Vol. 695 No. 3
51 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if by 17 November 2009 he had already appointed an officer to investigate the financial implications of the contract between a company (details supplied) and Dublin City Council for an incinerator; if he has since appointed one; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42952/09]
In terms of the capacity of the proposed facility it is my understanding that the quantities of residual waste currently being collected by the Dublin local authorities may not be sufficient to meet the volumetric contractual commitment which forms part of the public private partnership agreement between Dublin City Council and its private partner. We have recently seen further increases in recycling rates in Dublin, with a corresponding drop in residual waste volumes. In addition, the recommendations of the report which I commissioned to underpin the review of waste management policy provided for in the Programme for Government would have the effect of further reducing the volumes of residual waste generated, and driving more waste towards recycling.
In these circumstances I have decided that the most appropriate course of action is to appoint an authorised person under section 224 of the Local Government Act 2001 to conduct a full review of this project. It remains open to Dublin City Council to engage with my Department to discuss any necessary adjustment to the project which might be necessary to bring it into line with the emerging reality of the waste market and waste policy generally.
I am in the process of identifying suitable candidates with the appropriate qualifications to act as authorised person.
52 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will amend planning powers given to the Dublin Docklands Development Authority in view of recent revelations regarding planning permission fast track promises to private property developers by former senior management; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42809/09]
56 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the recent revaluation of the Irish glass bottle site, part-owned by the State through the Dublin Docklands Development Authority, involving a write-down of some 85%; his views on whether this is a fair reflection of the state of the development property market, particularly in view of the high profile and central location of this site and its presumed long-term economic value; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37681/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 52 and 56 together.
Following a High Court judgment in 2008 in relation to the planning process that governs granting of exempted development status in the Docklands area, I am aware the Authority completed an assessment of its planning procedures and introduced a number of changes to the process at the start of this year.
The amendments to the process allow for an additional level of consultation with property owners, residents and others with a property interest within the relevant area. Site notices are being posted on proposed development sites and observations and/or objections can be made by affected property owners at no cost in relation to a planning application.
The Authority is currently carrying out, on my request, a comprehensive review of its corporate governance which will include further expert analysis of its planning function. I expect the corporate governance report to be submitted to me around the end of November. I will consider what further changes to the planning process might be warranted once I have had an opportunity to consider the report and any recommendations arising.
As I indicated in reply to Priority Question No. 45 on today's order paper, the Dublin Docklands Development Authority secured valuations for its main property assets, including the Irish Glass Bottle Site, for its 2008 Annual Accounts. The accounts show a "red book" valuation for the site of €50m.
KPMG, as auditors, for the Authority drew attention to the risks and uncertainties associated with the valuation of property assets, particularly under current market conditions, where property assets are relatively illiquid, there is significant market uncertainty, and there are few if any prospective buyers and no bank finance available to support large scale transactions in the property market.
53 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount spent on the rental accommodation scheme in 2008 and to date in 2009; the number of persons who availed of the rental accommodation scheme in 2008 and to date in 2009; the number of persons who have applied for the scheme in 2008 and to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42853/09]
54 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason there is a continuing delay in transferring persons from rent supplement to the rental accommodation scheme. [40724/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 53 and 54 together.
The number of households transferring from Rent Supplement to the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) has increased year on year since RAS commenced in 2005. At the end of October 2009, a total of 23,469 households had been accommodated under the scheme. This included 6,915 households in 2008, some 38% ahead of the 5,000 target set, and 5,458 households in the first 10 months of 2009, which provides a solid basis for the achievement of this year's target of 7,000 transfers by year-end.
In terms of financial resources, some €53 million was devoted to the scheme in 2008. This year, funding of €90.5 million has been provided, some €76.2 million of which had been expended to the end of October.
While information on the number of persons who have applied for RAS is not held by my Department, it should be noted that the main qualifying criterion for the scheme is that a person should be in receipt of rent supplement for a period of 18 months or more. From information in relation to the operation of the rent supplement scheme, which is a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Social and Family Affairs, I understand that at end September 2009, 33,359 rent supplement supported households, nationally, met the 18 month criterion.
While this is broadly comparable to the approximately 32,000 households in the "18 month plus" category when the scheme became operational in 2005, this masks very considerable progress made in the intervening period. A comparative analysis of the "18 month plus" cases in 2005 and 2008 shows that a large proportion of the original RAS cohort have in fact been dealt with but, in overall numerical terms, they have been replaced by a broadly equivalent number of new "18 month plus" households. Looked at another way, if the RAS scheme was not in place, the number of households in receipt of rent supplement would be some 23,500 higher than is currently the case.
In addition, to the progress made in relation to transfers, the RAS has also been successful in delivering value for money. One of the main objectives for RAS, other than to provide greater security to tenants, was to improve the standards of accommodation. To date, of the 12,611 households who have been accommodated in private or voluntary housing under RAS, over a third have been housed in newly sourced accommodation (i.e. accommodation not in existing use for rent supplement purposes), which is generally of a higher standard and more suitable than the accommodation occupied by the households concerned while in receipt of rent supplement.
On the whole, I am satisfied that the Rental Accommodation Scheme continues to meet its objectives. On the basis of progress already made, I am confident that by end 2009, some 25,000 households will have been accommodated through the scheme since its inception.
55 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to amend local government power structures for local authorities outside of Dublin at the same time as he proposes to introduce a directly elected mayor for Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42776/09]
60 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he plans to publish legislation to establish a directly elected mayor of Dublin; if his 2010 timeframe for elections is still his policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42823/09]
63 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he expects to publish the White Paper on local government reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42775/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55, 60 and 63 together.
On 12 May 2009 I announced that the Government had decided to introduce a directly elected Mayor for the Dublin Region in 2010. This decision arises from the commitment in the Programme for Government to introduce a directly elected Mayor of Dublin, and from the considerations in the Green Paper on local government which I published in April 2008.
The Government's decision to introduce a directly elected Mayor of Dublin will deliver significantly strengthened leadership for the city and region, with enhanced accountability and a direct connection with the citizen.
The timing of the introduction of the Mayor is unchanged — I intend that mayoral elections will be held next year. Given this intention, it will be necessary to have the relevant legislation in place in advance. To these ends, I will bring a draft scheme of a Bill to Government in the coming weeks to provide for the Dublin Mayor.
The proposed White Paper on Local Government will set out policy on a wide range of local government issues. The Government decision to introduce a directly elected Mayor for Dublin in 2010, and the legislation to provide for it, marks a first step in implementing broader local government change. Many of the policy decisions in the White Paper will require further legislative change over the coming years.
The White Paper, which I will bring to Government shortly, will also reflect the commitments made in the renewed Programme for Government in respect of local government, including the strengthening of the strategic role and functions of regional authorities.
57 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a new national rolling electoral register will it be based on the PPS system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42937/09]
In law, the preparation of the Register of Electors is a matter for each local registration authority — the city and county councils. It is their duty to ensure, as far as possible and with the cooperation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Register. The focus of my Department's work in relation to the Register is to support and assist registration authorities in this regard, including through ensuring that an appropriate legislative framework is in place and developing best practice guidelines for registration authorities.
The Programme for Government, agreed in 2007, contains a commitment to the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission which will take responsibility for electoral administration and oversight, implement modern and efficient electoral practices, revise constituency boundaries, take charge of compiling a new national rolling Electoral Register, take over the functions of the Standards in Public Office Commission relating to election spending and examine the issue of financing the political system.
The renewed Programme for Government, agreed in October 2009, reaffirms the commitment to establish an Electoral Commission which will, amongst other things, be responsible for administering the voting registration process. The question of the use of PPS numbers for electoral registration purposes will be fully considered in the context of the work relating to the planned Commission.
58 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied with the way the EU Habitats Directive has been transposed and implemented here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42818/09]
Full transposition and implementation of the Habitats Directive is a priority for me and my Department and a programme to achieve this aim is underway. This also involves other Departments with responsibilities in the area, and entails a considerable amount of work especially given the case law now emerging from the European Court of Justice which is expanding our understanding of the Directive.
In the area of transposition, new consolidated Regulations to transpose the Birds and Habitats Directives are at an advanced stage of drafting and address issues raised by the European Court of Justice. These update and consolidate the existing Habitats Regulations 1997 to 2005 and will go to public consultation early in the new year. I also intend introducing an amendment to the Planning Bill currently before the Oireachtas to provide for appropriate assessment in accordance with the Habitats Directive. This will clarify the responsibilities of planning authorities in regard to full compliance with the requirements of the Directives and give full effect to the Directive. In parallel with this, a programme of updating the designation of Special Protection Areas is underway and consultation with affected landowners is in train.
On the question of implementation, work is underway in the areas of agriculture, aquaculture and fisheries, forestry, and planning and development. I am confident that the transposition update that I am undertaking will facilitate greatly improved compliance with the Directive. This will be supported by comprehensive guidance from my Department for planning authorities. Working guidance for planning authorities on implementing appropriate assessment will be issued by the end of the year.
59 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the involvement he has had, in conjunction with Dublin City Council, to ensure an adequate waste strategy for the Dublin region; and if he will make a statement on the matter [42798/09]
In accordance with the provisions of the Waste Management Act, the preparation and adoption of a waste management plan is the statutory responsibility of the local authority or authorities concerned, and under section 60(3) of the Act the Minister is precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to the performance by a local authority in particular circumstances of a statutory function vested in it.
However, it is the role of the Minister and Government to set the policy framework within which local authorities can deliver on their statutory obligations in accordance with best practice and national and EU objectives and targets. On taking up office I committed to a major review of how we manage our waste in line with a commitment in this regard in the Programme for Government.
It is clear that we need a regulatory framework which properly addresses the ownership of waste, facilitates the management of waste at the highest possible level of the waste hierarchy, and addresses the costs of waste management in Ireland which are seen to be out of line with other countries. Utilising a report prepared for me by consultants to underpin the policy review, and which I published last week, I will be bringing a new policy statement to Government with a view to its publication as early as possible in 2010. This will provide certainty for those in the waste management sector and a framework within which the necessary legislative changes can be brought forward. In the interim it will allow local authorities to begin to tailor their waste management plans and strategies to the new reality.
61 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to increase social housing provision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42857/09]
91 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he plans to address the issue of housing need of the 80,000 families on local authority housing lists; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42970/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 61 and 91 together.
Meeting social housing need remains a high priority for the Government. While ensuring that the full range of needs continues to be met, the scale and composition of the public housing programme in the years ahead will be dependent on a number of factors, including the level of available funding and the evolution of the housing market generally.
I am determined to ensure that the programme is framed in a manner which continues to optimise the delivery of social housing. To achieve this, it is essential that we tailor the use of available Exchequer supports to prevailing market conditions, and explore alternative solutions to address housing needs, having full regard to the sustainable communities philosophy outlined in the Government's housing policy statement Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities .
To this end, the range of delivery mechanisms continues to be adapted and expanded. For example, I announced earlier this year the introduction of a new Social Housing Leasing Initiative, through which it is expected that a substantial number of dwellings will be provided in the years ahead to meet housing needs, estimated at just over 56,000 households in the 2008 Housing Needs Assessment. This, together with the Rental Accommodation Scheme, complements the traditional capital funded programmes operated through local authorities and the voluntary and co-operative housing sector.
I will be keeping the leasing initiative and all the other housing programmes under ongoing review to ensure that they are appropriately geared towards meeting the maximum level of housing need.
62 Deputy Olivia Mitchell asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason he will not accept the joint committee on climate change legislative headings to be used in a climate change Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42851/09]
My Department is currently developing the Heads of a Climate Change Bill. This work has involved consultation with key Government Departments and State agencies as well as environmental NGOs. I want to ensure that this framework legislation will enshrine important underpinning policies and principles in Irish law which will underpin our commitment to the core national priority of combating climate change. I intend to publish a framework document in early December outlining the key areas that will be covered in the Climate Change Bill. Work will continue on the further development of the Heads, which I intend to publish early in 2010.
The Second Report of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Climate Change, published recently, outlined proposals for a climate change bill in an explanatory memorandum attached to the Report. I welcome the valuable work carried out by the Committee and this work will assist in informing the drafting of the Climate Change Bill. The fact that it has all party support will be important in gaining public acceptance and support for the Bill.
64 Deputy Shane McEntee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the changes he is considering to reduce the cost of providing local government services and administration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42844/09]
It is a matter for each local authority to manage its own budget and prioritise its spending, within the resources available to it, across the range of services it provides.
Local authorities are not immune to the effects of the downturn in the wider economy. There are pressures on resources at all levels. Therefore local authorities must introduce efficiencies where possible, prioritise their expenditure to focus on essential services, and maximise the use of all resources available to them.
As part of the Transforming Public Services (TPS) initiative, my Department and the local government sector are working closely together to advance initiatives for a more integrated public service which will achieve better value for money and enhanced customer service. In this context, the local government sector is focusing in particular on the promotion of shared services, procurement and e-government.
Considerable work has already taken place across local government in these areas. For example, the merger of the Local Government Management Services Board (LGMSB) and the Local Government Computer Services Board (LGCSB) is well advanced and will provide a significant platform for expanding shared services delivery in local government. A HR system has also been developed on a shared basis and is extended to 27 local authorities. A shared service facility in relation to the collection of the €200 charge on non principal private residences has also been introduced, with around 80% of payments in respect of this charge being made online.
While the local government sector will now be working with the newly-established National Public Procurement Operations Unit (NPPOU) to maximise efficiencies in procurement, local authorities have also undertaken significant work to promote greater efficiency in the area of procurement. An online annual quotation solution (www.laquotes.ie) for local authorities has been established, which accepts quotations from suppliers for a range of goods and services. In addition, on a regional level, local authorities are combining to procure and purchase services. Further work will be undertaken to increase aggregated purchasing as a means of achieving volume savings across the sector on a range of supplies and products.
E-government has been an important focus of attention in the local government sector to date and the emphasis now is on building on early initiatives, such as online payment services (e.g. parking fines, bin tags and housing rents), online motor tax and online access to planning application documents, to ensure optimal ease of access and efficiency for the public. Extending these initiatives to other local authorities and new areas will be important.
I also intend to advance the White Paper on Local Government later this year following, in particular, Government consideration of local government financing in light of the Report of the Commission on Taxation and the commitments included in the renewed Programme for Government.
65 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied the Dublin Docklands Development Authority can meet its urban regeneration renewal aims and targets in view of its diminished financial situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42813/09]
The Dublin Docklands Development Authority has delivered substantially on its statutory duty to secure the social and economic regeneration of the Dublin Docklands Area.
Since its establishment, it has completed a wide range of projects and undertaken a range of initiatives in creating a sustainable and integrated community at the heart of the City with:
more than €160 million invested in education, community facilities, community infrastructure and housing,
over 40,000 people now employed in the area,
over 765,000 square metres of commercial space permitted in the area, and
more than 3,000 new residential units approved, including over 800 social and affordable housing units.
As I indicated in reply to Priority Question No. 45 on today's Order Paper, the Authority is in a difficult financial position. To address this, the Authority is taking steps to reduce expenditure with the aim of achieving a break even position as soon as possible. While the level of new economic activity in the area has declined in recent times, the Authority will continue to focus on its core objectives and manage existing programmes and projects.
66 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the evidence he has to assert that the taxpayer will be liable for €18 million a year from the Poolbeg incinerator in Dublin 4; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42791/09]
The figure of €18 million was arrived at on the basis of a desktop exercise to assess risks that may be associated with the Dublin waste-to-energy project either proceeding or not proceeding. An evaluation was made on the basis of circumstances, or a combination of circumstances, which might result in Dublin City Council not being in a position to meet the volumetric contractual commitment which forms part of the public private partnership agreement in respect of the facility and thus being required to meet the cost of the capacity not then being availed of.
The projection was based on an assumed shortfall of 180ktpa and an assumed penalty of €100 per tonne to arrive at a potential exposure of €18m per annum assuming that the shortfall continued indefinitely and/or it proved impossible to re-negotiate the provision in the agreement or sell-on some or all of the capacity to a third party at a rate which might offset in whole or in part the liability which would have arisen.
67 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reform of drinking water services he will promote to ensure that leaking of drinking water is addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42836/09]
89 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the works which are in the process of being carried under capital water services investment out to conserve water; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42967/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 67 and 89 together.
As additional water supply capacity through leakage control is a viable alternative to capital infrastructure provision, the Water Services Investment Programme 2007-2009 includes a National Water Conservation Sub-Programme. This Sub-Programme, which includes the management of water supply systems, active leakage control and mains rehabilitation, has been in progress for a number of years and has led to reductions in unaccounted for water, improved knowledge of the condition of water distribution networks and consumption patterns and an improvement in the level and quality of supply to consumers.
The water conservation allocations, together with details of all major water services schemes, for each local authority are set out in the Water Services Investment Programme 2007–2009 which is available in the Oireachtas Library. Additional information in relation to progress on individual contracts or water conservation works under the Programme may be obtained from the relevant local authority.
The priority to be accorded to water services schemes, including water conservation projects, is a matter, in the first instance, for the local authority concerned. Last July, local authorities were asked to submit an assessment of needs for water and sewerage services in their areas to my Department by 23 October last. My Department has begun its consideration of those needs assessments, which will form a key input to the development of the 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme.
Water conservation has to be a key component of local authority water services operations and I am determined that water conservation projects will be more fully integrated into the new Programme. To that end, in conducting their needs assessments, local authorities were asked to prioritise schemes and contracts for progression over the coming years based on key environmental and economic criteria, with water conservation projects that meet environmental and economic goals being listed as a priority category. The 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme will be published in early 2010.
68 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the abolition of the provision under section 4(6)(a) of the Local Government Charges Act 2009 whereby an arbitrary 2 km governs liability for a charge on non-principal private residence occupied by a relative; if not, the way and the person by whom the distances are to be measured; if the distance will be as the crow flies or for instance by measuring a bus route; if there is a provision for leeway when the elderly parent resides an additional 0.1 km or 0.2 km and so on away from the principal residence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42932/09]
The Government has decided to broaden the revenue base of local authorities by introducing a charge on all non-principal private residences. The charge, which is set at €200 per annum, is payable by owners of private rented accommodation, holiday homes and any other residential property that is not the owner's sole of main residence.
Section 4(6) of the Local Government (Charges) Act provides for an exemption from the charge in a situation where a relative of the owner is living rent-free in a property, a long as that property is no more than two kilometres from the owner's residence. The intention behind this provision was principally to cater for a situation where accommodation would be provided for an elderly parent by a son or daughter in order that the parent concerned could retain a measure of independent living for as long as possible. The two kilometres provision is not arbitrary but follows precedent from the Revenue Commissioners' legislation dealing with the home carer tax credit. I have no plans to amend this provision.
While the Act is silent on how the two kilometres might be measured, interpretation and implementation of the legislation is a matter for the local authorities in the first instance.
69 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the report of the Irish Waste Management Association of 16 November 2009 into the Poolbeg incinerator, Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42953/09]
In terms of the capacity of the proposed incinerator it is my understanding that the quantities of residual waste currently being collected by the Dublin local authorities may not be sufficient to meet the volumetric contractual commitment which forms part of the public private partnership agreement in respect of the facility. We have recently seen further increases in recycling rates in Dublin, with a corresponding drop in residual waste volumes. The IWMA report would appear to support that analysis.
It is important to note that the recommendations of the Eunomia Consultancy report, which I published last week, would have the effect of further reducing the volumes of residual waste generated and driving more waste towards recycling. I intend to develop a new policy statement on waste management, which I shall bring to Government as soon as possible in 2010, arising from the recommendations in the report.
70 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount allocated in capital grants to each local authority in respect of social housing; his views on whether spending will reach the targets set; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42938/09]
Information in relation to the amounts allocated in capital grants to each local authority for social housing purposes is available in a Housing Allocations 2009 spreadsheet on my Department's website, via the following link: http://www.environ.ie/en/Publications/StatisticsandRegularPublications/HousingStatistics/. Taking account of the spend to date, claims currently being processed and further claims expected, I am confident that the overall capital allocation for housing in 2009 will be fully utilised.
71 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will implement the recommendations of the report of the Cork docklands development forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42951/09]
97 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will publish the report of the Cork docklands development forum; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42950/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 71 and 97 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 962 of 6 October 2009. My Department, in conjunction with the Inter-Departmental Senior Officials Group established to consider the analysis and recommendations in the Cork Docklands Development Forum Report, and Cork City Council is considering what enabling measures can be put in place to further progress the development of Cork Docklands having regard to existing budgetary constraints. The main findings and recommendations of the report are in the public domain.
72 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the 2008 accounts for the Dublin Docklands Development Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42804/09]
I refer to the reply to Priority Question No. 45 on today's Order Paper.
73 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of road tax collected per band in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42969/09]
The total gross amount of motor tax, which includes driving licence duties and other related charges, collected for the year 2007 is €956.73 million, for the year 2008 is €1056.99 million, and for the year 2009 to the end of October is €918.32 million.
The table sets out the gross receipts of motor tax in accordance with the tax class of the vehicle (excluding driver licence duties and non-motor tax related charges). It should be noted that a new system of motor tax based on CO2 emissions was introduced for new cars with effect from 1 July 2008 using 7 bands as the basis of levying the motor tax. The total gross amount of motor tax collected under that system is also set out in the table under the tax class ‘private CO2’ in respect of the year 2008 and the year 2009 to end October.
|
Tax Class |
Revenue |
||
|
2007 |
2008 |
2009* (Jan to Oct) |
|
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Private |
773,821,814 |
852,036,088 |
725,994,493 |
|
Private CO2** |
0 |
10,282,376 |
31,455,911 |
|
Goods Vehicles |
150,829,122 |
160,774,031 |
134,831,379 |
|
Agricultural Tractors |
5,602,569 |
6,074,202 |
5,326,428 |
|
Motorcycles etc. |
2,393,451 |
2,764,450 |
2,659,738 |
|
Small Public Service Vehicles |
1,992,739 |
2,356,562 |
2,046,490 |
|
Exempt Vehicles |
858 |
2,840 |
2,395 |
|
Vintage Vehicles |
692,968 |
884,122 |
960,730 |
|
Large Public Service Vehicles |
1,810,507 |
2,049,555 |
1,738,876 |
|
Motor Caravans |
682,593 |
824,451 |
870,179 |
|
Mobile Machines |
1,955,961 |
1,874,839 |
1,588,549 |
|
Excavators, Trench Diggers etc. |
431,460 |
456,848 |
372,597 |
|
Small Dumpers & Forklift Trucks |
329,279 |
330,185 |
228,308 |
|
General Haulage Tractors |
330,366 |
372,085 |
298,238 |
|
School Buses |
75,286 |
66,670 |
70,942 |
|
Hearses |
62,859 |
72,927 |
66,886 |
|
Youth/Community Buses |
84,295 |
110,995 |
104,663 |
|
Island Vehicles |
55,320 |
67,386 |
65,623 |
|
Off Road Dumpers |
142,870 |
109,262 |
54,488 |
|
Total |
941,294,317 |
1,041,509,874 |
908,736,913 |
Note:
*2009 figures relate to period January to October.
**CO2 Emission values were introduced as a basis for the assessment of motor tax in respect of all Private cars after 1st July 2008.
74 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 1053 of 16 September 2009, if the legislative error in the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 in regard to existing affordable homes purchasers has been corrected; the number of purchasers affected by this error; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42935/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 144 of 14 October 2009, which outlines the current position in regard to this matter.
75 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he will take to stop the damage being done to the tourism industry here and reputation as a result of the ongoing dispute between the National Parks and Wildlife Service and local jarveys at Killarney National Park, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42834/09]
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) of my Department is responsible for managing Killarney National Park for the enjoyment and benefit of all, including tourists. Local jarveys use the park to ply their trade for financial gain.
The horse dung on the roads in the park is unsightly and smelly and is at odds with the national park ethos, conflicts with the beautiful landscape and is unattractive to tourists. It is also a health and safety issue.
NPWS has engaged in a lengthy consultation process with the jarveys, over two years, on controlling dung in the park. This has involved consideration of various options including the use of a dungcatcher device. A process of practical trialling dungcatcher devices on various terrains with different horses has been carried out and a number of demonstrations have been provided to the jarveys. These demonstrations which were backed up by expert equine, veterinary and animal welfare advice show that dungcatchers do work and are safe to use. The devices are used successfully in many countries across the world and there is no evidence that they cause difficulties. They are being offered to the jarveys free of charge. Recently, following a High Court case on this matter, which affirmed the NPWS right to manage the park, NPWS sought to move the issue forward by agreeing to appoint an independent person to facilitate the introduction of the device. Unfortunately, the jarveys would not engage with this person.
Having regard to the position outlined above, it is regrettable that the jarveys have effectively chosen to exclude themselves from the park. A minority group have placed pickets at the Muckross House gate entrance.
I am satisfied that NPWS has been reasonable and patient in its approach with the jarveys. While I am happy for the jarveys to use the park, such use must carry some responsibility and requires respect for other users. I hope that the jarveys will work with the NPWS for the benefit of all. On 20 November, NPWS again wrote to each jarvey asking if they would consider using the opportunity of this quiet tourism period, to try out the device at a time and a place that suits themselves. In addition, NPWS would again be willing to re-constitute an independent facilitation process to progress the matter and address issues that might arise during trialling. NPWS has prepared a DVD which has been offered with the dungcatcher, also free of charge, showing how to fit the device so it can be tried by the jarveys at their convenience.
76 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the changes he will make following the completion of the review of the provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004; when the Private Residential Tenancies Board will fall within the scope of the Freedom of Information Act 1997; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42934/09]
Earlier this year, I announced my intention to review the provisions of the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 under which the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) operates. The purpose of this review is to consider whether the Act best supports the PRTB's key functions and whether legislative amendments would support either the achievement of additional operational efficiencies by the PRTB in the delivery of those functions or the broader good working of the private rented sector. I recently announced the preliminary results of this review, which make recommendations in a number of key areas and have an overall emphasis on streamlining and simplifying the Act and reducing delays. While a range of issues still remain to be considered, I intend to initiate a comprehensive piece of amending legislation within the next 12 months. Among the main issues that will be addressed by the amending legislation are—
A statutory objective of six months to be set for the issuing of determination orders arising out of dispute resolution applications,
The Board of the PRTB to be reduced from 15 to 12 members,
The introduction of fixed fines where deposits are illegally retained by landlords,
Measures to address non-payment of rent by tenants during a dispute process, in particular to introduce scope for the legal termination of such a tenancy,
The separation of the governance and quasi-judicial functions of the Board,
The inclusion within the remit of the Residential Tenancies Act of segments of the voluntary and co-operative housing sector that most closely parallel the current remit of the RTA.
A number of issues requiring further research, including third party complaints under the Act, the Act's engagement with anti-social behaviour matters and how best to address issues surrounding the retention of deposits, will also be considered in detail. In addition, all opportunities for the introduction of time and procedural efficiencies in the Act will be examined. My Department has begun work on the necessary revisions to the Residential Tenancies Act with the intention of have the legislation prepared before the end of 2010. Full details in relation to the background to the review and the associated terms of reference are available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie.
The PRTB, which commenced operations in September 2004, is at present outside the scope of the Freedom of Information Act 1997. Given the importance of openness and transparency in relation to the operation of State bodies generally it is my intention that the Board, subject to exemptions that recognise its quasi-judicial functions, should come under the scope of the Freedom of Information legislation. I will be seeking to give effect to this in the context of the next set of proposals for the extension of the Freedom of Information Act to additional public bodies, to be brought forward by my colleague, the Minister for Finance, who has overall responsibility for the Freedom of Information legislative code.
77 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he expects to meet emission targets in respect of EU climate change or Kyoto guidelines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42971/09]
In the period 2008-2012, Ireland is required to meet a challenging greenhouse gas emission reduction target under the Kyoto Protocol; this target is binding in international law. In addition, by 2020, Ireland is committed under the EU climate and energy package agreed in December 2008 to achieve a 20% reduction on 2005 levels of greenhouse gas emissions in the sectors of the economy not covered by the EU emissions trading scheme. This 20% target is binding in EU law, as will any adjustment to it in the light of the outcome to the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Copenhagen in December 2009.
The EPA is responsible for emission projections. Its most recent analysis based on the ESRI's Economic Shock scenario indicates a distance to target for the Kyoto period 2008-2012 in the range of 1.3 -1.8 million tonnes per annum. Based on these figures and with full implementation of all announced emission reduction measures, the purchasing requirement to ensure Kyoto compliance would be between 6.5 and 9 million carbon credits.
Under the Carbon Fund Act 2007, the National Treasury Management Agency has been designated as purchasing agent for carbon credits for the State. To date the agency has purchased 5.255 million credits. In addition, investments made by my Department in Carbon Funds operated by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the World Bank are expected to yield some 3 million credits during the five-year Kyoto Protocol commitment period 2008-2012.
In the current economic climate an unusually high degree of uncertainty attaches to all projections. It is now clear that the economic contraction will be deeper than assumed in the ESRI's scenario. It is quite possible that Ireland will now meet its Kyoto target for the non-trading sector without using carbon credits. In the circumstances, the National Treasury Management Agency has been asked to put its purchasing programme on hold for the foreseeable future. Purchasing requirements to ensure Kyoto compliance are being kept under review and will be revised as necessary in the light of future projections. If it transpires that more credits have been bought than are needed they can be carried forward for use after 2012 in the next commitment period.
78 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cases being taken by the European Union against Ireland in relation to Ireland’s failure to transpose or implement European Union directives in environmental law in tabular form; the stages these cases are at; if fines are pending in relation to judgments against Ireland for breaches of environmental law; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42966/09]
In areas for which my Department has responsibility, the European Commission is currently in correspondence in respect of 31 cases relating to transposition and implementation of EU environmental legislation. The following table lists the directives involved and indicates the various stages of proceedings in respect of these cases.
The Commission made a decision on 29 October 2009 to refer Ireland to the European Court of Justice for an imposition of fines in relation to the directive on the quality required of shellfish waters, while deferring such referral for three months. Ireland has never been fined by the EU for an environmental infringement and I am confident that all outstanding aspects of this case will be completed to the satisfaction of the Commission within the timescale allowed for addressing the outstanding issues.
|
EU Instrument Number and General Reference |
Article 226 Letter of Formal Notice |
Article 226 Reasoned Opinion |
Being Referred to the European Court of Justice |
Before the European Court of Justice for a hearing or awaiting judgement |
European Court of Justice Decision to be Implemented |
Article 228 Letter of Formal Notice |
Article 228 Reasoned Opinion |
Total |
|
75/442/EEC the waste directive |
2 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
4 |
|
76/464/EEC on dangerous substances in water |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
79/409/EEC on wild birds |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
2 |
|
79/923/EEC on the quality required of shellfish waters |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
80/68/EEC on groundwater |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
1 |
|
80/778/EEC on the quality of drinking water for human consumption |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
|
85/337/EEC on the assessment of the effects of certain public and private projects on the environment |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
2 |
0 |
4 |
|
91/271/EEC on urban waste water treatment |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
2 |
|
92/43/EEC on habitats |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
|
96/61/EC concerning integrated pollution prevention and control |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
98/81/EC on the contained use of genetically modified micro-organisms |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
99/31/EC on landfill |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2000/53/EC on end of life vehicles |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2000/60/EC the water framework directive |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2002/96/EC on waste electrical and electronic equipment |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2001/42/EC on the assessment of the effects of certain plans and programmes on the environment |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2003/35/EC on public participation in certain plans and programmes relating to the environment |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2006/21/EC on the management of waste from extractive industries and amending Directive 2004/35/EC |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2006/118/EC on the protection of groundwater against pollution and deterioration |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
2007/2/EC establishing an infrastructure for spatial information in the EU — INSPIRE |
0 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
Decision 2005/166/EC & Decision 280/2004/EC: Rules concerning a mechanism for monitoring Community greenhouse gas emissions and for implementing the Kyoto Protocol |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
|
Total Number at Each Stage |
10 |
5 |
1 |
2 |
3 |
5 |
5 |
31 |
79 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when the commitment in the revised programme for Government to make the necessary legislative changes to enable the publication of house selling prices will be implemented; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42927/09]
Amendment of the Data Protection legislation to allow publication of the sale price of property is a matter in the first instance for the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform.
The relevant Government Departments and agencies will be working in the coming months with a view to the development, as soon as possible, of the new house price database.
80 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is on course to comply with the EU Directives on waste management that require a reduction in the amount of organic waste going to landfill here by 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42963/09]
Meeting the requirements of the Landfill Directive is a key national priority in respect of waste management and I am committed to implementing the measures necessary to ensure that Ireland meets the 2010, and subsequent, EU landfill diversion targets.
In the coming weeks, I will make regulations to bring an entirely new approach to the management of our food waste, which will take effect from next year. The new regulations will require the source segregation and appropriate treatment of food waste arising from commercial premises.
In addition, I intend to use the powers already available to me under the Waste Management Acts to increase the landfill levy by the currently permitted maximum of €5 per tonne before the end of the year and a further €5 in the early weeks of 2010. This will bring the levy to €30 per tonne and begin to address the race to the bottom in landfill gate fees which we are now witnessing and which acts as a barrier to achieving the diversion targets.
I shall also be publishing a Bill on levies generally where further substantial increases in the landfill levy will be made. The Bill will also address the extension of levies to other waste facilities. Last year, my Department issued a circular to all local authorities to drive forward the roll out of brown bins and promote the use of home composting and the EPA National Waste Report 2007 indicates increased quantities of biodegradable waste are being dealt with by home composting. I intend to issue a further circular to local authorities to accelerate progress in the roll out of brown bins and to further promote the benefits of home composting.
I am confident that all of the above measures will contribute significantly to the achievement of the targets for the diversion of waste from landfill and a reduction in our overall use of such facilities.
81 Deputy Liz McManus asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the costs incurred in relation to electronic voting equipment in the seven month period since his decision on 23 April 2009 not to proceed with electronic voting; when he anticipates that this equipment will cease to be a cost to the Exchequer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42939/09]
452 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the success he has had in disposing of the electronic voting technology; if he has received any offers from other jurisdictions; the methods of disposal under examination having particular regard to the current economic climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43375/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 81 and 452 together.
On 23 April 2009, I announced that the Government had decided not to proceed with implementation of electronic voting in Ireland. Since then, a process has been put in place to address the issues that arise from the decision. An interdepartmental task force, chaired by my Department, has been established to bring the project to an orderly conclusion and to oversee disposal of the equipment and termination of storage arrangements. To date, the task force has met twice, in July and November 2009, and it aims to complete its work as soon as possible.
In considering options for disposal of the equipment, the priority is to pursue the most economically advantageous approach, with a view to achieving the maximum recovery of cost possible in the circumstances, consistent with environmental and other obligations. Detailed consideration of all relevant factors is under way to inform the manner in which disposal of the machines will be effected. This includes contact with the original suppliers of the machines.
Details in respect of costs incurred for the storage of electronic voting equipment are gathered annually by my Department from Returning Officers, in January each year. Figures for storage costs in 2009 are therefore not yet available. Based on figures received in my Department from Returning Officers, the total annual costs for storage of the electronic voting equipment (including the cost of insurance, service charges, rates and heating) for 2008 were some €204,000.
82 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received confirmation that the required 8% reduction in professional fees has been applied to adjudicators and mediators employed by the Private Residential Tenancies Board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42930/09]
My Department has no function in the operational matters of the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB), which is an independent statutory body established under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004. The PRTB may be contacted at its offices at O'Connell Bridge House, D'Olier Street, Dublin 2 or by telephone or email. Contact details are available on the Board's website at www.prtb.ie.
The PRTB, in common with all agencies under the aegis of the Department, has been advised of the requirement to seek 8% reduction in professional fees.
83 Deputy George Lee asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he is satisfied that the system of water investment via local authorities is serving the needs of here best; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42841/09]
84 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount allocated for capital investment in water services in the 2008 and 2009 budgets; the amount spent; the amount returned to his Department unspent; the moneys which have works been carried out using the allocation for capital investment in water services in 2008 and to date in 2009; if progress is being made in the upgrading of the water services infrastructure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42959/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 83 and 84 together.
The capital provision and expenditure outturn for water services infrastructure in 2008 was €471.4 million and €496.4 million, respectively. A provision of €500 million is available for investment in water services infrastructure in 2009. Expenditure to date in 2009 amounts to €442.6 million; the full year provision will be spent by year end.
Capital investment in 2008 involved expenditure of €220 million on major wastewater infrastructure projects and €171 million on major water supply projects. 41 projects were completed during the year and 127 projects were in progress at the end of the year. A further €105 million was spent on schemes in the Rural Water Programme, which is largely devolved to local authorities.
Capital investment in 2009 to date has involved expenditure of €207 million on major wastewater infrastructure projects and €166 million on major water supply projects. It is anticipated that some 40 projects will be completed this year and that some 120 projects will be in progress at year end. A further €70 million has been spent to date on schemes in the Rural Water Programme.
Progress is being made by local authorities on the provision of water services in their areas. This has been assisted through the high levels of investment in recent years, together with new legislation on the supervision and enforcement of drinking water standards in public water supplies and the licensing of wastewater treatment plants.
There is an ongoing need to expand and improve our water and wastewater treatment capacity to ensure compliance with EU judgements and other required environmental standards, to anticipate future economic and social development needs and to ensure investment decisions reflect other national priorities such as the National Spatial Strategy. These issues have been central to the assessment of needs for water services infrastructure in their areas that I asked local authorities to undertake in recent months. These assessments will form the basis of projects to be included in the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 — 2012, which is to be published early next year.
In addition, my Department is currently undertaking a Value for Money Study in relation to the efficiency and effectiveness of delivery of the Water Services Investment Programme as part of the Government's Value for Money Reviews for 2009 — 2011. The outcome of this study will also influence the implementation of future water services investment programmes.
85 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the issues which must be addressed here in order to implement the EU Directive on Public Participation; the stage he is at in addressing the outstanding issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42964/09]
90 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps he has taken to ensure that Ireland ratifies the Aarhus Convention; if there are outstanding issues on legislation that Ireland must attend to before it can ratify this convention; when Ireland will be in a position to ratify this convention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42962/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 85 and 90 together.
Ireland signed the Aarhus Convention on Access to Information, Public Participation in Decision-Making and Access to Justice in Environmental Matters on 25 June 1998. Progress towards ratification of the Convention is closely aligned with work at EU level and, in that context, the European Union has adopted two directives as part of the ratification process for the Convention. These deal with public access to environmental information (2003/4/EC) and public participation in certain environmental decision-making procedures (2003/35/EC).
The European Communities (Access to Information on the Environment) Regulations 2007 came into effect on 1 May 2007. These Regulations transpose EU Directive 2003/4/EC on public access to environmental information.
The process to transpose the Public Participation Directive is well advanced. The recent European Court of Justice judgement in case C427/07 concerning the Public Participation Directive requires certain legislative amendments which my Department is prioritising in consultation with the Office of the Attorney General. When this work has been completed I, along with the Minister for Foreign Affairs, will ensure that the instrument of ratification of the Aarhus Convention is submitted to Government and laid before the Dáil as a matter of urgency. Ratification of the Aarhus Convention is a priority and the renewed Programme for Government commits the Government to its ratification by March 2010.
86 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the action he will take on foot of the several reports into Haulbowline Island, County Cork; if a decision has been made on the requirement for a retaining barrier around the east tip; if consultations with other Departments and the local community have concluded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42941/09]
As previously advised, the Government has decided that the Office of Public Works will chair a working group to develop a structured and coherent approach to the further management and development of the site. The establishment of this group is a matter for the OPW.
The issue of a retaining sea wall or similar such barrier remains a key issue to be addressed in this context. Consideration of a suitable mechanism to be put in place for ongoing dialogue with local communities to ensure that their requirements can be considered by the Government will also be pursued.
87 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the steps taken to consult with domestic turf cutters in respect of plans to prohibit turf cutting in protected sites under European Union legislation; the further steps he will take to take on board the concerns of domestic turf cutters; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42961/09]
I understand the concerns of domestic turf cutters on the relatively small number of designated raised bogs on which, for conservation reasons, turf cutting needs to be ended. There is no intention to restrict this activity on the vast majority of bogs within the State, where cutting may continue as before. The restrictions on domestic turf cutting on designated raised bogs affect only about 4% of the total area of bogland available for cutting. These restrictions are required for the State to fulfil its legal obligations to protect these sites under the EU Habitats Directive.
Earlier this year, I established the interdepartmental working group on the cessation of turf cutting in designated areas to examine all the implications of cessation, not least the measures that need to be taken to meet the concerns of turf cutters affected by the cessation. This group invited and received submissions from interested parties and has met with representatives of turf-cutting groups which made submissions, as well as with conservation interests. All submissions received and views expressed, including proposed approaches and solutions, are being considered.
The working group will report to me on the measures that may be required to implement the cessation, from the end of the year, on the first 32 raised bog Special Areas of Conservation. These measures will include full consideration of the impact of any cessation on those who have relied on turf cutting in these bogs for their fuel supplies.
92 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of local authority positions that have become vacant in 2008 and to date in 2009 that have not been filled due to the recruitment embargo; the positions that have been effected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42960/09]
My Department has a delegated sanction from the Department of Finance for implementation of the general moratorium on the filling of public sector posts in the local authority sector, on the condition that the overall staffing levels in the local authority sector are to be reduced significantly by the end of 2010 in adherence with the Government's policy on staffing and numbers in the public sector.
Under the new arrangements which issued to the local authority sector on 20 August 2009, local authorities are expected, where vacancies arise, to consider options for reorganisation and reallocation of work to meet requirements. Any exceptions to this principle, which will arise in very limited circumstances, require sanction from my Department.
The number of local authority positions that have become vacant in 2008 and 2009 is not held by my Department.
93 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of the reduction in rents generally, he is satisfied that contracts already entered into under the leasing initiative will be adjusted downwards to maintain the target of acquiring property at 20% below the market rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42933/09]
The primary focus in negotiating leasing costs is the delivery of value for money. In that context, it is expected that authorities would be able to secure lease costs of at least 20% below current market rent.
In general, each lease agreement entered into will also be subject to periodic rent reviews. Where reviews are provided for, my Department has advised authorities that reviews should follow market conditions, so that rent would be adjusted upwards or downwards as appropriate. To ensure compliance with this, when submitting proposals authorities are required to provide details of the rent reviews agreed.
94 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the progress made towards the establishment of an independent electoral commission as proposed in the programme for Government and the revised programme for Government; if it is his intention that the electoral commission will produce a new national rolling electoral register which is not specifically mentioned in the revised programme for Government; if the 12 month target set for the electoral commission to propose reforms will run from 10 October 2009 or a date following the establishment of the commission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42936/09]
The programme for Government, agreed in 2007, contains a commitment to the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission which will take responsibility for electoral administration and oversight, implement modern and efficient electoral practices, revise constituency boundaries, take charge of compiling a new national rolling Electoral Register, take over the functions of the Standards in Public Office Commission relating to election spending and examine the issue of financing the political system.
The renewed programme for Government, agreed in October 2009, reaffirms this commitment and states that an independent Electoral Commission will incorporate the functions of the Standards in Public Office Commission, with enhanced powers of inspection. The renewed programme sets out the following responsibilities which the Commission will be mandated to fulfil: to decide the constituency boundaries; administer the voting registration process; run voter education programmes; advise on mechanisms to increase the participation of women in political life, including the use of additional criteria for public funding which encourages more women and lesser represented groups; and recommend revised guidelines on the declaration of donations for political purposes.
In addition, the renewed programme states that, within 12 months, the Commission will also propose reforms to the electoral system, including:
make recommendations on the feasibility of extending the franchise for Presidential Elections to the Irish abroad;
examine and make recommendations for changes to the electoral system for Dáil elections, including the number of deputies and their means of elections;
outline new electoral systems for Seanad Éireann;
advise on the basis for European elections to reflect new realities of the role and influence of the European Parliament, including consideration of moving towards one national constituency and using a list system;
make recommendations on the possibility of extending the franchise for local elections to those aged 16 or over;
set minimum standards for the taking and publication of political polls within the state to ensure fairness and accuracy, and;
consider options for the timing of elections for Local Authorities, the Dáil, Seanad and European Parliament. This should include the possibility of ‘mid-term' elections and running some elections on a ‘staggered' or ‘rolled' basis so that elections do not fall on the same day for every candidate or chamber.
In implementing the commitments as set out in the 2007 programme for Government, and to assist in consideration of the issues involved, I commissioned a report by an expert group from University College Dublin. I published the report, entitled A Preliminary Study on the Establishment of an Electoral Commission in Ireland, for consultation in February 2009. The report is available on my Department's website, www.environ.ie. Written submissions received to date as part of the consultation process are currently being considered. While the formal closing date for written submissions has passed, I will still welcome and consider any views and observations that are put forward by interested individuals and organisations.
In developing and bringing forward proposals for the establishment of an independent Electoral Commission, based on the commitments contained in the programme for Government and the renewed programme for Government, I will take into account the report prepared by the UCD group and views put forward as part of the consultation process.
95 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons to date who have made a full application under the home choice scheme; the cost to date in 2009 of administering this scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42931/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No.47 on today's order paper.
96 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the precise methodology to be employed in providing leased accommodation through the voluntary sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42928/09]
My Department has recently extended the Social Housing Leasing Initiative to allow for the direct provision of dwellings by approved housing bodies. The extension of the leasing arrangements to the voluntary and co-operative housing sector is designed further to broaden the sources of supply and accelerate delivery under the initiative.
The new arrangements put in place mean that approved housing bodies will now be able to procure units themselves, either directly from a private owner or by purchasing/constructing units using private finance, which they then make available under the leasing programme to persons in need of social housing support. The lease payment, in both cases, will be equivalent to what would be paid under the other leasing delivery mechanisms, as payments will again be determined by reference to local market rents.
The assessment process in place for units provided by approved housing bodies will be similar to that already in place for leasing proposals generally. In each case, the approved housing body will need to demonstrate that there is a housing need in the area concerned and that the proposal complies with the Department's sustainable communities policy objective and represents good value for money. Provision is also made for the involvement of the relevant housing authority at various stages of the assessment process and in relation to the implementation of proposals.
98 Deputy George Lee asked the Taoiseach the percentage of the labour force aged under 25 years who were unemployed on 31 December 2007, 31 December 2008 and each month to date in 2009; the percentage of the men aged under 25 years who were unemployed each of these time periods; the percentage of the women aged under 25 years who were unemployed each of these time periods; the percentage of the labour force aged under 25 years were unemployed by county for each of these time periods; the percentage of the labour force aged under 25 years were unemployed in each social welfare office in Dublin for each of these time periods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42744/09]
The exact information requested by the Deputy is not available. The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of estimates for unemployment rates. Data from the QNHS are only available at the level of the eight NUTS3 regions. Details on the number of males and females aged under 25 in employment, in the labour force as well as the unemployment rate in each NUTS3 region for Quarter 4 2007 to Quarter 2 2009 are contained in Table 1.
The live register is not designed to measure unemployment but data from the live register are available at county and local office level. Table 2 contains monthly live register data for each county, while Table 3 gives corresponding information for local social welfare offices in Dublin for December 2007, December 2008 and January to October 2009.
|
Q4 2007-Q2 2009 by region |
||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Q4 2007 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
19.1 |
15.0 |
34.0 |
2.0 |
1.5 |
3.5 |
21.1 |
16.5 |
37.5 |
9.6 |
9.0 |
9.3 |
|
Midland |
9.9 |
8.5 |
18.4 |
1.2 |
* |
1.8 |
11.2 |
9.0 |
20.2 |
11.1 |
5.7 |
8.7 |
|
West |
16.3 |
15.4 |
31.7 |
1.2 |
1.2 |
2.4 |
17.5 |
16.6 |
34.1 |
6.9 |
7.3 |
7.1 |
|
Dublin |
48.6 |
48.5 |
97.1 |
4.8 |
3.4 |
8.2 |
53.4 |
51.9 |
105.3 |
9.0 |
6.5 |
7.8 |
|
Mid-East |
17.1 |
16.5 |
33.5 |
1.7 |
* |
2.3 |
18.8 |
17.1 |
35.9 |
9.2 |
3.5 |
6.5 |
|
Mid-West |
12.2 |
10.2 |
22.3 |
1.9 |
1.5 |
3.4 |
14.1 |
11.7 |
25.7 |
13.5 |
12.7 |
13.2 |
|
South-East |
18.5 |
15.1 |
33.7 |
2.0 |
1.4 |
3.5 |
20.6 |
16.6 |
37.1 |
9.8 |
8.7 |
9.3 |
|
South-West |
22.8 |
19.5 |
42.2 |
2.2 |
1.3 |
3.6 |
25.0 |
20.8 |
45.8 |
8.9 |
6.4 |
7.8 |
|
State |
164.3 |
148.6 |
313.0 |
17.2 |
11.5 |
28.6 |
181.5 |
160.1 |
341.6 |
9.5 |
7.2 |
8.4 |
|
Q1 2008 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
18.5 |
14.2 |
32.7 |
2.5 |
* |
3.3 |
21.0 |
15.1 |
36.1 |
11.8 |
5.8 |
9.3 |
|
Midland |
9.1 |
8.2 |
17.3 |
1.6 |
* |
1.9 |
10.8 |
8.4 |
19.2 |
15.0 |
3.2 |
9.8 |
|
West |
14.0 |
13.9 |
27.9 |
2.5 |
1.9 |
4.3 |
16.5 |
15.7 |
32.2 |
15.0 |
11.8 |
13.4 |
|
Dublin |
44.4 |
46.5 |
90.9 |
5.4 |
3.3 |
8.7 |
49.8 |
49.8 |
99.6 |
10.9 |
6.7 |
8.8 |
|
Mid-East |
16.8 |
14.0 |
30.8 |
1.6 |
* |
2.1 |
18.4 |
14.5 |
32.9 |
8.8 |
3.2 |
6.4 |
|
Mid-West |
11.9 |
10.3 |
22.2 |
1.7 |
1.1 |
2.8 |
13.7 |
11.4 |
25.1 |
12.8 |
9.7 |
11.4 |
|
South-East |
17.0 |
15.4 |
32.4 |
2.3 |
1.4 |
3.6 |
19.3 |
16.7 |
36.0 |
11.7 |
8.2 |
10.1 |
|
South-West |
20.6 |
19.1 |
39.7 |
2.5 |
1.2 |
3.7 |
23.1 |
20.3 |
43.4 |
10.9 |
5.8 |
8.5 |
|
State |
152.3 |
141.6 |
293.8 |
20.1 |
10.4 |
30.6 |
172.4 |
152.0 |
324.4 |
11.7 |
6.9 |
9.4 |
|
Q2 2008 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
17.1 |
13.7 |
30.8 |
3.8 |
1.7 |
5.5 |
20.9 |
15.5 |
36.4 |
18.2 |
11.2 |
15.2 |
|
Midland |
8.3 |
7.4 |
15.7 |
2.0 |
* |
2.8 |
10.3 |
8.3 |
18.6 |
19.2 |
10.5 |
15.3 |
|
West |
13.6 |
13.2 |
26.9 |
2.6 |
2.8 |
5.3 |
16.2 |
16.0 |
32.2 |
15.8 |
17.3 |
16.6 |
|
Dublin |
42.5 |
45.1 |
87.6 |
5.7 |
3.3 |
9.0 |
48.2 |
48.4 |
96.6 |
11.8 |
6.8 |
9.3 |
|
Mid-East |
16.1 |
15.1 |
31.2 |
2.8 |
1.5 |
4.3 |
18.9 |
16.6 |
35.4 |
14.6 |
9.0 |
12.0 |
|
Mid-West |
12.3 |
10.7 |
23.0 |
2.7 |
1.3 |
4.0 |
15.0 |
12.1 |
27.0 |
17.8 |
11.1 |
14.8 |
|
South-East |
17.3 |
15.9 |
33.2 |
3.2 |
1.8 |
5.0 |
20.5 |
17.7 |
38.2 |
15.4 |
10.3 |
13.0 |
|
South-West |
20.2 |
18.7 |
38.9 |
3.2 |
1.8 |
5.0 |
23.3 |
20.5 |
43.8 |
13.5 |
8.7 |
11.3 |
|
State |
147.5 |
139.9 |
287.4 |
25.8 |
15.1 |
40.9 |
173.3 |
155.0 |
328.3 |
14.9 |
9.8 |
12.5 |
|
Q3 2008 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
15.3 |
14.9 |
30.2 |
4.2 |
2.2 |
6.4 |
19.5 |
17.1 |
36.6 |
21.4 |
12.8 |
17.4 |
|
Midland |
9.3 |
8.8 |
18.1 |
2.1 |
1.6 |
3.7 |
11.4 |
10.4 |
21.8 |
18.4 |
15.2 |
16.8 |
|
West |
14.6 |
13.5 |
28.1 |
2.8 |
2.7 |
5.6 |
17.5 |
16.2 |
33.7 |
16.2 |
16.8 |
16.5 |
|
Dublin |
43.7 |
41.8 |
85.6 |
8.3 |
6.3 |
14.6 |
52.0 |
48.2 |
100.2 |
15.9 |
13.1 |
14.6 |
|
Mid-East |
14.5 |
15.4 |
29.8 |
3.1 |
1.3 |
4.5 |
17.6 |
16.7 |
34.3 |
17.8 |
8.0 |
13.0 |
|
Mid-West |
12.5 |
10.3 |
22.7 |
3.0 |
2.0 |
5.0 |
15.5 |
12.3 |
27.7 |
19.5 |
16.0 |
18.0 |
|
South-East |
16.8 |
16.1 |
32.9 |
3.7 |
2.4 |
6.1 |
20.5 |
18.5 |
39.0 |
18.2 |
12.8 |
15.7 |
|
South-West |
22.3 |
21.3 |
43.6 |
4.2 |
2.7 |
6.9 |
26.5 |
24.0 |
50.5 |
15.7 |
11.4 |
13.7 |
|
State |
149.0 |
142.1 |
291.1 |
31.4 |
21.2 |
52.6 |
180.4 |
163.3 |
343.7 |
17.4 |
13.0 |
15.3 |
|
Q4 2008 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
13.9 |
12.9 |
26.8 |
4.3 |
1.5 |
5.9 |
18.2 |
14.5 |
32.7 |
23.7 |
10.6 |
17.9 |
|
Midland |
6.8 |
6.6 |
13.5 |
2.1 |
* |
2.9 |
8.9 |
7.4 |
16.4 |
23.8 |
10.7 |
17.8 |
|
West |
11.0 |
13.2 |
24.3 |
3.9 |
2.9 |
6.8 |
14.9 |
16.2 |
31.1 |
25.9 |
18.2 |
21.9 |
|
Dublin |
36.1 |
39.5 |
75.6 |
8.1 |
4.1 |
12.2 |
44.2 |
43.6 |
87.8 |
18.3 |
9.4 |
13.9 |
|
Mid-East |
13.3 |
13.6 |
26.9 |
2.5 |
1.0 |
3.4 |
15.8 |
14.6 |
30.4 |
15.6 |
6.7 |
11.3 |
|
Mid-West |
10.7 |
9.5 |
20.2 |
3.6 |
1.7 |
5.3 |
14.3 |
11.1 |
25.4 |
25.2 |
14.9 |
20.7 |
|
South-East |
13.4 |
13.4 |
26.8 |
3.8 |
2.9 |
6.7 |
17.3 |
16.3 |
33.5 |
22.2 |
17.7 |
20.0 |
|
South-West |
15.8 |
16.5 |
32.3 |
3.3 |
1.4 |
4.7 |
19.2 |
17.9 |
37.0 |
17.4 |
7.7 |
12.8 |
|
State |
121.1 |
125.3 |
246.4 |
31.6 |
16.3 |
47.9 |
152.7 |
141.6 |
294.2 |
20.7 |
11.5 |
16.3 |
|
Q1 2009 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
11.2 |
10.1 |
21.3 |
5.4 |
2.3 |
7.7 |
16.6 |
12.4 |
29.0 |
32.4 |
18.5 |
26.5 |
|
Midland |
5.8 |
6.5 |
12.3 |
2.5 |
* |
3.3 |
8.3 |
7.4 |
15.6 |
30.5 |
11.1 |
21.4 |
|
West |
9.6 |
13.1 |
22.7 |
3.0 |
2.9 |
6.0 |
12.6 |
16.0 |
28.6 |
24.0 |
18.3 |
20.8 |
|
Dublin |
33.4 |
38.4 |
71.8 |
9.2 |
3.4 |
12.7 |
42.6 |
41.8 |
84.4 |
21.6 |
8.2 |
15.0 |
|
Mid-East |
10.4 |
14.0 |
24.4 |
3.6 |
1.9 |
5.5 |
14.0 |
15.9 |
29.9 |
25.8 |
12.0 |
18.4 |
|
Mid-West |
9.1 |
7.5 |
16.6 |
3.4 |
1.7 |
5.1 |
12.4 |
9.2 |
21.7 |
27.0 |
18.6 |
23.4 |
|
South-East |
11.7 |
12.6 |
24.3 |
4.9 |
3.0 |
7.8 |
16.5 |
15.6 |
32.1 |
29.4 |
19.0 |
24.4 |
|
South-West |
14.6 |
16.5 |
31.1 |
4.2 |
1.7 |
5.9 |
18.8 |
18.2 |
37.0 |
22.2 |
9.5 |
16.0 |
|
State |
105.7 |
118.6 |
224.3 |
36.1 |
17.8 |
53.9 |
141.8 |
136.4 |
278.3 |
25.5 |
13.0 |
19.4 |
|
Q2 2009 |
In Employment ’000 |
Unemployed ’000 |
In Labour Force ’000 |
Unemployment Rate % |
||||||||
|
Age 15-24 |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
Male |
Female |
Total |
|
Border |
10.0 |
10.2 |
20.2 |
6.9 |
3.0 |
9.9 |
16.9 |
13.2 |
30.1 |
40.8 |
22.7 |
32.9 |
|
Midland |
6.2 |
6.0 |
12.2 |
3.1 |
1.8 |
4.8 |
9.2 |
7.8 |
17.0 |
33.2 |
22.8 |
28.4 |
|
West |
10.2 |
12.2 |
22.4 |
4.4 |
3.3 |
7.7 |
14.6 |
15.5 |
30.1 |
30.3 |
21.1 |
25.6 |
|
Dublin |
28.4 |
35.7 |
64.2 |
10.9 |
6.1 |
17.0 |
39.4 |
41.8 |
81.2 |
27.8 |
14.6 |
21.0 |
|
Mid-East |
10.2 |
12.3 |
22.5 |
5.4 |
2.6 |
8.0 |
15.7 |
14.9 |
30.5 |
34.8 |
17.2 |
26.2 |
|
Mid-West |
8.5 |
8.0 |
16.4 |
4.0 |
2.9 |
6.9 |
12.5 |
10.9 |
23.3 |
32.1 |
26.6 |
29.6 |
|
South-East |
11.1 |
12.4 |
23.5 |
7.1 |
3.7 |
10.8 |
18.2 |
16.1 |
34.3 |
39.0 |
23.0 |
31.5 |
|
South-West |
14.4 |
16.1 |
30.5 |
5.6 |
3.3 |
8.9 |
20.0 |
19.4 |
39.4 |
27.8 |
17.2 |
22.6 |
|
State |
99.0 |
112.9 |
211.9 |
47.5 |
26.6 |
74.1 |
146.5 |
139.5 |
286.0 |
32.4 |
19.1 |
25.9 |
Figures marked with a * refer to estimates of below 1,000 persons. Such estimates are considered to be unreliable and as such are not presented.
Data may be subject to future revision.
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Reference period: q1=Jan-Mar, q2=Apr-Jun, q3=Jul-Sep, q4=Oct-Dec.
Source: Quarterly National Houehold Survey, Central Statistics Office.
|
Month1 |
Male |
Female |
Both sexes |
|
Cavan County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
329 |
212 |
541 |
|
Dec-08 |
694 |
404 |
1,098 |
|
Jan-09 |
797 |
463 |
1,260 |
|
Feb-09 |
904 |
515 |
1,419 |
|
Mar-09 |
954 |
527 |
1,481 |
|
Apr-09 |
970 |
524 |
1,494 |
|
May-09 |
971 |
557 |
1,528 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,039 |
645 |
1,684 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,054 |
697 |
1,751 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,056 |
696 |
1,752 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,002 |
651 |
1,653 |
|
Oct-09 |
920 |
585 |
1,505 |
|
Donegal County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
1,161 |
788 |
1,949 |
|
Dec-08 |
2,537 |
1,259 |
3,796 |
|
Jan-09 |
2,775 |
1,396 |
4,171 |
|
Feb-09 |
2,889 |
1,449 |
4,338 |
|
Mar-09 |
2,944 |
1,469 |
4,413 |
|
Apr-09 |
2,960 |
1,502 |
4,462 |
|
May-09 |
3,109 |
1,602 |
4,711 |
|
Jun-09 |
3,218 |
1,773 |
4,991 |
|
Jul-09 |
3,359 |
1,948 |
5,307 |
|
Aug-09 |
3,354 |
1,995 |
5,349 |
|
Sep-09 |
3,194 |
1,796 |
4,990 |
|
Oct-09 |
3,042 |
1,634 |
4,676 |
|
Leitrim County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
148 |
91 |
239 |
|
Dec-08 |
316 |
129 |
445 |
|
Jan-09 |
367 |
144 |
511 |
|
Feb-09 |
394 |
158 |
552 |
|
Mar-09 |
411 |
177 |
588 |
|
Apr-09 |
421 |
177 |
598 |
|
May-09 |
428 |
198 |
626 |
|
Jun-09 |
472 |
257 |
729 |
|
Jul-09 |
484 |
304 |
788 |
|
Aug-09 |
491 |
303 |
794 |
|
Sep-09 |
457 |
252 |
709 |
|
Oct-09 |
434 |
225 |
659 |
|
Louth County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
891 |
468 |
1,359 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,664 |
822 |
2,486 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,912 |
988 |
2,900 |
|
Feb-09 |
2,049 |
1,118 |
3,167 |
|
Mar-09 |
2,141 |
1,116 |
3,257 |
|
Apr-09 |
2,138 |
1,136 |
3,274 |
|
May-09 |
2,178 |
1,222 |
3,400 |
|
Jun-09 |
2,367 |
1,391 |
3,758 |
|
Jul-09 |
2,390 |
1,470 |
3,860 |
|
Aug-09 |
2,383 |
1,445 |
3,828 |
|
Sep-09 |
2,275 |
1,340 |
3,615 |
|
Oct-09 |
2,195 |
1,241 |
3,436 |
|
Monaghan County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
230 |
155 |
385 |
|
Dec-08 |
560 |
286 |
846 |
|
Jan-09 |
662 |
334 |
996 |
|
Feb-09 |
726 |
349 |
1,075 |
|
Mar-09 |
759 |
365 |
1,124 |
|
Apr-09 |
780 |
375 |
1,155 |
|
May-09 |
820 |
410 |
1,230 |
|
Jun-09 |
884 |
518 |
1,402 |
|
Jul-09 |
922 |
565 |
1,487 |
|
Aug-09 |
929 |
562 |
1,491 |
|
Sep-09 |
831 |
482 |
1,313 |
|
Oct-09 |
766 |
436 |
1,202 |
|
Sligo County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
287 |
145 |
432 |
|
Dec-08 |
531 |
271 |
802 |
|
Jan-09 |
612 |
327 |
939 |
|
Feb-09 |
686 |
374 |
1,060 |
|
Mar-09 |
732 |
390 |
1,122 |
|
Apr-09 |
720 |
389 |
1,109 |
|
May-09 |
738 |
443 |
1,181 |
|
Jun-09 |
766 |
519 |
1,285 |
|
Jul-09 |
806 |
553 |
1,359 |
|
Aug-09 |
827 |
551 |
1,378 |
|
Sep-09 |
757 |
527 |
1,284 |
|
Oct-09 |
700 |
458 |
1,158 |
|
Laoighis County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
400 |
236 |
636 |
|
Dec-08 |
845 |
428 |
1,273 |
|
Jan-09 |
971 |
482 |
1,453 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,035 |
513 |
1,548 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,084 |
522 |
1,606 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,094 |
554 |
1,648 |
|
May-09 |
1,107 |
603 |
1,710 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,114 |
663 |
1,777 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,136 |
688 |
1,824 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,120 |
688 |
1,808 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,080 |
670 |
1,750 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,068 |
603 |
1,671 |
|
Longford County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
328 |
173 |
501 |
|
Dec-08 |
529 |
286 |
815 |
|
Jan-09 |
583 |
318 |
901 |
|
Feb-09 |
622 |
348 |
970 |
|
Mar-09 |
653 |
360 |
1,013 |
|
Apr-09 |
672 |
379 |
1,051 |
|
May-09 |
700 |
414 |
1,114 |
|
Jun-09 |
749 |
476 |
1,225 |
|
Jul-09 |
764 |
506 |
1,270 |
|
Aug-09 |
768 |
495 |
1,263 |
|
Sep-09 |
734 |
443 |
1,177 |
|
Oct-09 |
664 |
414 |
1,078 |
|
Offaly County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
430 |
288 |
718 |
|
Dec-08 |
855 |
477 |
1,332 |
|
Jan-09 |
949 |
528 |
1,477 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,011 |
580 |
1,591 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,108 |
615 |
1,723 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,109 |
632 |
1,741 |
|
May-09 |
1,163 |
655 |
1,818 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,204 |
730 |
1,934 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,244 |
779 |
2,023 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,242 |
765 |
2,007 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,175 |
677 |
1,852 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,135 |
630 |
1,765 |
|
Westmeath County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
529 |
334 |
863 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,029 |
631 |
1,660 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,174 |
718 |
1,892 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,252 |
770 |
2,022 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,327 |
772 |
2,099 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,336 |
787 |
2,123 |
|
May-09 |
1,372 |
840 |
2,212 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,427 |
938 |
2,365 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,473 |
988 |
2,461 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,464 |
971 |
2,435 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,386 |
921 |
2,307 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,281 |
843 |
2,124 |
|
Galway County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
1,182 |
741 |
1,923 |
|
Dec-08 |
2,303 |
1,205 |
3,508 |
|
Jan-09 |
2,555 |
1,399 |
3,954 |
|
Feb-09 |
2,766 |
1,510 |
4,276 |
|
Mar-09 |
2,873 |
1,530 |
4,403 |
|
Apr-09 |
2,912 |
1,527 |
4,439 |
|
May-09 |
3,027 |
1,651 |
4,678 |
|
Jun-09 |
3,273 |
1,908 |
5,181 |
|
Jul-09 |
3,335 |
2,065 |
5,400 |
|
Aug-09 |
3,361 |
2,109 |
5,470 |
|
Sep-09 |
3,240 |
1,992 |
5,232 |
|
Oct-09 |
2,964 |
1,712 |
4,676 |
|
Mayo County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
589 |
340 |
929 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,228 |
608 |
1,836 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,405 |
705 |
2,110 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,487 |
732 |
2,219 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,571 |
751 |
2,322 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,567 |
774 |
2,341 |
|
May-09 |
1,644 |
817 |
2,461 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,799 |
1,018 |
2,817 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,850 |
1,089 |
2,939 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,860 |
1,075 |
2,935 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,729 |
956 |
2,685 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,660 |
890 |
2,550 |
|
Roscommon County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
199 |
94 |
293 |
|
Dec-08 |
417 |
178 |
595 |
|
Jan-09 |
500 |
203 |
703 |
|
Feb-09 |
535 |
224 |
759 |
|
Mar-09 |
549 |
233 |
782 |
|
Apr-09 |
543 |
225 |
768 |
|
May-09 |
553 |
248 |
801 |
|
Jun-09 |
601 |
282 |
883 |
|
Jul-09 |
603 |
320 |
923 |
|
Aug-09 |
614 |
322 |
936 |
|
Sep-09 |
568 |
301 |
869 |
|
Oct-09 |
546 |
283 |
829 |
|
Dublin County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
5,326 |
2,685 |
8,011 |
|
Dec-08 |
9,712 |
4,794 |
14,506 |
|
Jan-09 |
10,815 |
5,492 |
16,307 |
|
Feb-09 |
11,766 |
6,040 |
17,806 |
|
Mar-09 |
12,504 |
6,334 |
18,838 |
|
Apr-09 |
12,696 |
6,601 |
19,297 |
|
May-09 |
12,932 |
7,015 |
19,947 |
|
Jun-09 |
13,795 |
7,722 |
21,517 |
|
Jul-09 |
14,152 |
8,112 |
22,264 |
|
Aug-09 |
14,236 |
8,313 |
22,549 |
|
Sep-09 |
13,709 |
7,950 |
21,659 |
|
Oct-09 |
13,071 |
7,292 |
20,363 |
|
Kildare County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
724 |
411 |
1,135 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,635 |
792 |
2,427 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,827 |
950 |
2,777 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,972 |
1,025 |
2,997 |
|
Mar-09 |
2,095 |
1,072 |
3,167 |
|
Apr-09 |
2,170 |
1,153 |
3,323 |
|
May-09 |
2,195 |
1,255 |
3,450 |
|
Jun-09 |
2,309 |
1,459 |
3,768 |
|
Jul-09 |
2,366 |
1,557 |
3,923 |
|
Aug-09 |
2,384 |
1,565 |
3,949 |
|
Sep-09 |
2,326 |
1,474 |
3,800 |
|
Oct-09 |
2,123 |
1,345 |
3,468 |
|
Meath County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
380 |
225 |
605 |
|
Dec-08 |
911 |
442 |
1,353 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,070 |
528 |
1,598 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,153 |
590 |
1,743 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,228 |
623 |
1,851 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,219 |
647 |
1,866 |
|
May-09 |
1,265 |
727 |
1,992 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,341 |
800 |
2,141 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,392 |
873 |
2,265 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,378 |
872 |
2,250 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,329 |
804 |
2,133 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,251 |
802 |
2,053 |
|
Wicklow County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
572 |
276 |
848 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,095 |
449 |
1,544 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,247 |
555 |
1,802 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,331 |
623 |
1,954 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,413 |
634 |
2,047 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,416 |
637 |
2,053 |
|
May-09 |
1,460 |
698 |
2,158 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,511 |
781 |
2,292 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,543 |
831 |
2,374 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,526 |
856 |
2,382 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,428 |
787 |
2,215 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,375 |
722 |
2,097 |
|
Clare County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
523 |
313 |
836 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,009 |
482 |
1,491 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,132 |
575 |
1,707 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,193 |
598 |
1,791 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,251 |
628 |
1,879 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,246 |
638 |
1,884 |
|
May-09 |
1,283 |
654 |
1,937 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,352 |
744 |
2,096 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,347 |
806 |
2,153 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,383 |
823 |
2,206 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,330 |
757 |
2,087 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,270 |
732 |
2,002 |
|
Limerick County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
1,060 |
680 |
1,740 |
|
Dec-08 |
2,082 |
1,147 |
3,229 |
|
Jan-09 |
2,338 |
1,294 |
3,632 |
|
Feb-09 |
2,539 |
1,371 |
3,910 |
|
Mar-09 |
2,678 |
1,398 |
4,076 |
|
Apr-09 |
2,653 |
1,419 |
4,072 |
|
May-09 |
2,773 |
1,571 |
4,344 |
|
Jun-09 |
3,002 |
1,736 |
4,738 |
|
Jul-09 |
3,069 |
1,787 |
4,856 |
|
Aug-09 |
3,097 |
1,827 |
4,924 |
|
Sep-09 |
2,930 |
1,686 |
4,616 |
|
Oct-09 |
2,759 |
1,590 |
4,349 |
|
North Tipperary |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
282 |
186 |
468 |
|
Dec-08 |
628 |
326 |
954 |
|
Jan-09 |
727 |
350 |
1,077 |
|
Feb-09 |
766 |
377 |
1,143 |
|
Mar-09 |
830 |
397 |
1,227 |
|
Apr-09 |
830 |
405 |
1,235 |
|
May-09 |
870 |
473 |
1,343 |
|
Jun-09 |
934 |
541 |
1,475 |
|
Jul-09 |
960 |
590 |
1,550 |
|
Aug-09 |
951 |
593 |
1,544 |
|
Sep-09 |
868 |
554 |
1,422 |
|
Oct-09 |
817 |
508 |
1,325 |
|
Carlow County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
330 |
177 |
507 |
|
Dec-08 |
661 |
306 |
967 |
|
Jan-09 |
748 |
336 |
1,084 |
|
Feb-09 |
822 |
376 |
1,198 |
|
Mar-09 |
852 |
401 |
1,253 |
|
Apr-09 |
858 |
407 |
1,265 |
|
May-09 |
882 |
463 |
1,345 |
|
Jun-09 |
965 |
537 |
1,502 |
|
Jul-09 |
990 |
582 |
1,572 |
|
Aug-09 |
979 |
575 |
1,554 |
|
Sep-09 |
908 |
531 |
1,439 |
|
Oct-09 |
860 |
493 |
1,353 |
|
Kilkenny County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
332 |
189 |
521 |
|
Dec-08 |
709 |
363 |
1,072 |
|
Jan-09 |
743 |
404 |
1,147 |
|
Feb-09 |
793 |
420 |
1,213 |
|
Mar-09 |
844 |
432 |
1,276 |
|
Apr-09 |
837 |
444 |
1,281 |
|
May-09 |
893 |
480 |
1,373 |
|
Jun-09 |
943 |
541 |
1,484 |
|
Jul-09 |
979 |
566 |
1,545 |
|
Aug-09 |
967 |
567 |
1,534 |
|
Sep-09 |
944 |
522 |
1,466 |
|
Oct-09 |
914 |
518 |
1,432 |
|
South Tipperary |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
505 |
275 |
780 |
|
Dec-08 |
985 |
400 |
1,385 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,110 |
467 |
1,577 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,167 |
508 |
1,675 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,242 |
522 |
1,764 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,240 |
531 |
1,771 |
|
May-09 |
1,245 |
601 |
1,846 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,332 |
663 |
1,995 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,363 |
747 |
2,110 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,361 |
749 |
2,110 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,310 |
696 |
2,006 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,243 |
645 |
1,888 |
|
Waterford County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
860 |
488 |
1,348 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,482 |
732 |
2,214 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,602 |
838 |
2,440 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,682 |
882 |
2,564 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,748 |
911 |
2,659 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,742 |
918 |
2,660 |
|
May-09 |
1,833 |
1,048 |
2,881 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,957 |
1,141 |
3,098 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,987 |
1,215 |
3,202 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,972 |
1,210 |
3,182 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,909 |
1,167 |
3,076 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,811 |
1,114 |
2,925 |
|
Wexford County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
948 |
638 |
1,586 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,854 |
1,005 |
2,859 |
|
Jan-09 |
2,063 |
1,179 |
3,242 |
|
Feb-09 |
2,219 |
1,220 |
3,439 |
|
Mar-09 |
2,305 |
1,271 |
3,576 |
|
Apr-09 |
2,288 |
1,269 |
3,557 |
|
May-09 |
2,380 |
1,407 |
3,787 |
|
Jun-09 |
2,547 |
1,571 |
4,118 |
|
Jul-09 |
2,517 |
1,604 |
4,121 |
|
Aug-09 |
2,531 |
1,586 |
4,117 |
|
Sep-09 |
2,457 |
1,498 |
3,955 |
|
Oct-09 |
2,359 |
1,391 |
3,750 |
|
Cork County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
1,911 |
1,037 |
2,948 |
|
Dec-08 |
3,705 |
1,828 |
5,533 |
|
Jan-09 |
4,176 |
2,141 |
6,317 |
|
Feb-09 |
4,394 |
2,347 |
6,741 |
|
Mar-09 |
4,704 |
2,455 |
7,159 |
|
Apr-09 |
4,831 |
2,523 |
7,354 |
|
May-09 |
4,985 |
2,648 |
7,633 |
|
Jun-09 |
5,306 |
2,980 |
8,286 |
|
Jul-09 |
5,536 |
3,232 |
8,768 |
|
Aug-09 |
5,496 |
3,192 |
8,688 |
|
Sep-09 |
5,350 |
2,974 |
8,324 |
|
Oct-09 |
5,063 |
2,693 |
7,756 |
|
Kerry County |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
712 |
476 |
1,188 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,462 |
823 |
2,285 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,676 |
937 |
2,613 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,777 |
1,040 |
2,817 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,900 |
1,072 |
2,972 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,882 |
1,060 |
2,942 |
|
May-09 |
1,889 |
1,053 |
2,942 |
|
Jun-09 |
2,038 |
1,176 |
3,214 |
|
Jul-09 |
2,098 |
1,219 |
3,317 |
|
Aug-09 |
2,096 |
1,214 |
3,310 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,984 |
1,107 |
3,091 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,815 |
1,043 |
2,858 |
1October 2009 contains revisions which have not been applied to County and Local Office data from October 2008 to September 2009.
|
Month1 |
Male |
Female |
Both sexes |
|
North Cumberland Street 2 |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
613 |
336 |
949 |
|
Dec-08 |
999 |
561 |
1,560 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,030 |
607 |
1,637 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,154 |
683 |
1,837 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,271 |
774 |
2,045 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,310 |
812 |
2,122 |
|
May-09 |
1,358 |
863 |
2,221 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,420 |
935 |
2,355 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,507 |
988 |
2,495 |
|
Aug-09 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Sep-09 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Oct-09 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Navan Road |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
323 |
177 |
500 |
|
Dec-08 |
526 |
277 |
803 |
|
Jan-09 |
584 |
323 |
907 |
|
Feb-09 |
653 |
355 |
1,008 |
|
Mar-09 |
673 |
375 |
1,048 |
|
Apr-09 |
656 |
397 |
1,053 |
|
May-09 |
697 |
444 |
1,141 |
|
Jun-09 |
748 |
489 |
1,237 |
|
Jul-09 |
753 |
503 |
1,256 |
|
Aug-09 |
766 |
511 |
1,277 |
|
Sep-09 |
761 |
502 |
1,263 |
|
Oct-09 |
721 |
462 |
1,183 |
|
Thomas Street |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
233 |
137 |
370 |
|
Dec-08 |
374 |
218 |
592 |
|
Jan-09 |
410 |
260 |
670 |
|
Feb-09 |
423 |
273 |
696 |
|
Mar-09 |
455 |
273 |
728 |
|
Apr-09 |
465 |
276 |
741 |
|
May-09 |
495 |
296 |
791 |
|
Jun-09 |
544 |
333 |
877 |
|
Jul-09 |
532 |
322 |
854 |
|
Aug-09 |
568 |
321 |
889 |
|
Sep-09 |
508 |
299 |
807 |
|
Oct-09 |
478 |
276 |
754 |
|
Apollo House (Tara Street) |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
104 |
44 |
148 |
|
Dec-08 |
198 |
88 |
286 |
|
Jan-09 |
215 |
98 |
313 |
|
Feb-09 |
219 |
112 |
331 |
|
Mar-09 |
232 |
120 |
352 |
|
Apr-09 |
261 |
123 |
384 |
|
May-09 |
256 |
129 |
385 |
|
Jun-09 |
263 |
133 |
396 |
|
Jul-09 |
278 |
156 |
434 |
|
Aug-09 |
303 |
178 |
481 |
|
Sep-09 |
298 |
165 |
463 |
|
Oct-09 |
287 |
156 |
443 |
|
Ballymun |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
276 |
142 |
418 |
|
Dec-08 |
404 |
206 |
610 |
|
Jan-09 |
430 |
220 |
650 |
|
Feb-09 |
459 |
242 |
701 |
|
Mar-09 |
505 |
261 |
766 |
|
Apr-09 |
515 |
272 |
787 |
|
May-09 |
515 |
290 |
805 |
|
Jun-09 |
556 |
302 |
858 |
|
Jul-09 |
544 |
298 |
842 |
|
Aug-09 |
538 |
308 |
846 |
|
Sep-09 |
524 |
297 |
821 |
|
Oct-09 |
537 |
296 |
833 |
|
Kilbarrack |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
254 |
85 |
339 |
|
Dec-08 |
499 |
196 |
695 |
|
Jan-09 |
563 |
222 |
785 |
|
Feb-09 |
612 |
257 |
869 |
|
Mar-09 |
672 |
264 |
936 |
|
Apr-09 |
682 |
293 |
975 |
|
May-09 |
695 |
307 |
1,002 |
|
Jun-09 |
755 |
350 |
1,105 |
|
Jul-09 |
784 |
370 |
1,154 |
|
Aug-09 |
780 |
379 |
1,159 |
|
Sep-09 |
726 |
340 |
1,066 |
|
Oct-09 |
716 |
307 |
1,023 |
|
Ballyfermot |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
258 |
119 |
377 |
|
Dec-08 |
492 |
194 |
686 |
|
Jan-09 |
534 |
225 |
759 |
|
Feb-09 |
586 |
248 |
834 |
|
Mar-09 |
625 |
256 |
881 |
|
Apr-09 |
639 |
267 |
906 |
|
May-09 |
653 |
282 |
935 |
|
Jun-09 |
682 |
313 |
995 |
|
Jul-09 |
693 |
332 |
1,025 |
|
Aug-09 |
660 |
331 |
991 |
|
Sep-09 |
651 |
321 |
972 |
|
Oct-09 |
639 |
279 |
918 |
|
Finglas |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
387 |
180 |
567 |
|
Dec-08 |
672 |
328 |
1,000 |
|
Jan-09 |
764 |
374 |
1,138 |
|
Feb-09 |
820 |
409 |
1,229 |
|
Mar-09 |
817 |
401 |
1,218 |
|
Apr-09 |
830 |
409 |
1,239 |
|
May-09 |
822 |
430 |
1,252 |
|
Jun-09 |
894 |
478 |
1,372 |
|
Jul-09 |
918 |
498 |
1,416 |
|
Aug-09 |
944 |
523 |
1,467 |
|
Sep-09 |
921 |
493 |
1,414 |
|
Oct-09 |
854 |
431 |
1,285 |
|
Bishop Square |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
360 |
170 |
530 |
|
Dec-08 |
699 |
360 |
1,059 |
|
Jan-09 |
782 |
411 |
1,193 |
|
Feb-09 |
864 |
445 |
1,309 |
|
Mar-09 |
919 |
452 |
1,371 |
|
Apr-09 |
897 |
434 |
1,331 |
|
May-09 |
925 |
469 |
1,394 |
|
Jun-09 |
938 |
530 |
1,468 |
|
Jul-09 |
976 |
581 |
1,557 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,035 |
650 |
1,685 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,032 |
659 |
1,691 |
|
Oct-09 |
988 |
624 |
1,612 |
|
Blanchardstown |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
437 |
259 |
696 |
|
Dec-08 |
828 |
458 |
1,286 |
|
Jan-09 |
928 |
511 |
1,439 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,004 |
590 |
1,594 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,073 |
596 |
1,669 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,096 |
633 |
1,729 |
|
May-09 |
1,094 |
629 |
1,723 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,141 |
668 |
1,809 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,157 |
698 |
1,855 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,140 |
703 |
1,843 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,115 |
677 |
1,792 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,037 |
645 |
1,682 |
|
Coolock |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
323 |
178 |
501 |
|
Dec-08 |
647 |
295 |
942 |
|
Jan-09 |
723 |
368 |
1,091 |
|
Feb-09 |
756 |
396 |
1,152 |
|
Mar-09 |
797 |
415 |
1,212 |
|
Apr-09 |
798 |
412 |
1,210 |
|
May-09 |
815 |
426 |
1,241 |
|
Jun-09 |
853 |
455 |
1,308 |
|
Jul-09 |
871 |
463 |
1,334 |
|
Aug-09 |
865 |
472 |
1,337 |
|
Sep-09 |
850 |
444 |
1,294 |
|
Oct-09 |
821 |
403 |
1,224 |
|
Kings Inn Street 2 |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Dec-08 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Jan-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Feb-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Mar-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Apr-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
May-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Jun-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Jul-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Aug-09 |
981 |
653 |
1,634 |
|
Sep-09 |
905 |
591 |
1,496 |
|
Oct-09 |
871 |
556 |
1,427 |
|
Tallaght |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
644 |
309 |
953 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,080 |
516 |
1,596 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,190 |
577 |
1,767 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,326 |
648 |
1,974 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,384 |
673 |
2,057 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,440 |
713 |
2,153 |
|
May-09 |
1,459 |
791 |
2,250 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,579 |
875 |
2,454 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,641 |
918 |
2,559 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,637 |
926 |
2,563 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,554 |
886 |
2,440 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,543 |
854 |
2,397 |
|
Clondalkin |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
597 |
320 |
917 |
|
Dec-08 |
1,083 |
561 |
1,644 |
|
Jan-09 |
1,243 |
631 |
1,874 |
|
Feb-09 |
1,313 |
674 |
1,987 |
|
Mar-09 |
1,386 |
696 |
2,082 |
|
Apr-09 |
1,423 |
725 |
2,148 |
|
May-09 |
1,410 |
770 |
2,180 |
|
Jun-09 |
1,494 |
816 |
2,310 |
|
Jul-09 |
1,518 |
863 |
2,381 |
|
Aug-09 |
1,487 |
868 |
2,355 |
|
Sep-09 |
1,411 |
854 |
2,265 |
|
Oct-09 |
1,318 |
796 |
2,114 |
|
Nutgrove (Rathfarnham) |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
163 |
77 |
240 |
|
Dec-08 |
396 |
171 |
567 |
|
Jan-09 |
450 |
212 |
662 |
|
Feb-09 |
499 |
221 |
720 |
|
Mar-09 |
528 |
241 |
769 |
|
Apr-09 |
505 |
248 |
753 |
|
May-09 |
529 |
254 |
783 |
|
Jun-09 |
601 |
318 |
919 |
|
Jul-09 |
612 |
338 |
950 |
|
Aug-09 |
611 |
341 |
952 |
|
Sep-09 |
582 |
302 |
884 |
|
Oct-09 |
511 |
237 |
748 |
|
Balbriggan |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
143 |
80 |
223 |
|
Dec-08 |
339 |
176 |
515 |
|
Jan-09 |
397 |
204 |
601 |
|
Feb-09 |
446 |
219 |
665 |
|
Mar-09 |
494 |
234 |
728 |
|
Apr-09 |
498 |
238 |
736 |
|
May-09 |
511 |
244 |
755 |
|
Jun-09 |
550 |
280 |
830 |
|
Jul-09 |
557 |
304 |
861 |
|
Aug-09 |
567 |
329 |
896 |
|
Sep-09 |
562 |
329 |
891 |
|
Oct-09 |
545 |
304 |
849 |
|
Swords 2 |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Dec-08 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Jan-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Feb-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Mar-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Apr-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
May-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Jun-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Jul-09 |
.. |
.. |
.. |
|
Aug-09 |
533 |
341 |
874 |
|
Sep-09 |
485 |
321 |
806 |
|
Oct-09 |
474 |
285 |
759 |
|
Dún Laoghaire |
|||
|
Dec-07 |
211 |
72 |
283 |
|
Dec-08 |
476 |
189 |
665 |
|
Jan-09 |
572 |
249 |
821 |
|
Feb-09 |
632 |
268 |
900 |
|
Mar-09 |
673 |
303 |
976 |
|
Apr-09 |
681 |
349 |
1,030 |
|
May-09 |
698 |
391 |
1,089 |
|
Jun-09 |
777 |
447 |
1,224 |
|
Jul-09 |
811 |
480 |
1,291 |
|
Aug-09 |
821 |
479 |
1,300 |
|
Sep-09 |
824 |
470 |
1,294 |
|
Oct-09 |
731 |
381 |
1,112 |
1October 2009 contains revisions which have not been applied to County and Local Office data from October 2008 to September 2009.
2Cumberland Street Local Office has closed with effect from July 2009. Figures previously provided for the Cumberland Street Local Office are now presented in two Local Offices King’s Inns Street and Swords with effect from July 2009.
Cumberland Street figures from April 2006 to July 2009 included those persons that had been transferred to the Swords Local Office.
99 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Taoiseach the relevant population figures for primary and secondary students according to the latest census figures for an area (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42591/09]
The following table provides data from the 2006 Census of Population. The most detail geographical area breakdown available is the Electoral Division.
|
District Electoral Division |
4-12 years |
13-19 years |
Total |
|
Athy Town |
1,090 |
510 |
1,600 |
|
001 Athy East Urban |
474 |
256 |
730 |
|
002 Athy West Urban |
414 |
163 |
577 |
|
004 Athy Rural (Part in R.D.) |
202 |
91 |
293 |
|
Athy No. 1 Rural area |
2,725 |
1,343 |
4,068 |
|
004 Athy Rural (Part in R.D.) |
85 |
46 |
131 |
|
005 Ballaghmoon |
34 |
17 |
51 |
|
006 Ballitore |
125 |
60 |
185 |
|
007 Ballybrackan |
47 |
37 |
84 |
|
008 Ballyshannon |
345 |
121 |
466 |
|
009 Belan |
17 |
16 |
33 |
|
010 Bert |
14 |
12 |
26 |
|
011 Burtown |
33 |
23 |
56 |
|
012 Carrigeen |
75 |
41 |
116 |
|
013 Castledermot |
157 |
106 |
263 |
|
014 Churchtown |
59 |
36 |
95 |
|
015 Dunmanoge |
69 |
45 |
114 |
|
016 Fontstown |
63 |
34 |
97 |
|
017 Graney |
92 |
62 |
154 |
|
018 Grangemellon |
82 |
37 |
119 |
|
019 Harristown |
57 |
25 |
82 |
|
020 Inchaquire |
17 |
17 |
34 |
|
021 Johnstown |
19 |
13 |
32 |
|
022 Kilberry |
68 |
42 |
110 |
|
023 Kildangan |
86 |
23 |
109 |
|
024 Kilkea |
35 |
15 |
50 |
|
025 Kilrush |
102 |
34 |
136 |
|
026 Lackagh |
103 |
47 |
150 |
|
027 Monasterevin |
484 |
253 |
737 |
|
028 Moone |
79 |
28 |
107 |
|
029 Narraghmore |
118 |
41 |
159 |
|
030 Nurney |
164 |
66 |
230 |
|
031 Quinsborough |
18 |
12 |
30 |
|
032 Skerries |
78 |
34 |
112 |
100 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Taoiseach if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42705/09]
My Department has not entered into any leasing arrangements for properties.
101 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Taoiseach the work carried out to date by the clearing house group announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; the number of times this group has met to date in 2009; and when a final report be published. [43158/09]
The Clearing House Group, which operates under the aegis of my Department has taken, since 1987, a lead role in the development of policy in relation to the international financial services industry. The group identifies and considers issues of major concern to the long-term development of the industry. The competitiveness and international standing of the international financial services industry was identified as a particular priority of the work of the Clearing House Group in the document "Building Ireland's Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal".
The Clearing House Group has met on five occasions to date in 2009, and continues to work towards achieving the objectives as set out in the Smart Economy document.
102 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Taoiseach the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43419/09]
In 2008, the total expenditure from my Department's Vote on translation to Irish was €55,591 and in 2009 this figure was €46,151.
In keeping with the Government's policy to minimise costs in the public sector, it is the practice in my Department to maintain and publish documentation electronically where possible and to make these publications available on the Department's website. Printing costs incurred by my Department amounted to €256,969 in 2008 and €70,480 in 2009. This includes publications where the Department is required to publish the text in the Irish language to meet obligations under the Official Languages Act 2003. However, as it is usual to print the Irish and English text within the same cover, it is not possible to separately identify the cost of printing publications in Irish.
103 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the support frameworks that have been put in place for workers affected by the slowdown in the construction industry since December 2008 as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43117/09]
The Government is well aware of the affect that the economic downturn has had on the construction sector and those working in it and has therefore provided a range of labour force measures that will support this particular sector in these difficult times.
As part of the strategy to tackle unemployment, FÁS has put in place measures to double the capacity to cater for the rise in referrals from the Department of Social and Family Affairs. The implementation of these measures has increased the annual referral capacity to 147,000 persons in 2009. Additionally, this year the Tánaiste has almost doubled the number of training and activation work experience places provided by FÁS to over 130,000, which will allow for the retraining and upskilling for amongst others, those individuals previously employed in the construction sector.
As a way of targeting construction workers, FÁS offers green energy and environmental training programmes, which are aimed primarily at redundant construction workers. These programmes are directed towards emerging fields such as renewable energy and sustainable energy, and aim to provide construction workers with the necessary skills in these growth areas.
In relation to redundant apprentices, significant resources have been made available to ensure that combined with existing initiatives, approximately 4,000 redundant apprentices will be able to progress their apprenticeships or receive training. Redundant apprentices may also avail of existing specific skills training courses, which are trade related to enhance their employable skills. They may also avail of the range of trade related night courses, which are available in FÁS training centres.
104 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if processes have been put in place since December 2008 to ensure the publication of Government responses to recommendations in Competition Authority reports are published within nine months as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43119/09]
In the context of the commitment contained in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy document to “publish a whole-of-government response to recommendations contained in Competition Authority reports within nine months of their publication”, a prioritised list of Competition Authority recommendations, based on their impact on competitiveness, was drawn up by my Department earlier this year. Recommendations contained in the National Competitiveness Council’s Annual Competitiveness Report and various OECD reports also contributed to this list of recommendations.
I have received the views of the relevant Government Ministers on how these recommendations, in so far as they relate to their departments, can be progressed and I intend to bring an update to Government shortly on the progress achieved to date.
105 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if additional staff from her Department have been deployed since December 2008 to increase job search supports capacity under the national employment action plan; if additional staff within FÁS have similarly been redeployed as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; and if direct referrals to local employment services have been established. [43122/09]
In response to the economic downturn and the resulting rapid rise in unemployment, FÁS has, within its existing staff allocation, increased the number of staff in front line Employment Services. The totality of people interviewed has expanded considerably and it was essential that FÁS provided enough front-line staff in the National Employment Service to provide for a major increase in NEAP referrals from the Department of Social and Family Affairs in 2009. This was achieved largely through the voluntary redeployment of staff from other areas of FÁS to Employment Services. Appropriate training and development has been arranged for these staff to equip them for their new responsibilities.
In addition FÁS has agreed with the Local Employment Service that it will provide a large-scale direct referral capacity for NEAP clients. This process commenced early in 2009 and there is currently a capacity for approximately 38,000 NEAP interview slots per year throughout the LES network. This brings the total FÁS/LES NEAP capacity to 147,000.
106 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the results of pilot schemes announced in December 2008 to target young people who become unemployed in Clondalkin and Letterkenny; and if a similar programme will be implemented nationwide as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43124/09]
An interim review of the pilot scheme entitled Genesis has been completed.
The review recommended that consideration be given to the re-introduction of a Work Placement Programme, which was launched in May of this year.
Following a review of the Work Placement Programme a broader revised programme was launched this month designed to improve the accessibility of the programme by amending its eligibility criteria for both unemployed participants and firms providing placements.
A final evaluation on the Genesis pilot is currently underway to follow up with clients involved in the pilot and to assess outcomes in advance of any decision to roll out such an approach nationally.
107 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps the national training fund has taken since December 2008 to provide support for a targeted up-skilling programme to address identified skills gaps as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report. [43136/09]
The National Training Fund is used as a dedicated fund to support the training and upskilling of those in employment and those who wish to take up employment. It is also used as a fund for research to provide information on existing and likely future skills requirements of the economy.
In 2009 the National Training Fund is investing a total of €381.4 million in training and upskilling. This includes financial support for the Finuas Training Networks Programme launched by the Tánaiste in February 2009 and delivered through Skillnets Limited to provide targeted specialist training to those working in the international financial services industry as identified in the Smart Economy Report. It also includes support to the work of the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGFSN), which advises the Government on current and future skills needs of the economy and on other labour market issues that impact on Ireland's enterprise and employment growth.
108 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the way and when the commercialisation culture outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report will be implemented; and the steps taken in its implementation since December 2008. [43143/09]
In December 2008, the Government reinforced the importance of the investment in the commercialisation of publicly funded research in ’Building Ireland’s Smart Economy — A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal’, and tasked enterprise agencies Enterprise Ireland, IDA and Science Foundation Ireland, with the job of instilling a commercialisation culture in the enterprise sector and third-level institutions. It is essential that Ireland’s research community is motivated and well resourced to deliver the cutting-edge products and services that can be integrated into existing companies to give them competitive advantage, or form the basis of a new company, thereby creating exports and employment.
In 2009 Enterprise Ireland launched the Business Partners Programme, a pilot scheme for engaging entrepreneurs with the research commercialisation projects in the Irish research system that are close to being ready for commercialisation. The purpose of the scheme is to bring selected research commercialisation projects to the point where they are "spin out", or company, "start up ready". The scheme is providing the Enterprise Ireland commercialisation activities with a novel key resource in driving increased delivery on the targets for High Potential Start-Up companies from state funded research.
Enterprise Ireland's communications strategy for 2009 included a number of events and publications designed to motivate academic researchers to commercialise their research and to increase public awareness of the economic and societal benefits of the commercialisation of academic research, from commercialisation forums to new commercialisation web and "bloging" initiatives to research technology showcases where researchers displayed their technology to industry. The evidence is that this message is being heard. In a survey of third level researchers conducted in October 2009 78% of respondents stated that they would now like to commercialise their research; this shows an increase of 17% from 2008.
To date over 100 companies have been spun out from funded research in the third level system. These companies have a combined annual turnover of €160 million and €13 7 million in exports and employ over 1000 people. In 2009 Science Foundation Ireland, Enterprise Ireland and IDA developed programmes and supports to further drive the commercial return on the State's research investment through direct funding and advice to researchers to commercialise their research and supports to institutions to help build the commercialisation system.
In early 2009 Science Foundation Ireland set as itself a strategy to significantly enhance its focus on the relationship between scientific research and the current and future competitiveness of Irish industry. To this end SFI has set targets for collaborating with enterprise, generation of spin out companies, production of high quality research output and personnel. Some examples of the actions taken to date to assist with the commercialisation culture are:
Enterprise Ireland and Science Foundation Ireland have been working together to realise the commercial potential arising from SFI funded programmes. In 2009 an initiative focused on the commercialisation of research funded under the Centres for Science, Engineering and Technology (CSET) programme aims to accelerate the realisation of national economic benefits from the CSET programme through active commercialisation of research outputs.
In the July 2009 call for proposals for the Energy SRC Programme there is a requirement to ensure that industry shares in the cost of the investment
SFI now carries out an annual census of outputs and impacts which shows that (in 2008) SFI funded projects have collaborations with 311 companies, 170 of which are multinational companies, 108 are small/medium enterprises as well as and 33 other companies.
a Head of Industry Research Development has been appointed by SFI to ensure that prospects for industry-academic collaboration and commercialisation of research opportunities are realised;
Enterprise Ireland offers a suite of supports to academics to commercialise their research and supports to institutions to help build the commercialisation system. These include supports for effective Technology Transfer Offices in Universities, commercially relevant research centres in Institutes of Technology and Campus Incubation facilities to support new technology companies in their formative years. This programme to realise the commercial potential of Ireland’s research community is supported in 2009 by a projected level of investment of €36 million. To date in 2009 the Enterprise Ireland supported Technology Transfer Offices facilitated the creation of 20 start-up companies, 339 invention disclosures, 97 priority patents filed and 47 technology licence transfers between companies.
Further, in an effort to instil appropriate attitudes from the start, my Department funds the Discover Science and Engineering programme to encourage more students to take up careers in the physical sciences and in engineering. Through programmes of support for the science curriculum at primary and second levels, the Discover Science and Engineering programme seeks to encourage students to take an interest in science and engineering and subsequently to study those subjects at third and fourth level and in time become the entrepreneurs of the future.
109 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when the action plan for improving trade, investment and tourism links with new markets announced in December 2008 in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report will be published; the outcome of the review of diplomatic and consular missions simultaneously announced; and the changes consequently made to the allocation of resources. [43147/09]
My Department is currently working with the relevant Departments and key agencies on the preparation of an action plan for improving trade, investment and tourism links with new fast developing markets as mandated in the report on Building Ireland's Smart Economy.
The action plan will be a focused, practical and strategic plan that builds on and, most importantly, integrates all of the ongoing work to review and revise existing trade, investment and tourism strategies. In addition to new and emerging markets the action plan will also focus on our key markets for trade, investment and tourism, namely the UK, the Eurozone and the US.
The action plan will build on the points set out in the Smart Economy Framework, as well as on the relevant recommendations from the Farmleigh Forum. It is not possible at this stage to give an exact date for anticipated completion of this work and publication of the plan, although significant progress will have been made by the end of the year, with an expected final draft to be presented to the Cabinet Committee on Economic Renewal very early in the new year.
With regard to the review of Ireland's network of Missions abroad, this is the responsibility of my colleague, the Minister for Foreign Affairs. I understand that this review is ongoing and will ensure that the Missions are operating at an optimum level of efficiency, are delivering tangible services and outcomes for the benefit of Ireland and its citizens and that resources are aligned with our strategic objectives.
This review is all the more important in the light of current budgetary pressures. In carrying out the review, full account is being taken of both the operational and reputational costs to the State and assessing the potential financial implications of either Embassy openings or closures.
The Government's objective, to the greatest extent possible and within the limits of available resources, is to maintain the capability of Ireland's diplomatic and Enterprise Development Agency network overseas, in order to promote our key objectives abroad, particularly support for our economic recovery.
110 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent of bilateral trade between Ireland and Cuba; the categories involved; and if she will make a statement on the matter relevant to each of the past five years. [43168/09]
Details of Ireland's trade with Cuba for the period 2004 to 2008 and also for the first seven months of this year, are set out in the following table.
During this period, the main category of exports was ‘Particle Board, MDF and other Wood Manufactures', followed by ‘Spirits/Whiskey, Beer/Cider & other Beverages'. For January-July 2009, exports of ‘Medical and Pharmaceutical products' were a new and significant third placed category, accounting for 16% of the total. The dominant import over the years was ‘Tobacco & tobacco manufactures'.
|
Year |
Exports (€000) |
Imports (€000) |
Trade Balance (€000) |
||
|
2004 |
779 |
502 |
277 |
||
|
2005 |
678 |
-13% |
308 |
-39% |
370 |
|
2006 |
372 |
-45% |
347 |
13% |
25 |
|
2007 |
609 |
64% |
325 |
-6% |
284 |
|
2008 |
731 |
20% |
237 |
-27% |
494 |
|
Jan-July 08 |
169 |
196 |
-27 |
||
|
Jan-July 09 |
619 |
266% |
64 |
-67% |
555 |
111 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the new eligibility criteria for the scheme run by FÁS in respect of unemployed young people and recently qualified graduates; the way in which a person may apply for this scheme; the way in which companies who are interested in employing young people can become involved in the scheme; if a publicity campaign has commenced to ensure sufficient employers sign up to meet demand; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42535/09]
The Work Placement Programme provides 2,000 six-month work experience places to individuals who are unemployed, including graduates and young people.
Following a comprehensive review of the Work Placement Programme the Tánaiste and Minister Hanafin recently announced revised criteria aimed at increasing the accessibility of the Programme to unemployed participants and to firms willing to provide places. The revised criteria will come into effect from the 1st December and the key changes are the following: § The duration of the work placement has been increased to a maximum of 9 months.
Recipients of most social welfare payments, including Job Seekers' Allowance and Job Seekers' Benefit, will now be eligible to apply. Unemployed graduates who are not receiving a social welfare payment will also now be eligible to apply.
2009 graduates are now also eligible to apply.
The period, for which participants have to be in receipt of a social welfare payment in order to be eligible, has been reduced from six months to three months.
The Programme will be open to all sectors of the economy including, the private sector, the public sector and the community/voluntary sector.
The requirement for a firm to have at least ten employees has been removed.
Previously firms could only participate if they did not have redundancies in the previous six months. This constraint has been reduced to three months.
Individuals interested in the programme need only to visit their local FÁS office, who will check their eligibility and register their interest in the programme. They are then provided with contact details of Providers to apply for any placements in which they have an interest. They will also be notified of any new placements that arise that may suit their skills set.
Prospective Providers, can download an application form and e-mail it to FÁS or they can ring 1800 611 116 to request that a form be posted to them.
FÁS has just completed a promotional campaign on regional radio and newspapers to promote the Work Placement Programme and advertisements for the Programme have also been placed in several Business Magazine titles that are due to be published this month.
112 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42567/09]
My Department does not provide direct funding or grants to businesses but provides funding to a number of State Agencies, including the County and City Enterprise Boards, Enterprise Ireland and FÁS, through whom assistance is delivered directly to businesses.
The 35 County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) provide support for small businesses with 10 employees or fewer (micro-enterprises) in the start-up and extension phases, to promote and develop indigenous micro-enterprise potential and to stimulate economic activity and entrepreneurship at local level.
Subject to certain eligibility criteria new and developing enterprises may qualify for financial support from the CEBs. In addition, the CEBs deliver a range of non-financial supports to improve management capability development within micro-enterprises designed to help new and existing enterprises to operate effectively and efficiently so as to last and grow. Priority is given to projects in the manufacturing and internationally traded services sectors. It is considered inappropriate to support other areas such as retail enterprises, personal services (e.g. hairdressers, gardeners, etc), professional services (accountants, solicitors, etc), construction, as it is considered that these enterprises generally give rise to unacceptable deadweight (where projects would have proceeded anyway) and/or displacement (where the projects simply displace business from other players in the market) concerns.
As detailed above, not all projects fall within the CEB eligibility criteria for grant assistance, however, in order to more fully explore the range of options that may be available to them the company are advised to contact their local CEB to discuss their business needs with the relevant staff of the Board. Contact details for individual CEBs can be found by accessing the following website: www.enterpriseboards.ie.
113 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a redundancy payment will issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42654/09]
I understand that the individual in question has obtained a positive determination in relation to his redundancy entitlement from the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT). It is therefore possible for my Department to process the redundancy lump sum claim and I understand that payment is expected to issue in this case within the next two weeks.
114 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the amount granted to a college (details supplied) in County Dublin for each of the past five years by FÁS or any other agency under her remit; the amount granted for each course including student allowances; the title of each course; the number of students taking part in each course; the other supports granted to this college; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42660/09]
The following tables set out the information requested by the Deputy that is readily available.
FÁS pay for training for people with disability on a per capita fee basis. The current fee payable is €16,256 per capita per annum.
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€ |
|
|
2008 |
4,072,919 |
|
2007 |
3,869,340 |
|
2006 |
3,282,697 |
|
2005 |
3,263,984 |
|
2004 |
3,014,794 |
|
Total |
17,503,734 |
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€m |
|
|
2008 |
3,064,824 |
|
2007 |
2,915,792 |
|
2006 |
2,560,093 |
|
2005 |
2,329,420 |
|
2004 |
2,096,746 |
|
Total |
12,966,875 |
|
No |
Course Title |
Number Of Beneficiaries (Whole Time Equivalent) |
||||
|
2008 |
2007 |
2006 |
2005 |
2004 |
||
|
1 |
College Start |
54 |
58 |
58 |
63 |
66 |
|
2 |
Foundation Training |
59 |
57 |
55 |
57 |
58 |
|
3 |
Fastrack to Employment |
37 |
22 |
5 |
*0 |
*0 |
|
4 |
Computer Skills and Technology |
4 |
12 |
25 |
18 |
14 |
|
5 |
Architecture & CAD |
24 |
19 |
18 |
22 |
27 |
|
6 |
Art Link |
27 |
31 |
29 |
30 |
30 |
|
7 |
Accommodations Services |
27 |
23 |
26 |
22 |
19 |
|
8 |
Photography |
29 |
22 |
23 |
20 |
24 |
|
9 |
Graphic Design with Digital |
29 |
21 |
27 |
35 |
37 |
|
10 |
Performing Arts |
25 |
26 |
24 |
22 |
18 |
|
11 |
Business Studies — Finance |
39 |
41 |
27 |
32 |
35 |
|
12 |
Business Studies — Secretarial |
68 |
43 |
47 |
50 |
43 |
|
13 |
IT and Computer Maintenance |
29 |
25 |
29 |
23 |
25 |
|
14 |
Computer Programming |
28 |
30 |
30 |
25 |
29 |
|
15 |
Horticulture |
24 |
24 |
24 |
23 |
20 |
|
16 |
Cookery Skills |
23 |
27 |
20 |
29 |
21 |
|
Total |
526 |
481 |
467 |
471 |
466 |
Other supports granted to the college
Other FÁS involvement in Roslyn Park College is through the FÁS Community Employment — Railway Union Scheme. This Scheme has a number of CE workers providing Classroom Assistant Services.
No funding has been granted by any other agency under this Department's remit to Roslyn Park College in County Dublin over the past five years.
115 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she will itemise the number of buildings that her Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42698/09]
With the exception of a building in Shannon occupied by the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA), none of the buildings and premises occupied by my Department and the 8 Offices of my Department are rented or leased by the Department. In general, all buildings and premises occupied by my Department and its Offices are provided by the Office of Public Works (OPW) without any cost to the Department, in many of those cases the buildings/ premises are rented or leased by the OPW and the information requested by the Deputy could only be supplied by the OPW.
NERA's Shannon accommodation is held under a four-year licence agreement between the OPW and NERA on the one hand and Westpark Shannon Limited on the other. The licence fee amounts to €156.08 per square metre, subject to a maximum charge of €32,480 per annum (exclusive of VAT). The OPW will assume responsibility, with effect from 1 January 2010 for the payment of the licence fee costs. NERA has indicated that there are no plans for a review of this licence arrangement at this time. The licence agreement itself provides for a review every four years. The first review will take place in March 2013. NERA has also indicated that it is satisfied that it secured a very competitive rate when leasing its office accommodation in Shannon, in co-operation with the OPW, and that a review at this time is not justified.
116 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will support the case of a person (details supplied). [42881/09]
A key issue in respect of selection for redundancy is that the selection process must be seen to be fair and non-discriminatory. Should an individual feel that they have been unfairly dismissed by reason of unfair selection for redundancy, it is open to that individual to take a case to the Rights Commissioners or to the Employment Appeals Tribunal under the Unfair Dismissals Acts.
The Unfair Dismissals Acts, 1977 to 2007 generally apply to any employee who has 12 months continuous service with the employer. In the case of a complaint referred to a Rights Commissioner, the employer may object and in that event the matter will be heard by the Employment Appeals Tribunal. If the employee has any further queries in this regard, they may contact the National Employment Rights Authority on their Lo-call number 1890 80 80 90 or via their website at www.employmentrights.ie
IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland established a team to market the operation internationally through their overseas office network and received over 16 expressions of interest in the facility. The team contacted the companies to evaluate their level of interest in the operation and to encourage them to put forward investment proposals to take over all or part of the operation.
Also, SR Technics received over 30 expressions of interest in the operation and received five bids from interested parties for parts of the business and carried out their assessment on those bids. I understand that SR Technics considered that the bids received were well below their assessment of the market value of the assets.
Subsequently, SR Technics reached a provisional agreement with a bidder for the sale of the APU and Landing Gear assets. However the bidder planned to remove the assets from the country, which would have had a terminal effect on the continuation of an MRO business in Dublin.
Following my intervention, the decision was reversed by SR Technics. Subsequently, a bid from Dublin Aerospace Limited, an Irish based company, for the APU and Landing Gear assets was accepted.
On 2nd September, I announced the establishment of Dublin Aerospace Ltd — a new aviation maintenance provider at Dublin Airport which is planned to provide 226 jobs within five years with the support of the Government through Enterprise Ireland.
Dublin Aerospace aims to establish a best-in-class Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) facility at Dublin Airport, servicing APUs, Landing Gear, Base Maintenance and Training.
The Garage business unit of SR Technics has been taken over by the M50 Truck and Van Centre who were successful in securing the airside vehicle maintenance contract from SR Technics.
I understand that SR Technics will continue to operate the Line Maintenance contract for Aer Lingus until a suitable acceptable operator is agreed between both companies.
117 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the status of the draw down of funds from the European Globalisation Fund in relation to the redundancy of staff at a company (details supplied) in County Limerick; the amount drawn down to date in 2009; the remaining amount of funds available; the use to which the funds have been put to date; if a portion of the funds are being ring-fenced for retraining; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42898/09]
An application for co-funded assistance from the European Globalisation Adjustment Fund (EGF) towards the costs of a personalized package of occupational guidance, training, employment, entrepreneurship and educational measures for workers made redundant at the DELL plant in Raheen, Co. Limerick, and in ancillary enterprises, was made by my Department on 19 June 2009.
The EGF application has been approved by the European Commission and must also be approved by the European Council and the European Parliament before any monies are drawn down. A decision by both institutions is expected before the year end.
In the interim FÁS and other relevant bodies such as Enterprise Ireland, City and County Enterprise Boards and the local Vocational Education Committees continue to make their full range of employment, training, guidance and advisory services available to the redundant workers concerned.
118 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the funding provided by her Department or agencies under the remit of her Department to groups, organisation and businesses for the provision of continuous professional development programmes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42911/09]
Funding is allocated to groups, organizations or businesses, in respect of the provision of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programmes by my Department through a number of our enterprise and labour force development Agencies. However, in the time available since this Question was tabled my Department has not been able to collate all the information requested by the Deputy. I will forward to the Deputy the detailed information once my Department has compiled all the data.
119 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of persons on the short time training programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42912/09]
The short-time working training programme, is to provide training to 277 people on systematic short time for the days they are not working. The training will last for a year and individuals will retain their social welfare entitlements while on the programme.
The number of participants currently participating on the Short Time Working Week Training Programme is 134. I understand from FÁS that they are in the process of filling the remaining places.
120 Deputy George Lee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 138 of 21 October 2009, the dates this information was made publicly available for the data from the years 2000, 2002, 2004 and 2006; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42918/09]
I understand that the last five follow-up surveys on a representative sample of former participants on FÁS training and employment programmes carried out by the ESRI on behalf of FÁS, are all available for downloading via the FÁS website.
The details of each survey are indicated as follows.
|
Publication Date |
Dates of Survey |
Period of Data Surveyed |
|
November 2007 |
November 2006 – April 2007 |
June – September 2005 |
|
November 2005 |
November 2004 – March 2005 |
June – September 2003 |
|
November 2004 |
October – December 2003 |
June – September 2002 |
|
May 2003 |
October – December 2002 |
June – September 2001 |
|
May 2002 |
April – July 2001 |
January – March 2000 |
121 Deputy George Lee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 208 of 6 October 2008 and 77 of 13 October 2008, the reason the number of management staff in FÁS has risen ten times faster than the number of non-management staff between 1997 and 2008 in view of the fact that there was less work to be done as there was full employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42919/09]
122 Deputy George Lee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 208 of 6 October 2008 and 77 of 13 October 2008, the reason the pay bill for managers in FÁS has increased twice as fast as the pay bill for non-management staff from 1998 to 2008 in view of the fact that there was less work to be done as there was full employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42920/09]
123 Deputy George Lee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 208 of 6 October 2008 and 77 of 13 October 2008, the reason there was one manager for every 11 non-management staff in 1997 but there was one manager for every 6.8 non-management staff in 2008 in view of the fact that there was less work to be done as there was full employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42921/09]
124 Deputy George Lee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliament Question Nos. 208 of 6 October 2008 and 77 of 13 October 2008, the reason FÁS hired two and half additional managers for every additional employee at operational level delivering FÁS services from 1998 to 2008 in view of the fact that there was less work to be done as there was full employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42922/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 to 124, inclusive, together.
I understand that during the ten-year period referred to by the Deputy, 75% of the increase in management grades within FÁS occurred as a result of a one step increase from a senior staff grade to assistant manager as part of a major restructuring within the organisation.
FÁS management grades currently account for 12.8% of total staff and the cost must be seen in the context of the very wide responsibilities of the organisation. These responsibilities include:
Oversight of over 1300 community schemes involving over 24,000 people;
The operation of 70 Employment Services Offices assisting in excess of 150,000 unemployed people;
Providing over 120,000 training opportunities to unemployed people;
Providing training and other services to 22,000 apprentices;
Supporting a wide range of other services to disadvantaged people in our society.
By the end of 2009 management grades in FÁS will have reduced by over 10% overall and by 20% in the senior management grade from its peak.
The pay increases referred to by the Deputy were in line with national agreements and pay movements generally.
125 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive a decision on their redundancy claim from the social insurance fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42945/09]
My Department administers the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) in relation to redundancy matters on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. There are two types of payment made from the SIF — rebates to those employers who have paid statutory redundancy to eligible employees, and statutory lump sums to employees whose employers are insolvent and/or in receivership/liquidation.
I can confirm that my Department received an application for a statutory redundancy lump sum payment on 5 November, 2009 in respect of the person concerned which is awaiting processing.
Currently, the average time it takes to process rebate applications from employers filed on-line is 7 months while claims submitted by post are taking 8 months. The Redundancy Payments Section of my Department is currently processing applications filed on-line from April 2009 and those submitted by post from March 2009. In respect of lump sum payments paid directly to employees in instances where employers are unable to pay the statutory redundancy entitlements as in this case, the Section is, in general, processing claims dating from June 2009.
Given the unprecedented increase in Redundancy Payment claims lodged with my Department since late 2008 it has proved impossible to maintain the customer service targets that previously obtained. The scale of the challenge is evident from the statistics that show incoming redundancy claims for the first ten months of 2009 at 67,207. This figure exceeds the claims lodged for the full year 2008 (40,607) and 2008 was, of itself, an exceptional year as compared with earlier years when claims received were of the order of 25,000.
Efforts continue to be made by my Department to deliver more acceptable turnaround processing times for redundancy payments given the difficulties that this gives rise to for both individual employees and the business community. Measures already taken include:
the reassignment of 26.7 additional staff (full time equivalents) from other areas of the Department to the Redundancy Payments area since early 2009 with ongoing review of trends and demands. The current number of staff serving in the Redundancy Payments Section in terms of full time equivalents is 51.5 although the Section is currently carrying two vacant positions which are due to be filled;
the prioritisation of the Department's overtime budget towards staff in the Redundancy Payments Section to tackle the backlog outside normal hours;
the establishment of a special call handling facility to deal with the huge volume of telephone calls from people and businesses who are naturally concerned about their payments, using the facilities and cooperation of the National Employment Rights Authority (NERA). This centre has received an average of 12,500 calls per month this year with an estimated 60% relating to redundancy payments;
The provision of better quality information relating to current processing times on the Department's website;
Engagement with the Revenue Commissioners to facilitate the offset of redundancy rebate payments by employers against outstanding tax liabilities with the Revenue Commissioners.
The Tánaiste and I continue to monitor closely the impact of these changes against the continuing influx of redundancy claims and will consider further measures to deal with the situation should current measures prove to be inadequate.
126 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment further to Parliamentary Question No. 121 of 17 November 2009, if her Department has made payments of statutory redundancy entitlements to former employees of the company since June 2009 on the basis of the employer’s inability to pay; in the event that such payments have been made, the reason a former employee (details supplied) in County Wexford has received no redundancy payment but has been advised by her Department to take a case against their employer to the Employment Appeals Tribunal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43007/09]
In my earlier reply to the Deputy in this case in parliamentary question No. 121 of 17 November, 2009 it was pointed out that in all cases where the employer claims inability to pay the redundancy entitlements of employees, the Department requires the submission of supporting documentation to substantiate this claim. In the absence of this, the employee is advised by the Department to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal against the employer to seek a determination establishing the employee's right and entitlement to redundancy.
It is the case that at this point, a number of former employees of the company have been paid out their redundancy entitlements by my Department since June 2009 on the basis of determinations received from the Employment Appeals Tribunal. I understand that the individual, who is the subject of the Deputy's query, was advised by my Department to take a case to the EAT for a determination. However, this interaction with my Department crossed with the submission of the outstanding supporting documentation on behalf of the former employer. In this instance, there is no longer a need for the individual to pursue her case before the EAT and I confirm that payment of her claim will be made within the next one to two weeks.
127 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if continued funding support in 2010 will be provided for the local employment service administered under a forum (details supplied) in Dublin 13 with the support of FÁS and in view of the important career and work mentoring programmes run by the local employment service for the people of this area and district over many years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43011/09]
As Minister for Labour Affairs I do not have a role in the administration of individual cases. The administration of individual projects is a day-to-day matter for FÁS as part of its responsibility under the Labour Services Act 1987.
128 Deputy George Lee asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the eligibility criteria for a FÁS training courses as a health care assistant; if a person that has been abroad for more than six months must wait for three years to be eligible; if so, the reason for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43039/09]
I understand that in considering applications from those persons wishing to undertake FÁS-funded training schemes that involve access to children and/or vulnerable adults FÁS passes the details of all applicants to the Gardaí for vetting purposes.
Individuals who have lived outside the Island of Ireland for a period of 6 months or more within the last 3 years are not eligible for these programmes as there may be difficulty in obtaining Police Certificates from other jurisdictions, and where documentation is provided, such documents need to be validated. I understand that FÁS is currently reviewing this policy.
129 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment her plans to make Limerick and the mid-west the priority region for foreign direct investment into Ireland; will she make available a freefone number and provide clear information on the European Globalisation Fund for redundant workers eligible for EGF support; her plans to reverse her announcement that she will not be in a position to resource the recommendations of the interim mid-west jobs taskforce report including the recommendation to fast track Limerick regeneration; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43059/09]
The European Globalisation Fund application has been approved by the European Commission but has not yet received the required approval from the EU Council and the European Parliament. While such approval is imminent, the setting up of additional promotional and information services is not opportune at this point. However, all eligible redundant workers will be contacted directly as to the supports available under the Fund in due course.
Considerable work has already been done and structures are in place to ensure that EGF funding, when received by Ireland, can and will be effectively and efficiently spent on retraining, upskilling and providing educational and entrepreneurial supports for almost 2,500 redundant workers in the Mid West.
In the interim, FÁS and other relevant bodies such as Enterprise Ireland, City and County Enterprise Boards and the local Vocational Education Committees continue to make their full range of employment, training, guidance, information and advisory services available to the redundant workers concerned.
As regards the Mid-West Task Force, the wide range of recommendations in the report cover both local and national issues. In that respect, the Government has been responding to the economic downturn generally and has taken numerous initiatives, for example in relation to competitiveness and cost competitiveness, industrial employment stabilization, and employment activation measures. All of these measures have benefited regions affected by or threatened with job losses, including the Mid West region. Workers in the Mid West are the subject of a substantial package assembled by the Government in response to the redundancies arising from developments at Dell in Limerick and knock-on effects in other companies in the region.
In addition to the measures mentioned above, the state agencies IDA, Enterprise Ireland, Shannon Development and the County Enterprise Boards have redoubled their efforts to stimulate industrial employment in the Mid West region. For example, IDA is supporting eight industrial projects with a job potential of 1,073 which were announced by multinational companies in the Mid West in 2008 and 2009 and are now being brought into operation.
The measures mentioned above are outlined more fully in an initial response to its recommendations which I sent to the Task Force in late September. Given the wide range of recommendations in the report, I have also brought the report to the attention of my colleagues in Cabinet and it is currently being further considered in a number of other Government Departments as well as in my own Department. Ministers will, in the context of finalising their spending proposals for 2010, consider what further measures can be taken in response to the Task Force recommendations, including, as regards the Limerick Regeneration Programme.
I am very grateful for the work Mr. Brosnan and the other members of the Task Force have undertaken to date. I shall continue to keep the Task Force informed on the Government's work on matters covered in the interim recommendations. The Task Force has identified a number of issues for further study in its Final Report which I look forward to receiving early in 2010.
130 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if she has received pre-budget submissions from an organisation (details supplied); the action she plans to take to address the issue of this sector which is under threat due to the high cost base here and the fall off in tourism; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43092/09]
I have received a number of pre-budget submissions from various business organisations and representative groups, including the Restaurants Association of Ireland. I have noted the contents of all of these submissions and will give consideration to the proposals in the context of the pre-budget deliberations with my Government colleagues.
131 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the position regarding the merger of the Competition Authority with the National Consumer Agency as announced in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; when the merger will be expected to take place; and the costs involved. [43120/09]
Work is underway on the legislation required to implement the merger of the Competition Authority and the National Consumer Agency and I hope to publish this legislation during the course of 2010.
Whilst it is expected that the synergies arising from the merger of the two bodies will result in savings to the exchequer, particularly in areas such as shared services, it is not possible to precisely quantify the amount of savings involved at this stage. Similarly it is too early to quantify costs involved in the merger.
132 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the measures that have been implemented since December 2008 to reduce the administrative burdens on businesses; if the target of a 25% reduction by 2012 as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report is achievable; and the way in which this target will be quantified. [43121/09]
In March 2008 the Government set a 25% target to reduce administrative burdens on business arising from regulations by 2012. My Department is charged with leading the cross-Government drive to reduce administrative burdens on business. This is being done in a prioritised way, drawing from the experience of other Member States involved in administrative burden reduction. Departments are currently identifying the "information obligations", contained in their legislation that are likely to be causing the biggest burdens for business.
Once identified, these priority information obligations will be measured and following this simplification plans will be developed detailing how reductions may be carried out. Work is well advanced in my Department in the measurement of information obligations arising from Company Law, Employment Law and Health and Safety Law. 34 priority information obligations have been identified across these three areas. These were identified through consultation with business groups and experts, and by comparison with the results of the measurement undertaken in the United Kingdom. It is envisaged that the measurement of these will be complete by the end of 2009.
Other Departments are now listing and prioritising information contained in legislation under their responsibility. Measurement of priorities identified across Government will be carried out during 2010. Once this phase is concluded, simplification plans will be developed. Following this, simplification will be carried out during 2011 and 2012.
133 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of the 30,000 additional places in training for the unemployed and apprenticeships identified in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report that have come on-line since December 2008; and if there is scope for this number to be expanded in the future. [43125/09]
This year I have quadrupled the number of trainees who FÁS can support to over 104,000. This is significantly above the additional 30,000 training places for the unemployed identified in the report, Building Ireland's Smart Economy. The scale of this increase reflects the Government's commitment in responding to the present unemployment levels.
134 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a strategy to develop construction companies here to a scale where they can successfully compete for major contracts around the world has been established since December 2008; and if Enterprise Ireland provides a construction sector export service as envisaged in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report. [43132/09]
Enterprise Ireland reorganised its Department structure in 2008 to reflect a focus on construction. Expert appointments have been made in London, Dublin and two Gulf States to work with companies in the sector. Enterprise Ireland is working with the Royal Institute of Architects of Ireland (RIAI), the Association of Consulting Engineers of Ireland (ACEI), the Construction Industry Federation, and IBEC to develop services and supports to companies to enable them to succeed in entering these new markets.
In addition, there have also been construction specific missions led by Enterprise Ireland to Russia, Poland, Romania, Saudi and the Gulf States.
Arising from this activity, Enterprise Ireland has registered a significant increase in the number of new construction clients and has approved grant assistance to 100 clients from this sector to explore new markets. Many of Enterprise Ireland's clients have registered on the London Olympics tender site.
Construction clients have also benefited significantly from the recently introduced Enterprise Stabilisation Fund, which supports companies through immediate cash flow and financing difficulties and also supports them with market development costs. As part of the Enterprise Stabilisation Fund, a specific mechanism was established to support the construction professional services firms to fund their market development costs which are targeted in the main at markets in the Middle East and North Africa.
There are 30 construction clients on the Leadership for Growth initiative, which was successfully completed in October of this year. Their participation in the Leadership for Growth initiative has led to the formation of various formal and informal consortia to pursue business opportunities.
Enterprise Ireland has also approved funding for the Construction Technology Industry Association, which is preparing an application for industry-led research support.
135 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the steps taken since December 2008 to promote Ireland as the location of choice for high end international financial services as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43133/09]
The international financial services industry in Ireland contains more than 1,000 entities employing approximately 25,000. These entities comprise Irish and foreign-owned, single and multi-establishment companies, small managed activities and captive finance and insurance operations. The financial services portfolio of IDA is a sub-set of this overall industry and comprises 150 companies, employing approximately 20,000 people.
Following on from the financial turmoil which occurred in the later months of 2008, IDA undertook extensive marketing programmes in 2009 to bolster Ireland's image abroad and to ensure the key financial services centres of London, New York and Frankfurt were aware that Ireland was still an excellent location to house and run financial services operation.
Overall, IDA business in 2009 is holding up with a good mix in of quality prospects spread across the three areas of Banking, Insurance and Investment Management.
IDA has placed experienced people in the key markets to funnel through investment prospects from Europe, the US and elsewhere.
IDA's innovation-focused overseas marketing campaign launched in the US in October, designed to position Ireland as the pre-eminent location for business to invest in future innovation, is working well and will form the key component of our marketing programmes worldwide in 2010.
IDA is confident that employment in overseas financial services companies will remain at 20,000 as we enter the New Year. The Agency has a strong pipeline of new business propositions which it is expected will start to come on stream in the first half of 2010 thus ensuring that Ireland remains among the key locations for this sector in Europe.
136 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the increased support given to companies since December 2008 to undertake research, development and innovation activity, as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report. [43134/09]
Since December 2008, my Department has provided support through the enterprise development agencies, Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland and Science Foundation Ireland to enable and encourage companies to undertake Research, Development and Innovation activity in line with the Smart Economy Report.
Enterprise Ireland's programme of company R&D supports are designed to provide support for research, development and technological innovation relevant at all stages of company development, and support companies in their progress from an initial research project to higher level innovation and R&D activities. During 2009, funding for programmes of R&D activity in enterprise is projected to reach an investment level of €61m for companies, representing an increase of approximately 13% on 2008.
Enterprise Ireland also operates a range of supports to help companies to undertake collaborative research for the benefit of the company. This can range from initial small-scale collaborations to larger collaborative research projects involving groups of companies. These supports include the popular Innovation Vouchers which provides up to €5,000 for an individual item of research. To mid-November 2009 360 Innovation Vouchers have been redeemed — 75% more than in the year 2008. Further, Enterprise Ireland's Campus Incubation Programme also supports over 230 new companies located in Business Incubation Centres employing over 1,000 people. In addition, the Enterprise Ireland Community Enterprise Centres provides support and a location for 735 companies employing over 3,600 people.
A stream of Industry Led Research Programmes is also providing an increased level of support in 2009 with a budgeted €29m investment. Under this category of supports the new EI/IDA Competence Centre initiative allow industry groups to set a commercial and industry-led research agenda which will be delivered on through collaboration with academics in the higher education sector.
Complementary to the supports provided through Enterprise Ireland, my Department is also providing significant funding of €165.4m in 2009 to Science foundation Ireland which will enable it to support 29 world-class research centres across the Irish universities and Institutes of Technology. Currently over 125 leading multi-nationals and indigenous firms are formally connected to these SFI funded centres with many more having informal interactions with them indirectly supporting the employment of over 56,000 people in Ireland. The 29 SFI centres, comprise 10 Centres for Science, Engineering and Technology and 19 Strategic Research Clusters, act as magnets of attraction that significantly enhances IDA Ireland's capacity to win research-intensive investments to Ireland.
Growth in researcher capacity, coupled with the enhanced R&D tax credit, continues to be a major attraction for overseas investors, and is resulting in a series of significant industrialR&D investments in Ireland by IDA supported companies. Over 40% of IDA investments in 2008 were in area of Research, Development and Innovation and accounted for approx. €420 millions in total investment.
137 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the extent to which potential business opportunities in the area of digital trade facilitation have been explored since December 2008; the opportunities which have been identified; the progress of the enterprise promotion agencies in identifying further key sectors to target as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43135/09]
There is already a large number of data-intensive multinationals located in Ireland and a critical mass has been developed in this field. This is contributing to a broad pool of skills in the operations of digital centres as well as in the development of new technologies such as in energy reduction. The fact that Google, eBay, Facebook, PayPal and others have major activities here increases our profile internationally and gives further credibility to our quest to identify additional investors. Ireland therefore, is well placed to attract additional projects, including those in trade-related data. IDA Ireland's marketing activity in this regard is ongoing, and will be deployed to secure appropriate projects in this regard whenever possible.
Enterprise Ireland has been very active in assisting approximately 350 companies in the indigenous digital sector through ongoing funding support at Third Level, Start-up, established and scaling companies. Enterprise Ireland has labelled the sector TIME (Telecom Internet Media and Edutainment). The digital software sector represents one of the key areas for indigenous start-ups. Digital related HPSUs accounted for 50% of software start-ups. The emergence of a cluster of such companies during 2007-2008, offers the potential for addition export growth for 2010-2012 and has the potential to mirror the Telco/mobile growth during the mid-1990s.
Further research is being undertaken by Forfás on the opportunities in the field of electronic trade facilitation and a number of consultations have been undertaken in this regard. The degree to which Ireland could provide support to the international standards process, and the form such support could take, has been considered, as have the enterprise opportunities that might arise were Ireland to be seen as having a central role in this process. Such opportunities could be related to particular aspects of the trade process, and could perhaps arise in areas such as trade finance, authentication, tracking and monitoring, legal processes, etc. and the associated software and services provision. I understand that Forfás is currently examining the possibility of support for the establishment in Ireland of an international body or organisation in a field related to electronic trade facilitation, in order to signal Ireland as being active and enthusiastic in this field. I would be confident that this would encourage further development of business activities in related areas.
In April 2010, the Revenue Commissioners will co-host the World Customs Organisation's (WCO) IT Conference and Exhibition. The theme for this conference will be “Fusing data to deliver integrated business solutions”. This conference and exhibition will provide an ideal opportunity to showcase Ireland. By bringing worldwide attention to Ireland and its interest in this field, we will increase our international profile in the field of electronic trade facilitation, sensitise our own enterprises to opportunities and alert international companies to our capabilities.
It should also be noted that Forfás has completed a feasibility study of a Single Window trade facilitation system for Ireland, based on an assessment of regulatory costs. This study is being considered by the High Level Group on Business Regulation and should be published this year. More generally, work will continue to advance the eGovernment agenda, since this, as well as improving efficiencies, will also help to advance our international reputation in the application of ICTs.
My Department has made significant progress in a number of areas in the Smart Economy Framework since it was published last December. The Government has taken short-term action to support economic activity and jobs, but overall, our policies to improve competitiveness have a long-term strategic objective which will restore confidence to the business community so that we continue to have jobs for the future.
138 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if longer waiting times apply to over the age of 35 years who are out of work and wish to participate in training courses run by FÁS than to younger applicants; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43208/09]
Except for some training courses, which focus, for example, on early school leavers, the age of the applicant is not currently generally used as a criterion.
139 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43412/09]
The cost of translating documents into the Irish Language for my Department and the Offices of my Department for the period 1 January 2008 to date is approximately €119,060. The costs associated with the printing of those documents for the same period is €24,160. All these documents have been stored electronically and only printed where deemed necessary. The printing of documents by the Department and its Offices is kept under regular review.
140 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance if he will revise the remit of the Freedom of Information Acts 1997 and 2003 to cover the vocational education committees; the reason behind their omission since 1997; when regulations will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42538/09]
Work is well advanced in my Department on provision for the extension of Freedom of Information requirements to a range of public service organisations including Vocational Education Committees. The remaining practical issues are currently being pursued and once these are finalised I expect that I will be able to put final proposals to Government regarding the extension of the Act in 2010.
141 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42609/09]
The position is that under statutory pension schemes and pension schemes approved by the Revenue Commissioners, there is no liability to income tax in respect of retirement gratuities or lump sums paid to members of such schemes on retirement, provided the lump sum payments comply with the legislative requirements and Revenue rules in this area.
Any remaining pension funds paid, for example, by way of retirement annuity or other arrangement are taxable at the beneficiary's marginal income tax rate as are drawdowns from Approved Retirement Funds (ARFs), if the person concerned qualifies for this option in relation to his or her remaining pension funds.
142 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance when a review of the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concessions scheme 1994 will be complete; if he will make changes to ensure the scheme is more open and transparent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42757/09]
A special Interdepartmental Review Group reviewed the operation of the Disabled Drivers Scheme. It examined the current benefits, the qualifying medical criteria, the Exchequer costs, relationship with other schemes and similar schemes in other countries. The report also made a number of recommendations, both immediate and long-term, referring respectively to the operation of the appeals process and options for the future development of the scheme. The Group's report is published on my Department's website.
Some 13,000 people benefited under the scheme in 2008 at an overall estimated cost of €76 million. Any changes would have to be considered in the context of the annual Budget.
143 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance his plans for new housing schemes for home owners in significant negative equity and in financial trouble; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43029/09]
The Deputy will be aware of the Governments commitment under the Renewed Programme for Government to introduce new measures to protect families having difficulties with their home mortgage payments. Further work is ongoing on these issues with a view to early results.
This work will build on existing Government supported solutions for dealing with home owners with mortgage arrears including: application of the new Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears which applies to all mortgage lenders; support from the Mortgage Interest Scheme under the Supplementary Welfare Allowance system which is providing vital support for over 14,000 families with mortgage difficulties; and the provision of advice on debt management through the Money Advice Budgeting Service (MABS).
In addition the Government is also exercising its influence over those mortgage lenders covered by the Bank Guarantee Scheme including the recapitalised banks, Bank of Ireland and AIB with regard to the management of customers in arrears. I have already referred to the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears which includes provision for a 6 month moratorium for those who go into arrears and 12 months in the case of the recapitalised banks.
In relation to the position of mortgage holders generally, the Irish Bankers Federation published a Statement of Intent on 10 November which provides further reassurance to homeowners who find themselves genuinely unable to maintain mortgage repayments on their principal private residence. The Statement of Intent has been agreed and supported by all IBF members and is a welcome development. It is also welcome that the IBF Oversight Committee on the implementation of the Statement of Intent will include representation from the Money Advice Budgeting Service (MABS).
The Deputy will have noted from recent debates in this House that the number of repossessions of owner occupied homes in this country remains very low particularly in comparison with our UK neighbours and other jurisdictions. The total number of owner occupied homes repossessed through the execution of court orders by the covered institutions for the period January to end September 2009 amounts to 20.
144 Deputy George Lee asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that persons aged over 65 years do not automatically receive an exemption from DIRT tax; the cost to the Exchequer of processing DE1 forms to exempt persons aged over 65 years from paying DIRT tax; his plans to reduce the bureaucracy involved in exempting people aged 65 years from paying DIRT tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42532/09]
Persons aged over 65 are not automatically entitled to an exemption from Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT). Since April 2007, individuals are exempt from DIRT on their savings income provided:
1. the person or their spouse is aged 65 or over and
2. the person's total income in a year (including the savings income) is below the annual exemption limit — currently €20,000 in the case of a single person and €40,000 in the case of a married couple.
The exemption process works on a self assessment basis so that a person over 65 who is within the income limits completes the Form DE1 to have the account exempted from DIRT. In the absence of this form, a financial institution must deduct DIRT. However, where tax is deducted from the savings income of an individual who qualifies for the exemption but has not completed Form DE1, he or she will be entitled to a refund of that tax.
There is no direct cost to the Exchequer in processing Forms DE1 since they are not processed by the Revenue Commissioners but are submitted to, and retained by, the financial institution — whether bank, building society or credit union — with whom the person has a deposit account. That institution then applies the exemption to any interest paid on that deposit account.
I have no plans to change the current system as I consider it necessary in order to ensure that the exemption is applied correctly.
145 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the estimate of extra revenues from abolishing residential mortgage interest relief in 2010 to all new entrants. [42545/09]
The position is that the yield from the abolition of mortgage interest relief for residences purchased in 2010 would be dependant on a number of inter-related factors such as the level of house purchasing, house prices, availability of credit and prevailing interest rates in 2010. In the current circumstances, it is not possible to predict these factors accurately enough to provide a reliable potential yield figure.
146 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the estimated annual cost to the Exchequer of increasing the mortgage interest relief rate to 25%, 30% and 35% from 2010 for all first time buyers (details supplied). [42546/09]
It is assumed that the Deputy has in mind replacing the existing mortgage interest relief rates of 20%, 22.5% and 25% for first time buyers with rates of 25%, 30% and 35% respectively. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that sufficient data on mortgage interest relief is not available to enable a precise estimate to be provided of the cost to the Exchequer of the changes mentioned by the Deputy. However, based on projected 2009 claims and making certain assumptions about the levels of mortgage interest payments appropriate to first-time buyers in years one to seven of their mortgages, the full year cost is estimated to be of the order of €130m.
147 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance the extra tax revenues that would be gained by cutting the annual earnings cap for pensions tax relief from €150,000 to €130,00 or €100,000; the extra tax revenues that would be gained by cutting the standard fund threshold for pensions from €5.4 million to €3 million or €2 million; and the extra tax revenues that would be gained by limiting annual tax free employer pension contributions to employee contributions. [42547/09]
The annual earnings cap of €150,000 operates to limit the level of tax-relieved pension contributions made by an individual or on behalf of an employee in any one year. The annual earnings cap acts, in conjunction with age-related percentage limits of annual earnings, to put a ceiling on the annual amount of tax relief an individual taxpayer can obtain on pension contributions.
The full year yield to the Exchequer arising from reducing the earnings cap to the amounts mentioned in the question are estimated as follows:
|
Proposed Earnings Cap |
Estimated Exchequer Yield |
|
€ |
€m |
|
130,000 |
30 |
|
100,000 |
85 |
A breakdown of the data on pension contributions by reference to income levels is available only in respect of the tax relief for contributions to Retirement Annuity Contracts (RACs) and Personal Retirement Savings Accounts (PRSAs) to the extent that these contributions are included in the personal tax returns of taxpayers.
With regard to occupational pensions, (that is, schemes set up by the employer), the figures in respect of employee contributions are available only in aggregate form. Information on such contributions is not captured in such a way as to make it possible to associate contributions with individual income levels. For that reason the estimated yields to the Exchequer in respect of these contributions are extremely tentative.
The estimated yields are based on assuming that tax relief which would be affected by the changes mentioned in the question is currently allowed at the top income tax rate of 41% and at the maximum age-related percentage limit of earnings. The figures provided could therefore be regarded as the maximum Exchequer yield in respect of those taxpayers.
Employer contributions are generally not made to personal pension plans such as RACs and PRSAs. Data on employer contributions to occupational pension schemes are supplied annually to the Revenue Commissioners in aggregate form and not at the level of each individual employee. The employer contributions data are not therefore available in a way that would allow an adequate costing of the changes requested by the Deputy in this area to be made.
As regards the suggested changes to the Standard Fund Threshold, the position is that Budget and Finance Act 2006 introduced a maximum allowable pension fund on retirement for tax purposes. A limit of €5 million was placed on the total capital value of pension benefits that an individual can draw upon in their lifetime from tax-relieved pension arrangements. This is known as the Standard Fund Threshold (SFT).
A higher limit (the Personal Fund Threshold — PFT) was also introduced at that time for individuals whose pension fund values exceeded €5 million on the date the SFT was introduced, 7 December 2005. The PFT was deemed necessary on the grounds that those individuals with pension funds in excess of €5 million had built up those funds in good faith over the years while availing of tax reliefs available by reference to the law as it stood prior to the change and it would not have been possible to retrospectively deny them those reliefs.
The Finance Act 2006 also introduced indexation for both the SFT and PFT from 2007 onwards in line with an earnings factor. As a result, the value of the SFT for 2008 increased to over €5.4 million. Indexation did not occur in 2009 however.
As with the Budget 2006 change, any reduced SFT limits as proposed by the Deputy would have to take account of the pension funds of individuals that had been built up legitimately above any new limit. Consequently, any reduction in the SFT would be unlikely to have immediate effects in terms of Exchequer savings.
148 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a list of all NAMA designated properties and their valuations in tabular form and on a county basis. [42581/09]
It will only be possible to determine the eligible assets for transfer to NAMA following the enactment of the NAMA legislation. This will allow for the designation of participating institutions and the designation of eligible assets among other issues. Then the valuation methodology, which is subject to EU approval, will be applied by NAMA on an asset by asset basis to determine the valuation for each asset.
It will not be possible to provide a list of all the individual properties held by NAMA and their valuations. NAMA has a commercial mandate and it would be inappropriate to reveal such details that may put NAMA at a disadvantage in the market place.
The NAMA legislation sets out that NAMA will make quarterly reports. These reports, amongst other things will include the number of all loans outstanding categorised as between performing and non performing loans. These quarterly reports should also provide the Deputy with the aggregate information on the value of the loans outstanding to NAMA and further detailed information as set out in Section 55 of the Act.
149 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm that the link between public service pay and pensions will be kept; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42597/09]
The earnings link, or ‘pay parity' basis for post-retirement increases, is a feature of Irish public service schemes.
In the Civil Service increases in pensions are awarded at the discretion of the Minister for Finance under Regulations made by him under Section 29 of the Pensions (Increase) Act 1964. The Act does not prescribe what form the increases should take or how they should be calculated.
A typical provision in a public service scheme would be that increases may be granted under the scheme as may be authorised from time to time by the Minister responsible, with the consent of the Minister for Finance.
As the Government has made clear on a number of occasions, all public expenditure, pay and non-pay, current and capital, is under review in the context of the Budget.
150 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Finance the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42610/09]
The costs of translating and printing documents into Irish in respect of the Department of Finance and the bodies under the aegis of my Department are provided in the following tables. Information is provided for 2008 and for 2009 to date. In the majority of cases documents are published electronically and available for printing as required.
|
Year 2008 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
FOI Annual Report 2007 (Available for downloading and printing from website www.foi.gov.ie) |
300.00 |
— |
300.00 |
|
Induction Manual |
3,964.00 |
3,398.00 |
7,362.00 |
|
Nomination Forms for courses |
39.00 |
— |
39.00 |
|
Circular 18/2004 People with a Disability |
1,045.00 |
— |
1,045.00 |
|
Decentralisation Tables/ info for Website |
153.00 |
— |
153.00 |
|
Budget 2008 |
3,978.00 |
— |
3,978.00 |
|
Budget 2009 |
3,898.00 |
— |
3,898.00 |
|
Revised Estimates for the Public Service 2008 |
555.00 |
— |
555.00 |
|
Public Capital Programme 2008 |
2,505.00 |
— |
2,505.00 |
|
NDP Annual Report 2007 |
16,355.00 |
— |
16,355.00 |
|
NDP 2007-2013 Introduction Leaflet |
225.00 |
— |
225.00 |
|
NDP Calendar 2008 — Bi-lingual |
175.00 |
*4,362.00 |
4,537.00 |
|
Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies |
1,050.00 |
— |
1,050.00 |
|
Civil Service Grievance Procedure Report 2007 |
30.00 |
— |
30.00 |
|
2007 Annual Report of Civil Service Employee Assistance Service |
300.00 |
— |
300.00 |
|
Civil Service Grievance Procedure Report 2007 |
486.00 |
— |
486.00 |
|
Appropriation Account 2007 |
60.00 |
— |
60.00 |
|
Finance Accounts 2007 |
224.00 |
— |
224.00 |
|
Pensioners Handbook |
1,136.00 |
**15,032.00 |
16,168.00 |
|
Ireland’s Participation in the IMF and World Bank Annual Report |
2,241.00 |
— |
2,241.00 |
|
Statement of Strategy 2008-2010 |
855.00 |
— |
855.00 |
|
Progress Report 2007 |
1,013.00 |
— |
1,013.00 |
|
Total costs 2008 |
40,587.00 |
22,792.00 |
63,379.00 |
*Printing costs paid in 2007.
**Includes English & Irish printing costs.
|
Cost of translating and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
FOI Annual Report 2008 (Available for downloading and printing from website www.foi.gov.ie) |
330.00 |
— |
330.00 |
|
S.I. in relation to An Comisinéir Teanga (Not available for downloading and printing at present as the S.I has yet to be signed into law) |
182.00 |
— |
182.00 |
|
Clerical Officer Generic Training Manual |
3,405.00 |
— |
3,405.00 |
|
Additional Information on Ethics Guidelines |
104.00 |
— |
104.00 |
|
Incentivised Scheme of Early Retirement |
60.00 |
— |
60.00 |
|
Construction Procurement Reform — website |
50.00 |
— |
50.00 |
|
Supplementary Budget 2009 |
183.00 |
— |
183.00 |
|
Revised Estimates for the Public Service 2009 |
411.00 |
— |
411.00 |
|
2007 Annual Report of Civil Service Employee Assistance Service |
300.00 |
— |
300.00 |
|
Appropriation Account 2008 |
62.00 |
— |
62.00 |
|
Finance Accounts 2008 |
243.00 |
— |
243.00 |
|
Ireland’s Participation in the IMF and World Bank Annual Report |
1,770.00 |
— |
1,770.00 |
|
Total costs 2009 |
7,100.00 |
— |
7,100.00 |
Where printing was undertaken on an in-house basis, costs are not available. The majority of documents are published electronically and are available for printing as required.
|
2008 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cost of translating and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Annual Report 2007 |
4,748.00 |
9,160.00 |
13,908.00 |
|
Statistical Report 2006 |
2,349.00 |
— |
2,349.00 |
|
Code of Practice for Determining Employment Status of Individuals |
560.00 |
— |
560.00 |
|
Consultation document on Mandatory eFiling/ePayments |
135.00 |
— |
135.00 |
|
Statutory Instruments |
2,175.00. |
782 |
2,957 |
|
Total costs |
9,967.00 |
9,942.00 |
19,909.00 |
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Statutory Instruments |
726.00 |
1,370.00 |
2,096.00 |
|
Annual Report 2008 |
4,207.00 |
— |
4,433.00 |
|
Strategy Statement |
118.00 |
— |
118.00 |
|
Total costs |
5,051.00 |
1,370.00 |
6,421.00 |
A printed version of the Annual Report of the Revenue Commissioners for 2008 was not produced. The report (Irish and English versions) was published in an electronic format and made available for download on the Revenue website.
The question of whether any of Revenue's other statutory publications will be printed or be made available in electronic format only in future will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
|
2008 Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Carbon Fund Annual Report 2007 |
2,359.00 |
— |
2,359.00 |
|
National Development Finance Agency Annual Report 2007 |
5,505.00 |
— |
5,505.00 |
|
National Treasury Management Agency Annual Report 2007 |
7,988.00 |
— |
7,988.00 |
|
National Pension Reserve Fund Annual Report 2007 |
3,400.00 |
— |
3450.00 |
|
Total costs |
19,252 |
19,252 |
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Carbon Fund Annual Report 2008 |
1,336.00 |
— |
1,336.00 |
|
National Development Finance Agency Annual Report 2008 |
2,934.00 |
— |
2,934.00 |
|
National Pension Reserve Fund Annual Report 2008 |
3,450.00 |
— |
3450.00 |
|
National Treasury Management Agency Annual Report 2008 |
9,714.00 |
395.00 |
10,109.00 |
|
Total costs |
17,434.00 |
395.00 |
17,829.00 |
|
2008 Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Statement of Strategy |
1159.00 |
1470 |
2629.00 |
|
Annual Report 2007 |
1525.00 |
— |
1525.00 |
|
Total costs |
2,685.00 |
1,470 |
4,154.00 |
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Annual Report 2008 |
958.00 |
— |
958.00 |
|
Total costs |
958.00 |
— |
958.00 |
|
2008 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Audit of Recruitment and Selection in the Office of the Revenue Commissioners |
1,700 |
— |
1,700 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licence No. RL001/04 and policies and practices relating to internal appointments within the Public Appointments Service |
2,264.00 |
— |
2,264.00 |
|
Audit of Feedback Practices across the Civil Service and certain Public Service Bodies. |
603.00 |
— |
603.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Secretary General of the Department of Education and Science during the period 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007 |
1,141.00 |
— |
1,141.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Secretary General of the Department of Transport during the period 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007 |
382.00 |
— |
382.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Secretary General of the Department of Health during the period 1 January 2006 to 30 November 2006 |
594.00 |
— |
594.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Secretary General of the Department of An Taoiseach during the period 1 April 2006 to 31 March 2007 |
798.00 |
— |
798.00 |
|
Strategy Statement |
337.00 |
1908.00 |
2,245.00 |
|
Annual Report 2007 |
771.00 |
4295.00 |
5,066.00 |
|
Quality Customer Service Action Plan |
363.00 |
— |
363.00 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Agency usage by the HSE |
617.00 |
— |
617.00 |
|
Irish Language Scheme under Section 11 of the Official Languages Act 2003 |
147.00 |
— |
147.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Office of the Ombudsman |
711.00 |
— |
711.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General |
594.00 |
— |
594.00 |
|
Audit of policies and practices relating to internal appointment processes conducted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions |
300.00 |
— |
300.00 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licence and policies and practices relating to internal appointments within the Department of Social and Family Affairs |
1,999.00 |
— |
1,999.00 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licence and policies and practices relating to internal appointments within the Department of Foreign Affairs |
1,595.00 |
— |
1,595.00 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licence and policies and practices relating to internal appointments within An Garda Síochána |
1,759.00 |
— |
1,759.00 |
|
Total costs |
16,675.00 |
6,203.00 |
22,878.00 |
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total costs |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licences No. RL004/05 and RL009/05 held by the Chief Executive Officer of the Health Service Executive |
2,139.00 |
— |
2,139.00 |
|
Annual Report 2008 |
761.00 |
328.00 |
1,089.00 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licence and policies and practices relating to internal appointments within The Courts Service |
1,170.00 |
— |
1,170.00 |
|
Audit of Recruitment Licence and policies and practices relating to internal appointments within the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government |
2,671.00 |
— |
2,671.00 |
|
Total costs |
6,741.00 |
328.00 |
7,069.00 |
All the listed reports were required to be translated under the Official Languages Act 2003 and the Office's Irish Languages Scheme prepared under Section 11 of the Act. The Office currently publishes all of its reports electronically, and will print reports in-house on request. In 2008 only the Strategy Statement and Annual Report 2007 were printed. In 2009 the Annual Report 2008 was published electronically and on CD with small printing costs.
|
2008 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
Revaluation Explanatory GuideStored electronically and is printed in-house when requested by members of the Public. |
159.00 |
— |
159.00 |
|
Total Cost |
159.00 |
— |
159.00 |
|
Cost of translating and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
Health and Character Declaration |
371.00 |
— |
371.00 |
|
Executive Officer Campaign Material |
1,305.00 |
— |
1,305.00 |
|
Clerical Officer Candidate Information |
85.00 |
— |
85.00 |
|
Clerical Officer Interview Guide |
1,122.00 |
— |
1,122.00 |
|
Clerical Officer Campaign Material |
848.00 |
— |
848.00 |
|
Annual Report |
1,545.00 |
6,800* |
8,345.00 |
|
Response to Candidate Correspondence |
45.00 |
— |
45.00 |
|
Candidate Booklet for Recruitment Campaign |
362.00 |
— |
362.00 |
|
Candidate Booklet for Recruitment Campaign |
434.00 |
— |
434.00 |
|
Material for Medical Advisor Recruitment Campaign |
271.00 |
— |
271.00 |
|
Information for website |
374.00 |
— |
373.00 |
|
Strategy Statement |
1,292.00 |
11,050* |
12,342.00 |
|
Information for website |
1,270.00 |
— |
1,270.00 |
|
Material for Recruitment Campaign |
134.00 |
— |
134.00 |
|
Information for website |
64.00 |
— |
64.00 |
|
Material for Recruitment Campaign |
59.00 |
— |
59.00 |
|
Irish Scheme |
1,237.00 |
— |
1,237.00 |
|
Translation of ‘Special Needs’ Form for website |
252.00 |
— |
252.00 |
|
Quality Customer Service Action Plan & Customer Charter 2008-2010 |
2,208.00 |
— |
2,208.00 |
|
Material for Graduate/Administrative Grades Campaigns |
1,062.00 |
— |
1,062.00 |
|
Total Costs |
14,340.00 |
17,850.00 |
32,190.00 |
|
Cost of translating documents and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
Job Titles for website |
740.00 |
— |
740.00 |
|
Material for Hospital Consultant Campaign |
84.00 |
— |
84.00 |
|
Information for website |
44.00 |
— |
44.00 |
|
Material for Recruitment Campaign |
309.00 |
— |
309.00 |
|
Material for Recruitment Campaign |
100.00 |
— |
100.00 |
|
Material for Hospital Consultant Campaign |
275.00 |
— |
275.00 |
|
Material for Hospital Consultant Campaign |
88.00 |
— |
88.00 |
|
Total cost |
1,640.00 |
— |
1,640.00 |
*Strategy Statement and Annual Reports printed had Irish and English version in the same document.
PAS employ a full-time Irish Translator in order to translate application forms, information booklets and other campaign related documentation into Irish. Since the current Translator commenced employment in April 2008 every attempt has been made to ensure that material is translated in-house. All recruitment and selection related documentation is stored electronically and printed in-house as required. In 2008 it was decided, as a cost saving measure, that all Corporate Publications would also be stored electronically and printed in-house as required (e.g. Quality Customer Service Action Plan 2008-2010 and the Annual Report 2008).
|
2008 |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Cost of translating and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2007 Annual Reports |
10,177.00 |
10,601.00 |
20,778.00 |
|
Translation of various correspondence and decision letter to Irish for reply or publication on website |
22,881.00 |
— |
22,881.00 |
|
Freedom of Information — The First Decade |
1,650 |
2,873.00 |
4,523.00 |
|
Digest of Cases for Ombudsman |
1,441.00 |
1,464.00 |
2,905.00 |
|
Total Costs |
36,149.00 |
14,938.00 |
51,087.00 |
|
Cost of translating and printing documents in Irish |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Document Title |
Translation costs |
Printing Costs |
Total Costs |
|
€ |
€ |
€ |
|
|
2008 Annual Reports |
10,126.00 |
13,369.00 |
23,495.00 |
|
Translation of various correspondence and decision letter to Irish for reply or publication on website |
18,163.00 |
— |
18,163.00 |
|
FAQ and Best practice leaflets |
405.00 |
1,361.00 |
1,766.00 |
|
Customer feedback forms |
603.00 |
1,221.00 |
1,824.00 |
|
Total Costs |
29,987.00 |
15,981.00 |
45,248 |
151 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the implementation of an agreement made between the State and a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42611/09]
The agreement to which the Deputy refers has been in operation in a formal, legal sense since August 1979. The property in question was placed in the ownership of a Trust at that time. The Commissioners of Public Works, in a corporate capacity, are one of the trustees. The Trust, however, has not had an involvement in the day-to-day operation and management of the property, and the original owner or settlor has continued to be responsible for the care and maintenance of the property, including its employees, up to the present time.
Under the terms of the Trust, the property will come into the absolute ownership of the State some 21 years after the death of the settlor. The Office of Public Works has been involved in discussions with the settlor and his representatives recently to try and agree arrangements for the management of the property following his death. The matter is still under consideration.
152 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his plans to deal with the situation of fixed rate mortgages and the release fees charged to persons who wish to change to a variable rate mortgage, in view of the fact that the Irish banking system has been saved by these taxpayers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42628/09]
I, as Minister for Finance, have no role in relation to the setting of mortgage interest rates, nor does the Financial Regulator. The pricing of fixed rate mortgages by lending institutions would normally be based on institutions own cost of obtaining fixed rate funding for the period in question plus a margin. The actual cost of funds for each institution cannot be assessed on a mortgage by mortgage basis as they manage the risk on a portfolio basis using several types of wholesale funding and derivatives, depending on the size of each institution and its mortgage book.
Regarding the application of early redemption fees on fixed rate mortgages, when a borrower signs a fixed-rate mortgage contract with a mortgage provider, the lender in turn must in effect borrow the money at an agreed fixed rate. The mortgage lender must repay the money at this agreed rate, so there may be a cost to the institution if the fixed rate agreement is terminated before the agreed term. This gives rise to the redemption fee charged in these cases.
The Financial Regulator carried out a review of this issue earlier this year and submitted a report to my Department and the Oireachtas Committee on Finance and the Public Service. The review focused on the early redemption fees being applied by lenders on fixed rate mortgages and looked at, among other things, actuarial reports examining the formulae applied by the different lenders. The principal findings indicate that:
the early redemption fee calculation in all cases appears to seek to cover the costs; and
lenders do not generally apply additional fees in the case of early redemption. Lenders do not therefore seem to be applying financial penalties in order to dissuade borrowers from early redemption of fixed rate mortgages.
Notwithstanding the findings of the review set out above, I am aware that the Financial Regulator would strongly advise that any borrower who believes that he/she has been charged an excessive early redemption charge should request his/her lending institution to provide a clear explanation of how the cost was calculated. In the event that the borrower is not satisfied with the explanation, a formal complaint should be made to the lender and in the event of an unsatisfactory response, he or she should exercise his/her option to refer the matter to the Financial Services Ombudsman who will independently adjudicate on the matter.
153 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the expected revenue from corporation tax for 2009 and for 2010; the revenue from corporation tax for 2008; the proportion of these totals expected to be paid by the top 25 multinational companies based here and the top 50 multinational companies based here too; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42632/09]
Corporation tax revenue in 2008 totalled €5.1 billion. The Supplementary Budget published last April forecast that corporation tax receipts would total approximately €3.7 billion in 2009 and €3.8 billion in 2010. At the end of October 2009, €2.8 billion in corporation tax receipts had been collected, which was €255 million ahead of target.
November is a key month for tax revenue, in particular for corporation tax receipts. The end-November Exchequer Returns will be published on 2 December. The White Paper on Receipts and Expenditure will be published on 5 December and will provide an estimated end-year outturn and pre-Budget tax forecasts for 2010. Post-Budget tax forecasts for 2010 will be published on Budget day on 9 December. I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that statistics on the amount of corporation tax paid by multinational corporations are not separately available. However the yield in the calendar year 2008 from the largest payers of corporation tax, many of which are multinational corporations, is as follows:
|
Estimated corporation tax yield In 2008 |
|
|
€m |
|
|
Top 25 Corporation Tax Payers |
1,536.0 |
|
Top 50 Corporation Tax Payers |
2,127.5 |
The figures included in the table are the amounts of corporation tax paid in 2008 by the top 25 and top 50 individual companies that paid the most corporation tax in the year and does not include payments from any other related company within a corporation or company group. Estimates of the prospective yield to the Exchequer on a similar basis in 2009 and 2010 are not available.
154 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the proportion of income tax paid by public sector employees for 2007, 2008 and forecast for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42633/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated proportion of the total PAYE yield paid by public sector employees was 28% in 2007 and 29% in 2008. The corresponding proportions of total income tax are 21% for 2007 and 22% for 2008.
The sector identifier used on the tax records is based on the 4-digit NACE code (Rev. 1), which is an internationally recognised economic activity code system. The information provided in relation to public sector employees is based on activities which are classified in the NACE code system as Public Administration and Defence; Compulsory Social Security, Education and Health and Social work but excluding the categories of Driving School Activities, Dental Practice Activities and Veterinary Activities as being more appropriate to the private sector. Estimates of the prospective yield to the Exchequer in 2009 are not yet available.
155 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the proportion of income tax paid by employees of multinational companies based in Ireland for 2007, 2008 and forecast for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42634/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested is not readily available and either could not be obtained or could not be obtained without conducting a protracted examination of the Revenue Commissioners' records.
156 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the value of refunds on 2008 preliminary tax and losses attributed back to 2007, including 2008, and paid out to date in 2009; the number of such refunds amounting to less than €1 million, between €1 million and €5 million, between €5 million and €10 million, between €10 million and €25 million, and over €25 million; the number of such refunds accruing to businesses or individuals in the banking, hotel, property and construction sectors respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42635/09]
157 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the value of refunds paid to date in 2009 for the 2008 preliminary tax and for losses attributed back to 2007. [42636/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 157 together.
Figures providing a breakdown of refunds of income tax (non-PAYE) and corporation tax and in 2009 to-date are set out in the following tables. Refunds of tax associated with losses are not separately identifiable from refunds made for other reasons.
|
Income Tax Year |
Total Refund Amounts |
|
€m |
|
|
2007 |
167.8 |
|
2008 |
242.3 |
|
Other Years |
48.5 |
|
Total |
458.6 |
|
Accounting Periods Ending In |
Total Refund Amounts |
|
€m |
|
|
2007 |
258.2 |
|
2008 |
652.7 |
|
Other Years |
220.8 |
|
Total |
1,131.7 |
|
Refunds by Size in 2009 |
||
|
Income Tax |
Corporation Tax |
|
|
Size of Refund |
Number |
Number |
|
Less than €1m |
204,764 |
34,014 |
|
> = €1m and < €5m |
5 |
130 |
|
> = €5m and < €10m |
0 |
19 |
|
> = €10m |
0 |
11 |
|
Totals |
204,769 |
34,174 |
Note: Because of the Revenue Commissioners' obligation to observe confidentiality in relation to the taxation affairs of individual taxpayers, the number of refunds in excess of €25 million has not been provided separately and has instead been included in the range greater than €10 million. This is due to the small numbers of companies with refund amounts exceeding that level.
|
Refunds by Sector in 2009 |
||
|
Income Tax |
Corporation Tax |
|
|
Sector |
Number |
Number |
|
Banking and Other Financial Intermediation |
1,176 |
719 |
|
Hotels |
138 |
185 |
|
Property/Real Estate Activities |
25,714 |
2,175 |
|
Construction |
20,236 |
5,476 |
|
Other Sectors |
157,505 |
25,619 |
|
Totals |
204,769 |
34,174 |
The sector identifier used on the tax records is based on the 4 digit "NACE code (Rev. 1)" which is an internationally recognised economic activity code system. The NACE codes are not essential for the assessment and collection of taxes and duties and the correct allocation and maintenance of these codes is subject to the limit of available resources. NACE code classifications on tax records are compiled by reference to the primary area of economic activity reported by individual and corporate taxpayers on their own behalf and the taxes collected are allocated to those codes without reference to the precise economic activity which generated them.
While the accuracy of the NACE codes on tax records is sufficient to underpin broad sector-based analyses there will undoubtedly be some inaccuracies at individual level. This should be borne in mind when considering the information provided. The sectors identified for this reply represent the closest equivalents in the NACE code system to the sectors mentioned in the question. The figures provided for the estimated yield from each sector are confined to those activities which are defined within the NACE codes associated with the sector headings shown and do not include the yield from activities and businesses identified under other NACE codes which could be related, either in whole or in part, to the sectors listed. An example of these would be architecture, engineering and the manufacture of products used in construction are not included in the heading construction above.
158 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he will cost various options (details supplied) for reductions in both the standard 21.5% and reduced 12.5% rates of value added tax; the amount of revenue that will be raised in a full year from the income levies; the amount of this that will be raised from earned income; the amount which will be raised from unearned income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42677/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated cost to the Exchequer in a full year of a reduction in the reduced and standard rates of VAT by 0.5%,1%,1.5%, 2%, 2.5%, 3% and 4% is as follows:
|
Reduction |
New Rate |
Cost |
|
% |
% |
€m |
|
0.5 |
13.0 |
-127 |
|
1.0 |
12.5 |
-253 |
|
1.5 |
12.0 |
-380 |
|
2.0 |
11.5 |
-454 |
|
2.5 |
11.0 |
-528 |
|
3.0 |
10.5 |
-602 |
|
4.0 |
9.5 |
-751 |
It should be noted that certain goods and services that were at a reduced rate of VAT on 1 January 1991, under the provision of Council Directive 2006/112/EC, cannot be reduced below 12%; these are known as parked goods and services. Consequently the additional cost of reducing the VAT rate on parked goods and services below 12% is not included in the estimates provided for reducing the reduced rate by 2% or more.
|
Reduction |
New Rate |
Cost |
|
% |
% |
€m |
|
0.5 |
21.0 |
-167 |
|
1.0 |
20.5 |
-334 |
|
1.5 |
20.0 |
-501 |
|
2.0 |
19.5 |
-667 |
|
2.5 |
19.0 |
-834 |
|
3.0 |
18.5 |
-1,001 |
|
4.0 |
17.5 |
-1,335 |
The Income Levy was introduced in October of last year in Budget 2009 and the rates subsequently increased in the Supplementary Budget in April of this year. Based on the Supplementary Budget forecasts, it was estimated that the Income Levy would yield approximately €1.1 billion in 2009 and approximately €2 billion in a full year. Revised forecasts will be published in the White Paper on Receipts and Expenditure on 5 December, which will set out tax forecasts for 2010 revenues on a pre-Budget basis. As is customary, post-Budget tax forecasts for 2010 and later years will be published on Budget day, 9 December. As regards the income base for levies, I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that it is estimated that approximately 95% is earned income and 5% is unearned income.
159 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance his views on the systemic importance of banks (details supplied) in the context of the proposal to establish the National Asset Management Agency; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42691/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, the institutions referred to were specified as covered institutions under the bank guarantee Scheme, established pursuant to the Credit Institutions (Financial Support) Act 2008. The systemic importance of each institution covered by the Scheme was confirmed by the Governor of the Central Bank, and the Scheme was approved by the European Commission under EU State aid rules. The European Commission also specifically acknowledged the systemic importance of one of the institutions, in its approval of the Government's provision of capital.
As with our other major financial institutions, the systemic importance of these institutions derives from their scale and their integration with our economy. As per each institution's latest published accounts, the balance sheets exceed €88bn in one case and €14bn in the other. Each institution has a substantial deposit base, sourced through thousands of customers, companies and through other financial institutions, in Ireland and internationally. The loan book of each institution includes lending for land and development or associated exposures which is eligible for transfer to NAMA, and also significant levels of lending for commercial, investment, and residential property and to other sectors, which is not eligible for transfer to NAMA. A key principle of the Government's action in addressing the financial crisis has been to maintain the viability of such systemic institutions, to prevent wider implications and costs for our economy, and eligibility for coverage by the bank guarantee Scheme and transfer of assets to the National Asset Management Agency is therefore structured on the basis of systemic importance.
NAMA is being established to restore confidence in the Irish banking sector and facilitate the flow of credit into the real economy. Section 2 of the NAMA Act also provides that NAMA is being established, inter alia, to protect the taxpayers and the State's interest relating to the guarantees issued by the State in September 2008 and to facilitate the restructuring of credit institutions of systemic importance. As regards NAMA, each institution wishing to participate must apply and will be assessed in line with the eligibility criteria outlined in Section 65(2) of the NAMA Act.
160 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42700/09]
I have been informed by the Office of Public Works that they manage 458 leases, with an annual rent of €10,000 and above, involving 380 buildings that are either wholly or part leased on behalf of the State. The type of buildings leased comprises mostly office accommodation but also includes stores, Garda Stations, etc. The rental bill for 2009 is €120m. The following table schedules the lease detail, occupancy and buildings held under these leases.
This year, OPW has initiated a strategic review of the central Dublin office portfolio with a view to reducing the annual rent bill. The freeing up of pockets of space in Dublin by staff that have decentralised has created the ideal opportunity to evaluate and improve on current performance in the areas of rental costs and space occupancy densities, the two key efficiency drivers. This programme will involve: Surrender of a number of leases, (initial surrenders earmarked to occur in 2010 will achieve annual rental savings of c. €6 million). The consolidation of our client Departments and Agencies into the State-owned portfolio and the better quality long-term leasehold properties.
Where leases provide for rent reviews, OPW is pro-actively negotiating with Landlords to achieve best value for money within the confines of the relevant lease terms.
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
€ |
||||||
|
LSE1307 |
Carlow |
Carlow |
Carlow Temp Decent Off (D/ETE) |
O’Brien Road |
1,806.00 |
369,436.00 |
|
LSE0112 |
Carlow |
Carlow |
Carlow Vehicle Reg Off |
6-8 Lower Staplestown Road |
162.58 |
60,967.50 |
|
LSE0110 |
Carlow |
Carlow |
Carlow Prob & Wel Service |
Quinn House, Mill Lane |
131.92 |
18,030.28 |
|
LSE0109 |
Carlow |
Carlow |
Carlow Gov Off Church St |
Church Street, Graiguecullen |
158.95 |
37,500.00 |
|
LSE1209 |
Carlow |
Carlow |
Carlow Education Office |
4 Court Place, Dublin Road |
131.13 |
27,500.00 |
|
LSE1595 |
Carlow |
Carlow |
Carlow CRO Storage |
Trek Factory, O’Briens Road |
2,045.00 |
50,000.00 |
|
LSE0032 |
Cavan |
Bailieborough |
Bailieboro SWO |
Barrack Street |
80.83 |
13,250.00 |
|
LSE0145 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Gov Off Newcourt Shop Ctre |
Newcourt Shopping Centre, Church Street |
648.35 |
122,200.00 |
|
LSE1256 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Rear 65 Main St |
Bullock Lane |
158.31 |
21,000.00 |
|
LSE1139 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Gov Off Elm Hse |
Elm House, Kinnypottle |
192.50 |
34,188.00 |
|
LSE1588 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Gov Off Elm Hse |
Elm House, Kinnypottle |
106.75 |
22,980.00 |
|
LSE1261 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan DTC |
Esker Place, Cathedral Road |
40.14 |
20,500.00 |
|
LSE1301 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Gov Off Elm Hse |
Elm House, Kinnypottle |
138.98 |
29,920.00 |
|
LSE1251 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Gov Off Elm Hse |
Elm House, Kinnypottle |
120.44 |
25,928.00 |
|
LSE1242 |
Cavan |
Cavan |
Cavan Gov Off Elm Hse |
Elm House, Kinnypottle |
218.18 |
46,970.00 |
|
LSE1057 |
Cavan |
Dowra |
Dowra GS Shannon Bridge |
1 Shannon Bridge |
148.00 |
13,000.00 |
|
LSE0228 |
Clare |
Crusheen |
Crusheen GS + MQ |
Ennis — Gort Road |
1,080.00 |
25,000.00 |
|
LSE0996 |
Clare |
Ennis |
Ennis Education Office |
First Floor, Francis Street |
579.56 |
50,000.00 |
|
LSE0995 |
Clare |
Ennis |
Ennis Education Office |
First Floor, Francis Street |
579.50 |
50,000.00 |
|
LSE0301 |
Clare |
Ennis |
Ennis Justice Welfare |
Abbey Arcade |
46.45 |
13,205.28 |
|
LSE1299 |
Clare |
Kilrush |
Kilrush Decentral.Revenue Off. |
Enterprise House |
585.29 |
85,050.00 |
|
LSE1604 |
Clare |
Shannon |
Westpark Bus.Camp Build 4000 |
Atlantic Avenue, Westpark Business Campus |
208.00 |
32,480.00 |
|
LSE0063 |
Cork |
Bandon |
Bandon SWO |
Weir Street |
73.76 |
15,300.00 |
|
LSE0062 |
Cork |
Bandon |
Bandon Garda Training Cntr |
Weir Street. |
71.50 |
13,967.12 |
|
LSE0061 |
Cork |
Bandon |
Bandon School Inspectors Office |
The Weir Centre, Weir Street |
123.84 |
26,750.00 |
|
LSE0068 |
Cork |
Bantry |
Bantry Customs and Excise |
Old Convent House, Townlots |
216.00 |
28,000.00 |
|
LSE0067 |
Cork |
Bantry |
Bantry SWO — 7 Main Strret |
7 Main Street |
0 |
24,000.00 |
|
LSE0085 |
Cork |
Blarney |
Blarney GS |
The Square, Blarney |
186.26 |
17,776.33 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE1439 |
Cork |
Carrigaline |
Carrigaline DSFA Office |
Units 2 & 4, The Maltings |
413.64 |
103,940.00 |
|
LSE0118 |
Cork |
Carrigtwohill |
Carrigtwohill GS + MQ |
Cork Road |
103.00 |
15,000.00 |
|
LSE0136 |
Cork |
Castletownbere |
Castletownbere SWO |
Church Gate |
28.52 |
12,220.00 |
|
LSE0163 |
Cork |
Clonakilty |
Clonakilty Prob & Wel Office |
Emmet Square |
159.79 |
16,000.00 |
|
LSE0197 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Connolly Hall |
Connolly Hall, Lapps Quay |
0.00 |
17,000.00 |
|
LSE0205 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Hibernian House |
Hibernian House, South Mall |
111.20 |
20,677.48 |
|
LSE1210 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg |
Irish Life House, 1A South Mall |
360.98 |
69,914.52 |
|
LSE1421 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork C&E Centre Park House |
Centre Park House, Centre Park Road |
264.02 |
48,000.00 |
|
LSE0209 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg |
Irish Life House, 1A South Mall |
982.23 |
190,800.00 |
|
LSE0196 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Connolly Hall |
Connolly Hall, Lapps Quay |
179.66 |
28,000.00 |
|
LSE1002 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg |
Irish Life House, 1A South Mall |
309.65 |
61,448.00 |
|
LSE1585 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork HIQA Decent Office |
Unit 1301, Building 1000, City Gate, Mahon |
1690.80 |
370,420.00 |
|
LSE1062 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Marine Office |
Riverview Business Park, Mahon Industrial Estate |
483.00 |
58,500.00 |
|
LSE1077 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Prob & Wel Serv Cove St |
St Nicholas Church, Cove Street |
1474.44 |
300,368.00 |
|
LSE0194 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork C&E Centre Park House |
Centre Park House, Centre Park Road |
616.60 |
110,000.00 |
|
LSE0212 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork SWO — ESB Premises |
ESB Premises, Marina |
700.95 |
120,000.00 |
|
LSE0206 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg |
Irish Life House, 1A South Mall |
875.49 |
205,933.00 |
|
LSE1037 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Environment Office |
Unit 7, Eastgate Avenue, Little Island |
411.00 |
68,906.00 |
|
LSE0204 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Hibernian House |
Hibernian House, South Mall |
1730.26 |
321,500.00 |
|
LSE0957 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Marine Office |
Riverview Business Park, Mahon Industrial Estate |
0.00 |
53,320.00 |
|
LSE0190 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Rev Store Boland Ind Est |
7-8 Boland Industrial Estate, Mallow Road |
855.16 |
73,750.00 |
|
LSE1137 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork C&E Centre Park House |
Centre Park House, Centre Park Road |
314.00 |
43,940.00 |
|
LSE0200 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Doughcloyne |
Doughcloyne Industrial Estate, Wilton |
315.86 |
42,158.41 |
|
LSE0950 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Hibernian House |
Hibernian House, South Mall |
0.00 |
18,284.23 |
|
LSE1550 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Gov Off Irish Life Bldg |
Irish Life House, 1A South Mall |
92.90 |
18,500.00 |
|
LSE1051 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Marine Office |
Acorn Business Campus, Mahon Ind Pk, Blackrock |
42.00 |
41,478.00 |
|
LSE1446 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork International Freight Ctr |
Unit 2400B Cork Airport Bus Park, Kinsale Road |
0.00 |
10,200.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0981 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork Education Office |
Block C Heritage Business Park, Mahon |
1,341.00 |
240,000.00 |
|
LSE0365 |
Cork |
Cork |
Glanmire GS |
Glanmire |
127.00 |
21,000.00 |
|
LSE0195 |
Cork |
Cork |
Cork C&E Centrepoint |
Unit 4 Centrepoint, Centre Park Road |
511.41 |
39,875.00 |
|
LSE0288 |
Cork |
Dunmanway |
Dunmanway SWO/CSO Office |
Main Street |
103.30 |
14,119.49 |
|
LSE1571 |
Cork |
Fermoy |
Fermoy OPW Storage |
Unit 1 Block A, Fermoy Ent. Park, Carrignagroghera |
371.61 |
28,000.00 |
|
LSE0305 |
Cork |
Fermoy |
Fermoy SWO — Connolly Street |
Connolly Street |
92.90 |
15,300.00 |
|
LSE1265 |
Cork |
Macroom |
Macroom Bowl Road SWO |
Bowl Road |
60.76 |
11,400.00 |
|
LSE0504 |
Cork |
Mallow |
Mallow Government Offices |
25 O’Brien Street |
0.00 |
32,000.00 |
|
LSE0503 |
Cork |
Mallow |
Mallow Farm Devopment Service |
Gouldshill |
95.30 |
11,000.00 |
|
LSE0505 |
Cork |
Mallow |
Mallow SWO |
72 Main Street |
291.35 |
33,846.14 |
|
LSE0656 |
Cork |
Skibbereen |
Skibbereen Forestry Office |
Townsend Street |
44.59 |
11,700.00 |
|
LSE1020 |
Cork |
Youghan |
Youghal SWO — Main Street |
14 Main Street |
58.83 |
12,000.00 |
|
LSE0045 |
Donegal |
Ballybofey |
Ballybofey SWO |
13 Main Street |
67.35 |
15,000.00 |
|
LSE0056 |
Donegal |
Ballyshannon |
Ballyshannon Marine Office |
Main Street |
130.99 |
10,234.09 |
|
LSE1146 |
Donegal |
Ballyshannon |
Ballyshannon Maritime Office |
Top Floor, Iona Office Block, Abbeyview |
264.00 |
25,000.00 |
|
LSE0989 |
Donegal |
Buncrana |
Buncrana SWO |
St Marys Road |
185.81 |
34,000.00 |
|
LSE0099 |
Donegal |
Buncrana |
Buncrana SWO |
Castle Avenue |
0.00 |
33,000.00 |
|
LSE0100 |
Donegal |
Buncrana |
Buncrana Government Offices |
St Mary’s Road |
92.72 |
11,935.54 |
|
LSE1271 |
Donegal |
Buncrana |
Buncrana GS Temporary |
Lisfannon Industrial Estate |
1,092.00 |
115,000.00 |
|
LSE0247 |
Donegal |
Donegal |
Donegal D.T.C. |
’Irwin’s Premises’, Milltown Road |
93.46 |
11,176.23 |
|
LSE0246 |
Donegal |
Donegal |
Donegal D.T.C. |
’Irwin’s Premises’, Milltown Road |
0.00 |
23,260.00 |
|
LSE0284 |
Donegal |
Dunfanaghy |
Dunfanaghy SWO |
Main Street |
324.33 |
24,700.00 |
|
LSE0991 |
Donegal |
FALCARRAGH |
Falcarragh SWO |
Main Street |
39.25 |
10,400.00 |
|
LSE0436 |
Donegal |
KILLYBEGS |
Killybegs Government Office |
Donegal Road |
78.13 |
12,000.00 |
|
LSE0452 |
Donegal |
Letterkenny |
Letterkenny Revenue Office |
Kilmacrennan Road |
467.38 |
58,000.00 |
|
LSE1426 |
Donegal |
Letterkenny |
Letterkenny Education Office |
McKendrich House, Pearse Road |
5,400.00 |
41,896.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0453 |
Donegal |
Letterkenny |
Letterkenny Driving Test Centre |
Unit 5 Pearse Road |
76.18 |
15,000.00 |
|
LSE0455 |
Donegal |
Letterkenny |
Letterkenny Customs&Excise Store |
Pine Hill Industrial Estate, Mountain Top |
355.56 |
17,827.12 |
|
LSE1076 |
Donegal |
Letterkenny |
Letterkenny Prob/Wel Main St |
48-50 Lower Main Street |
561.02 |
80,000.00 |
|
LSE0619 |
Donegal |
Ramelton |
Ramelton GS + MQ |
The Mall |
164.90 |
17,800.00 |
|
LSE1035 |
Dublin |
Balbriggan |
Balbriggan Passport Office |
Unit 1, Fingal Bay Business Park, Balbriggan |
2914.05 |
553,669.50 |
|
LSE0730 |
Dublin |
Blackrock |
Blackrock Trident House |
Trident House |
1811.59 |
678,500.00 |
|
LSE0104 |
Dublin |
Cabinteely |
Cabinteely GS |
Bray Road |
134.80 |
34,000.00 |
|
LSE0001 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Abbey Street Upper 26-30 |
Chapter House, 26-30 Upper Abbey Street |
1583.7 |
667,133.08 |
|
LSE0357 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Amiens Street (Gandon House) |
Amiens Street |
0.00 |
75,500.00 |
|
LSE0497 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
O’Connell St 29-32 |
Lyon/Findlater House, 29-32 O’Connell Street |
1,698.30 |
533,290.00 |
|
LSE0961 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Parnell Sq 16 |
16 Parnell Square |
3274.54 |
1,493,644.72 |
|
LSE0596 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Parnell St Parnell BusinesCntr |
125 Parnell Street |
272.00 |
45,801.99 |
|
LSE0640 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Marlborough St 101-104 Clare Hse |
101-104 Marlborough Street |
0.00 |
412,344.90 |
|
LSE0020 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Arran Quay (Arran Court) |
Arran Quay |
473.24 |
165,337.23 |
|
LSE1430 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Kings Inn House SWO |
Parnell St |
774.00 |
208,275.00 |
|
LSE0358 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Amiens Street (Gandon House) |
Amiens Street |
1882.05 |
655,000.00 |
|
LSE0002 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Abbey Street Upper 26-30 |
Chapter House, 26-30 Upper Abbey Street |
2,855.00 |
1,206,162.28 |
|
LSE0361 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Gardiner Street Upper 77 |
77 Upper Gardiner Street |
818.00 |
201,190.00 |
|
LSE0970 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Abbey Street Upper 26-30 |
Chapter House, 26-30 Upper Abbey Street |
491.16 |
211,542.00 |
|
LSE0004 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Abbey Street Upper 26-30 |
Chapter House, 26-30 Upper Abbey Street |
2351.39 |
994,569.76 |
|
LSE1431 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Kings Inn House SWO |
Parnell St |
1,967.00 |
558,200.00 |
|
LSE1140 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Great Strand St Millennium Hse |
52-56 Great Strand Street |
904.7 |
265,675.00 |
|
LSE0108 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Capel Street 89 -94 |
89 -94 Capel Street |
1971.60 |
689,321.76 |
|
LSE0359 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Amiens Street (Gandon House) |
Amiens Street |
1476.99 |
500,000.00 |
|
LSE0317 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Frederick St North Frederick Crt |
Frederick Court, North Frederick Street |
1996.77 |
702,000.00 |
|
LSE0599 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Parnell Sq 2-3 |
2-3 Parnell Square |
0 |
715,000.00 |
|
LSE1305 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Bond Road Revenue Warehouse |
Bond Road |
4,816.00 |
733,092.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0598 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Parnell Sq 13-15 Parnell House |
13-15 Parnell Square |
4837.88 |
1,830,000.00 |
|
LSE0406 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Irish Life Centre Block D E & F |
Lower Abbey Street |
2,469.00 |
900,000.00 |
|
LSE1278 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
O’Connell St 29-32 |
Lyon/Findlater House, 29-32 O’Connell Street |
707.70 |
345,000.00 |
|
LSE0404 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Irish Life Centre Block 2 |
Lower Abbey Street |
3630.53 |
1,310,000.00 |
|
LSE0409 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Irish Life Centre Block 5/7 |
Lower Abbey Street |
3319.76 |
1,110,000.00 |
|
LSE0408 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Irish Life Centre Block 1 |
Lower Abbey Street |
529.53 |
206,000.00 |
|
LSE0407 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Irish Life Centre Block 1 |
Lower Abbey Street |
2779.94 |
918,000.00 |
|
LSE0405 |
Dublin |
Dublin 01 |
Irish Life Centre Block 4 & 5 |
Lower Abbey Street |
779.18 |
273,000.00 |
|
LSE0184 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Kildare Street 43-44 |
Confederation House, 43-44 Kildare Street |
2454.48 |
1,174,500.00 |
|
LSE0399 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Holles Street Holbrook House |
Holbrook House, Holles Street |
404.96 |
174,000.00 |
|
LSE0395 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Street 75-78 |
76-78 Harcourt Street |
2279.30 |
1,010,000.00 |
|
LSE0387 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt St Harcourt Cntre Blk 2 |
Harcourt Street |
515.69 |
228,500.00 |
|
LSE1169 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Street 71 |
Pinebrook House, 71-74 Harcourt Street |
590.00 |
200,000.00 |
|
LSE1170 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt St 72-74 |
Pinebrook House, 72-74 Harcourt Street |
3,249.00 |
1,419,143.00 |
|
LSE0415 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Lombard St East 8-11 Joyce Hse |
8-11 Lombard Street |
1408.96 |
560,000.00 |
|
LSE0396 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Hatch Street 13-15 |
13-15 Hatch Street |
1056.46 |
460,000.00 |
|
LSE0645 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Statoil Building |
1 Setanta Place, Kildare Street |
889.24 |
373,500.00 |
|
LSE0295 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Earlsfort Terrace Earl Ctr Blk C |
Earlsfort Centre Block C, Earlsfort Terrace |
2788.46 |
1,210,000.00 |
|
LSE0318 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Frederick St South Frederick Hse |
Frederick House, South Frederick Street |
423 |
188,050.00 |
|
LSE0713 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Townsend St 157-164 |
157-164 Townsend Street |
5,617.00 |
1,370,000.00 |
|
LSE0374 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Grand Canal Street |
1 Lower Grand Canal Street |
3,998.42 |
1,995,000.00 |
|
LSE0388 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Road 4-5 |
4-5 Harcourt Road |
3047 |
1,260,000.00 |
|
LSE0411 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Road Dun Sceine |
Iveagh Court Block A |
1881.27 |
850,000.00 |
|
LSE0393 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Sq Garda Block 4 |
Harcourt Street |
799.50 |
417,250.00 |
|
LSE0389 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Sq Garda Block 1 |
Harcourt Street |
3669 |
1,300,000.00 |
|
LSE0392 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Sq Garda Block 3 |
Harcourt Street |
2,531.00 |
1,278,800.00 |
|
LSE0010 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Tara Street Apollo House |
Tara Street |
425.57 |
185,600.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0008 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Tara Street Apollo House |
Tara Street |
1473.39 |
560,750.00 |
|
LSE0555 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau Building Setanta Centre |
Nassau Street |
994.00 |
469,680.00 |
|
LSE1147 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau St Special Olymics |
Morrison Chambers, 32 Nassau Street |
232.58 |
87,622.06 |
|
LSE0585 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Pearse St 212-213 Oisín House |
212-213 Pearse Street |
0 |
1,493,000.00 |
|
LSE0242 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
East Essex Street Dolphin House |
East Essex Street |
1843.04 |
583,500.00 |
|
LSE1263 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Revenue Castleview Georges st |
Block C, Georges St South Development |
4,624.02 |
1,827,522.00 |
|
LSE0386 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
St Stephens Gr 67-71Hainault Hse |
67-71 St Stephen’s Green |
1,750.61 |
600,000.00 |
|
LSE0300 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Ely Place 7-8 Ely Court |
7-8 Ely Place |
1,785.95 |
711,322.50 |
|
LSE1575 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
St Stephens Gr 94 |
94 St Stephens Green |
1,106.24 |
408,000.00 |
|
LSE0590 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Leeson Street Lower Ossory House |
Earlsfort Centre, Lower Leeson Street |
0 |
900,000.00 |
|
LSE0153 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Mount Street Lr Clanwilliam Crt |
Lower Mount Street |
1,172.61 |
480,000.00 |
|
LSE0556 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau Building Setanta Centre |
Nassau Street |
1,632.29 |
797,940.00 |
|
LSE0558 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau Building Setanta Centre |
Nassau Street |
1,608.32 |
716,000.00 |
|
LSE0155 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Clare Street 22-25 |
22-25 Clare Street |
1,893.77 |
670,375.00 |
|
LSE0314 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Wilton Place Fitzwilton House |
Wilton Place |
409.78 |
205,500.00 |
|
LSE0679 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse |
Earlsfort Terrace |
415.27 |
205,270.00 |
|
LSE0391 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Harcourt Sq Garda Block 2 |
Harcourt Street |
3,864.00 |
1,832,500.00 |
|
LSE0154 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Clare Street 12 |
12 Clare Street |
320.04 |
112,500.00 |
|
LSE0526 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Mespil Road 43-49 |
43-49 Mespil Road |
3,784.00 |
1,637,756.00 |
|
LSE0078 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Bishops Square |
Redmonds Hill |
3,020.46 |
1,495,500.00 |
|
LSE0080 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Bishops Square |
Redmonds Hill |
3,082.05 |
1,525,000.00 |
|
LSE0082 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Bishops Square |
Redmonds Hill |
2,260.07 |
1,120,000.00 |
|
LSE0733 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Andrew St 10-12 |
10-12 Andrew St |
1,022.49 |
340,000.00 |
|
LSE1044 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Adelaide Road 29-31 |
29-31 Adelaide Road |
5,482.39 |
2,970,000.00 |
|
LSE0969 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Earlsfort Terrace Earl Ctr Blk |
Earlsfort Centre Block J, Earlsfort Terrace |
417 |
195,000.00 |
|
LSE0292 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Adelaide Rd 65A (Davitt House) |
65A Adelaide Road |
4,097.27 |
1,680,000.00 |
|
LSE0529 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Molesworth Bldg Setanta Cntre |
Molesworth Street/South Frederic |
2.48.60 |
114,388.00 |
|
LSE0993 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Dawson St 18A Royal Irish Acad |
Bective House, 18A Dawson Street |
132.85 |
41,900.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0557 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau Building Setanta Centre |
Nassau Street |
1,520.00 |
688,600.00 |
|
LSE0676 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse |
Earlsfort Terrace |
0.00 |
1,024,229.00 |
|
LSE0516 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Merrion Square 24 The Mews |
24 Merrion Square |
137.68 |
68,210.33 |
|
LSE0009 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Tara Street Apollo House |
Tara Street |
1,477.11 |
453,120.20 |
|
LSE1004 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Earlsfort Tce St Steph Gr Hse |
Earlsfort Terrace |
826.85 |
365,000.00 |
|
LSE0532 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Mount St Lr 73-79 Ballaugh House |
73-79 Lower Mount Street |
2,392.83 |
933,500.00 |
|
LSE1574 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
St Stephens Gr 94 |
94 St Stephens Green |
873.36 |
612,000.00 |
|
LSE0559 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau Building Setanta Centre |
Nassau Street |
582.03 |
278,600.00 |
|
LSE0560 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Nassau Building Setanta Centre |
Nassau Street |
1,619.47 |
792,144.00 |
|
LSE0533 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Mount Street Lower 85-93 |
85-93 Lower Mount Street |
4,590.49 |
1,743,000.00 |
|
LSE0535 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Mount St Upr 36 |
36 Upper Mount Street |
417.14 |
200,000.00 |
|
LSE0515 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Merrion Square 24 |
24 Merrion Square |
628.87 |
269,000.00 |
|
LSE0176 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Clonmel Street [Clonmel Place] |
Clonmel Place, Clonmel Street |
1711.96 |
804,500.00 |
|
LSE0613 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Leinster St Sth 6-9 Phoenix Hse |
6-9 South Leinster Street |
530.83 |
218,000.00 |
|
LSE0681 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Molesworth St Gov Publications |
Molesworth Street |
296.27 |
241,000.00 |
|
LSE0963 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Merrion Row 2-4 |
2/4 Merrion Row |
1,023.50 |
472,500.00 |
|
LSE0530 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Molesworth Bldg Setanta Cntre |
Molesworth Street/South Frederic |
5,155.76 |
2,267,000.00 |
|
LSE0241 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
D’Olier Street (D’Olier House) |
D’Olier Street |
3,873.81 |
1,085,626.00 |
|
LSE0707 |
Dublin |
Dublin 02 |
Mount St Lr 79-83 Timberlay Hse |
79-83 Lower Mount Street |
3,191.76 |
1,149,615.70 |
|
LSE0998 |
Dublin |
Dublin 03 |
East Wall PVII |
Bond Road Extension, East Wall |
458.46 |
278,000.00 |
|
LSE0652 |
Dublin |
Dublin 04 |
Shelbourne Rd 21Shelbourne Hse |
21 Shelbourne Road, Ballsbridge |
2,763.99 |
1,018,000.00 |
|
LSE0156 |
Dublin |
Dublin 04 |
Claremont Road Revenue Office |
Claremont Road, Sandymount |
1,920.91 |
655,000.00 |
|
LSE0997 |
Dublin |
Dublin 04 |
Waterloo Road St Martins House |
Dublin 4 |
1,092.00 |
570,000.00 |
|
LSE0381 |
Dublin |
Dublin 05 |
Kilbarrack SWO |
Greendale Shopping Centre, Kilbarrack |
0.00 |
145,500.00 |
|
LSE1252 |
Dublin |
Dublin 05 |
Raheny DTC |
4 All Saints Park, Raheny |
176.51 |
60,000.00 |
|
LSE0620 |
Dublin |
Dublin 06 |
Rathgar Driving Test Centre |
95 Orwell Road, Rathgar |
117.50 |
36,822.40 |
|
LSE0107 |
Dublin |
Dublin 06 |
Canal Road (Canal House) |
Canal Road |
744.00 |
370,000.00 |
|
LSE1180 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Blackhall Plce Smithwick Tribu |
Block C, 9-13 Blackhall Place |
627.91 |
375,000.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0090 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Bow Street Gov Office |
31-35 Bow Street |
917.67 |
450,000.00 |
|
LSE0987 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Bow Street 12-13 |
Fitzgerald Building, 12-13 Bow Street |
919.06 |
300,000.00 |
|
LSE1266 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Navan Road Ashtowngate Block B |
Navan Road |
1,048.00 |
254,401.00 |
|
LSE1579 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Smithfield Georges Court |
90 North King Street, Smithfield |
2,049.00 |
655,940.00 |
|
LSE0506 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Manor St Nursing Council |
Units 6 & 7, Manor St Business Park |
338.17 |
85,000.00 |
|
LSE0980 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Navan Road Ashtowngate |
Block D, Navan Road |
6,255.00 |
1,550,000.00 |
|
LSE1436 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Smithfield Probation Service |
Blocks B1, Smithfield Market |
3031.07 |
1,188,070.00 |
|
LSE1601 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Smithfield Off of Film Class |
Block B2, Blackhall Walk |
640.00 |
263,870.00 |
|
LSE0626 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Richmond Hospital Courts |
North Brunswick Street |
0.00 |
525,000.00 |
|
LSE1558 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Smithfield Georges Court |
90 North King Street, Smithfield |
4,382.00 |
1,353,509.00 |
|
LSE0625 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Richmond Hospital Courts |
North Brunswick Street |
0 |
31,743.45 |
|
LSE0592 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
North Circular Road Park House |
North Circular Road |
345.22 |
92,778.00 |
|
LSE0588 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Ormond Quay Ormond House |
Ormond Quay |
668.42 |
282,750.00 |
|
LSE0589 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
Ormond Quay Upper 19 |
Upper Ormond Quay |
365.85 |
99,000.00 |
|
LSE0591 |
Dublin |
Dublin 07 |
North Circular Road Park House |
North Circular Road |
1305.28 |
340,000.00 |
|
LSE1258 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
The Chancery Building |
3-10 Chancery Lane |
1,630.00 |
547,056.00 |
|
LSE0360 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
Ph/Pk Garda HQ Portacabins |
Phoenix Park |
0.00 |
11,983.80 |
|
LSE1073 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
Garden Lane Prob/Welfare Off |
Carmans Hall, Garden Lane |
316.14 |
55,980.00 |
|
LSE0700 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
Thomas Street 126-7 |
126 -127 Thomas Street |
991.10 |
244,000.00 |
|
LSE1228 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
Le Pole House, Le Pole House |
Great Ship Street |
657.48 |
306,759.00 |
|
LSE0614 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
Conyngham Road Phoenix House |
Phoenix House, Conyngham Road |
1,265.51 |
330,000.00 |
|
LSE0440 |
Dublin |
Dublin 08 |
Mountshannon Rd Fur Br Off Block |
Mountshannon Road |
5,623.37 |
460,000.00 |
|
LSE0007 |
Dublin |
Dublin 09 |
Airways Industrial Estate |
Unit 1, Airways Industrial Estate |
3123.11 |
290,000.00 |
|
LSE0643 |
Dublin |
Dublin 09 |
Santry Revenue Warehouse/Office |
Unit H Furry Park, Furry Park |
3,382.40 |
400,000.00 |
|
LSE0047 |
Dublin |
Dublin 10 |
Ballyfermot Prob & Wel Service |
Le Fanu Road, Ballyfermot |
260.00 |
39,500.00 |
|
LSE0740 |
Dublin |
Dublin 11 |
Finglas Driv Test Ctr+Rev Store |
Unidare Industrial Estate, Jamestown Road |
500.45 |
45,520.15 |
|
LSE0743 |
Dublin |
Dublin 11 |
Unidare OPW Store Warehouse 2 |
Unidare Industrial Estate, Jamestown Road |
300.07 |
15,299.80 |
|
LSE0309 |
Dublin |
Dublin 11 |
Finglas Prob & Welfare Service |
Poppintree Mall, Finglas |
436.44 |
66,000.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0742 |
Dublin |
Dublin 11 |
Jamestown Business Park Unit 38 |
Jamestown Business Park, Jamestown Road |
3,065.70 |
231,000.00 |
|
LSE0310 |
Dublin |
Dublin 11 |
Finglas Shopping Centre FÁS |
Unit 14C, Finglas Shopping Centre |
255.01 |
39,500.00 |
|
LSE0984 |
Dublin |
Dublin 11 |
Finglas Finance Storage |
Unit 9 Jamestown Business Park, Finglas |
751.96 |
72,500.00 |
|
LSE0594 |
Dublin |
Dublin 12 |
Park West Business Park Block 43 |
Block 43, Park West Business Park |
915.09 |
212,585.90 |
|
LSE0595 |
Dublin |
Dublin 12 |
Park West Ind Est Unit 4 |
Unit 4/Site 39, Park West Industrial Estate |
1,732.00 |
180,000.00 |
|
LSE0244 |
Dublin |
Dublin 13 |
Donaghmede Prob/Welfare Service |
Donaghmede Shopping Centre, Grange Road |
719.33 |
160,000.00 |
|
LSE0577 |
Dublin |
Dublin 14 |
Nutgrove SWO |
Nutgrove Shopping Centre, Rathfarnham |
0.00 |
144,480.00 |
|
LSE0147 |
Dublin |
Dublin 14 |
Churchtown Driving Test Centre |
5 Braemor Road, Churchtown |
65.03 |
13,800.00 |
|
LSE0071 |
Dublin |
Dublin 14 |
Clonskeagh Belfield Office Park |
Block 5 Belfield Office Park, Clonskeagh |
3533.45 |
1,160,000.00 |
|
LSE0083 |
Dublin |
Dublin 15 |
Blanchardstown Marine W/hse/Off |
Rosemount Business Park Unit 1, Ballycollin Road |
2500.51 |
250,000.00 |
|
LSE0084 |
Dublin |
Dublin 15 |
Blanchardstown Gov Off |
Block A Westend Office Park |
2898.48 |
638,678.25 |
|
LSE1283 |
Dublin |
Dublin 15 |
Blanchardstown Gov Office |
Block 3 Grove Court, Blanchardstown |
805.54 |
157,907.00 |
|
LSE1282 |
Dublin |
Dublin 15 |
Blanchardstown Gov Office |
Block 3 Grove Court, Blanchardstown |
805.57 |
157,907.00 |
|
LSE0320 |
Dublin |
Dublin 18 |
Sandyford Furze Road |
90-91 Furze Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate |
1934.20 |
255,000.00 |
|
LSE0642 |
Dublin |
Dublin 18 |
Sandyford Ind Est Geolog W/house |
Carmenhall Road, Sandyford Industrial Estate |
2208.60 |
260,000.00 |
|
LSE0170 |
Dublin |
Dublin 22 |
Clondalkin SWO Ninth Lock Rd |
Block B, Ninth Lock Road |
1144.71 |
215,000.00 |
|
LSE0169 |
Dublin |
Dublin 22 |
Clondalkin SIAC Building |
Dolcain Hse Monastery Road, Clondalkin |
2239.09 |
570,000.00 |
|
LSE0167 |
Dublin |
Dublin 22 |
Clondalkin Education Office |
Convent Road, Clondalkin |
418.06 |
43,000.00 |
|
LSE0168 |
Dublin |
Dublin 22 |
Clondalkin Education Office |
Convent Road, Clondalkin |
418.06 |
43,000.00 |
|
LSE0692 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght Prob and Welf Service |
Westpark House, Westpark Road |
326.73 |
92,057.00 |
|
LSE0691 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght Revenue Commissioners |
Unit 247, The Square |
349.86 |
107,500.00 |
|
LSE0690 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght Gov Off St Johns Hse |
St John’s House, Tallaght Retail Centre |
2948.18 |
722,501.00 |
|
LSE1058 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght Education Office |
County Hall, Belgard Sq North, Town Centre |
589.99 |
113,658.00 |
|
LSE0687 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght Gov Off Plaza Complex |
Plaza Complex Belgard Road, Tallaght |
1866.13 |
380,000.00 |
|
LSE1573 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght DTC Broomhill |
52 Broomhill Rd., Broomhill Industrial Estate |
94.91 |
91,334.40 |
|
LSE0688 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght Gov Off Plaza Complex |
Plaza Complex Belgard Road, Tallaght |
2288.46 |
500,000.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE1047 |
Dublin |
Dublin 24 |
Tallaght PIAB |
The Grain Hse, Blk 1, The Exchange, Belgard Square North |
1011.8 |
188,553.75 |
|
LSE1050 |
Dublin |
Dublin Airport |
Dublin Airport Pier B |
Dublin Airport |
39.70 |
14,599.20 |
|
LSE1611 |
Dublin |
Dublin Airport |
Dublin Airport Terminal Building |
Dublin Airport |
0.00 |
14,340.00 |
|
LSE0265 |
Dublin |
Dublin Airport |
Dublin Airport Transaer House |
Transaer House, Dublin Airport |
1190.82 |
565,235.00 |
|
LSE1577 |
Dublin |
Dublin Airport |
Dublin Airport Terminal Building |
Dublin Airport |
38.30 |
16,086.00 |
|
LSE1578 |
Dublin |
Dublin Airport |
Dublin Airport International Hse |
Dublin Airport |
33.26 |
11,308.40 |
|
LSE0235 |
Dublin |
Dún Laoghaire |
Dun Laoghaire Prob&Welfare Serv |
Foundation House, 12 Northumberland Avenue |
245.63 |
85,999.36 |
|
LSE0238 |
Dublin |
Dún Laoghaire |
Dun Laoghaire Vehicle Reg Off |
111 Lower Georges Street |
182.20 |
47,500.00 |
|
LSE0233 |
Dublin |
Dún Laoghaire |
Dun Laoghaire Garda Control |
The Ferry Terminal, Dun Laoghaire Harbour |
49.33 |
10,500.00 |
|
LSE0495 |
Dublin |
LUCAN |
Lucan SWO — Main Street |
Main Street |
0.00 |
12,697.38 |
|
LSE0493 |
Dublin |
LUCAN |
Lucan SWO — Chapel Hill |
Chapel Hill |
0.00 |
16,671.66 |
|
LSE0500 |
Dublin |
Malahide |
Malahide SWO |
Main Street |
0 |
15,871.73 |
|
LSE1144 |
Dublin |
Swords |
Swords Business Campus Unit 5/6D |
Swords Business Campus |
864.84 |
181,490.55 |
|
LSE1175 |
Dublin |
SWORDS |
Swords Business Campus Unit 5/6C |
Swords Business Campus |
931.71 |
173,226.50 |
|
LSE1174 |
Dublin |
SWORDS |
Swords Business Campus Unit 5/6A |
Swords Business Campus |
1261.62 |
231,443.68 |
|
LSE0684 |
Dublin |
SWORDS |
Swords Business Campus Unit 4 |
Swords Business Campus |
3480.71 |
634,852.53 |
|
LSE1608 |
Dublin |
SWORDS |
Swords Temp DSFA Office |
Unit 2, 31 North Street |
89.57 |
30,000.00 |
|
LSE0037 |
Galway |
Ballinasloe |
Ballinasloe Gov Office |
3 Society Street |
127.74 |
14,195.67 |
|
LSE1556 |
Galway |
Clifden |
Clifden Environment Office |
Clifden Courts Units 3 &4, Market Lane |
138.19 |
27,500.00 |
|
LSE1021 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway DAF Dockgate |
Dockgate, Dock Road |
3430.37 |
744,825.84 |
|
LSE0951 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Environment Office |
Office No 3 The Plaza, Headford Road |
272.30 |
48,000.00 |
|
LSE1167 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Gov Off Hynes Building |
Hynes Building, St Augustine Street |
1333.17 |
222,425.00 |
|
LSE1142 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway SWO — Island House |
Island House, Cathedral Square |
37.16 |
15,768.00 |
|
LSE0341 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Gov Off Hynes Building |
Hynes Building, St Augustine Street |
0.00 |
235,000.00 |
|
LSE0338 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Revenue Tax Office |
Hibernian House, Eyre Square |
931.34 |
150,375.00 |
|
LSE0345 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Garda Training |
Mayoralty House, Flood Street |
171.77 |
31,420.00 |
|
LSE1222 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Liosbaun Garda Unit 1B |
Liosbaun Business Park, Tuam Road |
179.00 |
25,987.50 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0356 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Driving Test Centre |
Unit 4 Westside, Westside Shopping Centre |
104.51 |
28,600.00 |
|
LSE0972 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Garda Office |
Units 2 & 20A/20B Liosban, Liosban Business Park |
460.23 |
76,000.00 |
|
LSE0336 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Revenue Tax Office |
Hibernian House, Eyre Square |
184.03 |
31,696.00 |
|
LSE0337 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Revenue Tax Office |
Hibernian House, Eyre Square |
380.62 |
54,281.30 |
|
LSE0348 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Gov Off Ross House |
Ross House, Merchants Road |
402.72 |
81,281.25 |
|
LSE0335 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Revenue Tax Office |
Hibernian House, Eyre Square |
194.44 |
27,299.37 |
|
LSE0347 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Gov Off Ross House |
Ross House, Merchants Road |
408.78 |
88,000.00 |
|
LSE0344 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Irish Water Safety |
Long Walk |
153.19 |
41,722.00 |
|
LSE0355 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Education Office |
Victoria Place |
701.40 |
180,000.00 |
|
LSE1239 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Revenue Fairgreen |
Fairgreen Rd and Loughatalia Rd |
5525.95 |
1,214,221.40 |
|
LSE0354 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Prob & Wel Serv |
Abbey Arch Units 1,4, 5,7 & 8, Upper Abbeygate Street |
154.77 |
31,144.00 |
|
LSE0353 |
Galway |
Galway |
Galway Prob & Wel Serv |
Abbey Arch Units 1,4, 5,7 & 8, Upper Abbeygate Street |
181.15 |
42,334.50 |
|
LSE0492 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea SWO — PMPA Building |
PMPA Building, Bride Street |
111.48 |
23,000.00 |
|
LSE1267 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea Trans & RSA Temp Off |
Clonfert House, Bride St |
116.00 |
31,225.00 |
|
LSE0490 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea Agriculture Offices |
ESB Premises, Main Street |
92.89 |
26,600.00 |
|
LSE1269 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea Trans & RSA Temp Off |
Clonfert House, Bride St |
332.00 |
51,837.50 |
|
LSE1268 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea Trans & RSA Temp Off |
Clonfert House, Bride St |
360.00 |
56,187.50 |
|
LSE1445 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea DSFA Office |
42 Bride St |
79.90 |
20,800.00 |
|
LSE0491 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Loughrea Agriculture Offices |
ESB Premises, Main Street |
100.33 |
13,865.54 |
|
LSE1243 |
Galway |
Loughrea |
Galway Millenium House |
Westbridge |
103.03 |
19,407.50 |
|
LSE1134 |
Galway |
SpiddalL |
An Coimisinéir Teanga |
Baile an Tsagairt |
340.60 |
45,981.00 |
|
LSE0735 |
Galway |
Tuam |
Tuam DTC |
Balgaddy Road |
128.67 |
12,697.38 |
|
LSE0736 |
Galway |
Tuam |
Tuam Government Offices |
Rhatigans Premises, The Mall |
235.78 |
38,500.00 |
|
LSE0734 |
Galway |
Tuam |
Tuam Ordnance Survey Office |
Airglooney House, Ballygaddy Road |
0.00 |
22,000.00 |
|
LSE0417 |
Kerry |
Kenmare |
Kenmare SWO |
Old Bridge Street |
160.07 |
19,000.00 |
|
LSE0430 |
Kerry |
Killarney |
Killarney Government Offices |
Credit Union Building, Beech Road New Street |
323.30 |
36,822.40 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE1566 |
Kerry |
Killarney |
Killarney Park Court |
Beech Road |
308.47 |
76,369.20 |
|
LSE1554 |
Kerry |
Killarney |
Killarney D.T.C. |
Killarney Race Course, Ross Road |
111.48 |
40,000.00 |
|
LSE1586 |
Kerry |
Killarney |
Killarney SWLO |
St Anthonys Place |
111.50 |
18,000.00 |
|
LSE1275 |
Kerry |
Killarney |
Killarney Park Court |
Beech Road |
315.87 |
|
|
LSE0487 |
Kerry |
Listowel |
Listowel SWO |
12 The Square |
0.00 |
81,263.24 |
|
LSE1298 |
Kerry |
Listowel |
Listowel Revenue Office |
Old Mill Road |
1,140.00 |
244,923.70 |
|
LSE0716 |
Kerry |
Tralee |
Tralee Agric Warehouse |
Ballinorig Road |
536.30 |
18,324.86 |
|
LSE0723 |
Kerry |
Tralee |
Tralee Garda Training Centre |
Market Place Main Street |
90.75 |
18,000.00 |
|
LSE0725 |
Kerry |
Tralee |
Tralee Education Office |
The Monastery Clounalour, Oakpark |
371.61 |
69,000.00 |
|
LSE0715 |
Kerry |
Tralee |
Tralee Prob and Wel Service |
7 Ashe Street |
128.48 |
35,000.00 |
|
LSE0721 |
Kerry |
Tralee |
Tralee Greenview Office |
3 Greenview Terrace |
108.98 |
20,500.00 |
|
LSE1308 |
Kildare |
Athy |
Athy Revenue Temp Decent Off |
Unit 4 & 5, Athy Business Campus |
1269.14 |
231,553.95 |
|
LSE0030 |
Kildare |
Athy |
Athy SWO |
Hibernian House, Leinster Street |
81.29 |
12,500.00 |
|
LSE0050 |
Kildare |
Ballymore Eustace |
Ballymore Eustace GS + MQ + RAX |
Barrack Street |
93.00 |
11,000.00 |
|
LSE1564 |
Kildare |
Enfield |
Enfield Jessbrook Furn. Store |
Enfield |
1,000.00 |
65,000.00 |
|
LSE1428 |
Kildare |
Kildare |
Kildare Heritage Office |
Station Road |
148.42 |
20,761.00 |
|
LSE0960 |
Kildare |
Maynooth |
Maynooth Agriculture Office |
Block B, Maynooth Business Campus |
0.00 |
940,625.68 |
|
LSE0553 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Naas Agric Off Spring Garden Hse |
Spring Garden House, Sallins Road |
193.4 |
41,000.00 |
|
LSE0554 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Naas Vehicle Registration Office |
St David’s House, North Main Street |
144.00 |
38,000.00 |
|
LSE0552 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Naas SWO — Rathasker Square |
Unit 2 Rathasker Square, Kilcullen Road |
106.84 |
23,000.00 |
|
LSE1211 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Willow Hse Millennium Pk Block 6 |
Block 6, Willow House, Millennium Park |
607.48 |
119,163.00 |
|
LSE0547 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Naas Driving Test Centre |
Clarendon House, Limerick Road |
84.07 |
11,000.00 |
|
LSE0550 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Naas Agric Off — Poplar House |
Poplar House, Poplar Square |
557.50 |
95,696.00 |
|
LSE1022 |
Kildare |
Naas |
Naas Gov Office |
Maudlins Hall, Dublin Road |
1343.37 |
254,034.00 |
|
LSE0573 |
Kildare |
Newbridge |
Newbridge SWO — Henry Street |
Henry Street |
106.84 |
20,500.00 |
|
LSE1254 |
Laois |
Portarlington |
Portarlington Decentral Office |
Data Protection Commissioners, Station Road |
457.38 |
73,500.00 |
|
LSE1607 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Agri Gandon Court |
Gandon Court, Fairgreen |
423.66 |
76,050.00 |
|
LSE1429 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Grattan House |
Grattan House, Grattan Business Centre, |
405.52 |
75,000.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0616 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Agric Warehouse |
Kylekiproe Industrial Estate |
1646.75 |
107,919.25 |
|
LSE1591 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise NCCA & Equality Temp |
First Floor, James Fintan Lawlor Avenue |
596.15 |
60,961.50 |
|
LSE1557 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Agri Records |
Unit 11, Clonminam Ind Estate |
1031.23 |
98,133.16 |
|
LSE1237 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Grattan House |
Grattan House, Grattan Business Centre, |
306.58 |
46,860.00 |
|
LSE1214 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Grattan Business Cent |
Grattan Business Centre, Dublin Road |
1479.08 |
264,640.00 |
|
LSE1609 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Agri Gandon Court |
Gandon Court, Fairgreen |
401.89 |
67,245.00 |
|
LSE1136 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Agric Office Eircom |
Knockmay |
1323.82 |
191,000.00 |
|
LSE1013 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise DAF Appeals Office |
Kilminchy Court |
612.05 |
83,259.00 |
|
LSE1605 |
Laois |
Portlaoise |
Portlaoise Agri Gandon Court |
Gandon Court, Fairgreen |
436.68 |
70,500.00 |
|
LSE0035 |
Leitrim |
Ballinamore |
Ballinamore SWO |
Main Street |
85.50 |
12,220.00 |
|
LSE1295 |
Leitrim |
Carrick-on-Shannon |
Carrick-on-Shannon Dcnt SWO |
Attyory |
3,716.00 |
800,000.00 |
|
LSE1032 |
Limerick |
Kilmallock |
Kilmallock SWO |
Charleville Road |
51.87 |
12,000.00 |
|
LSE1597 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Decent Off DFA |
Henry St |
0.00 |
900,000.00 |
|
LSE1238 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Revenue Warehouses |
Units 6-7 Rhebogue, Rhebogue Industrial Estate |
538.83 |
38,570.00 |
|
LSE0978 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Education Office |
Rosbrien Road, Punches Cross |
1432.77 |
255,000.00 |
|
LSE0477 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Revenue Warehouses |
Units 6-7 Rhebogue, Rhebogue Industrial Estate |
557.41 |
39,900.00 |
|
LSE0483 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Driving Test Centre |
Woodview Shopping Centre, Moylish |
60.20 |
15,000.00 |
|
LSE1150 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Gov Off Houston Hall |
Houston Hall, Raheen Business Park |
2669.64 |
373,568.00 |
|
LSE1069 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Prob/Welfare Service |
Theatre Court 1st & 2nd Floors, Lower Mallow St |
258.50 |
45,262.00 |
|
LSE0461 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Revenue Drugs Team |
Corcanree Industrial Estate |
327.48 |
23,970.00 |
|
LSE0460 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Revenue Office |
River House, Charlotte Quay |
3307.24 |
615,000.00 |
|
LSE1049 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick DTC Dock Road |
Castlemungret, Dock Road |
5531.72 |
138,096.65 |
|
LSE0476 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick SWO — Plassey |
International Business Park, Plassey |
269.41 |
42,050.00 |
|
LSE1070 |
Limerick |
Limerick |
Limerick Prob/Welfare Service |
Theatre Court 1st & 2nd Floors, Lower Mallow St |
258.50 |
45,262.00 |
|
LSE0979 |
Limerick |
Newcastlewest |
Newcastlewest Prob/Wel Office |
Churchtown Road |
305.48 |
39,613.16 |
|
LSE0488 |
Longford |
Longford |
Longford Vehicle Reg Off |
Richmond Street |
83.61 |
12,825.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0021 |
Longford |
Moyne |
Moyne Wildlife Office |
Longford Road |
113.60 |
13,205.28 |
|
LSE0016 |
Louth |
Ardee |
Ardee SWO |
William Street |
33.45 |
14,000.00 |
|
LSE1173 |
Louth |
Drogheda |
Drogheda SWO Singleton House |
Singleton House, Laurence Street |
257.00 |
70,533.00 |
|
LSE0261 |
Louth |
Drogheda |
Drogheda Prob & Wel Serv |
23 Laurence Street |
260.68 |
66,000.00 |
|
LSE0976 |
Louth |
Drogheda |
Drogheda Education Office |
C C O House, Industrial Estate |
343.74 |
70,089.52 |
|
LSE0270 |
Louth |
Dundalk |
Dundalk Gov Off Brook St |
Brook Street, Ardee Road |
277.58 |
35,000.00 |
|
LSE0273 |
Louth |
Dundalk |
Dundalk Gov Off Earl Hse |
Earl House, 13-14 Earl Street |
1487.36 |
177,763.33 |
|
LSE1563 |
Louth |
Dundalk |
Block 1 Finnabair Bus Park |
Floor 2, Block 1, Finnabair Bus Technology Park |
617.00 |
96,000.00 |
|
LSE1206 |
Louth |
Dundalk |
Dundalk Education Office |
Dundalk Institute of Technology, Dublin Road |
66.00 |
14,544.00 |
|
LSE1244 |
Louth |
Dundalk |
Dundalk Revenue Warehouse |
Coes Road |
1,584.00 |
130,000.00 |
|
LSE1559 |
Mayo |
Ballina |
Ballina Road Safety HQ Unit 3 |
Moyvalley Business Park, Primrose Hill |
901.17 |
121,250.00 |
|
LSE1560 |
Mayo |
Ballina |
Ballina Road Safety HQ Unit 4 |
Moyvalley Business Park, Primrose Hill |
906.28 |
121,937.50 |
|
LSE1259 |
Mayo |
Ballina |
Ballina Road Safety HQ Unit 2 |
Moyvalley Business Park, Primrose Hill |
971.55 |
151,641.00 |
|
LSE1594 |
Mayo |
Ballina |
Ballina Road Safety HQ Unit 5 |
Moyvalley Business Park, Primrose Hill |
742.23 |
48,000.00 |
|
LSE0123 |
Mayo |
Castlebar |
Castlebar DTC |
Mitchells GAA Club McHale Park |
51.65 |
11,500.00 |
|
LSE0124 |
Mayo |
Castlebar |
Castlebar SWO — Humbert Mall |
Humbert Mall |
371.60 |
67,500.00 |
|
LSE0126 |
Mayo |
Castlebar |
Castlebar Nat Ed Physch Serv |
Thomas Street |
139.35 |
23,000.00 |
|
LSE1063 |
Mayo |
Castlebar |
Castlebar Prob/Welfare Service |
Unit 10, N5 Business Retail Park |
355.445 |
38,259.80 |
|
LSE0158 |
Mayo |
ClareMORRIS |
Claremorris Agriculture Office |
St Colman’s Credit Union, The Square |
264.20 |
37,000.00 |
|
LSE1281 |
Mayo |
Claremorris |
Claremorris Temp Decent Off |
Unit 20, Lakeside Retail Park |
797.93 |
68,712.00 |
|
LSE1437 |
Mayo |
Swinford |
Swinford DSFA Office |
Chapel Street |
116.69 |
18,840.00 |
|
LSE0416 |
Meath |
Kells |
Kells SWO |
Headfort Place |
55.74 |
18,500.00 |
|
LSE0968 |
Meath |
Navan |
Navan SWO |
Kennedy Road |
938.78 |
230,000.00 |
|
LSE1435 |
Meath |
Navan |
Navan Revenue Abbey Mall |
Abbey Road |
2672.63 |
575,360.00 |
|
LSE1427 |
Meath |
Navan |
Navan Athlumney House |
Atulumney House |
2744.38 |
439,921.00 |
|
LSE1162 |
Meath |
Navan |
Navan Gov Off Athlumney |
Athlumney, Kilcairn |
3217.67 |
573,700.00 |
|
LSE1598 |
Meath |
Oldcastle |
Oldcastle GS + MQ |
The Square |
108.18 |
22,000.00 |
|
LSE1272 |
Meath |
Trim |
Scurlockstown DSFA Office |
Unit 1, Scurlockstown, Business Park |
381.58 |
67,752.06 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE1048 |
Meath |
Trim |
Trim NCSE |
Mill Street |
407.17 |
87,645.60 |
|
LSE0043 |
Monaghan |
Ballybay |
Ballybay Dist Veterinary Office |
7 Main Street |
139.35 |
11,427.64 |
|
LSE0044 |
Monaghan |
Ballybay |
Ballybay Livestock Office |
Main Street |
517 |
42,000.00 |
|
LSE0116 |
Monaghan |
Carrickmacross |
Carrickmacross SWO |
Ardee Road |
174.56 |
27,000.00 |
|
LSE1219 |
Monaghan |
Castleblayney |
Castleblaney Credit Union House |
Credit Union House, Main Street |
70.30 |
14,250.00 |
|
LSE1583 |
Monaghan |
Monaghan |
Monaghan Revenue MTEK |
MTEK Building, Armagh Road |
960.00 |
170,880.00 |
|
LSE0531 |
Monaghan |
Monaghan |
Monaghan Drainage Workshops |
Drumbear |
589.93 |
32,500.00 |
|
LSE0738 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
557.42 |
26,664.50 |
|
LSE1280 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore SWO Castle Buildings |
Office Suite 1 & 2 Castle Builds, Tara Street |
1247.14 |
204,044.80 |
|
LSE1029 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
222.97 |
10,656.00 |
|
LSE1141 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
529.54 |
25,365.00 |
|
LSE1030 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
334.45 |
15,984.00 |
|
LSE1034 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
501.68 |
23,976.00 |
|
LSE1019 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
436.26 |
20,869.42 |
|
LSE0737 |
Offaly |
Tullamore |
Tullamore Gov Warehouse |
Cappincur |
334.45 |
15,998.70 |
|
LSE0667 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr |
Westward Town Centre, Bridge Street |
281.95 |
53,250.00 |
|
LSE1224 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Marino House |
Finisklin Business Park |
350 |
57,642.00 |
|
LSE0663 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Garda Welfare Office |
4 Lower Pearse Road |
61.30 |
11,732.38 |
|
LSE1026 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Driving Test Centre |
Carrowgobbadagh, Carraroe |
126.00 |
109,220.00 |
|
LSE1297 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Beulah Building |
Finisklin Road |
722.60 |
124,448.00 |
|
LSE1444 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Marino House |
Finisklin Business Park |
349.90 |
57,640.15 |
|
LSE0666 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr |
Westward Town Centre, Bridge Street |
187.28 |
34,752.73 |
|
LSE0665 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr |
Westward Town Centre, Bridge Street |
174.19 |
31,000.00 |
|
LSE0668 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Gov Off-Westward Town Cntr |
Westward Town Centre, Bridge Street |
209.03 |
42,260.00 |
|
LSE0659 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Vehicle Reg Off |
Unit 2, Customs House Quay |
72.70 |
15,000.00 |
|
LSE0661 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo Customs and Excise Store |
Rhodaville Warehouse, Finisklin Industrial Estate |
232.25 |
24,000.00 |
|
LSE1215 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo SCFA Office |
Waterfront House, >Bridge Street |
146 |
32,000.00 |
|
LSE1424 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Lough Arrow Field Study Centre |
Lough Arrow |
311.00 |
33,430.00 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0657 |
Sligo |
Sligo |
Sligo SCFA Office |
Waterfront House, Bridge Street |
800.00 |
194,600.00 |
|
LSE1569 |
Sligo |
Tubbercurry |
Tubbercurry Temp CRGA Office 2 |
Teeling Street |
810.03 |
88,138.00 |
|
LSE1225 |
Sligo |
Tubbercurry |
Tubbercurry Temp CRGA Office |
Main Street |
753.71 |
86,755.00 |
|
LSE0086 |
Tipperary |
Borrisokane |
Borrisokane GS |
Main Street |
147.00 |
14,000.00 |
|
LSE0175 |
Tipperary |
Clonmel |
Clonmel Gov Off Harbour Hse |
Harbour House, Nelson Street/New Quay |
1614.86 |
275,000.00 |
|
LSE1567 |
Tipperary |
Nenagh |
Nenagh Justice Office |
24 Kenyon Street |
224.85 |
36,270.00 |
|
LSE1561 |
Tipperary |
Nenagh |
Nenagh Gov Office Temp |
Lisbunny Industrial Estate |
278.70 |
16,000.00 |
|
LSE1582 |
Tipperary |
Roscrea |
Roscrea Temp Decent Office |
Birchgrove House |
542 |
130,000.00 |
|
LSE0634 |
Tipperary |
Roscrea |
Roscrea SWO |
The Malthouse, Valley Place |
72.50 |
16,506.60 |
|
LSE1061 |
Tipperary |
Roscrea |
Roscrea Civil Defence Office |
Enterprise Hse, Benamore Bus Pk, Dublin Road |
1876.89 |
178,825.00 |
|
LSE1071 |
Tipperary |
Roscrea |
Roscrea Civil Defence Office |
Enterprise Hse, Benamore Bus Pk, Dublin Road |
8,094.00 |
25,000.00 |
|
LSE0967 |
Tipperary |
Roscrea |
Roscrea GS |
Main Street |
2,953.00 |
36,314.51 |
|
LSE0697 |
Tipperary |
Terryglass |
Terryglass GS |
1 The Square |
83.64 |
|
|
LSE1185 |
Tipperary |
Thurles |
Tipp Technology ParkUnit F2 |
Units F2, A6,A7 & D4 & D5, Tipperary Technology Park |
376.00 |
64,736.00 |
|
LSE1304 |
Tipperary |
Thurles |
Thurles Garda Fines Office |
Parnell Street, Thurles |
1235.53 |
186,186.00 |
|
LSE0702 |
Tipperary |
Thurles |
Thurles Gov Offices — ACC House |
ACC House, Liberty Square |
148.83 |
10,157.90 |
|
LSE1555 |
Tipperary |
Tipperary |
Tipperary Temp Decent Off |
Block 2 Rossmore Village, Carrownreddy, Dundrum Road |
627.80 |
103,957.50 |
|
LSE1178 |
Tipperary |
Tipperary |
Tipperary Justice Office |
Tipperary Technology Park, Rosanna Road |
502.61 |
108,200.00 |
|
LSE0285 |
Waterford |
Dungarvan |
Dungarvan Gov Off Civic Bldgs |
Civic Offices |
548.17 |
81,806.68 |
|
LSE1596 |
Waterford |
Waterford |
Waterford Agri Belview |
Marine Point, Belview Port |
59.83 |
12,880.00 |
|
LSE1028 |
Waterford |
Waterford |
Waterford Gov Off-Johnstown |
Johnstown Industrial Estate, Johnstown |
1095.97 |
117,968.00 |
|
LSE1257 |
Waterford |
Waterford |
Waterford Harbour Warehouse |
Belview, Waterford Port |
0.00 |
60,750.00 |
|
LSE0758 |
Waterford |
Waterford |
Waterford Customs Store 1 |
Units 4 & 4A, Tramore Road Industrial Park |
431.81 |
32,505.29 |
|
LSE1440 |
Waterford |
Waterford |
Waterford RSA Test Centre |
Six Cross Roads Bus Park |
350.00 |
40,000.00 |
|
LSE0759 |
Waterford |
Waterford |
Waterford Customs Store |
Unit 2, Tramore Road Industrial Park |
216.00 |
14,760.71 |
|
LSE0026 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone DTC |
Unit 8 McCormack Centre |
74.32 |
21,600.00 |
|
LSE1587 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone DSFA & Prob/Welf Off |
Grace Park, Grace Park Road |
1,860.00 |
359,577.16 |
|
OPW Ref |
County |
Location |
Building Name |
Address |
Rentable SqM |
Rent PA |
|
LSE0028 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone Education W/Hse |
Garry Castle, Dublin Road |
325.15 |
14,665.47 |
|
LSE1075 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone Prob/Wel The Cresent |
The Cresent, Ballymahon Road |
613.14 |
110,472.00 |
|
LSE0027 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone Education W/Hse |
Garry Castle, Dublin Road |
241.54 |
13,205.28 |
|
LSE0542 |
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
Mullingar Prob & Wel Serv |
Friars Mill Road |
195.09 |
26,664.50 |
|
LSE0026 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone DTC |
Unit 8 McCormack Centre |
74.32 |
21,600.00 |
|
LSE1587 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone DSFA & Prob/Welf Off |
Grace Park, Grace Park Road |
1,860.00 |
359,577.16 |
|
LSE0028 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone Education W/Hse |
Garry Castle, Dublin Road |
325.15 |
14,665.47 |
|
LSE1075 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone Prob/Wel The Cresent |
The Cresent, Ballymahon Road |
613.14 |
110,472.00 |
|
LSE0027 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
Athlone Education W/Hse |
Garry Castle, Dublin Road |
241.54 |
13,205.28 |
|
LSE0542 |
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
Mullingar Prob & Wel Serv |
Friars Mill Road |
195.09 |
26,664.50 |
|
LSE0546 |
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
Mullingar Vehicle Reg Office |
Spout Well Lane |
74.32 |
14,500.00 |
|
LSE1300 |
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
Mullingar Gov Warehouse |
Unit 23, Clonmore Industrial Estate |
339.84 |
16,278.12 |
|
LSE0994 |
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
Mullingar Gov Offices |
Friars Mill Road |
908.60 |
186,309.00 |
|
LSE0975 |
Westmeath |
Mullingar |
Mullingar Gov Warehouse |
Unit 23, Clonmore Industrial Estate |
586.13 |
28,011.96 |
|
LSE1138 |
Wexford |
Enniscorthy |
Enniscorthy SWO Portsmouth Hse |
Unit 9, Portsmouth House, Templeshannon |
181.16 |
25,000.00 |
|
LSE0637 |
Wexford |
Rosslare Harbour |
Rosslare Harbour Veh Reg Office |
Rosslare Harbour |
696.77 |
90,000.00 |
|
LSE0636 |
Wexford |
Rosslare Harbour |
Rosslare Harbour Government Off |
Port Terminal |
1963.71 |
79,206.26 |
|
LSE0985 |
Wexford |
Rosslare Harbour |
Rosslare Harbour Government Off |
Port Terminal |
61.60 |
10,860.00 |
|
LSE1614 |
Wexford |
Wexford |
Wexford DTC |
Killeens |
175.59 |
30,000.00 |
|
LSE1612 |
Wexford |
Wexford |
Wexford Temp Dec Off 2 DEHLG |
1st Floor Kent Stainless Works, Ardcavan |
603.88 |
33,336.00 |
|
LSE0999 |
Wexford |
Wexford |
Wexford Education Office |
3rd Flr, Bushel House, Cornmarket |
443.00 |
95,316.60 |
|
LSE1288 |
Wexford |
Wexford |
Wexford Temp Decent Off DEHLG |
Unit 1A, Ardcavan Business Park |
580.00 |
75,000.00 |
|
LSE0017 |
Wicklow |
Arklow |
Arklow Prob & Welfare Serv |
Wexford Road |
185.80 |
19,046.07 |
|
LSE1005 |
Wicklow |
Ashford |
Ashford GS-Temporary |
Boland’s Corner, Ashford |
80.90 |
21,000.00 |
|
LSE1240 |
Wicklow |
Baltinglass |
Baltinglass DAF Office |
Ground Floor, Unit 2, Edward Street |
70.23 |
26,000.00 |
|
LSE1449 |
Wicklow |
Bray |
Block D Bray Civic Centre |
Cualann Centre |
1865.65 |
471,541.36 |
|
LSE0095 |
Wicklow |
Bray |
Bray SWO — The Esplanade |
The Esplanade |
275.45 |
48,942.05 |
|
LSE0286 |
Wicklow |
Dunlavin |
Dunlavin GS + MQ |
Market Square |
152.13 |
10,500.00 |
|
LSE0768 |
Wicklow |
Wicklow |
Wicklow Gov Off Murrough |
The Murrough |
739.58 |
123,926.44 |
161 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance the progress made with the implementation of the car parking levy; his views on the implementation of a levy on all commercial car parking with a view to encouraging proper planning and sustainable transport and development policies. [42722/09]
Consultations between my Department and the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government with regard to the implementation of the levy are well advanced and details of its introduction will be announced shortly. Experience gained with the initial implementation of the levy will then be used to inform any further development of measure; in the absence at present of such experience it would be premature to consider whether or how it might be extended.
162 Deputy Dinny McGinley asked the Minister for Finance if, when framing the budget 2010, he will take into consideration the difficulty being experienced by Border region traders whose businesses are suffering, due to the huge number of persons purchasing in Northern Ireland; the steps he proposes to take to reduce the burden on border traders; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42735/09]
With regard to framing Budget policy, you will appreciate that it is the usual practice for the Minister for Finance not to speculate or comment in advance of the Budget on what it will contain and I do not propose to deviate from that practice.
163 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Finance the estimated amount of revenue which would be generated by a 1 cent levy on sugary foods and drinks; if it would be possible to ring fence this money to fund programmes to target obesity, promote healthy eating and provide staff and sports facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42755/09]
I have been informed by the Revenue Commissioners that they have no basis for estimating the yield from the proposal. In that light I cannot comment on the possibility of ring-fencing the funds for a particular use. Imposing a flat levy on sugary foods and drinks, irrespective of their weight or size, could in fact encourage people to buy larger products, as the levy would be a smaller proportion of the price of a larger product.
164 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance when recruitment will begin for vacancies in the National Asset Management Agency; the number of vacancies available; the different category of jobs to be filled; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42888/09]
As Minister for Finance I will have no role in the appointment of staff to the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA). The legislation to establish NAMA includes detailed provisions on the staffing of NAMA including the assignment of staff to NAMA from the NTMA. Pages 22 — 24 of the NAMA draft business plan set out details on the proposed level of staffing in NAMA and the allocation of staff to different operational units.
165 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Finance the set of circumstances in which the proposed 80% windfall tax rate will apply to potential development land for housing in the future; if once-off building sites will come within the remit of this tax; the definition of development land suitable for housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42909/09]
The purpose of the new windfall gains provisions is to apply a higher 80% rate of tax to the profits or gains from land disposals where those profits or gains are attributable to a rezoning decision by a local authority rather than to any value attributable to the work of the landowner. Rezoning is defined in the new provision as meaning a change in the zoning of land in a development plan or local area plan from a non-development land-use (agricultural, open space, recreational or amenity use or a mixture of such uses) to a development land-use (residential, commercial or industrial uses or a mixture of such uses) or from one development land-use to another, including a mixture of such uses. This 80% rate will apply where there is a disposal of land following its rezoning where that rezoning takes place on or after 30 October 2009 (the date of publication of the Report Stage amendment to the National Asset Management Agency Act 2009 which introduced the windfall gains provision).
This new tax rate will apply in respect of disposals by individuals or companies as part of their land dealing/developing trade or as the disposal of a capital item. The 80% tax rate will only apply to the part of the profits or gains that is attributable to the rezoning decision. Any part of the profits or gains that is attributable to other factors, such as construction operations on the land or the expectation that the land would be rezoned in the future (‘hope value') will continue to be taxed at the normal income tax, corporation tax or capital gains tax rates, as appropriate.
Subject to certain specified exceptions, the provisions will affect any individual or company who disposes of land that is rezoned on or after 30 October 2009. There are only two situations where such rezoned land may be disposed of without attracting the 80% tax rate:
1. Where the land is sold to an authority possessing compulsory purchasing powers solely because of the exercise by that authority of its compulsory purchase powers or where such an authority has given formal notice that it will exercise those powers.
2. Where the land is sold by a 75% subsidiary company of the National Asset Management Agency.
The new provisions make no distinction between the disposal of a single site by a person who is not a builder or developer and multiple or ongoing disposals taking place as part of a building or development trade. However, in common with all taxation measures, I will review the application of the "windfall tax" measure to once-off disposals of sites for housing in the context of the forthcoming Budget and Finance Bill. The new provisions do not contain a definition of "development land suitable for housing" as such a definition is not required as the 80% tax rate is not confined to land that is rezoned solely for housing purposes but also applies where land is rezoned for commercial or industrial uses or a mixture of these uses.
166 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield in 2010 of a carbon tax imposed at a rate of €25 per tonne. [42942/09]
As the Deputy will be aware the potential yield in 2010 of a carbon tax depends on a number of factors and assumptions including the coverage of the tax, the timing and phasing of its introduction, and the level of exemptions, if any, provided. These issues relate to a potential Budgetary measure. In that context I would point out that it is the usual practice for the Minister for Finance not to speculate or comment in advance of the Budget on what it will contain and I do not propose to deviate from that practice.
167 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance the estimated yield in 2010 of a 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% or 5% increase in the rate of capital acquisitions tax. [42943/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year yield to the Exchequer from increasing the Capital Acquisitions Tax rate by 1%, 2%, 3%, 4% or 5% could be in the region of €10 million, €20 million, €30 million, €40 million and €50 million respectively. However, it should be noted that this estimate is based upon an assumption that there would be no behavioural impact of such an increase, which could lead to a less than expected result from a change to the tax rate. In addition, the realisation of any estimated yield from an increase in taxation on assets relating to property is subject to movements in the value of such assets, which are currently occurring in theeconomy.
168 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue generated arising from memorandums of understanding (details supplied) with tobacco companies in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009. [42946/09]
184 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the amount of revenue that has been generated arising from memorandums of understanding between his Department and tobacco companies in each of the years 2007, 2008 and to date for 2009. [43078/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 168 and 184 together.
I assume that the Deputy is referring to the Anti-Contraband and Anti-Counterfeit Agreements concluded between the European Community together with participating Member States and Philip Morris International (PMI) and Japan Tobacco International (JTI) on 9 July 2004 and 14 December 2007 respectively. These agreements provide a legal basis for co-operation between the European Anti Fraud Office, together with the Customs Services of the participating Member States and the tobacco manufacturers concerned in tackling the illicit trade in counterfeit and contraband cigarettes. This is implemented through a combination of sharing of information on counterfeit cigarettes and ensuring that legitimate product is not diverted into the illicit trade, through a combination of tracking and tracing consignments and carrying out due diligence checks on customers. The agreements also provide for both an upfront payment to be divided between the participating Member States and the European Commission and also payments in respect of certain qualifying seizures of cigarettes.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the payments received to date under these agreements are as follows:
2007 — No payments received.
2008 — €965,378.52 received on 5 September 2008 in respect of 2007 from JTI.
— €959,703.49 received on 24 December 2008 in respect of 2008 from JTI.
2009 — No payment received to date but payment is expected before the end of 2009 from JTI.
These payments are in respect of Ireland's portion of the phased payments due over 15 years under Article 8 of the JTI Agreement. Ireland is ineligible for similar payments from PMI because it did not accede to this Agreement until 19 April 2005.
No seizure payments, (i.e. payments in respect of seizures of genuine branded cigarettes of 50,000 cigarettes or more manufactured by the companies concerned that have not been released for consumption in the European Union) have been received from the companies concerned between 2007 and the present date. However one payment of €18,101.22 was received on 22 December 2006 in respect of a seizure of Philip Morris cigarettes made at New Ross, County Wexford on 6 December 2005. In addition to these agreements, Revenue also concluded a national Memorandum of Understanding with JTI on 4 November 2009 which provides for co-operation and exchange of relevant information. While no payments flow directly from this type of agreement, it is valuable in developing intelligence in the fight against tobacco smuggling.
169 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance the Exchequer’s annual indirect taxation income on a county basis from 2005 to date in 2009 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42948/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the exact information sought for indirect taxation on a county basis is not available. However, Revenue sheriffs, county registrars or their officers operate for the purposes of enforcement of tax debt within certain geographical boundaries known as a "bailiwick" which equates geographically with "county". Data on the net receipts of some taxes can be linked to bailiwicks to provide an estimated breakdown of receipts on a county basis.
The following table sets out the estimated breakdown of net receipts for VAT (Domestic) for the years 2005 to 2008 inclusive. Basic data is not recorded in such a manner as would enable a breakdown by county to be provided in respect of the yield from Customs, Excise and VAT at the point of Import. Corresponding figures for 2009 will not be available until some time after the end of the year.
|
County |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
Carlow |
66 |
77 |
87 |
75 |
|
Cavan |
109 |
123 |
132 |
120 |
|
Clare |
99 |
114 |
127 |
113 |
|
Donegal |
131 |
147 |
161 |
146 |
|
Galway |
333 |
374 |
395 |
343 |
|
Kerry |
150 |
174 |
186 |
166 |
|
Kildare |
349 |
415 |
434 |
407 |
|
Kilkenny |
106 |
120 |
139 |
130 |
|
Laois |
70 |
81 |
91 |
82 |
|
Leitrim |
24 |
25 |
28 |
25 |
|
Limerick |
284 |
301 |
309 |
286 |
|
Longford |
34 |
39 |
41 |
34 |
|
Louth |
237 |
247 |
246 |
213 |
|
Mayo |
141 |
153 |
169 |
148 |
|
Meath |
216 |
259 |
270 |
248 |
|
Monaghan |
78 |
83 |
85 |
74 |
|
Offaly |
73 |
84 |
98 |
84 |
|
Roscommon |
58 |
65 |
72 |
69 |
|
Sligo |
52 |
61 |
63 |
56 |
|
Tipperary |
181 |
195 |
212 |
201 |
|
Waterford |
133 |
143 |
146 |
131 |
|
Westmeath |
108 |
124 |
150 |
122 |
|
Wexford |
168 |
197 |
201 |
179 |
|
Wicklow |
179 |
183 |
196 |
183 |
|
Dublin |
6,146 |
6,675 |
7,141 |
6,713 |
|
Cork |
850 |
931 |
1,080 |
1,066 |
|
Other/foreign |
533 |
592 |
683 |
652 |
|
Totals |
10,908 |
11,982 |
12,940 |
12,065 |
The liability of a trader to VAT is generally dealt with by reference to the location of the trader's registered office even though the economic activity may be carried on in another county.
170 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is in receipt of the married couples tax allowance; if not, the way they may apply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42956/09]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, based on the information supplied, the person concerned has been given the married persons tax credit. A revised certificate of tax credits and standard rate cut-off point for 2009 and a P21 balancing statement for 2008 will issue shortly.
171 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Finance the Exchequer’s VAT and indirect taxation intake from Counties Donegal, Cavan, Monaghan and Louth in the first half of 2007; the first half of 2008; and the first half of 2009. [43006/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the information requested is not available on the time basis requested and either the information could not be obtained or could not be obtained without conducting a protracted examination of the Revenue Commissioners' records.
172 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the number and percentage of civil servants and public sector workers, excluding semi-State bodies, relative to the total Irish workforce for the years 1990 to 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43008/09]
The number of civil servants as percentage of the total labour force has varied over the period in question, from 2.4% in 1990 to 1.8% in 2008. Similarly, the proportion of the total labour force employed in the public service has fluctuated, from 17.1% in 1990 to 14.9% in 2008. No final figures are yet available for 2009. The figures requested by the Deputy are in the table. The figures used for Public Service employee numbers excludes those employed in commercial semi-state bodies but includes employees of non-commercial semi-state bodies.
|
1990 |
1991 |
1992 |
1993 |
1994 |
1995 |
1996 |
1997 |
1998 |
1999 |
|
|
Civil Service |
27,972 |
28,090 |
28,887 |
29,519 |
29,654 |
30,155 |
31,282 |
31,030 |
30,856 |
31,562 |
|
Public Service |
198,161 |
201,499 |
204,365 |
207,875 |
210,769 |
215,337 |
218,703 |
218,993 |
222,013 |
226,307 |
|
Total Workforce |
1,160,000 |
1,156,000 |
1,165,000 |
1,183,000 |
1,221,000 |
1,282,000 |
1,329,000 |
1,380,000 |
1,506,400 |
1,601,900 |
|
CS as % of workforce |
2.4% |
2.4% |
2.5% |
2.5% |
2.4% |
2.4% |
2.4% |
2.2% |
2.0% |
2.0% |
|
PS as % of workforce |
17.1% |
17.4% |
17.5% |
17.6% |
17.3% |
16.8% |
16.4% |
15.9% |
14.7% |
14.1% |
|
2000 |
2001 |
2002 |
2003 |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
|
Civil Service |
32,733 |
34,068 |
36,092 |
37,796 |
37,276 |
36,867 |
36,533 |
37,156 |
38,200 |
|
Public Service |
233,078 |
247,343 |
269,799 |
279,274 |
279,609 |
284,787 |
292,129 |
304,512 |
312,131 |
|
Total Workforce |
1,684,400 |
1,734,600 |
1,774,800 |
1,804,300 |
1,871,000 |
1,963,000 |
2,048,000 |
2,123,000 |
2,100,000 |
|
CS as % of workforce |
1.9% |
2.0% |
2.0% |
2.1% |
2.0% |
1.9% |
1.8% |
1.8% |
1.8% |
|
PS as % of workforce |
13.8% |
14.3% |
15.2% |
15.5% |
15.0% |
14.5% |
14.3% |
14.3% |
14.9% |
173 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the number and percentage of civil servants and public sector workers, excluding semi-state bodies, in each of the 27 EU countries and the 20 OECD countries for the years 2000 to 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43009/09]
In relation to the number and percentage of civil servants and public sector workers in each of the 27 EU countries, I would advise the Deputy that this information is not compiled by Eurostat and as such is not readily available. The OECD do not collect this information annually, but instead use the results of the Comparison of Employment in the Public Domain (CEPD) survey. The results of the most recent survey from 2005 are presented in the table below, and are available in the OECD publication "Government at a Glance." The OECD point out that no international comparative data presently exist for public employment due to methodological difficulties and differing definitions.
Due to the difficulty of standardising figures across 26 countries, these figures are not directly comparable with annual figures given by the Department of Finance for public service employees. The table below shows that the employment in general government as a percentage of the labour force in Ireland is close to the average.
|
% |
|
|
Norway |
28.8 |
|
Sweden |
28.3 |
|
France |
21.9 |
|
Finland |
21.3 |
|
Hungary |
19.2 |
|
Belgium |
17.1 |
|
Canada |
15.6 |
|
Ireland |
14.7 |
|
United Kingdom |
14.6 |
|
Italy |
14.2 |
|
United States |
14.1 |
|
Greece |
14.1 |
|
Australia |
13.6 |
|
Portugal |
13.4 |
|
Poland |
13.4 |
|
Spain |
13.0 |
|
Czech Republic |
12.9 |
|
Netherlands |
12.8 |
|
Mexico |
11.1 |
|
Germany |
10.4 |
|
Austria |
10.2 |
|
Slovak Republic |
9.5 |
|
Turkey |
9.2 |
|
Switzerland |
7.1 |
|
Korea |
5.5 |
|
Japan |
5.3 |
|
OECD 26 |
14.3 |
Data are not available for New Zealand, Denmark, Luxembourg and Iceland.
174 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Finance the expected cost to the Exchequer of the National Asset Management Agency during 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43010/09]
As set out in the draft NAMA business plan, which is based on the provisional information available to the interim NAMA, the cash flow produced by loans transferred to NAMA will cover NAMA's costs in 2010. Separately, the NTMA will provide staffing and other business support services. NAMA will refund NTMA for the cost of staff provided and other costs will be charged to the NTMA's administration budget.
175 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to an application by community groups (details supplied) to obtain legal title to lands from the Chief State Solicitor’s office, who have indicated that this is a matter for his decision under section 31 of the State Property Act 1954; and if he will arrange to give his consent. [43016/09]
The Commissioners of Public Works, on behalf of the Department of Finance, are responsible for the management of property under Sections 28, 29, 30 and 31 of the State Property Act (1954), following the dissolution of Companies, either voluntarily or being struck off the Companies Register. The interest of the assets of the dissolved Company become vested in the Minister for Finance. The Minister may waive his interest in said assets, where appropriate, under the State Property Act (1954). An application has been received from Lorcan Estate Resident's Association (LREA), which is currently being dealt with by the Chief State Solicitor's Office. There are certain issues, which require clarification, and, when these issues are addressed, the Chief State Solicitor will advise whether the Minister can waive his interest or not.
176 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Finance the measures he intends to introduce to protect current employment levels in the restaurant sector; if he will provide assistance to the sector which contributes €2 billion each year to the Exchequer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43036/09]
The safeguarding of employment is a consideration which informs the approach of the Minister for Finance to all budgetary and economic issues. Issues specific to the restaurant sector are a matter for the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism.
177 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Finance if he requires EU approval for the National Asset Management Agency Bill in advance of the signature of the President in respect of this legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43041/09]
EU approval is not required in advance of the signature of the President in respect of the National Asset Management Agency Bill, and the Deputy may wish to note that the President signed the bill into law on 22 November. My officials, however, are engaged in discussions with the European Commission on a regular basis in order to secure the early approval of NAMA by the Commission in line with the relevant State aid rules.
178 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Finance if he has written to or formally communicated to a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43050/09]
I have not had any direct communication with the person to whom the Deputy refers. The matter in question is one which rests between that individual and his former employer and as such I have no direct role in the matter. However, I have encouraged the institution concerned to pursue the issue vigorously and I will continue to raise the matter with the Chairman and Board of that organisation at each appropriate opportunity.
179 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Finance the procedures in place to ensure that sub-prime lenders are obliged to engage with their customers who find themselves in changed and strained economic circumstances; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43053/09]
The Government took steps in October 2007, via an amendment to the Central Bank Act 1997, to provide for an appropriate system of authorisation and supervision of retail credit firms engaged in specialist or so-called sub-prime lending by the Financial Regulator. Such lenders were not previously subject to financial regulation in respect of lending activities. The primary purpose of this amendment was to extend to customers of these firms the benefit of the consumer protections provided for in the Financial Regulator's Consumer Protection Code. This regulatory regime has been in place since 1 February 2008 and is being implemented by the Financial Regulator. Consumer credit, including sub-prime lending, is also regulated in Ireland under the Consumer Credit Act 1995. The Act makes detailed provision for the form and content of loan agreements and for advertising of consumer credit.
Some non deposit-taking mortgage lenders are required to notify charges under Section 149 of the Consumer Credit Act, 1995 (as amended) to the Financial Regulator for approval. However interest rates are excluded from this requirement. Also, legal fees tend to be imposed by 3rd parties and then passed on directly by the institution to the consumer. In general these do not require approval. When approving fees, the Financial Regulator takes the following criteria into consideration:
promotion of fair competition;
commercial justification;
passing on any costs to customers; and
the effect on customers or a group of customers.
The Financial Regulator has a Code of Conduct for Mortgage Arrears, which came into effect in February 2009 and which applies to mortgage lending activities with consumers in respect of their principal private residence in the State. The Code is mandatory for all mortgage lenders registered with the Financial Regulator. Under the Code, where a borrower is in difficulty the lender will make every reasonable effort to agree an alternative repayment schedule and will not commence legal action for repossession until after six months from the time arrears first arise. I should also point out that people in serious debt or in danger of getting into serious debt can avail of the services of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS). This is a national, free, confidential and independent service.
180 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Finance the steps he will take to ensure that mortgage holders facing difficulty meeting the repayments on their primary residence are supported; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43054/09]
It is a particular priority of the Government to ensure as far as possible that difficulties in relation to mortgage arrears do not result in legal proceedings for home repossession. Home repossession should be and generally is the last resort for the lender. The preferred method of dealing with cases of arrears should be early intervention and engagement. In the revised Programme for Government we have stated that we will be:
Introducing new measures to protect families having difficulties with their home mortgage payments;
Examining ways of expanding the existing options available for dealing with debt situations;
Examining ways of expanding existing state sponsored mortgage-support measures;
The commitments contained in the revised Programme for Government span the broad area of personal debt management and its legislative framework and, as several relate to the responsibilities of several Government Departments, they will require close collaboration in the period ahead. Further work is ongoing on these issues with a view to early results. The Law Reform Commission's recently published Consultation Paper on Personal Debt Management and Debt Enforcement has made an important contribution to this whole area. The Government are carefully examining their recommendations and relevant officials will be closely liaising with the LRC in regard to its remaining body of work.
In relation to the position of mortgage holders generally, the Irish Bankers Federation published a Statement of Intent on 10 November which provides further reassurance to homeowners who find themselves genuinely unable to maintain mortgage repayments on their principal private residence. The Statement of Intent has been agreed and supported by all IBF members and is a welcome development. It is also welcome that the IBF Oversight Committee on the implementation of the Statement of Intent will include representation from the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS).
This follows on from the IBF and the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) Operational Protocol on consumer debt, which was recently put into effect. The Operational Protocol will enable MABS and the IBF to continue to work together effectively when dealing with debt problems of personal debtors who approach the MABS Service for assistance. It should be noted that there are already other important arrangements in place to assist consumers who have fallen into arrears or are in danger of falling into arrears.
The Government provides support for payment of mortgages under the Mortgage Interest Supplement Scheme. This scheme is administered by the Community Welfare Service on behalf of the Department of Social and Family Affairs. It provides assistance where the mortgage relates to a person's principal private residence. Furthermore, people in debt or in danger of getting into debt can avail of the services of the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS). This is a national, free, confidential and independent service.
The Financial Regulator's Consumer Protection Code sets out requirements that a regulated entity must contact the consumer as soon as it becomes aware that a mortgage account is in arrears and that it must have in place a procedure for handling accounts in arrears. The Financial Regulator also has in place a Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears. This Code applies to mortgage lending activities to consumers in respect of their principal private residence in the State and is mandatory for all mortgage lenders registered with the Financial Regulator. Under the code where a borrower is in difficulty the lender has to make every reasonable effort to agree an alternative repayment schedule and the lender has to give consideration on a case-by-case basis to alternatives such as deferral of payments, extending the term of the mortgage, changing the type of mortgage, or capitalising arrears and interest.
Obviously cases will arise where the arrears persist despite newly agreed changes in repayment schedules. The Code provides that where such situations persist, the lender may reserve the right to enforce the mortgage agreement. However, it must wait at least six months from the time arrears first arise before applying to the courts to commence enforcement of any legal action on repossession of a borrower's primary residence. Furthermore, as part of their recapitalisation scheme, A.I.B. and Bank of Ireland will not commence court proceedings for repossession of a principal private residence until after 12 months of arrears appearing where the customer continues to co-operate with the banks.
181 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will respond to a query (details supplied) concerning the National Asset Management Agency legislation. [43058/09]
NAMA's commercial mandate is to obtain the best achievable financial return on the assets acquired by it. The answer to the Deputy's question is that it entirely depends on the contractual terms of the loans and the security provided for each of the loans when they were advanced by the institution. The issue can only be assessed on a case by case basis and depends on the contracts entered into for the loans including whether the borrower entered into cross collateralisation arrangements.
182 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Finance the role played by Revenue customs service in the seizure of more than 120 million cigarettes from a vessel in Greenore, County Louth; the value of the cigarettes seized; if charges have been pressed against any of those arrested at the time; if a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions; if he is satisfied that there was an appropriate level of co-operation between the customs authorities and the Garda; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43071/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that Revenue's Customs Service led this particular operation, code named Operation Samhna; and was responsible for the initial identification of the suspect vessel, the MV Anne Scan. The other agencies brought on board at the planning stage of this multi-agency operation were An Garda Síochána, the Criminal Assets Bureau, the Defence Forces including the Naval Service and the Air Corps, and also both Her Majesty's Revenue & Customs, Belfast, and the PSNI. In addition, the European Anti Fraud Agency, participated in order to co-ordinate international assistance and the necessary follow-up investigations abroad. All of the Irish agencies concerned participated fully in the operation and provided the necessary operational support based on their respective expertise. The estimated retail value of the consignment is around €46.7m.
Charges have not yet been preferred against any of the individuals arrested, as the investigation has not yet been completed. However, it is expected that a file will be sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions in due course. As regards, the level of co-operation between Customs and An Garda Síochána, the Revenue Commissioners have assured me that the multi-agency approach is now standard practice in all large-scale fiscal smuggling operations and that, in this particular operation, the high level of co-operation contributed directly to the success achieved.
183 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Finance if, with regard to the public service pension levy, a pensioner in receipt of a public service pension but who works to supplement their income must make contributions to the pension levy out of this extra income; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43075/09]
A person in receipt of a public service pension who takes up employment outside of the public service has no liability to the public service pension-related deduction in respect of his or her earnings from that employment. If that person's employment is in the public service then he or she is subject to the public service pension-related deduction in respect of the earnings from that employment. This liability arises under section 2(1)(b) of the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009. I should add that there is an effective exemption of the first €15,000 of qualifying earnings from the public service pension-related deduction, insofar as the rate of contribution on earnings up to that amount in a full year is zero per cent.
185 Deputy Joe Behan asked the Minister for Finance if his attention has been drawn to the fact that coal is being sold in many parts of the country by suppliers from Northern Ireland; if he is satisfied that the required VAT is being levied on all such sales; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43080/09]
The Value-Added Tax treatment of intra-EU cross-border sales of goods depends on the VAT status of both the supplier and the customer. Where a UK VAT-registered supplier sells goods, including coal, to a VAT-registered customer in this state the transaction is not subject to UK VAT and the Irish customer must self-account for Irish VAT, which in the case of coal is at 13.5%. If a UK VAT-registered supplier sells goods to unregistered customers here the UK supplier must charge UK VAT on these supplies where the total of the supplies is less than €35,000 in a year. Where the total value of supplies by a UK VAT-registered supplier to unregistered customers in Ireland exceeds €35,000 in a year the UK VAT-registered supplier must register and account for Irish VAT on all such supplies.
In addition, the EU VAT Directives provide that any VAT registered trader who exports goods to a VAT registered person in another Member State must complete a VIES Statement detailing all the VAT registered customers in other Member States to whom he/she has supplied goods in respect of which that customer is liable for payment of the VAT due. The VIES Statements form the basis of compliance programmes in Member States. Council Directive 2008/8/EC (amending Directive 2006/112/EC) provides for the more frequent filing of VIES Statements and provides that traders may submits Statements on a quarterly or monthly basis. The increased frequency of filing the VIES Statements will further counter instances of potential evasion of VAT.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the issue of coal supplies by UK suppliers to Irish customers has been the subject of compliance enquiries in Revenue Regions. It has also been brought to the attention of Revenue's Investigation & Prosecution Division who conducted enquiries with their counterparts in Northern Ireland. The current position is that significant infringements of VAT legislation have not been identified. However, the risks of non-compliance in this area are being kept under continuous review.
186 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Finance if capital investment allocations have been reviewed since December 2008 to allow a focus on more labour intensive activities as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43114/09]
In February, the Government decided to re-allocate €150m to labour intensive activities in the areas of school building and energy efficiency/home insulation measures. This was part of the Government's response to employment difficulties by investing in labour intensive areas which will promote and sustain domestic employment and achieve other policy objectives. Overall capital investment in 2009 is still about 5% of GNP — very high by international standards — and the current competitive environment for tender prices means that a higher level of infrastructure can be procured with a lower level of resources.
As the Deputy is aware, capital investment generally supports employment directly as well as addressing issues that will help in sustaining employment, such as the development of key economic infrastructure including major transport projects, water services, school building, Science Technology Innovation capital etc. The overall objectives set out in the Smart Economy strategy, including the identification of investments that help maximise labour intensity, will inform Government consideration both of 2010 allocations and allocations thereafter.
187 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the cost of payment of public service workers who are paid on a fortnightly basis; the savings that would be involved by issuing payslips every four weeks while continuing fortnightly payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43166/09]
Within the Civil Service for which I have responsibility as Minister, the preferred method of payment of wages is by electronic funds transfer. Under Section 4 of the Payment of Wages Act, 1991, there is an obligation on the employer who utilises this method of payment to provide a statement of wages and deductions to the employee (i.e. a payslip) as soon as may be after payment has been effected. However, I am advised that within the Civil Service there has been a considerable movement towards the provision of on-line payslips. This obviates the need in most cases for the issue of hard copy slips and the expenditure on payslips is small. While the potential for further reduction in making available payslips to employees is limited by the Payment of Wages Act, the increasing use of on-line pay slips will reduce remaining costs.
188 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Finance the level of change in public offices by the installation of sensor lighting to cut down on electricity costs; the number of Departments that are being fitted out with such sensor light equipment; the estimated saving involved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43167/09]
The use of sensors on lighting systems is commonplace in many Civil Service offices. They provide a very effective automatic solution to reduce energy usage by switching off artificial lighting when there is either sufficient natural daylight or when the space is unoccupied. It has long been the policy of the Office of Public Works to install this equipment in new office developments. It is often not economically feasible to retrofit such equipment into existing lighting installations. However, where other works, such as lighting refurbishment, are undertaken, the investment is usually justified.
It is not practical to estimate the savings already accrued, or indeed the possible savings, if a more targeted campaign in the installation of lighting sensors was undertaken. Savings are dependent on the cost of installation, the type of lighting installed, the occupancy profile of the building and the natural light available. Lighting sensors form one part of the many solutions that are used to minimise energy wastage in public sector buildings. It is the policy of the Office of Public Works to use the technology in all new build and refurbishment installations (where there is practicable reasonable return on the investment). Other more sophisticated lighting control systems are also used, where appropriate.
189 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Finance when a person (details supplied) in County Cavan, who had their vehicle seized by customs despite their assertion that duty on it was paid at the time of purchase, will have their vehicle released. [43191/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the vehicle in question was released to the person (details supplied) on 11 November 2009. The vehicle had been detained on 27 October 2009, on foot of a Notice of Detention issued on suspicion of an offence under S139 (3)(ee) Finance Act 1999. The suspected offence was one of converting a commercial vehicle to a passenger vehicle and the owner's son admitted the offence under caution. A Notice of Seizure was issued to the person on 6 November 2009 but Revenue have since released the vehicle, on the basis that the passenger seats are to be immediately removed or the additional VRT paid.
190 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the level of progress that has been made with respect to the introduction of a central liquidity mechanism, or similar mechanism, for the credit union sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43200/09]
The Joint Review Group on the Establishment of a Centralised Liquidity Mechanism for Credit Unions, representative of this Department, the Registrar of Credit Unions, the Credit Union Advisory Committee, the Irish League of Credit Unions and the Credit Union Development Association, met on a number of occasions since March 2009 to consider how we might establish a structured framework for meeting liquidity needs of credit unions as part of the process of protecting their financial stability. In July 2009, the Group agreed a report, which recommended that a centralised liquidity mechanism (CLM) is put in place for credit unions as soon as possible. Such a mechanism would compliment the introduction of the Deposit Guarantee Scheme for credit unions and further bolster public confidence.
The function of the CLM would be to receive deposits from credit unions for the purpose of providing liquidity to other credit unions in need of temporary liquidity support. Such support should take the form of loans and be subject to formal loan agreements between the CLM and the credit union being supported. The CLM would require legislative provisions addressing Corporate Governance, Functions and Powers, Liquidity Operations, Regulatory Oversight and Funding and Investment Policy. Detailed rules would be required in relation to areas such as its key function, the creation of the fund, terms and conditions of the liquidity assistance provided by the CLM, collateral requirements, and mechanisms for drawdown and underwriting. On account of the risk potentially arising from the CLM's activities and the need to safeguard the movement and the regulatory system, it is essential that the CLM governance, operational and regulatory arrangements are clearly set out in legislation.
The Registrar of Credit Union has prepared draft heads of Bill to amend the Credit Union Act 1997 to establish a Central Liquidity Credit Union membership of which would be limited to Credit Unions. The objects of the Central Liquidity Credit Union would be the receipt of funds from its members by way of subscription for shares, the investment of the funds of its members in a safe and secure manner, the making of loans to solvent members in need of liquidity support and borrowing of funds from other sources. This first draft was circulated to the credit union representative bodies for observations. We are now considering their responses and will reconvene the Joint Review Group at an early date.
191 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the latest detailed data or report available to him on the distribution of incomes here; and the corresponding levels on income tax collected. [43209/09]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that historical data on the distribution of personal incomes by range of gross income has been published for the year 2006 in their Statistical Report for 2008, which is available on the Revenue website at www.Revenue.ie. The data is available in tables IDS 1 to IDS 18 of the Income Distribution Statistics section of that report. In addition, using projected income levels and numbers of income earners, the Revenue Commissioners have updated their incomes data for more recent years using an income tax model maintained for the purpose of estimating the Exchequer effect of budgetary changes to the income tax system. This data is provisional and likely to be revised. On this basis tabulated information on projected incomes data for 2010 has been provided to Deputy Richard Bruton in my recent reply to question No. 88, answer on Thursday 19 November.
192 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Finance when a construction project (details supplied) in County Roscommon will be completed; the cost of the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43214/09]
Planning permission for the necessary work at Clonark has been obtained, and a suitable scheme of works has been devised and agreed by An Garda Síochána.
Arrangements are currently being made to engage a suitable contractor to carry out the work with a target completion date for the project for mid-2010.
193 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Finance if the Revenue Commissioners have undertaken a recent periodic risk focused review of a club (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if concessions have been granted to the club which permit the use of interest in this manner. [43224/09]
Section 235 of the Taxes Consolidation Act (TCA) 1997 gives an income tax exemption to sporting bodies, which have been approved by the Revenue Commissioners on the basis that the body has been established for, and exists for the purpose of promoting athletic or amateur games or sports. The administration of the sports tax exemption is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, for reasons of taxpayer confidentiality, they cannot comment upon the tax affairs of individual bodies. However they have also advised me that sports bodies that are granted sporting tax exemption are subject to periodic risk-focused review towards ensuring that the terms of the exemption continue to be fulfilled. All relevant matters, including the application of funds, are considered in the context of such reviews.
194 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Finance if tax relief relative to the purchase of a vehicle for use by a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny with a disability will be granted. [43225/09]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a Letter of Authorisation issued to the person (details supplied) on 21 April 2009. This authorises the registration of a vehicle for use by a disabled person/passenger without payment of Vehicle Registration Tax. No claim for relief in respect of a vehicle purchased and converted for use by a disabled person or passenger has been received to date in this case.
The Authorisation would have been valid for 6 months and consequently would now be out of date. The application form (DDI) and Letter of Authorisation would now need to be returned to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners, Central Repayments Office, Freepost, M: TEK II Building, Armagh Road, Monaghan so that it can be re-issued for a further 6 months.
195 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the proposed building of new offices for staff participating in the decentralisation scheme in the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Food in Portlaoise, County Laois; the projected costs, works and timeframe for the new offices; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43389/09]
The provision of a new headquarters building in Portlaoise for the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, in conjunction with a new headquarters for the Department of Education and Science in Mullingar, and decentralised offices for staff of the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment in Carlow, is being pursued by means of a Public Private Partnership as a single Design, Build, Finance and Maintain Contract.
Following completion of a pre-qualification process and invitation of tenders, discussions have been ongoing for a number of months with Macquarie Partnerships for Ireland on matters related to financial and technical aspects of the project. Planning permissions have been received for all three buildings. The anticipated construction period is 20.5 months. The award of a contract is subject to Government approval.
196 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if the possibility of replacing the turnover tax on betting with a profit tax has been assessed by him; if this would make it attractive to service an international market from a base here with such a tax system; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43402/09]
I have stated previously, it is my intention to widen, if possible, the tax base on which betting duty would be applied.
Bets placed either online or over the phone are generally with out-of-State companies so applying betting duty is therefore problematic. My officials, in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General, the Office of the Revenue Commissioners and the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, are looking at the scope to overcome legal and operational difficulties in this area and will continue to do so, on an ongoing basis.
In addition, my Department is working closely with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform which has initiated a review in order to provide the Government with options for a new and comprehensive legal and organisational framework governing gambling architecture in the State. The review, amongst other things, will consider:
the recommendations contained in the Report Regulating Gaming in Ireland;
the existing law regulating gaming lotteries and other forms of gambling in the jurisdiction;
international developments, in particular the experience of the UK's Gambling Commission;
developments in relation to remote gambling (e.g. via the internet and mobile phones).
As the Deputy may be aware, due to pressure on the betting sector, I decided to defer the introduction of the increase in the betting duty provided for in Finance (No. 2) Act 2008 pending a review. Accordingly, the Finance Act 2009 contains a provision for continuing the existing betting duty rate of 1% unless and until an order is made bringing the 2% rate into effect, or alternative betting taxation arrangements are enacted. This decision is based on the premise that the betting sector will engage in constructive discussions about putting in place a fair and workable tax base for the sector. Such discussions will, inter alia, touch on issues such as online/phone betting, which is largely untaxed, and look at proposals that could potentially bring this area into the tax net, if possible, while also protecting Irish employment in the sector. The precise form and level of taxation that might be applied will also be considered in that context.
197 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance his estimate for the number of car sales in 2010; and the revenues from vehicle registration tax. [43403/09]
While my Department does not publish a separate new car sales forecast, it does form a view as to the likely trends in the car market as part of the overall economic and fiscal forecast. Similarly, Vehicle Registration Tax is forecast as a component of Excise Duty.
On 5 December, my Department will publish the White Paper on Receipts and Expenditure which will contain pre-Budget estimates of tax revenue, including Excise Duties, for 2010. Post-Budget economic and fiscal forecasts, including individual tax-heads, will be published on Budget day, 9 December.
198 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Finance if he has analysed the impact of a scrappage concession on vehicle registration tax of €2,000 for cars of ten years and over; his assessment of the impact on car sales in 2010 on employment in the motor trade and on employment in the economy at large. [43404/09]
I am aware of the current challenges facing the motor industry, along with most other industries, arising from the impact of weak world economic activity. I recently announced, following discussions with the motor industry, the introduction of a new VAT Margin Scheme in respect of second-hand cars with effect from 1 January 2010. Under the Margin Scheme, dealers will account for VAT on their profit margin, that is, on the difference between the cost of acquiring the car and its reselling price. This will apply to all second-hand cars purchased by dealers and resold on or after 1 January 2010.
In relation to the introduction of a scrappage scheme, as the Deputy will be aware, taxes are considered in the context of the Budget process. It is the usual practice for the Minister for Finance not to speculate in advance of a Budget on what it will contain; and I do not propose to deviate from that practice.
199 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children the procedures for processing applications for a medical card; the procedures for processing applications for renewal of a medical card; the average length of time in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42680/09]
Up to the start of this year, medical card and GP visit card applications were processed in the Health Service Executive's (HSE's) 32 local health areas.
Under the HSE's 2009 Service Plan, the processing of all medical card and GP visit card applications will transfer to the HSE's Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) in Dublin. The initial phase of the centralisation process commenced in January 2009 with the PCRS processing all medical card applications for persons aged 70 or over. The second phase commenced in September 2009 with the transfer of the case load from two local health offices in Dublin City to the PCRS. The phased implementation will allow the situation to be continuously monitored and, if required, modified to address any issues arising. The PCRS has processed over 55,000 medical card applications since the start of 2009.
The HSE has informed my Department that the transfer of the case load from the two local health offices included a backlog of some 6,500 open cases which are being dealt with as a matter of urgency by the PCRS, and as a result, resources which would have been deployed in customer relations and phone answering have been assigned to deal with this backlog. The HSE is arranging that additional resources are deployed to respond to phone queries, the majority of which relate to the outstanding applications.
The Executive 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. The HSE has recently put in place a national on-line system to allow local health offices track the current status of applications in the PCRS.
The centralising of the medical card application process is facilitating a number of enhancements to the level of customer service associated with these applications. The HSE has indicated that later this month a facility will be available where a person can view the status of their medical card application on-line and if a mobile phone number is supplied with an application, updates by text message will be delivered to the applicant's phone.
I fully support the HSE's decision to centralise the medical card and GP visit card application and review process to one location. The HSE has advised that when fully implemented, this measure will ensure:
Improved turnaround time for the processing of applications (Under the new arrangements, the Executive 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);
Equitable application of eligibility across the country;
Consistency of service provision to customers;
Clearer lines of governance and accountability; and
Improved unified data.
My Department is currently in discussion with the HSE about putting in place a dedicated telephone number for Oireachtas members for enquiries about applications being processed by the PCRS.
The HSE has also indicated that this project, while realising health sector efficiencies and savings, will not have an adverse affect on patient care or the quality of service provided. Applications from people whose income exceeds the income guidelines but have a case to be considered on medical or hardship grounds will also be processed by the PCRS.
This project 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.
200 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43022/09]
I understand that the individual concerned is a pensioner who has been re-engaged by his former employer. The (Pensions) Abatement Act 1965 provides a legislative basis for the suspension or reduction of an allowance (pension) where, after retirement, a scheme pensioner is employed in an agency / organisation in which the superannuation scheme paying the pension applies. In such cases remuneration and pension, for the specified period of re-employment, should not exceed the uprated remuneration for the post from which s/he retired. I am informed by the employer that the individual concerned works 91% of the wholetime equivalent (WTE) in this instance and that under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, 2009 the pension related deduction is payable on all earnings from this employment.
However, the pension related deduction does not apply to pensions and, accordingly, no such deduction has been made from the pension in payment to the person concerned.
201 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children when she proposes to include snowblow on the list of illegal substances; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43049/09]
The Misuse of Drugs Act 1977 and regulations made thereunder regulate and control the import, export, production, supply and possession of a range of named narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances listed in the Schedules to the Act. Substances are scheduled under the Act in accordance with Ireland's obligations under international conventions and/or where there is evidence that the substances are causing significant harm to public health in Ireland.
Items available for sale in so-called ‘head shops' such as "snowblow"are currently not scheduled under Misuse of Drugs legislation. The list of scheduled substances is kept under ongoing review. For example, in 2006 psychotropic (‘magic') mushrooms, which were on sale in such outlets, were banned and their possession and sale is now illegal. On 31 March 2009, BZP was similarly subjected to legislative control measures and criminal sanctions.
Minister John Curran, Minister of State at the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs, who has responsibility for co-ordinating the National Drugs Strategy, has identified head shops as an area of concern, and is currently considering the options available to more effectively control the activities of head shops. My officials are in contact with their counterparts in the Office of the Minister for Drugs in this regard.
202 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a policy regarding the non-recognition of myasthenia gravis, MG, on the long-term illness card scheme; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that at least 500 people here suffer from this form of muscular dystrophy, which is a chronic disease characterised by fluctuating levels of muscle weakness; her plans to review the non inclusion of MG within the scheme in the near future, or plans to provide some form of relief for sufferers in view of the severity of the condition; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42527/09]
Muscular dystrophy is one of the conditions covered by the Long Term Illness Scheme (LTI). I am having enquiries made of the Health Service Executive (HSE) in relation to its practice in relation to applications for LTI cards from persons suffering from myasthenia gravis.
I will contact the Deputy when this information comes to hand.
203 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on the full or partial provision of the medical card to muscular dystrophy sufferers who work on a full or part-time basis, in view of the fact that if they have to give up work due to their condition and inability to cover medical costs this would prove more costly to the Exchequer due to lost tax revenue; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42528/09]
At present, medical cards are granted primarily on the basis of means and individual circumstances. Under the Health Act, 2004, determination of eligibility for medical cards is the responsibility of the Health Service Executive. The HSE has discretion, in cases of exceptional need, to provide assistance to individuals where undue hardship would otherwise be caused.
Medical cards are made available to persons and their dependants who would otherwise experience undue hardship in meeting the cost of general practitioner services. In 2005, the GP visit card was introduced as a graduated benefit so that people on lower incomes who do not qualify for a medical card would not be deterred on cost grounds from visiting their GP. In June 2006, I agreed with the HSE to raise the assessment guidelines for GP visit cards and these are now 50% higher than those in respect of medical cards. For medical card and GP visit card applications, the HSE now considers an applicant's income after tax and PRSI are deducted, rather than total income. Allowances are also made for expenses on childcare, rent and mortgage costs and the cost of travel to work. I have no plans to provide for the granting of medical cards to any particular group as a whole.
204 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if a consultant appointment will be brought forward for a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42536/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
205 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for refusing an application for nursing home subvention made by a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if that person is entitled to a review of the decision. [42540/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
206 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a proposed private funded 150 bedded hospital unit in the grounds of a hospital (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42542/09]
As the specific issue raised by the Deputy is a matter for the Health Service Executive in the first instance, it has been referred to the Executive for direct reply.
207 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Health and Children if a full medical card will be reinstated to a person (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42543/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
208 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will report on the operation of a facility (details supplied) in County Cork; if the funding to the hospital is controlled by the Health Service Executive; if further redundancies will be sought; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42556/09]
I understand that the facility the Deputy is referring to is a voluntary provider of residential care in Cork that receives funding from the Health Service Executive under Section 39 of the Health Act, 2004. Section 39 allows the HSE to give assistance to any person or body that provides or proposes to provide a similar or ancillary service to the service the Executive may provide. While it receives funding from the HSE, direct responsibility for the terms and conditions of employment is a matter solely for the employer.
209 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application by a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; if, due to the period that the person has being waiting for a appointment, the person is entitled to treatment under the national treatment purchase fund; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42561/09]
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.
210 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in opening the new ambulance centre at Maynooth business park, Maynooth, County Kildare. [42571/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
211 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an application for a medical card by a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42575/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
212 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of an application for a Health Service Executive hospital bed for use at home by a person (details supplied) in County Meath. [42577/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
213 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding Irish adoptions from Ethiopia; if the adoptions from countries in the process but not completed when the Adoption Bill 2009 is enacted, will be allowed to be finalised irrespective of whether the country is a signatory to the Hague Convention; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42589/09]
251 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the progress made to date on a possible bilateral agreement with Ethiopia in relation inter-country adoption; if she has met with the Irish Ethiopia Adoption Organisation to discuss transition measures, if not, the reason for same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43052/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 213 and 251 together.
The Adoption Bill, 2009, which is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption, has passed through the Seanad and commenced its second stage process in Dail Eireann on the 18th November. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted.
The current policy position, as set out in the Adoption Bill 2009, is that for an adoption to be registered under the Bill it must be effected in a country with which Ireland has a bilateral agreement or have been effected prior to the commencement of the new law.
The issue of transitional measures for prospective parents who are at a definable stage in the adoption process when the Bill is enacted and who wish to continue to adopt a child from a non-Hague, non-bilateral country, is being examined. Prospective adoptive parents have waited a long time and it is my intention to be as flexible as possible in relation to applicants.
My officials, in consultation with officials from the Department of Foreign Affairs, have been doing preparatory work on a possible bilateral agreement with Ethiopia. Consideration of this is at an early stage.
214 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Health and Children when a new hospital (details supplied) in County Cork will open; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42598/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
215 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children when a decision will be made on an application for an over 70 years medical card for a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42612/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
216 Deputy Noel O’Flynn asked the Minister for Health and Children the policy in place to administer the over 70 years medical card application scheme; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the medical card administration is centralised, that there is a delay of up to eight months in processing applications and that some applications submitted are mislaid; her views on whether the localised system was more efficient and delivered a better service to the public; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42627/09]
Up to the start of this year, medical card and GP visit card applications were processed in the Health Service Executive's (HSE's) 32 local health areas.
Under the HSE's 2009 Service Plan, the processing of all medical card and GP visit card applications will transfer to the HSE's Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) in Dublin. The initial phase of the centralisation process commenced in January 2009 with the PCRS processing all medical card applications for persons aged 70 or over. The second phase commenced in September 2009 with the transfer of the case load from two local health offices in Dublin City to the PCRS. The phased implementation will allow the situation to be continuously monitored and, if required, modified to address any issues arising. The PCRS has processed over 55,000 medical card applications since the start of 2009.
The HSE has informed my Department that the transfer of the case load from the two local health offices included a backlog of some 6,500 open cases which are being dealt with as a matter of urgency by the PCRS, and as a result, resources which would have been deployed in customer relations and phone answering have been assigned to deal with this backlog. The HSE is arranging that additional resources are deployed to respond to phone queries, the majority of which relate to the outstanding applications.
The Executive 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. The HSE has recently put in place a national on-line system to allow local health offices track the current status of applications in the PCRS.
The centralising of the medical card application process is facilitating a number of enhancements to the level of customer service associated with these applications. The HSE has indicated that later this month a facility will be available where a person can view the status of their medical card application on-line and if a mobile phone number is supplied with an application, updates by text message will be delivered to the applicant's phone.
I fully support the HSE's decision to centralise the medical card and GP visit card application and review process to one location. The HSE has advised that when fully implemented, this measure will ensure:
Improved turnaround time for the processing of applications (Under the new arrangements, the Executive 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);
Equitable application of eligibility across the country;
Consistency of service provision to customers;
Clearer lines of governance and accountability; and
Improved unified data.
My Department is currently in discussion with the HSE about putting in place a dedicated telephone number for Oireachtas members for enquiries about applications being processed by the PCRS.
The HSE has also indicated that this project, while realising health sector efficiencies and savings, will not have an adverse affect on patient care or the quality of service provided. Applications from people whose income exceeds the income guidelines but have a case to be considered on medical or hardship grounds will also be processed by the PCRS.
This project 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.
217 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when hip replacement surgery will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42658/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
218 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when hip replacement surgery will be offered to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42659/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
219 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding the occupational therapist post for west Wicklow; if this post is vacant; if this post can be filled in order that the persons waiting for this service will be treated; her plans to provide this service until the post is filled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42676/09]
Subject to overall parameters set by Government, the Health Service Executive has the responsibility for determining the composition of its staffing complement. In that regard, it is a matter for the Executive to manage and deploy its human resources to best meet the requirements of its Annual Service Plan for the delivery of health and personal social services to the public. As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
220 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [42685/09]
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.
221 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 9. [42686/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
222 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will itemise the number of buildings that her Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42702/09]
The sourcing of property on behalf of Government Departments is a matter for the Office of Public Works.
The only lease currently held by my Department is Block D, Irish Life Mall formerly accommodating the Women's Health Council which has been recently incorporated into my Department. The annual rental on this property is €98,000 @ €367.68 per square metre.
My Department is actively working to secure new tenants to take over the remainder of the lease or a part thereof. If this effort is not successful, we will consider all available options, including a possible buyout of the remainder of the lease, in consultation with the OPW.
223 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children the procedure that is in place when a report is made by a teacher which expresses concern about the welfare or protection or possible physical abuse of a child in a primary school; the action that will be taken by her Department; the length of time that will normally elapse before there is a response to the report; her views on whether it a matter of urgency to carry out an investigation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42709/09]
Children First, the National Guidelines for the Protection and Welfare of Children provide support and guidance in recognising and responding to possible child abuse. The guidelines are aimed at health professionals, teachers, members of An Garda Síochána and any other persons/ organisations involved in providing services to children. This includes those involved in sporting, community and voluntary organisations. A revised version of the Children First guidelines will be published in the near future.
The Department of Education and Science has devised Child Protection Guidelines and Procedures for primary and post-primary schools. These Guidelines and Procedures are based on the Children First guidelines and give direction and guidance to school management and staff in dealing with allegations or suspicions of child abuse, with the protection and well-being of the child being the most important consideration. The Guidelines and Procedures set out the steps to be taken by school management and staff in dealing with suspicions or allegations of child abuse. I have requested the HSE to respond directly to the Deputy regarding the procedures followed after a report is made to the HSE.
224 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on whether it is appropriate or acceptable that when a number of reports are made to her Department expressing concern about the welfare of a child, that a response is not forthcoming immediately; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42710/09]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has statutory responsibility for the management and delivery of health and social services under the Health Act 2004. Any concerns which are brought to the attention of the Department with regard to the welfare of a child are brought to the attention of the HSE at the earliest opportunity. In the event that the Deputy has concerns about a particular case she might forward this information and I will arrange to have the matter examined in the Department.
225 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm whether a non-Catholic chaplain will be appointed to a hospital (details supplied) in Dublin 8 and paid by the Health Service Executive according to the salary scale offered to Catholic chaplains; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42711/09]
Roman Catholic hospital chaplains are remunerated on a fixed salary basis, based on a full-time contract of employment. Service level arrangements may apply for other denominations of hospital chaplains, depending on the service requirement of patients, relatives and staff at the particular hospital. Pro-rata arrangements, based on the existing fixed salary, may apply in respect of part-time hospital chaplains.
With regard to the specific appointment of a hospital chaplain to an individual hospital, as this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
226 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children the dental services that are available for children under six years and children attending primary school in counties Laois and Offaly; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42712/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
227 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will confirm that dental screening for primary school children in counties Laois and Offaly will continue from second, fourth and sixth classes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42713/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
228 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children if her attention has been drawn to the problems being experienced by medical card patients (details supplied) in County Clare who require regular blood tests; if she will ensure that these patients continue to have this service provided as heretofore free of charge at their local medical clinics; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42725/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
229 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is funding available to assist in the setting up of youth cafés; if so, the level of funding provided by her to assist in the setting up of youth cafés in each of the past three years; the way a community organisation should apply for funding to establish a youth café; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42731/09]
The Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs (OMCYA) has not funded youth cafés. The OMCYA has been allocated €1,500,000 from Dormant Accounts for the development of a structured programme of youth cafes. Final decisions on the operation of this programme are still under consideration and it is anticipated the funding will be made available over 2010 and 2011.
The focus of the Young People's Facilities and Services Fund (YPFSF) which is now under the remit of the OMCYA is not on the provision of youth cafés. However a number of the facilities built under the YPFSF include a youth café area incorporated within the facility. The objective of the Fund is to attract "at risk" young people in disadvantaged areas into these facilities and activities and divert them away from the dangers of substance abuse.
The Youth Affairs Section that transferred from the Department of Education & Science to the OMCYA as of 1 January, 2009 has also provided funding in recent years to a small number of youth work projects that provide youth cafe facilities for young people.
230 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review the case of a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath from whom the domiciliary care allowance has been removed. [42736/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
231 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of internal reports carried out on residential establishments in relation to allegations of child abuse by the Health Service Executive or health boards over the past 20 years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42738/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
232 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children the private agencies contracted by the Health Service Executive to provide child care services to the HSE; the services they provide; the money awarded to each of these services each year for the past ten years; the number of children cared for per year during this time; the registered name of each company; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42739/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
233 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Health and Children the person in the Health Service Executive with overall responsibility for child care issues; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42740/09]
The overall responsibility for child care matters rests within the Health Service Executive (HSE), with the Board and the Chief Executive Officer. I can confirm, in addition, that the HSE has recently appointed a new Assistant National Director with responsibility for Children and Family Social Services.
234 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on introducing a 1 cent levy on sugary foods and drinks to provide funds to tackle obesity, provide and staff sports facilities for the population and promote healthy eating; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42754/09]
The tax system through VAT already differentiates between food products. Most food and drink sold by retail shops is chargeable at the zero VAT rate. This includes most basic foodstuff, such as bread, butter, tea milk, vegetables, etc. Certain items of food and drink are specifically excluded from the scope of the zero-rate and are taxable at rates of 13.5% and 21.5%.
Food and drink liable to the 21.5% VAT rate include sweets, chocolates, confectionary, crisps, ice-cream, frozen deserts and similar frozen products, savoury snack products, soft drink and alcohol. The type of products attracting this higher rate therefore includes the high sugar food and drink which might potentially contribute towards obesity, while more health products, such as fruit and vegetables are zero-rated.
235 Deputy Kathleen Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children the average waiting time for an audiology assessment appointment and the waiting time for fitting a hearing aid in the Cork area; the number of persons in the Cork area awaiting assessments and fittings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42868/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
236 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [42871/09]
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.
237 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of persons (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [42872/09]
The Adoption Bill, 2009, is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future inter-country adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted. The Bill commenced its second stage process in Dail Eireann on the 18th November.
With regard to the issue of 'independent' adoptions, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the provisions set out in Part 13 of the Adoption Bill which identify the restrictions on a person in seeking to make arrangements for adoptions. It also identifies the particular role of accredited authorities in this regard.
238 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Health and Children if, in the case of professional medical and pharmaceutical bodies which oversee regulations and standards for their members, she conducts audits of the cost of the regulatory activities and the justification of fees charged; if there is an obligation to provide a regular audit of the costs involved and business plans in order that those paying subscriptions could see that the charges being made are justified; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42889/09]
The Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) is a self financing body. The setting of fees for the pharmacy profession is governed by the Pharmacy Act 2007. It requires the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) to make an application for ministerial consent to any fees that it proposes to charge. This process allows for the consideration, and examination, of the Society's fee proposals by my Department. The PSI, when setting a fee for retail pharmacy businesses for the first time in 2008, engaged consultants to develop an evidence-based methodology for the determination of these fees. The process included a comparative analysis of comparable international pharmacy regulators.
The PSI recently applied for my consent, which I granted, to decrease its fees for the continued registration of pharmacists, pharmaceutical assistants and retail pharmacy businesses for 2010. I have also recently refused an application by An Bord Altranais for my consent to an increase in registration fees for 2010.
The PSI is obliged by the Pharmacy Act 2007 to submit its audited annual accounts and Annual Report to the Minister for laying before the Houses of the Oireachtas. The PSI also prepares an annual service plan and corporate strategy, which it submits to the Minister.
With respect to the medical profession, the Medical Council is the statutory body charged with responsibility for the registration and regulation of medical practitioners in the State. Under the Medical Practitioners Act 2007 modern governance arrangements apply to the Council including the production of a Statement of Strategy, Business Plan and Annual Report. The Act also provides for the Council's annual accounts to be audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General. The 2007 Act requires the Minister to ensure that the Council's Statement of Strategy, Business Plan and Annual Report are laid before each House of the Oireachtas. It requires the Council to lay its audited accounts before each House of the Oireachtas.
239 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children her views on correspondence from the Health Service Executive to persons (details supplied) in County Wexford; her further views on whether it is acceptable for the HSE to ask persons not to contact them regarding their entitlements for three months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42890/09]
The demand for Medical Cards appeal service has increased significantly during this year. In order to deal with this increased demand, the HSE is committing additional resources to this service. From today all Appeals Offices will be answering calls from the public during specified times and these will be advertised through the HSE website. In relation to this specific case this has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
240 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the details on the advisory group on no fault compensation for brain-damaged infants, including the terms of reference of the group; when the group was set up; the dates the group has met since establishment; the date the group will report; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42891/09]
241 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason the advisory group on no fault compensation for brain-damaged infants has not met since its last meeting scheduled for May 2008 was cancelled; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42892/09]
An advisory group was established to examine the feasibility of establishing a no fault scheme for infants who suffered cerebral damage at, or close to, the time of their birth. The Group is chaired by Dr Peter McKenna and the membership is made up of those with particular expertise to bring to the subject, including:
The Institute of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland
The Faculty of Paediatrics, Royal College of Physicians of Ireland
The Incorporated Law Society
The Bar Council of Ireland
Justice and Equality for Brain Injured Babies
The Central Remedial Clinic
Department of Legal Medicine, UCD
The Office of the Attorney General
The Department of Health and Children
The Department of Finance
Terms of reference — Advisory Group on No Fault Compensation for Brain-Damaged Infants:
1. To examine the equity, effectiveness and appropriateness of existing arrangements for compensating persons who suffer cerebral damage at, or close to, the time of birth.
2. To review the clinical literature and other evidence on the causes of cerebral injury in infants.
3. To review the existing legal framework within which persons seeking compensation must process their claims.
4. To collect appropriate data on the incidence of brain damage caused in infancy.
5. To review existing services for persons who suffer cerebral injury.
6. To examine alternatives to that tort system whereby the care of brain damaged infants can be provided for including systems based on the no fault principle.
7. To examine strategies that might be used to reduce the incidence of cerebral damage at birth.
8. To make such recommendations as the group sees fit.
The Group had undertaken a significant amount of work by early 2004 when it ceased to meet due to the dispute with hospital consultants on the introduction of the Clinical Indemnity Scheme. In 2006 I asked the chairman, Dr. Peter McKenna, to reconvene the group with a view to having a report produced. The Group met on a regular basis until 2008. Due to the pressure of other commitments in 2008 and 2009 it has not proved possible to complete the report to date. However, members of the Group have continued to be in contact and work on the preparation of the report has continued. It is intended that a meeting of the Group will be convened in order to review progress in the New Year. I will await the Group's report before giving further consideration to a wider no fault compensation scheme for the health services.
242 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will examine the possibility of providing a long-term care bed for a person (details supplied) in the care of the national health service; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42958/09]
The Nursing Homes Support Scheme, A Fair Deal, commenced on the 27th October 2009. This is now the single system of financial support available to new entrants to long-term nursing home care in Ireland. Should the individual referred to by the Deputy wish to return to Ireland and avail of the scheme, he would have to satisfy the HSE that he is ordinarily resident in the State. Ordinarily resident means that you have been living in Ireland for at least a year or that you intend to live in Ireland for at least a year. The Information Booklet on the scheme can be downloaded from the HSE website at:
http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/Find_a_Service/Older_People_Services/nhss/nhss.html.
243 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42999/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
244 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health and Children when a medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42975/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
245 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [43001/09]
The Adoption Bill, 2009, is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future inter-country adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted. The Bill commenced its second stage process in Dail Eireann on the 18th November.
The issue of transitional measures for prospective parents who are at a definable stage in the adoption process when the Bill is enacted and who wish to continue to adopt a child from a non-Hague, non-bilateral country, is being examined. Prospective adoptive parents have waited a long time and it is my intention to be as flexible as possible in relation to applicants. Preliminary work has been undertaken on the development of a bilateral agreement with the Russian authorities on inter-country adoption and discussions in this regard take account of the provisions of the Adoption Bill 2009.
246 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied). [43002/09]
The lady referred to by the Deputy can get the Information Booklet and Application Form for the Nursing Homes Support Scheme from her local Nursing Home Support Office. Alternatively, they can be downloaded from the HSE website at:
http://www.hse.ie/eng/services/Find_a_Service/Older_People_Services/nhss/nhss.html
Once completed, the Application Form needs to be submitted to the local Nursing Home Support Office. The relevant office in this case is:
HSE Nursing Home Support Office
Oak House
Millennium Park
Naas
Co. Kildare
Ph: 045 880400
247 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support a matter (details supplied). [43004/09]
The Adoption Bill, 2009, is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted. The Bill commenced its second stage process in Dail Eireann on the 18th November.
The issue of transitional measures for prospective parents who are at a definable stage in the adoption process when the Bill is enacted and who wish to continue to adopt a child from a non-Hague, non-bilateral country, is being examined. Prospective adoptive parents have waited a long time and it is my intention to be as flexible as possible in relation to applicants.
The issue of a "grandfather" clause was previously given careful and detailed consideration in the preparation of the legislation and it was decided against including such a provision in the Bill as it would represent a considerable dilution of the intent of the legislation in terms of setting improved standards for inter-country adoption.
Preliminary work has been undertaken on the development of a bilateral agreement with the Ethiopian authorities on intercountry adoption and discussions in this regard take account of the provisions of the Adoption Bill 2009.
248 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Health and Children when a response will be issued to correspondence (details supplied) from this Deputy regarding Circular 5/91, which were addressed to her by letter on 21 September 2009 and again on 23 October 2009; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43013/09]
A reply was issued to the Deputy yesterday in relation to the question raised. I apologise for the delay in replying.
249 Deputy Mary O’Rourke asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review the removal of local health services from an area (details supplied) in County Westmeath. [43017/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
250 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will enquire into the practice of health providers such as hospitals and other health facilities refusing to reuse certain equipment (details supplied) which is perfectly fit for the use it was designed and also refusing to take back such equipment for reuse when the patient no longer has a need for it in view of her search for efficiencies and savings in the health budget; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43042/09]
The Health Service Executive's (HSE) operational policy is to recycle aids and appliances to the greatest extent possible. 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. An examination of existing arrangements for recycling aids & appliances across all HSE locations is underway. It is envisaged that a standardised approach for the management of aids & appliances will be implemented across all HSE locations based on best practice guidelines.
252 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Health and Children if patients or their families in a nursing home (details supplied) in County Monaghan are eligible for the refund under the health repayment scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43069/09]
The Health Service Executive has responsibility for administering the health repayment scheme in conjunction with the appointed scheme administrator KPMG accountants and McCann Fitzgerald solicitors. The Scheme Administrator has advised the HSE that since the scheme commenced in 2006, a total of sixty one (61) claims have been submitted for current or former patients resident at Oriel House. Fifty eight (58) of these claims have been concluded with 43 repayments issued and fifteen (15) claims rejected. The applicants for the remaining three (3) claims to be finalised have been sent offer letters and the Scheme Administrator is awaiting their acceptance. All sixty one (61) claims will have been individually assessed to determine the patient's eligibility under the Health (Repayment Scheme) Act 2006.
253 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans for the provision of adequate services in County Laois for persons suffering domestic violence, with particular reference to a provision of a refuge for women in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43070/09]
As the Deputy's question relates to a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
254 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be given an initial appointment at Cork University Hospital; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43082/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
255 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of medical practices in Dublin Central constituency; the number which have been given supplies of swine flu medication for their patients; the quantity of medication in each case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43089/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
256 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Health and Children the bias in the allocation of discretionary medical cards against people in north Dublin; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43090/09]
Details of the number of discretionary medical cards issued by region are not provided to my Department by the Health Service Executive (HSE) as a matter of routine. Accordingly, 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.
257 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of persons who had medical cards in each of the years 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009 in County Galway; the number of those who were over 70 years for each of these years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43097/09]
The Health Service Executive (HSE) has the operational and funding responsibility for the medical card benefit. It collates medical card data by county, age and gender. Therefore, 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.
258 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will reduce the accident and emergency fee from €100 to €50; if she will reduce all other hospital fees in order to reduce health insurers demands; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43098/09]
Decisions in relation to the level of hospital charges are a matter for Government, and are considered as part of the Estimates and budgetary process. I am not in a position to comment on such matters at this stage.
259 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Health and Children when orthodontic treatment will be carried out in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois. [43110/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
260 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if it is proposed to move the Health Service Executive ambulance control room from Castlebar, County Mayo to Ballyshannon, County Donegal; if there was a feasibility study conducted to establish the cost of such a move; the conditions that justify such a proposal; when the decision was made; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43169/09]
I believe it is important to ensure that all of our pre-hospital emergency services function as a high quality, integrated health service. The advice of the Health Information and Quality Authority on pre-hospital care issues will be a significant factor in determining how services should be organised so that clinical governance, patient safety and quality standards are met. As the specific question raised by the Deputy is a matter for the HSE, it has been referred to the Executive for direct reply.
261 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of provision of the Castlebar ambulance control into St. Mary’s Hospital, Castlebar, County Mayo; if she is satisfied with the operation of the ambulance control room there; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43170/09]
262 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will make a statement on an announcement by the Health Service Executive of an investigation into spending of the national ambulance service with specific reference to the pre-delivery inspections of German built ambulance by a company at a premises (details supplied); if the HSE was paying the rent on the building that the contractor in question was using. [43171/09]
264 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of the Health Service Executive ambulance control centre at Castlebar, County Mayo; if she will confirm that the technology used is that of Camp West; the level of payment or contribution made by the HSE towards the operational cost of Camp West on a per annum basis; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43173/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 261, 262 and 264 together.
As these are service matters, these questions have been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
263 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of defibrillators purchased by the Health Service Executive for each region in the past three years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43172/09]
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
265 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children when a child (details supplied) in County Longford will be called for orthodontic treatment. [43187/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
266 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford is not facilitated with nursing home care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43194/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
267 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford is not facilitated with nursing home care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43195/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
268 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of registered children’s residential centres for unaccompanied migrant children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43216/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
269 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will respond to issues in correspondence for a person (details supplied). [43217/09]
The Adoption Bill, 2009, is designed to give force of law to the Hague Convention on the Protection of Children and Co-operation in Respect of Inter-country Adoption. The new legislation, which incorporates the provisions of the Hague Convention, is designed to provide a framework to ensure that appropriate procedures have been followed and that all adoptions are effected in the best interests of the child. Future intercountry adoption arrangements will be governed by the terms of the Adoption Bill 2009 when enacted. The Bill commenced its second stage process in Dail Eireann on the 18th November.
With regard to the issue of ‘independent' adoptions, I would draw the Deputy's attention to the provisions set out in Part 13 of the Adoption Bill which identify the restrictions on a person in seeking to make arrangements for adoptions. It also identifies the particular role of accredited authorities in this regard.
270 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children the contact her Department has made with a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny regarding their child and their need for counselling during the period June 2008 and November 2009; if social workers or any other professionals from the Health Service Executive visited the family; if supports were provided for the family during that time; the last date the family were seen by the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43226/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
271 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health and Children if an appeal lodged with the Health Service Executive in respect of an application for a medical card in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow will be expedited; if the card will be renewed based on the medical history of the case and the need for the card. [43230/09]
The demand for Medical Cards appeal service has increased significantly during this year. In order to deal with this increased demand, the HSE is committing additional resources to this service. From today all Appeals Offices will be answering calls from the public during specified times and these will be advertised through the HSE website. In relation to this specific case this has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
272 Deputy James McDaid asked the Minister for Health and Children her plans for the reintroduction of the cervical cancer vaccine. [43241/09]
I have considered all the relevant advice available to me in relation to the potential public health benefits of HPV vaccination in the prevention of cervical cancer and the wider policy implications for its possible introduction into the National Immunisation Programme. I accept the consensus view of the relevant expert bodies that the introduction of a universal high uptake vaccination programme in young girls, in conjunction with population based cervical screening, could significantly reduce overall cervical cancer incidence. All of the clinical advice available to me indicates that, in the context of the limited resources available, the national roll-out of a cervical screening programme should take precedence over the introduction of a HPV vaccination programme. Accordingly, CervicalCheck, the national cancer screening programme commenced in September 2008. To date, more than 250,000 women have been screened.
In relation to cancer prevention and screening measures, my next priority is a colorectal screening service for men and women. This is supported by Prof. Tom Keane of the National Cancer Control Programme and also the Irish Cancer Society. There are around 2,200 new cases of colorectal cancer diagnosed each year in Ireland and around 950 deaths. A successful colorectal cancer screening programme has the potential to reduce incidence by 14.7% and mortality by 36%. I remain committed to the introduction of a cervical cancer vaccination programme at the earliest possible opportunity in accordance with clinical priorities.
273 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will ascertain the reason the Health Service Executive has refused to open up a ward (details supplied) in Mullingar General Hospital, County Westmeath, which would restore up to 26 beds to the acute beds provision and in the process ensure that this wing is properly resourced and staffed for 24 hours each day, seven days a week; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43388/09]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
274 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Health and Children the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43416/09]
The amounts expended for translation into Irish in 2008 and to date in 2009 are as follows:
2008 — €11,127.99;
2009 — €10,818.37.
The information sought by the Deputy in respect of printing costs is not available as costs of printing in Irish are not separately identifiable — a single price is usually given where documents are bilingual. My Department is increasingly using e-publishing where this is feasible. For example, the Department's recently published Annual Report for 2008 is published in electronic format only.
275 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Transport if he had prior knowledge regarding the detail of the restructuring plan currently being pursued by Aer Lingus; if he was aware of the proposal to use an outside company (details supplied) to fly Aer Lingus planes during negotiations on restructuring; if he signalled his approval for this approach when briefed by Aer Lingus management on the financial crisis on Aer Lingus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42576/09]
A representative from Aer Lingus briefed officials from my Department on a range of proposals under the Company's cost restructuring plan following the company's announcement of its plan to the Stock Exchange on 7 October. My officials subsequently briefed me on the proposals. Decisions on commercial and operational issues are entirely a matter for Aer Lingus. I have no statutory function in this regard.
276 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Transport when finance will be allocated to Kilkenny County Council to comply with the 1% for art funding arising from the completion of the Graiguenamanagh relief road in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42586/09]
The European Commission indicated in July 1997 that the Percent for Art Scheme should not apply to EU co-financed projects. This decision applies to the Graiguenamanagh Relief Road.
277 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42706/09]
The Office of Public Works is responsible for the procurement of office accommodation required by my Department and accordingly that Office deals with any rental or leasing issues arising in those properties.
278 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Transport the action he has taken to ensure the safety of all railway bridges over water in County Wicklow and all other counties here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42863/09]
This is a day-to-day operational matter for Iarnród Éireann and not one in which I have any role.
279 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport if he will report on the US preclearance facilities at Shannon Airport; the feedback from airlines availing of the service; when he expects an airline (details supplied) to commence using the facility; if there are outstanding issues or difficulties which need to be addressed in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42924/09]
As the Deputy will be aware the Preclearance facilities at Shannon Airport became operational on 5 August 2009. I understand from the Shannon Airport Authority (SAA) that airline and passenger feedback of the facility to date has been very positive. Having completed Preclearance at Shannon Airport, both the airlines and passengers enjoy the advantages associated with arriving at a Domestic Airport terminal in the U.S. This has enabled significantly faster passenger processing times through these terminals and shorter connection times for onward destinations.
Operational decisions about the use of the preclearance facilities are a matter for the Airport Authority and the United States Department of Homeland Security and the airlines concerned. The next phase of Preclearance at Shannon is to extend its use to general aviation traffic. The necessary infrastructure is in place for General Aviation Preclearance and my Department, in conjunction with the SAA, is working with the U.S. authorities to start this phase of Preclearance as quickly as possible.
280 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Transport the funding available for 2010 for cycle facilities and cycle training with an emphasis on children’s needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43021/09]
In common with all Departments, decisions regarding my Department's allocations for 2010 remain to be finalised in the context of the ongoing estimates process and the forthcoming Budget. Ireland's first National Cycle Policy Framework, which I announced in April of this year, makes clear the significant level of ambition that I have for cycling. The actions on behalf of cycling that I have taken since then, as reported on http://www.smartertravel.ie/progress-updates, demonstrate my commitment to achieving the goals of the framework.
In relation to education of young people regarding cycling standards, I view this as a key intervention that can deliver lasting benefits. On this basis, I have recently established a Working Group on the Establishment of a National Certificate for Cycling for School Children with representation from the Dept of Education and Science, the Irish National Teachers Organisation, the Road Safety Authority, An Taisce's Greenschools Travel Programme, the Dublin Transportation Office, a number of local authorities and my Department.
281 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the initiatives being pursued with the Irish Maritime Development Office since December 2008; if there have been steps taken to expand ship finance and management capability in Dublin as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; and the other opportunities in the maritime sector being explored. [43140/09]
The Irish Maritime Development Office continues to actively market and promote ship management and ship finance related services in Ireland. The office is hosting a Ship Finance Seminar on 1 December to provide an overview to Irish based companies on current obstacles and opportunities in the global shipping markets. The slowdown in global demand coupled with underlying problems in the international ship finance sector have created difficult market conditions for Irish and foreign shipping groups. Despite these difficult conditions, a number of companies involved in the international ship finance and management sector continue to be based in Ireland. This number was boosted recently by the announcement by TBS Marine Inc, a US listed shipping group, to establish and domicile its European operations in this country.
282 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the progress to date towards delivery of metro north; the level of expenditure that has been set aside for this project for preparatory work and capital investment for each of the years 2009, 2010 and 2011; the level of expenditure on this project to date for preparatory work and capital investment; the method chosen for financing this project, whether a public private partnership or otherwise; the latest target date for commencement, completion and opening of this project for use by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43201/09]
The Railway Procurement Agency (RPA) is continuing to progress the planning and procurement of Metro North. The Oral hearing on the railway order application, which was adjourned by An Bord Pleanála earlier this year, will recommence on 30 November. The project is being procured as a PPP and two tenders have been shortlisted. The next phase of procurement must await the outcome of the statutory approval. As I have stated previously the start and completion date of the project will be contingent on the statutory planning approval process and the public procurement process. The project will also be submitted to Government for a final decision at the conclusion of the procurement process.
I refer the Deputy to my response to Question No. 128 on 5 November in relation to expenditure to date on the project. €159 million was allocated to the RPA, following the supplementary Budget in April, to progress Luas and Metro projects, including Metro North, in 2009. I understand from the RPA that the estimated outturn for expenditure on Metro North will be approximately €30 million. Decisions on the Exchequer allocation for future years will be taken as part of the Estimates process for each year.
283 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the progress made to date towards delivery of metro west; the level of expenditure that has been set aside for this project for preparatory work and capital investment for each of the years 2009, 2010 and 2011; the level of expenditure on this project to date for preparatory work and capital investment; the method chosen for financing this project, whether public private partnership or otherwise; the latest target date for commencement, completion and opening of this project for use by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43202/09]
The Railway Procurement Agency continues to progress planning and design for Metro West. The Agency expects to lodge an application for a railway order in respect of Metro West next year. Metro West will be procured as a PPP. The start and completion dates for this project will be determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate. The current funding environment is very difficult and it will not be possible to progress all the projects in Transport 21 in accordance with the ambitious timescale envisaged at its launch. Nevertheless, I am seeking to progress planning of Metro West to ensure we are in a position to move speedily to construction as soon as financial circumstances permit. The commencement and completion dates for this project will also be contingent on the relevant statutory planning process and the procurement and contract award processes. Expenditure incurred to end-September 2009 on Metro West is €9.4 million. €159 million was allocated to the RPA, following the supplementary Budget in April, to progress Luas and metro projects, including Metro West, in 2009. I understand from the RPA that the estimated outturn for expenditure on Metro West will be approximately €6 million. Decisions on the Exchequer allocation for future years will be taken as part of the Estimates process for each year.
284 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the progress made towards delivery of DART underground; the level of expenditure that has been set aside for this project for preparatory work and capital investment for each of the years 2009, 2010 and 2011; the level of expenditure on this project to date for preparatory work and capital investment; the method chosen for financing this project, whether public private partnership or otherwise; the latest target date for commencement, completion and opening of this project for use by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43203/09]
Iarnród Eireann is continuing to progress the planning and design of the DART Underground. I understand from Iarnród Eireann that an application for a railway order for the DART Underground will be submitted to An Bord Pleanála in early 2010. It is intended to procure the DART Underground project as a PPP. Iarnród Eireann is planning to commence the formal procurement process during 2010. €404 million was allocated to Iarnród Eireann, following the supplementary Budget in April, to progress the rail safety and development programme, including the DART Underground project. I understand from Iarnród Eireann that the estimated outturn for expenditure on the DART Underground project is approximately €15 million. Decisions on the Exchequer allocation for future years will be taken as part of the Estimates process for each year. The start and completion dates of Transport 21 projects in planning, such as the DART Underground, will in each case be determined by the outcome of public consultation, the statutory planning approval process, the public procurement process and the availability of financial resources determined by the funding allocation available during the current difficult economic climate.
285 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Transport the progress made to date towards delivery of the first phase of the Navan train line spur; the level of expenditure that has been set aside for this project for preparatory work and capital investment for each of the years 2009, 2010 and 2011; the level of expenditure on this project to date for preparatory work and capital investment; the method chosen for financing this project, whether public private partnership or otherwise; the latest target date for commencement, completion and opening of this project for use by the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43204/09]
Iarnród Eireann is continuing to progress the development of the Navan Rail Link. As I have previously advised the House, work commenced on the construction of the Clonsilla — Pace section (Phase 1) in December 2008 and is on target for delivery next year. €404 million was allocated to Iarnród Éireann, following the supplementary Budget in April, to progress the rail safety and development programme, including the Navan Rail Link (Phase 1) project. I understand from Iarnród Éireann that the estimated outturn for expenditure on the Navan Rail Link (Phase 1) project is approximately €37 million. Decisions on the Exchequer allocation for future years will be taken as part of the Estimates process for each year.
286 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport his plans to introduce compulsory basic training for motorcyclists which should have been implemented by the end of 2008 under the road safety strategy 2007 to 2012; the reason this key road safety programme has been delayed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43221/09]
The issue of Compulsory Basic Training for motorcyclists is primarily a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I understand that the RSA decided to run a pilot programme to prepare for the introduction of Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) for Motorcycles, before launching a full scale CBT programme. This pilot programme was completed earlier this year. Other necessary conditions are, I understand, also now in place including the availability of a good supply of approved driving instructors. Draft regulations are now being finalised within the RSA with a view to submitting them shortly to my Department for examination.
287 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport if he will amend the Road Traffic Bill 2009 to ban car clocking which according to a recent investigation has increased by 400% since March 2009; the initiatives he is taking with the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment and the Department of Finance to address car clocking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43222/09]
As this relates to commercial trading it is a matter for the Consumer Protection Acts and not for the Road Traffic Acts. I understand that the Consumer Protection Act 2007 makes it an offence for a trader to engage in a misleading commercial practice, which would include the provision of false information in relation to a "products usage or prior history" to the extent that the information would be likely to cause the average consumer to make a transactional decision that the average consumer would not otherwise make. The National Consumer Agency enforces this legislation and provides advice for prospective buyers in its Guide to Buying a Car.
288 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Transport the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43420/09]
Costs incurred for translating and printing all State documents into Irish by the Department of Transport in respect of the year 2008 and up to the present time amount to: €128,291. Wherever practicable, documents in my Department are published electronically in order to minimise costs.
289 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if, in view of the findings of the review group on public expenditure on the need for increased use of mediation in litigation by the State, he will request the Attorney General and the Chief State Solicitor to initiate a review of all litigation involving the State, initially at High Court level, to see if mediation could be employed in such cases to resolve matters of dispute involving the State; if such a review will be guided by a recommendation that mediation should be encouraged as a rule rather than an exception; if he will seek to have the rules of court amended to facilitate a mandatory consideration of mediation in proceedings involving the State, in an effort to reduce costs, speed up the resolution of contested matters and improve the provision of public services generally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43066/09]
It is already the policy of the Attorney General and the Chief State Solicitor to attempt to minimise the cost of all litigation whether initiated against or initiated by a Government Department or Office. Steps to this end include the following:
(a) Where possible early pre-trial negotiation and settlement;
(b) If necessary the use of court procedure to lodge/tender money in a court;
(c) Mediation or arbitration.
I am informed that avoiding unnecessary costs is a cardinal principle in the conduct of litigation by the CSSO and Attorney General's Office and procedures are in place for that purpose. There are also measures in place to insure, in so far as possible, a single legal team represents State bodies. The Deputy will appreciate that there are cases involving Government Departments and their agencies in which serious legal issues arise which can only be resolved by the court and mediation and arbitration are not real options.
The Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies makes clear that where a legal dispute involves another State body every effort should be made to mediate, arbitrate or otherwise before expensive legal costs are incurred. The Arbitration Bill 2008 which I have promoted and which is before the House will further streamline our arbitration code in line with best practice internationally. Rules of Court continue to be developed to facilitate adjournment of proceedings in our courts to permit mediation. It is my view that a more structured approach to mediation is required in our legal system than exists at present. The Final Report of the Law Reform Commission on Alternative Dispute Resolution is expected in the near future. It is keenly awaited by the Government.
290 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42534/09]
294 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding correspondence from a person (details supplied). [42568/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 290 and 294 together.
The position is that the Property Services (Regulation) Bill 2009 is awaiting Committee Stage in the Seanad.
291 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will expedite the processing of a passport for a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42539/09]
In order to obtain an Irish passport from the Department of Foreign Affairs a person must have an entitlement to Irish citizenship or have their application for a certificate of naturalisation approved. Based on the information provided by the Deputy it would appear that the person referred to in the Deputy's question falls into the latter category. However, officials in the Citizenship Division of my Department inform me that there is no record of an application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person concerned. 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.
292 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of deportations carried out in the past six months in 2009 and the countries in question; the process by which were carried out; and if he will ensure that the process is carried out with due regard for the dignity of the person being deported. [42549/09]
The number of deportations carried out in the past six months in 2009 is contained in the following table.
|
Nationality |
Number Deported |
|
Nigeria |
97 |
|
South Africa |
12 |
|
Brazil |
10 |
|
Georgia |
* |
|
China |
* |
|
Moldova |
* |
|
Croatia |
* |
|
Russia |
* |
|
Pakistan |
* |
|
Albania |
* |
|
Bangladesh |
* |
|
Botswana |
* |
|
Canada |
* |
|
Hong Kong |
* |
|
Iraq |
* |
|
Jordan |
* |
|
Malaysia |
* |
|
Mauritius |
* |
|
Serbia |
* |
|
Vietnam |
* |
|
Total |
155 |
For confidentiality reasons, the numbers of deportees are not shown for nationalities where the number is less than 10, but they are included in the main total of 155.
Deportations take place within the provisions of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and after each case has been fully considered by me with regard to the eleven considerations contained in Section 3(6) of that Act and Section 5 (Prohibition of Refoulement) of the Refugee Act, 1996. In general, removals are carried out using commercial flights which usually involves transit through other European airports as Ireland does not have direct flights to most of the countries of return. In other cases, it is necessary for removals to be carried out by way of charter flights. Larger charters are organised to remove disruptive deportees that commercial airlines will not take on account of previous disruptive behaviour on board aircraft. Bigger charters are organised to return larger numbers of deportees in a more efficient way than using schedule flights. Deportations are always carried out with due regard for the dignity of the deportee.
293 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the case of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if the process of carrying out the necessary searches, tracing and so on will be dealt with. [42550/09]
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.
295 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform when he will be in a position to publish the capacity legislation which when enacted will allow for ratification of the convention on the rights of persons with disabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42590/09]
315 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in the publication of the proposed capacity legislation in view of the commitment stating it will not ratify the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities until capacity legislation has been put in place; if a timeframe has been set for this proposed legislation; and if not, the reason for same. [42926/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 295 and 315 together.
The Government Legislation Programme, published on 16 September 2009, indicates that the Mental Capacity Bill is expected to be published in early 2010.
296 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will consider furthering the responsibility of traffic wardens so that they have the responsibility to stop and fine cyclists who cycle on footpaths or break traffic lights. [42595/09]
Traffic wardens are mainly employed by the local authorities. However, a number are still employed by the Garda Commissioner. I am informed that under road traffic legislation, which is the responsibility of my colleague the Minister for Transport, traffic wardens can issue fixed charge notices only for offences relating to illegal parking and non-display of motor tax.
297 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42599/09]
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.
298 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan 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) in County Louth; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42655/09]
I refer the Deputy to my previous reply to his Parliamentary Question No. 284 of Tuesday No. 284 of Tuesday 17 November 2009. I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person referred to is the subject of a Family Reunification application made by his sister in October 2007. The documentation submitted by the person referred to is currently being considered and they will be contacted shortly by INIS.
299 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the manner in which transferral of current wards of court into the new guardianship system will occur through the forthcoming mental capacity Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42667/09]
The Scheme of the Mental Capacity Bill may be accessed on my Department's website at: www.justice.ie. It provides, at Head 42, for the transfer of supervision for existing Wards of Court cases to the Public Guardian. The detailed provisions of the Bill are being drafted by Parliamentary Counsel and publication of the Bill is expected in early 2010.
300 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the consultation he has had with representatives of wards of court and their families in drafting the forthcoming mental capacity Bill. [42669/09]
The General Scheme of the Mental Capacity Bill was published in September 2008. The scheme implements recommendations made by the Law Reform Commission in its 2006Report on Vulnerable Adults and the Law. The Commission’s Report followed extensive research and consultation since 2002 with representative organisations, service providers, medical experts and frontline carers. On publication of the General Scheme, written submissions from interested parties were invited. A conference was held in Dublin Castle in February 2009, co-hosted by my Department and the National Disability Authority. Attendees at the conference came from a broad range of groups and organisations including those representing brain injured persons, the elderly and the intellectually disabled. Submissions received and views expressed at the conference have been examined for consideration during drafting of the detailed provisions of the Bill, which is now underway.
301 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on the correspondence (details supplied) issued to a person who legally purchased an intruder alarm and had it fitted by private electrical contractors; his views on whether the orders placed on the person to be fair considering the device was legally purchased; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42682/09]
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.
The issues referred to in the Deputy's Question address operational issues, which are matters solely for the Private Security Authority. have been advised by the Authority that they will reply directly to the Deputy on the issues raised by him. I would moreover point out that the role of the Private Security Authority is to control and supervise persons providing security services and to maintain and improve standards in the provision of those services. A system of licensing ensures that only those persons who are qualified to the required standards, and vetted by the Gardaí, are permitted to operate in any of the licensable sectors of the industry.
While the purchase of an intruder alarm system does not require a license, it is an offence under section 37 of the Act to install one on a commercial basis without a PSA licence, unless otherwise exempted. A core function of the Authority is to investigate all those operating illegally, outside of the licensing regime, and also those who engage their services. It has been an offence since August 2006, under Section 38 of the Act to engage unlicensed contractors and consequently a person found to have engaged such a contractor is committing an offence. In this regard, the Private Security Authority can, pursuant to Section 13(1) of the Act investigate any security services being provided by any person.
302 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his views on whether the €2,250 fee for a contractor licence for two years from the Private Security Authority is excessive given the financial constraints on many of these contractors in the current economic climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42683/09]
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 in the State. The Authority is an independent body under the aegis of my Department and the administration of the Authority is vested in a Board whose membership includes industry representatives. I have been advised by the Authority that the licence fee has not been increased since 2005. In setting the fee, the Authority is mindful of the need to balance licensing fees with general Government policy that the cost of regulation should not be a drain on general Exchequer resources. I will ask the Authority to review the fee structure in the context of its strategic plan for 2010-2012.
303 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42703/09]
The Deputy will be aware that the Office of Public Works (OPW) has responsibility for the provision of office space for Government Departments. I am informed that generally, with long-term leases, rent reviews and lease breaks are provided for on a rolling five year basis. I understand that where there is provision for a rent review or a lease break, the OPW does enter into negotiations based, in part, on current market values. As regards my own Department, there are currently three offices occupied by Department staff where rent is paid. The rent in each case is fixed but where there is both a desire to continue to use the building in question and where there is a provision for an imminent rent review, I can inform the Deputy that my Department will be negotiating for a significant downwards review. In some cases, this process has already been initiated well in advance of the formal review date with a view to reducing over expenditure in this area.
304 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform his role in investigating any wrongdoing, criminal or otherwise, in financial institutions here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42707/09]
As the Deputy will appreciate I have no role in the investigation or prosecution of cases. This is a long standing principle of our system of justice. The role of the Gardaí is to investigate alleged offences, to gather whatever evidence may be available and to submit a report to the Director of Public Prosecutions. The question of whether or not a particular person should be prosecuted and for what criminal offence is the responsibility of the DPP. The Director, who is independent in the performance of his functions, makes his decision on the basis of the Garda findings viewed against the background of common and/or statute law. I am informed by the Garda authorities that expertise is available within the Garda Bureau of Fraud Investigation for the investigation of the type of crimes referred to by the Deputy. Such investigations are also conducted in conjunction with other appropriate agencies, including the Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement and the Office of the Financial Regulator.
305 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the reason for the delay in processing a claim under the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; when the case will be finalised. [42732/09]
I can inform the Deputy that, under the terms of the Scheme of Compensation for Personal Injuries Criminally Inflicted, the Criminal Injuries Compensation Tribunal is entirely independent in the matter of deciding individual applications to the Tribunal. In this regard, as I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, it would be inappropriate for me to have any involvement with an individual application. However to be of assistance in the matter, I have had enquiries made with the Tribunal in relation to the application referred to by the Deputy. I understand from the Tribunal that arrangements are in place between the Applicant's solicitors and the Tribunal to hear the case in question on 7 December, 2009.
306 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the statistics relating to public order offences in the period since the early closing times of off-licences was introduced; the public order offences for the length of time before the early closing times was introduced; his views on whether this decision has led to a reduction in public order offences; the reason he has not activated the test purchase of alcohol by persons under 18 years to ensure compliance with the age limit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42752/09]
Draft guidelines in respect of the procedures to be followed during test purchasing operations, which had been prepared by a Working Group chaired by my Department, are now to be finalised on the basis of formal consultations with the Commissioner of the Garda Síochána and the Minister for Health and Children, as provided for in the legislation. These consultations are well advanced at this stage. 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 her.
307 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made on establishing a special nightclub permit under the sale of alcohol Bill; his plans to allow nightclubs to approach European norms regarding closing time; his views on staggered closing times as a means of reducing the pressure of closing all establishments at the same time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42753/09]
The position is that I intend to make provision for a nightclub permit in the forthcoming Sale of Alcohol Bill. The availability of such a permit, which will be granted by the District Court subject to compliance with statutory conditions and payment of the specified fee, will relieve nightclubs of the necessity of repeatedly applying for special exemption orders in order to remain open beyond normal licensing hours. Under existing arrangements, operators of nightclubs may apply at regular intervals to the District Court for special exemption orders and such orders may be granted by the Court subject to compliance with conditions set out in section 5 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 1927, as amended. Special exemption orders normally expire at 2.30 a.m. (1.00 a.m. on Monday mornings), unless the Court, for stated reasons, considers it expedient to grant the order for a shorter period. With the addition of 30 minutes drinking-up time, premises benefitting from special exemption order may remain open until at 3.00 a.m. (1.30 a.m. on Monday mornings). The regulation of licensing hours, including those applicable to nightclubs, is a matter for individual Member States and generally reflects the unique historical, social and cultural aspects of the country concerned. Member States generally have regard to factors such as their alcohol consumption patterns and levels of alcohol-related harm as well as public policy objectives such as promoting public health and maintaining public order.
308 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if the issue of promotion within the ranks of community gardaí has been resolved; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42756/09]
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that promotions in An Garda Síochána are governed by the Garda Síochána (Promotion) Regulations (Statutory Instrument no 485 of 2006). Personnel attached to Community Policing are eligible to go forward for promotion having met criteria set out under the provisions of these Regulations. There is no provision for a special promotion system for Community Gardaí or indeed for any other cadre within the Garda organisation.
309 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of coroners here. [42769/09]
A network of 43 coroners serves 47 coronial districts nationwide. Most coroners districts are roughly equivalent to local authority areas. Each district has a coroner and a deputy coroner who acts for the coroner in the event of absence or illness.
310 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the amount each coroner was paid in 2007 and 2008 in tabular from. [42770/09]
Given that local authorities remunerate coroners directly, my Department is not in a position to provide the information requested by the Deputy directly but will liaise with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government with a view to compiling the available and accessible information. When this exercise has been concluded, I will contact the Deputy again.
311 Deputy George Lee asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the details of an incident (details supplied) in Dublin 18, if it was arson or it was drug-related; the way the Garda investigation is progressing; if arrests have been made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42865/09]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the incident referred to by the Deputy is under investigation. It would therefore be inappropriate for me to comment further at this time.
312 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support the case of a person (details supplied). [42870/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 20 May 1998 as a minor dependant of his adult brother. As a result, any decision taken in relation to the adult brother of the person concerned applied equally to the person concerned.
The brother of the person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State on the basis of his marriage to an Irish national, until 26 May 2000. This permission was subsequently renewed until 26 May 2001. This permission also applied to the person concerned. The person concerned formally withdrew his asylum application on 24 June 1999.
The adult brother of the person concerned and his Irish spouse separated in 2000 and, as a consequence, his application for renewal of his permission to remain in the State was refused. This decision applied equally to the person concerned.
In 2003, the person concerned applied for a certificate of naturalisation but this application was refused as the person concerned was deemed to have insufficient periods of legal/reckonable residence in the State.
The marriage of the adult brother of the person concerned was annulled by Court Order dated 22 June 2004. As a result, a notice of intention to deport letter, as provided for under Section 3 of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended), issued to the person concerned on 3 August 2004.
The case of the person concerned was examined under Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act, 1999, as amended, and Section 5 of the Refugee Act, 1996, as amended, on the prohibition of refoulement following which, on 1 December 2005, the then Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform signed a Deportation Order in respect of him. Notice of this Order was served on 7 December 2005. The person concerned was deported the following day.
Further representations dated 6/03/2009 were received from the person concerned asking that his Deportation Order be revoked, in accordance with the provisions of Section 3(11) of the Immigration Act, 1999 (as amended). Following consideration of the information submitted, the Deportation Order was affirmed and the person concerned and his legal representative were advised of this decision by letter dated 27 April 2009.
The effect of the Deportation Order is that the person concerned must remain outside of the State.
313 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if his attention has been drawn to the recent remarks of a High Court judge advocating the re-opening of the debate on the death penalty; if he will state his position on the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42885/09]
The Twenty First Amendment to the Constitution inserted Article 15.5.2, which prohibits the enactment of any law providing for the imposition of the death penalty. There are no plans to further amend the Constitution on this issue.
314 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of persons arrested and charged for possession of drugs with the intent to sell or supply in the R district in the Dublin region for the years 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009; the additional measures gardaí are taking to tackle this issue; the number of persons convicted to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42923/09]
In the time available it has not been possible to compile the information requested. I will communicate further with the Deputy when the information sought is to hand.
316 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42998/09]
A valid 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 November 2008.
All valid applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 24 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straight forward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale. 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.
The length of time taken to process each application should not be classified as a delay, as the length of time taken for any application to be decided is purely a function of the time taken to carry out necessary checks. There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.
317 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the issues that have occurred after referral of a case to the Garda ombudsman in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43000/09]
I have requested a report on the matter from the Garda authorities. I will be in contact with the Deputy when this is to hand.
318 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for naturalisation in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42972/09]
A valid 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 November 2008.
All valid applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 24 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straight forward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale. 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.
The length of time taken to process each application should not be classified as a delay, as the length of time taken for any application to be decided is purely a function of the time taken to carry out necessary checks. There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.
319 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42973/09]
A valid 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 November 2006.
All valid applications are dealt with in chronological order as this is deemed to be the fairest to all applicants. The average processing time from application to decision is now at 24 months. More complicated cases can at times take more than the current average, while an element of straight forward cases can be dealt with in less than that timescale. Officials in the Citizenship Division inform me that processing of the application is at an advanced stage and the file will be submitted to me for a decision in due course.
The length of time taken to process each application should not be classified as a delay, as the length of time taken for any application to be decided is purely a function of the time taken to carry out necessary checks. There is a limit to the reduction in the processing time that can be achieved as applications for naturalisation must be processed in a way which preserves the necessary checks and balances to ensure that it is not undervalued and is only given to persons who genuinely satisfy the necessary qualifying criteria.
320 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42974/09]
I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply to his recent Parliamentary Question, No. 656 of Tuesday, 6 October, 2009, in this matter. The position remains unchanged.
321 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the status of a visa application in respect of an application for family reunification in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42976/09]
Based on the information provided by the Deputy the Visa Office has no record of a current visa application connected to the person referred to.
The Deputy might wish to note that the position in the State of the person concerned is not such as would confer any statutory entitlement under family reunification provisions.
322 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42977/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 9 February 2004. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 29 August 2005, 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 a Deportation Order should not be made against him. In addition, he was subsequently 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 application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of 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. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
323 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42978/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 31 January 2007. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 31 March 2008, 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 a Deportation Order should not be made against him. 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 application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of 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. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
324 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42980/09]
An application for asylum was made on 13 January 2007 on behalf on the person concerned, an infant child born in the State in late 2006. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 7 January 2008, 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 a Deportation Order should not be made against him. 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 initiated Judicial Review Proceedings in the High Court, challenging the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal in his case but subsequently withdrew those Proceedings.
The case file of the person concerned now falls to 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. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
325 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42981/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 13 September 2006. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of her asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 30 November 2007, 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 a Deportation Order should not be made against her. 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 initiated Judicial Review Proceedings in the High Court, challenging the decision of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal in his case. The High Court, on 3 November 2009, refused the Judicial Review Leave Application with the consequence that the earlier decisions of the Refugee Appeals Tribunal and the Minister stood.
Arising from the resolution of the Judicial Review Proceedings referred to, the options notified to the person concerned in my Department's letter dated 30 November 2007 are now re-activated. This position has been made known to the person concerned, through her legal representative, by letter dated 13 November 2009.
326 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42982/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 3 November 2005. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 31 March 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 a Deportation Order should not be made against him. 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 application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of 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. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
327 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42983/09]
The person concerned, accompanied by her infant child, applied for asylum on 31 December 2004. The child was included as part of her mother's asylum application. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned and her child were entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided. Her asylum application was refused following consideration of her case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of her asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 5 August 2005, 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 Deportation Orders should not be made in respect of her and her child. Representations were received on behalf of the person concerned at that time.
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 the person concerned and her child on 15 September 2005. Notice of these Orders was served by registered letter dated 21 September 2005 requiring the person concerned and her child to present themselves to the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) on a specified date in order to make travel arrangements for their deportation from the State.
By letter dated 3 November 2005, the legal representative of the person concerned made an application under Section 17 (7) of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended) for the child of the person concerned to be admitted to the asylum process in her own right. Following consideration of the evidence submitted in support of this application, the application was refused and the legal representative of the person concerned was notified of this refusal decision by letter dated 29 November 2005.
The Deputy might wish to note that the person concerned also made an application for permission to remain in the State in accordance with the revised arrangements applicable to the non-EEA national parents of Irish born children, born in the State before 1 January 2005. The revised arrangements in question, commonly referred to as the IBC/05 Scheme, were announced by the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform on 15 January 2005 and the closing date for receipt of applications was 31 March 2005. The application of the person concerned was received on 27 June 2005 and, as such, was received too late for consideration. In any event as the child referred to in that application was born after 1 January 2005, he would not have an automatic entitlement to Irish citizenship. The person concerned was made aware of the non-acceptance of her IBC/05 application by letter dated 2 August 2005.
The person concerned, again through her legal representative, subsequently submitted a request under Regulation 4(2) of the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006 (S.I. No. 518 of 2006) seeking the permission of the Minister to consider an application for Subsidiary Protection in the State in accordance with those Regulations which came into force on 10 October 2006. This request is under consideration at present. When consideration of this request has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the decision and of the consequences of that decision. The Deputy should note that, in the meantime, the person concerned and her child remain the subject of Deportation Orders and, as such, they must comply with any reporting requirements placed on them by the Garda National Immigration Bureau.
328 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding residency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; if they qualify for residency; if application will be considered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42984/09]
The person concerned applied for asylum on 19 January 2006. In accordance with Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until his application for asylum was decided. His asylum application was refused following consideration of his case by the Office of the Refugee Applications Commissioner and, on appeal, the Refugee Appeals Tribunal.
Arising from the refusal of his asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 13 February 2008, 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 a Deportation Order should not be made against him. 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 application for Subsidiary Protection is refused, the position in the State of the person concerned will then be decided by reference to the provisions of 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. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
329 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding a residency application under prohibition of refoulement in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42985/09]
I refer the Deputy to Parliamentary Question No. 151 of Thursday, 26 February 2009, and the written Reply to that Question.
The position in the State of the person concerned now falls to be decided by reference to the provisions of 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. All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
330 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding an application for family reunification in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42986/09]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person referred to by the Deputy made an application for Family Reunification in July 2007.
The application was forwarded to the Refugee Applications Commissioner for investigation as required under Section 18 of the Refugee Act 1996. This investigation has been completed and the Commissioner has forwarded a report to INIS.
I am further informed that INIS has recently contacted the person in question requesting further documentation and information.
331 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if and when residency status or permission to remain here will be updated in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42987/09]
There is currently no application pending in my Department for residency or permission to remain in the case of the person whose details were supplied.
If an application for asylum has been made by the person concerned, the Deputy will of course be aware that it is not the practice to comment in detail on individual asylum applications.
332 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if reason for the refusal of an application for family reunification will be addressed in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42988/09]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to his previous Parliamentary Question No. 700 of 3 November 2009.
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person referred to by the Deputy made a Family Reunification application in December 2007.
A decision in this case issued to the applicant on 15th September 2009 and a copy of the consideration detailing the reasons for the decision was also provided. It is open to the applicant to submit any further documentation or new information in relation to her application and this will be taken into consideration.
333 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the date by which an application for citizenship will be concluded or determined in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42989/09]
A valid 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 June 2007 and I decided in my absolute discretion to grant a certificate of naturalisation. The person concerned was informed of this decision in a letter issued on 5 May, 2009. This letter also requested the applicant to submit documentation necessary to finalise their application. The requested documentation was received in the Citizenship Division of my Department on 18 September, 2009.
In practice, a necessary period of time elapses while applications that have been approved have their certificates of naturalisation prepared, as certificates must be printed, signed and sealed under strict controls. A certificate of naturalisation will issue to the person concerned in the near future.
334 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 389 of 22 April 2009, when a duplicate copy of correspondence will issue to a person (details supplied) in Dublin 1; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42991/09]
I refer the Deputy to my replies to his previous Parliamentary Questions in this matter.
I wish to inform the Deputy that the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) did not seek further information and were not in contact with the person referred to. They sought further information from the Deputy's Office in April 2009 as they could not find any application for residence in the State from the person concerned.
I have also been informed by the INIS that the person referred to was issued with an intention to deport letter on the 21 October 2009.
The position of the person concerned will now be decided by reference to the provisions of Section 3(6) of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) and Section 5 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended). All representations submitted will be considered before the file is passed to me for decision. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
335 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the position regarding the matter of residency or citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; when stamp four will be updated in line with employment requirements; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42997/09]
The person concerned was granted temporary permission to remain in the State under Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended) on 20 December 2007. This permission was subsequently renewed until 19 June 2009.
The person concerned has applied to have this permission to remain further renewed. This application is under consideration at present. When a decision has been made on the renewal application, this decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
336 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of anti-social behaviour orders deployed so far in 2009 in Dublin; the same details for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43045/09]
Part 11 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006, which provides for civil proceedings in relation to anti-social behaviour by adults, was commenced on 1 January, 2007. Part 13 of the Act, which relates to anti-social behaviour by children, was commenced on 1 March, 2007. These provisions set out an incremental procedure for addressing anti-social behaviour by adults and children. With regard to children, these range from a warning from a member of An Garda Síochána, to a good behaviour contract involving the child and his or her parents or guardian, to referral to the Garda Juvenile Diversion Programme and finally to the making of a behaviour order by the Children's Court.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that in the Dublin Metropolitan Region in 2009 up to 31 October, 263 behaviour warnings were issued to adults and 215 to children. One good behaviour contract in respect of a child has been agreed.
I am further informed that in the Dublin Metropolitan Region in 2008, 203 behaviour warnings were issued to adults and 247 to children. Three good behaviour contracts were agreed in respect of children. In addition, one civil order was issued in respect of an adult.
In setting up the regime the intention was that these interventions — warnings, good behaviour contracts and referrals to the Juvenile Diversion Programme — would address the problem behaviour. If they succeed, there will be no need to apply to the courts for an order. It is only if they fail to lead to a behaviour adjustment by the person in question, that a court order will be applied for.
337 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of gardaí operational per Dublin postcode as of the end of October 2009; the same details for 2008 and 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43046/09]
338 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of community gardaí operational per Dublin postcode as of the end of October 2009; the same details for 2008 and 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43047/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 337 and 338 together.
Garda District boundaries in the Dublin Metropolitan Region are not coterminous with Dublin postcodes and it is therefore not possible to provide the information exactly as the Deputy requests. However, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the personnel strength of each Garda Station and its corresponding post code is as shown in the attached table. It should be noted that in 2007 Community Policing statistics were compiled on a quarterly basis only and therefore I have provided those statistics for the end of September 2007.
|
Station |
Postcode |
Garda Strength 31/10/07 |
Garda Strength 31/10/08 |
Garda Strength 31/10/09 |
Community Garda Strength 31/09/07 |
Community Garda Strength 31/10/08 |
Community Garda Strength 31/10/09 |
|
Kevin Street |
8 |
137 |
143 |
153 |
17 |
32 |
28 |
|
Kilmainham |
8 |
86 |
83 |
86 |
9 |
14 |
18 |
|
Pearse St |
2 |
260 |
263 |
267 |
34 |
19 |
16 |
|
Harcourt Tce |
2 |
83 |
82 |
82 |
4 |
3 |
10 |
|
Donnybrook |
4 |
129 |
126 |
131 |
4 |
4 |
6 |
|
Irishtown |
4 |
58 |
58 |
60 |
2 |
3 |
4 |
|
Store St. |
1 |
288 |
292 |
303 |
26 |
28 |
97 |
|
Bridewell |
7 |
176 |
181 |
179 |
17 |
19 |
39 |
|
Fitzgibbon St |
1 |
119 |
116 |
120 |
15 |
13 |
23 |
|
Mountjoy |
7 |
96 |
101 |
106 |
12 |
11 |
23 |
|
Crumlin |
12 |
104 |
107 |
106 |
5 |
6 |
6 |
|
Sundrive Rd |
12 |
75 |
77 |
80 |
6 |
6 |
7 |
|
Rathfarnham |
14 |
75 |
80 |
80 |
6 |
7 |
6 |
|
Tallaght |
24 |
175 |
187 |
195 |
24 |
26 |
27 |
|
Rathmines |
6 |
70 |
77 |
72 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Terenure |
6w |
102 |
100 |
104 |
6 |
6 |
6 |
|
Santry |
9 |
114 |
82 |
84 |
4 |
5 |
5 |
|
Whitehall |
9 |
44 |
47 |
48 |
5 |
5 |
3 |
|
Ballymun |
11 |
75 |
110 |
130 |
10 |
10 |
10 |
|
Dublin Airport |
Co. Dublin |
23 |
25 |
23 |
— |
— |
— |
|
Coolock |
5 |
114 |
116 |
122 |
10 |
10 |
16 |
|
Malahide |
Co. Dublin |
47 |
45 |
44 |
4 |
4 |
3 |
|
Swords |
Co. Dublin |
78 |
78 |
86 |
9 |
10 |
11 |
|
Raheny |
5 |
68 |
72 |
76 |
6 |
6 |
7 |
|
Clontarf |
3 |
67 |
72 |
80 |
6 |
5 |
7 |
|
Howth |
Co. Dublin |
41 |
39 |
43 |
6 |
4 |
4 |
|
Balbriggan |
Co. Dublin |
40 |
62 |
64 |
2 |
6 |
6 |
|
Skerries |
Co. Dublin |
11 |
10 |
13 |
— |
— |
— |
|
Lusk |
Co. Dublin |
4 |
2 |
4 |
— |
— |
— |
|
Rush |
Co. Dublin |
6 |
4 |
6 |
— |
— |
— |
|
Garristown |
Co. Dublin |
3 |
3 |
3 |
— |
— |
— |
|
Blanchardstown |
15 |
173 |
182 |
198 |
19 |
24 |
23 |
|
Cabra |
7 |
70 |
75 |
73 |
7 |
7 |
8 |
|
Finglas |
11 |
88 |
105 |
114 |
10 |
12 |
14 |
|
Lucan |
Co. Dublin |
82 |
83 |
88 |
7 |
8 |
8 |
|
Ronanstown |
22 |
87 |
84 |
92 |
10 |
10 |
11 |
|
Ballyfermot |
10 |
85 |
93 |
93 |
7 |
10 |
11 |
|
Clondalkin |
22 |
99 |
96 |
98 |
11 |
11 |
11 |
|
Rathcoole |
Co. Dublin |
24 |
28 |
24 |
1 |
2 |
1 |
|
Dun Laoghaire |
Co. Dublin |
103 |
109 |
108 |
4 |
8 |
8 |
|
Dalkey |
Co. Dublin |
33 |
33 |
34 |
2 |
2 |
2 |
|
Kill-O-Grange |
Co. Dublin |
33 |
32 |
31 |
3 |
3 |
3 |
|
Cabinteely |
18 |
38 |
33 |
41 |
5 |
5 |
5 |
|
Shankhill |
Co. Dublin |
63 |
62 |
63 |
8 |
9 |
9 |
|
Blackrock |
Co. Dublin |
82 |
83 |
94 |
7 |
6 |
5 |
|
Dundrum |
14 |
76 |
73 |
76 |
5 |
6 |
6 |
|
Stepaside |
18 |
32 |
34 |
32 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
339 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of members of the Garda reserve who are based in Dublin as of the end of October 2009; the same details for 2008; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43048/09]
On the 31st of October 2009 there were 167 operational members of the Garda Reserve based in the Dublin Metropolitan Region with a further 66 in training in that Region. This represents an increase of just over 33% in the total number of Garda Reserve and trainees from 31st October 2008. On that date there were 112 operational members of the Garda Reserve based in the Dublin Metropolitan Region with a further 63 in training in that Region.
340 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the way in which funds accrued through the Criminal Assets Bureau are channelled into disadvantaged communities; if community projects may apply for funds from the Criminal Assets Bureau to use for the benefit of people in their community; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43057/09]
The issue of the monies seized by the Criminal Assets Bureau being used to fund community projects and drug services in disadvantaged urban communities is one which is raised on a periodical basis.
This is primarily a matter for the Department of Finance and the view on this issue is that while it is accepted that there may be some potential symbolic value in the idea that the suggestion is one which is problematic and raises a number of particular difficulties including as follows.
Firstly the Constitution requires and Government accounting principles provide that public monies be spent only as voted or approved by Dáil Éireann unless otherwise provided by statute.
A policy of ringfencing monies obtained by the Exchequer and the reallocation of same for a specific purpose, sometimes described as the hypothecation of revenue, would run contrary to the normal Estimates process.
Under this process, revenue which has been accumulated by the Criminal Assets Bureau is paid into the Government's Central Fund. It is this Central Fund from which the Government draws for expenditure on all necessary public services and investment including the provision of drug services.
While allowing for a very small number of very specific targeted exceptions, it is believed that earmarking revenues for a specific expenditure programme would, in general, constrain the Government in the implementation of its overall expenditure policy.
It could also be argued that a significant proportion of the monies secured by the Bureau are already owed to the Exchequer as it often relates to non-payment of taxes and social welfare fraud.
In the case of drugs services the Government is already allocating very considerable resources to a wide range of Government Departments and State Agencies as well as to the Community and Voluntary treatment sectors to tackle the issue of drug misuse. There are also very practical difficulties with the proposal as the variable and uncertain nature of the value of the assets seized by the Bureau in any given year in addition to the potential delays through the possibility of legal challenge to court disposal orders is problematic in terms of the provision of ongoing fund to drugs programmes or projects. Such a revenue source would not facilitate the proper planning of drug treatment provision or other such programmes by organisations involved in the delivery of services.
There is also the problem of additional costs which would accrue in the administration of any scheme to divert CAB funds to community programmes. It would mean additional administrative costs without any additional revenues being generated.
341 Deputy Pat Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the role played by the Garda Síochána in the seizure of more than 120 million cigarettes from a vessel in Greenore, County Louth; the value of the cigarettes seized; if charges have yet been pressed against any of those arrested at the time; if a file has been sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions; if he has satisfied himself that there was an appropriate level of cooperation between the Gardaí and the customs authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43072/09]
I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all agencies involved in Operation Samhna, which led to the seizure of an estimated 120 million cigarettes at Greenore, Co. Louth in October. This multi-agency cross border operation was led by officers of the Revenue Custom's Service and supported by An Garda Síochána, the Criminal Assets Bureau, the Irish Naval Service, and the Air Corps. Officers from the Police Service of Northern Ireland and Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs (HMRC) were also prominent. The European Anti-Fraud Office OLAF was involved from the outset and they will coordinate the follow-up investigations in the Philippines where the vessel was loaded.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the seizure resulted in nine arrests. Following interviews, all of the persons arrested were released without charge, pending the preparation of an investigation file by the Revenue Commissioners, once all necessary inquiries have been completed.
I am advised that there is excellent level of cooperation and sharing of information that between these organisations. While the Revenue Commissioners have primary responsibility in relation to cigarette smuggling, a multi-agency approach is adopted where appropriate.
Both organisations also work closely together on other issues and I wish to commend the ongoing success of our Joint Task Force on Drugs through which An Garda Síochána, Revenue's Customs Service and the Irish Naval Service come together and co-operate closely in joint operations targeting drug trafficking.
Both An Garda Síochána and the Customs Service are working side by side at the Maritime Analysis and Operations Centre (Narcotics) in Lisbon which is an excellent example of inter-agency cooperation. The Deputy will recall that in November 2008, with the assistance of the Lisbon Centre, Operation Seabight resulted in the seizure of 1.5 tonnes of cocaine off our south west coast from the yacht "Dances with Waves". This was regarded as a very significant drug seizure globally.
342 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [43081/09]
I am informed by the Immigration Division of my Department that the person concerned made an application for residence in the State based on his marriage to a French national on 1 April 2009. The person referred to by the Deputy was informed of the decision to refuse this application on 18 September 2009. A request for review of this decision was received on 27 October 2009 from his legal representative and the decision to refuse this application is currently under review.
343 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [43096/09]
The issues raised in the material supplied by the Deputy are largely comprehended by the terms of reference of the Data Protection Review Group. I understand that the Group is now considering the results of a consultation exercise which has just concluded. I have been informed that the Group is hoping to report towards the end of this year.
344 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the progress made to date in 2009 in implementing the fast track visa arrangements for key researchers and highly skilled staff initiative announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report in December 2008. [43137/09]
The policy which is in place to facilitate the entry and residence of researchers and how these persons and other highly skilled workers will be eligible to seek long-term residence in the State was addressed in my reply to PQ number 256 of 17 November 2009.
The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service of my Department is in weekly and often daily contact with the Irish Universities Association to facilitate the smooth operation of the Researchers Scheme. In 2009 to date some 321 new hosting agreements have been approved. The immigration authorities have also ensured that researchers and other highly skilled workers are specially facilitated in terms of residence permission and family reunification where relevant.
345 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of the new workshops at Loughan House detention centre, County Cavan; if these are fully equipped and staffed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43174/09]
The workshops are located within a substantial building which was constructed at a cost of approximately €6m to provide services for the prisoner population at Loughan House. This building contains a number of educational, recreational and support service facilities and as such it is not possible to indicate the precise costings of the workshops within the overall figure.
Two workshops have been fitted out to provide training in construction skills and industrial cleaning. Two assistant industrial supervisor posts were agreed to run these workshops. However, due to the Moratorium on Recruitment and Promotions in the Public Service we have not been able to fill these posts. We are currently examining the options, within the confines of the Moratorium, to address this issue.
346 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of prisoners currently in a centre (details supplied) in County Cavan; the occupational programmes for these prisoners in detention; if he has had any complaints regarding the prisoners being detained there not being vetted properly; if his attention has been drawn to any persons suffering from a heroin addiction being sent to this centre; if sniffer dogs are available in the centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43175/09]
I wish to inform the Deputy that on 20 November 2009 there were 139 persons in custody in the centre the subject of this Parliamentary Question.
The aims and objectives of open centres is to provide a place of detention aimed at the rehabilitation of offenders through education and training linked with a regime which encourages a sense of personal responsibility and self respect in order to assist them leading law-abiding lives on their return to the community. Generally speaking the profile of offenders sent to open centres includes either low risk offenders who are serving short sentences for minor offences or offenders nearing the end of longer sentences whose transfers have been approved as part of a sentence management programme.
The centre has a modern purpose-built education centre which is equipped with both practical and general purpose classrooms. The education centre caters for approximately 59% of the prisoner population on a weekly basis. Subject areas available to prisoners who attend the education centre include Home Economics, Health Education, Art/Craft, Woodwork, Computers, Music, Physical Education and Science. Among the certification options available are Junior Certificate, Leaving Certificate, FETAC, ECDL and Open University.
Occupational training is also available to prisoners in catering, laundry and horticulture/farm workshops. Two new workshops have recently been fitted out to provide training in construction skills and industrial cleaning. Two Assistant Industrial Supervisor posts were agreed to run these workshops. Due to the moratorium on recruitment and promotions in the Public Service, the Irish Prison Service has not been able to fill these posts. We are currently examining the options, within the confines of the moratorium, to address this issue.
I have not received any complaints in relation to prisoners detained in the centre not being properly vetted nor has my attention been drawn to any persons suffering from a heroin addiction being sent to this centre. Prisoners transferred to an open centre have, in each case, a wide range of factors taken into account prior to transferring including the nature of their offence, length of sentence, engagement with the therapeutic services and behaviour while in custody. All prisoners are medically assessed on committal to prison and treatment needs are determined based on the clinical presentation.
Prisoners are monitored on an ongoing basis and if they present with a medical difficulty, are again medically assessed and, if necessary, transferred elsewhere for appropriate treatment.
The Irish Prison Service Canine Unit does not currently provide a drug detection dog service to the centre but that situation will change when further dogs and handlers complete their training in 2010.
347 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform if he has received a report of one prison officer having to deal with up to 58 people in an isolated building at a centre (details supplied) in County Cavan; his views on whether this is an appropriate and safe level of contact between prison officers and persons in detention; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43176/09]
Current staffing levels and configurations for each of the prisons were established in the context of the Change Agreement reached with the Prison Officers' Association in 2005. The Agreement involved substantial changes to staff deployment which could only be achieved over time. At present, staffing levels and configurations are actually quite close to what was envisaged when the Agreement was reached with the Prison Officers Association.
In 2008 a new accommodation block, which is not isolated and forms part of the prison complex, opened in Loughan House, open centre requiring additional staffing. New staff levels were established following agreement with the Prison Officers Association. The Deputy will appreciate that in a large organisation such as the Irish Prison Service, surpluses and shortfalls in staffing have to be managed on an ongoing basis. However, I am advised that the IPS is satisfied that there is an adequate level of staff in Loughan House at present. Of course, staffing levels in all prison facilities will continue to be kept under review in the context of the Department of Finance Moratorium.
348 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the number of attested gardaí at the rank of Garda and Garda sergeant who are not in specialist units or administrative rolls; the corresponding figure for 1997, 2002, and 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43215/09]
I am informed by the Garda authorities that the number of Gardaí and Sergeants at the end of 1997, 2002, 2007 and 31 October 2009 is as set out in the following table.
|
Sergeant |
Garda |
|
|
1997 |
1,844 |
8,642 |
|
2002 |
1,928 |
9,442 |
|
2007 |
2,083 |
11,090 |
|
2009 (31/10/09) |
2,131 |
11,943 |
For security and operational reasons, it is Garda policy not to disclose the number of Gardaí assigned to certain areas within An Garda Síochána.
349 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the level of interdepartmental engagement that has taken place in relation to the proliferation of head shops here; the potential risks and dangers involved in the consumption of the products on sale in these outlets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43237/09]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question 266 of 17 November 2009 and Parliamentary Question number 143 of 5 November 2009.
350 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43417/09]
The costs of translating documents into Irish are met from my Department's Administrative Budget and unfortunately cannot readily be distinguished from the cost of providing administrative services generally. Accordingly the information sought by the Deputy could not be compiled without the application of a disproportionate amount of staff time and resources.
However, I can inform the Deputy that in order to meet public information obligations in relation to official publications, be they in English or Irish, it is my Department's policy to issue CDs or to use other IT based publication tools such as PDF formats. This policy also covers the publishing of documents, such as annual reports, on my Department's website. I have taken a personal interest in this issue and consequently directed that my Department ensures that where hard copies of documents are required, they are prepared for publication by the use of in-house copying equipment. As a consequence of implementing this policy, printing and postal costs are kept to an absolute minimum. I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate the importance of this policy given that my Department's Administrative Budget for 2009 comprises only 77% of such expenditure in 2008.
I can also inform the Deputy that, in common with other categories of expenditure, my Department seeks to provide Irish language services with an eye to securing value for money. To illustrate this, the Deputy may wish to note that since February 2003 my Department has been involved in a major on-going Irish language project, the translation of the Rules of Court. To facilitate the efficient and effective completion of this project my Department has employed an in-house translator principally to oversee and carry out the translations of these Rules. In December 2004 the 1,200 page Irish translation of the District Court Rules, 1997 was published. This translation is available on the Courts Service website www.courts.ie. It is expected that the Irish translation of the Circuit Court Rules, 2001 will be published in the coming months. The translation of the forms contained in these Rules are currently before the Irish Legal Terms Advisory Committee for verification. By engaging an in-house translator instead of seeking outside service providers my Department estimates that it has made significant savings on this project.
351 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made since December 2008 in co-ordinating the Government’s promotional activities overseas as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; the efforts made to optimise the economic potential of visits by Ministers abroad; and the steps taken to stimulate and enhance economic links with the overseas Irish. [43148/09]
The Department of Foreign Affairs and our network of Embassies and Consulates work closely and cooperatively with other Government Departments and State Agencies to optimise the promotion of Ireland overseas. With a view to more effective coordination of the Government's overseas promotional activities, the document Building Ireland's Smart Economy envisages Ambassadors in major markets taking an active role in this regard. In implementation of this Action Point, Ambassadors in the major markets have been instructed to more actively pursue trade and economic promotional activity and convene regular meetings with State Agencies, which are represented on the ground, to coordinate and report on promotional efforts.
Close cooperation also takes place between my Department and other Government Departments and Agencies to ensure that the best use is made of the promotional opportunities presented by Ministerial visits overseas. Embassies are expected to identify possible economic promotion events to be included in Ministerial itineraries. This is particularly the case in relation to Ministerial visits abroad for St. Patrick's Day, where every effort is made to ensure that, as was the case this year, the themes, programmes and messages for these visits have a strong economic content. Earlier in the year a letter was issued from my office to the offices of other Ministers nominating a focal point in the Department (the Promoting Ireland Abroad Division) to liaise with these offices and our Embassies abroad so as to ensure that, throughout the year, Ministers are aware of promotional opportunities in overseas markets.
Last September, with a view to stimulating and enhancing economic links with the overseas Irish, I organized the Global Irish Economic Forum, which was held at Farmleigh. It brought together international business, cultural and political figures with Irish links, or a strong interest in Ireland. The Forum was convened with two broad objectives: to explore how the Irish at home and abroad, and those with a strong interest in Ireland, could work together and contribute to our overall efforts at economic recovery; and to examine ways in which Ireland and its global community could develop a more strategic relationship with each other, particularly in the economic sector.
A range of themes and specific proposals emerged from the Forum, including the issue of a new global Irish network. Work has already begun in my Department on the establishment of such a network, composed of those invited to Farmleigh. The Government has established a new inter-Departmental Committee of senior officials chaired by the Secretary General to the Government to consider and take forward the work of the Forum. This group will report directly to Government, which will review progress on a regular basis.
In October this year, in implementation of the recommendations contained in the US/Ireland Strategic Review, I chaired the inaugural meeting of the Irish-American Leadership Council in New York. The Council brings together the national leadership of Irish-American business, community, philanthropic and cultural organizations throughout the United States. It is intended to act as a point for collective consultation and advice for the Government across a wide spectrum of issues.
352 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his proposals to develop the role and work of the Irish Aid volunteering section to harness the experience and qualifications of unemployed workers here by placing them in the different developing countries where Ireland has development co-operation programmes run directly or indirectly by his department, Irish Aid or Irish non-governmental organisations; his views on whether such a plan would help advance policy objectives and provide opportunities for people here who are currently unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42541/09]
The core objective of Ireland's aid programme is to contribute to the elimination of extreme poverty and hunger. The programme, which is administered by Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs, is sharply focused on the least developed countries, in particular in sub-Saharan Africa. We have long term strategic programmes in nine priority countries, and also work in close cooperation with Non-Governmental Organisations, the UN and other multilateral organisations. The Government recognises the important role volunteers can play in the development programme. The Irish Aid Volunteering and Information Centre in Dublin works to encourage and facilitate the strong public interest in global development, and in volunteering.
Over the past year, Irish Aid has worked to increase public awareness of all available overseas volunteering opportunities. Two successful volunteering fairs have been organised in the Volunteering and Information Centre this year, with up to 900 individuals attending. Over twenty overseas volunteering organisations, many of which are funded by Irish Aid, participated in the fairs in order to recruit professionals for particular assignments in developing countries. Irish Aid hopes to organise similar overseas volunteering fairs in Cork and Limerick early in 2010. The Volunteering and Information Centre has also facilitated more than 70 other events this year which focused on overseas volunteering.
In addition, Irish Aid is now in the final stages of recruiting sixteen young people for the 2010 United Nations Volunteers internship programme. Through this programme, 55 Irish interns have had the opportunity to work with the United Nations since 2006. Despite the current budgetary pressures, I believe it is important that we continue to fund this recruitment programme as part of the overall Irish contribution to development.
In recent months, I have ensured that Irish Aid has worked closely with the Department of Enterprise Trade and Employment and other Departments to support volunteer placements in the domestic and international voluntary sector. While there are many opportunities for volunteers to engage with Non-Governmental Organisations in Ireland, the identification and placement of large numbers of people in appropriate overseas assignments is more challenging. Irish Aid is actively engaged with a range of volunteering organisations to identify placements which will promote development in the poorest countries and provide volunteers with an opportunity to make a real contribution in the fight against poverty and hunger.
The aid programme has also played a strong role in promoting the importance of health, safety and security issues across the volunteering sector. Through an agreed code of practice, volunteering organisations have agreed to address issues such as training and induction, cultural awareness, logistical support, transport and accommodation, monitoring, reporting and evaluation. This reflects the importance of ensuring that all volunteering assignments are suited to an individual's capacity and experience and are of benefit to the host organisation and community in the developing world.
All aspects of the Government's aid programme are constantly under examination in order to ensure that they contribute to maximum effect to the fight against global poverty and hunger. I can assure the Deputy that any proposals in relation to the further development of volunteering opportunities overseas receive would receive detailed consideration on this basis.
353 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support a matter (details supplied). [42629/09]
My Department is in ongoing contact with a number of victims' groups, including many of those who lost loved ones in the incidents to which the Deputy refers. In addition, I have personally met with a number of victims' groups. It is essential that, as we seek to move to a better future for all the people of this island, we do not leave behind those who have suffered most from the conflict in the past.
This obligation informs the Government's contacts with the British Government where we consistently raise issues which are the legacy of the Troubles, at political level as well as in ongoing official contacts. The broader question of how to respond to the difficult outstanding issues from the Troubles, such as how best to meet the needs of all victims and survivors, was examined in detail by the Eames-Bradley Consultative Group on the Past, which reported to the British Government earlier this year. The Government is working closely with its British counterpart to consider how the recommendations of the Consultative Group on the Past might be taken forward.
354 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42701/09]
My Department pays the rent on office space in two buildings in Dublin:
Ground floor of Hospitality House, Cumberland Street, Dublin 2 which has a total floor area of 347.45 square metres at a cost of €144,900 per annum. However, a provision to terminate the lease on these premises in 2010 has recently been invoked.
Ground floor of Findlater House, 27 -31 Upper O'Connell Street, Dublin 1 which has a total floor area of 523.4 square metres at cost of €417,450 per annum. The lease on these premises was negotiated by the Office of Public Works on behalf of my Department.
All other rent commitments relating to properties in the State occupied by the Department of Foreign Affairs are discharged by the Office of Public Works.
In addition, 109 properties are rented by my Department outside the State for use primarily as offices and official residences. The projected total rental cost of these properties in 2009 is €15.518m. Rental agreements vary from country to country in accordance with local law and practice. Leases are usually for a fixed period and any include a rent review clause. Rent increases on renewal of leases are generally in line with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) of the particular country. Rent levels abroad are reviewed each year. In addition, earlier this year all our Missions were instructed to explore the scope for negotiated reductions, having regard to local market conditions.
355 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions he has taken in response to Judge Richard Goldstone and his commission’s report of the United Nations Fact Finding Mission on the Gaza Conflict; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42734/09]
362 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the Goldstone report that examined the Israeli assault on Gaza in 2008; his view of the recommendations included in this report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43051/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 355 and 362 together.
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Oral Question 60 on 18 November 2009, which was as follows:
The Goldstone Report is a serious and important document, which seeks to sift fact from allegations and rumour, and to determine so far as possible what happened in and around Gaza in the conflict at the beginning of this year, and how to pursue accountability for any violations of international humanitarian law which occurred. The members of the Fact Finding Mission led by Judge Goldstone, and including retired Irish Colonel Desmond Travers, are to be commended for the diligence and fairness with which they have attempted to carry out their mandate, including in rising above the regrettably one-sided nature of the original Human Rights Council Resolution which led to the establishment of the Mission.
Ireland has spoken in favour of the Report in our current capacity as observers at the Human Rights Council, and voted in favour of the Resolution on the Report at the UN General Assembly on 5 November. Ireland was one of five EU member States to vote in favour. Some partners opposed the Resolution while most abstained, because of issues which had as much to do with the terms of the Resolution as with the Report itself.
We ourselves had some reservations about the terms of the Resolution. We felt that it was premature to be asked to ‘endorse' the Report as a whole and made this clear in our explanation of vote. However, on balance, we decided to support the resolution in order to send a political signal as to the importance that we attach to the report and the issues it raises.
While supporting the resolution, we made clear that, like many other States, we will need time to carefully consider the complex political and legal issues involved in some of the very wide-ranging recommendations of this lengthy Report. Our vote in favour does not pre-empt that consideration, or mean that we will necessarily agree with every word in the Report. Its recommendations intentionally have the potential — which I welcome — to set new benchmarks in international legal accountability for military actions, and for that reason require the most careful political and legal consideration by all States. This will not be a speedy process.
It is not for the Government to conclude if the Report's findings are accurate as to fact: that will be the task of the investigative and judicial mechanisms it calls for. Nor do we have information of our own on which to make a judgement. But clearly the Report marshals a strong case to be answered.
In the first instance, the Report calls for all sides in the conflict to establish authoritative and transparent investigations into the allegations, and we fully supported that call, which was the main operative effect of the General Assembly Resolution. The possibilities of action by international courts, or national courts under universal jurisdiction, are among the alternative measures suggested if those local investigations are not held.
The conflict in Gaza has served to exacerbate many of the problems already facing Gaza, including in the environmental sphere and related issues of sewage treatment and the availability of drinking water. While the conflict did involve some additional destruction to the infrastructure in both areas, the main problem is the continuing blockade of construction materials which is preventing the urgent action necessary to avoid huge environmental problems. I have repeatedly stressed the urgent need for an end to the blockade and a full opening of the crossing points to Gaza to normal commercial and humanitarian traffic, and movement of people, and I repeat that call today.
356 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42866/09]
The former Taoiseach, Mr. Bertie Ahern, announced a £5 million endowment to create the Tony Blair Chair of Irish Studies at the University of Liverpool in June 2007, at the time of former Prime Minister Blair's departure from office. The Chair was created by the Irish Government in recognition of Prime Minister Blair's instrumental role in the Northern Ireland peace process.
The endowment was awarded to the University of Liverpool in recognition of the world-leading research, teaching and promotion of Irish studies carried out by its Institute of Irish Studies. The Institute was founded in 1988 as a result of recommendations made following the Anglo-Irish Agreement of 1985 for a dedicated academic body to research and teach Irish Studies. Since its inception, the Institute has played a key role in developing and informing peace programmes in Northern Ireland and has worked closely with the British and Irish Governments during the peace process.
As well as establishing a professorial Chair of Irish Studies, the endowment funding also supports capacity building in the Institute for Irish Studies, including through provision for several postgraduate studentships.
The consolidation of peace in Northern Ireland is a policy priority for the Government. The deepening and strengthening of British-Irish relations and the support for projects fostering lasting reconciliation and mutual understanding remain key elements of this process. The endowment was also significant in ensuring the future development of the Institute as a leading centre for Irish studies and was an important commitment of resources to the future of Irish studies in Great Britain. The fostering of Irish studies in Universities internationally is an important part of ensuring that Irish culture and heritage can be studied by future generations. The budgetary allocation for the endowment was provided for in Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and the endowment funding was paid in 2008.
Vote 28, of course, is separate from Vote 29 which funds the Government's development aid programme. In 2008, Ireland's total overseas development assistance amounted to €920 million, of which €768 million was provided for from Vote 29. This was an increase of €49 million on the total overseas development assistance funding of €871 million in 2007, of which €726 million was provided for from Vote 29. The decrease in the overseas aid budget to which the Deputy refers took place in 2009.
357 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs his views on the status of the state of West Papua; if it is still a United Nations trusteeship; if he has received complaints from representatives of the persons of West Papua in relation to the governance of the State by Indonesia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42910/09]
Earlier this year I received representations from members of a group called the "West Papua Indigenous Organisation", a group seeking self-determination for West Papua. West Papua is no longer a United Nations Trusteeship. Following the departure of the Dutch and a brief period of UN administration, Indonesia took over the administration of Papua (formerly Irian Jaya) in 1963 and it became a province of Indonesia following a UN-supervised ‘Act of Free Choice' in 1969, the legitimacy of which is disputed. Proposals to divide the region into three provinces in 2003 fell through. However, two provinces, West Irian Jaya (now referred to as West Papua) and Papua Province, have since been created and this division was legitimized by a decision of the Constitutional Court, which argued that despite the illegality of its formation, West Irian Jaya (now West Papua) was de facto a functioning province. The government subsequently issued a regulation on 16 April 2008 which clarified the status of the province of West Papua and put it on an equal footing with that of the province of Papua.
Despite being rich in natural resources, Papua and West Papua are the least developed areas of Indonesia and their populations are the poorest. Grievances against the central Government remain strong, particularly in relation to the implementation of the Law on Special Autonomy, enacted in 2001, which, at least on paper, provides the region with wide-ranging political authority and generous revenue-earning provisions. Other problems faced by the people of West Papua relate to interaction with the security forces in the province; the influx of migrants from other Indonesian regions; under-development in infrastructure, education and health; and the perception of neglect of the province by the central authorities.
Together with our partners in the EU, Ireland respects the territorial integrity of Indonesia and is committed to a united, democratic, stable future for the country. We believe that the most productive approach to dealing with the situation in West Papua, including the situation in relation to human rights issues, is through dialogue with the Indonesian Government. In this context, we have encouraged the Government to seek peaceful solutions in conflict and potential conflict areas in Indonesia, including West Papua. We have also raised issues relating to the human rights situation there.
We will continue to urge full implementation of the Special Autonomy Law for Papua. We recognise, however, that the Law was established prior to the division of Papua into two provinces and that this has resulted in major problems in its implementation. Ultimately the central Government needs to provide a legal foundation for the province of West Papua and the Special Autonomy Law should consequently be revised. In this respect, we welcome the commitment of the President of Indonesia, Dr. Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, to promote the accelerated development of the region through the implementation of the socio-economic aspects of the Special Autonomy Law. We hope that real progress will be made during his second term in office which has just begun.
I will continue to monitor the political situation in Indonesia. Human rights issues are regularly raised in discussions with the Indonesian authorities and, together with our EU partners, the Government will continue to take every opportunity to raise concerns regarding Papua in contacts with them. I am delighted in this respect that an EU-Indonesia Human Rights Dialogue was launched at the EU Foreign Ministers' Troika meeting with Indonesia in Jakarta on 9 November last. Ministers agreed that the first working session in the Dialogue should be held during the first half of next year. They agreed also that it should be forward looking, constructive and focus on concrete cooperation in the protection and promotion of human rights.
358 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of Irish passports issued to non-marital children between 1920 and 1980. [42916/09]
The Passport Office does not record the marital status of passport holders in their passport. The passport application records, for the period in question, were manual records and are no longer available.
359 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42979/09]
The Passport Office, which issues passports to Irish citizens, has no record of a passport application for the person mentioned. The reference numbers quoted by the Deputy are file numbers for the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform, which is responsible for matters of citizenship.
360 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has had recent information on the well-being of a person (details supplied), an Iranian academic, who was arrested in Iran on 9 July 2009; if an indication has been given that they might be accorded their full human rights and entitlements under international law; if they have been facilitated by way of appeal against their sentence with a view of determination as to whether the evidence culminating in their sentence met international good practice regarding their right to a defence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42996/09]
As the Deputy will be aware from my previous replies to him on 16 September and on 20 October, I am aware of this case and we have been following it closely, through our Embassy in Tehran. Following his arrest at his home on 9 July and his subsequent appearance at one of the televised show trials, Dr Kian Tajbakhsh was sentenced on 20 October, reportedly on allegations of espionage and playing a role in the public unrest which followed the disputed June Presidential elections in Iran . Unfortunately, like many of those arrested in the aftermath of the protests, Dr Tajbakhsh's future situation remains uncertain. There is even some confusion about the extent of the accusations against him and indeed the precise length of his sentence. His lawyer was only in a position to confirm that the sentence is in excess of 12 years. However, there are some indications that it may be as lengthy as 14 or 15 years. Dr Tajbakhsh remains in detention in Tehran, as he awaits a date for his Appeal.
His case continues to be dealt with actively by the Swiss Embassy in Tehran, which represents US interests in Iran. We understand that he has had limited access to his lawyer and to his family. However, as the Deputy will appreciate, the situation in Iran, post-election, remains tense and complex and the legal system to which Dr Tajbakhsh is now subject is both opaque and slow to proceed. Many hundreds continue to remain in detention in Iran and it is still not clear when, and by what process, these will be properly tried or released.
The US has raised this case directly with the Iranian authorities in the context of the dialogue which began at Geneva on 1 October. It was to be hoped that progress in that wider diplomatic engagement, which Ireland supported, would have had a positive impact on Dr Tajbakhsh's case. However, latest indications are that prospects for an early agreement on the nuclear issue would appear to be receding. It was to be hoped that progress in that wider diplomatic engagement, which Ireland supported, would have had a positive impact on Dr Tajbakhsh's case. However, latest indications are that prospects for an early agreement on the nuclear issue would appear to be receding. Given his dual US nationality, the progress of Dr Tajbakhsh's case seems likely to be caught up in the development of the wider US-Iran relationship for some time to come.
The EU has been vocal in its reaction to the deterioration in human rights generally in Iran since the disputed Presidential elections, with a particular focus on the maltreatment of those in detention and the need for due legal process to prevail. Ireland has strongly associated itself with the expression of these concerns. Senior officials of my Department have met with the Iranian Ambassador to Ireland on several occasions since the June elections, to convey my strong concerns on these matters to him.
The Deputy can be assured that we will continue to bring these matters, and the case of detainees such as Dr. Tajbakhsh, to the attention of the Iranian authorities. We will also avail of the opportunity to express our concerns about the marked deterioration of human rights in Iran, both nationally and in an EU and international context, as we did most recently in discussions at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, the General Affairs and External Relations Council and the European Council. Ireland has, along with EU Partners, also co-sponsored a resolution on the human rights situation in Iran at the current UN General Assembly session in New York.
361 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the costs, staff numbers and premises associated with the Embassy of Ireland to the Holy See and the Embassy of Ireland to Italy respectively in the past year for which figures are available; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43005/09]
I have prepared in tabular form, details sought in regard to the two Irish Embassies operating in Rome: the Embassy of Ireland to the Holy See and the Embassy of Ireland to the Italian Republic, which is also accredited to Libya, San Marino and Malta. The Ambassador to Italy is also Ireland's Permanent Representative to the Food & Agriculture Organisation (FAO), the World Food Programme (WFP) and the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), all international organisations based in Rome.
The overall operating budget figures for each Embassy as detailed below relate to: salaries, travel, post and telecommunications, office machinery, office premises expenses and incidental expenses.
In regard to Embassy premises: the Embassy to the Holy See is owned by the State, where the Chancery and Ambassadorial Residence are combined in a single building. Premises expenses, as detailed below relate to the maintenance of the building. In the case of the Embassy to Italy, both the Chancery and the Residence are rented properties and the premises expenses figures primarily relate to these rental costs. The Residence is rented on favourable terms as the Irish State has rented the property for over fifty years. The Chancery is rented on a long term lease having moved into its current premises in 1996.
It should be noted that there is no possibility of combining either the premises or Ambassadorial duties of these two Missions, as apart from having very different purposes, the Vatican will not accept the accreditation of an Ambassador who is also the Ambassador to the Italian Republic and neither will they accept the accreditation of an Embassy with the same address as the Embassy to the Italian Republic.
|
Embassy to Italy |
Embassy to the Holy See |
|
|
2008 Operating Budget |
€1,873,034 |
€763,379 |
|
2008 Premises Expenses (these figures are included in overall operating budget above) |
€528,865 |
€139,242 |
|
Current Staff Numbers* |
8 Locally employed staff 5 Diplomatic (Dublin based) staff, one of which is a Department of Agriculture Attaché. |
3 Locally employed staff 2 Diplomatic (Dublin based) staff. |
*These figures do not include domestic staff employed by each Ambassador.
363 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will support a matter (details supplied). [43064/09]
My Department funds cross community and cross-Border projects through its Reconciliation and Anti Sectarianism Funds. The purpose of these Funds is to assist organisations involved in reconciliation work and efforts to create better understanding between people on the island of Ireland and between Ireland and Britain, and to assist local initiatives aimed at tackling sectarianism. Details of the guidelines and application process for the two Funds are available on the Department's website (www.dfa.ie ).
The two Funds do not provide grants for capital expenditure or building work, including preservation work. The majority of funding is used for programme work in support of reconciliation and anti sectarianism initiatives.
364 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the progress made since December 2008 in establishing a consultative mechanism with public and private sector representatives to advise on issues related to the economic work of embassies, as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43149/09]
As outlined in the Action Points of Building Ireland’s Smart Economy A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal a consultative mechanism has been established to provide for informal meetings with representatives of the public and private sector to advise on issues related to the economic work of Embassies.
To date, I have chaired three such meetings, each of which has focussed on a specific sector, market or region. The meetings have taken the form of informal breakfast meetings with, on average, 13 people in attendance. The first meeting was held in April and focussed on the emerging markets in Latin America. The second meeting, which took place in July, concentrated on Science, Technology, Innovation and International Education. The most recent meeting took place earlier this month and focussed on the Irish Crafts Sector and how my Department can best help to promote it internationally. Each meeting brought together representatives of State Agencies, private sector companies and relevant Government Departments. It is anticipated that the next meeting of the consultative mechanism will take place in early 2010.
365 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding his dealings in respect of Zimbabwe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43232/09]
The situation in Zimbabwe continues to be of great concern to the Government and to the European Union as a whole. While we have seen some improvements in the economic sphere in recent months, this has not been matched in other crucial areas, including respect for human rights, the rule of law and security sector reform.
Areas of particular concern include the continued failure of President Mugabe to address the issue of senior government appointments in a manner consistent with the Global Political Agreement (GPA). The retention of Gideon Gono as Governor of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe and Johannes Tomana as Attorney General is detrimental to the interests of the country; their removal is vital to the building of confidence among international donors and investors.
Other causes of ongoing concern are the continued farm invasions, delays to the land audit provided for in the GPA, the failure to reform laws to allow for meaningful press freedom, the lack of progress on security sector reform and the abuse of the judiciary including politically motivated arrests. The continued intimidation, harassment and violence directed against political activists and members of Zimbabwean civil society are of grave concern. The most recent crisis concerned the arrest and indictment in early October of the MDC nominee for Deputy Minister for Agriculture on treason charges and culminated in the disengagement by the MDC from their Zanu-PF partners in government.
Zimbabwe's neighbours have a critical role to play in encouraging reform, and can bring the greatest influence to bear in achieving progress in implementing the power sharing agreement. In that regard, the recent summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), who are the guarantors of the GPA, committed both parties in the unity government to enter talks on the full implementation of the GPA. This is a positive development and, with our EU partners, we will continue to support any such efforts to secure full implementation of the GPA and a unity government that delivers on the promise of reform.
Ireland has worked closely with our EU partners in developing a consistent approach to Zimbabwe. In keeping with other international donors, we do not provide funding to the Zimbabwean Government, but respond to the humanitarian needs of the Zimbabwean people through support for the work of multilateral and non-governmental organisations. Thus far in 2009, Ireland has committed funding of over €5.24 million to a range of humanitarian programmes in Zimbabwe, focussed on food security, tackling HIV and AIDS, human rights and supporting civil society organisations who provide essential services for the population. While the re-opening of political dialogue with the EU represented a step in the right direction, this dialogue has now stalled. The EU has repeatedly stated its willingness to re-engage with the Zimbabwean Government. Re-engagement, however, remains conditional on the agreed goals set out in the GPA being met. These include restoration of the rule of law, commitment to the democratic process, and respect for human rights. We will continue to monitor the situation and press the inclusive government to fulfil these obligations.
366 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43415/09]
The cost of translating all State documents into Irish in 2008 and to date in 2009 is €37,067 with the cost of printing same being €30,597 broken down as follows:
|
Document |
Translation costs 2008 |
Printing costs 2008 |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Lisbon Treaty — Explanatory Leaflet, Guide, White Paper |
8,180 |
4,827 |
|
DFA Annual Report 2007 |
2,892 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
DFA Statement of Strategy 2008-2010 |
3,741 |
3,930 |
|
Irish Aid Annual Report 2007 |
4,689 |
450 |
|
Advisory Board to Irish Aid Annual Report 2007 |
1,404 |
3,125 |
|
North South Ministerial Council Annual Report 2007 |
692 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
Document |
Translation costs 2009 |
Printing costs 2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Annual Report of Developments in the EU — 2007 |
3,220 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
Lisbon Treaty — Postcard, White Paper |
1,773 |
11,550 |
|
Report of Global Irish Economic Forum |
2,399 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
DFA Annual Report 2008 |
2,269 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
Irish Aid Annual Report 2008 |
2,979 |
295 |
|
North South Ministerial Council Annual Report 2008 |
740 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
S.I. No. 408 of 2009 — Foreign Births (Amendment) Regulations of 2009 |
145 |
Zero (Website only) |
|
Ireland in Brief 2009 |
1,944 |
6,420 |
As can be seen from the above, printing costs are kept to a minimum as, in many instances, documents/reports are no longer published in hard copy but, instead, are placed on the Department's website.
367 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress made since December 2008 in the codification of the economic impact of the cultural industries outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; and if benchmarks to promote jobs, business development, and export expansion have been established to date in 2009. [43150/09]
376 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the steps taken since December 2008 to improve the human resources capabilities of the cultural sector through training in the arts, arts administration, management and cultural entrepreneurship as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43152/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 367 and 376 together.
My Department reports regularly to Department of the Taoiseach on progress in implementing the report entitled Building Ireland’s Smart Economy A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal. The following is an extract from the most recent report.
|
Action |
Lead Responsibility |
Progress |
|
The human resource capabilities of the cultural sector will be upgraded through training in the arts, as well as training in arts administration, management and cultural entrepreneurship. |
M/AST |
The Irish Film Board will continue to fund Screen Training Ireland to provide training of professionals for film, television, animation and digital media. |
|
We will codify the economic impact of the cultural industries and establish benchmarks to promote jobs, business development, and export expansion |
M/AST |
DKM Economic Consultants have recently completed a report entitled “The Economic Impact of the Arts, Culture and Creative Sectors” for the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism. |
368 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42693/09]
The Department does not lease any buildings.
369 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the way he will fund a programme (details supplied) in County Laois beyond 2009, for the ongoing implementation of the sports inclusion disability officer programme of the national network of local sports partnerships, in view of the impact on the health and well being of a number of persons with a disability; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42902/09]
Special funding of €2.5 million was allocated from the dormant accounts fund for the appointment of 20 Sports Inclusion Development Officers (SIDOs) in Local Sports Partnerships (LSPs) in 2008. The SIDOs were appointed on two-year contracts to provide opportunities for persons with a disability to participate in sport and physical activity.
A network of 33 LSPs have been set up throughout the country by the Irish Sports Council (ISC) to coordinate and promote sport at local level especially amongst specific target groups such as older people, girls and women, people with disabilities, unemployed people, and those who live in identified disadvantaged communities. The special dormant accounts funding was in addition to the annual funding provided to the LSPs by the ISC for programmes and initiatives aimed at increasing participation in recreational sport. The ISC has allocated €6 million to the LSPs in 2009. The continuation of the SIDO scheme from 2010 will be dependent on the outcome of the 2010 Estimates deliberations.
370 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the measures he intends to introduce to assist the restaurant sector here which employs one in four workers in the tourism industry and contributes €2 billion to the Exchequer; if he intends to increase marketing support for the sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43037/09]
371 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism if he has received pre budget submissions from an organisation (details supplied); the action he plans to take to address the issue of this sector which is under threat due to the high cost base here and the fall off in tourism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43091/09]
372 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism his plans to develop a food tourism policy or strategic policy guidelines; if he recognises the importance of food to the tourist economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43093/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 370, 371 and 372, together.
I have received a copy of the pre-budget submission from the Restaurants Association of Ireland to the Minister for Finance. The submission will be considered in the context of policy responses for the tourism industry as a whole, as well as the general economy, in the forthcoming budget.
I consider that there are real opportunities to grow Ireland as a food tourism destination and I recognise the potential to greatly enhance the experience of tourists visiting Ireland through the provision of good food and enjoyable dining experiences. Under section 8(1)(a) of the National Tourism Development Authority Act 2003, individual actions and measures relating to tourism promotion or development, including promotion of particular sectors such as food tourism, are functions of Fáilte Ireland. Insofar as Food Tourism is concerned, Fáilte Ireland is leading and working with Government Departments, Agency partners and Industry stakeholders, including the Restaurants Association of Ireland (RAI), to position Ireland as one of the world's outstanding authentic food tourism destinations and to position Irish Food Experiences at the core of Ireland's Tourism Brand. Sustainable development is crucial to success and Ireland's reputation as a green and natural island will be explored as part of the strategy development.
The depth and variety of food-based tourism products that Ireland has to offer is being highlighted and supported by advertising the wide range of food festivals taking place around the country. Examples include a Taste of Dublin, a 'Taste of Ireland' Food Festival as part of the Derby Festival at the Curragh, the Connemara Lamb Festival and the Waterford Food Festival. Fáilte Ireland is also recognising and promoting excellence in the sector through sponsorship of a number of awards including the Georgina Campbell Best Breakfast award and the RAI awards initiatives.
Fáilte Ireland is also supporting a number of trade groups including the Restaurants Association of Ireland, Good Food Ireland, the Fabulous Food Trails and the Whiskey Trail to assist them in furthering their activities in this area. Support is being provided in the form of direct marketing supports as well as "in-kind" supports in the form of reductions in fees for training members of groups in areas such as developing menus and in improving online capability.
To assist businesses in becoming more effective and efficient, Fáilte Ireland is providing a range of business support services. These supports include a Business mentoring and coaching service, a Business advisory service, the Optimus programme and Performance Plus — online business tools. Fáilte Ireland also provides restaurant sector specific supports including:
A chefs workshop programme: sweat the menu, reduce the cost and savour the profit,
A front of house productivity programme and
A quality food toolkit CD resource.
373 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the status of the nationwide strategy for eco-tourism and associated marketing campaign announced in December 2008 in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43138/09]
374 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the steps Fáilte Ireland has taken since December 2008 to support upgrading staff skills and management capacities in the tourism sector as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43141/09]
375 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the progress since December 2008 in developing niche cultural tourism markets with globally recognised branding as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report. [43151/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 373, 374, and 375 together.
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 Failte 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.
I am informed that, in relation to the matter of eco-tourism, Fáilte Ireland has undertaken market research in Ireland's principal overseas markets to provide a clearer understanding of the potential size of the ecotourism market within the broader context of natural heritage. This research is now feeding into the development of a natural heritage strategy, part of which is focussed specifically on ecotourism.
Ecotourism is one of the themes for the new Tourism Learning Networks, which are being run on behalf of Fáilte Ireland in 2009. In January 2009, Fáilte Ireland, in association with the Greenbox project, launched an "Ecotourism Handbook" which is a practical guide to both existing tourism businesses and those who wish to start new businesses.
Fáilte Ireland is committed to the promotion of high standards in environmental practice across all sectors of tourism. In this context, it has recently contracted for the establishment of a ‘green label' for tourism, which would be available to tourism establishments.
Failte Ireland has also been involved with a group in the Burren to establish it as a destination for ecotourism. This project involves training in environmental standards, certification and the development of a holistic ecotourism experience in the area which meets the needs of international consumers, as highlighted in recent research.
During 2010, Fáilte Ireland intends working with other industry groups in the development of sustainable environmental practices and ecotourism experiences.
In relation to upgrading staff skills and management capacities, I am informed that, in 2009, Fáilte Ireland is providing training for 6,000 students/trainees across a range of craft based programmes. Fáilte Ireland is also providing funding to ten Institutes of Technology and the DIT to facilitate the training of 2,047 students in skills and supervisory areas, up to Further Education & Training Awards Council (FETAC) 6.
Fáilte Ireland has a range of capacity building programmes designed and delivered specifically to meet the development needs of small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) and microenterprises (MEs). These programmes take the form of peer learning networks, seminars, workshops, mentoring and coaching sessions. It is expected that approximately 6,200 senior managers and owner/managers of tourism enterprises will benefit from these programmes in 2009.
The Renewed Programme for Government includes a commitment to position Ireland as an important international cultural tourism destination.
In relation to developing niche cultural tourism markets with globally recognised branding, the Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism, in association with the tourism and arts bodies and cultural institutions under its aegis, is engaged in a Cultural Tourism Initiative, which is building on cooperation and synergy between these bodies. The aim is to enable Ireland to more effectively market cultural tourism and address the needs of overseas and domestic tourists who wish to experience Ireland's cultural and artistic resources.
A Steering Group, consisting of representatives of the Department, State tourism agencies, cultural institutions and State arts organisations was established to identify and pursue specific actions in line with the goals of the Initiative. Actions taken to date have included more cohesive integration of marketing arrangements for cultural attractions, and the development of downloadable audio guides. The Cultural Tourism Initiative is also working with the Irish Film Board to encourage the use of locations of cultural value in Ireland as venues for film and television production.
The Initiative will be reviewed at the end of 2009 in order to decide what further actions may be necessary. Fáilte Ireland have progressed a number of new initiatives in this area over the past 12 months, including the further development of the traditional culture experience, the further development of the literary tourism experience and the marketing and awareness of our cultural offering.
In addition, the development of cultural tourism markets is also being advanced by the marketing of the national cultural institutions, the promotion of Culture Night in September to a wider number of towns, and progress being made in relation to major national cultural projects such as the Druid in Galway, the Limerick City Art Gallery in Limerick, the Niland in Sligo, the Waterford Theatre Royal and the re-development of the National Concert Hall.
Culture Night was held on 25 September 2009 in 11 cities and towns. The cultural institutions remained open until late in the evening thereby encouraging people of all ages and from all backgrounds, from both Ireland and abroad, to experience a wide range of cultural activity.
377 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the payment of a sports capital grant to a club (details supplied) in County Cork. [43218/09]
The organisation in question has been allocated €476,184 under the Programme since 1998 — €76,184 in 1999, €200,000 in 2002 and €200,000 in 2006. Both the 1999 and 2002 grants have been drawn down in full.
Grant allocations are subject to the terms and conditions of the Programme, which include, for allocations above certain specified thresholds, the execution of a deed of covenant and charge. This places a charge on the grantee's title to the property and is intended to protect the taxpayer's investment by ensuring that the facility remains in sporting use for at least 15 years. The Department's legal adviser, the Chief State Solicitor's Office (CSSO), deals with the grantee's solicitor in executing this Deed. I understand that the CSSO has written to the Department on 23 November stating that the legal requirements in respect of the grant in question have been completed. Following receipt of this notification, the Department will write to the organisation in question seeking the submission of an up to date tax clearance certificate for the grantee with a view to issuing formal approval. When formal approval is received by the grantee in question, it will be a matter for the club to submit valid, paid invoices which in turn will be submitted to the Office of Public Works for certification in advance of payment of the grant.
378 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43407/09]
In respect of the years 2008 and to date in 2009, the cost of translating the Department's State documents into Irish and of printing these Irish-language documents is as set out in tabular form.
|
Year |
Translation Cost |
Printing Cost |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
2008 |
13,409 |
421 |
|
2009 (to date) |
3,832 |
3,773 |
|
Total |
17,241 |
4,194 |
In light of the current challenging fiscal circumstances, environmental considerations and for other reasons, the Department actively seeks to reduce printing requirements, commensurate with its statutory obligations, such as the laying of documents before the Houses of the Oireachtas. In particular, where possible, the Department uses its own or other public service printing facilities to eliminate or minimise costs. It also makes extensive use of its corporate website to publish documents in electronic form, from where they may be downloaded free of charge, as a means of eliminating or reducing the need to produce print versions. The Department will continue to keep under review all practicable options to obviate the requirement for document printing.
379 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42695/09]
My Department does not pay rent in respect of properties occupied by its staff. That function, and all matters relating to the acquisition and leasing of property, including the question of rent reviews, are the responsibility of the Office of Public Works (OPW). However, I can confirm to the Deputy that 7 properties are being leased on my Department's behalf by the OPW. These comprise:
my Department's headquarters building in Dublin;
two properties in Tubbercurry, Co. Sligo, in which staff relocated under the Decentralisation Programme are being accommodated on an interim basis;
two local offices in Gaoth Dobhair, Co. Donegal, and Acaill, Co. Mayo; and
two warehousing facilities in Finglas, Dublin, and Tullamore, Co. Offaly.
380 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will respond to the queries raised by a group (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42728/09]
I am aware that officials of my Department have addressed the issues raised in the question with the chairperson of the project in recent weeks. The matter is now considered closed. As the Deputy maybe aware, my Department, in association with Pobal, is currently implementing a strategy to tackle the key social inclusion issues in the most disadvantaged areas of Dublin 12.
381 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the actions he has taken to ensure the maintenance of essential, front-line services to an area (details supplied) in Dublin 12; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42729/09]
My Department, in association with Pobal, who administer the Local Development Social inclusion Programme, is involved in implementing a social inclusion strategy designed to maintain key essential services in the area. As an interim measure, another partnership company in an adjoining area is providing supports to the area in question.
382 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status and retention of community development schemes; and if some community development programmes will be eliminated, the criteria which will be used. [42766/09]
I refer the Deputy to the reply to Question No. 104 of 17 November 2009.
383 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 13; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42880/09]
The Scheme supports qualifying older people, aged 65 and older, by providing funding towards monitored personal alarms, monitored smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors and other items of security and safety equipment. Applications for assistance under the Scheme must be made through the individual applicant's local community or voluntary organisation. The Department cannot accept applications from individual applicants.
My Department has contacted the relevant local community group operating the Scheme in the Dublin 13 area. The group will be in touch with the person referred to with a view to facilitating an application on her behalf.
384 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the status of the dormant accounts fund and application process for 2009; if funding is available to assist breakfast clubs in secondary schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43056/09]
The Dormant Accounts Acts provide for an annual transfer by credit institutions and insurance undertakings of monies in accounts determined to be dormant into the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF). Since its establishment in April 2003 to the end of September 2009, the transfers to the DAF have totalled some €513.90m. Funds reclaimed since April 2003 total some €181.27m.
The value of the DAF at the end of September 2009, net of liabilities, was some €49.76m. This figure excludes €46.47m maintained in a Reserve Account to meet future reclaims by account holders and to cover expenses associated with the operation of the DAF.
The process in place with regard to support from the DAF provides for consideration of applications received on foot of advertised measures. The only Dormant Accounts application processes involving this Department in 2009 concerned the Dormant Accounts Additionality Measure in RAPID areas. The priorities for the 2010 Programme will be considered over the coming months.
The overall objective is to ensure that dormant accounts funds are disbursed in a manner that optimises their effectiveness. To achieve this objective, the key underlying principles seek to promote additionality, take into account government policies and priorities, support programmes or projects that can make a demonstrable difference and can achieve discernible impacts, ensure good value for money, display a clear and identified. It is also necessary for promoting groups or organisations to demonstrate that they are capable of undertaking and managing the project and funds should be disbursed to projects or programmes that are sustainable.
With regard to funding for breakfast clubs, I understand that the Department of Education and Science in conjunction with the Department of Social and Family Affairs address the current provision of school meals. As this is currently a mainstreamed programme, the principle of additionality, from the DAF could only be met where disbursements are for purposes that are additional to and not a substitute for mainstream government spending. Any additions to the current school meals programme would be a matter in the first instance for the Departments of Education and Science and Social and Family Affairs.
385 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will double the funding for rural social schemes in County Longford to provide opportunities for those unemployed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43197/09]
There are currently 2,600 participant places under the Rural Social Scheme. This number has been progressively increased since the Scheme commenced in 2004. There are no immediate plans to further increase the Scheme numbers, but were this to happen, additional places would be allocated across the 36 Implementing Bodies (Integrated Local Development Companies & Údarás na Gaeltacht ), who manage the Scheme at a local level on behalf of my Department, rather than on a single county basis.
386 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the level of inter-Departmental engagement that has taken place in relation to the proliferation of head shops here; the potential risks and dangers involved in the consumption of the products on sale in these outlets; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43238/09]
I would refer the Deputy to my reply to Questions numbered 328, 340 and 324 on 17 November 2009. As outlined in that response, I am very concerned at the proliferation of headshops and I have raised these concerns in many fora. My concerns in relation to the selling of substances that are represented as being "legal highs" or "herbal highs" centre on the potential health hazard arising and the fear that use of these products may act as a gateway to the use of illicit drugs.
The matter has been discussed at the first meeting of the Oversight Forum on Drugs, set up under the National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016, in October. This Forum, which I chair, is comprised of representatives, at senior level, from the various parties involved in the implementation of the Strategy.
Also under the Strategy, I have had meetings in recent weeks with the Minister for Health & Children and the Minister for Justice, Equality & Law Reform and headshops were among the issues considered. I also discussed headshops at meetings in the past two weeks with the Garda Commissioner and senior Revenue officials.
Under the new National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 it is proposed (i) to monitor the activities of headshops, and all businesses involved in the sale of psychoactive substances, with the objective of ensuring that no illegal activity is undertaken and (ii) to ensure that steps are taken to reform legislation in this respect where it is deemed to be appropriate. Meanwhile, An Garda Síochána and Revenue's Customs Service are working to ensure that no illegal substances are sold in these premises.
387 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required have been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43409/09]
For the purposes of the Deputy's Question, I have taken State documents to mean documents such as reports, leaflets, pamphlets or brochures that contain the name and logo of my Department. In 2009 to date, my Department expended €15,092 on the translation of such documents, as well as a total of €26,069 on the associated printing costs.
With regard to the wider context, my Department has worked, and will continue to work, with Departments and other public bodies to assist them in meeting their translation obligations under the Official Languages Act in the most efficient and cost effective manner possible. In addition, I wish to again reiterate that the obligation under section 10 of the Act to publish documents simultaneously in Irish and English applies only to a limited number of key documents published by public bodies, including annual reports and accounts and documents setting out public policy proposals.
I have long advocated that documents such as these should be published by way of CDs or the internet, rather than hard copy. This is the general rule that my own Department now follows and I am aware that a number of other public bodies also adhere to it. Indeed, the Coimisinéir Teanga specifically advocates this approach to public bodies in the guidebook on the Act that his Office published and circulated in 2008 and the Government adopted a similar policy last year as one of a number of measures designed to reduce costs across public bodies.
|
Name of State Document |
Cost of translating into Irish |
Cost of printing |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Statutory Instrument re: Island Transport Services |
63 |
391 |
|
Statutory Instrument re: Western Development Commission Superannuation Scheme |
* |
1,109 |
|
RAPID information leaflet for the ploughing championships |
97 |
Nil |
|
Department of Community, Rural & Gaeltacht Affairs’ (DCRGA) Appropriation Account 2008 |
84 |
Nil |
|
DCRGA Annual Output Statement 2009 |
3,000 |
Nil |
|
DCRGA Annual Report 2008 |
1,252 |
Nil |
|
Irish Language Scheme 2009-2012 |
1,050 |
Nil |
|
Invitation to the 2009 National Famine Commemoration |
130 |
553 |
|
Programme booklet for 2009 National Famine Commemoration |
126 |
1,504 |
|
National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 |
9,290 |
22,512 |
|
Total 2009 to date |
15,092 |
26,069 |
*The cost of translation was not incurred in 2009.
388 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if, in view of the commitment in the revised programme for Government to legislate for transgender citizens right for their acquired gender to be recognised by the State, she now plans to discontinue its appeal in a case (details supplied) to the Supreme Court; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42886/09]
In the revised Programme the Government accepts the need to provide legal recognition for transsexuals in their acquired gender. I will be moving to progress this matter in the immediate future. The means by which legal recognition will be effected may include legislation and in any event will require careful consideration and consultation.
389 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will support a matter not to cut twins child benefit (details supplied). [43044/09]
Child benefit is a monthly payment made in respect of qualified children to assist in the costs associated with child rearing and in the alleviation of poverty in larger families. Currently the standard monthly rates of child benefit in respect of single births are €166.00 in respect of each of the first and second child and €203.00 for the third and subsequent children.
In addition, with regard to multiple births, parents of twins are paid child benefit at one and a half times the standard rate for each qualified child. Child benefit is paid in respect of multiple births of triplets or greater at double the normal monthly rate for each qualified child. Furthermore a special grant of €635.00 is paid in respect of multiple births at the birth and further grants of €635.00 when the children reach age 4 and 12 years. These higher payment rates of child benefit are in recognition of the additional costs associated with multiple births.
As you will be aware, the 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 u under €965 million in 2001 to nearly €2.5 billion in 2008.
The Government was able to direct substantial increases in financial support to all Irish families in recent years. However in view of the current economic crisis, the Government has had to take steps to reduce overall public expenditure and restore stability to the public finances. Excessive borrowing and an unsustainable increase in the national debt will hamper our ability to fund social services, including welfare, in the future. We must find an appropriate balance between protecting the most vulnerable people in the short term and taking necessary action to avoid prolonging our current economic difficulties.
It is in this context, that the Government is considering how savings might be made in Child Benefit. We are considering a range of options, including, but not limited to, those set out in the reports of the Commission on Taxation and the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes.
The Government has not yet made a final decision on the future of Child Benefit payments including the level of payments in respect of twins/multiple births. I can assure the Deputy that in considering this issue, we are mindful of the needs of families that have come to rely on their Child Benefit income. Our final decision will be outlined on Budget day.
390 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will prioritise the funding of back to education allowance in advance of budget 2010; if she will relax the regulations governing the scheme in order that more persons who find themselves unemployed can avail of the allowance; if her attention has been drawn to the large number of unemployed persons who cannot avail of the allowance at present; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43396/09]
The operation of the back to education scheme has been reviewed and modified over the years to ensure it continues to remain relevant to those needing support. Expenditure levels for the Department are being considered as part of the estimates and budgetary process for 2010. All social welfare schemes are being examined as part of this deliberative process.
Improvements to the back to education scheme were announced in the April supplementary budget and came into effect from 1 st May 2009. In general, in order to qualify for participation, an applicant must now be in receipt of a relevant social welfare payment for 3 months if pursuing a second level course or 12 months if pursuing a third level course. The qualifying period for access to third level courses is reduced to 9 months for those who are participating in the National Employment Action Plan process or engaging with the Department's facilitator programme. People who are awarded statutory redundancy may access the scheme immediately, provided an entitlement to a relevant social welfare payment is established prior to commencing an approved course of study.
The requirement to be in receipt of a social welfare payment for a minimum period has always been a feature of the scheme. A waiting period is considered essential to confer entitlement to income support for an indefinite period and is considered necessary in the context of targeting scarce resources at those who need it most.
The back to education allowance has an important role to play in enhancing the employability skills of jobseeker's. The fact that over 18,700 applications had been approved by the end of October, compared to 11,646 participants in the 2008/2009 academic year, demonstrates the increased level of interest in the scheme. The conditions of the scheme will continue to be monitored in the context of its objectives and changes in the economic climate.
391 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of persons, on a county basis, who received the Christmas bonus payment in 2008. [42625/09]
The number of people, on a county basis, who received the Christmas bonus payment in 2008, is not available. The total number of recipients of the Christmas bonus in 2008 was 938,657 at a total cost of €201.73 million.
Statistics on overall welfare recipient numbers are published at county level in the Department's Statistical Information on Social Welfare Services publication. These numbers include short term welfare claimants as well as the live register, and thus cover a larger group than recipients awarded a Christmas bonus. The 2008 statistics are as follows.
|
County |
Total |
|
Carlow |
17,809 |
|
Cavan |
19,646 |
|
Clare |
30,101 |
|
Cork |
135,549 |
|
Donegal |
54,264 |
|
Dublin |
310,639 |
|
Galway |
63,909 |
|
Kerry |
44,326 |
|
Kildare |
42,883 |
|
Kilkenny |
21,968 |
|
Laois |
18,515 |
|
Leitrim |
10,142 |
|
Limerick |
57,969 |
|
Longford |
13,487 |
|
Louth |
39,767 |
|
Mayo |
40,836 |
|
Meath |
34,722 |
|
Monaghan |
17,165 |
|
Offaly |
20,997 |
|
Roscommon |
16,512 |
|
Sligo |
18,549 |
|
Tipperary |
47,028 |
|
Waterford |
36,505 |
|
Westmeath |
24,935 |
|
Wexford |
45,393 |
|
Wicklow |
33,135 |
|
Others |
48,761 |
|
Total |
1,265,509 |
392 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the procedures for processing rent allowance applications and appeals; the average length of time applications and appeals are taking; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42681/09]
The supplementary welfare allowance scheme, which includes rent supplement, is administered on my behalf by the Community Welfare division of the Health Service Executive. Neither I nor the Department has any function in relation to decisions on individual claims. The purpose of the scheme is to provide short-term income support to eligible people living in private rented accommodation whose means are insufficient to meet their accommodation costs and who do not have accommodation available to them from any other source.
To qualify for rent supplement a person must satisfy a number of conditions including that they must be a bona fide tenant, be habitually resident in the State, have a housing need and satisfy a means test. Also, the Health Service Executive must be satisfied that the accommodation is suited to the persons needs and the rent payable is within the prescribed limits.
The timescale for determining applications for rent supplement is dependant, among other things, on the availability of the required information, such as details of the applicant's income, bank statements, information from landlords etc. In addition, some aspects of the application are inevitably time consuming and delays can occur where investigations such as home visits or third party evidence are required. Delays can also arise if the applicant is slow to respond to requests for additional information.
Under existing arrangements, an appeal against a decision on entitlement to supplementary welfare allowance or rent supplement is made in the first instance to a designated appeals officer in the HSE. A person may, if they so wish, make a further appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office, if they are dissatisfied with the decision of the HSE appeals officer.
The Executive does not maintain records that would readily provide the information requested by the deputy. However, in response to the deputy's query, the Department has surveyed the community welfare service concerning the average processing times for rent supplement decisions and appeals. Figures supplied to the Department indicate that, for the eastern region, it takes between two and twelve weeks to process a rent supplement claim, with the average duration being between three and four weeks. The HSE's Appeals Office in the eastern region has stated that it takes an average of ten weeks to decide on a rent supplement appeal.
The social welfare appeals office does not distinguish between supplementary welfare allowance appeals and other supplements such as rent supplement. The average time taken to process an appeal to the social welfare appeals office is estimated to be 8 weeks approximately.
The provision of a prompt service is a major objective of the Executive. However, this has to be achieved in a manner that is consistent with the demands of natural justice and the need to ensure that every case is fully investigated. While certain cases may take more time to process than others, overall, I am satisfied that the Executive makes every effort to decide rent supplement claims in an efficient, effective and timely manner.
393 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will itemise the number of buildings that her Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42704/09]
With the exception of Bridgewater House, Inchicore Dublin 1, the Department's office accommodation is either State owned or held under leases negotiated and managed by the Office of Public Works (OPW). Details of annual rental, annual price per square metre, and lease reviews (if any) insofar as these offices are concerned, are held by the OPW.
Following the integration of the Combat Poverty Agency into the Department in July 2009, the Minister assumed responsibility for the rental costs of the former offices of the Agency in Bridgewater House, Inchicore. The annual rental cost is €228,000 per annum. Enquiries are being made regarding the possibility of early surrender of the lease.
395 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will support a centre (details supplied) in Dublin 17. [42869/09]
The Department has supported the organisation in question over a period of many years and funding of €386,250 was provided in 2009. This funding is provided under the "Grants for the Development and Promotion of Information and Welfare Rights".
In considering the allocation of funding under this scheme for 2010, the Department recently advised this organisation that an efficiency saving would be required on its current budget allocation.
397 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when social welfare payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [42992/09]
The person concerned claimed jobseeker's allowance from 17 July 2009. One of the qualifying conditions for receipt of jobseeker's allowance is that a person must be habitually resident in the state. A deciding officer decided that he is not habitually resident in the state.
The person concerned was notified of the decision on 20 November and of his right to appeal against the decision within 21 days of the notification.
398 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [43003/09]
Rent Supplement is administered on behalf of the Department by the Community Welfare Service of the Health Service Executive as part of the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme.
Payment of Rent Supplement is normally calculated to ensure that a person, after the payment of rent, has an income equal to the rate of Supplementary Welfare Allowance appropriate to their family circumstances, less a minimum weekly contribution of €24, which recipients are required to pay from their own resources. Many recipients pay more than €24 because they are also required, subject to income disregards, to contribute any additional assessable means that they have, over and above the appropriate rate of Supplementary Welfare Allowance, towards their accommodation costs.
The Executive has advised that the person concerned is in receipt of her full entitlement to Rent Supplement based on her income from One-parent Family Payment, Part-time Earnings and Maintenance.
399 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason an application for domiciliary care allowance was refused in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare and what appeal mechanism is now available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43020/09]
In order to qualify for Domiciliary Care Allowance a child must have a disability so severe that it requires the child needing care and attention and/or supervision substantially in excess of another child of the same age. This care and attention must be given by another person, effectively full-time so that the child can deal with the activities of daily living. The child must be likely to require this level of care and attention for at least 12 months.
An application for Domiciliary Care Allowance was received by the Department on 23rd June 2009. This application was referred to one of the Departments Medical Assessors who found that the child in question was not medically eligible for Domiciliary Care Allowance.
A letter issued to the person in question on 7th August 2009, in which she was advised of the decision to refuse Domiciliary Care Allowance on medical grounds. 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. No request for review or appeal has been received to date.
400 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the amount of money awarded in telephone rental for each of the past five years; the number of eligible persons who avail of line rental for each of the past five years; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43033/09]
The telephone allowance, administered under the household benefits package, provides assistance towards customers' landline or mobile phone costs. The current amount of the allowance is €26.00 per month.
Details of the number of people benefiting from the telephone allowance and the costs for each of the last five years are set out in the following table.
|
Telephone Allowance |
2004 |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
Customer Numbers |
297,967 |
311,353 |
318,828 |
327,336 |
351,924 |
|
Cost |
€85,697,000 |
€89,143,000 |
€90,333,000 |
€98,855,000 |
€112,196,000 |
401 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when a final decision will be made on an application for a State contributory pension by a person (details supplied) in County Meath. [43035/09]
The person concerned applied for a State Pension (Contributory) in November 2008 but was disallowed on grounds that she had not entered into insurable employment before age 56. She is currently awaiting a decision to have a commercial partnership between her and her spouse recognised for the purposes of gaining addition social insurance contributions. Following this decision, her entitlement to State Pension (Contributory) will be re-examined.
402 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs when an oral hearing will be scheduled for a person (details supplied) in County Mayo to finalise an appeal for carer’s allowance. [43073/09]
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that, the appeal from the person concerned has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing on 10 December 2009. The person concerned has been notified of the arrangements.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office is an office of the Department that is independently responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
403 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs if she will support an organisation (details supplied). [43086/09]
The Family Support Agency funds the Scheme of Grants to voluntary and community organisations providing marriage, relationship, child and bereavement counselling services. The organisation referred to by the Deputy receives funding under the counselling grants scheme. This year, funding of over €11 million is being granted to some 600 counselling organisations.
The Report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes made a range of recommendations relating to the Department of Social and Family Affairs including recommendations relating to the Family Support Agency and its programmes. The Department will consider, as part of the Estimates and budgetary process for 2010, the Report’s recommendations and decisions on all of the issues arising will be a matter for Government. It would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage pending the outcome of these deliberative processes.
404 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of the 30 additional facilitators announced as part of Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report in December 2008 that have been appointed to its social and family support service; and if this service has been implemented on a nationwide basis. [43123/09]
To date 21.5 of the 30 additional facilitator posts announced as part of Building Ireland's Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal Report in December 2008 have been appointed to the Department's social and family support service.
The number of facilitator posts currently filled is 61.5 (half post is due to a work sharing arrangement). It is envisaged that this number will increase to 70 in the coming months.
The facilitator service is available on a nationwide basis to all social welfare recipients via the local network. Facilitators are assigned to cover a geographical area. They hold open clinics and meet with people who have been referred either by the social welfare local office, the employment support section or by other agencies.
405 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has been refused a contributory State pension. [43188/09]
The application for a State Pension (Contributory) from the person concerned was disallowed in June 2009 on the grounds that she had a yearly average of 8 social welfare contributions. In order to qualify for a minimum SPC, a yearly average of at least 10 is required.
She subsequently submitted an application to a have a commercial partnership between her and her spouse recognised for the purposes of gaining addition social insurance contributions. A decision that a retrospective partnership had existed was made in October 2009. Following payments of the required PRSI contributions in November 2009, her social insurance record was updated from 6 April 1988, the date PRSI for the self employment was introduced, to 2002 inclusive.
Her State Pension (Contributory) claim is currently awaiting re-examination and a decision in relation to her pension entitlement will be made shortly.
406 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford has been refused a non-contributory pension. [43190/09]
An application for State Pension (Non-Contributory) was received from the person concerned on 23 June 2009. The claim was investigated by a Social Welfare Inspector and a decision issued to the customer on 14 September 2009 stating that she does not qualify for State Pension (Non-Contributory) as her means, derived from the capital value of land and a US retirement pension, exceed the statutory limit of €245.00 per week. The customer was also informed of her right to appeal the decision.
407 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the number of applications she has received for the back to education allowance in the past 12 months; the number of applications that have been granted in the past 12 months; the number of applications that have been turned down in the past 12 months; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43395/09]
Annual statistics are collated by the Department for the number of participants on the back to education allowance (BTEA) scheme on the basis of the relevant academic year. There were 11,646 people in receipt of the back to education allowance for the 2008/2009 academic year. The figures for the 2009/2010 academic year will be significantly higher with over 18,700 applications approved by the end of October 2009.
Participants on the back to education allowance (BTEA) scheme transfer from another social welfare payment. Statistics are not collated centrally on the number of applications received or the number who are refused entry to the scheme and, consequently, remain on their existing payment.
409 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Social and Family Affairs the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [43418/09]
The total cost of translating documents to Irish in the Department was approximately €93,000 in 2008 and €43,000 to date in 2009.
The printing costs for State documents, including Statement of Strategy, Annual Reports and policy documents, amounted to some €40,000 in 2008 and €1,600 in 2009.
It is the Department's policy to minimise costs by restricting the printing of documents. All forms and documents are made available from the Department's website at www.welfare.ie for downloading and printing as required.
The Department is committed to providing a quality customer service in Irish and meeting obligations under the Official Languages Act.
410 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Defence if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42582/09]
The sum of €3.8m, representing the insured value of Asgard II, has been received by my Department. A decision on the question of funding the procurement of a replacement vessel for Asgard II will be made in the context of finalising the Estimates for my Department for 2010. That process is on going and it would not be appropriate for me to comment any further on the matter at this stage.
411 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence if the Defence Force still have in their possession British intelligence documents removed from the office of Sir Hamer Greenwood at the Royal Hospital, Kilmainham, on 13 January 1922; if all of these documents are available for inspection by historians; if the material has been transferred to the National Archives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42583/09]
The Defence Forces do not hold the documents referred to. I have made enquiries into the matter and I have been informed that the papers are held in the National Library, Kildare Street, Dublin 2 and are available for viewing.
412 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Defence if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42696/09]
The premises leased by my Department for use by the Reserve Defence Forces are outlined in the tabular statement. Rents paid for these premises are based on a number of factors including size, location and quality of the facilities and vary considerably. Information on the rents paid in respect of these premises is commercially sensitive and therefore not available. However, the requirements of the RDF are reviewed annually and every effort is made on an ongoing basis to reduce costs. In this connection, expenditure by my Department on such facilities reduced from €196,128 in 2006 down to €140,479 in 2008 and will be in the region of €105,000 for 2009.
|
County |
Name |
Location |
F/T or P/T |
Brigade |
|
|
1 |
Carlow |
Community Hall |
Borris |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
2 |
St. John’s community Centre |
Hacketstown |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
|
3 |
St. Patrick’s GAA |
Tullow |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
|
4 |
Clare |
Community Centre |
Doonaha |
P/T |
Southern |
|
5 |
Community Centre |
Milltown Malbay |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
6 |
Cork |
Town Hall |
Bandon |
P/T |
Southern |
|
7 |
Parochial Hall |
Bantry |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
8 |
Beara Sports Hall |
Castletownbere |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
9 |
Community Hall |
Charleville |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
10 |
Industrial Hall |
Clonakilty |
P/T |
||
|
11 |
St. Patrick’s Hall |
Dunmanway |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
12 |
Parish Hall |
Kilworth |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
13 |
Millstreet GAA |
Millstreet |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
14 |
Donegal |
St. Finian’s Hall, Station Rd |
Falcarragh |
P/T |
Western |
|
15 |
Moville Road |
Carndonagh |
F/T |
Western |
|
|
16 |
Community Hall, Massinass |
Creeslough |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
17 |
Galway |
Community Centre |
Glenamaddy |
P/T |
Western |
|
18 |
Headford College |
Headford |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
19 |
Parochial House |
Carraroe |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
20 |
Community Centre |
Oughterard |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
21 |
Kilkenny |
Dunamaggin |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
22 |
Leitrim |
Mayflower Ballroom |
Glenfarne |
P/T |
Western |
|
23 |
Community Hall |
Carrawallen |
P/T |
||
|
24 |
Drumsna |
F/T |
|||
|
25 |
Limerick |
Community Hall |
Abbeyfeale |
P/T |
Southern |
|
26 |
Community Centre |
Boher |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
27 |
Town Hall |
Hospital |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
28 |
Community Centre |
Pallaskenry |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
29 |
Community Centre |
Rathkeale |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
30 |
Community Centre |
Pallas Green |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
31 |
Parochial Hall |
Kilmallock |
P/T |
Southern |
|
|
32 |
Mayo |
Community Centre |
Roundfort Hollymount |
P/T |
Western |
|
33 |
Town Hall |
Claremorris |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
34 |
Community Centre |
Swinford |
P/T |
||
|
35 |
Bohernasup |
Ballina |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
36 |
Meath |
Community Centre |
Oldcastle |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
37 |
Scoil Mhuire |
Trim |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
|
38 |
Monaghan |
7 Main street |
Carrickmacross |
F/T |
Eastern |
|
39 |
Monaghan GAA |
Monaghan Town |
P/T |
||
|
40 |
Offaly |
St. Mary’s Hall |
Ferbane |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
41 |
Kilcruttin Business Park |
Tullamore |
F/T |
Eastern |
|
|
42 |
Sligo |
Unit 12 B, Business Park |
Cleveragh |
F/T |
Western |
|
43 |
Community Centre |
Tobercurry |
P/T |
Western |
|
|
44 |
Tipperary |
St. Patrick’s Hall |
Ballymacarbry |
P/T |
Southern |
|
45 |
Waterford |
Community Hall |
Villierstown |
P/T |
Southern |
|
46 |
Wexford |
St. Aidan’s Hall |
Bunclody |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
47 |
Community Hall |
Cortnacuddy |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
|
48 |
Community Hall |
Cushinstown |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
|
49 |
Scout Hall |
Gorey |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
|
50 |
Wicklow |
Parochial Hall |
Tinahely |
P/T |
Eastern |
|
51 |
Community College |
Arklow |
P/T |
Eastern |
F/T = fulltime use P/T = part-time use.
413 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for Defence if he has sought or received a report from his departmental representative on the central council of the Irish Red Cross on governance and industrial relations difficulties at the office of the Irish Red Cross; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42955/09]
The Irish Red Cross Society is an autonomous body, established by the Irish Red Cross Society Order 1939 pursuant to the Red Cross Act, 1938. The Order sets out the basis on which the Society shall be governed. It provides that there shall be a Central Council which shall exercise the powers of the Society, organise the Society and control and manage the affairs of the Society. Membership of the Central Council is by way of appointment by the Government or by election in accordance with the rules of the Society. The Central Council in turn elects an Executive Committee.
The number of Government appointees is governed by the Order as being not less than one third of the total membership of the Central Council. One of the Government appointees is an official from my Department.
Most recently, I have been informed in broad terms of the proposed governance changes which will shortly be presented to the Central Council. When my Department receives the formal report from the Society as to its proposed restructuring it will then be subject to interdepartmental and inter agency discussion. Thereafter I will bring before Government any statutory changes deemed necessary. While industrial relations are, in the first instance, a matter for the management of the Society, I am not aware of any industrial relations difficulties within the Society.
414 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Defence the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43410/09]
In 2008 and to date in 2009, my Department has spent a total of €14,199.56 on translation of documents in order to fulfil the requirements of the Official Languages Act 2003. As the printing costs for combined Irish language / English language documents are not disaggregated by language, the specific printing costs of the Irish language elements are unavailable.
In line with good business practice, my Department constantly strives to minimise the number of copies of printed documents that it creates. In order to reduce demand for printed copies, corporate documents are published electronically on my Department's website. My Department will continue to seek out further opportunities for reducing the amount of printed documentation that it produces.
415 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a review of the organisational and delivery arrangements in water services has been carried out since December 2008 as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal; the findings; and if so, the anticipated implementation costs. [43157/09]
My Department is currently undertaking a Value for Money Study in relation to the efficiency and effectiveness of delivery of the Water Services Investment Programme as part of the Government's Value for Money Reviews for 2009 — 2011. The outcome of this study, which will be finalised early next year, will influence the implementation of future water services investment programmes.
As required for studies undertaken under the Government's Value for Money Reviews, the study is comprehensive in nature and is overseen by a Steering Committee, which includes representation from my Department, the Department of Finance and the County and City Managers' Association. This study follows on from an earlier internal report on organisational issues in the water area in the Department which was completed in January 2009.
416 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received the 2008 accounts for the Dublin Docklands Development Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43030/09]
I refer to the reply to Priority Question No. 45 on today's Order Paper.
417 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will respond to a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42537/09]
The objective of achieving sustainable communities as set out in the Government's housing policy statement, Delivering Homes, Sustaining Communities, is a key priority for my Department.
The current market conditions relating to house purchase generally have inevitably impacted on the sale of affordable housing, leaving unsold affordable accommodation vacant. My Department has taken a number of steps to address this issue and to promote the sale of these units, including increasing the limit for local authority loans. However, in the current market conditions sale is not always possible; accordingly, in order to avoid leaving properties vacant for lengthy periods, my Department has provided a number of alternative options for authorities to consider in ensuring that the units involved are deployed for other housing purposes, including the temporary transfer of units for use under the social housing leasing initiative.
It should be noted, however, that it is not intended that such transfers will result in the units concerned being added automatically to the permanent social housing stock. All units transferred will retain their affordable housing status and, accordingly, authorities have been advised that the option for sale of properties, either as affordable housing or under the incremental purchase scheme, is to be retained in all units approved for transfer to social leasing, and that such units should be allocated where possible to households who have indicated that they have the means and aspiration to purchase these units in the future.
The issue of compliance with planning permission is a matter for the relevant local authority.
418 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of consolidated water meter charges for each local authority area here for the year 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42560/09]
422 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the difference between consolidated water and waste charges and water only charges in view of local authority water charges; if he will provide a breakdown of the percentage of users that opt for one charge or the other; the circumstances in which a user would require water only charges; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42606/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 418 and 422 together.
Under the Government's water pricing policy, local authorities are required to recover the costs of providing water services from non domestic users of these services.
A water services charge is levied for the provision of drinking water and is based on volumetric use. A programme of work to install water meters for all non domestic users will be completed by the end of 2009. A waste water charge is levied based on the water in/water out principle, an internationally recognised approach for charging for waste water services. The consolidated charge is levied on non domestic customers who are in receipt of both water and waste water services from the local authority.
The Department does not hold any information on the number or percentage of customers that have opted for one service only. A charge for water, only, would arise where a customer is connected to the public water supply but is not connected to the local authority's waste water infrastructure.
Details of the consolidated water and waste water charge for each local authority area for 2009 are set out in the following table.
|
Charge |
|
|
Carlow |
2.30 |
|
Cavan |
2.51 |
|
Clare |
2.98 |
|
Cork City |
2.35 |
|
Cork |
2.16 |
|
Donegal |
2.31 |
|
Dublin City |
1.64 |
|
Dun Laogh/Rath. |
2.34 |
|
Fingal |
1.94 |
|
South Dublin |
1.76 |
|
Galway City |
1.60 |
|
Galway |
2.07 |
|
Kerry |
1.66 |
|
Kildare |
1.49 |
|
Kilkenny |
2.94 |
|
Laois |
2.45 |
|
Leitrim |
2.28 |
|
Limerick City |
2.30 |
|
Limerick |
2.60 |
|
Longford |
2.40 |
|
Louth |
1.95 |
|
Mayo |
2.26 |
|
Meath |
2.65 |
|
Monaghan |
2.11 |
|
Offaly |
2.90 |
|
Roscommon |
2.12 |
|
Sligo |
2.30 |
|
North Tipp. |
2.40 |
|
South Tipp. |
2.00 |
|
Waterford City |
2.35 |
|
Waterford |
2.66 |
|
Westmeath |
2.38 |
|
Wexford |
2.71 |
|
Wicklow |
3.04 |
419 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide clarification on the exempted dwellings from the recently introduced €200 levy for second homes. [42570/09]
The Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 provides for a charge on all non-principal private residences set at €200 per annum which is payable by owners of private rented accommodation, holiday homes and any other residential property that is not the owner's sole of main residence. The Act is structured with a starting position of a universal liability for residential property in respect of the charge. It then exempts certain buildings and owners from this liability, the most significant exemption being where a property is occupied by the owner as his or her sole or main residence on the liability date.
Other exemptions include buildings that are newly constructed but unsold and which form part of the trading stock of a business; buildings with heritage merit; buildings let directly or indirectly by local authorities for social housing purposes or which are the subject of a shared ownership arrangement with a local authority; buildings let by voluntary bodies; and buildings in respect of which commercial rates are payable. In addition, an exemption applies where a person purchases a property for use as a principal private residence, provided that that person disposes of the original property within six months of the annual liability date, and where a former spouse has an interest in a property following a divorce or separation but no longer resides there. Exemptions are also included for a situation where a relative of the owner lives rent-free in a property, as long as the property is within two kilometres of the owner's residence, and where a person is forced to vacate his or her home through long-term physical or mental incapacitation.
420 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will amend or introduce regulations under the Control of Dogs Act 1986 or the Control of Dogs (Amendment) Act 1992; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42601/09]
421 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will include all hunt clubs in the legislation on puppy farming; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42602/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 420 and 421 together.
Work is under way in drafting an amendment to the Control of Dogs Acts and I hope to publish my proposals in the near future. The draft Bill proposes to give statutory effect to the recommendations of the Working Group that had been established to review the management of dog breeding establishments. The Working Group recommended that a dog breeding establishment be defined as ‘a premises containing more than 5 female dogs, aged over 4 months, with breeding potential'.
The draft Bill proposes that all dog breeding establishments be required to register with the relevant local authority, that they pay a registration fee and that they meet a minimum set of veterinary, welfare and other standards, together with some associated requirements. It is also proposed to amend a number of the existing dog control provisions.
The Hunting Association of Ireland (HAI) made submissions to me in relation to their activities and the nature of these. As a consequence and in recognition of the "not for profit" basis of these activities, and as communicated to the HAI directly and in response to representations on their behalf, I decided to provide exemption in the legislation in respect of the payment of registration fees. The HAI has made clear that their premises operate in accordance with comprehensive and appropriate standards. Accordingly, I do not consider that this aspect of the legislative regime should cause difficulty to their members.
Regulations made under the Control of Dogs legislation will also be amended on foot of such revised primary legislation.
I intend to publish a draft Bill as soon as possible.
423 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the criteria being considered to assess a building suitable for use as a non-principal private residence; if a briefing has been given to all local authorities and county councils to assess same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42626/09]
Under the provisions of the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009, the charge on non-principal private residences is only payable in respect of a building used, or suitable for use, as a dwelling. It follows, therefore, that a building that is not habitable is exempt from the charge. While the Act does not define what might constitute a habitable, building, my Department has issued guidelines to local authorities to assist in the application of this provision. Local authorities have been asked to consider factors such as the building's structure — if it has a sound roof and whether it is affected by damp — and the availability of services such as sanitary facilities and a water supply when considering whether or not a building is suitable for use as a dwelling.
424 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to provide funding to refurbish and extend the town library in Belturbet, County Cavan; his views on whether with a major increase of the population in that town such a restructuring and provision of more books is important; if he will assure this Deputy that it will be priority when he gets an opportunity; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42637/09]
The provision of a public library service in Belturbet is a matter for the library authority concerned, in this instance Cavan County Council. The authority has indicated that the library in Belturbet is its number one priority for funding.
Following detailed consideration of the priority lists submitted by all local authorities, a limited two-year Capital Programme for Public Libraries was announced, amounting to €8.5 million in 2009, which will contribute towards the development and refurbishment of a range of public libraries throughout the country.
Unfortunately, it was not possible to allocate funds to Cavan County Council for the Belturbet project at that time in view of the limited capital funds available, the high level of applications from library authorities across the country and the focus, in 2009, on ensuring deliverability of those projects which were assisted in this programme. The Belturbet library project, along with a number of other applications, will remain under consideration for capital funding over the lifetime of the Programme should additional funding become available.
425 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has seen the contract for an incinerator (details supplied) in Dublin 4; the way he came to the figure of €18 million if Dublin City Council cannot meet the required tonnage of wastage if he has not seen the contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42675/09]
As previously advised the Attorney General sought and received on my behalf, on a confidential basis, a copy of the agreement in respect of the public private partnership between Dublin City Council, acting on behalf of the Dublin local authorities, and Dublin Waste to Energy.
The figure of €18 million was arrived at on the basis of a desktop exercise to assess risks associated with the Dublin waste-to-energy project either proceeding or not proceeding. An evaluation was made on the basis of circumstances, or a combination of circumstances, which might result in Dublin City Council not being in a position to meet the volumetric contractual commitment which forms part of the public private partnership agreement in respect of the facility and thus being required to meet the cost of the capacity not then being availed of. The projection was based on an assumed shortfall of 180 ktpa and an assumed penalty of €100 per tonne to arrive at a potential exposure of €18m per annum assuming that the shortfall continued indefinitely and/or it proved impossible to re-negotiate the provision in the agreement or sell-on some or all of the capacity to a third party at a rate which might offset in whole or in part the liability which would have arisen.
426 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42699/09]
The Department's leased buildings are acquired by the Office of Public Works. Rental costs and rent reviews are a matter for that Office.
427 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons homeless in Dublin; if there has been an increase in homelessness in Dublin in 2009 in comparison with the previous years 2000 to 2008; the steps he will take to address the problem of homelessness in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42719/09]
428 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of persons homeless here; if there has been an increase in homelessness nationally in 2009 in comparison with the previous years 2000 to 2008; the steps he will take to address the problem of homelessness in cities and towns here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42720/09]
451 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has studied homelessness in urban and rural areas here; if this included persons living in unsafe or unfit conditions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43374/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 427, 428 and 451 together.
I refer to the reply to Question No. 135 of 14 October 2009, which set out the most recent information available on the extent of homelessness in Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick, based on the March 2008 Counted In survey, with comparative data at 2005 for Dublin, the only location in which the survey was conducted prior to 2008. Due to changes in methodology, it is not possible to provide comparative data for earlier years.
Regarding the trend in homelessness nationally, indications in that regard can be obtained by reference to the number of households assessed in the triennial statutory assessments of housing need as requiring social housing due to homelessness. The results of the triennial assessments are published in the relevant Annual Housing Statistics Bulletins, copies of which are available in the Oireachtas library and on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
Regarding action to address homelessness, I refer to the reply to Question No. 119 of 14 October 2009, which outlined action being taken under the Government's Homeless Strategy and the associated Implementation Plan.
The issue of homelessness, including relevant risk factors, has been the subject of extensive research both in Ireland and internationally. A considerable body of research has been carried out under the aegis of the Homeless Agency and further information in that regard can be obtained from the Agency at Parkgate Hall, 6–9 Conyngham Road, Dublin 8, and on its website at www.homelessagency.ie.
429 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on the statements of the director general of the Environmental Protection Agency that there is an unacceptable level of non-compliance with drinking water standards and wastewater treatment; the steps he will take to address this issue, including pursuing those who are negligent regarding these standards; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42751/09]
The levels of compliance with drinking water and waste water standards are monitored by the EPA. In relation to drinking water, the EPA published its annual report on the provision and quality of drinking water for the period 2007-2008 in April 2009. The report contains the results of monitoring data for 2007 and highlighted that overall compliance with drinking water standards in 2007 was 97.2%.
The EPA published a report on urban waste water discharges in Ireland for population equivalents greater than 500 persons for the years 2006-2007 in July 2009. This report sets out the result of monitoring data in this two-year period and indicated that while 90% of waste water receives secondary treatment, or better, the overall compliance rate for treatment plants was 31%. A significant proportion of the non compliance was due to inadequate sampling by the local authorities.
Compliance with the relevant standards for both drinking water and waste water treatment standards is a key priority for my Department. Since 2007, I have strengthened the regulatory regime governing both drinking water and urban waste water. The European Communities (Drinking Water) (No. 2) Regulations 2007 prescribe quality standards to be applied and related supervision and enforcement procedures in relation to supplies of drinking water. Under the Regulations, local authorities are responsible for the supervision of group water supplies, while the EPA is responsible for the supervision of public water schemes.
The Waste Water Discharge (Authorisation) Regulations, 2007, provide for an authorisation system for all wastewater discharges to waters from treatment plants or collection systems owned or controlled by local authorities. Introduced on a graduated basis since 2007, local authorities may not cause or allow discharges from wastewater facilities except in accordance with EPA requirements.
Continued capital investment in water services infrastructure is critical to achieve increased compliance with the relevant standards for drinking water and waste water. There has been significant progress in delivering improved water and waste water infrastructure under my Department's Waste Water Investment Programme since the monitoring periods covered by these reports. My Department has allocated €500m in capital funding for 2009 under the Water Services Investment Programme.
My Department works closely with the EPA and the local authorities to identify actions needed to resolve issues relating to the operation of drinking water and waste water treatment plants. A key priority has been to address drinking water schemes which appear on the EPA's remedial action list. These are schemes identified as being at the risk of not complying with drinking water standards. All local authorities have been asked to provide the EPA with a summary of the action programme being implemented to address such schemes by 30 November 2009.
My Department also chairs the Water Services Training Group which is responsible for identifying and delivering appropriate training to local authority personnel involved in the delivery and operation of water and waste water services.
430 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the annual capital and current costs incurred by him in providing piped water; and if he will provide a breakdown of the costs, including energy use in current funding. [42758/09]
My Department funds the capital costs associated with the provision of water services infrastructure to the domestic sector. The 2009 capital provision is €500 million, of which an estimated €270 million will be spent on the provision of drinking water supplies. The operational costs for local authorities in providing water and wastewater services in 2007, based on the Annual Financial Statements for that year (the most recent year for which audited information is available), was €646 million.
Local authorities charge non-domestic customers for the water services they provide while the operational costs of domestic water services are funded from the General Purposes Grants from the Local Government Fund. The total General Purpose Grants allocated to local authorities in 2009 exceeded €900 million.
431 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount that would be raised if the tax on non-principal private dwellings was extended to include properties used for the rental accommodation scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42761/09]
As of 23 November 2009, €48,289,700 had been raised under the non-principal private residence charge.
Properties used for the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) are exempt from the charge under the provisions of the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 in order to encourage take-up of the scheme and to prevent a circular flow of income to and from local authorities. The latest figures available to me indicate that a cumulative figure of 8,595 households have transferred to private rented accommodation under the Rental Accommodation Scheme. Based on this figure, inclusion of these RAS dwellings in the charge would result in an additional income of approximately €1.7 million.
432 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his target greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto Protocol in each of the years 2008 to 2012; the emissions in 2008 and the projected emissions for each year 2009 to 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42764/09]
The Environmental Protect Agency is responsible for compiling the national inventories of greenhouse gas emissions for Ireland and for reporting these to the European Union and to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These inventories are compiled on an annual basis using the good practice guidelines established by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. The results become available in preliminary form about 11 months after the end of a calendar year, and they are then finalised and submitted as required to the EU and to the UNFCCC over the following 5 months.
The National Inventory Report 2009, which reports on actual emissions in 2007 and previous years, is available on the Agency's website (www.epa.ie). Preliminary greenhouse gas emissions data for 2008 are expected to become available from the Agency towards the end of 2009. Data for 2009 will not be available until late 2010.
The Agency also has responsibility for developing annual national emission projections for greenhouse gases (GHG) for all key sectors of the economy, in collaboration with relevant State and other bodies. Emission projections serve to inform national policy initiatives, such as the annual Carbon Budget, and allow Ireland to comply with EU reporting obligations on projections (e.g. Council Decision 280/2004). The Agency produces GHG emission projections annually as this allows the most recent environmental and other policy developments to be taken into account as well as updates to key assumptions (such as revisions to anticipated economic growth).
The Agency released projected emissions figures in March, 2009, updating those published in September 2008, and taking account of the sensitivity analysis used in the ESRI's Economic Shock scenario, which assumed that GDP will contract by 8% between 2007 and 2010, grow by 33% between 2010 and 2015 and 25% between 2015 and 2020.
Based on this, the Agency has projected that, with full implementation of all announced emission reduction measures, the "distance to target" for Kyoto compliance will now be between 1.3 and 1.8 million tonnes per annum over the 2008-2012 period.
A report entitled Ireland's Greenhouse Gas Projections 2008-2020 is available on the Agency's website (www.epa.ie).
433 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost to the Exchequer of each tonne above the target greenhouse gas emissions under the Kyoto Protocol; the projected cost of failure to meet targets in the period 2008 to 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42765/09]
I do not accept the premise on which this question is based: there is no failure to meet the targets set under the Kyoto period 2008-2012. The National Climate Change Strategy signalled the possibility of supplementing greenhouse gas emission reductions with the purchase of up to 3.6 million carbon units on average each year in the five-year Kyoto Protocol commitment period 2008-2012 or 18m units in total costing €270m, at a projected unit price of €15. Use of the flexible mechanisms available under the Kyoto Protocol provides a valid means towards meeting the legally binding targets.
Under the Carbon Fund Act 2007, the National Treasury Management Agency has been designated as purchasing agent for the State and in 2008, the Agency purchased 3.455m certified emission reduction units at a cost of some €52m. To date in 2009, they have purchased 1.8m units at a cost of €21.6m. No carbon units were purchased in 2007.
In December 2006, my Department entered into an agreement with the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to invest €20 million for the purchase of carbon units in the Multilateral Carbon Credit Fund. The investment was made in 2006 on foot of a once-off provision from the Department's vote.
In January 2007, prior to the designation of the National Treasury Management Agency as purchasing agent, my Department committed €10 million each to the Carbon Fund for Europe and the BioCarbon Fund operated by the World Bank. Management of these investments is a matter for my Department and, since enactment of the 2007 Act, payments are made by the Agency through the Carbon Fund process as they arise. In 2008, my Department refunded €3.72m to the Carbon Fund in respect of these investments in the World Bank. Further payments of €1.9m to the World Bank have been made to date in 2009. Periodic drawdowns are a feature of these investments. The amount to be paid each year is not predetermined and in general payments will be made as purchasing transactions progress.
These investments with the World Bank and the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development are expected to yield some 3m carbon units at a projected cost of some €26m during the five-year Kyoto Protocol commitment period 2008-2012. The monies invested in actual purchases or committed to international carbon funds are therefore expected to yield in total, some 8.3m units in the 2008 to 2012 period, at an average cost of about €12 per unit.
The economic downturn has implications for the purchasing programme. The most recent EPA projections suggest that with full implementation of all announced emission reduction measures the purchase requirement for carbon units will now be between 1.3 and 1.8m units per annum or between 6.5m and 9m units in total over the 2008-2012 period. In the circumstances, the National Treasury Management Agency has been asked to put its purchasing programme on hold for the foreseeable future.
Ireland is on course to meet its targets for the Kyoto period with significantly fewer carbon credit purchases than had been envisaged originally. Purchasing requirements to ensure Kyoto compliance are being kept under review and will be revised as necessary in the light of future projections. If it transpires that more credits have been bought than are needed in the 2008-2012 period, they can be carried forward for use after 2012 in the next commitment period.
434 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the environmental organisations that are receiving funding from his Department; if he will provide a breakdown of moneys assigned to each organisation for years 2006, 2007, 2008, and to date in 2009 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42883/09]
Funding is directed through the Irish Environmental Network (IEN) to member organisations to support their core activities, build capacity to participate in policy development/implementation and social partnership, and to carry out project research and advocacy.
Funding is also provided directly to some organisations to support the development of educational materials/exhibitions and to implement initiatives to raise awareness of the need to protect and enhance the environment. Support is also provided to environmental and other organisations to facilitate sustainable development through the Local Agenda 21environmental partnership fund.
Following public tendering processes a number of environmental bodies have secured contracts with the National Parks and Wildlife Service to undertake species research projects. In view of the time necessary to collate the data, information in this regard will be forwarded to the Deputy once it has been compiled.
|
Name of Organisation |
Year |
Funding Provided |
|
€ |
||
|
2006 |
||
|
IEN Core funding |
2006 |
331,000 |
|
Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund |
2006 |
246,495 |
|
Sherkin Island Marine Station |
2006 |
6,000 |
|
Cultivate |
2006 |
20,000 |
|
ECO-UNESCO |
2006 |
3,000 |
|
An Taisce — Green Schools |
2006 |
200,000 |
|
Bird Watch Ireland |
2006 |
1,950 |
|
Crann |
2006 |
1,100 |
|
ECO-UNESCO |
2006 |
53,120 |
|
Irish Peatland Conservation Council |
2006 |
13,700 |
|
Irish Whales and Dophins Groups Ltd |
2006 |
300 |
|
Irish Wildlife Trust |
2006 |
2,387 |
|
Sherkin Island Marine Station |
2006 |
89,805 |
|
Sustainable Ireland Co-operative |
2006 |
2,693 |
|
The Irish Whale and Dolphin Group |
2006 |
150 |
|
The Organic Centre |
2006 |
787 |
|
Tree Council of Ireland |
2006 |
5,000 |
|
An Taisce |
2006 |
86,094 |
|
Woodlands of Ireland |
2006 |
31,600 |
|
An Taisce |
2006 |
440,264 |
|
COHAB Committee |
2006 |
52,500 |
|
Irish Environmental Network |
2006 |
75,000 |
|
Total 2006 |
1,662,944 |
|
|
2007 |
||
|
Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund |
2007 |
291,689 |
|
IEN Core Funding |
2007 |
332,000 |
|
SWAN |
2007 |
60,000 |
|
Cultivate |
2007 |
11,000 |
|
Cork Environmental Forum |
2007 |
12,000 |
|
Sherkin Island Marine Station |
2007 |
8,000 |
|
An Taisce Green Schools |
2007 |
200,000 |
|
Bird Watch Ireland |
2007 |
5,102 |
|
Crann |
2007 |
800 |
|
ECO-UNESCO |
2007 |
35,000 |
|
Irish Peatland Conservation Council |
2007 |
1,750 |
|
Irish Whales and Dophins Groups Ltd |
2007 |
300 |
|
Irish Wildlife Trust |
2007 |
6,714 |
|
Kerry Ecological Network |
2007 |
150 |
|
Sherkin Island Marine Station |
2007 |
89,500 |
|
Sustainable Ireland Co-operative |
2007 |
8,000 |
|
The Irish Whale & Dolphin Group |
2007 |
950 |
|
The Organic Centre |
2007 |
1,603 |
|
Tree Council of Ireland |
2007 |
15,000 |
|
SWAN |
2007 |
60,000 |
|
An Taisce |
2007 |
185,347 |
|
Woodlands of Ireland |
2007 |
33,200 |
|
An Taisce |
2007 |
454,098 |
|
Total 2007 |
1,812,203 |
|
|
2008 |
||
|
Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund |
2008 |
327,962 |
|
Sherkin Island marine Station |
2008 |
8,000 |
|
Cultivate |
2008 |
50,000 |
|
An Taisce Planning |
2008 |
130,000 |
|
Cork Environmental Forum |
2008 |
18,000 |
|
An Taisce Green Schools |
2008 |
200,000 |
|
EENGOS — Project Funding |
2008 |
397,774 |
|
IEN Core funding |
2008 |
830,000 |
|
Crann |
2008 |
800 |
|
Cultivate — Sustainable Living and learning centre |
2008 |
756 |
|
ECO-UNESCO |
2008 |
33,000 |
|
Irish Whale and Dolphin Group |
2008 |
1,250 |
|
Irish Peatland |
2008 |
17,440 |
|
Irish Wildlife Trust |
2008 |
2,434 |
|
Sherkin Island Marine Station |
2008 |
72,742 |
|
Sustainable Ireland Co-operative Society Ltd (Cultivate) |
2008 |
1,890 |
|
Tree Council of Ireland |
2008 |
8,000 |
|
Birdwatch Ireland |
2008 |
6,745 |
|
An Taisce |
2008 |
239,935 |
|
SWAN |
2008 |
224,324 |
|
Coastwatch |
2008 |
16,950 |
|
Woodlands of Ireland |
2008 |
34,860 |
|
An Taisce |
2008 |
465,856 |
|
Ballybay Wetlands Centre |
2008 |
60,000 |
|
COHAB Committee |
2008 |
5,000 |
|
Total 2008 |
3,153,718 |
|
|
2009 |
||
|
Local Agenda 21 Environmental Partnership Fund |
2009 |
311,404 |
|
Running Costs for IEN |
2009 |
677,209 |
|
An Taisce –Planning |
2009 |
80,000 |
|
Sherkin Island marine Station |
2009 |
8,000 |
|
Cultivate |
2009 |
50,000 |
|
ECO — Unesco |
2009 |
35,000 |
|
An Taisce — International Conference |
2009 |
20,000 |
|
ECO-UNESCO |
2009 |
2,000 |
|
Irish Wildlife Trust |
2009 |
10,345 |
|
Sherkin Island Marine Station |
2009 |
16,250 |
|
SWAN |
2009 |
158,801 |
|
An Taisce |
2009 |
94,626 |
|
Woodlands of Ireland |
2009 |
34,860 |
|
An Taisce |
2009 |
404,000 |
|
Irish Environmental Network |
2009 |
40,000 |
|
Irish Environmental Network |
2009 |
28,060 |
|
Ballybay Wetlands Centre |
2009 |
55,000 |
|
Irish Raptor Study Group |
2009 |
1,000 |
|
Royal Society for the Protection of birds |
2009 |
1,399 |
|
An Taisce |
2009 |
20,000 |
435 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if, in view of his silence on the British Government’s proposal to construct seven new nuclear power stations, he is now considering giving his support to nuclear energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42884/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 46 on today's Order Paper which outlines the position on this matter.
436 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will support a matter (details supplied). [42887/09]
There is a commitment to introduce comprehensive legislation on noise pollution within the lifetime of this Government. Earlier this year, following an extensive consultation process, which incorporated the receipt of 235 submissions, the General Scheme of a Noise Nuisance Bill was prepared in my Department and approved by the Government. The Noise Nuisance Bill is included in the Government Legislation Programme published on 16 September, 2009.
The issue of noise nuisance caused by intruder alarms was raised in many of the submissions received. Measures to tackle this problem, including through the issuing of fixed payment notices, are currently being considered by the Department in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General.
437 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if there is a legislative impediment for a county council to exempt start-up businesses from rates for a period of time, for example two or three years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42899/09]
Under the provisions of the Valuation Act 2001, local authorities are obliged by law to levy rates on any commercial or industrial property the details of which are entered on the valuation lists prepared by the independent Commissioner of Valuation. This includes newly-established businesses.
Under the provisions of the Local Authority (Rates) Act 1970, it is open to a local authority to make and carry out a waiver scheme in respect of rates payable to it by ratepayers generally or any class of ratepayers. Any such scheme requires the consent of the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. However, any reduction in or waiver of rates in respect of some ratepayers is likely to result in a local authority being forced to increase the rates burden on other ratepayers in order to make up the shortfall.
438 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 376 of 17 November 2009, the actual measures he took to inform persons who live abroad and have properties here of their obligations to pay the €200 property tax through outlets abroad rather than the Irish print and broadcast media. [42925/09]
As previously indicated, several advertising campaigns have taken place, both in the newspapers and on radio, to inform people of the introduction of the charge on non-principal private residences.
In addition, local authorities have taken a number of measures to inform people of their liability with regard to the charge. Any further advertising which may be required is a matter for individual local authorities.
439 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will extend the deadline for spreading slurry. [36449/09]
I refer to the reply to questions No. 933 and 942 of 3 November. The position is unchanged.
440 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there are no facilities to pay the second house property tax in instalments which can cause hardship for those whose only source of income may come from pension or social welfare payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42994/09]
The charge, set at €200 per annum on all non-principal private residences, is levied on a fixed liability date in each calendar year and payment becomes due two months after that date. There is then a further month's grace period to pay the charge, giving a total of three months during which the charge may be paid before penalties for late payment commence. Given this length of time and the relatively modest nature of the charge, I do not consider that an instalment payment plan is merited in this case.
441 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on to the recent announcement by the British Government to name ten sites for nuclear power plants in the UK including seven sites on the west coast of England; the prior discussions he has had with his UK counterparts on the issue; if he intends to object to the proposed plans; if he will discuss the issue of waste generated from the proposed sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43018/09]
I refer to the reply to Question no. 46 on today's Order Paper which outlines the position on this matter.
442 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 202 of 12 November 2009 if it is his intention that the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 would permit an applicant to respond, outside the five week limit, to a submission or observation received on the final day or days of the period for submissions, but too late to make a response within the five week limit; if not if he will amend the regulations to permit such a response by an applicant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43079/09]
As stated in reply to Question No. 202 of 12 November, it is my Department's view that the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended, allow an applicant to make a further observation outside the five-week period for making submission or comment in relation to his/her planning application. The interpretation of the Regulations is a matter for the planning authority and ultimately may be a matter for the courts in any case coming before them.
I will give consideration to whether this issue requires further clarification when the Regulations are next updated.
443 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position in relation to the provision of a new sewerage facility for a town (details supplied) in County Galway; his views on the discharge from the town into the bay and the danger to the shellfish industry and the health risks involved due to the contamination and delay in rectifying this situation; if he will approve revised plans currently in his Department from Galway County Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43106/09]
Clarinbridge/Kinvara Bay is a designated water under the Shellfish Waters Directive. A Pollution Reduction Programme, which sets out specific actions to protect and improve, where necessary, the water quality in this designated water will be finalised by the end of the year. The draft programme is currently the subject of a public consultation process and a copy is available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie.
The Kinvara Sewerage Scheme is included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007 — 2009. My Department has approved a Preliminary Report for the scheme. However, I understand that Galway County Council now intends to submit a Design Review Report for it.
Local authorities were asked in July to submit an assessment of needs for water and sewerage services to my Department by 23 October last. These assessments, which are currently under examination in my Department, will form a key input to the development of the 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme. In conducting their assessments, local authorities were asked to prioritise schemes and contracts for progression over the coming years based on key environmental and economic criteria. It is anticipated that the Water Services Investment Programme 2010 to 2012 will be published in early 2010.
444 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his views on extending the second property tax to properties owned overseas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43109/09]
The Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 introduces a charge on non-principal private residences in the State. It is not within my remit to bring forward legislation that would operate in other jurisdictions.
445 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 404 of 17 November 2009 when compensation will be awarded to persons (details supplied) in County Laois. [43113/09]
There are a number of applications with my Department under the voluntary bog compensation scheme, where landowners or turbary-right owners on the Special Area of Conservation referred to in the question have sought to sell their interest in the bog to the State. In general, priority under the scheme is being given to applications pertaining to those 32 raised bog Special Areas of Conservation where turf-cutting is scheduled to cease at the end of this year. The bog in question is not one of these thirty two, and therefore applications for this site are not currently prioritised for payment. If the Deputy requires details on any particular application, I will be happy to provide more specific information.
446 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when he will implement a provision (details supplied) in the Building Control Act 2007. [43160/09]
Article 8 of the Building Control (Amendment) Regulations 2009 which provides for the introduction of the certificate to which the question refers, will come into effect on 1 January 2010.
447 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when funds will be provided to a housing association (details supplied) for regeneration phase II scheme of a project in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43192/09]
448 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the position regarding funding for the elderly housing development programme at Glack, County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43198/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 447 and 448 together.
Having regard to the existing high level of commitments under my Department's funding schemes for voluntary and co-operative housing, I am not in a position to approve funding for these proposals at this time. The funding applications will be considered in the light of, inter alia, the estimates provision for new projects in 2010 and the relative priority afforded to the projects by Longford County Council.
449 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government when a rural renewal grant will be approved in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43199/09]
My Department issued a Certificate of Compliance under the terms of the Rural Renewal Scheme in respect of the property concerned on 2 July, 2008. Issues relating to tax benefits under the scheme are a matter for the Revenue Commissioners.
450 Deputy P. J. Sheehan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question Nos. 188 of 27 February 2008 and 189 of 25 June 2009, the progress made on implementing the project of the Courtmacsherry and Timoleague sewage scheme; the communications between his Department and Cork County Council; if there are further requirements and conditions which need to be met for him to provide funding for this project; the expected starting date for the construction; the expected completion date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43213/09]
My Department is finalising its assessment of Cork County Council's design proposals for the Courtmacsherry/Timoleague Sewerage Scheme, which is included for funding in my Department's Water Services Investment Programme 2007–2009. A decision on those proposals will be notified to the Council as soon as possible.
The advancement of the Courtmacsherry/Timoleague Sewerage Scheme is also subject to the outcome of the Council's current assessment of needs for water and sewerage services in its area. Last July, local authorities, including Cork County Council, were asked to submit their assessments of needs to my Department by 23 October last. Cork County Council will shortly submit its assessment return to my Department.
My Department has just begun its consideration of these assessments, which will form a key input to the development of the 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme. In conducting their assessments, local authorities were asked to prioritise schemes and contracts for progression over the coming years based on key environmental and economic criteria. The 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme should be published in early 2010.
453 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to upgrade or improve part-time and full-time fire fighting services here over the next two years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43377/09]
The provision of a fire service, including equipment and personnel, is a statutory function of the individual fire authorities under section 10 of the Fire Services Act 1981. Issues relating to the recruitment and employment conditions of fire fighters are matters for the local authority under the Local Government Act 2001.
The Department supports local fire authorities through the setting of general policy, the provision of capital funding, the issue of guidance to fire authorities in relation to fire prevention, training support and operational matters and other such initiatives.
454 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if arising from air pollution studies carried out at the various locations over the past five years, the locations most affected; if the nature of the pollutants have been identified as carcinogenic; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43378/09]
The monitoring, assessment and management of ambient air quality in Ireland is carried out according to the requirements of the EU Air Quality Framework Directive. This Directive became law through the Environmental Protection Agency Act 1992, (Ambient Air Quality Assessment and Management) Regulations, 1999. Under further regulations made in 2002, 2004 and 2009, specific ambient air quality standards have been prescribed for the following pollutants:
sulphur dioxide, nitrogen dioxide and oxides of nitrogen, particulate matter and lead (2002);
carbon monoxide and benzene (2002);
ozone (2004); and
polyaromatic hydrocarbons, arsenic, nickel, cadmium and mercury in ambient air (2009).
Benzene, arsenic, nickel, cadmium and mercury are all carcinogenic.
Where the indicative level for any pollutant is exceeded, the Air Quality Standards Regulations 2002 require the local authority concerned, following notification by the EPA, to develop a long-term air quality management plan to ensure compliance with the thresholds for the relevant pollutant or pollutants.
The EPA reports the results of the air quality monitoring of the above pollutants through its website: http://www.epa.ie/whatwedo/monitoring/air/data/. My Department keeps these data under ongoing review to identify any significant trends which might emerge and also meets periodically with the EPA on air quality issues.
The EPA also publishes a comprehensive annual report on air quality, the most recent being the report on Air Quality in Ireland 2008 (September 2009). This report provides an overview of ambient air quality trends in Ireland in 2008 based on data from 30 monitoring stations. In addition there were a further 18 monitoring stations operated by local authorities to measure black smoke. The Report did not identify any area in the country where ambient air quality is exceeded and confirmed that Ireland is in compliance with the air quality standards in force for all pollutants.
455 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he, in association with the local authorities have identified the main priority locations here for upgrading or provision of domestic water supply; his intention to provide funds to meet such requirements in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43379/09]
456 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for the upgrading of the domestic drinking water supply in all areas here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43380/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 455 and 456 together.
Local authorities were asked in July to submit their assessment of needs for water services infrastructure to my Department by 23 October 2009. These assessments, which are currently under examination in my Department, will form a key input to the development of the 2010 to 2012 Water Services Investment Programme, which it is anticipated will be published in early 2010.
457 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to enhance the public housing programme through the local authorities over the next two years having particular regard to the estimated 80,000 families on housing lists or in need of rehousing; if he will provide the necessary funding to ensure that a specific programme is identified for achievement within a precise timescale; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43381/09]
I refer to the reply to Question No. 61 on today's Order Paper.
458 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the most efficient, reliable, cost effective and safe method of waste disposal as agreed internationally; the extent to which he intends to implement such proposals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43382/09]
459 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which he has examined the implications of the recent international report on waste management; if the cost implications of all waste disposal systems are being carefully examined with a view to alleviating the burden on the taxpayer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43383/09]
I propose to take Question Nos. 458 and 459 together.
Government policy in relation to waste management is grounded in the internationally recognised hierarchy of waste options. The most favoured option is waste prevention, followed by minimisation, reuse, recycling, recovery and the least favoured option of disposal to landfill. This commitment to the waste hierarchy has added significance in the context of the requirements of the EU Landfill Directive to divert waste from landfill. Meeting this obligation will entail doubling the level of diversion from landfill by 2010 and further increases in diversion in subsequent years.
The Programme for Government agreed in 2007 included a number of objectives relating to waste management, among them a commitment to carry out an international review of waste management plans, practices and procedures and to act on the conclusions. An important milestone was reached recently with the delivery of the report of consultants engaged to carry out a study to underpin the conclusion of the review. This report will act as a launching pad for putting in place the policies that we now need to mark a new departure in our approach to waste management. I intend to develop a new policy statement on waste management arising from the recommendations in the report, which I shall bring to Government as soon as possible in 2010. This will set a policy context which will ensure that waste management services are delivered by the public and private sectors in an environmentally progressive and cost efficient manner.
Also, in conjunction with the launch of the report, I announced increases to the landfill levy to drive waste from landfill in order to meet the challenging EU targets. The levy will increase to €30 per tonne by 2010, to €50 in 2011 and to €75 in 2012. This will have the effect of driving our waste higher up the waste hierarchy. These charges should not increase costs to consumers. We have seen significant drops in landfill gate prices in recent years, but no comparable drop in waste charges.
Combined with changes to the way the waste market is organised and by continuing to alter our approach to how we manage our waste through the rationalisation of waste services this should ultimately lead to a more cost efficient service for users of public and private waste management services.
460 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the full extent of funds available to local authorities by way of the local loans fund to facilitate applicants for home choice or other local authority loans including those available under the 1966 Act; when it is expected that funding will be restored to local authorities for such purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43385/09]
No funding restrictions have been placed on local authority lending for house purchase. Annual allocations to local authorities for House Purchase and House Improvement lending totalling almost €31m were notified to local authorities in July, an increase of €9m (or 40%) on the 2008 allocation of almost €22m. It is important to note that these allocations represent borrowings ceilings rather than financial provisions. Since the allocations were made, a further €2m has been allocated to those local authorities who sought increased lending capacity for 2009. No set borrowing limit has been put in place for the Home Choice Loan scheme.
461 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the extent to which the revised programme for Government converges with the national development plan; the areas from which it deviates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43386/09]
The Programme for Government 2007 — 2012 and the recent renewed Programme for Government support the high level objectives relating to my Department in the National Development Plan. The financial provisions for 2010 for the implementation of programmes will be determined in the context of public expenditure provisions to be announced in Budget 2010.
462 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if having identified the areas or regions most affected by radon gas, he intends to take any measures to deal with the areas or regions identified as most affected by radon gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43387/09]
The Government, largely through the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), has for many years worked towards assessing the extent of the radon problem in Ireland. In July 2008 the RPII published the results of a three-year baseline study on the exposure of the Irish population to ionising radiation, which includes radon. This report, Radiation Doses Received by the Irish Population, is the most comprehensive assessment of radiation exposure ever undertaken in this country.
The Report found that, as is the case in the majority of other countries, radon is the principal source of radiation exposure in Ireland, representing over 56% of the dose received by the Irish population. In terms of reducing our exposure to radiation radon is the area where the greatest impact is possible.
Since 1998 the Building Regulations require all new buildings to incorporate radon protection measures at the time of construction. In October 2004 an updated edition of Technical Guidance Document C on Part C of the Building Regulations (Site Preparation and Resistance to Moisture) was published incorporating enhanced radon prevention measures for new buildings commencing on or after 1 April 2005. This guidance document is aimed at ensuring that radon protection measures are carried out more effectively.
In relation to houses built before 1998, the Government's approach, which is similar to that of the majority of EU Member States, is to concentrate on awareness-raising. Householders, particularly those in known high radon areas, have been strongly encouraged by the RPII to have their homes tested for radon and to undertake remediation works where necessary. The RPII, in partnership with local authorities and the Health Service Executive (HSE), has carried out targeted information campaigns in high radon areas and in some instances where areas of particularly high radon levels have been found they have written directly to householders in these areas. This encourages householders to address monitoring and remedial requirements effectively and economically.
If a dwelling is found to have a high radon level remediation work may be recommended. Technical guidance on radon remediation techniques is available in a booklet issued by my Department: Radon in Buildings — Corrective Option. The RPII has also issued guidance: Understanding Radon Remediation — A Householders Guide. In addition, the website of the RPII provides a list of companies who can provide a radon remediation service and can offer specific advice and recommendations.
The Scheme of Housing Aid for Older People is available to assist older people, generally over 60 years, to have necessary repairs or improvements carried out to their homes. Where a suite of works is being grant aided under this scheme, local authorities may also, as part of the package of works, assist with the provision of radon remediation works, where applicable.
My Department has already given approval to a number of local authorities to undertake, on a sample basis, radon surveys of their housing stock in high incidence areas. In addition, the RPII have directly contacted local authorities with known areas of high radon concentration to encourage them to test local authority housing stock for radon and, where necessary, to take remedial action. A number of local authorities are already taking action in this regard and it is intended to build on their, and the RPII's, experience in this area.
Members of the public can access information on radon on the RPII website, www.rpii.ie. Publications and information leaflets about radon can be downloaded free of charge. The RPII can also be contacted on freephone 1800 300 600.
On Thursday, 19 November, 2009, my colleague Michael Finneran, T.D. Minister for Housing and Local Services opened Ireland's Seventh National Radon Forum in the Royal College of Physicians, Dublin. The theme of the Forum was "towards the development of a radon control strategy for Ireland". The aim of the Forum, in addition to raising public awareness, was to provide the opportunity for those with an interest in radon to meet and discuss issues of mutual interest.
My Department will continue to work closely with the RPII, the HSE, local authorities and other interested agencies to raise public awareness and to promote radon testing and remediation works. This multi-agency approach to dealing with radon is in line with international best practice, as recommended by the World Health Organisation's International Radon Project which was co-funded by the Irish Government.
463 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43413/09]
In accordance with the Official Languages Act 2003 and the principles of Quality Customer Service, my Department is committed to providing quality services in Irish and/or bilingually to its customers.
The Department produces a broad range of documents across each of its policy areas. For the purposes of this reply, ‘State documents' are being interpreted as core corporate documents, statements of policy and strategy documents, and do not include leaflets, application forms, posters and similar publications.
As set out in the Department's Irish Language Scheme 2009-2012, the Department undertakes to provide bilingual versions of these core publications preferably in the one cover (either hardcopy or electronic publications). However, where the length of any bilingual publication would reduce its effectiveness or involve excessive additional cost, separate Irish and English language versions are provided. It is not the intention of the Department to translate large documents which are of a technical nature or have a small circulation.
The Department has made a significant investment in the preparation, design and maintenance of both the English and Irish Language versions of its core website (www.environ.ie). A dedicated ‘Publications' area has been designed where electronic copies of all publications, in both languages, are hosted and available for the public to download. In line with the Department's environmental policies, every effort is made to limit where feasible the use of paper and printing, and increasing amounts of the Department's publications are now only printed on demand. Overall, the Department is committed to monitoring and gauging the level of demand for its services in the Irish Language by carrying out annual audits of its Scheme and a review of measures undertaken.
The total cost of translating the 26 ‘State documents' as described above since 2008 has amounted to €39,299. Eight of these documents have been printed at a total cost of €28,348. In the case of printing costs, these may include costs associated with printing in the English as well as the Irish language.
464 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if there is a certain level of thickness in the walls whereby a person (details supplied) would not be eligible for the sustainable energy grant for their walls. [42566/09]
I am advised by Sustainable Energy Ireland that there is no record of a Home Energy Saving (HES) Scheme grant application by the persons referred to by the Deputy.
The HES Scheme provides grant assistance to homeowners for retro-fit energy efficiency measures such as attic and wall insulation, very high- efficiency boilers, heating controls and Building Energy Rating (BER) assessments. While a householder is free to choose which measures to install in his or her home, the householder must undertake works attracting grant payments of at least €500, not including the BER grant.
The scheme, which is open to all householders in homes built before 2006, is stimulating the upgrade of a significant number of homes to the optimum standard achievable and to date approximately 31,000 households have been grant approved.
All works carried out under the scheme are underpinned by a comprehensive Technical Specification and Code of Practice for contractors which ensure that works undertaken represent best value for each homeowner's investment and also best value for all public monies expended.
In general, all products used must be fit for purpose, improve the energy efficiency of the building and have no detrimental impact on the structure, viability, quality or safety of the property. All insulation products must meet relevant product standards. One underlying objective of this Scheme is to put in place materials that will achieve a level of performance in the home, equivalent to the standard required in the most recent update of Part L of the Building Regulations. Thus, the objective for Wall Insulation is in as much as is physically and economically feasible, achieve a U-value of 0.27 W/m2K for external walls. The inability of a homeowner to commit to undertaking works to the requisite specification would preclude their qualification for the grant.
Contractors must ensure that, in the case of insulation, an optimal whole-surface solution is provided where physically and economically feasible e.g. this comprises internal or external insulation of all walls exposed; or in the case of roof insulation that this comprises insulation of the whole surface of the ceiling/roof-space as appropriate. All grant applicants are required to use a Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) registered contractor and in applying accept that their application relates to works which are economically and physically practicable and which will secure the optimal energy efficiency improvements to its home.
Partial works are only accepted in very exceptional circumstances e.g. where it is not physically possible to provide complete roof insulation coverage due to small inaccessible areas of the roof, or where a home may require significant additional modifications over what would normally be expected and that such modifications would make the initial investment inappropriate compared to the benefit the homeowner will get out of the investment. Where only part-home coverage is achieved, this must be detailed in the Declaration of Works (grant request) and the contractor must inform the customer that this may impact on their ability to draw down support from the scheme.
Taking this approach ensures that the homeowners gets best value for their money and that the Exchequer gets best leverage for its investment.
465 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the provision of broadband for businesses in Clonahussy, County Longford on behalf of a person (details supplied), as there is currently no broadband in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42579/09]
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.
I understand that mobile, fixed wireless and satellite broadband is available in the general area of Clonahussy, County Longford. Details of broadband availability throughout the country are available at www.broadband.gov.ie. I would add that information contained on this website is provided by the service providers.
While the specific area of Clonahussy is not covered by the National Broadband Scheme (NBS), details of the Electoral Divisions in County Longford that are to be covered by the NBS can be found at www.three.ie/nbs.
The widespread acceptance of the benefits of broadband has motivated the EU Commission to set aside a portion of European Economic Recovery Package (EERP) funding for rural broadband initiatives.
I am considering how the provision of broadband services to unserved rural premises can be achieved through an appropriate intervention under the EERP. My Department is currently considering options for the design of such a scheme. This work will include the identification of premises not capable of receiving broadband.
Discussions have already commenced with the European Commission on the first step of applying for and securing State Aid clearance.
466 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42694/09]
I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department is not involved directly in the leasing of buildings. The leasing of buildings is a matter for the Office of Public Works, which manages the contracts and lease rents for same.
467 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a village (details supplied) and its surrounding area are covered under the national broadband scheme; if not, if this area will be added to the scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42864/09]
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.
I understand that mobile and satellite broadband is available in the general area of Glanworth, County Cork. Details of broadband availability throughout the country are available at www.broadband.gov.ie. I would add that information contained on this website is provided by the service providers.
EU State Aid and competition rules govern how states can intervene in areas where there are existing service providers. Accordingly, the National Broadband Scheme (NBS), which was approved by the EU Commission, is prohibited from providing a service in served areas where to do so would give rise to an unacceptable level of market distortion. For this reason, the general area of Glanworth, County Cork ,does not fall within the NBS.
The widespread acceptance of the benefits of broadband has motivated the EU Commission to set aside a portion of European Economic Recovery Package (EERP) funding for rural broadband initiatives.
I am considering how the provision of broadband services to un-served rural premises can be achieved through an appropriate intervention under the EERP. My Department is currently considering options for the design of such a scheme. This work will include the identification of premises not capable of receiving broadband.
Discussions have already commenced with the European Commission on the first step of applying for and securing State Aid clearance.
468 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the way the selection of towns and cities to be connected to the MANs programme takes place; the reason that Bray, Wicklow and Arklow were left out of the phase two of the MANs programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42895/09]
Metropolitan Area Networks (MANs) are high-speed, open access, carrier neutral electronic communications networks, which facilitate competition in the electronic communications market in regional towns and cities nationwide. Phase I of this Programme was aimed at facilitating the delivery of broadband services in cities and towns that did not have broadband at that time. The Government approved the building of the Phase I MANs in March 2002. Phase I has so far delivered optical fibre based networks to twenty-seven towns and cities throughout the country. All twenty-seven are operational and open for business.
A further ninety-four towns, with populations in excess of 1,500, were identified as locations for MANs under Phase II of the Programme on the basis that there was no DSL broadband available from the incumbent service provider in each of the locations. The Government approved the building of the Phase II MANs in November 2003. Fifty-nine of these MANs covering sixty-five towns have been completed to date. The Kinsale MAN is due to be completed in quarter two of 2010.
Bray, Wicklow and Arklow were not included under Phase II of the MANs Programme as DSL broadband was available in all three towns at the time of the Government decision.
469 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason for the delay in providing promoters of wind farms access to the national grid in view of the need to provide a greater percentage of renewable energy; his plans for eliminating these delays; if he will ask Eirgrid to revise their entry to gate three requirements in order to allow many of these projects to go to construction; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43105/09]
Responsibility for overseeing the grid connection process is vested in the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) and the matter of access to grid connection offers lies within the statutory authority of the CER. I have no direct involvement in that process. The Gate process, which is run by the CER working with EirGrid, is designed to streamline the connection process.
The current Gate 3, was the subject of extensive public consultation by the CER prior to its final decision in December 2008. In keeping with the Government target of 40% of electricity consumption to be from renewable sources by 2020, Gate 3 provides for almost 4000 additional megawatts of renewable generator connection offers.
The CER and EirGrid have calculated that around 5800MW of renewable capacity will be required to deliver the 40% target in 2020. There are currently 1,400 megawatts (MWS) of renewable generation plants connected to the electricity grid. Currently, there is approximately a further 1400 MWs of capacity in additional projects, which have received connection offers and which have been accepted into the Renewable Energy Feed In Tariff (REFIT) programme. These projects were part of the Gate 1 and Gate 2 processes, and will typically be built and connected to the grid over the next two or three year period.
The question of developing projects beyond the Gate 3 process will depend on the level of take up by developers and on the roll-out of the transmission grid to safely and securely accommodate steadily increasing amounts of intermittent power generation.
The projects in Gate 3 were selected by the CER on a "first come first served" criterion. Connection offers are scheduled to issue between late 2009 and early 2011.
To ensure this process operates efficiently and transparently, and to keep the industry stakeholders informed of the ongoing work, the CER has established a Gate 3 Liaison Group involving all stakeholders, including the renewable industry associations. The objective is to ensure the connection offer process is completed as quickly and as effectively as possible.
470 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the incentives to support transition to low carbon energy efficient economy that have been introduced following the publication of Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report; the uptake of these incentives; and the anticipated cost to the Exchequer of funding these incentives. [43115/09]
471 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the new incentives that have been provided to increase investment in household and business energy efficiency as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report; the uptake of these incentives; and the anticipated cost to the State of funding such incentives. [43116/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 470 and 471 together.
The Government has set a target of achieving 20% energy efficiency savings across the economy in 2020. As part of this energy efficiency drive, the Government has also committed to achieving a 33% energy saving across our public sector institutions by 2020.
On 8 May this year I published the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) which sets out 90 actions that Government is either already taking or will take in the period to 2020 to achieve the national energy efficiency targets. The savings identified in the Action Plan represent approximately €1.6 billion in avoided energy costs for the economy in 2020.
Together with Minister Gormley I launched the National Insulation Programme for Economic Recovery earlier this year. The Programme entails a three pronged approach to addressing the legacy of older housing with poor energy efficiency standards.
The Home Energy Saving (HES) Scheme, which is administered by Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), provides grant assistance to homeowners for energy efficiency retro-fitting measures including attic and wall insulation, very high-efficiency boilers, heating controls and Building Energy Rating (BER) assessments.
The scheme is open to anybody owning a house that was built prior to 2006. Homeowners can expect to save up to €700 per year on their energy bills if they install the full suite of measures available under the scheme. The scheme offers grants of up to 40% of the typical cost of energy efficiency upgrade measures, depending on the measure concerned. A list of eligible measures and fixed grant rates is set out in the following table:
|
Measure |
Fixed grant rate |
|
€ |
|
|
Roof Insulation |
250 |
|
Cavity Wall Insulation |
400 |
|
Internal Wall Insulation |
2,500 |
|
External Wall Insulation |
4,000 |
|
High Efficiency Boiler with Heating Controls Upgrade |
700 |
|
Heating Controls Upgrade Only |
500 |
|
Building Energy Rating Assessment |
200 |
The Warmer Homes Scheme also provides support for low income housing for insulation and other energy efficiency improvement measures. This scheme is managed by SEI and implemented by local community groups. Measures include cavity wall insulation, attic insulation, boiler lagging jackets, draught proofing measures and Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs). These measures are provided free or at a nominal cost to the householder. Advice is also provided on minimising energy use.
Some €20 million has been made available to the Warmer Homes Scheme in 2009. This represents a very substantial increase on previous years and the WHS is expected to support energy efficiency interventions in up to 15,000 low income homes this year.
The Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government has also set aside some €25 million for two initiatives designed to address thermal inefficiencies in local authority dwellings. Of this, €20 million has already been allocated to local authorities to improve the energy efficiency of dwellings and apartment complexes, to a BER standard of C1. €5 million has been set aside to support a number of demonstration projects that will achieve a BER rating in excess of C1 and will inform the future improvement of the overall local authority stock.
In the business sector, the greatest cost-cutting and energy saving potential lies in improving the energy performance requirements of new non-residential buildings, improvement of existing buildings, encouraging more businesses and public bodies to actively address their energy use and to use the most energy efficient plant, machinery and equipment.
In an effort to realise this potential, Sustainable Energy Ireland launched in 2009 a €6 million programme that offers grant assistance to the business and public sectors. The programme allows important cost-cutting energy efficiency measures to be installed at significantly reduced cost to businesses across the country. Over 80 projects are currently underway under the programme. As a result of the work carried out, annual savings are expected to be approximately €2.6 million, alongside 12kt CO2 reductions.
A dedicated support programme has also been established by SEI offering free energy management training, advice and support to any business that is willing to show a commitment to becoming more energy efficient.
SEI's Large Industry Energy Network also engages all of the largest energy using enterprises (in manufacturing and services) where the 120 member companies collectively spend over €800 million p.a. on energy. Recently published analysis shows that by spending €1.9 million these large companies avoided energy costs of €60 million in 2008 alone.
Government has also extended the Accelerated Capital Allowances scheme to take account of additional categories including energy efficient IT infrastructure and electric vehicles. The Scheme allows businesses to make the right economic decisions that will support ongoing savings whilst increasing cash-flow in the year of purchase. Companies can now write off the full capital cost of energy efficient equipment in the year of purchase. The ACA scheme currently covers equipment accounting for at least 60% of the energy used by industry in Ireland.
The Public Sector Energy Efficiency Programme is designed as the main delivery mechanism for coordinating and encouraging energy efficiency actions by our public sector bodies. It is providing free energy assessments of up to 400 public buildings in 2009. It is providing professional advice on energy management and energy efficiency improvement measures and aims to train 150 public sector building managers this year. SEI is also developing best practice guidance materials and facilitating specialist workshops on matters such as public street lighting, water services, and ICT.
Regulations are currently being finalised in my Department that will include new energy efficient public procurement rules and these will be in place in the coming months. These new rules will require public bodies to purchase or lease only plant and equipment across a diverse range of technologies that are listed on SEI's database of highly energy efficient products. This database was developed as part of the Accelerated Capital Allowance Scheme for energy efficient technologies.
SEI is also tasked in these regulations with producing general guidelines on energy efficient procurement and these will be progressed in conjunction with the new OPW National Public Procurement Office.
I am also currently finalising proposals to bring to Government on a new Programme — the Energy Demand Reduction Target (EDRT). The EDRT programme will involve the promotion of energy services by energy companies in Ireland. There is significant potential to further reduce energy costs and related greenhouse gas emissions in homes and business across the country whilst creating employment and developing a market for energy services in Ireland.
472 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made since December 2008 in reaching the target of 40% energy from renewable resources by 2020 announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; the percentage of energy here which comes from renewable resources; the initiatives proposed to increase this in the short medium term; and the projected cost of such initiatives. [43153/09]
The Government has set a target of 40% of electricity from renewable sources by 2020. Electricity accounts for approximately one-third of energy consumption in Ireland, with another third of energy consumption in the transport sector and a further third in the heat sector. The 40% target for renewable generation is consistent with the EU target addressed to Ireland under Directive 2009/28/EC to increase the contribution from renewable sources to 16% of all energy consumed (to include electricity, transport and heating) by 2020. Renewable generation contribution made up 11.9% of all electricity consumed in 2008 compared to just 4.4% in 2003. Ireland has an EU target of 13.2% for renewable electricity to be achieved by 2010, which will be met and probably exceeded. The promotion of the sustainable generation and use of energy is being supported in a variety of ways in the electricity, transport and heat sectors, as well as through the promotion of energy efficiency across the economy.
Renewable electricity generation is currently supported through the Renewable Energy Feed in Tariff (REFIT) programme which has been in operation since 2006. There are currently 1,400 megawatts of renewable generation plants connected to the electricity grid and wind powered technology is the dominant technology. More than 100 individual wind farms have been connected with a combined capacity of around 1100 MWs. 240 MWs of hydropower are connected. The balance represents biomass plants mainly landfill gas. There is approximately a further 1400MWs of capacity with signed grid connection offers, which are due to be built and connected to the grid typically over the next two to 3 year period. Furthermore, under the Gate 3 process being run by the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), a further 4000MW of additional renewable electricity capacity is due to receive connection offers over the next 18 months.
The current REFIT scheme supports wind, small hydro and biomass generation. REFIT is being expanded to cover offshore wind, ocean energy and anaerobic digestion/CHP. The estimated cost of REFIT when State Aid approval was obtained from the European Commission in 2007 was €150 million over a period of 15 years. The Government has a target of 500MW from Ocean Energy, by 2020. Ireland's Ocean Energy Strategy is being overseen and implemented by the Ocean Energy Development Unit in Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) working in partnership with all key players. Ocean energy technologies are still in the research and development phase globally. Work towards the commercialisation of ocean energy technology continues in Ireland and abroad. The Government was set a target for Renewable Heating of 12% by 2020.
There are a number of schemes in place to support the target including the Greener Homes Scheme (which supports domestic renewable heating), the Renewable Heat Deployment Programme, which is aimed at institutional, industrial and retail users of heat, and the Combined Heat and Power Programme (CHP). The cost of the Reheat and CHP programmes in 2009 is estimated at €5.2m while the cost of Greener Homes is estimated at €15.3m. Biofuels offer one potential means to counter high emissions levels in the sector. The Government is committed to the sustainable development of an Irish biofuels market in line with overall EU biofuel policy developments. The National Biofuel Obligation, from next year, will provide the market with long term stability and will incorporate the EU Commission's Guidelines on Sustainability Criteria, as soon as these are published. As a result of the Biofuels Mineral Oil Tax Relief Schemes, introduced in 2005 and 2006 (the schemes are valued at over €200 million), the market penetration rate for biofuels as a percentage of road transport fuels has increased from zero to just under 2% in 2008.
The Government has committed to achieving 20% energy savings across the economy by 2020. As part of this energy efficiency drive, the Government has also committed to achieving a 33% energy saving across the Public Sector by 2020. I launched the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan (NEEAP) in May 2009. The Action Plan sets out 90 actions that the Government are either already taking or will take in the period to 2020 to achieve the energy efficiency targets whilst reducing our CO2 emissions by approximately 5.7 million tonnes. The savings identified in the Action Plan represent approximately €1.6 billion in avoided energy costs for the economy in 2020.
473 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made since December 2008 in reaching the target of 10% of the road transport fleet here being electrically powered by 2020 as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; the initiatives which are planned to achieve this target; and the projected cost of such initiatives. [43154/09
479 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the roll-out of the national electric car programme; if he has been liaising with the ESB on the development of the necessary infrastructure including charging points for the nationwide electric car scheme; when the first charge points will be operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [39556/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 473 and 479 together.
The Government has announced plans for the large scale deployment of electric vehicles in Ireland. The target of 10% of all vehicles to be powered by electricity by 2020, will equate to around 225,000 cars on Irish roads. An Inter-Departmental/Inter-Agency Taskforce on electric vehicles is chaired by my Department and comprises the Departments of Transport, Finance, the Environment, Heritage and Local Government, and Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI), ESB, the IDA and Enterprise Ireland. The Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) is also joining the Task Force in light of its statutory responsibilities for the regulated networks. ESB Networks has a pivotal role to play in terms of delivering the necessary infrastructure and charging points roll-out of electric vehicles. Both my Department and I are liaising closely with ESB Networks on progressing the infrastructure programme. ESB is also playing a lead role in the work of European energy utilities and other players to ensure standardisation across Europe.
474 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a framework has been put in place since December 2008 to support the development of auto-generation and micro-generation projects as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; and if the Commission for Energy Regulation has carried out the review of energy prices and tariff methodologies outlined in the report. [43155/09]
In February 2009 I launched the Micro Generation programme, which is being operated by ESB Customer Supply and supported by ESB Networks. The programme will provide up to 4,000 domestic customers investing in micro-scale projects with a financial payment for electricity exported back to the grid. The ESB advise that 92 customers had signed up for the scheme by September 2009. The microgeneration programme also provides for two-way metering, to be installed without additional charge to the customer. The electricity producer is paid a price of 19 cent per kilowatt-hour, which will help to offset the start up costs. The micro technologies in question include wind, solar and hydro as well as combined heat and power. It is the case that micro-scale electricity production will benefit the participating customers upfront by offsetting their purchase of electricity from their electricity suppliers. I have asked my Department to develop the microgeneration framework further to enhance and facilitate take-up.
Sustainable Energy Ireland (SEI) has also launched a Micro-generation Pilot Programme, involving research and field trials, including support for between 50 and 60 installations on a pilot basis, of micro-scale projects. The field trials will address a range of issues including grid connection and technical standards to ensure the power security, safety and quality of installations. Full details of the field trials, the criteria for applications, the involvement of the different technologies and customer groups and the exact level of support are available on of the SEI website (http://www.sei.ie/Grants/Microgenpilot). 40 applications have been approved to date.
475 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the status of the national broadband scheme; the progress made in implementing the scheme since December 2008, as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43156/09]
My Department entered into a contract with "3", a Hutchison Whampoa company, for the delivery of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS) in December 2008. The company is required to provide services, using a mix of technologies, to all fixed residences and businesses that are located within the NBS Coverage Area and who seek a service. The NBS is being rolled out on an electoral division (ED) basis with a total of 1,028 EDs to receive broadband services under the NBS. 3 is progressing its network roll-out and to date, NBS services have been made available in 38% of the EDs (391). Under the NBS contract, 48% of the EDs in the NBS Coverage Area are required to be enabled by the end of December 2009, while all EDs in the NBS Coverage Area must be covered by the end of September 2010. The status of the NBS roll-out is available at http://three.ie/nbs/. My Department is intensively monitoring delivery of the NBS to ensure that all contractual commitments are fully met.
476 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a senior civil servant in his Department was the guest of an energy company at the Ireland versus France match in Croke Park on Saturday, 14 November 2009; if he will advise if other officers received invitations; if they attended the match and if departmental guidelines were fulfilled in this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43223/09]
I am advised that an official of my Department was a guest of an energy company at the Ireland versus France rugby match in Croke Park on Saturday 14 November last. The information requested in respect of any other members of the staff of my Department who may have been invited to or attended the match as corporate guests will be provided to the Deputy as soon as possible. In relation to receipt of hospitality, civil servants are covered by the Ethics Acts 1995 and 2001 and the Civil Service Code of Standards and Behaviour. In addition, my Department has issued a Personnel Notice on practice in relation to receipt of Gifts and Hospitality. These allow for the acceptance of hospitality in specified circumstances and I am satisfied that the hospitality referred to in the Deputy's question was not in breach of this Guidance.
477 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43408/09]
The costs for translating and printing documents into Irish from January 2008 and to date in 2009 are shown in the following table.
|
Cost of Translation |
Cost of Printing |
|
€14,571.58 |
€23,940.28* |
*This includes an amount €497.00 which is a combined translation and printing cost, as it was not possible to disaggregate the costs in this case.
478 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to ensure that surplus accruing to the ESB, including any effective subsidies to large electricity users, is remitted to the Exchequer in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37700/09]
While global energy costs have declined over the last year, Irish energy costs remain a significant concern for all sectors of the economy, having risen significantly above EU average in recent years. This is primarily due to structural factors including Ireland's high dependence on imported fossil fuels, geographic isolation, a small and widely dispersed population and programmes of very significant investment in energy infrastructure, following two decades of under-investment in the networks. Recognising the concerns of indigenous business and the inward investment community, the Government has put in place a number of measures to mitigate the cost of energy for business. All electricity users benefitted in 2009 from direct subsidies totalling €567m. These were made up of an ESB rebate to consumers of €315m, a repayment of certain Public Service Obligation (PSO) levies of €87m and the deferral of some ESB network revenues until after October 2009.
In July the Government agreed that these subsidies will continue for large energy users at their current level until October 2010 and will then be phased out over the following two year period. In line with this Government decision, the ESB Board has agreed to pay a special interim dividend which is being used in the interests of the economy to fund the continuation of subsidies from October 1st 2009 to September 30th 2010. This special interim dividend is in addition to the dividend in 2009, which will be payable by ESB into the Exchequer in 2010 in accordance with the general dividend policy agreed between the Ministerial Stockholders and ESB in the context of the Strategic Framework to 2020. Consistent with previous dividends from the company, including the dividend paid by ESB in respect of 2008, current dividend policy is for a continued rate of 30% of profits after tax.
480 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the extent of the discussions he has had with his EU colleagues to co-ordinate action throughout the EU to promote the use of alternative energy production and discourage the activity of speculators in the energy sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41884/09]
The EU's Climate Change and Renewable Energy Package launched in January 2008 proposed a number of Directives with the aim of delivering on the European Union's targets for emission reduction and renewable energy by 2020. I worked closely with my EU Ministerial colleagues in the Energy Council and Commissioner Piebalgs throughout last year to reach agreement on the Renewable Energy Directive. The outcome, agreed in December 2008, sets an excellent framework for delivery on Europe's renewable energy objectives and was satisfactory from Ireland's perspective.
Under the new framework Directive covering the electricity, heat and transport sectors each Member State must achieve a binding individual national target by 2020 with the aim of contributing to the overall EU target of 20% of renewable energy consumption in the EU energy mix by 2020. In the transport sector, a minimum target of 10% of renewables (including biofuels and electric vehicles) is set for each Member States. The best way to reduce Ireland's potential exposure to any speculation in global fossil fuel markets is to significantly increase the use of renewable energy sources and deliver on energy efficiency improvements.
481 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the measures taken since December 2008 to develop a sustainable forestry sector as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report. [43131/09]
The objectives for forestry set out in the Report are the development of a sustainable sector to support rural employment, provide an indigenous renewable energy resource and help mitigate climate change. To achieve this my Department promotes the planting of new forests through a range of attractive support measures — the Afforestation Grant Scheme, the Forest Environment Protection Scheme and the Native Woodland Scheme. These schemes provide 100% establishment grants and annual premiums for up to 20 years.
In addition, my Department also provides supports towards the provision of forest infrastructure such as harvesting and management roads, along with grants to encourage forest owners to actively manage their forests and improve the quality of the final crop. Funding has also been provided for enterprises involved in the production and supply of wood fuels to the commercial and domestic heat sectors. My Department is committed to promoting and supporting a robust afforestation programme in order to achieve the objectives of the Report.
482 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the consent process for energy developments on the foreshore has been modernised. [43155/09]
The Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Bill currently before the Oireachtas will transfer certain Foreshore functions, including the licensing of energy related developments on the foreshore, from the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. The transfer of these functions will align the onshore and offshore consent processes within a single Department and thereby contribute towards the modernisation of the process.
483 Deputy Tom Sheahan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their full REP scheme four payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42569/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007–2013 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications, including plan checks, to be completed before the first 2009 payments issue. Processing of applications is at an advanced stage. I hope to be in a position to release the 75% payment due on valid applications in mid-December, and the remaining 25% once the last of the on-the-spot inspections for 2009 has taken place.
484 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Longford will receive overdue payment of their TB reactor grant. [42578/09]
Compensation is paid to herd owners under the TB and Brucellosis Eradication Scheme who have animals removed as reactors. However, entitlement to compensation is conditional on owners/keepers complying with the provisions of the Disease of Animals Act 1966, any Orders made under this Act and other national or EU legislative requirements relating to movement, identification and other controls laid down under the disease eradication schemes. In this instance, the herd owner concerned was restricted on the 3 April 2009. However, there are substantial unresolved discrepancies with regard to testing and registration requirements in the herd in question. My Department has written to the person concerned on a number of occasions and is in regular contact with him regarding these matters. While progress has been made in the last year, there are still a considerable number of issues outstanding and it is hoped that, with the continued co-operation from the herd owner concerned, the remaining discrepancies can be cleared. Compensation will continue to be withheld until the matters concerned have been resolved.
485 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the single farm payment will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42615/09]
An application under the 2009 Single Payment Scheme / Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on the 13 May 2009. This application was selected for and was the subject of a ground eligibility and full cross compliance inspection. T he inspection is completed and the application has now been fully processed. Payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme has issued, with payment on the Single Payment Scheme due on 1 December 2009.
486 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding an application for farm retirement in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42623/09]
An application from the person named has been received in my Department. All applications received up to the closing date of 30 October are being examined in my Department at present. The details of the application from the person named, as well as the funding available, will be taken into account in reaching a decision. As soon as the decision has been made, he will be notified of the outcome.
487 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a decision will be made on an application for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42684/09]
An application, from the person named, to purchase quota in the current Milk Quota Trading Scheme has been received in my Department. Details of all applications are currently being processed and it is expected that the results of the scheme will be made known in early December.
488 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his views on the freedom of movement clause in S.I. No. 14 of 2008, European Communities (Welfare of Farmed Animals) Regulations 2008. [42688/09]
Statutory Instrument No. 14 of 2008, European Communities (Welfare of Farmed Animals) Regulations 2008 gives effect to a series of European Directives concerning the protection of animals including Council Directive 98/58/EC of 20 July 1998 which lays down minimum standards for the protection of animals bred or kept for farming purposes. Among the issues covered in Council Directive 98/58/EC is one relating to freedom of movement which requires that an animal not be restricted in such a way as to cause it unnecessary suffering or injury and where an animal is continuously or regularly confined, it must be given the space appropriate to its physiological and ethological needs in accordance with established experience and scientific knowledge.
My Department has an inspection regime in place, which requires that all farm enterprises be inspected regularly to ensure compliance with national legislation. Mink farms are among the farm enterprises that are inspected regularly by Veterinary Inspectors of my Department and the keeping of mink is prohibited except under licence. Farms are inspected to assess compliance with the Council of Europe recommendations concerning fur animals and Council Directive 98/58/EC concerning the protection of animals kept for farming purposes. Inspections on these farms have to date, found that the farms are operating in compliance with current legislation.
High animal welfare standards are an essential component of modern farming and Ireland was among those member states that earlier this year supported the adoption at EU level of a Universal Declaration on Animal Welfare. The Deputy will be aware that under the renewed Programme for Government there is a commitment to phase out fur farming over three years and my Officials are currently assessing the legislative changes required to give effect to that commitment.
489 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42692/09]
The leasing arrangements for all of my Departments' offices are a matter for the Office of Public Works.
490 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the grants for aquaculture activities, including salmon farming which have been allocated by him or any agency acting under the remit of his Department, in accordance with EU programmes or national programmes to companies (details supplied) since 1980; the area of operation for which the grant was awarded to each company; the sum of money approved and money awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42721/09]
The question seeks data on projects going back to 1980. The files on many of these projects have been placed in storage at an archive facility by BIM, the agency that reports to my Department on these matters. As soon as the information has been retrieved, it will be forwarded to the Deputy.
491 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment will issue under the cow suckler scheme to a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [42771/09]
There have been a number of queries concerning calf births and registrations in the herd of the person named. My Department is in contact with the person named in this regard. Payment will issue as soon as these queries have been resolved.
492 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has received an application from a person (details supplied) in County Cork for consideration under the scheme of early retirement from farming; the date this application was received; if this application will be dealt with in the context of the recently announced initiative to deal with individuals who had applications well advanced at the time the scheme was suspended; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42878/09]
An application from the person named was received in my Department on 24 September 2009. All applications received up to the closing date of 30 October are being examined in my Department at present. The details of the application from the person named, as well as the funding available, will be taken into account in reaching a decision. As soon as the decision has been made, he will be notified of the outcome.
493 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the action he is taking to provide alternatives for collection of fallen animals on farms which was promised since April 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42879/09]
The disposal of fallen animals is subject to EU Regulations, notably Regulation (EC) No 1774 of 2002. These regulations require that animals which die on-farm must generally be disposed of through approved knackeries and rendering plants. My Department's contribution to the Fallen Animals Scheme ceased with effect from 14th April 2009. This was as a result of budgetary constraints and also reflects the greatly reduced incidence of BSE in this country. However I have continued to provide financial support for the collection of certain fallen animals, in particular bovines over 48 months of age, for sampling, as required under the ongoing national BSE surveillance programme.
With the ending of the Fallen Animals Scheme the cost of collection and rendering for animals not covered by the new scheme became a matter for negotiation between the individual collectors/rendering plants and their customers. My Department is continuing, within the boundaries of legal requirements, to make every effort to facilitate measures to maximise flexibility and enable reduction of costs in the rendering/collection system. This includes allowing cross border trade, permitting direct delivery by farmers to authorised plants, considering removal of some costs currently built into the rendering process and encouraging indigenous use of meat and bone meal (MBM) for energy purposes.
Approval conditions have recently been drawn up to facilitate the collection of fallen animals direct from farms by approved rendering plants, including arrangements to provide for TSE testing of these animals where required. Discussions are also ongoing between my Department and farmer and hunt representatives, to consider the feasibility of extending the network of plants authorised to act as knackeries.
494 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if proposed legislation will exempt plough dredging from new licensing arrangements; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that plough dredging does not require licensing in other EU countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42893/09]
The Foreshore and Dumping at Sea Amendment Bill now before the Oireachtas will transfer certain foreshore functions from my Department to the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government. In addition, the Bill will transfer responsibility for the Dumping at Sea Acts to the Environmental Protection Agency. Other than the transfer of functions, there are no significant amendments to the Acts contained within this Bill save for the modernisation of certain phrases and references. Plough dredging is regulated by the Dumping at Sea Acts as is dumping of dredge spoil at off shore locations,
My Department is fully conscious of the requirement for County Councils and Harbour Authorities to carry out dredging on a regular basis, and in all cases every effort is made to expedite the issue of the appropriate Dumping at Sea permit subject to the approval of the Marine Licence Vetting Committee. In particular, Dumping at Sea permits have been issued to Donegal County Council to facilitate maintenance dredging at Buncrana Harbour on a number of occasions, most recently in July of this year. This permit remains valid until the end of December 2009.
495 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will respond to queries raised by a person (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43012/09]
The holding of the person concerned has been restricted since 2 April 2008 following a post mortem check on animals sent for slaughter which disclosed TB infection in two animals. A TB skin test was carried out in May 2008 on the animals remaining in the herd and a further 9 reactors were identified. Further tests in the herd have resulted in a total of 25 reactor animals being removed. Compensation due under the TB On Farm Market Valuation Scheme has been paid in respect of all animals removed from the herd in question. With regard to the Income Supplement scheme, herd owners who have animals removed as reactors may, subject to qualification criteria, also be considered for additional compensation payments under this Scheme where disease breakdowns results in the removal of more than 10% of animals in a herd and where depopulation is not appropriate.
In breakdowns of this nature, the calculation of reactor numbers removed is based on the herd tests that takes place following the disclosure of infection as a result of the post mortem tests. Therefore animals that disclosed infection in the context of the post-mortem check are not included in that calculation because those animals were not removed as reactors by my Department. With regard to the calculation of the number of animals in the herd to be taken into account for this scheme, the position is that eligibility is based on the number of animals presented for the first herd test following the disclosure of the lesions and not the number of animals in the herd at the time of the disclosure of the lesions. On that basis, the number of animals removed to date is not in excess of the 10% threshold and the herd owner concerned was advised by the DVO in a letter dated 16 October 2009 that he is ineligible under the scheme at this time. The TB eradication compensation scheme provides an appeal process for herd owners which allows appeals to be submitted to my Department and, should that appeal be unsuccessful, there is an option to appeal the decision to the Agricultural Appeals Office.
496 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the 2009 equine laboratory report on the bacterial count on imported chicken fillets will be published; the action he is taking to ensure that imported chicken fillets are safe for human consumption; if the findings of the laboratory studies on bacteria on imported chicken fillets has been drawn to the attention of the EU Agriculture Commissioner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43023/09]
My Department had analyses conducted at the Irish Equine Centre on samples of imported poultry this year. This was specifically in the context of the gas flushing of poultry meat. The results of these analyses are presently being assessed and any follow-up action, including dissemination of information, that is considered necessary will be taken. My Department is working in close liaison with the Food Safety Authority of Ireland on this matter. The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has issued guidelines on the handling of gas-flushed poultry. The safety of food being marketed in the EU is controlled through a far-reaching range of veterinary legislation. Compliance is monitored by the competent authority in the country of production. Once food, including poultry meat, is fit for human consumption it can circulate freely within the Union. There are also extensive controls on products imported from third countries. Such products must have originated in a country approved by the EU for trade, have been produced in an approved establishment, be appropriately labelled and transported and be landed at an approved border inspection post. The appropriate veterinary health certificate, verifying conformity with animal and public health requirements, must accompany the consignment.
497 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason non-genetically modified feed is not available to farmers wanting to avail of the GM free logo being promoted in the revised programme for Government; the reason non-GM feed has been in short supply and more costly than in other EU markets since 2004; if the Minister intending to review this situation. [43034/09]
While animal feed protein derived from non-GM crop varieties is available on the world market, protein feed materials derived from non-GM soya and maize are more expensive than their GM counterparts. This is due to reduced cultivation level of the non-GM varieties, and the extra costs associated with ‘identity preservation’ i.e. the process of segregating non-GM from GM crops. While the additional costs for protein feed materials derived from non-GM soya and maize vary according to the state of the commodity markets and the nature of demand, Irish feed industry sources suggest that there is currently a significant price premium for non-GM soya ex Brazil. Over 95% of imported soya and maize by-products, used as protein feed materials for Irish livestock, are declared as having been derived from authorised GM crops. My Department in conjunction with the Department of Health and Children is examining the introduction of the new voluntary food GM-free logo as provided for in the Programme for Government.
498 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to reintroduce the young farmers installation aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43087/09]
The Young Farmers' Installation Scheme was closed to new applicants on 14 October 2008 and I have no immediate plans to reopen entry to the Scheme at this time. I have, however, made provision of €9.75 million in 2009 to meet the existing commitments under the Young Farmers' Installation Scheme and the preceding equivalent schemes.
499 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applicants in County Galway who will lose out financially as a result of the cut back in the suckler cow scheme and the disadvantaged area scheme; the amount involved in relation to each scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43099/09]
There are 5,594 County Galway farmers in the Suckler Welfare Scheme. These farmers had 75,887 animals eligible for payment in 2008. The number of animals payable for 2009 will not be known until all the measures have been completed and all the information has been returned by the farmers and processed by my Department. Under the 2009 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme, 3,485 farmers in Co.Galway have been affected by the reduction in the maximum payable area to 34 hectares, resulting in a cumulative reduction of €2.8 million in their payments. However, 8,750 farmers have not been affected by this reduction in the maximum payable area.
Against the background of the deterioration in public finances, my approach in preparing the 2009 Estimates for my Department was to protect expenditure for major developmental measures in the agrifood sector. To achieve this objective, savings had to be found in other areas and I decided, reluctantly, to reduce expenditure under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme for 2009 by reducing the maximum area limit to 34 hectares. However, notwithstanding the reduction in funding, the total amount available under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme in 2009 is €220 million. This represents a substantial injection of funds paid to farmers situated in the areas and the Scheme continues to be one of the best-funded Disadvantaged Areas Schemes in the European Union.
500 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will reconsider his proposal for the introduction of electronic sheep tagging in view of the depressed state of the sheep industry and the rapid decline in the number of sheep here; the cost per head of tagging on individual animals; his views on whether it is necessary to change from the system for identification and for traceability purposes; the estimated cost of introducing this scheme at national level; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43100/09]
The introduction of electronic identification (EID) for 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 set for 31 December 2009, 6 years after the original decision was taken. I have no discretion as regards the date of implementation. I have always had the greatest reluctance in relation to the mandatory introduction of EID. My consistent view has always been that the introduction of EID of sheep should only have been introduced on a voluntary basis. There is, and always has been, a lack of sufficient support from the other EU Member States or from the European Commission for a voluntary scheme.
In the discussions in Brussels, a number of measures have been negotiated intended to minimise any inconvenience in its introduction. In particular, provision has been made to exempt from EID, lambs under 12 months of age and that are intended for slaughter. This means that the vast majority of Irish sheep will not be affected by the EID requirement. Primarily only those animals retained for breeding over the coming years would have to be electronically tagged and so the additional costs to farmers in any given year are being kept to a minimum. Given that 70% of Irish flocks have less than 100 sheep, the vast majority of farmers will have a maximum additional annual cost of €30.
If EID is largely confined to replacement breeding stock in 2010 it is likely that no more than 450,000 sheep will be subject to EID. The additional overall cost is estimated to be approximately €700,000. The European Commission for its part has estimated the cost of an electronic identifier to be within the range of €1-€2. It is my intention that the scheme to be introduced during the course of next year will be implemented in consultation with the stakeholders and will take appropriate account of Irish conditions.
501 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the amount of grant aid paid out for the years 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009 in County Galway under the farm waste scheme; the amount due but not to be paid in 2009, 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43101/09]
Expenditure under the Farm Waste Management Scheme in County Galway since 2007 is set out in the following table:
|
Year |
Amount |
|
€m |
|
|
2007 |
8.771 |
|
2008 |
33.159 |
|
2009 (to date) |
11.978 |
|
Total |
53.908 |
Payments under the Scheme in 2009 (excluding payments under the Scheme which preceded the Nitrates version of the Scheme introduced in March 2006) have been made on an instalment basis with 40 per cent being paid this year as claims are approved. A further 40 per cent will be paid in early January 2010 and the remaining 20 per cent in January 2011. I have also announced that a special ex-gratia payment not exceeding 3.5 per cent of the value of the deferred amount will be made to farmers whose Farm Waste Management grants have been partially deferred. This payment will be made in January 2011 along with the final instalment.
502 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will allow for the burial of dead animals on farms when all necessary health and safety matters are adhered to and animal identity is recorded and verified; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43102/09]
The burial of dead animals on farms is not generally permitted under EU Regulations, notably Regulation (EC) No. 1774/2002. The basic legal requirement is that animals which die on farms must generally be disposed of through approved knackeries and rendering plants. Burial of fallen animals is only permissible under licence in remote areas i.e. islands and listed mountain or bog land areas. Farmers who wish to bury animals on-farm should apply to their local District Veterinary Office for a burial licence.
503 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of applicants in County Galway in REP scheme three and REP scheme four; the number of persons who will complete the REP scheme in 2009, 2010 and 2011; the number of persons who will complete REP scheme four in County Galway; the income loss for each of these years to the applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43103/09]
The following are the numbers of REPS contracts in County Galway and the years in which they expire:
|
Scheme |
Number (approximately) |
Last year of Contract |
Cost per year (approximately) |
|
€million |
|||
|
REPS 3 |
1,253 |
2009 |
7.7 |
|
REPS 3 |
1,057 |
2010 |
6.5 |
|
REPS 3 |
3,147 |
2011 |
19.5 |
|
REPS 4 |
25 |
2012 |
0.1 |
|
REPS 4 |
1,237 |
2013 |
7.6 |
|
REPS 4 |
1,473 |
2014 |
9.1 |
|
REPS 4 |
167 |
2015 |
1.0 |
Of the REPS 3 participants listed above, 692 have applied to join REPS 4. It is not possible from the information to hand so say in which years their REPS 3 contract would have finished. As with all agri-environmental schemes, payments in REPS are justified on the basis that they compensate farmers for income lost and additional costs arising from their undertakings. There is also provision for a small "transaction cost". My officials are currently in discussions with the European Commission on a new agri-environmental scheme and it is my intention that farmers leaving REPS will be able to apply for it.
504 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will reintroduce the installation aid grant and the early retirement scheme in order to encourage young farmers to enter farming rather than lose them to the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43104/09]
The Young Farmers' Installation Scheme was closed to new applicants on 14 October 2008 and I have no immediate plans to reopen entry to the Scheme at this time. I have, however, made provision of €9.75 million in 2009 to meet the existing commitments under the Young Farmers' Installation Scheme and the preceding equivalent schemes. When the Early Retirement Scheme was suspended it became apparent that there were a certain number of farmers who had their preparations to apply for the Scheme completed or close to completion at that point. Consequently, I took the decision to re-open the Scheme temporarily on 23 September 2009 with limited additional funding with a view to accepting as many as possible of the applications that fell into this category. My Department received a further 175 applications up to the closing date of 30 October 2009. These applications are currently being examined.
505 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the extent to which the major on-farm investment in infrastructure envisaged in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report has occurred since December 2008. [43127/09]
In Building Ireland’s Smart Economy A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal, the Government recognized that major on-farm investment in infrastructure would ensure more efficient and sustainable production methods in Irish agriculture. As part of this strategy, my Department has continued to make very substantial payments under the following on-farm investment schemes since the beginning of 2009:
|
Scheme |
Amount Paid |
|
€m |
|
|
Farm Waste Management |
242.9 |
|
Farm Improvement |
24.6 |
|
Dairy Hygiene |
3.4 |
|
Pig Welfare |
1.4 |
|
Alternative Enterprises |
0.7 |
|
Total |
273.0 |
In addition, as part of proposals in relation to the use of unspent Single Payment Scheme and Modulation funds and the European Economic Recovery Programme, I have announced that, in the case of on-farm investment schemes, I intend to introduce support for a number of specific categories of farmers which shall be focused on supporting productive investment. The measures shall include:
A scheme for young dairy farmers to make the necessary investment to adjust to expanding dairy opportunities and promote the operation of cost-effective commercial operations by young farmers;
Aid for sheep fencing and handling facilities to assist sheep farmers in reducing labour input in a vulnerable sector;
Aid for young trained farmers for water harvesting and conservation equipment, which will reduce water costs on farms;
Animal welfare grants (a) for pig producers to assist in the conversion to loose housing for sows; and (b) for poultry producers to assist in the conversion to enriched cages, free range or barn systems.
The measures will be strictly cash-limited and are currently being considered by the EU Commission. The measures will be introduced as soon as relevant EU approval has been obtained and following agreement on the specific cash-limits available for each measure.
506 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the new milk quota trading scheme has increased the efficiency and competitiveness of milk production since December 2008 as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43128/09]
Increasing the efficiency and competitiveness of milk production includes getting milk quota into the hands of those best placed to use it effectively, at reasonable cost. The Milk Quota Trading Scheme has been very successful on both fronts. Since its inception, the Trading Scheme has allowed more than 2,800 sales of quota to be conducted, accounting for the trade of 375 million litres of quota. This means that the Trading Scheme has facilitated about 2,000 quota holders in exiting from milk production at a market rate of return for their quota that has typically been far in excess of anything they could have achieved under its predecessor, the Milk Quota Restructuring Scheme.
In providing this attractive means of exit, the Trading Scheme has ensured that quota has moved smoothly from those no longer wishing to remain in milk production to those who can use that quota to make their dairy enterprises more efficient. Most importantly, those seeking quota have been able to purchase it in far greater quantities (up to 80,000 litres) under the Trading Scheme than under the Restructuring Scheme, which has been critical to their efforts to increase efficiency. In this manner the Scheme is contributing to a progressive improvement in the competitiveness of milk production in Ireland.
507 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the extent to which a beef and sheep meat industry investment fund has been advanced since December 2008 as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43129/09]
Details of the projects to be supported under a capital investment aid scheme for the beef and sheepmeat primary processing sectors were announced in May of this year. 15 projects were approved for grant assistance of over €69 million. The grant awards, which are part of a strategy to ensure the long-term competitiveness of the industry, will contribute to total investment in the region of €168 million. Details of the awards are in Appendix 1.
This Beef and Sheepmeat Investment Fund is financed by my Department and managed by Enterprise Ireland. The selection of projects followed careful assessment and evaluation by an expert committee comprising members from Enterprise Ireland, my Department, Bord Bia, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, private industry and academia. The investment will support increased 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 fund is expected to achieve over €400 million in additional sales and exports, and a net expansion of 800 in employment following its completion in 2012. The investment projects are progressing well and a number of grant payments are expected to be made before the end of the year.
|
Company name and location |
Project |
Capital spend Proposed |
Grant awarded |
|
€m |
€m |
||
|
Kilbeggan Abattoir Services Ltd. (KASL), Kilbeggan, Co. Westmeath. |
Invest in greenfieldslaughter plant in Co Westmeath |
24.984 |
11.243 |
|
AIBP t/a AIBP Cahir, Cahir, Co. Tipperary. |
Add value & expand beef processing facilitiesat Cahir, Co Tipperary |
19.364 |
6.777 |
|
Dawn Meats Ireland Ltd. t/a Charleville Foods, Charleville, Co. Cork. |
Develop larger scale slaughtering and further processing facility in Charleville, Co. Cork |
14.223 |
5.689 |
|
Dawn Country Meats Ltd t/a Dawn Meats Ballyhaunis, Ballyhaunis, Co. Mayo. |
Develop high value slaughtering & processing plant for beef and lamb |
13.491 |
5.396 |
|
AIBP t/a AIBP Clones, Clones, Co. Monaghan |
Develop high value portioned meat business, Clones Co. Monaghan |
15.245 |
5.336 |
|
Dunbia (Slane), Beaupark, Navan, Co. Meath |
Consolidation to one site and development of added value product in Slane , Co. Meath |
13.173 |
4.611 |
|
Kepak Longford, Rathmore, Ballymahon, Co. Longford. |
Develop high volume stateof the art deboning operation |
11.361 |
4.544 |
|
Slaney Foods International, Bunclody, Co. Wexford. |
Investment in consolidated beef slaughtering and processing facilities |
11.268 |
4.507 |
|
Kepak Athleague, Athleague, Co. Roscommon. |
Integrated beef & lambproject to improve product quality & efficient processing |
9.988 |
3.995 |
|
AIBP t/a AIBP Nenagh, Nenagh, Co. Tipperary. |
Development of high value portioned meat business |
10.691 |
3.742 |
|
Irish Country Meats (Sheepmeat), Baylands, Camolin, Co. Wexford. |
Capital expansion to improve value added output and improve efficiencies |
8.860 |
3.544 |
|
Donegal Meat Processors, Drumnashear, Carrigans, Co. Donegal. |
Investment to improve efficiency and increasevalue added production |
8.050 |
3.220 |
|
Dawn Meats (Exports) Ltd –Grannagh, Wateford. |
development of facility to improve capacity, structure, and scale in Grannagh, Co. Waterford |
7.427 |
2.599 |
|
Liffey Meats (Cavan), Ballyjamesduff, Co. Cavan |
Upgrade to increase production of value added products |
6.581 |
2.632 |
|
Kildare Chilling Company Ltd., Kildare Town, Kildare. |
Produce more efficientvalue added beef products |
3.600 |
1.260 |
|
Total |
167.641 |
69.095 |
508 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the level of investment in developing fishery harbour infrastructure; if an aquaculture and fish processing investment programme as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report has been implemented since December 2008; and the status of the whitefish fleet decommissioning scheme announced in December 2008. [43130/09]
The Fishery Harbour & Coastal Infrastructure Development Programme provides funding for infrastructural developments at the six state-owned Fishery Harbour Centres and also provides co-funding towards works at fishery harbours owned by coastal Local Authorities. In excess of €19 million was spent on the Programme in 2008 and in 2009 expenditure is expected to be in the region of €15 million. Funding for the aquaculture and fish processing sectors is covered under the National Seafood Development OP 2007-2013. A draft OP was advertised for public consultation in October 2008 as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment.
During the consultation both the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on behalf of the Central Fisheries Board raised concerns regarding the granting of aid to projects where environmental issues arise relating to compliance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives and sea lice control on salmon farms. The Department is in close liaison with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and the European Commission with a view to agreeing an approach that will give the necessary assurances on the concerns raised that can facilitate the approval of the National Seafood Development Operational Programme 2007-2013.
The Decommissioning Scheme which was launched in February 2008 has led to 46 vessels being decommissioned and €36.6m paid to vessel owners over 2008 and 2009. In total 6,913 GTs and 19,356 kWs have been taken out of the Irish sea-fishing fleet which means a greater share of quotas for those remaining in the industry. The Decommissioning scheme is now closed.
509 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their REP scheme payment. [43159/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007–2013 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications, including plan checks, to be completed before the first 2009 payments issue. Processing of applications is at an advanced stage. I hope to be in a position to release the 75% payment due on valid applications in mid- December, and the remaining 25% once the last of the on-the-spot inspections for 2009 has taken place.
510 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the properties and liabilities that will be transferred from his Department to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government as envisaged by the Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Bill 2009; the value of such properties and liabilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43178/09]
The legislation provides for the transfer of all property rights and liabilities held by my Department to the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government following the commencement of the Bill. The functions transferring concern the processing of certain foreshore consent applications and associated coastal management functions. There are no significant property rights or liabilities associated with the administration of these functions.
511 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of first time applications and applications for renewal for foreshore licences, foreshore leases and aquaculture licences currently yet to be processed by his Department; when each application was first submitted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43179/09]
The information sought is not readily available in the format requested by the Deputy. My Department is currently examining its files and I will be glad to contact the Deputy directly regarding the matter.
512 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of licences which have been granted to date in 2009 for the site exploration or construction of renewable energy projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43180/09]
To date in 2009 one site investigation licence has been issued by my Department in respect of a proposed test site for renewable energy projects.
513 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of legal proceedings that are pending with regard to foreshore or aquaculture licensing; if it is expected that there will be financial implications for his or another Department resulting from the outcome of such proceedings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43181/09]
At present my Department has approximately 45 legal cases under consideration involving either Foreshore or Aquaculture licensing. Of these, 16 cases are currently before the Courts. The remainder are at various stages of legal preparation. Pending the judicial outcome in each case it is not possible to quantify the financial implications.
514 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of prosecutions carried out to date for offences committed under the Dumping at Sea Acts; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43182/09]
My Department has no record of prosecutions taken in respect of the Dumping at Sea Acts.
515 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the Department to which the Marine Institute will report following the enactment of the Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Bill 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43183/09]
The Marine Institute comes under the aegis of my Department. The Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Bill 2009 makes no change in relation to this.
516 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the baseline data being gathered by the Marine Institute to inform appropriate assessments for special areas of conservation and special protection areas to allow for fishing or other activities will be fully compiled; when it is envisaged outstanding issues will be resolved; when the national seafood development operational programme 2007 to 2013 will be fully approved and commenced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43184/09]
My Department and its agencies working with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government has developed a comprehensive plan to deliver compliance with the EU Birds and Habitat Directives for wild fisheries and aquaculture over a three year timeframe. A meeting between the Department, the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, relevant 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 at that time 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. However, it has more recently advised that it remains concerned about some aspects of the planned approach to delivering compliance for aquaculture licensing. The most recent views of DG Environment are being examined. In the meantime a programme of baseline data collection funded by the Department is being undertaken by the Marine Institute. Appropriate Assessments have been carried out by the Marine Institute in recent months prior to the opening of wild fisheries at Castleisland, Co. Kerry, and Dundalk Bay.
The National Seafood Development Operational Programme 2007-2013 draft was advertised for public consultation in October 2008 as part of the Strategic Environmental Assessment. During the consultation both the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources on behalf of the Central Fisheries Board raised concerns regarding the granting of aid to projects where environmental issues arise relating to compliance with the EU Birds and Habitats Directives and sea lice control on salmon farms. Pending resolution of these issues, the National Seafood Development Operational Programme has not yet been adopted.
The Department is in close liaison with the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and the European Commission with a view to agreeing an approach that will give the necessary assurances on the concerns raised that can facilitate the approval of the National Seafood Development Operational Programme 2007-2013.
517 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if a statutory timeframe for the processing of aquaculture licensing is provided for in legislation; if this statutory timeframe has been adhered to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43185/09]
Section 13 of the Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1997 sets down timeframes within which the Minister shall endeavour to determine an application for an aquaculture licence.
However, in the absence of a commencement order, there is no statutory timeframe in force for the determination of applications for aquaculture licences under the Act. Every effort is 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.
518 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of staff who will transfer or have transferred to the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government as a result of the transfer of functions relating to foreshore licensing; the location to which such staff will be placed; the number of staff who will remain within his Department to process aquaculture licensing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43186/09]
A total of 23 staff are scheduled to transfer from my Department to the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government to facilitate the transfer of functions under the Foreshore and Dumping at Sea (Amendment) Bill 2009. This number is comprised of 18 administrative staff currently based in my Department's offices in Johnstown Castle, Wexford. Five engineering staff members are also scheduled to transfer. The process of selecting engineering staff has yet to be completed.
The transfer of these functions will not affect the overall staffing levels within my Department's Fisheries Division in Clonakilty. Following the transfer of functions as envisaged in the Bill it is expected that there will be scope for internal reassignment of duties which will increase the number of staff working on aquaculture licensing.
519 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath will be awarded their REP scheme four payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43193/09]
REPS 4 is a measure under the current Rural Development Programme 2007–2013 and is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications, including plan checks, to be completed before the first 2009 payments issue. Processing of applications is at an advanced stage. I hope to be in a position to release the 75% payment due on valid applications in mid- December, and the remaining 25% once the last of the on-the-spot inspections for 2009 has taken place.
520 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the next tendering process for the farmers’ market in Howth harbour, County Dublin, will take place; if this tendering must take place before the end of 2010. [43207/09]
The position with regard to the future operation of the Farmers Market at Howth Fishery Harbour Centre is currently being reviewed by my Department. If a decision is made to issue a licence for the future operation of the Farmers Market, a tender process will be put in place at the earliest opportunity.
521 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43406/09]
It is the policy of my Department that most documents which require to be translated into Irish are published electronically rather than in hard copy.
The following is the information relating to the cost involved in the translation into Irish and the printing of those documents:
|
Year |
2008 |
2009 |
|
€ |
€ |
|
|
Translation |
37,838 |
16,454 |
|
Printing |
11,899 |
2,065 |
These figures do not include the cost of the work of staff of my Department in the translation of Documents.
522 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the arrangements he is making with the Higher Education Authority and the third level sector to cater for the increasing demand for places; if his attention has been drawn to the latest reports that show a substantial jump in the number of CAO applicants; if he will increase funding for third level in line with growing student numbers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42529/09]
The increase of 8% in overall CAO acceptances this year, following on from last year's increase of 6%, is a clear signal of the strong demand for higher education in Ireland.
My Department has invested significantly in higher education in recent years with funding of some €2 billion being allocated this year to the sector which includes recurrent and capital funding. Nonetheless, in light of reductions in budgets combined with increased expectations in terms of places in higher education there is a shared understanding across the sector of the need to ensure that maximum value is achieved from existing resources. In that regard the Higher Education Authority (HEA) is working closely with the institutions to effect economies across all levels of activity. The commitment of the institutions themselves to accommodating current increased demand at a time of significant budgetary pressures is very welcome.
As the Deputy is aware, the process to develop a new national strategy for higher education is now underway which affords a timely opportunity to review the environment for higher education and the challenges and changes that are impacting on the sector. An examination of the overall operational, governance and resourcing framework are important elements of the strategy review. The process will consider objectives for participation in higher education as a key aspect of its work.
523 Deputy George Lee asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will allow a person (details supplied) in County Dublin on the Higher Education Authority labour market activation programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42530/09]
Applicants for places on the programme referred to by the Deputy must meet the eligibility criteria established for this initiative, that is they must have a claim for Jobseeker's Allowance/Benefit of at least 6 months duration or have been made statutorily redundant. Individual applicants should address any queries in relation to their eligibility to the participating institutions.
524 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science if plans are in place to build an extension to a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; his views on whether this project is urgent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42533/09]
561 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the facilities at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal in view of the fact that the school’s gymnasium is used as a classroom, a staff room, a caretaker’s store, and a kitchen; his further views on whether this serves the physical educational interests of pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42904/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 524 and 561 together.
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for capital funding for a large scale extension project.
The application has been assessed in accordance with published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects and assigned a band 1 rating.
Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the project referred to by the Deputy, are now available on the Department's website at www.education.ie.
The priority attaching to individual projects is determined by published prioritisation criteria, which were formulated following consultation with the Education Partners. There are four band ratings under these criteria, each of which describes the extent of accommodation required and the urgency attaching to it. Band 1 is the highest priority rating and Band 4 is the lowest. Documents explaining the band rating system are also available on the Department's website.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.
It is my understanding that the school has a principal's office, a GP room, 7 permanent mainstream classrooms, 2 prefabs sanctioned for mainstream teaching and 3 prefabs for use as ancillary rooms. It is also my understanding that the school has 9 mainstream classroom groupings. Therefore the school has a classroom for each of its class groupings.
However, if there is an accommodation shortage at the school in the immediate short term, the Department grant-aids the provision of temporary accommodation in respect of schools requiring interim accommodation to cater for additional staffing allocations while awaiting the provision of permanent accommodation.
It is open to the school authority to apply to the Department for temporary accommodation. The application form RTA is available on the Department's website, www.education.ie
525 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students that dropped out of third level courses in the 2008-09 academic year; the number of students that have dropped out of first year third level courses to date in the 2009-10 academic year; if there will be an increase in the registration fee for third level students; and if he will introduce a change in the grant application for third level, a simpler application form available when students are still in sixth year of secondary school in order to expedite the processing of the grants. [42548/09]
The Higher Education Authority is currently conducting research on the numbers progressing in the third level system. The research will report on the progression of third level students from March 2008 to March 2009. This report will be available early in the New Year. Data on the 2009/2010 entrants will not be available until summer 2010. In relation to the issue of the student services charge, the Government has already announced that it is willing to accept increases of up to €1,500 (from €900) for the 2009/10 academic year in individual higher education institutions.
My Department is actively engaged in a programme of administrative and legislative reform of student grants. The overall objective of this reform is to facilitate the introduction of significant service level improvements in the administration of student grants.
In streamlining the process of applying for a student grant, this year, for the first time, a downloadable application form was made available on the www.studentfinance.ie website. The Department is actively engaged in the development of a new, more user-friendly application form for student grants. It is planned to make the new application forms available a good deal earlier in the year so that students can submit grant applications following completion of the CAO process.
526 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 267 of 15 October 2009, the reason for the delay in respect of the decision; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42553/09]
My Department's school transport section must be satisfied, in accordance with the terms of the scheme, that the pupil referred to by the Deputy, in the details supplied, attended the nearest recognised school that was resourced to meet his educational needs during the period in question.
In this case, enquiries are on-going to establish the facts and a decision regarding the payment of a transport grant will be made shortly. My Department will notify the Deputy of the outcome.
527 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has received an application for a new gym to be constructed at a school (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42588/09]
I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for large scale capital funding for a sports hall and for some ancillary accommodation.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.
528 Deputy M. J. Nolan asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an extension and refurbishment application by a school (details supplied) in County Carlow; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42593/09]
The project at the school referred to by the Deputy is at an advanced stage of architectural planning. My Department wrote to the school last week approving stage 2(b) — Detailed Design.
The school has been advised that its design team should now ensure that a full and complete, co-ordinated package of tender documents are available for issue to tenderers. When these are ready, the Board will write to my Department confirming same. Upon receipt of written confirmation from the school, my Department will approve the project for progression to Tender.
529 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will approve an application under the summer works scheme in respect of a school (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42594/09]
The closing date for the receipt of applications under the Summer Works Scheme 2010 is 27 November next.
Following an assessment process, projects will be selected for funding from all valid and approved applications on a top down basis in accordance with the prioritisation criteria published with the Scheme.
In keeping with the timetable published with the governing Circular letter, I expect to be in a position to publish the list of successful applicants in March 2010.
530 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of educational placements projected by his planning department as being necessary for primary and secondary level as per the last census for an area (details supplied) in County Kildare; if this is in line with the present available placements; if not, his plans to increase the present number of placements to meet the increases necessary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42596/09]
The Forward Planning Section of my Department is in the process of carrying out detailed analysis of over 40 locations of highest population growth in order to identify the school accommodation requirements up to and including the school year 2014/2015.
When the required reports have been completed for these initial areas selected the Forward Planning Section will continue to work on preparing reports on a priority basis for the remainder of the country.
Overall primary and post-primary accommodation requirements in the area referred to by the Deputy will be considered in this regard.
531 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Brian O’Shea den Aire Oideachais agus Eolaíochta an féidir leis gealltanas a thabhairt nach gcuirfear an Chomhairle um Oideachas Gaeltachta agus Gaelscolaíochta ar ceal; agus an ndéanfaidh sé ráiteas ina thaobh. [42604/09]
Tá sé riachtanach laghduithe suntasacha a dhéanamh i gcaiteachas buiséadach insna blianta le teacht. Machnófar leibhéil caiteachais mo Roinnese mar chuid den phróiseas Meastacháin agus buiséadach do 2010. Áireofar anseo machnamh ar Thuarascáil an Ghrúpa Speisialta um Uimhreacha na Seirbhíse Poiblí agus Cláir Chaiteachais, agus is gnó don Rialtas iad na cinntí faoi na nithe go léir a éireoidh as sin.
Táim feasach faoi luach na hoibre a dhéanann COGG. Ní bheadh sé cuí dhomsa trácht a thuilleadh ar an gceist ag an dtráth seo ag feitheamh ar thoradh na bpróiseas breithniúcháin seo.
532 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the source of the figures regarding per capita usage of 3.5 cu. m of water in view of circular 0064/2009 issued by his Department; the source that suggests that 2.1 cu. m of water is considered best practice; if he will provide a copy of the data; if the data are based on a survey of schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42605/09]
546 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will seek clarification from each local authority of the consolidated charge per cu. m of water used by each primary and post-primary school; if he will provide such information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42673/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 532 and 546 together.
The source data for per capita usage of 3.5 cubic metres of water is Circular WSP1/08 which was issued by the Water Service Policy Section of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government.
This Circular refers to published UK best practice, which is detailed in CIBSE Guide L published in May 2007 and entitled "Sustainability". This report suggests best practice benchmarks of 2.7 cubic metres per pupil per year at both primary and post primary level.
In comparing UK figures against anticipated usage in Irish schools, a number of factors were taken into consideration. For example, most UK schools have catering facilities for students, while most Irish schools do not. The UK school year is also longer than the Irish school year. Consequently the expectation is a lower best practice figure for water consumption in Irish schools.
An independent report was carried out for my Department on water consumption in 3 schools. On the basis of the outcome of this report and taking the UK position into consideration, best practice water consumption was set at an average of 2.1 cubic metres per pupil.
An internal report on Rain Water Recovery in GRD (Generic Repeat Design) schools was produced by an independent Building Services Consultant. This report also suggests water usage rates per pupil in each school at just over 2 cubic metres per pupil per year.
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department has introduced a Water Conservation Measures initiative as part of the Summer Works Scheme 2010. The Department will monitor the outcome of this initiative using its energy website www.energyeducation.ie. Best practice usage may change based on the data collated under this exercise.
My Department has feedback from some local authorities on metered water consumption. However, it is not its intention to seek comprehensive information from all local authorities on this issue at this time.
I will arrange for additional background information on water usage in schools to be forwarded to the Deputy.
533 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of a school (details supplied) in County Cork on the school building programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42608/09]
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to the Department for capital funding for the provision of a new school.
The application has been assessed in accordance with published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects and assigned a band 1 rating. The long term projected enrolment for the proposed new school is a Principal + 12 Mainstream Teachers.
Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the project referred to by the Deputy, are now available on the Department's website at www.education.ie.
The priority attaching to individual projects is determined by published prioritisation criteria, which were formulated following consultation with the Education Partners. There are four band ratings under these criteria, each of which describes the extent of accommodation required and the urgency attaching to it. Band 1 is the highest priority rating and Band 4 is the lowest. Documents explaining the band rating system are also available on the Department's website.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression the project at this time.
534 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of Travellers enrolled in vocational training opportunities schemes, back to education initiatives and other adult literacy programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42619/09]
535 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of Travellers that completed awards by name and type for the past five years outside of traveller centres of education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42620/09]
536 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of Travellers that completed awards by name and type for the past five years in dedicated traveller centres of education; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42621/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 534 to 536, inclusive, together.
The number of awards achieved by Travellers participating in the Senior Traveller Training Centre (STTC) programme is set out in the attached table. This is based on an annual survey conducted of STTCs. The number of Travellers achieving these awards is not available.
Travellers are a target group within the Back to Education Initiative (BTEI). The number of self-declared Travellers participating in the BTEI annually since 2005 is set out below (with the total number of participants). However, the number of awards achieved is not broken down by target group.
|
Year |
Travellers |
Total |
|
2005 |
899 |
22,019 |
|
2006 |
1,067 |
24,728 |
|
2007 |
844 |
25,860 |
|
2008 |
1,171 |
27,104 |
Travellers are not identified as a separate group within the Vocational Training Opportunity Scheme (VTOS) or the Adult Literacy scheme so the information requested by the Deputy in relation to certification and participation in these programmes by Travellers is not available.
|
Numbers of awards achieved at various levels — 2007 and 2008 |
||
|---|---|---|
|
2007 |
2008 |
|
|
FETAC Record of Achievement — minor award; |
||
|
FETAC Level 1 minor award |
14 |
12 |
|
FETAC Level 2 minor award |
21 |
33 |
|
FETAC level 3 minor award |
669 |
575 |
|
FETAC Level 4 minor award |
70 |
116 |
|
FETAC Level 5 minor award |
26 |
48 |
|
800 |
784 |
|
|
FETAC major awards (full award); |
0 |
|
|
FETAC Level 1 major award |
2 |
4 |
|
FETAC Level 2 major award |
0 |
0 |
|
FETAC Level 3 major award |
79 |
67 |
|
FETAC Level 4 major award |
0 |
9 |
|
FETAC Level 5 major award |
41 |
14 |
|
Junior Cert (less than 5 subjects) |
50 |
52 |
|
Junior Cert (5 subjects or more) |
23 |
26 |
|
Leaving Certificate Applied |
104 |
58 |
|
Leaving Certificate |
28 |
4 |
|
City and Guilds |
0 |
25 |
|
Other |
15 |
10 |
|
ECLD |
7 |
0 |
|
349 |
269 |
|
|
Total |
1,149 |
1,053 |
537 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of a school building project (details supplied) in County Limerick; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42624/09]
The tender report for the project to which the Deputy refers was recently received in my Department. The report is currently being assessed by the Professional and Technical staff of the Building Unit. Provided there are no issues arising therefrom, the school will be authorised to proceed to the construction stage.
538 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Education and Science if a full-time special needs assistant will be provided to a child (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42631/09]
As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers, for allocating resource teachers and special needs assistants to schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.
I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.
All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.
539 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 229 of 12 November 2009 if the receiver has withdrawn from the contract; and if so, the arrangement for retendering for the project. [42638/09]
The Receiver and Manager appointed to the project to which the Deputy refers has confirmed that he does not wish to complete the project.
My officials are managing the situation and have been liaising with the Design Team, the Receiver, the Bondsman and the school authorities.
It is the Department's intention to have this project back on site as soon as possible, in accordance with public procurement procedures. In this regard it is anticipated that the project will go out to tender in the coming weeks.
540 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Education and Science when a higher education grant from Kildare County Council will be awarded to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42657/09]
The decision on eligibility for student grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority — i.e. the Local Authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is required.
If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC.
Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the assessing authority, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in her/his case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.
No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.
541 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding by way of grant or subsidies or other supports granted to a college (details supplied) in County Dublin for each of the past five years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42661/09]
My Department provides grant aid to the National Learning Network (NLN), previously known as Rehab, to facilitate the delivery of an education service to young adults with learning disabilities in a number of centres nationwide.
This grant is administered by the NLN from its location in Roslyn Park College.
The information requested by the Deputy, in respect of funding provided by my Department in the last five years is detailed as follows:
|
School Year |
€ |
|
2004/05 school year: |
617,849.76 |
|
2005/06 school year: |
698,179.20 |
|
2006/07 school year: |
580,929.30 |
|
2007/08 school year: |
1,060,941.39 |
|
2008/09 school year: |
938,658.83 |
542 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science the position regarding an application under the schools building programme for extension and alteration works by a school (details supplied) in County Laois; when the project will proceed to tender; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42662/09]
The project to which the Deputy refers is at an advanced stage of architectural planning.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction is dependent on the prioritisation of competing demands on the funding available under the Department's capital budget.
The proposed building project will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme for 2010 and subsequent years. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of my Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the delivery of the project at this time.
In the interim the school has recently been allocated an all-in grant for the provision of an additional classroom to meet its current needs.
543 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Education and Science if a meeting has been arranged with representatives from a school (details supplied) in County Laois; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42663/09]
I will arrange for officials in my office to provide the information to the Deputy directly.
544 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Education and Science when he expects to make a final decision on whether he will sanction a post-primary school managed by Educate Together. [42670/09]
545 Deputy Mary Alexandra White asked the Minister for Education and Science his view on whether the sanctioning of a post-primary school under Educate Together management would involve the creation of a new governance structure. [42671/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 544 and 545 together.
Officials from my Department recently met with representatives from Educate Together and there was a wide-ranging discussion about the issues surrounding Educate Together's application to become a patron at second level.
My Department is currently considering a number of broad policy issues relating to the recognition process for second level schools and the application from Educate Together to be recognised as a patron body at second level is being fully examined within the context of legal, financial and other factors that I must consider. The question of the governance structure is also being considered as part of that assessment.
In view of the range of issues involved, it has not been possible to bring this matter to a conclusion as quickly as I would have liked. However, it is my intention to convey a decision to Educate Together at the earliest date possible.
547 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of press releases issued by his Department since 6 November 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42674/09]
My Department issued 10 press releases from 6 November, 2009 to date.
548 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science his plans for a school site (details supplied) in Dublin 24; if he will ensure the site is kept in a tidy condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42678/09]
The Forward Planning Section of my Department is in the process of carrying out detailed analysis of over 40 locations of highest population growth in order to identify the school accommodation requirements up to and including the school year 2014/2015. Overall primary and post-primary accommodation requirements in the area referred to by the Deputy will be considered in this regard.
With regard to the upkeep of the site, a boundary fence has been erected around the site. The Department is not aware that there are any issues regarding the condition of the site.
However my officials will undertake a technical inspection of the site to ensure that same is maintained in good condition.
549 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 1160 of 3 November 2009 if he will provide information regarding the number of higher education institutes which provide an accredited learning-to-learn module. [42679/09]
The table outlines the position regarding the provision of accredited learning-to-learn modules in publicly funded higher education institutions.
|
Institution |
Learning to Learn Module Available? |
|
University College Cork |
Yes |
|
University College Dublin |
Yes |
|
National University of Ireland, Galway |
Yes |
|
National University of Ireland, Maynooth |
Yes |
|
Trinity College, Dublin |
Yes |
|
University of Limerick |
Yes |
|
Dublin City University |
Yes |
|
Mater Dei Institute, Dublin |
Yes |
|
St. Patrick’s College, Drumcondra |
Yes |
|
National College of Art and Design |
Yes |
|
Mary Immaculate College, Limerick |
No |
|
St. Angela’s College, Sligo |
No |
|
IT Blanchardstown |
Yes |
|
IT Carlow |
No |
|
Cork IT |
Yes |
|
Dublin IT |
Yes |
|
Dundalk IT |
Yes |
|
Dún Laoghaire College of Art & Design |
Yes |
|
Galway Mayo IT |
Yes |
|
Letterkenny IT |
Yes |
|
IT Sligo |
Yes |
|
IT Tallaght |
Yes |
|
IT Tralee |
Yes |
|
Waterford IT |
Yes |
550 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on whether the making of conditional offers on post-leaving certificate courses by further education colleges before the annual leaving certificate examinations will encourage an attitude of complacency and act as a disincentive for students during their leaving certificate exams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42690/09]
The Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) programme provides an integrated general education, vocational training and work experience programme for young people who have completed their Leaving Certificate and adults returning to education. There are 31,688 PLC places nationwide.
Since its introduction in 1985, there has been a steady increase in older participants (age 21 and over) so that currently PLC participants are about equally divided between the school leaver cohort and participants who are older.
Applications for places on individual courses are made directly to the schools and colleges involved. Following an interview and assessment of suitability, conditional offers are usually made to applicants around May for courses beginning the following September. For school leavers, these offers are conditional on successful completion of the Leaving Certificate. This offers a clear progression route for school leavers and is an incentive towards successful completion of the Leaving Certificate.
551 Deputy Ciarán Cuffe asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will itemise the number of buildings that his Department leases; the annual rental and average price paid per square metre; if any review of the leases has been initiated to seek lower rents in the context of the current financial position; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42697/09]
The leasing of office property is the responsibility of the Property Management Services, Office of Public Works, which acts as an agent for all Government Departments. The terms of the leases are a matter for the OPW.
552 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will respond to correspondence from a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12; if he will address the valid concerns of this school; his views on whether this school was given inaccurate information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42717/09]
553 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Education and Science if he replied to a person while on an official visit to a school (details supplied) in Dublin 12 by stating that there was no money available for school buildings and he committed that he would review the application as a matter of priority should moneys become available; the way, in view of that commitment, he can justify diverting €200 million for the school building fund to provide a laptop and data projector for every classroom here in view of the dilapidated condition of prefabs in this school and many other schools and that in fact many teachers will not be able to use the said laptops and data projectors in the prefabs due to the dampness and poor security; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42733/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 552 and 553 together.
The main area where expenditure under my Department's capital programme for 2009 is less than anticipated is on Primary and Post-Primary major capital projects. These projects comprise new schools and major extension and refurbishment projects.
Any savings in 2009 relating to this is a deferred or delayed commitment. This commitment will now arise in 2010.
The progression of any further large scale building projects at this late stage of the year would not result in a spend on the Department's capital budget in 2009. This action would only result in further commitments for 2010 and subsequent years. My priority is to progress the current building programme as announced and I will be announcing a further programme for large scale projects in due course.
The ICT grant announced by the Taoiseach, Brian Cowen, T.D., on 16 November, 2009 is part of an action plan produced by the joint advisory group, which I established to assist with the progression of the integration of ICT in teaching and learning.
The plan builds on the earlier strategy group report, 'Investing Effectively in ICT in Schools".
Under the grant, every classroom in the country is to get a teaching laptop, software and digital projector over the next three years as part of a €150 million plan for 'smart schools'. As a first step, €22 million in grants will issue to primary schools before the end of this year of which €13 million is being provided under the School Building Programme. Funding for post primary schools will be made available early in the New Year.
Each school building programme comprises several elements between which the annual budget is divided. For 2009, these elements include:
Large scale building projects;
Smaller scale devolved schemes;
Temporary Accommodation Scheme;
Summer Works Scheme;
Energy Efficiency Scheme;
Asbestos/ Radon remediation;
Emergency Works Grants;
Furniture and equipment;
ICT Measures.
The school to which the Deputies refer has applied for funding under the large scale capital funding heading.
Consistent with all such applications, this application has been assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a Band 2 rating.
The project will be considered for inclusion in my Department's 2010 capital programme. However, due to the level of demand on the Department's capital budget, no commitment can be given for the inclusion of the project in that or any subsequent capital programme.
In the meantime, it is open to the school to which the Deputies refer to apply for funding under any of the other headings under my Department's capital budget which I have outlined like the temporary accommodation Scheme or the Summer Works Scheme to address any immediate needs it might have.
554 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students in receipt of student grants from vocational education committees on a county basis; the number of students in receipt of student grants from local authorities on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42741/09]
555 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of students who have received their student grants from vocational education committees on a county basis; the number of students who have received student grants from local authorities on a county basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42742/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 554 and 555 together.
The information requested by the Deputy is as follows and has been supplied to the Department by the Local Authorities and the Vocational Education Committees. Students and parents should return all necessary supporting documentation as early as possible to assist the awarding bodies to make prompt decisions on entitlement.
|
Number of Students Paid as at 18 November 2009 |
|
|
Name of Local Authority |
|
|
Carlow County Council |
390 |
|
Cavan County Council |
367 |
|
Clare County Council |
858 |
|
Cork City Council |
877 |
|
Cork County Council |
1,500 |
|
Donegal County Council |
660 |
|
Dublin City Council |
1,927 |
|
Dún Laoghaire County Council |
311 |
|
Dublin South County Council |
650 |
|
Fingal County Council |
500 |
|
Galway County Council |
1,980 |
|
Kerry County Council |
1,122 |
|
Kildare County Council |
635 |
|
Kilkenny County Council |
716 |
|
Laois County Council |
562 |
|
Leitrim County Council |
319 |
|
Limerick County Council |
300 |
|
Limerick City Council |
306 |
|
Longford County Council |
216 |
|
Louth County Council |
278 |
|
Mayo County Council |
899 |
|
Meath County Council |
406 |
|
Monaghan County Council |
445 |
|
Offaly County Council |
350 |
|
Roscommon County Council |
584 |
|
Sligo County Council |
490 |
|
Tipperary North County Council |
313 |
|
Tipperary South County Council |
464 |
|
Waterford City Council |
238 |
|
Waterford County Council |
318 |
|
Westmeath County Council |
558 |
|
Wexford County Council |
417 |
|
Wicklow County Council |
513 |
|
Name of Vocational Educational Committee |
|
|
Carlow |
560 |
|
Cavan VEC |
858 |
|
Clare |
653 |
|
City Cork |
653 |
|
Co. Cork VEC |
342 |
|
Donegal |
1256 |
|
Dublin City VEC |
851 |
|
Dublin County |
266 |
|
Dún Laoghaire |
355 |
|
Galway City |
640 |
|
Galway County |
930 |
|
Kerry VEC |
1,468 |
|
Kildare VEC |
352 |
|
Kilkenny VEC |
540 |
|
Laois |
467 |
|
Leitrim VEC |
533 |
|
Limerick City |
580 |
|
Limerick VEC |
361 |
|
Longford |
429 |
|
Louth |
1,081 |
|
Mayo |
662 |
|
Meath |
538 |
|
Monaghan |
870 |
|
Offaly |
275 |
|
Roscommon VEC |
527 |
|
Sligo VEC |
891 |
|
Tipperary NR |
631 |
|
Tipperary SR |
558 |
|
Waterford City |
505 |
|
Waterford County |
452 |
|
Westmeath VEC |
747 |
|
Wexford VEC |
860 |
|
Wicklow VEC |
547 |
556 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science the timeframe for the allocation of grants in respect of months when each payment should be received by a student; the provision being made by third level institutions for students whose grant payments are delayed with respect to registration, access to student services and facilities and exams; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42743/09]
The process of assessing eligibility for third level grants and the organisation, management and payment of student grants are matters for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies seek to ensure students get decisions on their grant applications and are paid as soon as possible.
The terms of the Higher Education Grants Scheme and the Vocational Education Committees' Scholarship Scheme for the 2009/10 academic year provide for the payment by the Local Authorities/VECs of each maintenance grant in three equal instalments as early as possible in each term with the individual payable orders being addressed to the grant holder c/c the Bursar's Office of the College.
Students and parents should return all necessary supporting documentation as early as possible to assist the awarding bodies to make prompt decisions on entitlement.
The Higher Education Authority on my behalf have requested institutions to be flexible in respect of the payment of the student services charge for those still awaiting a decision on their grant application.
557 Deputy Andrew Doyle asked the Minister for Education and Science if consideration will be made in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow in the allocation of their maintenance top up grant as part of the higher education grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42894/09]
The decision on eligibility for student grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority — i.e. the Local Authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is required.
If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC.
Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the assessing authority, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in her/his case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.
No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.
558 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of money spent by his Department on the rental of prefabricated buildings at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal since 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42896/09]
563 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the amount of money spent by his Department on the rental of prefabricated buildings at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal since 1990; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42906/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 558 and 563 together.
Details in relation to the amount of money spent on the rental of prefabricated buildings since 1990 at the school to which the Deputy refers is currently being compiled. I will arrange for the information to be forwarded to the Deputy shortly.
559 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has proposals to amend the processing of higher education grants and the grants appeals process administered through the local authorities (details supplied) whereby some students are having difficulty in obtaining sufficient information regarding proof of residential address; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42901/09]
For student grants purposes, students are categorised according to their circumstances either as students dependent on parents or guardians, dependent mature students or as independent mature students. An independent mature student is defined as a mature student who was not ordinarily resident with his or her parents from the October preceding entry to an approved course.
When assessing the means of students other than independent mature students, the schemes specify that parental income must be taken into account. Independent mature students, on the other hand, are assessed without reference to their parents' income. The reckonable income of an independent mature student is that of the candidate only and of his or her spouse where appropriate.
In order to establish a candidate's status as an independent mature student, documentary evidence is required as proof of a candidate's address from 1st October of the year preceding entry to college. In considering whether a mature student meets the conditions to be assessed independently of his or her parents, awarding authorities are obliged to satisfy themselves beyond doubt that an acceptable degree of proof of independent living in the relevant period has been submitted by the grant applicant.
The documentary evidence normally required by a local authority or VEC to establish independent residence includes utility bills, such as telephone, gas or ESB bill, evidence of registration with the Private Residential Tenancies Board or official documentation received at the address, for example, from a Government Department. In exceptional circumstances, where it is not possible to produce such proofs of residence in the relevant period for demonstrable reasons, the awarding authority may, at its discretion, agree to accept other documentary proofs. While an affidavit, if accompanied by other supporting documentation, may be considered as evidence of independent living, an affidavit in isolation is not considered acceptable as sole proof of residency.
The Deputy will be aware that, in witnessing an affidavit, the role of a Commissioner for Oaths or practising solicitor is to witness the signature of the person making the affidavit. They do not verify the contents of the affidavit. An affidavit is generally confined to such facts as the person swearing it is able of his or her own knowledge to prove. It is considered that it is likely to be of little value where a candidate is unable to provide any form of documentary evidence to support his or her assertions in this regard.
My Department has reviewed the use of affidavits in the context of proof of independent living and is satisfied that the current practice in this regard is both reasonable and appropriate.
560 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the median number of pupils per primary school classroom here; the median number of pupils per primary school classroom in Donegal; the median number of pupils per classroom at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42903/09]
Median class size is not used as a calculation in the Department. Individual class size for each school in the country is available on the Statistics area of the Department's website. (www.education.ie)
562 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on the enrolment processes at a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; his further views on whether the consistent annual increases in applications for enrolment indicate the need for a larger school building; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42905/09]
The question of enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools.
Under section 15(2)(d) of the Education Act 1998, each school is legally obliged to disclose its enrolment policy and to ensure that as regards that policy that principles of equality and the right of parents to send their children to a school of the parents' choice are respected.
Section 29 of the Education Act 1998, provides parents with an appeal process where a Board of Management of a school or a person acting on behalf of the Board refuses enrolment to a student. Where a school refuses to enrol a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to either the relevant Vocational Educational Committee or to the Secretary General of my Department. In the case of the latter, only where an appeal under Section 29 is upheld can the Secretary General of my Department direct a school to enrol a pupil.
The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which can assist parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The NEWB advises parents to apply to more than one school in order to assist in securing a school placement. The Board can be contacted at National Educational Welfare Board, National Headquarters, 16-22 Green Street, Dublin 7 or by telephone at 01-8738700.
The school to which the Deputy refers has applied to my Department for capital funding for a large scale extension project. The application has been assessed in accordance with published prioritisation criteria for large scale projects and assigned a band 1 rating. This rating takes account of enrolment patterns in the school.
Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the project referred to by the Deputy, are now available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.
The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction will be considered in the context of the school building and modernisation programme. However, in view of the level of demand on my Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.
564 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 468 of 17 November 2009, the specific date or timeframe for the delivery of a DS broadband solution to a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; if it is the fact that without knowledge of this date it is difficult for the school’s teachers and board of management to forward plan; his views on whether this handicap on educational planning at the school is not in the best interests of the school’s pupils; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42947/09]
I wish to inform the Deputy that the school in question is currently being installed with a fixed line/DSL solution under the second phase of the School's Broadband Programme. The DSL solution has been installed and delivery of a Cisco router is required to complete the connection process. I understand that this router is scheduled to be delivered to the school later this week, and this should lead to the school being fully connected.
565 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Education and Science his views on correspondence from an organisation (details supplied); his plans to overcome the concerns expressed regarding education; if he has examined the previous agreement made in the 1960s before he reached a decision on the changes that are the cause of the concerns expressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42949/09]
I wish to reassure the Deputy that I, along with my colleagues in Government, recognise the importance of ensuring that students from a Protestant background can attend a school that reflects their denominational ethos.
I have emphasised that the Government decided to continue to provide the Block Grant, which was increased this year. It is targeted as a support to individual pupils to enable them to attend Protestant schools.
I have made clear that I am prepared to work with the Protestant fee-charging schools to identify particular problems and issues that may be arising in some of their schools, or in respect of some students in their schools, and to examine how these might be addressed in a manner consistent with the Constitution.
In this regard I have met with Protestant educational representatives, including the Church of Ireland Board of Education; Monaghan Collegiate School; the Grand Orange Lodge of Ireland and the Committee on Management for Protestant Schools. In addition, my officials have also met with the Secondary Education Committee. I have explained that a simple reversal of the measures taken in Budget 2008 applicable to all Protestant fee-charging schools and determined solely on a denominational criterion was not legally possible.
I believe that engagement between my officials and representatives of the Protestant schools is the best way to seek to resolve the issues that are of concern.
566 Deputy George Lee asked the Minister for Education and Science further to Parliamentary Question No. 476 of 17 November 2009 the number of students in post-primary education in non-fee paying schools; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43024/09]
Further to Parliamentary Question 416677/09, I would like to inform the Deputy that the number for post primary enrolments is based on the returns from schools of students enrolled as at 30th September each year.
The number of students enrolled in non-fee paying schools for the 2008/2009 school year was 315,820, made up as follows; Mainstream, including pupils in the Junior cycle, Transition Year and Senior cycle 281,440, Post Leaving Certificate courses 33,368, and Core Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) 1,012.
567 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Education and Science if his attention has been drawn to the fact that as a result of the embargo on public service recruitment, only three staff members can be made available for the processing of higher education grant applications by County Wexford Vocational Educational Committee; the steps he proposes to take to address this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43040/09]
The process of assessing eligibility for third level or further education grants, and the organisation and management of student support scheme grants, are matters for the relevant local authority or VEC. These bodies seek to ensure that students get decisions on their grant applications and are paid as soon as possible.
Co. Wexford VEC has confirmed to my Department that, contrary to the Deputy's information, 3 members of staff are deployed on a full-time basis, as well as 0.5 of an officer for the peak period and two staff members during the late summer. In addition, a senior member of staff is involved in processing the grants in 2009.
The VEC has also confirmed to my Department that the biggest delaying factor in the processing of grants this year is that applicants have submitted incomplete application forms and have not provided the required supporting financial information. These incomplete applications require subsequent phone calls, e-mails and letters, frequently on more than one occasion, before they are fit for adjudication.
568 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has been refused their application for a higher education grant; if he will ensure that their application will be reviewed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43068/09]
The decision on eligibility for student grants is a matter for the relevant assessing authority — i.e. the Local Authority or VEC. These bodies do not refer individual applications to my Department except, in exceptional cases, where, for example, advice or instruction regarding a particular clause in the relevant scheme is required.
If an individual applicant considers that she/he has been unjustly refused a maintenance grant, or that the rate of grant awarded is not the correct one, she/he may appeal, in the first instance, to the relevant local authority or VEC.
Where an individual applicant has had an appeal turned down, in writing, by the assessing authority, and remains of the view that the body has not interpreted the schemes correctly in her/his case, an appeal form outlining the position may be submitted by the applicant to my Department.
No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.
569 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will support the case of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43076/09]
Under the terms of the Third Level Student Support Schemes, a student is not eligible for grant assistance in respect of a second period of study at the same level, irrespective of whether or not a grant was paid previously.
The objective of the student grant schemes is to assist as many students as possible in obtaining one award at each level including one undergraduate degree and to progress to postgraduate studies.
As the person referred to by the Deputy already hold a Level 6 award she is not eligible to receive further funding in respect of Level 6.
There are no plans at present to change the current arrangements. Any such proposal would have to be considered in the light of existing resources and other competing demands in the education sector.
570 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will respond to a matter (details supplied) in Dublin 5; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43088/09]
I have asked my officials to forward the information to the Deputy as soon as possible.
571 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will reconsider the reintroduction of the school book grant scheme in view of the hardship to families resulting from changed economic situations; the number of students receiving assistance in 2007, 2008 and to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43107/09]
The information required by the Deputy is outlined in the table. The Deputy will be aware, however, that in 2009, aid for school books was restricted to schools that have been included within the Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) scheme. DEIS is the action plan for educational inclusion and focuses on addressing the educational needs of children and young people from disadvantaged communities.
This payment was made in the form of enhanced capitation to DEIS schools. In 2009, over €3.81 million was paid to 673 DEIS primary schools. The enrolment in those schools on 30 September 2008 was just over 102,000 students.
At post-primary level, over €3.19 million was paid to 203 DEIS schools, with a combined enrolment on 30 September 2008 of just over 61,000 students.
The Renewed Programme for Government provides for funding to be made available to allow schools to provide grant assistance for books. The precise level of additional grant support will be considered in the context of the estimates and budgetary process for 2010. Schools will be advised of the arrangements following this process.
|
Year |
Number of students at primary level |
Number of students at post-primary level |
Total Number of students |
|
2009 (DEIS only) |
102,357 |
61,166 |
163,523 |
|
2008 |
156,145 |
129,020 |
285,165 |
|
2007 |
142,157 |
128,056 |
270,213 |
572 Deputy Ulick Burke asked the Minister for Education and Science if he is satisfied with the situation in relation to the upgrading of final grades in leaving certificate 2009 results whereby if a student was three or four marks short of a grade an increase to all students occurred without further reassessment of the scripts involved in a certain subject area; the number of changes in courses resulting from this upgrade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43108/09]
The upgrades were the result of a broadening of the marking scheme for LC Higher Level Biology during the appeals stage of the marking, and related to one part of a question which was valued at a maximum of 3 marks out of a total of 400 marks for the subject. The scripts of all candidates who appealed their Biology results were already reviewed during the appeal stage to allow for the application of the revised marking scheme, and 56 students received an upgrade as a result at that stage. Once the appeals were finalised, the scripts were reviewed in the case of a further 1,887 students of the total of 20,101 Higher Level Biology candidates whose score was within 3 marks of the next sub-grade, and a further 621 candidates received an upgrade. The scripts were therefore reviewed in the case of all candidates who had the potential to benefit from the revised marking scheme. All the students involved were contacted by the State Examinations Commission and the CAO was informed of the revised results. This resulted in a change in the offer of a college place for 44 students.
No area of human activity can be guaranteed to be error free. What is important is to have systems in place to identify errors when they arise and to rectify them as soon as possible. While it is regrettable that the problem arose in this case it is important to acknowledge that the steps taken demonstrate that the State Examinations Commission has a transparent, fair and robust system of checks and balances in place.
Within Higher Level Biology in the Leaving Certificate 2009, 4.5% of the candidate results were upgraded. Overall out of nearly 380,000 Leaving Certificate grades awarded 2,697 have been upgraded. This represents 0.7% of the grades awarded.
573 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps that have been taken by the relevant Departments, FÁS and Institutes of Technology since December 2008 to ensure that apprentices who were laid off are able to finish their apprenticeships as outlined in Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report. [43118/09]
The management of the Apprenticeship Training Scheme is the responsibility of FAS, which operates under the aegis of my colleague the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment. I understand that FAS is taking a number of measures to assist apprentices who have been made redundant secure the relevant on-the-job training phases necessary to complete their apprenticeship.
The Institutes of Technology have been working closely with FÁS to facilitate apprentices complete their training as quickly as possible and summer blocks in off-the-job training phases were held in a number of the institutes in 2009.
In addition, a new education programme has been developed by the Institutes of Technology for redundant apprentices, who cannot otherwise secure the job placements required in order to complete their normal apprenticeship programme. The programme focuses on developing core skills in maths, ICT and business in order to facilitate students progressing to other higher education programmes or to completing their apprenticeship at a later stage. Programmes commenced in September 2009. Participants will receive a FETAC Level 5 Certificate in Construction Technology or Certificate in Engineering Technology for this programme.
574 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps taken since December 2008 to encourage applications for courses at institutes of technology with vacant places; the steps taken by institutes of technology to develop additional national framework of qualification level six programmes in areas in which employment opportunities exist since December 2008 as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy report; if new measures have been introduced to make training and education services available to a greater number of unemployed persons. [43126/09]
Following a review by the Institutes of Technology of the scope to utilise vacant capacity, it was decided that placing people on programmes which had already started could disadvantage both existing students and the new students, some of whom may have been some time out of the formal education system. As an alternative 280 places were made available on a direct entry basis to a range of newly developed accelerated Level 6 Certificate programmes, which commenced between February and April 2009. Under this initiative unemployed persons were offered the opportunity to complete the first year of a standard two year programme in an accelerated manner so that they could move to the second year of the programme in September 2009.
Institutes of Technology also used spare capacity to provide over 900 places on a range of newly developed part-time transition programmes. These programmes were developed to assist unemployed people who may be some time out of the formal education system to find out more about the type of third level courses that may be suited to them and to build their confidence to return to education by developing some of the necessary skills for studying at third level.
2,500 new places have been made available for unemployed people on part-time undergraduate and postgraduate courses from September 2009. All 2,500 places are on courses that support the goals of the "Smart Economy" and particularly those relating to specific skills needs of exporting sectors identified by the Expert Group on Future Skills Needs. The scheme is open to people who have been on the Live Register for at least six months or who have been awarded statutory redundancy.
In addition, an additional 1,500 PLC places were allocated to VECs nationwide, bringing the total number of approved PLC places to 31,688 for the 2009/2010 academic year.
The scope to develop further responses is under consideration in the context of ongoing discussions with other Government Departments on developing appropriate upskilling training and education responses for unemployed people.
575 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the campaign to position Ireland as a destination of choice in the international education marketing through new regulatory and marketing coordination arrangements announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report in December 2008. [43139/09]
Arising from the commitment in Building Ireland's Smart Economy A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal, I announced details of the new regulatory, marketing and co-ordination framework to promote Ireland as a centre for international education on 1 September. The key arrangements are as follows. First, Enterprise Ireland will have responsibility for marketing and promotion of the "Education Ireland" brand overseas and will lead the development, promotion and marketing of international higher education. Second, Fáilte Ireland will continue to have responsibility for development and promotion of the English language sector; Third, the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland, and subsequently the amalgamated qualifications body announced under the 2009 Budget, will have responsibility for the regulation of international education programmes, including the introduction of a quality mark and code of practice for Irish providers of education to international students. Fourth, a new High Level Group on International Education will be established under the chairmanship of the Department of Education and Science and will bring together the key Government departments and agencies involved with the education providers themselves. The first phase of the Group's work will be the preparation of an action plan for enhanced performance. There has been considerable progress made to date in implementing the new arrangements.
My Department is currently working with the various stakeholders to re-allocate existing resources to support the new organisational arrangements. The International Education Board Ireland, a body under my Department's aegis, is being wound up and the staff and financial resources transferred to Enterprise Ireland, the Higher Education Authority and the National Qualifications Authority of Ireland. The Advisory Council for English Language Schools will be wound-up and the responsibilities and staff will be transferred to the National Qualifications Authority. I expect that the new arrangements will be in place by the beginning of 2010.
My Department is currently finalising arrangements for the High Level Group. In advance of this, it has been convening an inter-agency committee to facilitate greater collaboration and co-ordination among the State bodies involved in promoting international education. My Department is also represented on the Inter-Departmental Committee on Student Immigration and has been working closely with the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform and other Government Departments to facilitate a co-ordinated approach on this issue.
The forthcoming Qualifications (Education and Training) Bill will provide a statutory underpinning to the Quality Mark and code of practice. In advance of this, responsibility for the internationalisation register, currently maintained by my Department as a list of approved programmes which non-EEA students can attend if they wish to avail of access to the labour market during their studies here, will be transferred to the NQAI early in the new year, facilitating a more joined-up regulatory approach.
576 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the status of the new higher education strategy announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report in December 2008, for which a steering group was appointed in February 2009. [43142/09]
The process to develop a new national strategy for higher education is being led by a high level Strategy Group under the Chairmanship of Dr Colin Hunt. The group has met on eight occasions since its establishment in February 2009.
A vibrant responsive higher education system will be crucially important in terms of Ireland's future development and the Strategy Group are cognisant of the need to fully engage with all stakeholders in the sector and wider society. A first round of consultation was completed in the summer under which an open call for written submissions elicited a significant and valuable response. More than 100 submissions were received and are available on the Higher Education Authority website: www.hea.ie. I understand that the Strategy Group are undertaking additional detailed consultations to fully inform the development of the new strategy. I expect that the overall process of finalising the strategy report will be completed early in the New Year.
577 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps that have been taken since December 2008 to develop targeted bursary programmes with industry for engineering programmes; the further measures being considered to encourage high quality students to undertake priority areas of study as outlined in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; the way high quality students are defined and identified; the status of the implementation plan for the national skills strategy announced in December 2008. [43144/09]
The rationale for the introduction of bursaries or other measures to encourage high quality students to undertake priority areas of study would be to address a perceived lack of interest on the part of students in undertaking programmes in particular disciplines. Some €2.5 million per annum is allocated to the Discover Science and Engineering programme, funded by Forfás, to promote the take up of science, engineering and technology in schools and colleges, as well as an awareness of the importance of these disciplines in wider society. The latest figures from the CAO show that the number of people accepting third level places on engineering courses this year increased by almost 21% on 2008/09. In addition, the number of computing and science place acceptances is up more than 25%. This suggests that students are recognising the value of pursuing such disciplines. The introduction of targeted bursaries or other measures will be considered further in the light of industry views and the significant increases in enrolments that have taken place this year.
An Inter-Departmental Committee was established in February 2008 with a view to drawing up an Implementation Plan for the National Skills Strategy. The drafting of the Implementation Plan which is being co-ordinated by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, is at an advanced stage. However, the changed economic circumstances will certainly have an impact on the extent to which the targets contained in the National Skills Strategy can be addressed in the short term. The Implementation Plan is being updated to reflect these changing circumstances.
578 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the steps taken since December 2008 to expand the number of summer schools in science and engineering as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; if he will link young scientist winners with third level institutions or to a firm to enable them to develop their idea; if he will raise the profile of student enterprise awards run by county and city enterprise boards; if he will encourage second level students to participate in an enterprise related programme. [43145/09]
The Government's Framework for Building Ireland's Smart Economy committed to the expansion of summer schools in science and engineering with an emphasis on innovation and commercialisation. As the Deputy may be aware, there is currently a substantial calendar of summer schools in place across higher education institutions, targeted at both second-level and primary level pupils. Summer schools in the area of science and engineering cover a wide variety of activities, ranging from hands-on experimental work, science theory and career advice. These are designed to stimulate interest in science and engineering courses generally. The scope, including funding implications, for incorporating or expanding innovation and commercialisation activities within summer school programmes is being explored by my Department with the Higher Education Authority.
In relation to the young scientist competition, the event has been expanded this year to include a new business programme that will provide selected students with the opportunity to develop the business knowledge they need to turn their innovative ideas into commercial opportunities. The new programme creates a forum for 40 students to be mentored by leading executives and professionals from BT, IBM, Intel, Microsoft, Bombardier, Bord Gáis Éireann, IP Innovations, UCD, TCD, Engineers Ireland and Bank of Ireland. The students will gain practical business knowledge from the mentors through a series of workshops and master-classes on subjects such as: protecting intellectual capital, global marketing, international business, stakeholder communications, innovation principles, and business strategy. In addition, appropriate arrangements are being made so that summer placements in higher education institutions will be available for the top performing students in the competition next year.
The Smart Economy Framework also makes reference to raising the profile of the National Student Enterprise Awards run by the County and City Enterprise Boards (CEBs) and encouraging greater participation in enterprise related programmes.
Responsibility for the CEBs rests with my colleague, the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment. I understand that arrangements for the National Student Enterprise Awards 2009/10, including their timing and their location to a central Dublin venue, should ensure a higher profile for the programme. Furthermore, the Taoiseach announced the establishment of the Sean Lemass Award in June 2009, which will be presented to the overall winner of the Student Enterprise Awards. A fundamental aim of the award will be to encourage greater participation by students at second level in entrepreneurial activities, to encourage more schools to take part in enterprise award schemes, and to raise the profile of the schemes. The initiative will now be taken forward by an inter-agency group which will include officials from my Department and the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, along with representatives of the Transition Year Support Service, the CEBs and Enterprise Ireland.
579 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the work undertaken since December 2008 to enhance the role of information and communication technologies in the education sector as announced in the Building Ireland’s Smart Economy: A Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal report; the position regarding the expansion of the schools broadband programme; the number of schools which have been equipped with 100 mb per second broadband connectivity. [43146/09]
I wish to inform the Deputy that significant progress has been made since December 2008 to enhance the role of ICT in education. The Framework for Sustainable Economic Renewal, Building Ireland's Smart Economy, published in 2008 re-iterates Government policy to pursue the investment in school infrastructure, within available resources. The Framework commits to working to enhance the role of ICT in the education system, working in partnership with industry to invest further in the provision of equipment and connectivity.
My Department has recently participated in an industry advisory group to explore possible approaches to implementing the recommendations set out in the Strategy Group's Report, Investing Effectively in Information and Communications Technology in Schools 2008 — 2013. This industry advisory group which was chaired by Paul Rellis, Managing Director of Microsoft Ireland, and comprised members of ICT Ireland, the Telecommunications and Internet Federation, the Irish Software Association, officials from my Department, the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources and the National Centre for Technology in Education, published its report on the 16th of November. The report, which is entitled Smart Schools = Smart Economy, makes a number of recommendations including the establishment of an ICT in Schools Steering Group, with key stakeholders participating in the group i.e. teachers, parents, Government, industry and students. The Report also identified the need for significant investment in ICT for schools over the next three years. In this regard as a first step, €22 million in grants will issue to primary schools this month. In line with the Strategy Group and Industry Group Reports I have requested that schools give priority to ensuring there is a teaching laptop and digital projector in every classroom. It is intended that funding for post primary schools will be made available early in the new year.
Progress in other areas includes the prioritisation of the role of the school's ICT coordinating teacher, with the support of the school principal, as central in the provision of ongoing ICT support and advice to schools. A handbook, Planning and Implementing e-Learning in your School, has been provided for principals and ICT co-ordinating teachers, and nationwide seminars for Primary level on e-Learning are due to be rolled out over the coming weeks. The range of digital content, available on the web portal Scoilnet, is being extended.
In the area of broadband, my Department is currently awarding contracts under the second phase of the Programme and the indications from the recently completed evaluation of tenders are that this will mean enhanced bandwidth for schools. The indications also are that there will be significantly less schools dependent on satellite technology for their broadband connectivity.
I am also working with my colleague, the Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, to pursue the Government objective of equipping second-level schools with 100Mb per second of broadband connectivity and installing wireless local area networks. In this regard, 78 post primary schools have been selected to participate in a pilot project. I have been informed that the evaluation process has been completed, the preferred bidders selected and contract negotiations are expected to be completed shortly for the connectivity phase of the project.
580 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science the number of schools in County Donegal that are awaiting a new build, refurbishment or extension; the schools in County Donegal that are using prefabs as temporary classroom facilities; the cost of same to each school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43163/09]
Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including the Co. Donegal projects referred to by the Deputy, are now available on my Department's website at www.education.ie.
The priority attaching to individual projects is determined by published prioritisation criteria, which were formulated following consultation with the Education Partners. There are four band ratings under these criteria, each of which describes the extent of accommodation required and the urgency attaching to it. Band 1 is the highest priority rating and Band 4 is the lowest. Documents explaining the band rating system are also available on my Department's website.
A list of 61 applications from Co. Donegal schools currently seeking major capital works building projects is attached for ease of reference.
In the context of addressing accommodation needs in the short term, the Department grant-aids the provision of temporary accommodation in respect of schools requiring accommodation to cater for additional staffing allocations while awaiting the provision of permanent accommodation.
A table compiled from information sent to my Department by schools in Co. Donegal is as follows, which shows a list of schools in the county using rented prefabs as temporary classroom facilities. The rental cost per annum to each school is included in another table.
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
01733B |
Ardara Mixed N S Ardara (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
03294L |
S N Caiseal Na Gcorr Gort A Choirce (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
04809A |
Scoil An Aingil Choimheadai An Cheididh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
07143K |
Monreagh N S Monreagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
09009Q |
Rockfield Ns, Ballyshannon, (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 4 |
|
Donegal |
11843O |
S N Neill Mor Killybegs (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
12077E |
Scoil Naomh Fiachra Letterkenny (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
15770K |
S N Naomh Naille Na Caologa (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16138S |
Raphoe Central N S Raphoe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16608G |
Killybegs Common N S The Commons (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16819T |
S N Gort An Choirce Leitir Ceanainn (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
16821G |
Clochar Padraig Naofa Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
16837V |
S N Duchoraidh Duchoraidh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
16850N |
St Garvan’S N.S. Drum Halla (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17040G |
Sn Naomh Samhthann Drumdoit (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17057A |
Dromcaoin Bealach Fheid Dromcaoin (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17241Q |
S N Domhnach Mor Castlefin (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
17260U |
Scoil An Leinbh Iosa Killymard (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
17721H |
Scoil Treasa Naofa Malainn (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
17828C |
Scoil Adhamhnain Rathbhoth (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
17945G |
Scoil Naomh Chaitriona, Ballyshannon |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18058H |
Scoil Naomh Seosamh Rathdomhnaill (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
18129E |
Scoil Naomh Peadar (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18131O |
S N Muire Gan Smal Ard Aratha (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18251B |
Ayr Hill N S Ramelton Ramelton (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18286U |
S N Na Hacrai Ailt An Chorrain (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
18371L |
Scoil Mhuire An Craosloch (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
18520C |
Scoil Phadraig Rath Seinche (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18605K |
Scoil Naomh Padraig Boys Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
18625Q |
Scoil Colmcille, Convent Road, Letterkenny |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
18737E |
Scoil Bhride, Conmhagh, Lifford, (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
19009W |
Craanford N S Craanford (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
19228L |
S N Naomh Brid Na Dunaibh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
19310T |
Scoil Naomh Earnan (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
19313C |
Glenswilly National School, Newmills, Letterkenny |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
19518U |
S N Naomh Baoithin Sc Naomh Baoithin (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
19686S |
St Macartans Central Bundoran (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 3 |
|
Donegal |
19927O |
Scoil Mhuire B & C, Stranorlar |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
New School |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
19959E |
Scoil Naomh Fionan Whitecastle (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain, Buncrana |
Awaiting Appointment of Design Team |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
20096E |
Gaelscoil Na Gceithre Maistri Baile Dun Na Ngall (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
20097G |
Gaelscoil Bhun Crannach Bun Crannach (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
62770C |
Scoil Mhuire Secondary School St. Oran’S Road (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
62861F |
St Columbas College Stranorlar (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
71140Q |
Crana College Crana Road (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 1 |
|
Donegal |
71230R |
Deele College Raphoe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
71244F |
Gairmscoil Mhic Diarmada (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
76084L |
Moville Community College Carrownaff (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
81011L |
The Royal And Prior School Raphoe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91406R |
Carndonagh Community School Carndonagh (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
County |
School Roll No. |
School Name |
Current Status |
Application For |
Provisional Band Rating |
|
Donegal |
91407T |
Rosses Community School Dungloe (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91408V |
Pobalscoil Chloich Cheannfhaola An Fálcarrach (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
91409A |
Pobalscoil Ghaoth Dobhair Doirí Beaga (Donegal) |
Application |
Extension/Refurb |
Band 2 |
|
Donegal |
ED40023 |
Donegal Education Centre Donegal (Donegal) |
Application |
New School |
Band 2 |
|
Projects in Architectural Planning |
|||||
|
Donegal |
16672P |
St. Patricks Primary School, Lurgybrack, Co. Donegal. |
In advanced Architectural Planning |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
18052S |
Scoil Mhuire gan Smal, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. |
In advanced Architectural Planning |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
18219F |
SN Chonaill, Machaire Chlochair, Bun Beag, Co Dhun na nGall |
Detailed Design |
2.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamhnain, Letterkenny, Co. Donegal. |
In early Architectural Planning |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
20150H |
Holy Family NS, Ballyshannon, Donegal |
In advanced Architectural Planning |
1.4 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
62830R |
St Eunan’s College, Letterkenny, Co Donegal |
In early Architectural Planning |
1.1 |
Extension/Refurbishment |
|
Donegal |
91409A |
Pobail Scoil, Gweedore, Co. Donegal |
In advanced Architectural Planning |
4.1 |
PE Hall |
|
Roll No. |
Name |
Address |
County |
Annual Rent |
|
€ |
||||
|
07143K |
Monreagh NS |
Carrigans, Lifford |
Donegal |
14,197.31 |
|
11843O |
Niall Mor NS |
Killybegs |
Donegal |
16,110.90 |
|
12077E |
Scoil Naomh Fiachra |
Illistrin, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
12,003.40 |
|
12077E |
Scoil Naomh Fiachra |
Illistrin, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
12,004.40 |
|
12077E |
Scoil Naomh Fiachra |
Illistrin, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
12,004.40 |
|
12077E |
Scoil Naomh Fiachra |
Illistrin, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
14,531.40 |
|
13755E |
Gartan NS |
Chruchill |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
16138S |
Raphoe Central NS |
Raphoe, Lifford |
Donegal |
2,779.92 |
|
16242N |
Scoil Padraig Naofa |
Port an tSallainn, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
14,974.96 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
15,479.10 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
13,572.57 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
13,572.57 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
13,572.57 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
13,572.57 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
6,786.00 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
13,572.57 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
13,572.57 |
|
16672P |
St. Patricks GNS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
6,797.06 |
|
16672P |
St Patricks NS |
Lurgybrack, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
3,895.27 |
|
16821G |
St Patricks GNS |
Convent Rd., Carndonagh |
Donegal |
9,939.90 |
|
16821G |
St Patricks GNS |
Convent Rd., Carndonagh |
Donegal |
2,575.04 |
|
16821G |
St Patricks GNS |
Convent Rd., Carndonagh |
Donegal |
29,694.60 |
|
16836T |
St Brigid’s NS |
Glenmakee, Carndonagh |
Donegal |
*22,113.00 |
|
16836T |
St Brigid’s NS |
Glenmakee, Carndonagh |
Donegal |
|
|
17057A |
Scoil Phadraig |
Dromcaoin, Beal Atha Feidh |
Donegal |
11,688.10 |
|
17268N |
Creevy NS |
Ballyshannon |
Donegal |
29,160.00 |
|
17553M |
SN Taodhbhog |
Leitirbric, Cloghan |
Donegal |
18,561.14 |
|
17564R |
SN an Choimin |
Clochan, Leifear |
Donegal |
11,372.40 |
|
17721H |
Scoil Treasa Naofa |
Lifford |
Donegal |
12,446.46 |
|
17728V |
SN Talamh na Coitle |
Roughpark, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
12,636.00 |
|
17729A |
Magherabeg NS |
Magherabeg, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
8,213.40 |
|
17729A |
Magherabeg NS |
Magherabeg, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
15,479.10 |
|
18052S |
Scoil Mhuire Gan Smal |
Cnoc na Faire, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
12,320.10 |
|
18520C |
Scoil Phadraig |
Rasheeny, Clonmany |
Donegal |
16,742.70 |
|
18625Q |
Scoil Cholmcille |
Convent Rd |
Donegal |
13,267.60 |
|
18652Q |
Scoil Cholmcille |
Convent Rd |
Donegal |
13,267.60 |
|
18737E |
Scoil Bhride |
Conmhaigh, Leifear |
Donegal |
13,899.60 |
|
19310T |
St. Ernan’s NS |
Ballintra |
Donegal |
14,847.10 |
|
19313C |
Glenswilly NS |
Newmills, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
6,160.05 |
|
19313C |
Glenswilly NS |
Newmills, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
6,160.05 |
|
19313C |
Glenswilly NS |
Newmills, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
17,690.40 |
|
19333I |
Dooish NS |
Ballybofey |
Donegal |
12,636.00 |
|
19343L |
SN Dhubhthaigh |
Annagry, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
3,664.44 |
|
19491D |
Scoil Mhuire |
Ramelton |
Donegal |
13,836.42 |
|
19724A |
Little Angels Special School |
Knocknamona, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
17,932.20 |
|
19724A |
Little Angels Special School |
Knocknamona, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
22,744.80 |
|
19724A |
Little Angels Special School |
Knocknamona, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
8,494.20 |
|
19927O |
Scoil Mhuire |
Stranorlar |
Donegal |
5,731.58 |
|
19927O |
Scoil Mhuire |
Stranorlar |
Donegal |
5,370.30 |
|
19927O |
Scoil Mhuire |
Stranorlar |
Donegal |
28,431.24 |
|
19927O |
Scoil Mhuire |
Stranorlar |
Donegal |
20,217.60 |
|
19959E |
Scoil Naomh Fionan |
Whitecastle, Quigleys Point |
Donegal |
14,847.30 |
|
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain |
Buncrana |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain |
Buncrana |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain |
Buncrana |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain |
Buncrana |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain |
Buncrana |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
19967D |
Scoil Iosagain |
Buncrana |
Donegal |
15,795.00 |
|
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamhnain |
Gleann Cearra, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
12,372.35 |
|
19971R |
Gaelscoil Adhamhnain |
Gleann Cearra, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
40,429.38 |
|
20096E |
Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maistri |
Brookfield |
Donegal |
*21,128.38 |
|
20096E |
Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maistri |
Brookfield |
Donegal |
|
|
20096E |
Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maistri |
Brookfield |
Donegal |
*21,128.38 |
|
20096E |
Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maistri |
Brookfield |
Donegal |
|
|
20096E |
Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maistri |
Brookfield |
Donegal |
14,400.00 |
|
20096E |
Gaelscoil na gCeithre Maistri |
Brookfield |
Donegal |
14,400.00 |
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
42,646.50 |
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
*60,750.00 |
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
|
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
|
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
|
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
21,323.25 |
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
21,323.25 |
|
20235P |
Letterkenny Educate Together |
Letterkenny |
Donegal |
11,372.40 |
|
71140Q |
Crana College |
Buncrana, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
*50,544.00 |
|
71140Q |
Crana College |
Buncrana, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
|
|
71140Q |
Crana College |
Buncrana, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
|
|
76081F |
Coláiste Ailigh |
Bóthar Ard, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
14,520.00 |
|
76081F |
Coláiste Ailigh |
Bóthar Ard, Letterkenny |
Donegal |
14,520.00 |
*Indicates total rent under one contract for multiple units.
581 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Education and Science when funding will be available for an information technology suite at a school (details supplied). [43164/09]
The Deputy will be aware that the Taoiseach and I announced a €150 million plan for 'smart schools' on 16 November. Under this scheme €22 million in grants will be provided to primary schools before the end of this year. I am pleased to inform the Deputy that the school to which he refers will receive funding in the coming weeks under this initiative.
582 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Minister for Education and Science if he has considered making an arrangement for an extra date being set aside at the end of the leaving certificate examinations to reschedule any exams that were necessary due to unforeseen circumstances; if there would be a cost saving in rescheduling such exams to a specific date allowing for time for new papers to be printed as against having a second paper printed for each original exam date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43177/09]
The State Examinations Commission has statutory responsibility for operational matters relating to the certificate examinations including organising the holding of examinations and determining procedures in places where examinations are conducted including the supervision of examinations.
In view of this I have forwarded your query to the State Examinations Commission for direct reply to you.
583 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will direct Bus Éireann to rescind the decision to increase bus fares for students attending secondary schools due to the current economic climate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43196/09]
I advised the Deputy in a reply to a previous Parliamentary Question that a new annual charge was introduced with effect from the beginning of the 2009/10 school year.
Receipts from charges represent about 6% of the overall cost of school transport. The allocation for 2009 is €192 million. In order to minimise the impact of the new annual charge of €300
A maximum family rate of €650 applies
Charges have been confined to eligible post-primary children and children availing of concessionary transport
Waivers continue to apply in the case of eligible post-primary children where the family is in possession of a valid medical card
Eligible children attending primary schools and children with special needs still travel free.
Parents were facilitated to pay the annual amount in two instalments — in July and December.
While I appreciate the Deputy's concerns, it is not envisaged that there will be a change in the payment arrangements or a reduction in the amount charged.
584 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding made available for 2010 for the construction of schools in Tyrellstown, Dublin 15; when the relevant school sites will be acquired; when these school projects will come on stream; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43205/09]
585 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Education and Science the funding made available for 2010 for the construction of schools in Kellystown, Dublin 15; when the relevant school sites will be acquired; when these school projects will come on stream; if he will confirm that a school (details supplied) will open at the new site in Kellystown in September 2010; if not, if he will provide an alternative target date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43206/09]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 584 and 585 together.
As the Deputy will be aware, my Department has asked the local Authority to acquire permanent sites for the schools in question under the Fingal Memorandum Agreement.
I wish to advise the Deputy that my officials recently met with the Local Authority to discuss the matter.
I am advised that negotiations are ongoing between the relevant landowners and the Local Authority for the acquisition of the sites and as such I am not in a position to comment further as the acquisitions will be dependant on the successful outcome of these negotiations.
The proposed building projects for the schools will be considered in the context of the capital budget available to my Department for school buildings generally.
586 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Education and Science the reason a person (details supplied) in County Roscommon was refused payment at the qualified rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43210/09]
I understand that the person to whom the Deputy refers, applied to the Teaching Council in August 2009 to have her qualifications assessed.
My Department received notification from the Teaching Council in October 2009 that the qualifications had been recognised. The teacher is now recognised in a qualified capacity and salary arrears back dated to 1st September 2009 will issue to her on the 26th November.
587 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Minister for Education and Science the religious congregations and organisations which have to date issued details to him of the additional sum they are willing to contribute to a fund for the benefit of victims of physical and sexual abuse in religious institutions; the specific funds offered; and when he will publish a financial profile of religious congregations and organisations that has been furnished to him by the body appointed to deal with this matter. [43211/09]
The position in relation to the eighteen religious congregations, that were party to the 2002 indemnity agreement, making further substantial contributions by way of reparation following publication of the Ryan Report is that while responses have been received from some congregations, a full set of responses from all the congregations is awaited.
The Panel appointed by the Government to assess the Statements of Resources submitted by the Religious Congregations following the publication of the Ryan Report has submitted its Report. The Report is under examination prior to being submitted to the Government. The intention to make public the conclusions of the Panel has already been referred to. The arrangements for the publication of the Panel's Report and the offers of contributions from the religious congregations will be considered by the Government.
588 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm that various vocational education committees and local authorities here which administer higher education student grants report to his Department on a weekly basis on the number of grants they have awarded; the number awarded in respect of each of the awarding authorities; the number of grants awarded to date in 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43219/09]
Normal reporting arrangements between the grant awarding authorities and my Department are on the basis of three financial recoupments per year, a survey in January each year on progress in processing grant applications and an annual statistical return at the end of each academic year. This year, given the numbers of grant applications and the capacity of awarding authorities to process these, my Department is currently requesting a weekly update from the awarding authorities to enable monitoring of the administration of student grants. The number of grants awarded on foot of new applications and renewals as at 23rd November 2009 in respect of each of the awarding authorities is set out in the table.
|
County Councils |
Total Number of Grants awarded as of 23/11/2009 |
|
Carlow County Council |
384 |
|
Cavan County Council |
384 |
|
Clare County Council |
858 |
|
Cork City Council |
883 |
|
Cork County Council |
*1,500 |
|
Donegal County Council |
1,092 |
|
Dublin City Council |
2,700 |
|
Dún-Laoghaire County Council |
426 |
|
Dublin South County Council |
898 |
|
Fingal County Council |
555 |
|
Galway County Council |
2,000 |
|
Kerry County Council |
1,140 |
|
Kildare County Council |
723 |
|
Kilkenny County Council |
785 |
|
Laois County Council |
575 |
|
Leitrim County Council |
333 |
|
Limerick County Council |
557 |
|
Limerick City Council |
366 |
|
Longford County Council |
287 |
|
Louth County Council |
336 |
|
Mayo County Council |
912 |
|
Meath County Council |
425 |
|
Monaghan County Council |
475 |
|
Offaly County Council |
400 |
|
Roscommon County Council |
275 |
|
Sligo County Council |
505 |
|
Tipperary North County Council |
430 |
|
Tipperary South County Council |
481 |
|
Waterford City Council |
238 |
|
Waterford County Council |
317 |
|
Westmeath County Council |
635 |
|
Wexford County Council |
511 |
|
Wicklow County Council |
750 |
|
Total grants awarded by Local Authorities |
21,636 |
*Cork County Council figure as of 13/11/2009 — update not available due to flooding.
|
VECs |
Total Number of Grants awarded as of 23/11/2009 |
|
Carlow |
636 |
|
Cavan VEC |
867 |
|
Clare |
1,171 |
|
City Cork |
495 |
|
Co. Cork VEC |
*342 |
|
Donegal |
1,293 |
|
Dublin City VEC |
846 |
|
Dublin County |
485 |
|
Dún Laoghaire |
314 |
|
Galway City |
668 |
|
Galway County |
1,006 |
|
Kerry VEC |
1,852 |
|
Kildare VEC |
576 |
|
Kilkenny VEC |
230 |
|
Laois |
480 |
|
Leitrim VEC |
533 |
|
Limerick City |
823 |
|
Limerick VEC |
385 |
|
Longford |
428 |
|
Louth |
1,081 |
|
Mayo |
662 |
|
Meath |
867 |
|
Monaghan |
450 |
|
Offaly |
731 |
|
Roscommon VEC |
601 |
|
Sligo VEC |
901 |
|
Tipperary NR |
782 |
|
Tipperary SR |
818 |
|
Waterford City |
417 |
|
Waterford County |
452 |
|
Westmeath VEC |
884 |
|
Wexford VEC |
1,011 |
|
Wicklow VEC |
749 |
|
Total grants awarded by VECs |
23,494 |
|
Total number of Grants awarded to date in 2009 |
45,130 |
*County Cork VEC figure as of 13/11/2009 — update not available due to flooding.
589 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will request officials from his Department to meet the principal of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 to assist the school in a RAPID disadvantaged areas with their challenges; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this school has two fewer teachers in the 2009-10 academic year and two fewer posts of responsibility and receive nothing from the dormant accounts fund for digital schools; if his further attention has been drawn to the fact that a playground has become a health hazard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43231/09]
The Deputy will be aware that teacher allocations to schools typically increase or decrease depending on pupil enrolment. In the case of special classes for pupils with a Mild General Learning Disability (MGLD) the normal pupil teacher ratio that applies is 11:1. My Department however permits schools to retain a teaching post where it has a minimum of 9 pupils in the class. This minimum was not fulfilled in two classes in the school referred to by the Deputy and therefore the school no longer qualifies to retain the classes. The school has retained one MGLD class however. The special classes which have closed pre-date the 2005 General Allocation Model of allocating additional teacher support to schools to enable them to meet the needs of pupils with mild general learning disabilities as well as a number of other high incidence disabilities. All primary schools now have additional teaching support in place for this purpose.
All children with MGLD who were in the classes that have been 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.
The Deputy will be aware that my Department's policy is to support the inclusive education of students with special educational needs across the schools system. In this context, a range of supports are provided to schools to enable them cater for pupils with special educational needs. The supports available include additional teaching support, special needs assistant support, school transport and grants for the purchase of teaching materials and specialised equipment.
The purpose of the Government decision to implement a recruitment and promotion moratorium in the public sector is to facilitate a permanent, structural reduction in the numbers of staff serving and is intended to contribute significant and ongoing savings to the Exchequer. When the Government was introducing the moratorium in the public sector earlier this year I secured a special arrangement for education which ensured we could fill teacher and SNA posts. The concession also provides for the filling of Principal and Deputy Principal posts in all schools and the first allocation of posts of responsibility in new schools.
Under the Dormant Account Scheme 100 DEIS schools serving the most disadvantaged communities were invited to apply for grant assistance to progress towards achievement of digital school status. This school had already been awarded Digital School Status and was excluded from the scope of the scheme since the rationale of the scheme was to assist schools to progress towards achieving digital school status. In view of the limited funds available for the scheme, it was necessary to target eligibility under the scheme.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that my Department has approved an emergency works grant to enable the school to address the health and safety issues relating to the playground area. My officials will be in contact with the school in this regard.
590 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Education and Science if he will confirm that it is now his position that there will be no closures of small rural schools with fewer than 100 pupils as was indicated by him on a radio programme on 16 November 2009; if this is a change in the position as previously stated in Parliamentary Question No. 230 on 12 November 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43391/09]
The position remains as outlined in Parliamentary Question No. 230 on 12 November 2009. The proposals in the report of the Special Group on Public Service Numbers and Expenditure Programmes are being considered as part of the estimates process for 2010. The decisions on all of the issues arising will be a matter for the Government.
While I will have to await the outcome of these deliberative processes, I can confirm that there are no plans to close small schools at the moment other than those that would arise in the normal course under the current sustainability limits. I fully acknowledge the attachment of local communities to their schools and the association of the school with a sense of place.
However, I am of the view that my Department will have to examine the implementation of more strict guidelines in relation to the number of pupils required for the sustainability of schools.
The Deputy may be aware that building projects involving amalgamation of schools already attract a high band rating within the Schools Building Programme.
591 Deputy Tom Hayes asked the Minister for Education and Science the cost of translating all State documents into Irish; the cost of printing same; if a proposal for storing these electronically and printing as required has been investigated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43411/09]
The total cost incurred by my Department in respect of translating state documents was approximately €156,000 in 2008 and €118,000 to date in 2009. While these figures include the cost of translating documents into languages other than Irish, the cost element in respect of non-Irish translations is not significant.
In order to reduce printing and distribution costs my Department adopted a corporate policy during 2008 requiring publications to be web based and documents are printed only in exceptional circumstances. The total cost of printing official documents was €908,346 in 2008 and is €266,386 to date in 2009.
My Department does not record the cost of printing documents which have been translated into Irish. Where an official publication is translated into Irish and requires hard copy distribution, it is usually printed as part of a single bilingual document and my Department is not in a position to quantify the element of the overall printing cost which was attributable to the inclusion of the Irish language text. The documents translated into Irish in 2008 and 2009 include a wide range of document types ranging from forms, circulars, questionnaires, and school inspection reports to official publications. Where it is necessary to have hard copies of these documents they are printed within my Department if possible or are forwarded to professional printers. The number of documents which are sent for printing outside my Department has steadily declined since the introduction of my Department's policy of using web based publishing wherever possible.
