Vol. 686 No. 2
33 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will introduce policy measures on foot of the recently published report of the Joint Committee on Agriculture, Fisheries and Food on the contamination of Irish pork products; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25982/09]
As I advised the Joint Oireachtas Committee I established a Review Group, chaired by Dr. Patrick Wall, to make recommendations on whatever adjustment of controls or other measures are necessary in the light of the experience gained during the dioxin contamination incident. The work of the Group is ongoing and it will report both the Minister for Health and Children and myself. The Group is considering the report and recommendations of the Joint Oireachtas committee which it received on 26 May 2009 as well as a range of submissions from interested parties. In the meantime my Department, in accordance with risk assessment practice, has amended the 2009 animal feed Inspection Programme to:
(i) afford the drying of feed and grain drying operators a higher risk category
(ii) place greater emphasis on the checking of HACCP plans of the Feed Business Operators
(ii) remind operators involved in the drying of grain and feed that only gas in particular fuels (diesel & kerosene) can be used for such drying.
The Department has also reminded feed business operators of their obligation, under the Hygiene Regulations, to take all steps necessary to ensure the safety of the feed chain.
34 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the efforts that are being made to integrate forestry with other farming activities in view of the contribution and involvement forestry can make to a farmer’s income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26050/09]
Forestry premiums were introduced with a view to encouraging farmers to plant new forests. Over 90% of all afforestation undertaken in recent years was by farmers with forestry regarded as an important and viable alternative land use option. For these farmers it is an integral part of their farming activity and a very important source of additional income. In 2008, 11,500 farmers received payments totalling almost €70 million from forestry premiums alone.
My Department introduced the Forest Environment Protection Scheme (FEPS) in 2007. It is aimed at further enhancing the integration of forestry with other farming activities, specifically for farmers participating in REPS. The FEPS measure is aimed at encouraging REPS farmers to create new on-farm woodlands. This not alone helps to protect wildlife habitats and contribute to enhancing and protecting the environment, but also makes a valuable contribution to farm incomes. A total of 204 farmers who participated in FEPs in 2008 received payments in excess of €2 million.
The Government remains committed to the maintenance of an active afforestation programme and would encourage farmers to seriously consider the financial and other contributions forestry can make to their farming enterprises.
35 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the measures he has introduced to facilitate the development of the aquaculture sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25959/09]
Government policy in relation to the development of the aquaculture industry is set out in the Cawley Strategy — Steering A New Course, Strategy for a Restructured, Sustainable and Profitable Irish Seafood Industry 2007 — 2013. The Strategy sees a much bigger role for aquaculture in meeting the increasing demands for seafood and on this basis includes a range of recommendations to promote the development of this sector over the coming period including a significant capital support programme to encourage industry development.
The National Seafood Development Operational Programme 2007-2013, which provides for grant aid support to develop the aquaculture industry, was advertised for public consultation in October 2008. Following this consultation process issues were raised by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on behalf of CFB (Central Fisheries Board) regarding the grant-aiding of projects where environmental issues arise relating to compliance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives and sea lice control on salmon farms.
This Department with its agencies working with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government developed a plan to deliver compliance with the EU Birds and Habitat Directives for wild fisheries and aquaculture over a determined timeframe. This plan was submitted to DG Environment for consideration.
A meeting between this Department, the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and Agencies and DG Environment took place in Brussels on 13 May 2009 to discuss the plan with a view to securing DG Environment's support for the approach set down in the plan.
DG Environment advised that it was, in principle, favourably disposed towards Ireland's plan subject to a positive response to the issues raised and further clarifications from the Irish authorities on the details of the plan. Additional material has now been forwarded to DG Environment where it is being examined. When these matters have been satisfactorily addressed, DG Environment expects to be in a position to formally respond on the plan at an early date.
A meeting at Ministerial level was held last week between my Department and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Minister Killeen advised on the significant progress made in relation to managing sea lice levels on salmon farms and the concerns of the Fishery Boards were also set down. I am hopeful that there is a better understanding of the issues involved from both Department's perspectives and that on this basis we can find a satisfactory resolution to the concerns raised.
It is noteworthy that the delay in the launch of the National Seafood Development OP has not held up grant aiding aquaculture developments in 2009 as the European Commission have agreed to the continuation of grant aid under the 2000-06 OP until 30 June 2009. A provision of €5m has been made for aquaculture development in the Agriculture Vote for 2009 and I have approved the spending of €4.5m of this for aquaculture projects in both the BMW and S&E regions under the 2000-06 OP which will assist the continued operation of aquaculture projects in these areas and the employment that they support.
36 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in closing the installation aid scheme, Ireland has forfeited the EU contribution to this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26031/09]
Against the background of the deterioration in public finances, my approach in preparing the 2009 Estimates for my Department was to focus available resources on the measures that would permit us to maintain and grow the productive capacity of the agri-food sector. Because I had chosen to protect expenditure in certain areas, expenditure in other areas, such as installation aid for young farmers, had to be curtailed and the Young Farmers' Installation Scheme was suspended for new applications on 14 October 2008.
To date there has been sufficient overall eligible expenditure under the Rural Development Programme to allow full draw down of available EU funds. There are ongoing commitments under the Young Farmers Installation Scheme which will continue to draw down these funds. I intend that any balance remaining relating to this Scheme will be drawn down by appropriate eligible expenditure over the lifetime of the Programme.
I have made provision of €9.7m for 2009 to meet current commitments under the Young Farmers' Installation Scheme and the preceding equivalent Schemes.
37 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has established a review group on traceability systems at all meat processing plants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25972/09]
Regulation (EC) No. 178 of 2002, which sets out the general principles and requirements of EU food law, stipulates among other things that food business operators at all stages of production, processing and distribution within the businesses under their control must ensure that foods satisfy the requirements of food law. Specifically in regard to traceability the regulations require that the operator must have systems in place to be able to identify any person from whom they have been supplied with a food. They must also have a system in place to identify the other businesses to which their product has been supplied. In other words a food business operator at each and every stage in the food chain must be able to identify the source of its inputs as well as having details of the first recipient of its output. This is commonly referred to as the "one step forward one step backward" traceability system.
I am satisfied that the meat sector generally is meeting the traceability standards required under this legislation. Nevertheless following the dioxin contamination incident my Department, in conjunction with industry, is continuing to examine the potential to improve traceability at processing level.
I also established a Review Group (chaired by Dr. Patrick Wall) to carry out a comprehensive review of the dioxin contamination incident. This Group will make recommendations on whatever adjustments of controls are necessary in the light of the experience gained in dealing with this incident. I expect that this group will cover the issue of traceability in its deliberations.
38 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the fact that farm incomes fell by 11.8% in 2008; his plans to introduce policy measures to sustain employment in the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25989/09]
The CSO's final estimate for Output, Input and Income in Agriculture for 2008 shows that operating surplus in agriculture declined by 11.8% in 2008. This follows an increase of 12.5% in 2007, which was brought about by higher output prices, particularly on dairy and cereal markets. While these high commodity prices were maintained into the early part of 2008, there was a decline in the latter part of 2008, which was deepened by the fiscal and economic crisis. The livestock sector, notably cattle and pigs, did benefit from higher output prices during 2008 and an overall gain in output value for the year. Most of the reduction in operating surplus in 2008 can be attributed to the sharp rise in input costs. Intermediate consumption increased by €458 million or 11.3% primarily due to higher feedingstuffs, fertiliser and energy costs.
There is no doubt that certain parts of the industry are facing significant challenges again this year, however, some reduction in input prices should help to soften the impact of these difficulties. For the medium term outlook the European Commission forecast a gradual recovery aided by growth in global food demand due to population increase and also a longer-term decline in the growth of food-crop productivity. With this in mind preparatory work has begun on a new development plan for the agri-food sector for the period to 2020. It will focus on the critical issues of competitiveness, the challenges from the global economic downturn, currency fluctuations, climate change and how best to maximise the opportunities arising from a growing international food and energy crop markets.
I must state on a positive note that the agriculture and food sector has the innate capacity to help lead the economic recovery in the years ahead. Regardless of the economic difficulties that Ireland currently faces, there is no doubt that this country is fully capable of producing and exporting high quality food and drink products. Despite the challenging market, currency fluctuations and turbulent export environment, Bord Bia estimate that food and beverage exports have declined only marginally in 2008 and in that year were worth around €8.2 billion. Their short to medium term estimates for the sector remain reasonably positive and I believe that this indigenous industry has the potential to boost export returns and approach €10 billion in annual export revenues by 2011.
Beef exports, which are so important, bucked the overall negative trend in 2008 and performed very strongly last year, rising by more than 7% to €1.7 billion with tighter Irish cattle supplies combining with a significant fall in EU beef imports from South America to provide a more positive market environment for Irish beef in key markets. The medium term view is that Irish beef producers have the opportunity to maintain their competitive advantage and consolidate their position on the high value EU markets. As I stated previously, the EU medium term outlook for agricultural commodities is for a gradual recovery supported by growth in global demand and population. These are factors that can work to the advantage of Ireland and will act to underpin employment and the industry.
39 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is assisting farming groups with regard to the establishment of advice clinics for farming families currently under financial pressure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26051/09]
I fully understand that the current economic climate represents a particularly difficult time for farmers. Farmers are already in a cyclical business and that situation has been compounded by the current international and domestic downturn and low prices for certain commodities. Assistance is provided to farmers in a number of ways and by a number of different agencies and Departments.
Advisory services to farmers are primarily offered through Teagasc. These services help farmers improve efficiency and reduce costs through applying the latest results from the Teagasc research programme. Teagasc has some 500 advisers and specialists, located at over 80 centres throughout Ireland. The advisory service is divided into four particular programme areas, namely: Business and Technology, Good Farm Practice, Rural Development and Adult Training. Teagasc are in contact with some 80,000 farmers and rural dwellers each year, of whom approximately 45,000 avail of an intensive on-farm consultancy service.
With regard to those in the farming sector directly experiencing financial difficulties, there are a number of targeted schemes, which offer assistance. The Farm Assist is a means tested scheme aimed at low-income farm families, which is administered by the Department of Social and Family Affairs. At the end of May 2009, there were approximately 7,831 participants on the scheme, an increase of 6.3% on the previous year. The Rural Social Scheme (RSS) was launched in May 2004 to provide an income supplement to low income farmers and fisher persons while at the same time harnessing their skills for the benefit of rural communities. The scheme requires participants to work 19.5 hours per week and is administered in a farmer/fisher friendly manner allowing participants to work flexible hours.
Despite the downturn in our economy the Irish Government's commitment to the farming sector remains strong. In the Supplementary Estimate for 2009, €1,985 million was provided for my Department. The Government continues to support the farming sector and farming families to the fullest extent possible. In 2009, total public expenditure will amount to over €3.3 billion when the Department's Vote is combined with EU funding of €1.4 billion. The most recent National Farm Survey data from Teagasc indicates that average Family Farm income was just short of €19,700, with 84% of that net total accounted for through various direct payments demonstrating my Department's commitment to providing an income platform for farmers.
40 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if discussions between himself and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government have concluded with regard to inspection arrangements for the Nitrates Directive Regulations recently published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26003/09]
Inspections to meet the requirements of the Nitrates Regulations are undertaken by my Department. The Department's inspectors currently undertake all on-farm cross-compliance inspections, including checks for compliance with the Nitrates Regulations and have considerable expertise in this area.
On-farm inspections are also required under the EU Water Framework Directive which is the responsibility of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
In my statement on 24 April 2009, I indicated my objective to ensure that the duplication of on-farm inspections is avoided for practical reasons, to minimise costs and to simplify the inspection arrangements from the farmer's perspective. Discussions are ongoing between officials of my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with a view to finalising, as soon as possible, the necessary arrangements in relation to on-farm inspections.
41 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the benefits of brucellosis free status for farmers here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25952/09]
65 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects that Ireland’s application for brucellosis free status will be approved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25951/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 41 and 65 together.
My Department applied to the European Commission on 31 March last for formal recognition of Officially Brucellosis Free status (OBF) for Ireland. The EU Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health is due to meet to-day and tomorrow and a draft Commission decision on this matter is expected to be presented. If adopted it will then be necessary for the Commission services to make the necessary arrangements to give the decision legal effect and for its publication in the Official Journal.
There are considerable benefits to being brucellosis free, not least in relation to public health and the alleviation of distress to farmers whose herds are affected, and the possibility of relaxed controls. I intend to decide on the action to take on this once the status has been achieved.
42 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the progress made in relation to the processing of aquaculture licences; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25965/09]
Aquaculture licensing is governed by the terms and conditions of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1997, as amended, and Regulations made thereunder, including, in particular, the Aquaculture (Licence Application) Regulations 1998, S.I. No. 236 of 1998. Other Regulations made under the European Communities Act 1972, as amended, also govern other aspects of aquaculture.
In considering an application for an aquaculture licence the licensing authority must consider:
the potential impacts on safety and navigation,
the ecological impacts on wild fisheries, natural habitats, flora and fauna,
the suitability of the waters,
the other beneficial uses of the place or waters,
the likely effects on the economy of the area, and
the statutory status under European legal frameworks of the area under application.
This process involves consultation with a range of scientific and technical advisers as well as various statutory consultees. Applications are also subject to public consultation whereby any interested person or body may make submissions or observations on any licence application. The process also involves publication of Ministerial decisions on applications and allowing a one month period for appeal of any decision. Any such appeal must then be considered by the independent Aquaculture Licences Appeals Board.
In the course of assessing applications for aquaculture licences a number of complexities have arisen due to the Natura 2000 status of many areas. In this regard my Department, together with the National Parks and Wildlife Service, is currently in the process of finalising, with the EU Commission, a plan to deliver compliance of aquaculture activities in Natura 2000 sites with the EU Birds and Habitat Directives. This plan is designed to provide for the continued operation of existing activities while at the same time undertaking a comprehensive data collection programme that will enable all new and renewal applications to be appropriately assessed for the purpose of ensuring compliance with these Directives.
The timeframe for reaching a determination in respect of applications will vary depending on location, species, scale and intensity of production, culture method, statutory status of sites, potential visual impact, access route and frequency of access to sites, other activities in the area etc. This does not include consideration of any submissions or observations raised during the public consultation period.
Every effort is being made by my Department to expedite the determination of all outstanding cases having regard to the complexities of each case and the need to comply fully with all relevant national and EU legislation.
43 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to support or grant aid the small primary or secondary meat processing sector in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26024/09]
A grant aid scheme for the small meat sector, which includes small slaughterhouses and low throughput meat establishments, culminated in my Department awarding a total of €7.8m in grant assistance to 31 enterprises in December 2008. This grant aid is expected to contribute to an actual investment on projects in excess of €25 million. Details are set out below.
A substantial number of the investments have commenced and are proceeding satisfactorily. Interim and final grant claims will be processed in 2009 in respect of those projects with at least 50% of the works completed. The awards will assist the meat businesses to improve efficiency, add quality and value to products, produce new and innovative products and develop new markets.
|
County |
Project(s) |
Location |
Investment |
Grant |
|
€ |
€ |
|||
|
Carlow |
Carlow Foods Ltd |
Fenagh |
1,022,269 |
306,681 |
|
Cork |
Gubbeen Farmhouse |
Schull |
124,923 |
49,968 |
|
Skeaghanore Fresh Farm Duck |
Ballydehob |
828,840 |
248,653 |
|
|
Hodgins Sausage Ltd |
Mitchelstown |
1,106,450 |
331,935 |
|
|
Finns Meats |
Mitchelstown |
596,14 |
178,844 |
|
|
Jack McCarthy Ltd Craft Butchers |
Kanturk |
249,732 |
99,893 |
|
|
Donegal |
Swilly Meats Ltd |
Ballybofey |
1,548,514 |
464,554 |
|
Dublin |
M&K Meats |
Rathcoole |
251,428 |
100,571 |
|
Sandyford Meats |
Sandyford |
268,868 |
107,547 |
|
|
Courtney Food Services |
Kimmage |
91,056 |
36,422 |
|
|
Hicks Foods Ltd |
Ballymount |
209,218 |
83,687 |
|
|
Galway |
Heaney Meats Catering Co |
Connemara |
2,123,699 |
637,110 |
|
Kerry |
PLM Foods |
Glenfisk, Killarney |
558,728 |
167,619 |
|
Kildare |
Brady Family Food |
Timahoe, Naas |
1,892,296 |
567,689 |
|
McConnon’s Meats |
Rathangan |
1,625,232 |
487,570 |
|
|
Laois |
Festa Fine Foods |
Portlaoise |
650,384 |
195,115 |
|
Leitrim |
Campbell Meats |
Drumshanbo |
719,324 |
215,797 |
|
Limerick |
Ashgrove Meats |
Newcastle West |
111,900 |
44,760 |
|
Longford |
Louis Herterich |
Longford |
462,329 |
138,700 |
|
Sheelin Meats Ltd |
Granard |
558,916 |
167,675 |
|
|
Louth |
Ashbrook Foods Ltd |
Dundalk |
248,984 |
99,594 |
|
Mayo |
Imam Casing & Foods |
Ballyhaunis |
1,359,481 |
407,846 |
|
Meath |
Traditional Meat Company |
Oldcastle |
2,233,641 |
670,093 |
|
Boyne Valley Meats |
Garristown |
1,199,415 |
359,825 |
|
|
Monaghan |
Farney Foods Ltd |
Carrickmacross |
329,436 |
98,831 |
|
Connolly Meats |
Scotstown |
422,322 |
126,696 |
|
|
Roscommon |
O’Brien Butchers |
Whitehall |
580,890 |
174,267 |
|
Gilligans Farm Fresh Meats |
Four Mile House |
746,183 |
223,855 |
|
|
Tipperary |
Darcy Meats |
Nenagh |
732,688 |
219,806 |
|
Wexford |
Thomas Kinsella Meats |
Enniscorthy |
416,965 |
125,090 |
|
Wicklow |
Michael Whelan Puddings |
Blessington |
2,063,077 |
618,923 |
|
Total |
25,333,333 |
7,755,615 |
44 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the remaining 25% payment will be awarded under REP scheme four; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26058/09]
I expect that the remaining 25% payment will issue within weeks to those farmers who have already received their first payment of 75% in respect of REPS 4 applications lodged in 2007 and 2008.
45 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of 2007 and 2008 REP scheme four plans which were rejected before 15 May 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26065/09]
My officials have rejected 237 of the applications for REPS 4 received in the period concerned. The applicants concerned have the right to appeal to the Agriculture Appeals Office and I understand that a number of them have already done so.
46 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the benefit for the beef and sheep meat processing industry here arising from his recent investment announcement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25955/09]
Under the Beef and Sheepmeat Investment Fund, grant assistance of over €69 million was recently announced in respect of 15 investment projects. The awards, which are part of a strategy to position the industry to face the challenges and grasp the opportunities that lie ahead, will contribute to total investment in the region of €168 million.
The objective of the Fund is to support investment to increase scale and efficiency in primary processing, and added value in further processing for retail, food service and manufacturing outlets. No overall increase in processing capacity within the sector is envisaged. The individual investments supported by the Fund will have a range of impacts on sales and employment. The expected overall net impact of this multi-annual programme of investment is to achieve over €400 million in additional sales and exports and a net expansion of 800 in employment following completion of the package of investments in 2012.
47 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plan to attract new entrants to dairying; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26067/09]
I announced details of the Scheme for the Allocation of Milk Quota to New Entrants on 10 June 2009. Since then in excess of 80 application forms have been issued to individuals who have expressed an interest in the scheme though no completed applications have, as yet, been returned to the Department. As the closing date is 31 July 2009, I expect that the majority of applications will arrive nearer that date.
The eligibility criteria for the scheme require that each applicant must:
satisfy certain education and training qualifications;
have no milk quota, nor have been a producer previously;
have a holding comprised of lands owned and/or leased;
have a separate independent herd number in which the dairy animals will be registered; and
have separate milking and milk storage facilities;
The applicant must also submit a five year business plan.
The closing date for applications is 31 July 2009, and it is expected that the assessment group will meet to consider applications in the week beginning 31 August 2009. The assessment of applications will be carried out by a group chaired by John Tyrrell, ICOS. New Entrants who acquire quota under this scheme will be required to commence milk production by 1 April 2011.
In addition to this new scheme, the Milk Quota Trading Scheme offers new entrants preferential access to milk quota from the priority pool. While at the same time affording them the opportunity to purchase quota from the exchange at the market price. Details of the next Trading Scheme will be published in September.
48 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to announce changes in the payment level for REP scheme three participants; if on the basis of the work undertaken by his officials to date in processing REP scheme four payments, he envisages there will a change in REP scheme three; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26018/09]
I indicated on 7 April, following the presentation of the 2009 Supplementary Budget, that I would review the payment level for REPS 3 participants once I have determined the ongoing financial obligations arising from the number of REPS 4 applications submitted by the closing date of 15 May. The total number of applications received was in the region of 17,000. The precise number will be available shortly, together with an estimate of their cost, when the applications received in each of the local offices have been entered on my Department's computer system.
I am carrying out the review of the scheme in the context of the overall level of participation, the funding which is likely to be available to me in the future, the flexibility provided by the additional funding which I negotiated in the recent CAP "Health Check" and also the preparation of a revised Rural Development Programme which must be submitted to the European Commission by the 15 July. I will be making a statement on the matter at that stage.
49 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the progress made with regard to farm waste management inspections and payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26015/09]
Payments are continuing to be made under the Farm Waste Management Scheme on a phased basis with 40 per cent being paid this year as claims are approved. To date in 2009, 13,381 payments totalling almost €185.9 million have been made to farmers under the Scheme, while a further 1,396 claims for grant-aid have been inspected and approved for payment. This compares to 12,847 payments in the whole of the 2008 calendar year.
The process of on-farm inspections and approval of payments is continuing and additional staff have been re-deployed to certain parts of the country to ensure that the remaining payments to be made under the Scheme are effected as soon as possible.
50 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the action being taken to support local growers’ cooperatives to deal with the threat of unfair competition from large international retailers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26040/09]
I am in the process of meeting with large retailers to impress on them the Government's commitment to the agri-food sector. I am taking the opportunity to explain the importance of the sector to the economy as well as the high quality standard of food production in this country. These standards have been achieved as a result of major investment over the years in traceability and food safety infrastructure which has complemented the natural advantages of food production here. More recent investment to support environmentally and animal welfare friendly methods of production have also been brought to the attention of retailers as advantages in meeting emerging consumer concerns. However I acknowledge that consumers are concerned about value for money and have emphasised the necessity for a reasonable balance between granting price reductions to consumers and giving a fair return to suppliers and producers.
As regards local growers cooperatives, the EU Producer Organisation (PO) Scheme provides an important mechanism for fruit and vegetable growers to achieve greater bargaining power in the marketplace by becoming part of a larger supply base. The Scheme has more flexible terms and conditions with effect from 2009 and it is hoped that this will attract more growers to join POs. Since 2000, twenty POs have benefited from EU funding amounting to €29.5m.
51 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position with regard to the processing of REP scheme four payments; the outcome of discussions he had with the European Commission with regard to changes to compliance measures or ineligible applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26006/09]
Under EU rules, payments to REPS 4 participants may be made in two instalments, the first at 75% on completion of all administrative checks and area checks on all files and the remaining 25% once all on-farm inspections have been completed. Some 91% of those who applied for REPS 4 in 2007 and 2008 have received the first instalment and the remaining 25% will be issued as soon as possible. Arrangements are being made to ensure that, where possible, outstanding payments of the first instalment will also issue shortly. Payment of the first REPS 4 instalment for 2009 will be made in the autumn.
My officials have held discussions with the European Commission regarding the treatment of cases where eligibility issues have arisen and are awaiting the Commission's response in the matter. My officials are also in discussion with the farm bodies regarding the possibility of amending a farmer's obligations under the Scheme to reflect the withdrawal of the 17% increase in rates in REPS 4. Any such amendments will also require the approval of the European Commission.
52 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the efforts he has made to secure EU supports for Irish milk producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25947/09]
53 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he continues to seek dairy price supports at EU level; the position in relation to same; the reason there has been no lift in dairy product prices; the price which is achievable based on the price supports he is seeking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26045/09]
79 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he has taken to prevent the collapse of dairy farming and consequently the dairy industry; his views on whether the price being paid for milk cannot and will not cover production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25845/09]
106 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps that he has taken over the past six months to restore the dairy sector to a sound trading position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26056/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 52, 53, 79 and 106 together.
Over the past year or so we have witnessed extremes of volatility in dairy product prices on an unprecedented scale, a symptom of the changed EU policy framework in which we operate where world market forces have a major influence on the price paid for milk. Last November, when it became apparent that dairy commodity prices internationally were in decline, I contacted the EU Commissioner for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, Mariann Fischer Boel, to press for the re-activation of dairy market supports. These had been suspended since 2006 because of the historically high milk prices that had prevailed in the intervening period.
The first step taken by the Commission, following my intervention, was to introduce the aid scheme for private storage of butter a full two months ahead of the normal date, ensuring that market support for butter was available in January instead of March. The scheme remains in place and has already supported the storage of some 96,000 tonnes of butter at EU level.
Public intervention for butter and skimmed milk powder opened in March. When the mandatory limits of butter and SMP to be purchased at the intervention price were reached, 30,000 tonnes and 109,000 tonnes respectively, I arranged a bilateral meeting in Brussels with the Commissioner. At that meeting I secured agreement for the continuation of these schemes under tendering arrangements that are close to intervention prices.
To date some 81,000 tonnes of butter have been bought into intervention, equal to 8 per cent of the butter production in January to June. As regards skimmed milk powder, 203,000 tonnes have been purchased into stock, equal to more than 38 per cent of the SMP production in January to June this year. In all, 20,000 tonnes of butter and 27,000 tonnes of skimmed milk powder from Ireland have been funded under these schemes at an approximate value of €60 million to Irish dairy processors.
Also re-introduced in January were export refunds for butter, cheese, skimmed milk powder and whole milk powder. So far this year, licences to export some 96,000 tonnes of butter and butteroil and 123,000 of SMP have been issued, which will enable these quantities to utilise export refunds for export outside the Community. Similarly, licences were issued in respect of cheese exports for 129,000 tonnes. The support value of this trade amounts to a further €113 million when these products are exported.
Taken together there has been a considerable commitment of EU funds to support the dairy sector. However, with the market continuing to show resistance, price returns to dairy farmers in Ireland are now at levels that threaten the very viability of many farm enterprises. I have explained in detail to the Commission, with regard to cheese exports, that it is difficult for many to understand why, in this current severe market downturn, we have a self-imposed technical impediment preventing the use of export refunds in support of cheese exports outside of the Community in the quantities demanded by the market. I have once again urged the Commissioner to remove the ‘free at frontier price' for cheeses at the earliest opportunity.
I have also stressed the need to examine other steps that may assist in reversing the downturn and stimulating the market further. For example, intervention purchases of butter and skimmed milk powder will close at the end of August and the private storage scheme for butter will close shortly beforehand. The role that private storage and intervention plays is such that their continuation after the normal cessation dates will be crucial in preventing further market turbulence at a time when supplies would otherwise hit commercial markets. My view, which I have articulated at meetings of the Council of Ministers, is that the market situation warrants an exceptional response on this occasion.
Dairy farmers incomes are comprised of the market price paid for milk and direct income support from the EU. Market forces have a major influence on the price paid to farmers for milk. World market prices determine the returns received by dairy processors and these in turn are reflected in the price paid to farmers. In essence, farm gate prices normally reflect the returns from international markets of dairy product sales. As the milk price is greatly influenced by supply and demand market support schemes can only have a limited effect on prices. For a dairy producing country like Ireland, where we export the vast majority of our product, this new framework is particularly relevant. Ultimately the market is the source of income and to maximise income the focus has to be on competitiveness, efficiency and innovation.
It is important to emphasise that medium term prospects for global dairy markets are good. Growth in wealth and population is forecast to stimulate strong levels of demand for dairy products, and returns will improve commensurately. I have every confidence that the sector will recover from this current downturn and achieve its fair share of the annual growth in demand for dairy products predicted by the OECD and others.
54 Deputy Eamon Gilmore asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the estimated cost of the electronic tagging system proposed for Irish ewes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26052/09]
The introduction of electronic identification (EID) for all sheep was agreed at EU level in late 2003. At that time, it was agreed to defer the implementation date until January 2008. The Council revisited this issue in December 2007 when it was agreed that the deadline for the compulsory introduction of EID should be definitively set for 31 December 2009.
I have used every opportunity in EU discussions, both at Council and at bilateral level, to seek the introduction of EID on a voluntary basis. However there is no appetite among the majority of Member States or the Commission for any further deferral of the deadline of 31 December 2009, or for the introduction of EID on a voluntary basis.
There are however a number of implementation issues of concern to Ireland in relation to the introduction of EID and my Department is in ongoing contact with the Commission and other Member States on these issues of concern. These ongoing discussions are without prejudice to the continuing political discussion on the overall policy in relation to EID. I am anxious that all Irish concerns are taken into account in whatever system is finally implemented.
Under the EU legislation, EID will not apply to sheep born before January 2010 nor generally will there be a need to retag existing sheep. Furthermore provision is made whereby lambs intended for slaughter and less than 12 months old can be permanently excluded from the EID requirement. If this provision is applied by Ireland, it will reduce the number of animals affected by EID and costs substantively. Until final decisions are taken in relation to this and other issues, I am not in a position to provide definitive figures for overall costs.
55 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the meetings he has had with large retailers with regard to the sourcing and provision of quality Irish brands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26048/09]
I am in the process of meeting with large retailers to impress on them the Government's commitment to agri-food sector. I am taking the opportunity to explain the importance of the sector to the economy as well as the high quality standard of food production in this country. These standards have been achieved as a result of major investment over the years in traceability and food safety infrastructure which has complemented the natural advantages of food production here. More recent investment to support environmentally and animal welfare friendly methods of production have also been brought to the attention of retailers as advantages in meeting emerging consumer concerns. However I acknowledge that consumers are concerned about value for money and have emphasised the necessity for a reasonable balance between granting price reductions to consumers and giving a fair return to suppliers and producers.
56 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if all 17,400 farmers will be awarded their first 40% tranche of payment by 30th June, 2009 as promised by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26060/09]
Payments are continuing to be made under the Farm Waste Management Scheme on a phased basis with 40 per cent being paid this year as claims are approved. To date in 2009, 13,381 payments totalling almost €185.9 million have been made to farmers under the Scheme, while a further 1,396 claims for grant-aid have been inspected and approved for payment. This compares to 12,847 payments in the whole of the 2008 calendar year.
The process of on-farm inspections and approval of payments is continuing and additional staff have been re-deployed to certain parts of the country to ensure that the remaining payments to be made under the Scheme are effected as soon as possible. Payments can only be made to those farmers whose claims for grant-aid under the Scheme have been found to be in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Scheme.
57 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide an assurance that food labelling procedures adequately reflect the status, origin and quality of all meat and meat products on sale here; if there is absolute compliance with national and EU law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26084/09]
The Minister for Health & Children has overall responsibility for the general food labelling legislation. Responsibility for the enforcement of this legislation rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (F.S.A.I.). This is done through service contracts with other relevant agencies, including the Health Service Executive, the Local Authority Veterinary Service and my Department. Any breaches of national and EU law are dealt with by the F.S.A.I.
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. While my Department submitted further material the EU Standing Committee on the Food Chain and Animal Health formally adopted the negative opinion on the draft regulation in December 2008.
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 of food labelling legislation. In the meantime products carrying the Bord Bia quality assurance label provide consumers with assurance on product origin.
58 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the role of Coillte in afforestation and the production of bio-mass for energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [24171/09]
Coillte Teoranta was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988. One of the company's principal objects under the Act is to carry on the business of forestry and related activities on a commercial basis and in accordance with efficient silvicultural practices.
When it was first established in 1989 the company actively engaged in land acquisition for afforestation purposes and expansion of its estate. In latter years, it has reduced its land acquisition programme for a number of reasons, including reduced availability of land for sale, rising land prices and the company's ineligibility for forestry premiums. Since 2000, the company has focused on contributing to the afforestation programme through its farm partnership schemes, by providing forestry services to farmers and by promoting forestry investment.
In relation to the production of biomass for energy, while much of Coillte's timber supply is destined for processing, it will still be a significant provider of forest residues. The BioEnergy Action Plan for Ireland, published by the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in 2007 identified the slow pace of progress in developing a reliable supply chain from the private sector forest resource as a key factor inhibiting the development of a wood energy sector in Ireland.
Coillte advise that it has a pivotal role in working with the private sector to establish a robust supply chain. The company is working with the key stakeholders in the market and, in particular, with the bio-energy group under the auspices of the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. In order to refine its business model and strategy for approaching the market, the company has established a pilot depot in Co. Mayo. Coillte advise that, given its experience in the forestry sector and knowledge of the supply chain, it is well placed to play a leadership role in developing the sector.
59 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the World Trade organisation situation; the possibility of an agreement in view of the fact that it would now appear that an agreement has been reached between India and the USA on the matter that stalled the WTO talks in 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26077/09]
90 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his preferred options in the context of the ongoing WTO discussions; if he will provide an assurance that he and other European Ministers fully appreciate the need to ensure adequacy and security of food supplies for the population of Europe and that sufficient steps are taken to ensure that the Irish and European food producing sectors are capable of meeting the challenge of international competition and consumer needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26083/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 90 together.
The current position in regard to the WTO negotiations is that talks are stalled following the failure to reach agreement at the Ministerial meeting last July and the decision to defer indefinitely a second Ministerial meeting planned for last December. The G20 meeting in April provided no new momentum for the negotiations and nor did it set a date for a conclusion of the talks this year. Notwithstanding changes in the Indian administration and unconfirmed reports of narrowing of differences between India and the US on issues that precipitated last year's breakdown of talks, the prospects for agreement are uncertain. These negotiations involve a large number of complex issues and 153 countries and it is difficult to see serious negotiations restarting until later this year at the earliest.
In all of this, Ireland's position has not changed. We want to see an agreement but that agreement must be balanced and should not be at the expense of Irish and EU agriculture. In this connection, I have repeatedly made the point to the EU Commission and to my colleagues in other Member States that the emerging challenge of food security must be taken into account together with the many other changes in the world since the current round of negotiations commenced in 2001.
As to the readiness of Irish and European food producing sectors to meet the challenge of international competition, several initiatives are underway to anticipate and prepare for the more competitive environment facing the agri-food sector in expectation of a WTO deal at some point in the future and to address other challenges facing the sector.
Strategies for the development of a consumer focused, competitive and sustainable agri-food sector capable of meeting the challenges of more liberalised markets and broader societal demands both at home and abroad are set out in the Agri-vision 2015 report and the Cawley Report. These strategies identify the delivery of safe, high quality, nutritious food produced in a sustainable manner for high value markets as the optimum road for the future of the Irish food industry in the light of the changes which have already taken place or are anticipated over the next number of years. They span the entire food chain from primary production through processing to market access which is key to developing export potential.
An inter-Departmental Market Access Group chaired by my Department and comprising representatives from the Departments of Foreign Affairs and Enterprise, Trade and Employment, An Bord Bia, Enterprise Ireland and Bord Iascaigh Mhara is currently engaged in a co-ordinated effort to identify potential market opportunities for the full range of Irish food and beverages, prioritisation of market initiatives and broader access issues.
60 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the plans of the EU Commission to promote the European aquaculture industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25940/09]
At the June Fisheries Council Meeting I was happy to give my support to the Commission's plan to promote the European aquaculture industry through the targeted sustainable strategy, along with all EU Fisheries Ministers.
The Commission's plan endeavours to bolster the aquaculture industry through a targeted strategy that promotes competitiveness, guarantees product quality and respect for the environment while enhancing the sector's image and governance.
On foot of this decision the Commission has been requested to prepare a programme of action to include supports for innovation and young entrepreneurs in the aquaculture industry, the promotion of exports and a consumer communications campaign.
61 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on whether there is further scope for the use of market management mechanisms to support the dairy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25945/09]
94 Deputy Johnny Brady asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the closing dates for private storage aid and intervention purchases of butter and skimmed powder will be extended beyond the end of August 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25936/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 94 together.
A range of market management mechanisms at EU level have now been activated to assist in stabilising the dairy sector. These include private storage aid for butter, public intervention for butter and skimmed milk powder, as well as export refunds for butter, skimmed milk powder, whole milk powder and cheese. These measures have now put a floor under the milk price but I believe that more can be done to stimulate demand.
I have continuously pressed the EU Commission to increase export refunds further for butter and SMP in particular, and to remove the 'free at frontier' price for cheeses, which limits the use of refunds for the export of cheese to international markets. I have also pressed very strongly for the continuation of private storage aid for butter beyond its scheduled closing date of mid August and similarly in relation to public intervention for butter and SMP beyond their closing dates of end August. The role that these schemes play in evening out the supply/demand balance is crucial to the dairy sector in this critical period. I am confident that the Commission will accede to my requests on these issues.
62 Deputy Seán Connick asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the outcome of his June 2009 meeting with the EU Fisheries Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25939/09]
At this month's Fisheries Council in Luxembourg, Minister Killeen took the opportunity to meet with Commissioner Borg to outline some of the key issues facing the Irish fishing industry currently.
The discussion dealt with the impact of the increasing cost of fuel and deteriorating prices being achieved for fish. Minister Killeen put Ireland's submission for additional EU funded restructuring measures back on the table.
In addition, the difficulties the Irish fishermen are experiencing in relation to the new effort regimes in the Irish Sea and North West were brought home to the Commissioner. Minister Killeen pressed strongly for changes that would maximize the available fishing effort for the Irish fleet by allowing Ireland to choose the reference years used to establish the effort for each individual fishery. Minister Killeen also asked for a number of practical changes to the rules that would help alleviate the impacts on the fleet particularly in the North West and in the Irish Sea. The changes sought were on the basis of discussions held with fishing industry representatives.
Minister Killeen also highlighted all our concerns regarding the impact of the additional unilateral mackerel quotas established by Norway and Iceland and the impacts of these actions on the EU mackerel fishery. He called on the Commissioner to ensure that all parties act in a responsible way and respect the agreed Total Allowable Catch which was established to take account of scientific advice. Minister Killeen made clear that the establishment of additional mackerel quotas by Norway and Iceland this year is not acceptable to Ireland.
Finally, the Minister outlined to the Commissioner the difficulties, from an Irish fisherman's perspective, with the proposed Recovery Plan for Celtic Sea Cod where a restriction on fishing effort is being proposed. He pointed out that the effort restrictions introduced in Area VI and the Irish Sea have substantially reduced fishing opportunities and fishing grounds for the Irish fleet. He proposed that other means such as more environmentally friendly fishing gear & closed areas to protect spawning grounds be put in place as the most appropriate tools to rebuild the cod stock in the Celtic Sea .
The meeting was very useful and gave Minister Killeen a good opportunity to address some of the most pressing issues facing the Irish fishing industry at present and to ensure that these are fully understood and appreciated by Commissioner Borg.
63 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the outcome of the June 2009 Council of Agriculture Ministers in relation to low dairy prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25948/09]
72 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the supports available to dairy farmers who have been affected by the reduction in milk prices; the developments at EU level in relation to same, in particular the decisions taken at the recent Council of Agriculture Ministers meeting; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26042/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 63 and 72 together.
The situation of the dairy market was discussed at the Council of Agriculture Ministers meeting on Monday the 22 June last. This was the fourth consecutive Council meeting that debated the very severe difficulties facing the dairy industry. The Commission outlined the measures it has taken to date to deal with the situation. All the main market supports of public and private storage and export refunds are being used at present and they have helped to stabilise the market.
I called on the Commissioner again to use in the most effective way possible the market management measures that are available. In particular I called for the extension of intervention and private storage aid beyond their August closing dates. The Commissioner said they are examining ways of overcoming the legal obstacles involved and that a proposal would need to be agreed at the next Council meeting in July.
I also stressed the need to progress the proposal to remove the "free at frontier" price for cheese that is blocking the use of export refunds. Progress in this area would yield substantial benefits.
64 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he is taking to support the sheep industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26043/09]
The sheep sector benefits significantly from the main schemes operated by my Department — the Single Farm Payment, the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and REPS. I also took account of the needs of this sector in deciding that the €7 million available from the National Reserve in 2009, should be used on a new Uplands Sheep Payment, which is expected to benefit approximately 14,000 hill sheep farmers. In addition, Bord Bia will spend up to €1 million on the promotion of sheep and lamb at home and abroad in 2009, and Teagasc has allocated almost €1.5 million for sheep research.
I have frequently expressed the view that the report of the Sheep Industry Development Strategy Group provides a proper framework for the future development of the sheep sector. While most of the group's recommendations are the responsibility of the industry itself, a number are within the remit of my Department and the State agencies under my aegis, who have made very good progress in bringing them to fruition:
‘Sheep Ireland' has been established to take over the Department's current breed improvement programme and develop a new one. An interim Sheep Board, comprising representatives of farming organisations and breeders will oversee this process, with the Irish Cattle Breeders Federation (ICBF) providing the technical and professional service required.
My Department secured European Commission approval for a new supplementary measure in REPS 4 promoting mixed grazing of cattle and sheep. Under this supplementary measure a farmer can qualify for a top up on his or her basic REPS payment.
The results of a trial to examine the feasibility of mechanical carcase classification for lamb, which was conducted last year, are being examined. It is hoped that the system will allow for the accurate and objective mechanical classification of lamb carcases and will gain universal industry support. This would aid greatly in price transparency, which is a pre-requisite for efforts to improve quality and respond to the needs of the market.
The Lamb Quality Assurance Scheme was established in 2007. This Scheme is operated by Bord Bia and now has over 7000 participants.
Teagasc has developed a comprehensive plan to restructure its sheep support services, including a programme for Technology Evaluation and Transfer farms, which include hill and lowland areas. This approach will provide an opportunity to engage with sheep farmers on the use of the latest management practices and to identify research and development needs.
The actions being taken by my Department and the State agencies complement those being taken by the Industry. I am confident that taken together, all of these actions will be of significant benefit to the sector.
Under the final agreement on the CAP Health Check, Ireland will have access to additional funds of the order of €25 million annually from unspent CAP funds from 2010. As I have already indicated, the sheep sector will be a substantial beneficiary. I hope to announce details in the coming weeks.
66 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the proposals he has put forward with regard to improving transparency and costs in the food chain to ensure a fair return to suppliers and producers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26047/09]
The issue of retail margins on food products and prices paid to producers have become a focal point of public debate in recent times, and this has been reflected in numerous fora both at home and abroad. I had an opportunity to discuss this recently with my EU counterparts at the EU Council of Ministers meeting at the end of May and it is obvious that this is not just an Irish issue but an EU and indeed international issue. Underlying the debate is the increasing concentration of retail power in the hands of large supermarket chains. This international phenomenon has fundamentally changed the balance of market negotiating power within the food chain. It is recognised by all that retailers must strike a reasonable balance between giving competitive prices to consumers and providing a fair return to suppliers and producers, this should not be done at the expense of either of the parties.
Arising out of the aforementioned recent discussions at EU level, Commissioner Fischer Boel had indicated that the Commission will undertake a review of competitive practices in the food supply chain, with a particular focus on the dairy and pigmeat sectors. They are also undertaking a wider review of the retail sector, and both reports will be completed by the end of the year.
67 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 95 of 20 May 2009, the steps he is taking to support a live cattle trade to Britain; the number of live cattle exported to Britain rather than Northern Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26044/09]
The live export trade is an important element of Ireland's meat and livestock industry providing a complement to the beef trade.
Up to 20 June, some 2,500 head were exported to Great Britain this year — a 290% increase on the same period last year. Shipments of cattle to Northern Ireland are close to 31,600 head, an increase of some 230%. Total live cattle exports to the UK, at almost 34,100 head, are 233% up on the same period in 2008. The main reasons for this increase are reduced cattle availability in the UK and higher returns on the market there.
Bord Bia continues to work closely with the industry in monitoring and developing emerging opportunities for Irish livestock in the United Kingdom, the Continent and international markets. This includes contact with leading retailers in Britain to establish their interest in cattle born in Ireland and finished in Britain.
68 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers entitled to grant aid under the farm improvement scheme; the number of farmers waiting to be sanctioned; if there are sufficient funds to pay the grant committed within the next few weeks in view of the fact that the farm waste management should now be finalised; if he will verify if all farm waste management schemes are cleared; and if he will make a statement on the overall grant situation. [25844/09]
6,857 approvals have issued to farmers to commence work under the Farm Improvement Scheme and entitlement to grant-aid under the Scheme is established when it has been determined that the completed investment works are in compliance with the terms and conditions of the Scheme. To date in 2009, 985 payments totalling €12.3 million have been made to farmers who have completed work under the Scheme and payments will continue to farmers who have satisfactorily completed work under the Scheme until the 2009 allocation for the Scheme has been exhausted.
In the case of the Farm Waste Management Scheme, payments are continuing to be made on a phased basis with 40 per cent being paid this year as claims are approved. To date in 2009, 13,381 payments totalling almost €185.9 million have been made to farmers under the Scheme while a further 1,396 claims for grant-aid have been inspected and approved for payment. This compares to 12,847 payments in the whole of the 2008 calendar year.
69 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the remaining 2008 REP scheme four payments will be awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26057/09]
Some 91% of farmers who applied for REPS 4 in 2007 and 2008 have received the first stage payment of 75% payment. I expect the remaining 25% payment to issue to these farmers within weeks. Arrangements are being made to ensure that the remaining applicants are paid as soon as possible.
70 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to have a debate in Dáil Éireann on the current EU review of disadvantaged areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26066/09]
There are currently three categories of Less Favoured Areas (LFAs) or Disadvantaged Areas in the EU, viz:
Mountain Areas — there are none in Ireland but the category covers 16% of land area across the EU;
Intermediate Less Favoured Areas — which covers over 99% of Ireland's LFAs; and
Areas of Specific Handicap — which covers 0.4% of Ireland's LFAs (Coastal Regions).
Prompted criticism by the European Court of Auditors on the number and variety of criteria used by Member States to designate intermediate LFAs (over 100 criteria) and the lack of transparency, the Commission is currently conducting a Community-wide review of the Scheme. These criticisms were based on the number and variety of criteria used by Member States to designate intermediate LFAs (over 100 criteria) and the lack of transparency.
The Commission have previously made a number of unsuccessful attempts to deal with the criticisms made by the Court of Auditors. During 2004/2005, the Commission proposed that intermediate LFAs be designated using criteria based on area classification reflecting poor soil qualities and climate conditions but this approach was rejected by the Council of Ministers. In 2007, the Commission commenced working with its Joint Research Centre (JRC) to establish a common soil and climate criteria that would support the delineation of LFAs. Their intention was that a Commission proposal would be submitted to the Council in early 2009 for adoption by the Council of Ministers by the end of 2009. However, this approach was also abandoned by the Commission in favour of the current approach.
The Commission's current proposal is that LFAs (to be known as Areas of Natural Handicap) will be delineated by Member States using eight soil and climatic criteria as follows:
Climate, including Low Temperature and Heat Stress;
Soil, including Drainage, Texture & Stoniness, Rooting Depth and Chemical Properties;
Soil & Climate, including Soil Moisture Balance;
Terrain, including Slope.
An area (administrative unit) would be delineated as an area of Natural Handicap, when it meets the proposed threshold set for one of the above criteria only.
The Council of Ministers recently considered the matter and agreed Council Conclusions, calling for Member State support in the simulation process. While I can support the approach as outlined, my primary concern is that the proposed eight biophysical criteria do not take into account, in my view, the impact of the prevailing climatic conditions in North Western Europe. However, the Council Conclusions do provide for the use by Member States of additional criteria, in addition to the proposed eight biophysical criteria, and I am pleased to say that good progress is being made by my officials, supported by Teagasc soil scientists, in discussions with the Commission and the JRC.
Areas identified as meeting the criteria for the proposed designation as areas of Natural Handicap may then be subject to a fine-tuning process. These so called Second Stage Criteria are designed to remove areas which, although they meet the biophysical criteria, are deemed to have overcome the natural disadvantage and, therefore, should not benefit under the Scheme.
It is accepted that if the Council of Ministers adopt a proposal from the Commission on the designation of Areas of Natural Handicap, the new regime can only be implemented from 2014 onwards.
This is a very important issue for Ireland as the total area currently designated as disadvantaged is almost 75% of Ireland's total land area. From an economic perspective, the Less Favoured Areas Scheme is particularly significant, as it contributes to the support of in excess of 100,000 Irish farm families, whose ability to farm is restricted by the physical environment, in particular, the impact of the prevailing wet cold climatic conditions in Ireland. I remain fully committed to ensuring that every effort is made to achieve the best possible outcome for Ireland from this review.
71 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the consideration which has been given to the CAP post 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25950/09]
83 Deputy Margaret Conlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views in relation to the need for a strong well funded CAP post 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25949/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 71 and 83 together.
A first policy debate on CAP post 2013 took place at the Informal Agriculture Council in September last year under the French Presidency and the Czech Presidency has continued the debate in the first months of 2009.
Notwithstanding discussions to date, concrete proposals have yet to emerge on the shape of EU agriculture policy beyond 2013. Among the ideas emerging are:
Demands from some Member States for a lower budget share for agriculture and for eventual dismantling of CAP.
Demands from new Member States for "re-balancing" of Member States' shares of agricultural funding.
Increased calls for changes to the Single Payment system to move from the historic model and to apply a "flatter" model of direct payments.
Calls for a greater focus on pillar 2 and introduction of more specific selection criteria and indicators to measure the effectiveness, outputs and impacts of rural development programmes.
Continuing pressures to reduce supply and market management mechanisms with a greater reliance on crisis management.
My own view, which I have expressed at meetings of the Council and bilaterally to my Ministerial colleagues, is that we must maintain a strong agricultural production base in the European Union in the future to take account of the challenges ahead in meeting increased demands for food. Any reduction in food production in the EU would be taken up elsewhere, where less efficient production systems exist, and would result in a heavier carbon footprint. We must also undertake food production and distribution in a manner that is sustainable in all its dimensions — economically, socially and environmentally.
There will be major challenges ahead from climate change, increased competition on world and EU markets, the financial crunch and other factors. We must ensure that we have the capacity to cope with the challenges and fully exploit the opportunities as they emerge. To do so, our whole sector, from farm to fork, must be highly efficient and competitive. It must also be innovative, producing the products that changing consumer tastes demand, and it must be relentlessly focused on quality and safety.
To achieve these objectives, there is a continuing need for an active and appropriately resourced European agricultural policy. That policy needs to recognise the role that a cohesive agriculture & rural development policy can play in addressing future energy needs, addressing environmental concerns and providing a secure and sustainable food supply in Europe.
73 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide a list of the statutory levies collected from farmers and the agri-food sector; the amount collected; the basis for the continued collection of these levies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26079/09]
The following table lists the statutory levies collected by my Department, together with information on the legislative basis for the levy, its use and the amount collected in 2008.
|
Name of Levy |
Basis for collection (purpose/use) |
Amount collected in 2008 |
|
€m |
||
|
Bord Bia statutory levy |
The An Bord Bia Act, 1994, provides for payment to the Board of a levy per head on cattle, sheep and pigs slaughtered or exported live. |
4.900 |
|
The levy is required to co-fund the food promotion activities of Bord Bia. This co-funding is required under EU State Aid rules. The rates are set at €1.90 per head for cattle, 25c per head for sheep and 25c per head for pigs. |
||
|
Dairy Inspection Fee |
Milk (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1979 (as amended) Under the Milk (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 1979 a fee of €0.001 per litre is imposed on all milk going for manufacturing or for the preparation of drinking milk. The fee contributes to the cost of providing the food safety inspection service and other work involved in the administration of EU market management schemes. |
4.867 |
|
Bovine Disease Levy |
Bovine Disease (Levies) Act 1979-1996 Under the Bovine Diseases Levies Act 1979 as amended, all milk received for processing from a herd and all bovines slaughtered and exported live are subject to a levy. The current rates of levy are for Milk: €0.0006 per litre and Beef: €1.27 per animal. |
5.230 |
|
This levy is the farmers contribution towards the cost of the compensation element of the TB and Brucellosis Eradication Schemes. |
||
|
Meat Inspection and Related Fees |
Under Regulation (EC) No 882/2004 of the European Parliament and of the Council, 29 April 2004 — all Member States are required to put fees in place to cover the costs of inspections at meat slaughtering premises. This regulation was transposed in to Irish law by SI No 74 of 2004 — European Communities (Fees for Health Inspections and Controls of Fresh Meat) Regulations, 2004 |
14.731 |
|
The current rates are: Cattle slaughter fees: €5 per animal |
||
|
Sheep slaughter fees: €0.50 per animal |
||
|
Pig slaughter fees: €1.30 per animal |
||
|
Poultry slaughter fees: €0.01 per bird <2kg; €0.02 per bird between 2-5kg; €0.04 per bird >5kg |
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|
Cutting fees: €3 per tonne |
||
|
Distribution centre charges: €1.90 per tonne |
||
|
Meat Product fees: €9.52 per person per hour |
||
|
Overtime fees (slaughter): Between €12.70 per hour and €19.05 per hour |
||
|
Overtime for sheep loading: Between €6.35 per hour and €9.52 per hour |
74 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the consideration given to the recently published EU Commission Green Paper on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25944/09]
102 Deputy Christy O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has given an initial response to the recently published EU Commission Green Paper on the Reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25954/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 74 and 102 together.
The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the fisheries policy of the European Union which was first put in place in 1983 and has been subject to reviews every 10 years, the most recent was in 2002 and the next is formally scheduled for 2012.
On 21 April 2009 the European Commission published a Green Paper on the latest reform of the CFP in order to launch a consultation with Member States and stakeholders and to initiate a broad public debate on the future CFP reform. Member States proposals are requested by the end of this year. A summary of this consultation process will be published in 2010. It will be followed by a legislative proposal to the Council and the European Parliament to be adopted in 2011, with a view to its entering into force in 2012. It is clear that every aspect of the CFP is up for review and will require detailed attention.
An exchange of views on the Green Paper took place at the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on the 25 May 2009. It is my clear intention that the review process in Ireland is an all inclusive one, facilitating the exchange of views from all interested stakeholders. I intend to engage in a process of consultations with all stakeholders to inform Ireland's position. In that regard, Minister Killeen appointed Dr Noel Cawley to oversee a consultative process which will form a vital input to Ireland's negotiating framework for the CFP Review. Minister Killeen is in consultation with Dr Cawley in relation to the arrangements for this review. The first step will involve an open call for submissions.
75 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the 17% cut in REP scheme payments, he plans to reduce or change the terms and conditions of the scheme to compensate farmers for the reduction in payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26081/09]
The withdrawal of the planned 17% increase in REPS 4 payments was necessitated by the overall difficult economic and financial situation and the funding available to me in the 2009 Vote for my Department. My officials are in discussion with the farm bodies regarding the possibility of a commensurate reduction in a farmer's obligations under the Scheme. As this is an EU-approved Scheme, any such change would require the approval of discussions with the European Commission.
76 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to address the position of farmers who were ready to apply for the early retirement scheme in October 2008 but had not submitted their application before the scheme was suspended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26082/09]
The Early Retirement Scheme was suspended for new applications on 14 October 2008. I am, however, conscious that some potential applicants were at an advanced stage of preparing an application when entry to the scheme was suspended and had made, or were making, arrangements to meet the requirements of the Scheme. I am aware of the difficulties which a number of such intending applicants had encountered.
I am currently examining options for resolving these cases against the background of the competing demands for the limited resources which are at my disposal.
77 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the public awareness initiatives that are being undertaken by his Department to promote on farm safety and prevent farm accidents or fatalities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26069/09]
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the national body in Ireland with the responsibility for the promotion and enforcement of workplace safety and health. I fully support the efforts made by the HSA to promote farm safety and health and to prevent farm accidents and fatalities.
My Department is represented on the Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee and in December 2008 the HSA, in conjunction with this Committee, launched the Farm Safety Action Plan 2009 to 2012. This Plan sets out specific Goals and Actions to promote safety and health in agriculture.
Since the launch of the Farm Safety Action Plan my Department has:
Included a link on the homepage of our website to the 'Farm Safety Section' of the Health and Safety Authorities website.
Ensured that the Rural Environment Protection Scheme (REPS) training courses will continue to address farm safety and health issues as they arise under particular REPS measures.
I also promote, where appropriate, safety and health in my speeches, for example, in the address given on my behalf at the opening of the 2009 Farm Machinery Show I included a message on the dangers of working with machinery and appealed to farmers to complete their farm Safety Statements or Risk Assessment.
Teagasc, the Agriculture and Food Development Authority, and the HSA in association with the Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee held four 'Farm Fatality Prevention Seminars' in the Spring of 2009. These Seminars were held in Counties with a high on-farm fatality rate, i.e. Cork, Tipperary, Westmeath and Cavan, to highlight and to seek solutions to the farm safety problem with the farming community in these areas.
78 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his proposals to the EU Commission with regard to the spend of unused Common Agricultural Policy funds estimated to be around €17 million; the persons who will be the main benefactors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26074/09]
By way of background, in the negotiations last year on the CAP Health Check, I managed to secure access to additional EU funding to fund a suite of measures under the Single Payments Regulation, targeted at vulnerable areas, particular sectors under pressure, improvement of animal welfare and/or agri-environment measures.
The use of unspent Single Payment funds is a new concept. In fact I was the first Minister to raise this possibility in the context of the Health Check negotiations and I was delighted to get the support of most of my counterparts from other member states and the agreement of the Commission for this idea. Basically the funds arise because the rules surrounding the single payment system mean that not all entitlements to payment can be drawn down.
The amount of unspent funds available each year is based on the difference between the fixed annual ceiling for 2007 for these payments and the actual draw down for each year, less a safety margin. The actual draw down will vary from year to year, depending on the number of entitlements claimed. However, broadly speaking the outcome means that Ireland will have access to approximately €25 million in additional funding in each of the next three years from 2010 to 2012 to spend on these targeted measures.
I should mention that I have already secured an amount of €7 million in respect of 2009. I decided some months ago that these funds should be directed at the sheep sector in the form of an uplands sheep payment. Under the scheme, approximately 14,000 hill sheep farmers will benefit from the new payment this year. On the basis of data available for 2008, the level of aid will be of the order of €35 per hectare with a maximum payment of €525 per farmer. Payments will commence on 1 December 2009. This payment, for which I sought and secured the agreement of the Commission, is for 2009 alone.
In respect of 2010 and beyond, I have consulted widely with stakeholders on this matter and I am well aware of their wishes. I will be making decisions on the matter in the coming weeks and I will then submit Ireland's plans for use of these funds to the EU Commission for approval.
80 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the cashflow crisis on farms, he is prepared to seek a 100% advance payment of the single farm payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26078/09]
The Deputy will be aware of the recent decision by the EU Commissioner, following representations from a number of member states including Ireland, to allow for an advance payment of 70% of the Single Payment Scheme with effect from 16 October. This will be of particular assistance to farmers experiencing difficulties in the dairy market and other sectors and will mean that almost €900 million will be paid in mid October to Irish farmers, rather than early December. The Commission's decision came in response to pressure which I and other E.U. ministerial colleagues have brought to bear for additional action to support dairy, and other, farmers. I have naturally been particularly conscious of farmers cashflow difficulties and am particularly pleased with the Commissioners decision, which is clear recognition of these problems. The balancing payments of 30% will immediately begin issuing with effect from 1 December.
81 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the 2009 REP scheme four payments will be awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26063/09]
Under EU Regulations, payment on individual REPS 4 applications for 2009 cannot be made until completion of administrative and area checks on all applications received up to the closing date of 15 May 2009. At that stage 75% of the payment to each individual participant can be released, with the balance being payable when the last of the on-farm inspections for the year has taken place. I expect that the payments will commence in the autumn.
82 Deputy Christy O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has raised, with the EU Commission, concerns regarding the cod recovery plan in the Irish Sea and the north west; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25953/09]
On 12 June, Minister of State, Deputy Tony Killeen, who has responsibility for Fisheries, wrote to the Fisheries Commissioner Joe Borg setting out changes he is seeking to the provisions of the Council Regulation for Total Allowable Catches and quotas for 2009 (Council Regulation 43/2009) in respect of the Cod Recovery Plan in the Irish Sea and in the North West and the new requirements for restrictions on cod, haddock and whiting catches in the north west. The changes sought were on the basis of discussions held with fishing industry representatives. In particular, Minister of State, Deputy Killeen asked for changes that would maximize the available fishing effort for the Irish fleet by allowing Ireland to choose the reference years used to establish the effort for each individual fishery. Minister of State, Deputy Killeen also asked for a number of practical changes to the rules that would help alleviate the impacts on the fleet particularly in the North West and in the Irish Sea.
On the 23 June 2009, Minister of State, Deputy Killeen held a bilateral meeting with Fisheries Commissioner Borg to press for the changes set out in his letter of 12 June. Commissioner Borg advised that he understood the challenges faced by the Irish fishing industry and that they would carefully examine the case both from a legal and conservation perspective.
Minister of State, Deputy Killeen regularly meets fishing industry representatives and fishermen and every effort is made to alleviate the impact of the Cod Recovery Plan in as far as it is practicable and within the legal framework.
84 Deputy Niall Blaney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the case for an emergency aid package to assist the fishing industry here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25942/09]
Oil prices have, in recent months, started to rise again and though they remain far below last year's all time high levels, they are a cause of concern for the Irish fishing fleet particularly in the current situation where fish prices are also depressed.
Minister of State, Deputy Tony Killeen, at the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food had a meeting with European Commissioner Joe Borg on 23 June. He took the opportunity to highlight the current economic problems facing Irish fishermen. He put Ireland's submission 12 September 2008 for an emergency aid package back on the table. We firmly believe that these proposals are the needed and are the most appropriate to assist the Irish fishing industry in the current situation.
We will continue to push Ireland's case at every available forum with a view to the EU Commission bringing forward firm proposals to provide additional EU funds that will enable the full implementation of the plan.
85 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers who will receive a REP scheme payment in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26062/09]
About 17,000 applications were received under the 2009 REPS 4 Scheme. The precise number will be available shortly when the applications received in each of the local offices have been entered on my Department's computer system. This, coupled with the 12,145 REPS 4 applications lodged in 2007 and 2008, gives a total of about 29,000 applicants who are due a REPS 4 payment in 2009. In addition, payments will issue to some 34,620 participants in REPS 3.
86 Deputy Johnny Brady asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the conclusions of the June 2009 European Council in relation to the invitation to the Commission to present an in-depth analysis of the situation in the dairy market within the next two months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25937/09]
I welcome the discussion on the dairy market situation that took place at the recent European Council. This issue is of concern across the EU and it was encouraging that so many government leaders engaged with it. Following the discussion the Commission was invited to present an in-depth market analysis within the next two months. This report should include possible options for stabilising the dairy market, while respecting the outcome of the Health Check.
It is important that the outcome of the Health Check agreement of last November is to be respected. From a dairy sector perspective the Health Check had two key elements, supply control and market support. The agreement essentially provided the framework for the EU milk quota regime leading up to its abolition in 2015. There was a wide divergence of views among Member States in the months leading up the final negotiations as to the best course of action in relation to milk quotas. Commissioner Fischer Boel had made it clear that she would not be proposing the continuation of the quota regime beyond 2015. The question was whether, and to what extent, milk quotas should be increased in order to prepare for their abolition.
Many of our colleagues argued in favour of annual quota increases of up to five per cent, while others were opposed to any increase. I adopted an ambitious approach that would facilitate the maximum possible fulfilment of the production potential in the Irish dairy herd. In that context I believe the decision to increase quotas by 1% each year from 2009 to 2014 was a good outcome. So also was the downward adjustment in the butterfat co-efficient that equates to a further potential 2% rise in quotas in 2009.
The other key dairy element in the Health Check was market support. In the negotiations I strongly defended the view that quota increases must be matched with effective dairy market management measures. The transition to a post-quota EU dairy market, along with current market fluctuations, makes this particularly important. I therefore called for the continuation of such measures and above all those schemes which are especially important for Ireland.
My position on these points has been fully vindicated and I will continue to press the Commission in order to ensure that the whole range of market management measures is implemented to full effect.
87 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of farmers who applied for REP scheme four by the 15 May 2009 single farm payment deadline; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26061/09]
The total number of applications received for 2009 was in the region of 17,000. The precise number will be available shortly when the applications received in each of the local offices have been entered on my Department's computer system.
88 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Germany, France and Belgium, to mention three EU member states have put in place financial support packages to support their dairy farmers during this difficult period; his plans to introduce a similar package; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26076/09]
Significant measures have already been taken at EU level to support the dairy sector. These included the activation of a range of dairy market management measures including private storage aid for butter and intervention for butter and skimmed milk powder. In addition, export refunds are available to support the export outside the EU of butter, skimmed milk powder, whole milk powder and cheese. Irish processors are availing of all these schemes.
The current difficulties in the dairy sector are primarily due to a lack of demand. By removing product from the marketplace through the permanent export of products and through the temporary storage schemes, a floor has been put on the downward price spiral. Stimulating demand globally is the greatest challenge and one that is inextricably linked to problems in international financial markets where the availability of credit to business is challenging.
With the activation of these measures there has been a considerable commitment of EU funds to support the dairy sector. In addition further more direct funding will be available to dairy farmers as a result of the decision to make advance payments under the Single Payment Scheme. The advance payment will amount to 70% and will come into effect from 16 October. This will be of particular assistance to farmers experiencing difficulties in the dairy market and other sectors and will mean that almost €900 million will be paid in mid October to Irish farmers, rather than in December.
89 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the initiatives that have been taken by his Department to encourage consumers to buy produce in season; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26054/09]
There are a number of initiatives underway to promote seasonal produce. Bord Bia's ‘Best in Season' promotional campaign for locally grown produce in season which was launched at the Bloom Garden Festival in the Phoenix Park over the June bank holiday weekend is one such example. This campaign will run to the end of the year. Each month the campaign will focus on the crops in season at that time. Currently the focus is on strawberries and summer salads. Promotional activities around ‘Best in Season' will include press and radio promotion as well as the provision of information on the health benefits, versatility and use of fresh produce on Bord Bia's website. The Good Practice Standard and Flag for Farmers' Markets also launched at the Bloom Festival encourages farmers markets to provide market access to locally produced in-season produce.
My Department has also been instrumental in bringing together the Irish fruit and vegetable industry to facilitate and fund the recent Incredible Edibles Growing Challenge in primary schools. Over two thirds of primary schools participated in the project (100,000 children actively involved). This gave an appreciation of growing skills and an opportunity to focus on the need to increase fresh fruit and vegetable consumption. The project was rolled out by Agri Aware with assistance from DAFF and industry sponsors.
91 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the stage of the implementation process that the new Farm Safety Action Plan 2009 to 2012 is at; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26068/09]
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) is the national body in Ireland with the responsibility for securing safety and health at work. The HSA has also the responsible body for implementing the Farm Safety Action Plan, 2009 to 2012, which was launched by my colleague Mr. Billy Kelleher T.D., the then Minister for Labour Affairs, in December 2008. This Plan sets out seven ambitious goals and a number of actions to raise national awareness of occupational safety and health in agriculture and to reduce fatalities and accidents on Irish farms.
My Department fully supports the HSA in implementing this Farm Safety Action Plan. To-date Working Groups have been established with the remit of implementing each of the goals identified in the Farm Safety Plan. Each Working Group consists of members from the Farm Safety Partnership Advisory Committee as well as people from the agricultural sector with specific expertise in the particular farm safety or health area of concern. My department is represented on the Working Group with responsibility for Goal 2 "To increase the uptake of training on farm safety and occupational health". These Working Groups are in the process of devising a strategy to ensure that all the Goals and Actions listed in the Farm Safety Action Plan are achieved by the end of 2012.
92 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of funding allocated to the Agri-Food Research Programme under the National Development Plan; the breakdown of funding across all sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26046/09]
Under the National Development Plan 2007-2013, indicative funding of €641 million has been allocated to the Agri-Food Research Programme, broken down as follows:
|
Agri-Food Research Programme |
€M |
|
Research Stimulus Fund |
43.224 |
|
Food Industry Research Measure (FIRM) |
93.653 |
|
Forestry / COFORD |
29.296 |
|
Teagasc Research |
474.827 |
|
Total Agri-Food Programme |
641.000 |
93 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the fact that many dairy farmers will not be able to meet bank interest bills in the coming months due to the crisis in the sector and will require extra working capital to cover increases in farming costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26075/09]
The dairy sector downturn has its roots in the supply response that resulted from high prices in 2007 and in the early part of 2008. That situation was then exacerbated by the international financial crisis. This has had a major effect on the demand side. My efforts have focused on ensuring that the full range of market management supports would be made available at EU level. As a result significant measures have already been taken at EU level to support the dairy sector. These include the activation of a range of dairy market management measures including private storage aid for butter and intervention for butter and skimmed milk powder. In addition, export refunds are available to support the export outside the EU of butter, skimmed milk powder, whole milk powder and cheese. Irish processors are availing of all these schemes.
Difficulties with access to credit have intensified what was a cyclical downturn into a major reduction in international demand for dairy products. The Government's efforts over recent months in addressing the banking sector have had a central focus on the needs of the wider economy. A proper functioning banking sector is central to our economic recovery, as this will facilitate appropriate lending to our businesses, including farmers.
There are instances being reported of viable businesses being refused credit and some representative bodies are suggesting such refusals are in the majority. As against this, banks are reporting refusals are slight and that falling demand for credit accounts for reduced lending levels. There is a perception that there is limited credit availability and this can be damaging at a time of fragile business and consumer confidence.
As part of the banks' recapitalisation package, the Government decided to have an independent review of bank lending to try to have an objective assessment of the current lending situation. This process is underway and although originally only the two recapitalised banks agreed to participate and fund the review, now all the six leading banks are engaged in the project. The results of this review will be available shortly and this should allow all stakeholders have an objective view of the state of lending.
The recapitalisation package also included many supports for enterprises. Irish SMEs are covered by the Code of Conduct on Business Lending to SMEs. This Code was published by the Financial Regulator and came into effect from 13 March 2009. Lenders covered by the Code are required to offer their customers an option for an annual review meeting, to include all credit facilities and security, including collateral. Banks are also required to treat all credit applications on their merits, to inform customers of the basis for decisions made and to have written procedures for the proper handling of complaints. Where a customer gets into difficulty the banks will seek to agree an approach to resolve problems and provide reasonable time and appropriate advice. Those applying for bank facilities, therefore, have a direct means to enquire from their banks why lending decisions are being made and to challenge any unreasonable terms being applied through the formal complaints procedure. Responsibility for the operation of the code rests with the Financial Regulator.
The Minister for Finance and the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment have established a Credit Supply Clearing Group with bank, business and State representation. This Group is responsible for identifying patterns of events where the flow of credit to viable businesses appears to be blocked and for seeking to identify credit supply solutions relating to these patterns. The Group is, however, not an appeals mechanism for cases where credit has been refused by the banks. Individual business decisions remain the responsibility of the banks. The Group met for the first time on 28 May 2009 and will next meet following the conclusion of the Independent Review of Bank Credit.
Individuals who have difficulty in getting access to bank credit should approach their banks to ascertain the reason for such refusals and should consider to what extent the relevant bank is operating within the Code of Conduct on Business Lending to SMEs. If the Deputy is aware of any pattern of events within the farming sector where the flow of credit to viable business appears to be blocked, information on these patterns can be sent to the Credit Supply Clearing Group care of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
In addition, my colleague, the Minister of State, Deputy Billy Kelleher, has commenced a series of eight regional meetings over the coming weeks with regional representatives of the major banks, business representatives from local chambers of commerce, ISME, SFA, IFA and the Irish Hotels Federation to gather first hand experience of bank lending. Local representatives from the various state agencies, Enterprise Ireland and Fáilte Ireland, will also attend. This will feed into the work of the CSCG and future Government policy.
95 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the level of investment made by him to date under the dairy investment fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25956/09]
A total of 19 capital investment projects were awarded Government grant assistance of over €114 million from the Dairy Investment Fund. This grant aid is geared to generating an estimated capital spend of €286 million in the Irish dairy processing sector and will play a key role in ensuring the long-term competitiveness of the dairy industry in Ireland.
Over €33 million in grant aid has been paid to date by my Department, through Enterprise Ireland, in respect of work already completed. The capital investment involved was over €80 million. It is anticipated that further investments, with capital spend in excess of €50 million, will be completed in the coming months.
96 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the way the €7 million allocation to sheep farmers from the single farm payment national reserve will be allocated to the 14,000 farmers set to benefit from the funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26073/09]
In recognition of the difficulties and costs, including compliance costs, facing the sheep sector, I decided that unused funds from the Single Payment National Reserve would be paid to hill sheep farmers in 2009 in the form of an Uplands Sheep Payment, as a means of ensuring that Irish sheep farmers could benefit immediately from these funds in 2009.
During the negotiations on the CAP Health Check proposals, I was one of the first Ministers to press for the use of unspent funds from national Single Payment Scheme ceilings to fund measures targeted at specific sectors in need of assistance. I am pleased to have introduced a payment that will fully and efficiently utilise all of the available funds in 2009. The outcome of the Health Check negotiations have been very positive for Ireland, and have once again shown the importance of EU support for Irish agriculture.
My objective in designing the Uplands Sheep payment was to ensure that it was simple and low cost to administer and created no additional administrative burden for farmers. The main features of the new Uplands Sheep Payment are as follows: (i) Eligible applicants must have sheep recorded in the National Sheep Census for both the 2007 and 2008 calendar years. (ii) Applicants must be eligible for the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme in 2009. (iii) Applicants must farm and declare in 2009 mountain type grazing land. (iv) The mountain type grazing land must have been declared on the 2008 and 2009 Single Payment/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme application forms. (v) The aid will be payable on mountain type grazing land up to a maximum of 15 hectares. (vi) The rate of aid per hectare will be calculated by reference to the available National Reserve funds and the total area eligible for payment when all of the 2009 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme applications are processed. (vii) Eligible farmers will apply for the Uplands Sheep payment when they submit their 2009 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme application form.
Payments will commence on 1 December 2009, the first date that payments can commence under the EU Regulations. Based on the estimated National Reserve funds of approximately €7 million and the eligible area declared by farmers in 2008, approximately 14,000 hill sheep farmers will benefit from the 2009 payment. Based on the data available for 2008, it is estimated that the level of aid will be €35 per hectare and a maximum payment of €525 per farmer.
I must emphasise, however, that the measure is for 2009 alone. A decision on the use of unspent CAP funds and modulation monies from 2010 onwards will be made when further information is available on the detailed EU rules that will apply to these measures. I expect that the Commission will shortly table its proposals for the detailed rules for the use of the unused funds. It is particularly important that these funds are used efficiently for the development of Irish agriculture. All sectors, including both hill and lowland sheep production, will be considered in this regard.
97 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the way he will undertake consultations with stakeholders on the reform of the Common Fisheries Policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25941/09]
The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) is the fisheries policy of the European Union which was first put in place in 1983 and has been subject to reviews every 10 years, the most recent was in 2002 and the next is formally scheduled for 2012.
The Green Paper on the reform of the current CFP, published by the European Commission on 21 April 2009 has initiated a Pan-European consultation process on the issue. Because of the importance of the CFP as the strategic blueprint for fisheries across Europe this debate will be wide ranging.
Member States proposals are requested by the end of this year and a summary of the consultation process will be published in 2010. It will be followed by a legislative proposal to the Council and the European Parliament to be adopted in 2011, with a view to its entering into force in 2012. It is clear that every aspect of the CFP is up for review and will require detailed attention.
In Ireland the CFP review has already been on the agenda at a number of formal and informal meetings with industry. Indeed, the Federation of Irish Fishermen (FIF) has indicated its intention to pursue a process to develop its position in the matter and I welcome this and await the result of their deliberations.
It is my clear intention that the review process in Ireland will be an all inclusive one, facilitating the exchange of views from all interested stakeholders. I intend to engage in a parallel process of consultations with all stakeholders to inform Ireland's position. In that regard, Minister of State, Deputy Killeen appointed Dr. Noel Cawley to oversee a consultative process which will form a vital input to Ireland's negotiating framework for the CFP Review. Minister of State, Deputy Killeen is in consultation with Dr. Cawley in relation to the detailed arrangements for this review. The first step will involve an open call for submissions.
98 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in view of the collapse in the dairy markets, the deregulation of the dairy sector should be reassessed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26080/09]
105 Deputy Seamus Kirk asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on whether the terms of the CAP health check should be revisited in the context of the pressure on dairy prices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25946/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 98 and 105 together.
From a dairy sector perspective the CAP Health Check agreement of last November had two key elements, supply control and market support. The agreement essentially provided the framework for the EU milk quota regime leading up to its abolition in 2015. There was a wide divergence of views among member states in the months leading up the final negotiations as to the best course of action in relation to milk quotas. Commissioner Fischer Boel had made it clear that she would not be proposing the continuation of the quota regime beyond 2015. The question was whether, and to what extent, milk quotas should be increased in order to prepare for their abolition.
Many of our colleagues argued in favour of annual quota increases of up to five per cent, while others were opposed to any increase. I adopted an ambitious approach that would facilitate the maximum possible fulfilment of the production potential in the Irish dairy herd. In that context I believe the decision to increase quotas by 1% each year from 2009 to 2014 was a good outcome. So also was the downward adjustment in the butterfat co-efficient that equates to a further potential 2% rise in quotas in 2009.
When the 2% quota increase in 2008 is taken into account, the result is a cumulative increase of 9.3% in Ireland's milk quota by 2014 compared to 2007. This will help our dairy farmers to maximise their production potential, and to maximise the natural advantage they possess in the form of a grass-based production system. This in turn will lead to efficiency gains and help to achieve a competitive edge in an increasingly volatile world market. If on the other hand EU production is constrained by quotas, it will prevent Ireland from benefiting from future upturns in dairy markets. In that scenario the only winners would be our global competitors.
It has been suggested that the EU quota increases to all Member States are the cause of the current low prices for milk. This is a flawed argument. In its report to the Council last Monday week the Commission said that milk production in the quota year 2008/09 has fallen by 0.6 per cent compared to the previous year and that overall production was 4.2 per cent below quota by 31 March 2009. To attempt to attribute the current market weakness to the additional quota allocated as part of the Health Check is patently wrong — it is a demand-led problem.
The other key dairy element in the Health Check was market support. In the negotiations I strongly defended the view that quota increases must be matched with effective dairy market management measures. The transition to a post-quota EU dairy market, along with current market fluctuations, makes this particularly important. I therefore called for the continuation of such measures and, above all, those schemes which are especially important for Ireland.
In the event we managed to maintain the butter and skimmed milk powder intervention schemes intact despite the powerful forces opposing the retention of these schemes. There was a determined effort made to introduce tendering for every tonne of butter and SMP intervened. This would have been particularly difficult for Ireland. The importance of these measures cannot be overstated as they play a crucial role in levelling out the market supply/demand dynamics. They have a vital role in Ireland given our seasonal pattern of production. This is true also for Private Storage Aid for butter where existing arrangements were maintained, although once again there was strong opposition intent on introducing tendering arrangements.
Fighting to maintain these market supports in the Health Check has been vindicated and they are now being used to deal with the current situation. I have continued to ensure that these supports are operated to the maximum extent possible in the current volatile environment.
99 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the penalties that will be faced by those who breach the new requirements on equine identification as and from 1 July 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26071/09]
European Commission Regulation No. 504/2008, which sets out an improved system of identification for equidae, comes into effect tomorrow, 1 July 2009 and is binding. All keepers of horses, passport issuing bodies and veterinary practitioners are obliged to comply with the provisions of this legislation. Anyone failing to comply with the provisions of this Regulation could face the prospect of on-the-spot fines or court proceedings resulting in a substantial fine and/or a term of imprisonment under the provisions of a Statutory Instrument being finalised in my Department.
100 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the arrangements that have been put in place to ensure all foals born from 1 July 2009 are identified in accordance with regulation No. 504/2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26070/09]
EU and national legislation currently requires that all equines be accompanied by a passport (identification document) when being moved. In addition the vast majority of approved studbook keeping organisations operating in this country currently require that animals are micro-chipped as part of their registration systems.
European Commission Regulation No. 504/2008 comes into effect tomorrow, 1 July 2009 and is binding. All keepers of horses, passport issuing bodies and veterinary practitioners are obliged to comply with the provisions of this legislation. All foals born from tomorrow onwards (and also older animals if they have not been previously registered prior to 1 July 2009), will have to be identified by their individual passports and by a microchip, with the number of the microchip having to be entered on the passport also. All foals must be identified in this manner within six months of birth. The Regulation does not have retrospective effect.
My Department has met with representatives of the approved issuing bodies and with representatives of veterinary practitioners to outline in detail for them the impact of the new arrangements. A press release issued from my Department on June 10 2009 to the media, highlighting the principal features of Regulation 504/2008, this press release was also circulated widely to the various stakeholders in the equine industry e.g. the approved issuing bodies, the Veterinary Council, Veterinary Ireland, marts where horses are sold and major equestrian centres. Guidelines will issue shortly to veterinary practitioners and to the approved issuing bodies to assist them to comply with Regulation 504/2008. The necessary Statutory Instrument to support the application of Regulation 504/2008 is in the final stages of preparation in my Department.
Passports issued from 1 July 2009 must conform to Regulation 504/2008. Equine passports can only be obtained from one of the issuing bodies approved for this purpose, an up-to-date list of approved organisations can be found on my Department's website. Regulation 504/2008 sets out in detail the procedures to be followed and the responsibilities placed on passport issuing organisations and veterinary practitioners when issuing equine passports. My Department has taken steps to alert passport issuing organisations and veterinary practitioners of the obligations Regulation 504/2008 will place on them.
Since the vast majority of approved studbook keeping organisations operating in this country currently require that animals are micro-chipped as part of their registration systems, changes which require that all equines will have to be micro-chipped from 1 July 2009 will have limited impact. I am satisfied that the organisations responsible for the issuing of equine identification documents are fully aware of the arrangements they need to put in place to comply with Regulation 504/2008
101 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will increase the payment rate under the suckler cow welfare scheme in view of the emerging participation rate of 750,000; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26053/09]
Having regard to overall economic situation, the state of the public finances, and the funding available to me in the 2009 Vote for my Department it was necessary following the April 2009 supplementary budget, to reduce the rate of premium under the suckler welfare scheme 2009 to €40 per eligible animal to be paid in 2010. The financial pressures have not eased and I have no plans at present to review the rate of payment, under the scheme
103 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason there have been delays in REPS 4 payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26059/09]
The delays in processing REPS 4 applications occurred mainly as a result of the urgent need to devise a comprehensive system of eligibility checks following EU audits in late 2007 and early 2008 as a result of which the European Commission indicated that the previous system of checking did not meet the requirements of the new EU Regulations now in force. To reduce the risk of a "financial correction" (recoupment by the EU of a significant amount of EU funding for REPS in 2007 and 2008), it was necessary to develop and introduce a new system of checks that would be acceptable to the European Commission. This work took much of 2008 to complete and it was only at the end of January 2009 that the first phase of checking could be carried out. This was a computerised screening of plans prepared on the eREPS system. This screening raised queries about a large majority of plans. Most of these were resolved in a subsequent manual examination of all plans which inevitably took some months. My Department also contacted a large number of applicants to enable them to correct minor deficiencies in their plans. Payments have been released as applications were cleared or corrected.
104 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason county councils are continuing to carry out on farm inspections, which ignore his statement of the 24 April 2009 which stated that his Department’s inspectorate are to undertake nitrates’ regulations inspections; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26055/09]
Inspections to meet the requirements of the Nitrates Regulations are undertaken by my Department. The Department's inspectors currently undertake all on-farm cross-compliance inspections, including checks for compliance with the Nitrates Regulations and have considerable expertise in this area.
On farm inspections are also required under the EU Water Framework Directive which is the responsibility of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. In my statement on 24 April I indicated, my objective to ensure that the duplication of on-farm inspections is avoided for practical reasons, to minimise costs and to simplify the inspection arrangements from the farmer's perspective. Discussions are taking place between officials of my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to finalise the necessary arrangements in relation to nitrates inspections.
107 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the ways in which the economic downturn is impacting on the agriculture industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26041/09]
Agriculture and food production are always subject to change and challenges and while agriculture is often more resilient to economic crises than other sectors, there is no doubt that certain parts of the industry are facing significant challenges this year, not least from low milk prices. However, the agriculture and food sector has the innate capacity to help lead the economic recovery in the years ahead. Regardless of the economic difficulties that Ireland currently faces, there is no doubt that this country is fully capable of producing and exporting high quality food and drink products. Despite the challenging market, currency fluctuations and turbulent export environment, Bord Bia estimate that food and beverage exports have declined only marginally in 2008 and in that year were worth around €8.2 billion. Its short to medium term estimates for the sector remain reasonably positive and I believe that this indigenous industry has the potential to boost export returns in the coming years.
The EU medium term outlook for agricultural commodities is for a gradual recovery supported by growth in global food demand due to population increase and also a long-term decline in the growth of food-crop productivity. These are factors that can work to the advantage of Ireland. My job as Minister is to continue to work to help the entire agri-food sector remains competitive so that it can capitalise on the inevitable global recovery.
108 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Taoiseach the number of people claiming jobseeker’s allowance and jobseeker’s benefit for the Abbeyfeale area and the Newcastle West area of County Limerick; the number of people who were claiming unemployment assistance at this time in 2008; the number of people who were claiming jobseeker’s allowance and jobseeker’s benefit at this time in 2007; the age profile and nationality profile for those claiming assistance of the people unemployed in both the Abbeyfeale area and Newcastle West area of County Limerick. [26186/09]
The live register series gives a monthly breakdown of the number of people claiming jobseeker's benefit, jobseeker's allowance and other registrants as registered with the Department of Social and Family Affairs. Figures are published for each county and each social welfare office. However these figures do not contain a breakdown by age or nationality. The most recent information is for May 2009.
The number of persons signing on in each of the Social Welfare offices in Limerick is contained in the following table. It should be noted that the live register is not a definitive measure of unemployment as it includes part-time workers, and seasonal and casual workers entitled to jobseeker's benefit or allowance.
|
Total under 25 years |
Total 25 years & over |
Total |
|
|
May-09 |
|||
|
Kilmallock |
568 |
1,768 |
2,336 |
|
Limerick |
3,111 |
11,034 |
14,145 |
|
Newcastlewest |
665 |
2,664 |
3,329 |
|
Limerick Total |
4,344 |
15,466 |
19,810 |
|
May-08 |
|||
|
Kilmallock |
244 |
850 |
1,094 |
|
Limerick |
1,670 |
5,680 |
7,350 |
|
Newcastlewest |
324 |
1,143 |
1,467 |
|
Limerick Total |
2,238 |
7,673 |
9,911 |
|
May-07 |
|||
|
Kilmallock |
181 |
647 |
828 |
|
Limerick |
1,275 |
4,125 |
5,400 |
|
Newcastlewest |
215 |
800 |
1,015 |
|
Limerick Total |
1,671 |
5,572 |
7,243 |
109 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Taoiseach the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25712/09]
As part of the implementation of the Government's Value for Money Review and Policy Review Initiative, my Department undertook a review of the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) and its constituent bodies — the National Economic and Social Council (NESC), the National Economic and Social Forum (NESF) and the National Centre for Partnership and Performance (NCPP).
This Review examines the rationale, efficiency, effectiveness, impact and continued relevance of NESDO and its constituent bodies. The NESDO specific element of the review particularly examines the economies of scale derived from the shared administration costs of NESC, NESF, and the NCPP under the umbrella of NESDO, as well as the synergies that have evolved in terms of shared and complementary research initiatives. This review was undertaken in accordance with the framework set down by the Department of Finance by a member of staff of the Economic and Social Policy Division and included a comprehensive survey of stakeholders and employees.
The review was overseen by a Steering Group, chaired by a Principal Officer of my Department and included representatives of the Department of Finance, NESDO and relevant units of my Department.
The outcome of this review will help to identify further efficiencies as may be achieved by NESDO and its constituent bodies. This review has been signed off by the NESDO Value For Money Steering Group and has been accepted by the Secretary General of my Department. It will be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and forwarded to the Select Committee on Finance and the Public Service. The recommendations in regard to the scope for greater operational efficiencies are being implemented by my Department and the Board of NESDO, while other issues in respect of the effectiveness of the work of NESDO are being considered in consultation with the social partners.
110 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Taoiseach the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25868/09]
The following table details the amount of Prompt Payment Interest paid by my Department in the last five years and to-date in 2009:
|
Year |
Prompt Payment Interest Paid |
|
€ |
|
|
2004 |
10,160 |
|
2005 |
5,041 |
|
2006 |
7,170 |
|
2007 |
941 |
|
2008 |
2,361 |
|
January-May 2009 |
395 |
Procurement of goods and services by my Department is carried out under procedures set out in Department of Finance Public Procurement Guidelines and EU Procurement rules. These procedures are designed to ensure that competitive processes are in place to select the providers of goods and services which represent best value to the Department, taking account of a number of important criteria including cost and suitability for purpose.
Procedures in place, which may vary according to the nature and amount of the procurement involved, include the appropriate use of processes to specify requirements; selection of an appropriate competitive process whether by seeking quotations, advertising, use of central purchasing facilities and centrally negotiated framework agreements or more formal tender processes; evaluation of alternatives according to pre-set criteria; agreement of contracts; and monitoring of service delivery.
My Department has appropriate procedures in place including computerised process to payment systems, monitoring and control procedures and electronic payment facilities in order to ensure that the requirements of the Late Payments in Commercial Transactions Act 2002 are fully complied with and suppliers are paid on time. The average time for payment of invoices by my Department based on a review of invoices from 1 January to 31 May 2009 is 13.5 working days.
111 Deputy David Stanton asked the Taoiseach if, in the context of the review of the Programme for Government all sections of the programme are to be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26191/09]
It is the Government's intention to review all sections of the programme for government. The Government will pursue this work throughout the summer recess. The programme for government makes clear that its delivery is based on a growth rate of 4.5%. It was negotiated prior to the worst global economic downturn since the 1930s. Our review is about ensuring the programme for government reflects current economic realities.
Along with reviewing the existing programme, a review will also allow us to see where the various policies we have developed over the last two years can be better integrated into our plans for developing Ireland up to 2012. I particularly refer to the ambitious smart economy document which we published before Christmas.
The review will also underline the considerable amount of the programme for government which has already been achieved. To date, organisations such as the European Commission and the ESRI have broadly recognised that the policies we are pursuing are the right ones to get Ireland working again.
112 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding an application for a work permit on behalf of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25661/09]
The Employment Permits Section informs me that an application in respect of the above named was received on 3 June 2009. The section is currently processing applications received in the second week of April 2009 and therefore a decision will not issue on this application for another six-eight weeks.
113 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by her Department during the past three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25705/09]
The Government's Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative is part of a framework introduced to secure improved value for money from public expenditure. The objectives of the initiative are to analyse Exchequer spending in a systematic manner and to provide a basis on which more informed decisions can be made on priorities within and between programmes.
Two value for money reviews were undertaken by my Department since 2006. A value for money review of Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) was published on 29 July 2008 and is available on the Department's website at http://www.entemp.ie/science/technology/publications.htm. The review, inter alia, found SFI’s programmes and activities to be valid and supportive of wider economic and innovation policy objectives, and that they should continue to pursue their core mission of funding research excellence in areas where Ireland can compete successfully on a global scale. The review contained ten recommendations which are currently being implemented. The review was laid before the Oireachtas, as required under the terms of the Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative and was discussed at the Oireachtas Committee on Enterprise, Trade and Employment last summer.
A further review in relation to the FÁS Competency Development Programme is at final drafting stage and my Department expects to publish this review later this year. Finally, two further reviews will be undertaken by my Department, under the 2009-2011 round of the Value for Money and Policy Reviews Initiative, and these will be published and presented to the relevant Oireachtas Committee in due course.
114 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the discussions she has had with FÁS concerning the plight of apprentices who are unable to complete their FÁS training and apprenticeship in view of the fact that they are unable to obtain an apprenticeship from firms or contractors; if FÁS and her Department are prepared to resolve this matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25774/09]
My Department and FÁS have been working together over the last number of months to put in place measures to assist up to 3,600 apprentices who have been made redundant due to the current downturn. A number of initiatives to assist such apprentices have been put in place to date:
The Department of Social and Family Affairs immediately on registration refer redundant apprentices to FÁS for assistance.
Following this referral, the FÁS Employment Services and FÁS Services to Business Divisions work in collaboration to provide guidance and support in finding a new employer and in considering other options available in individual cases
FÁS has amended the scheduling rules for off-the-job training so as to permit redundant apprentices to progress to their next off-the-job training, at phases 2, 4 and 6 of the apprenticeship cycle. It is expected that up to 2,000 redundant apprentices will in this way progress to such off-the-job training this year.
FÁS introduced an Employer Based Redundant Apprentice Rotation Scheme to provide support for employers to provide on-the-job training to redundant apprentices when they have released their employed apprentice to a scheduled phase 4 and phase 6 off-the-job training phase in the Institutes of Technology. There are currently 199 apprentices participating on the scheme and 35 apprentices have completed their period of rotation with assessments. Employers will again be requested during the June and September 2009 rotation periods to provide redundant apprentices with on-the-job training with assessments.
Léargas have provided funding under the Leonardo da Vinci programme of the European Union to support the placement of 37 redundant apprentices with overseas employers to complete their phase 7 on-the-job training with assessments. Recently 19 redundant apprentices returned from Germany having completed a phase 7 placement with such employers. Another 12 apprentices are due to travel in early August to more work placements in Germany. Léargas have recently provided additional funding to support the placement of an additional 60 apprentices with overseas employers. Arrangements here are being advanced.
ESB Networks have agreed a programme with FÁS to provide on-the-job training to eligible redundant electrical apprentices at phase 5 and phase 7 of their apprenticeships. This programme will provide up to 400 places over a period of 18 months. ESB Networks will fund this programme. There are currently 100 redundant such electrical apprentices in employment with ESB Networks and a further 100 will be provided with an opportunity to complete their on-the-job training before the end-year.
Redundant apprentices may also avail of existing specific skills training courses. These are trade related to enhance their employable skills. They may also avail of the range of trade related night courses that are available in FÁS training centres.
The Institutes of Technology are providing up to 700 places per annum on an 11-week certified training programme for those redundant apprentices who have completed their phase 4 training but where an on or off-the-job training opportunity is not currently available for them. The programme will be divided into construction and engineering streams and will provide redundant apprentices with education and training in a number of trade areas that will be complementary to their core apprenticeship disciplines. The programme is expected to commence in September next.
Finally, FÁS is finalising plans that will allow redundant apprentices to undertake phase 7 assessments in situations where an on-the-job assessment opportunities do not at present exist. This will allow such apprentices, who are at the very latter end of their multi-annual training programme, to definitively finish and get the craft certification that attests to having successfully completed their apprenticeships.
I am closely monitoring the overall situation and I am open to positively considering any other approaches that will advance the progress of all apprentices to craft status at every stage of the apprenticeship cycle.
115 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the workers who are still employed in Dublin Airport by a company (details supplied); the outcome of the negotiations on the expressions of interest in the line maintenance section of the company; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25820/09]
I have kept in close touch with the developing situation at SR Technics Ireland, with a view to maximising employment opportunities at the plant. Following a series of contacts with both the company and Government interests in the United Arab Emirates, I am pleased to record that on 4 June, SR Technics indicated it had agreed in principle to sell the bulk of its aircraft maintenance operations at Dublin Airport to Dublin Aerospace Limited, an Irish company. I am hopeful that this company's proposal will result in the recommencement of an MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) business at Dublin Airport. The full support of the State development agencies has been made available to all interested parties including Dublin Aerospace Limited with a view to providing every possible assistance. SR Technics has a ten year contract agreement in place with Aer Lingus to provide Line Maintenance and other maintenance functions at Dublin Airport.
Negotiations are ongoing between the companies on how these services will be provided to Aer Lingus, following the closure of SR Technics Ireland. These negotiations have not yet concluded.
116 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will respond to correspondence (details supplied). [25824/09]
I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the correspondence dated 5 June 2009 from the individual in question has been responded to.
117 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her proposals to remove the bureaucracy that surrounds the setting up of small businesses; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25830/09]
The 2009 World Bank "Doing Business 2009" Report, ranks Ireland 5th for starting a business and 7th for the overall ease of doing business in Ireland, in terms of the number of procedures required. These rankings are unchanged from 2008.
Small businesses can set up immediately as sole traders or as limited companies, through registering with the Companies Registration Office (CRO). The CRO offers facilities for on-line registration and for traditional paper-based registrations.
Under the on-line basis, such applications are processed within 24 hours of receipt, at present, provided all required information is in order. Over 90% of applications are received using this arrangement. Paper-based applications are processed within 48 hours of receipt provided all documentation is in order. Registration On-Line costs €50 while paper-based registration costs €100.
118 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of people in Cork city and county who have received an offer of training from FÁS in the past three months under the national employment action plan; the number waiting in Cork City and county for an offer of this training; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25853/09]
The National Employment Action Plan Preventive Strategy (NEAP) involves a systematic referral of certain cohorts of registered unemployed persons by the Department of Social and Family Affairs (DSFA) to FÁS for assistance.
Department of Social and Family Affairs National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) referrals to FÁS Employment Services, Cork, in the second quarter of 2009 totalled, approximately 2,200 clients, with approximately 1,800 attending interview. Of these, approximately 900 expressed an interest in availing of training.
At the end of June 2009, FÁS Cork has approximately, 1,100 NEAP clients awaiting training, the majority of whom will be offered places on FÁS programmes over the next four months.
During the second quarter of 2009, 835 NEAP clients received an offer of training. A breakdown of these is provided in the following table:
|
Month 2009 |
Full Time Training |
Evening/Saturday Morning Courses (estimate) |
Technical Employment Support Grant Funded Training |
|
April |
109 |
133 |
25 |
|
May |
103 |
133 |
64 |
|
June |
195 |
19 |
54 |
|
Total |
407 |
285 |
143 |
|
Overall Total |
835 |
119 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount of interest paid by her in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by her Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25861/09]
Under the European Communities (Late Payment in Commercial Transactions) Regulations 2002, where a purchaser does not pay for goods or services by the relevant payment date in a commercial transaction, the supplier is entitled to interest on the amount outstanding. In the absence of any agreed payment date, late payment interest falls due after 30 days has elapsed from the date of receipt of a valid invoice.
The amount of interest paid by my Department under Prompt Payment legislation in each of the last five calendar years and to date in 2009 was as follows:
|
Year |
€ |
|
2004 |
2,509.41 |
|
2005 |
4,971.02 |
|
2006 |
579.07 |
|
2007 |
5,019.46 |
|
2008 |
2,405.33 |
|
2009 to end May |
410.04 |
Notwithstanding the provisions in the Prompt Payment legislation, the Government has decided to reduce the payment period by central Government Departments to their business suppliers to 15 days with effect from 15th June 2009. These arrangements will apply on an administrative basis and will not alter the contractual arrangements between Departments and their suppliers, or the current Prompt Payments legislation. However, all Departments will be required to report to my Department on a quarterly basis on the manner in which they have complied with the Government commitment.
As a result of the measures introduced by the Government, Departments will now give greater priority to making timely payments and will ensure that suppliers are aware of how they can assist the process by meeting the requirements of Departments in relation to the submission of invoices.
120 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the reason a company (details supplied) in County Tipperary is not prepared to pay statutory redundancy entitlement; and if she will investigate the matte ; and when workers will be paid. [25895/09]
In a reply given in regard to the company in question on 16 June last, I outlined the criteria in relation to the right of employees to receive redundancy entitlement under the Redundancy Payments Acts, 1967 — 2007. This provides that employees who have two years continuous service with an employer, are aged 16 years or over and are in employment which is insurable for all benefits under the Social Welfare Acts, have a statutory entitlement to a redundancy payment from their employer in the event of being made redundant. It is up to the employer concerned in the first instance to determine whether or not a redundancy situation obtains. Any disputes in this regard can be referred to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) for adjudication between the parties.
Where an employer is unable or refuses to pay the statutory lump sum, my Department pays the statutory amount from the Social Insurance Fund (SIF), which it administers on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. When an employer is not in a position to pay statutory redundancy, the redundancy payments section requires proof of inability to pay. The employer is asked to provide a letter from his accountant or solicitor confirming inability to pay together with documentary evidence (i.e audited accounts/statement of affairs) within 30 days of issue of the communication. Where an employer does not provide the information requested or refuses to pay within the agreed timeframe, the employee is advised to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) against the employer, seeking a determination of their entitlement to statutory redundancy.
In the event of a positive finding by the tribunal in favour of an individual, application for a redundancy payment should be made by the individual on form RP 50 which is available from the Department's website at www.entemp.ie. This form should be completed and returned with the decision of the Employment Appeals Tribunal which will allow the application to be processed. It should be noted that an employee must make application for a redundancy payment or seek a determination from the EAT within 12 months of ceasing of employment.
I understand also that, due to a downturn in the market for its products, the company has decided to close its manufacturing operation in Callan with the loss of about 40 jobs and that a dispute has arisen over the redundancy terms available.
While the dispute was the subject of conciliation by the Labour Relations Commission, no agreement was reached and, in line with normal industrial relations procedures, the dispute has been referred on to the Labour Court. I understand a hearing on the matter will take place on Friday next 3 July.
It must be remembered that the system of industrial relations in Ireland is essentially voluntary in nature and the Labour Court cannot compel a company to comply with its recommendations. It is a court of last resort in the industrial relations process and it is expected that the parties come to the process in good faith and consequently are prepared to give serious consideration to the court's recommendations. Recommendations of the Labour Court are not legally binding, however, and ultimately, responsibility for the resolution of trade disputes is a matter for the parties involved.
121 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if her attention has been drawn to a submission made to FÁS by the City and County Managers Association for local authorities to provide employment for the unemployed people on work placement schemes; if this submission is being considered at present by FÁS and by her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25913/09]
In order to respond effectively to the growing numbers of unemployed through the provision of work placements I, in conjunction with my colleague the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, Deputy Mary Hanafin jointly launched the work placement programme on 27 May last. The proposal by the City and County Managers Association and other similar proposals were considered as part of the decision making process which resulted in that launch.
Under this programme there are two streams each consisting of 1,000 places of six months duration. The first stream is for graduates who before this year have attained a full award at level seven or above on the National Framework of Qualifications and who have been receiving job seeker's allowance for the last six months. The second stream is open to all other individuals who have been receiving job seeker's allowance for the last six months. Under this stream 250 places are being ring-fenced for those under 25 years of age. Participants on both streams of the work placement programme will continue to receive their existing social welfare entitlements from the Department of Social and Family Affairs for their duration on the programme.
The work placement programme is available to public sector employers as well as the private sector and interested organisations should contact the FÁS call centre to register their interest in the programme. The proposal by the City and County Managers Association for local authorities to provide employment for the unemployed on work placement schemes could therefore be made to FÁS, as a formal application, in the context of this Programme.
122 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of companies in north Tipperary that have received money or are in the process of being approved for money from the Enterprise Stabilisation Fund announced in the supplementary Budget of 7 April 2009; the amount of funding they have received; her plans to increase the funding available for 2009 in view of the fact that more than 75% of the portion has been allocated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26095/09]
The provision of grant assistance to individual companies is a matter for the development agency or body concerned, and not one in which I have a direct function. Notwithstanding this, for reasons of commercial sensitivity, Enterprise Ireland will not disclose either the names of companies who have applied for assistance from the Enterprise Stabilisation Fund or the areas within which these companies operate as to do so would make some undertakings identifiable and risk undermining their future viability.
From the €50 million allocated to the fund for 2009, 16 projects have been approved to date for a total of €6 million. A further €20 million is under active negotiation with 30 companies nationwide. Enquiries have also been received from in excess of 100 companies. However, these have not as yet progressed to formal applications.
In summary, therefore, Enterprise Ireland has commitments or is in negotiations for €26 million of the fund leaving a balance of €24 million (48%) for the remainder of 2009.
123 Deputy David Stanton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the progress made in developing a comprehensive employment strategy for people with disabilities; when she expects such a plan to be published; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26118/09]
A draft comprehensive employment strategy for people with disabilities has been developed by my Department in discussions with key stakeholder representatives who form the consultative forum on an employment strategy established under my Department's sectoral plan. The aim of this strategy is to address the diversity of circumstances, needs and abilities of people with disabilities, and to work towards achieving the highest possible levels of employment for them. Discussions on the further development and finalisation of the comprehensive employment strategy are being actively pursued with the consultative forum and interdepartmental groups with a view to completing the strategy as soon as possible.
124 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, further to Parliamentary Question No. 113 of 23 June 2009, if any Members of the House of the Oireachtas are members of the local committees which direct the activities of community employment schemes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26244/09]
FÁS is aware of a number of sitting Members of the Houses of the Oireachtas being on the sponsoring committees of community employment projects.
The Community Employment Operating Guidelines state that the work programme of a sponsor should not involve any specific promotional-advocacy of a specific political party or the policies of a specific political party. Sponsors applying for a project of this nature are not eligible for CE funding.
125 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her views in relation to the submission (details supplied); her plans to address the issues raised; if she will accept the two proposals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26278/09]
The issues raised in the submission do not fall directly under the remit of my Department. However, the overall cost of doing business in Ireland is a particular concern of mine and of the Government.
The issue of rent reviews lies within the remit of the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform, Deputy. Dermot Ahern. In relation to the Labour Party Bill dealing with the review of commercial rents, I understand that my colleague the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform will shortly introduce a legislative provision which will, in effect, prohibit upward-only rent review clauses in future leases.
Rates legislation is a matter in the first instance for my colleague, the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Deputy John Gormley. The Minister, Deputy Gormley and I have met with and impressed on local authority managers the concerns of Government in relation to costs for enterprise, including local authority costs, and asked them to consider measures to support new or existing enterprises in their area by, for example, reduced development contribution rates, or deferral of payments. I am aware that the Minister, Deputy John Gormley, has asked local authorities to give every consideration to businesses in adopting the Annual Rate on Valuation, and I welcome the fact that the average increase on local authority rates in 2009 was 1.15% with many rating authorities introducing no increase this year.
However, I am also very conscious that current trading conditions for companies are difficult and challenging due to a number of factors including the devaluation of sterling, tough competition, and the global recession. Some issues are outside the control of Government as a whole, but where possible we are addressing Ireland's cost competitiveness as an essential element of our economic recovery, as well as supporting enterprises in more direct ways such as through the Enterprise Stabilisation Fund.
Already there are indicators in our favour with inflation, commodity and other prices falling. The latest Consumer Price Index figures are an indication of falling Irish prices in a number of areas, with Ireland showing the highest cut in prices across the EU bringing Ireland closer in line with average EU prices.
I am conscious that energy costs for businesses in Ireland are a source of concern, particularly as businesses are attempting to cut costs to remain competitive in the current economic environment. However, in recent months, the trend of energy prices has been downward with a 10% drop in electricity prices for residents and small and medium enterprises from 1 May, while gas prices have reduced by an average of 12%. These reductions will result in further savings for businesses, particularly in the SME sector. We are committed to maintain low business taxes and a favourable regulatory environment, and will ensure that our policies keep pace with the way business is changing.
The Government is focused on the factors that will drive our long-term competitiveness. Our policies to improve competitiveness have a long term strategic objective which will restore confidence to the business community. Implementation of the actions included in the Smart Economy framework will continue to enhance and improve our competitiveness in this respect.
126 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the details of print jobs carried out for her Department and being provided by companies based outside the Republic of Ireland; the dates of the awarding of these contracts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26280/09]
I presume the Deputy is requesting the above information for the period since my appointment as Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment viz, May 2008.
The only print jobs carried out by companies based outside the Republic of Ireland for my Department and for the Offices of my Department since May 2008 relate to the printing of file covers and file folders. The company involved is Enterprise Stationery Limited, which is based in Northern Ireland and since May 2008 it has been paid €11,794 for these services.
The contract was awarded by the Office of Public Works for the use of all Government Departments to Enterprise Stationery Limited on 1 April 2007.
127 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when payments in lieu of eight weeks notice and in lieu of holidays will issue to the former employees of a company (details supplied). [26304/09]
I can confirm that between March and May of this year, my Department has received 1,623 applications under the Insolvency Payments Scheme for Arrears of Wages, Holiday Pay and Minimum Notice on behalf of the former employees of Waterford Crystal. These claims are currently being processed. It has however been necessary to seek further information from the Receiver and a response is currently awaited. Subject to receipt of all required information from the Receiver, it is hoped to complete processing and make payments in respect of these claims within two to three weeks.
I should point out that the impact on business of the severe economic circumstances currently pertaining has resulted in a significant rise in the level of company receiverships and insolvencies. Consequently, an increasing number of claims are being submitted to the Insolvency Payments Section, with 9,509 new claims recorded from January 1 to May 31 — an increase of over 226% against the corresponding figure for this period in 2008. My officials endeavour to process all claims as quickly as possible and claims are dealt with in order of date of receipt.
128 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 107 of 23 June 2009, if she will amend the rules pertaining to entry to the work placement programme in view of the fact that many graduates will have taken part-time work, or lowly paid work in fields not utilising their qualifications in preference to signing on the live register and that they are therefore excluded from entry to the programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26408/09]
I have no plans to amend the rules governing the entry requirements to the work placement programme at this time.
The objective of the work placement programme is to provide work experience for unemployed persons, including graduates, to improve their skills and to help them into employment as soon as possible. Specifically focusing on persons who have been on the live register for a period of at least six months ensures that participants have been allowed every opportunity to actively search for employment and, if not successful, benefit from the full range of training suites available from FÁS. This, in turn, ensures that participants are job ready, will make the most of their work placement and are better placed to avail of new opportunities when they become available.
129 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the expected Exchequer savings for 2009, 2010 and 2011 from both the civil and public service incentivised career break and early retirement programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25657/09]
In the April 2009 supplementary budget, I announced a range of initiatives which are intended to lead to savings in the public service pay bill. The Government has decided to offer an Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement in the public service to reduce the public service pay bill and facilitate a permanent, structural reduction in the numbers of staff serving in the Civil Service, local authorities, the health sector, non-commercial state bodies and certain other areas of the public service. The scheme is open to applications from 1 May 2009 until 1 September 2009.
The Government has also decided to implement two new work-life balance initiatives, the Special Civil Service Incentive Career Break Scheme to facilitate civil servants in taking a career break for three years, and the Shorter Working Year Scheme which replaces the existing Term Time Scheme.
I included a tentative estimate in the April budget of savings of up to €150 million in 2009 and €300 million in a full year. Achieving these savings is entirely dependent on take up, which is impossible to project with any firm degree of confidence.
130 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the length and value of the contract retaining a firm (details supplied) as legal advisers to the National Asset Management Agency; his views on potential conflict of interest issues as a result of the award of this contract in view of the existing client base of the firm; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25658/09]
The contract between the interim NAMA and the firm in question is a commercial contract. As such it is subject to commercial confidentiality. I cannot comment on the terms and conditions.
The procurement process for this contract was conducted through www.etenders.gov.ie which is the website for Irish public tenders. I am advised that the process was fully compliant with public procurement procedures. Following a detailed evaluation of the various proposals received, the most economically advantageous bid was accepted.
In an economy the size of Ireland's it is not unusual that one of the larger financial or legal advisers has to deal with potential conflicts of interest arising from their representation of more than one client in the same sector. The company in question has provided assurances that where potential conflicts arise they are dealt with through the application of well established 'Chinese Wall' structures which are overseen by their compliance department. These 'Chinese Walls' operate as information barriers which ensure that any advice given is confidential and is provided by a team which is segregated from and independent of their work for other clients.
131 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the value of the National Pension Reserve Fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25659/09]
The National Pensions Reserve Fund (NPRF) was established on 2 April 2001 under the National Pensions Reserve Fund Act 2000 with the objective of meeting as much as possible of the cost to the Exchequer of social welfare pensions and public service pensions to be paid from the year 2025 until at least 2055.
The National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission — who control and manage the fund — publish a report on the performance of the NPRF at the end of each quarter. The most recent such report, to 31 March 2009, valued the fund at €15.5 billion. The Exchequer normally makes its annual contribution to the NPRF in four quarterly instalments. The first payment for 2009, for €396 million, was paid to the NPRF in March and is reflected in the outturn for the first quarter.
Under the Investment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions Act 2009, which allows the Minister for Finance to make payments into the fund where he has given the fund a direction to invest in a listed credit institution, a further payment of €2.604 billion was made to the fund in May, bringing the total paid over from the Exchequer to the fund in 2009 to €3 billion. This reflects the Government decision announced on 11 February 2009 that the recapitalisation of Allied Irish Bank and Bank of Ireland through the purchase of preference shares by the NPRF would be funded by €4 billion of the fund's own resources and €3 billion from the Exchequer through the frontloading of the 2009 and 2010 Exchequer contributions.
The fund's annual and quarterly reports are available publicly on the Commission's website http://www.nprf.ie/home.html. The annual report for 2008 will be available on this website in July.
132 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the estimated outstanding pension liability in respect of all public and civil servants, inclusive of those liabilities relating to the pension funds to be transferred to the National Pension Reserve Fund as proposed under the Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25669/09]
The latest estimate for the accrued liability for public service occupational pensions is €75 billion as of 2007. This accrued liability figure is a single monetary amount representing the present value of all expected future superannuation payments to current staff and their spouses in respect of service to date, plus the full liability for all future payments to current pensioners and to their spouses. It includes those liabilities relating to pension funds to be transferred to the National Pension Reserve Fund under the Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009. The large size of the figure is due to the fact that it represents a projection of aggregate pension payments that will be spread over perhaps 70 years into the future.
The estimate of the accrued liability should not be confused with the actual cash funding that will be required in the future. The more meaningful measure of public service pension costs is the actual annual outgo on pensions, which amounted to approximately €2.5 billion in 2008, or 1.3% of GDP. This annual outgo is projected to rise to 2.5% of GDP in 2050. The projected increase arises from the growth in public service employment in the past and from increasing longevity.
The Finance Accounts, to be published shortly, will include an updated estimate of the total liability of public service occupational pension schemes as at 31 December 2008. This figure is being arrived at as part of on ongoing C&AG examination of public service pensions. As part of that examination the C&AG has engaged consultants to carry out a detailed actuarial valuation of public service schemes. The derivation of the accrued liability figure will follow the approach set out in the new accounting standard issued by the International Public Sector Accounting Standards Board, IPSAS 25.
133 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Finance the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25707/09]
I take it that the Deputy is referring to the ongoing Value for Money reviews. Under the Expenditure Review Initiative my Department, and the offices under its aegis, has carried out the following reviews during the last three years:
|
Value for Money Review |
Completion date |
Outcome |
|
Department of Finance |
||
|
Ordnance Survey Ireland |
January 2007 |
22 recommendations (published in detail on the Government website)* |
|
Procurement Management within the Department |
Due to be completed by the July 2009 |
Not yet published |
|
Construction Procurement Reform Initiative |
Report is at review stage |
Not yet published |
|
Civil Service Childcare Initiative |
November 2008 |
9 recommendations (published in detail on the Government website)* |
|
Public Appointments Service |
||
|
Advertising |
November 2007 |
3 recommendations, all implemented |
|
Procurement |
April 2008 |
5 recommendations, 4 implemented |
|
Training |
November 2008 |
6 recommendations, all implemented |
|
Office of Public Works |
||
|
Value for Money and Policy Review of the Flood Risk Management Programme |
May 2008 |
Completed and published on the Government website |
|
Review of Property Management Services |
Report is currently in draft format |
Not yet published |
|
Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
||
|
Information Technology External Resources Expenditure in 2006 |
March 2008 |
Completed and published on the Government website |
*Responsibility for Ordinance Survey Ireland has transferred to the Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources and responsibility for the Civil Service Childcare Initiative has transferred to the Office of Public Works.
The State Laboratory, the Office of the Appeals Commissioners, the Office of the Commission for Public Service Appointments and the Valuations Office did not perform any such reviews during the years in question.
134 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the failure of some main contractors to pay sub-contracts in respect of public contracts; if it is intended to draw such issues to the attention of main contractors particularly when further payments fall due; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25789/09]
I am not aware of any particular situation where a delay in payment by a main contractor to a sub-contractor has occurred on a public works contract. I should explain to the Deputy that a contracting authority is only responsible for payment for work satisfactorily done by a main contractor under contract with the contracting authority. The contractual relationship on a project with a subcontractor is different. In such cases the contract is between the main contractor and the subcontractor with no other party having privacy to it. Therefore, if there is a problem regarding payment to a subcontractor it is a contractual matter between main contractor and subcontractor and must be resolved through the use of the relevant provisions in the contract.
135 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the tax refund sought by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare relates to emergency tax deducted by the employer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25790/09]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that they are aware that the person concerned claims that emergency tax was deducted during the period concerned. They are in correspondence with the person in an effort to establish whether or not PAYE tax was deducted from the payments made to him.
136 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the status of the flood alleviation scheme in respect of Fermoy, County Cork; if that scheme will commence in 2009; the amount of moneys to be made available for the scheme; the estimated completion date of all phases of the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25803/09]
The Minister for Finance confirmed the Munster Blackwater (Fermoy North) Drainage scheme on 19 November 2008. The tendering process for the main construction contract is nearing completion, and the Office of Public Works expects to appoint the main contractor for the scheme shortly. It is then anticipated that construction works will commence this summer.
The overall project cost for the Fermoy scheme is €32 million, while allocation for the first phase (Fermoy North) is €9.9 million. The contract for this first phase of the scheme is scheduled for completion within 12 months.
Consultants are appointed to complete the design for the next phases of the scheme (Fermoy South West and South East), and it is hoped that work on these will commence soon after the first phase is complete. While it is too early to say how long construction on the second phase will take, it is expected to be at least 24 months.
137 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the status of the flood alleviation scheme in respect of Mallow, County Cork; if that scheme will continue in 2009; the amount of moneys to be made available for the scheme; the estimated completion date of all phases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25804/09]
The Munster Blackwater (Mallow North) Drainage scheme has been under construction since April 2008, and is due for completion in the next few weeks. As this phase for the overall flood defence scheme for Mallow has been completed, the detailed design of the southern phase, encompassing Mallow South and West Drainage schemes, has commenced. The procurement process for the civil works contract for the second phase will commence very shortly, with the appointment of a contractor expected before the end of 2009.
The commencement of construction is, of course, subject to the necessary funding being available. It is anticipated that the second phase will be constructed over a 24 month period and has an estimated budget of €12 million.
138 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Finance the number of cases coming before the Revenue Commissioners in which a solicitor has not paid in full the stamp duty on the transaction of property on behalf of their client, and when in effect the property has never been registered or stamped; the number of cases in which the Law Society of Ireland has paid directly to Revenue the stamp duty as a compensation for the default on the part of the solicitor; if the issue of penalties and interest were applied in these cases where the problem has emerged some years after the sale of the property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25832/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the number of transactions coming before them where a professional presenter (the vast majority of whom are solicitors) has not paid the stamp duty in full and where the instrument (the vast majority of which relate to property) has not been stamped amounted to 155 in the first five months in 2009 from a total of 45,117 instruments received for that period.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, where a solicitor defaults in paying over stamp duty to Revenue and is 'struck off' subsequently as a practising solicitor, the Law Society will appoint a new solicitor to complete the cases of the defaulting solicitor. In such cases, the new solicitor will pay the stamp duty to Revenue and be compensated accordingly by the Law Society. I understand from Revenue that there were approximately 200 such transactions per annum for the three years 2006-2008 inclusive. There are no instances where the Law Society has paid stamp duty directly to Revenue.
On the question of interest and penalties arising from late payment of stamp duty, I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that all applications for mitigation of interest and penalties are considered on a case by case basis under section 14(3) of the Stamp Duties Consolidation Act 1999. This provides Revenue with discretion to mitigate penalties and interest where, on taking account of all relevant circumstances, not to do so would be unjust and unreasonable. Claims for mitigation must be made in writing and be supported by documentary evidence.
In cases where a taxpayer has, in good faith, paid stamp duty to a solicitor who failed to pay the duty over to Revenue and that solicitor has since been ‘struck off' and the practice closed, Revenue gives favourable consideration to mitigating the penalties and interest that would, otherwise, fall to be paid by the taxpayer in order to have the instrument stamped.
139 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of Ministers, Deputies and Senators who took the voluntary pay cut. [25850/09]
To date all Ministers and Ministers of State, 15 Deputies and five Senators are making gifts from salary to the Minister for Finance. In addition, all Ministers, Ministers of State, Deputies and Senators are subject to the public service pensions-related deduction.
140 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25863/09]
The amount of late payment penalty interest paid from the Vote of the Minster for Finance for the past five years to date in 2009 is set out in the following table. The period between receipt of an invoice from a supplier and payment by my Department has been reducing in recent years and thus far in 2009 has averaged ten days. This is comfortably within the period of 30 days after which, in general, late payment interest starts accruing in respect of unpaid invoices which have no other problems preventing payment. It also complies with the Government's commitment, which came into effect from 15 June last, to have payments from central Government Departments to business suppliers made within a 15 day period on an administrative basis.
|
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 (to date) |
|
€5,476.51 |
€8,620.18 |
€6,016.28 |
€2,314.72 |
€719.05 |
141 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Finance the progress made in devising a scheme to collect a levy or tax within the gambling industry to fund the horse and greyhound racing industry; if it is intended to bring proposals to Government in the near future; if an all-party committee as previously suggested is to deal with the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25898/09]
During the Finance Bill, I indicated that discussions would commence as to how best betting duty might be applied in the future, in the context of the 2010 budget including looking at the UK's gross profit tax model. A number of different proposals in that regard have been received from various sectors of the industry. I also indicated that it is my intention to widen if possible the tax base on which betting duty would be applied. My officials are continuing to explore all options on an ongoing basis.
In exploring options for widening the tax base on which betting duty could be applied, my aim is to generate revenue to fund public expenditure generally, rather than to fund one specific item of expenditure. The Deputy will be aware the 2009 budget publications announced that arrangements would end whereby the annual payment to the horse and greyhound racing fund would be automatically calculated by reference to the previous year's betting duty or the contribution to the fund in the year 2000 adjusted for inflation.
142 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue raised per year for each of the past five years from stamp duty on awards on infant rulings in the judicial system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26086/09]
It would appear, without further clarification, that the "stamp duty" referred to by the Deputy is not a stamp duty governed by the Stamp Duties Consolidation Act 1999 and for this reason the Minister for Finance would therefore have no function in relation to such matter.
The Deputy might wish to consider approaching the Courts Service for the information sought.
143 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Finance the number of mortgage holders in the North Tipperary constituency who lost entitlement to mortgage interest relief following his decision to abolish mortgage interest relief for those with a mortgage for more than seven years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26140/09]
144 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Finance the number of mortgage holders in the North Tipperary constituency currently in receipt of mortgage interest relief; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26141/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 143 and 144 together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that it is not possible to provide a breakdown of entitlement to, or loss of entitlement to, mortgage interest relief on the geographic basis sought by the Deputy.
At the end of 2008, there were approximately 564,000 mortgage accounts in respect of which mortgage interest relief was being paid through the main lenders. Using the information already available through its own systems and by working with the lenders, Revenue was able to establish the entitlement status of 430,000 mortgage accounts (76% of the total of 564,000 mortgage accounts) under the new seven-year rule for the payment of tax relief as announced in the supplementary budget. Of those:
276,000 were determined as eligible for tax relief post 1 May. Of that 276,000, 242,000 have been getting the relief since 1 May, the remaining 34,000 have been getting the relief since 1 June and the mortgage relief for the month of May is also being paid automatically through the tax relief at source (TRS) system.
154,000 were determined as ineligible for tax relief post 1 May.
In the case of the remaining approximately 134,000 mortgage accounts (24% of the total), definitive entitlement or non-entitlement to mortgage interest relief could not be established by Revenue without making direct contact with the mortgage account holder. Revenue has now written to the vast majority of these mortgage account holders advising them of the new seven year rule. Where these account holders feel they have an entitlement to mortgage interest relief, they are asked to provide certain information about the account to Revenue. The remaining more complex cases, involving top up loans, are in the course of being written to by Revenue.
From the responses received, Revenue has acquired additional information needed to confirm continued eligibility for a further 26,000 accounts. Revenue will now recommence payment of mortgage interest relief from 1 July for these 26,000 accounts. Any arrears of tax relief due back to 1 May will also be paid automatically through the TRS system.
145 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance if, in respect of Appendix D of the Green Paper on Pensions, he will provide the same information in respect of PRSAs and of RACs for the last year for which figures are available. [26175/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the latest relevant information available is in respect of income tax relief allowed for contributions to Retirement Annuity Contracts (RACs) and Personal Retirement Savings Accounts (PRSAs) for the income tax year 2006. RACs and PRSAs are available to the self-employed and to employees not in occupational pension schemes.
The information is set out in tables following this reply which provide the number of cases, amount of deduction and reduction in tax for tax relief for RACs and PRSAs for the various contribution ranges. The information is based on income returns contained in Revenue records at the time the data were compiled for analytical purposes, representing about 90% of all returns expected. A married couple who has elected or has deemed to have elected for joint assessment is counted as one tax unit.
|
Personal Retirement Savings Accounts — by range of Gross Income |
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Range of gross income |
Totals |
||||||
|
From |
To |
Number of cases |
Amount of deduction |
Reduction in tax |
Tax due for payment |
Gross Tax* |
Reduction in tax as % of Gross Tax |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
% |
|
|
— |
9,000 |
103 |
147,362 |
1,354 |
900 |
2,254 |
60.1 |
|
9,000 |
10,000 |
27 |
36,514 |
3,622 |
498 |
4,120 |
87.9 |
|
10,000 |
12,000 |
90 |
161,705 |
19,983 |
7,155 |
27,138 |
73.6 |
|
12,000 |
15,000 |
158 |
250,134 |
38,969 |
31,521 |
70,490 |
55.3 |
|
15,000 |
17,000 |
178 |
320,370 |
52,430 |
50,435 |
102,865 |
51.0 |
|
17,000 |
20,000 |
356 |
607,023 |
112,105 |
163,702 |
275,807 |
40.6 |
|
20,000 |
25,000 |
831 |
1,462,525 |
284,988 |
799,430 |
1,084,418 |
26.3 |
|
25,000 |
27,000 |
430 |
860,808 |
169,171 |
572,543 |
741,714 |
22.8 |
|
27,000 |
30,000 |
623 |
1,364,158 |
264,913 |
1,072,950 |
1,337,863 |
19.8 |
|
30,000 |
35,000 |
1,066 |
2,513,938 |
588,544 |
2,471,431 |
3,059,975 |
19.2 |
|
35,000 |
40,000 |
1,102 |
2,985,619 |
946,164 |
3,596,840 |
4,543,004 |
20.8 |
|
40,000 |
50,000 |
1,810 |
6,107,436 |
2,097,090 |
8,716,196 |
10,813,286 |
19.4 |
|
50,000 |
60,000 |
1,520 |
6,292,523 |
2,090,872 |
10,151,457 |
12,242,329 |
17.1 |
|
60,000 |
75,000 |
1,692 |
8,614,429 |
2,994,203 |
15,381,571 |
18,375,774 |
16.3 |
|
75,000 |
100,000 |
1,720 |
12,085,447 |
4,909,314 |
24,676,425 |
29,585,739 |
16.6 |
|
100,000 |
150,000 |
1,277 |
14,368,202 |
6,017,916 |
31,101,111 |
37,119,027 |
16.2 |
|
150,000 |
200,000 |
452 |
7,403,141 |
3,105,442 |
18,778,232 |
21,883,674 |
14.2 |
|
200,000 |
250,000 |
226 |
4,931,248 |
2,071,124 |
13,250,432 |
15,321,556 |
13.5 |
|
Over |
250,000 |
401 |
14,955,336 |
6,280,930 |
48,196,615 |
54,477,545 |
11.5 |
|
Totals |
14,062 |
85,467,916 |
32,049,137 |
179,019,445 |
211,068,581 |
15.2 |
*"Gross tax" means the tax that would be due before relief is allowed for PRSA deductions.
The figures do not include contributions made by employees through employers' payroll systems and in respect of which tax relief is provided on the net pay basis. Information on such contributions is not captured in such a way as to make it possible to provide disaggregated figures.
|
Retirement Annuity — by range of Gross Income |
|||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Range of gross income |
Totals |
||||||
|
From |
To |
Number of cases |
Amount of deduction |
Reduction in tax |
Tax due for payment |
Gross Tax* |
Reduction in tax as % of Gross Tax |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
% |
|
|
— |
9,000 |
758 |
1,017,924 |
11,765 |
3,115 |
14,880 |
79.1 |
|
9,000 |
10,000 |
208 |
294,204 |
27,143 |
2,189 |
29,332 |
92.5 |
|
10,000 |
12,000 |
570 |
932,611 |
120,454 |
34,008 |
154,462 |
78.0 |
|
12,000 |
15,000 |
1,141 |
1,956,090 |
280,294 |
225,268 |
505,562 |
55.4 |
|
15,000 |
17,000 |
1,071 |
2,003,400 |
302,625 |
378,765 |
681,390 |
44.4 |
|
17,000 |
20,000 |
2,149 |
4,141,847 |
703,082 |
1,039,705 |
1,742,787 |
40.3 |
|
20,000 |
25,000 |
4,769 |
9,744,586 |
1,823,720 |
4,227,460 |
6,051,180 |
30.1 |
|
25,000 |
27,000 |
2,286 |
4,855,427 |
941,450 |
2,739,943 |
3,681,393 |
25.6 |
|
27,000 |
30,000 |
3,815 |
8,504,697 |
1,664,465 |
5,934,111 |
7,598,576 |
21.9 |
|
30,000 |
35,000 |
6,918 |
16,699,549 |
3,610,077 |
14,081,768 |
17,691,845 |
20.4 |
|
35,000 |
40,000 |
7,134 |
19,480,087 |
5,335,239 |
20,194,177 |
25,529,416 |
20.9 |
|
40,000 |
50,000 |
13,728 |
45,570,662 |
14,134,610 |
57,069,111 |
71,203,721 |
19.9 |
|
50,000 |
60,000 |
12,010 |
49,068,511 |
15,582,360 |
71,264,408 |
86,846,768 |
17.9 |
|
60,000 |
75,000 |
14,846 |
76,318,023 |
25,432,784 |
125,946,885 |
151,379,669 |
16.8 |
|
75,000 |
100,000 |
14,880 |
113,952,157 |
45,377,951 |
196,595,768 |
241,973,719 |
18.8 |
|
100,000 |
150,000 |
11,469 |
153,025,824 |
63,710,750 |
262,121,194 |
325,831,944 |
19.6 |
|
150,000 |
200,000 |
4,176 |
95,577,779 |
40,036,324 |
160,934,586 |
200,970,910 |
19.9 |
|
200,000 |
250,000 |
2,431 |
78,299,260 |
32,837,396 |
129,985,205 |
162,822,601 |
20.2 |
|
Over |
250,000 |
6,292 |
335,810,332 |
140,978,874 |
841,186,514 |
982,165,388 |
14.4 |
|
Totals |
110,651 |
1,017,252,970 |
392,911,364 |
1,893,964,180 |
2,286,875,544 |
17.2 |
*"Gross tax" means the tax that would be due before relief is allowed for retirement annuity deductions.
The figures do not include contributions made by employees through employers' payroll systems and in respect of which tax relief is provided on the net pay basis. Information on such contributions is not captured in such a way as to make it possible to provide disaggregated figures.
146 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Finance the numbers employed in the retail sector and the tax yield by way of income tax, levies and so on; the total tax yield from the retail sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26230/09]
In terms of employment, the Central Statistics Office compiles data in respect of those employed in the wholesale and retail sectors, as distinct from just the retail sector. Total employment in the wholesale and retail sector in the first quarter of this year was 285,000 which amounted to 14.5% of total employment in theeconomy.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the taxpayer is not required to specify the particular sector or sub-sector of economic activity that they are involved in. Consequently, the precise yield of tax revenues from the retail sector cannot be readily identified. Information can, however, be provided on an estimated basis to indicate the approximate net amounts of taxes paid (i.e. after allowing for repayments) by taxpayers in the retail sector in relation to VAT (not including VAT on imports), PAYE, Income tax non-PAYE, Corporation tax and Capital Gains Tax. On this basis, the Revenue Commissioners estimate that a tax revenue yield of the order of €4.5 billion was collected under these tax heads in the year 2007 for the sectors categorised as being involved in the retail sector under the international recognised systems applied by Revenue. 2007 is the most recent year for which a reliable breakdown of data is available.
147 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he will postpone the issuance by the Valuation Office of final valuation certificates in view of the current economic situation; the impact this process will have on retailers as well as on local authorities’ income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26231/09]
The revaluation exercise is governed by the terms of the Valuation Act, 2001, which, inter alia, provides that the specification of publication dates for valuation lists is a matter for the Commissioner of Valuation, who exercises that function by means of the making of Valuation Orders. In each case, the Valuation Order was made by the Commissioner of Valuation only after formal consultation with both the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the rating authority concerned, as required by the Act. The Act further provides that the Commissioner shall be independent in the performance of his functions.
148 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance the provisions relating to delegate’s allowance; if those provisions have changed in recent years; if the delegate’s allowance is awarded in addition to travel subsistence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26243/09]
The criteria for the payment of delegate's allowance to civil servants is set out in Circular Letters 4/79 (grades at Assistant Principal level and above) and 1/81 (grades at Higher Executive Officer level and below).
Officers who travel outside Ireland and Britain as members of a delegation representing Ireland at meetings of the EU or other international organisations or with representatives of another government or governments qualify for payment of delegate's allowance. Additional payments are made to those who act as Chairpersons of EU committees or Working Groups during Ireland's tenure of the EU Presidency. Travel abroad for the purposes of attendance at training courses, fact-finding or familiarisation visits, seminars or meetings held solely to exchange information does not qualify for payment of delegate's allowance.
Delegate's allowance rates are reviewed periodically. The last review took place in December 2003 in advance of the Irish Presidency of the European Union in 2004. The delegate's allowance moves in line with general wage round increases. The current rates payable (effective from 1 September 2008) are as follows:
|
First night in each continuous period of 7 days or less |
Second and subsequent nights up to a limit of 3 in each period of 7 days or less |
Travel on Saturday, Sunday or Public Holiday (per day) |
Chairperson Allowance (per day) |
|
€230.41 |
€67.92 |
€84.89 |
€84.89 |
|
First night away from home in any 7 day period |
Second, third and fourth night away from home in any 7 day period |
Chairperson Allowance (per day) |
|
€109.15 |
€36.39 |
€84.89 |
Delegate's allowance is payable in addition to reimbursement of travel and subsistence expenses.
149 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance if he will establish with the Revenue Commissioners whether a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 has been granted a PAYE credit for themself only and not their spouse; if this has been the case in all previous years; the practice in respect of a PAYE credit for a person who is a qualified adult on a spouse’s State pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26269/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the PAYE tax credit is due against a variety of sources of income including occupational pensions and pensions payable under the Social Welfare Acts. However, irrespective of the number of sources of income against which the PAYE tax credit may be due, an individual is entitled to only one PAYE tax credit (currently €1,830) per annum.
As regards a pensioner couple where each spouse is in receipt of a separate social welfare pension plus an occupational pension, each spouse is entitled in their own right to the PAYE Tax Credit.
As regards a pensioner couple where one spouse is a dependant ‘qualifying adult' on the other spouse's pension book, the PAYE tax credit is due only to the spouse who has an entitlement to the pension and a separate PAYE tax credit is not due in respect of that element of the pension payable in respect of a dependant ‘qualified adult'.
For the couple in question, tax returns were submitted for the year 2006 & 2007. In these returns the pension was declared as paid to each of them separately and two PAYE Credits were claimed. However as one spouse is a dependant ‘qualifying adult' on the other spouse's pension book, one PAYE Credit is only due. Amended assessments issued for both years to show the correct position and the tax outstanding has been paid.
150 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the details of print jobs carried out for his Department and being provided by companies based outside the Republic of Ireland; the dates of the awarding of these contracts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26279/09]
Since the formation of the present Government on 14 June 2007 to date in 2009 my Department has not sent material abroad for printing.
I have been informed by the Office of Public Works that the Government Supplies Agency placed no contracts on behalf of the Department of Finance in the years 2007-2009 with printers from outside the state. They have also informed me that their records indicate that there were no contracts or orders placed by Office of Public Works with printing companies outside Ireland under Government Supplies Agency contracts during the period in question.
In relation to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, the Office of Public Works awarded two printing contracts to firms outside Ireland in the relevant period. The first of these, for a security overlay for C2 cards is a proprietary product and was awarded to a company based in Switzerland called Ovd Kinegram Ag in July 2007. The other contract, awarded in October 2008 to Howitt Limited, Nottinghamshire, England, was for the production of 2.5 million copies of a 16 page information booklet on the PAYE system and was valued at €96,618.40 (excluding VAT) The Contract was publicly advertised, to be awarded to the firm submitting the lowest suitable tender. Howitt submitted the lowest of 14 tenders and met all the requirements of the tender competition.
151 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review a grant or funding application under the dormant accounts fund in respect of suicide prevention for an organisation (details supplied) in order to support this group in its efforts to prevent men committing suicide; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25736/09]
167 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 158 of 28 April 2009, if she will confirm that her Department has completed the assessments made by Pobal of the applications received regarding suicide prevention; the amount set aside for funding of this project; if she will outline the way the current economic situation will affect the timeframe for the funding of this measure in view of the fact that the funding is provided for by the dormant accounts fund; if funding for the suicide prevention measures is being reconsidered to support other programmes; if so, the other programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25675/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 151 and 167 together.
The Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, through POBAL, invited applications for funding under the suicide prevention measure. €1m was identified to fund the measure. Funding decisions are made by Government on the basis of recommendations made by the Economic and Social Disadvantage Interdepartmental Committee, which is chaired by my colleague, the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs.
My Department is considering the assessments made by POBAL of the applications received and, in light of the current national economic situation, is also considering the timeframe for the funding of this measure. Recommendations in this regard will be made to the Interdepartmental Committee shortly.
152 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to establish a new national programme of wet facilities on the basis of a harm reduction approach; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25759/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
153 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the position for parents of children born during June, July or August 2006 in respect of the new child care grant (details supplied), particularly where these children have already been accepted to enrol in national schools in September 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25902/09]
As the Deputy will be aware I have responsibility for the implementation of the new scheme to provide a free Pre-School year of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) which will be implemented from January 2010.
The scheme will allow qualifying children to avail of a free pre-school place in the year before they commence primary school. The scheme is open to all private and voluntary pre-school services which are notified to the Health Service Executive (HSE) or registered with the Irish Montessori Educational Board (IMEB). Sessional playschools will, normally, participate in the scheme by providing the pre-school year for 3 hours a day, 5 days a week over 38 weeks while full or part-time daycare services will, normally, participate by providing the pre-school year for 2 hours, 15 minutes a day, 5 days a week over 50 weeks.
While exceptions to the upper age limit will be allowed where children have been assessed by the Health Service Executive as having a special need which will delay their entry to primary school, or it is necessary to accept children at an older age due to the enrolment policy of local primary schools, participating children must, normally be aged between 3 years 3 months and 4 years 6 months on 1 September of each year.
In January 2010, children will be eligible if they were born between 1 March 2005 and 30 June 2006. Children born after 30 June 2006 will be eligible for the free Pre-School Year from September 2010. Most children commence school at around 5 years of age and it is considered that the 15 month age range provided for under the scheme, recognises this position while allowing flexibility to parents to assess the best time for their child to commence school.
154 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the person who is charged with processing applications for the 2009 back to school, clothing and footwear scheme in north Tipperary in view of the fact that community welfare officers are over burdened; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26153/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
155 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will consider the case of persons (details supplied) in County Meath who have applied for domiciliary care allowance; if approval will be given; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26218/09]
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.
156 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that some community welfare officers in County Galway are not accepting applications under the back to school clothing and footwear scheme due to staff shortages; if this situation prevails nationwide; if applications made under the scheme will be posted directly to a Health Service Executive county headquarters office; if her further attention has been drawn to the importance of this scheme to thousands of low income families; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26256/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
157 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if the back to school clothing and footwear allowance will be administered by community welfare officers in local health centres in 2009; if not, the arrangement for applying for and receiving this allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26303/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.
158 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made with the Vietnamese authorities on agreeing arrangements for intercountry adoptions between Ireland and Vietnam; the obstacles which remain; when she expects an agreement to be in place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26502/09]
161 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the ongoing crisis in the area of intercountry adoption which is affecting many families nationwide, particularly between Ireland and Vietnam, as well as between Ireland and other countries; if there has been recent communication between Ireland and Vietnam on the matter; the advice she will offer those people who have been on the applicant list often for a period of many years for adoption; when she expects that the situation will be rectified; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25650/09]
186 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the proposed interim agreement between Ireland and Vietnam; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25812/09]
214 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the bilateral agreement between Ireland and Vietnam; if progress has been made regarding the request for an interim agreement; her views on whether the situation is unacceptable and leaves many families in distress; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26087/09]
251 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that her Minister of State for Children will travel to Vietnam to bring to an end the ongoing crisis in intercountry adoption, which is continuing to cause distress to many families here; the position as regards the impasse in this area; and the steps which have been taken to date by her to resolve same. [26342/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 158, 161, 186, 214 and 251 together.
As Deputies are aware, my Office is continuing to work actively to create the appropriate legislative, policy and administrative frameworks that will ensure that a properly regulated regime of adoption is in place in Ireland. Our aim is to support and protect prospective adoptive parents and, even more importantly, the children for whom adoption services are devised and provided.
The promotion of a child's best interests is the fundamental principle that not only supports the development of a national child care and protection system but also ensures that an ethical and child-centred approach to inter-country adoption is adopted and consistently pursued in Ireland. Inter-country adoption does not occur in a vacuum — rather, it occurs across jurisdictions and spans complex areas of family law, child protection and welfare. It must be legislated for, managed and understood in that context. Inter-country adoption requires a shared responsibility and respect between States in order to ensure that the best ethical practices to support the interests of children, and to safeguard them against their abduction, sale or trafficking, are practised and upheld.
As you know, the Adoption Bill, 2009, was initiated in the Seanad and has recently passed all of the stages in that House. The Bill will continue to be prioritised by the Government for its passage through the Oireachtas.
I firmly believe that the Bill, which includes the regime of the Hague Convention, provides an assurance for individual children, for their families and for the State that appropriate procedures have been followed and that the adoption was affected in the best interests of the child. As such, it is the intention of the Government, as the Deputies are well aware, that all inter-country adoption will now meet the standards of the Hague Convention.
I have reported in detail to both Houses on the situation regarding the reasoning for and actions taken to support the negotiation of a new bilateral inter-country adoption agreement with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in recent weeks. This position has not fundamentally changed since my last statement on the matter. The process has been on-going since the beginning of 2008 and the dialogue with the Vietnamese authorities is continuing.
Many Deputies have, in recent weeks, sought guarantees on and specific timeframes for the conclusion of the discussions on a new agreement with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. I must reiterate that all options, including an interim inter-country adoption agreement, are actively being pursued by the Government to finalise these discussions. I must also stress the point that it is not possible for me to either give a timetable or anticipate when this process will be concluded. The negotiations remain live and a request to set up an interim inter-country adoption agreement, which was issued to the Vietnamese authorities on 20 May last via the Department of Foreign Affairs, has been made. It is now a matter for the Vietnamese authorities and, as such, it would be improper for the Government to seek to influence or interfere with their decision-making process.
The Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a sovereign state and the decisions that it makes regarding the internal regulation and management of its adoption services must be treated sensitively as appropriate to a sovereign state. My priority is to conclude discussions with the Vietnamese Government on a new bilateral inter-country adoption agreement and to avoid any debate outside of that process that could potentially jeopardise or interfere with these discussions. In the meantime, my officials will continue to be in regular contact with the Department of Foreign Affairs and with the Embassy on the ground in Hanoi.
I can assure you that the work to prepare for and advise the Government on a new bilateral inter-country adoption agreement with the Socialist Republic of Vietnam has been given, and continues to be given, the very highest priority by my Office. I remain completely committed to finalising discussions on the text of the agreement with the Vietnamese authorities. I have explained the reasons for the renegotiation of the existing agreement and am acutely aware of the stress and anxiety that this process has caused to many prospective adoptive parents. I will be in Vietnam on the week commencing on 29 June, the itinerary for which visit has been compiled with the assistance of the Irish Embassy in Hanoi. I will issue a statement on the visit on my return from Vietnam.
My Office has also been working actively to assess the possibilities of entering into bilateral inter-country adoption agreements with a small number of other countries from which Irish applicants have traditionally adopted — including the Russian Federation and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia.
While every effort will be made to conclude a bilateral inter-country adoption agreement with the relevant authorities 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 Governments of these sovereign States.
The decision regarding the country of choice from which to adopt is a matter for prospective applicants. This choice obviously should have regard to their personal preference, their knowledge of and/or connection with the proposed country of origin, and the status of the country as a contracting State either to the Hague Convention or to a bilateral agreement. However, I would respectfully suggest that any applicant seeking to proceed with an adoption from a non-Hague country or a country with which Ireland does not have a bilateral agreement should have regard to the likelihood of the adoption being completed in advance of the Bill being commenced.
159 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive a date for an operation at Beaumont Hospital, Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25639/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
160 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11 has not obtained a date for their operation; the further reason they have not been referred to the National Treatment Purchase Fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25642/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
The National Treatment Purchase Fund arranges treatment for patients who have been on a surgical waiting list for more than three months. It is open to the person in question or anyone acting on their behalf to contact the Fund directly in relation to their case.
162 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appeal under the health repayment scheme for a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25653/09]
The Health Repayment Scheme Appeals Office is an independent office established to provide an appeals service to those who wish to appeal the decision of the scheme administrator under the Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006.
The claimant referred to by the Deputy lodged an Appeal Form with the Health Repayment Scheme Appeals Office on 29 April 2008. An Appeals Officer carefully and thoroughly considered and assessed this appeal and issued a written decision to the claimant on 26 June 2009. A copy of this decision was sent to the Scheme Administrator and to the Health Service Executive for implementation.
163 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a proposal to change the status of the specialist laboratories at Waterford Regional Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25662/09]
In February 2009 the HSE announced that, as part of its ongoing transformation of services, it was launching a programme to modernise medical laboratory services. The HSE plans to implement a unified, co-ordinated service which will improve the quality and turnaround times for these essential diagnostic services.
This work will be informed by the report, Implementing a new system of service delivery for Laboratory Medicine Services, by Teamwork Management Services, which the HSE has published. I welcome the fact that the HSE is involving key stakeholders, including the Faculty of Pathology, Royal College of Physicians and the Medical Laboratory Scientists Association, in the development of the implementation plans.
The specific question in relation to Waterford Regional Hospital is a matter for the HSE and I have, therefore, referred the Deputy's question to the Executive for direct reply.
164 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on facilitating or issuing a directive to the Health Service Executive to facilitate the collection of cord blood by a company (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25664/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
165 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on the application in respect of by a person (details supplied) in County Cork. [25670/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
166 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children if she received correspondence from a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow regarding the early childhood care and education scheme; if she will provide a copy of the response, or a detailed summary of the reply sent to this person; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25674/09]
As the Deputy will be aware I have responsibility for the implementation of the new scheme to provide a free Pre-School year of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) which was announced recently by the Minister of Finance.
It is proposed to issue contracts setting out the requirements of the scheme and their associated terms and conditions in full detail next month. Services will be approved for entry to the scheme subject to them meeting and agreeing to the contractual requirements. It is open to any service approved for entry to the scheme to decide not to proceed at the point of receiving the contract. It is also open to any applicant to seek and pay for legal advice on the contract if they consider this to be necessary or appropriate. All participants will be required to provide a valid tax clearance certificate and keep appropriate records and accounts of their business. This is not expected to be any more onerous on a service than would normally be the case in meeting Revenue requirements, etc.
With regard to the requirement related to fee policies, it should be noted that where a service offers additional hours or services to parents, as clearly optional extras, it is free to charge parents for these where they choose to avail of them. This should not be confused with a service charging a "top up" fee and, in all cases, participating services must ensure that parents are given access to the free pre-school year irrespective of whether they choose to avail of such additional hours or services.
The provision of a valid tax clearance certificate is a standard requirement where public funding is being provided and data protection issues do not arise. With regard to the return to be made by participating services in January 2010, to establish the number of qualifying children enrolled, this will involve a simple input of data by each service similar to the return currently made by services participating in the community childcare subvention scheme (CCSS) which is also implemented by my Office. While there is no special competence required to make the return, I expect that the City and County Childcare Committees will assist services which require guidance on the return, as they did in the case of the CCSS.
The initial processing of application forms is being undertaken by the City and County Childcare Committees. I understand that they will log the applicants' details and seek confirmation from the relevant Pre-School Inspector that services can be considered to be in compliance with the Child Care (Pre-School Services) (No. 2) Regulations 2006 for the purposes of the scheme. All applications received by the Childcare Committees will be forwarded to the Childcare Directorate of my Office.
With regard to the particular circumstances of the service referred to by the Deputy, in that it is unable to open for more than 48 weeks of the year due to the conditions of its leasing arrangement, I would suggest that when the service in question is forwarding an application to operate on the basis of the 38 week model, it also forwards an application to operate on the basis of the 50 week mode, and outlines the particular difficulties it has in this regard.
Síolta is the national quality framework for early childhood education in Ireland and comprises a set of nationally devised and evidenced based principles, standards and components of quality in all dimensions of practice in early childhood education in Ireland. It was developed through extensive consultation with all stakeholders in the early childhood care and education (ECCE) sector in Ireland and is applicable for all settings where children aged birth to six years are present e.g. (full and part time day-care, sessional preschools and play groups, infant classes in primary schools and childminder settings). The Síolta Principles presents a highly endorsed vision for quality practice in early childhood care and education settings in Ireland and reflects our unique historical and cultural context. Síolta has been designed to promote quality improvement in ECCE settings and in addition to informal engagement with Síolta in everyday practice, ECCE services and practitioners may also register to participate in a more formal quality assurance programme which will require engagement with structured internal and external assessment processes, evidence collection and documentation. The Síolta Quality Assurance Programme (QAP) is supported by Síolta Co-ordinators. To date three Síolta Co-ordinators have been recruited and have undergone a rigorous induction process. They are currently supporting clusters of services in the three Dublin based Prevention and Early Intervention Programmes on the Síolta QAP. It is anticipated that the required additional coordinators will be recruited through the National Childcare Voluntary Organisations over the coming months. Each Síolta Coordinator will report, in the first instance to their individual employer, however the Early Years Education Policy Unit will provide induction and direct supervision on the implementation of the Síolta QAP.
In response to the specific queries contained in the letter, a service implementing the Early Years Foundation Management Programme or any other evidence based early childhood care and education programme (e.g. Montessori, High Scope, Steiner) will have no difficulty engaging with the Síolta Principles and Standards.
The National Nursery Education Board examination has been established as equivalent to a level 6 award on the National Framework for Qualifications (NFQ) in Ireland. As the Scheme stands the NFQ requirements relate to the pre-school leaders and not to other staff, although all staff are encouraged to avail of training, which will improve the quality of the service provided, and their own career prospects.
I launched a consultative process on developing the workforce in the ECCE sector on June 12th 2009. This consultation process seeks submissions on core questions relating to access and effective participation in education and training programmes. The consultation process is due to close on September 30th 2009 and it is anticipated that a Workforce Development Plan will be developed soon thereafter.
168 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children when, taking into account the Ryan report and other cases of abuse highlighted in the media she will introduce independent inspections for units which house intellectually disabled persons; the measures she has put in place to ensure such inspections take place; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25677/09]
A Standards Advisory Group was established by HIQA to develop National Quality Standards on Residential Services for People with Disabilities. The Group comprised officials of HIQA, my Department, the HSE, service providers, organisations representing people with disabilities and service users, and met on a number of occasions during 2008. Following a public consultation process initiated by HIQA, the proposed standards were formulated and have now been published.
These standards will provide a national framework for quality, safe services for people with disabilities in a residential setting and relate only to adult services at present.
Given the current economic situation, to move to full statutory implementation of the standards, including regulation and inspection, presents significant challenges at this time. However, notwithstanding the difficulties of immediate statutory implementation, my Department, the HSE and HIQA have agreed that progressive implementation of the Standards will now commence, and that they will become the benchmark against which the HSE assesses both its own directly operated facilities and other facilities that the HSE funds. Further discussions will take place regarding the introduction of an appropriate level of external validation for relevant settings.
In relation to children's services, all children in residential services under the age of 18 are covered by the Children First National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children. Children with disabilities in generic residential centres under the Child Care Act, 1991, are covered by the standards and inspection regimes already applying to those centres. In relation to children with disabilities in other residential centres, Recommendation No. 12 of the Ryan Commission report states that "All services for children should be subject to regular inspections in respect of all aspects of their care". An implementation plan for the recommendations of the Ryan Commission report is being prepared by the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, and will be submitted to Government by the end of July. The Plan will include proposals to implement in full, all the recommendations of the Commission, including identifying costs of implementation.
169 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the plans to open Bracken House, Julianstown, County Meath for intellectually disabled people; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25679/09]
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.
170 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason, in respect of the unit for intellectually disabled people in Portrane, County Dublin, nine applicants for the post of senior psychologist were interviewed for this position, nine applicants were offered the post and nine applicants refused the position; the further reason the post is not filled; if the offer of employment or contract is defective in some way; if not, the reason nine applicants refused the offer of employment. [25684/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
171 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on relocating the facility for homeless children to a more convenient location (details supplied) in the Dublin city centre, where most of the children come from as concerns have been expressed by the children’s representatives in view of the fact that the suitability of the current location in County Dublin and concerns have also been expressed by residents in the area and representatives of residents at some of the facilities adjacent; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25691/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
172 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of pharmacists registered here in March 2008; and the number of pharmacists registered as of March 2009. [25692/09]
Under the Pharmacy Acts 1875 — 2007, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) has responsibility for maintaining the register of pharmacists. I am informed by the PSI that the total number of persons registered as pharmacists as at 31 March 2008 was 4553, and as at 31 March 2009 was 4484.
173 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by her Department during the past three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25709/09]
Three reviews were carried out under the auspices of my Department as part of the Government's programme of Value for Money and Policy Reviews 2006-2008.
The ‘Review of the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme' was completed in June 2007. The report has been published on the website of the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs and the recommendations are currently being implemented.
The ‘Review of the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Long Stay Residential Care for Adults in Mental Health Services' and the 'Review of the Allocation and Utilisation of Funding in Acute Services in the Southern Hospitals Group' have been completed. Implementation plans for both reviews are currently being finalised, following which the reviews will be laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas and published.
174 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will outline the money spent by the Health Service Executive on public and private transport for each of the past five years; if a value for money audit has been conducted on such expenditure; the result of same; if the HSE has a transport policy in place for each acute hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25714/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
175 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of consultants, registrars, senior house officers on the breast cancer team in Waterford; the number of cases which have been referred to them in the first six months of 2009; the number of these cases which have had breast cancer; her views on whether the staffing levels are sufficient; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25719/09]
The National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) has informed my Department that the Breast Cancer Team at Waterford Regional Hospital (WRH) consists of two Breast Surgeons and arrangements are in train for the appointment of a third Consultant to the Team. From the 1st of July 2009, a dedicated Registrar and Senior House Officer will be assigned to the Breast Surgery service.
NCCP has provided additional revenue funding of €1,198,000 in 2009 to support the development of breast services at WRH. This funding has supported additional Consultant appointments in surgery, radiology and anaesthesia, along with 6 support posts in respect of radiography, nursing and clerical grades.
The NCCP is satisfied that the current staffing levels in Waterford are adequate to meet current activity levels. However, the NCCP will continue to monitor resources and activity levels in the eight designated cancer centres and adjust funding and resources if required.
In the period January to May 2009, a total of 1,695 referrals were received and 91 cancer cases were diagnosed.
176 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review the embargo on recruitment in hospitals and other health facilities to facilitate the training modules of pharmacy students who cannot qualify unless they receive one year’s pre-registration training in a hospital or community facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25727/09]
The Government decision to introduce a moratorium across the public service allows for certain posts in the health sector to be filled, through exemptions in the employment control framework for front line posts. Provision has been made within the employment control framework of the HSE for the continuation of the normal arrangements in relation to the filling of clinical placements, rotations and training positions for health care professionals, including trainee pharmacists. The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland has been in discussions with the HSE concerning the number of placements available in the hospital sector and to ascertain whether there is an opportunity to increase the throughput of students in this area.
Pharmacy graduates have tended to undertake 12 months of pre-registration training in one establishment e.g. a community or hospital pharmacy. However, it is possible for students to undertake two 6 months placements, one of which must be in a community or hospital pharmacy and the second 6 months in another establishment relevant to the practise of pharmacy e.g. in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, etc.
The PSI has prepared a contingency plan in the event that there is a shortfall in the number of placements available this year. I welcome the initiative of the PSI in developing a contingency plan that will endeavour to ensure that all of the students are enabled to acquire a ‘qualification appropriate for practice' and thereby to obtain registration as pharmacists and practice their profession. The PSI's plan will require the full support of the HSE, community pharmacies and the pharmaceutical industry, as well as tutor pharmacists across all sectors of practice, either in the community, hospital, industry, academic and regulatory sectors, if it is to succeed. I would urge all concerned to support the PSI in this initiative.
177 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will outline in respect of a hospital (details supplied) in County Dublin, the number of persons who died solely as a consequence of contracting C. difficile in 2008; the number of persons who died as a consequence of their condition being complicated by C. difficile in 2008; the action taken by this hospital to address this problem; if the hospital presently poses a serious risk to patients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25728/09]
Tackling Health Care Associated Infections (HCAIs), including C. difficile continues to be a priority for the Government and the Health Service Executive (HSE).
Up until May 2008, C. difficile was not a notifiable disease and, as a result, it was difficult to quantify the extent of infection in the health care system. Since May 4th 2008, all cases are required to be notified to the relevant Department of Public Health. The number of cases reported nationally from May to December 2008 was 1625 and from January to June 2009 was 946.
Guidelines for the Surveillance, Management and Control of C. difficile- associated disease were published on 22nd May 2008 by the Health Protection Surveillance Centre in the HSE. They give national guidance and deal with the isolation of C. difficile ribotype 027 for the first time in Irish Hospitals. They are a valuable resource in assisting in the prevention, management and control of this infectious disease.
The information the Deputy is seeking particularly hospital level data and mortality data is not readily available in the format requested. I have, therefore, requested the HSE to provide this information directly to the Deputy.
178 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will outline the circumstances where the fee of €100 for a visit to a Hospital Emergency Department is waived or considered inapplicable; the protocol regarding charging of fees in circumstances of medical emergency or urgent medical need when a patient finds himself away from home and their normal general practitioner, but enter an emergency department of a hospital for assistance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25730/09]
The €100 outpatient charge for attendance at a designated Accident and Emergency Department is not applicable to persons with full eligibility; women receiving services in respect of motherhood; children up to the age of six weeks; children suffering from prescribed diseases or disabilities (the exemption applies only to treatment for the prescribed condition); children referred from treatment from child health clinics and school health examinations; persons receiving services for the diagnosis or treatment of infectious diseases under Part 1V of the Health Act 1947; persons undergoing tests for the purpose of ascertaining the presence of a disease, defect or condition that may be prescribed under section 70 of the Act; persons deemed to be persons with full eligibility by the Chief Executive for the purposes of the services concerned (hardship clause) (section 45 (7) of the Act); persons who have a letter of referral from a registered medical practitioner; persons whose attendance results in admission as an in-patient; holders of a Health (Amendment) Act Card.
The prescribed diseases and disabilities referred to are mental handicap, mental illness, phenylketonuria, cystic fibrosis, spina bifida, hydrocephalus, haemophilia, and cerebral palsy.
Other than in the circumstances described above, a person with limited eligibility is liable for the charge concerned.
179 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that places for trainee clinical psychology for 2009 are not affected by the recruitment embargo and that they are exempt from the embargo to ensure a continuous supply of clinical psychologists; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25731/09]
The immediate objective is to maintain the number of training places at current capacity. The HSE HR Circular 015/2009 (Moratorium on Recruitment and Promotions in the Public Services — Revised Employment Control Framework for the Health Services) states that the moratorium on recruitment does not apply to clinical psychology grades. In 2009, nationally, 32 trainees will graduate from Clinical Doctoral programmes and 31 new trainees will commence training. It is planned to further develop training opportunities, to meet legislative and service delivery requirements, to 156 training places nationally by 2012.
The Health Service Executive is aware of the increasing requirement for the provision of clinical psychological services. Cognisant of and working within the restrictions of the current employment control framework for the health services, the HSE is committed to ensuring the availability of Clinical Psychologists within the health sector. It is also committed to maintaining the number of postgraduate training places available nationally for clinical psychology training. I understand this currently stands at 107 places, distributed across four National Universities — University of Limerick, University College Galway, Trinity College Dublin and University College Dublin.
180 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if a medical group (details supplied) is compliant with the necessary regulations in the Companies Registration Office; if its required submissions are up to date; if the necessary and up-to-date accounts have been filed with the Companies Registration Office as per its regulations; if she has made the necessary inquiries to ensure this group is compliant with CRO regulations; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25737/09]
The company concerned is not involved in contractual dealings with the Department of Health and Children, but with the Health Service Executive. The question has been referred to the HSE for appropriate attention.
Generally, policy on compliance with company law and the operation of the Companies Office are matters for the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
181 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the problems being experienced by the Health Service Executive and the unions with regards to the introduction of the incentivised scheme for early retirement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25781/09]
The incentivised scheme of early retirement in the HSE which is provided for in Circular 8/2009 does not apply to grades exempted from the moratorium on recruitment and promotions under the 2009 Employment Control Framework for the Public Health Sector in order to meet the requirements of integrated health care delivery and, in particular, to address needs in the community in respect of care of the elderly and people with disabilities.
Members of all other grades who meet the eligibility criteria will have access to the ISER provided the grades/staff groups concerned cooperate with the requirements in relation to redeployment, mobility, skill mix and flexibility which are outlined in the employment control framework: this is designed to allow individuals to avail of the ISER while still protecting services. Because staff who retire under the scheme will not be replaced (save in very exceptional cases), employers must pay particular attention, when considering applications, to the scope that exists within the organisation for reorganising and restructuring work in order to minimise the impact on essential service delivery. Staff cooperation and flexibility in that regard is essential.
My Department has been informed by the HSE that the majority of health service trade unions have recently issued a directive instructing their members not to cooperate with redeployment and reassignment requests from management. This instruction severely restricts the ability of management to organise/restructure work practice and contravenes the qualification criteria for the scheme.
However, applications can be made to the relevant employer in anticipation of a resolution of the industrial relations issues. Talks are continuing on the issue and it is hoped that a satisfactory resolution will be found.
182 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a hospital appointment will be offered to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25784/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
183 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25785/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
184 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when home help hours will be restored to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; when speech and language services and occupational therapy services and child psychology services will be offered to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25786/09]
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.
185 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons under 18 years of age currently in State care who do not have an allocated social worker; the number of these persons in residential and foster care respectively; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25818/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
187 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will assure a person (details supplied) in County Kildare that their next appointment will not be cancelled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25819/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
188 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to a matter (details supplied). [25822/09]
As the Deputy will be aware I have responsibility for the implementation of the new scheme to provide a free Pre-School year of Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) which was announced recently by the Minister of Finance. The scheme allows for a number of options in terms of the delivery of the Pre-School Year with the standard models being either 38 or 50 weeks. Under the 38 week model, the requirement will be to provide the Pre-School Year over 183 days (i.e. the equivalent of 36.6 working weeks) which is the same as the primary school year. Service will be asked to operate in a way which is as consistent as possible with local primary schools, closing for public holidays, mid-term breaks, etc. Participating services will be expected to meet their operational costs, including payment of staff in respect of statutory entitlements to paid leave, from within the capitation grant.
The Pre-School Year has been designed to provide children with an appropriate level of programme based activities over a regular timeframe and in settings of an appropriate size and age range. In this latter regard, children availing of the Pre-School Year will fall within a 15 month age cohort. Many parents currently enrol their children in play-school services for 2 years over the 3 to 5 year age range. The ECCE will not prevent them from continuing to do so but will allow them to avail of one of these years free of charge.
It is a fundamental principle of the scheme that it is available to parents free of charge. Services may, however, provide charge parents for additional services provided these are clearly optional to parents and provided appropriate programme based activities continue to be provided to children not availing of such services during the Pre-School Year hours. It is considered that the capitation fee has been set at a reasonable rate for the great majority of services, however, it is accepted that some services may wish to remain outside the scheme, as is the case with some fee paying primary schools.
Information relating to the scheme is available from the Childcare Directorate of my Office and is also on the website at www.omcya.ie. Information packs were sent out to over 4,800 pre-school services earlier this month and I understand that over 300 applications have been processed to date by the City and County Childcare Committees and will now be considered for approval within my Office. Contracts relating to entry to the scheme will be issued to services approved for entry to the scheme from next month.
189 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive a hospital appointment for an urgent treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25823/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
190 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an appointment for a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25825/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
191 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that a medical card will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Sligo as soon as possible. [25828/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
192 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25841/09]
As this is a service matter the question has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
193 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of money spent on taxi services for patient transport in each of the counties Cavan and Monaghan for each of the years 2005 to 2008, inclusive; if she is satisfied that all of the money was used for patient transport, or if taxi services were used for other purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25846/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
194 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the amount of interest paid by her in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by her Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25865/09]
The total amount of Prompt Payment Interest paid by my Department during the five years 2004 to 2008 amounted to €19,442. No prompt payment interest has been paid to date in 2009. My Department's purchasing and procurement policies and its payments procedures are designed to ensure that value for money is achieved and that no undue delays occur in the processing and payment of valid invoices. In addition, my Department is subject to the provisions of the European Communities (Late Payment in Commercial Transactions) Regulations 2002 and the commitment that central Government Departments pay suppliers within 15 calendar days in respect of valid invoices received from 15 June 2009.
195 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position with regard to the renewal of a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [25871/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
196 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that four children died in workplaces in 2008; if she has had discussions with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment on this issue; her plans to initiate a programme that will ensure children are safe in the workplace; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25872/09]
I have consulted with my colleague, Tánaiste Mary Coughlan in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment regarding this matter. The Health and Safety Authority, which operates under the auspices of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, and is responsible for the administration and enforcement of occupational health and safety legislation in Ireland recently published its 2008 annual report. The report points out that the number of work-related deaths reported in 2008 was 57 compared to 67 in 2007. Of the 6 non-worker fatalities in 2008, 4 of these were children and 3 of these occurred in the agriculture area.
This is a matter of concern and I know that the Authority is working to raise awareness of farm safety issues and has encouraged the establishment of appropriate training within the sector to help develop a sustainable health and safety culture in agriculture. Safety of children on farms received particular attention in 2008 during the Authority's inspection and promotional events. Specifically, the Authority:
Distributed a safety booklet ‘Stay Safe on the Farm with Jessy', to all national schools and libraries in the country, to raise awareness of the dangers for children on farms.
Developed and updated guidance on child safety, safety for the elderly and the safe use of All Terrain Vehicles (ATVs)
Ran a slogan competition for national school children on farm safety in the Kilkenny, Kildare and Carlow catchments.
In 2009, as well as continuing to focus inspections in agriculture on the issues of child safety, the Authority is also working to mainstream health and safety at all levels of education, from early-learning through to third level. In this regard, it has made a number of submissions to the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment (NCCA) about different aspects of the syllabus including the agricultural science syllabus (Senior Cycle).
197 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children in residential care who are waiting for psychological assessments from the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25873/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
198 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of complaints that have been made by or on behalf of children in residential care or foster care with regarding the standard of care that they are receiving, for each of the past five years; the details of these complaints; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25874/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
199 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to incorporate recommendations made by the Dáil na nÓg council on mental health strategies for young people; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25875/09]
The main focus of the Dáil na nÓg 2008 Council was the development of a positive mental health advertising campaign aimed at teenagers. In October 2008, the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs conducted a series of national consultations with 277 teenagers in six locations around the country in cooperation with the Office for Disability and Mental Health and the HSE's National Office for Suicide Prevention. Young people from the Dáil na nÓg Council 2008 were involved in conducting these consultations. The consultations allowed teenage participants to identify the issues of most importance to them using the heading “Teenage Mental Health: What helps and What hurts?”. The outcome of this consultation process was published on 15th June 2009.
The findings of the report will inform a national information campaign targeted at young people. In Budget 2009, €1 million was provided to fund this campaign which will be undertaken by the National Office for Suicide Prevention in partnership with a range of statutory and voluntary agencies. The development of the campaign is at an advanced stage and is expected to be launched in September.
200 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the details of all inspections of institutions that cater for children that have been carried out by the Health Information and Qualify Authority since its inception; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25876/09]
The policy of the Health Inspection and Quality Authority (HIQA) is to publish all inspection reports. Since the Authority's establishment in 2007 a total of 133 inspections of services that cater for children have taken place.
The breakdown of inspections across each year since the Authority's establishment is as follows:
|
Type of Service |
2009 (YTD) |
2008 |
2007 (May-December) |
|
Children’s Residential Centres |
35 |
56 |
9 |
|
Detention Schools |
2 |
2 |
— |
|
High Support Units |
4 |
11 |
— |
|
Special Care Units |
3 |
6 |
3 |
|
Foster Service* |
— |
1 |
1 |
*This relates to inspections of HSE Fostering Services as opposed to individual foster homes. HSE Fostering Services were inspected in the Meath Local Health Area in 2007 and in the Dublin South West Local Health Area in 2008.
Full details of all inspections undertaken since the establishment of the Authority are available on-line from www.hiqa.ie
201 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of Health Service Executive staff who work with children and are waiting for Garda clearance; the locations at which these individuals are employed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25877/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
202 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of foster homes here. [25878/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
203 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of foster homes that have been inspected by the Health Information and Quality Authority since 2007; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25879/09]
204 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to increase the number of the Health Information and Quality Authority inspectors to inspect foster care services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25880/09]
Responsibility for the inspection of foster services rests with the Social Services Inspectorate (SSI) of the Authority. It is important to stress that it is the foster service as opposed to the foster home which is inspected. The foster home is but one component in this robust process which also includes interviews with children in foster care and their foster carers, an assessment of social work records, and detailed interviews with the two branches of social services related to fostering — child and family social workers and the fostering team. On the basis of this process, judgement is reached in respect of the foster service provided. In general, inspections of foster services have demonstrated a high standard of care being provided.
The number of children in foster care, across a high number of individual homes, precludes the inspection of every home, and as a result the SSI team have implemented a rigorous methodology to select a representative sample of services for inspection based on the profile of children in these services. Full details of all inspections are freely accessible and in the public domain. The reports can be downloaded from the Authority's website at www.hiqa.ie
205 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of children who were placed under supervision orders by the Courts since January 2008; the number of these that are still residing with their families; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25884/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
206 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children the date on which the emergency place of safety service will commence. [25887/09]
I am advised by the HSE that the Emergency Place of Safety Service commenced on 5th June 2009. Under this arrangement the Gardaí can access an appropriate place of safety for children found to be at risk out of hours under Section 12 of the Child Care Act 1991.
207 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will initiate legislation to ensure a legal right to after-care to support young people making the transition from care to independent living. [25888/09]
The Government has accepted all of the recommendations of the Report of the Commission to Inquire into Child Abuse and is committed to their full implementation. Included in the recommendations is the provision of aftercare services. As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I have been tasked with developing a plan for the implementation of the recommendations. Aftercare for young people leaving the care of the State will be considered in the context of the implementation plan. The plan will be brought to Government by the end of July.
208 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will stop the proposed closure of 16 respite beds in Cherry Orchard Hospital, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10. [25891/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
209 Deputy John Cregan asked the Minister for Health and Children if 2009 physiotherapy graduates will be given an opportunity to apply for future vacancies with the Health Service Executive in view of the fact that these newly qualified graduates have not been given the opportunity to be placed on a panel; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25897/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
210 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in publishing the commission report into Leas Cross; if such report, received by her on 10 June 2009, has or will be discussed by the Cabinet; the expected date of publication; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25910/09]
The Commission of Investigation, established to investigate the management, operation and supervision of the former Leas Cross Nursing Home has completed its work. The Commission's Final Report was submitted to my colleague the Minister for Health and Children on 10 June 2009 and the Minister intends to publish the report as soon as possible.
211 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children the hospice groups here which are in receipt of grant aid from the Health Service Executive: the amount of aid awarded to each group in 2007 and 2008 in tabular form; the percentage this represents of total expenditure; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25915/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
212 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the oversight and scrutiny procedures in place within the Health Service Executive to ensure that value for money is achieved by disability service providers funded by the HSE, with particular regard to multidisciplinary support providers, in view of the fact that the investment in specialist disability services, as outlined in the HSE service plan 2009, for people with disabilities, is €1.508 billion. [25933/09]
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. The Deputy may also wish to note that a Value for Money Study of the disability services funded from Vote 40 is due to commence shortly as part of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative 2008-2011.
213 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the possible outsourcing of pathology and blood tests from St. Vincent’s University Hospital, Dublin; the rationale for outsourcing such tests to the private sector when the necessary skill set and experience exists in Health Service Executive facilities; if options have been explored for centralising such procedures at existing one or more HSE run laboratories; if a preferred bidder for this contract has been chosen; if a similar outsourcing process is in progress at other HSE run medical facilities or for other procedures; the consultation which has been carried out with the relevant practitioners in St. Vincent’s, particularly those in the pathology department; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25934/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
215 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the position in respect of ward and bed closures in Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, following the announcement that the hospital is not proceeding with plans to close two more wards and an operating theatre in July 2009; the way the proposed closures will lengthen waiting lists for children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26088/09]
246 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the action she is taking to deal with difficulties at Our Lady’s Hospital for Sick Children in Crumlin, Dublin; if her attention has been drawn to the concern of many in respect of this issue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26262/09]
I proposed to take Questions Nos. 215 and 246 together.
Each hospital funded by the HSE is required to deliver services within the financial allocation provided. In common with all hospitals, Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin is faced with the challenge of delivering a high quality service to its patients, while remaining within budget.
The priority of the HSE and hospital management at Our Lady's Children's Hospital is to ensure that services at the hospital are maintained at an optimum level and to protect patient care. The HSE is involved in ongoing discussions with hospital management regarding its 2009 financial allocation and Service Plan.
It has proven necessary for Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin to take measures to stay within budget. The HSE has advised that, based on the financial performance for the first five months of 2009, the hospital should achieve a break even position at year end. This assessment takes account of cost saving measures totalling €6.5m which have been agreed with the hospital, and which are to be implemented over the remainder of the year. Much of the focus of the discussions between hospital management and the HSE has been on ensuring that all areas of non-pay expenditure are critically examined and that costs are reduced where possible.
Part of these measures to stay within budget included the temporary closure of a theatre and a ward from this month. The hospital has now indicated that further ward and theatre closures which had been proposed for in July and August will no longer be necessary. This is to be welcomed.
Following on from a meeting last week between the HSE and the three Dublin paediatric hospitals, it was agreed that Crumlin Hospital would revert to the HSE with its proposals to specifically address the needs of scoliosis patients between now and year end. The HSE will consider these proposals within days and form a plan of action with the hospital.
The allocation to Crumlin for 2009 is €139.6m, an increase of some 39% over the last five years. In line with the budgetary constraints facing the entire public sector and the wider economy, this does include a reduction of 3% this year over 2008. A particular challenge for the Hospital is that it has been operating at some 91 posts above its employment ceiling — it employed 1,641 people (whole-time equivalents) at the end of April compared with its ceiling of 1,550. This is contributing to the current financial difficulties.
The way to provide the best possible tertiary care most cost effectively involves the creation of one single national paediatric hospital, alongside a major teaching hospital, bringing together all the medical and nursing expertise for complex conditions. The concept of bringing together all three present services is widely accepted.
The Children's Health First Report commissioned by the Health Service Executive indicated that the population and projected demands in this country can support only one world class tertiary paediatric hospital. It recommended that the hospital should be in Dublin and should, ideally, be located with a leading adult academic hospital in order to optimize the outcomes for children. Following detailed consideration, it was decided that the most appropriate location for the new National Paediatric Hospital is at the Mater Hospital.
The development, one of the most significant to be undertaken in the health service, is being overseen by the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board which was established in May, 2007.
The current timetable for completion of the new hospital is:
Q2, 2009 — Completion of the Project Brief (including the detailed design brief);
Q3, 2009 — Sign-off detailed design brief;
Q3, 2010 — Preliminary foundation works with site development to begin (subject to Planning Permission);
Q4, 2013 — Construction completed;
Q4, 2014 — Fit-out and commissioning.
It is therefore entirely appropriate that we should now move towards that model of care in terms of closer integration and co-operation in the medical areas and in the most cost effective use of resources.
In 2009 the Government will provide over €250m for the running of three paediatric hospitals in Dublin. We can achieve significant cost savings if services and practices are more closely integrated across the three hospital sites, even before the new National Paediatric Hospital has been completed.
With this in mind, the HSE is pursuing ways in which services across the three hospitals can best be co-ordinated, to avoid unnecessary duplication and to achieve savings that can be put back into patient care. For example: the three children's hospitals in Dublin have agreed and developed a model for the development of a joint department of paediatric surgery. The clinical network across the three hospitals will make the best use of the resources that are available and will ensure a ‘single system of care'. A recruitment process is underway to recruit three replacement surgeons that will then give the joint department a complement of 7 surgeons (currently 5 in place, with 1 due to retire shortly). It is anticipated that these posts will be filled by year end.
The HSE commissioned a review in 2008 of paediatric critical care facilities and services with a view to addressing any identified deficits in advance of the opening of the new National Paediatric Hospital.
The resulting Report recommended that Paediatric Critical Care Services should operate as a single/joint clinical department across Temple Street and Crumlin sites (Tallaght does not have an ICU) with a lead clinician, initially as part of a combined Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care. An Irish Paediatric Critical Care Network has been established as the advisory body to lead the development of a co-ordinated system for the delivery of paediatric critical care services and to develop advice, standards and recommendations regarding the optimum delivery of paediatric critical care services in the country.
An independent chair has been appointed (Dr. Des Bohan, Medical Director, Critical Care Services for Children, Toronto), who is an international respected expert, to facilitate and guide the development of the joint department of paediatric critical care. Other areas currently being examined in relation to increased co-operation are in the areas of renal services, genetics, endocrinology and dermatology services amongst others.
216 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has been in discussions with North Tipperary pre-school providers to determine if the new Government sponsored pre-school year has been deemed adequate by these providers in terms of the proposed fee provided by the State and if this fee will cover all costs; the number of children from the area who will be availing of the scheme; the number of service providers in North Tipperary; when the scheme will be introduced; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26091/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, I have responsibility for the implementation of the new Early Childhood Care and Education scheme which provides a free Pre-School year to eligible children and which will be introduced in January 2010.
Immediately following the announcement, details regarding the scheme were communicated to the City and County Childcare Committees, including North Tipperary County Childcare Committee, and the National Voluntary Childcare Organisations, all of which are funded by my Office. The scheme was subsequently discussed with them in depth at a special seminar held on 7 May 2009. I have also had a number of meetings, since the announcement of the scheme, with the National Voluntary Childcare Organisations who represent the views of their members throughout the country and I have listened carefully to what they had to say. Where possible, issues raised by the sector have been taken into account in the terms and conditions governing the scheme.
An annual capitation fee of over €2,400 will be paid to participating services in return for the provision of a free pre-school year to each child. This is equivalent to approximately €276 per month where a service is participating for 38 weeks and approximately €207 per month where it participates for 50 weeks. The capitation fee and its application on a weekly basis are considered reasonable. Approximately 1,000 community child care services, most of which are expected to apply for entry into the new scheme, already participate in the Community Childcare Subvention Scheme (CCSS). The average fee charged for a sessional pre-school place in these services is €50 per week. The ECCE capitation fee also compares very favourably to that paid to private and voluntary pre-school services under the Pre-School Programme Expansion Scheme operated in Northern Ireland which amounts to approximately £30 per week.
Each participating service will have to meet the costs of the new free pre-school year from the capitation provided under the scheme. However, it is noted that services participating in the scheme may charge parents for additional services which they provide, including additional hours and additional activities or services provided these are offered on an optional basis to parents and provided appropriate programme based activities are provided to children not participating in an additional activity
The scheme is open to approximately 4,800 pre-school services operating in the State, including full and part-time daycare services as well as sessional playschool services. My Office recently wrote to these services inviting them to participate in the scheme and enclosing application forms and other relevant information. It is expected that the application process will be completed by the end of September 2009 and following this a list of participating services in each area will be available to each City and County Childcare Committee.
Many of the services expected to participate in the new scheme will have already received capital grant aid under the Equal Opportunities Childcare Programme (EOCP) and or the National Childcare Investment Programme (NCIP). More than 65,000 additional child care places will have been created by the end of 2010 as a result of this investment. I am aware from representations received from pre-school services in recent months that many are currently reporting vacancy rates of up to 25% in their facilities. I am also aware of a number of people now considering investing in a child care business of their own, many of them existing qualified child care workers. Also, many services which to date have only been open in the morning, citing lack of demand for an afternoon session, are now considering offering an additional session to meet an increase in local demand. My Office and the City and County Childcare Committees will monitor the situation carefully, following the implementation of the scheme, to ensure that the beneficial impact of the scheme for parents and children is maximised.
217 Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Health and Children when a claim by a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim under the nursing home refund scheme will be awarded; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26100/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
218 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will be re-issued in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26104/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
219 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans to extend a service (details supplied). [26109/09]
The expert advice from BreastCheck and from the National Cancer Forum, as contained in the National Strategy for Cancer Control, is that following the national roll out of the programme to women between the ages of 50 and 64 years, the upper age limit should be extended to women aged 69 years. The priority of BreastCheck is to screen women who have not yet been screened and accordingly it is fully focussed at present on the completion of the first round of screening in the West and South.
I will consider extending the age limit as recommended when the national roll-out of the programme is sufficiently developed and it is assured that a quality service is being delivered. Any woman irrespective of her age who has immediate concerns or symptoms should contact her GP who, where appropriate, will refer her to the symptomatic services in her area.
220 Deputy Bernard Allen asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the situation at Mallow Hospital, Cork, where a CAT scanner is again lying idle with a radiographer unable to operate it as a result of staffing problems and patients are being sent to a private hospital in Cork for scans at a minimum daily cost of €3,000; and if she will investigate this case. [26119/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
221 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the fact that cystic fibrosis patients at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Dublin, remain on crowded wards and are therefore at risk of potentially fatal infection, and that, despite this situation, St. Vincent’s is closing a ward used by CF patients on 1 July 2009 in order to save money; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26120/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
222 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children the projects listed for the Health Service Executive south; and the location of same. [26125/09]
224 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children the capital projects which will proceed in the Health Service Executive south in 2009. [26127/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 222 and 224 together.
The Health Service Executive is currently amending its Capital Plan to take account of its revised capital allocation following the Supplementary Budget. In determining its capital investment programme, the HSE is required to prioritise the projects to be progressed taking account of the targets for apportionment of capital investment between the Acute and Primary, Community & Continuing Care programmes. Planned expenditure for 2009 will need to be managed carefully within the available limits and further commitments will require prioritisation within the likely funding envelope in future years.
When revised, the Executive's capital proposals must be submitted for my approval with the agreement of the Minister for Finance. Details of the individual projects being included in the Capital Plan will be made available when the plan is approved.
223 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding proposals for a new maternity unit at Kerry General Hospital. [26126/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
225 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children the intended start date for fair deal, now that the legislation has passed all stages in Dáil Éireann; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26134/09]
226 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if a person who has been made a ward of court will enjoy the same protections under fair deal in terms of cap on their contribution as any other individual. [26135/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 225 and 226 together.
The Nursing Homes Support Scheme Bill 2008, A Fair Deal, has completed all Stages in the Houses of the Oireachtas and has been referred to the President for signature. The Minister intends to implement the scheme in the final quarter of this year.
With regard to the Deputies question about individuals who have been made a ward of court, I can confirm that such individuals will benefit from all of the same protections under the scheme as any other individual.
227 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the income limits and other conditions that apply to a person, to be deemed eligible to apply for a medical card; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26145/09]
Persons and their dependants who would experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of general medical and surgical services are eligible for a medical card, which entitles them to a range of health services free of charge. In 2005, the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on moderate and lower incomes, particularly parents of young children, who do not qualify for a medical card, would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP. The full income guidelines as of 1st January 2009 that apply to applicants for a medical card or a GP visit card are set out in tabular form below.
|
Medical Card Weekly Rate 01/01/2009 |
|
|
Single Person Aged 70 and over |
€700.00 |
|
Married Couple Aged 70 and over |
€1,400.00 |
Persons whose income is above €700 per week (gross) for a single person and €1,400 per week (gross) for a married couple and whose circumstances are such that it would cause them undue hardship to provide medical and surgical services for themselves, may be considered for a medical card on a discretionary basis.
Income from Savings/Investments/Property
Any savings up to €36,000 (single) / €72,000 (couple) will be disregarded and only interest from savings above these figures will be considered as income for means testing purposes.
Income will not be imputed from property (whether a family home, a holiday home or any other property) for means testing purposes, unless it is rented and only the net rental income will be included as income. The income to be assessed will be the gross income, less any cost necessarily incurred associated with the property and such cost may include insurance premia, loan/mortgage repayments, maintenance, etc.
Only dividend payments will be considered as income for means testing purposes in the context of shares and investments.
|
(Effective from 01-01-2009) |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Medical Card Weekly Rate 01/01/2009 |
GP Visit Card Weekly Rate 01/01/2009 |
|
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Single Person Living Alone |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
184.00 |
276.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
201.50 |
302.00 |
|
Single Person Living with Family |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
164.00 |
246.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
173.50 |
260.00 |
|
Married Couple/Single Parent Families with Dependent Children |
||
|
Aged up to 65 years |
266.50 |
400.00 |
|
Aged between 66-69 years |
298.00 |
447.00 |
|
Allowances |
||
|
Allowance for first 2 children under 16 years financially dependent on applicant |
38.00 |
57.00 |
|
For 3rd and subsequent children under 16 years financially dependent on applicant |
41.00 |
61.50 |
|
Allowance for first 2 children over 16 years financially dependant on applicant |
39.00 |
58.50 |
|
For 3rd and subsequent children over 16 years financially dependent on applicant |
42.50 |
64.00 |
|
For a dependant over 16 years in full-time education and not grant-aided |
78.00 |
117.00 |
Other Items Considered
In assessing if a person qualifies for a Medical Card or a GP Visit Card, the HSE must have regard to the person's overall financial situation and not just their income.
The assessment of eligibility for medical cards will be based on the combined income of the applicant and spouse (if any) after tax and PRSI have been deducted.
Applicants whose weekly incomes are derived solely from Social Welfare or Health Service Executive allowances/payments, which are in excess of the Financial Guidelines (either at first application or renewal) will be granted a medical card.
Additional guideline allowances will be given for:
Reasonable expenses incurred in respect of rent/mortgage payments;
Reasonable expenses incurred in respect of childcare costs;
Reasonable expenses incurred in travel to work.
Expenditure in relation to medical costs will be considered.
In respect of savings and investments, the first €36,000 for a single person and €72,000 in respect of a couple is disregarded when determining income.
If an applicant's income is over the guidelines they may still qualify if their personal circumstances cause undue financial hardship.
228 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a dedicated direct contact line for Oireachtas Members to contact officials in her Department in the new medical card section based in Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26147/09]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has the operational responsibility for the General Medical Services (GMS) Scheme. Up to the start of this year, medical card and GP visit card applications were processed in the 32 local health areas. However, under the HSE's 2009 Service Plan, the processing of all medical card and GP visit card applications will transfer to the Executive's Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) in Dublin. The change is being implemented on a phased basis and has commenced with the PCRS processing all medical card applications for persons aged 70 or over. The PCRS is committed to responding to all queries from Oireachtas members and the wider public. Its phone number is 01-8647100.
The HSE has established a Parliamentary Affairs Division (PAD) to co-ordinate and manage Parliamentary Questions and representations from Oireachtas members. The Executive is committed to responding to all Oireachtas members' PQs and representations and should a Deputy have any difficulty with regard to a reply to their question, they can contact the HSE central PAD on 01-6352505 or email pad@hse.ie.
229 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Health and Children the impact the proposed centralisation of medical cards will have on applicants in North Tipperary; the staff who are currently employed doing this work including community welfare officers and clerical staff; the way the service will be improved by removing local knowledge and local expertise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26148/09]
Up to the start of this year, medical card and GP visit card applications were processed in the 32 local health areas. However, under the Health Service Executive's 2009 Service Plan, the processing of all medical card and GP visit card applications will transfer to the Executive's Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) in Dublin. The change is being implemented on a phased basis and has commenced with the PCRS processing all medical card applications for persons aged 70 or over.
The HSE has advised my Department that there are no plans to close any of the local health offices and these offices will continue to deal with queries of a general nature about the medical card scheme and will provide any assistance needed with the application process. However, the process will involve a reassignment of existing human resources within the HSE.
Under the new arrangements, the HSE will be aiming for a turnaround time of 15 days or less for all medical card applications. Emergency applications will be dealt with immediately with a card issuing within 24 hours. People whose income exceeds the income guidelines but have a case to be considered on medical or hardship grounds will continue to have their application considered by the PCRS.
Since medical card applications will all be processed centrally, this will result in a more consistent and transparent approach being applied.
This is an example of the type of innovation signalled in the Transforming Public Services Programme announced by the Taoiseach last November. It demonstrates how improved services can be delivered within the more limited resources available in a way which meets the needs of citizens in a modern society.
As the Deputy's question refers specifically to the position in North Tipperary, my Department has requested the Parliamentary Affairs Division of the Executive to arrange to address this matter, and to have a reply issued directly to the Deputy.
230 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that children (details supplied) in County Sligo who are in need of orthodontic treatment will receive that treatment as soon as possible; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26189/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
231 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the independent audit of currently retained organs in all hospitals here which is being carried out following the Madden Report into post mortem practice; if a draft report or final report has been received either by her or the Health Service Executive; if this report will be published and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26192/09]
Dr Deirdre Madden's report on Post Mortem Practice and Procedures recommended that "an independent audit must be carried out of currently retained organs in all hospitals in the State". To implement this recommendation, the Health Service Executive (HSE) commissioned Ms Michaela Willis, former Member of the UK Human Tissue Authority and founder member and Chair of the UK National Committee relating to Organ Retention, to undertake an independent audit.
The HSE has advised that field work for Ms Willis's independent audit, which included site-visits to all hospitals that carry out post-mortem examinations in the State, has been completed. This data is being compiled and a report based on the audit is currently being prepared by the author. When this report of the independent audit is completed by the author, the HSE will arrange the publication of the full and final report. I understand that this process will be completed over the coming months.
232 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in allocating funding to enable day placement for a person (details supplied). [26201/09]
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.
233 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has prepared a compliance cost analysis on the impact of new restrictions on tobacco sales; and if she is satisfied that small shops will not be unfairly disadvantaged in the operation of these restrictions. [26204/09]
The measures in question were provided for in legislation enacted by the Oireachtas in 2002 and confirmed again by Government and the Oireachtas in 2004 prior to the Government's decision of 21 June 2005 that Regulatory Impact Analysis (RIA) including cost benefit analysis should be carried out on all proposals for primary legislation. I do not believe that these measures, which will come into effect tomorrow, will impose onerous obligations on tobacco retailers.
234 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans in place or are proposed to secure the future of orthopaedic services in Sligo General Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26210/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
235 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she and the Health Service Executive recognise autism as a condition in its own right; if a person who is diagnosed as autistic can expect to receive supports from the health service as a result of such diagnosis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26212/09]
Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) are a group of developmental disabilities defined by significant impairments in social interaction and communication and the presence of unusual behaviours and interests. Many people with ASDs also have unusual ways of learning, paying attention or reacting to different sensations. The thinking and learning abilities of people with ASDs can vary — from gifted to severely challenged.
In relation to the provision of health services, the intention of an assessment of need is to identify the health needs resulting from an individual's disability. The provision of services for people with autism is therefore determined by the level of need presented.
The Health Service Executive provides health services and supports to people with autism. As the Deputy's question relates to service matters I have arranged for the question to be referred to the Executive for direct reply.
236 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8 is satisfactorily concluded and that there will be no further postponement. [26215/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
237 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of crutches or pairs of crutches purchased by the Health Service Executive in the years 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008; the cost on the HSE for such crutches over the four years period and further; the number of crutches returned or accepted by the HSE during that same period; the policy of the HSE in respect of re-using or re-cycling crutches; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26217/09]
The Deputy will be aware that I arranged for a similar question raised by him on 26 May 2009 to be referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply. I understand from the Executive that the material is being collated and a reply will issue shortly.
In the meantime, the Department of Health and Children has sought a full assessment of the existing position regarding the recycling of medical equipment / aids and appliances from the Health Service Executive, to include the scope for improving the way this issue is dealt with.
238 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children the plans to relocate the Central Mental Hospital from Dundrum to Portrane; the stage the plans are at; if Fingal County Council and local residents will be consulted at the outset before the plans are progressed further; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26229/09]
In May 2006 the Government confirmed the decision to develop a new Central Mental Hospital (CMH) at Thornton Hall, County Dublin. Since then, a draft project brief has been prepared and a Cost Benefit Analysis has been completed. None of the work undertaken to date has been site specific but a number of difficulties have now emerged with the Thornton Hall site. The HSE has identified a need for an Intellectual Disability Forensic Mental Health Unit and a Child and Adolescent Forensic Mental Health Unit. Neither of these units would be viable as a stand alone facility and they should be co-located with the CMH, but the twenty acre site at Thornton Hall is not large enough to allow for these additional developments. Moreover, the construction of these additional units at a location separate to the CMH would incur increased capital and revenue costs. The planning and design process for the CMH redevelopment project will soon need to become site specific and all of the issues involved are currently being considered. The Deputy can be assured that if the Government decide to change the location of the new hospital, the HSE will, in due course, undertake a consultation exercise with stakeholders.
239 Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a medical appointment for 25 June 2009 in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon has been cancelled again; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the person has been waiting three years for this surgery; and if she will ensure that an early appointment will be arranged. [26232/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
240 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ensure that the health repayment scheme reimbursement is awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Leitrim as a matter of urgency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26236/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
241 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive orthodontic treatment. [26237/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
242 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 168 of 19 April 2005, her views on whether to conduct an investigation into vaccine trials carried out on children in State care; the methods of compensation for the adults involved in same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26248/09]
On 28th November 2006, the Minister for Health and Children, Mary Harney TD, announced that there would be no further examination of the question of vaccine trials in institutional settings. The trials were the subject of a report by the Chief Medical Officer which was laid before the Oireachtas in November 2000. The decision followed a detailed examination of judgements in court cases related to the vaccine trials heard in both the High Court and the Supreme Court.
243 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the labelling obligations of fast food outlets regarding the amount and type of nutritional and other information such establishments must display the point of display, whether on packaging, at the point of sale or otherwise; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26257/09]
Currently, EU general labelling requirements for all foodstuffs are set out in Directive 2000/13/EC. This Directive lists the compulsory information to be included on all labels, such as the list of ingredients, the use-by date and any special conditions of use. In addition to the general legislation, there are certain labelling rules for certain food groups (e.g. country of origin labelling for beef), and specific measures including labelling provisions for certain foods and substances (e.g. beef, fish, chocolate, dietetic foods, food supplements, fortified foods etc).
Nutrition labelling on food is currently regulated by Directive 90/496/EEC, transposed into Irish law by the European Communities (Nutrition Labelling for Foodstuffs) Regulations, 2005 (S.I. No. 65 of 2005). This sets out the requirements for the nutrition labelling of foodstuffs to be delivered to the ultimate consumer and to foodstuffs intended for supply to restaurants,fast food outlets, hospitals, canteens and other similar mass caterers. Foodstuffs must not be placed on the market unless these Regulations are complied with.
At the moment, under EU legislation, nutrition labelling is optional, although it becomes compulsory when a nutrition or health claim is made in the labelling, presentation or advertising of a foodstuff or when vitamins or minerals are voluntarily added to foods.
In January 2008, the European Commission presented its proposals on updating and harmonising this legislation. The proposal is still under discussion. This proposal introduced new provisions for a mandatory nutrition declaration and for mandatory allergen labelling amongst others. This declaration in Article 29(1) proposes that "the mandatory nutrition declaration shall include the following:
(a) energy value;
(b) the amounts of fat, saturates, carbohydrates, sugars, and salt.”
In November 2008, Ireland submitted its position paper on the proposal. This paper was informed by submissions made to the FSAI by many of the key stakeholders. Ireland's position will be further informed by the outcome of an FSAI Consumer Survey. In its position paper, Ireland supports Article 29(1) and mandatory allergen labelling and in addition seeks the inclusion of trans fats, fibre, folic acid, calcium, iron and vitamin D in the mandatory nutrition declaration.
Since January 2008 a number of meetings have taken place at European Union Working Group level, attended by officials from Department of Health and Children and the Food Safety Authority of Ireland. The next meeting is due to take place on 6 July 2009.
244 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the method by which labelling and nutritional and general food labelling obligations of fast food retail outlets are inspected or monitored; the agency or body responsible for same; the frequency of inspections; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26258/09]
Responsibility for the enforcement of food labelling legislation in fast food retail outlets rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI). Checks on compliance are incorporated into routine hygiene inspections for such establishments. These inspections are carried out by the Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) in the Health Service Executive (HSE) operating under a service contract with the FSAI.
The official controls (verification, inspection, audit, sampling and analysis, monitoring and surveillance) applying to food business operators, including fast food retail outlets, take in to account food safety requirements set out in law, the requirements of the Service Contract between HSE and FSAI, and the National Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP) Strategy. Also included in these inspections are checks on compliance with labelling regulations in retail, catering and some food processing outlets as appropriate. It is expected that the finalisation of the proposed European Commission labelling Regulation will result in the compulsory presentation of allergens and a nutritional declaration on the label. HSE labelling inspections are done as part of the normal routine food safety inspections.
Frequency of inspection is related to the risk categorisation of the establishment; (High, Medium, Low risk) the means by which establishments are categorised by HSE is set out in FSAI Code of Practice 1. This code also includes guidance to take account of the provisions in Article 3 of Regulation (EC) No. 882/2004 on general obligations with regard to the organisation of official controls.
While no separate figures are available for fast food outlets during 2008, 46,873 inspections were carried out in HSE supervised establishments. As an outcome of these inspections, 18,169 infringements of which 1,358 or 7.5% related to labelling were observed.
245 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Health and Children the contacts she has had with community pharmacists in respect of her announcements regarding the cost of drugs and medicines; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26261/09]
On 18 June 2009, I announced details on the reduction of payments to community pharmacists under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009. A public consultation, under the Act, took place in March 2009 where all interested stakeholders were invited to make submissions on the matter. As part of that process the Irish Pharmacy Union (IPU), as the representative body of pharmacists, submitted a written submission and made an oral submission to Department officials. In addition, 104 other written submissions were received largely from community pharmacists. These submissions along with the other submissions received were analysed and considered before I made my decision on the restructuring of payments.
247 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on the long-running industrial dispute between her Department and the Department of Social and Family Affairs that is preventing greater flexibility in the provision of community welfare services to persons who have become unemployed. [26265/09]
The long-running industrial dispute referred to by the Deputy is not in fact between my Department and the Department of Social and Family Affairs, but rather arises from resistance by the trade unions representing the staff employed in the Community Welfare Service, SIPTU and IMPACT, to the transfer of the Community Welfare Service from the HSE to the Department of Social and Family Affairs taking place.
The Government decided in 2006, to transfer certain functions carried out in the Health Service Executive to the Department of Social and Family Affairs, including the transfer of income and support schemes, together with associated resources. A considerable amount of preparatory work for the transfer of the Community Welfare Service has already been completed. The IT, accommodation and financial management aspects are well advanced. The necessary legislative changes have been made and are subject to a Commencement Order.
Following on from the involvement of the National Implementation Body in December 2006, a Joint Liaison Group was set up comprised of the Unions, the HSE and the Departments of Health and Children and Social and Family Affairs to allow discussions take place to deal with the concerns of the staff involved. An independent facilitator, Mr. Conal Devine, was appointed to chair the discussions. While some progress was made during the discussions in relation to the future role of the Community Welfare Officers, no agreement has been reached in a number of areas related to terms and conditions of employment. These include pay assimilation to civil service pay scales and the future career path arrangements for the staff on transfer. The Government has recently considered a report on the progress of the transfer of functions programme and is determined that the transfer of the Community Welfare Service should be progressed. I understand that the HSE has requested that the Labour Relations Commission invite both parties to a conciliation meeting as soon as possible.
248 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 212 of 28 April 2009, the impact of the recruitment ban on acute hospital services and community health services in County Louth; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26268/09]
The previous Parliamentary Question raised on this matter (16406/09) was referred out to the Health Service Executive for attention and direct reply, as the recruitment of staff is a service matter for the Executive. I have been in contact with the Executive again, and requested that the response provided to the Deputy be clarified, specifically in relation to the location of County Louth.
249 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she is taking to support services at Roscommon County Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26305/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
250 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the steps she is taking to support services at Portiuncula Hospital, County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26306/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
252 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a director for mental health. [26409/09]
The HSE recently confirmed that a national lead dedicated to mental health will be appointed shortly.
253 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport his views on the reduced winter schedule of flights from the US to Shannon Airport; his plans to make funding available to market the US preclearance facility at the airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25721/09]
I am concerned and disappointed at the suspension of these services. I recognise the harsh realities of the marketplace at present and the impact that reduced demand has had on long-haul operations globally in the past few months. I am particularly concerned, from both a business and tourism perspective, at the impact on connectivity of Ireland arising from decisions to reduce flights to the wider US market. I made these concerns known to the Aer Lingus Chairman when I met him recently. The airline business globally is experiencing a significant drop in demands and yields, especially on long haul operations, and all airlines have had to cut capacity and fares.
While responsibility for marketing preclearance facilities at Shannon Airport is a matter for the Shannon Airport Authority the Government has allocated €47.25m, for the overseas marketing of Ireland as a tourist destination this year. Included in this amount is over €4.5m for regional marketing activity including the "Discover Ireland's Wonderful West" Campaign. The campaign is overseen by Tourism Ireland who will continue to work closely with Fáilte Ireland, Shannon Airport, Shannon Development, and the local tourism industry in the mid-west to vigorously promote the Shannon region through cooperative marketing campaigns. I understand that their campaign has generally been very well received to date.
Finally, as the Deputy will be aware, I have given priority to the enactment of the Aviation Preclearance Bill 2009 which I hope will pass all stages in the Dáil and Seanad before the summer recess. The Bill will provide the necessary legal basis for preclearance to commence at Shannon airport. Preclearance services should give Shannon a key advantage on the highly competitive transatlantic market.
254 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Transport his views on whether the cutting of €150 million from the roads maintenance budget is disproportionate, in view of the fact that 71% of road deaths here take place on secondary routes; if he will re-consider this decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25688/09]
In view of the severe constraints on Exchequer finances, it was found necessary to reduce the provision for regional and local road improvements by €150 million in the 7 April Supplementary Budget. As a consequence, road grants already allocated for regional and local roads in February were reviewed, and revised road grants totalling €447.7 million were allocated to local authorities on 14 April. These grants, which supplement expenditure by local authorities from their own resources, represent a very significant investment at a time when public finances are under severe pressure.
The capital budget for improvement works this year is €321.5 million. This will fund 241 separate improvement projects at various stages of planning design and construction, as well as 1,700 kilometres of road reconstruction under the Restoration Improvement Programme. The Department also finances safety works at high accident locations on the regional and local road network. Grants were allocated to local authorities in April to finance measures at 257 locations.
There was no reduction in the April Supplementary Budget in the provision for maintenance works and grants of €126 million were allocated to local authorities. The bulk of this — €85 million — is being invested in the Restoration Maintenance Programme and it is expected that there will be an increase in surface dressing output achieved by local authorities under this programme this year, compared with 2008.
Safety is a fundamental consideration in the improvement and maintenance of our road network and this high level of investment is continuing to deliver a significant road safety dividend.
255 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25713/09]
The Value for Money Reviews completed by this Department since 2006 are set out in tabular form below.
|
Name of Review |
Year completed |
|
Road Safety |
2006 |
|
CIE Subvention |
2007 |
|
The DTO Traffic Management Grants Scheme |
2008 |
|
Strategic Non National Roads |
2008 |
|
Railway Safety Programme |
2008 |
The finding of each review can be found on the Department's website at www.transport.ie (under Publications).
256 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25869/09]
The amount of interest paid by my Department in respect of the late payments for goods or services for the past five years and to date in 2009 is as follows:
|
Year |
€ |
|
2005 |
103 |
|
2006 |
893 |
|
2007 |
734 |
|
2008 |
284 |
|
2009 to date |
418 |
In response to a recent Government decision in relation to prompt payments, my Department is committed to paying suppliers within 15 days of receipt of valid invoices. My Department has put in place arrangements to comply with that decision.
257 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date by the Railway Safety Commission in relation to the introduction of unannounced testing for intoxicants at Iarnród Éireann; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25917/09]
258 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the results of random testing for intoxicants by the Railway Safety Commission; the action taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25918/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 257 and 258 together.
Under the Railway Safety Act 2005, random testing of safety critical workers on the railways in relation to intoxicants is a matter for the relevant railway undertaking, and not for the Railway Safety Commission. I refer the Deputy to the Annual Report 2008 of the Railway Safety Commission, where details of Iarnród Éireann's statistics in relation to testing for intoxicants are available.
259 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the nature of the 22 complaints received regarding public safety on railways here; the categories each complaint belonged to; if the complaints were upheld; if so, the action taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25919/09]
260 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Transport the facts of the case pertaining to industry concerns which resulted in a further investigation, including a review of standards as mentioned in the Railway Safety Commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25920/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 259 and 260 together.
The Deputy is referring to comments made by the Railway Safety Commission in its Annual Report 2008. The Railway Safety Commission is the independent safety regulator for railways and the details of the items raised by the Deputy are therefore a matter for the Commission which may be raised directly with it.
261 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport the relevant expertise and professional qualifications of his Departmental officials in the area of aviation safety management and aviation safety regulation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26176/09]
262 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport the training given to persons appointed to the board of the Irish Aviation Authority to enable them to exercise independently their personal and corporate responsibilities for aviation safety; his views on whether it is necessary to establish a safety committee of the board of the IAA and that the person with responsibility for the safety function should report directly to that committee in the same way as the internal auditor reports to the audit committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26177/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 261 and 262 together.
The Irish Aviation Authority was established by the Irish Aviation Authority Act, 1993. The principal functions of the Authority are the safety oversight of civil aviation activities and the provision of air navigation services in the State.
Prior to enactment of the 1993 Act, these functions were carried out by the Department of Transport and on its establishment relevant staff from the Department were transferred to the Authority. The Department did not retain any technical expertise in the areas of responsibility of the Authority. The authority is mandated under Section 14(1)(i) of the Act to advise the Government, myself as Minister for Transport or any other Minister of the Government in relation to any matter under its statutory remit either on its own initiative or at my request. In addition, Section 32 of the Act requires me periodically to commission an independent report on "the performance by the company of its functions in so far as they relate to the application and enforcement of technical and safety standards". Reports under Section 32 were commissioned and completed in 1996, 2000 and 2004.
The Directors of the Authority are appointed by me in accordance with Section 17 of the Act. The Act specifically provides in Section 38 that it is the responsibility of the Chief Executive of the Authority to advise the Directors on any matter relating to or affecting the technical or safety standards specified under Section 32 or the safety of civil aviation.
263 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if he will initiate the Section 32 safety examination of the Irish Aviation Authority without delay; if he will expand its remit to provide the opportunity for persons who had reported concerns with the 2004 examination to present them to the 2009 examination and to have these concerns examined and reported upon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26178/09]
264 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if he will publish the report of the Section 32 Aviation Safety Audit of 2004 together with other aviation safety audits completed since 2004; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26179/09]
265 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if he has investigated problems, reported to his Department in 2006, with the 2004 Section 32 safety examination of the Irish Aviation Authority; if so, his conclusions on same; if not, the reason therefore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26180/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 263 to 265, inclusive, together.
The Irish Aviation Authority was established by the Irish Aviation Authority Act, 1993. The principal functions of the Authority are the safety oversight of civil aviation activities and the provision of air navigation services in the State. Section 32 of the Act requires me "to appoint a person to carry out an examination of the performance by the company of its functions in so far as they relate to the application and enforcement of technical and safety standards" at three yearly intervals.
Reports under Section 32 of the Act were completed in 1996, 2000 and 2004. The intent of Section 32 of the Act is to ensure that I, as Minister, can be satisfied that the authority is capable of carrying out the functions conferred on it by Statute and that it's performance is satisfactory. Its purpose is not to investigate or report on specific concerns or complaints or to review previous reports commissioned by me under Section 32. I am aware of concerns raised by one individual in relation to an alleged conflict of interest in relation to the conduct of the 2004 examination and I am satisfied that this was not the case. The Act requires me to submit a copy of reports under Section 32 to the Government and to the company. It is not considered to be appropriate to publish these reports.
Since the Authority was established in 1993, there have been significant developments both at European level and internationally in relation to the regulation of civil aviation. In addition to the reports commissioned by me under Section 32, the Authority is also subject to regular audits of the performance of its safety regulation functions by Eurocontrol, the European Aviation Safety Agency and the International Civil Aviation Organisation. In this regard, I am currently considering the continued relevance of the requirements of Section 32 of the Act from both a public sector efficiency and value for money perspective.
266 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied that the system failures which occurred at Dublin Airport in July 2008 will not recur; the basis for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26181/09]
267 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Transport if he is satisfied with the report he received from the Irish Aviation Authority on the systems failures at Dublin Airport in July 2008, in view of the fact that, inter alia, it does not appear to state that there is a stand-by operational local area network which should have automatically come into service when the main operational local area network failed; the reason it failed to do so; the further reason the maintenance local area network was not manually switched into operation as is provided for should both operational networks fail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26182/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 266 and 267 together.
On 19 September, 2008 I received the Irish Aviation Authority's report on the radar malfunction at Dublin airport on 9 July, 2008. The report was also made publicly available on the Authority's website www.iaa.ie. As set out in the report, the measures being implemented by the IAA and THALES ATM were intended to minimise the effect of a recurrence of like or similar failures of the ATM system in the future. The report also describes the contingency arrangements in place and states that these arrangements are consistent with the best arrangements available worldwide.
268 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that 895 people were arrested for possession of drugs for sale and supply while they were on bail; the number of those suspected offenders who were again released on continuing bail; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25641/09]
The Garda Síochána Act 2005 makes provision for the compilation and publication of crime statistics by the Central Statistics Office, as the national statistical agency, and the CSO has established a dedicated unit for this purpose. I have requested the CSO to provide the statistics sought by the Deputy directly to him.
The law takes a serious view of offences committed by persons on bail. The Criminal Justice Act, 1984 provides for mandatory consecutive sentences to apply where a person is convicted of an offence committed while on bail. In addition, the law provides that the fact that an offence was committed while on bail must be treated as an aggravating factor at sentencing and that the court shall impose a sentence that is greater than that which would have been imposed otherwise, unless there are exceptional circumstances.
There have been concerns at how, in practice, our bail laws have been operating, and these led to the inclusion in the Criminal Justice Act, 2007 of a series of new provisions designed to tighten up on the granting of bail. These allow the prosecution to mount a more effective challenge to bail applications, for example, applicants for bail can be required to provide a statement of their means so that the prosecution can highlight any divergence their between their lifestyles and their stated means as evidence of their involvement in gangland activity. The Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) is now able to appeal to the High Court against a decision of the District Court to grant bail and against the conditions attached by the District Court to the bail.
The effectiveness of these provisions will be reviewed. In addition I intend to keep all aspects of the operation of our bail law under review to see whether further changes are necessary. One such change is included in the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill, currently going through the Oireachtas.
269 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond to a query in relation to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25645/09]
In the absence of more detailed information relating to the specific case, the Deputy will appreciate that I am unable to provide a definitive response. However, I can advise of the position generally.
Section 23 of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended, provides that a person who marries a non-Irish national, shall not, merely by virtue of the marriage, cease to be an Irish citizen, even if he or she acquires the nationality of the non-Irish national. The amended Section 6 (5) of the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, which is deemed to have come into effect on 2 December, 1999, provides that a person born in the island of Ireland who has renounced Irish citizenship by making a declaration of alienage under section 21 of the 1956 Act will remain entitled to be an Irish citizen. Such a person will not be an Irish citizen unless he or she makes a declaration of citizenship, in a form required by the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and in that case the resumed Irish citizenship operates from the making of that declaration.
The only way that a person who was born outside Ireland whose declaration of alienage had been accepted could subsequently regain Irish citizenship would be through naturalisation.
270 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made in regard to an application for naturalisation by persons (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25652/09]
Applications for certificates of naturalisation from the persons referred to in the Deputy's Question were received in the Citizenship Section of my Department on 16 October 2006 and 16 June 2006 respectively. Officials in that Section inform me that processing of the applications is at an advanced stage and the files will be forwarded to me for a decision in the coming months.
271 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if an item of the new prison officer uniforms is to be manufactured here; the countries of origin of the new uniforms; and the cost of the contracts to provide the uniforms. [25655/09]
I have been informed by the OPW that the tender competition for the manufacture of the new prison officer uniforms was published through the etenders website and in the EU Journal on the 17th July 2008. This was a full international competition, with no restriction in respect of the nationality of tenderers. The tender was responded to by 9 companies, 6 of which were based in this jurisdiction, 2 in Northern Ireland and 1 in the UK. The contract was awarded to the JBS Group Ltd based in Monaghan.
I can confirm that no Irish manufactured garments are included in the Irish Prison Service Uniform contract. In addition no Irish manufactured garments were offered by any of the other tenderers in this competition. The countries of manufacture of the 30 constituent garments are set out hereunder, which form a contract with an estimated value of €2.14 million.
|
Item Description |
Country of Manufacture |
|
Operation Coat & Trousers No 2 |
Indonesia |
|
Female Officer Tunics No 206 & 206A |
Czech Republic |
|
Female Officer Skirts No 22* |
India |
|
Female Officer Trousers No 155 |
India |
|
Male Officer Tunics No 203 |
Czech Republic |
|
Male Officer Trousers No 122 |
India |
|
Shirts (Long Sleeved) No 25 |
India |
|
Shirts (Short Sleeved) No 25 |
India |
|
Operational Fleece No 1P |
Indonesia |
|
Tie No 12 (Male) |
China |
|
Tie No 12 (Female) |
China |
|
Epaulettes No. 3 (Pairs) |
Pakistan |
|
Female Officers Cap No 124 |
Sri Lanka |
|
Male Officers Cap No 123 |
Sri Lanka |
|
Male Chief Officers Cap No 123A |
Sri Lanka |
|
Female Chief Officers Cap No 124A |
Sri Lanka |
|
Ceremonial Belt No 1 |
China |
|
Ceremonial Glove No 1 |
China |
|
Gloves No 21 — Male |
China |
|
Gloves No 21- Female |
China |
|
Dress Trouser Belt No 1 (Male & Female) |
China |
|
Tights No 1 (Black) Lightweight Support. |
U.K. |
|
Medical Orderlies Tunic No 3 |
U.K. |
|
Nurses Overall Tunic No 1 Male |
U.K. |
|
Chief Nurses Overall Tunic No 1A Male |
U.K. |
|
Nurses Overall Tunic No 2 Female |
U.K. |
|
Chief Nurses Overall Tunic No 2A Female |
U.K |
|
Nurses Trousers No 122N Male |
India |
|
Nurses Trousers No 155N Female |
India |
|
Nurses Fleece No 1 (Male/Female) |
Indonesia |
272 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for long term residency for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25680/09]
An application for long-term residency by the person referred to by the Deputy was made on 27 September 2007. Officials in the Long-Term Residency Section of my Department have advised me that it is currently in the latter stages of processing. As soon as a decision is made on the case, the person concerned will be notified.
273 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for naturalisation will be decided on for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25681/09]
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 January 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 early 2008. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average while an element of straightforward 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 the status of citizenship is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.
274 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when an application for naturalisation will be decided on for a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25682/09]
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 January 2008. On examination of the application submitted it was determined that the person concerned did not meet the statutory residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended. A letter informing her of this was issued on 19 May, 2008. It is open to the person in question to lodge a new application for a certificate of naturalisation with the Citizenship Division of my Department if and when she is in a position to meet the statutory requirements.
275 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application for long term residency for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo in view of the fact that his Department stated in April 2009 that this person would be contacted in writing within a number of days. [25686/09]
Officials in the Long-Term Residency Section of my Department inform me that a decision was made on the application for long-term residency from the person referred to by the Deputy on 24 June 2009. A letter informing the person in question of this decision was issued on 24 June 2009.
276 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25710/09]
My Department has completed two Value for Money and Policy Reviews (VFMs) between 2006 and 2008. These reviews covered the following areas: Review of Asylum and Immigration Process Review of Projects Funded by the Probation Service Copies of the Reports outlining the results of these VFMs have been submitted to the Dail Library in line with the Department of Finance Guidelines and are also available on the Department's website.
277 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when the transfer of property between persons (details supplied) will be finalised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25716/09]
I can inform the Deputy that under the Registration of Deeds and Title Act 2006, the Property Registration Authority (PRA) was established as and from 4 November, 2006. The PRA replaces the Registrar of Deeds and Titles as the registering authority in relation to property registration in Ireland and, subject to the above Act, is independent in the performance of its functions.
The Deputy will be aware of the service to T.D.s and Senators which provides information on the current status of applications, such as the subject of this question, which was introduced in May 2006. The service provides a speedier, more efficient and more cost effective alternative to submitting Parliamentary Questions. It is operated by the PRA and is available all year round. I can further inform the Deputy that his query has been forwarded to the PRA for attention and direct reply via the above mentioned service.
278 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of complaints of intimidation, threatening behaviour and verbal assault the gardaí have received or investigated from 2006 to date in 2009; the number of prosecutions ensued; the number of formal warnings and anti-social behaviour orders issued in view of these complaints; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25739/09]
In the time available it has not been possible for the Garda authorities to supply the details requested by the Deputy. I will be in contact with the Deputy when the information is to hand.
279 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made on an application under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 for leave to remain in the State in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25791/09]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 144 of 25 June 2009.
The position remains unchanged as consideration of the person's case is ongoing. While I am not in a position to give a precise timeframe as to when such considerations will be concluded, I wish to inform the Deputy that a decision is expected shortly and that the person concerned will be contacted directly and notified of any such decision.
280 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; if a visa will issue before their spouse’s passport expires; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25792/09]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person concerned made a Family Reunification Application in respect of his wife in June 2008. The Family Reunification Division of INIS has recently been in contact with the person in question requesting further information and documentation. On receipt of that information the application will be processed further.
281 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the application for residency or leave to remain in the State in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25793/09]
The person concerned arrived in the State as an unaccompanied minor. He was subsequently reunited with his mother and included on her asylum application on 31 January 2001. His mother's asylum application was refused on appeal. Following consideration of her case, under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, Deportation Orders were signed in respect of her and her children on 26 August 2004.
Judicial Review proceedings challenging the Deportation Order in respect of the above named were instigated in March 2005. These proceedings were subsequently settled. The terms of the settlement included that the Deportation Order in respect of the person concerned be revoked and that he be allowed to make an application for asylum in his own right.
On 13 February 2008 the person concerned applied for asylum as an adult in his own right. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 29 May 2009, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006).
To date no response has been received in my Department to this letter. The Deputy might note that each case is considered individually and regardless of whether or not written representations are submitted by or on behalf of the applicant. The case of the person concerned will be considered having regard to Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for Decision.
282 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in regard to residency in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25794/09]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 141 of Thursday, 9 October 2008, and the written Reply to that Question.
The person concerned applied for asylum on 13 February 2006. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 26 October 2007, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006).
The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.
In the event that the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file is passed to me for decision.
283 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is eligible for naturalisation; the procedure to be followed in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25795/09]
The Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 1956, as amended, provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. The conditions are that the applicant must — be of full age; be of good character; have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years; intend in good faith to continue to reside in the State after naturalisation; have made, either before a Judge of the District Court in open court or in such a manner as the Minister for special reasons allows, a declaration in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State.
In the context of naturalisation, certain periods of residence in the State are excluded. These include -periods of residence in respect of which an applicant does not have permission to remain in the State; periods granted for the purposes of study; periods granted for the purposes of seeking recognition as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Act, 1996.
It is open to the person concerned to lodge an application for a certificate of naturalisation with the Citizenship Division of my Department if and when they are in a position to meet the statutory requirements.
284 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if consideration will be given to self-catering accommodation in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Clare on medical grounds; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25796/09]
I am informed by the Reception and Integration Agency of my Department that there are no plans to relocate the person mentioned in the Question.
285 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when Part nine of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, which provides for a drug offenders’ register, will be established; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25802/09]
I have been informed by the Garda authorities that at present, a record of all persons subject to the notification requirements under Part 9 of the Criminal Justice Act, 2006 is maintained by the Garda National Drugs Unit, Dublin Castle and that arrangements are being put in place for such records to be maintained on a Divisional / District basis.
All persons subject of the requirements of Part 9, Criminal Justice Act, 2006 are monitored in accordance with the provisions of the Act and arrangements are being made for a Garda Inspector, in every Garda Division, to be nominated with responsibility for the monitoring of such persons, to ensure compliance by such persons within their Divisions.
I am further informed that as at 23 June, 2009 there are 770 persons subject to the requirements of Part 9, Criminal Justice Act, 2006.
286 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a decision will be made for citizenship for a person (details supplied) in County Cork who was granted naturalisation in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25811/09]
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 April 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 early 2008. 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 the status of citizenship is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.
However, I understand that the person concerned is a refugee. In accordance with the Government's obligations under the United Nations Convention relating to the Status of Refugees, every effort is made to ensure that applications from persons with refugee status are dealt with as quickly as possible.
287 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that the licensing costs imposed by the Private Security Authority are more than ten times those of Northern Ireland; that alarm installers do not require a licence in Northern Ireland; the number of licences issued by the PSA since its establishment; the amount of money collected for those licences; the cost to the Exchequer of PSA salaries and administration during that period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25821/09]
The Private Security Authority, established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, is the regulatory body with responsibility for regulating and licensing the private security industry. The Authority is an independent body under the aegis of my Department.
It is considered inappropriate to compare the licensing costs associated with the private security industry in the State with those in place in Northern Ireland, given the significant differences that exist in the regulation of security contractors in each jurisdiction. In comparison to the mandatory licensing system which is operated by the Private Security Authority, the Security Industry Authority (SIA) in Northern Ireland operates a voluntary scheme of registration for contractors in the security industry. This voluntary scheme is not in fact open to contractors involved in the installation of intruder alarms as this sector was precluded from the legislation establishing the SIA. Any direct comparison of costs between the two schemes would therefore be fundamentally flawed, when one considers the voluntary nature of the SIA scheme against the standards based mandatory licensing scheme administered by the Private Security Authority, with its associated regulatory responsibilities, including substantial enforcement costs.
With regard to the other issues raised by the Deputy, the Authority has informed me that it has issued approx 1,600 contractor licences since the introduction of contractor licensing in 2006. Most contractors are now on their second licence, as the two year licences originally issued began to expire in 2008. There are currently 844 active contractor licences. In addition, the Authority has issued approximately 23,500 individual licences to date. The first individual licences are due for renewal in January 2010.
I am also informed by the Authority that, since its establishment in 2005, it has received, up to the end of May 2009, a total of €7.9 million in licence fees while the total costs of salaries and administration were €8.4 million. Taking into consideration the start up costs involved in all such projects, the Authority, in line with Government policy, is now on target to fund the regulation of the security industry through the fees raised.
288 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a private security firm working for the Corrib gas project of a company (details supplied) and which employs over 50 security personnel does not require those personnel to wear uniforms or identifying badges contrary to the statutory terms of the licence issued by the Private Security Authority; if he will ensure that this company no longer breaches the law; if he will inform the local gardaí to ensure that personnel of the company who are in contact with the public at the Belanaboy site have clear identification markings at all times; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25831/09]
The Private Security Authority, established under the Private Security Services Act 2004, is the regulatory body with responsibility for regulating and licensing the private security industry. The Authority is an independent body operating under the aegis of my Department.
Section 30 of the Private Security Services Act, 2004 provides for the wearing of identity badges when providing a security service. It is envisaged that Regulations, to bring these provisions into effect, will come into force on 1 September 2009.
With regard to the wearing of uniforms by individuals who have been licensed by the Private Security Authority, I am informed by the Authority that employees of the company referred to by the Deputy wear a uniform which complies with IS.999:2004. This is the Irish standard which is required for licensing by the Authority. I am further informed that these particular staff also wear a high visibility vest with markings which identifies them as staff of that company.
289 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [25839/09]
The person concerned and her two children applied for asylum on 6 April 2005. The two children were included on their mother's asylum application. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 30 May 2007, that the Minister proposed to make Deportation Orders in respect of her and her children. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of Deportation Orders or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she and her should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006).
On the 1 August 2007, an application was made on behalf person concerned requesting that she be re-admitted to the asylum process in accordance with the provisions of Section 17 (7) of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended). Following consideration of this application, the application was refused and this decision was conveyed by letter dated 16 March 2009 to the legal representative of the person concerned.
The person concerned has submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.
In the event that the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3 (6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned will be passed to me for decision.
290 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will review the case of persons (details supplied) in County Cork; the position with regard to each case. [25840/09]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 174 of Tuesday, 7 April 2009, and the written Reply to that Question.
The first named person concerned arrived in the State on 22 January 2003 and applied for asylum. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), the first named person concerned was informed, by letter dated 9 December 2004, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations have been submitted on behalf of the first named person concerned and these representations will be fully considered, under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, before the file is passed to me for decision.
The second named person concerned arrived in the State on 20 May 2005 and applied for asylum. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the second named person concerned was informed, by letter dated 26 April 2006, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted by the second named person concerned at that time.
The second named person concerned has also submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006) and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the second named person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.
In the event that the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the second named person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the second named person concerned is passed to me for decision.
291 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the residency status of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; if, in view of their background, he will reconsider their application for political asylum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25849/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 2 September 2005. His application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 31 May 2007, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of him. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, he was notified of his entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006).
The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.
In the event that the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned is passed to me for decision.
292 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the garda resources allocated to areas (details supplied) in County Louth; if he will increase the resources; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25854/09]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that as at the latest date for which figures are readily available, there were 4 members based in Dunleer Garda station and 4 members based in Clogherhead Garda Station. These stations, together with Drogheda Garda Station, form the Drogheda Garda District which has a total personnel strength of 113.
The allocation of policing resources throughout the Country, including personnel, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and senior Garda Officers. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed and this ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.
293 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25866/09]
The amount of interest paid by my Department in respect of late payment for goods and services during the past five years is as follows: €10,342 (2005) , €35,845 (2006), €65,778 (2007), €41,572 (2008) and €4,634 (year to May 2009).
Based on a review of invoices received by my Department in the year to date and paid up to 31st May, 2009, the average time from receipt to payment is less than 14 working days.
294 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the length of time it takes for an individual to receive garda clearance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25881/09]
295 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons employed by the Garda Central Vetting Unit; and the details of their positions. [25882/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 294 and 295 together.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the average processing time for Vetting Applications received by the Garda Central Vetting Unit (GCVU) is four to five weeks. I am further informed by the Garda authorities that at present a total of 78 personnel is assigned to the Garda Central Vetting Unit, comprising eight Gardaí and 70 civilian personnel.
296 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on an incident (details supplied); if action will be taken to improve the situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25889/09]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that local Garda management is aware of the incident referred to by the Deputy. The matter is under active Garda investigation, and it is anticipated that an investigation file will be submitted to the Law Officers for consideration as to what charges, if any, should be preferred.
The Deputy will appreciate that, as the investigation is ongoing, it would be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.
297 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will expedite the processing of a holiday visa application on behalf of a person (details supplied). [25912/09]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the visa application for the person referred to has been approved.
298 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the fact that some letting agencies are charging fees of between €80 and €100 to social welfare recipients to consult with a landlord on reducing the amount of rent charged; and that such a fee is prohibitive for many people in receipt of social welfare allowances; his plans to prohibit this practice; the method by which he will do so; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25916/09]
The Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009 provides for establishment of the Property Services Regulatory Authority on a statutory basis. One of the primary functions of the new statutory Authority will be to operate a licensing system for property services providers, including letting agents.
Part 7 of the Bill makes detailed provision for a comprehensive system for investigating complaints against licensees and imposing appropriate sanctions where such complaints are upheld. The Bill provides that any person may make a complaint to the Authority concerning the provision of a property service and requires the Authority to investigate the complaint.
The Bill was presented in the Seanad on 7 May 2009 and is currently awaiting Committee Stage.
299 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of An Garda Síochána who have received early retirement nationally and in North Tipperary since the 7 April 2009 supplementary Budget; the ranks and position of those who have left the force; if their positions have been filled; the number of members of the force operating at present in North Tipperary; the number of gardaí currently in training; when the next batch of recruits will enter the Garda College; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26092/09]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí, by rank, who have voluntarily retired from the Force in the months of April and May was as set out in the table hereunder:
|
C/Supt |
Supt |
Insp |
Sgt |
Garda |
|
2 |
7 |
5 |
17 |
79 |
I have written to the Garda Commissioner in relation the information regarding retirements in the Tipperary Garda Division and I will write to the Deputy when this information is to hand.
The personnel strength of An Garda Síochána as at the latest date for which figures are readily available was 15,360 (14,426 attested members and 874 students in phases I-III). The strength of Tipperary Garda Division was 387 and 13 Reserve Gardaí.
The allocation of policing resources throughout the Country, including personnel, together with overall policing arrangements and operational strategy, is a matter for the Garda Commissioner and senior Garda Officers. Such allocations are continually monitored and reviewed and this ensures that optimum use is made of Garda resources and the best possible Garda service is provided to the general public.
As the Minister for Finance has made clear, the moratorium on recruitment and promotions in the Public Service applies to the Garda Síochána, both sworn members and civilian support staff. By its nature, it does not apply to the Garda Reserve, whose members are unpaid volunteers who do not occupy public service posts.
The moratorium is due to remain in place until the end of 2010, and can only be deviated from in exceptional circumstances with the consent of the Minister for Finance.
300 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he needs a site (details supplied) in County Tipperary to be completed in order to begin a new tactical firearms training programme for An Garda Síochána; when the proposal for the site was first announced; the stage of development the project is at; the number of stages ahead; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26093/09]
In late 2006 the Office of Public Works purchased the site referred to by the Deputy on behalf of An Garda Síochána for use long term as a practical training centre, including firearms training for Gardaí.
In the interim, An Garda Síochána have put in place arrangements for firearms training including the provision of modular live firearms facilities, the Firearms Automated Training System (FATS) and the use of army ranges. I am advised by the Garda authorities that there are sufficient resources and infrastructure in place to provide training for members of An Garda Síochána who are authorised to carry firearms.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that the development of the site referred to by the Deputy is at the conceptual planning stage and that the Garda authorities, in consultation with the Office of Public Works, are advancing their plans.
As the proposals are at an early stage of development and are dependent on availability of resources, it is not yet possible to give a timeframe for completion.
301 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if permission to remain in the State on humanitarian grounds will be offered to persons (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26101/09]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 292 of Tuesday 4 November 2008 and the written Reply to that Question.
The persons concerned are a husband and wife and their three children. The first named person concerned entered the State with one of his daughters and claimed asylum in the State on 29 December 2004. They were refused asylum, following the consideration of their claims by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), the first named person concerned was informed, by letter dated 12 September 2005, that the Minister proposed to make Deportation Orders in respect of him and his daughter. He was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of Deportation Orders or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why he and his daughter should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. Representations were submitted on their behalf at that time.
Following consideration of their case under Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement, the Minister signed Deportation Orders in respect of the first named person concerned and his daughter on 22 March 2006. These Deportation Orders were formally served by letter dated 24 March 2006.
On the 10 May 2006, an application was made on behalf of the daughter of the first named person concerned requesting that she be re-admitted to the asylum process in accordance with the provisions of Section 17(7) of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended). Following consideration of this application, the application was refused and this decision was conveyed by letter dated 4 September 2006. The first named person concerned and his aforementioned daughter remain the subjects of Deportation Orders.
The second named person concerned claimed asylum in the State on 23 December 2004. Her application was refused following the consideration of her claim by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), the second named person concerned was informed, by letter dated 20 May 2008, that the Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006).
The second named person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and, following consideration of this application, it was determined that she was not eligible for Subsidiary Protection in the State. She was notified of this decision by letter dated 30 October 2008.
The case file of the second named person concerned, including all representations submitted, will now be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this consideration has been completed, the case file of the second named person concerned is passed to me for decision.
The couple's other two children have lodged separate asylum applications. It is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications where a final decision has not been made.
As the Deputy will be aware, applications for refugee status in the State are determined by an independent process comprising the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and the Refugee Appeals Tribunal which make recommendations to the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on whether such status should be granted.
A final decision on each application is made following receipt of the recommendation of the Refugee Applications Commissioner or the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal, as appropriate.
302 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when a stamp four will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26102/09]
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the permission to remain in the State granted to the person concerned, under the IBC/05 scheme, was renewed in June of 2007, on Stamp 4 conditions, and is currently valid until 14 June 2010.
303 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status regarding an application for asylum by a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if, in view of their circumstances he will look favourably on this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26130/09]
The person concerned arrived in the State on 15 January 2007 and applied for asylum on 5 November 2007. She gave birth to a child in the State on 30 November 2007 and this child was included on her mother's asylum application. Her application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Subsequently, in accordance with Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was informed, by letter dated 10 July 2008, that the Minister proposed to make Deportation Orders in respect of her and her child. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of Deportation Orders or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why she and her child should be allowed to remain temporarily in the State. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations, 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006).
The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with these Regulations and this application is under consideration at present. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome.
In the event that the Subsidiary Protection application is refused, the case file of the person concerned, including all representations submitted, will then be considered under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) on the prohibition of refoulement. When this latter consideration has been completed, the case file of the person concerned will be passed to me for decision.
The Deputy might wish to note that the representations submitted on behalf of the person concerned established that the child of the person concerned was in fact an Irish Citizen by virtue of her father's residency status, in the State, at the time of her birth. Therefore, this child, as an Irish citizen cannot be considered for Subsidiary Protection nor will consideration be given to the making of a Deportation Order in respect of her irrespective of the outcome of her mother's applications.
304 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the three year delay in processing an application for political asylum by persons (details supplied) in County Cork; the current position regarding this application; the legal status of the children in this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26131/09]
The first named Applicant arrived in the State on 27 October 2006 and applied for asylum which was refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, a Deportation Order was signed in respect of the first named Applicant on 12 February 2009. Judicial Review Proceedings were instituted in the High Court on 28 April 2009, but these proceedings do not challenge the validity of the Deportation Order. As this matter is now sub judice I do not propose to comment further.
The second named Applicant arrived in the State on 8 December 2006 and applied for asylum which was refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, by the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Subsequently, a Deportation Order was signed in respect of the second named Applicant on 19 February 2009. As an exceptional measure, an undertaking was given not to enforce the Deportation Order in relation to the second named Applicant.
The third named Applicant was born in the State on 3 August 2007 and is the daughter of the first and second Applicant. Under the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act, 2004; she is not an Irish citizen. The third named Applicant applied for asylum on 9 April 2009, approximately one year and eight months after she was born and a few weeks after her parents were notified of the Deportation Orders made in respect of them. This application was refused by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner. This decision has been appealed to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal and a decision is pending. As Judicial Review Proceedings were instituted in the High Court on 28 April 2009, this matter is sub judice and I do not propose to comment further.
If an application for asylum has been made in respect of any of the other persons concerned, the Deputy should note that it is not the practice to comment on asylum applications that are pending.
305 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for political asylum by persons (details supplied) in County Cork; when a final decision can be expected on this application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26132/09]
If an application for asylum has been made by each of the persons concerned, the Deputy should note that it is not the practice to comment on asylum applications that are pending.
306 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if persons (details supplied) will be supported. [26190/09]
I assume the Deputy is referring to the position in law under which the defamation of a person who has died is not actionable. I can inform the Deputy that while there are no proposals for change on the matter the Defamation Bill 2006 does provide that a cause of action in defamation survives the death of the person in respect of whom the alleged defamatory statement was made.
The Deputy will appreciate that, as regards the particular subject matter of his question, the question in any event of applying any change in the law retrospectively is problematic.
307 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reasoning for the Legal Aid Board’s intention to establish a model law centre in Dublin City centre; the position regarding the post of managing solicitor; the number of solicitors at the Law Centre; the waiting time for legal aid boards in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26193/09]
I can inform the Deputy that the Legal Aid Board is committed to ensuring that it provides legal services in a professional, efficient and cost effective manner and, in order to achieve that objective, it has recently carried out comprehensive reviews of its operations.
The reports emanating from these reviews have recommended that the Board should establish a "model law centre" which would be used to develop a best practice template for the operation of all of the Board's law centres. It was envisaged that such a law centre would adopt standard procedures, processes and precedents in relation to the delivery of services and that it would have a far higher reliance on an updated ICT capacity to enable much of the routine work to be processed more efficiently and effectively.
I understand that the Board has accepted these recommendations and is about to launch a model law centre on a pilot basis in Dublin, based in the Board's existing premises in North Brunswick Street. The model law centre will be used to fully test and implement the relevant recommendations of these reports and to facilitate the subsequent new procedures and processes to be rolled out across the entire Board's operations. The centre will also be used to examine innovative ways of trying to reduce waiting times for first appointments for legal assistance and advice.
It is anticipated that the model law centre, which will in due course be staffed by four solicitors, will commence its operations initially with two solicitors, including a Managing Solicitor and it will also have a number of support staff. The actual number of solicitor and support staff will be based on the work load coupled with the opportunities to redeploy staff from other areas. I understand that the position of Managing Solicitor has now been filled and the person in question has now taken up the post.
I am informed that the waiting list times for the Dublin based law centres, as at the end of May, are on average 4 months.
308 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason the Legal Aid Board held its board meeting in its office at Cahirciveen, County Kerry; the breakdown of costs of board meetings by the Legal Aid Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26194/09]
The Deputy will be aware that the Legal Aid Board's head office is located in Cahirciveen, County Kerry and it is for this reason and in keeping with normal practice that the Board considers it appropriate to hold a number of its Board meetings there. In any particular year, the Legal Aid Board holds at least half of its Board meetings in Cahirciveen with the remainder held in Dublin. In 2008, six Board meetings were held in Cahirciveen and four in Dublin. This year to date, three Board meetings have been held in Cahirciveen and three in Dublin.
The total cost of travel and subsistence from January to end of May 2009 for Board members attending meetings was around €9,000. Costs are not recorded by reference to the location of particular meetings.
309 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the National Property Services Regulatory Authority has the necessary legislative powers to conduct its business; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26205/09]
The Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009 provides for establishment on a statutory basis of the Property Services Regulatory Authority. The Bill was presented in the Seanad on 7 May 2009 and is currently awaiting Committee Stage. I look forward to discussion of the Bill's provisions in this House in due course.
310 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, with regard to the recently published Bill on the use of firearms, he has received correspondence from an organisation (details supplied); if he has responded to them; if he will meet them to discuss their concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26235/09]
My proposals on firearms control measures were announced last November and are contained in the Criminal Justice (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2009 which completed Committee Stage on 18 June 2009. I have received and responded to the correspondence from the organisation referred to by the Deputy.
I also met with the Firearms Consultative Panel three weeks ago and listened to their views. While I undertook to reflect on the points they made, I reiterated the Government's reasons for restricting access to handguns. I have always made it clear that this ban was not brought forward in the context of tackling gangland crime. The situation which has come about in recent years was not as the result of any considered policy decision and, in particular, it has been made clear that the Government does not wish a handgun culture to take hold here. I consider that handguns are different because they are easy to conceal, because they can discharge a large number of bullets rapidly and because they feature so often in gun rampages. It is after such rampages that gun laws are invariably tightened up as can be seen in many countries around the world. Experience in other countries shows us that any relaxation of controls on gun ownership very quickly results in dramatic growth in firearms with many longer term negative downstream consequences.
While it is not my function to create a hierarchy of merit among the various target shooting disciplines, Olympic shooting activities would be generally recognised as being in a special category. At the other end of the spectrum not all shooting activities are as legitimate and credible as some of their proponents would claim them to be.
With the passage of this Bill, while the law will be tighter, people who hold firearms now will be able to apply to licence their firearm under the new licensing system. The Garda Commissioner will have the additional powers he needs to address matters relating to firearms licensing.
I am conscious, however, of the medium and longer term strategic and developmental issues for shooting sports in Ireland and as a result of my meeting with the Panel I have written to the Minister for Arts, Sports and Tourism in relation to a number of points.
311 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied). [26260/09]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person in question made an application for Family Reunification on behalf of her children in May 2008.
This application was forwarded to the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. This investigation is completed and the Commissioner has forwarded a report to my Department.
This application will be considered by my Department and a decision will issue in due course. At the present time Family Reunification applications are taking approximately 24 months to process.
312 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding legislation and regulations governing deliveries of alcohol to private houses at night-time; if there are restrictions on same; his plans to amend this legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26276/09]
The Government Alcohol Advisory Group considered issues relating to distance sales of alcohol in the Report which it submitted last year. Under section 17(3) of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 it is an offence for a licensee, with intent to evade the conditions of the license, to take alcohol from the licensed premises for the purpose of its being sold on the account or for the benefit or profit of the licensee, or to permit any other person to do so. Moreover, under section 31 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1988 it is an offence for a licensee to sell or deliver, or permit any other person to sell, or deliver, alcohol for consumption by a person under the age of 18 years in any place except with the explicit consent of the persons' parent or guardian in a private residence in which he or she is present either as of a right, or with permission.
In cases where alcohol is purchased from a licensee's web site, e.g. on-line shopping, the Group drew attention to the requirement that payment must be made as part of the on-line transaction and not later on delivery of the product. The Group considered that sales of alcohol which had been ordered by telephone or text messaging and which were paid for on delivery were illegal and recommended that the Gardaí should target dial-a-can and similar delivery services with a view to prosecuting the offending licensees.
During discussions leading up to the enactment of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008, I undertook to examine the possibility of making it an offence for third parties to deliver alcohol from licensed premises to customers where payment has not already been made in advance of delivery. I intend to deal with this matter in the forthcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill.
313 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of murder trials in which the accused was acquitted on legal, technical or other grounds since 1970; the number of such cases wherein proceedings could be resumed in the event of appropriate legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26295/09]
Statistics in relation to murder trials are a matter for the Courts Service, which under the Courts Service Act, 1998 is independent in the performance of its functions (s. 4(3)). Its functions include the management of the courts, (s.5(a)) and provision of court related information (s. 5(c)).
The Criminal Procedure Bill 2009, which is awaiting Committee Stage in Seanad Éireann, creates two exceptions to the rule again double jeopardy. The effect of this long-standing rule is that a person may not be tried twice for the same offence. The Bill provides that (1) where new and compelling evidence emerges after a person's acquittal; or (2) where evidence emerges that an acquittal is tainted, for example because of witness intimation, perjury or bribery, the Director of Public Prosecutions may apply to the Court of Criminal Appeal for an order quashing the acquittal and seeking a re-trial.
These provisions will apply to persons charged and acquitted after the commencement date — it will not be possible to use them to re-open old cases as I am advised that to do so could be viewed as an interference by the Oireachtas in the administration of justice. In other words, it could be seen as a breach of the constitutional position on the separation of powers.
314 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position in relation to the White Paper on Crime which was first promised 11 years ago; and when it is expected to be completed. [26462/09]
Earlier this year I announced the commencement of work on a White Paper on Crime which it is intended to complete during 2011.
A key element in the process will be the production of a series of discussion documents designed to stimulate and structure the debate on relevant topics. The first in the series will be published shortly.
Further information is available on my Department's website, which also provides an opportunity to express views on the process and to register for updates.
315 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25708/09]
The Evaluation and Audit Unit of my Department undertakes the programme of Value for Money Reviews under the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative. In the past three years, Value for Money Reviews have been completed in regard to the following activities: the Passport Service; support for Irish Emigrant Groups Programme; support to Tsunami Affected Countries; the Mozambique Country Programmes, 2001-2006.
The overall findings from the above reviews have been very positive. They have also brought forward a number of recommendations resulting in my Department taking appropriate actions to enhance the effectiveness of the programmes concerned.
For example, the review of the Passport Service concluded that the Passport Offices provide a high level of customer service. This report also highlighted major advances in the service in recent years such as the roll out of the automated production system and the production of e-passports.
In the case of programmes administered by Irish Aid, the Government's Official Aid Programme managed by my Department, the reviews seek to ensure that there is a clear focus on poverty reduction pursued through strategies and approaches in keeping with international best practice for improved aid effectiveness.
The Department's independent Audit Committee takes a close interest in the Value for Money Review process, including following up on the implementation of recommendations.
As with all major evaluations, completed Value for Money Reports, once approved, are laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas, submitted to the Oireachtas Select Committee on Foreign Affairs, and published on the Department's website.
316 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has received the requisite report from the Voter Education Fund and the Rock the Vote Project in respect of the funding he supplied under the Communicating Europe Initiative as detailed in his reply to Parliamentary Question No. 600 of 24 March 2009; if he will supply details of the requisite report; if he proposes to allocate a similar sum of money for similar campaigns in advance of the second Lisbon Referendum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25806/09]
My officials received a detailed report on the Rock the Vote project from the Voter Education Fund organisation on 5 June 2009. A copy of the report will be forwarded to the Deputy. The report describes the activities undertaken as part of the Rock the Vote project in encouraging participation in the referendum on the part of younger voters.
Proposals for projects under the Communicating Europe Initiative for 2009 were sought earlier this year. A total of 61 applications were received, a 50% increase on the number in 2008. The Voter Education Fund has not sought funding this year. Of the 40 applications approved for part or full funding this year, there is no project similar to Rock the Vote.
317 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish people who visited Cuba in 2008. [25851/09]
I do not have the information requested by the Deputy. However, I have raised this matter with the relevant authorities in Cuba, through the Embassy in Mexico which is also accredited to Cuba, and will forward their response to the Deputy as soon as I receive it.
318 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25864/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, payment of invoices by this Department is governed by the provisions of the Prompt Payment of Accounts Act, 1997 as amended by the European Communities (Late Payment in Commercial Transactions) Regulations 2002. The Act, which came into force in January 1998, provided for the payment of interest on invoices which are unpaid after 45 days from date of receipt. In August 2002, the point at which interest becomes due was reduced to 30 days.
The Government recently approved formal arrangements to reduce the payment period by central Government Departments to their suppliers from 30 to 15 days, in order to help ease cash flow difficulties for small business operating under current economic difficulties.
Every effort is being made by my Department to adhere to this deadline and make payments for goods and services within the limit. The payment procedures in operation in my Department are designed to avoid undue delay in the processing and payment of valid invoices.
The number of late payments in each year represents a very small part of the total number of payments made. For example, in 2008, my Department made over 11,000 payments in Ireland, of which only 24 were late payments under the terms of the Acts mentioned above, less than 0.2% of the total payments made.
The following table gives the total amount of interest paid to suppliers in the past five years.
|
Year |
Number of late payments |
Total Interest paid |
|
€ |
||
|
2005 |
35 |
2,982 |
|
2006 |
30 |
861 |
|
2007 |
33 |
2,208 |
|
2008 |
24 |
2,687 |
|
2009 (to date) |
3 |
702 |
319 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25700/09]
The following reviews were completed by my Department under the 2006-2008 round of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative:
Irish Film Board Expenditure Review
Local Authority Swimming Pools Programme Value for Money and Policy Report
Value for Money and Policy Review of the Irish Sports Council.
Copies of each of the above reports, which include specific findings and recommendations, were placed in the Oireachtas library and are also available on my Department's website, www.dast.gov.ie.
320 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25856/09]
The amount of interest paid in respect of late payments under the Prompt Payment of Accounts Acts for my Department for the past five years to date in 2009 is €7,657.92.
The Accounts Payable function of my Department is outsourced to the Financial Shared Services Centre of the Department of Justice, Equality & Law Reform, which is a Centre of Excellence in this area. I am satisfied that my Department adheres to Public Financial Procedures and Best Practice in relation to the execution of all of its financial transactions.
321 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism when a company (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive a grant which was approved prior to August 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26099/09]
The project in question was allocated €300,000 under the Sports Capital Programme in 2005, including a Clár top-up of €50,000, for development of a clubhouse. The grant allocation was subject to the terms and conditions of the Programme, which included the execution of a deed of covenant and charge. A deed of covenant and charge provides, inter alia, for a refund of the grant in the event of the facility not continuing to be used for the purpose for which the grant was allocated and is intended to protect the taxpayers’ investment in the project. My Department’s legal adviser, the Chief State Solicitor’s Office (CSSO) deals with the grantee’s solicitor in executing this deed.
The CSSO and the solicitors for the grantee are currently engaged in finalising the legal documents for this grant and it is hoped to have the legal matters completed as soon as possible.
322 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the grants available for businesses in the CLÁR area in north Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26167/09]
323 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the grants available for voluntary groups in the CLÁR area in north Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26169/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 322 and 323 together.
The Department operates a number of funding schemes and programmes, including most notably the Sports Capital Programme, the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme and the Arts and Cultural Capital Enhancement Support Scheme (ACCESS). None of these is currently open for applications.
The timing of further rounds of funding under these schemes and programmes have yet to be decided. They will then be published nationally. In the interim, details of these schemes and programmes, including eligibility criteria, are available on the Department's website at www.dast.gov.ie.
324 Deputy Mary Wallace asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position in relation to a programme (details supplied); the number of projects that have been assisted and approved to date; the total amount of funding that has been allocated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26281/09]
In accordance with the provisions of section 8(1) of the National Tourism Development Authority Act, 2003, it is a day-to-day matter for Fáilte Ireland to encourage, promote and support either inside or outside the State (a) the development of Tourism traffic within and to the state and (b) the development and marketing of tourist facilities and services within the State. In this regard, the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism does not administer the programme in question as it is a day-to-day matter for Fáilte Ireland.
The overall allocation of Grant-in-aid funding to Fáilte Ireland for Tourism Product Development under sub-head B5 of the Department's vote, from which the programme is funded, was €8 million in 2007, €14.8 million in 2008 and €7.1 million in 2009.
325 Deputy Darragh O’Brien asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the level of funding for the Dublin Leader programme for the 2009 grant scheme; the stage applications are currently at; when he expects payments to be made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25656/09]
As the Deputy is aware, Fingal LEADER Partnership is one of 36 groups contracted by my Department to deliver the Rural Development Programme Ireland 2007-2013. The Group covers all rural areas of County Dublin.
An overall allocation of €7,766,780 has been allocated to the Group for the duration of the Programme. Their 2009 allocation is (€514,549).
There are currently board-approved project commitments totalling €48,670 registered with my Department for the Group. In line with the bottom-up nature of the LEADER approach, the Group is the principal decision-maker in the allocation and subsequent management of project funding. As my Department does not have any role in this regard, I am unable to say specifically when project payments will be made.
326 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25702/09]
I assume the Deputy is referring to reviews carried out by my Department under the 2006-08 Round of VFM Reviews.
The following is the position:
(1) Drugs Initiative — Local Drugs Task Forces
Completed and laid before Oireachtas. Priority recommendations implemented.
(2) Scéimeanna Feabhsúcháin sa Ghaeltacht (Gaeltacht Improvement Schemes)
Completed and laid before Oireachtas. A number of the recommendations have been implemented or are in the course of implementation, with the remainder being considered in the context of the Report of the Socio-Linguistic Study of the Use of Irish in the Gaeltacht.
(3) Capital Programme for Offshore Islands
Completed and laid before Oireachtas. Issues in relation to the support of sustainable energy planning and development have been progressed in co-operation with Sustainable Energy Ireland. Development of performance monitoring indicators has also been advanced, while the need for project management support is being addressed through provision of relevant training.
(4) Ciste na Gaeilge (Fund for Irish Language Projects)
Completed and laid before Oireachtas. A number of recommendations implemented. External stakeholders have a role regarding a significant number of the remaining recommendations, which, following discussions, will be implemented progressively, as appropriate.
(5) Local Development Social Inclusion Programme
Completed and laid before Oireachtas. The thrust of the policy and structural recommendations in the Report have been accepted and will be implemented, subject to available resources. Particular recommendations in relation to evaluation are being prioritised.
Draft terms of reference have been prepared for a VFM review of the CLÁR and RAPID Leveraged Funding Schemes and arrangements are in hands to start this work in the coming period.
For the sake of completeness, I should add that in addition to the VFM reviews above, my Department commenced in 2007 a policy review of the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund. However, responsibility for this area transferred to the Office of Minister for Children and Youth Affairs with effect from 1 January 2009.
327 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the assistance he will provide in respect of the proposed new building for a school (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25807/09]
At the outset, I would like to clarify that the proposed building referred to by the Deputy is not for a school but for an Irish summer college.
My Department has received correspondence from the college in question in relation to the development of a new facility. The college has been asked to submit a formal application for assistance. Upon receipt of such application, my Department will examine it in the normal way, having regard to the conditions of the grant scheme for such facilities and the amount of funding available to my Department.
328 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25858/09]
Interest charges paid by my Department in respect of late payments for goods or services from 2004 to end-May 2009 are set out in the table below:
|
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009* |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
2,333 |
244 |
4,980 |
136 |
609 |
37 |
*2009 figure to end of May.
There is an internal reporting system in my Department in relation to the prompt payment of accounts. This is acted upon on an ongoing basis so that individual cases can be highlighted in advance and appropriate action taken.
I can confirm to the Deputy that over 99% of payments are made by my Department within the required timeframe and that our accounts function is closely monitored so as to ensure that this high level of compliance is maintained and any interest payments kept to a minimum.
329 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the breakdown of the loans that were given out by a statutory body (details supplied) on a county basis from 1 January 2008 to June 2009 in tabular form; and the persons to whom the loans were awarded. [25905/09]
The Western Development Commission (WDC) promotes economic and social development in Counties Clare, Donegal, Galway, Leitrim, Mayo, Roscommon and Sligo. It is also responsible for the management and operation of the Western Investment Fund (WIF).
The WIF provides risk capital by way of equity and loans on a commercial basis to projects and businesses that meet the WDC's investment criteria.
Investments under the WIF for the period 1/1/08 to 25/6/09 are set out below.
|
Loans Disbursed by WDC between 1/1/2008—25/6/2009 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Project |
County |
Investment Type |
Disbursal Amount |
|
€ |
|||
|
Brogans Bakery |
Galway |
Loan |
700,000 |
|
Maoiniu Mara Teoranta |
Galway |
Loan |
450,000 |
|
Project |
Location |
Investment Type |
Disbursal Amount |
|
€ |
|||
|
FMC Tech Ltd |
Clare |
Equity |
300,000 |
|
Crospon Ltd |
Galway |
Equity |
500,000 |
|
Lightstorm Networks |
Galway |
Equity |
219,314 |
|
Marvao Medical Devices Ltd |
Galway |
Equity |
400,000 |
|
Neutekbio |
Galway |
Equity |
50,000 |
|
Vysera Biomedical Limited |
Galway |
Equity |
400,000 |
|
Zerusa |
Galway |
Equity |
200,000 |
|
Vivasure Ltd |
Galway |
Equity |
41,828 |
|
Almotech Ltd |
Galway |
Equity |
365,000 |
|
Meiticheol Teo |
Galway |
Equity |
100,000 |
|
Cambus Teo |
Galway |
Equity |
150,000 |
|
Halo Medical Ltd |
Galway |
Equity |
175,000 |
|
Cairn International Trade Centre |
Mayo |
Equity |
1,000,000 |
|
Heatsolve Ltd |
Mayo |
Equity |
600,000 |
|
Selc Ireland Ltd |
Mayo |
Equity |
487,000 |
|
Innovative Science Ltd |
Sligo |
Equity |
200,000 |
330 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs when a company (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive the grant awarded to it in 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26098/09]
My Department provides top-up funding under the CLÁR Programme to projects in CLÁR areas that have been selected for support by the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism (D/AST) under the Sports Capital Programme.
CLÁR funding in such cases is paid following completion of all necessary processes and full draw-down of the main funding from the D/AST. In the case raised by the Deputy, I understand all processes have not been completed to date between the applicant and the D/AST.
As soon as all processes have been completed and the main funding under the Sports Capital Programme has been provided, we will be in a position to issue the CLÁR funding in respect of this project.
331 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants available for businesses in the CLÁR area in north Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26166/09]
There are substantial supports provided by my Department for businesses in CLÁR and other rural areas through the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-13. North Tipperary LEADER Partnership is one of 36 groups contracted by my Department to deliver this Programme and they were allocated €960,000 under the 'Business Creation and Development' measure and €605,000 under the 'Diversification into non-agricultural activities' measure, over the lifetime of the Programme.
There are also some supports provided specifically for businesses under the CLÁR Programme, with support currently available under the Bilingual Signage measure.
332 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the grants available for voluntary groups in the CLÁR area in north Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26168/09]
My Department funds and, in some cases, administers a wide range of programmes to support Community & Voluntary groups in CLÁR and other rural areas, including in north Tipperary.
Details of all of the programmes and schemes operated by my Department, including guidelines and criteria, are available on the Department's website at www.pobail.ie. The Deputy will appreciate that eligibility for grants available for groups in the area in question depends on the nature of the grant sought and details of the group seeking them.
333 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will ensure equality of access to birth certificates for persons who are adopted and in particular that requests for such birth certificates can be made via e-mail and paid for via Laser card; if she will ensure that in the event of a request for a birth certificate for an adopted person in emergency situation, appropriate arrangements are made between the relevant office in Roscommon and the births deaths and marriages office in Joyce House, Dublin 2, for the issue of such birth certificates in a timely manner to applicants who request them at Joyce House; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25729/09]
The provisions governing the registration of domestic adoptions and the issue of birth certificates drawn from the register of adoptions are set out in section 22 of the Adoption Act, 1952. Under these provisions, the Registrar General is charged with maintaining an Adopted Children Register and also to keep an index to make traceable the connection between each entry and the corresponding entry in the register of births. The index is not open to public inspection and no information from it may be given to any person except by order of a Court or of the Adoption Board. A certified copy of an entry in the Adopted Children Register, if purporting to be issued under the seal of Oifig an Ard-Chlaraitheora, shall, without further proof, be received as evidence of the facts stated therein and any requirement of law for the production of a certificate of birth shall be satisfied by the production of such certified copy.
Under the above provisions, birth certificates for adopted persons are available only from the Office of the Registrar General. While it is appreciated that this may cause a degree of inconvenience in certain instances the security and confidentiality of the Adopted Children Register is of paramount importance and it is for this reason only that the restriction on availability exists. For this reason also, there are no plans to amend the legislation to change the current arrangements in relation to this matter.
At the moment persons applying to GRO for certificates of life events may do so in writing or by fax. Applications for certificates relating to adopted persons, made in Joyce House or in any registration office throughout the country are forwarded to the Office of the Registrar General and are processed as soon as possible. Payments are accepted by Visa or Mastercard. An on-line application facility for records of life events, including adoption events, is at an advanced stage of development and will be introduced shortly. Payments by credit card, including laser card, will be a feature of the on-line service.
334 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when rent support will be reinstated in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; the progress of same in the past six weeks; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25787/09]
The position remains as advised in Question No. 319 which I answered for the Deputy on 19 May 2009 and Question No. 150 which I answered for the Deputy on 18 June 2009.
The Executive has advised that there is no record of an appeal against the decision to discontinue payment of rent supplement to the person concerned. It remains open to this person to appeal against the decision to a HSE Appeals Officer.
335 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when rent allowance will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26105/09]
Rent supplement is administered on behalf of the department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive as part of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme. The Executive has advised that it has requested documentation from the person concerned in relation to her claim to rent supplement. A decision on entitlement will be made when all the requested documentation has been received.
336 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a decision will be made on an application for farm assist for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [25643/09]
The Social Welfare Inspector's report in this case has been completed and forwarded to a Deciding Officer for decision. That decision will be given without delay and the person concerned will be notified of the outcome.
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.
337 Deputy Seán Barrett asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason that most children with autism and intellectual disabilities have been turned down for the domiciliary care allowance; if the qualification criteria for the allowance have been changed; the reason for such change; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25690/09]
Of the first 249 applications for Domiciliary Care Allowance processed by the Department, 149 were refused and 100 awarded. Of those awarded, 12 children were specifically diagnosed with, Autism, Autism Spectrum Disorder or Asperger's Syndrome. Of those refused, 16 children were specifically diagnosed with one of these conditions.
Eligibility for Domiciliary Care Allowance is not based primarily on the medical or psychological condition, but on the resulting lack of function of body or mind necessitating the degree of extra care and attention required. As such it is not possible to say if a child with autism or any other intellectual disability will qualify for a payment under the scheme. Each application is assessed on an individual basis taking account of the evidence submitted. The main change to the scheme since the transfer to the Department is that the Domiciliary Care Allowance scheme is now a statutory scheme with the primary legislation provided for in the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008. Prior to the transfer the eligibility criteria for the scheme was set out by way of a Circular from the Department of Health and Children.
The Department uses a set of consistent and objective guidelines in determining the medical eligibility of children for the scheme. These guidelines were drawn up by a Group chaired by the Department's Chief Medical Advisor comprised of senior medical personnel from the HSE as well as eminent professionals in the areas of physical disabilities which affect children, and child psychiatry/psychology. All claims are assessed by designated Departmental Medical Assessors who have received special training in Human Disability Evaluation.
In the case of an application which is refused on medical grounds, the applicant may submit additional information and/or ask for the case to be reviewed by a different Medical Assessor specially designated for this task. Where a person is not satisfied with the decision of a Deciding Officer they may appeal the decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
338 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Cork has had their supplementary welfare allowance withdrawn; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25697/09]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on behalf of the department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE). It is a legislative qualifying requirement of the supplementary welfare allowance scheme that a person be habitually resident in the State unless the person is an EU worker or former worker.
The Executive has advised that the person concerned has been refused payment of supplementary welfare allowance and rent supplement as he is not deemed to be habitually resident in the State. If the person concerned is not satisfied with the decision of the Executive then he can appeal the decision to a HSE Appeals Officer.
339 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by her Department during the past three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25711/09]
Value for money reviews are carried out within the Value for Money/Policy Review Initiative framework. The Department undertook 9 value for money/policy reviews under the 2006-2008 round of reviews. All but two of these have been completed. In addition work has begun on a review under the 2009 round of the process. The position with regard to each review is set out.
Reviews under the 2006-2008 Round yet to be completed
Review of Disability Allowance
The terms of reference for the disability allowance review were agreed with the Department of Finance in February 2008 and the review is well underway. New data emerging from the National Disability Survey 2006 is expected shortly and will be incorporated in the review.
Review of Information Services
Terms of reference for this Review were agreed with the Department of Finance in September 2007. The Steering Group has completed its research and the draft report is currently being finalised.
Reviews Completed Under the 2006-2008 Round
SWA Review
Progress has been made in implementing a number of the recommendations of the SWA Review:
Rent & Mortgage Interest Supplement/Rental Accommodation Scheme — The review identified a number of issues relating to the incentives under the rent supplement scheme for those wishing to take up an employment opportunity. Subsequent Budgets and legislation introduced a number of measures to address these issues.
Capital Assessment — The SWA Review recommended an easing of the means test for SWA purposes in the assessment of capital and this has been implemented.
Transfer of Functions — The recommendations in the SWA Review complement the objectives of the Transfer of Functions Project. The report put forward a working template to support the transfer of the Community Welfare Service from the Health Service Executive to the Department of Social and Family Affairs. Negotiations on the transfer are continuing.
Unemployment Benefit/Assistance (Jobseekers Benefit/Allowance) for atypical workers
The main recommendations of the Review Group, particularly in relation to the introduction of part-time availability for jobseekers benefit, will be considered in the context of a wider review of the unemployment schemes.
Review of One-Parent Family Payment
The Government discussion paper, "Proposals for Supporting Lone Parents," put forward proposals to tackle obstacles to employment for lone parents and other low income families. These included proposals for the extension of the National Employment Action Plan to focus on lone parents, focused provision of childcare and the introduction of a new social assistance payment for low income families with young children.
A new payment scheme would have to be introduced along with co-ordinated supports and services being put in place by a number of Departments and Agencies. Issues including access to childcare support, education, training and activation measures are being discussed with the relevant Departments and Agencies in tandem with the development by the Department of Social & Family Affairs of a new payment scheme. The Department of Social & Family Affairs is continuing to keep policies in relation to lone parents under consideration. However, the extent and speed at which these can progress will be influenced by the current economic climate.
Review of Social Welfare Payments to Carers
The report has been completed and was subsumed into research which informed the deliberations on the development of a National Carers' Strategy in 2008. Due to economic constraints, the Government is unable to publish a National Carers Strategy at this time.
Review of the Medical Review and Assessment Service (MRAS)
A review of the MRAS was completed in 2006. The numbers of Medical Assessors has increased from an average of 17 prior to 2007 to 22 at June 2009 and an application has been made to the Department of Finance to increase this to 25. The number of centres used for medical assessments has been reduced from 64 to 54.
Consultants were selected in April 2008 to help implement both the business and ICT changes recommended in the report. Work commenced in January 2009 on the modernisation of the MRAS. The Medical Review Case Management (MRCM) project will support organisational and technical change in MRAS and will be implemented on a phased basis over the period to end July 2010. It is envisaged that the new functionality provided by this project will have a broader use across the Department in areas where individual case management of customers is a requirement.
Review of the future of the Combat Poverty Agency (CPA) [policy review]
The Department is working with the Board and staff of the Agency in implementing a plan for the transition of the Department. The transfer will take place on 1st July 2009.
Green Paper on Pensions [policy review]
The Green Paper on Pensions was launched by the Taoiseach, Tánaiste and Minister for Social and Family Affairs in October 2007, beginning a period of consultation which closed in May 2008. Over 380 submissions were received. A report on the consultation process was published in September 2008. Work is continuing on the development of a long-term pensions framework and it is expected to be finalised in the near future.
2009 Round of Reviews
Review of Child Income Supports
Under the 2009 round of reviews the Department is undertaking a Review of Child Income Support. A Steering Group has been established, comprising officials from the Department of Social and Family Affairs and the Department of Finance as well as an independent chairperson, and it has begun its deliberations on the review.
340 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her plans to introduce means testing or a taxation method for child benefit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25777/09]
Since 1944, Child Benefit has been a key instrument in child income support policy with the main objectives of supporting families in the costs of rearing children and the alleviation of poverty. Rates of child benefit have increased significantly since 2001 having trebled for the first two children and increased by over 185% for the third and subsequent children. Partly as a result of this and partly as a result of an increase in the number of eligible children, overall expenditure on child benefit grew from just under €965 million in 2001 to almost €2.5 billion in 2008. The Government is proud to have been able to direct such substantial increases in financial support to all Irish families in recent years. However, given the scale of the current economic crisis, it is necessary to address all aspects of the public finances so as to avoid excessive borrowing and to ensure that fairness exists in the allocation of resources.
It was in that context that the Minister for Finance announced, in the Supplementary Budget, the Government's intention to subject child benefit either to income tax or a means-test from 2010. The issues arising from which approach to adopt are considerable. I understand that the Commission on Taxation is considering the issues underlying the possible taxation of child benefit and the Department's officials have met with them on this matter. The Commission's deliberations will inform the Government's final decision on how to proceed. The Department, together with the Department of Finance and the Revenue Commissioners, are currently giving the matter careful consideration in anticipation of the report by the Commission on Taxation.
341 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a review of the application for mortgage assistance has taken place in view of new interest rates in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25798/09]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes mortgage interest supplement, is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. The Executive has advised that the person concerned appealed to an Appeals Officer of the Executive against a decision to refuse mortgage interest supplement. That Appeals Officer decided that the person concerned was not entitled to a supplement on the basis that the amount of mortgage interest payable by him exceeded such amount as was considered reasonable by the Executive to meet his residential and other needs.
The person concerned lodged a further appeal to the Chief Appeals Officer of the Department of Social and Family Affairs on 26 February 2009. An oral hearing of the appeal was held on 26 May 2009. On the basis of the evidence provided to the Chief Appeals Officer, including information provided during the oral hearing, the Appeals Officer decided that mortgage interest supplement was not payable to the person concerned between 3 November 2008 and 30 April 2009 as the rate of mortgage interest payable exceeded the amount the Executive considered reasonable to meet his residential and other needs. The Appeals Officer recommended that entitlement to mortgage interest supplement for the person concerned be re-examined by the community welfare officer from a current date taking into account the new interest rate which came into effect in May 2009.
The Executive has advised that following the recommendation of the Chief Appeals Officer an application form was posted to the person concerned on 27 May 2009. The completed application form was received by the community welfare officer on 5 June 2009. The Executive has advised that payment of mortgage interest supplement and any arrears due will issue shortly. Payment is effective from 1 June 2009.
342 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the increase in the number of staff employed in social welfare offices to deal with a backlog due to the increase in the live register; the number of persons who are part of this backlog in Cork city and county; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25852/09]
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 Department has put a range of measures in place to deal with the extra workload arising from the increase in the Live Register. These include:
additional posts assigned
use of temporary staff to fill vacancies pending the appointment of permanent staff
extension of temporary staff contracts in certain offices
increased overtime
prioritisation of work
the setting up of Local Office Support Units
Since May 2008, some 300 extra staff have been assigned to local offices, new Central Support Units and the Departments Inspectorate. Of these 150 have been assigned since January 2009 as follows:
16 Social Welfare Inspectors were assigned in March 2009 to various locations around the country to undertake means testing and other work associated with processing claims for the jobseekers allowance.
49 posts have also been assigned to date for Local Office Central Support Units in 5 locations.
Some 90 temporary posts have been assigned to Local Offices around the country pending the assignment of permanent staff.
There is a significant training overhead associated with staff coming into local offices due to the complex nature of the jobseekers schemes. This is particularly so when a person is coming from another department and may not have any Social Welfare background whatsoever. While a certain amount of formal training is provided, the bulk of the training is "on-the-job". It takes many months for a deciding officer to get up to speed with all the various aspects of the schemes administered in local offices. In the meantime they rely on assistance from their more experienced colleagues to guide them in the learning process. Consequently, there is a certain amount of lost productivity while new staff acquire the necessary expertise of experienced Deciding Officers.
The Department is also implementing a number of process improvement initiatives aimed at improving overall processing times for the jobseeker schemes. Examples of process improvement initiatives introduced recently include:
A streamlined process for people who had a claim in the previous 2 years.
Application forms for the jobseeker schemes are now available on the Department's website. This means that anyone who wants to make a claim can print the form at home and bring it to the local office completed. This helps reduce queuing times.
More straight-forward procedures for providing evidence of identity and address have been introduced.
A more streamlined procedure for claimants moving to jobseekers allowance when their jobseekers benefit expires.
We have introduced an appointment system for taking claims in 16 offices and plan to extend this to other offices over the coming months.
The Deputy will be aware that anyone suffering hardship can apply for Supplementary Welfare Allowance. The supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive (HSE). SWA provides a safety net against poverty in that it gives a statutory entitlement to a minimum weekly income, based on criteria set out in legislation. The majority of SWA claims are processed within a matter of days.
The following table shows the number of claims awaiting a decision in each office in the Cork Region at week-ending 20th June 2009.
|
Office |
Jobseeker’s Allowance |
Jobseeker’s Benefit |
Jobseeker’s Credits |
|
Bandon |
256 |
268 |
8 |
|
Bantry |
142 |
62 |
0 |
|
Carrigaline |
294 |
121 |
8 |
|
Clonakilty |
197 |
164 |
9 |
|
Cobh |
56 |
24 |
1 |
|
Cork |
3,431 |
2,974 |
16 |
|
Fermoy |
217 |
214 |
21 |
|
Kinsale |
171 |
171 |
7 |
|
Macroom |
174 |
231 |
9 |
|
Mallow |
209 |
366 |
7 |
|
Midleton |
373 |
487 |
17 |
|
Newmarket |
194 |
287 |
12 |
|
Skibbereen |
96 |
36 |
2 |
|
Youghal |
142 |
141 |
10 |
|
Total |
5,952 |
5,546 |
119 |
343 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of interest paid by her in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by her Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25867/09]
The amount of prompt payment interest paid by the Department in respect of payments for goods or services contracted by the Department from 2004 to June 2009 is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
Amount of Interest paid |
|
€ |
|
|
2004 |
789.42 |
|
2005 |
1,202.37 |
|
2006 |
3,208.57 |
|
2007 |
6,104.68 |
|
2008 |
4,006.57 |
|
1 Jan-26 Jun 2009 |
2,041.44 |
The Department issues Office Notices to all staff detailing the procedures to be followed in processing invoices for goods and services and emphasising the importance of adherence with the Department of Finance's Public Financial Procedures. In accordance with a recent Government decision, all sections of the Department have been instructed to review their business processes so that an administrative target of payment of commercial invoices within 15 days of receipt in the Department can be achieved.
344 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs her views, in view of the importance for genealogical research of civil records, on requiring civil registration of death records to record the date of birth of the deceased person as opposed to the person’s age, and to ensure that in the case of women, the maiden name is recorded in the same way that is required on a marriage certificate; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [25900/09]
The particulars required to be registered in an entry contained in the register of deaths are set out in Part 5 of the First Schedule to the Civil Registration Act, 2004. Under the Schedule, the date of birth or the age on the last birthday of the deceased is a required particular, following the commencement of the Act in 2005, registrars were advised by the Registrar General that best practice requires that the date of birth of the deceased is to be entered in the register where it is known to the qualified informant or where it can be established. Where the date of birth is not known or cannot be established, the age or approximate age at death is entered in the register. The birth surname of the deceased, (otherwise known as a maiden name, in the case of women), is a required particular and is entered in the register in all cases where it is known to the qualified informant.
Under section 37 of the Civil Registration Act, it is the duty of a relative of a deceased person, who has knowledge of the required particulars in relation to the death and within 3 months of the death, to give to a registrar the particulars required to register the death. Prior to the commencement of this provision, the majority of deaths were registered on foot of particulars provided by registered medical practitioners, hospitals or nursing homes and the requirement that registration is now effected by a relative where possible has enhanced to amount and accuracy of the information contained in deaths entries. However, there are and will continue to be circumstances where no relative of the deceased with knowledge of the required particulars and who is capable of acting as qualified informant can be found. There will also be circumstances where many of the required particulars are not known to a qualified informant or cannot be established. In such circumstances, the registrar has no choice but to proceed with registration with the information to hand.
345 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if social welfare offices (details supplied) in County Tipperary have taken on extra staff to deal with the increase in workload; the number of applications received for unemployment assistance benefit in the local offices in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009; the number of staff in each office each year to deal with the applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26094/09]
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 Department has put a range of measures in place to deal with the extra workload arising from the increase in the Live Register. These include:
additional posts assigned;
use of temporary staff to fill vacancies pending the appointment of permanent staff;
extension of temporary staff contracts in certain offices;
increased overtime;
prioritisation of work;
the setting up of Local Office Support Units.
The number of posts allocated to Thurles Local Office since June 2007 is as follows:
|
Number |
|
|
1st June 2007: |
17.6 |
|
1st June 2008: |
17.6 |
|
1st June 2009: |
19.2 |
Because of the increased number of claims for jobseeker payments, the Department undertook a review of staffing levels in local offices in May and June of last year. As a result, work is in progress to assign 2 permanent staff members to Thurles Local Office, and 1 temporary member of staff has been approved pending the assignment of permanent staff.
The offices in Roscrea and Nenagh are branch offices and operate under a contract for service to the Department. Branch office managers are responsible for recruiting their own staff. However, officials of the Department meet with the Branch Managers' Association on a periodic basis to discuss operational issues including staffing. At the most recent such meeting held on 3 March 2009, branch office managers were reminded that under the terms of their contract, they are required to ensure that staffing levels are adequate to allow for the efficient performance of the work of the office.
The branch office manager's annual performance assessment, which is undertaken by management from the parent local office, involves an evaluation of the staffing levels to ensure that service requirements are being met. Local office management were recently reminded of their obligations in this regard.
The number of staff in Roscrea Branch Office and Nenagh Branch Office since 2007 is as follows:
|
Branch Office |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
|
Roscrea |
2 full-time + 1 part-time |
3 full-time + 4 part-time |
3 full-time and 4 part-time |
|
Nenagh |
3 full-time |
4 full-time |
5 full-time |
In addition, the Department is implementing a number of process improvement initiatives aimed at improving overall processing times for the jobseeker schemes.
Examples of process improvement initiatives introduced recently include:
A streamlined process for people who had a claim in the previous 2 years.
Application forms for the jobseeker schemes are now available on the Department's website. This means that anyone who wants to make a claim can print the form at home and bring it to the local office completed. This helps reduce queuing times.
More straight-forward procedures for providing evidence of identity and address have been introduced.
A more streamlined procedure for claimants moving to jobseekers allowance when their jobseekers benefit expires.
We have introduced an appointment system for taking claims in 16 offices and plan to extend this to other offices over the coming months.
The process for casual employees has been streamlined and the employee can now self certify on a weekly basis without recourse to the employer. A compensatory periodic control measure has been introduced for employers.
The Deputy will be aware that anyone suffering hardship can apply for supplementary welfare allowance. The supplementary welfare allowance scheme (SWA) is administered on behalf of the Department by the community welfare division of the Health Service Executive. SWA provides a safety net against poverty in that it gives a statutory entitlement to a minimum weekly income, based on criteria set out in legislation. The majority of SWA claims are processed within a matter of days.
The following table shows the number of claims for jobseeker's allowance and jobseeker's benefit received in Thurles Local Office and in Nenagh and Roscrea Branch Offices between January 2007 and 14th June 2009.
|
Nenagh |
Roscrea |
Thurles |
|
|
2007 |
|||
|
JA |
655 |
339 |
820 |
|
JB |
1,186 |
588 |
1,344 |
|
JBCO |
115 |
52 |
94 |
|
Total |
1,956 |
979 |
2,258 |
|
2008 |
|||
|
JA |
1,157 |
589 |
1,043 |
|
JB |
1,966 |
1,145 |
2,014 |
|
JBCO |
126 |
61 |
107 |
|
Total |
3,249 |
1,795 |
3,164 |
|
2009 (to June 14th) |
|||
|
JA |
795 |
411 |
802 |
|
JB |
1,409 |
533 |
1,417 |
|
JBCO |
78 |
51 |
74 |
|
Total |
2,282 |
995 |
2,293 |
346 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an oral hearing, or if a decision will be made on an appeal without an oral hearing being held. [26110/09]
347 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be called for an oral hearing in relation to their occupational injuries benefit disablement appeal; and if so, when they will be called. [26111/09]
348 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason, in more than seven months, a decision has not been reached in relation to a claim by a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [26112/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 346 to 348, inclusive, together.
As a result of an occupational accident, the person concerned was awarded disablement benefit by a Deciding Officer of the Department with effect from 18 April 2008. The degree of disablement benefit was set at 40% based on a medical assessment which took place on 2 September 2008. The level of the award was appealed on 4 November 2008 and I am informed by the Social Welfare Appeals office that the appeal has been referred to an Appeals Officer who has decided to hold an oral hearing in this case. Every effort is being made to have the appeal heard at the earliest opportunity and the person concerned will be notified when arrangements for his hearing have been made.
During 2008, the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office increased by 27% and current estimates indicate there will be a further increase of 18% for 2009. Having regard to these increases, I appointed two additional Appeals Officers to the Social Welfare Appeals Office in January 2009. Furthermore, in the light of the current situation, I am advised that the Chief Appeals Officer is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals having regard to due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice. The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
349 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if her attention has been drawn to instances where people claim child benefit where neither child for whom the benefit is being claimed nor either parent is resident here; if this practice is widespread; the steps she has taken to eliminate this practice; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26124/09]
The prevention of fraud and abuse of the social welfare system is an integral part of the day-to-day work of the Department. All Child Benefit claims require a minimum level of information and documentation to be provided and verified before being awarded. The amount of information and documentation required varies depending on the customer circumstances, for instance the child's place of birth.
Given the significant changes in the Child Benefit customer base and in the value of Child Benefit payments, the control policy for the child benefit scheme has been reviewed to ensure that controls against fraud and abuse of the schemes continue to be effective and relevant. As a result of enhanced and updated control measures have been devised, including the automated issue of forms (certificates) to certain selected groups of customers, for completion and return to the Department to confirm that they continue to satisfy the conditions for receipt of Child Benefit.
In the case of non-Irish national recipients who are resident in Ireland with their children, certification that the children continue to reside here is required — the proof of such residence can be provided via details of the school or college their child attends or, if the child is not of school-going age, details of the doctor or crèche they attend. This information is used to verify that the children are resident in Ireland.
With regard to EU nationals who are working in Ireland but who have qualified children living in another EU state and are entitled to Irish family benefits under EU law, certification by their employer of continuing employment is requested. The certification letters currently issue on a three monthly basis. Where the required certification is not provided within the timescale requested, 21 days, the payment of Child Benefit is suspended pending further enquiry and ultimately terminated if confirmation of continued entitlement is not forthcoming. A fraud and error strategy is also in place for dealing with returned forms.
In 2008 a total of 87,850 reviews were completed, 92% of target. As a result of reviews undertaken, 5141 Child Benefit claims were terminated resulting in savings of some €47m to the Department. To date in 2009 a total of 88,217 reviews have been undertaken. It is intended to complete in excess of 150,000 reviews in the full year.
351 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if the investigation launched by her into allegations of subsidy fraud under the school meals programme has been concluded; the outcome of this investigation; the amount of fraud uncovered by the investigation; the number of companies involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [26219/09]
The school meals programme gives funding towards the provision of food services for disadvantaged school children through two schemes. The first is the statutory urban school meals scheme, operated by local authorities and part-financed by the Department of Social and Family Affairs. The second is the school meals local projects scheme through which funding is provided directly by the Department to participating schools and local and voluntary community groups who run their own school meals projects.
The Department has received one allegation in relation to the operation of the School Meals programme and this allegation is currently being investigated. The Department does not comment on individual allegations of fraud or abuse until there has been a successful prosecution in the courts.
352 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason it took five months for payment to be awarded in respect of a jobseeker’s allowance for a person (details supplied) in County Galway. [26216/09]
353 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs how the rate of jobseeker’s payment for a person (details supplied) in County Galway was calculated. [26220/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 352 and 353 together.
A Deciding Officer has awarded the person concerned a jobseekers allowance payment at the weekly rate of €109.30 from 20 December, 2008. His payment is based on a personal rate of €204.30, less weekly means of €95.00, derived from benefit of parental income. His first payment including arrears due, less any supplementary welfare allowance already paid, issued to him on 23 June, 2009. The delay in processing the claim was due to an oversight in the local office concerned and this is very much regretted.
354 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo can not apply for jobseeker’s assistance in view of the fact that they have finished school. [26223/09]
Second level students cannot access jobseeker's allowance for three months after the completion of the leaving certificate or after leaving education, whichever is the later. Although the Department has no application for jobseeker's allowance from the person concerned, based on the information available he is not currently eligible for the allowance. His Social Welfare Local Office has been in contact with him in this regard.
355 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost to the State for child benefit payment awarded to persons residing outside the State from 2004 to 2008. [26227/09]
Under EU Regulation 1408/71 a national of an EU state who is working in Ireland maybe entitled to payment of Child Benefit even if his/her children are resident in the worker's home country. Expenditure on Child Benefit for 2008 in respect of the non resident children of EU workers paid under EU regulations was approximately €20.9m. The figures for previous years were as follows, €4.77m in 2007, €2.9m in 2006, €1.6m in 2005 and 0.7m in 2004.
The total expenditure on Child Benefit (CB) in 2008 was approx. €2.45 billion. The figures or the previous years were as follows, €2.23 billion in 2007, €2.1 billion in 2006, €1.89 billion in 2005 and €1.76 billion in 2004. The expenditure on Child Benefit in respect of non resident children continues to be a small percentage of the overall expenditure.
357 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the legal position regarding the entitlement of European Union citizens to claim child benefit here even if their children reside elsewhere in the European Union; the amount of money spent on such payments in 2008. [26263/09]
Under EU Regulation 1408/71 a national of an EU state who is working in Ireland may be entitled to payment of Child Benefit even if his/her children are resident in the worker's home country. For the purposes of the EU Regulation, Irish Child Benefit is classified as a Family Benefits and there are specific rules governing the payment of these benefits. Because entitlement to family benefits can often arise in more than one Member State (based on residence and/or employment) the Regulations set out a number of rules in order to determine which country pays family benefits. The main ones are:
Residence requirements in national legislation (such as the habitual residence condition in Ireland) are overridden.
The level of payment of family benefits in the State of employment has priority over the level of payment in the State of residence. If there is employment in two States, the level of payment in the State of residence of the children has priority.
If the level of payment of family benefits in the State of residence is higher than that in the State of employment, the State of residence is required to pay a supplement equal to the difference between the two amounts.
The total expenditure on Child Benefit (CB) in 2008 was approx €2.46 billion. The CB expenditure for 2008 in respect of non resident children was approximately €20.9m.
358 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, further to Parliamentary Question No. 473 of 9 June 2009, if she will confirm that the medical evidence of a consultant psychiatrist and a general practitioner was fully taken into account when deciding this application for carer’s allowance; the way a summary decision was made to disallow this claim in view of the strength of this evidence; and if she will arrange for this case to be re-examined. [26272/09]
Further to my response to Question No. 473 on 9 June 2009, I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that the appeal by the person concerned was disallowed on the grounds that she was not providing full-time care and attention to the person being cared for. The medical reports referred to by the Deputy were seen by the Appeals Officer who dealt with the case. However, the medical condition of the care recipient was not an issue as far as the decision was concerned.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on Social Welfare entitlements.
359 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the number of times Defence Forces helicopters were used to transport Government Ministers in Ireland for 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009 in tabular form. [25621/09]
360 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the number of times Defence Forces helicopters were used to transport dignitaries, excluding Government Ministers, in Ireland for 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009 in tabular form. [25622/09]
361 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the pick-up point and destination, the person or persons carried on board and the cost relating to each of the trips in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009 in which Defence Forces helicopters were used to transport Government Ministers here in tabular form. [25623/09]
362 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the use by Government Ministers of the Government jet or other aircraft in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009; the person or persons carried, the pick up point and destination and the estimated cost for each journey in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25624/09]
363 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the estimated cost of flying a helicopter on Government business per hour; and if he will compare this to the comparable charges from commercial companies in tabular form. [25625/09]
364 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the cost relating to each of the trips in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009 in which Defence Forces helicopters were used to transport dignitaries, excluding Government Ministers here, in tabular form. [25626/09]
365 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Defence the use by dignitaries excluding Government Ministers of the Government jet or other aircraft in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009; and the estimated cost for each journey in tabular form [25627/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 359 to 365, inclusive, together.
The information the Deputy has requested regarding the use of the Government Jet and Defence Forces helicopters by Government Ministers and dignitaries is set out in the form of tabular statements which I set out below. The tabular statement relating to Government Ministers sets out the dates, destinations and passengers carried on each mission for 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009. The tabular statement relating to dignitaries other than the Government Ministers sets out the number of missions by helicopter and fixed wing aircraft for each of the years requested.
With regard to the cost of each trip, my Department follows the normal practice in the aviation business of costing aircraft by reference to the cost per flying hour under either of two headings:
(a) The direct cost, i.e. the costs which are additional to those associated with having the aircraft and which only arise when the aircraft is flown including maintenance, fuel and support services; and
(b) The total cost, i.e. the direct cost plus the costs associated with having the aircraft, i.e. depreciation and personnel costs
The costs associated with Air Corps aircraft used in provision of Ministerial Air Transport Service are as follows:
|
Aircraft |
Average Direct Cost Per Hour |
Average Total Cost Per Hour |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Gulfstream |
4,050 |
7,890 |
|
Learjet |
1,270 |
2,950 |
|
Beechcraft |
1,320 |
1,770 |
|
CASA |
1,335 |
2,821 |
|
EC 135 |
430 |
1,590 |
|
AW 139 |
1,470 |
3,130 |
My Department does not hold any information regarding comparable charges for commercial aviation companies for the above aircraft.
|
Date |
Aircraft |
Ministerial Time On Board |
Route |
Requesting Minister |
|
25-Jan-07 |
EC 135 |
110 |
Phoenix Park-Kilworth Cork-Phoenix Park |
Tanaiste |
|
2-Feb-07 |
A111 |
120 |
Phoenix Park-Templemore-Phoenix Park |
Tanaiste |
|
2-Feb-07 |
EC 135 |
35 |
St Patricks Drumcondra-Gortnahoe |
Taoiseach |
|
16-Feb-07 |
EC 135 |
45 |
St Patricks Drumcondra-GAA pitch, Roscommon |
Taoiseach |
|
1-Mar-07 |
EC 135 |
110 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Ballycroy, Co. Mayo |
Environment Heritage & Local Government/ Agriculture |
|
30-Mar-07 |
EC 135 |
150 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Baldonnel |
Environment Heritage & Local Government |
|
5-Apr-07 |
EC 135 |
80 |
Phoenix Park-Cappoquin (Waterford)-Cork Airport |
Arts, Sports and Tourism |
|
19-Apr-07 |
EC 135 |
135 |
UCD-Manorhamilton. Ballybofey-Phoenix Park |
Health |
|
23-Apr-07 |
EC 135 |
70 |
St. Patricks Drumcondra-Mount Juliet-St. Patricks Drumcondra |
Taoiseach |
|
26-Apr-07 |
EC 135 |
100 |
Phoenix Park-Tipperary Town-Templemore-Phoenix Park |
Tanaiste |
|
27-Apr-07 |
EC 135 |
95 |
St. Patricks Drumcondra-Druids Glen. Bray-Dungarvan-New Ross |
Taoiseach |
|
16-May-07 |
EC 135 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
3-Jul-07 |
AW 139 |
80 |
Phoenix Park-Cahir-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
4-Jul-07 |
AW 139 |
90 |
St. Patricks Drumcondra-Bundoran-St Patricks |
Taoiseach |
|
9-Jul-07 |
AW 139 |
90 |
St. Patricks Drumcondra-Galway Airport-St Patricks |
Taoiseach |
|
17-Jul-07 |
AW 139 |
80 |
St Patricks Drumcondra-Armagh-St Patricks, Drumcondra |
Taoiseach |
|
6-Sep-07 |
EC 135 |
130 |
Baldonnel-Sarsfield Barracks-Haulbowline-Sarsfield Barracks |
Defence |
|
13-Sep-07 |
AW 139 |
140 |
Baldonnel-Dungloe-Tory Island-Dungloe-Ashford Castle |
Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
25-Sep-07 |
AW 139 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Tullamore-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
27-Sep-07 |
AW 139 |
80 |
St Patricks, Drumcondra - Tullamore - Naas - Bray - Drumcondra |
Taoiseach |
|
2-Nov-07 |
AW 139 |
100 |
Baldonnel-Trim-Knock-Trim-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
16-Nov-07 |
AW 139 |
80 |
St Patricks Drumcondra -Templemore. Nenagh-St Patricks Drumcondra |
Taoiseach |
|
Date |
Aircraft |
Ministerial Time On Board |
Route |
Requesting Minister |
|
17-Dec-07 |
AW 139 |
60 |
Carnmore, Galway -Cork |
Health |
|
17-Dec-07 |
AW 139 |
45 |
Phoenix Park-Fermoy, Cork |
Justice |
|
31/01/2008 |
EC 135 |
80 |
Phoenix Park - Templemore - Phoenix Park |
Justice, Equality and Law Reform |
|
01/02/2008 |
AW 139 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Mullingar Barracks- Galgorm Manor Ballymena - St Patricks Drumcondra- Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
08/02/2008 |
AW 139 |
40 |
St Patricks Drumcondra -Waterford |
An Taoiseach |
|
23/03/2008 |
EC 135 |
100 |
Sarsfield Barracks-Phoenix Park-Sarsfield Barracks |
Defence |
|
25/03/2008 |
EC 135 |
60 |
Kilkenny Barracks-Farranfore, Killarney |
Education & Science |
|
26/03/2008 |
EC 135 |
120 |
Killarney, Farranfore-Wexford-Baldonnel |
Education & Science |
|
04/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
30 |
St Patricks, Drumcondra - Ritz Carlton Powerscourt -Phoenix Park |
An Taoiseach |
|
11/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
100 |
St Patricks, Drumcondra - Ashford Castle - St Patricks, Drumcondra |
An Taoiseach |
|
11/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
45 |
Galway - Phoenix Park |
Health |
|
14/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
50 |
Sarsfield Barracks-Phoenix Park |
Defence |
|
09/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
55 |
Baldonnel - Galway |
Health |
|
17/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
30 |
Phoenix Park - Ballyragget Kilkenny |
Agriculture Fisheries & Food |
|
18/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
70 |
Mount Juliet - Finner Camp |
Agriculture Fisheries & Food |
|
29/04/2008 |
EC 135 |
20 |
Phoenix Park - Mount Wolsely Hotel Carlow |
Justice, Equality and Law Reform |
|
01/05/2008 |
AW 139 |
115 |
Baldonnel - Sarsfield Barracks - Sligo Airport - Finner - Sarsfield Barracks - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
01/05/2008 |
AW 139 |
60 |
Baldonnel - Kilkenny Barracks - Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
30/05/2008 |
AW 139 |
100 |
Sarsfield Barracks - Phoenix Park - Sarsfield Barracks |
Defence |
|
29/05/2008 |
EC135 |
120 |
Dundalk Barracks - Waterford Airport - Dundalk Barracks |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
30/05/2008 |
AW 139 |
90 |
UCD - Castleisland |
Health |
|
10/06/2008 |
EC 135 |
70 |
Sarsfield Barracks - Curragh - Sarsfield Barracks |
Defence |
|
19/06/2008 |
EC 135 |
100 |
Sarsfield Barracks - Baldonnel - Sarsfield Barracks |
Defence |
|
Date |
Aircraft |
Ministerial Time On Board |
Route |
Requesting Minister |
|
15/08/2008 |
AW 139 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Omagh (Lisanelly) - Tullamore (Harriers) - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
26/08/2008 |
AW 139 |
100 |
Sarsfield Barracks (Limerick) - Curragh Camp - Sarsfield Barracks |
Defence |
|
05/09/2008 |
EC135 |
55 |
Knock Airport - Waterford Airport |
Arts, Sports & Tourism |
|
10/09/2008 |
EC135 |
40 |
Phoenix Park - Kilkenny Castle |
Defence |
|
12/09/2008 |
EC135 |
80 |
Sarsfield Barracks (Limerick) - Phoenix Park- Sarsfield Barracks (Limerick) |
Defence |
|
13/09/2008 |
AW 139 |
60 |
Frosses Football Pitch (Donegal) - City West Hotel (Dublin) |
Tanaiste (Enterprise Trade & Employment) |
|
23/09/2008 |
AW 139 |
45 |
Farmleigh House - Cuffesgrange (Kilkenny) - Tullamore (Harriers) - Curragh |
Taoiseach |
|
23/09/2008 |
AW 139 |
45 |
Baldonnel - Cuffesgrange (Kilkenny) - Baldonnel |
Tanaiste (Enterprise Trade & Employment) |
|
03/10/2008 |
AW 139 |
85 |
St Pats (Drumcondra) - Cork (UCC) - Tullamore (Harriers) - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
31/10/2008 |
EC 135 |
100 |
Trim (New GAA Pitch) - Foynes GAA Pitch (Limerick) - Trim (New GAA Pitch) |
Transport |
|
04/11/2008 |
AW 139 |
70 |
Phoenix Park - Lough Erne Hotel (Enniskillen) - Dundalk Barracks - Baldonnel |
Justice |
|
08/11/2008 |
AW 139 |
100 |
Sarsfield Barracks (Limerick) - Tullamore (Harriers) - Phoenix Park - Tullamore (Harriers) - Sarsfield Barracks (Limerick) |
Taoiseach/Defence |
|
30/11/2008 |
EC135 |
65 |
Baldonnel - Tullamore (Harriers) - Race Course Wexford - Kilkenny Barracks |
Taoiseach |
|
05/12/2008 |
AW 139 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Dundalk Barracks - Sarsfield Barracks - Dundalk Barracks - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
04/12/2008 |
AW 139 |
60 |
Phoenix park - Cork Airport |
Tanaiste |
|
09/12/2008 |
AW 139 |
100 |
Baldonnel - Galway - Baldonnel |
Education & Science/ Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
30/01/2009 |
AW139 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Dundalk Barracks - Clanree Hotel (Letterkenny) - Dundalk Barracks - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
29/01/2009 |
AW139 |
45 |
Belfast City - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
Date |
Aircraft |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Requesting Minister |
|
06/02/2009 |
AW139 |
90 |
Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim - Shannon - Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim |
Transport |
|
23/02/2009 |
AW139 |
45 |
Shannon Airport - Trim GAA Pitch |
Transport |
|
02/03/2009 |
AW139 |
110 |
Baldonnel - Waterford Airport - Killarney Racecourse. Farranfore Airport - Baldonnel |
Arts, Sports & Tourism |
|
30/03/2009 |
AW139 |
60 |
Donegal GAA Pitch - Phoenix Park |
An Tanaiste (Enterprise, Trade & Employment) |
|
13/04/2009 |
EC135 |
100 |
Cork Airport - Raphoe (Co Donegal) |
Education & Science |
|
14/04/2009 |
AW139 |
95 |
Raphoe (Co Donegal) - Farranfore |
Education & Science |
|
20/04/2009 |
EC135 |
110 |
Phoenix Park - GAA Pitch Rathkeale - Phoenix Park |
Finance |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Ministerial Time on Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
14-Jan-07 |
20-Jan-07 |
965 |
Baldonnel-Paris-Riyadh-Dubai-Brussels-Shannon-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
24-Jan-07 |
25-Jan-07 |
240 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Zurich-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
26-Jan-07 |
26-Jan-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Cork-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
29-Jan-07 |
29-Jan-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
30-Jan-07 |
2-Feb-07 |
805 |
Baldonnel-Tel Aviv-Cairo-Beirut-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
4-Feb-07 |
4-Feb-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Cardiff-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach / Foreign Affairs / Communications Marine & Natural Resources |
|
7-Feb-07 |
10-Feb-07 |
270 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Milan-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
12-Feb-07 |
12-Feb-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
19-Feb-07 |
19-Feb-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
20-Feb-07 |
20-Feb-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Environment, Heritage & Local Government |
|
27-Feb-07 |
1-Mar-07 |
630 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Beirut-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Ministerial Time on Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
2-Mar-07 |
3-Mar-07 |
190 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Paris-Knock-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
8-Mar-07 |
9-Mar-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Brussels-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach / Finance / Foreign Affairs |
|
13-Mar-07 |
17-Mar-07 |
945 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-New York-Washington-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach/ Foreign Affairs |
|
19-Mar-07 |
19-Mar-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
17-Mar-07 |
17-Mar-07 |
135 |
Baldonnel-Copenhagen-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
26-Mar-07 |
27-Mar-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
25-Mar-07 |
25-Mar-07 |
250 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Berlin-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
30-Mar-07 |
31-Mar-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Bremen-Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
29-Mar-07 |
29-Mar-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Derry-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
15-Apr-07 |
16-Apr-07 |
280 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Luxembourg-Knock-Baldonnel |
Agriculture / MOS Communications, Marine & Natural Resources |
|
19-Apr-07 |
21-Apr-07 |
250 |
Baldonnel-Berlin-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
23-Apr-07 |
23-Apr-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
1-May-07 |
1-May-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
7-May-07 |
7-May-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Brussels-Knock-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
8-May-07 |
8-May-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Belfast-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach/ Tanaiste /Foreign Affairs |
|
15-May-07 |
15-May-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Northolt-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
31-May-07 |
31-May-07 |
260 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Berlin-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
30-May-07 |
30-May-07 |
150 |
Baldonnel-Stockholm-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
01-Jun-07 |
2-Jun-07 |
210 |
Baldonnel-Dusseldorf-Baldonnel |
Environment, Heritage & Local Government |
|
04-Jun-07 |
5-Jun-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
07-Jun-07 |
7-Jun-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Wevelgem-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
10-Jun-07 |
12-Jun-07 |
255 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food / MOS Communications Marine & Natural Resources |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Ministerial Time on Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
17-Jun-07 |
17-Jun-07 |
100 |
Baldonnel-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
MOS Taoiseach |
|
18-Jun-07 |
18-Jun-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs / MOS Taoiseach |
|
21-Jun-07 |
23-Jun-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Brussels-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach / Foreign Affairs |
|
01-Jul-07 |
01-Jul-07 |
240 |
Baldonnel-Kastrup (Copenhagen)-Baldonnel |
MOS Taoiseach |
|
09-Jul-07 |
10-Jul-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
16-Jul-07 |
16-Jul-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Belfast-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
19-Jul-07 |
20-Jul-07 |
430 |
Baldonnel-Brindisi-Rome-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
22-Jul-07 |
23-Jul-07 |
220 |
Baldonnel-Bonn (Cologne)-Baldonnel |
Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
04-Sep-07 |
6-Sep-07 |
460 |
Baldonnel-Pristina-Skopje-Pristina-Baldonnel |
MOS Defence |
|
7-Sep-07 |
8-Sep-07 |
240 |
Baldonnel-La Rochelle-Oporto-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
12-Sep-07 |
12-Sep-07 |
75 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
13-Sep-07 |
13-Sep-07 |
95 |
Baldonnel-Bordeaux-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
16-Sep-07 |
16-Sep-07 |
95 |
Baldonnel-Bordeaux-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
12-Sep-07 |
12-Sep-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
19-Sep-07 |
19-Sep-07 |
245 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Athens-Baldonnel |
MOS Health and Children |
|
20-Sep-07 |
20-Sep-07 |
40 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
21-Sep-07 |
22-Sep-07 |
190 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Paris-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs/ MOS Taoiseach / Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
27-Sep-07 |
28-Sep-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Cork - Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Ministerial Time on Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
30-Sep-07 |
4-Oct-07 |
945 |
Baldonnel - New York - Washington - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
8-Oct-07 |
8-Oct-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
11-Oct-07 |
12-Oct-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
15-Oct-07 |
15-Oct-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
18-Oct-07 |
19-Oct-07 |
300 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Lisbon-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach & Foreign Affairs |
|
6-Nov-07 |
9-Nov-07 |
570 |
Baldonnel-Sarajevo-Belgrade-Skopje-Pristina -Skopje-Pristina-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
2-Nov-07 |
2-Nov-07 |
40 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Derry-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
13-Nov-07 |
16-Nov-07 |
1140 |
Baldonnel-Cairo-Khartoum-N’Djamena-Abeche-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
19-Nov-07 |
19-Nov-07 |
210 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
22-Nov-07 |
22-Nov-07 |
145 |
Baldonnel - Milan (Linate) - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
27-Nov-07 |
27-Nov-07 |
230 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Ljubljana - Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
1-Dec-07 |
3-Dec-07 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Lisbon - Baldonnel |
MOS Defence |
|
8-Dec-07 |
8-Dec-07 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Dublin - Lisbon - Dublin - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach, MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
6-Dec-07 |
7-Dec-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Northolt - Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
13-Dec-07 |
14-Dec-07 |
390 |
Baldonnel - Dublin - Lisbon - Brussels - Dublin - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
16-Dec-07 |
16-Dec-07 |
140 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, MOS Agriculture |
|
17-Dec-07 |
17-Dec-07 |
80 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Cork-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
Date |
Return |
Min.Time On board |
Destination |
Minister |
|
02-Jan-07 |
03-Jan-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Northolt-Derry-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
09-Jan-07 |
09-Jan-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Baldonnel |
Environment Heritage & Local Government |
|
14-Jan-07 |
14-Jan-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Paris-Baldonnel |
Education & Science/Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
14-Jan-07 |
15-Jan-07 |
280 |
Baldonnel-Slovenia-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
28-Jan-07 |
29-Jan-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Derry-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
30-Jan-07 |
30-Jan-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Northolt-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
02-Feb-07 |
02-Feb-07 |
40 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
03-Feb-07 |
03-Feb-07 |
100 |
Baldonnel-Paris-Baldonnel |
Environment Heritage & Local Government |
|
07-Feb-07 |
08-Feb-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
11-Feb-07 |
12-Feb-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Brussels-Cork-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
14-Feb-07 |
15-Feb-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Communications Marine & Natural Resources |
|
20-Feb-07 |
20-Feb-07 |
185 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Paris-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
22-Feb-07 |
22-Feb-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Knock-Baldonnel-Knock-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
26-Feb-07 |
27-Feb-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
27-Feb-07 |
27-Feb-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform / MOS Health & Children |
|
28-Feb-07 |
28-Feb-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
01-Mar-07 |
01-Mar-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Kerry-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
02-Mar-07 |
02-Mar-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
04-Mar-07 |
05-Mar-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Brussels-Shannon-Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
12-Mar-07 |
12-Mar-07 |
270 |
Baldonnel-Stockholm-Oslo-Copenhagen-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
16-Mar-07 |
16-Mar-07 |
170 |
Baldonnel-Rome-Baldonnel |
Social & Family Affairs |
|
Date |
Return |
Min.Time On board |
Destination |
Minister |
|
18-Mar-07 |
18-Mar-07 |
170 |
Baldonnel-Rome-Baldonnel |
Social & Family Affairs |
|
19-Mar-07 |
19-Mar-07 |
100 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Knock-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
22-Mar-07 |
22-Mar-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
23-Mar-07 |
23-Mar-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
27-Mar-07 |
27-Mar-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
3-Apr-07 |
3-Apr-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
5-Apr-07 |
5-Apr-07 |
35 |
Baldonnel-Belfast Aldergrove-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
10-Apr-07 |
10-Apr-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
13-Apr-07 |
13-Apr-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Kerry-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
20-Apr-07 |
20-Apr-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
23-Apr-07 |
23-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Communications, Marine & Natural Resources |
|
25-Apr-07 |
25-Apr-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
8-May-07 |
8-May-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Belfast-Baldonnel |
Dept of An Taoiseach |
|
31-May-07 |
31-May-07 |
160 |
Baldonnel-Stockholm-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
06-Jun-07 |
06-Jun-07 |
160 |
Baldonnel-Venice-Baldonnel |
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
|
07-Jun-07 |
07-Jun-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Communications, Marine & Natural Resources |
|
10-Jun-07 |
10-Jun-07 |
170 |
Baldonnel-Venice-Kerry-Baldonnel |
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
|
24-Jun-07 |
25-Jun-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
15-Jul-07 |
16-Jul-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Brussels-Derry-Baldonnel |
Agriculture Fisheries & Food |
|
18-Jul-07 |
21-Jul-07 |
295 |
Baldonnel-Lisbon-Cork-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
22-Jul-07 |
23-Jul-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Brussels-Cork-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
5-Sep-07 |
5-Sep-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
8-Sep-07 |
8-Sep-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Cambridge-Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
2-Sep-07 |
3-Sep-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Taoiseach |
|
Date |
Return |
Min.Time On board |
Destination |
Minister |
|
13-Sep-07 |
15-Sep-07 |
260 |
Baldonnel-Oporto-Baldonnel-Oporto-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
16-Sep-07 |
18-Sep-07 |
270 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Oporto-Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
20-Sep-07 |
20-Sep-07 |
30 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
20-Sep-07 |
21-Sep-07 |
95 |
Baldonnel-Paris-Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
22-Sep-07 |
22-Sep-07 |
40 |
Baldonnel-Kerry-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
25-Sep-07 |
27-Sep-07 |
370 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel - Brussels - Knock - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
29-Sep-07 |
1-Oct-07 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Lisbon - Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
8-Oct-07 |
8-Oct-07 |
200 |
Baldonnel-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
21-Oct-07 |
23-Oct-07 |
265 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Luxembourg-Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food / MOS Agriculture |
|
24-Oct-07 |
26-Oct-07 |
480 |
Baldonnel-Lanzarote-Baldonnel |
MOS Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
28-Oct-07 |
29-Oct-07 |
340 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Lisbon-Shannon-Baldonnel |
MOS Agriculture, Fisheries & Food /MOS Environment Heritage & Local Government |
|
31-Oct-07 |
1-Nov-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
4-Nov-07 |
6-Nov-07 |
320 |
Baldonnel-Warsaw-Baldonnel |
MOS Agriculture Fisheries & Food (Forestry) |
|
7-Nov-07 |
7-Nov-07 |
380 |
Baldonnel-Lulea-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
12-Nov-07 |
12-Nov-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
9-Nov-07 |
9-Nov-07 |
80 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
14-Nov-07 |
14-Nov-07 |
60 |
Baldonnel-Stanstead-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
16-Nov-07 |
16-Nov-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Education |
|
13-Nov-07 |
13-Nov-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Baldonnel |
Arts Sport & Tourism |
|
15-Nov-07 |
15-Nov-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Education |
|
19-Nov-07 |
19-Nov-07 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
21-Nov-07 |
21-Nov-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel -Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
23-Nov-07 |
23-Nov-07 |
80 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Cork-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
19-Dec-07 |
19-Dec-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Agriculture Fisheries & Food |
|
Date |
Return |
Min. Time On Board |
Destination |
Minister |
|
14-Jan-07 |
16-Jan-07 |
445 |
Baldonnel-Rotterdam-Dresden-Rotterdam-Manchester-Baldonnel |
MOS Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
17-Jan-07 |
18-Jan-07 |
150 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Communications, Marine & Natural Resources |
|
19-Jan-07 |
20-Jan-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
4-Feb-07 |
4-Feb-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Farranfore-Baldonnel-Farranfore-Baldonnel |
Arts, Sports & Tourism |
|
7-Feb-07 |
8-Feb-07 |
115 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Cork-Derry-Baldonnel |
MOS Transport |
|
18-Feb-07 |
18-Feb-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Donegal-Baldonnel-Donegal-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
29-Mar-07 |
29-Mar-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
30-Mar-07 |
30-Mar-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Sligo-Dublin-Baldonnel |
Taoiseach |
|
2-Apr-07 |
2-Apr-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
4-Apr-07 |
4-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
5-Apr-07 |
5-Apr-07 |
80 |
Baldonnel-Belfast-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
10-Apr-07 |
11-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Education & Science |
|
13-Apr-07 |
14-Apr-07 |
100 |
Baldonnel-Sligo-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
16-Apr-07 |
16-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
19-Apr-07 |
19-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
20-Apr-07 |
20-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Sligo-Baldonnel-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
23-Apr-07 |
23-Apr-07 |
105 |
Baldonnel-Donegal-Waterford-Donegal-Baldonnel |
MOS Transport |
|
24-Apr-07 |
24-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Cork-Baldonnel |
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
|
26-Apr-07 |
26-Apr-07 |
85 |
Baldonnel-Farranfore-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
27-Apr-07 |
27-Apr-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Derry-Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
29-Apr-07 |
29-Apr-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Farranfore-Baldonnel-Farranfore-Baldonnel |
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
|
30-Apr-07 |
30-Apr-07 |
135 |
Baldonnel-Waterford-Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
2-May-07 |
02-May-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Arts, Sport & Tourism |
|
3-May-07 |
03-May-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
Date |
Return |
Min. Time On Board |
Destination |
Minister |
|
16-May-07 |
16-May-07 |
135 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Baldonnel-Waterford-Galway-Baldonnel |
Health & Transport |
|
18-May-07 |
18-May-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
8-Oct-07 |
08-Oct-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
16-Oct-07 |
16-Oct-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Social & Family Affairs |
|
13-Oct-07 |
13-Oct-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Waterford-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
18-Oct-07 |
20-Oct-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
23-Oct-07 |
23-Oct-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
07-Nov-07 |
08-Nov-07 |
380 |
Baldonnel-Leon-Baldonnel |
MOS Health & Children |
|
14-Nov-07 |
14-Nov-07 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Northolt-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
16-Nov-07 |
16-Nov-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
21-Nov-07 |
21-Nov-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Galway-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
23-Nov-07 |
23-Nov-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Donegal-Baldonnel |
MOS Health & Children |
|
30-Nov-07 |
30-Nov-07 |
120 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Sligo-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment / Health |
|
30-Nov-07 |
30-Nov-07 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Knock-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
05/12/2007 |
06/12/2007 |
240 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Health |
|
17/12/2007 |
17/12/2007 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
15/12/2007 |
15/12/2007 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Donegal-Baldonnel |
MOS Health |
|
Date |
Return |
Ministerial Time on Board |
Destination |
Minister |
|
14/01/2007 |
14/01/2007 |
150 |
Baldonnel-Donegal-Cork-Waterford-Donegal-Baldonnel |
MOS Transport |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
11/01/2008 |
12/01/2008 |
430 |
Baldonnel - Valleta (Luqa)-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
17/01/2008 |
17/01/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel -Larnaca -Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
18/01/2008 |
18/01/2008 |
60 |
Baldonnel - London Heathrow - Dublin -Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
19/01/2008 |
19/01/2008 |
345 |
Baldonnel -Larnaca -Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
21/01/2008 |
22/01/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels -Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
24/01/2008 |
26/01/2008 |
310 |
Baldonnel- Ljubljana - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality and Law Reform |
|
28/01/2008 |
28/01/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels -Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs/ MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
01/02/2008 |
07/02/2008 |
1385 |
Baldonnel-Bangor-Prescott-Las Vegas-Phoenix-Houston-Washington-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
10/02/2008 |
10/02/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel -Dublin-Manchester-Dublin-Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
11/02/2008 |
12/02/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel -Brussels -Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
08/02/2008 |
08/02/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Dublin -Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
18/02/2008 |
22/02/2008 |
2190 |
Brussels - Dubai -Kuala Lumpur-Dili-Darwin-Dili-Kuala Lumpur- Bahrain-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
13/02/2008 |
13/02/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel -Paris -Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
17/02/2008 |
17/02/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Brussels |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
13/02/2008 |
13/02/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Education & Science |
|
26/02/2008 |
28/02/2008 |
445 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Ljubljana-Vienna-Warsaw-Dublin-Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
04/03/2008 |
06/03/2008 |
370 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Sarajevo-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
16/03/2008 |
18/03/2008 |
925 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Scranton, Pennsylvania-Washington-Dublin-Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
27/03/2008 |
29/03/2008 |
385 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Budapest-Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
16/04/2008 |
18/04/2008 |
195 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Edinburgh - Cork - Baldonnel |
Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
10/04/2008 |
10/04/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Dublin - Belfast City - Dublin - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
14/04/2008 |
14/04/2008 |
225 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
15/04/2008 |
15/04/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
23/04/2008 |
24/04/2008 |
490 |
Baldonnel - Pristina - Skopje - Pristina - Vienna - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
18/04/2008 |
18/04/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Dublin - Cork -Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise Trade and Employment |
|
25/04/2008 |
25/042008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Dublin - Derry - Dublin - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
29/04/2008 |
02/05/2008 |
890 |
Baldonnel - Washington - Boston - Dublin - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs / Transport |
|
08/05/2008 |
08/05/2008 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach / Foreign Affairs |
|
25/05/2008 |
25/05/2008 |
105 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
15/05/2008 |
17/05/2008 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Madrid - Shannon - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
21/05/2008 |
21/05/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
26/05/2008 |
26/05/2008 |
240 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Brussels - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs/ Defence |
|
30/05/2008 |
30/05/2008 |
105 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste/Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
28/05/2008 |
28/05/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
01/06/2008 |
03/06/2008 |
265 |
Baldonnel - Frankfurt - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
04/06/2008 |
05/06/2008 |
210 |
Baldonnel - Rome(Ciampino) |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
06/06/2008 |
06/062008 |
130 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Stanstead - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
16/06/2008 |
18/06/2008 |
780 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - N’Djamena - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
19/06/2008 |
20/06/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach / MOS An Taoiseach / Foreign Affairs |
|
26/06/2008 |
27/06/2008 |
330 |
Baldonnel - Tallin (Estonia) - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
23/06/2008 |
24/06/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food & MOS |
|
02/07/2008 |
02/07/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
06/07/2008 |
08/07/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Nice - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
08/07/2008 |
11/07/2008 |
770 |
Baldonnel - Cairo - Tel Aviv - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
13/07/2008 |
14/07/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Paris Le Bourget - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
15/07/2008 |
18/07/2008 |
780 |
Baldonnel - New York (Teterboro) - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
07/11/2008 |
07/11/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
05/11/2008 |
05/11/2008 |
60 |
Baldonnel - Heathrow - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
04/11/2008 |
05/11/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Arts, Sports & Tourism |
|
09/11/2008 |
10/11/2008 |
260 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Cork - Brussels - Cork - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs/Defence |
|
19/11/2008 |
22/11/2008 |
675 |
Baldonnel - Tblisi - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
13/11/2008 |
13/11/2008 |
250 |
Baldonnel - Berlin- Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
27/11/2008 |
28/11/2008 |
370 |
Baldonnel - Helsinki - Stockholm - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
30/11/2008 |
01/12/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
03/12/2008 |
04/12/2008 |
325 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Berlin - London(Heathrow) - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
05/12/2008 |
05/12/2008 |
230 |
Baldonnel - Paris (Le Bourget) - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/MOS Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs/Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
07/12/2008 |
08/12/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs/Communications, Energy & Natural Resources |
|
14/12/2008 |
16/12/2008 |
1250 |
Baldonnel - Knock - Bangor (Maine) - Austin (Texas) - Bangor (Maine) - Baldonnel |
Tanaiste/ Defence |
|
04/12/2008 |
04/12/2008 |
60 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
11/12/2008 |
12/12/2008 |
220 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/MOS Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs |
|
18/12/2008 |
19/12/2008 |
220 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food/MOS Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
22/12/2008 |
22/12/2008 |
405 |
Baldonnel - Pristina - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Defence |
|
30/12/2008 |
30/12/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Paris (Le Bourget) - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
20/01/2008 |
21/01/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
30/01/2008 |
31/01/2008 |
310 |
Baldonnel - Ljubljana- Baldonnel |
MOS Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
05/02/2008 |
05/02/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Shannon -Baldonnel |
Enterprise, Trade & Employment/Defence |
|
12/02/2008 |
12/02/2008 |
205 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Barcelona-Baldonnel |
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
12/02/2008 |
13/02/2008 |
185 |
Baldonnel-Paris-Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
14/02/2008 |
15/02/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
18/02/2008 |
18/02/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs/Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
13/02/2008 |
13/02/2008 |
155 |
Baldonnel-Barcelona-Baldonnel |
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
21/02/2008 |
22/02/2008 |
310 |
Baldonnel- Ljubljana-Baldonnel |
MOS Defence |
|
27/02/2008 |
27/02/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Health & Children |
|
28/02/2008 |
28/02/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel -Brussels-Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
03/03/2008 |
03/03/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel -Brussels-Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
10/03/2008 |
10/03/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel -Brussels-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
12/03/2008 |
12/03/2008 |
135 |
Baldonnel-Prague-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
13/03/2008 |
14/03/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel-Dublin-Brussels-Dublin-Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach / Foreign Affairs |
|
17/03/2008 |
17/03/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Derry-Brussels |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
26/03/2008 |
26/03/2008 |
50 |
Baldonnel-Derry-Cork-Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
28/03/2008 |
29/03/2008 |
310 |
Baldonnel-Slovenia-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
31/03/2008 |
31/03/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel-Shannon-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
07/04/2008 |
07/04/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
10/04/2008 |
10/04/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Knock - Cork - Baldonnel |
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
13/04/2008 |
15/04/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Edinburgh - Derry - Baldonnel |
MOS Health |
|
17/04/2008 |
18/04/2008 |
310 |
Baldonnel - Ljubljana - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
22/04/2008 |
23/04/2008 |
250 |
Baldonnel - Berlin - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
30/04/2008 |
30/04/2008 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
03/05/2008 |
03/05/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
04/05/2008 |
06/05/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Knock - Parma - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
13/05/2008 |
14/05/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
11/05/2008 |
11/05/2008 |
125 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Newcastle - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
18/05/2008 |
19/05/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
24/05/2008 |
24/05/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Cardiff - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs/ Arts Sport & Tourism |
|
25/05/2008 |
27/05/2008 |
315 |
Baldonnel - Maribor - Ljubljana - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
21/05/2008 |
22/05/2008 |
185 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Cork -Baldonnel |
Education & Science |
|
22/05/2008 |
22/05/2008 |
50 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
28/05/2008 |
28/05/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Tanaiste/Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
03/06/2008 |
04/06/2008 |
310 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Northolt - Cork - Paris Le Bourget - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
09/06/2008 |
10/06/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
05/06/2008 |
05/06/2008 |
170 |
Baldonnel - Rome - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
13/06/2008 |
13/06/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Transport |
|
15/06/2008 |
15/06/2008 |
130 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs & MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
18/06/2008 |
18/06/2008 |
230 |
Baldonnel - Strasbourg - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
16/06/2008 |
16/06/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
17/07/2008 |
18/07/2008 |
195 |
Baldonnel - Shannon -Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise, Trade & Employment/MOS Taoiseach |
|
20/07/2008 |
20/07/2008 |
125 |
Baldonnel - Geneva - Baldonnel |
Agriculture/Foreign Affairs & MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
21/07/2008 |
22/07/2008 |
255 |
Baldonnel - Geneva - Brussels - Cork - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste/Foreign Affairs |
|
29/07/2008 |
29/07/2008 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Geneva - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste/Agriculture & MOS Enterprise Trade & Employment |
|
11/08/2008 |
11/08/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
13/08/2008 |
13/08/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Brussels - Shannon - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
02/09/2008 |
02/09/2008 |
95 |
Baldonnel - La Rochelle - Baldonnel |
MOS Transport & Marine |
|
05/09/2008 |
05/09/2008 |
95 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Paris (Le Bourget) - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
01/09/2008 |
01/09/2008 |
220 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
04/09/2008 |
04/09/2008 |
100 |
Baldonnel - Limoges - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
14/09/2008 |
15/09/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
11/09/2008 |
13/09/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Nice - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
18/09/2008 |
18/09/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
18/09/2008 |
18/09/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Kerry - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
21/09/2008 |
23/09/2008 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Geneva - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
25/09/2008 |
26/09/2008 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Edinburgh - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/MOS Taoiseach/Communication, Energy & Natural Resources |
|
29/09/2008 |
29/09/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
30/09/2008 |
30/09/20008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste/Defence |
|
01/10/2008 |
01/10/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Paris (Le Bourget) - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs |
|
06/10/2008 |
07/10/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
09/10/2008 |
10/10/2008 |
160 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
15/10/2008 |
16/10/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs/Finance/MOS Taoiseach |
|
08/10/2008 |
08/10/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
13/10/2008 |
13/10/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
12/10/2008 |
12/10/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Paris (Le Bourget) - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
20/10/2008 |
20/10/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Paris (Le Bourget) - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
19/10/2008 |
19/10/2008 |
105 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Paris (Le Bourget) - Baldonnel |
Education |
|
26/10/2008 |
26/10/2008 |
85 |
Baldonnel - Amsterdam - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
24/10/2008 |
24/10/2008 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
21/10/2008 |
21/10/2008 |
60 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
26/10/2008 |
28/10/2008 |
140 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
30/10/2008 |
30/10/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
03/11/2008 |
04/11/2008 |
290 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Marseilles - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
11/11/2008 |
12/11/2008 |
240 |
Baldonnel - Switzerland - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
10/11/2008 |
10/11/2008 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
19/11/2008 |
20/11/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
21/11/2008 |
21/11/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Knock - Derry - Baldonnel |
Tanaiste |
|
18/11/2008 |
18/11/2008 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Defence/Education |
|
27/11/2008 |
27/11/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
28/11/2008 |
28/11/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
26/11/2008 |
26/11/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Paris - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
01/12/2008 |
01/12/2008 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
02/12/2008 |
03/12/2008 |
250 |
Baldonnel - Oslo - Baldonnel |
Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
11/12/2008 |
12/12/2008 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Paris (Le Bourget) - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
21/02/2008 |
21/02/2008 |
270 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
25/02/2008 |
25/02/2008 |
270 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Brussels-Baldonnel |
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
09/03/2008 |
09/03/2008 |
135 |
Baldonnel-Brussels-Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
29/03/2008 |
29/03/2008 |
45 |
Baldonnel-Farranfore-Baldonnel |
Health |
|
31/03/2008 |
31/03/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Galway-Cork-Baldonnel |
Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
29/04/2008 |
29/04/2008 |
275 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Sligo - Baldonnel |
Agriculture |
|
27/06/2008 |
27/06/2008 |
95 |
Baldonnel - Waterford - Farranfore - Baldonnel |
Arts, Sports & Tourism |
|
26/06/2008 |
26/062008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Sligo - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste/Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
07/07/2008 |
07/07/2008 |
150 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
14/07/2008 |
14/07/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Sligo - Shannon - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
12/07/2008 |
12/07/2008 |
175 |
Baldonnel - Brest - Paris - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
23/07/2880 |
25/07/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
21/07/2008 |
22/07/2008 |
150 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
22/09/2008 |
22/09/2008 |
365 |
Baldonnel - Strasbourg - Baldonnel |
MOS Enterprise, Trade & Employment |
|
06/10/2008 |
06/10/2008 |
285 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Brussels - Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
08/10/2008 |
09/10/2008 |
360 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
MOS Transport |
|
07/10/2008 |
07/10/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
15/10/2008 |
16/10/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
28/10/2008 |
28/10/2008 |
210 |
Baldonnel - Cork - London City Airport - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
03/11/2008 |
04/11/2008 |
300 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
07/11/2008 |
07/11/2008 |
105 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
22/12/2008 |
22/12/2008 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
12/03/2008 |
12/03/2008 |
110 |
Baldonnel-Cork-Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
17/09/2008 |
17/09/2008 |
115 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Belfast (Aldergrove) - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
04/12/2008 |
04/12/2008 |
50 |
Cork - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
14/01/2009 |
16/01/2009 |
350 |
Baldonnel - Helsinki - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
19/01/2009 |
19/01/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
22/01/2009 |
22/01/2009 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
23/01/2009 |
23/01/2009 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Derry - Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/ An Tanaiste/ Foreign Affairs/ Education/ Transport/ Finance/ Health/ Social & Family Affairs/Agriculture/Arts, Sports & Tourism |
|
29/01/2009 |
30/01/2009 |
240 |
Baldonnel - Zurich - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
01/02/2009 |
06/02/2009 |
1030 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Damascus - Beirut - Abu Dhabi - Dubai - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
09/02/2009 |
10/02/2009 |
180 |
Dublin - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
15/02/2009 |
20/02/2009 |
1355 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Washington - Mexico City - Havana (Cuba) - St Johns Newfoundland (Canada) - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
24/02/2009 |
26/02/2009 |
950 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - N’Djamena - Abeche - N’Djamena - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Defence |
|
01/03/2009 |
01/03/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
14/03/2009 |
18/03/2009 |
900 |
Baldonnel - Teterboro - White Plains - Teterboro - Washington - Shannon |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs |
|
19/03/2009 |
20/03/2009 |
220 |
Shannon - Brussels - Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs |
|
22/03/2009 |
23/03/2009 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
Education & Science |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
21/03/2009 |
21/03/2009 |
100 |
Baldonnel - Cardiff - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
05/04/2009 |
05/04/2009 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Foreign Affairs |
|
26/04/2009 |
01/05/2009 |
1130 |
Baldonnel - Knock - Riyadh (Saudi Arabia) - Jeddah (Saudi Arabia) - Doha (Qatar) - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
07/05/2009 |
07/05/2009 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
11/05/2009 |
12/05/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Education & Science |
|
14/05/2009 |
16/05/2009 |
215 |
Baldonnel - Paris (Le Bourget) - Northolt - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
18/05/2009 |
18/05/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
18/05/2009 |
20/05/2009 |
350 |
Baldonnel - Frankfurt - Milan - Amsterdam - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
27/05/2009 |
29/05/2009 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
08/06/2009 |
08/06/2009 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
14/01/2009 |
16/01/2009 |
280 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
22/01/2009 |
22/01/2009 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
18/01/2009 |
18/01/2009 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
20/01/2009 |
20/01/2009 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
25/01/2009 |
26/01/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
21/01/2009 |
21/01/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
29/01/2009 |
30/01/2009 |
130 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
19/02/2009 |
19/02/2009 |
45 |
Baldonnel - Cardiff - Baldonnel |
Community Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
20/02/2009 |
20/02/2009 |
90 |
Baldonnel - Cardiff - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach/Community Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
23/02/2009 |
23/02/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Brussels - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
26/02/2009 |
26/02/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Justice Equality & Law Reform |
|
27/02/2009 |
27/02/2009 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Shannon - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
01/03/2009 |
02/03/2009 |
770 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Bari - Sharm El Sheikh - Rome - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
04/03/2009 |
06/03/2009 |
195 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste (Enterprise Trade & Employment) |
|
09/03/2009 |
09/03/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
11/03/2009 |
11/03/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
03/03/2009 |
03/03/2009 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Belfast (Aldergrove) - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
10/03/2009 |
10/03/2009 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Belfast (Aldergrove) - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs/Justice, Equality & Law Reform |
|
23/03/2009 |
23/03/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
19/03/2009 |
19/03/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance/MOS Taoiseach |
|
27/03/2009 |
28/03/2009 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
30/03/2009 |
30/03/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
MOS Transport |
|
26/03/2009 |
26/03/2009 |
80 |
Baldonnel - Belfast (Aldergrove) - Baldonnel |
An Taoiseach |
|
02/04/2009 |
03/04/2009 |
135 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
09/04/2009 |
09/04/2009 |
75 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
05/04/2009 |
05/04/2009 |
40 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
22/04/2209 |
22/04/2009 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Northolt - Heathrow - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
23/04/2009 |
24/04/2009 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
27/04/2009 |
27/04/2009 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
30/04/2009 |
30/04/2009 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Health |
|
04/05/2009 |
04/05/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Finance |
|
12/05/2009 |
12/05/2009 |
270 |
Baldonnel - Madrid - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
05/05/2009 |
06/05/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
13/05/2009 |
13/05/2009 |
295 |
Baldonnel - Prague - Shannon - Baldonnel |
MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
15/05/2009 |
15/05/2009 |
35 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Knock - Baldonnel |
An Tanaiste |
|
25/05/2009 |
25/05/2009 |
180 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
12/06/2009 |
12/06/2009 |
275 |
Baldonnel - Bydoszcz - Cork - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
11/06/2009 |
11/06/2009 |
130 |
Baldonnel - London Heathrow - Belfast Aldergrove - Baldonnel |
An Tánaiste |
|
09/06/2009 |
09/06/2009 |
100 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Health & Children |
|
08/06/2009 |
08/06/2009 |
120 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Northolt - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
14/06/2009 |
15/06/2009 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Cork - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
24/06/2009 |
26/06/2009 |
190 |
Baldonnel - Knock - Paris - Derry - Baldonnel |
An Tánaiste |
|
18/06/2009 |
19/06/2009 |
220 |
Baldonnel - Brussels - Baldonnel - Cork - Baldonnel |
Taoiseach / Foreign Affairs/MOS Foreign Affairs |
|
21/06/2009 |
22/06/2009 |
200 |
Baldonnel - Luxembourg - Baldonnel |
Agriculture, Fisheries & Food |
|
26/06/2009 |
28/06/2009 |
465 |
Baldonnel -Corfu - Thessaloniki - Corfu - Baldonnel |
MOS Taoiseach |
|
Date |
Return Date |
Min. Time On Board |
Route |
Minister |
|
29/01/2009 |
29/01/2009 |
45 |
Baldonnel - Belfast City - Baldonnel |
Foreign Affairs |
|
Year |
Helicopter |
Fixed Wing |
|
2007 |
8 |
14 |
|
2008 |
9 |
22 |
|
2009 (to 19th June ) |
4 |
8 |
366 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Defence the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25703/09]
My Department is committed to carrying out four Value for Money reviews under the 2006-2008 Programme of Value for Money & Policy Reviews. The following Reviews have been completed and published in the past three years:
A review of Maintenance of Aircraft in the Air Corps was published in July 2006. The main finding was that the efficiency and effectiveness of aircraft maintenance was being compromised by the age and diversity of aircraft, which the Air Corps operated at the time. The ongoing investment programme in defence equipment has resulted in a reduction in Air Corps fleet diversity and improved parts availability through the adoption of "power by the hour" contracts. The ongoing infrastructure investment programme has seen improvements to the maintenance infrastructure. Other recommendations which focussed on organisational matters, have been considered and implemented where appropriate.
A review of Clothing Procurement in the Defence Forces was published in September 2007. The review has identified potential for increased efficiency and effectiveness in the clothing storage and distribution system. The military authorities are currently progressing plans to minimise stock holding levels and streamline the distribution system. In this context, three clothing stores, one in each Brigade (Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny; Dun Ui Mhaoiliosa, Renmore, Galway; and Aiken Barracks, Dundalk) have been closed and the personnel redeployed on other duties. Work is also progressing on reducing stock holdings.
A review of Naval Service Vessel Maintenance was published in March 2009. The review found that the vessel maintenance function is effectively supporting the patrol day requirement of the Naval Service and found a low incidence of lost patrol days due to unscheduled maintenance. The review has made recommendations aimed at improving the co-ordination of resource management. These recommendations are being progressed.
A review of Military Training Lands is ongoing and it is anticipated that this review will be finalised in the near future.
367 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Defence the number of post primary schools visited by members of the Defence Forces in the 2008-09 school year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25826/09]
The military authorities have advised that a total of seventy-two (72) of visits were conducted in the school year 2008/2009. The Defence Forces provides Careers Teams to second level schools and colleges on request. Additional visits are organised by the Defence Forces to facilitate the organisation's recruitment needs. In this regard, the implementation of the savings measures in public service numbers has led to fewer visits than usual being conducted this year.
368 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Defence the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25859/09]
Details of the amount of interest paid in respect of late payments for goods and services supplied to my Department and the Defence Forces for the years 2004 to 2008 and January to May 2009 are as follows:
|
€ |
|
|
2004 |
2,924 |
|
2005 |
2,354 |
|
2006 |
27,707* |
|
2007 |
5,442 |
|
2008 |
6,258 |
|
2009 (to end-May) |
1,592 |
*Implementation of new IT system in 2006 caused delays in payments.
My Department complies with the provisions of the Prompt Payment of Accounts Act 1997 and the European Communities (Late Payment in Commercial Transactions) Regulations 2002. It is my Department's policy to settle all invoices promptly with due regard to contractual terms where applicable, good financial and cash management practices and the provisions of the Act and Regulations. The amount of interest paid is very small in relation to the overall value of payments made for goods and services by my Department which amounted to some €234m in 2008.
369 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Defence further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 67 and 87 of 23 June 2009 and with reference to the pilot scheme for the development of the integrated reserve which was conducted in 2007 and continued into 2008, the cost of the pilot scheme to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26117/09]
The RDF Review Implementation plan provides for the development of an integrated element of the Reserve. In line with the plan, a pilot scheme for the development of the integrated Reserve was conducted in 2007 and continued into 2008. The costs for reservists, participating in the pilot programme in 2007 and 2008, were funded from the overall budget for training of reservists.
In accordance with the provisions of the Plan, RDF personnel who volunteered for the pilot programmes were required to undertake a minimum of 21 days paid training. The estimated additional cost for paid training of reservists participating in the pilot integration programme for 2007 and 2008, above the plan provision of 14 days paid training for non-integrated personnel, was approx. €79,600 and €73,500 respectively. It is important to note that many members of the non-integrated element of the Reserve also undertook paid training of 21 days or more in 2007 and 2008.
New terms and conditions for payment of gratuities were introduced in 2008. Eligibility for receipt of the gratuity is based on completion of specified levels of voluntary service and specified levels of paid training, including integrated training. In addition, gratuity rates also differ for varying ranks. The additional cost of gratuities paid to reservists who participated in the pilot integration programme, above the rate paid for non-integrated Reservists undertaking fourteen days paid training, was approx. €76,800 in 2008.
The Reserve Defence Force Review Implementation Plan states that the training of integrated RDF personnel is a PDF unit responsibility. PDF personnel who are assigned this role assist in the preparation and training of Reservists prior to integration and this is "in addition" to their normal work requirements. The cost of the allowances paid to PDF personnel to date, in respect of the pilot scheme for the development of the integrated Reserve, on foot of this responsibility was approx. €10,500.
370 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the statutory instrument, with details of section and subsection, which covers the minimum bedroom capacity of a local authority dwelling that a local authority may allocate to a couple with one child. [26207/09]
Section 63 of the Housing Act 1966 sets out the definition of overcrowding which housing authorities have regard to in assessing a household for, and in the allocation of, appropriate social housing support.
371 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25663/09]
The applicable interest rate paid by local authority borrowers on fixed rates is set by reference to prevailing fixed interest rates at the time of loan draw down. Loans in respect of which interest rates in excess of 10% apply were issued by local authorities prior to 1991 and reflect the long-term costs of the funds to the Housing Finance Agency (the Agency) prevailing at the time these loans were advanced. Rates were fixed for the life of the loan (generally 25 — 30 years).
Borrowers with these long term fixed rate local authority mortgages, which are no longer available, are permitted to redeem such loans without any interest rate penalty and refinance them in the private sector. This represents a significant concession, having regard to the redemption penalties (of up to six months interest or more) applied by commercial lending agencies in the event of early redemption of such mortgages. Early redemption without penalty means that the Agency — which operates on a self-financing basis — has had to bear the losses on such loans.
In 2001, the position regarding high fixed interest rates on local authority loans was reviewed in consultation with the Department of Finance. This review determined that a State subsidy to reduce such interest rates would not be appropriate, particularly given the cost already being borne by the State where the holders of such loans availed of the option to refinance in the private sector without penalty.
Assistance may, however, be provided to households experiencing difficulties in meeting their mortgage repayments under the Mortgage Interest Supplement scheme operated by the Department of Social and Family Affairs.
372 Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, with regard to rental supplements for tenants of housing associations, housing cooperative, housing trusts and local authority housing, he will request that these bodies reduce rents in line with the reductions in the private sector; and if, in view of the fact that these bodies are publicly funded, he will contact all bodies, outlining the situation whereby rents in the private sector have fallen and requesting that they come into line and do the same. [25676/09]
In the case of local authority housing, local authorities set rents for social housing tenants based on their Differential Rents Schemes. While it is a matter for each authority to determine an individual household's rent, the principle of the scheme is that a household is charged a rent based on a proportion of their income.
In the case of family-type accommodation provided by approved voluntary and co-operative housing bodies under my Department's Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme (CLSS), tenants are drawn from the local authority housing waiting list and rents are largely based on the local authority Differential Rents Schemes. Under the CLSS, the application of the rent formula as set out in the scheme may be modified, at the discretion of the approved housing body, in particular respects where they consider this appropriate. Rent payable under the scheme to an approved housing body, by a tenant, is based on household income in the previous tax year. Where this would result in hardship arising from a fall in income due to loss of employment, disability etc, the rent may be adjusted accordingly.
In the case of accommodation provided under the Capital Assistance Scheme (CAS), which is aimed at persons with special housing needs such as elderly, the homeless or persons with a physical or intellectual disability, rents are charged at a reasonable rate having regard to tenants' income. In cases where an approved housing body contributes a minimum of 5% of the capital cost of a CAS funded project, the approved body may retain nomination rights, outside of the local authority waiting list, for up to 25% of the units. In these circumstances, the normal landlord/tenant arrangements, including in relation to rent, apply.
Given that the circumstances of individual tenants may change many times during the period of their tenancy, it is accepted that the rent payable by a tenant to either a local authority or an approved housing body should be capable of review in light of such changes. My Department will take appropriate opportunities, in the context of ongoing liaison and consultation with local authorities and the representative organisations for the voluntary and co-operative housing sector, to remind the bodies concerned in this regard.
373 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25706/09]
My Department scheduled six Value for Money reviews on Departmental programmes in the period 2006-2008 and details are set out in the table below. The local Government Audit service carried out two reviews on local authority areas and details are also included in the table.
In addition to this, the internal audit unit of the Department carries out standard internal audits, which focuses on reviewing systems, procedures, internal controls and risk management systems in business units throughout my Department.
|
Outcome |
|
|
VFM Review |
|
|
Online Motor Tax |
The review has been completed and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. Since the completion of the review, and in line with the review findings, the services available are being extended to include online changes of vehicle ownership. |
|
Rural Water Programme |
The review has been completed and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. The review recommendations assisted in formulating the Rural Water Programme 2008 and in the restructuring review of the subsidy payments towards the operational costs of group water schemes. Further implementation proposals have been prepared for consideration with a view to incorporation into the next phase of the Action Plan for Rural Water being prepared by the National Rural Water Monitoring Committee. |
|
Ex-post review of the ERDF element of the Water Services Infrastructure Provision of the Economic and Social Infrastructure OP |
A comprehensive review of the entire Water Services Investment Programme is now being undertaken instead of this more limited historical review of a selection of completed ERDF schemes. |
|
Preliminary Review of the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) |
Preliminary review finalised. Completed report to be presented to the Oireachtas shortly. |
|
Rental Accommodation Scheme — follow-up on preliminary review. |
Follow up review will take place in 2010. |
|
Strategic Non-National Roads |
Responsibility for this area transferred to the Dept Transport in 2008. |
|
Reviews conducted by the Local Government Audit Service |
|
|
Follow up report on the Development of Internal Audit in Local Authorities |
Contained recommendations and advice on the establishment of Audit Committees that have now have been set up in county and city councils. |
|
Financial Management Reporting in Local Authorities |
Contained a range of recommendations which drew on best practice in terms of the nature, content and frequency of financial reporting. Actions have been taken by county and city councils. |
374 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, further to Parliamentary Question No. 379 of 26 May 2009, if the amount of supplementary funding required and applied for is in excess of €30,000 and not €21,528 as stated in the response; the time it will take to consider the application; and the timeframe involved. [25718/09]
Following consultation with, and the supply of additional information by, Kilkenny County Council, my Department revised the level of supplementary grant for the project concerned to €31,400 and the Council was notified of this on the 24 June 2009. This brings the total amount of funding approved for the project under the Capital Assistance Scheme to €909,872.
375 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the details on the forms of equality proofing, rural proofing, environment proofing and public health proofing he applies to housing policy and practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25755/09]
The principles underpinning current Government housing policy are set out in my Department's housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities published in February, 2007. The policy statement is underpinned by the sustainable communities philosophy which incorporates economic, environmental and social considerations. Sustainable communities are defined as communities that are "safe and inclusive, well planned, built and run, offer equality of opportunity and good services for all".
In addition, to enable all those involved in the provision of housing to achieve the objectives outlined in the policy statement, my Department also published best practice guidelines Quality Housing for Sustainable Communities in 2007. These guidelines, which apply to all new social housing projects, outline the essential requirements for good quality sustainable housing development which should, inter alia, be socially and environmentally appropriate, architecturally appropriate, accessible and adaptable, safe, secure and healthy, affordable, durable and resource efficient. Work is underway also on the production of a sustainable community proofing toolkit which will be introduced for all new local authority housing projects.
376 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will initiate legislation to establish a housing ombudsman to provide an administrative remedy short of the Courts, in the interest of quicker and less expensive resolution of housing disputes and redress of violations of the right to housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25756/09]
Complaints concerning the administrative actions of local authorities already come within the remit of the Ombudsman and, as such, an administrative remedy without recourse to the Courts already exists in respect of any housing related dispute involving a housing authority.
Complaints regarding services provided by financial service providers, including mortgage lenders, can be made by consumers to the Financial Services Ombudsman.
In relation to private rented housing, the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 introduced a new regulatory framework governing private rented residential accommodation and it provided for, inter alia, the registration of private rented residential tenancies, the cheap and speedy resolution of disputes between parties to such tenancies and the establishment of the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) to discharge a range of functions relating to these matters.
Given the institutional arrangements in place to deal with dispute resolution in relation to both private and social housing, I have no plans for the establishment of any other bodies to carry out functions in these areas.
377 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to develop an all-Ireland strategy on homelessness in conjunction with his counterpart in the north; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25757/09]
378 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will establish an all-Ireland housing needs monitor to annually assess the extent of homelessness and housing needs, including the flow of people in and out of homelessness which would utilise several methods and combine different sources, and conform with international best practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25758/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 377 and 378 together.
Data on homelessness are obtained from a range of sources. Homelessness is a specific category of need under the statutory housing needs process. In the context of the social housing reform programme, my Department is, in consultation with housing authorities, moving towards having a national needs assessment completed on a more regular basis. Specific homelessness surveys, known as Counted In, are carried out in Cork, Dublin, Galway and Limerick. As indicated in the Homeless Strategy Implementation Plan, published earlier this year, a new national homelessness data system is being developed, which should enhance the ongoing monitoring of trends in homelessness. In addition, my Department is participating in the EU MPHASIS project, which is aimed at improving the measurement of homelessness and the information base on homelessness at national and European level.
My Department maintains good ongoing contact with its counterparts in Northern Ireland in relation to housing matters generally, including homelessness. While I have no plans to introduce an all-Ireland homeless strategy or data system, the scope for all-Ireland approaches on particular issues and exchange of information and good practice will be borne in mind in the context of these contacts and in the implementation of the Homeless Strategy generally.
379 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will establish a fully enforceable right to maintenance and repairs of social housing within a reasonable timeframe, and a national standard of maintenance of social housing, by way of regulation. [25760/09]
Minimum standards for rental accommodation are prescribed in the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2008, made under section 18 of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1992. With very limited exemptions, these regulations apply to local authority and voluntary housing units, as well as private rented accommodation, and all landlords have a legal obligation to ensure that their rented properties comply with the regulations. Under section 58 of the Housing Act 1966, the management and maintenance of local authority housing stock is a matter for individual authorities.
380 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will impose a legal obligation on local authorities to refurbish all publicly owned derelict houses within three months of vacancy to prepare them for new occupants. [25761/09]
It is the responsibility of local authorities to maintain their housing stock in good order, and the general responsibility in relation to this has been enshrined in the new Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2008.
Each year local authorities submit an improvement works programme to my Department detailing how the authority's internal capital receipts will be used to maintain and improve its stock. In 2008 alone, authorities spent almost €36 million on pre-letting repairs and works to long-term vacancies. It is expected that this figure will rise to €41 million in 2009.
In addition to the use of internal capital receipts, my Department supports local authorities directly in re-letting properties under its energy efficiency programme. This new programme, aimed at improving the energy efficiency of local authority apartment complexes and vacant local authority dwellings, involves an allocation of some €20 million to local authorities in 2009. This is provided on a co-funded, grant per unit basis, under which my Department provides funding for 75% of the cost of the works, subject to a maximum grant of €15,000, to bring vacant properties up to a Building Energy Rating of C1. In the event that a property does not achieve a C1 rating following remedial works, authorities may instead claim 50% of the cost, again subject to the maximum grant of €15,000, from its general social housing allocation.
381 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will establish a national standardised differential rent scheme to ensure fairer rents for all people in the social housing sector. [25762/09]
The making and amending of rent schemes is the responsibility of local authorities as an integral part of their housing management functions, subject to broad principles laid down by my Department in Circular letter HRT 3/2002 of 6 March 2002.
It is not my intention to implement a national standardised differential rent scheme. However, in the context of new provisions to be introduced on enactment of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Bill 2008, I intend to make regulations more clearly setting out the matters that may be included in a local rents scheme.
382 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of enforcement orders to prevent dereliction of properties which have been issued by local authorities for each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25763/09]
My Department does not routinely collect data on the number of enforcement orders to prevent dereliction of properties which have been issued by local authorities. Accordingly, the information sought in the question is not available.
383 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to introduce a system of rent control; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25764/09]
The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 introduced a new regulatory framework governing private rented residential accommodation and it provided for, inter alia, the registration of private rented residential tenancies, the cheap and speedy resolution of disputes between parties to such tenancies and the establishment of the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) to discharge a range of functions relating to these matters.
The Act stipulates that the tenant of a dwelling must pay to the landlord, or his or her authorised agent, the rent provided for under the tenancy. The Act also provides that the rent may not be reviewed more frequently than once in each period of twelve months, unless a substantial change in the nature of the accommodation has occurred in the interim, and that the rent must be no greater than the market rent for that tenancy.
If non-compliance with the provisions of the Act relating to rent and rent reviews leads to a dispute between landlord and tenant either or both of the parties to the tenancy may refer the matter to the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) for resolution.
While I have no plans to introduce a system of rent control in respect of private rented dwellings there are still a small number of formerly rent controlled properties. On a valid application being made to it, the rent on these properties is set by the Rent Tribunal which, under the Government's programme for the rationalisation of state agencies, is to be merged with the PRTB. Preparatory work on the legislative amendments required to underpin the merger is underway and these will be progressed at the earliest feasible legislative opportunity.
384 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will establish a statutory all-Ireland traveller accommodation agency, as recommended by the Report of the Task Force on the Travelling Community 1995 which would ensure that the Traveller accommodation programmes are of a quality standard that is uniform across the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25765/09]
385 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will establish an all-Ireland programme for provision for nomadism, in co-operation with all local authorities here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25766/09]
386 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the criteria used to assess progress in Traveller accommodation programmes. [25767/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 384 to 386, inclusive, together.
In accordance with the provisions of the Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act, 1998, responsibility for the assessment of the accommodation needs of Travellers and the preparation, adoption and implementation of multi-annual Traveller Accommodation Programmes (TAPs) rests with individual housing authorities. The proposal for a statutory all-Ireland Traveller accommodation agency, as set out in the 1995 Task Force report, was considered by my Department. However, it was subsequently decided not to establish such an agency and I have no plans to review the matter or to establish an all-Ireland programme in relation to nomadism.
The 1998 Act provided for the preparation of TAPs, in which housing authorities are required to address the existing accommodation needs of Travellers and the projected need that will arise during the period of the programmes, across a range of accommodation options including standard social housing and Traveller-specific accommodation such as group housing schemes and permanent and transient halting sites. The assessment of the requirements for sites which is carried out in that context must include an assessment of the need for transient sites to accommodate Travellers, other than in their normal place of residence, having regard to their annual patterns of movement.
My Department has requested the National Traveller Accommodation Consultative Committee (NTACC), which was established under the 1998 Act to advise the Minister in relation to matters concerning accommodation for Travellers, to consider the extent of the current need for transient sites and how this need could best be addressed. The report of the NTACC will inform future policy in this regard.
The first TAPs commenced in 2000 and the current programmes cover the five-year period from 2009 to 2013. The Memorandum on the Preparation, Adoption and Implementation of Local Authority Traveller Accommodation Programmes, a copy of which is available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie, provides advice and guidelines on the preparation, adoption and implementation of the current TAPs.
In order to support effective implementation of TAPs, I have directed local authorities to include annual targets in their programmes, including targets in relation to the range of accommodation types required and the number of families to be accommodated. These targets form the basis for assessing progress in the context of TAP reviews which housing authorities are required to carry out at least once in every three years. Progress by housing authorities in implementing their TAPs is also subject to review by the NTACC.
387 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will develop a strategy for accommodation in respect of people with intellectual disabilities and for people who experience mental illness. [25768/09]
388 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will fully integrate supported housing for people with intellectual disabilities and for people who experience mental illness in the community, and increase support for sheltered accommodation schemes. [25769/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 387 and 388 together.
The Government's housing policy statement, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, reflects the commitment in Towards 2016 Social Partnership Agreement to develop a national housing strategy for people with a disability. Work on the strategy commenced in October 2007 under the aegis of a National Advisory Group, headed by my Department and involving the Department of Health and Children, the Health Service Executive, social partners and other relevant stakeholders including the National Disability Authority.
The strategy, which will provide a broad framework to inform the future development of local authority Housing Action Plans, will support the provision of tailored housing and housing supports for people with a disability, and have particular regard to adults with significant disabilities and people who experience mental health issues. Work on the strategy is ongoing with a view to completion by end 2009.
The provision of supported housing, as set out in Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, reflects the needs of our growing and diverse population and targets supports at the particular needs of people in different phases of their lives. The Government has initiated a broad range of actions as part of a strategic response to enhance the range of housing supports and services available to older people and people with a disability. These actions range from the introduction of better-targeted financial supports to the development of inter-agency protocols to ensure coordinated service delivery at local level where there is a care dimension in association with meeting housing need.
The specific accommodation needs of people with a physical or intellectual disability can be met directly through a wide range of available supports including adaptation grant schemes which allow people to remain in their own homes, and the provision of specific accommodation through the local authority housing and voluntary and co-operative housing programmes, primarily under the Capital Assistance Scheme.
This year, capital funding of €79.5m is being provided for the operation of the suite of housing adaptation grant schemes for people with a disability, and €110m for the provision, by approved housing bodies, of special needs accommodation under the Capital Assistance Scheme. The Health Service Executive also introduced a scheme of dedicated funding for sheltered housing in 2006 with funding of €0.5m in 2006 and 2007, increasing to €1.1m in 2008. It is a matter for the HSE to agree the level of funding for this purpose in 2009.
389 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to ensure all new social housing is fitted with energy efficient alternative energy sources. [25771/09]
In recent years significant efforts have been made to ensure that all new construction projects, including the delivery of local authority housing stock, are designed and built to high energy efficiency and sustainable development standards. To that end, Part L of the current Building Regulations requires that all new housing, including social housing:
has 40% lower heat energy demand than previous building standards;
requires the installation of boilers with not less than 86% energy efficiency (condensing boilers);
requires the mandatory use of renewable energy sources (a minimum of 10 kilowatt hours per square metre per annum).
Ireland has become the first country to include a mandatory provision for renewable energy sources in its building code. My Department is committed to building on this success by pushing beyond these recommended levels in the 2010 Building Regulations.
For social housing specifically, my Department issued a call for proposals for new social housing projects that will go beyond the current building regulations and will achieve a minimum Building Energy Rating of A2 for each dwelling. These Towards Carbon Neutral demonstration projects will be supported from a fund of €20 million and will serve to further the local authority’s knowledge and experience in the design and construction of high performing energy efficient social housing. The 27 proposals received have been evaluated by my Department in partnership with Sustainable Energy Ireland and the successful authorities will be notified shortly. Following this programme, it is intended that the successful, viable processes and technologies identified in the demonstration projects would be mainstreamed into general social housing provision.
390 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will establish local area community planning fora on a statutory basis to allow for direct community participation in planning. [25772/09]
City and county development plans set the objectives for the proper planning and sustainable development of their areas. Local area plans translate these objectives at local level. Extensive public consultation by planning authorities in relation to the making and variation of development plans and local area plans is provided for under Part II of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended by the Planning and Development (Amendment) Act 2002. Section 18(6) of the 2000 Act specifically provides that a planning authority may enter into an arrangement with a local community group for the preparation, or the carrying out of any aspect of the preparation, of a local area plan. I have no proposals to amend the existing legislation in this area.
Local authorities engage with the community on a regular basis through both statutory and non-statutory fora, such the County and City Development Boards, Strategic Policy Committees and the Community and Voluntary sector on a range of policy areas that are central to the development plan and local area plan processes such as housing, community development and the environment.
It is open to any community to establish a planning forum if it so wishes, and its relationship and involvement with its local planning authority is a matter between the local community and the relevant planning authority.
391 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the contract signed by Dublin City Council in relation to the operation of the proposed incinerator in the Poolbeg Peninsula, County Dublin, as mentioned in a newspaper article (details supplied); if so, if there is a financial obligation either on the Exchequer to pay for the cost of the incinerator if Dublin City Council was unable to fulfil its own contractual obligations; the applicable circumstances of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25780/09]
At the request of Government a copy of the agreement was provided to the Attorney General by Dublin City Council. The copy contains redactions to protect commercially sensitive information. Under strict conditions to guarantee the necessary confidentiality a copy has been made available to my Department.
As previously advised, in line with national policy, the Exchequer does not fund new heavy waste infrastructure, landfills or waste to energy (incineration) plants. These are to be provided as purely private sector commercial initiatives or by way of public private partnerships with local authorities. Accordingly, the capital cost of this project will not fall to be met by the Exchequer. In consequence, my Department has not provided any guarantee to Dublin City Council in respect of this project and there is no intention to do so.
392 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a hen harrier payment will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25782/09]
There is no record in my Department of a National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) Hen Harrier Farm Plan being submitted by or on behalf of the person referred to in the Question.
393 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a hen harrier payment will be made available to a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25783/09]
The Hen Harrier payment referred to in the Question was approved on the 24 June 2009 and should be received by the applicant shortly.
394 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if assistance will be granted to a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25838/09]
The terms of individual shared ownership transactions are governed by the provisions of the lease entered into between the purchaser and the housing authority and, accordingly, I have no function in relation to issues arising in individual cases.
It is, however, open to any person occupying a dwelling under the shared ownership scheme to buy out the local authority's share and acquire full ownership at any time. Alternatively, application can be made to the local authority to have the loan repayment period extended and any arrears capitalised, so as to make repayments more manageable. It is also open to a person to seek to return the dwelling to the ownership of the local authority.
395 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25862/09]
My Department receives in excess of 40,000 valid invoices for payment each year from contractors and suppliers. The data requested are set out in the table below:
|
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 to end May |
|
|
Interest Paid |
€9,419 |
€6,204 |
€10,380 |
€4,860 |
€5,253 |
€1,423 |
My Department is committed to making prompt payments in respect of goods and services supplied by suppliers. Payments for such services are subject to compliance with public financial procedures including value for money, effectiveness and efficiency.
My Department has taken the necessary steps to ensure the successful implementation of the recent Government decision to reduce the timeframe for making payments from 30 days to 15 days. As a first step, an Office Notice issued to all staff on 20 May 2009 informing them of the terms of the new procedures and instructing heads of business units to put appropriate measures in place to ensure suppliers are paid within a period of 15 calendar days for valid invoices for goods/supplies received on or after 15 June 2009. My Department will also be providing quarterly reports on our performance in this area (first report due October 2009) and these reports will be made public. The information will also be published in the Department's Annual Report.
396 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will require all local authorities to adopt a local authority childcare policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25885/09]
National policy in relation to childcare is the responsibility of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Within this context local authorities are involved in promoting childcare at local level through a range of policies and activities. County/City Childcare committees operate under the auspices of the local government-led County/City Development Boards to support a co-ordinated and integrated approach to childcare in their area. Local authorities are represented on these committees. Multi-Agency Children Services Committees are currently being piloted in 4 local authorities and a further number of local authorities have applied to establish Children Services Committees within their area. The aim of these committees is to test models of best practice which promote integrated locally led strategic planning for child services across agencies.
In relation to planning, local authorities have been required since 2001 to provide for crèche facilities in new residential developments. This requirement has been further reinforced by more recent and updated statutory guidelines.
I am satisfied that local authorities are contributing to the development and implementation of childcare policies in their areas. Finally, I might also add that guidelines for the protection of children were developed in 2008 and provided to local authorities by the Local Government Management Services Board.
397 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on a request from a person (details supplied) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25890/09]
Under my Department's Housing Aid for Older People grant scheme, which is administered by individual local authorities, grants of up to €10, 500 are payable, subject to certain conditions, in respect of works which are deemed necessary for making habitable the homes of older people. Grant eligible works include structural repairs and improvements, repairs to/replacement of windows and doors, and the provision of heating and sanitary services. It is a matter for the local authority to determine the eligibility of applicants and the type of works proposed in individual cases.
398 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when payment will be issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway for the sale of a bog; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25901/09]
Having regard to available budgetary resources, priority will be given under the scheme this year to those wishing to sell their interest in the 32 raised bog sites which were nominated for designation as Special Areas of Conservation in 1999. For these sites, the derogation given by the Government, which allowed the continuation of turf cutting for personal domestic use, expires in 2009.
The person referred to in the Question owns land within Eskerboy Bog, a Natural Heritage Area designated in 2004 in respect of which the 10 year derogation period will not expire until 2014. Land transactions within this area, accordingly, will not qualify for priority attention this year.
399 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when payment will be made to a local authority (details supplied) in relation to a grant allocation for 2009. [25909/09]
My Department's involvement with the Housing Adaptation Grant Schemes for Older People and People with a Disability relates primarily to the recoupment of a proportion of local authority expenditure on the payment of individual grants. These schemes introduced in November 2007 are funded by 80% recoupment available from my Department, together with 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. In the case of the old Disabled Persons' and Essential Repairs Grants Schemes, these are funded by 67% recoupment, together with a 33% contribution from the resources of the local authority.
Recoupments are made on foot of certified expenditure claims submitted by local authorities. To date, a total of €64,361 has been recouped to Cork City Council from its 2009 allocation.
400 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will give assurances that a decision on the possible infill of Dublin Bay will await the publication and consideration of a report on the future of Irish Port facilities; when this report is due to be completed and published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25927/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 394 of 23 June 2009. The publication of the Dublin Port Study is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for Transport.
401 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the planned Cork Harbour main drainage scheme. [25930/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 190 of 25 June 2009. The position is unchanged.
402 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding the implementation of the recommendations of the Cork Docklands Development Forum. [25931/09]
The Government established the Cork Docklands Development Forum in December 2007 to promote the effective coordination and delivery of sustainable public investment in key infrastructure, to facilitate regeneration and to incentivise private investment in Cork Docklands. The Forum was also tasked to address options in relation to incentives to overcome key barriers to the development of the area.
The Forum submitted its report in July 2008, setting out a policy and economic rationale for the regeneration project. The Forum Report envisaged very significant investment in public infrastructure, including the proposed Eastern Gateway Bridge, as well as possible supports for relocation of port and other activities.
The Finance Act 2009 provided for a new tax incentive scheme to facilitate the relocation of SEVESO-listed industrial facilities that hinder the regeneration of docklands in urban areas. This scheme is subject to European Commission clearance regarding compliance with State Aid rules. Funding decisions in relation to the bridge and other related projects have been deferred having regard to the prevailing budgetary constraints.
The Inter-Departmental Group established to consider the analysis and recommendations in the Report, and which is chaired by my Department, will continue to monitor the scope for appropriate public actions to move this project forward.
Cork City Council has established a special Directorate to co-ordinate and promote delivery of the Docklands project, as well as a Docklands Policy Committee comprising six local councillors. The Directorate has extensive interaction with relevant stakeholders including property owners, developers, public agencies and other stakeholders, as well as with the main Departments represented on the Inter-Departmental Group.
403 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the average length of time An Bord Pleanála has taken to issue decisions in respect of appeals lodged in 2006, 2007 and 2008; and the average length of time taken to issue decisions in respect of 2009 appeals. [25932/09]
An Bord Pleanála has a statutory objective to determine appeals and referrals within 18 weeks. The information requested for the period 2006 to 2008 is set out in the following table:
|
Outputs |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
Number of cases received. |
5,930 |
6,664 |
5,570 |
|
Normal Planning Appeals received (excludes all other cases) |
5,508 |
5,891 |
5,186 |
|
Average number of weeks taken to dispose of cases |
18 |
19 |
23 |
Consideration of the performance of the Board must take account of the legacy of record levels of case intake over recent years and the assumption of significant new functions under the Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006. In light of the demands on the Board, sanction was given in 2007 for an additional 35.5 permanent staff, bringing the total complement to 172. Board membership was also increased from 10 to 11, on a temporary basis.
An estimated 4,500 cases are expected to be referred to the Board in 2009. So far in 2009, the Board has made significant progress in dealing with its caseload. At the end of May, the Board had determined over 2,345 cases. The 584 cases determined in February is the highest monthly output on record at the Board. The Board's case backlog has been reduced by 31% year on year to 2,009 cases. The Board expect to achieve a significant increase in the compliance with the 18 week statutory objective target in the second half of the year. The average number of weeks taken to dispose of cases up to May 2009 was 23 weeks.
I have also provided, in the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2009, for a reduction in the Board's required quorum of three members to two, for the purpose of determining certain classes of routine cases.
404 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of local authority rented houses involved in house fires in the past five years; the number which had fatal consequences; the number of people who died or were seriously injured; if he will provide the information in tabular format by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26096/09]
Statistics on fires and other emergency incidents dealt with by local authority fire brigades are collected by my Department and published annually. Statistics relating specifically to fires in Local Authority Housing are not available in my Department.
I have set out in the following tables the available information on domestic fires, and fatalities where the fire services were in attendance, as reported to me by the fire authorities. Statistics for 2008 are currently being compiled and will be sent to the Deputy as soon as possible.
|
Fire Authority |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
|
Athlone Town Council |
117 |
155 |
137 |
164 |
137 |
|
Carlow County Council |
118 |
120 |
112 |
128 |
122 |
|
Cavan County Council |
91 |
80 |
75 |
99 |
101 |
|
Clare County Council |
369 |
372 |
353 |
354 |
311 |
|
Cork City Council |
390 |
373 |
359 |
334 |
627 |
|
Cork County Council |
427 |
361 |
690 |
631 |
313 |
|
Donegal County Council |
423 |
317 |
339 |
358 |
319 |
|
Drogheda Borough Council |
78 |
75 |
98 |
88 |
101 |
|
Dublin City Council |
1,453 |
1,250 |
1,278 |
1,206 |
1,962 |
|
Dundalk Town Council |
135 |
94 |
81 |
84 |
79 |
|
Galway County Council |
492 |
516 |
487 |
529 |
464 |
|
Kerry County Council |
368 |
357 |
330 |
372 |
284 |
|
Kildare County Council |
480 |
447 |
479 |
454 |
429 |
|
Kilkenny County Council |
181 |
168 |
133 |
159 |
167 |
|
Laois County Council |
230 |
223 |
290 |
314 |
347 |
|
Leitrim County Council |
78 |
86 |
78 |
80 |
84 |
|
Limerick City Council |
189 |
245 |
203 |
222 |
180 |
|
Limerick County Council |
233 |
182 |
182 |
180 |
170 |
|
Longford County Council |
180 |
188 |
196 |
199 |
210 |
|
Louth County Council |
39 |
41 |
27 |
40 |
36 |
|
Mayo County Council |
454 |
396 |
381 |
422 |
337 |
|
Meath County Council |
222 |
194 |
186 |
201 |
191 |
|
Monaghan County Council |
154 |
114 |
107 |
100 |
117 |
|
North Tipperary County Council |
288 |
283 |
311 |
363 |
285 |
|
Offaly County Council |
378 |
340 |
362 |
185 |
303 |
|
Roscommon County Council |
213 |
243 |
208 |
237 |
185 |
|
Sligo County Council |
266 |
216 |
220 |
326 |
209 |
|
South Tipperary County Council |
169 |
190 |
165 |
191 |
133 |
|
Waterford City Council |
150 |
129 |
139 |
157 |
131 |
|
Waterford County Council |
174 |
170 |
203 |
261 |
249 |
|
Westmeath County Council |
241 |
227 |
211 |
204 |
191 |
|
Wexford County Council |
434 |
474 |
508 |
534 |
456 |
|
Wicklow County Council |
224 |
190 |
237 |
218 |
265 |
|
TOTAL |
9,438 |
8,816 |
9,165 |
9,394 |
9,495 |
|
Fire Authority |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
|
Carlow County Council |
1 |
||||
|
Cavan County Council |
1 |
1 |
|||
|
Clare County Council |
1 |
1 |
1 |
||
|
Cork City Council |
4 |
2 |
2 |
||
|
Cork County Council |
5 |
3 |
6 |
2 |
4 |
|
Donegal County Council |
2 |
1 |
3 |
1 |
|
|
Drogheda Borough Council |
1 |
||||
|
Dublin City Council |
2 |
7 |
12 |
9 |
11 |
|
Dundalk Town Council |
2 |
1 |
|||
|
Galway County Council |
3 |
2 |
1 |
6 |
|
|
Kerry County Council |
3 |
2 |
1 |
||
|
Kildare County Council |
1 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
|
|
Kilkenny County Council |
3 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
Laois County Council |
1 |
1 |
|||
|
Leitrim County Council |
1 |
1 |
|||
|
Limerick City Council |
1 |
2 |
1 |
||
|
Limerick County Council |
2 |
1 |
1 |
||
|
Longford County Council |
2 |
||||
|
Mayo County Council |
1 |
4 |
2 |
2 |
3 |
|
Meath County Council |
2 |
||||
|
Monaghan County Council |
1 |
1 |
2 |
2 |
|
|
North Tipperary County Council |
1 |
2 |
|||
|
Offaly County Council |
1 |
1 |
|||
|
Roscommon County Council |
2 |
1 |
|||
|
Sligo County Council |
3 |
2 |
2 |
||
|
South Tipperary County Council |
1 |
2 |
1 |
1 |
|
|
Waterford City Council |
3 |
1 |
|||
|
Waterford County Council |
2 |
1 |
2 |
||
|
Westmeath County Council |
1 |
1 |
2 |
||
|
Wexford County Council |
1 |
1 |
2 |
||
|
Wicklow County Council |
2 |
2 |
|||
|
Total |
34 |
35 |
41 |
42 |
41 |
405 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount paid under a scheme to projects (details supplied) in County Laois. [26107/09]
Allocations to Laois County Council under the Social and Community Facilities Capital Grants Schemes of 2006 and 2007 are outlined in the table below. There were no similar schemes in 2008 or 2009.
|
2006 Scheme — total allocation €240,000 |
Allocation |
Amount Paid |
Date Paid |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Redevelopment of Durrow Courthouse, Co. Laois as a multi-purpose community centre |
240,000 |
240,000 |
11/06/2008 |
|
2007 Scheme — total allocation €150,000 |
Allocation |
Amount Paid |
Date Paid |
|
€ |
€ |
||
|
Develop recreational area at Doonane, Crettyard |
30,000 |
30,000 |
02/12/2008 |
|
Develop River Trigogue Linear Walk, Portlaoise |
30,000 |
30,000 |
02/12/2008 |
|
Develop Portarlington Community Youth Facility |
30,000 |
30,000 |
10/02/2009 |
|
Develop Camross Community Youth Facility |
30,000 |
30,000 |
02/12/2008 |
|
Develop Ballycullenbeg Community Centre, Mountmellick |
30,000 |
24,062.23 |
23/12/2008 |
406 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to extend the life span of planning permission to longer than five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26149/09]
Section 42 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 provides that, on application, the duration of a planning permission (normally 5 years) shall be extended, subject to certain requirements being complied with, including that substantial works have been carried out before the expiration of the original permission.
Section 23 of the Planning and Development (Amendment) Bill 2009, which was published on 3 June, proposes to amend this provision by providing for the extension of planning permission where substantial works have not been carried out, but where there were commercial, economic or technical considerations, beyond the control of the applicant, which substantially mitigated against either the commencement of development or the carrying out of substantial works.
407 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the legal obligation of a council to set an adequate bond in respect of a developer to be able to ensure the completion of an estate; the option open to the council when an estate remains unfinished and the bond is inadequate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26150/09]
Planning authorities are empowered under section 34 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 to attach conditions to a planning permission requiring the giving of adequate security for the satisfactory completion of the proposed development.
There is no legal obligation on a planning authority to attach such conditions to a planning permission. However, as stated in the reply to Questions 60 and 63 of 11 June 2009, my Department has consistently advised planning authorities that it is essential that planning permissions for residential development are subject to a condition under which an acceptable security is provided by way of bond, cash deposit or otherwise so as to secure satisfactory completion. The amount of the security, and the terms on which it is required to be given, should enable a planning authority, without cost to itself, to complete the necessary services in a residential estate (including roads, footpaths, water mains, sewers, lighting and open space) to a satisfactory standard in the event of default by the developer.
My Department's advice in relation to bonds was most recently stated in the June 2007 Development Management Guidelines for Planning Authorities and in the February 2008 policy guidance in relation to the Taking in Charge of Estates. This guidance emphasised the desirability of imposing planning conditions in relation to phasing of larger residential developments to the effect that a developer must complete the provision of roads, public lighting, open spaces, etc. which are necessary for, or ancillary to, the completed residential units in a particular phase, before commencing the next phase of an overall development.
If a residential estate has not been finished properly in accordance with the conditions attached to the relevant planning permission, a planning authority should in the first instance take enforcement action under the Planning Acts aimed at compelling the developer to execute the required completion works. If enforcement action is unsuccessful in compelling the completion of the development, a planning authority should then call in the relevant security and have the works completed.
In the event that security is inadequate to finish the services to the required standard, and the residents request that the estate be taken in charge, the planning authority should, in accordance with policy guidance issued by my Department, complete the outstanding works as and when resources, and priorities in relation to other estates awaiting taking in charge, permit.
408 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount made available each year for the past five years to date in 2009 by his Department under the anti-litter awareness grant scheme; the amount received by each local authority respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26211/09]
The total level of funding made available to local authorities under the anti-litter and anti-graffiti awareness grant scheme over the last 5 years is as follows: 2009: €1.07 million; 2008: €1.245 million; 2007: €950,000; 2006: €673,000; and 2005: €510,000. The details of allocations and payments to local authorities are shown in the following table. The variance between allocation and payment can arise when a local authority does not request its full allocation; the surplus can then be awarded to other local authorities seeking additional funding.
|
Local Authority Name |
2009 Grant Allocation |
2008 Grant Allocation |
2008 Grant Awarded |
2007 Grant Allocation |
2007 Grant Awarded |
2006 Grant Allocation |
2006 Grant Awarded |
2005 Grant Allocation |
2005 Grant Awarded |
|
Carlow County Council |
25,000 |
32,000 |
32,000 |
30,000 |
30,000 |
20,500 |
20,500 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
|
Cavan County Council |
25,000 |
32,000 |
32,000 |
29,000 |
29,000 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
13,500 |
13,500 |
|
Clare County Council |
30,000 |
34,000 |
34,000 |
23,000 |
26,600 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Cork City Council |
40,000 |
50,000 |
47,950 |
40,000 |
39,900 |
25,500 |
25,500 |
18,500 |
18,500 |
|
Cork County Council |
42,000 |
37,000 |
48,204 |
32,000 |
32,000 |
22,500 |
22,500 |
17,000 |
17,000 |
|
Donegal County Council |
32,000 |
50,000 |
37,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
14,900 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
DunLaoire/Rathdown |
42,000 |
50,000 |
49,000 |
40,000 |
40,000 |
25,000 |
25,000 |
21,000 |
21,000 |
|
South Dublin County Council |
42,000 |
37,000 |
50,000 |
29,000 |
28,966 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
14,000 |
14,000 |
|
Fingal County Council |
42,000 |
37,000 |
37,450 |
40,000 |
21,320 |
25,000 |
25,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
|
Dublin City Council |
51,000 |
32,000 |
35,000 |
25,000 |
25,000 |
65,000 |
50,650 |
50,000 |
50,000 |
|
Galway City Council |
40,000 |
37,000 |
48,000 |
40,000 |
40,000 |
25,500 |
25,500 |
18,500 |
18,500 |
|
Galway County Council |
32,000 |
31,000 |
37,000 |
25,000 |
25,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
12,500 |
12,500 |
|
Kerry County Council |
32,000 |
24,000 |
36,230 |
25,000 |
25,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
12,500 |
12,500 |
|
Kildare County Council |
32,000 |
37,000 |
32,000 |
29,000 |
29,000 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
16,500 |
16,345 |
|
Kilkenny County Council |
30,000 |
26,000 |
36,514 |
25,000 |
28,958 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
12,500 |
12,500 |
|
Laois County Council |
25,000 |
34,000 |
31,000 |
25,000 |
25,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
12,500 |
12,500 |
|
Leitrim County Council |
20,000 |
35,000 |
24,000 |
21,000 |
21,000 |
13,000 |
13,000 |
11,000 |
11,000 |
|
Limerick City Council |
40,000 |
35,000 |
28,000 |
40,000 |
28,000 |
25,500 |
20,580 |
18,500 |
18,500 |
|
Limerick County Council |
32,000 |
28,000 |
37,000 |
23,000 |
35,000 |
16,000 |
16,000 |
12,500 |
12,500 |
|
Longford County Council |
20,000 |
32,000 |
26,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Louth County Council |
30,000 |
29,000 |
33,475 |
29,000 |
29,000 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
16,500 |
16,500 |
|
Mayo County Council |
30,000 |
29,000 |
35,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
12,000 |
12,000 |
|
Meath County Council |
32,000 |
50,000 |
21,000 |
29,000 |
19,582 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
14,500 |
14,500 |
|
Monaghan County Council |
25,000 |
33,000 |
28,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Offaly County Council |
25,000 |
32,000 |
24,990 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Roscommon County Council |
25,000 |
29,000 |
29,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Sligo County Council |
25,000 |
33,000 |
29,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Tipperary North County Council |
25,000 |
37,000 |
32,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Tipperary South County Council |
26,000 |
36,000 |
33,000 |
23,000 |
22,594 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Waterford City Council |
40,000 |
48,000 |
48,000 |
40,000 |
40,000 |
25,500 |
25,500 |
18,500 |
18,424 |
|
Waterford County Council |
25,000 |
35,000 |
12,460 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Westmeath County Council |
26,000 |
48,000 |
33,000 |
23,000 |
23,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
11,500 |
11,500 |
|
Wexford County Council |
32,000 |
48,000 |
37,000 |
29,000 |
34,000 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
14,000 |
14,000 |
|
Wicklow County Council |
30,000 |
48,000 |
36,000 |
29,000 |
29,000 |
20,000 |
20,000 |
15,000 |
15,000 |
409 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he plans to introduce legislation to identify households that are not registered with either private operators or local authorities in order to have their household refuse collected as per his response to Parliamentary Question No. 29 of 24 June 2009; when he expects such legislation to be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26214/09]
411 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 29 of 24 June 2009, when he will establish a regulator in the area of waste management; when he will introduce legislation which will require people to register with a local authority or a private operator in order to ensure that rubbish or waste is disposed of in an environmentally friendly manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26343/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 409 and 411 together.
I recognise that significant regulatory issues have emerged as waste management services have rapidly evolved in recent years, including through the rapid growth in, and consolidation of, the private waste management sector. The existing regulatory framework requires modernisation and I am currently giving consideration to the broad regulatory issues surrounding the waste management sector, including issues of the dual role of local authorities as regulators and service providers, the need to ensure that waste services are provided in a manner consistent with the achievement of national and EU environmental objectives and targets and to ensure that necessary public service criteria in relation to the provision of services in particular areas or in respect of specific households are properly reflected.
There are two key processes currently underway the outcomes of which will be essential to my consideration of the best options for recasting the regulatory framework. The first of these is the major review of waste management policy provided for in the Programme for Government. To underpin this review consultants are currently undertaking research on the waste management sector in Ireland to cover a wide range of issues, having regard to the current regulatory arrangements, from both an environmental and socioeconomic standpoint. I anticipate that this study will be delivered in late July 2009.
The second key issue relates to the outcome of the High Court proceedings taken in 2008 by two private sector waste management service providers seeking to prevent the Dublin local authorities from using their existing powers to vary the region's waste management plan by inserting an objective in the plan that the collection of household waste from single dwelling households be carried out by the local authorities themselves or that the local authorities make arrangements by way of a public tendering process for the collection of such household waste on their behalf i.e. to introduce competition for the market.
The outcome of this High Court action, which is expected shortly, will have clear implications for the future regulation of the waste management sector generally and will further inform what measures may be necessary to underpin sustainable waste collection services, whether delivered by the private or public sectors. It is in these contexts that the appropriate policy responses are currently being developed.
Comprehensive powers are already available to local authorities under the Waste Management Acts to enforce the various requirements which the law places on the holders of waste, including householders. Householders are required to either avail of the services lawfully provided by public and/or private waste collectors or to otherwise manage their waste in accordance with the law. Where a household cannot demonstrate compliance e.g. by providing proof of availing of a legal waste collection service then the local authority is empowered to take appropriate action.
Section 18(1) of the Act provides that a local authority may, for any purpose relating to its functions under the Act, require any holder of waste to maintain such records, and to furnish in writing to the local authority such particulars, as may be specified as to measures taken for the disposal of any waste. Section 18(2) of the Act further provides that a person who fails to comply with a notice under this section or who furnishes any information in reply to such a notice which he or she knows to be false or misleading in a material respect is guilty of an offence.
Section 55 of the Act also confers powers on a local authority to require measures to be taken in relation to the holding, recovery or disposal of waste where it appears to a local authority that it is necessary so to do in order to prevent or limit environmental pollution caused, or likely to be caused, by the holding, recovery or disposal of waste. The local authority may serve a notice under this section on a person who is or was holding, recovering or disposing of the waste, as the case may be. Any measures necessary further to strengthen compliance will be considered in the context of the on-going review of the regulation of the waste sector.
410 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when full payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary in respect of the purchase of a bog. [26242/09]
The Department has executed the contracts of sale and has issued a deposit in this case. The Chief State Solicitor's Office is in the process of arranging the closing of the sale and payment of the balance. The transaction is expected to be concluded shortly.
412 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government , further to Parliamentary Question No. 29 of 24 June 2009, the local authority areas here in which schemes similar to the adopt a highway scheme, mentioned in his response, are in operation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26344/09]
Under the Litter Pollution Acts 1997 to 2009, the primary response to litter is a matter for local authorities. It is the responsibility of each local authority to enforce the litter laws and to determine the most appropriate course of action to tackle litter pollution within the relevant legislation including the engagement in local litter management activities involving community groups, such as ‘adopt a road schemes'.
Local authorities are involved in a wide range of anti-litter activities including a number of anti-litter and anti-graffiti awareness-raising projects which my Department supports. I have issued grants designed to fund adopt a road / bring bank / estate and similar schemes under the Anti-Litter & Graffiti Awareness Grant Scheme between 2006 and 2008. My Department is at present assessing the submissions for the 2009 grants and details on the projects involved are not yet available.
In the period 2006 to 2008 the following local authorities have received funding to administer adopt a road / bring bank / graveyard schemes: Cavan County Council, Leitrim County Council, Sligo County Council, Wicklow County Council and Galway City Council. I am also aware that a number of other local authorities have schemes of this nature in place for which they have not sought funding. These include South Tipperary County Council — pilot programme commencing this year; Longford County Council — commencing this year; North Tipperary County Council; Kilkenny County Council; Meath County Council; Clare County Council; and Kerry County Council.
413 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when a reply will issue on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25738/09]
Legal advice was recently furnished to my Department and the next steps in regard to this case are now being considered in light of this advice. My Department will then progress the matter as speedily as possible.
414 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of homes covered by the warmer homes scheme here; and his plans to expand the scheme. [25770/09]
The Warmer Homes Scheme is administered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) and 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 the energy needs of vulnerable homes. The scheme provides structural energy efficiency improvements to private homes in, or at risk of, fuel poverty. These measures include insulation, lagging jackets, energy efficient lighting and draft proofing measures. To date, energy efficiency improvements in almost 25,000 homes have been made under the Warmer Homes Scheme. A breakdown by year is set out in the table below. Some €20 million has been provided for the scheme in 2009, which includes €5 million being provided between ESB and Bord Gáis Éireann. This will enable structural improvements to be made to at least 15,000 homes this year. Some 21 CBOs have, to date, been approved by SEI to provide the Warmer Homes Scheme in their area. SEI has invited new community organisations to participate in the scheme in areas outside current coverage with a view to achieving full nationwide coverage by the end of the year.
|
Year |
Number of Homes |
|
2000 |
1,430 |
|
2001 |
1,500 |
|
2002 |
1,600 |
|
2003 |
1,768 |
|
2004 |
1,947 |
|
2005 |
1,813 |
|
2006 |
2,102 |
|
2007 |
3,378 |
|
2008 |
5,343 |
|
Total |
20,881 |
415 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25701/09]
The following is the position regarding Value for Money (VFM) reviews carried out by my Department during the past three years: Expenditure review of the Sustainable Energy Priority of the ESIOP -Report published and laid before Oireachtas Committee in July 2006. The Group Broadband Scheme — Report published and laid before Oireachtas Committee in December 2007. Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) Phase 1 — Report published and laid before Oireachtas Committee in July 2008.
Recommendations from the VFM review of the ‘Sustainable Energy Priority of the ESIOP' assisted in the establishment of the ‘Greener Homes Scheme', which has a total spend to end 2008, of €55.145m and is estimated to contribute to substantial CO2 savings of 40,000 tonnes per annum.
The ‘Group Broadband Scheme' operated from March 2004 to December 2006. The recommendations from the VFM review substantially contributed to the greater efficiency and effectiveness in expenditure under the new National Broadband Scheme, which aims to deliver broadband services to consumers and businesses located in parts of the country that have no form of broadband available at present.
Phase 1 of the Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) programme completed delivery of open access, high-speed broadband networks to 27 towns and cities throughout the country. Construction of Phase 2 of the MANs Programme commenced in 2005 and 64 towns are now complete with construction under way in two further towns. Projects in a further 28 towns originally selected under Phase 2 have been suspended. The VFM review of Phase I of the MANs Programme, which was published in July 2008, pointed to issues which warranted consideration in the context of future investment in MANs. Any future investment in new MANs will take account of the recommendations of the VFM review and availability of resources.
Under the current round of the Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative 2008-10, the Department put forward two areas for review, namely the Greener Homes Scheme and the Geological Survey of Ireland (GSI). The review of Greener Homes is currently under way and the objective is to analyse what has been achieved by public expenditure in this area and to inform future policy regarding the rationale for and design of future sustainable energy market interventions. The review of the GSI will be conducted in 2010 and will examine the demand for and supply of GSI geological advice and information.
416 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25857/09]
The amount of interest paid to suppliers by my Department under the Prompt Payment of Accounts Act 1997, since the establishment of the Department in June 2007, is detailed in the following table:
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
2009 (to date) |
435.61 |
|
2008 |
1,725.96 |
|
June to Dec 2007 |
287.46 |
My Department aims, in its dealings with suppliers of goods and services, to pay all invoices as soon as possible after the goods and services have been satisfactorily delivered and the supporting documentation necessary to enable the payment has been received by my Department. The vast majority of all payments made by my Department to suppliers for goods and services are made within 30 days. In 2008, over 99% of all payments made were within 30 days.
The Deputy may be aware that the Government recently announced that all Government Departments will reduce the payment period to suppliers from 30 to 15 days and arrangements have been introduced in my Department to ensure compliance with this commitment.
417 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if grant or assistance will be made available to most persons who wish to purchase wind turbines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25896/09]
The Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) electricity micro-generation programme is supporting a number of micro scale projects including wind turbines that are targeted at resolving technical issues including: defining the requirements for qualification and certification of technologies and defining necessary arrangements for qualification, certification and training of installers.
This will be achieved by part-funding and monitoring a number of field trials of the various wind and other technologies. Information on the programme is available on the SEI website at http://www.sei.ie/Grants/Microgenpilot/. These are interim measures to start the deployment of microgeneration. Following the trial period more permanent support measures will be considered for each technology.
In February 2009 I announced measures to encourage the on-site generation of electricity from wind turbines and other renewable technologies in homes and farms across Ireland. Among the measures is a guaranteed price of 19 cent per kilowatt hour for electricity produced and exported to the national grid. This feed-in tariff will apply to the first 4,000 microgeneration installations countrywide over the next 3 years. Local generators will have the ability to be paid by ESB for electricity that is surplus to their own requirements and export it back to the grid. Further details are be available from ESB Customer Supply:
http://www.esb.ie/esbnetworks/generator-connections/micro-gen-connections.jsp.
Large scale wind energy development is supported through the Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) support mechanism. Applicants, whether an individual or company, may submit an application at a fixed price based on technology and the capacity of the project. Applicants for REFIT must have planning permission and a grid connection offer for their projects and will be able to contract with any licensed electricity supplier up to the notified fixed prices. The reference price values and indexation permitted in REFIT are designed to deliver projects without recourse to grant aid. The terms and conditions of REFIT are available on the Department's website at www.dcenr.ie.
418 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will guarantee that the National Broadband Scheme will see a broadband service available in every part of North Tipperary by September 2010; the progress of the scheme in North Tipperary to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26089/09]
Broadband services are provided by private service providers over various platforms including DSL (i.e over the telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile, cable, satellite and fibre.
In order to address a lack of broadband in areas where it was not commercially viable for the private sector to operate my Department entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) in late December 2008. 3 is required to provide services to all fixed residences and businesses that are located within the NBS Coverage Area and who seek a service. The NBS will be rolled out on an Electoral Division (ED) basis. Details of the EDs in North Tipperary to be covered by the NBS can be found at: http://www.dcenr.gov.ie/Communications/Communications+ Development/National+Broadband+Scheme.htm
Challenging programme roll-out targets have been agreed with 3 and initial NBS services were launched in a small number of rural areas at the end of April this year. Broadband coverage in individual EDs will be made available incrementally during the coming months. The forthcoming availability of services to premises located within identified EDs will be announced progressively prior to their enablement on 3's coverage map which can be accessed on its website at www.three.ie/nbs. 48% of the EDs in the NBS Coverage Area are required to be enabled by the end of December 2009, while all of the EDs in the NBS Coverage Area are required to be enabled by the end of September 2010. My Department is closely monitoring the rollout and has been informed by 3 that these targets will be achieved.
As regards the exclusion of certain unserved premises from the NBS, it is important to clarify that, in designing the NBS, which was approved by the EU Commission, a balance had to be struck between reaching as many unserved areas as possible and minimising the impact of the scheme on businesses already providing broadband services in rural areas.
EU State aid and competition rules govern how States can intervene in areas where there are existing service providers. The nature of broadband networks is such that they provide a coverage footprint over a certain area rather than an individual link to isolated premises. It was essential to guard against the NBS coverage footprint spilling over, to an extent which would be unacceptable from a state aids perspective, into surrounding areas already served by existing service providers. Accordingly, to try to include individually unserved premises that are located within EDs deemed to be already served within the scope of the NBS would have given rise to an unacceptable level of market distortion and therefore, such areas had to be excluded.
It is expected that over time, as competition increases and technology develops, service providers will be attracted to offer service to any such premises located within currently served areas. Details of the availability of broadband services in the specific areas not covered by the NBS are available at www.broadband.gov.ie.
419 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the provision of natural gas to towns (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if subvention from the State will be provided to deliver gas to these towns as required for the roll-out; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26090/09]
The development and operation of the natural gas network is, in the first instance, a matter for Gaslink, the gas transmission system operator, 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 Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is a statutory, independent body, has, since 2002, been charged with all aspects of the assessment and licensing of prospective operators who wish to develop and/or operate a gas distribution system within the State under the Gas (Interim) (Regulation) Act 2002. I have no direct statutory function in relation to the connection of towns to the gas network.
In 2006, the CER approved a new networks connections policy, which created the opportunity to reassess the feasibility of connecting certain towns to the gas network. In order for any town to be connected to the gas network, certain economic criteria need to be satisfied as a prerequisite. This is to ensure that over a certain period, the costs of connecting the town to the network are recouped through the actual consumption of gas and the associated tariffs. CER allows for the appraisal of a town either on its own or as part of a regional group of towns. Exchequer funding is not provided for the roll-out of new towns connections.
BGÉ has carried out Phase 3 of a comprehensive assessment of towns not already connected to the national gas network. I am advised that the towns of Ballina, Ballyclerihan, Cashel, Carrick-on-Suir, Clonmel and Newport in Tipperary, are already connected to the natural gas network. Cahir has been approved for connection as part of the earlier Phase 2 assessment by BGÉ. Nenagh, Roscrea, Thurles and Tipperary town are included in a total of 42 towns examined as part of Phase 3 of this assessment, which has recently been completed. BGÉ recently submitted its Phase 3 report to the CER and I am advised that the company is currently discussing the report with the CER. The report will not be made public until the final report is agreed with the CER.
The final report will outline which towns or groups of towns would be economically viable for connection, within the revised connection policy criteria. BGÉ has a dedicated email address, newtowns@bge.ie, for the purpose of dealing with queries related to the connection of new towns and routinely engages with local stakeholders to ensure that towns under consideration are assessed in a fully informed and comprehensive way.
420 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when persons (details supplied) in County Tipperary will receive full broadband access; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26142/09]
Responsibility for addressing technical issues with regard to the provision of a broadband service (including split lines, weak lines) is a matter for the private sector which operates in a fully liberalised market, regulated where appropriate, by the independent Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg).
Broadband services can be provided over various platforms including DSL (i.e. over telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile, cable, satellite and fibre by the private sector service providers. I understand that broadband is available in Templemore, County Tipperary, from mobile and satellite service providers in addition to DSL as detailed in the table below. My Department operates a dedicated website www.broadband.gov.ie where potential broadband customers can ascertain the availability of services in their area.
|
Platform |
Service Provider |
Website |
Phone |
|
DSL |
BT |
http://www.btireland.ie |
1800 923 923 |
|
Digiweb DSL |
http://www.dsl.digiweb.ie |
1800 28 58 28 |
|
|
Eircom DSL |
http://www.eircom.ie |
1901 |
|
|
Imagine Broadband |
http://www.imagine.ie |
1890 92 92 92 |
|
|
Irish Broadband |
http://www.irishbroadband.com |
1890 56 44 56 |
|
|
Perlico |
http://www.perlico.com |
1890 25 21 48 |
|
|
Mobile |
O2 Ireland |
http://www.o2.ie/broadband |
1800 226 086 |
|
3 Ireland |
http://www.three.ie/broadband/index.htm |
1800 330 333 |
|
|
Satellite |
Applied Solutions |
http://www.ADSLnow.ie |
1890 924 854 |
|
Avonline |
http://www.avonlinebroadband.co.uk |
0044 800 073 1102 |
|
|
Broadband Wherever |
http://www.broadbandwherever.net |
0044 800 068 3358 |
|
|
Cross Country Broadband Limited |
http://www.crosscountrybroadband.com |
053 92 55428 |
|
|
Digiweb Satellite |
http://www.broadband.digiweb.ie |
042 939 3300 |
|
|
e3 Broadband |
http://www.e3broadband.ie |
1850 303333 |
|
|
Ehotspot |
http://www.ehotspot.ie |
0044 1262 409109 |
|
|
Eircom Satellite |
http://www.eircom.ie |
1901 |
|
|
Fastnet Broadband Satellite |
http://www.fastnetbroadband.com |
01 2303746 |
|
|
Media Satellite Ireland Limited |
http://www.mediasat.ie |
1850 202 144 |
|
|
National Broadband Limited |
http://www.nbb.ie |
045 982130 |
|
|
Orbitlink |
http://www.orbitlink.ie |
01 8601995 |
|
|
Pure Telecom Satellite |
http://www.puretelecom.ie |
01 2895555 |
|
|
Satellite Broadband Ireland |
http://www.satellitebroadbandireland.ie |
044 9372514 |
421 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary had broadband in their home when they were a customer of a company and can no longer receive their broadband; when this service will be reinstated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26143/09]
I have no function in the direct provision of broadband services to customers. This is a contractual matter between the service provider and its customer. The provision of electronic communications services including broadband, is primarily a matter for private sector operators. Statutory responsibility for the regulation of telecommunications operators, including complaint resolution surrounding issues of service, rests with the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg), which acts independently in the exercise of its functions.
In cases where people have complaints against their service providers, it would be normal that they would in the first instant take the matter up with their service provider. ComReg will normally only deal with complaints from individuals once they have exhausted the complaints procedure with their service providers. In this case ComReg could examine whether the service provider acted appropriately in accordance with regulatory requirements. A list of service providers offering broadband services in any particular location is available at www.broadband.gov.ie.
422 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare cannot receive broadband; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26144/09]
Broadband services are provided by private sector service providers over various platforms including DSL (i.e. over telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile, cable, satellite and fibre. I understand that broadband is available in Ballyloughnane, Ogonnelloe, County Clare from fixed wireless, mobile and satellite service providers listed in the table below. My Department operates a dedicated website www.broadband.gov.ie where potential broadband customers can ascertain the availability of services in their area.
|
Platform |
Service Provider |
Website |
Phone |
|
Mobile |
3 Ireland |
http://www.three.ie/broadband/index.htm |
1800 330 333 |
|
Wireless |
Fast Wireless Internet Limited |
http://www.fwi.ie |
061 240604 |
|
Irish Broadband |
http://www.irishbroadband.ie |
1890 564 456 |
|
|
Satellite |
Applied Solutions |
http://www.ADSLnow.ie |
1890 924 854 |
|
Avonline |
Http://www.avonlinebroadband.co.uk |
0044 800 073 110 |
|
|
Broadband Wherever |
http://www.broadbandwherever.net |
0044 800 068 335 |
|
|
Cross Country Broadband Limited |
http://www.crosscountrybroadband.com |
053 92 55428 |
|
|
Digiweb Satellite |
http://www.broadband.digiweb.ie |
042 939 3300 |
|
|
e3 Broadband |
http://www.e3broadband.ie |
1850 303333 |
|
|
Ehotspot |
http://www.ehotspot.ie |
0044 4262 409109 |
|
|
Eircom Satellite |
http://eircom.ie |
1901 |
|
|
Fastnet Broadband Satellite |
http://www.fastnetbroadband.com |
01 2303746 |
|
|
Media Satellite Ireland Limited |
http://www.mediasat.ie |
1850 202144 |
|
|
National Broadband Limited |
http://www.nbb.ie |
045 982130 |
|
|
Orbitlink |
http://www.orbitlink.ie |
01 8601995 |
|
|
Pure Telecom Satellite |
http://www.puretelecom.ie |
01 2895555 |
|
|
Satellite Broadband Ireland |
http://www.satellitebroadbandireland.ie |
044 9372514 |
423 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of commercial salmon licences issued; the recipients of the buyout of licences; the method in place to enforce the system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26187/09]
The number of commercial salmon fishing licences available for issue is governed by the Control of Fishing for Salmon Order, 2009 (S.I. No. 142, 2009). Licences are issued by the Regional Fisheries Boards. I have been informed by the Boards that a total of 149 commercial salmon licences have been issued in 2009 to date. A further 28 licences have been issued by the Loughs Agency in respect of the Foyle area under the provisions of the Foyle Area (Control of Drift and Draft Net Fishing) (Amendment) Regulations 2007.
The Salmon Hardship Scheme was established following the cessation of the interceptory mixed stock fishing for wild salmon. The scheme which was administered on behalf of the Department by Bord Iascaigh Mhara and by the Loughs Agency in respect of the Foyle area, was launched in March 2007 and a total of 1,171 applicants availed of the scheme by the closing date of 31 December 2007. The terms of receipt of a payment under the scheme required licence holders not to apply for a salmon fishing licence in the future and applications received each year are vetted in this regard.
424 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the failure of the Central Fisheries Board to replace or appoint a fisheries protection and conservation director which is vacant; the length of time this position has been vacant; the length of time the last appointee was in place for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26188/09]
While the management of staffing resources by the Central Fisheries Board (CFB) is primarily a matter for that agency, I am informed that the duties and responsibilities associated with protection and conservation are incorporated into the role of Field Services Director which is a senior management role in the CFB. The position has been vacant since September 2008, following the appointment of the previous incumbent to the position of Director of Research and Development in the CFB, having held the Field Services role since July 2007.
I understand the Field Services post was advertised by way of open competition and interviews were held in October 2008. A suitable candidate was not identified and consequently no appointment was made. In light of the Budget Day 2008 announcement of the Government's intention to merge the Central and Regional Fisheries Boards into one national authority, it was decided to postpone making an appointment to the post pending the establishment of the new authority. I am further advised that the duties and responsibilities associated with the Field Services post continue to be discharged by the previous incumbent, on an interim basis. I would also point out that since 27 March 2009 the filling of all public service vacancies is subject to a moratorium and requires the sanction of the Minister for Finance.
425 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on correspondence received from the European Commission raising concerns on the copyright issue as outlined in amendment No. 158 to the Broadcasting Bill 2008; the nature of the concerns raised by the European Commission; his response to those concerns; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26271/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, amendment 158, as published on 30 March 2009, and as passed at Report stage in Dáil Éireann of the Broadcasting Bill 2008 on 18 June 2009, provides for a change in copyright law to afford commercial DTT platform providers the same opportunities as cable, IPTV and MMDS operators and on similar terms.
The amendment involves the complex interface between commercial DTT issues, copyright law and broadcasting policy, and accordingly has been developed in close cooperation with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment to ensure compatibility with copyright matters.
As the Deputy will be aware, an Irish broadcaster expressed concerns about the amendment as originally tabled at Committee stage in Dáil Éireann in December 2007. Those concerns resulted in a significant change to the nature of amendment 158 as passed at Report stage. This change involved the stipulation that services must be ‘encrypted' i.e. where a channel from another Member State is retransmitted free-to-air on DTT in Ireland, it cannot avail of the benefit of this amendment, where it is encrypted it can. This change draws the necessary distinction between broadcast rights for Irish free-to-air broadcasts and for non-Irish retransmissions to meet the concerns raised.
Commissioner McCreevy, the EU Commissioner for the Internal Market and Services, wrote to me on 11 June last, stating that it had been brought to his attention that the amendment had raised concerns with respect to its impact and he requested that the introduction of the amendment be reconsidered pending further consideration of the issues.
Having reflected on the matters raised by the Commissioner, including any deleterious impact on existing services, and the various advices available, the amendment was introduced as it will serve the long term interest of the Irish broadcasting sector and the Irish viewer by ensuring appropriate and equitable treatment of the DTT platform.
426 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the legality of the decision (details supplied) to amend the terms of the farm waste management scheme; his further views on the failure to observe the contractual commitment to make payments in full to farmers in 2009; if he will provide a full legal explanation on this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25629/09]
A legal basis for the deferment of payments under the Farm Waste Management Scheme is provided for in section 12 of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009.
427 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26346/09]
428 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26347/09]
429 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26348/09]
430 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26349/09]
431 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26350/09]
432 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26351/09]
433 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26352/09]
434 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he will decide on a foreshore licence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26353/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 427 to 434, inclusive, together.
These applications for foreshore consents were received by my Department in the period January to April 2008. The applications were circulated to statutory consultees and responses have been received. The applications are currently being examined by the Marine Licence Vetting Committee (MLVC), which advises my Department on scientific and technical aspects of such applications. Every effort is being made to expedite consideration of the applications in accordance with standard procedures.
435 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will identify and explain the options that are available to a person (details supplied) in County Donegal who fishes dog and skate net, and who was informed at the beginning of June 2009 that 3 tonnes of dogfish were available to them for fishing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25687/09]
If the Deputy is referring to Spurdog (Squalus acanthias), there is a limit as to the total catch allowed in each month. For June and July 2009, these limits were set at 6 tonnes for over 55 feet vessels and 3 tonnes for under 55 feet vessels. These limits are outlined in detail in Fisheries Management Notice No. 16. for June and No 18 of 2009 for July. There are currently no catch limits for skates in place.
Under the Common Fisheries Policy Ireland has a total allowable catch of 195 tonnes of Spurdog and a combined 2055 tonnes of Skates and rays available in 2009. National catch limits, within these parameters, are determined by my colleague Minister Killeen on the basis of advice from industry representatives who meet with Department officials to review uptake of quotas and recommend management plans at the monthly Whitefish Quota Management Group meeting.
436 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25699/09]
My Department has completed and published a total of eight Value for Money reviews over the past three years. They covered the following areas of expenditure:
|
Title of Review |
Publication Date |
|
Laboratory Facilities (Plant Health, Crops, Research & Development Grants) |
February 2007 |
|
Farm Waste Management |
November 2007 |
|
Public (Exchequer and EU) Supports for Aquaculture |
June 2007 |
|
Food Institutional Research Measure |
February 2008 |
|
Marketing and Processing |
October 2008 |
|
Bovine TB |
November 2008 |
|
Bovine Animal Identification and Traceability System |
June 2009 |
|
Young Farmer’s Installation |
June 2009 |
Each of these reviews contains a number of recommendations aimed at improving the efficiency and effectiveness of scheme delivery. To ensure that the reviews lead to enhanced value for money, I have put in place monitoring mechanisms whereby recommendations contained in all completed reviews are centrally monitored and analysed with regard to their implementation or use for future policy design. All completed reviews are published on my Department's website and are also forwarded for scrutiny to the Joint Committee on Agriculture and Food and both Houses of the Oireachtas.
437 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 153 of 4 March 2009, the status of a project (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25723/09]
An application for a foreshore lease to facilitate construction of a pier at Doonbeg, Co. Clare was received on 9 October 2007. The application was circulated to my Department's consultees in the normal way. The observations of the consultees have been forwarded to Clare County Council and a response is awaited.
438 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan can expect to receive their REP scheme three payment which was applied for in March 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25847/09]
Payment will issue in the next 10 days.
439 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25855/09]
The interest paid by my Department in respect of late payment for goods or services is as follows:
|
Year |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 to 31 May |
|
Late Interest paid |
€13,971 |
€11,908 |
€4,032 |
€3,941 |
€8,160 |
€2,778 |
My Department is fully committed to complying with the terms of the Prompt Payment Regulations and also with the recent Government decision that all Departments commit to paying suppliers within 15 days of receipt of valid invoices. Procedures have been put in place to process payments promptly and there is on-going monitoring and reporting to ensure compliance.
My Department ensures that all expenditure is in accordance with the requirements of the Department of Finance's "Public Financial Procedures" and the Department's own financial procedures manual. All expenditure is subject to audit scrutiny by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General and the Department's own Internal Audit Unit. In addition, all non-Voted funds disbursed by my Department on behalf of the European Union are also subject to audit by EU Commission auditors, the European Court of Auditors and the certifying body for EU accredited paying agencies.
440 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo is not being awarded REP scheme three in view of the fact that they have the necessary course completed. [25906/09]
Attendance at a 20-hour training course before their third year of participation is mandatory for participants in REPS 3. Participants may be exempted from this requirement if they have already completed a 20-hour course under REPS 2. However the course attended by the person named in 2000 was held under REPS 1 and does not provide exemption from the requirement under REPS 3.
My officials contacted the person named by letter issued on 19 March 2009, advising him that attendance at a 20-hour training course was mandatory before his third year REPS 3 payment could be issued. No reply was received to this letter, and there is no record of the person named submitting a certificate to indicate attendance at an approved training course. When the applicant submits a valid training certificate, my officials will be in a position to process his payment.
441 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if, in relation to farm inspections the farmers or landowners are entitled to prior notice before an inspection takes place; if a spot check can be carried out without prior notice; and the identification the inspector should carry with them. [25908/09]
In accordance with E.U. requirements, all inspections should generally be unannounced: A Member State can give up to 14 days notice for land eligibility inspections and for cross-compliance inspections involving Statutory Management Requirements (SMRs) other than those related to animal identification and registration, food, feed, and animal welfare. For checks involving animal identification and registration the maximum advance notice is 48 hours provided that the purpose of the inspection is not jeopardised. For SMRs dealing with feed, food and animal welfare , no advance notice may be given. All inspectors visiting farms carry official identification.
442 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of foreshore applications in respect of marina developments which have been made over the past ten years; the number which have been granted; the number which have been refused; and the general reason for refusal. [25911/09]
The information requested by the Deputy is not readily available. The information will be compiled from the files held by my Department and forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.
443 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the circumstances under which he may compulsorily amalgamate herd numbers in respect of farms of land which are owned either by individual family members or by individual spouses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26133/09]
A herdnumber is an administrative arrangement designed primarily for the purposes of disease control under the disease eradication schemes, which involves the allocation of a number to a herd as provided for under S.I. No. 276 of 1999 (European communities (Identification and registration of bovine animals) Regulations, 1999). An ‘epidemiological unit' or herd is considered to be any number of animals that are held, kept or handled in such a manner that they share the same likelihood of exposure to infectious disease and that the control of the spread of infectious disease from the unit can be facilitated. Under the current TB disease eradication programme, each holding, comprising parcels of land used solely or jointly with others and which may comprise parcels of land that are separated by some distance, is occupied by a single unique epidemiologically distinct herd, which must be represented by one herdnumber only. A herd must be managed at all times as a separate unit without intermixing of bovine animals from other herds.
The following criteria apply when allocating an individual herd number: There must be separate entrances; Entry points onto other adjoining lands, not part of the application, must be permanently blocked up; Perimeter fencing should be stock-proof at a minimum and also prevent direct contact between stock on contiguous land; There must be independent and separate facilities such as separate crush, separate feeding and watering facilities; There must be adequate facilities for the purpose of inspection, isolation, loading, unloading, marshalling, watering, feeding, housing as appropriate and treatment of animals; and, There must be adequate facilities for animal bedding and the collection of manure and wastewater.
Where a herdnumber has been assigned but the conditions for qualification for a herdnumber reflecting the existence of a herd as a distinct epidemiological unit are no longer being adhered to, for example, if inter-mixing of animals occurs, that herdnumber must be withdrawn and all the animals being managed as one herd should be amalgamated under one herdnumber. In such circumstances, where more than one person has been involved in the herd, a "keeper" should be nominated in whose name the herdnumber should be registered.
I must emphasise that when multiple persons such as family members or spouses, who are not registered as "keepers", wish to register an interest in the herdnumber, they may be registered as "herdowners" and, accordingly, may qualify for payment under the various schemes implemented by my Department. In this regard, because the "keeper" role is classified as a non-financial role and does not infer ownership of the lands or animals in the herd, payments are made to "herdowners" rather than to "keepers".
I would also like to point out that where a herdnumber is withdrawn, my Department's procedures provide that the person from whom the herdnumber is withdrawn should be notified in writing and given an opportunity to appeal the decision and, where appropriate, re-establish individual epidemiological units. In addition, the person will be informed of any implications of the withdrawal of his herdnumber for his/her eligibility to apply for payment under schemes implemented by the Department.
444 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the appeal procedure to be taken by an applicant of the farm waste management scheme if they are unhappy with his Department’s decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26137/09]
An applicant for grant-aid under the Farm Waste Management Scheme who is unhappy with the terms of a decision taken by my Department should firstly request the local office of my Department to carry out a review of the decision concerned. If, following that review, the applicant is still unhappy with the decision concerned, he/she has the option of lodging an appeal with the Agriculture Appeals Office, subject to compliance with the time-limits and other requirements of the Agriculture Appeals Act 2001.
445 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applications received from north Tipperary under the farm waste management scheme; the number of applications awarded; the number to be processed to date; the number waiting to be awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26138/09]
446 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if all applications under the farm waste management scheme in north Tipperary received the full 60% funding; if not, the breakdown of the percentage of funding that applicants received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26139/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 445 and 446 together.
The information requested by the Deputy will be forwarded to him as soon as possible.
447 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the discussions he has had with the Department of Finance with regard to the negotiation of a redundancy package for Coillte workers; the next steps in the negotiation of the package; the estimated timescale for the resolution of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26184/09]
Coillte Teoranta was established as a private commercial company under the Forestry Act, 1988. In accordance with Section 44 of that Act, while a voluntary early retirement scheme is submitted to me in the first instance for approval, such approval may only be given with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance. I wish to advise the Deputy that I have given my approval, with the concurrence of the Minister for Finance, for Coillte to proceed with a voluntary early retirement scheme for their industrial workers. A letter conveying this approval was sent to the company on 23 June 2009. Day-to-day operational matters, such as the roll-out of the scheme, are the responsibility of the company.
448 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a REP scheme 4 payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if not, the reason therefore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26238/09]
The REPS 4 agri-environmental plan submitted by the person named was lodged in my Department on 5 September 2008 and, consequently, his contract could not start before 1 January 2009.
Under EU Regulations, payment on individual REPS 4 applications for 2009 cannot be made until completion of administrative and area checks on all applications received up to the closing date of 15 May 2009. At that stage, 75% of the payment to each individual participant can be released, with the balance being payable when the last of the on-farm inspections for the year has taken place. The processing of application is under way and I expect that payment of the first instalment will take place in the autumn.
449 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a full balance of unpaid REP scheme and single farm payments for the period up to and including 2008 will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; if not, the reason therefore; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26239/09]
I am satisfied that the person named has received all payments to date to which entitlement has been established definitively under REPS and the Single Payment Scheme.
450 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a full balance of unpaid REP scheme and single farm payments for the period up to and including 2008 will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26240/09]
My Department has made no reduction in REPS payments to the person named. He submitted an amended REPS plan earlier this month following a Single Payment Scheme area inspection. The implications for his REPS payments, if any, will be examined by my officials when they process his annual application for payment, which is now due.
The Single Payment Scheme for the person named was reduced as a result of an area eligibility inspection carried out on a commonage land parcel in the townland of Lahardan Lower, as part of the Single Payment Scheme commonage review process undertaken by my Department. Further processing is required for this commonage with regard to folio evidence and when this is completed, the person named will be contacted regarding the outcome of the review.
451 Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the progress being made in maintaining and developing vital jobs and exports through the opening of the national seafood development operational programme 2007 to 2013, particularly for the aquaculture industry; the planned date for the opening of the programme; if it remains his policy to develop the aquaculture industry in line with the recommendations of the Cawley report; if this policy is being followed by all the Departments involved in the marine sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26241/09]
Government policy in relation to the development of the aquaculture industry is set out in the Cawley Strategy — Steering A New Course, Strategy for a Restructured, Sustainable and Profitable Irish Seafood Industry 2007 — 2013. The National Seafood Development Operational Programme 2007-2013, which provides for grant aid support to develop the aquaculture industry, was advertised for public consultation in October 2008. Following this consultation process issues were raised by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on behalf of CFB (Central Fisheries Board) regarding the grant-aiding of projects where environmental issues arise relating to compliance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives and sea lice control on salmon farms.
This Department with its agencies working with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government developed a plan to deliver compliance with the EU Birds and Habitat Directives for wild fisheries and aquaculture over a determined timeframe. This plan was submitted to DG Environment for consideration.
A meeting between this Department, the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and Agencies and DG Environment took place in Brussels on 13 May 2009 to discuss the plan with a view to securing DG Environment's support for the approach set down in the plan.
DG Environment advised that it was, in principle, favourably disposed towards Ireland's plan subject to a positive response to the issues raised and further clarifications from the Irish authorities on the details of the plan. Additional material has now been forwarded to DG Environment where it is being examined. When these matters have been satisfactorily addressed, DG Environment expects to be in a position to formally respond on the plan at an early date.
A meeting at Ministerial level was held last week between my Department and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. Minister Killeen advised on the significant progress made in relation to managing sea lice levels on salmon farms and the concerns of the Fishery Boards were also set down. I am hopeful that there is a better understanding of the issues involved from both Departments' perspectives and that on this basis we can find a satisfactory resolution to the concerns raised.
It is noteworthy that the delay in the launch of the National Seafood Development OP has not held up grant aiding aquaculture developments in 2009 as the European Commission have agreed to the continuation of grant aid under the 2000-06 OP until 30 June 2009. A provision of €5m has been made for aquaculture development in the Agriculture Vote for 2009 and I have approved the spending of €4.5m of this for aquaculture projects in both the BMW and S&E regions under the 2000-06 OP which will assist the continued operation of aquaculture projects in these areas and the employment that they support.
452 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if his attention has been drawn to the difficulties that will arise for businesses if the border inspection posts at Dublin and Shannon Airports are no longer approved for category O animals such as birds, fish, reptiles and so on; if his attention has further been drawn to the fact that from August 2009 this category will have to be checked via an approved border inspection post in another member state; the reason for these changes; if he will examine alternatives to ensure businesses are not lost in the current economic climate through changes in regulations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26259/09]
EU legislation governing trade into the EU stipulates that all animals and animal products entering the EU from a country outside the EU (a Third Country) must undergo veterinary and documentary checks at the point of entry before release into transit to final destination or free circulation within the Community. These rules are aimed at the overall protection of animal and public health within the EU territory and the prevention of the introduction of diseases or pests into the Community.
During the course of an audit carried out by the EU Food and Veterinary Office in April 2008, various shortcomings were identified in relation to the facilities provided for "Category O — live animals" at both Border Inspection Posts (BIP's) in Ireland located at Dublin and Shannon Airports approved for the inspection of this category.
My Department immediately requested an assessment to be carried out by the OPW with regard to the remedial action required at these locations to up-specify the facilities and an initial estimate of expenditure was provided.
The two private companies with responsibility for the provision of the BIP facilities at both airports have confirmed to my Department that in view of the current economic climate they will not be making the financial investment required to upgrade these facilities in order to satisfy the legal requirements under EU legislation to maintain the ongoing approval of category "O" at the BIP's in Dublin and Shannon airports. Under these circumstances the BIP facility for approval of "Category O — live animals" at both of these locations has to be withdrawn.
Consequently consignments of all live animals that require BIP checks (animals with the exception of pets imported directly into Ireland from a country outside the EU) will be affected in that they can no longer enter directly into Ireland but rather undergo their official EU documentary border control inspection at a BIP location approved for category "O" in another Member State.
My Department has been in contact with all known importers of live animals along with the relevant airport authorities and freight handlers advising them of the impending change to take effect from the 3rd August, 2009 and has placed notices in the national media in the past week. A reasonable period of 6 weeks notice has been given. Similar action has been taken by the agency responsible for the importation of live fish.
453 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if a harbour master-constable (details supplied) who has been on sick leave will be replaced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26273/09]
The Harbour Master at Castletownbere Fishery Harbour Centre has been absent from work due to sick leave. A vacancy for the position does not arise at this time in these circumstances. In view of the needs of the harbour, the Assistant Harbour Master has been assigned the post of Acting Harbour Master.
I trust this clarifies the position.
454 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the 2007 Poseidon report has been implemented. [26290/09]
455 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if all 55 recommendations of the Poseidon report have been implemented. [26291/09]
456 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the cost to the State of implementing the Poseidon report. [26292/09]
457 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the cost of the closed circuit television as recommended as 12 in the Poseidon Report for 2009. [26297/09]
I propose taking Questions Nos. 454 to 457, inclusive, together.
A review of the fishery control regime in Ireland was undertaken by Poseidon Aquatic Resource Management Ltd in 2007 who subsequently presented its findings and recommendations to the Minister for Communications, Marine and Natural Resources, who held responsibility for fisheries at that time. The Minister wrote to the Chairman of the newly established Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority and instructed him to proceed with the implementation of the recommendations of the report.
It was originally envisaged that an Interdepartmental Group would be established to oversee the implementation of the report's recommendations but this Group was not put in place. The report was and is essentially an internal document for the fisheries control agencies, outlining best practice for the delivery of an efficient and effective control regime within allocated resources.
The Sea-Fisheries and Maritime Jurisdiction Act 2006 clearly provides that the SFPA is independent in the exercise of its functions and as such I have no remit as to its work programme, its deployment of resources, or its operational activities. Consequently, particular queries regarding the specific aspects of the SFPA's work programme should be directed to that body directly by the Deputy.
458 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he has taken to positively influence the World Trade Organisation discussions in favour of Irish and EU agriculture; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26391/09]
460 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he will take to favour Irish and European agriculture in the context of the World Trade Organisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26393/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 458 and 460 together.
The current position in regard to the WTO negotiations is that talks are stalled following the failure to reach agreement at the Ministerial meeting last July and the decision to defer indefinitely a second Ministerial meeting planned for last December. The G20 meeting in April provided no new momentum for the negotiations nor did it set a date for a conclusion of the talks this year. All in all the prospects for agreement are uncertain and, on balance, it is difficult to see serious negotiations restarting until later this year and any conclusion in 2009.
Against that background, throughout the negotiations I, my officials and my colleagues in Government have actively and consistently pursued Ireland's interests at every opportunity by lobbying the Commission, by participating actively with groups of like-minded Member States to defend our interests and by articulating in every possible forum our commitment to a fair and balanced deal that delivers real benefits to Ireland and that does not sacrifice our agriculture sector.
Although the negotiations have been stalled since last December, we have continued our discussions with the Commission to reinforce the Irish view and to remind it of the importance of a balanced outcome.
The Irish Government will continue to take every opportunity to express our concerns in the strongest terms in the various EU and WTO meetings dealing with these negotiations. At official level, my Department, and other Departments involved will continue to work assiduously in the various technical meetings to ensure Ireland's interests are best protected.
459 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the steps he has taken in respect of breaches of Irish or EU law in regard to the importation, sale or distribution of food or food products imported or otherwise; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26392/09]
Any breaches of controls in relation to importation or production of food falling within the remit of my Department are reported in accordance with the service contract to the FSAI. Any imports failing to comply with requirements for entry on the market may be detained for further examination. Where non-compliance is established they are returned to the exporting country or destroyed.
461 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied that all food, food products or ingredients imported, sold or distributed here are fully compliant with Irish and EU laws; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26394/09]
Responsibility for food safety rests with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland through its service contracts with my Department, the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, the Health Service Executive, the Local Authorities and the National Consumer Agency. The authority co-ordinates and monitors the operation of community standards applied to all foods for human consumption under the EU Food and Feed Hygiene Regulations. Food products of animal origin traded from an EU source must be from approved food business establishments and be accompanied to destination by a commercial document or a health certificate signed by an official veterinarian of the competent authority of the Member State of origin. Imports from non-EU countries take place on the basis that they comply with the relevant requirements of food law or conditions recognized by the EU to be at least equivalent standard. The EU Commission, under WTO and international Sanitary and Phytosanitary Agreements, approves countries that can guarantee that products of animal origin are produced and processed to EU equivalent standards and provide health certification as required by the EU. The Food and Veterinary Office of the EU carries out audits of third countries and monitors the operation of EU import controls by the Border Inspection Posts. Where there are risks to animal and public health, and in cases of animal disease outbreaks, the Community introduces safeguard measures banning or restricting imports until the risks have been removed. Consignments of animal products from third countries must be landed at an EU approved Border Inspection Post for veterinary checks and remain under Customs control until the Border Inspection Post has authorised entry into the EU. The scope of products of animal origin coming under these requirements is set out under Commission Decision No. 2007/275/EC, Official Journal of the European Communities No. L116 of 4.5.2007. Any imports failing to comply with these veterinary control checks may be detained for further examination. Where non-compliance is established, they are returned to the exporting country or destroyed.
462 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the efforts he is making directly or in conjunction with his EU colleagues to bring about a reaffirmation of policies likely to ensure the future viability of the food producing sector here and throughout the EU with particular reference to the need to preserve adequacy and security of supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26395/09]
463 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has received submissions from the various farming organisations with reference to the future viability of the food producing sector in the context of the Irish and European economies; his plans to address the issues raised by associations (details supplied) and other farming representative groups in this context; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26396/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 462 and 463 together.
I have been conscious for some time of the need to maintain policy frameworks that support the viability of the food-producing sector in Ireland and throughout Europe and that preserve the adequacy, security and safety of our food supply. In the light of these challenges on the domestic front, the AgriVision 2015 report established strategies for the development of a consumer focused, competitive and sustainable Irish agri-food sector, which is capable of meeting the challenges of more liberalised markets and broader societal demands at home and abroad. These strategies identify the delivery of safe, high quality, nutritious food that is produced in a sustainable manner in high value markets as the optimum road for the future of the Irish food industry in light of the changes which have already taken place or are anticipated over the next number of years. They span the entire food chain from primary production through processing to market access, which is key to developing export potential. I first raised my concerns about EU policies in the context of the WTO negotiations when I pointed out the need to ensure that due account is taken of the changes in the world since the Doha Round commenced in 2001. In particular, I emphasised that we should give proper recognition to the new challenges of food supply, food security and climate change. I have continued to make these points in debates and discussions with the Commission and my EU colleagues on the subjects of agriculture and climate change and future European agriculture policy generally.
From being a lone voice in highlighting these concerns, I have garnered the support of a considerable number of my EU colleagues, most particularly in the group of over 14 like-minded Member States. I believe there is a strong recognition among Council of Agriculture Ministers that Europe must retain its agricultural production base so that we can meet the future demand of our population for food, feed and bio-energy, while at the same time being in a position to assist least developed countries to meet their growing food needs. I am confident that this recognition will continue to be reflected in our upcoming discussions. As to the views of the farming organisations, I receive regular representations from the farming organisations and others on a host of current issues connected to the viability of the food-producing sector. However, I have not received any submissions from the various farming bodies referring specifically to the future viability of the food-producing sector in the context of the Irish and European economies.
464 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of cattle, sheep and pigs slaughtered here in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26397/09]
The annual number of cattle, sheep and pigs slaughtered at export-approved plants in each of the years between 1999 and 2008, inclusive, is as follows:
|
Year |
Cattle Slaughter |
Sheep Slaughter |
Pig Slaughter |
|
(‘000 head) |
(‘000 head) |
(‘000 head) |
|
|
1999 |
1,997 |
4,523 |
3,340 |
|
2000 |
1,752 |
4,117 |
3,050 |
|
2001 |
1,779 |
3,903 |
3,210 |
|
2002 |
1,675 |
3,307 |
3,040 |
|
2003 |
1,763 |
3,159 |
2,830 |
|
2004 |
1,725 |
3,565 |
2,710 |
|
2005 |
1,606 |
3,613 |
2,620 |
|
2006 |
1,692 |
3,479 |
2,620 |
|
2007 |
1,692 |
3,267 |
2,570 |
|
2008 |
1,591 |
2,919 |
2,510 |
An increase in average carcass weights in both cattle and pigs has somewhat offset the fall in numbers with the result that production has remained relatively stable. In the case of sheep, the decline in slaughtering has mirrored the decline in the size of the sheep herd during the period in question.
465 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of animals in the beef herd; the extent to which this number has fluctuated in the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26398/09]
The number of animals in the suckler cow herd in each of the last ten years is set out in the table that follows this reply. The size of the herd has remained relatively stable during this time with very little annual fluctuation.
|
Year |
No. in Suckler Cow Herd |
|
(‘000 head) |
|
|
1999 |
1,217 |
|
2000 |
1,187 |
|
2001 |
1,197 |
|
2002 |
1,154 |
|
2003 |
1,187 |
|
2004 |
1,207 |
|
2005 |
1,228 |
|
2006 |
1,215 |
|
2007 |
1,181 |
|
2008 |
1,176 |
(Source: CSO).
466 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of animals in the dairy herd; the extent to which this number has fluctuated in the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26399/09]
The table that follows this reply sets out the number of animals in the dairy herd in each of the last ten years. The size of the herd has decreased each year except for 2001 and 2008, when there were increases on the previous year. Overall, there was a 7% decline in numbers between 1999 and 2008.
|
Year |
No. in Dairy Herd |
|
(‘000 head) |
|
|
1999 |
1,201 |
|
2000 |
1,178 |
|
2001 |
1,183 |
|
2002 |
1,164 |
|
2003 |
1,156 |
|
2004 |
1,156 |
|
2005 |
1,114 |
|
2006 |
1,109 |
|
2007 |
1,087 |
|
2008 |
1,113 |
(Source: CSO).
467 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the sheep population here; the extent to which numbers have fluctuated in the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26400/09]
The following table sets out CSO figures for the sheep population in Ireland, in June of each year, for the past ten years:
|
Year |
Total sheep |
|
(000 head) |
|
|
1998 |
8,312.0 |
|
1999 |
7,925.5 |
|
2000 |
7,555.0 |
|
2001 |
7,330.3 |
|
2002 |
7,209.6 |
|
2003 |
6,848.9 |
|
2004 |
6,777.2 |
|
2005 |
6,392.2 |
|
2006 |
5,973.2 |
|
2007 |
5,521.6 |
|
2008 |
5,061.4 |
The report of the Sheep Strategy Development Group charts the correct way forward for the sector. My Department and the agencies under its aegis have made considerable progress in implementing the report's recommendations that are within their remit. These include the establishment of Sheep Ireland to take over my Department's current breed improvement programme and develop a new programme; the establishment of an additional supplementary measure under REPS 4 to promote mixed grazing of cattle and sheep; the development of a trial on the feasibility of mechanical classification for lamb, the results of which are currently being examined; the establishment of a Lamb Quality Assurance Scheme in 2007, which now has over 7000 participants; and the development of a comprehensive programme by Teagasc to improve the management and husbandry of flocks. The actions being taken by my Department and the State agencies under my aegis complement those being taken by the industry. I am confident that taken together, all of these actions will be of significant benefit to the sector. The sheep sector benefits significantly from the main schemes operated by my Department — the Single Farm Payment, the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and REPS. I took account of the needs of this sector when I decided that the €7 million available from the National Reserve in 2009 should be used on a new Uplands Sheep Payment, which is expected to benefit approximately 14,000 hill sheep farmers. Bord Bia will spend up to €1 million on the promotion of sheep and lamb at home and abroad in 2009. Teagasc has allocated almost €1.5 million for sheep research. Under the final agreement on the CAP Health Check, Ireland will have access to additional funds of approximately €25 million annually from unspent CAP funds from 2010. These funds can be used to address specific disadvantages affecting farmers in a number of sectors including the sheep sector. My main priority in allocating these funds is to ensure they are used in the most efficient and effective manner for the development of Irish agriculture. As I have already indicated, the sheep sector will be a substantial beneficiary. I hope to announce details in the coming weeks.
468 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he is satisfied regarding the availability of the testing and traceability facilities available for all foods for human consumption, animal feed stuffs or other facilities required in connection with national or EU legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26401/09]
Regulation (EC) No. 178 of 2002, which sets out the general principles and requirements of food law, stipulates inter alia, that food business operators at all stages of production, processing and distribution within the businesses under their control must ensure that foods satisfy the requirements of food law and that these requirements are met. One such requirement is that the operator must have systems in place to be able to identify any person from whom they have been supplied with food or feed, including ingredients used to produce a food or feed product. They must also have a system in place to identify other businesses to which their product has been supplied. Accordingly, responsibility for tracing food and feed products rests with the Food and Feed Business Operator. The controls carried out by official agencies on food safety rests with a number of Departments including my own. The testing of certain food products to comply with EU legislation requirements is carried out at my Department’s laboratories or where necessary by outsourcing. The majority of testing of animal feed is carried out by the State Laboratory. Where the State laboratory is not in a position to carry out certain tests, it arranges outsourcing to other accredited laboratories.
469 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the full scale of laboratory facilities required for or associated with requirements for the food sector are available and fully operational; the extent to which the full scale of such requirements will be met here; the number of such requirements currently met or anticipated by overseas referrals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26402/09]
The Irish Multi Annual National Control Plan, which is drawn up by my Department in conjunction with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland, details the official control of foodstuffs required under the EU Regulation 882/2004. At present, my Department utilises the facilities of its own laboratories together with the facilities of the Irish State Laboratory, Teagasc, public analyst laboratories and national and international private laboratories for this purpose. The EU requirement for national reference laboratories has impacted on the laboratory resources available for this work as some of my Department's laboratories are required to act as national reference laboratories for private laboratories that test samples on behalf of food business operators. It is intended to further develop the capacity in my Department's laboratories to service a higher percentage of the work related to this programme.
470 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to increase investment to upgrade all school bus fleets to ensure children travel safely to and from school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25883/09]
I assure the Deputy that the safety of children travelling on the school transport service is of paramount importance to my Department and to Bus Éireann. In recent years, a range of measures to enhance safety and to improve the quality of the school transport service has been put in place, both in the vicinity of and on board school buses. These measures include the phasing out of the 3 for 2 seating arrangement on primary and post-primary services and the provision of an individual seat equipped with a seat belt to all children. Over 80% of buses in the school transport fleet are owned by private operators on contract to Bus Éireann while the remaining vehicles are owned by Bus Éireann. Private operators are contractually obliged to keep their nominated vehicles in a safe and roadworthy condition at all times. In addition to the standards required by Bus Éireann, contractors are required to meet an extensive range of regulations and standards set out by the Department of Transport for the use of buses in public places. Bus Éireann has a wide range of checking procedures in place in addition to the statutory vehicle examinations to ensure, as far as reasonably possible, that a safe and reliable service is delivered. These procedures are reviewed on an ongoing basis to ensure that appropriate standards are maintained and improved upon, where possible.
In 2005, my Department gave approval to Bus Éireann to acquire 111 modern second-hand buses and 50 new dedicated school buses. In addition, the Bus Éireann school bus fleet has some 400 large capacity buses that were transferred from the general service fleet into the dedicated school transport bus fleet. Some 110 buses have been transferred in the last two years and they represent another valuable source of replacement buses over this period to continually improve the age profile and condition of their school bus fleet. The average age of the large capacity school bus fleet is 12.5 years, while the average age of all vehicles including minibuses and cars is about nine years. With regard to the age and condition of buses, I emphasise that an older bus does not mean an unsafe bus. All vehicles operating under the School Transport Scheme are required to meet the statutory regulations as laid down by the Department of Transport. As long as they continue to meet these requirements and are maintained regularly to a good standard, there is no reason an older bus should not be used for this purpose. Where vehicles have over eight adult seats and are more than one year old, they are required to pass that Department's annual roadworthiness test.
471 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a late application to the redress board by a person (details supplied) in County Galway cannot be accepted in view of the circumstances and content of the Ryan report; his plans to direct the redress board to accept bona fide late applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26255/09]
The Residential Institutions Redress Board was established under statute in December 2002. Under the terms of the Residential Institutions Redress Act 2002, the board is completely independent in the performance of its functions. Consequently, my Department does not have access to any information on individual applications to the board. Section 8 of the Act provides for the board to accept late applications in exceptional circumstances. It is entirely a matter for the board to determine the eligibility of each individual applicant having regard to the relevant legislation. Following the publication of the Ryan report, a wide range of issues has been raised by groups representing survivors of abuse, including the issue of extending the redress scheme to allow late applications, all of which are being examined by the Government in the context of addressing the needs of survivors going forward.
472 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide an additional teacher as requested by a school (details supplied) in County Cork. [25620/09]
499 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of an application for a teacher under the developing school status in regard to a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25808/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 472 and 499 together.
The number of mainstream class teachers appropriate to a school for the 2009-10 school year is determined by reference to the school's valid enrolment on 30 September 2008, in accordance with the staffing schedule (Primary Circular 0002/2009) which is available on my Department's website, www.education.ie. 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 on 30 September of the school year in question equals or exceeds a specified figure. If the specified figure is not achieved on 30 September, sanction for the post is withdrawn. The school referred to by the Deputy has applied for and been granted an additional mainstream post based on their projected enrolment for September 2009.
473 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding college maintenance grants for 2009; the position regarding college fees for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25647/09]
Criteria for the 2009 maintenance grant schemes are under review at present. Decisions on the 2009 schemes will be announced as soon as the process is completed. I presume the Deputy is referring to free tuition fees. As the Deputy will be aware, I am currently finalising a review of policy options relating to the introduction of a form of student contribution. There are many complex and competing considerations including costs, affordability and value for money for the taxpayer which will be taken into account by the Government in considering the available options. I will be providing the technical report to my Cabinet colleagues for consideration in the near future. I have already signalled that I do not intend to recommend that any new form of student contribution should be introduced before 2010. If it is decided to introduce a form of student contribution from a future point, such arrangements would also apply, from that time, to those students who would have entered higher education this year, 2009.
474 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science if a deal will apply to persons (details supplied) in County Mayo. [25649/09]
The Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement for public servants over 50 years of age was announced in the supplementary budget in April of this year. To date, my Department has received 18 applications under the new incentivised retirement scheme. It does not apply to teachers or special needs assistants for two reasons. First, teachers and special needs assistants are not subject to the recent moratorium on recruitment that applies to most other parts of the public service. Instead, the number of teacher and special needs assistant posts will be capped at the overall aggregate number of such posts actually in place in schools after the new school year begins in September 2009, based on the agreed staffing schedule for 2009-10 and other existing policies for determining teacher and special needs assistant numbers. If the posts were not filled, it would be detrimental to the educational interests of students and the exception to the moratorium reflects this. Second, the early retirement scheme is aimed at civil and public servants who retire before the age of 60 and whose superannuation options are limited to receiving their entitlements at preserved pension age or, for people aged over 50, immediate payment of pension benefits subject to an actuarial reduction. It is not being applied to sectors who have fast accrual of service, such as members of the Garda Síochána, Prison Officers and members of the Defence Forces, or those who have other preferential pension benefits such as the 55/35 year rule for teachers. Under the 55/35 year rule, a teacher, other than a new entrant appointed after 1 April 2004, who has reached the age of 55 years and has at least 35 years of actual pensionable service, may retire voluntarily. There is no actuarial reduction in benefits and credit for certain pre-service training is given in order to assist teachers to reach the 35-year threshold for retirement. If the Deputy wishes to give me details of the people referred to in the question, I can provide a more specific reply.
475 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will clarify the position of a person (details supplied) in County Longford employed under memo V7 in a full time capacity by a school in County Longford, but whose role is being relegated to that of one shared with another area, with half a disadvantaged post also having been withdrawn from the school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25667/09]
Home school community liaison co-ordinator posts are provided on a full-time or shared basis between schools. Due to the nature of the work of home school community liaison co-ordinators, which focuses directly on the salient adults in children's educational lives, co-ordinators must be deployed to full-time liaison duties only. This is to avoid any potential conflict of interest which could arise if such a person were teaching a child while supporting his or her family at the same time. The role also requires the flexibility to be available to families for home visitation, to attend meetings and in-service training and to undertake school staff development without having the restrictions of a timetable. Following a full review of the allocation of home school community liaison posts and clustering arrangements under Delivering Equality of Opportunities in Schools, the Action Plan for Educational Inclusion in 2008, home school community liaison posts are allocated to schools on the basis of their levels of disadvantage and enrolment, having regard to geographic proximity or association — where children from the same family attend different schools, such as boys and girls schools, or have primary or post-primary aged siblings. In a small number of cases, co-ordinators may be shared between schools that do not have family links. This ensures that the co-ordinators are deployed to do home school community liaison duties only. The co-ordinator to whom the Deputy refers is employed as a permanent whole time teacher by a Vocational Education Committee as a full-time home school community liaison co-ordinator. Following the 2008 home school community liaison review, the school in which the co-ordinator is serving is no longer entitled to a full home school community liaison post, based on its size and level of disadvantage. It is sharing a post with another school. The VEC has been advised that the home school community liaison post should be shared between two of its schools. It is a matter for the VEC to deploy this teacher in accordance with the terms of her contract with the VEC.
476 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application in respect of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25685/09]
486 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25743/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 476 and 486 together.
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.4 rating. 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 the 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.
477 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Question No. 1616 of 27 January 2009, if he will report on the status of a project (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25696/09]
The Deputy will be aware that special schools are recognised as providing educational services to children with various disabilities. It is important that schools are sufficiently flexible in their abilities to be able to provide an appropriate education for all children within the particular category of disability. This flexibility requires all schools to be able to draw on a range of interventions and approaches rather than to give priority to one particular methodology. Recognition will not therefore be given to special schools which do not draw on a range of interventions and approaches. The Deputy will be aware that one of the functions of the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is to ensure that a continuum of special educational provision is available as required in relation to each type of disability. The NCSE has established a nationwide network of special classes for children with autism in primary, post-primary and special schools. The NCSE will continue to establish additional special classes as necessary. Further to Question No. 1616 of 27 January 2009, I am pleased to advise the Deputy that the centres in question have applied to my Department to be recognised as special schools. My Department is awaiting further documentation in relation to these applications.
478 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the nature and outcome of any value for money audit carried out by his Department during the past three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25704/09]
My Department continually monitors programmes and seeks improvements to deliver value for money and enhanced services to its customers. Reviews are carried out on specific policy areas as agreed with the Department of Finance under the value for money framework. In addition, a range of other policy reviews that impact on value for money are carried out within the Department. The Department reviewed and reported on the policy areas outlined in this reply under the value for money framework over the last three years. Arrangements for consideration and implementation of the recommendations are in place in each case. Progress on implementation is monitored and reports are provided to the Department of Finance on a quarterly basis and to Government on a biannual basis. In addition, value for money reviews are reported on formally in the Department's annual report. Progress on the recommendations for each of these reviews is outlined in Appendix A at the end of this reply.
My Department reviewed and reported on the policy areas outlined below under the Value for Money Framework over the last three years: the review of the ICT Undergraduate Skills Programme, which was published in October 2008; the review of programmes managed by teacher education, which was published in October 2008; the review of Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training Centres, which was published in April 2008; the review of the supply teacher scheme for primary schools; the review of small schools scheme and the permanent accommodation scheme; the review of youth encounter projects; and the review of ICT support services for schools. The following value for money reviews are ongoing and are nearing completion or scheduled for completion in 2009: the review of insurance arrangements in schools; the review of the summer works scheme; the review of special needs assistants; the review of expenditure on the education of people who do not have English or Irish as a first language; and the review of the school transport programme. The conclusions and recommendations which emerge from these reviews will be considered and implemented with a view to achieving better outcomes and efficiency savings. Progress in implementing any recommendations set out in the reviews and the impacts achieved will be monitored and reported on, as with the reviews which have been completed.
Appendix A
All the reviews are published in full on the Department’s website — www.education.gov.ie
Review of the ICT Undergraduate Skills Programme published October 2008
An expenditure review of the ICT undergraduate skills programme, carried out in 2007, was published in April 2008.
The VFM report broadly concluded that the Department of Education and Science and the education sector's pro-activity and responsiveness to industry needs in the ICT sector met the ICT Programme's initial objective of creating the educational capacity required to ensure a steady supply of skilled graduates into the economy. Despite this success, the global downturn in the ICT industry and a realisation of the cyclical nature of the industry had created a climate of insecurity amongst potential students and this had a serious impact on enrolments on the courses funded under the ICT Undergraduate Skills programme.
Recommendations in this report recognise that the Department of Education and Science, the Higher Education Authority (HEA) and the Higher Education Institutes have an important role to play in the provision of future graduates in this area. A number of the report's recommendations have been implemented and work is ongoing with the HEA with a view to implementing the remaining recommendations. The report also recognises that the ICT industry must play a lead role in promoting the benefits of careers in their sector if demand for places is to recover and grow.
Review of Programmes managed by Teacher Education published October 2008
The Value for Money Review of Programmes Managed by Teacher Education Section (TES) encompassed the three main policy areas in which the TES is involved and for which the TES has overall responsibility for policy formulation, co-ordination, general direction and management, quality control and financial control: (i) initial teacher education; (ii) induction; and (iii) continuing professional development.
The VFMR contained a large number of recommendations relating to the three areas above. In brief it can be said that the recommendations focussed on moving to the provision of more targeted services based on user feedback and needs analyses, on reducing overlap and rationalising services where appropriate, and on creating other operational and financial efficiencies.
As a result of the recommendations many changes have been implemented and the TES continues to progress other identified targets.
Review of Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training Centres published April 2008
The Value For Money (VFM) Review of the Youthreach and Senior Traveller Training Centre (STTC) programmes funded by the Department of Education and Science was completed and published in 2008.
While the achievement of savings was an element of the Review, in general it focussed on the efficiency and effectiveness with which the programmes used their resources to achieve their stated objectives.
The Review provides a basis for the continued allocation of public funding to Youthreach. For STTCs, the Review recommended that in the longer term they should be phased out as a segregated provision and adult Travellers should participate in mainstream further education with their peers.
October 2008 budget announced the reduction of 100 places on the STTC programme from 1st September 2009. This is part of the phasing out of STTCs as recommended in the Value for Money Report.
Review of the Supply Teacher Scheme for Primary Schools.
In February, 2003 DES commissioned Talbot Associates Management Consultants to review the operation of the Scheme. The review allowed a valuable opportunity to examine this scheme comprehensively with regard to resource implications.
The Review made a number of findings on value for money aspects of the scheme including the fact that the supply scheme is an expensive way of providing teacher substitution. This is primarily because of the higher rate of remuneration for a permanent teacher as against that of a substitute. However, due to the fact that substitute teachers are now entitled to incremental credit in respect of that service arising from the implementation of Part-time Workers legislation, the employment of casual substitutes may prove as costly as scheme substitutes in terms of salary in the future. Expansion of the scheme on existing terms would involve additional travel costs.
The industrial relations and other implications of the recommendations are being considered in the context of what is achievable within available resources.
Small Schools Scheme and the Permanent Accommodation Scheme
This review was carried out to determine the value to the building programme of the Small Schools Initiative (SSI) and the Permanent Accommodation Initiative (PAI), devolving funding and responsibility on school management authorities (SMAs) to enable them to manage and complete their own building projects.
The review found that the schemes provided value for money for the taxpayer with effective funding control mechanisms. The schemes met accommodation deficits in schools in a satisfactory manner. The review found that devolution of funding and responsibility to SMAs worked well but suggested additional advice and information on their duties be provided to the SMAs.
The majority of the recommendations contained in the review have been implemented resulting in increased administrative efficiencies in the administration of the schemes which allowed almost 400 schools to benefit from funding under the SSS between 2003 and 2007 while an additional 625 classrooms and 275 resource rooms were provided in schools around the country under the Permanent Accommodation Scheme.
Review of Youth Encounter Projects.
A Value For Money Review on Youth Encounter Projects was carried out between 2005 and 2007.
The overall view of the Steering Committee who undertook the review was positive. The committee concluded that the schools follow appropriate objectives and are largely successful in achieving them. It did, however, identify certain issues around efficiency and effectiveness.
Its report contained 51 recommendations in all, 12 of which have been implemented and a further 9 of which are expected to be implemented this year."
Review of ICT Support Services for Schools.
The ICT Support Service for Schools was introduced as part of the overarching ICT in Schools Programme to advance and embed the use of ICTs in schools. The Value for Money Review of the ICT Support Service for Schools, was published in 2008 and the elements reviewed included the work of the ICT Advisory Service, the two ICT Education Officer posts in the NCCA and the work of the NCTE on its Teaching Skills Initiative, its School Support Initiative and its Innovative Projects Initiative.
While concluding that the ICT Support Service was generally effective and efficient, the report found that the resources utilised by the ICT Advisory service operating from the regional Education Centres would be better employed focusing supports for ICT leadership and change within each school. The review also highlighted the need to ensure that the integration of ICT is specifically incorporated into all the support service activities funded by the DES and that it is recognised as an integral part of all curriculum development, support and training, rather than an optional add-on. In these circumstances, contracts for 18 ICT Advisor posts were not renewed into 2009, and the NCTE has prioritised its ongoing work with the support services in the Department and the provision of a range of ICT continuing professional development for teachers.
The report further recommended that appropriate professional development and support be targeted for ICT co-ordinating teachers in schools — in that context, the role of the ICT Co-ordinator is being prioritised, with the support of the school principal, as central in the provision of ongoing ICT support and advice to teachers. Nationwide seminars on e-learning, which targeted ICT coordinating teachers in post-primary schools, were held late last year. It is planned to hold a further tranche of seminars targeting primary ICT co-ordinating teachers in 2009. An on-line professional development course for ICT coordinating teachers on developing an e-Learning plan in schools is currently in development. This follows their attendance at e-planning workshops. NCTE is finalising a handbook for e-Planning in schools — Planning and Implementing e-Learning in your School — as well as a roadmap for ICT integration.
Other key recommendations being progressed include:
NCTE has successfully established a Virtual Learning Environment community of practice for post-primary ICT Co-ordinating teachers
Work is continuing in the NCTE on the development of video models to support implementation of the Framework for ICT in Curriculum and Assessment
Ongoing increase in the development and availability of subject specific learning resources on Scoilnet.
479 Deputy Mary Wallace asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Meath, particularly in relation to going to tender; the expected timeframe from here to construction commencing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25715/09]
I am pleased to advise that the school to which the Deputy refers is currently out to tender. Tenders are due back 1 July 2009. Once a tender report is prepared by the Design Team, and submitted to the Department, the project will be considered for progression to construction.
480 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to introduce a panel system similar to that used for teachers that could apply for special need assistants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25720/09]
Special Needs Assistants are allocated to provide for care needs of pupils with special educational needs in accordance with specified criteria. The needs of individual children and the number of such children can change over time with consequent changes to a school's SNA allocation. Accordingly, redundancy arrangements agreed at national level operate for special needs assistants employed in primary and second level schools. The terms of the redundancy arrangements are set out in Circular 0058/2006 which is available on my Department's website.
There are no plans at present to introduce a redeployment panel system for special needs assistants. My Department is currently carrying out a Value for Money Review and Policy Analysis of the SNA scheme and this is expected to be completed this year.
481 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 533 of 29 October 2008, the progress regarding the provision of an educational service (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25722/09]
I understand that the Deputy's office has clarified that this question is requesting an update on the accommodation needs of a special class in a mainstream school and also details on the educational provision available for children in this special class once they have completed primary school.
I can confirm that my Department has received an application from the National School to which the Deputy refers. The application was assessed and assigned a Band 1 rating under the published prioritisation for large scale building projects. This is the highest Band rating possible, which reflects the urgency which the Department attaches to the project.
The commencement and progression of all large scale building projects from initial design stage through to construction phase, including this project, will be considered on an on-going basis in the context of the 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 further progression of the project at this time.
In the meantime, it is open to the school concerned to make an application to the Department's School Planning and Building Unit for temporary accommodation if required.
The Deputy will be aware that one of the functions of the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is to ensure that a continuum of special educational provision is available as required in relation to each type of disability. The NCSE has established a nationwide network of special classes for children with autism in primary, post-primary and special schools. The NCSE will continue to establish additional special classes as necessary.
All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie
I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and reply.
482 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science when the term of the limited duration six month framework agreement for construction consultants for schools projects published on e-Tenders in June 2008 will be concluded: when he will issue a new invitation to tender for these services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25726/09]
The framework panel for the appointment of design team consultants to major school building projects commenced on Monday, 20 April and will conclude on Tuesday, 20 October 2009. Work on setting up a further panel is ongoing within the Planning and Building Unit of my Department and an advertisement will appear on the public procurement portal, www.etenders.gov.ie, in due course.
483 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will provide a list of applications for school buildings or extensions, at both primary and secondary levels, including both schools in architectural planning and those pre-architectural planning, with details of band, type of project, school name, location and estimated cost; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25732/09]
For the Deputy's information a composite list of major school building projects follows. The first list outlines those projects that are currently in architectural planning and the second, those that are at pre-architectural planning stage. Due to the commercially sensitive nature of the information, I regret that it is not possible to detail the estimated cost of the projects on an individual basis.
|
County |
RN |
School |
Band Rating |
Project Type |
|
Carlow |
11135K |
St. Mary’s NS, Bagenalstown, Co. Carlow |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Carlow |
17501Q |
Bennykerry NS, Bennykerry, Co. Carlow |
2.1 |
New school |
|
Carlow |
70420R |
Carlow Vocational School |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Carlow |
17127S |
St. Joseph’s NS, Hacketstown, Co. Carlow |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cavan |
19439B |
Holy Family S S, Cootehill, Co. Cavan |
1.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cavan |
18857O |
S N Carraig A Bruis, Virginia, Co. Cavan |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cavan |
81005Q |
St Aidans Comprehensive School, Cootehill, Co. Cavan |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
81008W |
Ashton School, Blackrock Road, Cork. |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Cork |
19993E |
Gaelscoil An Ghoirt Alainn, Aibhinne Murmont, Cork City |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Cork |
62690E |
Scoil Mhuire, 2 Sydney Place, Wellington Road, Cork |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
19415K |
Scoil an Athar Tadhg, Carraig na Bhfear, Co. Chorcaí |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Cork |
13450F |
Rushbrook NS, Cobh, Co. Cork |
2.4 |
New School |
|
Cork |
17609N |
Rathcormac NS, Rathcormac |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Cork |
17667E |
Patrick’s National School, Whitechurch, Co. Cork. |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
18279A |
Carrigaline N. 3, Carrigaline, Co. Cork |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
19351K |
Kilcreadan NS, Ladysbridge, Castlemartyr, Co. Cork |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
13828F |
St Columba’s Boys National School, Douglas, Co. Cork |
1.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
62640M |
St. Angela’s College, St. Patrick’s Hill, Cork |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Cork |
62310O |
De La Salle College, Macroom, Co. Cork |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
18219F |
SN Chonaill, Machaire Chlochair, Bun Beag, Co. Dhun na nGall |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
18052S |
Scoil Mhuire gan Smal, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
16672P |
St. Patricks Primary School, Lurgybrack, Co. Donegal. |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
91409A |
Pobail Scoil, Gweedore, Co. Donegal |
4.1 |
PE Hall |
|
Donegal |
20150H |
Holy Family NS, Ballyshannon, Donegal |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamhnain, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
62830R |
St Eunan’s College, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
County |
RN |
School |
Band Rating |
Project Type |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
13447Q |
Scoil Mhuire, Lucan, Co. Dublin |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
60860Q |
Our Lady’s School, Templeogue Road, Terenure, Dublin 6W |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
60263V |
St. Josephs College, Lucan, Co. Dublin |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
19878E |
Ballycragh NS, Ballycragh, Firhouse, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
19474D |
St. Colmcille’s Junior NS, Knocklyon, Templeogue, Dublin 16 |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
19742C |
St. Colmcille’s Senior NS, Knocklyon, Templeogue, Dublin 16 |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
60341P |
Sancta Maria College, Ballyroan, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
19817H |
St. Mary’s NS, Woodview, Esker, Lucan, Co. Dublin |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Belgard) |
19782O and 19834 |
St. Brigid’s NS and St. Aidan’s NS, Brookfield, Tallaght, Dublin 24 |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (City) |
19006Q |
Eoin Baisde NS, Seafield Road, Clontarf, Dublin. |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (City) |
09932B |
Stanhope St Convent, Stanhope Street, Dublin 7 |
1.3 |
New School |
|
Dublin (City) |
13815T |
Howth Rd Mxd NS, Howth Rd, Clontarf, Dublin 3 |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (City) |
17976R |
Scoil Assaim, Raheny |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
17977T |
Scoil Aine, Raheny |
|||
|
17978V |
Scoil Ide, Raheny |
|||
|
Dublin (City) |
19819L |
St. Laurence O’Toole Special School, Aldborough Parade, North Strand, Dublin 1 |
1.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (City) |
60660I |
St. Patricks Cathedral G.S, St. Patricks Close, Dublin 8 |
2.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (City) |
19373U |
St. Michaels Hse Sp Sch, Raheny Rd, Dublin |
1.2 |
New School |
|
Dublin (City) |
20228S |
St. Laurence O’Toole Girls School, 49 Seville Place, North Wall, Dublin 1 |
1.4 |
New School |
|
Dublin (City) |
19727G |
St. Mary’s Central NS, Belmont Ave, Donnybrook, Dublin 4 |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (City) |
70020B |
Grange CC (Linked to 76085N) |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Dublin (City) |
76085N |
Gaelcholáiste Reachrann, Bóthar Mhainistir Na Gráinsí, Domhnach Míde (sch being de-coupled from 70020B) |
2.2 |
New school |
|
County |
RN |
School |
Band Rating |
Project Type |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
20240I |
Hansfield NS SDZ |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
76062B |
Castleknock Community College, Carpenterstown Road, Castleknock, Dulbin 15 |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
17914S |
St. Oliver Plunkett NS, Malahide, Dublin. |
2.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
18046A |
Scoil Bhride Boys NS Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
18047C |
Scoil Bhride Girls NS Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
19535U |
St. Cronin’s Senior NS, Brackenstown, Swords, Co. Dublin |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
00697S |
St. Brigid’s NS, Castleknock |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
60370W |
St. Fintan’s High School, Dublin Road, Sutton, Dublin 13 |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dublin (Fingal) |
81002K |
Mount Temple Comprehensive School, Malahide Road, Dublin 3 |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
19374W |
Garran Mhuire, Goatstown, Dublin 14 |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
60092U |
Clonkeen College, Blackrock, Co. Dublin |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
18451J |
Scoil Lorcain, Eaton Square, Monkstown, Co. Dublin |
2.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
60180R |
Christian Brothers College, Monkstown Park, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
60650F |
St. Andrews College, Booterstown, Co. Dublin |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
20190T |
Holy Trinity National School, Sandyford, Dublin 18 |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Dun Laoghaire/Rathdown |
19355S and 20028K |
Ballyowen Meadows, C/O Mary Immac Sch For Hearing Impaired Boys and Setanta Special School, Beech Park, Stillorgan, Co. Dublin |
1.2 |
New School |
|
Galway |
19506N |
Cappatagle Central School, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
19795A |
Tirellan Heights NS, Headford Road, Galway |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
63070C |
St. Raphael’s College, Loughrea, Galway |
1.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
20199O |
Oughterard NS, Oughterard, Co. Galway |
1.4 |
New School |
|
Galway |
63090I |
Holy Rosary College, Mountbellew, Co. Galway |
2.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
91412M |
Scoil Phobail, Clifden, Co. Galway |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
08512U |
Iomair NS, Killimor, Galway. |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Galway |
12706J |
SN Sailearna, Indreabhan, Co. na Gaillimhe |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
County |
RN |
School |
Band Rating |
Project Type |
|
Galway |
19994G |
Gaelscoil Mhic Amhlaigh, Cnoc Na Cathrach, |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
16937C |
SN Fursa, Fursa, Co. na Gaillimhe |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
62960H |
St. Joseph’s College |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Galway |
19401W and 19468 |
Scoil Caitriona Jnr & Snr, Renmore, Galway |
1.2 |
New School |
|
Galway |
20042E |
Scoil an Chroi Naofa, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway |
1.2 |
New School |
|
Galway |
17668G |
SN Na BhForbacha, An Spideal, Co. na Gaillimhe |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Galway |
15071H |
SN Cillini Dioma, Loughrea, Co. Galway |
2.4 |
New School |
|
Kerry |
17646T |
SN Uaimh Bhreanainn, Traighlí, Co. Chiarraí |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Kerry |
61440W |
C.B.S. Secondary School, The Green, Tralee, Co. Kerry |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Kerry |
20197K |
Kenmare NS, Kenmare, Co. Kerry |
1.4 |
New School |
|
Kerry |
61320M |
Coláiste Bhréanainn, Cill Airne, Co. Chiarraí |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Kildare |
18988G |
St. Raphael’s Special Sch, Celbridge, Co. Kidare |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Kildare |
09414C |
St. Laurence’s NS, Crookstown |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Kildare |
18018S |
Bunscoil Bhride NS Rathangan |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Kilkenny |
61580P |
Loreto Secondary School, Granges Road, Kilkenny, Co. Kilkenny |
2.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Laois |
20071L |
Scoil Bhride, Rathdowney, Co. Laois |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Laois |
14260F |
Abbeyleix Sth NS, Abbeyleix, Co. Laois |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Laois |
17064U |
Scoil Padraig, Ballylinan, Athy, Co. Laois |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Laois |
17617M |
Scoil Chomhgain Naofa, Killeshin, Co. Laois |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Limerick |
64240G |
St Munchin’s College, Corbally, Limerick |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Limerick |
18991S |
J F K Memorial School, Ennis Rd, Limerick |
2.4 |
New School |
|
Limerick |
20193C |
Scoil Mocheallog, Kilmallock, Co. Limerick |
1.4 |
New School |
|
Limerick |
17445J |
Scoil Lile Naofa, Kileely, Limerick |
2.4 |
New School |
|
Longford |
20128O |
St. Matthews Mixed NS, Ballymahon, Longford. |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Longford |
19429V |
St. Christopher’s SS, Battery Road, Longford |
1.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
County |
RN |
School |
Band Rating |
Project Type |
|
Longford |
20124G |
St. Mary’s NS, Edgeworthstown, Co. Longford |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Longford |
91436D |
Moyne Community School, Moyne, Co. Longford |
2.3 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Louth |
63920A |
Dundalk Grammar School, Dundalk, Co. Louth |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Louth |
18635T |
St. Buite’s NS, Tenure, Dunleer, Co. Louth |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Louth |
91441T |
Ardee Community School, Ardee, Co. Louth |
2.3 |
New School |
|
Mayo |
13667H |
St. Josephs NS, Bonniconlon, Ballina, Co. Mayo |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Mayo |
20142I |
Scoil Iosa, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Mayo |
64570E |
Our Lady’s Secondary School, Belmullet, Co. Mayo |
2.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Mayo |
64660F |
Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh, Co. Mayo |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Mayo |
91461C |
Ballyhaunis Community School, Knock Road, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Meath |
02905J |
SN Naomh Padraig, Baile Bacuin, Enfield, Co. Meath |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Meath |
17213L |
SN Mhuire, Ma Nealta, Ceannanus Mor, Co. Meath |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Meath |
16100Q |
Mercy Convent NS, Navan, Co. Meath |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Meath |
19671F |
St. Paul’s NS, Abbeylands, Navan, Co. Meath |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Meath |
71960I |
Community College, Dunshaughlin, Co. Meath |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Monaghan |
07751K |
Monaghan Model School, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan |
2.6 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Monaghan |
64820B |
St. Louis Secondary School, Monaghan, Co. Monaghan |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Monaghan |
72190N |
Castleblaney College, Dublin Road, Castleblayney, Co. Monaghan |
2.5 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Offaly |
17637S |
S N Sheosaimh Naofa, Beal Atha Na Gcarr, Tullamore |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Offaly |
18267Q |
Croinchoill NS, Birr, Co. Offaly |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Offaly |
72530L |
Ard Scoil Chiarain Naofa, Frederick St., Clara, Co. Offaly |
2.6 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Sligo |
19495L |
Carbury NS, The Mall, Sligo |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Sligo |
65170Q |
Summerhill College, Sligo, Co. Sligo |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Tipperary |
65240L |
Presentation Secondary School, Ballingarry, Thurles, Co. Tipperary |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Tipperary |
65470F |
Ursuline Secondary School, Thurles, Co. Tipperary |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
County |
RN |
School |
Band Rating |
Project Type |
|
Tipperary |
72370P |
Borrisokane Community College, Borrisokane, Co. Tipperary |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Tipperary |
72440K |
Nenagh Vocational School, Dromin Road, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Tipperary |
72430H |
Scoil Ruaine, Killenaule, Co. Tipperaray |
4.1 |
PE Hall |
|
Tipperary |
17779P |
Powerstown NS, Clonmel, Co. Tipperary |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Tipperary |
65440T |
Our Ladys Secondary School, Templemore, Co. Tipperary |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Waterford |
64970U |
Presentation Secondary School, Waterford |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Waterford |
20170N |
Scoil Choill Mhic Thomaisin, Kilmacthomas, Co. Waterford |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Westmeath |
63290Q |
Loreto College, Mullingar |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Westmeath |
19848S |
St. Etchin’s NS, Kinnegad, Co. Westmeath |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Westmeath |
17932U |
Odhran Naofa, Sonna, Co. Westmeath |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Westmeath |
18505G |
Naomh Clar, Tobberclair, Glasson, Athlone, Co. Westmeath |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Westmeath |
17903N |
Cornamaddy NS, Athlone, Co. Westmeath |
1.1 |
New School |
|
Westmeath |
17025K |
SN na nDun, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Wexford |
17017L |
SN Phadraig, Crossabeg, Co. Wexford |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wexford |
63660A |
Loreto Secondary School, Spawell Road, Wexford, Co. Wexford |
2.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wexford |
20003R |
St. Aidans Parish School, Enniscorthy |
1.2 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wexford |
17450C |
SN Mhaodhoig, Poll Fothair, Fiodh Ard |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wexford |
17913Q |
SN Mhuire Baile Bearna |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wexford |
71600B |
Coláiste Abbain, Adamstown, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wicklow |
20016D |
Gaelscoil Ui Cheadaigh. Bray, Co. Wicklow. |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Wicklow |
61790D |
St. Brendan’s College, Woodbrook, Bray, Co. Wicklow |
2.1 |
New School |
|
Wicklow |
09760V |
Powerscourt NS, Powerscourt, Enniskerry, Co. Wicklow |
2.2 |
New School |
|
Wicklow |
19522L |
St. Catherines SS, Newcastle, Co. Wicklow |
1.2 |
New School |
484 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25741/09]
489 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25746/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 484 and 489 together.
The building project for the school to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. In accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects, this school has been assigned a band rating of 2.2.
The progression of all large scale projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of the Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation programme.
However, in light of the current competing demands on the capital budget of my Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the further progression of the project at this time.
485 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25742/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.1 rating. The project 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 the 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.
487 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25744/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.4 rating.
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 the 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.
488 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in County Dublin; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25745/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for large scale capital funding for a sports hall refurbishment and the replacement of temporary accommodation.
The project has been assigned a Band 2.4 rating under the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects.
As the Deputy will be aware, in February, I announced details of 43 major building projects to proceed to tender and construction and 25 high priority projects to commence architectural planning. The project to which the Deputy refers was not included in this announcement.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project in question, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of the 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.
The school authorities have submitted other applications for funding for smaller scale works and my Department is in correspondence with them in this regard. As the Deputy may be aware, the school has already received a total of €910,000 under the Summer Works Scheme in 2005, 2006 and 2007 for improvement works to the school. They were also successful in obtaining funding for gutters and fascia under the 2009 Summer Works Scheme.
490 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25747/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.5 rating.
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 the 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.
491 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 14; the funding which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25748/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.4 rating.
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 the 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.
492 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25749/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.4 rating.
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 the 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.
I am also pleased to confirm the school was successful in obtaining funding this year under the Summer Works Scheme for refurbishment of a Science Room.
493 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25750/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2. 2 rating. The project 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 the 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.
494 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25751/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band 2.5 rating.
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 the 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.
495 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25752/09]
The school building project referred to by the Deputy is at an early stage of architectural planning. In accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects, this school has been assigned a band rating of 2.4.
The progression of all large scale 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 the current competing demands on the capital budget of my Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the further progression of the project at this time.
496 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25753/09]
497 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the funding application of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 16; the funding band which applies to this case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25754/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 496 and 497 together.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that I have recently granted approval to the schools in question to seek planning permission and a fire safety certificate with the Local Authority. In accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects, these schools have been assigned a band rating of 2.1.
Further progression of this project through to tender and construction will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
498 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will review the decision to provide a special needs assistant to a child (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25800/09]
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 primary and post primary schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.
All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie. I have arranged for the information provided by the Deputy to be forwarded to the NCSE for their direct reply.
500 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science if a decision has been made in respect of application for English as an additional language teachers for a school (details supplied) in County Louth. [25813/09]
512 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will allow a school (details supplied) in County Kerry to retain two of the three temporary posts for language support teachers for foreign students; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26097/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 500 and 512 together.
In light of the Budget 2009 decision my Department has now published a circular for schools which sets out how the new arrangements will operate for the allocation of language support teachers from September 2009. The circular sets out a structured and transparent approach for the operation of the alleviation measures that were announced in the budget for schools that have a significant concentration of newcomer pupils. The alleviation measures mean that these schools can qualify for up to 4 language support posts with the possibility of additional posts also being approved through the independent staffing appeals mechanism.
Schools can now apply to my Department in the normal way for language support posts. These posts are approved on a provisional basis initially and will be confirmed in September 2009 following receipt from the schools of actual enrolments of pupils requiring language support. It is estimated that notwithstanding the budget measures there will be approximately 1,500 language support teaching posts in our primary and post-primary schools in September 2009. By any standards this is a very significant resource and the challenge will be to ensure that it is used to maximum effect.
Additional supports are provided for children in primary schools who do not meet the qualifying criteria for the appointment of full-time teachers in the form of grant aids for the employment of part-time English language support teachers. 443 schools have benefited from this type of financial support in the current school year.
501 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the position in relation to the 2,500 additional third level places announced by his Department; if he will clarify if students will have to pay the €1500 registration fee; the level of FETAC qualifications the courses in this scheme will apply to; if he will clarify if potential students need to have lost their job in the six months before 1 September 2009 or if they need to have been in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance or jobseeker’s benefit from 1 March 2009; if so, if he will confirm if persons made unemployed after 1 March 2009 will have to wait until 2010 to pursue a third level course; if he will confirm that the scheme will be open to persons in receipt of either jobseeker’s allowance or jobseeker’s benefit; if the scheme will be open to formerly self-employed persons who are now unemployed but do not qualify for social welfare benefits; the way potential students will be able to apply for these additional places; the discount that will be provided to students seeking to study a postgraduate degree which usually incurs a charge; if maintenance grants will be available to successful applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25815/09]
The provision of 2,500 new places on part-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses for people who are unemployed is part of the Government's efforts to retrain and upskill the labour force. 1,500 of the new places will be on a range of undergraduate certificate and degree-level programmes at levels 6 to 8 on the National Framework of Qualifications (NFQ). The remaining 1,000 places will be available for unemployed graduates to undertake part-time postgraduate diplomas or conversion programmes at levels 8 to 9 on the NFQ. All 2,500 places will be on courses that support the goals of the Government's "Smart Economy" plan and particularly those relating to specific skills needs of exporting sectors identified by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs.
Details of the third level institutions providing these places and information on how to apply for a place will be announced in the coming weeks. The information will also be made available through local FÁS and Department of Social and Family Affairs offices. The scheme will be open to people who have been on the Live Register for at least six months on 1 September 2009, or who have been awarded Statutory redundancy and have an entitlement to a relevant social welfare payment. One of the conditions for people participating on these new part-time places is that they continue to be available and seeking work. Once they satisfy these conditions they will be entitled to retain their social welfare payments. Where they receive an offer of full-time work they must take up this offer of employment. Tuition fees will not be charged for these courses, though postgraduate students may be required to pay a small charge. Students will not be required to pay the €1,500 registration fee. The Student Maintenance Grant Scheme does not cover part time courses.
It is open to unemployed people who do not meet the eligibility criteria for this scheme to apply for third level courses through the CAO. While the initial CAO closing date is 1 February, with late applications accepted up to 1 May, on 2 July next the CAO will publish details of its Available Place courses where places are likely to be available following the first round of CAO offers in August. A further opportunity will be available for people to apply for places on such courses from 18 August 2009.
Unemployed people on full-time third level programmes may be eligible for support under this Department's Student Maintenance Grant Scheme. Provision of grants is subject to a means test and other eligibility criteria. Further information on how to apply for a student maintenance grant is available on the Student Finance website: www.studentfinance.ie.
In addition, unemployed people who secure a place on a full-time undergraduate programme may be eligible to participate in the Department of Social and Family Affairs Back to Education Allowance Scheme. Under this scheme, unemployed people in full time education receive a Back to Education allowance which is equivalent to the maximum personal rate of the Job Seekers Allowance. Recipients also receive a Cost of Education allowance of €500 per annum.
502 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Education and Science if a third level institution can withhold a student’s results because their parents have not paid outstanding fees; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25816/09]
Third level institutions are autonomous statutory bodies. The governance and day-to-day management and operational affairs, including issues surrounding the releasing of students results as referred to by the Deputy, are matters for which the Governing bodies and management of the relevant institutions are responsible for. Accordingly I have no role in this matter.
503 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress in relation to the extension for a school (details supplied) in County Cork; the cost of the extension; when he envisages this project will be completed; the time this project has taken to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25834/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has made an application to my Department for large scale capital funding for a new school project. The application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a band rating of 1.1.
Following a site examination it was established that additional land is required to extend the existing Gaelscoil site to facilitate the proposed building project of a 16 classroom school. My Department is liaising with the neighbouring Community School with regard to a proposed land transfer to achieve an extended Gaelscoil site.
When the issue of the site has been resolved, the progression of this project, as with all large scale building projects, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of the 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.
504 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps taken to advance to completion the provision of a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25835/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers was included in my announcement on 12 February of 43 major building projects to proceed to tender and construction during 2009. Representatives from the board of management and the design team of the school attended a briefing in my Department's offices in Tullamore on 26 March at which they were apprised of the next steps necessary to progress the project to tender and construction.
A Stage 2(a) submission was approved by my Department in March 2009. The Design Team are currently working on a Stage 2(b) submission which, when completed, they will then submit to my Department. To assist the work on Stage 2(b) my Department has recently approved the appointment of a consultant planner to assist the design team in responding to issues raised by the local authority.
The school will then apply for planning permission, following which a Stage 2(b) report, including detailed design, bill of quantities, planning permission, pre-tender cost check and final tender documents will be submitted to my Department for approval. Following receipt and approval of the Stage 2(b) submission my Department will revert to the school regarding next steps in the progression of the project towards tender and construction.
505 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps taken to advance to completion the provision of a school (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25836/09]
Officials in my Department have been in touch with the Patron and the school authorities recently. I can confirm that detailed designs for the school to which the Deputy refers are finalised. Officials of my Department and the school authorities have had a pre-planning meeting with Cork County Council Planning Department. My Department expects to be ready to lodge planning permission in July. Further progression of this project to tender and construction is dependent on the Patron confirming title to the two plots of land which he is currently in the process of acquiring for the school project.
506 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of interest paid by him in respect of the late payments for goods or services contracted by his Department for the past five years to date in 2009; the steps being taken to ensure that money is appropriately spent and that payments are made on time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25860/09]
The majority of my Department's expenditure relates to the salary and superannuation costs of teachers, non teaching staff and the grant aiding of Schools, Colleges, Institutions and Bodies under the aegis of the Department. These payments are not subject to the terms of the European Communities (Late Payment in Commercial Transactions) Regulations, 2002 or the Prompt Payment of Accounts Act 1997.
The net amount of prompt payment interest paid by my Department in respect of late payment for goods and services for the last five years was as follows:
|
Year |
Net Prompt Payment Interest Sum paid |
|
€ |
|
|
2009 (to 23/06/09) |
1,767.67 |
|
2008 |
3,005.07 |
|
2007 |
3,537.97 |
|
2006 |
9,245.41 |
|
2005 |
1,666.70 |
|
2004 |
5,808.13 |
To reduce to the lowest possible extent the sums incurred on prompt payment interest my Department issues regular guidance notes to ensure that staff are aware of the regulations in regard to late payments.
507 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools which received funding in 2008 and to date in 2009 in respect of the construction or refurbishment of a science laboratory; the proportion of his Department’s capital budget which has been spent on such science facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25924/09]
508 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools in receipt of funding in respect of science facilities in 2008 and 2009 which also received a grant for science equipment or science materials; the amount of funding received by the schools involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25925/09]
509 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding available to schools from his Department for the purchase of science equipment and materials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25926/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 507 to 509, inclusive, together.
As part of the multi-annual school building programme, the Government has invested heavily in the modernisation of school facilities throughout the country including science facilities in post-primary schools. Provision of science facilities is an intrinsic part of all major projects at post-primary level. Typically this investment involves the provision of modern science facilities in new post-primary schools or the upgrading of science facilities in existing schools either as part of a school building project or as a dedicated investment to facilitate the teaching of science. Such projects would also include the provision of furniture and equipment.
My Department also spent in excess of €13m in 2004 to facilitate the introduction of a revised Junior Science syllabus. Schools received a basic grant of €3500 per science laboratory to enable them to provide the new curriculum. Additionally funding has been provided for the provision of class materials, basic general equipment and chemicals for practical work for the Sciences as the need arises.
My Department has funded the upgrading of science facilities in over 60 schools under the Summer Works and Emergency Works Schemes in recent years. In addition, Twenty one schools have received funding approval under the Summer Works Schemes 2009 and a further 3 schools under the Emergency Works Scheme in 2008 and 2009 to refurbish science laboratories on a devolved basis.
In total my Department invested €155.278m in 2008 and expects to spend €191.062m in 2009 on post-primary school infrastructure. Expenditure on science laboratories and science equipment in schools will continue to arise for consideration in the context of the funding available for my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme.
510 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application for a special needs assistant in respect of a child (details supplied) in County Cork who is due to start primary school in September 2009. [25928/09]
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 primary and post primary schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.
All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie. I have arranged for the information provided by the Deputy to be forwarded to the NCSE for their direct reply.
511 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application by a school (details supplied) in County Cork for an emergency works grant to facilitate a person who is due to start school in September 2009. [25929/09]
An application for emergency works from the school in question was only received in my Department last Friday. The application is currently being assessed and a decision will issue to the school within a matter of days.
513 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for a scheme (details supplied). [26108/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, I am currently finalising a review of policy options relating to the introduction of a form of student contribution. There are many complex and competing considerations including costs, affordability and value for money for the taxpayer which will be taken into account by the Government in considering the available options. I will be providing the technical report to my Cabinet colleagues for consideration in the near future. I have already signalled that it is not my intention to recommend that any new form of student contribution should be introduced before 2010. In the event that it is decided to introduce a form of student contribution from a future point, such arrangements would also apply, from that time, to those students who would have entered higher education this year i.e. 2009.
514 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if the role of a special needs organiser is solely to allocate appropriate levels of resources to a school rather than to assign particular special needs assistants to particular pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26114/09]
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 additional resources to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. The SENO has no role in assigning individual special needs assistants to particular pupils. The Principal Teacher is responsible for the day-to-day management of the school, including guidance and direction of the teachers and other staff of the school.
515 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if any of the 2,500 part-time college places include courses in renewable energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26115/09]
All 2,500 of the new part-time places that will come on stream in September 2009 will be on courses that support the goals of the Government's "smart economy" plan and particularly those relating to specific skills needs of exporting sectors identified by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. Calls for proposals for the new places have been issued to third-level institutions by the Higher Education Authority. The Department is not in a position to say what specific courses will be offered until proposals have been received and evaluated. This process will be completed in the coming weeks and specific information on individual courses and how to apply for them will be made available by the end of July.
516 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Education and Science when the statutory three-year review of the sectoral plan on disability pertaining to his Department and required under the Disability Act 2005 will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26116/09]
My Department is not required to develop a sectoral plan under the Disability Act 2005.
For the Deputy's information the six Departments required to develop sectoral plans are the Departments of Health and Children; Social and Family Affairs; Transport; Communications, Energy and Natural Resources; Environment, Heritage and Local Government; and Enterprise, Trade and Employment.
517 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science the result of meetings he had on the subject of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 7 being accommodated on the existing site; when these meetings took place; the position regarding same; if a new school will be built on the existing site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26136/09]
In January 2009, officials from my Department met with the City Council and representatives of the GAA club to discuss the issue of entering into a lease arrangement with the City Council which in time will require the GAA club to surrender its interest on some of the lands required for a building project.
In February 2009, Department officials met separately with representatives of Naomh Fionnbarra GAA Club to discuss 3 potential design options available to allow for the provision of an 8 classroom school on the site. On foot of this, my Department subsequently wrote to Dublin City Council advising them of the design option favoured by the GAA club and requested the Local Authority to consider a technical assessment of the site incorporating the views of the GAA.
At the end of May 2009, my Department received Dublin City Council's observations on the proposed design option for the new school building favoured by the GAA club. There were a number of issues raised by the Council which required a further technical inspection of the site by my Department. This visit was completed recently and the report from this inspection will inform the Department's position on the matter. The Department intends to communicate the findings from the report to the GAA Club in the very near future.
518 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools in the Tipperary North constituency which will lose a teacher from 1 September 2009; if his attention has been drawn to the impact that this will have on the class sizes and on the education of the pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26151/09]
520 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the situation at a school (details supplied) in County Galway in which, due to child shortages, there is to be one mainstream teacher fewer in the 2009-10 school year; his further views on whether this will have a severe and deleterious impact on the pupils at the school; if same will be reversed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26208/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 518 and 520 together.
I have consistently said that 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 were included in the Budget day announcements and in view of the ominous financial circumstances that we are facing I am not in a position to reverse any of the decisions taken.
I am committed to providing information in relation to the allocation of teachers to schools as a new feature on my Department's website. The process has begun with the provision earlier this year of initial information on the allocation of mainstream classroom teachers to primary schools under the revised schedule for 2009/10.
In terms of the position at individual primary school level the key factor for determining the level of resources provided by my Department is the pupil enrolment at 30 September 2008. The annual process of seeking this enrolment data from schools took place in the autumn and the data have since been received and processed in my Department enabling the commencement of the processes by which teaching resources are allocated to schools for the school year that begins next September.
My Department has written to the primary schools that are projected to have a net loss or gain in classroom teaching posts in September, 2009. As part of my efforts to ensure that relevant information is openly available to the public detailed information on the opening position for primary schools is published on my Department's website. This provisional list sets out the details on individual schools that, taken collectively, are projected to gain 128 posts and to lose 382 posts — a net reduction of 254 posts. It is my intention to have this information updated and ultimately to set out the final position when the allocation processes are completed.
The final position for any one school will depend on a number of other factors such as additional posts for schools that are developing rapidly and posts allocated as a result of the appeals processes. The operation of redeployment arrangements also impacts on the final position as a teacher can remain in his or her existing school where a suitable redeployment position does not exist. The final staffing position for all schools will therefore not be known until the autumn. At that stage the allocation process will be fully completed for mainstream classroom teachers and appeals to the Staffing Appeals Board will have been considered.
519 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Education and Science if funding will be made available for schools in the Tipperary North constituency to complete attic and wall insulation during the summer of 2009; if so, the procedure to be taken to apply for funding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26152/09]
As I indicated previously I have introduced a new €20 million scheme to improve roof and cavity wall insulation levels in school buildings across the country. The devolved energy efficiency scheme, which is being implemented with the help of Sustainable Energy Ireland, allows schools to apply for funding on a once-off basis to upgrade the fabric insulation in attics and the external cavity walls of their buildings. My Department is providing 100% grant-aid for these projects which can be carried out over the quiet summer months. The new scheme for schools is an extension to the €80 million Summer Works Scheme I announced on the 7th May last.
The purpose of the scheme is to improve the energy efficiency of our older schools. These measures will make buildings more comfortable, cut energy costs and contribute to the Government's national targets of reducing carbon dioxide emissions.
The scheme is significant considering that close to 75% of a school's energy consumption is on heating and hot water, with the remainder on lighting and other small-power appliances. New schools built in recent times are now over twice as energy efficient as best international practice.
To expedite claims and streamline the application process for the scheme, an on-line application form, frequently asked questions and other guidance documents for schools are on www.energyeducation.ie.
521 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 519 of 23 June 2009, the documents which will provide evidence of independent residency for a student who is endeavouring to qualify for a grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26245/09]
Independent mature candidates must provide documentary evidence as proof of their ordinary/permanent address from the 1st October of the year preceding entry to college. Examples of the type of documentary evidence normally required to establish residence are as follows:
(i) Utility bills, such as a telephone, gas or ESB bill (ii) Evidence of registration with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) (iii) Official documentation from a Government Department e.g. the Department of Social and Family Affairs or the Revenue Commissioners.
In exceptional circumstances, where it is not possible to produce the above proofs of residence in the relevant period for demonstrable reasons, the awarding authority may, at its discretion, agree to accept other documentary proofs. Any such documentary evidence must, of course, cover the relevant period prior to the student commencing his/her course of study.
Awarding authorities are obliged to satisfy themselves beyond doubt that an acceptable degree of proof has been submitted by the grant applicant in establishing eligibility under all aspects of the schemes including independent residency.
522 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has permitted a school (details supplied) in County Cork to retain certain teaching posts for the 2009-10 school year. [26247/09]
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.
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 disadvantage concessionary teaching posts 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 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 additional disadvantaged supports from non DEIS schools from the end of the current school year. From the beginning of the next school year these schools will be supported at a level commensurate with all other schools with similar enrolments and levels of disadvantage which had not enjoyed additional supports from other schemes.
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.
523 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science when a child (details supplied) in County Longford will be provided with an educational psychologist’s report under the National Educational Psychological Service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26249/09]
From the detail provided by the Deputy in this instance my Department's National Educational Psychological Service cannot identify, within its records, any such pupil currently awaiting an educational psychologist's report.
Perhaps the Deputy might provide additional information in relation to the child in question, most particularly the school which he currently attends, so that more comprehensive enquiries may be made by my Department in this regard.
524 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the case of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11 where the numbers enrolled for September 2009 will warrant an allocation of eight mainstream class teachers and a full-time administrative principal but where unlike other years the school authorities have been informed that the eight mainstream teachers cannot be appointed until the enrolment figures are confirmed on 30 September 2009; and if, in view of the disruption which this will cause, he will sanction this appointment from 1 September 2009. [26266/09]
DEIS (Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools), the action plan for educational inclusion, provides for a standardised system for identifying levels of disadvantage and an integrated School Support Programme (SSP). DEIS brings together and builds upon a number of existing interventions in schools with concentrated levels of disadvantage.
Schools which qualify for the Urban Strand (Band 1 and 2) of the SSP under DEIS are entitled to the allocation of administrative principals on lower enrolment and staffing figures than apply in primary schools generally. The criteria for such appointments are as follows:
The enrolment figure for the appointment and retention of administrative principals in urban/town primary schools participating in the SSP is 145 pupils in ordinary schools and 125 in Gaelscoileanna (Principal plus 5 mainstream teachers). This will facilitate the principal becoming an administrative principal. In such instances, a permanent mainstream class teacher may be appointed to replace the principal.
Alternatively, Principal teachers in urban/town primary schools participating in the SSP under DEIS, with an enrolment of fewer than 145 pupils in ordinary schools and 125 in Gaelscoileanna but with a staffing of principal plus seven or more teachers when all ex-quota posts are counted may be appointed as administrative principals. In such instances, a permanent mainstream class teacher may be appointed to replace the principal.
As the school referred to by the Deputy does not meet the staffing requirement outlined, the allocation of an administrative principal under DEIS cannot be approved from 1 September 2009. However the position will be reviewed on confirmation that the school warrants the allocation of a developing school post and a general allocation post which are both dependent on the school's actual enrolment on 30 September 2009.
525 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the cutback in resource hours for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11; the implications of this for the special classes in the school; the assistance which his Department will provide to the school to compensate for the cutbacks in order that the school can meet the needs of its pupils with special needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26270/09]
The school in question has two classes for pupils with mild general learning disability (MGLD). In February, my Department advised the school of its intention to suppress one of the classes as the enrolment fell below that required to retain the class. This position was re-stated to the school by letter on 11th June last.
All children with MGLD who are in the class being suppressed will be able to receive teaching support through the teaching resources allocated to primary schools under the General Allocation Model. Schools decide themselves how best to use this allocation based on the needs of the pupils and how to adjust their support in line with the changing needs of pupils as they mature. My Department provided a circular SP ED 02/05 to schools to assist them in deploying the General Allocation Model resources.
There may be instances where children who are enrolled in a MGLD class fall within the low incidence disability category. These children may qualify for individual resource teaching support through the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) and it is open to schools to liaise with the local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO) in this regard. My officials conveyed this advice to the school referred to by the Deputy in its letter on 11th June.
My Department promotes a continuum of assessment and intervention. These interventions range from support from the classroom teacher and support from the resource / learning support teacher. Where a school considers that these interventions are not meeting the child's needs they should seek the advice of their National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) psychologist. Schools without an assigned NEPS psychologist can avail of the Scheme for Commissioning Psychological Assessments. Advice may also be sought from the local Special Educational Needs Organiser.
In addition to the general staffing, the school also has three learning support resource teachers, three resource teachers for Traveller pupils and access to the services of a home school community liaison post. My Department considers that this staffing level is sufficient to meet the educational needs of all pupils in the school.
526 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of principals and deputy principals who retired their position in each year over the past five years in both primary and post primary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26274/09]
The numbers of School Principals and Deputy Principals who have retired on pension from Primary, Secondary, Community and Comprehensive Schools in each of the years 2004 to 2008 inclusive are set out in the Tabular Statement. The figures for post-primary teachers do not include VEC teachers where the retirements and pension benefit awards are made by the relevant VEC. Number of Principals and Deputy Principals who have retired from (1) Primary and (2) Secondary, Community and Comprehensive Schools in the period 2004-2008.
|
Year |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
Number of Principals (Primary) |
191 |
148 |
188 |
149 |
160 |
|
Number of Principals (Secondary, Community and Comprehensive) |
18 |
26 |
25 |
30 |
37 |
|
Total |
209 |
174 |
213 |
179 |
197 |
|
Year |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
Number of Deputy Principals (Primary) |
165 |
124 |
98 |
106 |
107 |
|
Number of Deputy Principals (Secondary, Community and Comprehensive) |
30 |
33 |
31 |
42 |
31 |
|
Total |
195 |
157 |
129 |
148 |
138 |
527 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools here that have their rent paid for by the State; the rent paid in the last year for which figures are available; the number of cases where the State sought rent reductions; the number of cases where a lower rent obtained; the actual saving made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26277/09]
There are currently 918 schools at primary and post-primary level renting temporary accommodation.
I can confirm that the amount spent on renting temporary accommodation for 2008 was €53m. It should be noted that temporary accommodation is not limited to prefabs and can also involve the rental of high quality buildings.
Following analysis of costs in my Department, it is now the practice to purchase rather than rent temporary accommodation where the need for such accommodation is likely to exist for more than 3 years. This should reduce the incidence of long term rental of prefabs.
A review of rental policy is ongoing which will, inter alia, cover an examination of the contract terms to incorporate buy out, buy back, rental costs and relocation options if local circumstances require it. The review will involve an investigation of all existing rental contracts between schools and suppliers with a view to identifying action to reduce overall rental costs for my Department.
In the meantime, schools proposing to rent temporary accommodation must seek competitive quotes from suppliers which should allow them to take advantage of changing market prices.
528 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the situation regarding funding for educating children with Asperger’s syndrome in a school (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if funding has been allocated for 2009; if staff have been recruited to deal with this unit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26293/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers applied to my Department for capital funding on 2nd June 2009. Their proposal includes 3 classrooms for a special needs unit to replace prefabricated units and associated external works. A decision will issue as soon as the application has been fully processed.
In the interim, it is open to the school to apply to the Department in relation to any additional temporary accommodation that may be required.
529 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans to include a course (details supplied) under the higher education grants scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26405/09]
The Higher Education Grant Scheme operates under the Local Authorities (Higher Education Grants) Acts 1968 to 1992. Under the scheme an approved course is defined as a full-time undergraduate course of at least two years duration or a full-time postgraduate course of not less than one year duration pursued in an approved institution.
I understand the college referred to by the Deputy is a private college and is not on the list of approved institutions for the purpose of the scheme. There are no plans at present to extend the scope of the student support schemes to such private colleges.
530 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the progress regarding a future site for a school (details supplied); the location where third and fourth class children from the school will be accommodated in September 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26406/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, it is my Department's intention to provide the school in question with a new building. In this regard, agreement has been reached to provide the new building on a V.E.C. owned site.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including the project in question, 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.
In the meantime, my Department is in ongoing contact with the school authorities regarding their accommodation needs for third and fourth class children in September 2009 and has been providing advice and assistance to the school in this regard.
531 Deputy Mary Wallace asked the Minister for Education and Science the rules and regulations regarding entitlement to special needs assistants in primary schools; if there has been a recent change in the rules and regulations which prevents more than one special needs assistant being in a classroom; if he will explain the particular ruling; when same was implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26407/09]
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 primary and post primary schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. The qualifying criteria for the allocation of SNA support is outlined in Department Circular 07/02 which is available on my Department's website at www.education.ie. There has been no change in the criteria governing the allocation of SNA support.
532 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of instances in respect of which an appeal to his Department under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, or other procedure by parents against decisions by school authorities to refuse admission or a school place to children with or without special needs to primary or second level schools with or without special needs facilities was found in favour of the parents; the extent to which school authorities have complied with such decisions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [26469/09]
A total of 1439 appeals have been made to the Department of Education and Science, under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, against decisions by schools to refuse enrolment to children. Of this total, 738 went to full hearing, of which 360 of the appeals were upheld in favour of the parents.
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 the decision, and to seek a stay on the implementation of that determination, pending the outcome of Judicial Review.
Six schools have sought Judicial Reviews against decisions by Section 29 appeal committees to uphold appeals against refused enrolment. One judgment has been received, one case was settled by agreement between the parties, two cases have been heard and are awaiting judgment, and two are pending.
