and travel. The remit of the campaign covers the broad spectrum of transport, waste, water, energy, biodiversity and planning across the sectors agriculture, transport, construction, tourism, business, industry and the public sector. The campaign includes a significant advertising element as well as extensive stakeholder engagement to develop specific programmes and web-based tools tailored to achieve emission reductions at sectoral level.
Since the inception of the Change campaign, there has been a high degree of coordination and cooperation between the two campaigns in relation to energy efficiency and carbon reduction. This has involved sharing of materials, co-funding of projects and many linkages between the websites of the two campaigns. This approach has led to significant savings for the Exchequer.
I believe this cooperative approach should continue. My Department and SEI are both represented on the inter-Departmental steering committee for the Change campaign. In respect of Power of One, I have asked SEI to actively pursue the scope for continuing and enhancing cooperation between the campaigns as part of their management of Power of One.
Question No. 125 answered with Question No. 107.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:126 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the warmer homes scheme will go nationwide; the number of homes that were eligible for this scheme in 2008; the number that applied for this scheme in 2008; the amount spent on this scheme for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4558/09]
The Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) is targeted at households on low incomes, such as those in receipt of fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit. Referrals from public health nurses, community services and St Vincent De Paul are also accepted.
In 2007, there were approximately 270,000 households in receipt of the fuel allowance payment. Of these, approximately two thirds are in private housing and are eligible for the WHS. However, applicability is also dependent on the energy efficiency standard of the applicant's home and not all fuel allowance recipients' homes are in need of the WHS energy efficiency improvements.
To date, more than 20,000 homes have been substantially addressed by the WHS. In 2009 there is €20 million available to the WHS with a further 15,000 homes expected to be completed. The number of applicants on the WHS waiting list is 4,618 homes, which are registered with the 20 community based organisations currently delivering the WHS.
The 20 community based organisations represent coverage of just over two-thirds of the country. A number of additional community based organisations will be required to deliver nationwide coverage. It is planned to commence the introduction of new organisations from the end of March this year.
A number of improvements to the WHS will be introduced over the coming weeks, including a new free phone service designed to assist householders identify their nearest provider. If outside of current coverage, their details will be recorded and notified as soon as the service becomes available in their area. In addition, a new website will be launched to allow homeowners, neighbours or relatives find out more information about the WHS and other grant schemes available in their area.
The total spend on the WHS in 2008 was €5.6M, which represented a doubling of the previous years allocation.
Question No. 127 answered with Question No. 104.
Proposed Legislation.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:128 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason for the delay in publishing the heads of the Fisheries (Amendment) Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4546/09]
As part of the overall rationalisation of State agencies that the Minister for Finance announced in Budget 2009, a new national inland fisheries body will be established, which will replace the existing Central and regional fisheries boards. I have set an ambitious target for implementing the decision. A restructuring implementation group has been established and is developing the key features and structures of the new model. Primary legislation will be required for this implementation.
Work on the draft Heads of the Bill to give effect to the new structures is at an advanced stage and I expect to be in a position to bring these to Government for approval in the coming weeks. It is my intention to publish details of the draft Bill once Government approval has been secured.
Telecommunications Services.
Ruairí Quinn
Ceist:129 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will instruct ComReg to monitor mobile broadband speeds and coverage on a monthly basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4547/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:516 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his policy to improve mobile telephone quality and coverage here in line with the best standards throughout the European Union; if his attention has been drawn to the dramatic difference in this regard at present; if he has issued directives or instructions to the service providers or regulators to ensure the availability of a quality comparable product to consumers here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4962/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 129 and 516 together.
The regulation of telecommunications operators, including regulatory issues surrounding the quality of services in the mobile phone market, including mobile broadband, is the responsibility of the independent Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg) in accordance with the requirements of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 and the Regulations which transpose the EU Regulatory Framework for Electronic Communications. The relevant service providers operate in a fully liberalised market.
Accordingly, I have not issued directives or instructions to ComReg or the mobile phone operators regarding the matters raised by the Deputies nor do I intend to do so.
The most recent Single Telecoms Market Progress Report published in 2008 describes Ireland's mobile market as diverse, competitive and advanced. In addition, recent surveys conducted by ComReg indicate that the majority of Irish people are content with existing broadband speeds and the value for money of their Internet service.
ComReg sets out the obligations on mobile network operators with regard to population coverage. These obligations are set down in the licence conditions for each operator. According to ComReg all four mobile network operators have complied with these targets to date. In addition they have invested significantly in their networks.
Alternative Energy Projects.
Liz McManus
Ceist:130 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made in relation to his announcement in 2008 of an additional category in the REFIT scheme to support offshore wind technology; the progress that he has made to optimise the amount of indigenous, renewable energy which can be used safely and at a price fair to consumers by increasing the opportunities for offshore wind and ocean and tidal energy generation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4534/09]
Government targets are to increase the contribution from renewable energy sources to the electricity market to 15% by 2010 and 40% by 2020.
In January 2008 I announced a tariff for a new offshore wind category within the REFIT support programme for new renewable energy projects. The REFIT programme imposes qualifying conditions and timelines for the completion of projects. In December last the Commission for Energy Regulation published a decision on Gate 3 connection requests which includes a number of offshore wind-powered projects. I am now awaiting comments from key stakeholders on the appropriate timelines within the REFIT programme, to apply to the offshore wind energy category. These timelines must reflect the timelines for the delivery of connections to offshore projects notified to project developers in the first instance.
I also announced in 2008, an Ocean Energy Strategy to harness emerging wave and tidal powered technologies, which are moving from the research phase to prototype deployment, within a three year cycle. The Ocean Energy Development Unit has been established within Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) to manage the ocean energy package. I am pleased to confirm that all components of the package are now under way and are being progressed by SEI.
Broadcasting Services.
Sean Sherlock
Ceist:131 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding digital terrestrial television; his views on whether preparations will be completed here for the switch-over in 2012; the cost of the switch-over; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4554/09]
The Broadcasting (Amendment) Act, 2007 provides for the development of digital terrestrial television (DTT) in Ireland. Under this Act, RTÉ is required to provide a DTT system with capacity to carry RTÉ, TG4 and TV3. The legislation also requires the Broadcasting Commission of Ireland (BCI) to seek commercial applicants who are interested in providing commercial DTT services.
RTÉ has started to build a DTT network in Ireland and has indicated that services will be launched on a phased basis starting in autumn 2009. It is expected that the first phase of DTT services will provide coverage of about 85% of the country. Information on the development of this network is available from RTÉ's website, www.rte.ie
The BCI is responsible for the development of commercial DTT services and is currently in contract negotiations with a company, Boxer (DTT) Limited, in this regard.
I am confident that Ireland can meet the target EU analogue switch-off date of 2012. In the meantime, TV services will be simulcast on both analogue and digital networks so that viewers may choose to switch or to remain on analogue during that period.
TV viewers who wish to receive the DTT service will need to upgrade their television receiver equipment either by using a DTT set top box or by purchasing a digital television approved for use on the Irish DTT network. It is expected that the initial cost of a set top box will be in the region of €50-100.
Ministerial Travel.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:132 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach the amount spent on foreign travel in the period 1 January to 31 December 2008 in the office of the Attorney General, which figures were not included in his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 172 of 27 January 2009. [4230/09]
The total spent on foreign travel during the period 1 January to 31 December 2008 in respect of the Office of the Attorney General was €162,555.56.
Storage Facilities.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:133 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Taoiseach if external storage is utilised by his Department; if so, if he will state what is being stored; the length of time it has been stored; the cost of such storage; the details of the contract; his plans in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4231/09]
My Department has, since 1 January 2008, availed of off site storage facilities. The contract is for seven years, from 1 January 2008, at an annual cost of €2,239.59 [inc VAT]. There are 568 such boxes at present in storage. The files they contain relate to projects which are no longer active but which are ineligible for transfer to the National Archives under the 30 year rule. Their removal to off site storage facilities enabled my Department to reorganise it's crowded file registry section to deliver an enhanced service and comply with current Health and Safety regulations.
Departmental Transport.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:134 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Taoiseach if his Department has a contract with a taxi firm; if so, the amount of money spent by officials in 2007 and 2008; the changes he will bring about; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4232/09]
My Department uses the services of two taxi companies. A policy on the use of taxis is in place in my Department which has been circulated to all staff in the Department. The use of taxis in my Department is permissible only for use on official business, usually where other means of transport e.g. public transport, are not available or suitable for the purposes required. The following table details the amount spent by my Department in 2007 and 2008 on taxi services.
|
Year |
Amount spent by Department on Taxi Services |
|
€ |
|
|
2007 |
98,768 |
|
2008 |
74,929 |
Departmental Property.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:135 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Taoiseach if laptops, art works, paintings, sculptures, computers, mobile telephones, blackberries or other equipment has been lost or stolen from his Department or its agencies since 2007 to date in 2009; the circumstances surrounding the items’ disappearance; if action has been taken to recover the item or items; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4233/09]
12 mobile phones have been either lost or stolen from my Department in the period January 2007 to date. Upon notification or such a loss the devices concerned are immobilised to prevent any further use. No laptops or Blackberry devices were lost or stolen from my Department in this period. The Office of Public Works is responsible for all art works and stock control measures in relation to such works. Central Statistics Office (CSO)
Two laptops have been stolen from the Central Statistics office since the start of 2007. Both incidents were reported to the Gardaí. One laptop was stolen from an employee's home and was recovered by the Gardaí. The other was stolen from an employee while on official business. This laptop did not contain any personal or identifiable information. No other items covered by the Deputy's question have been lost or stolen from the CSO since 1 January 2007 to date.
Departmental Expenditure.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:136 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Taoiseach if a separate account is kept in the Office of the Chief State Solicitor of the outlays by way of counsel and otherwise and costs involved in the fighting of major litigation on behalf of the State; if he will furnish the costs incurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4441/09]
The Chief State Solicitor's Office tracks fees paid by the Office to counsel representing the State and other State legal expenses paid by the Office for the legal cases in which it is involved. The following table shows the Office's expenditure in 2007 and 2008 (provisional) on State Counsel Fees and State general law expenses, the vast majority of which involved litigation cases.
|
State Counsel Fees |
State General Law Expenses* |
|
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 |
15,119,000 |
4,759,000 |
|
2008 (Provisional Outturn) |
17,798,000 |
4,972,000 |
*Includes expenditure on stenographers, expert witnesses, etc.
Labour Force.
Joe Costello
Ceist:137 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Taoiseach the number of non-nationals employed here in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3934/09]
The following tables provide estimates of the labour force classified by nationality in Quarter 2 of each year (2004-2008) sourced from the CSO Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS). The figures are considered ‘broadly indicative' as the large migration flows in recent years present a significant measurement challenge in a general purpose household survey such as the QNHS.
|
Nationality: a Irish national1 |
b Other nationality |
Total |
|
|
’000 |
’000 |
’000 |
|
|
Quarter 2 2008 |
|||
|
ILO status |
|||
|
In employment |
1,770.7 |
337.8 |
2,108.5 |
|
Unemployed |
90.7 |
24.8 |
115.5 |
|
Total in Labour force |
1,861.4 |
362.5 |
2,223.9 |
|
Not economically active |
1,164.7 |
121.4 |
1,286.1 |
|
All Persons |
3,026.1 |
484.0 |
3,510.1 |
|
Quarter 2 2007 |
|||
|
ILO status |
|||
|
In employment |
1,785.3 |
316.3 |
2,101.6 |
|
Unemployed |
79.8 |
20.5 |
100.3 |
|
Total in Labour force |
1,865.1 |
336.8 |
2,201.9 |
|
Not economically active |
1,151.1 |
102.3 |
1,253.3 |
|
All Persons |
3,016.2 |
439.0 |
3,455.2 |
|
Quarter 2 2006 |
|||
|
ILO status |
|||
|
In employment |
1,757.6 |
263.5 |
2,021.1 |
|
Unemployed |
74.5 |
18.3 |
92.8 |
|
Total in Labour force |
1,832.1 |
281.9 |
2,113.9 |
|
Not economically active |
1,157.8 |
96.1 |
1,253.9 |
|
All Persons |
2,989.9 |
378.0 |
3,367.9 |
|
Quarter 2 2005 |
|||
|
ILO status |
|||
|
In employment |
1,737.2 |
194.4 |
1,931.6 |
|
Unemployed |
73.6 |
12.9 |
86.5 |
|
Total in Labour force |
1,810.8 |
207.4 |
2,018.2 |
|
Not economically active |
1,174.9 |
87.2 |
1,262.2 |
|
All Persons |
2,985.8 |
294.6 |
3,280.4 |
|
Quarter 2 2004 |
|||
|
ILO status |
|||
|
In employment |
1,692.1 |
142.4 |
1,834.6 |
|
Unemployed |
75.1 |
9.5 |
84.6 |
|
Total in Labour force |
1,767.2 |
151.9 |
1,919.1 |
|
Not economically active |
1,196.2 |
86.1 |
1,282.3 |
|
All Persons |
2,963.4 |
238.0 |
3,201.4 |
1Includes ‘not stated'.
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Departmental Expenditure.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:138 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Taoiseach the amount of money paid by the Office of the Attorney General in respect of official visits abroad and in respect of official business abroad by the holders of the positions of attorney general, director general, including its former title of senior legal assistant and chief parliamentary counsel, including its former title of parliamentary draftsman, for each year since 2000 to 2008 inclusive; and the amount of money paid by the Office of the Attorney General in respect of official business abroad by each lawyer at the equivalent grade of assistant secretary for each year since 2000 to date in 2009. [4658/09]
In the years 2000 to 2008 and to 9 February 2009 the Office of the Attorney General paid travel and subsistence costs for official business abroad in respect of the Attorney General, the Director General, the Chief Parliamentary Counsel and staff at Assistant Secretary level. Although not specifically requested I also include, for completeness, details of travel and subsistence costs in relation to the positions of First Parliamentary Counsel and Deputy Director General as they are at the same level. The official business included attendance at EU meetings, ECJ hearings, other official legal business meetings, legal conferences and training. Please note that the holders of the position of Attorney General, Chief Parliamentary Counsel and some of the Assistant Secretaries will have changed during the period. Also, on trips where the Attorney General is representing the country at St. Patrick's Day celebrations, the figures shown include costs in respect of an accompanying spouse. The amounts, converted to euro where necessary, are set out in the attached chart.
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
|
Attorney General |
14,460.76 |
20,527.39 |
17,918.90 |
7,703.99 |
16,696.08 |
7,898.29 |
17,609.91 |
5,552.98 |
21,446.24 |
1,787.80 |
|
Director General |
1,477.71 |
4,203.15 |
1,985.63 |
985.74 |
1,999.64 |
6,065.33 |
4,063.46 |
5,313.16 |
6,646.44 |
Nil |
|
Chief Parliamentary Counsel |
1,637.28 |
Nil |
2,881.88 |
3,190.70 |
8,722.18 |
6,617.82 |
6,842.16 |
9,686.64 |
6,890.66 |
Nil |
|
First Parliamentary Counsel |
— |
— |
— |
143.55 |
412.88 |
178.88 |
187.63 |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Deputy Director General |
Nil |
1,229.94 |
1,250.00 |
1,358.09 |
6,989.05 |
4,070.28 |
2,995.74 |
6,274.59 |
9,514.53 |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary A |
11,870.09 |
8,622.81 |
6,755.43 |
1,093.31 |
— |
3,869.39 |
2,886.74 |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary B |
4,259.48 |
— |
1,062.43 |
4,192.18 |
Nil |
789.20 |
126.48 |
7,998.38 |
5,876.74 |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary C |
— |
— |
5,703.80 |
6,569.92 |
3,709.66 |
2,561.82 |
1,086.66 |
1,520.82 |
2,606.07 |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary D |
9,189.76 |
7,886.23 |
5,298.21 |
7,450.18 |
7,094.66 |
6,547.08 |
10,783.21 |
8,709.17 |
4,456.46 |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary E |
— |
3,572.14 |
13,172.33 |
7,523.98 |
4,431.68 |
1,179.08 |
1,292.22 |
1,403.27 |
2,766.91 |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary F |
4,231.59 |
2,139.11 |
Nil |
558.39 |
1,230.25 |
1,374.40 |
1,495.59 |
3,882.20 |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary G |
Nil |
367.05 |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
3,002.95 |
Nil |
Nil |
Nil |
|
Assistant Secretary H |
635.61 |
2,170.28 |
678.71 |
705.60 |
4,143.51 |
2,769.35 |
1,527.22 |
2,675.36 |
592.34 |
447.54 |
|
Assistant Secretary I |
7,868.04 |
3,151.32 |
4,807.28 |
4,095.95 |
5,833.47 |
Nil |
Nil |
1,518.71 |
3,535.23 |
Nil |
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:139 Deputy Damien English asked the Taoiseach the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4821/09]
There has been no spend by my Department on private consultancy firms to date in 2009. The following table details the consultancy firms used by my Department in 2008, the projects worked on and the cost for each project.
One contract was awarded after 14th October 2008 which is highlighted in the following table.
|
Name of Consultant |
Details of Project |
Total cost of Project |
|
€ |
||
|
Department |
||
|
Grant Thornton |
Forensic accounting services in respect of issues pertaining to an industrial relations dispute at Aer Lingus (the services were commissioned by the National Implementation Body to assist in resolving industrial relations issues at Aer Lingus). |
75,120 |
|
Goodbody |
Provision of assistance with the drafting of a Regulatory Impact Analysis on a legislative proposal. |
7,200 |
|
RA Consulting |
Employee Opinion Survey — 2nd Tranche |
9,030 |
|
QTS Limited |
Annual Risk Assessment — health and safety |
1,694 |
|
Ipsos Mori |
Phase 2 of 2007 QCS Survey |
9,952 |
|
Hudson Talent Management |
Survey, deployment, analysis and reporting for the Organisational Review Programme |
45,552 |
|
PA Consulting Group |
16 days professional services for Organisational Review Programme |
46,775 |
|
Raymond Burke Consulting*awarded after 14th October 2008 |
NESDO Review |
3,376 |
|
National Forum on Europe |
||
|
Austin Butler Design |
“Getting ready for the Referendum” |
647 |
|
Caroline Erskine |
Media Relations Services |
124,154 |
|
Lansdowne Market Research |
Study Research |
6,292 |
|
Ireland Newfoundland Partnership |
||
|
Bernadette Kiely |
Interviewing for the INP Business Development Position |
1,028 |
|
Change Management Fund, Department of Finance |
||
|
The Economist Intelligence Unit |
To conduct an independent Review of the Economic Regulatory Environment to compare the performance of Irish sectoral regulators against their international counterparts |
382,852 |
|
Isolde Goggins |
Facilitator for workshop on review of the Economic Regulatory Environment |
1,815 |
|
Isolde Goggins and Gillian Lauder |
Review of the Operation of Regulatory Impact analysis (RIA). In line with the terms of Towards 2016, an independent review of the operation of RIA was commissioned to assess the effectiveness of the current RIA model across Departments. |
85,305 |
|
Ipsos Mori |
Compilation and presentation of Civil Service Customer Satisfaction survey |
69,817 |
|
Goodbody |
Provision of economic assistance with the application of Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) across Government Departments |
18,905 |
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:140 Deputy Damien English asked the Taoiseach the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4836/09]
No bonus payments have been made to staff in my Department in respect of the year 2008. Civil service posts at the levels of Assistant Secretary and Deputy Secretary are covered by a scheme of performance related awards. Details of awards to individual officers under the performance related scheme are not disclosed on the basis that they are confidential to the officer concerned. However, during 2008, awards totalling €62,400 were made to 6 officers in my Department in respect of 2007. Details of the operation of the scheme are available in the report of the Committee for Performance Awards which can be accessed on the website of the Department of Finance (www.finance.gov.ie).
Following the recent announcement by the Minister for Finance relating to the discontinuation of this scheme, there is no specific provision for payment under this scheme for 2009.
In addition, a total of €13,648 was paid in 2008 in respect of this Department's Employee Recognition Awards Scheme in respect of exceptional performance in 2007 (€6,816 in individual awards to 6 staff and the remainder in team awards/cross divisional awards)
Qualifications Recognition.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:141 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if FÁS will be seeking international recognition of Irish trade qualifications in order for persons to get work in the US and other locations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4192/09]
The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) has responsibility for developing and maintaining the National Framework of Qualifications. It is governed by the Qualifications (Education & Training) Act 1999, which stipulates that the NQAI will "promote recognition outside the State of awards made by bodies in the State and recognition in the State of awards made by bodies outside the State".
In this context, the NQAI has established a qualifications recognition service, which is the Irish centre for the recognition of international qualifications. The NQAI represents Ireland in a European network of centres known as ENIC/NARIC (European National Information Centre/National Academic Recognition Information Centre) and is a National Reference Point, which promotes the recognition of international vocational qualifications throughout Europe and further a field, including the United States of America.
The role of FÁS, as the National Training & Employment Authority is to enable the State to engage in and support human resource development of the labour force. Many courses offered by FÁS including apprenticeships, lead to qualifications that are placed on the National Framework of Qualifications.
The NQAI is currently undertaking the alignment of the Irish National Framework of Qualifications with European Framework of Qualifications. When the alignment is complete, it should result in greater transparency and recognition across the EU for all Irish awards, including trade qualifications.
Prior to the transfer of its certification powers to FETAC, FÁS negotiated mutual recognition agreements with the UK and Germany for several Irish trades. FÁS are committed to working proactively with the NQAI with a view to identifying the steps needed to assist tradespeople wishing to have their qualifications recognised abroad.
Product Safety.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:142 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if, in view of recent research, she will ban the use of baby walkers in line with a decision taken by the Canadian Government; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4375/09]
The General Product Safety Directive 2001/95/EC, transposed into Irish law by S.I. No. 199 of 2004, places the onus on all operators, manufacturers, distributors, importers etc. to ensure that only safe products are placed on the market. If operators become aware that products on the market present a potential hazard they must take appropriate measures up to and including recall of the items, to ensure that the risk is removed. Any action taken by an operator must be notified to the Market Surveillance Authority (National Consumer Agency in Ireland). The Market Surveillance Authority notifies the European Commission of the action through the Rapid Alert Notification System (RAPEX). The Commission transmits the information to all Member States, with a view to their taking appropriate action to protect the safety of consumers in their country.
On 22 December 2008 the European Commission issued a Decision on compliance of Standard EN 1273 of 2005, on baby walkers, with the General Product Safety Directive. This revised Standard, which has been in place since May 2005, provides for stability tests and design requirements geared to improving safety. The Commission indicated that the improved safety measures would increase the passive prevention of accidents arising from the use of baby walkers.
If operators comply with the safety measures built into the revised Standard, they would be regarded as meeting the safety requirements of the General Product Safety Directive. In these circumstances there would be no grounds for introducing a ban. However, if products are found on the European Union market that do not comply with the new safety measures, appropriate action will be taken through the RAPEX system to have these items removed. There have been 12 RAPEX notifications in Europe since 2005 ordering the removal of certain types of babywalkers from the market. The NCA have passed on the notifications to operators in Ireland.
Media Mergers.
Liz McManus
Ceist:143 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the recommendations made in the recently published media mergers report; if she will ensure that the recommendations of this report be implemented in a timely fashion; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4921/09]
The Report of the Advisory Group on Media Mergers was published on 2nd January 2009.
The Group was established in 2008 to review the current legislative framework regarding the public interest aspects of media mergers. The Report and the eleven recommendations contained therein are being considered in the context of the ongoing wider review of the operation and implementation of the Competition Act 2002. It is my intention to bring forward legislation during the course of 2009 to reform aspects of competition law, including provisions concerning media mergers, and to implement the merger of the National Consumer Agency and the Competition Authority in accordance with the Government decision on the rationalisaiton of State Agencies as announced by my colleague the Minister for Finance during the course of the Budget speech.
Semi-State Bodies.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:144 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will ask board members of FÁS who travelled first class by aeroplane, in contravention of guidelines, to refund the additional cost of these airfares to the agency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4183/09]
The arrangement and authorisation of foreign travel arrangements for Board members of FÁS is a day to day matter for the agency. My understanding is that the travel arrangements referred to by the Deputy were arranged and authorised at an official level in FÁS.
At my request, my Department has now received assurances from the Chairman of the Board of FÁS that the organisation is now fully compliant with Department of Finance Regulations in the area of foreign travel.
Community Employment Schemes.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:145 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has plans to increase the number of community employment schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4184/09]
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 aim of 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. FÁS makes every effort to ensure that differing levels of demand between neighbouring schemes are equalised. FÁS also operates the programme flexibly as far as possible to ensure the continuation of community projects.
This Government will continue to support the positive role of CE in meeting the needs of long-term unemployed persons while at the same time providing essential services to communities. I am keeping the operation of the Scheme under constant review in the context of the current difficult unemployment situation.
Work Permits.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:146 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will review the system of work permits and working visas in view of the deteriorating economic situation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4185/09]
Since 2004, Irish labour market policy has been to ensure that general labour and skills needs are met from within the workforce of the European Union. For strategic skills/labour shortages in designated occupations in key economic sectors such as healthcare, information technology and financial services, Government policy is to issue employment permits for the employment of non-EEA nationals for specific vacancies and in response to employer demand. The various schemes that give effect to such policies were introduced under the Employment Permits Act, 2006.
Given that our current employment permit arrangements were designed to be vacancy-driven, the numbers of permit applications and consequent numbers of permits issued over the last six months have been showing a consistent downward trend.
I am currently having our employment permit arrangements reviewed to ensure their ongoing relevance to the needs of the Irish labour market.
Semi-State Bodies.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:147 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a person (details supplied) has been re-instated as an employee of FÁS; her views on this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4186/09]
I understand from FÁS that the individual concerned has returned to work.
The management of human resource issues is a day-to-day matter for FÁS.
National Minimum Wage.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:148 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on whether an increase in the minimum wage in 2009 is appropriate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4187/09]
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:150 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has received a recommendation from the Labour Court on the minimum wage; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4190/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 150 together.
I understand that in November 2008, ICTU requested the Labour Court to review the national minimum wage and to make a recommendation to me concerning its adjustment. The Court subsequently invited submissions on the issue. Various submissions were received, including from IBEC, ICTU and the Department of Finance. The Labour Court also held discussions with these parties. I understand that the matter is still under consideration by the Court.
Job Protection.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:149 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views on the introduction of a wage subsidy scheme to protect jobs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4188/09]
There are a number of existing schemes, funded by the Department of Social and Family Affairs, which provide a subsidy to a person's wage. These include employment supports available to persons in receipt of welfare payments that are designed to assist and facilitate people on social welfare payments to return to the active labour force. Included in these measures is the Back to Work Allowance (BTWA). The BTWA scheme is designed to assist the long-term unemployed, lone parents, people with disabilities and other social welfare recipients to return to work. There are two strands to the scheme, the Back to Work Enterprise allowance for the self-employed and the Back to Work Allowance for employees. These allowances provide a monetary incentive for people who are dependant long-term on social welfare payments to make the return to work financially attractive and viable.
Financial support is also available to those who are engaged in short-time employment through the payment of Jobseeker's Benefit and Jobseeker's Allowance in respect of those days that the person is unemployed.
In addition to that outlined above, my Department, through FÁS, funds and operates a Wage Subsidy Scheme that provides financial incentives to employers, outside the public sector, to employ disabled people who work more than 20 hours per week.
Question No. 150 answered with Question No. 148.
Price Controls.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:151 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the legal basis which exists for the introduction of price controls; if such controls would conflict with European law; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4191/09]
The Consumer Protection Act 2007 permits the Government, where they are of the opinion that abnormal circumstances exist in relation to the supply of a product, to make an order declaring that a state of emergency exists affecting the supply of that product and to fix, by way of a further order, the maximum price at which the product may be supplied to consumers.
Competition and consumer choice have been the preferred means of successive Governments in the area of tackling prices. Vigorous competition and strong consumer protection are essential parts in maintaining a vibrant economy. In so far as current difficulties in the area of north south price differentials are concerned, I have actively engaged with the retail sector over the past number of months to ensure that Irish consumers benefit by way of lower prices from the appreciation in the value of the Euro, particularly against sterling. I am determined to pursue all links in the retail chain including retailers, distributors, suppliers to ensure that there is the greatest transparency in relation to the reasons for the substantial differentials in prices between this jurisdiction and Northern Ireland and the UK. In this regard, I would wish to assure the Deputy that the Government are committed to exploring all options to ensure that Irish consumers get a fair deal.
Companies Registration Office.
Mary Upton
Ceist:152 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will advise on the responsibilities of the Companies Registration Office regarding the filing of annual accounts; the sanctions that apply to a company which fails to file accounts within the specified timeframe; the conditions under which a company may be restored to normal status, if it has been considered to be in breach of obligatory practices; the reason a company is considered to be in breach of conditions that would warrant striking off; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4209/09]
The Companies Acts 1963-2006 sets out the requirements in relation to the filing of annual accounts by companies.
Filing Requirements
The Companies Acts require that an annual return be delivered by a company, whether trading or not, to the CRO once at least in every calendar year. Companies are required to attach a copy of their accounts to the annual return.
Sanctions for Late Filing or Failure to File
A late filing penalty of €100 becomes due in respect of an annual return on the day after the expiry of the filing deadline, i.e. 28 days after the effective date of the return. A daily penalty amount of €3 accrues thereafter up to a maximum penalty of €1,200 per return. This penalty is in addition to the standard fee for filing the return.
A company with a record of persistent late filing may also be subject to an on-the-spot fine and/or summary prosecution of the company and/or any officer in default. Fines of up to €1,904.61 can be imposed on conviction for breach of the annual return filing requirements.
The Registrar may prosecute companies and/or directors in the District Court for failure to file annual returns and accounts on behalf of their companies. In addition he may also apply to the High Court for an order directing the filing of outstanding annual returns and accounts within the period specified in the order and he may seek to have all the costs of and incidental to that application, borne by the defaulting company or its officers.
A company cannot avail of the exemption from the requirement for a statutory audit if its annual return for the current year or the previous year was not filed on time.
Strike-off
A company may be struck off the register and dissolved for failure to file an annual return. If a company is struck off, the assets of the company become vested in the Minister for Finance, and if the business continues to trade, the owners will no longer enjoy the benefit of limited liability and so are personally responsible for any debts incurred so long as the company remains dissolved.
Any person, who was a director of a company at the date of sending to that company of a strike off notice due to the non-filing of annual returns, may be disqualified from acting as a director by the High Court, where the company is struck off leaving outstanding liabilities. Such order may be made by the Court on the application of the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement. Restoration — Administrative
Where a company has been struck off for a period not exceeding 12 months, an application for restoration may be made by it to the Registrar of Companies. The company must file all outstanding annual returns, fees and the relevant late filing penalties within 12 months of the date of dissolution.
Restoration — High Court
A company that has been dissolved via strike-off, for a period in excess of 12 months and not more than 20 years, may apply to the High Court to be restored.
The applicant to the Court must obtain letters from the Registrar, the Chief State Solicitors Office (on behalf of the Minister for Finance) and the Revenue Commissioners stating there is no objection to the restoration of the company to the register.
If the High Court grants the Order and all outstanding annual returns (including required accounts) have been delivered to the CRO along with an official copy of the Order the company will be restored to the register.
If the Order has been granted and all outstanding annual returns (including required accounts) are delivered in final draft format only to the CRO the applicant must also provide a personal undertaking to file signed returns and accounts in identical form. In this case an Order for restoration will not have immediate effect unless the final signed returns (including accounts) are delivered to the CRO within one month from the date of the making of the Order. If the final returns are not submitted within the one month period the company will remain dissolved.
A creditor may also apply to the Court for restoration of the company at any time from the date of dissolution of the company until the expiry of 20 years from the date of dissolution of the company.
Retail Sector Development.
Joan Burton
Ceist:153 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to reports that retailers are being charged up to 150% more for goods in the Republic of Ireland than in the UK and Northern Ireland; her proposals to address such profiteering; and the legislative proposals she has under consideration as referred to in media reports. [4236/09]
Mary Upton
Ceist:164 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps she is taking to eliminate the prices wholesalers are charging retailers in view of the difference between prices quoted to business here and those for the same product sourced in the United Kingdom; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4674/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 153 and 164 together.
The issue of north south price differentials has been a matter of concern for some time. As Minister with responsibilities in the areas of employment, trade and consumer protection, I am conscious that these price differentials are impacting on household budgets, businesses and indeed jobs. I am aware of the concerns expressed by some retailers regarding the effect that current supply/distribution arrangements are having in terms of the cost of sourcing certain products when compared with the relative costs of sourcing such products in Northern Ireland and the UK. I am strongly of the view that there must be greater transparency in all links in the retail chain as to the reasons for these price differentials. I am determined to pursue all elements of the retail sector including, distributors, suppliers and retailers themselves to ensure that all benefits of the sustained Euro's appreciation in value, particularly against sterling are passed on to consumers. I am strongly of the view that restoring consumers' confidence that they can get a fair deal will help, not only to address the current price differential concerns, but also in assisting businesses to retain trade and thereby help to maintain employment.
Personal Injuries Tribunal.
Michael Noonan
Ceist:154 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if it is permissible for persons who are not legally qualified to represent, for a fee, persons before the personal injuries tribunal and pursue a claim on their behalf; the regulations which control such a service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4270/09]
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB), which now trades as InjuriesBoard.ie. The Board was established in April 2004, under the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003, as part of the Government's insurance reform programme, with the aim of allowing certain classes of personal injury claim, where liability was uncontested, to be settled without the need for the costs associated with litigation. Accordingly, the PIAB Act 2003 sets out the statutory functions of the Board and the process involved in assessing certain classes of personal injury claims.
InjuriesBoard.ie is not a tribunal, does not involve litigation and does not hold "hearings". It operates as an independent facilitator in the delivery of compensation entitlements in a fair and prompt manner for the benefit of society. As such, personal injury claim assessments are made on the basis of medical evidence.
All personal injury claims (with few exceptions such as medical negligence) must be submitted to InjuriesBoard.ie, unless settled directly between the parties. A claimant may submit an application directly to InjuriesBoard.ie or may chose to use an agent to submit a claim and to correspond with the Board on his/her behalf. Where a claimant uses an agent, the question of the fees charged is a matter between the parties involved.
The PIAB Act 2003 does not contain any provision which regulates the relationship between a claimant and any agent appointed to act on his/her behalf.
Work Permits.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:155 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position of an application for a working visa from a person (details supplied). [4312/09]
The Employment Permits Section informs me that it has no record of an application being received in this case.
Ministerial Appointments.
Niall Collins
Ceist:156 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the names of the independent chairpersons of the hotel, catering and bar joint labour committees for both the Dublin area and outside Dublin; the persons who appointed the chairpersons; when the terms of their appointments are due to expire; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4496/09]
There is no separate Joint Labour Committee (JLC) for Bars, but terms and conditions for the employment of bar staff are contained in the two Catering EROs and the Hotels (excl. Dublin and Dun Laoghaire) ERO. The JLC for the Hotels (Dublin and Dún Laoghaire) has not made proposals for an ERO to the Labour Court since its establishment.
The names of the independent Chairmen of the JLCs are as follows:
|
JLC |
Chairman |
|
Catering (Dublin and Dun Laoghaire) |
Tom Pomphrett |
|
Hotels (Dublin and Dun Laoghaire) |
Des Casey |
|
Catering (excl. Dublin and Dun Laoghaire) |
Colin Walker |
|
Hotels (excl. Dublin Cork and Dun Laoghaire) |
Colin Walker |
The Chairpersons of Joint Labour Committees are appointed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment under Section 44 of the Industrial Relations Act 1990.
The warrants of appointment of the JLC Chairmen do not set down an expiry date for the appointments. However, agreement in principle has been reached between the Social Partners on the amalgamation of the two existing Catering JLCs, which will provide for a uniform set of terms and conditions covering the entire country. The Labour Court and the social partners have been engaged for some time on work to give effect to this agreement.
Industrial Development.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:157 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs created in new and existing Industrial Development Authority Ireland sponsored companies in Limerick, Clare and north Tipperary in 2008; and the name and location of each company. [4518/09]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:158 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs lost in new and existing Industrial Development Authority Ireland sponsored companies in Limerick, Clare and north Tipperary in 2008; and the name and location of each company. [4519/09]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:159 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of itineraries the Industrial Development Authority Ireland brought to the Limerick, Clare and north Tipperary regions in 2007 and 2008; and the locations the IDA brought the delegations to. [4520/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 157 to 159, inclusive, together.
The Forfás Annual Employment Survey reports on job gains and losses in companies that are supported by the industrial development agencies. Data is compiled on an annualised basis and is aggregated at county level. It is therefore not possible to provide information for individual locations throughout the country. The information is provided by companies on a confidential basis for statistical purposes only. Information on individual companies is not disclosed for reasons of client confidentiality.
The survey shows that in 2008 the total number of new jobs created in IDA Ireland supported companies in Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary was 438 while the number of jobs lost was 754. A breakdown by county is set out in the attached tabular statement.
The marketing of individual areas, for new or expansion FDI investments and jobs is a day-to-day operational matter for IDA Ireland and not one in which I have a function.
I am informed by IDA Ireland that during 2007, the Agency hosted 34 itineraries by potential investors to Limerick and 5 to Clare. In 2008, there were 9 itineraries to Limerick and 2 to Clare. The Agency has informed me there have been no such site visits to North Tipperary during 2007 or 2008.
While IDA Ireland can and does encourage clients to visit particular locations, the final decision on where to visit or locate is taken in all cases by the clients.
Table showing the numbers of jobs created and lost in Limerick, Clare and North Tipperary in IDA supported companies in 2008.
|
County |
Limerick |
Clare |
North Tipperary |
Total |
|
New Jobs |
286 |
139 |
13 |
438 |
|
Job Losses |
694 |
14 |
46 |
754 |
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:160 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of overseas itineraries brought to the Shannon free zone by Shannon Development in 2006, 2007 and 2008. [4521/09]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:161 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs created in new and existing Shannon Development sponsored companies in the Shannon free zone in 2008; and the name of each company. [4522/09]
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:162 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of jobs lost in Shannon Development sponsored companies in the Shannon free zone in 2008; the name of each company; and the number of jobs lost in each. [4523/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 160 to 162, inclusive, together.
Shannon Development took 11 overseas itineraries in 2006, 14 in 2007 and 12 in 2008.
There were 576 jobs created in new and existing Shannon Development sponsored companies during 2008, and 468 jobs were lost in Shannon Development sponsored companies during 2008.
For reasons of client confidentiality it is not possible at this stage to name the individual companies involved in either job creation or losses.
Job Losses.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:163 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to the human tragedy that has visited the employees of a company (details supplied) in County Galway when the company announced its decision to cease trading in a few months time and that nearly 200 workers will lose their jobs, with many having no realistic hope of getting another job in the foreseeable future; if a high powered task force will be put in place to help attract new jobs into Loughrea in view of the fact that there is now a unique pool of well trained workers; if she, the Industrial Development Authority Ireland and Enterprise Ireland will prioritise Loughrea to ensure that foreign inward investment will be targeted towards this town; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4649/09]
My first concern is for the workers who have lost their jobs and in that regard the role of FÁS, the State training agency, is particularly important in assisting those who are being made redundant. FÁS will provide advice and training opportunities for those losing their jobs. The local FÁS Employment Services Manager has been in contact with executives in CIGNA in this regard.
IDA Ireland is working with the management in Cigna to prepare a prospectus of the facility and profile of the workforce, which can be used to market the facility internationally through the offices of IDA Ireland. Enterprise Ireland has a dedicated team for downsizing and closures that will work with the employees in Cigna in the coming months in order to explore potential spin out export orientated enterprises.
The Galway County and City Enterprise Board and Galway Rural Development will also provide supports to employees who wish to establish micro enterprises and move into self employment.
In recent years County Galway has had significant success in attracting investment from multinational firms. IDA continues to work with new and existing overseas companies in Galway to encourage them to grow and expand. In 2008 significant announcements included:
CSN Stores will establish its EMEA Headquarters in Galway, creating 200 positions over the next 36 months in Multilingual Customer Service, IT, Localisation, Finance, HR and Sales & Marketing functions.
Boston Scientific is to invest €50 million, with the support of IDA Ireland, in strategic Research and Development at its Galway facility.
Thermo King, with the support of IDA Ireland, is to undertake a innovative Research and Design project on the next generation ‘environmentally friendly' products at its Galway site.
Beckman Coulter Inc, with the support of IDA Ireland, is to launch an innovative four year collaborative research programme with NUI Galway in the field of Molecular Diagnostics.
A number of other companies in County Galway have announced investments in recent years including Nortel Networks, Smith and Nephew, Fidelity Investments, IBM and Cisco. All of these investments will provide a stream of job opportunities in the region.
The State development agencies under the remit of my Department have adopted a co-ordinated approach in response to recent job losses in County Galway. The practice of establishing task forces has changed since the establishment of the County Development Boards (CDB). Rather than creating a further layer by establishing task forces, the relevant CDB is now seen as the body that is best placed to oversee any additional response that is required over and above the work of the Industrial Development Agencies under the auspices of my Department.
I am confident that the strategies and policies being pursued by the State development agencies together with the ongoing commitment of Government to regional development will continue to bear fruit in terms of investment and employment for County Galway.
Question No. 164 answered with Question No. 153.
County Enterprise Boards.
Mary Upton
Ceist:165 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the funding provided to a county enterprise board (details supplied) in the years 2006, 2007 and 2008;the funding allocated in 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4718/09]
The role of Meath County Enterprise Board (CEB) is to provide support for micro-enterprises in the start-up and expansion phases, to promote and develop indigenous micro-enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity and entrepreneurship at local level. The CEB deliver a series of Programmes to underpin this role and can provide both financial and non-financial assistance to a project promoter.
The Board provides a single point of contact at local level for new and established small businesses. All areas of the country are served by and benefit from, the full range of Enterprise Board grant supports and entrepreneurial development programmes. Subject to certain eligibility criteria enterprises may access assistance and support from the CEB. The forms of financial assistance which are available, subject to certain restrictions, include Capital Grants, Employment Grants and Feasibility Study Grants. The provision of non-financial assistance can take the form of a wide range of business advice such as Programmes covering Business Management, Mentoring, E-commerce, Enterprise Education, and Women in Business networks.
In 2009 the CEB will continue to be actively involved in the area of economic development and will ensure that available funds are targeted to maximise entrepreneurial development. This will be done not just by direct grant aid to businesses and project promoters but also through the provision of a range of other important business supports such as mentoring, business training and business advice all of which help to stimulate indigenous enterprise creation.
The Capital Allocation for the 35 CEBs under the 2009 Estimates Process stands at €20.8m; allocation of the individual budgets to each of the 35 CEBs for 2009 is currently being progressed by the CEB Central Coordination Unit (CCU) within Enterprise Ireland. The precise statistical information sought by the Deputy for 2006, 2006 and 2008 is set out in the attached table.
|
Meath CEB |
Total Allocation |
|
€ |
|
|
Funding Allocation 2006 |
828,967.87 |
|
Funding Allocation 2007 |
872,999.42 |
|
Funding Allocation 2008 |
1,037,750.00 |
Industrial Development.
Mary Upton
Ceist:166 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of State-aided jobs created in a county (details supplied) since 1998 to date in 2009; the per annum breakdown by job description and location; the moneys invested in these developments; the detail of any of these State-aided jobs which have been lost since 1998; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4719/09]
Between 1998 and 2008, a total of 6,317 jobs were created by IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland assisted companies in County Meath. There were 5,225 manufacturing jobs. International Services and Financial Services accounted for 847 and the remaining 245 were in various other areas. In the same period, a total of 6,468 were lost. Employment data in respect of companies supported by these agencies is collated by Forfás on a County by County basis. A year by year breakdown between Manufacturing, International Services, Financial Services and other is set out in the attached tabular statement.
Grant payments are a day to day operational matter for the Industrial Development agencies. I do not have any role in the day to day operational matters of the agencies.
In relation to County Enterprise Boards, statistical information on job creation by CEBs is held by my Department on an individual Board basis rather than by job description or specific locations within the Board's locality. My Department does not collect information on the number of job losses in CEB assisted companies at County level. For the period 1998 to 2008, 830 net jobs were created in Meath CEB-assisted companies.
I am confident that the efforts of the two agencies and the CEB will continue to attract industrial development and jobs to the County.
|
1998 |
1999 |
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
Total 98 to 08 |
|
|
Full-time Job Gains |
||||||||||||
|
All Sectors |
509 |
461 |
747 |
497 |
296 |
537 |
458 |
718 |
1,030 |
781 |
283 |
6,317 |
|
Manufacturing |
422 |
344 |
568 |
464 |
203 |
467 |
333 |
585 |
919 |
727 |
193 |
5,225 |
|
International Services |
21 |
114 |
162 |
27 |
78 |
56 |
88 |
108 |
13 |
8 |
69 |
744 |
|
Financial Services |
1 |
3 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
-3 |
38 |
44 |
13 |
103 |
|
|
Other |
65 |
3 |
14 |
4 |
13 |
12 |
36 |
28 |
60 |
2 |
8 |
245 |
|
Full-time Job Losses |
||||||||||||
|
All sectors |
-321 |
-578 |
-400 |
-389 |
-668 |
-898 |
-373 |
-515 |
-640 |
-1,044 |
-642 |
-6,468 |
|
Manufacturing |
-267 |
-546 |
-370 |
-324 |
-548 |
-765 |
-353 |
-493 |
-587 |
-931 |
-588 |
-5772 |
|
International Services |
-2 |
-19 |
-13 |
-38 |
-107 |
-110 |
-19 |
-5 |
-43 |
-33 |
-51 |
-440 |
|
Financial Services |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
-4 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
-4 |
|
Other |
-52 |
-13 |
-17 |
-27 |
-13 |
-23 |
-1 |
-13 |
-10 |
-80 |
-3 |
-252 |
Community Employment Schemes.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:167 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of FÁS community employment scheme workers placed in community child care facilities in County Monaghan; if he will list these facilities; if it is intended that more CE places will be made available to community child care facilities in the coming months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4802/09]
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.
I am advised by FÁS that of the 340 people participating on 20 FÁS funded Community Employment Programmes in Co. Monaghan, 53 participants are currently engaged in community childcare. In addition, FÁS is in the process of filling 4 vacancies in the existing Co. Monaghan childcare projects.
A list of current childcare places in Co. Monaghan as requested by the Deputy is contained in a table.
|
Community Employment Childcare Activity |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Name |
Number |
|
|
1 |
Mullaghmatt CCDL CE Scheme |
05 |
|
2 |
Bawn Latton Development Group |
14 |
|
3 |
Clones Chamber of Commerce CE |
03 |
|
4 |
Muckno Community Services |
11 |
|
5 |
Parish of Donagh CE Scheme |
01 |
|
6 |
St Joseph’s Parish Monaghan CE |
03 |
|
7 |
Monaghan Group of Parishes CE |
03 |
|
8 |
Newbliss Development Group |
01 |
|
9 |
Ballybay Development Association |
03 |
|
10 |
Donaghmoyne Development Group |
04 |
|
11 |
Rockcorry CE Scheme |
02 |
|
12 |
Doohamlet GFC CE |
01 |
|
13 |
Cormagh Development Group |
02 |
|
Total |
53 |
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:168 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the private consultancy firms her Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to her Department for each project; and if she will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4814/09]
The following is the information requested by the Deputy insofar as Consultants retained by my Department in 2008 and during the month of January 2009 is concerned. The figures quoted refer to payments made to the Consultants concerned in 2008 and / or January 2009. 2008
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose |
Cost |
|
€ |
||
|
DHR Communications |
Dissemination of information on the ESF co-funded “EQUAL” Community Initiative (CI) |
9,547 |
|
Social and Market Research |
Conduct an “EQUAL” Survey |
23,850 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Ex-ante evaluation of the Human Capital Investment Operational Programme 2007-2013 |
7,025 |
|
Work Research Co-operative WRC |
Job Retention and return to work |
26,632 |
|
Keating Consulting Ltd |
NERA PR |
63,189 |
|
Ellard Browne Ltd |
NERA Advertising |
605 |
|
Cawley Nea Ltd |
NERA Advertising |
27,410 |
|
Tom Walsh |
To provide advice to the Department on the development of occupational health and safety policy and legislation |
63,422 |
|
Arup Consulting Engineers |
To support the Department in its review of Review of Dangerous Substances legislation |
35,930 |
|
Kilroy Solicitors |
Legal Advice |
16,263 |
|
Version 1 |
To prepare a report on the Insolvency Payments Section Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) |
13,177 |
|
RITS |
Security Advice |
38,535 |
|
IQ Content Ltd |
Review of Department’s Website |
20,604 |
|
Goodbody Economic Consultants |
Review of the Wage Subsidy Scheme |
23,595 |
|
IPA |
Quality Assessment of Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) Value for Money Review |
3,630 |
|
Carr Communications |
Communications Advice for the Companies Registration Office (CRO) |
25,593 |
|
Open Interface |
Website accessibility advice for the CRO |
3,993 |
|
Grant Thornton |
Procurement and business solution advice for the CRO |
71,874 |
|
Mathias Kelly QC |
Legal advice |
167,171 |
|
Experian Ireland |
Provision of statistical analysis of returns to the CRO |
182 |
|
PricewaterhouseCoopers |
Media Research for the Advisory Group on Media Mergers |
26,965 |
|
Emily Gibson BL |
Legal Services for the Advisory Group on Media Mergers |
5,596 |
|
Form Creative Ltd |
Advertising campaign for Work Life Balance Day 2008 |
4,994 |
|
Form Creative Ltd |
Advertising campaign for Work Life Balance Day 2008 |
120,000 |
|
Arthur Cox |
Prioritising Information Obligations in Company Law Legislation |
2,226 |
|
Scannell Solutions |
Prioritising Health and Safety Obligations — Additional Review |
605 |
|
IQ Content Ltd |
Review of Department’s Website |
20,630 |
|
Indecon Economic Consultants |
Value for Money Review of SFI |
74,163 |
|
Tom Walsh |
To provide technical & research support to the Department in relation to certain aspects of occupational health and safety and chemicals policy |
8,000 |
|
Arup Consulting Engineers |
To support the Department in its review of Review of Dangerous Substances legislation |
79,327 |
|
Cawley Nea |
Advertising consultants |
27,101 |
|
Keatings |
PR consultants |
22,458 |
|
Achilles Procurement Services Ltd |
Consultancy on the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA) case management system |
602 |
|
Gordon Green |
Consultancy on NERA enforcement database |
1,268 |
|
KPMG |
Assessment of a restructuring plan |
273,460 |
|
RITS |
Information Security Services |
17,669 |
|
Trigraph Professional Services |
Review of ICT Unit Project Management Procedures & Practices |
2,995 |
|
Mason, Hayes & Curran |
Procurement Legal Advice |
8,534 |
|
Computer Associates |
Review of ICT Backup Systems |
13,310 |
|
Dermot McCarthy SC |
Legal Advice |
9,100 |
|
Brian Murray |
Fees to Counsel |
1,331 |
|
Work Research Co-operative WRC |
Carry out work by providing Technical Support for the Department on the co-funded ESF EQUAL Community Initiative. |
100,672 |
|
Ernst & Young |
Audit of “DAWN” under the ESF co-funded EQUAL Community Initiative |
25,090 |
|
WRC |
Carry out work by providing Technical Support for the Department on the co-funded ESF EQUAL Community Initiative. |
38,514 |
|
Goodbody Economic Consultants |
Review of the Wage Subsidy Scheme |
23,595 |
|
Indecon Economic Consultants |
To carry out work relating to the Leonardo Da Vinci Programme |
2,000 |
|
PA Consulting |
Review and Assessment of the EFS co-funded EQUAL Community Initiative 2000-2006 |
14,898 |
|
Version 1 |
To prepare a report on the Insolvency Payments Section Business Process Re-engineering (BPR) |
23,958 |
|
Gartner Ireland |
Access to international ICT analysts and research |
41,352 |
|
RITS |
Ongoing security advice and specific investigations and reports, including Technical Reports on laptop encryption, the Department’s financials application, scans of on-line systems and forensics analysis of the ESF website. |
179,009 |
|
Trigraph Professional Services |
Review of ICT Unit Project Management Procedures & Practices, and Project Management Consultancy |
20,364 |
|
Mason, Hayes & Curran |
Procurement Legal Advice |
8,534 |
|
Computer Associates |
Review of ICT Backup Systems |
13,310 |
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose |
Cost |
|
€ |
||
|
Corporate Risk Strategies Ltd |
Provision of Health and Safety Consultancy on staff occupational Health and Safety in the Department’s seven buildings |
4,840 |
|
EPS Consulting |
To carry out work on measurement of administrative burdens contained in company law, employment law and health and safety law |
17,133 |
|
IPA |
To examine feedback from staff with a view to formulating an action plan to improve their working environment and thus help them to contribute more effectively to achieving the Departments business objectives. |
18,000 |
|
Millward Brown/IMS |
Market Research for ODCE |
15,898 |
|
Brian Murray |
Fees to Counsel |
393 |
|
Douglas Clarke |
Fees to Counsel |
41,029 |
|
Remy Farrell |
Fees to Counsel |
7,719 |
|
CIRCA |
Review of Irish Membership of EMBL required following 3 years of membership. |
25,697 |
|
CIRCA Consultants, SIA Group and International Panel of Experts |
Evaluation of Discover Science and Engineering Programme |
105,082 |
|
Tom Walsh |
To provide technical & research support to the Department in relation to certain aspects of occupational health and safety and chemicals policy |
28,115 |
|
Brendan Moran |
Development of T & S Database & Accounting Database |
5,832 |
|
Contractauditline (CAL) |
Productive Sector Operational Programme Managing Authority Lookback Audit |
19,820 (excluding VAT) |
|
Productive Sector Operational Programme Managing Authority Lookback Audit |
16,480 (excluding VAT) |
|
|
PA Consulting |
Review and Assessment of the EFS co-funded EQUAL Community Initiative 2000-2006 |
30,713 |
|
Work Research Co-operative WRC |
Job Retention and return to work |
26,632 |
|
Mazars |
Engagement of a Consultant to carry out Internal Audits |
4,193 |
|
IQ Content Ltd |
Review of Department’s Website |
20,631 |
|
Ernst & Young |
Verification of ESF Expenditure |
No payments to date |
|
Trigraph Professional Services |
Project Management Consultancy |
23,958 |
|
Gartner Ireland |
Access to international ICT analysts and research |
41,352 |
|
Form Creative Ltd |
Design of print material for Work Life Balance Day 2009 |
10,336 |
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:169 Deputy Damien English asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost of bonus payments made to staff in her Department for 2008; the amount set aside in her Department for bonus payments in 2009; if she will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4829/09]
The scheme of performance-related awards in the civil service applies to Deputy and Assistant Secretaries and equivalent grades. No awards have been made to officers of my Department under the scheme in respect of 2008. The pool for performance awards is 10% of the pay bill for the group concerned.
The Deputy will be aware that my colleague the Minister for Finance recently announced the abolition of the performance-related award scheme. I am currently awaiting clarification from the Minister on the matter.
Job Creation.
Áine Brady
Ceist:170 Deputy Áine Brady asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will support the establishment of a FÁS office in Celbridge, Maynooth, Naas or Leixlip to serve the needs of County Kildare in view of the increase in both population and unemployment in these areas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4843/09]
FÁS through its Employment Services Offices in Newbridge and Maynooth, and its satellite Employment Services clinic in Athy, provides a comprehensive range of labour market services and information for all jobseekers and employers within Kildare.
The Kildare Local Employment Services Network (LESN) supports FÁS in the delivery of its services in Co. Kildare through its five regional public offices in Leixlip, Naas, Kildare, Newbridge and Athy. This is a service fully funded by FÁS, which provides a local gateway, or access point, to the full range of services and facilities to help those who have become distanced from the labour market to enter or return to employment.
In addition, FÁS, in conjunction with local communities, provide additional access points to FÁS Services through the FÁS-funded centres for unemployed persons in Leixlip and Newbridge as well as the FÁS Jobs Club centres in Kildare Town and Athy.
Work Permits.
Michael Ring
Ceist:171 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the decision on a work permit application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo and when the application was made. [4891/09]
An application in respect of the above named was received in the Employment Permits Section on the 7/1/2009. This application was refused on the grounds it is current Government policy to issue new work permits for highly skilled, highly paid positions or for non-EEA nationals who are already legally resident in the State on valid employment permits or where there is an officially recognised scarcity of workers of a particular type or qualification. Furthermore, newspaper advertisements for 3 days in both local and national newspapers were not submitted in support of the application. Also, the information supplied with the application appeared to indicate that the prospective employee's qualifications/experience did not correspond to the position on offer.
The applicant was notified of this decision in writing by letter dated 29/1/2009 and of their right to appeal within 21 days. To-date no such appeal has been received in the Employment Permits Section.
Noel O'Flynn
Ceist:172 Deputy Noel O’Flynn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of work permits sought and granted or refused in 2008 by non-EU nationals, or prospective employers; the type of job vacancies for which they applied; the number of work permits that are in current use in the State for all categories of work and would she list the categories and the number of permits in each category; the current policy on issuing work permits to non nationals in view of the high unemployment rate among Irish and EU nationals living in this State; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4895/09]
Since 2004, Irish labour market policy has been to ensure that general labour and skills needs are met from within the workforce of the European Union. For strategic skills/labour shortages in designated occupations in key economic sectors such as healthcare, information technology and financial services, Government policy is to issue employment permits for the employment of non-EEA nationals for specific vacancies and in response to employer demand. The various schemes that give effect to such policies were introduced under the Employment Permits Act, 2006.
Given that our current employment permit arrangements were designed to be vacancy-driven, the numbers of permit applications and consequent numbers of permits issued over the last six months have been showing a consistent downward trend.
I am currently having our employment permit arrangements reviewed to ensure their ongoing relevance to the needs of the Irish labour market.
The numbers of work permits sought and granted or refused in 2008, and the total numbers of work permits that are in current use in the State, for all categories of employment, are set out in a number of tables.
|
New |
Renewals |
Total |
Refused |
|
|
Associate Professional & Technical Occupations |
1,774 |
385 |
2,159 |
260 |
|
Clerical & Secretarial Occupations |
142 |
102 |
244 |
33 |
|
Craft & Related Occupations |
606 |
482 |
1,088 |
203 |
|
Managers & Administrators |
526 |
224 |
750 |
171 |
|
Other Occupations |
1,174 |
1,224 |
2,398 |
399 |
|
Personal & Protective Service Occupations |
1,664 |
1,823 |
3,487 |
736 |
|
Plant & Machine Operatives |
114 |
144 |
258 |
47 |
|
Professional Occupations |
2,276 |
475 |
2,751 |
352 |
|
Sales Occupations |
200 |
151 |
351 |
34 |
|
Not specified |
0 |
75 |
75 |
1 |
|
Totals |
8,476 |
5,085 |
13,561 |
2,236 |
|
Sector |
New |
Renewals |
Total |
|
Service Industry |
5,587 |
6,394 |
11,981 |
|
Catering |
1,542 |
4,486 |
6,028 |
|
Medical & Nursing |
3,490 |
1,995 |
5,485 |
|
Industry |
1,256 |
1,159 |
2,415 |
|
Agriculture & Fisheries |
454 |
1,413 |
1,867 |
|
Education |
317 |
366 |
683 |
|
Domestic |
159 |
496 |
655 |
|
Sport |
139 |
58 |
197 |
|
Entertainment |
27 |
50 |
77 |
|
Exchange Agreements |
4 |
2 |
6 |
|
Totals |
12,975 |
16,419 |
29,394 |
Appointments to State Boards.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:173 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance his views on whether it is appropriate that persons serving on the board of Anglo Irish Bank prior to its nationalisation should continue to serve as board members of other State authorities to which they were appointed by the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4234/09]
Appointments to the board of a State Body are generally made by the Minister with responsibility for the Body in question, usually subject to the consent of the Minister for Finance. Renewals of appointments are handled on a similar basis. The arrangements for such appointments are normally set out in the legislation establishing the State Body.
The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies stipulates that all State Bodies should have written Codes of Business Conduct for their directors and employees and provides (at Appendix B of the Code) that the principle of integrity should underlie the actions of a State Body's directors and employees.
National Parks.
Mary Upton
Ceist:174 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance his views on a proposal (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4260/09]
The Iveagh Gardens were laid out as exhibition gardens during the 19th Century, with many unusual and unique garden features such as the Maze, Rosarium, Cascade, the Grottos and the Sunken Archery Grounds. On account of its designation as a National Historic Garden, its size and the fact that it is designed primarily for passive recreation, it is not appropriate that the Gardens should be designated as a National Music Park. However, as in the past, the Gardens will continue to host suitable music events from time to time.
Tax Code.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:175 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance his views on changing the criteria to allow bus owners for eight to 11 seat buses avail of the VRT category C rate if they can prove that they are providing a service in their communities, instead of the category A rate they are currently pay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4406/09]
The Deputy will be aware that a revised VRT system for Category A vehicles was announced in Budget 2008 and came into effect on 1 July 2008.
I have no plans to change the criteria in relation to the VRT categories at this time.
Planning Issues.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:176 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the nature of the planning permission for the national conference centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4420/09]
The National Conference Centre (NCC) was procured by means of a Public Private Partnership (PPP). The PPP Consortium, to whom the contract for the NCC was awarded, obtained Planning Permissions for the development from the Dublin Docklands Development Authority.
Drug Seizures.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:177 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Finance the quantity and value of drugs including a breakdown of each drug type seized by customs officials at Shannon airport in 2007 and 2008. [4517/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the breakdown of drug seizures by Revenue Customs officers at Shannon Airport in 2007 and 2008 requested by the Deputy is:
In 2007 there were 45 seizures.
|
Drug |
Amount |
Street Value |
|
€ |
||
|
Heroin |
15 grams |
3,050 |
|
Ecstasy Tablets |
199 tablets |
1,990 |
|
Amphetamine |
3 grams |
45 |
|
LSD |
5 tablets |
50 |
|
Cannabis |
168 grams |
745 |
|
Khat |
50 kilos |
100,000 |
In 2008 there were 26 seizures.
|
Drug |
Amount |
Street Value |
|
€ |
||
|
Amphetamine |
3 grams |
45 |
|
Cannabis resin |
1,053 grams |
7,371 |
|
Herbal cannabis |
12,025 grams |
144,300 |
|
Cocaine |
3,131grams |
219,170 |
|
MDMA |
0.8 grams |
80 |
Communications Masts.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:178 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance the amount of rent which has been accrued from renting masts to mobile phone operators; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4642/09]
The Commissioners of Public Works have granted licences to Mobile Phone Operators in respect of more than 200 State Properties of which approximately 180 are Garda masts. The gross revenue from these licences is currently in the region of €4.3 million per annum, of which €3.7 million is generated by the Garda masts.
Departmental Agencies.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:179 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance the number of quasi-government quangos that are in existence; and the annual cost of these quasi-Government quangos. [4181/09]
It is not clear which bodies the Deputy has precisely in mind. If it is non-commercial semi-state bodies there are 117 of these with spending of Euro 6 billion, almost Euro 4 billion of which is accounted for by the Higher Education Authority, the National Roads Authority, and FÁS.
There are also many other bodies that he may be referring to such as hospitals (there are 53 in the HSE's Hospital Network), commercial state bodies (35), universities and other third level institutions (31), to health related bodies (12), just over 300 local and regional bodies and various ad-hoc and advisory bodies. The estimate of the number of such bodies depends on the definitions used and the criteria applied.
Freedom of Information.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:180 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if it is his policy to refuse Freedom of Information requests; if Government Departments have been instructed accordingly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4193/09]
The broad purpose of the Freedom of Information Act (FOI) 1997 as amended in 2003, is to enable citizens to obtain access to official information to the greatest extent possible consistent with the public interest and the right to privacy.
As Minister for Finance I am responsible under section 15(5) of the Freedom of Information Act for ensuring that appropriate measures are taken by public bodies to facilitate compliance with the Act. I am also required under section 15(6) of the Act to prepare an annual report on the operation of the Act.
I am satisfied that Freedom of Information is well embedded in our public administration and that it is operated in accordance with the strict provisions of the FOI Act.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:181 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance the number and percentage of Freedom of Information requests which have been turned down by his Department but subsequently overturned by the Information Commissioner’s Office. [4194/09]
My Department received 180 requests in 2008. Of these, 123 were "part-granted" and 10 were refused. Five of those 133 requests (74% of total received) were appealed to the Information Commissioner. In one case a settlement was reached. My Department's position on two other appeals was upheld and there are two cases pending.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:182 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if disciplinary action has been taken by any Government Department against staff who have wrongfully refused a Freedom of Information request. [4195/09]
A decision to refuse a Freedom of Information (FOI) request can only be made on the basis that the information is exempt or the refusal of the information is allowed under the provisions of the Freedom of Information Act 1997, as amended in 2003. In view of this, it is not accurate to suggest that a decision maker can wrongfully refuse a request as any such refusal must be based in law.
If information is refused the requester can have the decision referred for internal review, and, if the information is still refused, the requester can appeal the decision to the Information Commissioner.
Banking Sector Regulation.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:183 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if PricewaterhouseCoopers was aware of loans to bank directors when it undertook its review of the banks in 2008 on behalf of the Government; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4198/09]
As the Deputy is aware PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) were commissioned by the Financial Regulator to review the loan books and the capital position of six of the covered institutions as at 30th September 2008. The terms of reference did not specifically cover loans to directors.
PwC's work concentrated on a review of the top exposures which did not specifically include any loans to directors. As you are aware matters relating to loans to former directors are under investigation by the Financial Regulator and the Office of the Director of Corporate Affairs.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:184 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if Anglo Irish Bank is giving more favourable terms to clients such as a person (details supplied) than it gives to ordinary customers. [4199/09]
Anglo Irish Bank is being run on an arms length commercial basis. The terms applied to customers relate to the bank's normal ongoing business, and is accordingly a matter for the Board of Anglo. As with all financial institutions, Anglo Irish Bank is subject to regulation and supervision of its commercial activity by the Financial Regulator.
The Deputy will be aware that the Financial Regulator and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement are currently conducting investigations into corporate governance issues at Anglo Irish Bank, including the terms of individual loans to individual Directors. It would not be appropriate for me to comment on or prejudge the outcome of these investigations.
Financial Institutions Support Scheme.
Martin Ferris
Ceist:185 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that all banks seeking State assistance, including Anglo Irish Bank, are required by him to treat all of their customers equally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4200/09]
All entities regulated by the Financial Regulator including those credit institutions (Banks, and Building Societies) who are being supported under the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008 (Scheme), are required to comply with the terms and provisions of the Consumer Protection Code (Code).
Under the provisions of the Code a regulated entity must ensure that in all its dealings with customers and within the context of its authorisation it, without prejudice to the pursuit of its legitimate commercial aims, does not, through its policies, procedures, or working practices, prevent access to basic financial services, and complies with the letter and spirit of the Code.
In addition a regulated entity must take into consideration the provisions of the relevant anti-money laundering guidance notes and the approval of the Money Laundering Steering committee, and in particular any guidance in such notes on how to establish identity, in order to ensure that a person is not denied access to financial services solely on the grounds that this person does not possess certain specified identification documentation.
I am in regular contact with the Financial Regulator on all matters relating to banking including access to credit and I am assured that all of the covered institutions are monitored for compliance with the Code. You will also be aware that I am in the process of approving codes of conduct for business lending and for mortgage arrears which will issue shortly to all of the credit institutions under the remit of the Financial Regulator including the covered institutions. Both of these Codes contain provisions which should ensure improvements in the way banks treat customers.
Flood Relief.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:186 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Finance if the flood relief scheme for Clonmel, County Tipperary, will be expedited to prevent the flooding problems that have been experienced there in January 2009 with frequent flooding, damage and disturbance caused; if this situation will be alleviated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4227/09]
The Commissioners of Public Works decided last year, in the light of the increased budgetary provision for Flood Risk Management Measures to amalgamate phases 2 and 3 of the River Suir [Clonmel] Flood Relief Scheme in order to expedite the completion of the overall scheme. Phase 1 of the scheme is already well advanced.
The Steering Committee, which is overseeing the implementation of the scheme agreed at its meeting in January to examine the feasibility of bringing forward the construction of the Quay wall element of the scheme. That and the feasibility of expediting the design of the entire scheme are being examined.
I visited Clonmel on Saturday and saw for myself the devastation caused by the flooding in the town. I fully understand the anxiety of people who are at risk from what has become very frequent flooding and sympathise with those who have suffered loss or damage or been subjected to the trauma that flooding causes. I am committed to ensuring the Flood Relief Scheme is completed as quickly as possible.
Financial Institutions Support Scheme.
Joan Burton
Ceist:187 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if, following the bank guarantee scheme, the recapitalisation scheme and the nationalisation of Anglo Irish Bank, he has had discussions with each of the covered institutions in respect of salaries, bonuses other emoluments, pension contributions and entitlements of directors and staff in each of the covered institutions; and if he will make a statement on the outcome of these discussions and the changes he has agreed in respect of the pay bonuses pensions and compensation package for directors and staff of each institution. [4237/09]
As I have mentioned in previous answers to parliamentary questions, under the terms of the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008, I established the Covered Institutions Remuneration Oversight Committee (CIROC) to oversee the remuneration of senior executives of the covered institutions. The Scheme requires each covered institution to prepare and submit a plan to structure the remuneration packages of directors and executives so as to take account of the objectives of the Scheme.
The relevant plans have been prepared and submitted by the covered institutions, and in line with the timeframes set out in the Scheme, CIROC will report to me on or before 5th March 2009, making a recommendation where appropriate, on the compliance by the institution with the terms of the Scheme. The Scheme provides that if required, I may direct the institution to amend the remuneration plan to comply with the Scheme.
The Deputy will be aware that the Taoiseach announced to the House on the 4th of February that in the context of recapitalisation of the banks, that he would expect director's fees to be cut by 25% and when they appoint their top executives there would be an upper limit on remuneration and that he would expect that to be at least 25% below current levels.
Departmental Agencies.
Joan Burton
Ceist:188 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the remuneration on a per annum basis of the acting Financial Regulator including annual salary bonus and other emoluments on compensation including pension entitlement on retirement; if the pension entitlement is based on career averaging or on end salary; the set annual salary of the Financial Regulator; and the pension entitlement as a percentage of salary and the retirement lump sum. [4238/09]
The Acting Chief Executive's annual salary amounts to €285,341. This is the same salary as applied to the previous Chief Executive and also covers the Acting Chief Executive's continuing role as Consumer Director. The contract does not provide for performance related payments.
The Regulatory Authority has informed me that pension benefits to the Acting Chief Executive are payable in accordance with the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Superannuation Scheme. Benefits are based on final salary. However, if any officer has had a change in grade or has received a personal change in salary — other than a general or grade increase or normal increments — within 3 years of the retirement date, his/her salary is averaged in calculating pensionable salary. Lump sum superannuation benefits are calculated by reference to pensionable remuneration and reckonable service. The maximum lump sum payable is 1½ times final pensionable salary. Pension entitlements are also calculated by reference to pensionable remuneration up to a maximum of 50% of salary.
Joan Burton
Ceist:189 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the compensation package on retirement of the Financial Regulator of the Irish Financial Services Regulatory Authority, who resigned on 31 January 2009 per media reports; the details of the package that is lump sum, termination payments, and the length of time pension and other compensation; the salary bonus and other compensation of the Regulator prior to retirement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4239/09]
The Chief Executive of the Regulatory Authority is appointed by the other members of that Authority and the conditions of employment are agreed between the person and the other members of the Authority. I am informed that the Chief Executive's contract did not provide for performance related payments.
The Regulatory Authority has informed me that pension benefits to the former Chief Executive are payable in accordance with the Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland Superannuation Scheme. This Scheme has terms and conditions which allow, in certain circumstances, for the payment of full pension benefits in cases where less than 40 years service is accrued.
I am informed that the former Chief Executive had two years remaining on his contract. I am also informed that, having regard to independent legal advice and his exclusive availability to the Authority for a period of three months, the Authority agreed to the payment of an additional €151,500, equivalent to six months remuneration, plus an additional two months salary, to the former Chief Executive.
Pension Provisions.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:190 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the estimated expenditure on public service pensions for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4252/09]
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:228 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if the pension levy will be in addition to existing pension contributions from public servants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4487/09]
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:229 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the means by which the pension levy will be collected; if it will apply to basic income, or total income earned in the public service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4488/09]
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:230 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the expected income to the Exchequer from the 3% pension levy rate, the 5% rate, the 6.4% rate, the 7.2% rate, the 7.7% rate, the 8.1% rate, the 8.5% rate, the 8.8% rate, the 9.2% rate, the 9.4% rate and the 9.6% rate. [4489/09]
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:231 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the number of public servants who will be levied at the proposed 3% pension levy rate, the 5% rate, the 6.4% rate, the 7.2% rate, the 7.7% rate, the 8.1% rate, the 8.5% rate, the 8.8% rate, the 9.2% rate, the 9.4% rate, and the 9.6% rate. [4490/09]
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:232 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if public servants with less than two years’ service within the public service will be subject to the pension levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4491/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 190 and 228 to 232, inclusive, together.
The projected expenditure on public service pensions for 2009 is estimated at €2.7 billion. This figure covers superannuation payments in respect of all public service pension schemes and covers main scheme pensions, spouses pensions and retirement lump sums. As with all estimates of future pension payments there is a significant element of approximation about the figure. Various demographic and socioeconomic factors will affect the final outcome.
Public servants will be subject to the pension related deduction announced on Tuesday 3 February 2009, including those with less than two years service. It is an additional deduction and existing pension contributions made by public servants will continue unchanged. The deduction will apply to all pay including allowances and overtime. Sums paid in respect of travel and subsistence allowances will not be subject to the deduction. The deduction will be made from the individual public servant's remuneration as a periodic payroll deduction.
The pension deduction element of the payroll saving will be €1.35 billion in a full-year and €1.12 billion in 2009. Public servants will be subject to the deduction at the following rates.
|
Remuneration |
Rate of deduction |
|
The first €15,000 |
3% |
|
The next €5,000 |
6% |
|
The remainder |
10% |
The rates the Deputy refers to were part of the illustrative table showing the effect of the deduction as a percentage of overall income at different income levels. These rates are not to be confused with the actual rates of deduction which will apply as stated.
James Reilly
Ceist:191 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that a sum in excess of €100 million, which it was promised, as part of the deal in the sale of Government shares in Aer Lingus, would be put into the Aer Lingus pensioners’ fund, has in fact been passed into the Aer Lingus pensioners’ scheme as undertaken at the time of the sale of these shares; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4275/09]
I understand that in 2007 Aer Lingus made a payment of €104 million for pension fund purposes from the proceeds of the Initial Public Offering. Details of this transaction are reported in the company's published annual accounts for 2007.
Banking Sector Regulation.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:192 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he or the regulator was aware of the degree of concentration of Anglo Irish Bank’s loan book when he announced the decision to nationalise the bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4294/09]
As the Deputy is aware PriceWaterhouseCoopers (PwC) were commissioned by the Financial Regulator to review the loan books and the capital position of six of the covered institutions as at 30th September 2008. The summary PwC report which I received from the Governor of the Central Bank in November 2008 provided a detailed sectoral and geographic breakdown of the loanbooks in each of the institutions.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:193 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he or the Financial Regulator had been informed of recent changes to the terms of the security of loans issued by Anglo Irish Bank prior to his announcement of the decision to nationalise the bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4295/09]
The Financial Regulator and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement are currently conducting investigations into certain issues at Anglo Irish Bank. These investigations were ongoing prior to the decision to nationalise Anglo Irish Bank, and I was appraised of this.
A due diligence inquiry was conducted on my behalf, in December and early January, as part of the then proposed recapitalisation of Anglo. This due diligence process, on which I was kept informed, also identified various issues which are now under investigation by the Financial Regulator and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement.
It would not be appropriate for me to comment on or prejudge the outcome of these investigations.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:194 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he or the Financial Regulator had investigated the circumstances surrounding loans issued by Anglo Irish Bank in the summer of 2008 for the purchase of shares in Anglo Irish Bank prior to his announcement of the decision to nationalise the bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4296/09]
The Financial Regulator and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement are currently conducting investigations into corporate governance issues at Anglo Irish Bank. These investigations were ongoing prior to the decision to nationalise Anglo Irish Bank, and I was appraised of this.
A due diligence inquiry was conducted on my behalf, in December and early January, as part of the then proposed recapitalisation of Anglo. This due diligence process also identified the issues mentioned by the Deputy which are now under investigation by the Financial Regulator and the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement.
It would not be appropriate for me to comment on or prejudge the outcome of these investigations.
Fiscal Policy.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:195 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the recent Budgetary Projections 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department, the GDP, GNP and tax forecasts published in the addendum are projected on a budget neutral basis before the impact of fiscal consolidation measures. [4297/09]
In preparing the GDP, GNP and tax forecasts recently published in the Addendum to the Stability Programme Update, account was taken of the macroeconomic and fiscal impact of a reduction in Government expenditure of up to €2 billion. While the specific details of what the Government announced last week were not known when the Department published the Addendum, the broad order of magnitude of the necessary expenditure reductions were taken account of in arriving at the overall forecasts of GDP growth of -4½ per cent and a contraction of tax revenue of about -9¼ per cent for 2009.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:196 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the way, with regard to table six in the recent Budgetary Projections 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department, he has allocated the fiscal consolidation objective between different components of revenue and expenditure. [4298/09]
Table 5 of the Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme Update sets out the likely evolution of the public finances and the necessary amount of adjustment required the current budget to balance by 2013.
Table 6 sets out the budgetary prospects for the General Government for 2008-2013 by detailing first, the breakdown of the GGB by sub-sector of government, and then the breakdown of estimated levels of revenue and expenditures into its component parts. All data in the table is expressed as a percentage of the GDP of the particular year in question.
While the projections in Table 6 of the SPU are a technical representation of what is required to achieve the overall fiscal adjustments over the period out to 2013, and are ultimately subject top future policy decisions by Government. The detailed breakdown between the revenue and expenditure decisions that will be required will be set out in future Budgets.
Last week the Government took decisions on saving €2 billion and the focus was on expenditure. In the Addendum, the need for further adjustments in each of the years out to 2013 was set out. In this regard the work of the Special Group on Public Services Numbers and Expenditure Programmes and the work of the Commission on Taxation will be important factors in forming next year's budgetary parameters which will inform future adjustments. While no decisions have been taken yet, all aspects of expenditure, both current and capital, as well as taxation will play a part in securing the necessary adjustments.
In presenting the Addendum to the European Commission, it was necessary to distribute the adjustments in order to ensure the technical completion of the required tables. This distribution was broadly undertaken on a two-thirds to one-third basis of expenditure to revenue but in no way pre-empts future decisions of Government which could result in a different apportionment in the light of emerging budgetary conditions in the period 2010 to 2013.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:197 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the latest Budgetary Provisions 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department, the projections include expenditures for bank recapitalisation and receipts under the charge of the bank guarantee for the covered institutions. [4299/09]
In relation to the issue of recapitalisation of banking institutions, the Government has made clear that any injection of capital into the banks will be made with the expectation of a return on the investment. In this case, in line with EUROSTAT guidelines, the transaction is treated as a financial transaction, and consequently, will have no impact on the General Government Balance. It was not necessary, therefore, to include the expenditures on recapitalisation in the latest fiscal projections.
The recently published Addendum to the Stability Programme Update outlines the latest economic and fiscal forecasts for the period 2009-2013. The projections outlined in the Addendum do not take account of the receipts under the charge of the bank guarantee for the covered institutions. The charge is being credited to a dedicated account maintained at the Central Bank. It is anticipated that at the expiry of the Guarantee Scheme, any amount standing to the account will be transferred to the Exchequer as revenue. At that stage the amount transferred will then be reflected in the General Government Balance.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:198 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the breakdown of the projected capital resources and capital appropriations-in-aid with regard to the latest Budgetary Provisions 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department. [4300/09]
The breakdown of estimated capital Appropriations-in-Aid for 2009 is shown by Department in the following table and was published in Budget 2009. We provide an aggregate estimate for 2010 and 2011 as determination of capital A in A's by Department will be part of future annual Estimates processes. The aggregate figure for 2010 amounts to €481m and €479m for 2011. The aggregate 2012 and 2013 estimates published in the Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme in January 2009 were assumed to equate to the 2011 aggregate level.
|
2009 |
|
|
V25 — Environment |
500 |
|
V26 — Education |
9,000 |
|
V27 — CRAGA |
18,500 |
|
V30 — Communications, ENR |
250 |
|
V31 — Agriculture |
1 |
|
V32 — Transport |
429,375 |
|
V34 — Enterprise |
80 |
|
V36 — Defence |
1,000 |
|
V40 — HSE |
7,000 |
|
Contingency Vote — APPROPRIATIONS IN AID |
0 |
|
Vote AIA Total |
465,706 |
Capital resources are made up of EU receipts, FEOGA loan repayments, the sinking fund provision and certain other miscellaneous receipts. In 2008 €1,398 million was received in capital resources of which, €113.5 million was received in ERDF receipts, €740 million in FEOGA repayments and €488 million for the sinking fund provision.
The forecast for capital resources is €1,579 million in 2009; €1,735 million in 2010; €1,868 million in 2011; €1,961 million in 2012 and €2,046 million in 2013.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:199 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the latest Budgetary Provisions 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department, he will provide an updated reconciliation between the general Government balance and the Exchequer balance for 2009 to 2013. [4301/09]
The Exchequer Balance is the traditional domestic budgetary aggregate which measures Central Government's net surplus or borrowing position. It is the difference between total receipts into and total expenditure out of the Exchequer Account of the Central Fund.
The projected Exchequer Balance for the year 2009 to 2013 is as follows.
|
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
-17,980 |
-16,860 |
-13,769 |
-11,583 |
-8,081 |
The General Government Balance (GGB) measures the fiscal performance of all arms of Government, i.e. Central Government, Local Authorities, Health Boards, Vocational Education Committees and non-commercial State sponsored bodies, as well as funds such as the Social Insurance Fund and the National Pensions Reserve Fund. It thus provides an accurate assessment of the fiscal performance of a more complete government sector.
The main differences between the Exchequer Balance and the General Government Balance are the impact of various funds, including Extra Budgetary Funds, non-commercial State sponsored bodies, the Social Insurance Fund and the net borrowing of the Local Government Sector, as well as the impact of the National Pension Reserve Fund, and accrual adjustments. The estimated impact of these for the years 2009 to 2013 are as follows.
|
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
|
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
Funds |
-1365 |
-1727 |
-932 |
-750 |
-559 |
|
Impact of the National Pension Reserve Fund |
2,189 |
2,165 |
2,290 |
2,457 |
2,592 |
|
Accrual Adjustments |
-9 |
151 |
319 |
433 |
510 |
|
General Government Balance |
-17,165 |
-16,271 |
-12,092 |
-9,443 |
-5,537 |
Richard Bruton
Ceist:200 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he will outline the assumptions he has made regarding public sector pay growth and the non-pay deflator for Government consumption in forecasting gross voted current spending with regard to the latest Budgetary Provisions 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department. [4302/09]
The assumptions underlying the addendum to the Irish Stability Programme Update 2009 in relation to public sector pay allow for the cost associated with the Review and Transitional pay agreement, agreed in September 2008, over all years of the forecast horizon. Last week the Government decided to defer this pay agreement until 2011, when further discussions will take place. As this decision post dates the publication of the addendum to the Irish Stability Programme this deferment will lead to a saving in 2010. Allowance was also made for changes in the demographic structure which would impact on employee numbers, notably in the case of education, which will impact on the pay bill.
Budget 2009 did not allow for any explicit non-pay deflator in the years 2009 to 2011. In January, however, the non-pay estimates were amended to allow for the costs associated with the higher Live Register and the Pig meat crisis and other pressures. A non-pay deflator (in line with the inflation forecast) was allowed for price increases in 2012 and 2013.
Capital resources are made up of EU receipts, FEOGA loan repayments, the sinking fund provision and certain other miscellaneous receipts. In 2008 €1,398 million was received in capital resources of which, €113.5 million was received in ERDF receipts, €740 million in FEOGA repayments and €488 million for the sinking fund provision.
The forecast for capital resources is €1,579 million in 2009; €1,735 million in 2010; €1,868 million in 2011; €1,961 million in 2012 and €2,046 million in 2013.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:201 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the latest Budgetary Provisions 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department, the forecast for debt service costs in non-voted current spending take account of the fiscal consolidation objective. [4303/09]
Richard Bruton
Ceist:255 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the estimated reduction in general Government borrowing in 2009 as a result of the expenditure control measures announced on 3 February 2009, taking into account the impact of these measures on tax receipts. [4778/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 201 and 255 together.
The Addendum to the Stability Programme Update forecast an Exchequer Borrowing Requirement of €17,980 million for 2009. This took into account the requirement for a €2 billion adjustment. The forecast for debt service costs in 2009, estimated at €4,500 million, takes into account the fiscal consolidation objective.
The expenditure adjustments announced on 3rd February last will yield €1.8 billion in 2009 and €2.1 billion in a full year. This is broadly in line with the indicative annual adjustment as set out in Table 4 of the Addendum to the Stability Programme Update. As such it is consistent with the overall macro-economic and fiscal forecasts published in early January. Accordingly, a General Government deficit in the order of 9½% of GDP is forecast in 2009.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:202 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the latest Budgetary Provisions 2008 to 2013 (Addendum to the Irish Stability Programme January 2009) published by his Department, he will clarify the competitiveness assumptions underpinning his updated economic forecasts. [4304/09]
The exchange rate and price developments are the main variables used to assess competitiveness. With regard to exchange rates, the norm is for my Department to use the Commission's assumptions. These hold constant the averages from a 10 day reference period. However, for the economic projections produced in the Addendum, updated assumptions were not available from the Commission. As such, and in line with international practice, the exchange rate was held constant at average levels for December 2008. This implies a 14% appreciation of the euro against sterling for this year as a whole and a 9% depreciation against the dollar. The assumed price changes were broadly in line with those of our major trading partners.
Heritage Sites.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:203 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the Revenue generated in 2008 by tourism receipts from visitor attractions and heritage sites operated by the Office of Public Works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4325/09]
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:204 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance if the Office of Public Works receives a specific budget for the operation and maintenance of visitor attractions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4326/09]
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:205 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the amount of the Office of Public Works budget in 2008, expended on salaries, administration and maintenance of visitor attractions and heritage sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4327/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 203 to 205, inclusive, together.
The Heritage Service of the Office of Public Works are responsible for the conservation, maintenance and preservation of about 750 National Monuments in State care and the management and maintenance of more than 20 Historic Properties. Over 60 of these sites are presented to the public with a dedicated guide service. The OPW has a series of price bands for the different sites, which reflect the relative popularity of individual sites. Some sites are presented to the public free of charge.
In 2008 revenue generated amounted to €7.1 million and it is estimated the salaries attributed to these sites totalled €9.5 million. Works at these Heritage sites are carried out in the main as part of the overall maintenance and conservation works programme of a directly employed workforce. There is no specific budget allocation for the facilities at each site.
Tax Code.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:206 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer if there was a 1% reduction on the standard rate of VAT. [4332/09]
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:207 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer if there was a 2% reduction on the standard rate of VAT. [4333/09]
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:208 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer if there was a 3% reduction on the standard rate of VAT. [4334/09]
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:209 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer if there was a 4% reduction on the standard rate of VAT. [4335/09]
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:210 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer if there was a 5% reduction on the standard rate of VAT. [4336/09]
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:211 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the cost to the Exchequer if there was a 6% reduction on the standard rate of VAT. [4337/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 206 to 211, inclusive, together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year cost to the Exchequer of a reduction in the standard rate of Value Added Tax by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4%, 5% and 6% is as follows.
|
Existing Rate |
Reduction |
New Rate |
Cost |
|
% |
% |
% |
€m |
|
21.5 |
1.0 |
20.5 |
390 |
|
21.5 |
2.0 |
19.5 |
780 |
|
21.5 |
3.0 |
18.5 |
1,170 |
|
21.5 |
4.0 |
17.5 |
1,560 |
|
21.5 |
5.0 |
16.5 |
1,950 |
|
21.5 |
6.0 |
15.5 |
2,340 |
The estimates provided are based on current expectations of VAT yield in 2009.
Joan Burton
Ceist:212 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Question No. 215 of 30 September 2008, when in early 2009 the Revenue Commissioners will publish their study on the effectiveness of the restriction on the use of incentive tax reliefs and exemptions by high earners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4351/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the data from the 2007 tax returns filed by the high earners in question are currently being processed and analysed. They plan to have the results of a provisional study on the effect of this first year of the restriction ready, by the end of April 2009, for submission to my Department for consideration. I would hope to be in a position to publish these results shortly afterwards.
Political Funding.
Joan Burton
Ceist:213 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance if, in respect to the payment of the party’s annual allowance from the State, including the leader’s allowance, this money will continue to be paid after the Progressive Democrats are officially wound up on 28 February 2009; the persons to whom this money will continue to be paid; if the individual Deputies, whether as Independents or as members of another political party, will receive payments in lieu of the payment paid to the Progressive Democrats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4352/09]
The annual allowance to a parliamentary leader of a qualifying party ceases with the dissolution of that party except where there is an amalgamation of the party or the acceptance of all of the members of that party into a specified other qualifying party. There is however, no provision for the transfer of an allowance payable on behalf of an elected member of Dáil Éireann or Seanad Éireann who was elected as a member of a qualifying party and who is subsequently deemed independent as a result of the dissolution of that party.
Site Acquisitions.
Sean Fleming
Ceist:214 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding site acquisition for a project (details supplied) in County Laois; the position of this project on the list of priorities; if approval has been given for this project to proceed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4431/09]
Negotiations are ongoing with the HSE in regard to the procurement by the Office of Public Works of a site of approximately 2 acres for the construction of a new Garda Headquarters at Portlaoise.
The priority accorded to individual projects within the Garda Building Programme is a matter for An Garda Síochána and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
The construction of pre-engineered accommodation has recently been completed at Portlaoise, and this will relieve the accommodation deficiencies in the medium term.
Financial Institutions Support Scheme.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:215 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance if, in view of the nationalisation of Anglo Irish Bank, he has issued a direction in respect of salary scales to executives of the bank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4451/09]
The Deputy will be aware that the remuneration of directors and senior executive staff of Anglo Irish Bank Corporation is being considered in the Covered Institution Remuneration Oversight Committee, established under the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008. The Scheme provides for controls on executive remuneration in institutions covered by the Guarantee.
The Scheme requires each covered institution to prepare and submit a plan to structure the remuneration packages of directors and executives so as to take account of the objectives of the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Act 2008. Remuneration is taken to include total salary, bonuses, pension payments and any other benefits received. In the context of these plans, bonuses will be measurably linked to reductions in the guarantee charges, reduction in excessive risk taking, and encouraging the long-term sustainability of the covered institution.
The relevant plans have been prepared and submitted by the covered institutions, including Anglo Irish Bank, and in line with timeframes set out in the Scheme, the Committee will report to me on or before the 5th March 2009, making a recommendation where appropriate, on the compliance by the institution with the terms of the Scheme. The Scheme provides that if required, I may direct the institution to amend the remuneration plan to comply with the Scheme.
As with the other covered institutions, the terms and conditions of employment for less senior staff are a matter for the Board of Anglo.
Banking Sector Regulation.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:216 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance if members of the current board of Anglo Irish Bank received loans from the bank for any purpose. [4452/09]
The Financial Regulator has informed me that it is examining certain issues that have arisen at Anglo Irish Bank including where loans have been made to Directors. The Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement is also conducting an investigation into issues at the bank. The new Board of the bank and I as shareholder will ensure that any issues identified on foot of these investigations are properly addressed as appropriate.
Loans to Directors on commercial terms are permitted under company law and must be disclosed in a company's audited accounts. The question of loans to current Directors at Anglo Irish Bank will be addressed in the bank's annual report and accounts to be published in the coming weeks.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:217 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance if he has issued direction in respect of the placing of new business by Anglo Irish Bank. [4453/09]
Anglo Irish Bank is being run on an arm's length commercial basis and I have issued no such direction. The Board of Anglo is preparing a comprehensive business plan which will be required to demonstrate how the Board will oversee the continued commercial operation of the bank in the best interests of the bank, the financial sector generally and the State. This business plan will provide an overview of the key areas and sectors that the Board, after consultation with my Department, intends Anglo to concentrate on.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:218 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance if he has issued direction in respect of corporate sponsorship, corporate entertainment or credit card expense entitlement in respect of Anglo Irish Bank executives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4454/09]
Anglo Irish Bank is being run on an arm's length commercial basis. Accordingly, normal commercial decisions, which include decisions on corporate sponsorship, corporate entertainment or credit card expense entitlement in respect of Anglo- Irish Bank executives, are matters for the Board of Anglo. Notwithstanding this I am informed that there will be no corporate sponsorship this year.
The Board of Anglo is preparing a comprehensive business plan which will be required to demonstrate how the Board will oversee the continued commercial operation of the bank in the best interests of the bank, its customers and the State.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:219 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the number of Anglo Irish Bank personnel on annual salary scales in excess of €250,000 €150,000 and €100,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4455/09]
Anglo Irish Bank is being run on an arm's length basis to allow the full potential of the bank's business to be realised. Accordingly, the normal ongoing business of the bank, which includes the pay and conditions of staff, is a matter for the Board of Anglo. It would therefore not be appropriate for me to place such commercially sensitive information in the public domain.
As the Deputy will be aware, the remuneration of directors and senior executive staff of Anglo Irish Bank is being considered in the Covered Institution Remuneration Oversight Committee (CIROC) established under the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008. The Scheme requires each covered institution to prepare and submit a plan to structure the remuneration packages of directors and executives so as to take account of the objectives of the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Act 2008.
The relevant plans have been prepared and submitted by the covered institutions, including Anglo, and in line with timeframes set out in the Scheme, the Committee will report to me on or before the 5th March 2009, making a recommendation where appropriate, on the compliance by the institution with the terms of the Scheme. The Scheme provides that I may, if required, direct the institution to amend the remuneration plan to comply with the Scheme.
As with the other covered institutions, the terms and conditions of employment for less senior staff are a matter for the Board of Anglo.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:220 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance if he has issued an instruction to the board of Anglo Irish Bank in relation to the appointment of the new chief executive officer of the bank; his views on whether it is appropriate that such appointment shall be to a person from outside the current pool of Anglo Irish Bank executives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4456/09]
Anglo Irish Bank is being run on an arm's length commercial basis. I have delegated the function of appointing a chief executive officer under section 20 (b) of the Anglo Irish Bank Corporation Act 2009, to the Chairman of Anglo Irish Bank. I will continue to support the efforts of the Board in appointing a chief executive officer with a view to ensuring the continued commercial operation of the bank in the best interests of the bank, the financial sector generally and the State. I would note that a chief executive officer can only be appointed after appropriate regulatory approvals.
Tax Code.
Joe Carey
Ceist:221 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Finance his views on amending the provisions of section 31 of the Finance (No. 2) Act 2008; if, in view of the practical nature of establishing a limited company and the significant merit of the new provision, the exemption should apply to any company whose first period of trading either commences or concludes within 12 months of 31 December 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4459/09]
Richard Bruton
Ceist:225 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he has received representations that the starting date set out in section 31 of the Finance (No. 2) Act 2008 is too restrictive in that many start-up companies would have formed a limited liability company prior to the date of 14 October 2008 even though they had not started trading; and if he will consider extending the relief to any company whose first period of trading commences or concludes during December 2009. [4469/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 221 and 225 together.
The provisions of section 31 of the Finance (No 2) Act 2008 provide for relief from corporation tax for their first 3 years of operation for companies incorporated on and from 14 October 2008 that commence to carry on a new trade in 2009. The relief is granted by reducing the corporation tax on the profits of the new trade and on the gains from disposal of assets used for the purpose of the new trade to nil. Full relief is available where the corporation tax otherwise payable by the company in respect of any of its first 3 years is €40,000 or less. There is marginal relief where the corporation tax liability is between €40,000 and €60,000.
The intention is that this relief will comply with the EU de minimis Aid Regulations. These Regulations set the level of de minimis aid available, generally, at €200,000 over any three year period. In the case of the road transport sector, the figure is €100,000. Any tax relief under the provisions of section 31 of Finance (No 2) Act 2008 will affect the amount of further State aid that a company can receive. The requirement that the company be newly registered ensures that we are starting at the beginning as regards State aids. In addition, with the new company requirement, the new trade will be easily distinguishable from other businesses run by a promoter and/or other related companies which is important so as to ensure against any abuse of the measure.
For these reasons, I had to choose a date to define a "new company" under the legislation and incorporation from the date of Budget 2009 is a reasonable approach. I have received some representations in this issue. However, I do not propose to amend this requirement of the legislation.
Banking Sector Regulation.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:222 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the nature of the investigation under the direction of the Financial Regulator into certain matters at Anglo Irish Bank, in particular the loans issued by the bank to its directors; the terms of reference of such investigation; the time scale involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4462/09]
The Financial Regulator is examining issues that have arisen in Anglo Irish Bank including where loans were made to former directors. These issues span a considerable period of time are complex and it will take time to investigate them fully. The Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement is also investigating this and related matters. In order to ensure that the investigations of these issues proceed in a seamless manner and that all relevant information is shared, the Financial Regulator is working closely with the ODCE as appropriate.
As you will appreciate, some of the issues may lead to further action and in these circumstances, it is not appropriate for me to comment in detail on specific issues without the risk of prejudicing the outcome of the investigations.
Departmental Equipment.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:223 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance when the new customs cutter and new X-ray container scanner will be purchased and in service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4466/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that construction of the second Revenue cutter is proceeding well. Delivery is expected in September 2009 and, on that basis, plans are in place to have the cutter in service by the end of the year.
Revenue will be going to tender shortly for the purchase of the new scanner. Pending the outcome of the tender process, it is not possible to be precise about timing. However the Commissioners have advised me that it is intended that the scanner will be purchased this year and put into service as soon as possible thereafter, allowing for commissioning, training etc.
Tax Code.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:224 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if the new levy which has been introduced is deductible before the calculation of income tax; if he has received legal advice on whether double taxation of income taken in levies breaches the principle of natural justice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4468/09]
I understand the Deputy is referring to the income levy which took effect from 1 January 2009. The position is that the income levy applies to gross income and constitutes an additional tax.
The income base on which the income levy is applied is different to that of income tax or, indeed Pay Related Social Insurance (PSRI) contributions and health levy contributions. Gross income in the context of the income levy is income before any deductions for contributions to superannuation or capital allowances. Also included in the income base for the income levy are a number of income sources excluded from the income tax base. The income levy applies generally to all taxpayers and is progressive. In these circumstances, the issue of whether the overall system breaches the principle of natural justice does not arise.
Question No. 225 answered with Question No. 221.
Sean Fleming
Ceist:226 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Finance the proposals to increase betting tax in betting shops from 1% to 2%; when this will be introduced; the expected revenue to be generated; the impact this will have on unemployment in the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4474/09]
I announced in Budget 2009 that the betting duty would be increased from 1 to 2%. Subsequently, I met a wide range of representatives from the betting industry where the problems faced by the sector, including those arising from the Budgetary changes, were discussed.
The Finance (No. 2) Act 2008 provides that the betting duty rate will be increased from 1% to 2% on 1 May 2009. The Act also provides that, as happens in the case of other business expenses, betting duty paid by a bookmaker on bets made on or after 1 January 2009 will be allowed as a deduction in computing the amount of profits or losses of the bookmaking business for Income Tax or Corporation Tax purposes.
As I stated during the Finance Bill process, I intend to look at an overhaul of the betting tax regime for next year's Budget and Finance Bill, possibly looking at the UK's gross profits tax model. The estimated yield arising from the 1% increase in the betting duty on 1 May 2009 is around €14m in 2009 and €33m in a full year.
Site Acquisitions.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:227 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Finance the progress made in the purchase of a site (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4481/09]
The position is that terms have been agreed on the purchase of the site. The contracts for sale are being processed by the respective solicitors, subject to funding.
Questions Nos. 228 to 232, inclusive, answered with Question No. 190.
Architectural Heritage.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:233 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Finance his plans for a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the timetable for seeking planning permission in respect of the revised visitor centre design; the timetable for re-pointing of the keep and completion of internal work outstanding within the keep; the completion of the legalities and consequent handover to the town council of the castle field; the timetable for the design of the drawbridge and other outstanding features of the castle gatehouse. [4583/09]
The siting of the proposed Visitor Centre at Nenagh Castle has been re-examined, and Consultant Architects submitted a planning application in December 2008. Providing there are no objections and planning permission is granted, invitations to tender for the works could be issued in May 2009, with work commencing later this year, subject to funding.
Work on the Keep has commenced with inspection works, initial condition assessment and mortar analysis. Scaffolding has been erected and the decking has been completed. Restoration work of its nature is time-consuming and investigatory, and therefore incapable of a precise schedule, but it is estimated that it will take approximately 12-18 months to complete. Works to the interior of the Keep are ongoing, and significant progress has been made.
The perimeter of the Castle Field has been secured for the duration of the works. The Chief State Solicitor has forwarded a draft lease in relation to the transfer of the Castle Field to Nenagh Town Council, which is expected to be finalised, when works are completed. The design and installation of the drawbridge and presentation of other outstanding features of the Castle Gatehouse will follow the conservation works of the Keep.
Tax Code.
Jack Wall
Ceist:234 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance the tax benefits available to a person seeking to lease a section or sections of his or her home to non-related tenants; the regulations covering such leasing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4653/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that money that is received by an individual in respect of the letting, for residential purposes, of part of that individual's home is exempt from income tax, income levy, PRSI and the health levy where it is below €10,000. Any amount received for meals, cleaning, laundry or other similar goods and services that are incidentally provided in connection with the residential use is also taken into account. This relief is known as Rent-a-Room relief.
In establishing whether the income arising in respect of residential accommodation and ancillary services exceeds the exempt limit, the gross amount of that income is taken into account. No deduction is allowed for any expenses that have been incurred in connection with obtaining that income. Where the gross income exceeds the €10,000 exemption limit in a particular year the full amount is taxable and not just the amount that exceeds the limit.
The residence must be situated in the State and be occupied by an individual as his/her sole or main residence during the particular tax year. The individual does not have to own the residence and it could, for example, be occupied as rented accommodation. It is not possible to let an entire residence because the room(s) that is let must form part of the residence and the residence must be occupied by the individual receiving the rent as his/her sole or main residence. The relief does not apply where the part of the residence that is let is used for business purposes.
The availability of certain other tax reliefs is not affected by the receipt of income that is exempted from tax under the rent-a-room relief scheme. These include an individual's entitlement to mortgage interest relief on his/her principal private residence, the exemption from Capital Gains Tax on gains arising from the disposal of an individual's principal private residence and owner-occupier relief where the residence is situated in a tax incentive area such as an urban renewal scheme area. Additionally, an individual who pays rent for private rented accommodation that he/she uses as his/her main residence is entitled to claim tax relief for the rent paid where that individual sub-lets part of the accommodation. A tenant of an individual who is claiming rent-a-room relief may claim tax relief for rent paid.
First-time buyers and certain owner-occupiers can obtain relief from stamp duty on the purchase of a house/apartment. A clawback of the relief arises if rent is obtained from the letting of the house/apartment in the two-year period from the date of purchase. However, such a clawback does not apply where rent is received for the letting of furnished accommodation in part of the premises by an individual who owns and occupies the premises. The individual must continue to occupy the premises as his/her only or main residence for the required two-year period. Unlike rent-a-room relief for income tax, there is no upper limit on the amount of rent that can be received in relation to stamp duty where part of the premises has been let.
I am also informed by the Revenue Commissioners that a guidance note on the Rent-a-Room relief scheme is available at www.revenue.ie in the "Leaflets" section of the website.
Jack Wall
Ceist:235 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance his view on correspondence (details supplied) and on whether the position adopted in this case will adversely affect first-time buyers; his plans to assist first-time buyers in such instances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4659/09]
The Government believes that it is important to ensure that in so far as possible mortgages are available to people who want to buy houses. In the context of discussions on recapitalisation before Christmas Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland committed to, amongst other things, providing an additional 30% capacity for lending to first time buyers in 2009. The banks also committed to actively promote mortgage lending at competitive rates with increased transparency on the criteria to be met.
A new code of conduct for Mortgage Arrears, based in the Irish Banking Federation Code of Practice on Mortgage Arrears, is under discussion and will shortly be introduced by the Financial Regulator. The new Code is expected to apply to mortgage lending activities to consumers in respect of their principal private residence in the State and to be mandatory for all mortgage lenders registered with the Financial Regulator.
The Government increased the rate of mortgage interest relief for first time buyers in Budget 2009 from 20% to 25% in year 1 & 2 of their mortgage and to 22.5% in year 3 and 5. It will remain at 20% in year 6 and 7. This measure follows on from the significant improvements made in Budget 2007 & 2008. The ceiling for mortgage interest relief for first-time buyers was doubled in Budget 2007 from €4,000 single/€8,000 married to €8,000 single/€16,000 married. The ceiling for first-time buyers was further increased in Budget 2008 to €10,000 single/€20,000 married.
In addition, the Government announced the introduction of a new mortgage scheme in the context of Budget 2009. The Home Choice Loan has been introduced through the local authority system, backed by loan finance raised by the Housing Finance Agency. HCL is available to first time buyers of new houses (or self-builds), subject to a maximum loan of €285,000 or max LTV of 92% (whichever is the lesser) and income thresholds. The Regulations to underpin the scheme were signed in December and the scheme commenced on 1 January 2009.
Tax Collection.
Sean Fleming
Ceist:236 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Finance when a tax rebate will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Laois from whom tax was deducted under section 246 of the Tax Consolidation Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4660/09]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that there is no record of receiving a claim for repayment of tax from the taxpayer. Previous representations were made last year on the matter. Revenue wrote to the taxpayer on 22nd July 2008 requesting information to advance a claim but there is no record of a reply having been received.
Tax Code.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:237 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance, further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 291 and 294 of 27 January 2009, the arrangements which exist to cease the deduction of the 1% income levy on the pay and pensions of people over 65 years who have a medical card and others who have a medical card and when it is possible for the Revenue Commissioners to confirm that the person would have an entitlement to an exemption from the levy for the full year. [4661/09]
Where the individual has an entitlement to a full medical card at any time during the year the individual should forward a copy of their full medical card to their employer/pension provider and the employer/pension provider will then cease to deduct the income levy. Where the income levy has been applied for particular pay period(s) during the year and the individual has an entitlement to a full medical card, then they will be due a refund of any income levy paid in the year. In this situation, the employer/pension provider should make an adjustment at year's end and refund all income levy deducted during the year.
Where the employee has not been in continuous employment with an employer or in receipt of a pension from a pension provider throughout the year in question, the Revenue Commissioners, rather than the employer/pension provider, will make any refund of income levy due on a claim being made.
Joan Burton
Ceist:238 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the input the proposed new pension levy on public sector incomes will have on the cost of buying back years of service for persons who will not have full service upon reaching the age of 65 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4663/09]
The scheme for the purchase of notional service allows officers who would have less than maximum pensionable service at age 60 or 65 and who fulfil certain other conditions to purchase additional reckonable service at full actuarial cost. The pension deduction will have no effect on the purchase of notional service now or in the future.
National Treasury Management Agency.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:239 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his views on the establishment of a national loan scheme whereby members of the public would have the opportunity to make funds available to the State for a defined period of time in return for a specified, guaranteed rate of return. [4664/09]
I would like to draw the Deputy's attention to the fact that savings bonds, savings certificates and national instalment savings, three of the Government's personal savings products for which the National Treasury Management Agency is responsible, allow individuals to invest in fixed-term, fixed-rate instruments which are part of the National Debt. They are available for purchase through any Post Office.
The Agency's personal savings products generally had a particularly successful year in 2008, bringing in almost double the highest annual level of receipts since the Agency was established in 1990. Between them, savings bonds, savings certificates and national instalment savings brought in some €600 million net in 2008, bringing the amount outstanding in respect of those products to €4.9 billion at the end of the year.
Financial Institutions Support Scheme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:240 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance his plans to limit the pay and severance terms of executives in banks and other organisations which are receiving State bailouts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4671/09]
Section 47 of the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008 (Scheme) requires each covered institution to prepare a plan to structure the remuneration packages of directors and executives, including total salary, bonuses, pension payments and any other benefit, so as to take account of the objectives of the Scheme.
The Deputy will be aware of the existence of the Covered Institutions Remuneration Oversight Committee (CIROC) established by me under the terms of the Scheme. The three member, independent committee will oversee remuneration plans of senior executives of the covered institutions. The relevant plans have been prepared and submitted by the covered institutions, and in line with timeframes set out in the Scheme, CIROC will report to me on or before 5th March 2009, making a recommendation where appropriate, on the compliance by the institution with the terms of the Scheme. The Scheme provides that if I consider, following the advice of CIROC, that the institution has not demonstrated how its remuneration policies for the year ahead will comply with Section 47, I may direct the covered institution to amend its remuneration plan so that compliance is achieved.
It is important to emphasise that one of the key features of this part of the Scheme is the requirement to orient a system of bonuses to create the appropriate incentives, incentives that point toward reduction in excessive risk-taking and that promote long-term sustainability. A covered institution may not enter into any contractual arrangement that provides for termination compensation or equivalent to be payable to any director or executive for the duration of the Scheme.
The Taoiseach announced in the House last week that in the context of recapitalisation of the banks, that he would expect director's fees to be cut by 25% and when they appoint their top executives there would be an upper limit on remuneration and that he would expect current levels would be cut by at least 25% as well.
Tax Code.
Mary Upton
Ceist:241 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance if the new public sector pension levy will apply to people already receiving a State pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4672/09]
Mary Upton
Ceist:242 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance if the new public sector pension levy will apply to public sector workers who are not receiving a public sector pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4673/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 241 and 242 together.
The pension related deduction applies to public servants, that is those who are employed in a public service body. It will not apply to occupational or State pension income received by retired public servants. It is not being applied to the commercial semi state sector. The deduction will apply to all remuneration including allowances and overtime. It is intended that the pension deduction will apply to employees in bodies where a public service pension scheme exists or may be made. Where an employee has no pension benefits under a scheme the Minister for Finance will have powers to exclude him or her.
Departmental Staff.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:243 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the number of civil servants; the number of whom are not employed on a permanent basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4735/09]
Based on returns made to my Department for end September 2008 [the last date for which complete data are available] the number of serving non industrial civil servants was estimated to be 37,000 full time equivalents (fte). It is estimated that just over 1,000 staff (fte) — approximately 3% excluding staff serving in the Prisons Service — were not employed on a permanent basis. These staff are employed on a variety of tasks and assignments and their number fluctuates depending on factors such as seasonal variations (e.g. recruitment of temporary staff to cover term time vacancies, peak workloads such as passports, examinations, etc).
Departmental Correspondence.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:244 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will clarify a matter (details supplied). [4738/09]
My officials will be in touch with the Deputy setting out the procedure to be followed in relation to the matter raised.
Tax Code.
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:245 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if he will make a statement in respect of the VAT position and the stamp duty position on transactions (details supplied). [4767/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the position in relation to the transactions concerned is as follows. With regard to VAT, the renting of residential property is exempt from VAT. Before 1 July 2008, where a developer let a residential property, this would have resulted in a full claw-back of all the VAT incurred on the construction of that property, which had been reclaimed by the developer.
Since 1 July 2008 there is a special rule for property developers who construct a residential property for sale but subsequently rent that property. In such circumstances, rather than suffering the negative cash flow effect of a full claw-back of VAT deducted in respect of the development costs, the developer is obliged to pay back to Revenue 1/20th of the VAT deducted at the end of each year that the property is rented. When the property is eventually sold VAT is chargeable on the sale price at the reduced rate of VAT, currently 13.5%. In most cases, if the sale price is reduced by the amount of rent paid, VAT will be chargeable on the reduced amount. This is provided that the rent paid during the rental period is a bona fide market rent. If a premium were paid above the market rent, that premium would be treated as an option payment relating to the sale of the property and would, therefore, be liable to VAT at 13.5%.
In relation to stamp duty, the purchase of a new house or apartment with a floor area not exceeding 125 square metres is exempt from stamp duty where the house or apartment is occupied as the main residence of the purchaser for a period of two years from the date of the purchase. There is also a relief from stamp duty in the case of the purchase of a new house or apartment where the floor area exceeds 125 square metres and the house or apartment is occupied as the main residence of the purchaser for a period of two years from the date of the purchase. Under this relief the stamp duty is charged on the site value or one quarter of the total value of the property whichever is the greater. Where an intended purchaser occupies a newly built house under "a rent to purchase scheme" and the house is subsequently purchased by that person as part of the scheme, the property is regarded as new for the purposes of the stamp duty reliefs described above.
Job Losses.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:246 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the additional cost to the State for each person that loses his or her job in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4769/09]
Job losses have an impact on the Exchequer finances in two ways — through additional social welfare costs and reduced tax revenue. The exact additional cost depends on individual circumstances, for example; whether the individual is married or single, whether he/she is signing on with the Department of Social and Family Affairs for full benefits or signing on due to reduced working hours, and, crucially, in terms of tax forgone, on the amount of income that they would have previously been earning.
With regard to social welfare payments, it is estimated by the Department of Social and Family Affairs that each 1,000 increase in the Live Register in 2008 added €11.55 million to expenditure on Jobseeker Allowance and Jobseekers Benefit payments and in 2009 will add €11.77 million. Receipt of secondary benefits is linked to the circumstances of individuals and as such it is very difficult to disaggregate jobseekers from other social welfare recipients in receipt of such benefits.
With regard to the loss of tax and PRSI revenue, a specific cost is not possible to compute without knowing the specifics of each individual's personal circumstance. However, based on a number of assumptions outlined below, an overall aggregate estimate of the likely tax forgone for every 1,000 people losing employment is approximately €8 million in a full year, based on 2008 figures.
The assumptions underlining this figure are:
The 1,000 workers are made up of workers earning the minimum wage, the average industrial wage and twice the average industrial wage;
There is a 30:55:15 distribution between those earning the minimum wage, average industrial wage and those earning twice the average industrial wage, broadly reflecting the economy wide situation; and
The breakdown by marital status also broadly follows the economy wide breakdown.
No account is taken of the following:
Employees' pension contributions or other salary sacrifice arrangements;
Minor tax credits or income tax reliefs such as health expenses relief, rent relief, trade union subscriptions;
The impact of any redundancy packages;
Whether the employee takes up alternative employment in the tax year; and
The timing of the job losses within the tax year.
The above factors are crucial in determining the actual cost in any one year and could reduce the cost significantly in that year.
Live Register.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:247 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the average and end year live register projection for 2009 underpinning budgetary forecasts in the updated stability programme. [4770/09]
The Addendum to the Stability Programme Update was published on 9th January 2009 and the labour market projections are based on information up to the end of last year. In preparing the budgetary forecasts published in the Addendum, the average live register projection for 2009 is 340,000 persons and the corresponding year-end figure is for approximately 400,000 people.
Tax Code.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:248 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if the new pension related payment to be required of public servants announced on 3 February 2009 will benefit from tax relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4771/09]
The proposed pension-related deduction for public servants will operate under what is known as the "net pay" arrangement, whereby pension contributions for PAYE taxpayers, including those in the public sector, are deducted from gross pay before the application of income tax, PRSI and the health levy.
As a result, it is proposed that the pension-related deductions will be exempt for income tax, PRSI and health levy purposes.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:249 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if the estimate of €1.4 billion in full year payroll savings as a result of the measures announced on 3 February 2009 is calculated before or after the impact on income tax receipts. [4772/09]
As is the norm, the additional pension contribution to be made by public servants will attract tax relief. The actual amount of tax relief depends on an individual's circumstances but as a broad rule of thumb it is estimated that about one third of the amount will accrue in tax relief to public servants. As a result, the €1.4 billion is a saving on the expenditure side of the account that has implications for the revenue side.
However, in terms of the economic and fiscal impact, a €2 billion adjustment was factored in to the Addendum to the Stability Programme Update published on 9 January. Therefore, the Department's forecasts, which anticipate growth contracting by 4.5% and show aggregate taxes falling by a further 9¼% this year after the contraction of 13¾% last year, already take account of the need to secure reductions of up to €2 billion in expenditure this year.
Public Sector Pay.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:250 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the breakdown of the €1.4 billion savings in the public sector pay bill announced on 3 February 2009. [4773/09]
The savings in question, which are on an annual basis, breakdown as follows: €1.35bn to be achieved through the public service pension-related deduction and €50 million to be achieved mainly through a reduction in travelling and subsistence rates, along with some other adjustments.
Departmental Expenditure.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:251 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the breakdown of the €140 million expenditure reduction through general administration efficiencies and savings. [4774/09]
Richard Bruton
Ceist:252 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the breakdown of the €80 million expenditure reduction in professional fees. [4775/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 251 and 252 together.
Of the €140 million savings from general administrative efficiencies, €50 million is in respect of savings arising from the non-payment of the pay increase that had been scheduled for payment on 1 September 2009; €25 million is from further administrative efficiencies across all areas; €25 million from savings on procurement; and €25 million savings on advertising, public relations and consultancy expenditure. Savings of €15 million will also be found across a range of Defence expenditure, including equipment purchases.
The €80 million savings on professional fees will arise from an 8% reduction on fees to legal, medical, veterinary and other professions engaged by the public service. The precise details of individual Vote allocations are currently being finalised in consultation with Departments and will be included in the upcoming Revised Estimates Volume 2009.
Departmental Programmes.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:253 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the capital programmes and projects that will no longer proceed in 2009 as a result of the Government’s decision to re-prioritise €150 million of capital spending on employment intensive activities in the area of school building and energy efficiency improvements. [4776/09]
The capital allocation for every Department announced in Budget 2009 was reduced pro-rata by 1.8% to raise €150 million which hasbeen allocated to school building work and to home insulation and energy efficiency measures.
Every Department will now have to examine its planned expenditure for 2009 and identify where the reductions can be made. However, we are achieving far more output for less money than was the case in the past as tender prices are falling. We therefore expect to maintain a high level of output on capital projects despite the lower cash allocations.
Tax Yield.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:254 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide an updated monthly profile of projected Exchequer receipts and expenditures consistent with the budgetary projections in the revised stability programme. [4777/09]
Monthly profiles of projected receipts and expenditure are normally published by the end of January every year. However, this year, reflecting the fact that the tax forecasts were revised at the start of January, the publication of tax revenue profiles has been delayed. I expect my Department to publish these tax profiles shortly.
In relation to projected Exchequer expenditures, the intention is to produce a monthly profile consistent with the revised budgetary projections and with the allocations to be presented in the 2009 Revised Estimates Volume, by the end of this month.
Question No. 255 answered with Question No. 201.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:256 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the annual return to the Exchequer from stamp duty on cheques in each of the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; the rates applying in each of these years; the dates on which increases came into effect; if a pattern of reduced usage of cheques has shown over the years cited or against previous years; if so, when the peak years were; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4788/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the net receipt in the years 2005 to 2008 from stamp duty on cheques issued by financial institutions is as follows:
|
Year |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
Net Receipt from Cheques |
16.5 |
16.7 |
18.6 |
30.5 |
The rate of stamp duty on cheques which applied in each year is as follows:
|
Year |
Rate |
|
2005 |
15c per cheque |
|
2006 |
15c per cheque |
|
2007 |
15c per cheque up to 6 December, and 30c thereafter |
|
2008 |
30c per cheque up to 15 October, and 50c thereafter |
As regards the pattern in the usage of cheques the Deputy may wish to note the following statistics (derived from information from the European Central Bank) showing the numbers of cheques processed by financial institutions for payment transactions in Ireland during the years 2003-2007. The figures are expressed in terms of millions of cheques.
|
Year |
Payment Transactions (millions of cheques) |
|
2003 |
73.80 |
|
2004 |
72.62 |
|
2005 |
132.14 |
|
2006 |
124.64 |
|
2007 |
124.30 |
On this basis there are indications that, after peaking in 2005, the usage of cheques may be in decline.
Tax Code.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:257 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance the rate of capital gains tax under a compulsory purchase order for road building or road widening, in which the compensation was received in 2008 for farmland acquired in 2007; the position in respect of compensation is paid in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4806/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the rate of capital gains tax (CGT) payable for the disposal of an asset is the rate on the date of disposal of that asset. For CGT purposes, the date of disposal of land acquired under a compulsory purchase order is the earlier of the date the authority enters on the land, and the date on which the compensation is agreed.
This general rule does not apply, however, where the disposal is under a compulsory purchase order and is for the purposes of, or ancillary to, road construction, widening or extension, the person making the disposal is engaged in farming, and immediately before the disposal, the land was used for the purposes of farming. In these circumstances, the date of disposal for CGT purposes is not until the date the compensation is received.
As the Deputy may be aware, I have made a number of changes to the CGT code in my recent Budget and Finance Act. These include changes to the payment dates and also an increase in the rate of CGT from 20% to 22% for disposals made on or after 14 October 2008. Therefore, in the circumstances outlined by the Deputy, the rate of CGT on a disposal of land acquired under a compulsory purchase order, where the compensation was received between 1 January and 13 October 2008, was 20%; and the rate of CGT for such a disposal, where the compensation was received after 14 October 2008, is 22%.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:258 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Finance the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4816/09]
The following table sets out the private consultancy firms used by my Department and the offices under its aegis in the periods to which the Deputy refers.
In the time available to answer the question, the Office of Public Works was unable to compile the information sought by the Deputy. However, the information will be compiled by that Office and forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
State Laboratory |
Atkins Faithful & Gould |
To Review Facilities Management Contract |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
8,800 |
|
State Laboratory |
Polaris |
To facilitate staff mediation |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
9,400 |
|
State Laboratory |
Conal Devine |
Staff mediation |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
1,600 |
|
State Laboratory |
Clare O’Meara |
Interanl Audit |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
8,000 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Tierney and Associates |
Accounting Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
3,900 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Mary Southwell Byrne |
HR Consultant — Recruitment Auditing |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
64,400 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Matheson Ormsby Prentice |
Legal Advice |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
114,200 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Liz Early |
HR Consultant — Recruitment Auditing |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
20,800 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Noel Ryan and Associates |
Internal Auditor |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
10,800 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Valerie Judge |
HR Consultant — Recruitment Auditing |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
6,300 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Anthony Kerr BL |
Legal Advice |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
600 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Brendan O’Callaghan |
HR Consultancy |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
2,400 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Institute of Public Administration |
Internal Audit Support |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
7,000 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Open Interface |
Website Accessibility Consultancy |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
6,700 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Cassin Scott Associates |
Audit Methodology Review |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
7,700 |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Symbiant Consulting |
Database Support |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
7,300 |
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
Commissionfor Public Service Appointments |
Colouringbox |
Website Support |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
7,600 |
|
Valuation Office |
Tennyson Consulting Engineers |
Expert witness |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
4,500 |
|
Valuation Office |
Amarach Consulting |
Independent validation of Customer Survey |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
12,600 |
|
Valuation Office |
The Media Group |
Media Advice for Revaluation |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
12,300 |
|
Valuation Office |
Valuation Office Agency (UK) |
Expert witness at Valuation Tribunal |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
12,300 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Data Entry Bureau |
IT Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
3,400 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Dell Computer (Ireland) |
IT Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
26,000 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Graphics IT |
IT Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
5,200 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Lan Communications |
IT Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
3,100 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
SHL (Ireland) Ltd |
Testing Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
31,800 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Sureskills.Com |
IT Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
3,000 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Catalysto Limited |
Publication Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
15,100 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Ms Dorothy Scally |
Interview/Decision Arbitrator Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
5,700 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Cubiks Ltd |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
9,100 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development |
HR Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
200 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Crowleys DFK |
Auditing Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
20,400 |
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Prof. J. Heywood |
Research Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
700 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
The Performance Partnership |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
10,000 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Ergometrics & Applied Personnel Research Inc |
Research Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
4,300 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Edward Delany & Associates |
HR Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
800 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Catalyst Consulting |
HR Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
9,700 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Micaela McGinley |
Interview Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
8,200 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
DalRiada |
Specialist Recruitment Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
22,900 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Armstrong Craven Limited |
Specialist Recruitment Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
6,000 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Sandip Gaheer |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
3,800 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
SHL Group Limited |
Testing Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
39,600 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
CPL Solutions Limited |
Specialist Recruitment Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
43,600 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
WRC Social & Economic Consultants Ltd |
Research Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
30,000 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
O Herlihy Access Consultancy |
HR Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
900 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Yeaton & Associates |
Specialist Recruitment Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
42,400 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Caveon Llc |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
8,600 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Dilucid Limited Consultancy |
Research Services |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
7,300 |
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Matheson Ormsby Prentice |
Legal Services |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
17,200 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Calyx Software Ltd. |
IT Services |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
59,600 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Pre Visor UK LTD |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
62,700 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Cassin-Scott Associates |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
86,900 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Agtel the Media Element |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
12,900 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Savenet Ltd. |
IT Services |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
13,500 |
|
Public Appointments Service |
Creighton Hooper Ltd |
Specialist Testing Services |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
4,800 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Achilles Procurement |
Legal Service Consultancy |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
5,300 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Alchemy Films |
Technical Advice on Film Relief |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
11,600 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Arekibo Communications |
Website Development and Design |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
45,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Arthur Nowlan. |
Valuations |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
5,100 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Ballycotton Marine Services |
Maritime feasibility study/ Inspection of Cutter |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
2,500 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Bennis Design |
Design Production |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
23,800 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Bull Inform. Systems Irl |
IT related |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
6,900 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
C. Moore & Associates |
Independent evaluation of the Value for Money & Policy Review of IT External Resources Expenditure in 2006 |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
4,300 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Catalysto Ltd |
IT Design |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
8,600 |
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Costello Commercial |
Valuations |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
117,500 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Cruickshank |
Technical Advice |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
2,400 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Darlington Consulting |
Ergonomic Assessment |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
400 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
De Veeres |
Valuations |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
8,700 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Dermot Geraghty |
Technical Advice |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
2,500 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Dr Joseph Kiniry |
R&D Tax Credit |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
9,100 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Geraldine Garland |
Design work |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
24,300 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Gerard O’Leary |
Valuation |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
21,600 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Gerry McMahon |
Tech Consultancy on tariff classification |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
1,400 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Hanna Moore Curley |
Technical Advice |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
5,700 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Humphrey A Moynihan |
Technical Advice on R&D Tax Credit |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
2,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
James Adam |
Valuations |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
4,200 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Mark Attabury |
Technical Advice |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
3,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Market Research Bureau Ltd |
Research Project |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
24,800 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
McMahon & Williams |
Legal Affidavits |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
800 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Miscellaneous Small consultancies |
HR Related Reports |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
1,400 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Ms Marie Armah Kwantreng |
Typesetting and editing service |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
5,000 |
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Niamh Brodie |
Valuations |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
25,500 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
O’Herlihy Access Consult. |
Design |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
500 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Outsource Services Group |
Technical Advice on Procurment |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
4,200 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Performance Partnership |
Strategic Exercise for Competition. |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
28,700 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Peter I Mitchell Phd Cphys |
Radiation Protection Advisor |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
12,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Philip & Clare Perry |
R&D technical evaluation |
Payments commenced after 15 October 2008 |
2,300 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Polaris HR Ltd |
HR Consultancy |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
2,800 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Prof J.C. Dainty |
Technical Advice on R&D Tax Credit |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
4,300 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Prof. Tim McGloughlin |
R&D Tax Credit |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
8,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Professor Thomas Brazil |
R&D Tax Credit |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
3,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Renaissance Servs Ltd |
Business Continuity |
Payments commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and completed after that date. |
21,000 |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
Whyte & Sons Auctioneers |
Valuations |
Payment completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
1,500 |
|
Department of Finance |
Arthur Cox |
Legal Advice in respect of the Bank Guarantee Scheme |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
1,628,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
Hay Group Ireland, Lr. Mount Street, Dublin 2 |
Job evaluation of senior posts in the Public Sector |
Payments completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
114,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
Petrus Consulting |
Evaluation of value for money and policy review on construction procurement reform initiative |
Payments completed prior to 15 October 2008 |
6,000 |
|
Name of office |
Name of Firm |
Purpose of the Contract |
Comment |
Total Cost |
|
Department of Finance |
McCann Fitzgerald |
To draft conditions of engagement for construction related services and a price variation clause for construction contracts based on a proven cost basis; and draft legal changes resulting from consultation process and training. |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
252,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
A&L Goodbody |
To develop standard conditions of contract for civil engineering and building works projects and associated outline guidance; and draft legal changes resulting from consultation process and training. |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
1,478,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
MRPA Kinman Communications |
Provision of Publicity Services for NDP/CSF to support delivery of NDP Communications Strategy particularly at local level |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
39,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
Baseline Creative Services Ltd |
Development of NDP 2007-2013 Identity Guidelines as agreed under the Government- approved Communications Strategy for the National Development Plan 2007-2013. |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
13,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
IPA — Institute of Public Administration |
Review of the Capacity of the Dept of Finance |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
51,000 |
|
Department of Finance |
Ernst & Young |
Study on the economic and budgetary implications of a CCCTB |
Payment commenced prior to 15 October 2008 and continued after that date |
194,000 |
Departmental Staff.
Damien English
Ceist:259 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Finance the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4831/09]
I assume the Deputy is referring to performance related awards schemes for civil servants for civil servants, which fall into three categories. Assistant Secretary Awards: Following recommendations made by the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector, schemes of performance-related awards were introduced for the levels of Deputy Secretary and Assistant Secretary in the civil service, as well as for the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Commissioner ranks in the Garda Síochána and the ranks of Brigadier General and Major General in the Defence Forces.
The schemes of awards are based on performance by reference to demanding targets. The pool for performance awards is 10% of the pay bill for the group concerned. Within that overall limit individuals can receive payments of up to 20% of pay.
Decisions on awards are made by the Committee for Performance Awards (CPA), which includes a majority of private sector members. The main roles of the committee are to monitor the application of the scheme of performance-related awards and to bring independent judgement to bear in approving objectives for the persons covered by the scheme and in approving recommendations for awards.
Details of the procedures, the numbers covered by the schemes, the range of awards and the total amounts paid in Departments are outlined in the annual reports of the committee (available on the website www.finance.gov.ie. The committee does not identify the amount paid to individuals as this is regarded as personal information.
Following my announcement in the Dáil on 5 February last relating to the discontinuation of the scheme for Assistant Secretaries, Deputy Secretary and related grades subject to consultation with the relevant Staff Associations, there is now no specific provision for payment under this scheme. This scheme is the only full bonus scheme in operation in the civil service. The following arrangements which apply to other grades provide for reward for exceptional merit or effort in particular cases.
Special Service Payments
Principals and Assistant Principals have a separate scheme which arises as a result of the restructuring agreement for these grades under the Programme for Competitiveness and Work. It provides that 1% of payroll for these grades be made available in the form of Special Service Payments, for which staff are invited to apply, based on the following criteria: contribution by the individual to the work of the Department in his/her job, special demands of the job, experience brought to the job.
Merit Awards
In 1993, the then Minister for Finance sanctioned expenditure in respect of Merit Awards to individual staff members or groups of staff below Assistant Secretary level by way of recognition for exceptional performance of duty which was based on 0.1% of the salary allocation (as published in the Revised Estimates) in any one calendar year. This percentage was revised to 0.2% in 1998.
An independent committee administers the Merit Awards scheme up to AO/HEO level; an Assistant Secretary group administers the Awards at Assistant Principal and Principal level. Nominees for the annual Merit Awards must, during the year, have demonstrated one or more of the following criteria: given an exceptional performance in some aspect of his/her work, demonstrated unusual commitment and dedication to some aspect of his/her work, made a notable contribution to the successful achievement of the section's targets.
Ex-gratia payments are made in a number of situations which are outside the remit of the schemes already mentioned. There have been no payments made to date to staff in my Department for 2008 in respect of any of the above schemes. In relation to the SSP and merit awards schemes, no specific provision has been made for 2009.
Tax Code.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:260 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will support a matter (details supplied). [4867/09]
The position is that there are no specific tax reliefs available for individuals who care for a person with a disability.
However, the carer may be entitled to tax relief under the heading of health expenses in respect of any qualifying health expenses paid by him or her in respect of the other person.
In the absence of the personal details relating to the specific case giving rise to the Deputy's question, it is difficult to state what reliefs the person could claim. If the Deputy would like to provide details of the specific case, the Revenue Commissioners will examine the matter and furnish a report directly to the Deputy.
Financial Institutions Support Scheme.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:261 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if senior staff at Anglo Irish Bank received Christmas bonuses. [4868/09]
Anglo Irish Bank is being run on an arms length commercial basis. Accordingly, the normal ongoing business of the bank, which includes the pay and conditions of staff, is a matter for the Board of Anglo.
As the Deputy will be aware, the remuneration of directors and senior executive staff of Anglo Irish Bank is being considered in the Covered Institution Remuneration Oversight Committee (CIROC) established under the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Scheme 2008.
Notwithstanding this I am informed that while no Christmas bonuses were paid to staff at Anglo, performance related bonuses for the year ending September 2008, were paid to staff in December 2008. This was prior to the nationalisation of Anglo. Executive Directors received no bonuses.
Departmental Programmes.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:262 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance if construction on the Courthouse project for Waterford is to commence in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4897/09]
It is a matter for the Courts Service to determine whether construction on this project will commence in 2009.
Tax Yield.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:263 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the yield for the Exchequer if the pension levy was increased from 2% to 3% for people earning above €200,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5053/09]
I understand the Deputy is referring to the income levy. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that an increase in the income levy from 2% to 3% on incomes above €200,000 would yield approximately €8 million in a full year.
The figures are estimates from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2005 adjusted as necessary for income and employment growth for 2009. They are therefore provisional and likely to be revised. The figures for income and employment growth used are based on macro-economic indicators which have been recently revised in the light of the latest economic outlook for 2009.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:264 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the yield for the Exchequer if the pension levy was increased from 2% to 3% for people earning above €100,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5054/09]
I understand the Deputy is referring to the income levy. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that an increase in the income levy from 2% to 3% on incomes above €100,100 would yield approximately €45 million in a full year.
The figures are estimates from the Revenue tax-forecasting model using actual data for the year 2005 adjusted as necessary for income and employment growth for 2009. They are therefore provisional and likely to be revised. The figures for income and employment growth used are based on macro-economic indicators which have been recently revised in the light of the latest economic outlook for 2009.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:265 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the savings to the Exchequer if the pay pause was implemented for public sector workers who earn €80,000 or more; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5055/09]
It is estimated that the pension related deduction will yield in the region of €300 million in a full year from public service workers in the pay band mentioned by the Deputy. It is further estimated that the non-payment of the pay phases under the Review and Transitional Agreement will yield, for the group in question, some €55m in 2009, €220m in 2010 and €260m in 2011.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:266 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance the yield to the Exchequer if Irish citizens claiming to be non-resident for tax purposes were to lose their non-resident status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5056/09]
The taxation of individuals in the State is in line with that prevailing in other jurisdictions, that is to say — (a) individuals who are resident in the State for tax purposes are taxable here on their worldwide income; and (b) individuals who are not resident here for tax purposes pay tax here only on income arising in the State.
I have no plans to change this treatment and nor have I plans to make all Irish citizens living abroad resident here for tax purposes. Whether or not an individual chooses to live here or abroad — for whatever reason — is a matter for that individual and the State will not interfere with an individual's choice of where he or she wishes to live. Indeed, many Irish citizens choose to live abroad for reasons other than the tax system.
As regards the questions raised by the Deputy, as non-resident individuals (including non-resident Irish citizens) have an obligation to make a tax return only in respect of their Irish sourced income, it is impossible to quantify the potential tax yield if all Irish citizens living abroad were to pay tax here on their worldwide income. There is also the added difficulty that, under the terms of double taxation agreements between this State and another jurisdiction, that other jurisdiction may have the primary taxing rights on income arising there and there would be no yield to the State on the income in question.
Harbour Authorities.
Dinny McGinley
Ceist:267 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Finance his plans for the provision of a customs entry post at Killybegs, County Donegal; when it is intended to provide such a facility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5057/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that one officer is assigned full time to Killybegs Port and is accommodated in Killybegs Fisheries Harbour Centre. The Revenue Anti-Evasion Team also covers Killybegs Port as part of their ongoing patrols.
Customs officers have assessed the risk at Killybegs and other ports or landing places over a number of years and this assessment is being continually updated. Attendance by Customs officers is selective and targeted and is based on analysis and evaluation of national and international seizure trends, traffic frequency, routes and other risk indicators. Attendance can also be as a result of specific intelligence. Patrols of the ports are kept under constant review to take account of available intelligence and emerging smuggling trends.
There are no plans to extend the current level of customs entry facilities at Killybegs Port.
Pension Provisions.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:268 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the savings expected in the projected final pensions bill to be funded by the national pensions reserve fund as a result of the decision to increase the levy that public servants must make to their pension; and if this saving allows for an adjustment to be made to the annual contribution to the fund by the State. [5059/09]
The pension deduction element of the payroll saving will be €1.35 billion in a full-year and €1.12 billion in 2009. These savings will be applied to the benefit of the Exchequer and are not earmarked for the National Pension Reserve Fund. It will not affect the gross cost of existing or future public service pension payments.
The introduction of the pension deduction does not give rise to any change in the annual contribution by the State to the National Pensions Reserve Fund which was established for the purpose of meeting as much as possible of the costs to the Exchequer of social welfare and public service pensions to be paid from the year 2025 to the year 2055 or such subsequent years as may be specified by Ministerial order.
Mortgage Payments.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:269 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance his plans to support persons who are having difficulties meeting their monthly mortgage payments. [5061/09]
As I stated in this House on 27 January 2009 measures are already in place to support households that experience difficulties in meeting their mortgage payments. For example, the Mortgage Interest Supplement, administered by the Community Welfare Service of the Health Service Executive on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs, provides assistance where the mortgage relates to their sole place of residence. In addition the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), is a national, free, confidential and independent service for people in debt or in danger of getting into debt.
It is a particular priority of the Government to ensure as much as possible that difficulties in relation to mortgage arrears do not result in legal proceedings for home repossession. Home repossession should be, and generally is, the last resort for the lender and the preferred method of dealing with arrears cases should be early intervention.
A new code of conduct for Mortgage Arrears, based on the Irish Banking Federation Code of Practice on Mortgage Arrears is under discussion and will shortly be introduced by the Financial Regulator. The new code is expected to apply to mortgage lending activities to consumers in respect of their principal private residence in the State and to be mandatory for all mortgage lenders registered with the Financial Regulator.
Mental Health Services.
Andrew Doyle
Ceist:270 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if money raised from the sale of psychiatric hospitals will be used for investment in mental health programmes. [4204/09]
'A Vision for Change' the Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy recommended that a plan to bring about the closure of all psychiatric hospitals should be drawn up and implemented, and that the resources released by these closures should be re-invested in the new mental health service infrastructure requirement. The Government has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of our mental health services.
Responsibility for the implementation of ‘A Vision for Change' including the recommendations relating to the disposal of psychiatric hospital buildings and lands, is a matter for the HSE. However, the arrangements for property disposal require Department of Finance approval in each case, the lodging of the proceeds as Exchequer Extra Receipts and the re-Voting of the funds for approved projects. A submission detailing the priority projects to be funded from disposals to date and planned future disposals is expected to be made by the HSE, for consideration by my Department and the Department of Finance, within the coming months. It is envisaged that this submission will provide an opportunity to achieve overall agreement on the extent and timing of property disposals to facilitate the modernisation of the mental health infrastructure.
Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:271 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [4409/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Youth Services.
Mary Upton
Ceist:272 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that the necessary funding is provided for an extension to a scout hall (details supplied) in Dublin 12 to cater for more than 300 scouts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4436/09]
As you may be aware, in accordance with the Taoiseach's announcement earlier this year, the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF) has transferred to the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs in my Department.
Applications for capital projects under this Fund were invited by the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs through the Development Groups for all the areas involved and they were receivable up to 18 April 2008. The 94th. Unit Scouts, Bunting Road, Walkinstown application for funding of €112,000 towards the upgrading and extension of the Scout Hall was submitted through the Dublin 12 Development Group.
All applications were provisionally assessed by the National Assessment Committee against set criteria. The process was put on hold due to the impending transfer, at the time, of the Fund to my Department.
As the Deputy is aware since the original decision to transfer the Fund the economic landscape has changed dramatically. In light of the fiscal constraints now faced by Government all funding streams are being examined with a view to ensuring compliance with the Government's desire to adjust spending commitments across all Departments. A decision in relation to these applications will be notified to all relevant Development Groups shortly.
Health Services.
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:273 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application for a domiciliary care allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wexford was received in her Department; the reason this application has not been dealt with; if she will ensure that any entitlement to domiciliary care allowance in this case will be paid without further delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4694/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Youth Services.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:274 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children if funding has been approved for a youth project (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if so, the amount of funding approved. [4790/09]
The Department of Education and Science received an application on behalf of the Fethard Area Youth Project to be considered for funding in 2008 under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme. This was one of 85 new applications received under this Scheme in 2008. The Department was not in a position to approve funding for the project in 2008 owing to budgetary constraints and the high level of existing commitments in the sector.
As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for Youth Affairs transferred to my Department with effect from 1 January 2009. In light of budgetary constraints in 2009 and in an effort to consolidate and preserve existing provision, the Youth Affairs Section of my Department will not be in a position to consider any new applications for admission to this scheme in 2009.
Health Service Staff.
James Reilly
Ceist:275 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the practical measures she and the Health Service Executive will take to address the general practitioner manpower crisis here and in particular to ensure that primary care continues to deliver a same day service into the future; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4179/09]
A joint Department of Health and Children/Health Service Executive (HSE) working group on workforce planning was established in June 2006. It also includes representatives of the Departments of Finance and Education and Science, and the Higher Education Authority.
FÁS undertook research on behalf of the joint working group which analysed the labour market for 12 healthcare grades and professions, including GPs. A report on the research is expected to be finalised in the coming months. The issue of funding of medical school places is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Education and Science.
The Health Service Executive is currently discussing GP training and manpower issues with the Irish College of General Practitioners and other organisations with a view to addressing GP manpower shortfalls into the future.
The HSE is also responsible for implementing the Primary Care Strategy and the cooperation and availability of general practitioners is, of course, critical to this process. I will continue to liaise with the HSE, the training bodies and other relevant organisations to ensure that appropriate measures are implemented to deal with any threat to the numbers of general practitioners available in the community.
Health Service Properties.
James Reilly
Ceist:276 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the five properties that developers have publically expressed an interest in purchasing according to reports (details supplied); the expected timing of the disposal of 22 properties listed in the national press as probably up for sale by her Department or the Health Service Executive; the locations at which the proceeds of such sales will end up in the first instance; if the funds will be ringfenced for further investment in health facilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4180/09]
'A Vision for Change' the Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy recommended that a plan to bring about the closure of all psychiatric hospitals should be drawn up and implemented, and that the resources released by these closures should be re-invested in the new mental health service infrastructure requirement. The Government has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of our mental health services.
The HSE has developed a strategy for the phased closure of the remaining hospitals and the relocation of patients to more appropriate community based accommodation, in line with the recommendations in ‘A Vision for Change'.
The arrangements for property disposal require Department of Finance approval in each case, the lodging of the proceeds as Exchequer Extra Receipts and the re-Voting of the funds for approved projects. A submission detailing the priority projects to be funded from the proceeds of the disposal of psychiatric lands is expected to be made by the HSE, for consideration by my Department and the Department of Finance, within the coming months. It is envisaged that this submission will provide an opportunity to achieve overall agreement on the extent and timing of property disposals to facilitate the modernisation of the mental health infrastructure.
I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to disclose at this time, any details of expressions of interest made to me in relation to individual properties.
Mental Health Services.
Andrew Doyle
Ceist:277 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Health and Children if a programme has been agreed to ensure the accommodation of patients in psychiatric hospitals currently under review for closure. [4205/09]
'A Vision for Change' the Report of the Expert Group on Mental Health Policy recommended that a plan to bring about the closure of all psychiatric hospitals should be drawn up and implemented, and that the resources released by these closures should be re-invested in the new mental health service infrastructure requirement. The Government has accepted the Report as the basis for the future development of our mental health services.
The HSE has developed a strategy for the phased closure of the remaining hospitals and the relocation of patients to more appropriate community based accommodation, in line with the recommendations in ‘A Vision for Change'.
EU Directives.
Mary Upton
Ceist:278 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the Food Supplements Directive and whether this may limit the access to vitamins which have proven effective in improving health and maintaining well being; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4211/09]
The Food Supplements Directive, 2002/46/EC, has been transposed into Irish law by Statutory Instrument No. 506 of 2007. That legislation is implemented by the Health Service Executive, under a Service Contract Agreement with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). This ensures that consumers in Ireland are protected by the harmonised EU rules on the sale of food supplements, in particular the labelling of food supplements and chemical form of vitamins and minerals they contain. One of the objectives of the Food Supplements Directive (2002/46/EC) was to make provision for the European Commission to determine maximum and minimum levels of vitamins and minerals in food supplements. This matter remains under consideration at European Commission level.
The European Commission published a Discussion Paper on determining maximum and minimum levels of vitamins and minerals in June 2006. The Irish response to this Discussion Paper gave Ireland's view that the Commission should proceed on a cautious basis, setting maximum limits for as many vitamins and minerals as possible. It was considered vital that the safety of the general population and the needs of particular subgroups such as pregnant women, children, older people, those on medications and various specialist diets be taken into account in formulating the position on this issue. A working document on the setting of maximum and minimum levels for vitamins and minerals in food supplements was drawn up as a result of the responses from industry, consumer groups and national governments to the Discussion Paper. The Commission has proposed in the working document that in the case of certain nutrients where studies have indicated there is evidence of no, or low, toxicity even at high level dosage, that it may be possible to waive the setting of maximum levels. The Commission consider this a proportionate approach which is in line with the principle of Better Regulation.
While the Irish position remains one of precaution for the reasons set out above, we will take account of Irish consumers' views and those of industry in adopting a position during those discussions. In this regard the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) Consultative Council hosted an open meeting on 27 January 2009 to discuss the issues relating to food supplements. This meeting was attended by a cross section of stakeholders and outlined details of new developments in European legislation, which regulates food supplements and food fortification. The meeting outlined the rationale behind proposed EU regulations to safeguard consumer health in relation to food supplements and an insight into why consumers take food supplements and their understanding of the perceived health benefits.
Officials from both my Department and the FSAI are involved in ongoing discussions at European level on the development of a methodology under which maximum safe levels for vitamins and minerals in food supplements will be set. Those discussions will permit the European Commission and Member States to further develop its thinking on this issue and our final position will be based on these discussions and on the scientific evidence presented to Member States during the discussions.
Vaccination Programme.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:279 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children, further to Parliamentary Question No. 78 of 4 December 2008, if she has received the final report of the Vaccine Damage Compensation Group; the recommendations of the group; the action that will be taken to implement its recommendations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4253/09]
I have recently received the report of the Vaccine Damage Steering Group and I am currently considering its recommendations.
Hospital Services.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:280 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children when a child (details supplied) in County Cork will be given an appointment for an assessment at the developmental coordination disorder unit, St. Finbarr’s Hospital, Cork. [4285/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:281 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) was transferred from St. Doolagh’s Park Rehabilitation Centre in Malahide to Cherry Orchard Hospital, Dublin despite no assessment being carried out, as is the norm in transfer cases, by the receiving hospital. [4309/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Medical Research.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:282 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Health and Children if progress will be made by her in respect of funding for Duchenne research in view of the success of the pilot programme using the exon skipping technology at the National University of Ireland Maynooth and further in view of the support the Joint Committee for Health and Children has given and the fact that she has been receiving representations on this matter since 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4317/09]
The Health Research Board (HRB) is the national agency which funds health research. In 2006, the Medical Research Charities Group (MRCG) and the HRB joined forces to develop a new funding scheme to improve patient health through research. Based on this, the HRB issued a call to charities for applications in 2006. Following international peer review, MRCG and the HRB issued co-funding for two projects with Muscular Dystrophy Ireland, one to the Imperial College in London — the exon skipping trial — and the other to the project referred to by the Deputy in NUI Maynooth.
I have been advised by the HRB that another MRCG/HRB funding call has opened to all research charities, including Muscular Dystrophy Ireland and Duchenne Ireland. However, it is up to each charity to solicit and pre-review applications for submission to the HRB. The HRB is scheduled to receive the applications in June 2009. All applications received will be assessed on the basis of excellence and impact.
Medical Cards.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:283 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in relation to a medical card application by a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [4322/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
Mental Health Services.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:284 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of plans for the development of the mental health day hospital in Roscommon town; the capital allocation for 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4339/09]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:285 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will resolve a matter (details supplied). [4342/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
James Reilly
Ceist:286 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Dublin will receive an appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4350/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Pharmacy Regulations.
Mary Upton
Ceist:287 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of a request issued by a society (details supplied) for pharmacies to register as a retail pharmacy business; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that they are charging €2,500 per pharmacy for this registration, whereas the charge in the UK is only £150; when this charge was introduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4354/09]
The Pharmacy 2007 requires the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland to maintain a register of retail pharmacy businesses. Each retail pharmacy business has to meet certain minimum criteria regarding the facilities, storage and sale of medicinal products on their premises. Registration is required on an annual basis and inspections can be carried out by the Society.
The Society, has been, and continues to be, a self financing body. These new functions place additional costs on the Society. The Society engaged consultants to develop an evidence-based methodology for the determination of registration fees, on a viable and sustainable self-financing basis. The process included a comparative analysis of comparable international pharmacy regulators. I am informed by the Society that the arrangements for registration in Northern Ireland and the UK are substantially different to what is being introduced here. In particular, the range of duties of regulatory bodies in the UK, in terms of statutory obligations and their role in public safety, is not as extensive as those required of the Society under the Pharmacy Act 2007.
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland has undertaken to keep the fees for the registration of retail pharmacy businesses under review throughout 2009, and update me as to their appropriate level when submitting its 2010 fee submission.
Health Services.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:288 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that a capital project (details supplied) in County Cork is prioritised in the Health Service Executive’s capital budget for 2009. [4356/09]
In drawing up its capital programme, the Health Service Executive is required to prioritise the capital infrastructure projects to be progressed within its overall capital funding allocation under the National Development Plan, taking account of the NDP targets for division of capital investment between the Acute and Primary, Community & Continuing Care programmes.
The Executive is finalising its capital proposals and consultation is ongoing between the HSE and my Department. Details on individual projects will not be known until such time as the capital plan for 2009 is approved.
Food Safety.
Pat Breen
Ceist:289 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the pork and poultry products sourced by the Health Service Executive; if these products are produced here; if, in view of the recent scare in the industry, her attention has been drawn to the importance of supporting and promoting Irish products; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4358/09]
The information requested is being provided by the Health Service Executive and will be forwarded to the Deputy directly.
Health Services.
Leo Varadkar
Ceist:290 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a health centre (details supplied) in Dublin 15 did not proceed when planning permission was granted by Fingal County Council on 7 May 2004; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4384/09]
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:315 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children when the new Balbriggan Health Centre, County Dublin will be operational in order that applicants do not have to travel to Gardiner Street, Dublin; the reason for the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4644/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 290 and 315 together.
As the Deputies' questions relate to service matters they have been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Joan Burton
Ceist:291 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of young people who have left State care and foster care each year in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4385/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Pharmacy Regulations.
Seán Ardagh
Ceist:292 Deputy Seán Ardagh asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will request the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland to implement its new registration regime for the pharmacy sector as quickly as possible to progress the processing of non-EU/EEA applications of trained pharmacists under the Pharmacy Act 2007 as in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4399/09]
On the 28th November 2008 I signed the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (Registration) Rules 2008 (S.I. No. 494 of 2008) which provide for new pharmaceutical registration systems, including a system for a non-EU/EEA route of qualification recognition and registration. These Rules came into force on 29th November 2008. The PSI concentrated its efforts, in the first instance, on putting in place the system for registration of retail pharmacy businesses. This process of ensuring that all retail pharmacy businesses were registered was successfully completed in January 2009.
In relation to the non-EU/EEA route of qualification recognition and registration, the PSI is committed to ensuring that the application system for recognition of a third country qualification, and the associated registration system, is fully operational as soon as time, legal advice and resources permit. A considerable amount of preliminary work was carried out before the signing of the rules and the Society has, since then, been working with its legal advisers to develop an appropriate process in line with the legislation. The PSI anticipates that the relevant documentation will be available for download by applicants within a month. In the meantime, any potential applicant is advised to consult the Education & Registration Unit of the PSI to ensure that he/she will have the required documentation prepared for submission to the PSI as soon as the process is commenced. The PSI will shortly communicate the operational date for commencement of the process to all potential applicants.
Mental Health Services.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:293 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of funding she plans to invest in mental health services in north Tipperary over the next five years; her plans to improve the services in the area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4405/09]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Health Services.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:294 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [4410/09]
The support group 22q11 Ireland held their first conference at the Marino Institute of Education in September 2008.
I will arrange for the Department to issue an application for lottery funding to 22q11 Ireland. I cannot commit to the Department providing lottery funding to 22q11 Ireland in 2009. Lottery funding available to the Department in 2009 is limited and decisions in relation to the allocation of the funding will be made on the basis of priority.
Ciaran Lynch
Ceist:295 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork who has applied for treatment under the treatment abroad scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4418/09]
Operational responsibility for the management and delivery of health and personal social services, including the treatment of patients under the Treatment Abroad scheme, is a matter for the Health Service Executive. 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 a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
James Reilly
Ceist:296 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of patients waiting for dental services in the Sligo region; the action she or the Health Service Executive will take to deal with the ongoing retirement of dentists from the gms scheme; when she will engage with the dentists to solve this service problem; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4438/09]
The position regarding the number of patients waiting for dental services in the Sligo region is a matter for the HSE. 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.
With regard to the other questions raised by the Deputy, I met the Irish Dental Association on the 15th November last to discuss a range of issues including the terms of the Agreement that governs the Dental Treatment Services Scheme and the Government's plans to amend the Competition Act 2002. I am keeping these matters under review.
James Reilly
Ceist:297 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children when funding will be provided to accommodate the placement of a person (details supplied) who is ready for discharge to a nursing home in their local area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4439/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Jack Wall
Ceist:298 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a nursing home (details supplied) is being closed down; the efforts or meetings she has had or proposed with the Health Service Executive to discuss the matter and the problems attached to the closure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4449/09]
As the Deputy is aware Bethany House is a Welfare Home which opened in the 1970's. It is currently operating as a 30 bed unit, of which 28 beds are residential and 2 are respite. At present there are 25 long stay residents, with one long stay admission to the facility in the last six months.
An independent review carried out highlighted the lack of facilities to provide appropriate care and the home's inability to support high dependency patients. This inadequacy increases demands in terms of maintenance, standards and health and safety issues including infection control. Following this review the Executive decided that the 30 bed Bethany House Welfare Home is no longer able to provide appropriate services due to the increasing levels of dependencies of its patients.
I would like to reassure the Deputy that all 25 residents, in consultation with themselves and their families, will be relocated to better and safer facilities that are purpose built to cater for their health and well-being. The immediate next steps for the Executive are to consult with each resident, their families or representatives, to explain what options are available with a view to agreeing their preferences for relocation.
Hospital Services.
Michael Creed
Ceist:299 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details provided) in County Cork will be called for an out-patient appointment regarding an orthopaedic problem; when this person will subsequently be offered an appointment for surgery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4470/09]
The management of out-patient waiting lists is a matter for the HSE and the individual hospitals concerned. I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the Executive for direct reply.
Joe Costello
Ceist:300 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7 is waiting for a back injury operation in the Mater Hospital for some considerable time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4478/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:301 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons in each acute hospital who have been discharged but remain in the hospital concerned; the duration of their stay in each case post discharge; the steps being taken to provide alternative accommodation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4486/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:302 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if nursing home subventions for individuals have been affected by cutbacks; the position when the Health Service Executive informs an applicant that they qualify for subvention but it cannot be paid due to funding shortfalls; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that this position has arisen; if she has addressed or will address the matter with the HSE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4497/09]
There was no reduction in the level of funding available to the Health Service Executive for nursing home subvention between 2008 and 2009. However, the provision of support by HSE towards the cost of maintenance in a private nursing home is subject to resources. In this regard, the availability of enhanced subvention is limited by the amount of the resource allocated forthis scheme and applicants may need to join a waiting list for enhanced subvention contributions.
Health Services.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:303 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has received a report from the Health Service Executive regarding the closure of a nursing home (details supplied) in County Wicklow due to health and safety concerns; if this home had previously been reported to her Department and the HSE in relation to health and safety issues; if the building has obtained an annual fire safety certificate in recent years; the alternative accommodation that will be provided; the type of inquiry that will be undertaken by her Department and the HSE; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4498/09]
The Deputy may be aware that the nursing home in question is a public Welfare Home, built in the 1960's with a lifespan of approx 20 years. Following consideration of a recent Environmental Health Report the HSE decided to close the Home, primarily for health and safety concerns and difficulty meeting fire safety requirements. The Department has received briefing on this decision. However, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:304 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of compensation payments made by the Health Service Executive in Cork City and County for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008, in respect of all claims against the health service in that area; and the steps the HSE is taking to address the level of claims. [4500/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:305 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the policy regarding the payment of the subvention to a nursing home while the client is hospitalised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4505/09]
The Nursing Home Subvention Scheme is governed by the Health (Nursing Homes ) (Amendment) Act 2007. The Act is not explicit on the particular issue raise by the Deputy. However, the HSE's National Guidelines for the Standardised Implementation of the Nursing Home Subvention Scheme state that the private nursing home should advise the HSE of any temporary absences or discharges of patients in receipt of subvention from their nursing home. The HSE can continue to pay subvention to cover temporary absences. However if this period of absence continues for more than one month, the HSE should investigate the matter further to establish the likelihood of the person returning to the nursing home.
Mental Health Services.
James McDaid
Ceist:306 Deputy James McDaid asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of the Letterkenny acute mental health unit, County Donegal; and when construction is expected to commence. [4509/09]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Hospital Services.
James McDaid
Ceist:307 Deputy James McDaid asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress in relation to radiotherapy services in the north west. [4510/09]
The Government decided in July 2005 that the best option for improving geographic access for patients in the North West to radiation oncology services in the short term was to facilitate access to Belfast City Hospital. It also decided to explore the scope in the medium term for developing a joint venture based on a satellite centre in the North West linked to Belfast City Hospital.
Cancer patients in the North West requiring radiation oncology treatment are referred to either St. Luke's Hospital Dublin or University College Hospital Galway. A Service Level Agreement is also in place for the referral of radiation oncology patients from Donegal to Belfast City Hospital.
In April 2008, Minister Michael McGimpsey of the Department of Health, Social Services and Public Safety (DHSS&PS), Northern Ireland announced the provision of a satellite centre (linked to Belfast City Hospital) to be located in Altnagelvin. It will provide the additional radiotherapy capacity needed to meet an anticipated increase in cancer in Northern Ireland. It also recognises the potential for cross border co-operation in the development of this resource. I welcomed the announcement by Minister McGimpsesy and officials from my Department and their counterparts in Northern Ireland continue to hold discussions in this regard. I understand that this facility is expected to be operational by 2015.
Nursing Homes Repayment Scheme.
James McDaid
Ceist:308 Deputy James McDaid asked the Minister for Health and Children when payments to families under the health repayment scheme will be issued; and if there are tax implications for the receiver. [4511/09]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has responsibility for administering the health repayment scheme in conjunction with the appointed Scheme Administrator K.P.M.G. and McCann Fitzgerald.
Since the scheme commenced over 19,500 offers have been issued and over 16,000 payments have been made. The vast majority of remaining offers will be issued by the end of April 2009.
A prescribed repayment made to a living relevant person or made directly to a living spouse or living child of a relevant person by virtue of Section 9(8) of the Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006 will be disregarded for the purpose of income tax assessment under the Income Tax Acts. A prescribed repayment made to the estate of a relevant person will be subject to the normal arrangements for the purpose of tax assessment.
Health Services.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:309 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of speech therapists appointed to cover the Tipperary north region; the reason for the delay in speech therapy intervention for children; her plans and timeframe to reduce the waiting time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4578/09]
There has been a growing demand for, and investment in, speech and language therapy services over the last number of years. There were a number of issues contributing to difficulties accessing therapy services, one of which had been the supply of qualified personnel available to fill vacant posts. A particular priority for my Department and the Department of Education and Science in recent years has been the expansion of the supply of therapy graduates. The Government has also invested heavily in the education and training of such personnel in order to secure a good supply of graduates to provide for the health care needs of the population into the future. In this regard, since 1997, the number of training places for speech and language therapy has been increased from 25 to 105 which represents an increase of 320%.
Almost 130,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the numbers of doctors, nurses and other health care professionals employed in the public health services. The numbers employed in speech and language therapy has also grown significantly, from 282 whole time equivalents employed in December 1997 rising to 750 whole time equivalents employed in December 2008, which represents an increase of 166%.
The Government is committed to ensuring continued adequate recruitment of professional staff across a range of community settings to ensure the continued development of community services. Additional funding of €20 million has been provided in 2009 for health and education services for children with special educational needs. This funding will provide a total of 125 additional therapy posts in the HSE targeted at children of school-going age. 90 of these will be in the disability services, including speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. 35 additional posts will be provided for child and adolescent mental health services, including clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists for new and existing multi-disciplinary teams.
In addition, it is intended that certain key health and social care professional posts, including speech and language therapists, are to be protected by setting employment floors for these grades within the Health Service Executive (HSE) in 2009. These posts are essential to the development of a number of services areas such as disability (including speech and language therapy), child adolescent mental health services and child protection services. In order to protect these posts, it is envisaged that the HSE will establish minimum employment levels to be maintained within each of these occupations in the health sector in 2009. The recruitment and retention of these key front line professional posts is vital to ensure continued progress in the development of community settings.
With regard to the number of speech and language therapists appointed to the Tipperary North region, it is a matter for the HSE to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:310 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people in Tipperary north awaiting speech and language therapy services, including those awaiting assessment and those awaiting therapy; the number of speech and language therapists in this area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4579/09]
Noel Coonan
Ceist:311 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the waiting list for children seeking speech therapy in Tipperary north; if she will compare them with other areas nationally; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4580/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 310 and 311 together.
As the Deputy's questions relate to service matters, I have arranged for the questions to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:312 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children in north Tipperary awaiting orthodontic treatment including those awaiting assessment; the number of orthodontists in Tipperary north; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4581/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Hospital Services.
Michael Creed
Ceist:313 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of people on outpatient waiting lists for surgical procedures in Health Service Executive south; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4639/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
Health Services.
Michael Creed
Ceist:314 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children the involvement of the Health Service Executive with regard to a centre (details supplied) in County Cork for placement of persons over 18 years who are diagnosed as autistic; the funding provided by the HSE to this centre; the admissions policy therein; if she is satisfied that the centre can cater for the level of demand existing for its services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4640/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Question No. 315 answered with Question No. 290.
Health Service Staff.
Joanna Tuffy
Ceist:316 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card appeals officer for Dublin north will be appointed; the reason for the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4645/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
James Reilly
Ceist:317 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the action she will take to meet the shortage of speech therapists currently in the health service here; her plans to increase the number of speech therapists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4655/09]
There has been a growing demand for, and investment in, speech and language therapy services over the last number of years.
There were a number of issues contributing to difficulties accessing therapy services, one of which had been the supply of qualified personnel available to fill vacant posts. A particular priority for my Department and the Department of Education and Science in recent years has been the expansion of the supply of therapy graduates. 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. In this regard, since 1997, the number of training places for speech and language therapy has been increased from 25 to 105 which represents an increase of 320%.
Almost 130,000 people work full-time or part-time in our public health services. In recent years, the Government's ongoing high level of investment in health has achieved and maintained significant increases in the numbers of doctors, nurses and other healthcare professionals employed in the public health services. The numbers employed in speech and language therapy has also grown significantly, from 282 whole time equivalents employed in December 1997 rising to 750 whole time equivalents employed in December 2008, which represents an increase of 166%.
The Government is committed to ensuring continued adequate recruitment of professional staff across a range of community settings to ensure the continued development of community services. Additional funding of €20 million has been provided in 2009 for health and education services for children with special educational needs. This funding will provide a total of 125 additional therapy posts in the HSE targeted at children of school-going age. 90 of these will be in the disability services, including speech and language therapists, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. 35 additional posts will be provided for child and adolescent mental health services, including clinical psychologists, occupational therapists, and speech and language therapists for new and existing multi-disciplinary teams.
In addition, it is intended that certain key health and social care professional posts, including speech and language therapists, are to be protected by setting employment floors for these grades within the Health Service Executive (HSE) in 2009. These posts are essential to the development of a number of services areas such as disability (including speech and language therapy), child adolescent mental health services and child protection services. In order to protect these posts, it is envisaged that the HSE will establish minimum employment levels to be maintained within each of these occupations in the health sector in 2009. The recruitment and retention of these key front line professional posts is vital to ensure continued progress in the development of community settings.
Nursing Home Subventions.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:318 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will consider granting enhanced subvention for a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [4662/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Health Services.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:319 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has been told that their home-help service has been cancelled as there are no funds available. [4713/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Youth Projects.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:320 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in view of the concerns expressed by a council (details supplied) at the termination of a youth project, he will make funding available to allow the project to continue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4758/09]
I understand that the youth project referred to by the Deputy is the Gweedore Youth Project, Co. Donegal.
The Department of Education and Science received an application on behalf of the Project to be considered for funding in 2008 under the Special Projects for Youth Scheme. This was one of 85 new applications received under this Scheme in 2008. The Department was not in a position to approve funding for the project in 2008 owing to budgetary constraints and the high level of existing commitments in the sector.
As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for Youth Affairs transferred to my Department with effect from 1 January 2009. In light of budgetary constraints in 2009 and in an effort to consolidate and preserve existing provision, the Youth Affairs Section of my Department will not be in a position to consider any new applications for admission to this Scheme in 2009.
Health Services.
James Bannon
Ceist:321 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether it is justified for the Health Service Executive to expend €33,000 on artwork for a disability centre (details supplied) in County Westmeath at a time when funding to disability service providers is being cut, rather than seek private funding or the project deferred for a few years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4779/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:322 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the aggregate budget that has been made available to fund day care places for persons with an intellectual disability in 2009; the number of additional places that it is hoped to provide with this funding; the number of day places which she hopes to provide in centres (details supplied); the expected intake of additional clients in these centres that it will facilitate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4781/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:323 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the private consultancy firms her Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to her Department for each project; and if she will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4818/09]
The information requested regarding consultancy expenditure for 2008 is currently being compiled and will shortly be forwarded directly to the Deputy.
Only one new consultancy has commenced since 14 October 2008. All other consultancies entered into by my Department commenced prior to that date.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:324 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of bonus payments made to staff in her Department for 2008; the amount set aside in her Department for bonus payments in 2009; if she will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4833/09]
The Performance Related Awards Scheme (PRA) was introduced following a decision by the Government on the implementation of the Review Body on Higher Remuneration in the Public Sector. The operation of the scheme is overseen by the Committee for Performance Awards (CPA) and its latest report (2007), detailing the background and operation of the scheme and providing information on payments made in 2008 in respect of 2007 is available at:
http://www.finance.gov.ie/documents/publications/reports/2008/cpareport07final.pdf. No payments have been made to eligible officers in my Department in respect of performance in 2008 and 2009.
In addition an Exceptional Performance Award scheme is open to staff at Principal Officer level and below. No exceptional performance awards were made in 2008 and the scheme is currently under review.
Health Service Staff.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:325 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the provision being made for non-nursing staff at Heatherside Hospital, Buttevant, County Cork following the planned relocation of the care facility; the number who will be redeployed; the number who will be made redundant; the redundancy payment arrangements which will be made; if she has discussed with the Health Service Executive the reason for the relocation of the facility in view of the fact that there was substantial expenditure in 2008 for refurbishment of the building; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4846/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
Health Services.
Billy Timmins
Ceist:326 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the situation with respect to the application for domiciliary care allowance for persons (details supplied) in County Wicklow. [4854/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:327 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [4864/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Foreign Adoptions.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:328 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [4866/09]
The Adoption Bill, 2009, which will give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Intercountry Adoption, was published on Friday 23 January, 2009. Under the new legislation, prospective adoptive parents will be able to adopt from countries which have also ratified the Hague Convention, and countries with which Ireland has a bilateral agreement which meets Hague standards.
My Office is currently working on drafting a bilateral agreement with Vietnam and is also examining the possibility of negotiating bilateral agreements with the Russian Federation and Ethiopia. As regards the Russian Federation, there have been informal discussions through normal diplomatic channels regarding a bilateral agreement. My Office is also undertaking preparatory work to consider the contents of such an agreement, including anticipating the likely requirements of the Russian Federation.
While every effort will be made to conclude a bilateral agreement in advance of any of the proposed changes in Irish law taking effect, it must be acknowledged that these matters will be determined to a considerable degree by the Government of the Russian Federation.
Hospital Accommodation.
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:329 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of long-stay beds currently being used in a hospital (details supplied) in County Limerick, the number of other beds including rehabilitation and respite; her plans to increase or decrease these numbers; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4922/09]
During 2008, six additional beds opened in the hospital referred to by the Deputy under the Fast-Track Initiative. However, as the overall operation and capacity of the hospital is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
Travel Trade Regulation.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:330 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Transport the way he is responding to the submission from an association (details supplied) outlining their four major concerns for the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4189/09]
Tom Hayes
Ceist:333 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Transport his views on the recent submission from an association (details supplied) to the Commission for Civil Aviation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4362/09]
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:335 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport his views on the recent submission from an association (details supplied) to the Commission for Civil Aviation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4340/09]
James Bannon
Ceist:342 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Transport when he plans to implement the required reform of travel trade regulations to overhaul travel trade regulation and to enhance protection of the travelling consumer by introducing a system of universal protection for the travelling public, reform of the bonding requirements on agents, cutting red-tape and administrative burdens and taking a harder line on illegal trading; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4800/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 330, 333, 335 and 342 together.
Statutory responsibility for regulation of the travel trade rests with the Commission for Aviation Regulation. I have no function in this regard.
However, as the existing legislative framework for the regulation of the travel trade has been in existence since 1982 in May last year I asked the Commission to undertake a comprehensive review of the travel trade legislation. The purpose of the review was to assess the operation of the current regulatory arrangements and to recommend any reforms that may be warranted.
Following an extensive consultation process, the Commission submitted a report to me on 30 December 2008 which I have published on my Department's website www.transport.ie.
I am currently examining the Commission's findings and recommendations and I will also consult with my colleague, the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment, on the report's findings in the context of consumer protection policy generally. I will also be meeting the Irish Travel Agents Association tomorrow where there will be a discussion on regulatory reform of the Travel Trade.
Regional Harbours.
Michael Ring
Ceist:331 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport the number of boards (details supplied) throughout the country which have been transferred to a local authority in tabular form; the boards in question; and the local authority to which it has been transferred if it has been transferred. [4280/09]
The following regional harbours have been transferred to local authority control as detailed on the following table:
|
From: |
TO: |
|
|
Regional Harbour Board |
Local Authority |
Year |
|
Buncrana |
Donegal County Council |
1999 |
|
Ballyshannon |
Donegal County Council |
1999 |
|
Balbriggan |
Fingal County Council |
2004 |
|
Skerries |
Fingal County Council |
2004 |
|
Sligo |
Sligo County Council |
2006 |
|
Annagassan |
Louth County Council |
2006 |
|
River Moy |
Mayo County Council |
2008 |
|
Youghal |
Youghal Town Council |
2009 |
|
Kilrush |
Kilrush Town Council |
2009 |
In addition, Dingle was designated a Fisheries Harbour in 2007. The harbour boards cease to exist upon transfer.
Michael Ring
Ceist:332 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport if a board (details supplied) in County Mayo has been transferred to a local authority. [4282/09]
The process is at an advanced stage for the transfer of Westport Harbour to Mayo County Council.
Question No. 333 answered with Question No. 330.
Coast Guard Stations.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:334 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Transport when construction work will commence on a new marine station for the Doolin unit of the Coastguard, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4525/09]
The Office of Public Works have advised my Department that they are in the process of purchasing a suitable site close to Doolin Pier for a Coast Guard Station House. Survey work in connection with this process is underway.
Subject to the successful conclusion of this process by OPW and in consultation with the Coast Guard, OPW architectural staff will produce plans for the Station House taking account of operational and planning requirements prior to submission of a planning application to Clare County Council.
Question No. 335 answered with Question No. 330.
Road Network.
James Bannon
Ceist:336 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Transport when the preferred selected route of the new Mullingar to Longford motorway will be decided on; if there will be further public consultation, following the selection of the emerging preferred route, to minimise the impact on land owners and local people; when the project will be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4373/09]
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 local authorities concerned.
Industrial Relations.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:337 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Transport the position of his Department in relation to the transfer of 2,000 employees in 1990 from Aer Lingus to TEAM Aer Lingus resulting in a breach of an ICTU agreement and which was held by the Supreme Court in 2005 to be in breach of an irrevocable guarantee of employment for those employees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4464/09]
The arrangements agreed between Aer Lingus and those workers who were transferred to TEAM Aer Lingus in 1990 are a matter for the company. I have no function in the matter.
Planning Issues.
Emmet Stagg
Ceist:338 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Transport if he has received correspondence from local residents in relation to concerns over the ownership, operation of, and exemptions from planning permission of a tower (details supplied) in County Mayo; and when he will direct that an official from the Irish Aviation Authority meet with local residents to hear and address their concerns. [4527/09]
My Department has no record of receiving any such correspondence.
I am advised by the Irish Aviation Authority that the Authority has a radar station on Dooncarton Mountain, Glengad, Co Mayo. This is one of a number of such radar stations around the country. It was built in the mid 1990s in accordance with planning permission granted by Mayo County Council.
I am further advised by the Authority that it understands that a planning application has recently been lodged with Mayo County Council by another party on a site adjacent to the radar station. I am advised that this site and proposed lattice tower development is not associated in any way with the Authority.
Park and Ride Facilities.
Mary Upton
Ceist:339 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Transport if funding was provided to a local authority (details supplied) to construct park and ride facilities; the amount of funding provided to this local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4667/09]
My Department has funding available for park and ride proposals for Local Authorities in the Greater Dublin Area. I have no current proposals for funding of any park and ride facilities from Dublin City Council.
Rural Transport Programme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:340 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Transport the funding allocated to Flexibus in an area (details supplied) under the rural transport programme in 2007 and 2008; the funding allocated in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4716/09]
Mary Upton
Ceist:341 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide a commitment to prioritising funding for Flexibus and other rural transport initiatives in view of their positive contribution to the lives of many people living in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4717/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 340 and 341 together.
Pobal administers the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) on behalf of my Department and is working with 37 individual rural transport groups around the country, including Flexibus, to expand it on a phased basis in response to local public transport service needs and having regard to the availability of resources.
Euro 10 million was allocated for the RTP in 2008, up from Euro 9 million in 2007. Euro 11 million has been allocated for the Programme in 2009.
Pobal makes specific funding allocations to the individual RTP groups from funding provided by my Department. Neither I nor my Department have any role in relation to the day to day management of the Programme including allocating funds to particular groups or for services.
I understand from Pobal that Flexibus received funding of Euro 299,164 in 2007 and Euro 327,765 in 2008. The allocation for 2009 will be in the region of Euro 350,000.
Question No. 342 answered with Question No. 330.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:343 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4822/09]
The information requested by the Deputy is being compiled and will be forwarded as soon as possible.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:344 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4837/09]
The scheme for performance-related awards in the Civil Service applies to Deputy and Assistant Secretaries and equivalent grades. The total amount paid under this scheme to Officers in my Department for 2008 (in respect of 2007) was €63,500. No specific amount has been set aside for bonus payments in 2009.
Details of the operation of the scheme for performance-related awards in the Civil Service, the numbers covered by the scheme and the total amounts paid in Departments, are available in the annual reports of the Committee for Performance Awards which can be accessed on the website of the Department of Finance www.finance.gov.ie. In approving awards the Committee consider the recommendations made by the Secretaries General (or equivalent posts).
Road Network.
Damien English
Ceist:345 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Transport the average cost in 2008 to the State of road resurfacing works per kilometre of surface dressing and of restoration improvement. [4842/09]
Information available in my Department on the cost per kilometer of works on regional and local roads is in respect of the State funded road restoration programme. Works funded under that programme fall into two categories, i.e. road pavement improvements and surface dressing. The average cost per kilometer for works under those two categories in 2008 is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
Average Cost per km of Surface Dressing |
Average Cost per km of Restoration Improvement |
|
2008 |
€19,813 |
€84,767 |
Prison Building Programme.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:346 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will provide updated costings on Parliamentary Question No. 384 of 24 June 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4254/09]
As part of my review of submissions received in relation to the Environmental Impact Assessment, I acceded to requests to further screen the boundary wall for residents directly on the boundary. As part of this I have instructed that further landscaping be undertaken including the planting of mature trees. The process of determining the exact numbers to be planted and the cost involved has not yet been completed.
Citizenship Applications.
Michael D'Arcy
Ceist:347 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Wexford can expect to have their application for naturalisation processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4265/09]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in July 2007. Officials in that section inform me that the application is at an advanced stage of processing and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in due course.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:348 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of the citizenship application of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12. [4323/09]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in December, 2008. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 23 months. The Citizenship Division is currently commencing further processing of applications received in mid 2007. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average while an element of straight forward cases are now being dealt with in less than that time scale.
There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.
Bernard Allen
Ceist:349 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on the application for naturalisation by a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [4398/09]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department in March 2006.
Officials in that section inform me that the application is at an advanced stage of processing and the file will be forwarded to me for a decision in due course.
Garda Deployment.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:350 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [4412/09]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the area referred to is in the Coolock Sub-District. The area is subject to regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes units, including the Community Policing Unit. Patrols are supplemented by the Divisional Task Force and Divisional Traffic Units. The Community Policing Unit has lead responsibility for policing in this area and has evolved a partnership approach to problem solving with the community. Members of the Unit maintain contact with the residents of the area concerned and address their concerns.
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.
Garda Operations.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:351 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [4413/09]
A search of the records in my Department and in the Garda Síochána has failed to locate any reference to a case under the Garda Síochána (Compensation) Acts, 1941 to 1945, relating to the person concerned. The records show that solicitors acting on behalf of the person were provided with a similar response in 2002. If the Deputy can provide any additional details the matter can be checked further.
Prison Accommodation.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:352 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the weekly average cost of keeping a person in prison. [4424/09]
Currently the average annual cost of keeping a person in custody is calculated by the Irish Prison Service by dividing the annual running costs of the Irish Prison Service by the average daily number of offenders incarcerated during the year. These costs include certain items which are fixed regardless of the number of offenders in custody, e.g. staffing numbers, utilities and maintenance costs. In general, capital expenditure is excluded from the calculation in the interests of facilitating comparison between individual institutions. However, certain building projects under the heading ‘small works and environmental projects' are included.
On that basis the latest available figure of €97,700 relates to the average cost of keeping a prisoner in custody during the calendar year 2007. Using this figure, the weekly average cost of keeping a person in prison during 2007 is approximately €1,875.
Prison Committals.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:353 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons committed to prison for non-payment of fines for each of the years 2004 to 2008. [4425/09]
The number of persons committed to prison custody as a consequence of the non-payment of a court ordered fine during the years 2004 to 2007 is set out in the following table. It has not been possible to retrieve the required statistical information for 2008 in the timeframe available. This will be forwarded to the Deputy in due course.
|
Year |
Number of Persons |
|
2004 |
1,599 |
|
2005 |
1,798 |
|
2006 |
1,089 |
|
2007 |
1,335 |
I can advise the Deputy that the number of such persons held in custody at any one time is a tiny fraction of the overall prisoner population. To illustrate this point, figures relating to 9 February, 2009 indicate that approximately 0.62 percent of the numbers in prison custody fell into this category.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:354 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons committed to prison for non-payment of debts for each of the years 2004 to 2008. [4426/09]
Statistics on the number of committals to prison custody as a result of failure to comply with a court order in relation to the non-payment of a civil debt are set out in the following table. The table covers the years from 2004 to 2008.
|
Year |
Number of Persons |
|
2004 |
200 |
|
2005 |
223 |
|
2006 |
194 |
|
2007 |
201 |
|
2008 |
276 |
I can advise the Deputy that the number of such persons held in custody at any one time is a tiny fraction of the overall prisoner population. To illustrate this point, figures relating to 9 February, 2009 indicate that less than 0.4 percent of the numbers in prison custody fell into this category. Imprisonment for non-payment of debt was abolished by the Debtors (Ireland) Act 1872. However, refusal to pay a contractual debt may amount to civil contempt of court, for which imprisonment may be imposed.
Departmental Expenditure.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:355 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the situation that has developed at an organisation (details supplied) in which staff remain unpaid for the past three weeks; if, in view of the recent resignation of the CEO, immediate arrangements will be put in place to regularise matters and pay moneys due to staff for work done and services rendered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4463/09]
I am glad to say that, following consultations with my Department, the organisation is putting in place new and necessary structures that enable it to meet its liabilities and to support disability groups through its networks. The liabilities include pay. Under the new arrangements an officer of my Department is, at the request of the Board of the organisation, the acting Chief Executive.
Garda Operations.
Joe Costello
Ceist:356 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the budgetary provisions for the tackling of drugs and crime by the Garda, the national drugs strategy, the local drugs task forces and the community projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4477/09]
The Garda National Drugs Unit is the primary unit within An Garda Síochána charged with responsibility for drug supply law enforcement. I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of the Garda National Drugs Unit on 31 December 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 60.
Since the publication of the Government's National Drugs Strategy 2001-2008, Garda resources 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. The total strength of the Divisional Drug Units as at the same date above was 341.
Both the Garda National Drugs Unit and the Divisional units are also supported in their work by officers from other national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Criminal Assets Bureau and the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation. Furthermore, all Gardaí have responsibility, inter alia, to deal with drug related issues as and when they arise.
I am further informed by the Garda authorities that the total running cost of the Garda National Drugs Unit (GNDU) in 2008 was approximately €5.3m. In addition, the resources used by the Divisional Drugs Units, Divisional Task Force Units and Community Policing Units towards fighting drug crime around the country are estimated at approximately €25m per annum. The overall Garda budget for this year is €1.589 billion. Priority will continue to be given to frontline policing including targeting resources at serious and organised crime including drug trafficking.
In relation to the budgetary provisions for the National Drugs Strategy, the local drugs task forces and the community projects which they support, as the Deputy will appreciate, that is a matter which comes under the remit of the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
Visa Applications.
Seán Ó Fearghaíl
Ceist:357 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a visa application in respect of a person (details supplied); if he will allow the family in question to be re-united here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4493/09]
The visa application referred to by the Deputy was received in the Visa Office, Dublin on 5 January 2009. Following consideration by a Visa Officer it was refused on 2 February 2009 for a number of reasons: the evidence of finances submitted was deemed insufficient; the immigration history of the applicant; there were inconsistencies with regard to the application in that there were contradictions in the information supplied.
The decision of the Visa Officer may be appealed within two months of the date of decision, in this case before 2 April 2009. Guidelines on making an appeal can be found on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie).
Garda Recruitment.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:358 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the legitimacy of having an upper age limit of 35 years for entry into An Garda Síochána in terms of equality and non-discrimination; and his proposals to review the issue. [4501/09]
The Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments)(Amendment) Regulations 2004 (SI No 749 of 2004) set the maximum age for recruitment to An Garda Síochána for all applicants, irrespective of service elsewhere, at 35 years. This maximum age was recommended by the Garda Commissioner taking all relevant factors into account, including the training and operational requirements of the Force and applicable legislation. There are currently no proposals to increase the age limit.
Departmental Expenditure.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:359 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost to the State of providing security against possible incursions by anti-war activists and the protection of US military equipment and personnel at Shannon airport in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008. [4514/09]
The information sought in the Deputy's Question is being collated at present. I will revert to the Deputy with the details when they are completed.
Garda Deployment.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:360 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí in the Clare division at the end of 2006, 2007 and 2008; and the number of gardaí employed at each station in the division at the end of 2006, 2007 and 2008. [4515/09]
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of each Garda Station in the Clare Garda Division on 31 December 2006 to 2008 was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
Station |
31/12/06 |
31/12/07 |
31/12/08 |
|
Ennis |
95 |
118 |
132 |
|
Crusheen |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Lissycasey |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Newmarket on Fergus |
3 |
4 |
4 |
|
Quin |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Shannon |
94 |
64 |
66 |
|
Immigration Office |
8 |
7 |
6 |
|
Sixmilebridge |
4 |
3 |
4 |
|
Kilrush |
27 |
28 |
29 |
|
Carrigaholt |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Doonbeg |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Kilmihil |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Labasheeda |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Kildysart |
3 |
2 |
3 |
|
Kilkee |
3 |
3 |
2 |
|
Killaloe |
25 |
30 |
33 |
|
Broadford |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Newport |
5 |
6 |
6 |
|
Scariff |
6 |
6 |
5 |
|
Mountshannon |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Tulla |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Rearcross |
1 |
1 |
- |
|
Ennistymon |
22 |
21 |
24 |
|
Ballyvaughan |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Corofin |
1 |
1 |
2 |
|
Inagh |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Lahinch |
3 |
2 |
3 |
|
Lisdoonvarna |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Miltown Malbay |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Total |
318 |
314 |
337 |
The Deputy will appreciate that, as with any large organisation, on any given day, the personnel strengths of individual Divisions, Districts and Stations may fluctuate due, for example, to promotions, retirements and transfers.
It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel throughout the Force taking all relevant factors into account. In that regard, the needs of the Garda Division referred to by the Deputy will be fully considered by the Commissioner within the overall context of the needs of Garda Divisions throughout the country.
Drug Seizures.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:361 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of drug seizures in Clare in 2006, 2007 and 2008; the quantity of drugs seized in each year and the quantity of each type of drug; and the number employed in the Clare division’s drug unit in 2006, 2007 and 2008. [4516/09]
In the time available it has not been possible to compile the detailed statistics requested. I will communicate further with the Deputy when the information sought is to hand.
Garda Deployment.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:362 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí currently deployed to Maynooth Garda Station, County Kildare; the extent to which numbers have fluctuated in the past twelve months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4529/09]
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of Maynooth Garda Station on 31 January 2008 to 31 December 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the following table:
|
Month |
Strength |
|
January |
16 |
|
February |
16 |
|
March |
16 |
|
April |
17 |
|
May |
17 |
|
June |
17 |
|
July |
18 |
|
August |
18 |
|
September |
18 |
|
October |
18 |
|
November |
18 |
|
December |
16 |
As with any organisation, on any given day, the strength of Maynooth Garda Station may fluctuate due, for example, to retirements, resignations etc. It is the responsibility of the Garda Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his or her Division taking everything into account. The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Maynooth Garda Station will be fully considered within the overall context of policing requirements throughout the country.
Residency Permits.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:363 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare was awarded stamp four status; the time, date and basis for its subsequent renewal; the reason for the delay in the current renewal requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4530/09]
I refer to my reply to Parliamentary Question 148 of 5 February 2009. The person to whom the Deputy refers was granted permission to remain in the State in November of 2004.
I am informed that this permission was subsequently renewed on 7 December 2007 and expired on 7 December 2008. I am also informed that the person concerned subsequently presented at his local Garda Station for further renewal of this permission on 2 February 2009. It was noted that the person's mother had been granted naturalisation, and the person in question was advised to write to my Department regarding this change in his circumstances. This remains the position.
Garda Deployment.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:364 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his Department has proposals to have a full time garda presence in a town (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if his attention has been drawn to the population increase of the town. [4574/09]
Noel Coonan
Ceist:365 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the current hours of garda presence in a town (details supplied) in County Tipperary; the station that covers the town in case of emergency in the event of no garda presence; the length of time it takes for a call out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4576/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 364 and 365 together.
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the personnel strength of Newport Garda Station on 31 December 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was 6. At that date, Newport Garda Station formed part of Killaloe Garda District in Clare Garda Division. However, since 1 January 2009 Newport Garda Station forms part of Nenagh Garda District in Tipperary Garda Division.
Newport Garda Station is open to the public from 10am to 12.30pm Monday to Friday depending on the rostered tour of duty of members attached to the station and patrols are normally carried out by personnel from that Garda Station. Outside of these times, or in the event of an emergency, members of An Garda Síochána from the District Headquarters in Nenagh carry out patrols in the area referred to and provide an incident response. Additional resources are also available from other units in the Tipperary Division and adjacent Districts and Divisions.
It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel throughout the Force taking everything into account. The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the needs of Newport Garda Station will be fully considered within the overall context of policing requirements throughout the country.
Legislative Programme.
Terence Flanagan
Ceist:366 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, further to Parliamentary Question No. 272 of 3 February 2009, if he will respond to queries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4651/09]
The principal focus of the Bill on multi-unit developments will be on ensuring good governance of property management companies and similar bodies which comprise the owners of individual units within multi-unit developments and which exercise management functions in relation to such developments. It is also intended to include provisions for the resolution of disputes arising in relation to such matters. Responsibilities for various aspects of reform in this area extend principally to my Department, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
Courts Service.
Mary Upton
Ceist:367 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if plans are in place to extend the Drug Treatment Courts to Dublin City and specifically the Dublin 8 area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4668/09]
The Drug Treatment Court, which originally operated on a pilot basis in the North inner city of Dublin, has been placed on a permanent footing and extended to the Dublin 7 area. The Court uses a multi-disciplinary approach and involves a range of Government Departments and agencies charged with dealing with various aspects of the problem of drug misuse. The Court operates with the assistance of a team which includes a probation and welfare officer, an addiction nurse, a Garda liaison officer, an education/training representative and counsellors.
My Department is currently examining the operation of the Court having regard to the Exchequer position and officials are looking at best practice elsewhere to see how the Court's throughput levels might be increased. It is intended to conclude this examination as soon as possible.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:368 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4819/09]
The information sought by the Deputy is being compiled and will be forwarded to him shortly.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:369 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4834/09]
I assume that the Deputy is referring to performance-related awards schemes for civil servants, which fall into two categories.
The first is a high level awards scheme in respect of senior civil servants at Assistant Secretary, Deputy Secretary and equivalent grades. The funding of awards under this scheme was based on 10% of the payroll of the posts covered by the scheme and, within this overall limit, payments of up to 20% could be made to individuals. However, no payments were made under this scheme in respect of 2008 and, on 5 February last, the Minister for Finance announced that the Government has decided to abolish these bonuses subject to discussions on the implementation of the decision with the relevant staff association.
A separate awards scheme has been in place for grades below the level of Assistant Secretary. The total amount available under this scheme is limited to 0.2% of the Department's payroll from sanctioned subheads. However, this scheme was effectively suspended in my Department in 2008, in respect of which awards totalling €8,300 were made out of a potential total of €168,000. No amounts have been set aside in my Department for the payment of awards under either scheme in 2009.
Garda Deployment.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:370 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community police officers in Tallaght Garda Station, Dublin, in 2009 and in each year over the past three years. [4851/09]
I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that the number of Community Gardaí attached to Tallaght Garda Station on 31 December 2005 to 2008, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the table below:
|
Year |
Strength |
|
2005 |
20 |
|
2006 |
22 |
|
2007 |
24 |
|
2008 |
27 |
All Gardaí have responsibility, inter alia, to be involved in Community Policing issues as and when they arise. It is the responsibility of the Garda Commissioner to allocate personnel throughout the Force taking everything into account. The situation will be kept under review and when additional personnel next become available the allocation of Community Gardaí will be fully considered within the overall context of policing requirements throughout the country.
Emigrant Support Services.
Michael Ring
Ceist:371 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the plans he has to hold talks with the new American Administration regarding the undocumented Irish in America. [4235/09]
The Government is strongly committed to trying to resolve the plight of the undocumented Irish in the United States.
President Obama, Secretary of State Clinton and other senior members of the new Administration have for some time been strong supporters of comprehensive immigration reform. Since the new year, there have also been helpful public indications that Senate Majority Leader, Senator Harry Reid, and Senator John McCain intend to support action in this area. However, as the Deputy will appreciate, the issue remains politically divisive in the US Congress and making progress will be challenging.
The members of the new Administration and Congress are currently taking up office in Washington, and the Government is in the process of establishing substantive contact with them. In doing so, we are building on the extensive work on behalf of the undocumented that the Government has carried out over recent years with many of those now within the Administration. The Taoiseach, I and other members of Government will use the unique opportunity afforded by the St. Patrick's Day celebrations in the US to engage the new Administration at the very highest level on the situation of the undocumented.
Our Ambassador in Washington will continue to attach the highest priority to this issue in his ongoing contacts with the Obama Administration. More broadly, the Government is actively seeking to reform our overall migration arrangements with the United States. In addition to our work on behalf of the undocumented, the Government recently concluded a new Working Holiday Agreement with the United States and is working to secure the passage of legislation which would enable Irish citizens to avail of the E3 working visa currently open to Australians.
Human Rights Issues.
Mary Upton
Ceist:372 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the status of the situation in Tibet at present; his views on the fact that Tibetan citizens may continue to be oppressed by the state; the action, he and the European Union have taken on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4271/09]
I remain deeply concerned by the situation in Tibet. Reports in recent weeks suggest that the Chinese authorities have been engaged in a new security operation in the capital, Lhasa. Some reports indicate that checks on almost 6,000 people have taken place and that around 80 to date have been detained. At the same time, issues relating to the preservation of the religious and cultural identity of Tibetans, the treatment of demonstrators arrested during protests in March 2008 and the wider human rights situation in Tibet remain of concern.
The Government continues to convey its concerns about the situation in Tibet directly to the Chinese authorities in our regular contacts with them in Dublin and Beijing and in the context of regular bilateral discussions on human rights issues. Through these contacts, we continue to underline the importance Ireland attaches to the development of a meaningful dialogue between the Chinese authorities and the Dalai Lama, so that all issues of concern can be fully addressed. We also strongly support, and engage actively in, EU action in relation to Tibet.
I continue to believe that dialogue between the Chinese Government and the Dalai Lama or his representatives remains the most effective way to achieve the protection of Tibetan culture, identity, religion and human rights, and a greater measure of autonomy for Tibet within China. I am pleased that Tibetans in exile meeting in Dharmasala last November endorsed the principles of autonomy over all-out independence and non-violence over physical confrontation, in the pursuit of their agenda for Tibet. This is very much in line with the course that the Dalai Lama has proposed.
However, the current pace and substance of the dialogue between the Dalai Lama and China has been unsatisfactory to date. I call on the Chinese government to re-engage in an accelerated and upgraded dialogue process with the Dalai Lama and his representatives and have consistently stressed this view in our dialogue with the Chinese Government. I would be firmly of the view that positive developments in this dialogue will benefit not only the Tibetan people, but also China itself. It will also serve to curb increasing militancy and demands for secession, particularly from among young Tibetans. These demands diverge from the moderate views of the Dalai Lama, and could be both dangerous and counter-productive, particularly in the course of this emotive year, which marks the fiftieth anniversary of the departure of the Dalai Lama from Tibet in 1949.
At EU level, the situation in Tibet is regularly raised in the context of the EU-Human Rights dialogue, to which Ireland contributes. The most recent dialogue took place in Beijing on 28 November 2008 and the situation in Tibet was among the issues discussed. The Government will continue to monitor carefully the situation in Tibet and it will remain high on the agenda in our contacts with China.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:373 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has signed the agreement which will allow Belarussian children to continue travelling here for humanitarian respite breaks. [4293/09]
The issue raised by the Deputy is of great importance to me personally and to the large number of host families and organisations who have organised annual visits to Ireland by children from Belarus for over 18 years.
My Department became aware of possible restrictions on the children's travel in late August 2008. I met with Adi Roche of Chernobyl Children's Project International on 8 September to review the situation, and also asked the Chargé d'Affaires of the Belarusian Embassy in London to visit Dublin later that week to open discussions on an agreement to provide a framework for visits by Chernobyl children. Intensive discussions with Belarus, at both Ministerial and official level followed.
On 8 December 2008, our Ambassador to Belarus, who is based in Moscow, led a delegation comprising officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs and the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, to Minsk where they successfully concluded negotiations on a bilateral Agreement on the conditions of rest and recuperation of children from the Republic of Belarus in Ireland.
The text of the Agreement was initialled by both parties, and it was agreed that the official signing ceremony would take place as soon as a Presidential Decree issued which would exempt Ireland from the provisions of an earlier Decree relating to future international travel by Belarusian minors. A Protocol to the Agreement was also signed on 8 December, which confirmed that children would be allowed to travel over the Christmas period. I was especially pleased that these visits were able to go ahead, as this was an issue that I had pressed strongly in my contacts with Belarusian Foreign Minister Martynov. I have been gratified by the extremely positive response from the various charities that organised visits to Ireland at that time.
Following contact from the Belarus authorities before Christmas, it was expected that the Agreement would be signed on 30 January 2009 in Minsk. However, my Department was informed last week that a Presidential Decree, which is required to be signed in advance of the signing of the Agreement, has yet to issue. For this reason, it did not prove possible to proceed with signature, and it has now been postponed. The Belarusian side also sought some textual changes to the Agreement, and these are being examined at present.
My Department is maintaining regular contact with the Belarusian authorities, and we are prepared to sign the Agreement at the earliest opportunity. It is my intention to have the Agreement signed as soon as possible after the required Presidential Decree issues and well in advance of the next round of scheduled visits to Ireland by Chernobyl children next summer. I stand ready to intervene personally, if necessary, to finalise this matter.
Foreign Conflicts.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:374 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will develop the peace process in Colombia and encourage inclusive negotiations following recent positive events. [4347/09]
The events of the past week, which saw the release of six hostages, including the last politicians to be held by the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC), are very welcome.
The Government of Colombia has repeatedly stated its commitment to bringing to an end to all terrorism in Colombia within the framework of the Justice and Peace Law. This Law, passed in 2005, provides an overall legal framework for the demobilisation, disarmament and reintegration of illegal armed groups into Colombian society. The Justice and Peace Law, which was adopted through a lengthy democratic political process, strikes a difficult balance between peace and justice.
The process of peace negotiations between the Colombian Government and the right-wing paramilitary group, Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia (AUC) began in 2003, with between 30,000 and 40,000 combatants demobilised by the completion of the process in 2007. Negotiations between the major left-wing guerrilla group, the Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC), and the Government have not yet commenced.
The EU has expressed its total solidarity with the Colombian people, its full support for the Colombian Government in its search for a negotiated solution to the internal armed conflict and underlined the importance the EU attaches to the ongoing implementation of the Justice and Peace Law. The EU has further expressed its hope that progress would be made in taking forward negotiations in order to reach a humanitarian agreement, to secure the release of all hostages, to end the armed conflict and to bring lasting peace to Colombia. In the same spirit, the EU has stated that all initiatives taken with the Colombian Government's support with the objective of promoting a successful peace process are welcome.
The Government will continue to monitor the situation in Colombia through our Embassy in Mexico City, which is accredited to Colombia, as well as in cooperation with our EU partners with resident diplomatic missions in that country. We are fully supportive of efforts to bring a peaceful resolution to the conflict in Colombia, and will continue to support the Government of Colombia in its search for a negotiated solution to the internal armed conflict, including through direct engagement. We very much welcome the mediation of third parties in the pursuit of a solution to the conflict, where such efforts have the support of the Colombian Government.
In conjunction with our EU partners, the Irish government will continue to examine how we may, as appropriate, contribute to the peace process in Colombia.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:375 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will work for an end to the slaughter of civilians in Sri Lanka. [4348/09]
Jan O'Sullivan
Ceist:385 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the action he is taking to put pressure within the international community to end the killing of Tamil people in Sri Lanka; the efforts being made to bring an end to the violence, to bring about a peaceful settlement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4898/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 375 and 385 together.
I am deeply concerned by the escalation in fighting which has taken place in recent months in the northern part of Sri Lanka and by the terrible effects this is having on the local population, including thousands of internally displaced persons. I am particularly shocked by reports of the repeated shelling last week of the PTK hospital, which has resulted in the deaths of 12 people. While I would wish to see an end to all fighting, I appeal in particular to both the Government of Sri Lanka and the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) not to fire out of, or into the no-fire zone established by the Government or in the vicinity of this or any other hospital.
The parties must also allow food and medical assistance to reach those trapped by the fighting. There must be full cooperation with the International Committee of the Red Cross so as to facilitate the evacuation of urgent medical cases and to ensure the safety of aid and medical workers. Both the LTTE and the Government of Sri Lanka must respect international humanitarian law. Both must recognise that further loss of life — of civilians and combatants — serves no cause.
Bilaterally, and with our EU partners, Ireland has consistently sought to impress on both sides the importance of engaging in meaningful peace talks and stopping all violence and human rights violations. We deeply regret the termination of the 2002 Ceasefire Agreement between the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE last year. We continue to take the firm view that there can be no lasting military solution to Sri Lanka's political difficulties.
As one of the four co-chairs of the 2003 Tokyo Conference on the Reconstruction and Development of Sri Lanka, the EU has been anxious to maintain an active role in assisting the country to resolve its internal conflicts, work on national reconciliation and move forward on the development agenda. I fully support the terms of a statement made by the Tokyo Co-Chairs in Colombo on 3 February which calls on the Government of Sri Lanka and the LTTE to declare a temporary cease-fire to allow for the evacuation of the sick and wounded and for the provision of aid to civilians. I support also the call by the Co-Chairs on the LTTE to discuss with the Government of Sri Lanka the modalities for ending hostilities, including the laying down of arms, the renunciation of violence, the acceptance of the Government of Sri Lanka's offer of amnesty; and for its participation as a political party in a process to achieve a just and lasting political solution.
I will continue to make clear the Government's very deep concerns about the situation in Sri Lanka. We will seek compliance by all parties with international humanitarian law and urge the resumption without delay of an inclusive political process. Such a process should address the legitimate concerns and interests of both the main communities on the island. Should the relevant parties seek our advice in relation to a negotiated peace process, we would give consideration as to how we could best help.
Ireland will continue to support the efforts of the Co-Chairs, working in concert with the UN and the EU, to address the political and humanitarian situation in Sri Lanka. We hope that an EU Troika visit to Sri Lanka at Ministerial level will take place shortly. Since 2005, the Government has provided, through Irish Aid, more than €5.3 million for humanitarian and development activities in Sri Lanka, including significant emergency assistance provided in the aftermath of the tsunami in 2004. In addition, over US$12 million was allocated from the UN's Central Emergency Response Fund to Sri Lanka during 2008. Ireland is currently the seventh largest donor to this Fund.
Irish Aid recently provided €7 million in unearmarked funding to the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), one of the key organisations at the centre of the response to the current humanitarian crisis in the north of Sri Lanka.
Overseas Development Aid.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:376 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if there are plans to cut funding to the overseas aid package for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4353/09]
Most of Ireland's expenditure on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) is provided under Vote 29, International Co-operation. The programme is administered by the Development Co-operation Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs, also known as Irish Aid. Further contributions to ODA are made by other Government Departments and through Ireland's allocation to the EU Development Cooperation Budget.
Ireland is the sixth most generous aid donor internationally in per capita terms. The Government's development programme is central to our foreign policy. In 2009, as in previous years, Ireland will have one of the strongest aid programmes in the world, with a particular focus on the poorest people in the least developed countries in Africa. We are taking a leadership role internationally on the global hunger crisis, and the aid programme will continue to reflect this priority in 2009 and beyond.
Last October, under the Budget for 2009, the Government allocated a total of €891 million for ODA. Of this, €754 million was provided under Vote 29 with a further €137 million being contributed by other Government Departments and through the EU Development Cooperation Budget.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government last week took the difficult decision to reduce the total ODA budget for 2009 to €796 million. The decision was taken as part of the determined effort to curb public expenditure in order to establish a platform for the resumption of strong economic growth, and further expansion of the Government's development programme in years to come.
Visa Applications.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:377 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support the case of a person (details supplied). [4408/09]
As noted in my response to the Deputy's previous question about a visa for this individual (PQ 1008/09) I am not in a position to support individual visa applications.
It is the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform rather than my own Department which has primary responsibility for visa and immigration policy and, in particular, for making decisions on individual visa applications where there is a previous history of an asylum application or deportation as would appear to be the case in this instance.
Overseas Development Aid.
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:378 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of funds allocated through Irish Aid for the provision of family planning, reproductive health services and commodities in the years 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4697/09]
Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin
Ceist:379 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the steps he has taken to achieve the new 2005 Millennium Development Goal target 5b of universal access to reproductive health care; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4698/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 378 and 379 together.
Universal access to reproductive health is one of the goals of the Programme of Action agreed at the International Conference on Population and Development in Cairo in 1994. In addition, the fifth Millennium Development Goal is to (a) reduce by three-quarters the maternal mortality ratio and (b) achieve universal access to reproductive health, by 2015. The Government is committed to action in support of this goal, which is also important in tackling HIV and AIDS.
The Government's 2006 White Paper on Irish Aid outlines our commitment to supporting the specific health needs of women within our overall approach to health in developing countries. It makes clear that addressing women's health needs, particularly in the areas of basic healthcare and maternal and reproductive health, must lie at the heart of an effective overall response to improving health in developing countries.
Unfortunately, only limited progress has been made on this issue since the Cairo Conference in 1994. Every year, some 500,000 women die and a further 10 million suffer from severe illnesses or disabilities as a result of complications in pregnancy and childbirth. Underlying this tragedy is the lack of access by women in developing countries to good quality maternal and reproductive health, including family planning.
The Government, through Irish Aid, works with several partner agencies in the UN system to address maternal health issues. One of the main obstacles to the achievement of universal access to reproductive health is the lack of empowerment of women in developing countries. The issues involved form the core mandate of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), with which Irish Aid has a close relationship.
In recognition of its important mandate, the Government has contributed substantially to the core funding of UNFPA in recent years — €2.9 million in 2005, €3.1 million in 2006, €4.5 million in 2007 and €4.5 million in 2008. In 2006 the Government also contributed €0.5 million to the UNFPA Trust Fund for Global Reproductive Health Commodities Security, with further contributions of €1 million in 2007 and €1 million in 2008. In 2007, we also contributed €2 million to the UNFPA Trust Fund on Maternal Health, €0.5 million to the Fistula Thematic Trust Fund and €0.5 million to a joint UNFPA and UNICEF project on Female Genital Mutilation. In total, over the three years 2005-2008, Ireland has contributed €20.5 million to UNFPA.
In recognition of the importance of its work on gender, reproductive health, maternal mortality and HIV and AIDS, Ireland is one of five international donors to have signed a multi-annual framework agreement with UNFPA to recognise shared objectives and ensure predictable funding for the years 2008-2011.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:380 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4817/09]
The Department of Foreign Affairs is responsible for two Votes — Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and Vote 29 (International Cooperation). The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following tables for both Votes.
I am very conscious of the need to achieve value for money on such expenditure. The Department commissions external advisory services only where specialised knowledge and/or skills are not available within the Department and, particularly in the case of Irish Aid (Ireland's official development assistance programme), where ongoing independent evaluation of programmes and projects is required. Given the overall scale of the Irish Aid Programme, I am satisfied that this level of monitoring, review and evaluation is both prudent and proportionate.
I should add that, in accordance with the Government decision of July 2008, the budgetary provision for consultancies in my Department has been reduced by 50% in 2009 over the 2008 allocation.
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Cornwell Consultants |
Technical Advice on Preparation of Specifications for Support and Maintenance of the Automated Passport System |
12,251 |
0 |
|
PA Consulting |
General ICT Consultancy |
1,815 |
0 |
|
RITS |
ICT Security Consultancy |
79,427 |
85,762 |
|
Millward Brown IMS |
Research survey on the outcome of the EU Reform Treaty Referendum |
138,061 |
0 |
|
The Communications Clinic |
Development of a Communication Action Plan under the Communicating Europe Initiative |
0 |
41,000 |
|
Long Road Productions Ltd. |
Cultural Events Coordination and Advisory Services for State and Official Visits |
5,808 |
16,456 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Review of Departmental Structures |
24,200 |
0 |
|
KPMG |
Value For Money Study — Passport Service |
35,978 |
0 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Achillles Procurement |
Provision of Temporary Procurement Expertise |
41,503 |
0 |
|
Aidan Pender |
Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings (PAEG). |
0 |
6,500 |
|
Aisling Swaine Consultancy Ltd |
Consultant on gender issues. |
83,350 |
19,132 |
|
Alais Morindat |
Consultant re International Community for Relief of Starvation and Suffering (ICROSS) Review |
0 |
5,074 |
|
Andre Barsony |
Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group (PAEG) Meetings |
19,002 |
5,172 |
|
Aine Costigan |
Provision of Technical Support in relation to HIV/AIDS projects, April-Dec 2007 |
2,500 |
0 |
|
Anne Gallagher |
Report writer and recorder for economist workshop on 3 & 4 March 2008 |
2,000 |
0 |
|
Anne Holmes |
Technical Consultant supporting the work of Emergency and Recovery Section, Irish Aid |
21,667 |
0 |
|
Ann Nolan |
Technical Support in relation to HIV/AIDS |
72,841 |
68,988 |
|
Anna Matveeva |
Independent Consultant for the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia Funding Committee (PPECA) |
9,296 |
2,187 |
|
Ann Pesic |
Independent Consultant for the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia Funding Committee (PPECA). |
3,850 |
0 |
|
Annesley Resource Partnership |
Review of the Fellowship Training Programme funded by Irish Aid |
20,458 |
0 |
|
Aodh O’Connor |
Consultancy services in relation to Civil Society Fund and Micro Projects Fund, March 2007-2009. |
4,766 |
1,500 |
|
Barry Ryan |
Independent Consultant for review of the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia Funding Committee (PPECA). |
12,551 |
0 |
|
Benedicto Oburu |
Facilitator for Primary Schools Workshops — June 2008 |
7,700 |
0 |
|
Bernard McLoughlin |
Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group (PAEG) Meetings: |
7,150 |
0 |
|
Bernard Wood + Associates Ltd |
Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group (PAEG) Meetings: |
17,066 |
2,187 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Brian McCarthy |
Independent Consultant for the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia Funding Committee (PPECA). |
9,555 |
0 |
|
Brendan Tuohy |
Consultancy in the area of science and technology in Mozambique |
3,872 |
0 |
|
Catherine A Butcher |
Development of Guidelines for HIV/AIDS Partnership Scheme (HAPS) |
44,715 |
22,161 |
|
Catherine Butcher |
Technical Support for Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS)) |
16,338 |
0 |
|
Cathy Gaynor |
Consultancy services for Country Strategy Planning Guidelines and Procedures |
25,816 |
39,452 |
|
Cathy Gaynor |
Provision of Technical Support for “Education for All” Programme |
38,228 |
5,283 |
|
Cathy Gaynor |
Technical Consultant for the Multi-Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS) |
2,057 |
10,280 |
|
Cathy Gaynor |
Consultancy to advise on Mainstreaming Strategy and Practice within Irish Aid |
11,857 |
6,254 |
|
Catherine Sara Jones |
Africa based Technical Consultant to Irish Aid Civil Society Section in relation to funding schemes |
0 |
13,191 |
|
Centre for Global Health |
Technical Support for Health, HIV/AIDS issues. |
5,973 |
22,059 |
|
Copenhagen DC A/S |
Primary Education Evaluation |
108,397 |
0 |
|
Daire Higgins |
Irish Aid Centre Public Relations and Outreach Consultant |
31,778 |
0 |
|
Dalberg |
Consultancy to review certain training services funded by Irish Aid |
23,753 |
0 |
|
Dalberg Global Development |
Mapping of Funding and Project Approval Processes |
10,465 |
0 |
|
Debbie Thomas |
Child beneficiary Case Study Specialist |
8,996 |
4,826 |
|
Declan O’Neill |
Technical Advice on Foreign Currency Transactions |
4,200 |
4,000 |
|
Deirdre Farrell |
Specialist Support for Development Education Grants Committee |
10,000 |
10,000 |
|
Diarmuid McClean |
Technical Support to Health Programme |
100,005 |
70,481 |
|
Dr David Weakliam |
Technical Support to Health Sector |
6,350 |
0 |
|
Dr. Diarmuid O Donovan |
Consultant re European Malaria Vaccine |
12,559 |
12,559 |
|
Economics for the Environment |
Consultant re Irish Aid Strategic Partnerships |
6,534 |
28,113 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Eleanor O’Gorman |
Specialist Support to Conflict Resolution Unit |
14,974 |
0 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Preparation of Value For Money Study of HIV/AIDS Project |
78,351 |
66,537 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Consultancy to advise on the Irish Aid Management Review |
157,300 |
0 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates |
Report on Irish Aid support for Kimmage Development Studies |
50,820 |
50,820 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates |
Evaluation of Traidlinks |
15,125 |
18,966 |
|
Fitzpatrick Associates |
Consultancy re application of lessons of Ireland’s economic and social development as part of Ireland’s cooperation programme in SE Asia. |
7,260 |
0 |
|
Frank Murray |
Advisory services provided in relation to the Irish Aid Management Review |
14,972 |
0 |
|
Gail Varian |
Specialist support for Irish Aid Centre, Dublin |
2,700 |
0 |
|
Geraghty Consulting |
Report writing and recording service. |
2,723 |
0 |
|
Gerald Cawley |
Consultant re Irish Aid Budget Support Policy |
0 |
25,811 |
|
Geraldine McDonald |
Consultancy services for Irish Aid Civil Society Fund and Micro Projects Fund, March 2007 — March 2009 |
7,260 |
0 |
|
Helen O Neill |
Irish Aid Mentoring Programme |
2,750 |
0 |
|
Hunter McGill |
PAEG: Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings |
22,438 |
3,630 |
|
Integra Economic Development Consultants |
Consultant to Inter Departmental Committee on Development Skills Sets Subgroup |
0 |
22,143 |
|
INTRAC |
Technical Support of Multi Annual Programme Scheme(MAPS) |
26,689 |
0 |
|
ITAD Ltd |
Preparation and Delivery of an Awareness Raising Seminar and Training Session on the Poverty Impact Assessment (PIA) Methodology |
5,784 |
0 |
|
ITAD Ltd |
Evaluation of Ireland’s Timor Leste Country Strategy 2004-2008 |
97,207 |
38,439 |
|
James Polhemus |
Good Governance Consultant |
157,469 |
16,804 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
James Sheehan |
Civil Society Funds and Micro Project Financing |
18,433 |
0 |
|
Jane Salvage |
Feedback on evaluation of Irish Aids support to the AMAR Health Rehabilitation Project for Marsh Arabs of Southern Iraq |
0 |
2068 |
|
Jerry O’Dwyer |
Provision of Technical Support on Global Fund to fight AIDS, TB and Malaria |
7,508 |
17,323 |
|
Jim Cannon |
Assessment of Civil Society Funding Applications |
50,332 |
11,765 |
|
Jim Kinsella |
PAEG: Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings: |
11,104 |
5,672 |
|
Jim O’Leary |
Assessment of Value for Money Review of the Passport Service |
6,000 |
0 |
|
John Grindle |
Interview Board — Recruitment Competition |
3,000 |
0 |
|
John Shiels |
PPECA: Independent Consultant for the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia Funding Committee |
15,352 |
0 |
|
John O’Regan |
Civil Society Programme Consultant |
52,204 |
0 |
|
John O’Regan |
Provision of Audit Management Support to the Evaluation and Audit Unit |
9,621 |
0 |
|
John O’Regan |
Financial Assessment Component of an organisational Assessment on partner NGO’s for MAPS, Civil Society Fund, Block Grants & other C.S. Funding Schemes |
6,292 |
0 |
|
John O’Regan |
Audit of MAPS 11 Partnership Grants Awarded to Self -Help Development International |
0 |
12,758 |
|
Kamil Kar |
Review of draft Irish Aid Water, Sanitation and Hygiene Policy |
0 |
2,391 |
|
Karin Duffner |
Support ICT Programme in Teacher Education in Rwenzoir Area, Uganda |
0 |
10,881 |
|
Kate Dyer |
Support to the revision of Irish Aid’s Country Strategy Planning (CSP) Guidelines and Procedures |
40,148 |
125 |
|
Kate Dyer |
Consultant re Irish Aid Country Strategy Paper Guidelines |
31,788 |
29,787 |
|
Kevin Moore |
Private Sector Development |
87,912 |
30,760 |
|
Liam Wegimont |
Development Education Grants Committee |
2,551 |
0 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Liverpool Association in Tropical Health |
Programme Planning — Sierra Leone |
9,985 |
15,313 |
|
Luis Enrique Bran Reyes |
Central America Consultant |
28,929 |
12,997 |
|
Margaret Fitzgerald |
PAEG: Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings |
6,517 |
1,950 |
|
Margaret Fitzgerald |
Provision of Technical Support on Health and HIV/AIDS |
5,508 |
15,055 |
|
Margaret Gaynor |
Civil Society Fund and Micro Projects Fund, March 2007 — March 2009. |
2,057 |
0 |
|
Maragret Curtin |
Technical support for Civil Society Fund and Micro Project Financing |
10,626 |
429 |
|
Margaret Gaynor |
Infrastructure and Vulnerabilities Consultant |
65,188 |
7,577 |
|
Marie Smith |
Technical support for Civil Society Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS) |
6,517 |
500 |
|
Martin Dwan |
Civil Society Fund and Micro Projects Consultant |
26,508 |
0 |
|
Martina Collins |
Assessment of Civil Society Funding Applications |
54,195 |
21,708 |
|
Mary Jennings |
Consultants re Multi Annual Programme Scheme (MAPS)) |
17,183 |
2,723 |
|
Mary Jennings |
Mainstreaming; Building Strategy and Practice within Irish Aid |
35,779 |
0 |
|
Mary McCann Sanchez |
Central America Consultant |
28,766 |
12,329 |
|
Mary McKeown |
Technical support for Civil Society Fund and Micro Project Financing |
10,524 |
0 |
|
Mary McKeown |
Technical support to Evaluation and Audit Section |
5,427 |
17,567 |
|
Mary McKeown |
External Consultant for the Fellowship Selection Committee |
3,753 |
0 |
|
Maura Leen |
PAEG: Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings |
7,485 |
2,275 |
|
Maura Leen |
Programme of Strategic Co-operation between Irish Aid and Higher Education and Research Institutes |
5,000 |
0 |
|
McEvoy Peter |
Technical Consultant for the Multi-Annual Programme Scheme |
27,059 |
19,933 |
|
McMullin Pat |
Consultant to support Irish Aids relationship with Consultative Group on International Agricultural Research CGIAR |
51,993 |
32,035 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Michael Hegarty |
PPECA: Independent Consultant for the Partnership Programme for Europe and Central Asia Funding Committee. |
5,042 |
950 |
|
Moirna O’Neill |
Irish Aid Centre Content Consultant |
24,000 |
0 |
|
Morina O’Neill |
Technical support for Civil Society Fund and Micro Project Financing |
7,854 |
3,552 |
|
Niall Roche |
Technical support for Emergency and Recovery Unit |
6,000 |
8,500 |
|
Nick Chisholm |
Hunger Task Force Consultant |
21,888 |
0 |
|
NUI Galway |
Technical Support Health, HIV/AIDS |
16,322 |
0 |
|
Orla Duke |
4th Global Partner Forum Consultant |
15,946 |
16,100 |
|
Oxford Policy Mgt. |
Hunger Task Force |
39,613 |
0 |
|
Patrick D Murphy |
Evaluation of Global eSchools and Communities Initiative Programme |
45,189 |
0 |
|
Patrick D Murphy |
“Education for All” Programme Consultant |
20,183 |
3,600 |
|
Paul Isenman |
Technical support of Accra Agenda on Aid Effectiveness |
0 |
11,148 |
|
Petrus Consulting Ltd |
Quality Review of the Draft HIV& AIDS VFM Report |
0 |
3,086 |
|
Philip Regan |
Facilitation of Irish Aid funded Internship Programmes |
28,185 |
12,648 |
|
Prof Helen O’Neill |
PAEG: Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings |
9,615 |
0 |
|
Renee Muriel Visser Valfrey |
Technical Support on HIV/AIDS |
37,265 |
17,963 |
|
Reginald Terence Allsop |
Technical Support to Zambia/Ireland Teacher Education Initiative |
2,129 |
0 |
|
Richard Townsend |
Report on Staffing needs of Missions in Irish Aid Programme Countries, South Africa and Sierra Leone |
4,096 |
0 |
|
Roberto E. Martinez |
Maintenance of Irish Aid Spanish website in Central America |
2,635 |
0 |
|
Rosemary McCreery |
PAEG: Participation in the Projects Appraisal and Evaluation Group Meetings |
7,216 |
0 |
|
Rothwell Consulting Ltd |
Consultants re Internship Programmes |
29,803 |
10,920 |
|
Rowan Oberman |
Provision of Specialist Services to Irish Aid Centre. |
14,700 |
0 |
|
Prof. Ruairi Brugha RCSI |
Provision of Technical Support on Health and HIV/AIDS |
6,500 |
0 |
|
Consultants |
Contract Details |
Period 1/1/2008-14/10/2008 |
Period 15/10/2008-5/2/2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Sean Drysdale |
Consultant in Public Health |
30,212 |
0 |
|
Sean F Drysdale |
Support to Health Sector in Sierra Leone |
23,189 |
0 |
|
Sherry McLean |
Part-time Africa based Technical Consultant to the Civil Society Section Funding Schemes; Civil Society Fund |
0 |
12,697 |
|
SHL Ireland |
Recruitment Consultants |
156,665 |
12,495 |
|
Siobhan Mullally |
Evaluation and UNDP Support Programme |
10,115 |
0 |
|
Sorley McCaughey |
Governance and Local Development Support |
2,700 |
0 |
|
Tara Shine |
Environment Consultant |
45,908 |
57,465 |
|
Tara Shine |
Civil Society Fund Backstopping Support |
1,452 |
375 |
|
The IDL Group Ltd |
Consultancy re Review of Irish Aid Zimbabwe Programme |
3,937 |
0 |
|
Una Murray |
Technical support for Civil Society Fund and Micro Project Financing |
7,592 |
781 |
|
Vincent McCarthy |
Provision of specialist support to Mozambique |
4,049 |
9,237 |
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:381 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4832/09]
During 2008, the Department of Foreign Affairs implemented the following schemes involving awards to staff: the Scheme of Performance Related Pay Awards and the Exceptional Performance Awards Scheme.
Scheme of Performance Related Pay Awards
The Scheme of Performance Related Pay Awards in the Civil Service applies to Deputy and Assistant Secretaries and equivalent grades. It does not apply to Secretaries General.
In 2008, a total of €656,000 was paid under this scheme. The payments made related to the performance of 48 officers during the preceding calendar year. These payments were subject to tax and PRSI. The awards were made by the Committee for Performance Awards, chaired by the Secretary General for Public Service Management and Development in the Department of Finance, following recommendations by the Secretary General of the Department of Foreign Affairs.
Details of the operation of the Performance Related Pay Awards scheme are available in the annual reports of the Committee for Performance Awards. The Committee's April 2008 report can be accessed on the website of the Department of Finance at the following link: http://www.finance.gov.ie/documents/publications/reports/2008/cpareport07final.pdf No payments have been made in 2009 in respect of performance in 2008.
Exceptional Performance Awards
Under the Department of Foreign Affairs' Administrative Budget Agreement with the Department of Finance, a fund amounting to 0.2% of the Department's salaries budget has been made available each year to the Secretary General in respect of ex-gratia payments or other awards to individual staff members or groups of staff, by way of recognition of exceptional performance of duty.
In 2008, a total of €156,500 was paid to 309 staff under this scheme, which is administered by a sub-group of the Department's Partnership Committee. The sub-group assesses nominations for merit awards and makes recommendations to the Secretary General of the Department. The objective of the scheme is to reward cases of genuinely exceptional performance by officers in grades up to and including Counsellor/Principal Officer level.
The Exceptional Performance fund also provides for officers in the Department with at least 25 years' experience to receive an award in recognition of their long service. This award comprises a gift of €250 along with a special commemorative coin. In 2008, a total of €18,840 was spent in providing such Long Service Awards to 66 officers.
No decision has yet been taken on the payment of Exceptional Performance Awards or Long Service Awards in 2009.
Passport Applications.
Damien English
Ceist:382 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if a citizen of the State, who has an Irish birth certificate on which their name was recorded in English, can apply for an Irish passport under their Irish name; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4838/09]
Damien English
Ceist:383 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the correct procedure that a person aged 17 years must follow in order to attain their first passport under their Irish name when the birth certificate they possess has their name in English; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4839/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 382 and 383 together.
Section 10 of the Passports Act 2008 provides that a passport issued under the Act "shall be in the name of the applicant as it appears in his or her certificate of birth (whether in the English language or the Irish language) or, as may be appropriate, a certificate of naturalisation or other document produced by him or her to the Minister as evidence of Irish citizenship."
There are a number of exceptions to this general rule. Under Section 10(2), a passport may be issued in a new name following marriage. Section 10(4) permits the issuing of a passport in a name other than the name on the certificate of birth, where the applicant provides satisfactory evidence of the use of the new name over a period of at least two years prior to the date of application.
In cases where satisfactory evidence over a two year period is not provided, Section 10(5) permits the Minister to issue a passport in a new name. However, in such cases, the name on the certificate of birth or other evidence of citizenship is entered as an observation in the passport and must remain there for a period of not less than two years.
The inclusion of an observation regarding a previous name helps to avoid difficulties that may arise, for example, when a person is applying for visas or work permits abroad, due to the name on his or her passport differing from the name entered on a certificate of birth or previous passport. Although its inclusion is optional in the case of applicants who have the required two years satisfactory evidence of usage of the new name, in accordance with Section 10(5), it is a requirement in the case of applications where such evidence is not provided.
Accordingly, where a person has an Irish birth certificate with a name recorded in the English language, he or she may apply for a passport in his or her name in the Irish language by providing satisfactory evidence of usage of that form of the name. This provision also extends to cases where a person seeks a passport in the English form of the name but the certificate of birth shows the name in the Irish language.
The nature of evidence of use of a new name will depend on an individual's circumstances. Typically, where an applicant is under age 18, proofs of use would include bank or savings account details, school records and reports or a letter from the family doctor certifying that the applicant is registered with the practice in the name in which the application is made.
In regard to the case outlined by the Deputy, the individual in question has the option, as indicated above, of applying for a new passport in the Irish version of his/her name. This can be granted provided that the applicant can show proof of usage for two years. If this is not available, it will be necessary to include the English version of the name as an observation on the passport for at least two years.
Overseas Development Aid.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:384 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide a breakdown of the countries which received overall funding of €914 million under a scheme (details supplied) in 2008; the amount each country received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4853/09]
Most of Ireland's expenditure on Overseas Development Assistance (ODA) is provided under Vote 29, International Co-operation. The programme is administered by the Development Co-operation Division of the Department of Foreign Affairs, also known as Irish Aid. Further contributions to ODA are made by other Government Departments and through Ireland's allocation to the EU Development Cooperation budget.
During the 2008 estimates process the Government allocated a total of €914 million to ODA. In light of the changed economic situation, the Government reviewed current expenditure allocations in July 2008. In the course of this review, the overall ODA allocation was revised to €899 million. Of this, €769 million was allocated under Vote 29, with an additional estimated €130 million contributed by other Government Departments. The Vote 29 allocation was fully utilised and, while the out-turn figure for other ODA has not yet been finalised, it is expected that it will be close to the €130 million estimate.
Through Irish Aid, the Government provides assistance to more than 90 countries in the developing world, with a strong focus on the least developed countries and Africa. Nine countries have been designated as Programme Countries, with a commitment to long term strategic assistance. They are Ethiopia, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Zambia and Timor Leste. In 2008, the total funding allocated to programme assistance in these nine countries amounted to €218.8 million. A breakdown of these allocations is set out as follows.
A detailed analysis of all expenditure in 2008 under Vote 29 is now being prepared. It will be published later this year in the 2008 Irish Aid Annual Report.
|
Country |
2008 Allocation |
|
Programme Countries |
|
|
Ethiopia |
36,000,000 |
|
Lesotho |
9,300,000 |
|
Malawi |
9,800,000 |
|
Zambia |
24,000,000 |
|
Mozambique |
34,200,000 |
|
Tanzania |
38,000,000 |
|
Timor Leste |
5,000,000 |
|
Uganda |
41,800,000 |
|
Vietnam |
20,700,000 |
|
Total Allocation to Programme Countries |
218,800,000 |
Question No. 385 answered with Question No. 375.
Sports Capital Programme.
Dara Calleary
Ceist:386 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the funding available for local tennis clubs to improve existing facilities. [4318/09]
Under the Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department, funding is allocated towards the provision of sports facilities at national, regional and local level. Over 7,400 projects providing a range of essential sports facilities have now benefited from sports capital funding since 1998 bringing the total allocation in that time to over €725 million. In 2008 over €50m was allocated towards 685 separate sports facility and equipment projects, including allocations of €1.778 million to 25 tennis projects. These grants continue to play a pivotal role in ensuring the provision of modern, high quality facilities around Ireland that attract more people to participate in sporting activities.
In the 2009 Estimates, €56m has been provided in my Department's vote to cover payments to be made from the C-1 sub-head, out of which grants are paid for the provision of sports and recreation facilities. As I announced in the House recently no decision has been taken about the timing of future rounds of the Programme.
National Concert Hall.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:387 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the nature of the planning permission for the National Concert Hall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4419/09]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Question No. 2482/09 on Wednesday 28th January 2009. As I stated in that reply, the successful tenderer for the National Concert Hall PPP project, who should be selected by Autumn 2009, will seek planning permission for his project proposal from Dublin City Council.
National Theatre.
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:388 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the number of years over which it is proposed to pay the private partner for the construction of the Abbey Theatre, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4421/09]
A Public Private Partnership contract for the proposed new National Theatre (Abbey) project has not been awarded yet. I would refer the Deputy to my answer to Parliamentary Question No 113 on Wednesday 28 January 2009 for the current position.
Performing Arts.
Andrew Doyle
Ceist:389 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his views on supporting the Irish Team attending the World Championships of Performing Arts 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4422/09]
Government support for the Arts is generally channelled through the Arts Council, which is a statutorily independent body, under the Arts Act, 2003, and is independent in its day-to-day operations.
Sports Capital Programme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:390 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will ensure that the necessary funding is provided for an extension to a scout hall (details supplied) in Dublin 12 to cater for more than 300 scouts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4435/09]
Under the Sports Capital Programme, which is administered by my Department, funding is allocated towards the provision of sports facilities at national, regional and local level. The Guidelines, Terms and Condition of the Programme specify that only projects with a clear sporting aspect are considered for funding. I understand that funding is made available to the Scouting Ireland by my colleague the Minister for Education and Science.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:391 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4809/09]
The consultancy firms the Department used during the period 1 January to 14 October 2008 are set out as follows:
|
Consultancy |
Purpose |
Expenditure |
|
€ |
||
|
Q4PR |
Communications/Public Relations services for Culture Ireland |
72,000 |
|
Charlie Pike The Pacello Group (Europe) Ltd |
Culture Ireland website maintenance |
9,982 |
|
Indecon International Economic Consultants |
Economic Evaluation of the Benefits to Ireland of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games |
114,000 |
|
Raymond Burke |
Evaluation of Irish Sports Council Value for Money and Policy Review |
3,267 |
|
Raymond Burke |
Independent evaluation of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme Expenditure Review as part of a Value for Money Report conducted by Department |
3,354 |
|
Mr. John Travers |
Chair of the Tourism Strategy Implementation Group, which produced its Report in June 2008. |
15,660 |
|
Holohan Leisure |
To provide consultancy advice in relation to an analysis of sports facility provision in the development of a strategy for sports facilities |
113,740 |
|
DKM Economic Consultants |
Update of the Cost Benefit Analysis for the National Museum at Collins Barracks |
3,146 |
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Review of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund. |
See below |
The above list includes consultancy firms, Q4PR, Charlie Pike The Pacello Group Europe Ltd, Indecon International Economic Consultants, Raymond Burke on two contracts, John Travers and Holohan Leisure, which were engaged prior to 2008, where the contract continued into that year. The cost shown in such cases is in respect of the full period of the contract.
The consultancy firms the Department used since 15 October 2008 are set out as follows:
|
Consultancy |
Purpose |
Expenditure |
|
€ |
||
|
Farrell Grant Sparks |
Review of the Horse and Greyhound Racing Fund. |
19,465 |
|
Analysys Mason |
Review of Technical Recommendations for WAN Link |
632 |
|
Calyx Ireland Ltd |
Decentralisation Site Audit |
4,313 |
The above list includes one consultancy firm (Farrell Grant Sparks), which was engaged prior to 15 October 2008, where the contract continued beyond that date. Accordingly that contract is on both lists.
This Department observes the Department of Finance Guidelines for Engagement of Consultants in the Civil Service. Consultants are only employed by the Department in circumstances where specialised knowledge or expertise, which is not available in the Department or elsewhere in the public service, is required for a temporary period or a specialist study/project must be completed within a very short time scale.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:392 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4824/09]
The scheme of performance-related awards in the civil service applies to Deputy and Assistant Secretaries and equivalent grades.
On the basis that the awards are confidential to the officer concerned details of individual awards are not disclosed nor is the total amount awarded under the scheme made known in respect of Departments where there are less than 5 officers covered by the scheme which would allow them to be identified, which is the case in the Department. Details of the operation of the scheme are available in the report of the Committee for Performance Awards which can be accessed on the website of the Department of Finance at:
www.finance.gov.ie/documents/publications/reports/CPArep2006.pdf
No bonus payments have been made in respect of 2008 and there is no specific provision for bonuses in the Department's budget for 2009.
Community Development.
Michael Ring
Ceist:393 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of premises that were purchased either in part or in full using Exchequer finances during the course of the LEADER Programme 2001 to 2006; the expenditure paid out by the Exchequer in acquiring and maintaining premises during the course of that programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4172/09]
Michael Ring
Ceist:394 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if premises purchased using Exchequer funds under the LEADER Programme 2001 to 2006 will not be used for the LEADER Programme 2007 to 2013; if so, the number of premises involved and their location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4173/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 393 and 394 together.
The rules of the LEADER programmes 2000-2006 did not allow for the use of Exchequer or EU funds for the purchase of premises.
I should point out to the Deputy that the LEADER "bottom-up approach" to rural development involves the delivery by local groups of rural development measures. However, my Department did not establish these Groups. These Groups would have been selected as part of a general call for proposals to deliver the LEADER Programmes.
I understand that these companies may also have had access to private and other sources of public funding. In the context of the changes now underway arising from the Cohesion process, my Department is in contact with the companies concerned to ensure protection of the state's interest in any assets which were acquired or developed with the assistance of state support.
Michael Ring
Ceist:395 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if groups formed under the LEADER Programme 2001 to 2006 continued to receive funding from his Department in respect of rent and administration in the interim period between the conclusion of the programme and the commencement of the LEADER Programme 2007 to 2013; if so, the amount expended in such a way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4174/09]
In 2007 and 2008 LEADER Groups continued work on the implementation and closure of the LEADER+ and Area-Based Rural Development Initiatives. Accordingly, revised administration funding arrangements were put in place to ensure that Groups, who had exhausted their original Programme administration allocation, continued to be in a position to carry out this work. Project activity under the Programmes ended for the majority of Groups in March 2008, at which stage the significant work required to close the Programmes commenced.
The funding provided did not meet the full administration costs of the Groups, but was a contribution to their core costs. The total amount provided under the revised arrangements amounted to approx. to €17.7m, covering the period from January 2007 until the commencement of the new Rural Development Programme in 2009.
Michael Ring
Ceist:396 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of businesses which were set up and received funding during the LEADER Programme 2001 to 2006; the number of these businesses which are still in operation and intend to continue operating outside of the LEADER programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4175/09]
I have been informed that the number of enterprises assisted to end 2007 under the LEADER Programmes 2000-2006 is approx. 5,120. I am not in a position to inform the Deputy, however, how many of these enterprises are still in operation or how many are likely to continue in operation in the coming years. The LEADER Programmes do not provide ongoing financial support to these enterprises, rather support is generally granted towards the capital costs associated with the start-up or expansion of such enterprises. The Deputy will be aware, however, that under Rural Development Programme Ireland 2007-2013 funding of €48m will be available under the Business Creation and Development measure of the Programme.
35 Local Action Groups and 3 collective bodies were selected, on the basis of a competitive process, to deliver the LEADER Programmes 2000-2006.
For the delivery of Axis 3 & 4 of the Rural Development Programme 2007–2013, using the LEADER approach, 36 Local Action Groups have been selected. Twelve of these are integrated LEADER/Partnership companies which operated under previous LEADER Programmes, while the others are newly integrated companies.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:397 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if there is funding available from Pobal to fund managers of community centres in rural areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4178/09]
One of the three categories of projects funded under the Community Services Programme (CSP) operated by my Department provides a funding contribution to the delivery of services from community centres. In general, a contribution to the cost of managers is not made unless a compelling case has been advanced. The last call for proposals under the Community Halls and Facilities Strand of the Programme was made in mid-2008 and I have already announced decisions in relation to this strand. Some of these are outstanding. Given the current economic circumstances, I have previously stated that it is unlikely that a call for new proposals will be possible for the foreseeable future.
At the end of 2008 some 423 projects have been approved for funding at a cost of some €48.5m. Projects fall within three broad categories, namely, the operation of community halls and facilities; the delivery of services not otherwise provided locally, and support for community enterprise opportunities. The number of people that will be employed by these projects is estimated to reach 2,600 by the end of 2009. Further proposals under the 2008 Calls are being examined and I hope to receive recommendations over the next few weeks.
Road Network.
Michael Ring
Ceist:398 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if a road (details supplied) in County Mayo can be resurfaced under schemes run by his Department. [4215/09]
I understand that there is no application for grant assistance within my Department for the road referred to by the Deputy.
In order for the road to be evaluated under my Department's Scéim na mBóithre Áise, an application needs to be made and I have arranged that the appropriate form be sent to the Deputy's office. The question of allocating funds for Gaeltacht roads in 2009 will fall to be considered in the context of funding available and outstanding commitments.
Departmental Expenditure.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:399 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount spent in south Tipperary from the Dormant Accounts Fund in the past five years; the amount which will been spent in 2009 under this scheme; and the amount projected to be spent under this scheme. [4221/09]
Tom Hayes
Ceist:400 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the anticipated expenditure from his Department on foot of various schemes operated and funded from the proceeds of the Dormant Accounts Fund in South Tipperary in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4222/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 399 and 400 together.
Funding is provided from the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF), through the votes of relevant Departments, to tackle disadvantage and to assist persons with a disability. My Department manages a number of measures that provide support for priority projects in RAPID areas, for a substance misuse programme and for recreation and personal development grants for disadvantaged young people.
Details of the individual grants and organisations that have been approved for support from the Fund are available on the Department's website www.pobail.ie and a county-by-county breakdown is provided.
From an examination of the measures that my Department manages, the position in relation to projects in Co. Tipperary is as follows: in relation to Round 1 of the DAF (2004/2005) — which were approved by the former Dormant Accounts Disbursements Board — approval was given for some €1.3 million in projects; in excess of €450,000 in funding was approved for projects under Round 2 (2006); and Round 3 (2007) approvals totalled some €360,000.
The indicative allocations for funding under the RAPID additionality and substance misuse measures were agreed by Government in March 2008. The actual beneficiaries of these allocations will be approved in the coming months.
During 2009, it is anticipated that funding of some €13 million will be provided through the Vote of my Department in relation to the DAF measures that it manages. However, as projects will continue to be approved as the year progresses, it is not possible to estimate, in advance, the level of funding which will be provided to projects in Co. Tipperary.
Community Development.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:401 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the anticipated expenditure on foot of applications received for grant aid under the CLÁR programme for South Tipperary in 2009; the extent to which these applications are expected to be met in full; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4223/09]
Tom Hayes
Ceist:403 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the number and nature of applications from various groups in South Tipperary for grant aid under the RAPID or CLÁR programmes currently in hand; the degree to which it is intended to meet these requirements in full in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4226/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 401 and 403 together.
The CLÁR Programme was set up as an innovative programme to deal with the infrastructure deficits in the most peripheral communities in Ireland, to qualify under the CLÁR Programme, an area had to have lost since 1926 an average of 35% of population. The CLÁR programme is constantly addressing the new challenges faced by small rural communities and is being continuously refocused to deal with the most urgent infrastructural deficits especially in the current economic climate.
To date only one application for funding has been received from South Tipperary in 2009. This application is for funding under the CLÁR Primary School Outdoor Play Facilities Enhancement Scheme. A decision will be made in the case as soon as possible and the Deputy will be informed of the outcome.
RAPID
The RAPID Programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion within the 46 designated RAPID areas. In addition, the RAPID leverage schemes support small-scale projects identified locally by the Area Implementation Teams in each of the RAPID areas. These schemes are co-funded by the relevant agencies and fund projects that focus on estate enhancement, graffiti removal, traffic calming, community closed-circuit television, health and sports facilities, and the provision of playgrounds and multi-use games areas.
My Department is currently assessing three claims under the RAPID Leverage Schemes for RAPID areas in South Tipperary: one claim under the Local Authority Housing Estate Enhancement Scheme for Clonmel; one claim under the Playgrounds Scheme for Clonmel and one claim under the Playgrounds Scheme for Carrick-on-Suir. It is expected that these will be paid in 2009 if the claims are found to be in order.
Applications for funding under the Physical Environment Improvement Scheme closed on Friday last, January 30th. These applications are currently being assessed and an announcement will follow when this process has been completed.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:402 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the projected expenditure on foot of applications received for grant aid under the RAPID programme for South Tipperary in 2009; the extent to which these applications are expected to be met in full; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4224/09]
The RAPID Programme aims to ensure that priority attention is given to tackling the spatial concentration of poverty and social exclusion within the 46 designated RAPID areas. In addition, the RAPID leverage schemes support small-scale projects identified locally by the Area Implementation Teams in each of the RAPID areas. These schemes are co-funded by the relevant agencies and fund projects that focus on estate enhancement, graffiti removal, traffic calming, community closed-circuit television, health and sports facilities, and the provision of playgrounds and multi-use games areas.
As I have indicated to the House on a number of occasions, it is a matter for individual Departments to report on the provision of funding and progress on delivery with respect to projects under their responsibility in the RAPID areas. In support, Pobal collects data from each RAPID area in respect of funding allocations received by projects from Government Departments and local state agencies. The latest data in respect of the programme is available on Pobal's website under the RAPID section (http://www.pobal.ie/live/RAPID). The Deputy may find it helpful to access this information.
I wish to inform the Deputy that applications for funding under the Physical Environment Improvement Scheme closed on Friday last, January 30th. These applications are currently being assessed and an announcement will follow when this process has been completed.
My Department is currently assessing three claims under the RAPID Leverage Schemes for RAPID areas in South Tipperary: one claim under the Local Authority Housing Estate Enhancement Scheme for Clonmel; one claim under the Playgrounds Scheme for Clonmel and one claim under the Playgrounds Scheme for Carrick-on-Suir. If paid in 2009 these claims will amount to €147,750.
However, given that the RAPID Leverage Scheme is a demand-led, bottom-up funding programme, it is not possible to predict accurately the extent of claims that will be lodged by RAPID areas in South Tipperary during 2009. However, I am satisfied that this year's allocation will be sufficient to enable further good progress to be made with small-scale co-funded projects in the South Tipperary RAPID areas.
Question No. 403 answered with Question No. 401.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:404 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the progress made in securing a long-term replacement sponsor for the work carried out by a project (details supplied) in Dublin 8 prior to its closure in December 2008. [4250/09]
The Project to which the Deputy refers was funded under the Community Development Programme since 2004, receiving funding in excess of €371,000 under the Programme in that time. The Project was advised late last year by their auditors and legal advisors to close the Project, which occurred early December 2008.
Department officials are investigating alternative mechanisms for delivering on the Project's workplan for 2009 and beyond. In this regard meetings have recently taken place with local Projects and Groups and the Department is awaiting proposals.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:405 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when a decision will be made by his Department in relation to the grant applications regarding a centre (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4251/09]
Under my Department's 2008 call for proposals under the Community Services Programme (CSP), an application has been received in respect of this project under the Services Strand. The Deputy will be aware that I have already announced decisions in respect of Community Facilities Strand last November. I intend to announce decisions in respect of applications under the Services and Enterprise Strands of the CSP later this month. This will include a decision in respect of the project in question.
At the end of 2008, some 423 projects have been approved for funding under the CSP at a cost of some €48.5m. Projects fall within three broad categories, namely, the operation of community halls and facilities; the delivery of services not otherwise provided locally, and support for community enterprise opportunities. The number of people that will be employed by these projects is estimated to reach 2,600 by the end of 2009.
Dara Calleary
Ceist:406 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if the CLÁR top up for sports clubs in CLÁR areas is available to qualifying clubs. [4320/09]
Since the scheme commenced in 2002 the CLÁR programme has provided top up funding (up to 20% subject to overall public funding not exceeding 80%) to projects selected under the Sports Capital Grants Scheme run by the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism and recommended for CLÁR support by that Department. More than €6.7m has been paid to sports clubs in CLÁR areas under the scheme to date and almost €2.8m approved to clubs still remains to claimed.
Drug Treatment Programme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:407 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the funding allocated to the North East Regional Drugs Task Force in 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4714/09]
Between 2005 and 2008, the North Eastern Regional Drugs Task Force (NERDTF) was allocated the following funding to implement their strategic plan:
2005 — €410,000;
2006 — €636,410;
2007 — €891,644;
2008 — €1,082,902.
This funding covers a number of projects across the region in the areas of prevention, education, treatment, rehabilitation and family support. In addition to this funding, the Task Force was also approved €75,000 in 2008 under the Cocaine Initiative to employ a number of sessional facilitators to provide programmes to those affected by cocaine use. A further €20,000 was also allocated under this Initiative to run a locally-based cocaine awareness campaign to dovetail with the HSE-led national campaign.
With regard to capital funding, the NERDTF has been approved funding of nearly €1.65m for four projects under the Premises Initiative. This Fund aims to address the accommodation needs of community based drugs projects in Task Force areas. Details of the approvals are in the following table.
In addition, in 2008, the NERDTF was approved funding for two projects valued at nearly €570,000 under the Regional Youth Initiative. This initiative provided capital funding for the development of dedicated youth facilities in Regional Drugs Task Force areas not covered under the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF). Key to approvals was the linking of projects into the overall drug prevention strategy for their particular area. Details of the approvals are in the table. Overall, I am satisfied that the incremental funding allocated to the NERDTF has enabled the Task Force to develop key services in their area and I am confident that the progress made to date will be built on over the coming years.
|
€ |
||
|
South Meath Response, Unit 1&2 Eamonn Duggan Industrial Estate, Athboy Road, Trim, Co. Meath |
Towards renovation of space in new premises at the Maudlins, Trim, Co. Meath for this community drugs project |
67,177 |
|
Crossroads, 82 Trinity Street, Drogheda, Co. Louth |
Towards refurbishment and purchase of IT equipment for training purposes for a new residential premises at 1 Constitution Hill, Drogheda which will cater for six people in recovery at any one time |
68,939 |
|
Turas Aftercare Programme, Turas, 59 Clanbrassil Street, Dundalk, Co. Louth |
Towards fit-out of kitchen and offices |
6,940 |
|
St. James Camino Network Co. Meath |
Towards the purchase of the property where the project is currently located in Clonburry Cross, Enfield, Co. Meath |
1,500,000 |
|
€ |
||
|
Bridge Street Resource Centre, Cavan Town, Co. Cavan |
Towards the development of a dedicated Youth Café |
469,872 |
|
Cavan Community Project, Cavan Town, Co. Cavan |
Towards renovation of a premises for community drop-in centre/drug education & information facility for youth activities/ programmes that will serve young people of Co. Cavan |
97,000 |
Social Inclusion Programme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:408 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the position with regard to the renewal of the social inclusion programme with a partnership (details supplied); if he will confirm that the programme will be renewed and the funding allocated to the partnership to implement the programme in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4715/09]
The process of awarding the new LDSIP contract to the company mentioned by the Deputy, which will apply to the whole county of Meath, has not yet been completed. My Department, in conjunction with Pobal, is seeking to finalise some issues with the process of awarding the contract and I am hopeful that this can be brought to a conclusion shortly.
Forbairt Tionsclaíochta.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:409 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Kathleen Lynch den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta an bhfuil dul chun cinn déanta maidir le hionaid tionsclaíochta a bhunú ar an bPáirc Gnó in Ard an Rátha, Co. Dhún na nGall; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [4754/09]
Tuigim ó Údárás na Gaeltachta gur ceannaíodh suíomh 2.2 acra i Mín na Coilleadh in aice le Mín an Bhealaigh, Ard an Rátha, Co. Dhún na nGall, le haghaidh tionscal a fhorbairt sa cheantar. Tá comhairleoir fostaithe ag Coiste Tionsclaíoch Ard an Rátha, le cúnamh ón Údarás, chun staidéar a dhéanamh ar na féidearthachtaí maidir le forbairt an tsuímh sin.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:410 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4811/09]
My Department is currently in the process of collating the information requested by the Deputy and I will arrange to have the details forwarded to him directly.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:411 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4826/09]
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the scheme of performance-related awards for posts at the level of Deputy Secretary and Assistant Secretary. Under this scheme, operated by the Department of Finance, the Central Committee for Performance Awards considers recommendations made by Secretaries General. Awards of €41,000 were made in 2008 in respect of performance in 2007, in accordance with the guidelines and rules governing the scheme. This total amount covered three Assistant Secretaries in my Department.
I can confirm that my Department has made no provision for bonus payments in 2009 and it is not envisaged that any such payments will be made during the year in respect of 2008.
For the sake of completeness, I should add that my Department also operated a Merit Award scheme in 2008. Under this scheme, and in accordance with my Department's agreed Administrative Budget, a total of 0.2% of the payroll allocation may be made available to staff in recognition of exceptional contribution or performance by individuals or teams. In 2008, a total of €12,950 (which was less than 43% of the available funds under the scheme) was awarded to teams across my Department in respect of performance during the year. No individual awards were made.
No specific provision has been made for a Merit Award scheme in 2009 and I anticipate that the matter will be discussed at my Department's Partnership Committee in the coming weeks.
Social Welfare Benefits.
James Bannon
Ceist:412 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has been denied a carer’s allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4371/09]
The person concerned applied for Carer's Allowance on 17 June 2008. On 3 October 2008 her claim was refused on the grounds that her means exceed the statutory limit for receipt of Carer's Allowance. She is assessed with means of €251.71 per week derived from income from her spouse's insurable employment. She was notified of this decision, the reasons for it and of her right to appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
On 1 December 2008 she appealed this decision and an appeal is open in this case. Her file will be submitted to the Social Welfare Appeals Office this week.
Under Social Welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These Officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
Employment Rights.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:413 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs hers plans to introduce compensation for people suffering health problems as a consequence of working in underground mines (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4577/09]
Employment under a contract of service as a miner is insurable for occupational injuries benefit under the Social Welfare Acts. Miners who are unable to work due to an accident arising from their employment may be entitled to occupational injury benefit for the first 26 weeks of their claim. The occupational injuries scheme, operated by the Department, provides entitlement to benefit for persons suffering from certain prescribed diseases which are listed in the legislation and where that person has contracted that disease in the course of their employment.
Where a person has contracted one of the diseases listed in the legislation, benefits are payable if they were employed in an occupation which is specifically prescribed in relation to that disease. In addition, benefits may be payable if the claimant can show that the disease was contracted through an employment not specifically prescribed in relation to that disease.
If the incapacity extends beyond the 26 week period, claimants may receive illness benefit or invalidity pension, subject to meeting the qualifying conditions for these payments.
Miners may also be entitled to disablement benefit under the occupational injuries scheme. Disablement benefit is a compensation payment specifically for those who suffer a loss of physical or mental faculty as a result of an accident at work or a disease prescribed in legislation that they contracted at work. Medical assessments are undertaken in all such cases to determine the degree of disablement which is calculated by comparison of the state of health of the applicant with a person of the same age and gender.
Social Welfare Fraud.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:414 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the existence of cross-border social welfare fraud; the mechanisms she has established to address cross-border social welfare fraud; the length of time she has been aware of this issue; the approximate number of persons her Department believes are engaging in this fraud; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4182/09]
The prevention of fraud and abuse of the social welfare system is an integral part of the day-to-day work of my Department. Over 600 staff at local, regional and national level are engaged on a full or part-time basis on work related to the control of fraud and abuse of the social welfare system.
Customers in receipt of social welfare payments are reviewed on an ongoing basis to verify continued compliance with requirements such as, in the case of jobseekers payments, being available for and genuinely seeking employment. Means tested payments are reviewed at certain intervals or when there are indications that changes in circumstances have not been reported to the Department.
In relation to cross-border control, procedures are in place to deal with ongoing referrals, fraud and non-fraud in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the UK. People who move from Northern Ireland to Ireland may have an entitlement to a social welfare payment. However, if there is any suspicion of a fraud being perpetrated, this is investigated by local Social Welfare Inspectors.
A Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of Ireland and the Government of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland was signed in October 2000. Under the aegis of the MOU, the Cross- Border Operations Forum assists and directs activities relating to the investigation of social security benefit fraud with a cross border dimension. It undertakes individual fraud investigations and larger projects and shares best practice in counter fraud operations.
Due to operational sensitivities the Department cannot release information regarding the specifics of control activities that target cross border fraud.
Where overpayments occur the Department seeks to recover the overpayments and in cases of serious fraud, the Department will use all legal avenues open to it to recover the money defrauded and seek redress.
In 2008 almost €476 million in social welfare payments was saved through fraud and error control measures which is an increase of €29 million on the previous year.
At the end 2008, 357 cases of social welfare fraud were forwarded to the Chief State Solicitors Office for the initiation of prosecution proceedings.
The Department is committed to ensuring that social welfare payments are available to those who are entitled to them but also determined to ensure that abuse of the system is prevented and is dealt with effectively when detected. In this regard the control programme of the Department is carefully monitored and the various measures are continuously refined to ensure that they remain effective.
Social Welfare Code.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:415 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will review the rules that currently apply to social welfare disallowance for persons on jobseeker’s benefit which require the sacrifice of a day’s benefit even for a tiny number of hours worked on an individual day and which disqualify applicants if they have some work on three or more days; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4207/09]
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:419 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in an effort to assist persons claiming unemployment assistance or benefit, she will consider an option (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4445/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 415 and 419 together.
The Jobseeker's Benefit scheme provides income support for people who have lost work and are unable to find alternative employment. A fundamental qualifying condition for the benefit is that a person must be available for full-time work.
Under the Unemployment Benefit system a week is considered to be six days. Sunday is not considered part of the working week and any work done on Sunday is not reckoned when deciding entitlement.
The benefit is only payable in respect of days of unemployment, therefore it is not payable in respect of any day during which the person is engaged in insurable employment irrespective of the extent of the employment (number of hours worked), or the remuneration, or profit. Where a person is employed for up to three days in a week, s/he may claim Jobseeker's Benefit in respect of the remainder of the week, subject to being available for full-time work.
In this context, the development of any scheme involving local authorities would be a matter for the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in the first instance.
The application of the jobseekers payment scheme conditions to workers who are not employed on a full-time basis is being kept under review.
Social Welfare Benefits.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:416 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been drawn to the length of delay involved in processing applications to switch to invalidity pensions; if there are plans to review this process; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4305/09]
The Department is committed to providing a quality service to all its customers. This includes ensuring that applications are processed and that decisions on entitlement are made as expeditiously as possible. The staff and other resources available to the Department are regularly reviewed having regard to the workload arising and other competing demands.
Applicants for invalidity pension do not automatically switch from another social welfare payment. The processing of these applications involves medical assessment, verification of domestic and EU social insurance contributions and other criteria, all of which add to the processing time required to ensure that the terms of the scheme are correctly administered. In addition, time can elapse where applicants do not attend for medical assessments or do not supply all the necessary information in support of their claim.
The Department received 7,757 invalidity pension applications in 2008 and 7,596 were decided in the year. The average time to decide an invalidity pension award was 11 weeks. A review of existing processes and procedures for invalidity pension is currently underway with the explicit objective of improving efficiency in claim processing.
Employment Support Services.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:417 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the allowances available to private sector workers who have recently lost their jobs, not through redundancy, in terms of back to education courses; the allowances available for people who have recently lost their jobs, not through redundancy, and who wish to pursue courses through FÁS; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4306/09]
The Department of Social and Family Affairs offers a range of education and employment supports designed to assist and facilitate people on social welfare payments to return to the active labour force.
The back to education allowance (BTEA) is the main education support scheme of the Department. It is designed to encourage people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to work. An applicant must be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for a minimum period, to qualify for the back to education allowance. This requirement has always been a feature of the BTEA scheme and is considered necessary to ensure that limited resources are directed at those most in need. The allowance essentially replaces a person's existing social welfare income and, in addition, an annual €500 cost of education allowance is payable.
In general, an applicant must be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for 6 months if pursuing a second level course or 12 months if pursuing a third level course. In addition, the qualifying period for access to the third level option is further reduced to 9 months for persons who are participating in the National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) process and people who are awarded statutory redundancy may access the scheme immediately, provided an entitlement to a relevant social welfare payment is established prior to commencing an approved course of study.
FÁS Employment Service helps job-seekers, in particular those who are most marginalised, to enter or re-enter the active labour market. Job-seekers who are considered to be distant from the labour market are provided with appropriate and intensive professional vocational guidance which results in an action plan setting out specific actions and measures to be implemented with a view to helping them integrate into the labour force.
FÁS provides various financial supports in the form of allowances to assist participants on training courses and grants or subventions to encourage employers to support training programmes. Participants on the majority of FÁS training courses are eligible for various allowances. The main allowances given for the course participants are training, travel, accommodation, meals and child care.
FÁS operates a National Contact Centre which may be contacted, by job-seekers, using a free-phone number to obtain information on jobs available and on FÁS training and employment programmes. For information on the full range of allowances and grants and advice on their personal options a person should contact their local FÁS office.
Departmental Staff.
Andrew Doyle
Ceist:418 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of personnel, their grades and the budget of the new division responsible for addressing issues of poverty and exclusion. [4423/09]
The Government's decision to integrate the Combat Poverty Agency and the Office for Social Inclusion within the Department of Social and Family Affairs was informed by a review of the Combat Poverty Agency undertaken on foot of a Government Decision on the 6th June 2007. The legislative provision to give effect to the Government's decision is contained in the Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2008. An implementation plan for the smooth integration of the two bodies is underway and it is envisaged that the new division will commence operations from 1st July.
The new division will provide a unified institutional structure to support government, officials and the wider community in addressing issues of poverty and social exclusion. It will play a central role in co-ordinating the ongoing development and implementation of the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion in collaboration with the Senior Officials Group on Social Inclusion, government departments, local authorities and agencies. Key functions will include policy advice, research, data availability, communications, poverty impact assessment and the strengthening of social inclusion strategies.
In the meantime both organisations continue to operate separately, but are in the process of integrating their operations. There are currently 20 permanent staff employed in the Combat Poverty Agency (17.6 full time equivalent posts) in grades analogous to Civil Service grades as follows — 6 Assistant Principals, 8 Higher Executive Officers, 2 Executive Officers and 4 Clerical Officers. In addition, there are seven people on either fixed term or temporary contracts that are due to be completed in the coming months. The Department's 2009 Grant-in-Aid provision for the Combat Poverty Agency is €4.088m of which some €2.4m is attributable to the Board and staff costs and the administration costs. The remainder relates mainly to programme funding under headings that include projects, communications and research.
There are currently ten staff members working in the Office for Social Inclusion as follows; Director, Principal Officer, 2 Assistant Principals, 5 Higher Executive/Administrative Officers and 1 Clerical Officer. The costs associated with the Office mainly relate to staff costs and are accounted for as part of the overall administrative budget of the Department.
As part of the integration process, both bodies are drawing up integrated business plans for the year and a strategic plan for the new division for the next 3 years. These plans will determine the deployment of staff and the budget for the new division in the second half of this year and in future years. It is expected that the new arrangements will yield savings, especially in areas such as accommodation and efficiencies that can be gained through combined payroll and ancillary support services.
Question No. 419 answered with Question No. 415.
Social Welfare Appeals.
Michael Ring
Ceist:420 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the position of a disability allowance appeal for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [4461/09]
The claim for disability allowance, by the person concerned, was refused by a Deciding Officer of the Department on 3 October 2008 as she did not satisfy the medical conditions or the means test. An appeal was opened on 14 October 2008 and I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office, that in accordance with the statutory requirements, the Department was asked for the documentation in the case and the Deciding Officers comments on the grounds of appeal. The relevant documentation have been received by an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
Michael Ring
Ceist:421 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the outcome of the reassessment carried out on a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [4646/09]
The person concerned is in receipt of a farm assist payment since 23 April 2007. He requested a review of his means assessment on 3 October 2008. A review of his entitlement has now been completed. His weekly means have been assessed at €157.00 by a Deciding Officer from 3 October 2008. His new weekly rate of payment is €182.90, which includes an increase in respect of his spouse. A payment of €1,525.60, including arrears, will issue to him shortly. If he is unhappy with this assessment it is open to him to appeal this decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office.
Under Social Welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
Michael Ring
Ceist:422 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an appeal will be dealt with in relation to jobseeker’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [4647/09]
The person concerned applied for a jobseeker's allowance payment on 15 October 2008. A Deciding Officer disallowed his claim from that date on the grounds that he failed to show that his means did not exceed the maximum rate payable to a person in his circumstances. Following an appeal his claim was forwarded to a Social Welfare Inspector for re-examination. The inspector will examine his case as soon as possible.
Under Social Welfare legislation decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
Money Advice and Budgeting Service.
Mary Upton
Ceist:423 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of clients availing of the facilities of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service for January 2009; if she will provide this information for each local office; the relevant figure for each office for January 2008 and January 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4669/09]
The Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) is the main Government funded service which provides assistance to people who are over-indebted and need help and advice in coping with debt problems. There are 53 independent companies with voluntary boards of management operating the local services throughout the country. In 2009 almost €18 million has been provided to fund the service. Additional full and part time staff have been allocated to 6 MABS offices bringing to 252 the number of money advice staff employed in the MABS. This will ensure that people in debt seeking advice on their personal finances can access that advice promptly.
There are three ways that members of the public can receive the assistance, support and advice they need from MABS — through the MABS Telephone Helpline lo-call number 1890 283 438 available from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Friday, the 52 MABS companies nationwide operating in 65 locations delivering the locally based face to face service and the MABS website www.mabs.ie. In the period to the end of January 2009 1,552 new clients approached the MABS. In addition, 262 people sought information about budgeting and money management and the MABS National Helpline dealt with approx 2,030 calls. The detailed statistical breakdown of clients per centre for the months January 2009, January 2008, and January 2007 requested by the Deputy is not available. However nationally in January 2007 1,817 new clients approached the MABS. The corresponding figure for January 2008 was 1,210 new clients. In addition 906 callers were dealt with by the MABS National Helpline which was launched in October 2007.
Overall in 2008 some 16,600 new clients were seen by MABS. An additional 2,400 sought information about budgeting and money management from the local services and the MABS National Helpline received almost 11,000 calls.
Social Welfare Code.
Richard Bruton
Ceist:424 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person who applies for unemployment assistance following a period of working as a taxi driver can be obliged by her Department to dispose of the plate as a condition of their approval; and the way such applicants who can no longer make a living at the taxis can demonstrate their eligibility for unemployment assistance as they undertake their search for alternative employment, as in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [4782/09]
The person concerned claimed Jobseeker's Allowance on 14 November 2008 at North Cumberland St. Local Office. Jobseeker's Allowance (JA) is a means-tested scheme, which means that the person must satisfy qualifying conditions and pass a means test to see if he/she qualifies for payment.
The person concerned is self-employed as a taxi driver since 2004. He advised the Social Welfare Inspector in December 2008 that he was off sick for 3 months during 2008 and he claims that he last worked on 15 November 2008. He has not kept accounts for 2007 or 2008. He has insurance for his taxi up until April 2009. He agreed that he can continue to work as a self-employed taxi driver whenever he wishes. There has been no suggestion made that he has to dispose of his taxi plate. Accordingly, he is being assessed as a self-employed taxi driver.
His JA claim has been disallowed. The Local Office wrote to him on 10 December 2008 to advise him that his weekly means have been assessed at €300. As his weekly means were greater than the weekly rate of payment due for JA at that time, that is, €197.80, he was advised that he is not entitled to a JA payment. He was advised that he could appeal this decision to the independent Social Welfare Appeals Office. He has now submitted an appeal and this is being processed at present.
It is open to the person concerned to claim Supplementary Welfare Allowance if he feels that his income is insufficient for his needs.
Social Welfare Benefits.
James Bannon
Ceist:425 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford has been disallowed a carer’s allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4798/09]
The person concerned applied for carer's allowance on 22 February 2008. When the care recipient is under 16 years of age it is a condition that domiciliary care allowance be in payment in order to qualify for carer's allowance. On 23 December 2008 the person's claim was refused on the grounds that domiciliary care allowance was not in payment. She was notified of this decision, the reasons for it and of her right to appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
Under Social Welfare legislation, decisions in relation to claims must be made by Deciding Officers and Appeals Officers. These Officers are statutorily appointed and I have no role in regard to making such decisions.
James Bannon
Ceist:426 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford has been disallowed a disability allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4799/09]
Disability Allowance is a weekly allowance paid to people with a specified disability who are aged over 16 and under 66. The disability must be expected to last for at least one year and the allowance is subject to both medical assessment and a means test.
The person concerned applied for disability allowance on 21 November 2008. Following a medical examination on 26 January 2009 by this Department's Medical Assessor, he was deemed to be not medically suitable for disability allowance. His application for disability allowance was refused on 29 January 2009. A letter issued to the person concerned on 29 January 2009 notifying him of this decision and giving him the option of sending in further medical evidence to this Department within 21 days. It is also open to him to appeal directly to the Independent Social Welfare Appeals Office within 21 days.
James Bannon
Ceist:427 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford has been denied a jobseekers allowance or any social welfare assistance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4801/09]
The Department has no record of receiving an application for Jobseekers Allowance from the person concerned. If she wishes to submit an application, she should contact her local Social Welfare Office.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:428 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the private consultancy firms her Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to her Department for each project; and if she will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4820/09]
The Department has a major programme of business, organisational and technological change underway to enable it to modernise the services which it provides to its customers. Ensuring that we maximise the potential of Information Technology is a significant aspect of this and external consultancy firms are used to assist the Department with this work.
Consultancy is defined in the Department of Finance guidelines as where a person or organisation provides intellectual or knowledge based services (e.g. expert analysis and advice) through delivering reports, studies, assessments, recommendations, proposals, etc. that contribute to decision making or policy making. For example, the Department has used external consultancy expertise to support it in undertaking the review of the Social Insurance Fund and the Equality Review of the Social Welfare Code.
The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the following table and includes all private consultancy firms used by the Department during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009.
It should be noted that in the case of the larger projects the actual expenditure may be incurred over a period of one or more years.
|
Company |
Project |
Contract |
|
€ |
||
|
Bearing Point |
Support and Maintenance of SDM production system |
4,000,000 |
|
Bearing Point |
Widows and Widowers Contributory Pension |
2,150,252 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Payment & Agency Reconciliation |
3,058,943 |
|
Hewlett Packard |
Office Systems Modernisation |
2,736,312 |
|
Bayberry |
Payment & Agency Reconciliation (business and organisational change) |
1,084,864 |
|
Hewlett Packard |
Implementation of Office Systems Infrastructure |
723,446 |
|
PM Centrix |
Website Redesign |
394,242 |
|
Accenture |
General Register Office System — Support and Maintenance |
1,724,240 |
|
Core International |
Travel & Subsistence Claim Processing System |
100,512 |
|
Inpute Technologies |
Digital Documents |
116,160 |
|
Fujitsu Services |
Oracle Financials |
185,449 |
|
ERSI |
Live Register Customer Profiling |
51,000 |
|
Core International |
Time & Attendance System |
60,790 |
|
Computer Associates |
Information Technology Infrastructure Review |
19,965 |
|
Microsoft Ireland |
Infrastructure Optimisation |
17,120 |
|
Core International |
Corepay development and Upgrade |
30,000 |
|
Peoplesoft |
Human Resource Management System Support |
8,057 |
|
Naked Objects |
Business Objects Modelling Advice and Expertise (Service Delivery Modernisation Programme) |
356,950 |
|
Naked Objects |
Technical Development Advice in relation to Business Object Model (Service Delivery Modernisation Programme) |
425,920 |
|
Accenture |
Strategic Review of Client Eligibility Services |
368,573 |
|
Grant Thornton |
Strategic Review of Customer Facing Services |
183,781 |
|
Mel Cousins |
Equality Review of Social Welfare Code |
246,236 |
|
ERSI |
Assessment of impact of tax and welfare policy |
150,000 |
|
Ernst & Young |
Business Information Security Advice |
120,000 |
|
Deloitte |
Internal Audit Support |
363,180 |
|
WRC Social & Economic Consultants |
Review of Activation and Family Support Programme |
96,751 |
|
Millward Brown |
Family Income Supplement — Uptake Research |
65,606 |
|
ERSI |
National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) Evaluation |
104,000 |
|
Rits Information Security |
Forensic Investigation Services |
30,454 |
|
ERSI |
Measurement & analysis of levels of consistent poverty |
80,000 |
|
Camille Loftus- OPEN |
Welfare to work review |
14,000 |
|
Conal Devine Associates |
CORE Functions — Organisational Design/ Development and Configuration & Transition Management |
10,905 |
|
Accenture |
Taxonomy |
217,800 |
|
Technical Guidance |
Pensions Policy Report |
5,392 |
|
Open Interface |
Office of Social Inclusion — Website Upgrade |
484 |
|
Hewlett Packard |
Customer Object Development |
2,394,452 |
|
Hewlett Packard |
Public Service Identity |
63,720 |
|
Consult Hyperion |
Public Service Card |
16,015 |
|
Company |
Project |
Contract |
|
€ |
||
|
LAN Communications |
Internal Network Security Implementation |
39,930 |
|
Bearing Point |
Medical Review and Case Management |
4,148,690 |
|
Hewlett Packard |
Implementation of Centralised Infrastructural Management System |
81,266 |
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:429 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of bonus payments made to staff in her Department for 2008; the amount set aside in her Department for bonus payments in 2009; and if she will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4835/09]
Civil service posts at the levels of Assistant Secretary and Deputy Secretary are covered by a scheme of performance related awards. Recommendations in relation to awards are made by the Secretary General of each department and the operation of the scheme is overseen by the Committee for Performance Awards. The funding for awards is based on 10% of the payroll for the posts covered by the scheme. Within this overall limit, payments of up to 20% can be made to individuals.
Details of the procedures, the numbers covered by the scheme, the range of awards and the total amounts paid in Departments are outlined in the annual reports of the Committee (available on the website www.finance.gov.ie). The Committee does not identify the amount paid to individuals as this is regarded as personal information.
No specific provision has been made for this scheme in 2009. In addition, there is a scheme for Recognition of Exceptional Performance by Staff which operates across the Civil Service. This scheme has been in operation since 1996 and allows Secretaries-General to make awards for sustained exceptional performance to staff. Awards may be made in respect of performance above the level which would reasonably be expected in the normal course from the grade of staff involved. All staff in the Department, irrespective of grade, can nominate another staff member or a team for an award, at any time during the year.
The total gross expenditure on the scheme, which in my Department is called the Fiúntas scheme, was €176,780 in 2008. Total gross expenditure on the scheme in 2009 will depend on the decisions made during the year in relation to nominations for recognition of exceptional performance but in any event, as in previous years, the total expenditure on the scheme in 2009 may not exceed 0.2% of payroll costs.
Departmental Staff.
Damien English
Ceist:430 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if there are physical building constraints preventing the allocation of additional staff at the Trim, Kells and Navan social welfare offices to help alleviate the waiting times facing newly unemployed people’s applications for unemployment claims to be processed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4840/09]
Damien English
Ceist:431 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she has plans to secure additional office space for the Trim, Kells and Navan social welfare offices locally; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4841/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 430 and 431 together.
With the increase in the number of people applying for unemployment payments in particular, staff in social welfare offices have been working extremely hard to process claims as quickly as possible.
I know that processing times in some areas are still too long and I assure the Deputy that we are doing our best to reduce them. I appreciate that becoming unemployed is a very difficult time in a person's life and that they need to get access to financial and other supports as quickly as possible.
The Navan Social Welfare Local Office is staffed by employees of the Department. It is a relatively new office and there are no specific physical building constraints that have or that will prevent the allocation of additional staff resources there.
Additionally, internal renovations within that office are due to be undertaken shortly which will provide additional working space. Having regard to the increased live register and service demands, an additional four staff have been allocated to Navan Local Office, with a further 2 to be allocated. This will bring the total number of staff in the office to 30.
The offices in Trim and Kells are Branch Offices operated by private individuals on a contract basis. Within the terms of their contracts, branch managers are required to provide adequate staffing and suitable accommodation to allow the efficient performance of the work of the office. The Department reviews the provision of accommodation and staffing in branch offices from time to time of these offices under the terms and conditions of these contracts. The arrangements in the Trim and Kells offices are being kept under review.
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:432 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of funding allocated to each Social Welfare Branch office in each of the past three years; how this amount is determined; how staffing levels are determined and funded; how often and on what basis contracts are renewed; how performance is appraised; and on what basis extra staff will be provided if there is a sharp rise in case-load. [5062/09]
In addition to its own network of Social Welfare Local Offices my Department delivers a front-line service to the public through 62 Branch Offices. Each Branch Office is operated, under a contract for services, by a Branch Manager who acts as an agent for the Department in the district served by the Branch Office.
The method of remuneration for Branch Managers is agreed at the Branch Managers' Conciliation Council, which includes officials from the Department and representatives of the Branch Managers' Association, and is subject to approval by the Department of Finance.
Under current arrangements, payments made to Branch Managers comprise a basic payment, a Variable Costs Allowance and a Tiered Services Allowance. The rate of Variable Costs and Tiered Services Allowances payable are dependent on claim load and as such can differ from Office to Office.
All newly appointed Branch Managers are appointed on an initial twelve month contract. Subject to the provision of satisfactory service a permanent contract to age 65 may be awarded. In some instances specific time bound contracts have also been awarded. There is provision in all contracts for the review of arrangements for delivery of services.
Under the conditions of their contract, each Branch Manager is required to provide sufficient staffing to allow for the efficient performance of the work of the Office.
Branch Managers are subject to an annual performance appraisal by the Department. Performance levels are measured in relation to efficiency and effectiveness, customer service and the quality of work. In addition, performance is also monitored through regular control checks, audits and inspections, which are carried out in Branch Offices by departmental staff.
Details of the payments made, in the last three years, in respect of each Social Welfare Branch Office are as set out in the following table.
|
Location |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
||
|
Ardee |
103,413 |
116,661 |
151,013 |
|
|
Athy |
112,543 |
143,230 |
194,417 |
|
|
Balbriggan |
173,966 |
205,034 |
269,977 |
Closed November 2008 |
|
Ballinasloe |
120,886 |
139,143 |
166,715 |
|
|
Ballinrobe |
79,368 |
86,685 |
98,123 |
|
|
Ballybofey |
123,750 |
141,597 |
182,974 |
|
|
Ballyshannon |
86,931 |
101,558 |
118,990 |
|
|
Baltinglass |
77,436 |
97,194 |
124,805 |
|
|
Bandon |
82,752 |
95,926 |
120,028 |
|
|
Bantry |
70,431 |
80,183 |
91,152 |
|
|
Ballyconnell |
77,350 |
88,853 |
101,164 |
|
|
Birr |
113,558 |
128,826 |
153,611 |
|
|
Boyle |
72,098 |
80,593 |
92,969 |
|
|
Cahir |
73,800 |
82,892 |
94,402 |
|
|
Carrickmacross |
83,969 |
96,015 |
118,959 |
|
|
Carrick-On-Suir |
124,682 |
136,920 |
161,806 |
|
|
Cashel |
63,441 |
69,642 |
85,481 |
|
|
Castleblaney |
101,281 |
113,534 |
132,723 |
|
|
Castlepollard |
64,803 |
77,427 |
93,554 |
|
|
Castlerea |
99,232 |
119,750 |
142,052 |
|
|
Claremorris |
80,096 |
91,424 |
111,739 |
|
|
Clonakilty |
78,908 |
90,223 |
99,295 |
|
|
Clones |
55,794 |
66,974 |
79,964 |
|
|
Dingle |
58,615 |
64,326 |
77,702 |
|
|
Donegal Town |
84,665 |
105,050 |
116,840 |
|
|
Dungarvan |
132,860 |
145,218 |
168,399 |
|
|
Dunmanway |
57,080 |
38,629 |
0 |
Closed July 2007 |
|
Edenderry |
89,971 |
109,271 |
135,583 |
|
|
Enniscorthy |
204,554 |
235,656 |
288,945 |
|
|
Ennistymon |
98,626 |
110,070 |
130,763 |
|
|
Fermoy |
111,429 |
131,330 |
157,162 |
|
|
Gorey |
156,825 |
185,918 |
231,236 |
|
|
Gort |
84,416 |
106,159 |
112,748 |
|
|
Kells |
85,333 |
97,235 |
122,060 |
|
|
Killarney |
124,516 |
143,961 |
93,420 |
Closed June 2008 |
|
Killorglin |
79,286 |
86,013 |
101,619 |
|
|
Killybegs |
114,099 |
118,247 |
126,171 |
|
|
Kilmallock |
110,458 |
123,868 |
164,119 |
|
|
Kilrush |
93,190 |
105,741 |
119,006 |
|
|
Kinsale |
88,653 |
98,709 |
112,277 |
|
|
Loughrea |
9,078 |
— |
0 |
Closed January 2006 |
|
Macroom |
76,385 |
90,629 |
115,204 |
|
|
Mallow |
102,548 |
118,821 |
140,978 |
|
|
Maynooth |
181,755 |
219,813 |
301,897 |
|
|
Middleton |
134,631 |
152,935 |
185,281 |
|
|
Monaghan |
109,239 |
138,058 |
171,549 |
|
|
Muine Beag |
84,477 |
103,248 |
124,091 |
|
|
Nenagh |
121,342 |
140,828 |
169,122 |
|
|
Newmarket |
76,599 |
94,256 |
113,492 |
|
|
Newross |
158,015 |
183,812 |
224,169 |
|
|
Passage West |
91,320 |
1,297 |
0 |
Closed October 2006 |
|
Portarlington |
105,640 |
123,492 |
171,955 |
|
|
Portlaoise |
123,421 |
158,899 |
221,920 |
|
|
Rathdowney |
69,903 |
79,970 |
94,302 |
|
|
Roscommon |
72,434 |
85,664 |
98,349 |
|
|
Roscrea |
81,959 |
89,860 |
102,146 |
|
|
Skibbereen |
81,096 |
88,041 |
97,099 |
|
|
Swinford |
111,176 |
127,573 |
144,871 |
|
|
Thomastown |
76,260 |
85,103 |
98,708 |
|
|
Tipperary |
93,097 |
100,463 |
118,747 |
|
|
Trim |
106,442 |
132,292 |
179,852 |
|
|
Tuam |
153,296 |
180,358 |
215,966 |
|
|
Tubbercurry |
67,588 |
76,409 |
92,787 |
|
|
Tulla |
71,314 |
81,359 |
94,802 |
|
|
Tullow |
79,569 |
100,201 |
118,849 |
|
|
Wicklow |
114,534 |
130,046 |
155,160 |
|
|
Youghal |
97,644 |
116,555 |
132,957 |
Marine Accidents.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:433 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Defence the reason for delay in having the Asgard II raised from the seabed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4693/09]
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:434 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Defence the reason for the delay in raising the Asgard II; and the immediate plans in respect thereof. [4780/09]
Olivia Mitchell
Ceist:435 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Defence when the Asgard II will be raised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4803/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 433 to 435, inclusive, together.
I refer the Deputies to my reply in the House last Wednesday, 4 February, to Questions Nos. 100 and 101. I will make a decision this week in relation to the salvage of Asgard II.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:436 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Defence the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4812/09]
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to consultancy firms used by my Department during the period 1 January 2008 to 14 October 2008 is set out in the following table. No new contracts have been entered into by my Department in the period from 15 October 2008 to date.
|
Year |
Name of Consultancy firm |
Work Carried Out |
Cost of Project |
Status |
|
€ |
||||
|
2008 |
Murray Consultants |
Implemented a Public Information and Awareness Campaign on Emergency Planning. The contract provided for the development of the Emergency Planning website, drafting, publication and distribution of a handbook on Emergency Planning and a media advertisement campaign associated with the launch of the handbook. |
1,847,673 |
Project complete. |
|
2008 |
Magnum Opus |
To provide project support services for the National Emergency Coordination Centre |
36,905 |
Project ongoing. |
|
2008 |
Entograph |
Carried out a study to review and evaluate options for bracken control in the Glen of Imaal and identify a plan for its control. |
30,129 |
Project complete. |
|
2008 |
PA Consultant Group |
To make recommendations on the best means of meeting the medical requirements of the Defence Forces. Estimated cost of the review is €95,000 excluding VAT. €60,138.09 was paid in Nov. 2008. |
60,138.09 |
Project ongoing. |
|
2008 |
Dr. Eileen Doyle |
To act as external expert and to chair the Independent Monitoring Group to review progress made by the PDF since the publication in 2004 of the report ‘Response to the Challenge of a Workplace’. |
37,109.12 |
Project complete. Report formally launched on 17 December 2008. |
|
2008 |
McCann Fitzgerald, Solicitors |
To provide legal drafting, research and advice services in relation to the drafting of revised Rules of Procedure and new Court Martial Rules following the enactment of the Defence (Amendment) Act, 2007. Two stage payments were made — €43,741.50 in March 2008. A final payment of €16,153.50 was made in August 2008. |
59,895 |
Project complete. |
|
2008 |
Mott Mac Donald Ltd |
To carry out a review of Safety Policy at Casement Aerodrome, Baldonnel. Value of contract is €50,000; final payment made. |
50,000 |
Project complete. However ongoing advice and assistance will be provided in relation to the implementation of the Policy for a period of 3 years. |
|
2008 |
BMT Defence Services, UK |
Consultants engaged in relation to the Naval Vessel Replacement Programme. Two stage payments made to date — €45,643 (September 2008), €25,000 (December 2008). |
70,643 |
Project ongoing. |
|
2008 |
FGS Consulting |
VFM Review of Military Training Lands. Two stage payments made to date, in November 2008 and December 2008 of €60,500. Total value of contract is €90,000 incl. VAT. Balance of €29,500 to be paid on completion of the Review in 2009. |
60,500.00 |
Project ongoing. |
There is an ongoing capital building programme in my Department designed to modernise the living, training, operational and accommodation facilities available to the Defence Forces, both Permanent and Reserve. Consultants with appropriate expertise are engaged by my Department as necessary to provide technical services in connection with building and engineering projects. It should be noted that (as per Comptroller and Auditor General, Report on Value for Money ‘Consultancies in the Civil Service' 1998) such design and engineering consultancies for capital projects are better examined in association with the construction projects to which they relate. My Department spends approximately €2m annually on Construction Consultants' fees.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:437 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Defence the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4827/09]
Civil Service posts at the levels of Assistant Secretary and Deputy Secretary are covered by a scheme of performance related awards. The operation of the scheme is overseen by the Committee for Performance Awards (CPA). Details of awards to individual officers under the scheme are not disclosed on the basis that they are confidential to the officer concerned. However, I can say that during 2008 awards totalling €22,000 were made to two officers in my Department.
The Scheme for Performance Related Awards also applies to officers of the Permanent Defence Force at the level of Brigadier General and Major General. In 2008 an amount of €125,900 was paid to a total of 11 personnel under this scheme.
In respect of 2009, no awards have been authorised for payment under this scheme.
Performance awards for other civil service grades are made to individual staff members and to groups of staff under a scheme for Recognition of Exceptional Performance of duty. In assessing eligibility for awards, regard is given to the nature and quality of the activities involved and to the circumstances under which they were carried out. Attention is also paid to the grade level of the staff members concerned and to what would be regarded as high quality performance from staff in such grades. In 2008, two individual awards of €700 each, one individual award of €400 and 7 individual awards of €200 each have been made. In 2008 there were 419 members of staff across all grades up to and including Principal Officer level eligible for consideration for an award under the scheme. No amount has been set aside in 2009 under the scheme for Recognition of Exceptional Performance awards.
Local Authority Housing.
Jack Wall
Ceist:438 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position of an application by a local authority for funding in respect of a regeneration programme at a local authority housing estate (details supplied) in County Kildare; when the application was submitted; when a decision will be made in relation to the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4247/09]
A Remedial Works Scheme application in relation to the estate in question was received on 3 November 2008 and, following the initial evaluation of all proposals received from local authorities, my Department has informed Kildare County Council that it is favourably disposed towards the proposal and would like to have it progressed under the Remedial Works Scheme Programme for 2009. The progression of this and similar proposals will be contingent on certain details of design, costing and phasing being reviewed and agreed with my Department and the overall level of funding available.
My Department will be in touch with the Council shortly to outline what is required to advance the project in 2009.
National Monuments.
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:439 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost to the taxpayer of the cases in the High Court and the Supreme Court arising out of the decision to refuse to grant a licence in relation to the Lusitania under section 3, subsection 5 of the National Monument (Amendment) Act 1987; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4441/09]
Jim O'Keeffe
Ceist:458 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost to the tax payer of the High Court and Supreme Court decisions arising out of the refusal to grant a licence in relation to the Lusitania under section 3 subsection 5 of the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1987; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4442/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 439 and 458 together.
Following refusal of an application under the National Monuments (Amendment) Act 1987 for a licence to dive survey the wreck of the RMS Lusitania, the applicant sought judicial review of the Minister's decision in the High Court. In a complex judgment delivered in June 2005, the Court deemed that the refusal was ultra vires the powers of the Minister. Following legal advice, it was decided to appeal the High Court decision to the Supreme Court which held that the State’s appeal should be dismissed.
Costs of the Judicial Review and Supreme Court challenge were awarded to the licence applicant. A settlement of €343,940.05 (High Court €248,248.41; Supreme Court €95,691.64) was subsequently agreed, and paid over to the applicant in December 2008. Information on the cost of the State's legal representation in the cases is a matter for the Chief State Solicitors Office, and is not available in my Department.
Animal Welfare.
Andrew Doyle
Ceist:440 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the proposed dog breeding establishment regulations will be incorporated or superseded by the soon to be published Animal Welfare Bill which is to include dogs and horses in its remit. [4203/09]
Work has been ongoing for some time in my Department in drafting measures to provide for statutory regulation of dog breeding establishments within the dog control legislative regime. The issues involved are complex and required detailed consideration. This process has included discussions with a number of organisations, bodies, public agencies and interests active in this area. As indicated in the reply to question No. 1045 of 27 January 2009, it is my intention to introduce amending legislation in this area which will address a number of issues relating to dog breeding establishments. My proposals in this regard will be published as soon as possible and will complement measures being prepared by my colleague the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the area of animal welfare and health.
Planning Issues.
Niall Collins
Ceist:441 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to increase the duration of planning permission to ten years in respect of applications in respect of wind farms and associated wind and green energy structures; if this can be retrospective for permissions nearing their five year period but not yet commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4206/09]
Planning permissions are typically granted for a period of 5 years, although a planning authority may, having regard to the nature and extent of the relevant development and any other material considerations, specify a longer period during which a permission is to have effect. Where a planning permission expires, the developer may seek an extension of the relevant period. Subject to compliance with certain requirements, including the requirement that substantial works were carried out pursuant to the permission during that period, a planning authority may extend the duration of a permission by such additional period as it considers necessary to enable the relevant development to be completed. This period may be further extended where the planning authority is satisfied that the relevant development had not been completed due to circumstances beyond the control of the developer.
On the particular issue of Wind Farm development, my Department also issued the Wind Energy Development Guidelines in June 2006. A copy of the Guidelines is available on my Department's website www.environ.ie. The Guidelines offer advice to planning authorities on planning for wind energy through the development plan process and in determining applications for planning permission, including the duration of the planning permission itself. The relevant provisions of these guidelines were restated in Circular Letter PD3/08 issued on 16 July 2008. While I consider that these provisions are adequate they will be reviewed in the context of the forthcoming Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill.
Energy Ratings.
Terence Flanagan
Ceist:442 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will introduce a standard cost for building energy ratings assessments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4243/09]
I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 20 and 32 of 5 February 2009. The position is unchanged.
Health and Safety Regulations.
Terence Flanagan
Ceist:443 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take to address fire safety concerns in apartment complexes which are controlled by unregulated management companies; his views on recent inspections which have shown many apartment complexes containing no fire fighting equipment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4244/09]
Preparation of legislation in regard to management companies for apartment complexes is a matter in the first instance for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
Section 22 of the Fire Services Act 1981 empowers fire authorities to inspect any land or building, including apartment complexes, for the purpose of the Act. Under the Fire Services Acts 1981 and 2003, fire authorities can pursue enforcement of fire safety matters, including the management of fire safety.
In addition, Section 18 of the Fire Services Act 1981 places a duty on persons having control over premises, such as apartment complexes, to take all reasonable measures to guard against the outbreak of fire and to ensure the safety of persons on the premises in the event of an outbreak of fire. I have no role in the day to day exercise of these functions.
Social and Affordable Housing.
Terence Flanagan
Ceist:444 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide details of the new equity support scheme which is to replace existing affordable housing schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4245/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 16 of 5 February 2009. The position is unchanged.
Housing Grants.
Catherine Byrne
Ceist:445 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding allocated by his Department to Dublin City Council for the housing adaptation grant for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4264/09]
Details of the grants and funding made available to Dublin City Council towards the operation of the schemes in question are set out in the table below. The Schemes are funded by 80% recoupment available from my Department together with 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. The Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, the Mobility Aids Grant Scheme and the Housing Aid for Older People Scheme came into operation in November 2007, replacing the previous Disabled Persons and Essential Repairs Grant Schemes, which were funded by 67% recoupment available from my Department together with 33% contribution from the resources of the local authority.
|
Dublin City Council |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability |
|||
|
Total amount recouped |
1,183,013 |
||
|
Amount funded by D/EHLG |
946,410 |
||
|
Amount funded by DCC |
236,603 |
||
|
Mobility Aids Grant Scheme |
|||
|
Total amount recouped |
39,880 |
||
|
Amount funded by D/EHLG |
31,904 |
||
|
Amount funded by DCC |
7,976 |
||
|
Housing Aid for Older People scheme |
|||
|
Total amount recouped |
478,126 |
||
|
Amount funded by D/EHLG |
382,501 |
||
|
Amount funded by DCC |
95,625 |
||
|
Disabled Persons Grant |
|||
|
Total amount recouped |
10,631,897 |
11,412,167 |
10,881,800 |
|
Amount funded by D/EHLG |
7,087,931 |
7,608,111 |
7,254,533 |
|
Amount funded by DCC |
3,543,966 |
3,804,056 |
3,627,267 |
|
Essential Repairs Grant |
|||
|
Total amount recouped |
807,002 |
1,052,111 |
917,867 |
|
Amount funded by D/EHLG |
538,001 |
701,407 |
611,911 |
|
Amount funded by DCC |
269,001 |
350,704 |
305,956 |
Architectural Heritage.
Phil Hogan
Ceist:446 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of grant aid allocated annually to an organisation (details supplied) for each year 2000 to 2007 inclusive. [4286/09]
My Department has provided a total of €3,866,356 to An Taisce in the period 2000 to 2007. The table below sets out the detail of amounts provided for each year.
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
Total |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
CORE Funding |
5,463 |
1,000 |
3,659 |
3,506 |
2,493 |
5,608 |
6,013 |
27,743 |
|
|
Consultation/Policy submissions |
5,294 |
4,538 |
4,994 |
1,850 |
16,676 |
||||
|
Meetings |
1,311 |
400 |
6165 |
750 |
2,250 |
10,876 |
|||
|
Spring Clean |
171,205 |
228,553 |
250,000 |
250,000 |
280,000 |
324,448 |
340,264 |
347,237 |
2,191,707 |
|
Green Schools |
8,000 |
50,000 |
*50,000 |
150,000 |
200,000 |
408,000 |
|||
|
Biodiversity Week |
2,645 |
2,645 |
|||||||
|
Advertising |
600 |
726 |
605 |
1,210 |
3,141 |
||||
|
Blue Flag Scheme |
54,291 |
85,033 |
63,475 |
65,156 |
81,771 |
30,000 |
86,097 |
185,347 |
651,168 |
|
Blue Flag Conference |
40,940 |
40,940 |
|||||||
|
Clean Coasts Projects |
5,000 |
5,000 |
5,000 |
15,000 |
|||||
|
Irish Business against Litter |
50,000 |
75,000 |
100,000 |
100,000 |
106,861 |
431,861 |
|||
|
Miscellaneous projects |
3,600 |
5,000 |
8,000 |
16,600 |
|||||
|
Participation in planning process |
50,000 |
50,000 |
|||||||
|
Total |
23,7096 |
320,360 |
314,857 |
379,415 |
542,237 |
481,249 |
688,923 |
902,203 |
3,866,356 |
*This amount was provided in 2006 but was in respect of 2005.
Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Pat Breen
Ceist:447 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the status of an application (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4359/09]
The combined O'Briens Bridge, O'Callaghan's Mills, Bodyke, Flagmount and Cratloe Sewerage Scheme is included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009. Further consideration will be given to Clare County Council's Preliminary Report for the scheme, which was received in my Department in November 2008, on receipt of additional information requested from the Council in December 2008.
James Bannon
Ceist:448 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funding will be provided for the Mullingar main drainage scheme, County Westmeath which requires and outlay of €16 million; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4374/09]
The Mullingar Sewerage Scheme is included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 at an estimated cost of €72 million.
Phase 1 of the works, involving the upgrading of the treatment plant, a pumping station and construction of the main interceptor sewer commenced last Summer. Following completion of these works, it is proposed to carry out further works, involving the rehabilitation and upgrading of existing sewers and minor pumping stations, as Phase 2 of the scheme.
Social and Affordable Housing.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:449 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of affordable homes acquired by local authorities under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 for each of the years 2006 and 2007; the average cost price of an affordable home acquired by the local authority; the number of affordable homes sold by local authorities during 2006 and 2007; the number of affordable homes that remained unsold at the end of the years 2006 and 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4380/09]
Information on affordable housing activity, up to the end of June 2008, 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. Data for the third quarter of 2008 will be published shortly.
Comprehensive information on the average cost price of affordable homes acquired by local authorities and the number of units sold was not collected by my Department in 2006-2007.
At the end of 2007, information supplied by local authorities indicated that the number of units on hands at that time was of the order of 2,200. Such data were not collected in 2006. It is a feature of the operation of the affordable housing schemes that individual authorities ordinarily have a certain quantum of completed affordable homes on hands at any given time, principally comprising units either being prepared for, or in the course of, sale. However, the information available from local authorities would suggest that the strong level of affordable housing delivery in 2008 and wider housing and mortgage market considerations are combining to increase the stock of homes on hands. The indications to date are that the number of affordable units on hands nationally is in the region of 2,500 to 3,000 units.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:450 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on local authorities acquiring fewer affordable housing units than they are entitled to under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 and then having to sell the units acquired at below cost price due to inability to sell them at a higher price charged to them by the developer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4381/09]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:451 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Waterford City Council is acquiring fewer affordable housing units than they are entitled to under Part V of the Planning and Development Act 2000 due to the high costs of the units; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4382/09]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:452 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been that Waterford City Council has acquired fewer affordable housing units than they are entitled to in an estate (details supplied) as a result of prohibitively high prices charged by the developer; if he will examine the contract between Waterford City Council and the developer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4383/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 450 to 452, inclusive, together.
Statutory responsibility for the making of agreements under Part V of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2007 rests with the relevant planning authority.
An agreement under Part V may provide for, inter alia, the developer building and transferring completed houses to the planning authority. The number and description of the houses will be specified in the agreement and the homes will be transferred at a price determined on the basis of the site cost of the units, calculated at existing use value together with the building and development costs, including profits, as agreed between both parties.
It is open to a planning authority to accept fewer units at a lower cost price — in effect, cost subsidisation — so long as it achieves the equivalent monetary value which would have accrued had the agreement provided solely for the transfer of land. The housing yield under each Part V agreement is a matter for individual authorities to negotiate, having regard to the various considerations set out in legislation.
In the case referred to, the local authority has advised that the required equivalent monetary value due to it under Part V was secured. It is open to local authorities to further reduce the purchase price of affordable homes, where appropriate, from a value for money perspective, where this is necessary to continue to meet the needs of the target group concerned.
Water Quality.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:453 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to ensure that Dublin City Council’s water supply from the Vartry reservoir is not threatened by works at a quarry in Roundwood, County Wicklow. [4389/09]
The operation and management of public water supplies is a matter for the relevant local authority. Under planning legislation, the enforcement of planning control is a matter for the planning authority. The Minister has no role in the matter and is specifically precluded under section 30 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is, or may be, concerned.
Election Management System.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:454 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a decision will be made regarding the use of posters during election or referenda campaigns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4390/09]
I have recently informed the Government that on foot of the public consultation in autumn 2008, on election postering, I intend to initiate pilot schemes in a number of local authority areas during the upcoming local and European elections.
These pilot schemes will investigate how four options identified through the consultation process would work in practice. The pilot schemes will test the use of biodegradable and/or colour coded plastic ties; the display of posters in designated areas only; restricting the total number of posters per candidate; restricting the number of posters per candidate to 2 (back to back) per pole.
Details on participating local authorities will shortly be finalised and the specific detail of the pilot schemes will be agreed on an individual basis with each of the local authorities involved. It is my intention to ask all candidates, local and European, in each of the participating areas to participate in the scheme so that it is as comprehensive and representative as possible.
I am also reviewing the litter legislation to ensure there is absolutely no doubt that posters cannot be erected before an election has been called, and I will bring forward an amendment if necessary.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:455 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a decision will be made regarding the revision of spending limits for candidates during elections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4391/09]
Preparatory work to introduce spending limits for candidates at local elections is now at an advanced stage, and I expect to publish a Bill shortly. I intend to have the limits in place for the local elections to be held in June 2009.
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to examine spending limits at local elections as part of the Green Paper on Local Government. Submissions made in the course of preparing the Green Paper, published in April 2008, were generally supportive of some kind of expenditure limit.
In October 2008, I consulted the Joint Committee on the Environment, Heritage and Local Government on the issue of spending limits. A policy research document prepared on behalf of the Committee and presented at that meeting offered useful practical guidance. There are a number of complexities that need to be considered. I discussed these with members of the Committee, and I have taken them into account in the preparation of the scheme of spending limits.
Electronic Voting.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:456 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a decision will be made to scrap, sell-off, donate to university or other, the electronic voting machines for which he is paying storage. [4392/09]
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:457 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount paid for the electronic voting machines purchased by his Department a number of years ago; the amount paid in training staff to use them; the amount paid each year since their purchase for storage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4393/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 456 and 457 together.
The total expenditure on the development and roll-out of the electronic voting system to date is €51.3 million, the bulk of which has been incurred in purchasing the voting machines and ancillary equipment. Of this, training costs amount to €272,500. Responsibility for the security and safe storage of manual voting electoral materials, such as ballot boxes, stamping instruments and stationery, has been a matter for the Returning Officers, who are statutorily responsible for conducting the polls. Accordingly, similar responsibility was assigned to them for the storage of the electronic voting machines and equipment. Based on figures received in my Department from Returning Officers, the total annual costs for storage of the electronic voting equipment, including the cost of insurance, service charges, rates and heating, for 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 were €658,000; €696,000; €706,000; €489,000; and €204,000, respectively. In 2007, over 60% of the electronic voting machines, some 4,762 in total, were moved to a central storage facility located at Gormanston Army Camp. Costs incurred to date in respect of the movement and storage of this equipment are €328,000. These are largely one-off costs related to the preparation of the facility, transportation of the machines and the acquisition of storage containers.
I am considering the next steps to be taken on the electronic voting and counting project. In this regard, I am taking into account the work of the Commission on Electronic Voting, which has examined the system, relevant experiences and developments internationally, the need to maintain public confidence in the electoral process, as well as the provisions in the programme for Government relating to electoral reform generally. Given the scale of investment in the system to date, and the importance of the issues involved for our electoral system, it is essential that the future of the project be examined objectively and in a thorough and comprehensive manner. It is important that we come to the best possible decision. It is not possible to make more specific comment at this point on the project itself, or on future plans for the machines, pending completion of the necessary work and a decision by the Government in the matter.
Question No. 458 answered with Question No. 439.
Local Authority Housing.
Pat Rabbitte
Ceist:459 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funding will be allocated to South Dublin County Council for an infill housing scheme (details supplied) in Dublin 14; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4458/09]
My Department issued approval on 20 January 2009 for the Council to proceed to tender with this proposal.
Waste Management.
Billy Timmins
Ceist:460 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in regard to reduction of payment for recycling bins for persons over 70 years of age. [4475/09]
Waste management services have traditionally been provided at a local level, with individual arrangements being locally determined and tailored to local circumstances. The present legal framework, as determined by the Oireachtas, reflects this. In accordance with section 52 of the Protection of the Environment Act 2003, the determination of waste management charges and any associated waiver scheme is a matter for the relevant local authority, where it acts as the service provider. Similarly, where a private operator provides the collection service, it is a matter for that operator to determine charges. I have no statutory function in the determination of charges or waivers. Significant regulatory issues have emerged as waste management services have rapidly evolved in recent years. These issues, which have been the subject of formal public consultation, include the need for appropriate reflection of necessary public service criteria in relation to the provision of services in particular areas or in respect of specific households. The existing regulatory framework requires modernisation. The identification of the changes necessary will be greatly assisted by the OECD review of the public service, which included a specific case study on waste management, and will be implemented in the context of the overall review of national waste management policy provided for in the Programme for Government and now under way. My Department has also recently received the report by the Ombudsman of waste waiver schemes administered by local authorities. It is giving the report, particularly the recommendations contained in it, full consideration. The revised approach to the collection of household waste being taken by the Dublin local authorities will further inform what measures may be necessary to underpin sustainable waste collection services, whether delivered by the private or public sectors. In these contexts, the appropriate policy responses will be developed and elaborated.
Turbary Rights.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:461 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a person (details supplied) in County Galway will receive payment for the sale of their bog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4483/09]
I understand that the contracts are being examined in the Office of the Chief State Solicitor, the necessary legal searches are being completed, and the contracts will be ready for signature in the near future.
Water and Sewerage Schemes.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:462 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on raising the level of funding for the group sewerage schemes per household to the same level as group water schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4492/09]
My Department has funded a pilot programme, proposed by the National Rural Water Monitoring Committee, to test a range of new, small-scale waste water collection and treatment systems under Irish conditions. The objective of the pilot programme is to evaluate new approaches to meeting the wastewater collection and treatment needs of rural communities and to examine the potential role for group sewerage schemes in extending collection systems to households outside the catchment of new or existing public sewerage networks. The performance of new infrastructure provided under the pilot programme is being monitored and evaluated. The National Rural Water Services Committee has been asked to report to me on the results as they become available. The grants for group sewerage schemes will be reviewed in light of the outcome.
Dara Calleary
Ceist:463 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress on an issue (details supplied) between his Department and a local authority since his meeting in November 2008. [4504/09]
Recoupments totalling €3.4 million have since been issued to Mayo County Council under my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007-09. Further payments to the Council are being processed. My Department will continue to process all valid claims from the council as speedily as possible.
Natural Heritage Areas.
Paul Nicholas Gogarty
Ceist:464 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps that have been taken to draw up a new management plan for the Burren, County Clare; when the process will be complete; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4524/09]
As I indicated in the reply to Question No. 1428 of 24 September 2008, a key initiative of my Department's UNESCO world heritage programme is the preparation of a UNESCO World Heritage Site nomination for the Burren. Significant work, including the development of a management plan, will have to be undertaken as part of the preparation of the nomination for the Burren. Consultation with all relevant stakeholders and interested parties will be an integral part of the nomination process. Work on progressing the nomination of the Burren for inscription as a World Heritage Site will be brought forward in the context of the prioritisation of the constituent elements of my Department's UNESCO world heritage programme.
Social and Affordable Housing.
Jack Wall
Ceist:465 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the safeguards in legislation to ensure that funding provided for his Department’s projects is properly used (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4652/09]
The legislation provides that houses sold or leased under the affordable schemes will be subject to any terms and conditions that the local authority specifies including, inter alia, the occupation of the house by the purchaser. Furthermore, affordable housing sold at a discount from market value contains a clawback provision. The amount payable under the clawback is reduced by 10% in respect of each complete year after the tenth year of owner occupation, so long as the person who purchased the property has been in occupation of the property as his or her normal place of residence.
Housing Finance.
Jack Wall
Ceist:466 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) and on whether the position adopted in this case will have an adverse effect on one off housing in rural areas and the right for a person to build a house in their own locality; his plans to address such a situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4657/09]
Given that sentiment in the housing market is heavily dependent on wider sentiment in the economy, the Government's approach is focused on the broader economic fundamentals and on ensuring, ultimately, that the housing market is underpinned by these. While the Government has been careful to ensure that the process of correction in the housing market is not artificially interfered with, a number of steps have been taken to ensure that in so far as possible mortgage finance is available to households who want to buy or build houses at this time.
In this regard the Government announced the introduction of a new mortgage scheme in the context of Budget 2009. The Home Choice Loan has been introduced through the local authority system, backed by loan finance raised by the Housing Finance Agency. Home Choice Loan is now available to first time buyers of new houses or self-builds, subject to a maximum loan of €285,000 or max LTV of 92% (whichever is the lesser) and income thresholds. The Regulations to underpin the scheme were signed in December and the scheme commenced on 1 January 2009.
In addition, the Government's plan to recapitalise Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland includes a Credit Package under which the banks are committed to, amongst other things, providing an additional 30% capacity for lending to first time buyers in 2009. The banks have committed to actively promote mortgage lending at competitive rates with increased transparency on the criteria to be met.
A statutory code of conduct on mortgage arrears which will apply to all banks is expected to be published shortly.
To provide further support, the Government also increased the rate of mortgage interest relief for first time buyers in Budget 2009 from 20% to 25% in year 1 and 2 of their mortgage and to 22.5% in years 3 to 5. It will remain at 20% in years 6 and 7. This measure follows on from the significant improvements made in Budget 2007 & 2008. The ceiling for mortgage interest relief for first-time buyers was doubled in Budget 2007 from €4,000 single/€8,000 married to €8,000 single/€16,000 married. The ceiling for first-time buyers was further increased in Budget 2008 to €10,000 single/€20,000 married. Moreover, the majority of lending institutions have also now passed on in full the cumulative interest rate decreases of 2.25% announced by the European Central Bank since October 2008.
Social and Affordable Housing.
Mary Upton
Ceist:467 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if public land management supported through widespread compulsory purchase has been introduced here since the report of the National Economic and Social Council in 2004; his views on the creation of huge landbanking which influenced the housing bubble here; his further views on the impact that this might have had if it had been used to provide social and affordable housing; if there are plans to introduce such a scheme in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4670/09]
The National Economic and Social Council Report Housing in Ireland: Performance and Policy, published in late 2004, highlighted the importance of active land management as one of the key elements of the policy framework required to respond to the challenges arising in the housing area, while indicating that a significant element of active land management already existed in practice.
Active land management strategies have since been put in place by local authorities to manage their own land banks. It is intended that these strategies will be rolled forward on an annual basis to ensure that local authorities continue to pursue a planned and strategic approach towards meeting the land requirements for their social and affordable housing programmes. In addition, where appropriate, it is open to individual local authorities to acquire land by compulsory purchase for their housing programmes. Considerable investment has been made in servicing of land, and the 9th housing land availability survey, undertaken in June 2007, indicated that there was 15,100 hectares of zoned serviced land nationally, with an estimated yield of 469,937 housing units.
In the context of the forthcoming Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill, the Government also proposes to introduce, as a possible alternative to compulsory acquisition, the possibility for planning authorities to impose an annual development incentive levy on designated land.
Community Facilities Audit.
Mary Upton
Ceist:468 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a copy of the audit by a council (details supplied) of the audit of community facilities as recommended by the Task Force on Active Citizenship; if he will provide a copy of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4721/09]
In keeping with the recommendation in the Task Force Report on Active Citizenship, an audit of community, sports and arts facilities at local level was commenced in the second half of 2008 by each county and city council, under the auspices of the relevant County/City Development Board and in line with guidelines issued by my Department. These guidelines were developed in consultation with the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, the Department of the Taoiseach and local authorities. A Steering Group representative of these bodies, as well as the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, is overseeing the audits. A number of the audits have recently been completed and submitted to the Department, including in respect of the council referred to in the question. The remainder are in the process of being finalised at present. Further consideration of the matter will be carried out in the context of the public services expenditure estimates.
Arrangements have been made with the council to have a copy of its audit forwarded to the Deputy.
Community Warden Scheme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:469 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will extend the community warden scheme to a council (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4722/09]
The pilot community warden service, which was established in five local authorities in 2002, has since been placed on a permanent footing. Following a process of adjudication, the practical issues concerning the extension of the service to other local authorities have been settled. Accordingly, it is now open to other local authorities to introduce the scheme, having regard to local circumstances and taking account of the need to achieve payroll cost reductions in 2009.
Mary Upton
Ceist:470 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied with the number of litter wardens employed by a council (details supplied); if he will provide extra resources the council in order that they can employ additional wardens in the county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4723/09]
Under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997 to 2003, primary responsibility for developing and implementing responses to litter lies with local authorities. The appointment of litter wardens is a matter for individual local authorities within each authority's current authorised staffing level.
Statistics on local authority enforcement action on litter, including the numbers of litter wardens employed, are submitted by local authorities to my Department every six months; the latest figures available relate to the period January — June 2008 and are obtainable from the Oireachtas Library.
I would like to point out that local authorities are independent statutory bodies, with democratically elected councils and their own management system. It is a matter for each local authority to determine the level of expenditure on individual local services, including the deployment of litter wardens, as part of its annual estimates process.
Estates Management.
Mary Upton
Ceist:471 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a copy of the revised policy for the taking in charge of estates by a county council (details supplied); if he will provide a copy of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4724/09]
Meath County Council has updated its policy on taking in charge of estates in accordance with my Department's Circular Letter PD 1/08 and the revised policy statement is available on the Council's website, www.meath.ie.
Local Authority Revenue.
Mary Upton
Ceist:472 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of local authority rent due per annum to a county council (details supplied) in the years 2004 to 2008; the amount of local authority rent collected per annum by the county council in the years 2004 to 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4725/09]
It is a matter for each individual local authority to set their rents schemes in accordance with guidance issued by my Department. The amount of rent due to any local authority from individual households is determined in accordance with its rents scheme.
Data on the amount of rental income collected by Meath County Council for the years 2004 to 2007 are available in the Housing/Housing Statistics section of my Department's website, www.environ.ie. Data for 2008 are not yet available.
Mary Upton
Ceist:473 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of moneys due from local authority housing loans per annum to a county council (details supplied) in the years 2004 to 2008; the amount collected from local authority house loans per annum by the county council in the years 2004 to 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4726/09]
The information requested for the years 2004-2007 is set out in the table. Data for 2008 are not yet available.
|
Year |
Amount Due for Collection |
Collected % Collected |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2004 |
2,184,102 |
2,137,537.979 |
|
2005 |
2,075,247 |
1,958,089.944 |
|
2006 |
2,178,003 |
2,082,741.956 |
|
2007 |
2,088,855 |
1,937,654.928 |
Mary Upton
Ceist:474 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of moneys due from rates per annum to a county council (details supplied) in the years 2004 to 2008; the amount of moneys collected from rates per annum by the county council in the years 2004 to 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4727/09]
Mary Upton
Ceist:475 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of moneys due to a county council (details supplied) from non-domestic water charges per annum in the years 2004 to 2008; the amount of revenue collected from non-domestic water charges per annum by the county council in the years 2004 to 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4729/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 474 and 475 together.
The information requested in the questions is set out in the table under, and has been compiled from the Annual Financial Statements of Meath County Council. Data for 2008 are not available at this time.
|
Commercial Rates |
Non-Domestic Water Charges |
|||
|
Year |
Amount Due for Collection* |
Collected |
Amount Due for Collection* |
Collected |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2004 |
11,758,576 |
11,557,159 |
2,969,197 |
1,942,774 |
|
2005 |
14,270,527 |
13,952,467 |
2,508,605 |
1,840,374 |
|
2006 |
16,838,820 |
16,592,280 |
2,740,314 |
2,006,638 |
|
2007 |
18,855,725 |
18,493,501 |
2,606,936 |
1,557,398 |
*The Amount Due for Collection comprises arrears plus annual charge less waivers & write offs.
Local Authority Housing.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:476 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on whether it is possible to provide a sufficient level of emergency accommodation here when there is no definitive statistical evidence on the number of people who are in need of emergency accommodation being collected; his plans to request local authorities to record the number of people seeking emergency accommodation from now on and report back to his Department; if he plans to request voluntary agencies in that sector to record the number of people seeking emergency accommodation from now on and submit a report on this to his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4768/09]
Housing authorities are legally responsible for meeting the accommodation needs of homeless people. It is, accordingly, the responsibility of the individual housing authorities to determine the level of emergency accommodation to be provided, having regard to the need for such accommodation within their areas.
My Department is currently working in partnership with the Homeless Agency and the National Homeless Consultative Committee on the development of an integrated national homelessness data system which is intended to provide comprehensive information on the use of homeless services. Use of this system will be a condition for receipt of State funding for all homeless services.
Local Authority Funding.
Jack Wall
Ceist:477 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 1043 of 27 January 2009 and to a previous parliamentary question reply where he stated that he was increasing the funding to local authorities by 8% over 2008 figures for the grant system, this decision will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4797/09]
In line with my objective of prioritising the needs of the most vulnerable households, the total financial provision secured for housing in 2009 will allow for the level of funding allocated towards housing supports for older people and people with a disability to be increased by 8% over the initial estimate for 2008. In the context of an overall reduction in the Exchequer provision for housing in 2009 of 4%, this is a very good outcome and it will enable local authorities to continue to effectively respond to the housing needs of these target groups through the payment of increased numbers of grants.
Architectural Heritage.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:478 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 352 of 9 December 2008, the discussions since that date with the local authority and landowners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4807/09]
Consultations on an appropriate land management regime for the site are taking place between my Department and the Office of Public Works, prior to further contact with Roscommon County Council.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:479 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4815/09]
The information requested in respect of my Department is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:480 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances in which a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4830/09]
Civil service posts at the levels of Assistant Secretary and Deputy Secretary are covered by a scheme of performance related awards. It does not apply to Secretaries General.
Details of the procedures, the numbers covered by the scheme, the range of awards and the total amounts paid in Departments are outlined in the annual reports of the Committee for Performance Awards (available on the website www.finance.gov.ie). The Committee does not identify the amount paid to individuals as this is regarded as personal information.
Payments for 2007 in the sum of €101,800 were made to 7 staff members in my Department in 2008. No specific funding has been set aside in 2009 in respect of performance in 2008.
Local Authority Housing.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:481 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will confirm having received an application from Westmeath County Council in respect of a voluntary community association (details supplied) to provide voluntary and community housing; if he will take steps to have same processed as quickly as possible; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4861/09]
An outline proposal was received in my Department from Westmeath County Council in relation to a proposed scheme for Cluid Housing Association at Springfield, Mullingar in May, 2005. Following my Department's response and subsequent discussions on the matter, the Council sought Departmental approval for the scheme in November, 2008. My Department wrote to the Council on 21 January 2009 seeking additional information. On receipt of this information, the application will be considered further, in the light of available resources and competing demands.
Grant Payments.
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:482 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the grant aid available to disabled persons to insulate their homes; the funding available towards carrying out the work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4702/09]
For households on low incomes, such as those in receipt of fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit, the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) managed by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) will install cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, a boiler lagging jacket, draught proofing measures and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). Advice is also provided to householders on minimising energy use. These measures are provided free or at a nominal cost.
The total spend on the WHS in 2008 was €5.6M, which represented a doubling of the previous years allocation. In 2009 there is €20 million available to the WHS and this is expected to support energy efficiency interventions in up to 15,000 low income homes this year and should substantially reduce the time spent waiting for energy efficiency interventions under the scheme.
There are 20 community based organisations currently delivering the WHS, and represent coverage of just over two thirds of the country. It is a priority of the scheme that full national coverage is provided by community based organisations in 2009. It is planned to commence the introduction of new organisations from the end of March this year.
A number of improvements to the WHS will be introduced over the coming weeks, including a new free phone service designed to assist householders identify their nearest provider. If outside of current coverage, their details will be recorded and notified as soon as the service becomes available in their area. In addition, a new website will be launched to allow homeowners, neighbours or relatives find out more information about the WHS and other grant schemes available in their area.
Energy Resources.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:483 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his timeframe for providing natural gas to Nenagh, County Tipperary; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4202/09]
The development and expansion of the natural gas network is in the first instance a commercial matter for Bord Gáis Éireann (BGÉ), which is mandated under Section 8 of the Gas Act 1976, as amended, to develop and maintain a system for the supply of natural gas that is both economical and efficient.
The Deputy will be aware that BGÉ has been examining many areas of the State not yet connected to the natural gas network to see if the network can be extended to new localities. Having agreed a new Connections Policy with the Commission for Energy Regulation, whereby towns can now be evaluated in clusters rather than individually, thus giving new towns a better chance of meeting the economic criteria, BGÉ completed the first and second phases of its New Towns Analysis. Several new towns along the Mayo-Galway Pipeline, two towns along the Galway-Limerick section of the Pipeline to the West, and other towns close to the Cork-Dublin Pipeline met the economic criteria and are now in the process of being connected.
Phase 3 of BGÉ's New Towns Analysis is being completed at present. In this phase BGÉ is looking at several areas, including Nenagh, to see if the economic criteria that would allow connection can be met. I am awaiting completion of this analysis, which will be published by BGÉ on completion.
Grant Payments.
Terence Flanagan
Ceist:484 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when the new grant scheme for improving home insulation will be available; the eligibility criteria for persons wishing to avail of the grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4249/09]
The improvement of energy efficiency in the housing stock is internationally recognised as one of the most cost effective ways of reducing emissions and energy bills. Energy efficiency measures to tackle deficiencies in households also support and strengthen employment in the construction and energy services sectors.
I launched the national Home Energy Savings Scheme on Sunday last with a budget of €50 million in 2009. This is expected to support the upgrade of at least 27,500 homes, and with other building insulation programmes in my own Department and the Department of the Environment, will contribute to the creation of 4,000 direct and indirect jobs.
Experience from the pilot phase of the Home Energy Saving Scheme in 2008 has demonstrated that there is considerable demand for a support scheme for energy efficiency measures, not only among householders, but also among building energy rating assessors, product manufacturers, installers and other market players. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) estimates that demand among householders across the country could well exceed 100,000 homes over the lifetime of the scheme. Homeowners can expect to save up to €700 on their energy bills if they implement the full suite of measures being proposed under the national scheme.
This Scheme offers grants of up to 40% of the typical cost of energy efficiency upgrade measures, varying depending on the measure concerned. Owners of homes built prior to 2006 can now contact SEI on 1850 927000 or hes@sei.ie to register their interest in this scheme. A list of eligible measures and fixed grant rates is set out in the following table.
|
Measure |
Fixed grant rate |
|
€ |
|
|
Roof Insulation |
250 |
|
Cavity Wall Insulation |
400 |
|
Internal Wall Insulation |
2,500 |
|
External Wall Insulation |
4,000 |
|
High Efficiency Boiler with Heating Controls Upgrade |
700 |
|
Heating Controls Upgrade Only |
500 |
|
Building Energy Rating Assessment |
200 |
Departmental Expenditure.
Catherine Byrne
Ceist:485 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of funding allocated by his Department to Energy Action Ireland for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4262/09]
Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) allocated funding to Energy Action in 2006, 2007 and 2008 for the delivery of energy efficiency measures to assist low income householders and for mentoring services under the Warmer Homes Scheme. The mentoring role undertaken by Energy Action involved providing assistance to potential and new community based organisations in the administration and delivery of the Warmer Homes Scheme service.
From 2006 to 2008 Energy Action addressed 1,661 homes with substantial energy efficiency improvements. The funding provided by SEI to Energy Action from 2006 to 2008 is outlined in the following table:
|
Year |
Warmer Homes Scheme |
Mentoring Services |
Total Amount |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2006 |
171,605 |
72,967 |
244,572 |
|
2007 |
224,942 |
69,319 |
294,261 |
|
2008 |
769,464 |
— |
769,464 |
Catherine Byrne
Ceist:486 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of funding allocated by his Department to Sustainable Energy Ireland for the years 2006, 2007 and 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4263/09]
Sustainable Energy Ireland was set up by the Government in 2002 as Ireland's National Energy Agency. Its mission is to promote and assist the development of sustainable energy. This includes implementing significant aspects of the Energy White Paper and the National Climate Change Strategy.
Sustainable Energy Ireland manages programmes aimed at:
Assisting deployment of superior energy technologies in each sector;
Raising awareness and providing information, advice and publicity on best practice;
Stimulating research, development and demonstration (RD&D);
Stimulating preparation of necessary standards and codes;
Publishing statistics and projections on sustainable energy and achievement of targets.
|
Pay |
Non-Pay |
Capital |
|
|
2006 |
3,400 |
2,938 |
16,000 |
|
2007 |
4,108 |
2,892 |
47,200 |
|
2008 |
4,916 |
2,614 |
79,500 |
Postal Services.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:487 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on reports from the UK that deregulation of the postal market had delivered no benefits to most customers and put the finances of the State owned postal company under strain; if there are lessons to be learned from the UK experience; if so, the steps he will take to address them; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4376/09]
Denis Naughten
Ceist:488 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the plans that have been agreed to transpose the third directive on postal liberalisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4377/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 487 and 488 together.
The Irish postal market is due to be liberalised from 1 January 2011 as set out in the third EU Postal Directive. My Department is currently developing a framework dealing with the key issues to be decided in transposing the Directive into Irish law by the end of next year. The initial consultation process has been completed and the experiences of other countries, including the findings of the reports referred to by the Deputy are being examined to inform the development of the framework. Following this the necessary legislation will be prepared. My priority is to facilitate competition and the provision of high-quality, competitively priced postal services whilst ensuring the protection of the universal service in a liberalised market so that all postal consumers will have access to a basic, high quality suite of services.
Question No. 489 answered with Question No. 100.
Grant Payments.
Joan Burton
Ceist:490 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is a waiting list of one and a half years, in Drogheda, County Louth, for senior citizens who qualify to have their homes insulated under grant aided funding; the steps he is taking to rectify this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4443/09]
Coverage of the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) in County Louth is currently provided by a Dublin based provider. Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has received an expression of interest from a Louth based community group interested in delivering this service and it is anticipated that additional service provision will be provided by a local organisation in 2009.
To date, more than 20,000 homes have been substantially addressed by the WHS. There are 20 community based organisations currently delivering the WHS, and represent coverage of just over two thirds of the country. It is a priority of the scheme that full national coverage is provided by community based organisations in 2009. It is planned to commence the introduction of new organisations from the end of quarter one this year.
A number of improvements to the WHS will be introduced over the coming weeks, including a new free phone service designed to assist householders identify their nearest provider. If outside of current coverage, their details will be recorded and notified as soon as the service becomes available in their area. In addition, a new website will be launched to allow homeowners, neighbours or relatives find out more information about the WHS and other grant schemes available in their area. In 2009 there is €20 million available to the WHS. This is expected to support energy efficiency interventions in 15,000 low income homes this year alone.
Joan Burton
Ceist:491 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to increase grant aid in respect of home insulation for older people, whereby roofs are insulated, in order that waiting times for this service can be reduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4457/09]
The Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) is overseen by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), and is targeted at households on low incomes, such as those in receipt of fuel allowance, invalidity or disability benefit. The WHS will install cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, a boiler lagging jacket, draught proofing measures and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). Advice is also provided to householders on minimising energy use. These measures are provided free or at a nominal cost.
The total spend on the WHS in 2008 was €5.6M, which represented a doubling of the previous years allocation. In 2009 there is €20 million available to the WHS. This increased level of funding is expected to support energy efficiency interventions in up to 15,000 low income homes this year alone and should substantially reduce the time spent waiting for energy efficiency interventions under the scheme. There are 20 community based organisations currently delivering the WHS, and this represents just over two-thirds of the country. It is a priority of the scheme that full national coverage is provided by community based organisations in 2009. It is planned to commence the introduction of new organisations from the end of March 2009.
A number of improvements to the WHS will be introduced over the coming weeks, including a new free phone service designed to assist householders identify their nearest provider. If outside of current coverage, their details will be recorded and notified as soon as the service becomes available in their area. In addition, a new website will be launched to allow homeowners, neighbours or relatives find out more information about the WHS and other grant schemes available in their area.
Telecommunications Services.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:492 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps which he is taking to address the regional differences in broadband performance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4471/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:511 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent, if any, to which he proposes or intends to encourage state of the art investment in the telecommunications sector, with particular reference to the need to dramatically improve the State’s capability in this sector and the need to become leader in this sector throughout the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4957/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:512 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects Ireland to again join the leading EU countries in the telecommunications sector in respect of both cable, wire and wireless; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4958/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:515 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects broadband availability and speeds to become as available here as in leading competing economies throughout Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4961/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 492, 511, 512 and 515 together.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps-10mbps. At the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Over 70% of those SMEs, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, had a connection in the speed category of 2mbps-10mbps.
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector cannot justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, my Department has undertaken to implement the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) and has entered into a contract with 3, a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the NBS. 3 will be required to provide services to all residences and businesses that are within the NBS area and who seek a service. Services will begin to be rolled out in April 2009 and the entire NBS area will be served by September 2010.
Details of the areas to be covered by 3 under the NBS are available at www.three.ie/nbs. Moreover, the consultation paper on Next Generation Broadband, which was launched for public consultation earlier this year, considered the optimum role for Government in facilitating the roll out of high speed broadband networks and sets out the Government’s commitments in that regard. A central commitment is that there will be universal access to broadband by 2010 and that by 2012 our broadband speeds will equal or exceed those in comparator EU regions. The consultation period on the paper has now concluded and my officials have examined the written submissions received and the contributions made at a one day consultation forum that I hosted on 30th September 2008. I intend to publish a finalised report shortly having regard to the contributions we have received.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:493 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps which he is taking to enhance demand side initiatives for business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4472/09]
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market and stimulate demand to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps-10mbps. It is also encouraging that, at the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Over 70% of those SMEs, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, had a connection in the speed category of 2mbps-10mbps.
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector cannot justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, my Department has undertaken to implement the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) and has entered into a contract with 3, a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the NBS. 3 will be required to provide services to all residences and businesses that are within the NBS area and who seek a service. Services will begin to be rolled out in April 2009 and the entire NBS area will be served by September 2010.
Businesses located within the NBS area and currently without any broadband service will benefit by being able to send and receive emails and files, surf the web, and update their own websites. Under the NBS, 3 is committed to a comprehensive demand side programme which includes amongst other things, marketing, outdoor advertising, radio and press advertising, engagement with communities and stakeholders as well as other promotional activities. Finally, my colleague the Minister for Finance, who is responsible for eGovernment, is committed to demand stimulation through the use of broadband for internal State business and for the provision of electronic services to citizens.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:494 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the steps which he is taking to address the expensive cost of broadband, the relative lower speeds and the capacity issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4473/09]
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps-10mbps. At the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Most of those SMEs, 72.6%, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, have a connection in the speed category of 2mbps-10mbps.
As regards the cost of broadband, it is not the case that broadband is expensive in Ireland. In fact, in ComReg's last quarterly report (issued for Q3 2008) Ireland ranked in 8th place in the "DSL and Cable basket" used for international comparison purposes and compared favourably with the EU24 average.
Mine Rehabilitation.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:495 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the rehabilitation works at a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary is running according to schedule and to budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4582/09]
The rehabilitation works at the Gortmore Tailings Management Facility are being carried out in phases. The first phase was commenced in July 2008 and successfully completed in December 2008 in accordance with the schedule and within the budget allocation. Associated reconstruction works to local roads are still ongoing. Design works for phase two are currently in progress and advertisements have been issued by North Tipperary County Council inviting expressions of interest from contractors. It is anticipated that the phase two construction works will commence in the summer of 2009, for completion before the end of the year.
Telecommunications Services.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:496 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding Project Kelvin in terms of an account of project status; if he will provide a progress report on money approved and spent; if there have been changes in the status of the project since July 2008; the person who changed the status of the project in the event of it having been changed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4641/09]
The contract for the Kelvin project was awarded in late December 2008 and it is now being implemented by Hibernia Atlantic, the winning bidder for the contract. €12m of Irish Exchequer funding has been approved for the project, of which €9m will be refunded to the Irish Exchequer from EU funds. This is because it is a joint North-South project approved for 75% EU funding under the INTERREG IV Cross Border Cooperation Programme. The Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland, our joint partners in the Kelvin project, has approved a total of €18m for the Kelvin project for total public funding of €30m. Expenditure of €1,290,781 was paid by my Department towards the Kelvin project in December 2008 after the award of the contract.
In July the Kelvin project was at the tendering stage, whereas the contract has now been awarded to implement the project. The evaluation of the tenders submitted for the implementation of the project was a joint process between officials of my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland.
The Kelvin project will provide high speed direct international broadband connectivity to the North West of Ireland at a very competitive cost, in particular for the towns of Derry, Letterkenny, and Monaghan. This will make the region more attractive for international business and for foreign direct investment and will improve Ireland's overall international connectivity. We are fortunate that funding was made available for the Kelvin project in view of current pressures on public funding; this reflects the strategic benefits of the project for the North West of Ireland and for Ireland as a whole.
Energy Market.
David Stanton
Ceist:497 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the efforts he is making to increase competition in the energy market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4591/09]
The introduction of the all-island Single Electricity Market (SEM) in November 2007 marked an important milestone in the development of competition in the Irish electricity sector. This market has already attracted new entrants to the Irish electricity generation market.
Our ambitious renewable generation targets will also attract new generators to the Irish market. However, the all island market is relatively small and accordingly only a certain level of generation capacity can be adequately accommodated.
This is mirrored by developments in the retail electricity market. Airtricity has decided to offer a new tariff to domestic electricity users to compete with ESB and I understand that other companies are currently considering entering sections of the market. This progress represents the dawning of real choice for electricity consumers, which will help to keep energy costs competitive.
The Government will continue to promote the development of competition as a cornerstone of our energy policy. We will ensure the completion of the reduction of ESB's market share in line with the CER-ESB Asset Strategy Agreement, the completion of the transfer of the Transmission System Assets from ESB to EirGrid, the successful development of the East West Interconnector by 2012 and the implementation of the grid development strategy set out in EirGrid's Grid 25 programme.
On a European level, the Government will continue to implement reform of the electricity and gas markets in line with EU Internal Energy Market Directives.
Telecommunications Services.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:498 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when quality broadband will be available to a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; his views on whether it is difficult for a person to operate an on-line service to relevant departments without such broadband availability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4786/09]
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:499 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when quality broadband will be available to business personnel in a village (details supplied) in County Cavan; his views on whether it is difficult for a company to operate an on-line service without such broadband availability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4787/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 498 and 499 together.
The widespread provision of broadband services continues to be a priority for the Government. In that regard my Department has undertaken a variety of initiatives to address the gaps in broadband coverage. These initiatives have helped to facilitate the development of the market to the point where over 60% of Irish households now have a broadband connection. ComReg's quarterly report for Q3 2008 states that 61.1% of those households have a connection in the speed category of 2 Mbps–10 Mbps. At the end of Q1 2008, 83% of Irish SMEs had a broadband connection. Over 70% of those SMEs, according to ComReg's report for Q3 2008, had a connection in the speed category of 2 Mbps–10 Mbps.
There are still some parts of the country where the private sector cannot justify the commercial provision of broadband services. Accordingly, my Department has undertaken to implement the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) and has entered into a contract with 3, a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the NBS. 3 will be required to provide services to all residences and businesses that are within the NBS area and who seek a service. Services will begin to be rolled out in April 2009 and the entire NBS area will be served by September 2010.
The areas of Tyholland, County Monaghan and Mountnugent, Kells, County Cavan will be covered by the NBS. Details of the areas to be covered by 3 under the NBS are available at www.three.ie/nbs.
Question No. 500 answered with Question No. 106.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:501 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4810/09]
In the time available, it has not been possible to identify and assemble the information requested.
My Department is in the process of identifying and assembling the information and I will revert to the Deputy as soon as possible.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:502 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4825/09]
My Department operates a Merit Award Scheme for grades up to and including Assistant Principal Officer. Last year my Department's Management Committee made a decision to restrict merit payments under this scheme to Service Officers/Attendants and grades represented by the Civil Public and Services Union (CPSU). Awards totalling €3,910 were made in December last under that scheme.
A total of €41,100 was paid to 3 Assistant Secretaries in my Department in early 2008 in respect of 2007. Details of the operation of the scheme are available in the report of the Committee for Performance Awards, which can be accessed on the website of the Department of Finance at the following link:
http://www.finance.gov.ie/documents/publications/reports/CPArep2006.pdf.
No specific provision has been made in the 2009 estimate of my Department for bonus payments.
Commission for Energy Regulation.
Willie Penrose
Ceist:503 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will take steps to bring within the scope of the Commission for Energy Regulation the suppliers of bulk LPG gas who supply domestic consumers through a gas network in housing estates when such supply is specified in the planning conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4859/09]
Liz McManus
Ceist:505 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on whether suppliers of bulk LPG gas for domestic use are to be within the remit of CER; whether he is aware of concerns over the price charged by suppliers of bulk LPG gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4919/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 503 and 505 together.
The transportation and supply of Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) is not licensed under the Energy Acts and neither my Department nor the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) have any role in the regulation of LPG transportation and supply. The regulation of the transportation of LPG by sea is a matter for the Maritime Safety Directorate under maritime safety legislation. Transportation overland and the safety regulation of storage facilities are covered by regulations governing the transportation and storage of dangerous substances, and by the Health, Safety and Welfare Act 2005.
Section 14 of the Energy (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2006 enables the CER's responsibilities to be extended to cover the activities of LPG undertakings and installers with respect to safety. My Department is liaising with the CER in regard to the commencement of this provision. I understand that the CER expects to publish final proposals on the safety regulation of the LPG industry in the near future. These proposals will inform a decision on the commencement of Section 14. I have no plans to extend the role of the CER beyond the regulatory role as envisaged under Section 14.
While the regulation of Bord Gáis Éireann natural gas tariffs is the responsibility of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is statutorily independent in the performance of its functions, the Commission has no function in regard to the setting of the retail price of LPG, which is a by-product of oil. The Irish oil industry is fully privatised, liberalised and deregulated and there is no price control on petroleum products in Ireland. The National Consumer Agency has specific responsibilities for protecting the rights of consumers.
Electricity Network.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:504 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position in relation to the provision of electricity interconnectors, north-south and east-west; if he has a specific timeframe in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4917/09]
The building of transmission lines is an operational matter for EirGrid, as regulated by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), along with the relevant planning authorities, and not one in which I have a function.
The East-West and North-South Interconnector projects are of strategic national importance to Ireland and are key Government priorities. The Meath-Cavan and North-South transmission lines are part of a major upgrade to supplies in the North East region and will bring critical infrastructure to the North East region, ensuring the delivery of high quality and highly reliable services into the future and facilitating competition as part of the All Island electricity market.
EirGrid will be required in its planning application to An Bord Pleanála to submit full details of its proposed route and technology selection. Consultations on the route selection are ongoing. As part of these consultations EirGrid has opened information centres in Navan and Monaghan and has met with stakeholders including individuals, local interest groups and public interest groups. At a recent meeting that I facilitated with North East Pylon Pressure (NEPP), it was agreed that consultations between EirGrid and NEPP would be intensified with a view to progressing a shared understanding in relation to the projects. I understand that EirGrid has also agreed to facilitate a meeting between NEPP's consultants (Askon) and EirGrid's own technical experts, and will fund the costs of Askon attending the meeting. EirGrid will shortly publish a detailed study on undergrounding issues relating to the entire route, the preparation of which is one of a number of requirements for its application for planning consent to An Bord Pleanála. EirGrid expects to submit a planning application for the North/South interconnector to the planning authority, the Strategic Infrastructure Board of An Bord Pleanála, in 2009 which will include a full Environmental Impact Statement. The target completion date is 2012.
The East-West Interconnector is a 500 MW High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) interconnector, which will link the electricity grids of Ireland and Great Britain. The advantages that the development of the East West interconnector will bring include improved security of supply and increased competition in the single electricity market as well as significant environmental benefits such as assisting in achieving our ambitious renewable targets and reducing carbon credit payments.
EirGrid has been entrusted with the development and ownership of this interconnector by the Government. Working closely with the CER and with my Department, EirGrid is progressing the project to schedule. The Electricity Regulation (Amendment) (EirGrid) Act 2008 provides the necessary legal basis for EirGrid to construct, own and operate an interconnector. I am advised that EirGrid expects the contract for design and construction of the interconnector to be completed shortly, when the successful bidder will be announced. EirGrid has secured Woodland in County Meath as the connection point for the interconnector on the Irish transmission system and Deeside in Wales on the UK side. Furthermore, EirGrid has undertaken a marine survey to determine the most suitable route for the undersea cable. A planning application in respect of the project was submitted to An Bord Pleanála in November 2008 and public consultation is currently underway in respect of foreshore aspects of the development. The target for the completion of commissioning and testing and the start of commercial operations is 2012. The project remains on track to meet these target completion dates, subject to the outcome of the planning processes.
Financing options for this project are being pursued by EirGrid with the objective of achieving the most cost-effective and efficient financial package. The European Commission has included the Interconnector on the list of energy projects under the European Economic Recovery Package which is currently being negotiated in Brussels. I welcome the Commission's recognition of the strategic importance of the project and will continue to work intensively in the negotiations with Member States and the European Parliament to secure the funding.
Question No. 505 answered with Question No. 503.
Digital Hub.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:506 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the degree to which targets set in respect of the development of the digital hub have been achieved to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4946/09]
The Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) continues to develop and grow the Digital Hub. The number of companies and employees based in the Hub has grown steadily and the demand for additional space for digital media companies continues to increase. There are now 870 employees working in 101 companies located in the Digital Hub. A further 290 approximately contract employees are engaged on a regular basis by Hub companies. Approximately one in six digital media companies currently operating in Ireland is based in the Digital Hub. The work of these companies encompasses computer gaming, animation, on-line bookings, Internet security, website development, mobile technologies, broadcasting, design and Internet services. Such highly-skilled knowledge economy companies are key to maintaining and developing economic success.
The DHDA has been successful in developing and promoting the identity and brand of the Hub. Late last year, GOA Games Services, a subsidiary of France Telecom, which already employs 200 people in the Digital Hub, announced an expansion to 400 employees in the next 12 months. Gala Games, a Japanese employer also located in the Hub, recently announced 50 new jobs. Havok, an Irish world leader in computer graphics technologies, was recognised with an Emmy Award in the United States last year. It is also notable that two Digital Hub companies, Lincor and Zamano, took first and second place in the Deloitte Fast 50 rankings of Ireland's fastest growing enterprises.
The DHDA also has remits relating to education, community and urban regeneration. The DHDA delivers a very successful learning programme, which provides state-of-the-art digital media education to schools and the wider community in Dublin's south-west inner city, with a view to improving learning, employment and leisure opportunities for local residents. The programme is very successful with over 3,300 participants in 2008. To date, in excess of 10,000 individuals have participated in these programmes.
The growing demand for commercial property for digital media companies at the Digital Hub is further evidence of success. The DHDA has leased office space to meet the requirements of its tenant companies and has reached the point where all of its own available space has been occupied — approximately 80,000 square feet in State ownership by the DHDA or the OPW. A further 80,000 square feet is occupied by Digital Hub tenants under interim lease arrangements with third parties. An additional 20,000 square feet is likely to be delivered during 2009 under a proposal to redevelop another State owned building. In order to rationalise its property portfolio and continue to cater for expansion, the DHDA has entered into an agreement with two private developers for an additional 140,000 square feet of office space. Planning permission was granted for this last year.
Electricity Generation.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:507 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which alternative energy now supplies the national electricity grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4947/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:509 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the degree to which the wind energy sector has grown and contributed to the national electricity grid in each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4949/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 507 and 509 together.
The year on year increase in the contribution from renewable energy technologies to the electricity market is set out in the table below. The table records the combined contribution from all renewable energy technologies. The vast majority of the growth achieved in each year is attributable to wind-powered technologies, which now exceeds 1,000 megawatts of installed capacity connected to the electricity grid. The data for 2004-2007 is published data. The contribution for 2008 is an initial estimate calculated by EirGrid.
|
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
5.2% |
6.8% |
8.6% |
9.4% |
11% |
Exploration Licences.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:508 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of exploration licences granted in each of the past five years; the number of commercial fines arising therefrom, if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4948/09]
Details of the number of Mineral Prospecting Licences (PLs) issued in the last five years are contained in the following table.
|
Year |
Total issued |
Issued 1 Jan-30 June |
Issued 1 July-31 Dec |
|
2004 |
26 |
25 |
1 |
|
2005 |
51 |
30 |
21 |
|
2006 |
165 |
77 |
88 |
|
2007 |
143 |
51 |
92 |
|
2008 |
91 |
31 |
60 |
No new economic deposits of minerals have been discovered onshore in recent years. However, there have been some encouraging results. Exploration adjacent to the existing base metal mine at Navan, County Meath (Boliden Tara Mines Limited), discovered additional reserves with the potential to extend the life of that mine. Diamond drilling in north-east County Limerick by Minco and Xstrata Zinc, has encountered high grade intersections of zinc and lead. Conroy Diamonds and Gold plc recently announced that it had increased its estimate of gold resources at its Clontibret prospect. Although these results are encouraging, it is too early to say whether economic mineral deposits occur in the areas in question.
25 Petroleum Exploration Licences were also issued by my Department during the same period.
|
Year |
Offshore |
Onshore |
|
2004 |
3 |
0 |
|
2005 |
5 |
2 |
|
2006 |
4 |
0 |
|
2007 |
5 |
0 |
|
2008 |
5 |
0 |
Three finds have been made and further studies are being undertaken to determine whether any of these finds can be progressed to commercial developments.
Question No. 509 answered with Question No. 507.
Question No. 510 answered with Question No. 106.
Questions Nos. 511 and 512 answered with Question No. 492.
Energy Costs.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:513 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the plans he has to reduce energy costs to consumers, domestic, industrial and commercial; if he has set any targets for such; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4959/09]
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:514 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans, if any, to bring energy prices for consumers here into line with those prevailing in other EU countries, with particular reference to those without access to nuclear power; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4960/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 513 and 514 together.
The regulation of ESB customer supply electricity tariffs and BGÉ gas tariffs is the statutory responsibility of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and the Gas (Interim) Regulation Act 2002. I welcome the fact that the CER announced on 1 December 2008 that there would be no further increase in the price of gas from January 2009 and that there would be a small average decrease from that month of just less than 1% in the price of electricity supplied by ESB Customer Supply. This decision is reflective of recent easing in international fossil fuel prices, which follows a period of exponential increases in global oil, gas and coal prices. I also welcome the substantial rebate being provided by ESB to all electricity customers, irrespective of supplier, which has helped to stabilise electricity prices for 2009.
The CER is required to examine the costs underlying the regulated tariffs to ensure they are cost reflective. However, I believe that we can lower energy costs to consumers in a non-distortionary fashion, through an expedited review of tariffs. To achieve this, I have asked the energy regulator to undertake an immediate review of options to bring forward a reduction in electricity prices. As I stated in this House last week if current trends in energy prices, particularly gas continue, I would expect a double-digit cut in electricity and gas prices to become a reality later this year.
Encouraging a competitive energy supply is a key policy objective for the Government. Rising energy costs are a major concern for all sectors of the economy and for consumers. It is a major concern for the European Union and globally. In this context, I welcome the National Competitiveness Council's investigation into electricity prices. This report, along with other recently published research, such as Sustainable Energy Ireland's report on Understanding Electricity and Gas Prices in Ireland, provide a valuable insight into the drivers of higher energy costs in our market. In particular, they underline the imperative to reduce Ireland's dependence on imported fossil fuels and our exposure to volatile international market prices for these commodities.
The Government's Energy Policy Framework and the Programme for Government set out the actions being taken to deliver security, sustainability and competitiveness of energy supply. We must use energy far more efficiently, deliver on our ambitious renewable targets and progress vital strategic energy infrastructure such as the East West Electricity Interconnector. Initiatives in all these areas are being progressed.
Question No. 515 answered with Question No. 492.
Question No. 516 answered with Question No. 129.
Corrib Gas Field.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:517 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects gas supplies from the Corrib gasfield to become available to the Irish consumer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4963/09]
The developers of the Corrib Gas Project, Shell E&P Ireland Ltd, have stated their expectation that first gas will be available in the last quarter of 2010. Completion of the development works by the developers is the principal factor that will ultimately determine the date for first gas.
Postal Services.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:518 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the future of An Post; the extent to which he has had discussions with management in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4964/09]
It is Government policy that An Post remains a strong and viable company, in a position to compete in a liberalised market, provide a high quality, nationwide postal service and maintain a nationwide, customer-focused network of post offices.
In the past twelve months, I and officials from my Department have met a number of times with An Post management to discuss issues of importance to An Post, including the future of the company. However, it is the responsibility of the board and management of the company to make strategic decisions regarding its future and how it will prepare itself for competition, particularly in advance of the full liberalisation of the postal sector, set to happen in 2011.
In preparation for competition, it is vital that the company restructures itself effectively and that management and trade unions in An Post work together to transform the company into an efficient, innovative and modern service provider by implementing the agreed restructuring programme and providing innovative new service arrangements for the public.
Energy Policy.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:519 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent to which he has had discussions with the ESB, EirGrid and other energy producing companies, bodies or groups in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4965/09]
I and my Department are in regular contact with the energy commercial semi state bodies and also meet the Independent energy companies frequently.
Discussions are held on a regular basis and are integral to the Government's energy policy objectives. This engagement has been particularly strong in the past twelve months, given the Government's policy objectives for energy and the challenges in the energy sector both globally in the EU and nationally.
Foreshore Licences.
Mary Upton
Ceist:520 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a location (details supplied) in County Clare does not require a foreshore licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4212/09]
My Department's Engineering Division has confirmed that the site in question does not encroach on State Foreshore. Accordingly, the matter of a foreshore lease does not arise. However if activity on the site requires access via the Foreshore, or if activity affects the Foreshore, a Foreshore licence will be required.
Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
Michael Ring
Ceist:521 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be awarded a REP scheme four. [4213/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Michael Ring
Ceist:522 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications made for a payment (details supplied) in County Mayo; the number paid to date; and the number currently being dealt with. [4214/09]
The number of REPS 4 applications for payment received in Mayo up to the closing date of 15 May 2008 was 1,066. The first payments for these cases issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared. In total 51 REPS 4 payments have either issued or are scheduled for payment to farmers in County Mayo. Queries that have arisen during the administrative checks are currently under further examination.
Farm Waste Management.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:523 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his Department will return invoices submitted by farmers with applications for farm waste grants in order that they can submit VAT claims prior to the July dates of payment schedules. [4219/09]
In respect of applications made under the Farm Waste Management Scheme, arrangements are being made in my Department's local offices for the return to farmers of original invoices as soon as possible to facilitate any such farmers who require those invoices to claim VAT refunds from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.
Food Labelling.
Tom Hayes
Ceist:524 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when it is proposed to introduce legislation providing for country of origin labelling of food products, particularly in respect of meat products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4220/09]
John Deasy
Ceist:526 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the fact that pigmeat and poultry products being labelled as Irish are being produced in other countries; the steps he will take to regularise this situation to ensure that the country of origin is shown on the label; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4255/09]
John Deasy
Ceist:527 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the discussions he has had with the European Commission and the EU Council to ensure the concept of substantial transformation is altered in order that pigmeat and poultry products with raw materials originating outside Ireland is labelled as such; the results of such discussions; when any resulting changes will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4256/09]
John Deasy
Ceist:528 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has had discussions with the Department of Health and Children on drafting new regulations to require operators in the retail and catering sectors to provide country of origin information on pigmeat, poultry meat and sheepmeat, as is the case with beef; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4257/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 524 and 526 to 528, inclusive, together.
The Minister for Health and Children has overall responsibility for the general food labelling legislation. Under the general labelling Directive (2000/13/EC), the place of origin of the foodstuff must be given only if its absence might mislead the consumer to a material degree. The European Commission is currently undertaking a major review of all food labelling legislation. In this context the Commission has prepared draft revised labelling regulations and these are being discussed at Council Working Party level in Brussels. These draft regulations will be submitted to the EU Council of Health ministers during 2009.
Notwithstanding the outcome of the current review on origin labelling my Department has taken steps to try to introduce origin labelling for meats other than beef, which is already subject to specific legislation since September 2000.
Regarding the labelling of poultry meat, there are EU Regulations, which provide for the labelling of unprocessed poultry meat at retail level. The Regulations require such poultry meat to be labelled with the information regarding class, price, condition, registered number of slaughterhouse or cutting plant and, where imported from a Third Country, an indication of country of origin.
My Department, in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children, drafted regulations that would require the country of origin to be indicated on pigmeat, poultry and sheepmeat. This was notified to the EU Commission in December 2007 as required by legislation. The Commission was not prepared to adopt the draft regulations in their present format on the grounds that the proposed legislation is not in compliance with EU food labelling regulations. The Commission's main contention is that only harmonised rules with EU-wide applicability may be applied to food labelling other than in exceptional circumstances.
In March, the EU Commission delivered a negative opinion on the regulations but afforded Ireland an opportunity to provide further information in support of them. In the meantime, the Department provided additional details including the current misleading labelling practices and evidence of consumers' desire for country of origin labelling. However the EU Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health formally adopted the negative opinion in December 2008.
There is also the issue where a primary product can enter Ireland and be processed in some way thereby allowing it to be branded, as an Irish product, this is known as "substantial transformation" This terminology originates in WTO, CODEX and EU Legislation governing the EU Custom Code and therefore can only be amended at EU level. I have been concerned that this arrangement could, in certain circumstances, be used to mislead the consumers as to the origin of the raw materials used in certain products. This was one of the principal points made to the European Commission in the context of our request for their approval of our proposed national arrangements.
We will continue to pursue this issue in conjunction with Department of Health and Children, at EU level in the context of the current review. In the meantime products carrying the Bord Bia quality assurance label provide consumers with assurance on product origin.
Rural Environment Protection Scheme.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:525 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive their payment; if checks will be made on the application; when these will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4246/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared. Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Questions Nos. 526 to 528, inclusive, answered with Question No. 524.
Grant Payments.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:529 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a payment will be made under REP scheme four to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo which was approved for payment in November 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4259/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared. Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Farm Retirement Scheme.
Michael Ring
Ceist:530 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of people awaiting approval under a scheme (details supplied). [4276/09]
My Department is currently processing 145 Early Retirement Scheme applications received before 14 October 2008 and these will be paid subject to approval.
Michael Ring
Ceist:531 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the length of time it will take, once an applicant is approved under a scheme (details supplied), for the person to be paid. [4279/09]
When an application under the Early Retirement Scheme is approved and provided there are no other outstanding issues, the application is scheduled for the next available payment date. Payments under the scheme are issued in monthly instalments on the last working day of the month.
Grant Payments.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:532 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will be awarded their farm waste management grant, which was sanctioned on 17 December 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4287/09]
The person named is an applicant for grant-aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:533 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers sanctioned for grant aid under the farm waste management scheme in counties Cavan and Monaghan; the number who have been paid to date again in each of the counties; the number awaiting payment having completed their jobs on time; if he is satisfied that payments will be made according to the agreed Charter of Farmers’ Rights; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4288/09]
The information requested by the Deputy will be forwarded to him as soon as possible.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:534 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive payment; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4338/09]
The person named is an applicant for grant-aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. My Department is currently examining the application and a decision will be made as soon as possible.
Pat Breen
Ceist:535 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the status of an application by a person (details supplied in County Clare); when same will be inspected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4360/09]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. My Department is currently examining the application and will carry out the farm inspection concerned as soon as possible.
Pat Breen
Ceist:536 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4361/09]
The person concerned is an applicant for grant aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Pigmeat Sector.
Andrew Doyle
Ceist:537 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the action he will take to ensure the payment of money from the pigmeat recall scheme is for Irish produced pigmeat products only; and the action he will take to ensure that pork products sold here can be identified by their country of production. [4386/09]
The product recall scheme provides assistance in respect of eligible product manufactured from pigs slaughtered in Ireland between 1 September and 6 December 2008. However, a case has been made for other products manufactured in Ireland and that were affected by the product recall to be considered for assistance. These would include products containing both Irish and imported pigmeat and products made here using solely imported pigmeat that, at the time of the recall, could not be segregated satisfactorily to facilitate their sale. My Department is currently considering the position of such products.
As regards identification of country of production, in December 2007 my Department submitted to the European Commission draft national legislation that would require the country of origin to be indicated on pigmeat, poultrymeat and sheepmeat and on food products containing over 70% of these meats. Over the last year the Department has been in extensive communication with the Commission with a view to justifying and pressing the case for the proposed legislation. The Commission, however, adopted a negative opinion in relation to our proposal on the grounds that it was not consistent with the EU labelling directive. The Commission's main contention is that only harmonised rules with EU-wide applicability may be applied to food labelling other than in exceptional circumstances. This negative opinion was formally adopted at a meeting of the EU Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health in December 2008.
My Department will continue to press for compulsory country of origin labelling in the context of the Commission's proposal for a new regulation on food information. The Department of Health and Children is the lead Department for that proposal and my Department will continue to liaise with it on this issue.
Grant Payments.
Brendan Kenneally
Ceist:538 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the REP scheme four payments will be made in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4402/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:539 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the status of the application for REP scheme four in respect of a person (details supplied); when a decision will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4404/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:540 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a farmer (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive payment under REP Scheme four; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4407/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:541 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when farmers in County Mayo will receive their payments under REP scheme four; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4415/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first REPS 4 payments to farmers in Mayo issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared. In total 51 REPS 4 payments have either issued or are scheduled for payment to farmers in County Mayo.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:542 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers in County Mayo who have been approved for REP scheme four and are waiting to receive their payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4416/09]
The number of REPS 4 applications for payment received in Mayo up to the closing date of 15 May 2008 was 1,066. The first payments for these cases issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared. In total 51 REPS 4 payments have either issued or are scheduled for payment to farmers in County Mayo.
Queries that have arisen during the administrative checks are currently under further examination.
Tom Sheahan
Ceist:543 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their forestry grant in view of the fact that land was planted in June 2008 and no payment has been received to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4447/09]
I understand that following receipt of application for payment in August of last year it was discovered following a field inspection that remedial work was required on the plantation. This work has now been completed and approved and I expect payment to be made within the next three weeks.
Michael Ring
Ceist:544 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the transferee status of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo can be approved in order that relevant payments can be paid. [4460/09]
As outlined in reply to a previous question from the Deputy, an application was received on 15 May 2008 requesting the transfer of 15.02 standard entitlements to the person named from his father by way of gift. The subsequent transfer of the herd-number to the person named from his father has made it possible to proceed with the processing of this application.
Several documents relevant to this transfer were issued to the person named, most of which have since been completed and returned to my Department. However, the signature of the person named on the Deed of Transfer had not been witnessed and this was also returned to the person named for correction. To date, this completed document has not been returned to my Department.
Upon receipt of this latter document, the application will be processed without delay.
Installation Aid Scheme.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:545 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when persons (details supplied) in County Monaghan will be awarded their installation aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4465/09]
The persons concerned are applicants under the Installation Aid Scheme and their application is currently being examined within my Department.
Grant Payments.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:546 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be awarded their farm waste management grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4499/09]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Foreshore Licences.
Dara Calleary
Ceist:547 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position of an application for a foreshore licence from Mayo County Council in relation to a scheme (details supplied). [4503/09]
Ministerial approval was granted to Mayo County Council in 2005 to facilitate the construction of an outfall for Killala Sewerage Scheme.
The Council subsequently revised its proposal to allow for the connection of the sewerage scheme to an existing outfall in the vicinity.
The new proposal has been assessed and approved by my Department's technical advisors and consideration of the proposal, including its legal implications, is at a very advanced stage.
Consequently, I expect to be in a position to make a determination in the case shortly.
Grant Payments.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:548 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason payment has not issued to a to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary who has made an application under the farm waste management scheme; the total amount to be paid to the applicant; when payment will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4571/09]
The person concerned is an applicant for grant aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:549 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for the delay in payments in respect of the rural environment protection scheme to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; when payment will be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4572/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Paul Connaughton
Ceist:550 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a REP scheme four payment will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4589/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Michael Creed
Ceist:551 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork, who is awaiting payment under the farm waste management scheme, will receive payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4637/09]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. My Department is currently examining the application and a decision will be made as soon as possible.
Michael Creed
Ceist:552 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when persons (details supplied) in County Cork, who is awaiting payment of grants under both the farm waste management scheme and the farm investment scheme, will receive payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4638/09]
The persons concerned are applicants under both the Farm Waste Management and Farm Improvement Schemes. Decisions will be made in respect of the applications for payment as soon as possible.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:553 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be awarded their farm waste management grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4691/09]
The person concerned is an applicant for grant aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Aquaculture Development.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:554 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will release the €5 million that was set aside for aquaculture in the national development plan. [4701/09]
A provision of €5m. has been made in my Department's Vote to support Aquaculture development in 2009. It is planned to roll out a number of actions to assist the development of aquaculture and draw down the available funds in the near future.
Grant Payments.
Seymour Crawford
Ceist:555 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cavan will be awarded their farm waste management grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4703/09]
The person concerned is an applicant for grant aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Enda Kenny
Ceist:556 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a REP scheme payment will be made to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will confirm that an administrative check has to be carried out on this and other applications prior to presenting approval for payment; and when he expects payment in this particular case to issue. [4712/09
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Frank Feighan
Ceist:557 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon will receive their REP scheme three payment. [4759/09]
An amended REPS 3 plan has been requested from the person named. Processing of the payment claim cannot be resumed until the amended plan has been received.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:558 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a payment under the REP scheme will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [4760/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Departmental Staff.
Paul Kehoe
Ceist:559 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of uncertified sick days taken within all sections of his Department for the years 2007 and 2008; the number of employees who have taken uncertified sick days in the category one to ten days and over ten days; the number of uncertified sick days taken on Fridays and Mondays; the number of persistent offenders with regard to uncertified sick days who have been sent for an independent doctors opinion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4766/09]
The following table sets out the information requested by the Deputy:
|
2007 |
2008 |
|
|
No. of uncertified Sick Days |
3,426 |
3,095 |
|
No. of employees who have taken 1-10 uncert. Sick Days in year in question |
2,469 |
2,156 |
|
No. of employees who have taken more than 10 uncert. Sick Days in year in question |
0 |
1 |
|
No. of uncert. Sick days taken on a Friday |
317 |
255 |
|
No. of uncert. Sick days taken on a Monday |
703 |
653 |
|
No. of staff referred to CMO |
0 |
0 |
Farm Waste Management.
Bobby Aylward
Ceist:560 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will arrange to return documents submitted with an application for a grant under the farm waste management scheme to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny who requires these documents for a VAT refund. [4791/09]
In respect of applications made under the Farm Waste Management Scheme, arrangements are being made in my Department's local offices for the return to farmers of original invoices as soon as possible to facilitate any such farmers who require those invoices to claim VAT refunds from the Office of the Revenue Commissioners.
Grant Payments.
Bobby Aylward
Ceist:561 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for the delay in having REP Scheme four awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny whose documentation is in order for payment. [4792/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:562 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4808/09]
The information requested by the Deputy in respect of my Department is set out in the table below.
|
Consultant |
1 Jan to 14 Oct 2008 |
15 Oct 2008 to 5 Feb 2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Fitzpatrick Associates Independent Ex-post evaluation of the Rural Development Plan 2000-2006 |
Commenced: 3 Oct Completed 22 Dec Cost €74,084.25 |
|
|
Deloitte & Touche Independent certification of the EAGF/EAFRD annual accounts as required under EU Regulations |
2007 EAGF & EAFRD (payment 3) €101,563.30 2008 EAGF & EAFRD (payment 1) €195,531.84 |
2008 EAFG & EAFRD (Payment 2) €222,073.10 |
|
John Malone Consultant: Preparation of Report “Factors Affecting Afforestation in Ireland” |
23,363,83 |
|
|
Aquatic Services Unit, UCC Monitor water quality in Freshwater Pearl Mussel areas |
47,894.22 |
|
|
Espion Quarterly IT Security review Reports |
15,125.00 |
605.00 |
|
Morehampton Consultancy Services: Work on 2008-2011 IT Strategy |
950.00 |
|
|
Mazars Provision of IT Audit expertise |
46,797.00 |
38,054.00 |
|
Veterinary Laboratory Services: BSE Risk Analysis |
4,594.85 |
|
|
RPS Consulting Engineers: Coastal Protection Strategy Study (phase 2) |
5,929.00 |
|
|
RPS Consulting Engineers: Coastal Protection Strategy Study (phase 3) |
180,266.33 |
80,928.20 |
|
RPS Consulting Engineers: Coastal Protection Strategy Study (Storm Surge) |
4,894.98 |
|
|
Philip Lee Solicitors: Procurement advice |
1,658.31 |
|
|
Moore Stephens Caplin Meehan Accountants: Audit of PRISM system |
2,100.00 |
|
|
Marine Modelling Centre — NUIG — PRISM Computer System |
25,000.00 |
|
|
RPS Consulting Engineers (Dingle dredging study) |
53,603.00 |
|
|
Aquafact International: (Doonloughan Marine Study) |
5,747.50 |
|
|
Keville & O’Sullivan Associates (Doonloughan Marine Study) |
2,678.94 |
|
|
Aquatic Services Unit — Environmental Research Institute: Sediment sampling & analysis of Dunmore East Fishery Harbour |
19,915.39 |
|
|
MERC Consultants Ltd: Sediment sampling and analysis report of Howth Fishery Harbour |
20,920.90 |
|
|
REPS Consulting Engineers: Dunmore East sedimentation study |
18,634.00 |
|
|
Horizon Consulting: review of VFM report |
2,299.00 |
|
|
Horizon Consulting: review of VFM report |
1,936.00 |
|
|
Raymond Burke Consulting: Review of VFM report |
2,722.50 |
|
|
Raymond Burke Consulting: Review of VFM report |
3,267.00 |
|
|
I write: Review of VFM report |
2,420.00 |
|
|
Brendan Riordan Consultant: Completion of report “Net Contribution of the Agri-food sector to the inflow of funds” |
3,000.00 |
|
|
Raymond Burke Consulting: Review of VFM report |
2,885.63 |
|
|
Petrus Consulting Ltd: Review of VFM report |
2,430.00 |
|
|
Surepath Solutions: Health & Safety advise |
2,986.50 |
|
|
Integrated Risk Solutions: Health & Safety advise |
3,085.50 |
|
|
Ray Burke Consulting: Business Plans for Fisheries Harbour Centres |
64,903.19 |
14,749.90 |
|
Ray Burke Consulting: Border inspection Post at Killybegs |
7,292.67 |
|
|
Poseidon Aquatic Resources Ltd: Cost benefit analysis of Dunmore Fishery Centre |
17,968.50 |
|
|
Dr Noel Cawley: Chairperson of the Seafood Strategy implementation group overseeing the implementation of the Seafood industry report “Steering a new course” |
56,305.00 |
|
|
Achilles Procurement Services Ltd: Human Resources Management System |
847.00 |
|
|
Achilles Procurement Services Ltd: Procurement advise — HRD |
317.63 |
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:563 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4823/09]
There are two bonus schemes operating in my Department. The first is a scheme of performance-related awards that applies to Deputy and Assistant Secretaries and equivalent grades. It does not apply to the Secretary General. Details of awards to individual officers under the performance related scheme are not disclosed on the basis that they are confidential to the officer concerned. In 2008 a total of €180,000 was paid to 11 staff in respect of their performance during 2007. Details of the operation of this scheme are available in the annual reports of the Committee for Performance Awards which can be accessed on the website of the Department of Finance www.finance.gov.ie.
Following the announcement in the Dáil on 5 February last relating to the discontinuation of the scheme for Assistant Secretaries, Deputy Secretary and related grades, there is now no specific provision for payment under this scheme.
The Minister for Finance, in 1998, sanctioned payment of not more than 0.2% of Subhead A.1 (Salaries), to individual staff members or groups of staff in recognition of exceptional performance of duty. Awards under this provision can be made in the case of all grades below Assistant Secretary level. In 2008 €405,595 was paid out to staff in recognition of exceptional performance carried out in 2007. No funds have been allocated for the payment of awards in 2009.
Grant Payments.
Joe Carey
Ceist:564 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when an application will be finalised for a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4845/09]
The person concerned is an applicant for grant-aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Phil Hogan
Ceist:565 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a single farm payment will be paid to a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4892/09]
An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 30 April 2008. This application was selected for a satellite eligibility inspection, which required a follow-up field visit being carried out by a Department inspector. During this visit, discrepancies were found in relation to parcels A11812095, A11812096, A11812097 and A11812102. As a result of these discrepancies the claimed area of 47.04ha was reduced to 45.03. If the total area found is not sufficient to support the number of entitlements held, penalties will be applied as per the Terms and Conditions of the scheme. In this case the number of entitlements held by the person named is 47.04. As the difference between the area declared and the area found is more than 3%, under EU Regulations, the difference between the area found and the area claimed is doubled and deducted from the area found. As a result the area put forward for payment under the Single Payment Scheme was 41.01 hectares. Notification of these results will be forwarded to the person named in writing as a matter of priority. If the person named is not satisfied with the results of the inspection, he may seek a review by contacting his Local Office. He also has the right to appeal the outcome of any such review to the Agriculture Appeals Office.
Ned O'Keeffe
Ceist:566 Deputy Edward O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment of installation aid will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Cork, as all his documentation is now in order. [4920/09]
The person concerned is an applicant under the Installation Aid Scheme. His application has been approved and payment will issue shortly.
Michael Creed
Ceist:567 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive payment under the farm waste management scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5050/09]
The person concerned is an applicant for grant aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme. A decision will be made in respect of the application as soon as possible.
Michael Creed
Ceist:568 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork, who is an applicant under the REP Scheme four will receive their first REP scheme payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5052/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007-13 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before the first payments issue. The first payments for 2008 REPS 4 applications issued in the last week of January to those whose applications required no correction following the administrative checks. Further payments continue to be made as applications are cleared.
Queries have arisen during the administrative checks on the plan of the person named and it is currently under further examination.
Employment Support Services.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:569 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the allowances available for people who have recently lost their jobs, not through redundancy, and who wish to pursue courses through the Vocational Education Committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4306/09]
The Department of Social and Family Affairs offers a range of education and employment supports designed to assist and facilitate people on social welfare payments to return to the active labour force.
The back to education allowance (BTEA) is the main education support scheme of the Department. It is designed to encourage people on certain social welfare payments to improve their skills and qualifications and, therefore, their prospects of returning to work. An applicant must be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for a minimum period, to qualify for the back to education allowance. This requirement has always been a feature of the BTEA scheme and is considered necessary to ensure that limited resources are directed at those most in need. The allowance essentially replaces a person's existing social welfare income and, in addition, an annual €500 cost of education allowance is payable.
In general, an applicant must be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for 6 months if pursuing a second level course or 12 months if pursuing a third level course. In addition, the qualifying period for access to the third level option is further reduced to 9 months for persons who are participating in the National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) process and people who are awarded statutory redundancy may access the scheme immediately, provided an entitlement to a relevant social welfare payment is established prior to commencing an approved course of study.
FÁS Employment Service helps job-seekers, in particular those who are most marginalised, to enter-re-enter the active labour market. Job-seekers who are considered to be distant from the labour market are provided with appropriate and intensive professional vocational guidance which results in an action plan setting out specific actions and measures to be implemented with a view to helping them integrate into the labour force.
FÁS provides various financial supports in the form of allowances to assist participants of training. FÁS provides various financial supports in the form of allowances to assist participants of training courses and grants or subventions to encourage employers to support training programmes. Participants on the majority of FÁS training courses are eligible for various allowances. The main allowances given for the course participants are training, travel, accommodation, meals and childcare.
FÁS operates a National Contact Centre which may be contacted, by job-seekers, using a free-phone number to obtain information on jobs available and on FÁS training and employment programmes. For information on the full range of allowances and grants and advice on their personal options a person should contact their local FÁS office.
School Enrolments.
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:570 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is satisfied with guidelines in relation to school enrolment and the requirement of parental consent in the matter of guardianship of infants; if provision is made for both guardians to be consulted in cases of joint guardianship; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4177/09]
The selection and enrolment of pupils in schools is the responsibility of the authorities of the individual school. Under section 15(2)(d) of the Education Act 1998, each school is legally obliged to disclose its enrolment policy and to ensure that as regards that policy that principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected.
Article 42 of the Constitution provides for the right of parents to choose the form of education they provide or to have provided to their children. Primary legislation gives effect to this right and includes the Education Act 1998 and the Education (Welfare) Act 2000.
None of the foregoing legislation specifically distinguishes between parents who act in concert and those who disagree and are separated, divorced or unmarried. However each provides that "parent" shall be interpreted to include — "a foster parent, a guardian appointed under the Guardianship of Children Acts, 1964 to 1997, or other person acting in loco parentis who has a child in his or her care subject to any statutory power or order of a court and, in the case of a child who has been adopted under the Adoption Acts, 1952 to 1998, or, where the child has been adopted outside the State, means the adopter or adopters or the surviving adopter".
My Department has not issued guidelines to schools in relation to school enrolment policies. Enrolment of children is, in the first instance, a matter for Boards of Management rather than my Department and Boards must address the circumstances of each case while respecting any order made by the Court in relation to the custody and welfare of the child.
School Staffing.
Mary Upton
Ceist:571 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will respond to a query from a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4210/09]
The 2009 Budget required difficult choices to be made across all areas of public expenditure. These decisions were made to control public expenditure and to ensure sustainability in the long run. In this respect Education, while protected to a much greater extent than most other areas of public expenditure, could not be totally spared. The various impacts at school level in relation to both staffing and grant levels were included in the Budget day announcements. Even with the budget measures in place there will still be a significantly increased borrowing requirement in 2009.
The staffing schedule for the 2009/2010 school year, Primary Circular 0002/2009, has been published on my Department's website at www.education.ie and my officials have written to all schools to notify them in this regard. The schedule is a transparent and clear way of ensuring that schools are treated consistently and fairly and know where they stand.
Within the terms of the staffing arrangements for primary schools there is provision for additional posts, referred to as developing school posts, to be assigned to schools on the basis of projected enrolments for the next school year. Under these arrangements, a developing school post may be sanctioned provisionally where the projected enrolment at 30th September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30th September, sanction for the post is withdrawn.
It is open to the school referred to by the Deputy to submit an application for an additional post(s) to the Primary Payments Section of my Department if it considers that it meets the criteria for developing status.
The allocation process includes appellate mechanisms under which schools can appeal against the allocation due to them under the staffing schedules. The final allocation to a school is also a function of the operation of the redeployment panels which provide for the retention of a teacher in an existing school if a new post is not available within the agreed terms of the scheme.
School Transport.
Phil Hogan
Ceist:572 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will extend the school transport service for children (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4217/09]
Under the terms of the primary school transport scheme pupils are eligible for transport if they reside 3.2 kilometres or more from and are attending their nearest national school as determined by my Department.
The families referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, should apply, in the first instance, to their local Bus Éireann office. Their eligibility for school transport and the availability of a suitable service can be established at that stage.
School Enrolments.
Fergus O'Dowd
Ceist:573 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will assist a school (details supplied) in County Louth in the provision of first year places in view of the large number of disappointed applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4261/09]
The school in County Louth to which the Deputy refers made an application for an extension in 2006.
An assessment of projected enrolments, demographic trends and housing developments in the area will need to be carried out to ensure that any capital funding provided will deliver accommodation appropriate to the school's future needs. 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.
Pending the completion of this assessment, it is open to the school authorities to contact my Department with regard to any immediate shortage of accommodation to cater for its needs. To date, no requests have been made to my Department from the school authorities for additional accommodation to cater for 1st year students looking for places for the 2009/10 school year.
State Examinations.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:574 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will describe and list the forms and nature of assistance provided in State examinations to students with special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4266/09]
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations.
I can inform the Deputy that the Commission operates a scheme of Reasonable Accommodations in the certificate examinations. Applications for such accommodations are submitted by schools on behalf of their students.
A range of accommodations are provided to enable students with special needs to access the Certificate examinations. For example enlarged print, Braille translation, modified questions, use of a scribe, a reader, a personal assistant, a tape recorder or word processor, may be allowed depending on needs. The scheme was introduced following the report of an expert advisory group, and the introduction enabled opportunities to be provided for exemptions where a candidate was not in a position to demonstrate achievement in a core area of assessment.
I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission who will give you a more comprehensive reply.
Schools Building Projects.
Joe Carey
Ceist:575 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) to move their extension and refurbishment project to tender stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4267/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning for an extension/refurbishment.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:576 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) to move its development project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4268/09]
It is my Department's intention to provide the school to which the Deputy refers with a new building on a greenfield site.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:577 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) to move its project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4269/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for an extension project.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:578 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) to move its project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4272/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for an extension project.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:579 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) to move its extension and refurbishment project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4273/09]
The building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is awaiting the appointment of a Design Team.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:580 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) in County Clare to move its project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4274/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied for an extension/refurbishment project. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:581 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) in County Clare to move its extension and refurbishment project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4277/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied for an extension/refurbishment project. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:582 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) to move its extension and refurbishment project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4278/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for an extension project. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Joe Carey
Ceist:583 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will give approval to a school (details supplied) in County Clare to move their project to the next stage in his forthcoming announcements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4281/09]
It is the intention of my Department to provide the school to which he refers with a new building on a greenfield site.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from site acquisition and initial design stage through to the construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Teachers’ Remuneration.
Michael Ring
Ceist:584 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects a category of people (details supplied) to be awarded the arrears which are due to them; the position of same; and the estimated cost of this payment. [4283/09]
I would like to assure the Deputy that my Department has been very aware of the issues raised in relation to the adjustments to pay due to certain part-time teachers under the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act, 2001 and has worked closely with the school management bodies and teacher unions to ensure that the legislation is implemented and applied to teachers in a fair and consistent manner.
My Department has already made the pay adjustments and paid arrears for the majority of part-time teachers, including substitute teachers, that are on the payrolls that it directly administers.
The group of part-time teachers that have still to receive adjusted pay and arrears are those employed on a part-time basis by individual Boards of Management of primary schools. Currently a grant system operates, which allows the Boards to claim from my Department, the funding required to pay these teachers. The Boards of Management pay the part-time teachers directly.
Under the terms of the Protection of Employees (Part-time Work) Act, 2001, qualified eligible part-time teachers are entitled to be paid salary appropriate to their qualifications and to receive incremental credit in respect of relevant teaching service.
In order to ensure that the terms of this Act could be applied to any part-time teachers paid directly by school boards, my Department took the view that the best approach was to extend the single payroll process which is in place for all other teachers in primary, secondary and community and comprehensive schools rather than persist with the practice of having boards pay them directly. This approach would ensure that the teachers concerned could get full credit for their overall service where they served part-time in more than one school. The new payroll is being developed and will be introduced from 1 September 2009 and arrears will be paid by November 2009.
It is not possible to assess the exact cost of the arrears until the new payroll is introduced.
Departmental Expenditure.
Jimmy Deenihan
Ceist:585 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of providing in-service courses for primary and secondary school teachers in 2008 including the cost of providing supervision of classes and substitution for those involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4292/09]
The cost of the provision of in-service in 2008 was €35.6 million. This is broken down as support service, course and participant costs.
Support was provided across a range of areas including DEIS, Special Needs and the Primary and Post Primary Curriculum. The cost of providing substitution cover for in service in 2008 was €5.38m for primary schools and €5.2m for post primary schools, including the VECs.
The Supervision/Substitution Scheme in addition to providing for supervision of students during periods that are not assigned to any teacher may be used to provide substitution cover for classes as determined by the Board of Management of a school in accordance with the terms of Circular PPT 01/03. Teachers are made an annual payment of €1,862 to participate in the supervision/substitution scheme. It is not possible to determine the cost of associated cover for teachers on in-service training provided under this scheme.
Schools Building Projects.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:586 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason for the delay in a school building project (details supplied) in County Dublin; if he will allow the building work to proceed; the timetable for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4307/09]
The proposed building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is at an early stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Special Educational Needs.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:587 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason three special needs assistants were removed from a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will review the matter again to ensure that the requirements of the special needs children at the school are fully met. [4308/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools to support children with special needs. Applications for SNAs may be considered by the NCSE where a pupil has a significant medical need for such assistance and where there are identified care needs arising from a diagnosed disability. A pupil's level of care may diminish over time as the child matures. Pupils may move to a different school or on to post-primary school. In such situations, the NCSE will review and adjust the SNA support required in the school. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.
The NCSE has confirmed that the level of SNA support allocated to the school in question is sufficient to meet the care needs of the children with special educational needs. The NCSE has advised my Department that the local SENO has met with the parents concerned and has clarified the position regarding their child's special educational needs. It is open to the parents to contact the SENO directly to discuss any matter relating to their child's special educational needs.
Schools Building Projects.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:588 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary has received for works; the timeframe for when the works will commence and be completed; the works which will be carried out as a result of the funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4313/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension and refurbishment project. The project is at the early stages of architectural planning. The progression of all major building projects, including this project, from initial design through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department and with the level of activity in the School Building Programme, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the further progression of the project at this time. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department recently approved funding for works to remedy a problem with waste water disposal at the school.
Schools Refurbishment.
Noel Coonan
Ceist:589 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary has received for works; the timeframe for when the works will commence and be completed; the works which will be carried out as a result of the funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4314/09]
The school referred to by the Deputy applied for funding from my Department to carry out works to the roof of the school building. Funding for the project was approved by letter issued to the school on 16 January 2009. The Deputy will understand that it would not be appropriate for me to give details of the amount approved for the works at this stage, as it might compromise the tender process. The grant is sanctioned on condition that the works commence on site and 70% of the funding has been drawn down within 6 months of the date of the letter and that the remaining 30% of the funding is drawn down within 9 months of the date of this letter. If there are valid reasons why the above timetable cannot be met a case can be made to my Department for an extension of the deadlines.
School Curriculum.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:590 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm that all primary schools have implemented circular 0138/2006, issued in December 2006, requesting that they ensure standardised testing in English and maths is implemented; if his Department collects this information; his views on the introduction of standardised testing to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4316/09]
On foot of Circular 0138/2006, primary schools are implementation standardised testing in English Reading and Mathematics at two stages, at the end of first class/beginning of second class, and at the end of fourth class/beginning of fifth class since 2007. The results of these tests are held at school level and are available for inspection. Standardised testing is used as one of a range of modes of assessment that help teachers to make more informed decisions in relation to teaching and learning. The results of standardised tests can be used to inform parents of pupils' progress and to assist in the identification of pupils that may require support. They are also available to the Inspectorate as part of the school evaluation process.
It was not intended that the results of standardised testing would be reported to the Department or used in any way which would facilitate school comparisons or the compilation of league tables. Instead, the implementation of standardised testing at school level is being complemented by a separate programme of national monitoring in English reading and Mathematics undertaken by the Educational Research Centre (ERC). Schools in the DEIS programme have already been sampled by the Educational Research Centre for this purpose, and the sample of non-DEIS English medium schools is planned for 2009, with the sample of Irish medium schools planed for 2010. This programme will establish trends over time for particular categories of school. No individual school results will be identifiable in this process.
The introduction of standardised testing was supported by a national programme of teacher professional development in assessment for learning. Grants of €1.65m, €1.7m and €1.76m have issued to schools in December 2006, December 2007 and December 2008 for the cost of test materials, teachers' manuals, test scoring services or test-related software. Guidelines on assessment developed by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment were published in October 2007 and issued to all teachers to assist schools in developing and implementing a policy on assessment practice in classrooms and on reporting to parents.
Higher Education Grants.
Aengus Ó Snodaigh
Ceist:591 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science the education grants available to a person (details supplied). [4324/09]
Under the terms of the maintenance grants scheme grant assistance is awarded to students who meet the prescribed conditions of funding including those which relate to nationality, residency, means and previous academic attainment.
The Nationality requirement as set out in the 2008 Grant schemes states:
Candidates must:
hold E.U. Nationality; or
have Official Refugee Status; or
have been granted Humanitarian Leave to Remain in the State (prior to the Immigration Act 1999); or
be a person in respect of whom the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has granted permission to remain following a determination not to make a deportation order under section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999; or
have permission to remain in the State by virtue of marriage to an Irish national residing in the State, or be the child of such person, not having EU nationality; or
have permission to remain in the State by virtue of marriage to a national of another EU Member State who is residing in the State and who is or has been employed, or self-employed, in the State, or be the child of such a person, not having EU nationality; or
be nationals of a member country of the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland. Candidates must meet the nationality requirements of the scheme.
The decision on eligibility for student grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority — i.e. the 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 required. If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the assessing authority, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in his/her case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.
Teachers’ Remuneration.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:592 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers entitled to salary arrears from his Department under the Protection of Employees Part-time Work Act 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4328/09]
Brian Hayes
Ceist:593 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount paid out by his Department to date in salary arrears under the Protection of Employees Part-time Work Act 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4329/09]
Brian Hayes
Ceist:594 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the estimated financial liability to his Department in the payment of arrears under the Protection of Employees Part-time Work Act 2001; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4330/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 592 to 594, inclusive, together.
I would like to assure the Deputy that my Department has been very aware of the issues raised in relation to the adjustments to pay due to certain part-time teachers under the Protection of Employees (Part-Time Work) Act, 2001 and has worked closely with the school management bodies and teacher unions to ensure that the legislation is implemented and applied to teachers in a fair and consistent manner. My Department has already made the pay adjustments and paid arrears for the majority of part-time teachers, including substitute teachers and part-time teachers in secondary and Community/Comprehensive schools and substitute teachers in primary schools, that are on the payrolls it directly administers.
The group of part-time teachers that have still to receive adjusted pay and arrears are those employed on a part-time basis by individual Boards of Management of primary schools. Currently a grant system operates, which allows the Boards to claim from my Department, the funding required to pay these teachers. The Boards of Management pay the part-time teachers directly. Under the terms of the Protection of Employees (Part-time Work) Act, 2001, qualified eligible part-time teachers are entitled to be paid salary appropriate to their qualifications and to receive incremental credit in respect of relevant teaching service.
In order to ensure that the terms of this Act could be applied to any part-time teachers paid directly by school boards, my Department took the view that the best approach was to extend the central payroll process which is in place for all other teachers in primary, secondary and community and comprehensive schools rather than persist with the practice of having boards pay them directly. This approach would ensure that the teachers concerned could get full credit for their overall service where they served part-time in more than one school. My Department collected the data necessary to place the part-time resource teachers on the centralised payroll recently.
The new payroll is being developed and will be introduced from 1 September 2009 and arrears will be paid by November 2009. It is expected that approximately one thousand additional part-time resource teachers will be paid on the new payroll when it is introduced. It is not possible to determine the exact cost of the arrears payable to this group of part-time teachers until the new payroll is introduced. Factors such as the qualifications of the individual, the level of teaching service undertaken and the incremental point of the individual on the common basic scale all affect the amount of the arrears payable.
Schools Building Projects.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:595 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of a school (details supplied) in Dublin regarding its application for a new school building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4331/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, the school to which he refers is temporarily located in its current premises. However, given the city centre location of the school, there has been considerable difficulty in acquiring a suitable site or an alternative building as a long term location for the school. The progression of all applications for large scale capital investment, including the application in question ,will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
Third Level Fees.
Finian McGrath
Ceist:596 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if the maximum support will be given to the National College of Ireland in 2009. [4343/09]
Finian McGrath
Ceist:597 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will end the cap on student recruitment at the National College of Ireland in view of the fact that it is the only college here with a cap. [4344/09]
Finian McGrath
Ceist:598 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will use the National College of Ireland in tackling the problem of unemployment and vulnerable low skilled workers. [4346/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 596 to 598, inclusive, together.
An amount of €6.8 million which includes the estimated cost of free tuition fees has been provided in the 2009 estimates for the National College of Ireland (NCI). This provision is in line with the 2008 outturn when the expected additional income to the NCI from the increase in the third level student services charge is taken into account. This allocation must also be viewed in the context of overall increases to NCI in recent years where the current allocation represents a doubling of the provision allocated to the College in 2001 (€3.36m) and an increase of some 27% over the funding provided in 2004 (€5.669m).
The Government has taken decisions to control public expenditure in light of the current economic climate and as the Deputy will appreciate it will be necessary for NCI to achieve appropriate savings in line with the requirement for all other third level institutions to do likewise.
The Deputy may be aware that the cap on student numbers relates to funding under my Departments Free Fees Initiative for up to 925 students in the NCI. The College cannot expand on this limit without the approval of my Department and the Department of Finance. The NCI are free to increase the number of student places that they offer outside the free fees scheme.
Specific requests have been received from NCI to lift this cap on numbers of free fee places so as to increase places in IT and business and financial related courses. My Department has examined the College's request for an increase in places on IT related courses, however the view is that there is no need for additional IT related courses at this time due to general demand being less than places available.
The Deputy may be aware that the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs published a report on the Future Skills and Research Needs of the International Financial Services Industry. The responsibility for managing the implementation of a number of recommendations in this report has been assigned to Skillnets, which is the enterprise-led support body whose mission is to enhance the skills of people in employment in Irish industry.
In relation to the issue of using NCI to tackle unemployment and low skilled workers, proposals to activate greater numbers of unemployed people, through education, training, employment and community programmes are currently being examined, having regard to existing resources, by Government.
School Staffing.
Deirdre Clune
Ceist:599 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider his decision not to provide substitute cover for the first day of uncertified sick leave in respect of special needs teachers in view of the particular difficulties that this is causing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4349/09]
As a result of the 2009 Budget provisions for Education, arising from current economic challenges, and following subsequent proposals from the management bodies of primary schools, new arrangements were put in place for substitution cover for uncertified sick leave for teachers in primary schools.
The new arrangements became effective from the 1st January 2009 and will remain in place for the remainder of the 2008/2009 school year.
Under these arrangements the general rule is that substitute cover is not provided for the first day of an absence of a teacher on uncertified sick leave in a school.
There are two exceptions to this general rule. The first is that substitute cover is provided for the first day of an absence of a teacher on uncertified sick leave in schools with two or less classroom teachers.
The second is that in the event that two or more teachers in a school are absent from teaching duty on the first day of uncertified sick leave, substitute cover is provided for the second and subsequent teachers that are absent.
The existing arrangements for substitute cover for other absences of teachers from teaching duty continue to apply.
In the period until the end of the school year, there will be a full review of the substitution and supervision scheme and related matters in conjunction with the school management bodies and teacher unions with a view to making up the additional expenditure and thereby ensuring that the budgetary parameters are met.
Schools Building Projects.
Michael McGrath
Ceist:600 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the standard dimensions of a sports hall that would be incorporated into a new generic repeat design 16-classroom primary school. [4357/09]
Generic Repeat Design (GRD) buildings provide the full range of classroom and ancillary accommodation that is achieved using the traditional competitive procurement route. GRD buildings facilitate speedier delivery of projects, save on design fees and are designed to allow for easy extension if required at a later stage. In relation to a GP room an area of 195 sq. m is provided plus servery, store and W/C areas.
Details of various facilities provided in a new 16-classroom school building are given in Technical Guidance Document-022 available on my Department's website and also in information document Generic Repeat Design Schools:
(http: //www.education.ie/servlet/blobservlet/pbugenericrepeatdesignschools12.pdf).
Vocational Education Committees.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:601 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of teachers employed under the vocational educational committee system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4363/09]
Brian Hayes
Ceist:602 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of ancillary staff, outside of teaching staff, employed within vocational educational committee schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4364/09]
Brian Hayes
Ceist:603 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff employed in the vocational educational committee system; the breakdown of the number of staff employed by each individual VEC; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4365/09]
Brian Hayes
Ceist:604 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff employed by vocational educational committees involved in delivering front-line services; the number of staff employed in an administrative capacity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4366/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 601 to 604, inclusive, together.
There are 33 vocational education committees (VECs) established under the Vocational Education Acts, 1930 to 2001. Each VEC is a statutory body with its own corporate status. The functions and responsibilities of the VECs, including their requirements to report to the Minister for Education and Science, are defined in the governing legislation.
VECs provide a broad range of educational services. In addition to providing post-primary education, further and adult education, they also have responsibilities in areas such as community education, training for early school leavers, basic literacy courses, traveller education and the provision of youth services. My Department provides the majority of the funding required by VECs for the delivery of these programmes.
As of January 2009 approximately 9,069 whole time equivalent (wte) teaching posts and 709 SNA (wte) posts are allocated to VEC post primary schools. A breakdown of the allocation of teaching and SNA posts to post primary schools in each VEC is attached for the Deputy's information.
The information sought by the Deputy in relation to non-teaching and ancillary staff is not readily available. I have asked my officials to compile this information and to forward it to the Deputy as soon as it is available.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:605 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the budget for vocational educational committees in 2009; the budget allocated in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4367/09]
This Government's continued prioritisation of education over the last 11 years is evidenced from our investment in 2009 of €9.6 billion — over treble what it was in 1997.
The increase of €302m in the Education budget for 2009 is therefore a real achievement in the current economic climate. Education is one of only three Government Departments to have increased funding in 2009.
The provision for funding to Vocational Educational Committees (VECs) for 2009 shows an increase of more than 5% over the 2008 level. Funding to VECs for 2008 totalled €887.5m and this will rise to €936m in 2009.
VECs are given a high level of autonomy in the management and appropriation of their budgets. This allows each VEC to distribute its allocations in line with its priorities and perceptions of need.
The provision that I have made, in the context of the 2009 estimates, for this significant increase in the funding of VECs is a clear demonstration of my commitment to prioritise available resources in order to best address the needs of learners availing of services provided through the network of VECs.
The Deputy will appreciate that the figure for 2009 is based on the Budget announcement made in October 2008. Accordingly, in the light of the Government's recent announcement regarding further necessary economic and spending measures, the VEC budget figure for 2009 may yet be subject to some adjustment.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:606 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the proportion of the vocational educational committee 2008 budget spent on administrative services; the proportion of the VEC 2008 budget spent on teachers’ salaries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4368/09]
Financial allocations are made to the Vocational Education Committees (VECs) as part of a block grant. VECs are given a high level of autonomy in the management and appropriation of their budgets and each VEC is allowed to distribute its allocations in line with its priorities and perceptions of need. Accordingly, my Department does not have available to it a detailed breakdown of the distribution of funds by VECs across their schools and head offices. However, I can inform the Deputy that in 2008 VECs spent approximately €629m on what is termed instruction pay (teachers and special needs assistants) in post primary schools and approximately €58.5 million on what is termed administration pay in post primary schools and head offices.
Child Protection.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:607 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of designated liaison persons at primary level and second level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4369/09]
The primary statutory responsibility for child protection lies with the Health Service Executive. The role of my Department is to provide guidance and support to schools in implementing child protection policy and to refer any allegations received to the appropriate authorities for investigation.
I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has issued child protection guidelines and procedures to all schools. The guidelines are based on Children First — the Department of Health & Children's national guidelines for the protection and welfare of children. The Children First guidelines make very clear the reporting and investigation mechanisms to be followed in cases of suspected child abuse wherever they occur, and the lead role of the HSE. The guidelines for schools require each board of management to designate a senior member of staff, normally the principal, as the Designated Liaison Person (DLP) for the school. The DLP acts as a liaison person with the health authorities and other agencies on child protection issues and as a resource person to any staff member who has concerns in this regard. My Department does not keep a register of Designated Liaison Persons. The appointment of DLP's is a matter for each school.
In 2006, my Department issued Circulars to all schools reminding them, amongst other things, of the requirement to have a DLP appointed. As part of the circular, schools were issued with and were required to complete a questionnaire which sought to ascertain the level of compliance with the guidelines. The indications from that survey were that the vast majority of schools had DLP's in place at that time. My Department does not have current information in relation to all schools. As part of Whole School Evaluation the Department's Inspectorate checks that Child Protection Policies are in place and that a Designated Liaison Person has been appointed.
The Department has provided and continues to provide in-service training for Designated Liaison Persons and Deputy Designated Liaison Persons to assist them in dealing with child protection issues. In addition, the Department facilitates training for boards of management, parent education and also provides training at Pre-Service level if requested to do so by the colleges of education.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:608 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of staff at primary level and second level who have received in-service training for dealing with child protection issues and in particular reporting procedures, other than training for the stay safe programme or SPHE; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4370/09]
The DES Child Protection Guidelines are an adaptation of the Department of Health and Children/Health Service Executive "Children First" guidelines. They set out the responsibilities and requirements for teachers in the event of a disclosure in the classroom.
The data sets out the provision since January 2008 when the latest round of training began for primary schools on the Child Protection Guidelines:
Primary
Eighty six seminars took place in the school year 2007-2008
All primary schools were invited to send their Designated Liaison Person (DLP) (usually the principal of the school)
1,862 DLPs attended the seminars
1,862 schools were represented
61 seminars took place in the school year 2008-2009
All primary schools were invited to send one member of the teaching staff, this included DLPs that did not attend the round of seminars in the previous school year.
1,010 teachers attended the seminars,
1,010 schools were represented
The data of staff at post primary level who have received in-service training for dealing with child protection issues are as follows:
2004-2008
Number of Schools Invited: 730
Number of Events Held: 150
Number of Schools Represented: 668
Total Number of Participants 2004-2008: 4,534
For 2009 the projected training plans are as follows:
Number of Schools Invited: 730
Number of Events Planned: 20
Total Projected Number of Participants: 570
School Inspections.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:609 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of whole school evaluations and subject inspections carried out at primary and second level each year since 2004 to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4395/09]
In the 2004-2008 period, whole-school evaluations were conducted in 933 primary schools as follows:
|
Year |
Number |
|
2004 |
53 WSE |
|
2005 |
163 WSE |
|
2006 |
228 WSE |
|
2007 |
244 WSE |
|
2008 |
245 WSE |
In the 2004–2008 period, subject inspections (post-primary) were conducted as follows:
|
Year |
Number |
|
2004 |
431 subject inspections |
|
2005 |
676 subject inspections |
|
2006 |
730 subject inspections |
|
2007 |
758 subject inspections |
|
2008 |
668 subject inspections |
Whole-school evaluations (WSE) and subject inspections form just part of the Inspectorate's business plan in any given year. Inspectors are involved in a wide range of other work such as programme evaluations, the preparation of composite and thematic evaluation reports on aspects of educational provision in schools, inspection of primary teachers on probation and participation in appeal boards established under Section 29 of the Education Act. Inspectors also provide advice on an on-going basis to various sections within the Department on policy issues including teacher education, special education, and qualifications, curriculum and assessment policy.
With regard to 2009, as part of the wider programme of work outlined above, it is intended to conduct 256 WSEs at primary level, 64 WSEs at post-primary level and 560 subject inspections.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:610 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the level of expenditure which has been allocated by his Department to whole school evaluations and subject inspections at primary level and second level each year since the introduction of such inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4396/09]
I wish to inform the Deputy that information in relation to overall inspectorate costs is currently being compiled and will be incorporated in a reply to the Deputy shortly.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:611 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the proportion of his budget which has been allocated to accommodation and other expenses for inspectors carrying out whole school evaluations and subject inspections each year since the introduction of such inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4397/09]
I take the Deputy's reference to accommodation and other expenses as being the travel and subsistence costs incurred by inspectors while carrying out whole-school evaluations and subject inspections.
The travel and subsistence costs associated with conducting whole-school evaluations and subject inspections are not recorded separately from the total travel and subsistence costs associated with the entire work programme of the Inspectorate division of my Department. In that context it should be noted that, in addition to whole-school evaluations and subject inspections, Inspectors are involved in a wide range of other work such as programme evaluations, the preparation of composite and thematic evaluation reports on aspects of educational provision in schools, inspection of primary teachers on probation and participation in appeal boards established under Section 29 of the Education Act. Inspectors also provide advice on an on-going basis to various sections within the Department on policy issues including teacher education, special education, and qualifications, curriculum and assessment policy.
While it is not possible to provide the Deputy with specific travel and subsistence costs in respect of whole-school evaluations and subject inspections, I can provide details of the total travel and subsistence expenses associated with the complete work programme of the Inspectorate division, for each year since 2004, as set out below
|
Year |
€ |
|
2004 |
1,429,559.33 |
|
2005 |
1,378,130.38 |
|
2006 |
1,576,419.31 |
|
2007 |
1,693,653.27 |
|
2008 |
1,558,952.27 |
The total budget allocation for my Department in 2008 was €9.3 billion. The gross travel and subsistence expenses for the Inspectorate in 2008 amounted to €1,558,952. Therefore, the proportion of the Department's total budget which was allocated to cover the travel and subsistence expenses incurred in respect of the entire work programme of the Inspectorate in 2008 was 0.0168%.
Schools Building Projects.
Brian O'Shea
Ceist:612 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Education and Science if the extension to a school (details supplied) in County Waterford will commence construction in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4414/09]
The proposed building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is at an early stage of architectural planning.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
School Enrolments.
Sean Fleming
Ceist:613 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will investigate the situation of a child (details supplied) who is enrolled in a primary school without their parent’s consent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4429/09]
The selection and enrolment of pupils in schools is the responsibility of the authorities of the individual school. Under section 15 (2) (d) of the Education Act 1998, each school is legally obliged to disclose its enrolment policy and to ensure that as regards that policy that principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents choice are respected.
Article 42 of the Constitution provides for the right of parents to choose the form of education they provide or to have provided to their children. Primary legislation gives effect to this right and includes the Education Act 1998 and the Education (Welfare) Act 2000.
None of the foregoing legislation specifically distinguishes between parents who act in concert and those who disagree and are separated, divorced or unmarried. However each provides that "parent" shall be interpreted to include- "a foster parent, a guardian appointed under the Guardianship of Children Acts, 1964 to 1997, or other person acting in loco parentis who has a child in his or her care subject to any statutory power or order of a court and, in the case of a child who has been adopted under the Adoption Acts, 1952 to 1998, or, where the child has been adopted outside the State, means the adopter or adopters or the surviving adopter".
My Department has not issued guidelines to schools in relation to school enrolment policies. Enrolment of children is, in the first instance, a matter for Boards of Management rather than my Department and Boards must address the circumstances of each case while respecting any order made by the Court in relation to the custody and welfare of the child.
School Curriculum.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:614 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps which he has taken to implement the recommendation outlined in the future requirement for high level information and communication technology skills in the ICT sector report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4433/09]
Work on implementing the recommendations outlined in the report by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN) on the Future Requirement for High-level ICT Skills in the ICT Sector is ongoing. The Higher Education Authority (HEA) is funding a number of awareness initiatives to promote ICT courses to prospective students and the HEA continues to provide funding to third level institutions, both to improve the attractiveness of existing ICT courses and to set up new ones. An encouraging sign is that enrolments on level 8 computing courses increased by 10% in 2008.
In regard to second level, I have recently launched a major initiative, Project Maths, designed to encourage better understanding of maths, to reinforce the practical relevance of maths to everyday life, and to ensure better continuity between primary and second level, and junior and senior cycle. The initiative started in 2008 and is being piloted in 24 schools. The curriculum changes will be phased in over three years and mainstreaming will begin in 2010, prefaced by a national programme of professional development for teachers beginning in 2009. Project Maths will be supported by intensive investment in professional development for teachers and by investment in materials and exemplars for teachers. Some €3m has been provided for the programme in 2009 and the investment will continue over a number of years, to at least 2013, in a rolling programme of reform.
I am aware of the calls for the introduction of bonus points for Higher Level Mathematics in the Leaving Certificate. Decisions on the award of points and admission criteria for entry to higher education programmes are, under legislation, a matter for the higher education institutions. Following the release of the EGFSN Report, my Department asked the Higher Education Authority to initiate a discussion across higher education institutions regarding the desirability or otherwise of awarding bonus points. The overall view emerging was that the introduction of bonus points was unlikely to dramatically increase uptake of Higher Level Maths and unlikely to contribute to the national objective of greater participation in science, technology and engineering courses. The Report of the Points Commission in 1999 considered the issue of bonus points and recommended against such an approach on the grounds that it would lead to a narrowing of the range of subjects taken by students, create pressure on students to make early career choices, give rise to equity issues where the subject was not available and lead to distortions in the third level access and provision. Providing bonus points could reinforce the perception that Maths is a difficult subject. It should be noted that when bonus points were removed in 1994 on foot of curricular reform, participation in Higher Level Maths increased. We can therefore conclude that curriculum reform has more impact than points in this area. Introducing bonus points would inevitably lead to similar demands in other subjects such as science. The education sector must cater for all students, and placing some subjects at a higher value, notwithstanding the importance of other sectors of the economy, and the abilities and interests and legitimate choices of students, could potentially be counterproductive to the overall interests of the system.
Capitation Grants.
Michael Noonan
Ceist:615 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the cost overrun in the provision of extra facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Limerick, he will sanction additional grant aid for the school to make up the shortfall; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4434/09]
Funding in respect of the provision of facilities at the school in question was approved in August of last year. In the event of the receipt of a request for additional grant aid for the project from the school authority, this will be assessed. However, it should be noted that a central tenet of the grant scheme is that the school, granted discretion and funding, must equally accept responsibility for prioritisation, adherence to statutory regulations, control of costs and ensuring value for money. The scheme is not intended to leave schools with significant fundraising needs but for the school to tailor the scope of capital works commissioned to the funding available. The decision on whether to continue participating in scheme or to drop out, if the scope of building is more than the funding envelope permits, is a matter for each school authority.
Special Educational Needs.
Jack Wall
Ceist:616 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 1569 of 27 January 2009 if a psychological assessment will be placed in support of the application for a special needs assistant for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4448/09]
The position remains as I outlined for the Deputy on 27 January last. The SENO is awaiting further information from the school in support of the application and as soon as this is received, the application will receive further consideration.
School Inspections.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:617 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of carrying out whole-school evaluations in 2006, 2007 and 2008 at primary and post primary schools in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4479/09]
I wish to inform the Deputy that information in relation to overall inspectorate costs is currently being compiled and will be incorporated in a reply to the Deputy shortly.
John O'Mahony
Ceist:618 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost to carry out a whole school-evaluation in a post-primary school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4480/09]
I wish to inform the Deputy that information in relation to overall inspectorate costs is currently being compiled and will be incorporated in a reply to the Deputy shortly.
Schools Building Projects.
Pat Breen
Ceist:619 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science the implications for school building projects in County Clare of the reprioritisation of €150 million in the schools building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4482/09]
The capital allocation of €581m for the School Building and Modernisation Programme was increased last week by an extra €75 million. The allocation of this funding within the School Building and Modernisation Programme to address the many demands on the capital budget of my Department is currently being considered.
Psychological Service.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:620 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if matters concerning a person (details supplied) have been brought to the attention of the National Educational Psychological Service in respect of complaints made by parents and other professionals regarding the competence of this person to remain on his Department’s scheme for commissioning private assessments; if so, the determination by the service of such information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4485/09]
The Deputy will be aware that all primary and post primary schools have access to psychological assessments either directly through my Department's National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) or through the Scheme for Commissioning Psychological Assessments (SCPA) which is administered by NEPS.
I can inform the Deputy that NEPS maintains the SCPA panel of eligible practitioners under the scheme on the basis that applicants have satisfied it: that they are graduate members of an appropriate professional body (e.g. the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) or the British Psychological Society (BPS)) and that they have at least two years supervised experience of administering and interpreting psychological tests for children that they are registered or chartered or certified by an appropriate professional body and receiving on-going supervision or that they are receiving on-going supervision that could confer registered status within three years with PSI that they adhere to the PSI Code of Ethics and to the ‘Policy on the use of Psychometric Tests in Ireland' (adapted by PSI in November 2007) that they have obtained Garda clearance.
A complaints procedure exists under the scheme within which issues or difficulties arising from the operation of the SCPA, which cannot be resolved between school and/or parents and the psychologist, are subject to examination and determination by NEPS. This procedure has been formalised within the past year.
I can confirm that complaints were raised by two parents in relation to the psychologist referred to by the Deputy but within the limits of the detail supplied NEPS was satisfied that there were no grounds for further action in either instance. The individual fulfils all the above requirements for involvement in the panel and remains on the current panel. In addition I have recently referred another matter for consideration to the State Examinations Commissions in regard to this psychologist although not in direct connection with the SCPA. My Department has had no involvement in any complaints by other professionals in regard to this panellist.
Should the Deputy have any pertinent information to bring to the matter I would ask that he submit it to my Department for examination. Of course, officials from my Department's NEPS service are available to meet with and discuss the concerns of any parent or school authority in relation to the scheme.
I set out below for the Deputy's information a copy of the SCPA Guidelines for Psychologists — 2009 which, along with other relevant information on the Scheme is available on my Department's website.
While as Minister I am of course concerned in relation to all aspects of quality of service throughout the education system, I should add that neither my Department nor NEPS is a disciplinary body for psychologists. Such matters fall within the province of the particular psychologist's professional body and formal complaints in regard to professional conduct should properly be referred by the complainant to that body (e.g. Psychological Society of Ireland).
SCHEME FOR THE COMMISSIONING OF PSYCHOLOGICAL ASSESSMENTS (SCPA)
Guidelines for SCPA Psychologists — 2009
Purpose of the Scheme
The purpose of the scheme is to provide funding for schools to commission individual psychological assessments for children from psychologists working in a private capacity, pending the expansion of the service provided by the Department of Education and Science (DES)/National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) to all schools. NEPS is a section of the DES.
The scheme is not a substitute for a full educational psychological service of the sort provided by NEPS. It is an interim measure intended to meet current urgent needs for psychological assessment of children and young people. The DES will review the operation of the scheme on an ongoing basis.
Terms and Conditions of the Scheme
Schools are responsible for commissioning psychologists to carry out assessments under the scheme. Schools may only commission psychologists who are on the SCPA panel.
The number of assessments that a school can commission under the scheme is determined by the number of pupils enrolled in that school.
The number of assessments that may be conducted by a psychologist under the scheme cannot exceed 180 in any school year.
An individual psychological assessment, in its entirety, must be wholly and exclusively carried out by a psychologist whose name appears on the SCPA panel.
Payment for assessments carried out under the scheme must be made from SCPA funds and from such funds alone. Psychologists who accept commissions under the scheme may not seek or accept payment from any other source in respect of such commissions and will be required to certify that they have not done so as a condition of receiving payment. Seeking or accepting payment from any other source in respect of an assessment under the scheme will constitute grounds for removal from the SCPA panel.
Schools and psychologists are required to adhere to the recommended procedures, as laid down by the DES/NEPS.
SCPA psychologists must work within their areas of competence, keep abreast of relevant developments and comply with DES policy at all times.
Selection of Psychologists for Participation in the Scheme
The SCPA panel of psychologists is compiled by NEPS. This list is regularly updated and is available in the NEPS section of the DES website — www.education.ie. A web link is provided below:
2009 Panel of Psychologists
Psychologists on the SCPA panel are private practitioners who have satisfied NEPS:
that they are graduate members of an appropriate professional body (e.g. the Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) or the British Psychological Society (BPS)) and that they have at least two years supervised experience of administering and interpreting psychological tests for children
that they are registered or chartered or certified by an appropriate professional body and receiving on-going supervision
or
that they are receiving on-going supervision that could confer registered status within three years with PSI
that they adhere to the PSI Code of Ethics and to the ‘Policy on the use of Psychometric Tests in Ireland' (adapted by PSI in November 2007)
that they have obtained Garda clearance
that they have obtained a Tax Clearance Certificate from the Revenue Commissioners
Membership of the panel only implies the eligibility of the psychologist to conduct assessments under the scheme and (provided the requisite terms and conditions are satisfied) to receive payment for such assessments.
The 2008 panel will expire on 31st December, 2008. Persons who are admitted to the 2009 panel are eligible to conduct assessments under the scheme from 1st January, 2009 until 30th June, 2009 subject to the terms and conditions laid down in the SCPA Guidelines for 2009. Psychologists are obliged both to familiarise themselves with and to adhere to these terms and conditions.
As the 2009 panel will expire on 30th June, 2009 psychologists on that panel wishing to be admitted to the 2009/2010 scheme will be required to complete a Renewal of Membership Form in June, 2009. Others wishing to be placed on the 2009/2010 panel will be required to follow the standard procedure for admission to the scheme.
Psychologists may be suspended or removed from the panel at any time if it is determined that their work or practice falls short of the standards required under the scheme.
Procedures to be Followed by Psychologists in Implementing the Scheme
Psychologists who carry out assessments under the scheme should:
1. Work within their areas of competence at all times.
2. Conduct assessments with reasonable care and diligence.
3. Familiarise themselves and comply with circulars and documents relevant to special educational needs which are produced, from time to time, by the DES/NEPS and by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE). (These are available on the DES website – www.education.ie and on the NCSE website – www.ncse.ie).
4. Supply their own appropriate, up-to-date test materials and meet their other expenses out of the fee for the assessment.
5. Have some form of identification (e.g. driving licence, passport) in their possession when conducting assessments under the scheme.
6. Personally carry out every component of any assessment for which they are individually commissioned and remunerated, including all associated tasks and activities.
7. Ensure, before meeting a child, that they have a copy of the Consent Form (Form 1) and of the Referral Form (Form 2) completed by the school.
8. Review previous reports and relevant school records.
9. Conduct the assessment on the school premises. (In exceptional circumstances, a request may be made to the local NEPS Regional Director to carry out an assessment off the school premises).
10. Administer individual tests of cognitive potential and of attainments and appropriate behavioural check-lists as necessary. Engage in classroom or playground observation as required.
11. Meet with the child's parents/guardians and teachers to provide verbal feedback on the assessment outcome, explaining findings and their implications.
12. Provide, within one calendar month, a psychological report with recommendations for the parents/guardians and the school, bearing in mind that the style, content and format of the report should be appropriate for the recipients and in line with NEPS requirements in this area.
Guidelines on report writing will be provided. These may be amended from time to time in the context of regular reviews of the scheme.
NEPS intends to review a sample of all reports received from school principals (with Form 3) as it has a responsibility to ensure that assessments meet acceptable standards and that public funds are being appropriately discharged.
13. Inform NEPS when no longer accepting commissions under the scheme so that arrangements can be made for notifying schools.
Fees for Psychological Assessments Conducted under the Scheme
There is no charge to parents/guardians or to schools for assessments carried out under the scheme.
A fee, subject to withholding tax, of €330 per assessment to include all expenses (including travel and subsistence) incurred by the psychologist, will be paid by NEPS. This will result in a net fee of €264. The psychologist will be responsible for the payment of any additional tax due.
Psychologists seeking extra payment for SCPA assessments from parents/guardians or from schools may be removed from the panel.
Where it is determined that a psychologist has accepted an additional payment, from a parent/guardian or from a school, for work carried out under the scheme the DES/NEPS reserves the right to withhold the standard fee from that psychologist.
Procedure for Payment under the Scheme
The payment process will be initiated upon receipt, by NEPS, of a Certificate of Completion of Assessment Form (Form 3) in respect of the individual assessment.
Form 3 must be fully completed and signed by the school principal and psychologist and the original (not a copy) submitted to NEPS, by the principal, within three calendar months of the date of assessment. This form will certify:
that the assessment has been completed
that the psychological report has been received by the parents/guardians and by the school principal
that a copy of the psychological report is being sent, with Form 3, to NEPS
that the school principal and psychologist have complied with the terms and conditions of the scheme
Payment may be withheld or refused until the DES/NEPS is satisfied that the terms and conditions of the scheme have been complied with. Without prejudice to the generality of the above, payment may be withheld or refused:
where the assessment has not been properly conducted
where the assessment has been wholly or partly completed by a psychologist who is not on the panel
where the psychologist has not furnished a report in the proper format
where the psychologist has sought or accepted payment from a source other than the scheme
When satisfied that the terms and conditions of the scheme have been fully complied with NEPS will arrange for payment to be made directly to the psychologist.
Grounds for Removal from Panel
Psychologists may be removed from the panel on the following grounds:
failing to conduct an assessment with reasonable care and diligence
engaging in conduct which falls short of that which would be expected from a professional psychologist
seeking or accepting payment from a source other than the scheme in respect of an assessment conducted under the scheme
failing to personally conduct the assessment in its entirety
providing false or misleading information in submitting a report or on Form 3
providing false or misleading information in an application to be placed on the panel
bring convicted of a serious criminal offence
An allegation of serious misconduct against a psychologist on the SCPA panel may result in suspension from the panel pending investigation of the allegation and the outcome of any such investigation.
Further Information
Queries should be submitted to NEPS in writing, either by fax 01-2833181, e-mail scpa@neps.gov.ie or by conventional mail to: SCPA, National Educational Psychological Service, 3rd Floor, Trident House, Blackrock, Co. Dublin. Every effort will be made to respond to queries as soon as possible.
Complaints should be dealt with at point of service. Where informal efforts to resolve difficulties have failed, complainants may invoke a formal Complaints Procedure, details of which are available on request.
Scheme for the Commissioning of Psychological Assessments (SCPA)
General Disclaimers
Terms and conditions of the scheme are subject to ongoing review. They may be changed or updated at any time and without notice by the Minister for Education and Science.
The SCPA panel is not a register of psychologists. Membership of the panel is not to be confused with eligibility for statutory registration of psychologists.
In accepting a psychologist as a member of the panel, the DES is not entering into any contractual arrangement with the psychologist. SCPA psychologists are not employees of the DES/NEPS.
Membership of the SCPA panel confers no particular rights on psychologists and does not provide any guarantee of being commissioned to administer psychological tests in schools.
In any given year, unless otherwise stated, membership of the SCPA panel is generally valid from date of appointment until the end of that school year only.
The DES/NEPS reserves the right to remove a psychologist from the panel at any time.
The scheme may be discontinued at any time by the Minister for Education and Science.
The DES/NEPS is not a disciplinary body for psychologists. Such matters are more properly the remit of the particular psychologist's professional body.
Schools Refurbishment.
Dara Calleary
Ceist:621 Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Minister for Education and Science when details of the summer works scheme for 2009 will be made available. [4502/09]
Tom Hayes
Ceist:622 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if a decision has been made on the provision of a summer works scheme for schools for 2009. [4512/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 621 and 622 together.
I intend to have a Summer Works Scheme this year. The details of the operation of the scheme and the level of funding to be made available under the scheme in 2009 are currently being considered. The Professional and Technical Reports provided by schools for 2008 can be used again for future projects so that schools will not be at the loss of expenditure on them.
School Management.
Arthur Morgan
Ceist:623 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the issue between parents and the school management at a school (details supplied) in County Louth concerning pupil safety; the steps he is taking to resolve the matter in the children’s best interest; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4513/09]
I am not aware of the specific case referred to by the Deputy.
Under the Education Act 1998, the Board of Management has responsibility for the day-to-day management of the school. Issues in relation to the supervision of pupils are therefore matters for each Board of Management. While my Department does not issue specific guidelines on requirements for supervision of pupils, it acknowledges that the degree of supervision required of school authorities varies with the circumstances, including the age of the pupil. It is the responsibility of each individual managerial authority to arrange for appropriate supervision for its pupils.
At a wider level, there will be a full review of the substitution and supervision scheme in conjunction with the school management bodies and teacher unions during this school year.
Third Level Fees.
Tom Sheahan
Ceist:624 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 1441 of 27 January 2009, if he or the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland have directed local authorities and vocational education committees regarding the placement of the postgraduate diploma in education as a level nine diploma enabling the applicant access to college grants and fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4528/09]
The progression route at postgraduate level, for grant purposes, is as follows: Higher Diploma/Postgraduate Diploma, Masters, PhD/Doctorate.
The Higher Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma qualifications are considered to be at the same level for grants purposes. A candidate who already holds a Higher Diploma/Postgraduate Diploma is only eligible for grant aid under the student maintenance grant schemes when progressing to either a masters or a doctorate qualification. The grant awarding authorities are aware that this is the progression route at postgraduate level for grants purposes.
The National Qualifications Authority of Ireland is the agency with responsibility for developing and maintaining the National Framework of Qualifications. I understand that the postgraduate diploma in education is not currently aligned to the framework but that consultations are on-going in relation to the issue.
Higher Education Grants.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:625 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when an education grant refund will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4531/09]
The Third Level Maintenance Grant Schemes, are administered by the Local Authorities and Vocational Education Committees' on behalf of my Department.
The arrangement for the payment of grants and refunds of student service charges under the grant schemes are a matter for the administering authorities.
Officials of my Department contacted Kildare County Council the awarding body in this case who confirmed that the candidate referred to by the Deputy has received two instalments of the maintenance grant in respect of the 2008/2009 academic year and the refund in respect of the student service charge is being processed.
School Placement.
Bernard J. Durkan
Ceist:626 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when compliance is expected with the directive of the appeals committee formed under the terms of section 29 of the Education Act 1998 in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in the matter of school placement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4532/09]
The determination by the Appeal Committee, formed under Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998, to hear this appeal, against a refused enrolment, was issued to both the school and family on 5th December, 2008. The determination upheld the appeal, and the accompanying directive issued to the school requested that they contact the family to arrange enrolment.
On 17th December, 2008, the school advised my Department that they intended to take legal advice on the matter. Following on from this, my Department wrote to the school on 23rd December, 2008, to advise them that determinations issued by Appeal Committees under Section 29 of the Education Act are binding by statute, subject to the right of either of the parties to seek Judicial Review of this decision and to seek a stay on the implementation of the determination, pending the outcome of Judicial Review. Officials from my Department and from the National Educational Welfare Board have had ongoing contact with the family and school in order to seek a resolution to this matter. In the meantime, the child concerned has been receiving home tuition support.
Third Level Education.
Michael Creed
Ceist:627 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Education and Science his proposals for reform of the university sector here; if in this context he will clarify the purpose of his request for an analysis of teaching hours by university staff; his views on the importance of research and publication of articles by which university performance can be measured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4636/09]
I announced the launch of a process to develop a new national strategy for higher education last Friday. The process will be overseen by a high level steering group, chaired by economist Dr Colin Hunt and comprising national and international expertise including academic, business, community and student interests, as well as senior government officials. It is expected that the group will complete its work before the end of the year.
The higher education system is a cornerstone of national infrastructure for generating the skills, knowledge and innovation on which Ireland's future competitive advantage relies. The strategy will be framed in the context of the Government's drive towards sustainable economic renewal and will provide a critical examination of the current environment of Irish higher education and develop a vision and national policy objectives for the next 20 years. This will include an analysis of the current system in terms of its student numbers, funding, funding models, organisational arrangements and the roles of the different public and private entities involved in the higher education and research domain.
The strategy will also take account of research activity, which is now an integral part of our higher education system. Growing research capability is a core component of the European Union's drive under the Lisbon Agenda to become the most competitive and dynamic, knowledge-driven economy in the world. The Government's Strategy for Science, Technology and Innovation (SSTI) is a crucial building block in this effort and is based on a shared vision of placing Ireland firmly on the global map in terms of the excellence of our research.
This is further underpinned in the Government's Framework document for Sustainable Economic Renewal "Building Ireland's Smart Economy" which aims to develop Ireland into the innovation and commercial capital of Europe. The Government has reiterated its commitment to implementing the SSTI despite fiscal pressures and has emphasised "the need for high levels of investment in research and innovation, both for economic competitiveness, and to yield innovations in areas such as ICT, healthcare and environmental technologies, which create employment opportunities, increase economic progress and make tangible improvements to our quality of life."
The number of academic publications and the frequency with which these are cited in future publications are key measures of research activity. Forfás and the HEA are currently undertaking a mapping study of research activity in Ireland which will take stock of activity in basic, strategic, and applied research across all disciplines in both the public and enterprise sectors. As part of the mapping exercise, a bibliometric study will be conducted to quantify the number of publications and citations from Irish research which will provide an overview of research activity and impact.
Disadvantaged Status.
Joe McHugh
Ceist:628 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider his decision to remove the disadvantaged status of a school (details supplied) in view of the fact that 16 of the school’s 21 feeder primary schools are disadvantaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4650/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers is among a number of schools that were judged by an independent identification process in 2005 not to have a sufficient level of disadvantage among their pupils to warrant their inclusion in DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the Action Plan for Educational Inclusion. The next identification process is scheduled to be held at the end of the current DEIS programme which runs from 2005-2010. There will not be an opportunity before this to be included in the current DEIS programme of supports.
A review mechanism was put in place in 2006 to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in DEIS but regarded themselves as having a level of disadvantage which was of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process operated under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The review was concluded and the results were notified to schools in August 2006. The school in question applied for a review at that time but regrettably the school was unsuccessful in qualifying for inclusion in DEIS. Following the introduction of DEIS, a commitment was given, as a concessionary measure, to Non DEIS schools in receipt of resources under pre-existing schemes, that they would retain a level of support in line with their size and disadvantage levels for the duration of the DEIS Initiative.
Given the current volatile and challenging economic climate, difficult decisions had to be made in Budget 2009 in order to contain public sector spending. One of these decisions was to advance the withdrawal of such supports from non DEIS schools to the beginning of the next school year.
The main focus of Social Inclusion measures will be to retain resources in DEIS schools. There is a need to focus targeted resources on the schools in most need and this approach is in line with the broad thrust of the recommendations of the Comptroller and Auditor General which are set out in his report on Primary Disadvantage of 2006, which recommended that my Department should focus its educational disadvantage measures on those schools serving the most disadvantaged communities.
Schools Building Projects.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:629 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm receipt of requests from the board of management of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16 seeking approval for the building of a sports hall; when the school will receive a reply from his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4654/09]
I can confirm to the Deputy that the school to which he refers has made a proposal to my Department in relation to the provision of sports facilities. The Planning and Building Unit of my Department will be in contact with the school authority shortly in relation to this proposal.
Eamon Gilmore
Ceist:630 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Education and Science when a school (details supplied) in County Dublin will receive approval for their application for a permanent building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4656/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an early stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Youthreach Programme.
Mary Upton
Ceist:631 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of young people on the Youthreach programme in a county (details supplied); the number of centres where the Youthreach programme is run; if he will provide additional places on Youthreach in this county in view of the increasing number of young people who are unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4731/09]
Youthreach provides two years integrated education, training and work experience to young people aged 15-20 years who have left school early without any qualifications or vocational training. There are around 6,500 places available nationally under the Youthreach umbrella. 3,700 of these are funded by my Department and delivered in just over 100 centres by Vocational Education Committees (VECs). 2,800 are funded by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and delivered in Community Training Centres by FÁS.
My Department currently funds 185 Youthreach places in the county referred to by the Deputy, delivered in seven centres. Due to the difficult budgetary position it is not possible for my Department to provide further funding for the creation of additional places on the Youthreach programme.
Education Initiatives.
Mary Upton
Ceist:632 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of people in a county (details supplied) currently back in education with the support of the back to education initiative, the back to education allowance and the vocational training opportunities scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4732/09]
The Back to Education Initiative (BTEI) commenced in October 2002. It provides flexible part-time options across Further Education and is aimed at adults with less than upper second level education, including unemployed adults. It aims to give adults who wish to return to education an opportunity to combine their return to learning with family, work and other responsibilities. Programmes are offered on a part-time basis in the mornings, afternoons, evenings or at weekends. Since September 2007, any adult with less than an upper second level education is entitled to free tuition. Originally only people with a social welfare entitlement or medical card were entitled to free tuition. In 2008, in the county referred to by the Deputy, there were just over 800 participants in the BTEI.
The Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) is a full-time second chance education and training initiative for unemployed people delivered and managed locally by the VECs. Its primary target groups are the longer-term unemployed, the low-skilled and disadvantaged. Courses of up to two years duration and between levels 3 and 6 on the National Qualifications Framework are offered. Tuition, stationery and books are provided free of charge. A childcare grant and meal and travel allowances are also available to students and they can access the adult guidance service. In 2008, in the county referred to by the Deputy, there were 70 VTOS places available and these places were fully subscribed.
The Back to Education Allowance (BTEA) administered by the Department of Social and Family Affairs is a second chance educational opportunities scheme payable to people on welfare payments who wish to participate in full time education. To qualify for the BTEA an applicant must be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for a minimum period. The allowance is paid at a standard weekly rate equivalent to the maximum rate of the relevant social welfare payment that qualifies the applicant for participation in the scheme. It essentially replaces their existing social welfare income and, in addition, an annual €500 cost of education allowance is payable.
The statistics on participation on the BTEA scheme are collated at the end of April in order to get an overview for the full academic year. The figure for 2007/2008 academic year for the county referred to by the Deputy was just under 80. The figures for the 2008/2009 academic year are not yet available but it is expected that they will show a significant increase.
Schools Building Projects.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:633 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science when it is proposed to allow tendering for the erection of a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4755/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:634 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in regard to the provision of a sports hall in a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4756/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Kathleen Lynch
Ceist:635 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in regard to the proposed extension and improvement works at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; if work is expected to begin in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4757/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
Disadvantaged Status.
Michael D. Higgins
Ceist:636 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the representations which have been made to his Department, giving details of a wide range of activities that are to the advantage of disadvantaged pupils, he will consider the application from the chairman and principal teacher of a school (details supplied) in County Galway, for reconsideration and inclusion in the DEIS scheme. [4789/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers is among a number of schools that were judged by an independent identification process in 2005 not to have a sufficient level of disadvantage among their pupils to warrant their inclusion in DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the Action Plan for Educational Inclusion . The next identification process is scheduled to be held at the end of the current DEIS programme which runs from 2005-2010. There will not be an opportunity before this to be included in the current DEIS programme of supports.
A review mechanism was put in place in 2006 to address the concerns of schools that did not qualify for inclusion in DEIS but regarded themselves as having a level of disadvantage which was of a scale sufficient to warrant their inclusion in the programme. The review process operated under the direction of an independent person, charged with ensuring that all relevant identification procedures were properly followed in the case of schools applying for a review. The review was concluded and the results were notified to schools in August 2006. The school in question applied for a review at that time but regrettably the school was unsuccessful in qualifying for inclusion in DEIS.
This school retained resources, including financial and a shared Rural Co-ordinator post under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing educational disadvantage. When DEIS was introduced, a commitment was given as a concessionary measure to this, and a number of other schools in similar circumstances, that they would retain a level of support for the duration of the DEIS Initiative.
Given the current volatile and challenging economic climate, difficult decisions had to be made in Budget 2009 in order to contain public sector spending. One of these decisions was to advance the withdrawal of such supports from non DEIS schools to the beginning of the next school year.
The main focus of Social Inclusion measures will be to retain resources in DEIS schools. There is a need to focus targeted resources on the schools in most need and this approach is in line with the broad thrust of the recommendations of the Comptroller and Auditor General which are set out in his report on Primary Disadvantage of 2006, which recommended that my Department should focus its educational disadvantage measures on those schools serving the most disadvantaged communities.
Consultancy Contracts.
Damien English
Ceist:637 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science the private consultancy firms his Department used during the periods 1 January to 14 October 2008 and 15 October 2008 to date in 2009; the projects each worked on; the cost to his Department for each project; and if he will provide the information in tabular readable form. [4813/09]
The information requested in relation to consultancy firms used during 2008 is currently being compiled and will be forwarded as soon as possible. As consultancy data is compiled in my Department on a quarterly basis, it will not be possible to provide details of consultancy firms engaged in early 2009 until data relating to the first quarter has been compiled. The relevant details in relation to the first quarter of 2009 will be forwarded as soon as it is available.
Departmental Expenditure.
Damien English
Ceist:638 Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of bonus payments made to staff in his Department for 2008; the amount set aside in his Department for bonus payments in 2009; if he will make a statement on the circumstances where a staff bonus will be paid in 2009. [4828/09]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the scheme of performance related remuneration that applies to the grades of Deputy/Assistant Secretaries and equivalent grades. Awards are made on the basis of recommendations made by the Committee for Performance Awards.
The Committee membership comprises the Secretary General to the Government, the Secretary General, Public Service Management & Development, Department of Finance and members of the private sector. There have been no payments in respect of this scheme at my Department for the year 2008.
School Staffing.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:639 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if the budget changes he announced in 2008 in connection with the reorganisation of primary and post-primary schools allow schools to provide job sharing and career break opportunities for permanent staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4844/09]
The terms of the career break and job sharing schemes for teachers remain unchanged. The decision to approve an application under either of these schemes is a matter for the authorities of the employing school.
Higher Education.
Denis Naughten
Ceist:640 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps taken to date to regulate the foreign student education sector here as provided for in the now withdrawn Education Ireland Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4847/09]
My Department operates an Internationalisation Register which sets out programmes approved for the purpose of access to work by students who are citizens from outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland. Under the immigration regime, such students will only be given access to work if they are attending full time programmes on the Register. The criteria for inclusion require that the programme be full-time, at least 15 hours per week for a minimum of 25 weeks, and lead to a nationally recognised award, or its international equivalent. Language programmes which meet the duration criteria and are approved under the ACELS quality assurance and inspection scheme are also eligible for inclusion on the Register, provided they offer assessment for students at the end of the programme using recognised language proficiency test instruments.
The criteria for inclusion are included in an Information Note, along with the Internationalisation Register, on the Department's website at www.education.ie. The register is updated on a monthly basis.
The English language sector is currently regulated on a voluntary basis by the Advisory Council for English Language Schools (ACELS), a company limited by guarantee which operates under the aegis of my Department. It provides a voluntary quality assurance and inspection scheme for private sector English language schools. ACELS also approves teacher training qualifications for the English as a Foreign Language (EFL) private sector, and has developed English language proficiency test instruments. Schools which comply with the ACELS quality assurance and inspection scheme are approved by my Department for the purpose of providing English language programmes in the private sector. The conditions for recognition of schools are available on the body's website at www.acels.ie.
It is my intention that the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland (NQAI) will take on overall responsibility for the regulation of the international education sector. My Department will hold discussions with the NQAI about taking on these responsibilities in the context of the planned amalgamation of the NQAI, the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC) and the Further Education and Training Awards Council (FETAC).
Schools Building Projects.
Alan Shatter
Ceist:641 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science if, in view of the increasing pupil numbers, he will grant the necessary permission to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16, to progress its school building project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4852/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an early stage of architectural planning. The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the delivery of the project at this time. With regard to the schools needs for September 2009, an application has been received for temporary accommodation and the Department will be in contact with the school authority when a decision has been taken in this matter.
Pre-school Services.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:642 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has taken a decision to withdraw funding from preschool early intervention centres (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4862/09]
Brian Hayes
Ceist:643 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of preschool centres (details supplied) funded by his Department in the past ten years; the level of funding received by each centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4863/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 642 and 643 together.
The Deputy will be aware that the home tuition scheme provides a grant to parents to facilitate the provision of education at home for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme was extended in recent years to facilitate tuition for children awaiting an educational placement and provide early education intervention for pre-school children with autism. Home tuition grants are paid to the parents, who in turn make payment to the home tuition provider.
An arrangement to directly pay the service provider referred to by the Deputy has been agreed until the end of the current school year. This is the only service provider being paid directly in the context of the home tuition scheme. Up until this current school year, grants were paid to parents in respect of tuition providers who were non-serving primary teachers.
Disadvantaged Status.
Michael Ring
Ceist:644 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science to reconsider a decision on the removal of a person’s services from a school (details supplied) in County Mayo. [4888/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers is among schools that were judged by an independent identification process in 2005 not to have a sufficient level of disadvantage among their pupils to warrant their inclusion in DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunities in Schools), the Action Plan for educational inclusion. The next identification process is scheduled to be held at the end of the current DEIS programme which runs from 2005-2010. There will not be an opportunity before this to be included in the current DEIS programme of supports.
The school referred to retained resources, including financial and a shared Rural Coordinator post, under pre-existing schemes and programmes for addressing educational disadvantage. When DEIS was introduced, a commitment was given as a concessionary measure to these schools that they would retain a level of support for the duration of the DEIS Initiative.
While it is appreciated that the discontinuation of these resources will impact on this school, given the current volatile and challenging economic climate, difficult decisions had to be made in order to contain public sector spending. One of these decisions was to advance the withdrawal of such supports from all non DEIS schools to the beginning of the next school year.
The main focus of Social Inclusion measures will be to retain resources in DEIS schools. There is a need to focus targeted resources on the schools in most need and this approach is in line with the broad thrust of the recommendations of the Comptroller and Auditor General which are set out in his report on Primary Disadvantage of 2006, which recommended that my Department should focus its educational disadvantage measures on those schools serving the most disadvantaged communities.
Home-School Liaison Scheme.
Brian Hayes
Ceist:645 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science to identify the 20 primary and 73 post-primary schools that will have withdrawn a home liaison officer from September 2009 under announcements made in the budget. [4896/09]
My Department is currently in the process of advising the schools concerned of the impending withdrawal of these posts. The information requested by the Deputy will be forwarded to him directly, when the schools concerned have been notified.