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Dáil Éireann díospóireacht -
Tuesday, 25 Jan 2011

Vol. 727 No. 3

Written Answers

The following are questions tabled by Members for written response and the ministerial replies as received on the day from the Departments [unrevised].
Questions Nos. 1 to 107, inclusive, resubmitted.

State Bodies

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

108 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Taoiseach the number of State agencies identified for abolition or merger in his Department; the number of agencies which have been merged or abolished to date in his Department; the total net savings which have been made in respect of each State agency arising from their merger or abolition in his Department; the likely date for merger or abolition and the reason for the delay in respect of each State agency which has not already been merged with another State agency or abolished in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3340/11]

The number of bodies within my Department's remit has been reduced from five to one, resulting in a reduction in budget allocations of €3.45m or 60%.

The total Separate programme funding for the work of the Ireland Newfoundland Partnership and the Active Citizenship Office ceased in 2009. The separate Offices in these areas have been discontinued which has given rise to savings in my Department's Estimates of approximately €356,000 per annum. The National Forum on Europe was closed in 2009 which also gave rise to savings in the Estimates of €360,000.

The National Economic and Social Forum (NESF) and the National Centre for Partnership and Performance (NCPP) were dissolved on 1 April, 2010. This has led to savings on both pay and non-pay expenditure. As a result of this the 2010 allocation for the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO), which includes the National Economic and Social Council, of €3.332m was a reduction of €1.727m over the 2009 allocation. The 2010 drawdown for NESDO, was €2.535m, representing a saving of €0.797m on the 2010 allocation. The savings arose mainly as a result of reduced accommodation and rent, which was made possible by the dissolution of the NESF and the NCPP, along with reduced pay and administrative costs. The 2011 provision for NESDO is €2.325m, a reduction of just over €1m on 2010.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

109 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Taoiseach the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years [3411/11]

The National Economic and Social Development Office is the only agency under the aegis of my Department. As it is a non-commercial semi-state body the questions as to turnover and losses do not arise.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

110 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3434/11]

No advertising campaigns were carried out in 2010 by the National Economic and Social Development Office, which is the only agency under the aegis of my Department.

However, for the information of the Deputy the Central Statistics Office, which is independent from my Department, incurred expenditure in 2010 on advertising campaigns as set out in the table.

Programme

Purpose

Cost

Census of Population

Census 2011 field force recruitment and initial phases of public awareness campaign

98,831

Household Surveys

Public Awareness Campaigns for Household Surveys

89,682

Census of Agriculture 2010

Public Awareness Campaign for June 2010 Census of Agriculture

4,488

General advertising of CSO publications and services

Advertising of CSO publications and services

15,470

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

111 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3449/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Programme

Purpose

Cost of Advertising

Taoiseach’s Public Service Excellence Awards 2010

The Taoiseach’s Public Service Excellence Awards are held every two years to recognise and reward best practice in customer service and administration in the Public Service. To mark the presentation of the Public Service Excellence Awards 2010, my Department made arrangements for a special supplement to be published in the Irish Times on 13th July, 2010. It publicised the twenty award-winning projects, as a means of promoting best practice in the public service and informing the general public (and public servants) about progress being made under the Transforming Public Services programme.

€32,065.00 (for design, editorial and printing Irish Times)

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

112 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3464/11]

I normally sign all Government Orders. However, in answering this question I am taking it that the Deputy is seeking information only in relation to Statutory Instruments (SIs) for which I, rather than other Ministers, have primary responsibility for bringing to Government in addition to SIs that I and the Ministers of State assigned to my Department have statutory responsibility for in our own right. The table beneath provides the information requested in relation to such SIs since I became Taoiseach in May 2008.

The National Economic and Social Development Office is the only agency under the aegis of my Department but it does not have powers to make Statutory Instruments.

Title of Statutory Instrument

Signed By

Date published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas

S.I. No. 298/2008

Appointment of Special Adviser (Taoiseach) Order 2008

Brian Cowen

29 July 2008

25 July 2008

S.I. No. 210/2008

Appointment of Special Advisers (Taoiseach) Order 2008

Brian Cowen

27 June 2008

25 July 2008

S.I. 173 of 2008

Statistics (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order 2008

Brian Cowen

10 June 2008

11 June 2008

S.I. 313 of 2008

Statistics (Survey of Industrial Commodities Production) Order 2008

Brian Cowen

8 August 2008

11 August 2008

S.I. 314 of 2008

Statistics (Labour Costs Surveys) Order 2008

Brian Cowen

8 August 2008

11 August 2008

S.I. No. 211/2008

Appointment of Special Adviser (Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach) Order 2008

Brian Cowen

27 June 2008

25 January 2011

S.I. 170 of 2009

Delegation of Ministerial Functions Order 2009

Brian Cowen

8 May 2009

12 May 2009

S.I. 175 of 2009

Statistics (National Employment Survey) Order 2009

Pat Carey

8 May 2009

22 June 2010

S.I. 73 of 2009

Statistics (Quarterly Survey of Construction) Order 2009

Brian Cowen

13 March 2009

22 June 2010

S.I 56 of 2009

European Communities (Statistics in respect of Carriage of Passengers, Freight and Mail by Air) Regulations 2008

Brian Cowen

17 February 2009

10 March 2009

S.I. 115 of 2009

Statistics (Building and Construction Inquiries) Order 2009

Brian Cowen

3 April 2009

22 June 2010

S.I. 534 of 2009

Statistics (Prices) Order 2009

Brian Cowen

22 December 2009

22 December 2009

S.I. 103 of 2009

Statistics (Services Turnover) Order 2009

Brian Cowen

3 April 2009

22 June 2010

S.I. No. 167/2009

Appointment of Special Adviser (Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach) Order 2009

Brian Cowen

05 May 2009

25 January 2011

S.I. No. 96 of 2009

Director of Pubic Prosecutions Superannuation Scheme, 2009

Brian Cowen

27 March 2009

26 March 2009

S.I. No 603/2010

National Economic and Social Council (Alteration of Composition) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

17 December 2010

16 December 2010

S.I. No. 193/2010

Appointment of Special Adviser (Minister of State at the Department of the Taoiseach) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

11 May 2010

13 May 2010

S.I. No. 377/2010

Appointment of Special Adviser (Taoiseach) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

03 August 2010

06 August 2010

S.I. No. 140/2010

National Economic and Social Forum and National Centre for Partnership and Performance Dissolution Order 2010

Brian Cowen

06 April 2010

18 April 2010

S.I. 166 of 2010

Delegation of Ministerial Functions Order 2010

Brian Cowen

30 April 2010

13 May 2010

S.I. 349 of 2010

Statistics (Business Accounts Survey)Order 2010

John Curran

16 July 2010

15 July 2010

S.I. 206 of 2010

Statistics (Balance of Payments and Financial Accounts) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

18 May 2010

17 May 2010

S.I. 181 of 2010

Statistics (Census of Agriculture) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

7 May 2010

17 May 2010

S.I. 562 of 2010

Statistics (Community Innovation Survey) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

30 November 2010

30 November 2010

S.I. 92 of 2010

Statistics (National Employment Survey) 2010

Pat Carey

9 March 2010

8 March 2010

S.I. 91 of 2010

Statistics (Services Inquiries) (Amendment) Order 2010

Pat Carey

9 March 2010

8 March 2010

S.I. 574 of 2010

Statistics (Business Registers) Order 2010

John Curran

7 December 2010

21 January 2011

S.I. 207 of 2010

Statistics (Census of Population) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

18 May 2010

17 May 2010

S.I. 154 of 2010

Statistics (Monthly Industrial Inquiry) Order 2010

Brian Cowen

20 April 2010

17 May 2010

Departmental Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

113 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a reappointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3665/11]

The term of the National Economic and Social Council (NESC) ended in summer 2010. The Government decided to change the composition of the NESC to reflect changes to the structure of social partnership, most notably the addition of the Environmental Pillar, and to increase the number of independent members of the Council. The National Economic and Social Development Act 2006 specifies that these changes must be made through secondary legislation. On 14th December 2010, I signed the National Economic and Social Council (Alteration of Composition) Order 2010 facilitating these changes, following approval of the draft Order by both Houses of the Oireachtas.

Consequently, I appointed some new members of the Council as outlined below on 20th January, 2011. All of the appointments below were made either on the basis of nominations received from social partner organisations, and each Pillar of Social Partnership proposed individuals they deemed suitable to represent their respective Pillar, or are civil servants from the relevant Departments. No remuneration is payable for membership of the Council.

Name

New appointment or Re-appointment

When first appointed in case of reappointments

Trade Union Pillar

Mr. David Begg

Re-appointment

August 2001

Ms. Sally Anne Kinahan

Re-appointment

January 2004

Mr. Peter McLoone

Re-appointment

November 1998

Mr. Manus O’Riordan

Re-appointment

March 2000

Farming Pillar

Mr. Edmond Connolly

Re-appointment

March 2009

Mr. Pat Smith

Re-appointment

June 2009

Mr. Seamus O’Donohoe

Re-appointment

April 2000

Mr. Frank Allen

New appointment

Community and Voluntary Pillar

Fr. Sean Healy

Re-appointment

November 1998

Ms. Caroline Fahey

New appointment

Mr. James Dorley

New appointment

Ms. Brid O’Brien

Re-appointment

May 2007

Business and Employers Pillar

Mr. Danny McCoy

Re-appointment

October 2005

Mr. Tom Parlon

Re-appointment

March 2009

Mr. Ian Talbot

New appointment

Mr. Tony Donohue

Re-appointment

January 2010

Environmental Pillar

Mr. Oisin Coghlan

Re-appointment

May 2009

Ms. Karin Dubsky

New appointment

Ms. Siobhan Egan

New appointmentt

Mr. Michael Ewing

New appointment

Public Sector Representatives

Mr. Dermot McCarthy

Re-appointment

November 1998

Mr. Kevin Cardiff

Re-appointment

February 2010

Mr. Seán Gorman

Re-appointment

October 2004

Ms. Brigid McManus

Re-appointment

May 2007

Ms. Geraldine Tallon

Re-appointment

May 2007

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

114 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Taoiseach when he plans to appoint his nominees to the National Economic and Social Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3913/11]

The term of the National Economic and Social Council (NESC) ended in summer 2010. The Government decided to change the composition of the NESC to reflect changes to the structure of social partnership, most notably the addition of the Environmental Pillar, and to increase the number of independent members of the Council. The National Economic and Social Development Act 2006 specifies that these changes must be made through secondary legislation. On 14th December 2010 I signed the National Economic and Social Council (Alteration of Composition) Order 2010 facilitating these changes, following approval of the draft Order by both Houses of the Oireachtas.

Consequently, I appointed some new members of the Council as outlined below on 20th January, 2011. All of the appointments below were made either on the basis of nominations received from social partner organisations, and each Pillar of Social Partnership proposed individuals they deemed suitable to represent their respective Pillar, or are civil servants from the relevant Departments. No remuneration is payable for membership of the Council.

Name

New appointment or Re-appointment

When first appointed in case of reappointments

Trade Union Pillar

Mr. David Begg

Re-appointment

August 2001

Ms. Sally Anne Kinahan

Re-appointment

January 2004

Mr. Peter McLoone

Re-appointment

November 1998

Mr. Manus O’Riordan

Re-appointment

March 2000

Farming Pillar

Mr. Edmond Connolly

Re-appointment

March 2009

Mr. Pat Smith

Re-appointment

June 2009

Mr. Seamus O’Donohoe

Re-appointment

April 2000

Mr. Frank Allen

New appointment

Community and Voluntary Pillar

Fr. Sean Healy

Re-appointment

November 1998

Ms. Caroline Fahey

New appointment

Mr. James Dorley

New appointment

Ms. Brid O’Brien

Re-appointment

May 2007

Business and Employers Pillar

Mr. Danny McCoy

Re-appointment

October 2005

Mr. Tom Parlon

Re-appointment

March 2009

Mr. Ian Talbot

New appointment

Mr. Tony Donohue

Re-appointment

January 2010

Environmental Pillar

Mr. Oisin Coghlan

Re-appointment

May 2009

Ms. Karin Dubsky

New appointment

Ms. Siobhan Egan

New appointmentt

Mr. Michael Ewing

New appointment

Public Sector Representatives

Mr. Dermot McCarthy

Re-appointment

November 1998

Mr. Kevin Cardiff

Re-appointment

February 2010

Mr. Seán Gorman

Re-appointment

October 2004

Ms. Brigid McManus

Re-appointment

May 2007

Ms. Geraldine Tallon

Re-appointment

May 2007

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

115 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Taoiseach if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3953/11]

The table details mileage payments made annually to staff in my Department from 2007 to date.

Year

Amount

2007

46,812

2008

52,357

2009

44,548

2010

37,557

2011

676

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

116 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Taoiseach if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3968/11]

My Department does not provide drivers to the Ministers of State who are assigned to my Department. Minister of State John Curran has been assigned a garda car and drivers by the Department of Justice and Law Reform under the scheme for Ministers of the Government.

The information requested in relation to Ministers of State Dick Roche and Dara Calleary would be available from the Departments of Foreign Affairs and Enterprise, Trade and Innovation respectively.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

117 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Taoiseach the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4263/11]

My Department's policy is not to seek replacements for staff availing of maternity leave or other similar types of short term leave such as annual leave or sick leave. In the context of the moratorium, where necessary, responsibility for the work of officers who leave and are not replaced is dealt with by way of reorganisation and restructuring of work allocations and staffing. My Department will continue to manage its staffing resources within the budget allocation in a manner which will ensure that priority is given to achieving its key activities and objectives.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

118 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Taoiseach the proportion between office administrators and frontline staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4273/11]

My Department's mission is to provide the Government, Taoiseach and Ministers of State with the support, policy advice and information necessary for the effective conduct of Government. By its nature, the work of the Department mainly entails close engagement with other Departments and State agencies, social partnership and other representative groups, the Northern Ireland Executive, Northern Ireland political parties and other civil society groups across the island, international organisations, other Governments etc.

My Department has limited interaction with the general public other than in its reception area, my office, the offices of the Ministers of State assigned to my Department and the Government Press and Information Service. Of the 191 whole time equivalents (wte) employed by my Department at the end of December 2010, 36 (wte) were employed in these areas. In addition, 8 staff from my Department who are assigned to other duties during the week, work on the Saturday tours of Government buildings.

Special Educational Needs

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

119 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills with regard to a review of the special needs assistant allocation for a school (details supplied), the reason appeal forms were not furnished to parents on foot of the special educational needs organiser’s report which recommended such a drastic reduction in the SNA allocation; the basis for this recommendation; if a written explanation detailing the basis of the decision will be given to parents; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3241/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is an independent agency with responsibility for determining the appropriate staffing levels in relation to the support of pupils with special educational needs in mainstream and special schools. The NCSE operates within my Department's policy in allocating this support. The NCSE has advised that it has responded positively to a request from the school in question to meet in the context of the outcome of the review.

Schools Building Projects

Michael Creed

Ceist:

120 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the situation regarding a four classroom extension application by a school (details supplied) in County Cork; the band rating which has been allocated to this application; the progress expected in this case in 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3245/11]

The school to which the Deputy refers applied to my Department for large scale capital funding for an extension to their school. The application was assessed in accordance with the published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects and assigned a Band 2 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, is available on the 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 phase will be considered in the context of my Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

The school authority has recently submitted a revised proposal to my Department seeking grant aid for a project which prioritises the school's immediate teaching accommodation needs. This proposal is currently under consideration by the Department and a response will issue to the school authority in due course.

Third Level Charges

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

121 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills further to her budget 2011 announcement, the precise student contribution charge that will apply in the case of siblings in 2011. [3270/11]

A new student contribution charge of €2,000 will be introduced in higher education with effect from the 2011/2012 academic year. This charge will replace the existing Student Services Charge and will apply to all students who currently benefit under the ‘free fees' scheme. The contribution will be paid by the Exchequer in respect of students who qualify under the third level grant schemes. These students, who account for some 43% of all undergraduates, will not be impacted by any increase in charges.

The Government was particularly conscious of the financial pressures that this charge may place on families where family income is marginally in excess of current eligibility levels for maintenance grant support and on families with more than one sibling in higher education at the same time. In this regard it was indicated that the current higher education grants schemes threshold will be increased to provide for an additional eligibility category of support qualifying for ‘50% student contribution'. It was also indicated that it was intended to make arrangements to provide that second and subsequent siblings from a single family will not have to bear the full increased cost of the new €2,000 charge and that further details of these arrangements would be brought forward. The Finance Bill 2011, published on 21 January, now provides for these arrangements. It provides for certain changes in relation to tax relief arrangements for students fees and charges which will give an effective cost reduction in respect of second and subsequent siblings from a single family who are liable for the new student contribution charge.

The current Student Services Charge in higher education does not qualify for tax relief. The existing tax relief for third level fees/charges will now be amended to provide that the first €2,000 in fees/charges per claim will be ineligible for tax relief for students in full-time education. For students in part-time education, the first €1,000 in fees/charges will be ineligible. Families with two or more children liable for the new student contribution will therefore now qualify for tax relief in respect of payments arising from second and subsequent sibling liability. This will result in a reduction in the overall effective cost of the charge in these cases.

Based on current rates of relief, the effective cost of the student contribution charge, net of tax relief, for second and subsequent siblings will be €1,600 each. These arrangements provide a practical means of giving effect to the commitment made that the full increased cost of the new charge will be alleviated for second and subsequent siblings within a single family.

Educational Disadvantage

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

122 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will define the criteria of disadvantage in respect of the HEAR programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3274/11]

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

123 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of recipients for assistance received for 2009 and 2010 in respect of the HEAR programme; if she will indicate the criteria of disadvantage that were assessed for such recipients; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3275/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 123 together.

The Higher Education Access Route (HEAR) is a third-level admissions scheme for students from socio-economically disadvantaged backgrounds. The scheme is operated by a number of higher education institutions and not by my Department. Admissions to the institutions are regulated by the institutions themselves. The Deputy may wish to contact the Irish Universities Association in this instance.

Social Welfare Benefits

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

124 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if funding is available to pay course fees for an unemployed person (details supplied) in County Wexford with no entitlements to social welfare assistance and no income to enable that person to return to the labour market. [3282/11]

Unemployed persons can access FAS training programmes for free irrespective of whether they are in receipt of a social welfare payment.

There is also a range of full time Adult and Further Education courses open to the unemployed. Full-time options include Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) and Vocational Training Opportunities Scheme (VTOS) courses. The Back to Education Initiative (BTEI) is the part time alternative.

The 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. Its purpose is to enhance their prospects of gaining employment or progressing to further or higher education. The PLC programme offers full time courses at FETAC Level 5 and 6.

The VTOS programme is a full-time education programme open to people over 21 years of age who are at least six months unemployed. VTOS offers programmes at Junior Certificate, Leaving Certificate and FETAC Levels 3 — 6. There are no course fees for the PLC and VTOS programmes.

The BTEI aims to provide participants an opportunity to combine a return to learning with family, work and other responsibilities. Courses delivered under the BTEI are free for adults with less than upper second level education.

Ministerial Correspondence

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

125 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide her reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3290/11]

A reply to the correspondence referred to by the Deputy issued on 8th December 2010. A copy of this reply has been forwarded to the Deputy.

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

126 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will reply to correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3293/11]

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

158 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the fact that a child (details supplied) in County Cork has been unable to secure a place in a national school since September 2010; the reason for same; the steps she will take to ensure that this child receives an education; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3706/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 126 and 158 together.

I wish to advise the Deputies that my Department is aware of the case and is in correspondence with the parents of the child in question.

I understand that the parents of this child are seeking an alternative placement for him. The selection and enrolment of pupils in schools is the responsibility of the authorities of the individual school. My Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking school places in an area. However, this may result in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.

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. My Department has no authority to compel a school to admit a pupil, except in the case of an appeal under Section 29 of the Education Act, 1998 being upheld.

Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 provides for an appeal by a parent or guardian to the Secretary General of my Department, or in the case of a Vocational Educational Committee (VEC) school to the VEC in the first instance, where a Board of Management of a school, or a person acting on behalf of the Board, refuses to enrol a student in a school. I understand that the parents of this child have taken an appeal under Section 29 and the appeal committee's determination has been sent to them by the Secretary General of my Department.

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. I understand that the Education Welfare Officer (EWO) has been liaising with the parents of this child on the options available to him. The EWO is also liaising with the Department on the matter.

FÁS Training Programmes

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

127 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the result on the FETAC investigation into FÁS which was to be completed by December 2010; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3301/11]

Brian O'Shea

Ceist:

168 Deputy Brian O’Shea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills in regard to students who have had their results forwarded from FÁS to FETAC, when certificates will be provided; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3912/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 127 and 168 together.

FETAC undertook an examination of the FÁS processes for requesting certificates from FETAC. The examination, including site visits to all 17 FÁS centres, commenced on 10 November. A report on the matter will be published by FETAC in February.

Subject to the implementation by FÁS of enhancements to its quality assurance procedures, as outlined by FETAC, FETAC will recommence the certification of FÁS awards, including those delayed due to the examination. The next date for FÁS to submit certification data to FETAC is 5 February.

Higher Education Grants

Michael Ring

Ceist:

128 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid the third level maintenance grant. [3307/11]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

129 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid the third level maintenance grant. [3308/11]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

130 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid the third level maintenance grant. [3309/11]

Michael Ring

Ceist:

131 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid the third level maintenance grant. [3310/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 128 to 131, inclusive, together.

The process of assessing and paying third level or further education grants is a matter for the relevant local authority or VEC. I am aware that the timing of processing and paying of grants varies between the 66 awarding authorities depending on a number of variables including the volume of applications received, staffing resources and whether or not properly completed application forms have been submitted. Work prioritisation across different functions, and how available staff are deployed to execute those functions are matters for the management of each VEC and local authority concerned.

This year's student grant schemes include a number of significant administrative and service improvements aimed at addressing the issue of delay. These included addressing the issue of cash flow for grant awarding authorities to enable the timely payment of grants through the introduction of an advance payment arrangement.

My Department is in constant contact with grant awarding authorities to monitor the situation in relation to the processing and payment of student grants. Before Christmas, it wrote, on my behalf, to the heads of the grant awarding authorities to inform them that I am anxious to ensure that remaining applicants receive decisions on their grant applications as soon as possible and requesting their co-operation in prioritising this work in their Councils/Committees.

Special Educational Needs

Enda Kenny

Ceist:

132 Deputy Enda Kenny asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for funding for an autism unit for a school (details supplied) in County Mayo; if she will indicate that funding will be granted to this project and when she expects to be in a position to announce funding for this specific unit; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3315/11]

I can confirm to the Deputy that the school to which he refers applied to my Department in 2006 for additional accommodation to cater for an ASD Unit and other ancillary accommodation.

The application was assessed and a band rating of 1.2 was assigned to the project. This rating has been assigned because the project meets the criteria for such a rating set out in the published prioritisation criteria for major projects i.e. "the provision of specialist accommodation is urgently required for children with special needs such as autism, speech and language impairment, severe and profound intellectual impairment etc.".

The progression of all large scale building projects, including this project, from initial design stage through to construction phase will be considered in the context of the Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the capital budget of the Department, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project at this time.

In the meantime my Department is grant aiding the school for the rental of accommodation for the ASD Unit. In addition, €13,000 was approved in 2006 to equip the unit.

School Staffing

Charlie O'Connor

Ceist:

133 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the action she is taking in respect of correspondence sent to the Department by the principal of a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24 regarding the reappointment of posts of responsibility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3343/11]

When the moratorium was introduced the Government exempted Principal and Deputy Principal posts in all primary and post-primary schools and these continue to be replaced in the normal manner. The impact of the moratorium is therefore limited to the Assistant Principal and Special Duties allowances payable to teachers on promotion. Vacancies at Assistant Principal and Special Duties level arise due to retirements in these specific grades and typically also from the knock on effect of filling Principal and Deputy Principal posts. What the school loses is the capacity to make a promotion by awarding the extra pay allowance to another teacher. The position whereby almost 50% of all teachers have promotion allowances is simply not sustainable. It is a matter for each school authority to re-organise and prioritise the appropriate duties for post of responsibility holders in the context of implementing this moratorium.

Some further limited alleviation was announced in July 2010 for schools that are acutely affected by the impact of the moratorium at Assistant Principal level. The alleviation arrangements are set out in the published Department Circular 42/2010. Applications for alleviation have been received from over 120 primary schools and this includes an application from the school referred to by the Deputy. These are currently being examined and prioritised and the schools will be advised of the outcome in the coming weeks.

Schools Building Projects

Pádraic McCormack

Ceist:

134 Deputy Pádraic McCormack asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills in view of the fact that a decision has been made to grant planning permission for the construction of a new community school (details supplied) in County Galway, if she will assure the school that sufficient funding will be available in the capital programme for 2011 to enable the school project to proceed to construction phase this year. [3346/11]

A project for the school referred to by the Deputy is currently at an advanced stage of architectural planning.

Galway County Council has recently issued notification of the Decision to Grant Planning Permission. The Design Team are currently working on finalising the Stage 2b submission (Detailed Design) which is expected to be submitted to my Department shortly. When this is received it will be reviewed by my Department and officials will be in contact with the school regarding the further progression of the project.

Sean Fleming

Ceist:

135 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the proposed building project for a school (details supplied) in County Laois; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3356/11]

The school to which the Deputy refers has recently applied to my Department seeking funding to provide a permanent classroom and resource room. This application is currently being assessed. Officials in my Department will convey a decision on the application to the school authority when the assessment process has been completed.

Redundancy Payments

Michael Noonan

Ceist:

136 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a redundancy payment will be granted to a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3364/11]

I can confirm that an application for redundancy has been received by my Department from the person referred to by the Deputy. An issue has arisen in relation to the application and officials from my Department are in contact with the applicant. Once the matter is resolved, the application in question will be processed.

Higher Education Grants

Michael Ring

Ceist:

137 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be awarded the third level maintenance grant. [3367/11]

The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter, in the first instance, for the relevant grant awarding authority i.e. the applicant's local authority or VEC. Where a grant application is refused, the reason for the refusal is given by the grant awarding authority. An applicant may appeal the decision to the relevant local authority or VEC. Where the grant awarding authority decides to reject the appeal, the applicant may appeal this decision to my Department by submitting an appeal form outlining clearly the grounds for the appeal. No appeal has been received by my Department to date from the candidate referred to by the Deputy.

Site Acquisitions

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

138 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will respond to issues raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3376/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that in recognition of the emergent demands for school provision in the overall Lucan area, my Department has been in discussions with the South Dublin County Council with a view to seeking their assistance in securing additional capacity.

An agreement, in principle, has been reached between my Department and the Council in relation to the acquisition of a circa 4 acre site at the Lands at Esker Lane, Lucan, County Dublin for the purposes of re-locating an existing Educate Together School which is now reaching capacity in its current accommodation.

To this end, South Dublin County Council recently approved the disposal of circa 4 acres of a currently used site in Esker for a consideration of €0.45m per acre for the freehold interest of the site.

The Deputy will appreciate that discussions and negotiations in relation to the price agreed were conducted in the context of advices available to, and the expectations of the Local Authority. The Deputy will also be aware that the disposal of these lands required the agreement of the Elected Members of the Council. I am pleased to report that same has been secured.

As part of this agreement involves the re-location of the existing Parks Depot on these lands, the Council will also require to be put in funds for the costs of re-locating this facility at an estimated cost of €2.25m plus VAT. The transfer of these funds, pursuant to the agreement, is currently in train and should be in the Local Authority's bank account in the coming days.

Ministerial Correspondence

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

139 Deputy Fergus O’Dowd asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will respond to correspondence (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3377/11]

I can confirm that the Higher Education — Equity of Access Section of my Department received the correspondence referred to by the Deputy on 20th January, 2011. A response will issue shortly.

Higher Education Grants

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

140 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if a person who studied part-time for two years while working can switch for year three to a full-time course and avail of a grant or any other form of income support to allow completion of the degree course [3394/11]

Generally, students who are entering full-time approved courses for the first time are eligible for grants where they satisfy the relevant conditions under the student grant schemes as to age, residence, means, nationality and previous academic attainment.

However, eligibility for grant purposes is a matter for the relevant grant awarding authority i.e. local authority or VEC to establish. Students should fully and accurately complete an application form and submit it to the relevant grant awarding authority as soon as possible to ascertain the position relative their own particular circumstances.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

141 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of semi-State bodies that fall under her auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years [3403/11]

My Department has a number of non-commercial agencies under its aegis none of which are within the category encompassed in the question, i.e. state owned enterprises established as a legal entity (company) by government to operate in commercial affairs.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

142 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of her Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by her Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3426/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

143 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by her Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3441/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 143 together.

My Department incurs expenditure on public advertisements in connection with a wide range of educational programmes and schemes including, staff appointments in the education sector; invitations to attend local hearings; invitations to forward submissions on education-related schemes/projects; invitations to tender for school building projects. Such advertising is placed in the print media. A total cost of approximately €112,000 was incurred in 2010 in connection with advertising in the print media.

My Department did not carry out any promotion campaigns in 2010 involving broadcast or outdoor advertising and did not incur any consultancy or production costs in relation to any advertising campaigns.

With regard to the bodies under the aegis of my Department, the expenditure incurred on advertising and promotions is an administrative matter for each agency. This information is not collated centrally by my Department. If the Deputy has a particular advertising/ promotions campaign in mind in respect of agencies, I would be happy to have my officials obtain the relevant details and communicate them to the Deputy.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

144 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will list all statutory instruments signed by her or agencies under the aegis of her Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3456/11]

I am pleased to provide the information requested by the Deputy in the table.

Department of Education and Skills

Statutory Instruments 2007-2010

Statutory Instruments 2007

Title

Statutory Instrument Number

Date Published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before Houses of the Oireachtas

1

Institutes of Technology Act 2006 (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 36/2007

22nd May 2007

23rd February, 2007

2

Qualifications (Education and Training) Act 1999 (Section 31) Regulations 2007

S.I No. 571/2007

10th August 2007

10th August, 2007

Statutory Instruments 2008

Title

Statutory Instrument Number

Date Published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before Houses of the Oireachtas

1

Youth Work Act 2001 (Prescribed National Representative Youth Work Organisation) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 131/2008

6th May, 2008

13th May, 2008

2

Recognition of Professional Qualifications (Directive 2005/36/EC) Regulations, 2008

S.I. No. 139/2008

13th May, 2008

13th May, 2008

3

Employment Equality Act 1998 (Section 12) (Church of Ireland College of Education) Order 2008

S.I. No. 251/2008

11th July, 2008

27th May, 2008

4

Qualifications (Education and Training) Act 1999 (Section 31(5)) (Recognition of the Charter of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology) Order 2008

S.I. No. 262/2008

18th July, 2008

17th July, 2008

5

Teaching Council (Election of Members) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 386/2008

30th September, 2008

N/A

Statutory Instruments 2009

Title

Statutory Instrument Number

Date Published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before Houses of the Oireachtas

1

Education Act 1998 (Composition of National Council For Curriculum and Assessment) Order 2009

S.I. No. 131/2009

10th April, 2009

15th April, 2009

2

Primary School Teachers Pension Scheme 2009

S.I. No. 434/2009

3rd November, 2009

4th November, 2009

3

Secondary, Community and Comprehensive School Teachers Pension Scheme 2009

S.I. No. 435/2009

3rd November, 2009

4th November, 2009

4

University of Dublin Trinity College (Closed) Pension Scheme 2009

S.I. No. 493/2009

15th December, 2009

16th December,2009

5

National University of Ireland, Maynooth (Closed) Pension Scheme 2009

S.I. No. 494/2009

15th December, 2009

16th December, 2009

6

Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 (University of Dublin Trinity College) Transfer Order 2009

S.I. No. 527/2009

22nd December, 2009

21st December, 2009

7

Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 (National University of Ireland, Maynooth) Transfer Order 2009

S.I. No. 528/2009

22nd December, 2009

21st December, 2009

Statutory Instruments 2010

Title

Statutory Instrument Number

Date Published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before Houses of the Oireachtas

1

University College Dublin, National University of Ireland, Dublin (Closed) Pension Scheme 2010

S.I. No. 96/2010

12th March, 2010

26th March, 2010

2

University College Cork — National University of Ireland, Cork (Closed) Pension Scheme 2010.

S.I. No. 97/2010

12th March,2010

26th March, 2010

3

National University of Ireland, Galway Ollscoil na hÉireann, Gaillimh (Closed) Pension Scheme 2010

S.I. No. 98/2010

12th March, 2010

26th March, 2010

4

George Mitchell Scholarship Fund (Amendment) Act 2010 (Commencement) Order 2010.

S.I. No. 232/2010

28th May, 2010

28th May, 2010

5

National University of Ireland (Closed) Pension Scheme 2010

S.I. No. 283/2010

15th June, 2010

21st June, 2010

Residential Institutions Redress Scheme

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

145 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if there is any process whereby a person who was deemed to make a late application to the redress board can be given an opportunity to make an oral presentation (details supplied). [3472/11]

The Residential Institutions Redress Board was established to make fair and reasonable payments to persons who as children were abused while resident in Industrial & Reformatory Schools and other specified institutions. Its operation is governed by the terms of the Residential Institutions Redress Act, 2002. Under the terms of this Act, the Board is independent in the performance of its functions and the application process is completely confidential. Consequently, as Minister for Education & Skills, it would not be appropriate for me to intervene in individual cases. However, I can tell you that the closing date for receipt of applications to the Board was 15th December 2005, which allowed for a period of 3 years in which persons could make applications to the Board. However, Section 8 of the Residential Institutions Redress Act, 2002, allows for late applications in very exceptional circumstances. It is entirely a matter for the Board to evaluate each late application and ascertain whether it can be accepted or not having regard to the governing legislation.

Special Educational Needs

Michael Noonan

Ceist:

146 Deputy Michael Noonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a child (details supplied) in County Limerick and three other children on the waiting list for a special school in Limerick will be admitted to the school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3473/11]

The Deputy may be aware that the enrolment of a child in a school is a matter in the first instance for the parents of the child and the Board of Management of a school. My Department has no role in relation to processing applications for enrolment in schools.

The Deputy may also be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is an independent agency with responsibility for determining the appropriate staffing levels in relation to the support of pupils with special educational needs in all mainstream and special schools. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in this regard.

The NCSE has advised my Department that they are satisfied that there are sufficient staffing resources at present in the school concerned, which would allow them to cater for all of the children in the school, including those proposed for enrolment to the planned new special class at the school.

All schools have the names and contact details of their local NCSE Special Educational Needs Organiser (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.

Disadvantaged Status

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

147 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will support a matter (details supplied). [3476/11]

The decision to remove the Rural Coordination Service from 331 rural DEIS primary schools is just one of a range of measures included in the National Recovery Plan 2011 to 2014, to secure some €24m in savings in the 2011/2012 school year. The service will be discontinued with effect from 31 August 2011.

This measure will not affect the provision of Home School Community Liaison services which remain in 200 post primary and 345 urban primary participating in DEIS.

The set of measures included in the National Recovery Plan 2011 to 2014 impacts on every sector of the public service and will unquestionably lead to significant challenges for schools as well as the Department in the coming years. The major challenge will undoubtedly be to seek improved outcomes for children with fewer resources.

Special Educational Needs

Jack Wall

Ceist:

148 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the reason a report of development paediatrics evaluation was not accepted by her in relation to a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3488/11]

Jack Wall

Ceist:

149 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills when a student (details supplied) in County Kildare will receive resource hours; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3489/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 148 and 149 together.

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support. In considering applications for teaching and SNA support for individual pupils, the SENOs take account of the needs identified in any professional reports. They then consider the resources available to the school to identify whether additionality is needed or whether the school might reasonably be expected to meet the needs of a pupil from its current level of resources.

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.

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

150 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the provision of special needs assistants for a school (details supplied) in County Limerick. [3532/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating Special Needs Assistants (SNAs) to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.

In considering applications for teaching and SNA support for individual pupils, the SENOs take account of the needs identified in the professional reports and decide whether the circumstances come within the Department's criteria. They then consider the resources available to the school to identify whether additionality is needed or whether the school might reasonably be expected to meet the needs of the pupil from its current level of resources.

All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie. I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention and direct reply.

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

151 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the fact that when a primary school pupil with a resource hours allocation transfers to a new school, the resource hours are lost and not reinstated until the case has been reviewed by the special education needs organiser in the new school district, which may entail some considerable delay; her views on whether this creates serious disadvantage for the pupil; if she will amend the procedure in order to provide that the resource hours simply transfer automatically with the child from one school to another, with a later review by the SENO in the new school district; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3618/11]

The Deputy will be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), for allocating resources to schools to support children with special needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.

There is no automatic system of transfer of resources from one school to another. Where a child with special educational needs is in receipt of additional supports in a school and moves school, and no other child with special needs enrols in the school, then the resource — resource teaching hours and/or SNA support — is withdrawn from the first school and, if still warranted by the child's needs, will be sanctioned for the new school.

In considering applications for teaching and SNA supports for individual pupils, the SENOs take account of the pupils' needs and consider the resources available to the school to identify whether additionality is needed or whether the school might reasonably be expected to meet the needs of the pupils from its current level of resources.

All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

Schools Building Projects

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

152 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Donegal, is still on track to open in September 2011 as previously outlined; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3619/11]

The project to which the Deputy refers commenced construction last May. Subject to no issues arising, it is expected to be completed later this year.

Planning Issues

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

153 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if adequate funding has been made available to Donegal County Council to erect a footpath that is needed as part of the planning conditions of a school (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3620/11]

My Department has provided all necessary funding to enable the VEC to meet its obligations in respect of the conditions of the planning permission, for the project to which the Deputy refers.

Special Educational Needs

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

154 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will facilitate a school place for a special needs child (details supplied) in the Dublin west area; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3629/11]

The Deputy may be aware that the enrolment of a child in a school is a matter in the first instance for the parents of the child and the Board of Management of a school. My Department has no role in relation to processing applications for enrolment in schools. The National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) is the statutory agency which assists parents who are experiencing difficulty in securing a school place for their child. The NEWB will try to help parents to find an alternative school placement if their child has been unable to secure a placement to date. The Deputy may also be aware that the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible for the provision of a range of educational services at local and national level for students with special educational needs. In particular, its network of Special Education Needs Organisers (SENOs) co-ordinates special needs education provision at local level and arranges for the delivery of special educational services. They act as single points of contact for parents of students with special educational needs. Another specific function of the SENO is to identify appropriate educational placements for children with special educational needs. All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie.

Schools Building Projects

Catherine Byrne

Ceist:

155 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she is committed to a new multi-denominational school at a location (details supplied) in Dublin 8; the current status of this school; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3651/11]

I can confirm that the school to which the Deputy refers applied to my Department for large scale capital funding for a school building project to provide additional accommodation.

In accordance with the published criteria for large scale building projects, the project for this school has been assigned a Band 2 rating. Information in respect of the current school building programme along with all assessed applications for major capital works, including this project, is available on the 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 phase will be considered in the context of the Department's multi-annual School Building and Modernisation Programme. However, in light of current competing demands on the Department's capital budget, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of a project for the school in question at this time.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

156 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will list all appointments made by her between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of her Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3657/11]

My officials have confirmed with the Deputy's Office that this question relates to the period between 14th January 2011 and 25th January 2011 inclusive. The information requested is provided in the table.

Name of Body

Governing Body Institute of Technology, Tralee

Name individual

Ms. Ann O’Dwyer

Date appointed

18th January 2011

Professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment (includes post holder, e.g. D/Education & Skills nominee)

CEO designate of Kerry Education Service

Remuneration (excluding T&S)

Nil

How selected, e.g. Ministerial nominee, legislation)

Kerry Education Service nominee (IoT Acts 1992-2006)

New appointment/Re-appointment

New

If reappointment, when the person was first appointed to the body

Name individual

Mr. Tim O’Donoghue

Date appointed

18th January 2011

Professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment (includes post holder, e.g. D/Education & Skills nominee)

CEO Kerry Diocesan Youth Service

Remuneration (excluding T&S)

Nil

How selected, e.g. Ministerial nominee, legislation)

Kerry Education Service nominee (IoT Acts 1992-2006)

New appointment/Re-appointment

New

If reappointment, when the person was first appointed to the body

Name of Body

Governing Body of Galway-Mayo Institute of Technology

Name individual

Ms Rachel Sillery

Date appointed

18th January 2011

Professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment (includes post holder, e.g. D/Education & Skills nominee)

Student representative

Remuneration (excluding T&S)

Nil

How selected, e.g. Ministerial nominee, legislation)

City of Galway VEC nominee (IoT Acts 1992-2006)

New appointment/Re-appointment

New

If reappointment, when the person was first appointed to the body

Name of Body

Governing Body of Athlone Institute of Technology

Name individual

Mr. Fergal Lynam

Date appointed

18th January 2011

Professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment (includes post holder, e.g. D/Education & Skills nominee)

Business representative (IO Systems, Athlone)

Remuneration (excluding T&S)

Nil

How selected, e.g. Ministerial nominee, legislation)

County Westmeath VEC nominee (IoT Acts 1992-2006)

New appointment/Re-appointment

New

If reappointment, when the person was first appointed to the body

School Transport

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

157 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a matter (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3704/11]

Under the terms of the Primary School Transport scheme pupils are eligible for free transport if they reside 3.2 kilometres or more from, and are attending, their nearest national school or school of amalgamation.

In the case of amalgamations, pupils residing in a closed school area may be deemed eligible for free school transport to the school of amalgamation only. This is known as the closed school rule (CSR). This rule has remained fundamentally unchanged since 1968.

The information note accompanying the press release on 7th December setting out the main features of the 2011 estimates included the following in relation to the closed school rule:

Changes in the 2011/2012 school year, arising from the value for money review, will mean that the distance criteria will be applied to all pupils attending primary schools and the exemption under the closed school rule will cease. This means that children categorised for transport under the CSR who reside less than 3.2 kilometres (2 miles) from the school of attendance and who are availing of free transport to that school under the CSR will lose transport eligibility.

From the 2012/2013 school year, eligibility based on the CSR and the central school rule will cease for all new children entering primary schools. Existing primary pupils availing of transport under the CSR will retain transport eligibility for the duration of their schooling, provided the requisite distance criteria are met.

The Department of Education and Skills assesses school accommodation needs in each area based on local demographic trends, current and projected enrolments, recent and planned housing developments and the capacity of existing schools to meet demand for places.

This change to the CSR means that not only will the distance criteria be applied equitably nationally, but that from the 2012/2013 school year eligibility for all new children entering primary schools nationally will be determined by reference to the nearest national school and that consistency will be introduced in relation to planning for school places.

In the case of any future primary school amalgamations, eligibility for school transport will be based on distance from and attendance at the nearest school, as determined by my Department.

Question No. 158 answered with Question No. 126.

Schools Building Projects

Michael Creed

Ceist:

159 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the band rating system operated by her in respect of school building projects; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3713/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, all applications for capital funding are assessed in the Planning and Building Unit of the Department of Education and Skills. The assessment process determines the extent and type of need presenting based on the demographics of an area, proposed housing developments, condition of buildings, site capacity etc., leading ultimately to an appropriate accommodation solution.

As part of this process, a project is assigned a band rating under published prioritisation criteria for large scale building projects. These criteria were devised following consultation with the Education Partners.

There are four Band Ratings overall, of which Band One is the highest and Band Four the lowest. Band One projects, for example, include the provision of buildings where none currently exists, but there is a high demand for pupil places, while a Band Four project makes provision of desirable but not necessarily urgent or essential facilities. Each Band rating has a number of sub categories which more specifically describes the type of works needed and the urgency attaching to them.

Full details of the band ratings are available in the document which I have included for the Deputy's convenience and which is also available on the Department's website at www.education.ie.

Amended Criteria for Prioritising Large Scale Projects (Primary and Post Primary)

Background

The 2004 School Building Programme indicated that a review of the criteria for prioritising large-scale projects would be undertaken in consultation with the Education Partners early in 2004. The review was necessary to ensure that the criteria have the optimum precision and are fully tuned to meeting the priority accommodation needs of primary and post primary schools.

The amended criteria will be applied to all projects that are not proceeding to tender and site as part of the 2004 School Building Programme. These projects will be detailed in the Multi Annual Programme currently being prepared.

Band 1

Band 1 subdivides into four sub divisions or sub sets 1.1; 1.2; 1.3 and 1.4.

Criteria applicable to a Band 1.1 project

Serving a rapidly developing area where either there is no existing school or where existing provision is unable to meet the demand for places.

Definition of a rapidly developing area:

A rapidly developing area is located in a large urban centre or within commuting distance of a large urban centre.

The area has experienced major and significant demographic change in the past ten years.

All available information indicates that the process of sustained development is set to continue with a corresponding major and significant impact on the demographics of the area.

There is clear evidence of substantial pressure for pupil places in all schools serving the area.

No school in the area is operating below capacity.

No school is accommodating a sizeable or significant number of pupils from outside of its catchment area.

Criteria applicable to a Band 1.2 project

The provision of specialist accommodation urgently required for children with special needs such as autism, speech and language impairment, severe and profound intellectual impairment etc.

Criteria applicable to a Band 1.3 project

Addressing the needs of schools that are structurally unsound.

Criteria applicable to a Band 1.4 project

Providing accommodation post rationalisation.

Band 2

Band 2 subdivides into six sub divisions or subsets 2.1; 2.2; 2.3; 2.4; 2.5 and 2.6.

Criteria applicable to a Band 2.1 project

A Band 2.1 project should reflect the entirety of the following criteria.

There is a deficit of mainstream accommodation. The deficit constitutes a substantial and significant proportion of the school's overall accommodation needs.

A technical evaluation of a school building indicates that an extensive refurbishment of existing accommodation is required. The refurbishment cannot be rectified by the application of an improved and / or comprehensive maintenance programme.

The necessary remedial works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in any one year or incrementally over a number of years.

There is clear evidence that the day-to-day functionality of the school is impaired or will become seriously impaired unless urgent remedial action is taken promptly.

Determining a deficit of mainstream accommodation

A deficit of mainstream accommodation shall be computed by firstly determining the overall accommodation needs of the school relative to its curricular options and/or its projected long-term enrolment. The quality, extent and adequacy of existing accommodation, including temporary accommodation (whether rented or otherwise) will then be assessed. Where existing accommodation is determined to be inappropriate to the school's long term needs, it will be reckoned for the purposes of determining the deficit of mainstream accommodation. Additionally, as a general guiding principle, reliance on temporary accommodation as a reasonable solution to a school's long-term accommodation needs is not a sustainable position.

Definition of extensive refurbishment

As a general principle The definition suggested is not intended to be prescriptive., when it is necessary to address all or a majority of the following elements of a school an extensive refurbishment applies.

Upgrade of the mechanical system.

Upgrade of the electrical system.

Extensive roof repairs.

Improvements to the structures or fabric of a building, i.e. spalling concrete etc.

Window replacements.

Interior door replacement including the installation of fire doors.

Replacement of ceilings.

Replacement of floor.

Criteria applicable to a Band 2.2 project

There is a deficit of mainstream accommodation. The deficit constitutes a substantial and significant proportion of the school's overall accommodation needs. The condition of the existing accommodation is adequate.

Criteria applicable to a Band 2.3 project

A technical evaluation of a school building indicates that an extensive refurbishment of existing accommodation is required. The refurbishment cannot be rectified by the application of an improved and / or comprehensive maintenance programme.

The necessary remedial works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in any one year or incrementally over a number of years.

There is clear evidence that the day-to-day functionality of the school is impaired or will become seriously impaired unless urgent remedial action is taken promptly.

Criteria applicable to a Band 2.4 project

There is a deficit of mainstream accommodation. The deficit does not represent a substantial or significant proportion of the school's overall accommodation needs.

A technical evaluation of a school building indicates that a refurbishment is required the nature and extent of which is not as extensive or critical as applies in Band 2.1 or Band 2.3. The refurbishment cannot be rectified by the application of an improved and / or comprehensive maintenance programme.

The necessary remedial works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in one year or incrementally over a number of years.

Criteria applicable to a Band 2.5 project

There is a deficit of mainstream accommodation. The deficit does not represent a substantial or significant proportion of the school's overall accommodation needs. The condition of the existing accommodation at the school is adequate.

Criteria applicable to a Band 2.6 project

A technical evaluation of a school building indicates that a refurbishment is required the nature and extent of which is less extensive and less critical than applies in Band 2.3.

The refurbishment cannot be rectified by the application of an improved and / or comprehensive maintenance programme.

The necessary remedial works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in one year or incrementally over a number of years.

Band 3

Band 3 subdivides into five sub divisions or subsets 3.1; 3.2; 3.3; 3.4; and 3.5.

Criteria applicable to a Band 3.1 project

While there is no deficit of mainstream accommodation at the school, there is a deficit of ancillary accommodation required to support delivery of special education i.e. learning supports.

Some improvements works are necessary but not urgent.

The necessary improvement works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in one year or incrementally over a number of years and/or through the application of an improved or comprehensive maintenance programme.

Key definition

Ancillary accommodation is accommodation other than mainstream classrooms or specialist rooms in post primary schools required for the teaching of specialist subjects.

Criteria applicable to a Band 3.2 project

While there is no deficit of mainstream accommodation at the school, there is a deficit of ancillary accommodation required to support delivery of special education i.e. learning supports.

No improvements works are required.

Criteria applicable to a Band 3.3 project

While there is no deficit of mainstream accommodation at the school, there is a deficit of ancillary accommodation other than ancillary accommodation required to support delivery of special education (learning supports).

Some improvements works are necessary but not urgent.

The necessary improvement works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in one year or incrementally over a number of years and/or through the application of an improved or comprehensive maintenance programme.

Criteria applicable to a Band 3.4 project

While there is no deficit of mainstream accommodation at the school, there is a deficit of ancillary accommodation other than ancillary accommodation required to support delivery of special education (learning supports).

No improvements works are necessary.

Criteria applicable to a Band 3.5 project

There is no deficit of accommodation at the school.

Improvements works are necessary but not urgent. Day to day functionality is not impaired.

The necessary improvements works cannot be addressed either through the Summer Works Scheme in one year or incrementally over a number of years and/or through the application of an improved or comprehensive maintenance programme.

Band 4

Band 4 projects are desirable but not urgent or essential.

Selecting within Bands

When it is necessary to select projects from within the same band, as a general principle projects will be selected on the basis of enrolment stability; projects that have been the longest period in the planning process and the most cost effective solution.

Summary of the relevant bands

BAND

Sub Category

Details

1

1.1

New schools or extension in developing areas

1

1.2

Accommodation for special needs students

1

1.3

School that are structurally unsound

1

1.4

Rationalisation projects

Band 2

2

2.1

Major extension of existing school and extensive refurbishment.

2

2.2

Major extension of existing school.

2

2.3

Extensive refurbishment.

2

2.4

Extension of existing school and moderate refurbishment.

2

2.5

Extension of existing school

2

2.6

Moderate refurbishment.

Band 3

3

3.1

Ancillary accommodation for special education and some improvements only

3

3.2

Ancillary for special education only.

3

3.3

Deficit of ancillary other than special education ancillary and some improvements.

3

3.4

Deficit of ancillary other than special education ancillary.

3

3.5

Improvement works.

Band 4

4

4.1

All other requests

Traveller Education

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

160 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the educational basis for her decision to withdraw the visiting teachers service for Travellers in the recent budget; the amount expected to be saved by this decision; the alleviation measures she has put in place in view of this decision; if she will consider reversing this cutback; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3715/11]

In recent years substantial improvements have been made with regard to the number of Traveller children participating in the education system. Information to hand indicates that participation at primary level and transition to post-primary is very close to 100%. In September 2009, some 8,301 Traveller children were enrolled in age appropriate classes in primary schools and 3,014 were enrolled at Post-Primary level.

The Report and Recommendations for a Traveller Education Strategy was launched in 2006, following wide ranging consultation with relevant stakeholders including Traveller representative groups, and covers all aspects of Traveller education from pre-school to further and higher education. The principle of inclusion is at the core of the strategy and future provision must focus on the development of more inclusive and intercultural school practice and environment through the whole school planning process, admissions policies, codes of behaviour and whole school evaluation.

A key aim of the strategy is to enhance access and education service delivery to Travellers. Future provision will focus on ‘individual educational need' rather than ‘Traveller identity'. This will depend on a number of factors including the successful implementation of the recommendations of the strategy and the redistribution in favour of provision on the basis of identified educational need of Traveller students and the need for my Department to prioritise the available resources to maximum effect across the education sector to enhance educational outcomes for all including Traveller children and adults.

The Visiting Teachers service has cost in the region of €2.8million each year. At present there are 41 posts in this service. Until September 2009 the Visiting Teachers Service for Travellers was managed directly by the Regional Office Directorate within my Department.

In September 2009 the Service was transferred to the National Education Welfare Board to be integrated with existing school support services to provide a more focussed approach to deliver better outcomes for children and families, including the Traveller Community. Visiting Teachers work with pupils, parents and schools to ensure that Traveller pupils attend and engage with their education.

The decision to remove this service is just one of a range of measures, included in the National Recovery Plan 2011 to 2014, to secure some €24m in savings in the 2011/2012 school year. The service will therefore be discontinued with effect from 31 August 2011.

As part of the ongoing development of integrated services within the NEWB, the Board will be requested to re-focus and adapt its support services, including the School Completion Programme and the Home School Liaison Service to provide comprehensive supports to Travellers in the future.

The set of measures included in the National Recovery Plan 2011 to 2014 impacts on every sector of the public service and will unquestionably lead to significant challenges for schools as well as the Department in the coming years. The major challenge will undoubtedly be to seek improved outcomes for children with fewer resources.

Educational Disadvantage

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

161 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if the decision to terminate the rural co-ordinator scheme in a school (details supplied) can be overturned; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3751/11]

The decision to remove the Rural Coordination Service from 331 rural DEIS primary schools, including the school to which the Deputy refers, is just one of a range of measures included in the National Recovery Plan 2011 to 2014, to secure some €24m in savings in the 2011/2012 school year. The service will be discontinued with effect from 31 August 2011.

This measure will not affect the provision of Home School Community Liaison services which remain in 200 post primary and 345 urban primary participating in DEIS.

The set of measures included in the National Recovery Plan 2011 to 2014 impacts on every sector of the public service and will unquestionably lead to significant challenges for schools as well as the Department in the coming years. The major challenge will undoubtedly be to seek improved outcomes for children with fewer resources.

Schools Building Projects

Pat Breen

Ceist:

162 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding a school building project (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3752/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, the three post primary schools in the area that he refers to have agreed to amalgamate to form a new Community School. The amalgamation will proceed when a new school building has been provided. The project requires a suitable site in order to progress. When the site for the proposed school is secured the building project will be considered for progression in the context of the School Building and Modernisation Programme.

Site Acquisitions

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

163 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the progress made in identifying a site or premises for a school (details supplied) in Dublin 11; if she will report on the outcome of reports of the technical assessment section in two nearby sites under consideration; the precise issues identified in respect of each of these sites and when a decision will be made on this matter, having regard to the sub-standard accommodation which this school currently occupies [3773/11]

I wish to advise the Deputy that my officials have conducted technical inspections of two properties at the request of the school authorities. Technical reports have been completed and these reports are under consideration at present.

School Placement

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

164 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the shortage of second-level school places on the northside of Dublin; and the action she is taking to address this matter [3782/11]

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

165 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if her attention has been drawn to the lack of options available to parents on the northside of Dublin who wish to provide a non-denominational second level education for their children, in view of the fact that a school (details supplied) is now heavily oversubscribed; the way she proposes to uphold parents rights in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3783/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 164 and 165 together.

The most recent projections used by my Department would see enrolments at post-primary rise from current levels of circa 312,200 pupils to between 331,500 and 336,600 pupils by the year 2017. It is within this context that the Forward Planning Section of my Department is in the process of analysing all areas in the country in order to determine the level of additional provision which will be required at both primary and post primary level up to 2017. Overall post-primary school accommodation requirements in the Northside of Dublin will be considered in this regard. However, initial indications are that there is no requirement for significant additional post-primary accommodation in the area of the school referred to by the Deputy.

The question of enrolment in individual schools is the responsibility of the managerial authority of those schools and the Department does not seek to intervene in decisions made by schools in such matters. The Department's main responsibility is to ensure that schools in an area can, between them, cater for all pupils seeking places. This may result, however, in some pupils not obtaining a place in the school of their first choice.

Schools Building Projects

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

166 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for a new school (details supplied) in County Westmeath; if same will be expedited as this application was submitted a number of years ago; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3793/11]

The project to which the Deputy refers is currently at an early stage of architectural planning. Following a detailed commentary on the stage 2a submission which issued from my Department last year, the design team is currently working on a revised submission. When this is received it will be reviewed by my Department and officials will be in contact with the school regarding the further progression of the project.

Special Educational Needs

Jack Wall

Ceist:

167 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 177 and 178 of 12 October 2010, the reasons a person (details supplied) has not received a laptop to ensure their educational needs are met; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3803/11]

As I have previously advised the Deputy, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers, Special Needs Assistants and making recommendations on the provision of assistive technology to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.

On 20 July 2010, my Department sanctioned a grant to the pupil's school for computer software for the pupil in question. The NCSE has stated that an application for access to a laptop may be reconsidered once the pupil in question can use this software effectively.

All schools have the names and contact details of their local SENO. Parents may also contact their local SENO directly to discuss their child's special educational needs, using the contact details available on www.ncse.ie. I have arranged for the details supplied to be forwarded to the NCSE for their attention.

Question No. 168 answered with Question No. 127.

Labour Market Activation Fund

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

169 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the location of all projects funded under the labour market activation fund; the number of training places allocated to each project; the latest information on the number of training places filled per project; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3922/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table and is based on the latest information available. While 59 projects were offered funding in total, 55 projects proceeded to implementation.

It should be noted from the attached figures that a number of programme providers have exceeded their projected participant levels. This has been done on the basis that the contract price was not increased resulting in the achievement of greater value for money. A number of projects, however, are unlikely to reach their anticipated levels of participation As of mid-January some 9,646 (81%) training places were filled and further places will be filled in the coming weeks. While it is not possible to predict exactly the final number of participants at this stage, it is unlikely that the full 12,000 places anticipated at the outset will be filled.

The Labour Market Activation Fund will continue to be rolled out and completed in 2011.

Tender Name

Name of Project

Projected participant places

Number of training places filled per project

ICBE — Irish Centre for Business Excellence

10 × 4-month training programmes — levels 5 and 6

300

372

Co Offaly VEC

Working Together to Get Offaly Working — FETAC level 3 and 4 foundation courses and FETAC level 5 courses in Science;, Information Technology; Business; Healthcare Support; Childcare; and Renewable Energies

140

175

Career Decisions Ireland

Career 2 Fit Career Guidance Programme — level 3 credit — Dublin, Cork, Galway, Limerick, Donegal, Louth

1,000

1,045

City of Dublin VEC

Progression Pathways Programme Level 3 & 4

725

757

TBG Learning

Job Fit, level 3+, — Dublin, Cork, Limerick, Galway, Castlebar, Dundalk, Waterford, Athlone

1,500

1,521

Limerick Institute of Technology

Four BSc courses levels 7 and 8 — Limerick City and Mid-West Region

55

55

Letterkenny Institute of Technology

Higher Diploma in Computing — Level 8, Letterkenny, Killybegs

20

27

Co. Meath VEC

Smart Skills — FETAC level 3

600

605

Career Decisions Ireland

Diploma in Career Coaching and Guidance, HETAC level 7 — Limerick, Athlone, Galway, Dublin

100

102

Meath Partnership

Wood Energy and Biomass Training programme, level 5, Co. Meath

60

62

First Step Microfinance

10 regional training networks — level 6 — Nationwide

200

200

Fledglings Education & Training, Jobstown, Dublin 24

Early Years Educator and Parent Support Worker Skills — FETAC level 5

40

40

Innopharma Labs

Upskilling people for the pharmaceutical industry — level 7+ — Dublin

100

100

JMD Consulting

Ecotourism Training — levels 3-5 and professional body certification — Carlow, Wicklow, Kildare, Wexford

60

60

Joe Hayes, Ballinasloe

Upskilling in de-boning and trimming techniques — NFQ levels 5/6 National Certificate in Butchery Skills

50

50

Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown

Higher Certificate Sustainable Electrical Technology — HETAC level 6

32

31

Dundalk Institute of Technology

3 Programmes leading to Certificates/Diploma in Business — levels 6-8

30

28

National Council for Exercise and Fitness (University of Limerick)

Certificate Health and Fitness, Mid-West Region

50

48

Network Solutions

Training programme to produce productive Air Blown Fibre Optic cable installation and repair technicians

60

58

Waterford Area Partnership Ltd

Make it Your Business Enterprise Programme — FETAC level 5

60

58

Dun Laoghaire VEC

Introduction to PC Maintenance with Warehouse Operations — FETAC level 4

15

12

Letterkenny Institute of Technology

Certificate in Wind Energy Technology — NFQ level 6

18

15

Co. Donegal VEC

FETAC level 5 Certificate in Renewable Technology

15

11

Financial Services Ireland/IBEC, Dublin

International Financial Services Sector Transition programme — credits at NFQ level 7

100

96

Shannon Consortium, Limerick

Foundation Certificate — level 5, Limerick City

50

46

Tolka Area Partnership, Finglas, Dublin

Young Peoples Skills Foundation Initiative — FETAC level 4

40

36

Dun Laoghaire VEC

Green Technology and Practice — FETAC level 5

25

20

Focus Ireland

Three programmes — Food Industry; Warehousing, Social sector — FETAC level 5 — Dublin Inner City

45

39

Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown

Certificate in CAD and Manufacturing — HETAC level 8

16

9

An Tochar Adult Education Centre, Co. Kerry

Certificate in Hotel and Catering -

20

11

Co Clare VEC

Courses from FETAC Level 3-5 aimed at Enterprise; Self Employment; Customer Service; Caring/Healthcare; Tourism/Food; Marine Tourism; Green Economy/ Ecology and Environment Protection and Renewable Energies Sectors

104

94

Digital Skills Academy

Multi-region WebActivate Programme, level 6 — Cork, Galway, Limerick, Dublin

200

190

Institute of Technology, Tralee

Eight programmes levels 6-8 — Co. Kerry and South-West Region

160

128

Meath Partnership

Eco-Tourism 7 E-business Training Programme — level 5 and National Certificate in Tourism — Co. Meath

40

29

Shannon Consortium, Ennis

Foundation Certificate — level 5, Ennis

30

19

City of Galway VEC

Core Skills — FETAC Levels 3-5

45

33

Digi Media, Dublin

Suite of digital media skills courses — levels 4 and 5

100

88

Co. Meath VEC

Science IT Smart Skills — level 5, Co. Meath

100

87

Dublin City University and DCU Ryan Academy

Business Innovation Programme — Level 8 Diploma Award

120

107

Innovo Training & Development

The Enterprise Evolution Programme — Level 8

80

65

University of Limerick, Kemmy Business School

Five programmes — levels 6-8, Mid-West Region

100

82

Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown

Digital Media Programme — FETAC level 4

40

20

Dundalk Institute of Technology

Higher Diploma in Science in Computing — HETAC level 8

40

18

Tipperary Institute

Eight programmes levels 6-8 — Clonmel & Thurles, Co. Tipperary

80

57

Comhchoiste Ghaeltacht Uibh Rathaigh, Co. Kerry

Courses in Healthcare Support and Business Administration — FETAC level 5

40

10

Meath Partnership

Artisan Food Skills Development — FETAC level 4

80

37

TBSP, Rostrevor, Co. Down

Career Development with Certificate in Logistics

125

78

Alaymont Ltd., Dun Laoghaire

Three Programmes: Passive House Construction; Insulation Installer; Green Construction

357

280

National Adult Literacy Agency

Write On 4 Work — level 3 recognition for prior learning — Nationwide

500

410

Co. Dublin VEC

Labour Market Activation Programme — levels 3 to 5, Greater Dublin Area

750

592

Co Galway & Mayo VECs

Programmes on Tourism, Energy, Media, and Aquaculture, Levels 3 & 4 — Counties Mayo, Galway

320

280

National College of Ireland, Dublin

Foundation Programme in Business Studies, Entrepreneurship Programme, Cert in Web Technologies and Higher Diploma in Web Technologies — NFQ levels 5-8

450

360

Dublin Institute of Technology

Provision A-24 programmes; Provision B — HC courses

910

450

Cultivate/ /NICER Training, Dublin

Sustainability and the Green Economy — NFQ levels 4-6

1,570

432

Waterford City VEC

General Education/Technical skills

20

11

Totals

11,887

9,646

Schools Building Projects

Michael D'Arcy

Ceist:

170 Deputy Michael D’Arcy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding the planned new post-primary school for an area (details supplied); if it is on schedule; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3936/11]

The school to which the Deputy refers will commence operation next September. A tender competition is currently underway for the provision of a temporary solution, pending the completion of the permanent building under my Department's Public Private Partnership (PPP) programme. With regard to the PPP project it is anticipated this will be completed in time for the start of the 2013/14 academic year.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

171 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if she will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3945/11]

The total mileage payments made in the years 2007 to 2010 in respect of staff in my Department are as follows: 2010 — €1,064,270 2009 — €1,369,760 2008 — €1,752,690 2007 — €1,798,180 The mileage expenditure listed for each year relates to the mileage costs of the administrative staff of the Department and includes the mileage costs associated with the Inspectorate and the National Educational Psychological Service.

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

172 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills if the Ministers of State in her Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3960/11]

My Department employs two civilian drivers to assist the Minister of State at my Department, Mr. Sean Haughey T.D., in carrying out his official duties. In accordance with Department of Finance guidelines they are engaged on a week on week off basis and are on a single point pay scale which is currently at a rate of €631.75 per week. There is no familial relationship between the Minister and his drivers. The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the salaries provided to the drivers and the expenses provided to the Minister of State for the use of his car since 2007 is given on the tables.

T&S Expenses

2007

2008

2009

2010

Total

Sean Haughey

14,640.38

16,335.38

16,519.80

12,965.57

60,461.13

Salary Costs

2007

2008

2009

2010

Driver One

36,889.69

35,295.92

38,755.41

37,853.48

Driver Two

37,069.41

33,993.64

38,943.83

36,780.68

Total

73,959.10

69,289.56

77,699.24

74,634.16

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

173 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4256/11]

Currently, there are 102 civil servants at my Department on maternity leave.

Where a member of staff avails of maternity leave it does not generate a vacancy within an office. Usually arrangements are made by local management to cover the essential duties of the official concerned. In the event an office/area has a particular difficulty in providing the required service due to staff on maternity or other leave the Personnel Section of my Department can re-assign staff from other office locations to address the matter.

Teaching and special needs assistants are exempt from the terms of the Department of Finance moratorium so that in the event a teacher or special needs assistant is absent on maternity or long term sick leave schools can engage the services of a replacement in order to retain continuity of tuition in the classroom.

In relation to bodies under the aegis of my Department I have requested officials to compile details of staff on maternity and other leave and I will forward this to the Deputy when it is to hand.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

174 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Education and Skills the proportion between office administrators and frontline staff in the public sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4269/11]

Civil Servants engaged at my Department are categorised into administrative and non administrative staff. Currently there are 886 whole time equivalent administrative posts and 368 non administrative posts.

My Department does not record categories of staff as administrators or front line staff as it does not define demarcations in relation to administrative or frontline duties. Officials address these issues as they arise in the course of their official functions. Therefore, I am not in a position to provide the information in the format requested by the Deputy as it would take an inordinate amount of time to do so.

For the Deputies information I wish to let him know that there are 158 educational psychologists attached to the National Educational Psychological Service (NEPS) of my Department and 131 staff in the Department's Inspectorate Division many of whom would be regarded as dealing in front line services as their duties mainly entail dealing directly with schools and students. In the schools sector there are 32,340 primary school teachers and almost 28,160 second level teachers which again would be considered front line services.

Garda Accommodation

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

175 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied that the property the Office of Public Works has sourced as temporary accommodation for the gardaí in Ballybofey, County Donegal, has been compliant with planning guidelines, particularly Part 5 of the Planning and Development Act; the public consultations that have taken place and the timeframe regarding the process taken by the OPW to begin refurbishment at the barracks in Ballybofey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3621/11]

It is proposed that these premises at Ballybofey will be used on a temporary basis as a Garda Station, pending the completion of refurbishment works at the existing Station in a number of months' time.

The Commissioners of Public Works have not considered the position in relation to the temporary Garda Station accommodation at Ballybofey vis-a-vis Part 5 of the Planning and Development Act, as this aspect of the legislation does not relate to Garda developments, and is not therefore relevant to this case. The appropriate measure in the Planning Acts is contained instead within Part 9 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (SI No 600 of 2001). In respect of the existing Garda Station, the Commissioners can confirm that, having received no observations from the Part 9 process conducted for the refurbishment of that building, the tendering process commenced on 17 September 2010, and all tenders were returned by 8 October 2010. Assessment of the tenders commenced thereafter leading to a letter of intent being issued on 6 December 2010 and an award of contract by the Commissioners on 22 December 2010. The contractor took possession of the site on 12 January 2011. The works are expected to last approximately 10 months.

Tax Code

Joe Costello

Ceist:

176 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Finance the amount of tax revenue from the taxi industry in each of the past ten years; his plans for ensuring that tax avoidance and tax evasion are eliminated in the industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3250/11]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that, as the information furnished on tax returns does not generally require the yield from a particular sector or sub-sector of economic activity to be identified, the precise figures of net yield of tax revenues from the taxi industry cannot be readily identified. Information can, however, be provided on an estimated basis to indicate the approximate net amounts of taxes paid (i.e. after allowing for repayments) by taxpayers who operate a taxi service or other forms of car hire in relation to VAT (not including VAT on imports), PAYE, PRSI, Income tax non-PAYE, Corporation tax and Capital Gains Tax.

On this basis the combined figures of yield under these taxheads in each of the years 2005 to 2009 inclusive is estimated as follows:

Year

€ million

2005

36.6

2006

31.4

2007

32.1

2008

23.5

2009

15.2

Corresponding figures for 2010 are not yet available.

Data on this basis are not readily available for years prior to 2005 and could not be obtained without conducting a protracted examination of Revenue records.

The figures for the tax heading "Income Tax (non-PAYE)" is based on sectoral information associated with direct tax payments from the self-employed only and is not available in respect of other subheads of non-PAYE income tax.

The sector identifier used on the tax records is "taxi operation or other renting of private cars with operator" which is derived from the 4 digit "NACE code (Rev. 1)", 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 Revenue Commissioners inform me that they are committed to tackling tax evasion and avoidance across all areas of the economy. Their goal is to prevent a loss of revenue to the State and at the same time to ensure that a level playing pitch exists for the benefit of legitimate trade interests, including those in the taxi and hackney industries.

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

177 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding the application of the carbon tax to coal and commercial peat. [3254/11]

The section in the Finance Act 2010 that provides for application of the carbon tax to solid fuels (coal and commercial peat) is subject to a Ministerial Commencement Order. This approach was primarily adopted in order to allow time for a robust mechanism to be put in place to improve the control of high sulphur coal being sourced from Northern Ireland suppliers.

The Department of Environment in conjunction with the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) have proposed new regulations for coal which would effectively extend the existing voluntary agreement for low sulphur coal to the entire State on a compulsory regulatory basis.

A stakeholder committee was established last year to provide an input into the proposed regulations. Under EU law dealing with technical barriers to trade, Ireland is required to notify the European Commission of all draft technical regulations concerning products before they are adopted in national law. Formal notification of the proposed new standard for coal issued from NSAI to the EU Commission in November 2010, to which the Commission has three months to respond.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

178 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) in County Kildare could be furnished with a P21 for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3263/11]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE Balancing Statement (P21) for the year 2009 will issue to the person concerned shortly.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

179 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if a person (details supplied) can be furnished with a P21 for 2009; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3264/11]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a PAYE Balancing Statement (P21) for the year 2009 will issue to the person concerned shortly.

Inter-departmental Communications

Joan Burton

Ceist:

180 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance to whom he placed calls externally to the Department of Finance or the Department of an Taoiseach on the night of 29 September 2008 and early morning of 30 September 2008, to seek advice in relation to the bank guarantee or other options for resolving the banking crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3296/11]

I did not make any external telephone calls on the night of 29 September and early morning of 30 September 2008 to seek advice in relation to the bank guarantee or other options for resolving the banking crisis. However, I did make telephone calls to the following people to advise them of the bank guarantee:

Irish Ambassador to France

Ms. Christine Lagarde, Minister for Finance, France

Irish Ambassador to UK

Mr. Alistair Darling, Chancellor of the Exchequer, UK

Monsieur Jean-Claude Trichet, President, European Central Bank.

Universal Social Charge

Joan Burton

Ceist:

181 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the forecast yield from the universal social charge introduced in the Budget 2011 for 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. [3298/11]

The Universal Social Charge (USC) is a tax which replaces the income and health levies. It is intended to broaden the tax base in an equitable manner. USC receipts will be collected under the income tax sub-head. The Budget 2011 projections for receipts from the USC are set out as follows.

2011

2012

2013

2014

Universal Social Charge (€ billions)

€3.3

€4.1

€4.3

€4.5

In addition to the projected USC receipts detailed above, the Exchequer will benefit in 2011 from arrears collected in respect of the income levy and the health levy. As with all new income tax measures, the first year yield is expected to be significantly below the full-year yield, for a number of reasons including the fact that a portion of the tax collected in the year in which a measure is introduced relates to earnings in the previous year.

Tax Yield

Joan Burton

Ceist:

182 Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Finance the forecast yield from the levy on public sector pensions, introduced in budget 2011, for 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014. [3299/11]

The reduction in public service pensions, as announced in Budget 2011, is estimated to yield savings in the region of €100 million in 2011, €106 million in 2012, €110 million in 2013 and €114 million in 2014.

Mortgage Interest Rates

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

183 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance his views on the predicted increase in mortgage interest rates in 2011, which will add further financial pressure to hard-pressed homeowners, many of whom it is believed will fall behind on payments or face selling their homes as a result; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3338/11]

Mortgage interest rates are determined by a broad range of factors including European Central Bank base rates, deposit rates, market funding costs, the competitive environment and an institution's overall funding. A balance must be maintained by the Government between support provided for individual banks and financial service providers generally through the bank guarantee scheme, other financial support incentives and broader public policy provisions, while at the same time, ensuring that the day-to-day running of these institutions has regard to competition, market conditions and the need to develop stable commercial enterprises to meet the long term credit needs of households and business in the Irish Economy. In this regard, as Minister for Finance, I have no function in relation to interest rate decisions made by individual lending institutions at any particular time. Nevertheless, I am acutely aware of the difficulties faced by mortgage-holders and, of course, interest rate increases will place a further financial strain on those affected.

The Deputy will be aware of the Mortgage Arrears and Personal Debt Expert Group, which I set up in February 2010. The Deputy will also be aware that the Expert Group produced two reports, which can be accessed at www.finance.gov.ie.

Since the publication of the reports, the Code of Conduct for Mortgage Arrears (CCMA) has been revised by the Central Bank to reflect many of the recommendations of the Expert Group including key recommendations relating to the introduction by all regulated lenders of a standardised Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP). The most significant changes in the revised CCMA include:

borrowers in arrears who co-operate with the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP) will not be charged penalty interest charges;

harassment of borrowers through unsolicited communications will be outlawed; and

borrowers in financial difficulties, but not in arrears, will be allowed to participate in the MARP.

The revised CCMA came into effect on 1 January 2011 and can be accessed at www.centralbank.ie. Lenders are required to comply with the CCMA as a matter of law but have been given a period of six months’ grace, ending on 30 June 2011, to put in place the requisite systems and training of staff necessary to support the implementation of the MARP. Failure to comply with the revised CCMA may result in sanctions under the Central Bank’s administrative sanctions framework.

It has already been indicated by the Minister for Justice and Law Reform to the House on several occasions that he intends to give early attention to the recently published Final Report on Personal Debt Management and Debt Enforcement of the Law Reform Commission. That Report contains recommendations on comprehensive reform of the system of personal insolvency law in Ireland.

Other important measures in place to assist consumers who have fallen into arrears or who are experiencing difficulties servicing their mortgage repayments include:

the Mortgage Interest Supplement (MIS) Scheme, which currently supports approximately 18,000 mortgage-holders; and

the Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), which provides a national, free, confidential and independent service. MABS has 53 offices nationwide and also operates a helpline to assist people with debt problems.

Tax Code

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

184 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will examine and clarify a matter (details supplied). [3378/11]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that it contacted the taxpayer on the 21 January 2011 and advised him that no interest is due. The taxpayer in question is fully satisfied with the clarification.

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

185 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance the current levies imposed on home heating oil and the rates of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3386/11]

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioner that there are two types of home heating oil: marked gas oil (MGO) and kerosene. Both fuels are marked and dyed to distinguish them from auto-diesel, which is subject to tax at a higher rate. MGO is liable to Mineral Oil Tax (excise duty) at a rate of €88.66 per 1,000 litres, and kerosene at a rate of €38.02 per 1,000 litres. Since 1 May 2010, these rates include a "carbon charge" component (based on a charge of €15 per tonne of CO2 emitted), which accounts for €41.30 of the MGO rate, and the entire kerosene rate.

These Mineral Oil Tax rates are well below the EU average rates of around €168 per 1,000 litres for MGO and €233 per 1,000 litres for kerosene.

All home heating oil is liable to VAT at 13.5%.

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

186 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide clarification on the way the proposed changes to stamp duty will affect a family (details supplied). [3391/11]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the transitional arrangements only apply to instruments dated after 8 December 2010 and before 1 July 2011 solely in pursuance to a binding contract dated prior to 8 December 2010. In this case, as both the contract and deed are dated prior to 8 December 2010 — the Deed of Transfer is dated 2 December 2010 and the Contract is dated 12 November 2010 — the rates, reliefs and exemptions that apply will be those effective as at the date of the Deed of Transfer (2 December 2010), which were those effective prior to the changes brought in by the recent budget.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

187 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3406/11]

There are three bodies under the aegis of my Department which can be classed as semi-State bodies. Details of these bodies are as follows: Anglo Irish Bank since its nationalisation in January 2009 has been deemed a semi state body. On 31st March 2010 it published its 2009 Annual Report and Accounts for the fifteen month period to 31 December 2009 which showed a loss for the period of €12.7 billion. The bank also published interim results for the six month period to 30 June 2010 showing a loss for the period of €8.2 billion.

On 31 March 2010, I assumed control of Irish Nationwide Building Society and it therefore became a commercial body under the aegis of the Minister. The Society has and continues to produce and publish its annual accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Building Societies Act. In 2009, the Society posted a loss of €2.5 billion.

The annual turnover and surplus of An Post National Lottery Company in the most recent five years for which accounts are available are outlined in the following table:

Year

Turnover

Surplus

€ million

€ million

2005

616.442

203.205

2006

679.069

217.526

2007

778.489

245.480

2008

840.081

267.756

2009

815.101

263.501

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

188 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a breakdown of the numbers of public sector workers by grade and by Department in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3415/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in Tables 1 to 7. Information in relation to Grades in the Civil Service is sourced from the Civil Service Staff information Portal (CSSIP) and is presented on a whole time equivalent (w.t.e.) basis for Quarter 4 2010. Information for industrial civil servants is presented for Quarter 3 of 2010. Information on the numbers of employees and grades in the wider public service is presented on a Functional Classification basis and is based on information supplied to my Department. This information is sourced from the Public Service Staff Information Portal (PSSIP) and is presented on a whole time equivalent (w.t.e.) basis for Quarter 3 2010. The Q4 2010 figures are currently being compiled and will be available 30 days after the end of quarter.

The grade information is collected in line with the prevailing grade structure in each sector. Given the multitude of grades that exist within the non-commercial state sector, Departments supply information on the numbers employed, broken down by salary band. More detailed information in relation to the grade structures in individual offices or agencies should be sought from the relevant Minister.

Table 1: Civil Service — Department/Office

Non Industrial Civil Servants - December 2010

Sec. Gen Equiv.

A. Sec. Equiv.

Principal & Equiv.

Ap & Equiv.

Heo & Equiv.

Ao & Equiv.

Eo & Equiv.

So & Equiv.

Co & Equiv.

Svo & Equiv.

Misc. Grades

Agriculture, Fisheries & Food

1

13

117

481

300

568

937

123

942

89

16

Attorney General

5

8

23

30

11

4

9

3

31

0

0

Central Statistics Office

1

2

27

41

77

83

159

28

338

12

0

Chief State Solicitor

1

4

25

92

16

0

13

20

50

5

0

Communications Energy & Nat. Resources

2

3

24

57

43

16

52

2

48

9

6

Community, Equality & Gaeltacht Affairs

1

5

29

72

71

27

71

3

88

10

2

Comptroller & Auditor General

0

3

8

39

43

0

59

1

3

1

0

Courts Service

2

31

34

113

148

2

218

17

286

148

0

Defence

1

2

15

37

57

2

72

27

120

19

1

Director Of Public Prosecutions

2

5

31

62

16

0

12

13

50

4

0

Education Group

1

9

176

323

178

89

298

52

365

48

8

Enterprise Group

1

12

48

86

131

13

227

32

308

48

5

Environment Heritage & Local Government

1

8

63

232

196

93

271

12

129

39

8

Finance

6

9

52

127

82

54

49

27

98

24

10

Foreign Affairs Group

8

36

91

225

74

112

111

42

443

49

27

Garda Civilians

0

3

8

25

79

8

115

194

1,357

158

84

Health & Children

3

6

48

99

89

21

85

13

90

10

8

Justice & Law Reform

2

15

78

265

226

277

360

48

759

57

13

Office Of Public Works

1

4

25

134

124

85

112

23

117

18

2

Oireachtas

1

1

21

61

46

65

55

3

117

31

1

Ombudsman

0

1

8

30

11

0

12

1

22

2

0

President’s Establishment

1

0

1

3

3

0

3

6

5

1

0

Property Registration Authority

1

0

17

36

59

22

232

19

186

11

0

Public Appointments Service

0

1

2

10

14

2

17

9

42

5

0

Revenue Commissioners

3

12

126

423

705

317

1,732

229

2,372

127

6

Social Protection

1

7

65

185

637

11

871

611

2,477

127

1

State Laboratory

0

0

3

17

14

39

0

2

7

7

0

Taoiseach

1

5

17

26

30

9

22

12

44

20

8

Tourism, Culture & Sport

1

3

10

29

20

15

33

4

28

9

2

Transport

1

4

29

81

80

48

80

17

138

12

4

Valuation Office

0

1

5

38

6

52

14

12

14

5

0

Total

49

213

1,223

3,480

3,582

2,035

6,299

1,605

11,073

1,104

211

Table 2: Industrial Civil Servants

Other Civil Servants (Grade Data Not Readily Available)

Prisons

3,521

Commission For Public Service Appointments

8

National Gallery

54

Foreign Affairs Local Recruits Serving Abroad

300

Industrial*

1,647

*September data used for JLR, GARDA CIVILIAN, EH&LG and OIREACHTAS.

Table 3: Justice Sector

Justice Sector

Justice Sector

14,620

Assistant Commissioner

10

Centres for Young Offenders

227

Chief Superintendent

47

Commissioner

1

Deputy Commissioner

2

Garda

11,822

Inspector

342

Sergeant

2,189

Student Garda

7

Superintendent

177

Traffic Warden

23

Table 4: Defence Sector

Air Corps

Army

Naval Service

Defence Sector

777

8,615

1,005

Battalion Quarter Master

4

27

6

Battalion Sergeant Major

6

24

4

Brigadier General

0

6

1

Cadets

5

31

13

Captain

64

275

50

Chaplain

1

16

1

Children

0

0

0

Civilian Employees

0

740

0

Colonel

2

33

2

Commandant

28

282

37

Company Quarter Master

12

231

16

Company Sergeant

45

117

70

Corporal

163

1,363

159

Lieutenant

39

346

61

Lieutenant Colonel

12

105

10

Lieutenant General

0

1

0

Major General

0

2

0

NCOs & Privates

0

0

0

Nurses

0

14

0

Officers

0

0

0

Other

0

0

0

Private

265

4,034

368

Sergeant

131

968

207

Table 5: Education Sector

College of Education/ Non-HEA Institutions

Dublin Dental Hospital

First Level Education

Institutes Of Technology

Second Level Education

Universities/ HEA Institutions

Education Sector

100

138

40,986

8,334

32,737

10,960

Caretakers

0

0

174

0

0

0

Clerical Assistants

0

0

189

0

0

0

Clerical Officers

0

0

0

0

137

0

Community & Comprehensive Non- Teachers

0

0

0

0

473

0

Community & Comprehensive Teachers

0

0

0

0

4,273

0

Model Schools

0

0

8

0

0

0

Other Education Projects

0

0

18

0

0

0

Primary Teachers

0

0

32,120

0

0

0

Rutland St

0

0

5

0

0

0

Secondary Teachers

0

0

0

0

13,350

0

Special Needs Assistants

0

0

8,472

0

2,065

0

Third Level Grades

100

138

0

8,334

0

10,960

Vocational Non Teachers

0

0

0

0

2,102

0

Vocational Teachers

0

0

0

0

10,337

0

Table 6: Local authorities

ENVIRONMENT

Local Authorities

31,174

Clerical/Admin

10,603

Contract Posts

896

Contracts of Indefinite Duration

0

Full-time Fire Fighters

1,213

Local Authority Grade

0

Managerial

270

NDP Project Staff

157

Non DEH&LG Posts

0

Outdoor

13,211

Professional/Technical

4,140

Retained Fire Fighters

0

Site Supervisory Contract Posts

116

Supernumeraries

197

Temporary/Seasonal

371

Table 7: Non-Commercial State Agencies (N.C.S.A.)

0 – 30K

30,001 – 70K

70,001 – 125K

Over 125K

Unknown

NCSA

Department

1,451

7,937

2,429

170

165

12,152

Taoiseach Group

4

19

15

2

0

40

Finance Group

37

24

1

0

0

62

Justice Group

0

0

0

0

0

0

Environment

84

588

182

15

0

869

Education Group

173

1,975

278

20

77

2,522

Community, Equality & Gaeltacht Affairs

192

361

77

5

0

635

Foreign Affairs

0

0

0

0

0

0

Communications Energy & Nat. Resources

146

761

142

21

0

1,070

Agriculture

127

1,312

394

6

0

1,840

Transport

51

379

126

8

0

564

Health Group

125

749

243

37

0

1,153

Enterprise Group

176

996

794

44

88

2,098

Tourism, Culture & Sport

326

684

149

12

0

1,171

Defence

0

0

0

0

0

0

Social Protection

11

90

27

1

0

128

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

189 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of State-employed workers who earn more than €100,000 per annum. [3416/11]

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

190 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of State-employed workers who earn less than €30,000 per annum. [3417/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 189 and 190 together.

I refer to my reply on 18 January to Question Nos. 175 to 178, inclusive.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

191 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3418/11]

The overall level of staffing in my Department is determined within the context of the current moratorium on staffing levels with particular regard to the Employment Control Framework for the Department, which includes the ceilings for serving staff numbers for the four-year period 2011-2014. In relation to maternity and other forms of leave, the normal practice would, where appropriate, be that such vacancies may be filled from within existing resources by way of reassignment from lower priority areas within the Department.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

192 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the proportion of office administrators to front-line staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3419/11]

My Department is a central policy Department, responsible for advising and supporting the government on the economic and financial management of the state and the overall management of the public sector. As such, the distinction between office administrators and front-line staff would not be appropriate to the functions of the Department.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

193 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3429/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

194 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaigns or programmes; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3444/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 194 together.

No payments were made during the course of 2010 in respect of advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by my Department. The detail in relation to agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of my Department is set out below.

Special EU Programmes Body

Cost

Description

€3,000 (plus VAT)

Advertorial Placement in Business Scotland Magazine — Focus on projects supported under the INTERREG IVA Programme

€3,500 (plus VAT)

Advertorial Placement in Regional Review Magazine — Focus on PEACE III Programme and ‘Managing Diversity in EU Cities and Regions’ at the Open Days event, Brussels

€6,600 (plus VAT)

Public Notices — PEACE III Funding Calls

€20,637 (plus VAT)

Public Notices — INTERREG IVA Funding Calls

In accordance with European Commission Regulation (EC) 1828 2006, the SEUPB is required to implement a Communications Plan. This plan sets out in detail how the SEUPB shall provide information on and publicise the operations of the European Territorial Co-operation Programmes PEACE III and INTERREG IVA in the 2007-2013 Programming Period. In 2010, the SEUPB had a total budget of €227,000 to implement activities as outlined within the Communications Plan.

Part of the Communications Plan budget in 2010 was allocated towards the placement of advertorials. Such placements were commissioned on an ad hoc basis throughout the year within specialist publications that would not normally accept press releases. Advertorials placed in 2010 are outlined in Table 1 below.

In addition, the SEUPB is also required to place Public Notices in a range of publications to announce the opening and closing of calls for applications under each of the Programmes. Details of such Public Notices are also provided in Table 1 below.

The costs outlined above are funded jointly between the Department of Finance, the European Commission and the Department of Finance and Personnel (NI).

NTMA umbrella

An Post and the Prize Bond Company Limited are agents of the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) for the sale of the range of State Savings products.

In 2010 An Post and the Prize Bond Company incurred the following advertising costs:

Details of the campaign

Cost of Advertising

Consultancy and Production costs

Total Expenditure in 2010

TOTAL in 2010

1,243,000

559,000

1,802,000

Launch of new 10 year National Solidarity Bond

608,000

213,000

821,000

Promotion of Prize Bond Sales

635,000

346,000

981,000

Office of the Revenue Commissioners

I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the following table contains the details requested by the Deputy.

Campaign

Details of the campaign

Cost of Advertising (incl. VAT)

Production Costs (incl. VAT)

P35 Deadline

Advising employers of P35 deadline. National press and TV; local, national and urban radio; relevant business publications. Conducted over a 2 week period.

193,150

8,894

Pay & File Deadline

Advising taxpayers of income tax deadline. National press and TV; local, national and urban radio; relevant business publications. Conducted over a 4 month period.

358,777

15,774

Cigarette Smuggling Awareness Raising

Raising awareness of free phone number for reporting of the sale/importation of illegal cigarettes. National press; select local press; relevant trade publications.

28,819

1,428

Capital Acquisitions Tax Changes

Alerting individuals of times/dates of seminars regarding changes to CAT and probate. Local and national press over a 1 month period.

18,409

750

VAT Changes

Advising of changes to VAT treatment of public bodies and liaison arrangements available. National press.

7,974

224

College Grants

Advising prospective 3rd level students and their parents that the easiest way to get the P21 needed to apply for college grant is by using PAYE Anytime. Local press.

51,861

399

New Vehicle Registration Procedures

Advising motorists of the appointment of the NCTS to carry out vehicle registration functions. National press; web banner ads and relevant motoring publications.

56,099

589

Consultation on Mandatory Disclosure of Certain Transactions

Inviting the public to comment on a consultation document and advising the publication of draft regulations and guidance notes. National press.

8,751

224

Consultation on the Extension of Mandatory eFiling

Inviting the public to comment on a consultation document on this topic. National press.

12,612

224

Budget Changes

Raising awareness of: importance of registering for ROS for speed of update of Payroll details; the Budget Free-phone number; information available on revenue.ie regarding budget changes.

123,062*

3,358*

Importation Administrative Changes

Reminder to traders that they must use new system from 1 January. National press.

15,847

0

CGT deadline

Raising awareness of CGT payment deadline. National press.

21,092

0

Miscellaneous

Local office closure, change of opening hours of local office, publication of statutory instruments, etc. National press.

22,691

387

Total

919,141

32,250

*2010 only.

The Office of the Ombudsman, the Valuation Office, the State Laboratory, the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, the Office of the Appeals Commissioner, the Public Appointments Service, the Commission for Public Service Appointments and the National Asset Management Agency did not make any such payments in 2010.

In the time available the Office of Public Works was unable to provide the information requested. The information is being collated by that office and will issue directly to the Deputy.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

195 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3459/11]

The following tables list the Statutory Instruments signed by me or by bodies under the aegis of my Department in the period requested by the Deputy. In the time available it has not been possible to supply full details in relation to dates laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas or in relation to the dates published in Iris Oifigiúil.

Department of Finance

Year

S.I.

Date laid before Houses of the oireachtas

No.

Date published in Iris Oifigiúil

2007

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) regulations 2007

23 Jan 2007

27

2007

Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to central fund) order 2007

12 Feb 2007

134

30 March 2007

2007

European Communities ( Award of contracts by Utility Undertakings) Regulations 2007

02 Mar 2007

50

27 February 2007

2007

Credit Union act 1997 (Exemption from Additional Services Requirements) Regulations 2007

12 Mar 2007

107

23 March 2007

2007

Credit Union act 1997 (Alteration of Financial Limits) Regulations 2007

03 May 2007

193

2007

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) (No.2) regulations 2007

14 May 2007

238

2007

Oireachtas (Allowances to members) (Travelling Facilities and Overnight Allowance) (Amendment) regulations 2007

173

14 May 2007

2007

European Communities (controls of cash entering or leaving the Community) regulations 2007

15 Jun 2007

2007

European Communities (insurance and reinsurance groups supplementary supervision) regulations 2007

4 Jul 2007

2007

Central Bank Act 1942 (Section 33J and 33K) Regulations 2007

294

19 June 2007

2007

European Communities (life assurance) (amendment) regulations 2007

4 Jul 2007

2007

European Communities (life assurance) framework (amendment) regulations 2007

4 Jul 2007

2007

European Communities (non-life insurance) (amendment) regulations 2007

4 Jul 2007

2007

European Communities (non-life insurance) framework (amendment) regulations 2007

4 Jul 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

9 Jul 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

9 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Abbeyfeale, County Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ardara, County Donegal) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ardee, County Louth) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Bailieborough, County Cavan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ballinrobe, County Mayo) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ballybay, County Monaghan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ballybofey-Stranorlar, County Donegal) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ballygar, County Galway) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ballyjamesduff, County Cavan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ballyshannon, County Donegal) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Baltinglass, County Wicklow) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Banagher, County Offaly) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Bantry, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Bellaghy — Charlestown, County Sligo) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Belmullet, County Mayo) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Borrisokane, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Bunclody, County Wexford) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cahersiveen, County Kerry) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cahir, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cappoquin, County Waterford) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Carlingford, County Louth) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Carnew, County Wicklow) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cashel, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castlebellingham, County Louth) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castleblayney, County Monaghan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castlecomer, County Kilkenny) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castleconnell, County Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castledermot, County Kildare) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castleisland, County Kerry) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Castlepollard, County Westmeath) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cavan, County Cavan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Clara, County Offaly) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Claremorris, County Mayo) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Clifden, County Galway) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Clones, County Monaghan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cloyne, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cootehill, County Cavan) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Croom, County Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Doneraile, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Duleek, County Meath) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Dunlavin, County Wicklow) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Dunleer, County Louth) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Edenderry, County Offaly) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ennistymon, County Clare) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Frebane, County Offaly) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Muinebheag (Bagenalstown), County Carlow) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Rathluirc (Charleville), County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act (qualifying town renewal areas) (Callan, County Kilkenny) (amendment) order 2007

10 Jul 2007

2007

European Communities (Iran) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

23 Jul 2007

2007

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) order 2007

23 Jul 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, Al-Qaida and Taliban of Afghanistan) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2007

26 Jul 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, Al-Qaida and Taliban of Afghanistan) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2007

26 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes (electronic transmission of certain excise returns) (specified provisions and appointed day) order 2007

27 Jul 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2007

30 Jul 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2007

30 Jul 2007

2007

European Communities (tax exemption for certain non-commercial imports from Third Countries) regulations 2007

30 Jul 2007

2007

Public service management (recruitment and appointments) act 2004 (extension of application to health information and quality authority) order 2007

30 Jul 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (living over the shop scheme) (qualifying streets) (Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (living over the shop scheme) (qualifying streets) (Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (living over the shop scheme) (qualifying streets) (Galway) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (living over the shop scheme) (qualifying streets) (Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (living over the shop scheme) (qualifying streets) (Waterford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Fermoy, County Cork) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ferns, County Wexford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Fethard, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Foxford, County Mayo) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Gorey, County Wexford) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Graiguenamanagh, County Kilkenny and Tinnahinch, County Carlow) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Hacketstown, County Carlow) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Headford, County Galway) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kanturk, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kells, County Meath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilbeggan, County Westmeath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilcock, County Kildare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilcullen, County Kildare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Killenaule, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Killorglin, County Kerry) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilmacthomas, County Waterford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilmallock, County Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilrush, County Clare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Limerick City) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Listowel, County Kerry) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Littleton, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Longford Town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Loughrea, County Galway) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Miltown Malbay, County Clare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Moate, County Westmeath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Monaghan town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Monasterevan, County Kildare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Mountmellick, County Laois) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Mountrath, County Laois) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Moville, County Donegal) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Mullingar, County Westmeath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Navan, County Meath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Nenagh, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (New Ross, County Wexford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Newcastle West, County Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Newport, County Mayo) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Oldcastle, County Meath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Piltown, County Kilkenny) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Portarlington, County Laois) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Portlaw, County Waterford) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Portuma, County Galway) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Portumna, County Galway) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Ramelton, County Donegal) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Rathangan, County Kildare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Rathdowney, County Laois) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Rathdrum, County Wicklow) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Rathkeale, County Limerick) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Roscommon, County Roscommon) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Rosses Point, County Sligo) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Scarriff, County Clare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Sixmilebridge, County Clare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Skibbereen, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Taghmon, County Wexford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Tallow, County Waterford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Templemore, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Thomastown, County Kilkenny) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Tinahely, County Wicklow) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Trim, County Meath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Tullow, County Carlow) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Urlingford, County Kilkenny) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Arklow, County Wicklow) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Athlone, County Westmeath) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Athy, County Kildare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Balbriggan, County Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Ballina, County Mayo) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Ballymun, Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Bandon, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Birr, County Offaly) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Blackpool/Shandon, Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Blanchardstown, County Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Buncrana, County Donegal) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Carlow Town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Carrick-On-Suir, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Clondalkin, County Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Cobh, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Cork City docks area) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Drogheda, County Louth) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Dun Laoghaire, County Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Dundalk, County Louth) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Dungarvan, County Waterford) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Galway City) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (H.A.R.P., Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Inchicore/Kilmainham, Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Kildare Town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Kilkenny city) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Liberties/Coombe, Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Mallow, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (North East Inner City, Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (O’Connell Street, Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Passage West, County Cork) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Portlaoise, County Laois) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Roscrea, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Shannon, County Clare) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Sligo Town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Tallaght, Dublin) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Thurles, County Tipperary) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Tipperary Town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Tralee, County Kerry) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Tuam, County Galway) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Tullamore, County Offaly) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Waterford City) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying urban renewal areas) (Wicklow Town) (amendment) order 2007

2 Aug 2007

2007

Vehicle registration and taxation (amendment) regulations 2007

22 Aug 2007

2007

Asset covered securities (amendment) act 2007 (commencement) order 2007

27 Aug 2007

2007

European Communities (income tax relief for investment in corporate trades — business expansion scheme and seed capital scheme) regulations 2007

10 Sep 2007

2007

Finance act 2007 (commencement of 19(1)) order 2007

10 Sep 2007

2007

Betting act (revenue forms) regulations 2007

11 Sep 2007

2007

Excise duty on tobacco products (quantitative restrictions) (amendment) order 2007

17 Sep 2007

2007

European Communities (Burma/Myanmar) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

21 Sep 2007

2007

European Communities (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

21 Sep 2007

2007

European Communities (Lebanon) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

21 Sep 2007

2007

Financial transfers (Burma/Myanmar) (prohibition) order 2007

21 Sep 2007

2007

Financial transfers (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) (prohibition) order 2007

21 Sep 2007

2007

Financial transfers (Lebanon) (prohibition) order 2007

21 Sep 2007

2007

Finance act 2007 (commencement of section 109) order 2007

26 Sep 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 27(4)) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

601

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 42(4)) order 2007

28 Sep 2007

602

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 61(1), (2) and (3)) (overcollateralisation) (amendment) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

604

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 61(1)) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

605

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 61(2)) (regulatory overcollateralisation) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

606

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 6(2)) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

603

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 62(1), (2) and (3)) (overcollateralisation) (amendment) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

607

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 62(1)) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

608

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 62(2)) (regulatory overcollateralisation) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

609

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 91(1)) (sensitivity to interest rate changes — mortgage credit) (amendment) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

612

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 91(1)) (sensitivity to interest rate changes — public credit) (amendment) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

611

07 September 2007

2007

Asset covered securities act 2001 (section 91(1)) (substitution assets) (repeal) regulations 2007

28 Sep 2007

610

07 September 2007

2007

Transfer of execution of sentences act 2005 (designated countries) order 2007

1 Oct 2007

2007

European Communities (markets in financial instruments) (amendment) regulations 2007

4 Oct 2007

2007

Stamp duty (designation of exchanges and markets) (no. 2) regulations 2007

4 Oct 2007

2007

Stamp duty (designation of exchanges and markets) (no. 2) regulations 2007

4 Oct 2007

2007

Consumer credit act 1995 (section 2) (no. 1) regulations 2007

05th Oct 2007

100

20 March 2007

2007

Consumer credit act 1995 (section 2) (no. 2) regulations 2007

138

17 April 2007

2007

Consumer credit act 1995 (section 2) (no. 3) regulations 2007

139

17 April 2007

2007

Consumer credit act 1995 (section 2) (no. 4) regulations 2007

690

26 October 2007

2007

Consumer credit act 1995 (section 2) (no. 4) regulations 2007

751

01 January 2008

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2007

19 Oct 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2007

19 Oct 2007

2007

Central Bank act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) levies and fees regulations 2007

5 Nov 2007

736

02 November 2007

2007

Markets in financial instruments and miscellaneous provisions act 2007 (commencement) order 2007

8 Nov 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 4) 2007

20 Nov 2007

2007

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 4) 2007

20 Nov 2007

2007

Financial transfers (Somalia) (prohibition) order 2007

20 Nov 2007

2007

European Communities (markets in financial instruments) (amendment) regulations (no. 2) 2007

30 Nov 2007

2007

Markets in financial instruments and miscellaneous provisions act 2007 (commencement) (no. 2) order 2007

6 Dec 2007

2007

Comptroller and Auditor General (amendment) act 1993 (section 14) order 2007

11 Dec 2007

2007

European Communities (information on the payer accompanying transfers of funds) regulations 2007

14 Dec 2007

2007

European Communities (licensing and supervision of credit institutions) (amendment) regulations 2007

14 Dec 2007

2007

European Communities (Sudan) (financial sanctions) regulations 2007

14 Dec 2007

2007

Financial transfers (Sudan) (prohibition) order 2007

14 Dec 2007

2007

Taxes (electronic transmission of statements made by certain high-income individuals) (specified provision and appointed day) order 2007

20 Dec 2007

2007

Credit union act 1997 (exemption from additional services requirements) (amendment) regulations 2007

28 Dec 2007

838

04 January 2010

2008

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Banagher, County Offaly) (amendment) (no. 2) order 2007

7 Jan 2008

2008

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Cappoquin, County Waterford) (amendment) (no. 2) order 2007

7 Jan 2008

2008

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (qualifying town renewal areas) (Kilcock, County Kildare) (amendment) (no. 2) order 2007

7 Jan 2008

2008

National Development Finance Agency act 2002 (prescription of public authority) (Grangegorman Development Agency) order 2008 [draft]

21 Jan 2008

114

25 April 2008

2008

Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to central fund) order 2008 [Draft]

28 Jan 2008

85

04 April 2008

2008

Central Bank act 1971 (approval of scheme of Hypo Public Finance Bank and DEPFA Bank plc) order 2008

1 Feb 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

1 Feb 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

1 Feb 2008

2008

Valuation tribunal (revaluation appeals) (fees) regulations 2008

14 Feb 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

27 Feb 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

27 Feb 2008

2008

Oireachtas(Allowances) and (Allocations) Members and Holders of Parliamentary and Certain Ministerial offices) Order 2008

07-Mar-08

56

29 February 2008

2008

European Communities (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

13 Mar 2008

2008

European Communities (Iran) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

13 Mar 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) (prohibition) order 2008

13 Mar 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) order 2008

13 Mar 2008

2008

Income tax (relevant contracts) (amendment) regulations 2008

26 Mar 2008

2008

Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to central fund) order 2008

4 Apr 2008

2008

European Communities (settlement finality) regulations 2008

8 Apr 2008

2008

Asset covered securities (amendment )act 2007 (commencement) (section 30) order 2008

9 Apr 2008

2008

Central Bank and Financial Services Authority of Ireland superannuation scheme 2008

14 Apr 2008

2008

Finance act 2008 (commencement of section 30(1)) order 2008

22 Apr 2008

2008

Finance act 2008 (commencement of section 54(1) (a) (i)) order 2008

22 Apr 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2008

23 Apr 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2008

23 Apr 2008

2008

European Communities (Belarus) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

23 Apr 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Belarus) (prohibition) order 2008

23 Apr 2008

2008

National Development Finance Agency act 2002 (prescription of public authority) (Grangegorman Development Agency) order 2008

25 Apr 2008

2008

European Communities (re-use of public sector information) (amendment) regulations 2008

30 Apr 2008

103

22 April 2008

2008

Consumer credit act 1995 (section 2) (no. 1) regulations 2007

125

06 May 2008

2008

Return of payments (banks, building societies, credit unions and savings banks) regulations 2008

8 May 2008

2008

Ethics in public office (designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2008

19 May 2008

2008

Ethics in public office (prescribed public bodies, designated directorships of and positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2008

19 May 2008

2008

Stamp duty (designation of exchanges and markets) regulations 2008

29 May 2008

2008

European Communities (insurance mediation) (amendment) regulations 2008

5 Jun 2008

2008

Finance act 2007 (commencement of section 26(1)) order 2008

6 Jun 2008

2008

Finance act 2007 (commencement of section 29) order 2008

6 Jun 2008

2008

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (EirGrid) order 2008

6 Jun 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (overcollateralisation) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

183

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 27(4) and 41B) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

186

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 38(6) and 41B) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

180

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 61(1) and 41B) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

184

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 61(2) and 41B) (regulatory overcollateralisation) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

182

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 61(3) and 41B) (commercial property/loan valuation) regulation 2008

26 Jun 2008

187

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 61(3) and 41B) (interest rate sensitivity) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

181

17 June 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (sections 91(1) and 41B) (sensitivity to interest rate changes — commercial mortgage credit (amendment) regulations 2008

26 Jun 2008

185

17 June 2008

2008

Value-added tax (amendment) regulations 2008

3 Jul 2008

2008

Irish Financial Services Appealsd Tribunal Rules 2008

224

04 July 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2008

4 Jul 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2008

4 Jul 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 2) 2008

8 Jul 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 2) 2008

8 Jul 2008

2008

Stamp duty (designation of clearing houses) regulations 2008

9 Jul 2008

2008

European Communities (financial checks) regulations 2008

16 Jul 2008

2008

European Communities (Iran) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2008

21 Jul 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) order 2008

21 Jul 2008

2008

Stamp duty (designation of clearing houses) (no. 2) regulations 2008

31 Jul 2008

2008

European Communities (Liberia) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

7 Aug 2008

2008

Finance act 2003 (commencement of section 164) order 2008

7 Aug 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Liberia) (prohibition) order 2008

7 Aug 2008

2008

European Communities (cooperation between national authorities responsible for the enforcement of consumer protection laws) (amendment) regulations 2008

8 Aug 2008

2008

National Development Finance Agency act 2002 (prescription of public authority) (Iarnród Éireann — Irish Rail) order 2008 [Draft]

12 Aug 2008

584

06 January 2009

2008

Stamp duty (designation of exchanges and markets) (no. 2) regulations 2008

15 Aug 2008

2008

Taxes (electronic transmission of VAT eservices returns and VIES statements) (specified provisions and appointed day) order 2008

22 Aug 2008

2008

Tax returns and payments (mandatory electronic filing and payment of tax) regulations 2008

27 Aug 2008

2008

Central Bank act 1942 (sections 33J and 33K) regulations 2006

8 Sep 2008

2008

Central Bank act 1942 (sections 33J and 33K) regulations 2007

8 Sep 2008

2008

Central Bank act 1942 (sections 33J and 33K) regulations 2008

8 Sep 2008

297

29 July 2008

2008

Film regulations 2008

10 Sep 2008

2008

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Republic of Macedonia) order 2008 [Draft]

15 Sep 2008

2008

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Socialist Republic of Vietnam) order 2008 [Draft]

15 Sep 2008

2008

Exchange of information relating to tax matters and double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Isle of Man) order 2008 [Draft]

15 Sep 2008

2008

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) regulations 2008

15 Sep 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2008

30 Sep 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 4) 2008

30 Sep 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2008

30 Sep 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 4) 2008

30 Sep 2008

2008

Electricity tax regulations 2008

30 Sep 2008

2008

Vehicle registration and taxation (amendment) regulations 2008

9 Oct 2008

2008

CREDIT INSTITUTIONS(Financial Support ) SCHEME 2008

15-Oct-08

411

24 October 2008

2008

Finance act 2008 (commencement of section 46) order 2008

17 Oct 2008

2008

Credit institutions (financial support) (specification of institutions) order 2008

6 Nov 2008

416

31 October 2008

2008

Credit institutions (financial support) (specification of institutions) (no. 2) order 2008

13 Nov 2008

425

07 November 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-qaida Network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 5) 2008

13 Nov 2008

2008

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) Usama Bin Laden, the Al-qaida Network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 5) 2008

13 Nov 2008

2008

European Communities (Zimbabwe) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

13 Nov 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Zimbabwe) (prohibition) regulations 2008

13 Nov 2008

2008

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital gains) (Republic of Turkey) order 2008 [Draft]

17 Nov 2008

2008

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Malta) order 2008 [Draft]

17 Nov 2008

2008

European Communities (authorization, placing on the market, use and control of biocidal products) (amendment) (no. 2) regulations 2008

17 Nov 2008

2008

European Communities (control of dangerous substances in aquaculture) regulations 2008

17 Nov 2008

2008

Stamp duty (designation of market) regulations 2008

21 Nov 2008

2008

European Communities (tax exemption for certain non-commercial goods imported in the personal luggage of travellers from third countries) regulations 2008

26 Nov 2008

2008

European Communities (Democratic Republic of Congo) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

1 Dec 2008

2008

European Communities (Liberia) (financial sanctions) regulations (No. 2) 2008

1 Dec 2008

2008

Finance act 2007 (commencement of section 24(1)) order 2008

1 Dec 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Democratic Republic of Congo) (prohibition) order 2008

1 Dec 2008

2008

Asset covered securities act 2001 (Approval of Transfers between EBS Building Society and EBS Mortgage Financve) Order 2008

499

05 December 2008

2008

Financial transfers (Liberia) (prohibition) (no. 2) order 2008

1 Dec 2008

2008

Credit institutions (financial support) (specification of institutions) (No. 3) order 2008

8 Dec 2008

515

09 December 2008

2008

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) (no. 2)regulations 2008

10 Dec 2008

2008

Insurance act 1989 (regulation of reinsurance) (commencement) order 2008

17 Dec 2008

2008

Central Bank act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) levies and fees regulations 2008

22 Dec 2008

576

30 December 2008

2008

European Communities (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY)) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

22 Dec 2008

2008

Finance act 2008 (commencement of certain provisions) order 2008

22 Dec 2008

2008

Financial transfers(International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY)) (prohibition) regulations 2008

22 Dec 2008

2008

Oireachtas (allowances to members)and ministerial and parliamentary offices (amendment) act 1992 (allowances) (amendment) regulations 2008

22 Dec 2008

545

19 December 2008

2008

Central Bank act 1942 (section 33J) regulations 2008

15 Jan 2009

598

09 January 2009

2008

Ethics in public office (designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) (No. 2) regulations 2008

28 Jan 2009

606

27 January 2009

2008

Ethics in public office (prescribed public bodies, designated directorships of public bodies and designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2008

28 Jan 2009

607

27 January 2010

2008

European Communities (Iraq) (financial sanctions) regulations 2008

28 Jan 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Iraq) (prohibition) order 2008

28 Jan 2009

2008

National Development Finance Agency act 2002 (prescription of public authority) (Iarnród Éireann — Irish Rail) order 2008

28 Jan 2009

2009

ASSET Covered Securities Act, 2001 (Approval of the Transfer between Anglo Irish Bank Corporation p.l.c. and Anglo Irish Mortgage Bank) Order, 2009

11

23 January 2009

2009

Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to central fund) order 2009 [Draft]

29 Jan 2009

90

27 March 2009

2009

European Communities (non-life insurance) framework (amendment) regulations 2009

10 Feb 2009

2009

Stamp duty (designation of exchanges and markets) regulations 2009

10 Feb 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama bin Laden, the Al-Quaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

12 Feb 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama bin Laden, the Al-Quaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

12 Feb 2009

2009

European Communities (Burma/Myanmar) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

12 Feb 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Burma/Myanmar) (prohibition) order 2009

12 Feb 2009

2009

Finance act 2007 (commencement of section 51(1)) order 2009

10 Mar 2009

2009

Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to central fund) order 2009

27 Mar 2009

2009

Finance act 2008 (commencement of section 32(1) (b)) order 2009

27 Mar 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (commencement of section 28(1)) order 2009

27 Mar 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (commencement of section 37) order 2009

27 Mar 2009

2009

Investment of the National Pensions Reserve Fund and miscellaneous provisions act 2009 (commencement) order 2009

27 Mar 2009

2009

Appointment of special adviser (Minister for Finance) order 2009

6 Apr 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 2) 2009

6 Apr 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 2) 2009

6 Apr 2009

2009

Central Bank act 1971 (approval of scheme of KBC Mortgage Bank and KBC Bank Ireland PLC) order 2009

7 Apr 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

7 Apr 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

7 Apr 2009

2009

Financial emergency measures in the public interest (reduction of payments to state solicitors) regulations 2009

1 May 2009

159

05 May 2009

2009

European Communities (Iran) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

7 May 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) order 2009

7 May 2009

2009

European Communities (assessment of acquisitions in the financial sector) regulations 2009

8 Jun 2009

2009

European Communities (deposit guarantee schemes) (amendment) regulations 2009

25 Jun 2009

2009

European Communities (insurance and reinsurance groups supplementary supervision) (amendment) regulations 2009

27 Jul 2009

2009

Criminal justice (surveillance) act 2009 (written record of approval) (Revenue Commissioners) regulations 2009

30 Jul 2009

2009

Oireachtas (allowances) (members of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission and chairpersons of Oireachtas committees) order 2009

30 Jul 2009

2009

Ethics in public office (prescribed public bodies, designated directorships of public bodies and designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2009

10 Aug 2009

320

11 August 2009

2009

European Communities (mutual assistance for the recovery of claims relating to certain levies, duties, taxes and other measures) regulations 2009

8 Sep 2009

2009

European Communities (Iraq) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

11 Sep 2009

2009

European Communities (Liberia) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

11 Sep 2009

2009

European Communities (Zimbabwe) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

11 Sep 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Iraq) (prohibition) order 2009

11 Sep 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Liberia) (prohibition) order 2009

11 Sep 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Zimbabwe) (prohibition) order 2009

11 Sep 2009

2009

Disabled drivers and disabled passengers (tax concessions) (amendment) regulations 2009

14 Sep 2009

2009

European Communities (arterial drainage) regulations 2009

25 Sep 2009

388

25 September 2009

2009

Freedom of information act, 1997 (section 17(6)) regulations, 2009

25 Sep 2009

385

25 September 2009

2009

Freedom of information act, 1997 (section 18(5A)) regulations, 2009

25 Sep 2009

386

25 September 2009

2009

Freedom of information act, 1997 (section 28(6)) regulations, 2009

25 Sep 2009

387

25 September 2009

2009

European Communities (payment services) regulations 2009

29 Sep 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (commencement of section 35) order 2009

29 Sep 2009

2009

European Communities (Côte d’Ivoire) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

30 Sep 2009

2009

European Communities (Uzbekistan) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

30 Sep 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Côte d’Ivoire) (prohibition) order 2009

30 Sep 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Uzbekistan) (prohibition) order 2009

30 Sep 2009

2009

Excise duty on tobacco products (quantitative restrictions) order 2009

5 Oct 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to tax matters and double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Guernsey) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Finance act 2007 (section 16) (commencement) order 2009

20 Nov 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (section 18) (commencement) order 2009

20 Nov 2009

2009

Financial measures (miscellaneous provisions) act 2009 (section 17) (commencement) order 2009

27 Nov 2009

455

27 November 2009

2009

Central Bank act 1971 (approval of scheme of First Active plc and Ulster Bank Ireland Limited) order 2009

10 Dec 2009

2009

Finance act 2008 (commencement of section 111) order 2009

10 Dec 2009

2009

Central Bank act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) levies and fees regulations 2009

14 Dec 2009

500

15 December 2009

2009

European Communities (capital adequacy of credit institutions) (amendment) regulations 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

European Communities (capital adequacy of investment firms) (amendment) regulations 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

European Communities (credit institutions) (consolidated supervision) regulations 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

European Communities (directive 2006/48/EC) (Central Bank acts) (amendment) regulations 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

European Communities (licensing and supervision of credit institutions) (amendment) regulations 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

European Communities(value-added tax) regulations 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (commencement of section 31) order 2009

21 Dec 2009

2009

Regulation (EC) no. 1082/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 July 2006 on a European grouping of territorial cooperation (EGTC)

21 Dec 2009

2009

National Asset Management Agency act 2009 (commencement) order 2009

22 Dec 2009

515

05 January 2010

2009

National Asset Management Agency act 2009 (establishment day) order 2009

22 Dec 2009

547

05 January 2010

2009

National Asset Management Agency (determination of long-term economic value of property and bank assets) regulations 2009

22 Dec 2009

546

05 January 2010

2009

National Asset Management Agency (designation of eligible bank assets) regulations 2009

23 Dec 2009

568

05 January 2010

2009

National Treasury Management Agency (state authority) order 2009

30 Dec 2009

2009

Financial emergency measures in the public interest (no. 2) act 2009 (commencement) order 2009

22 Jan 2010

590

22 January 2010

[2010].

Draft of Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to Central Fund) order 2010

11 Feb 2010

145

09 April 2010

2010

National Treasury Management Agency act 1990 (Social welfare and pensions act 2009) delegation of functions order 2010

16 Feb 2010

2010

European Communities (Iran) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

25 Feb 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) order 2010

25 Feb 2010

2010

Oireachtas (allowances and facilities) regulations 2010

8 Mar 2010

84

02 March 2010

2010

European Communituies(Public Authorities Contracts) ( Review Procedures) Regulations 2010

31 Mar 2010

130

30 March 2010

2010

European Communituies(Award of Contracts by Utility Undertakings) ( Review Procedures) Regulations 2010

31 Mar 2010

131

30 March 2010

2010

European Communities (Burma/Myanmar) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

7 Apr 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Burma/Myanmar) (prohibition) order 2010

7 Apr 2010

2010

European grouping of territorial cooperation regulations 2010

8 Apr 2010

2010

Finance act 2004 (section 91) (deferred surrender to Central Fund) order 2010

8 Apr 2010

2010

Finance act 2010 (section 133(1)) (commencement) order 2010

9 Apr 2010

2010

European Communities (markets in financial instruments) (amendment) regulations 2010

11 May 2010

2010

Finance act 2010 (commencement of section 44) order 2010

12 May 2010

2010

European Communities (Slobodan Milosevic and associated persons) (prohibition) order 2010

25 May 2010

2010

European Communities (Liberia) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

1 Jul 2010

2010

European Communities (value-added tax) regulations 2010

1 Jul 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Liberia) (prohibition) order 2010

1 Jul 2010

2010

Commission of Investigation (banking sector) order 2010 [draft]

7 Jul 2010

2010

Comptroller and Auditor General (amendment) act 1993 (section 21(1)) order 2010

12 Jul 2010

2010

European Union (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

7 Sep 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) (prohibition) order 2010

7 Sep 2010

2010

Commission of Investigation (banking sector) (amendment) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital and Gewerbsteuer (trade tax)) (Federal Republic of Germany) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital gains) (Republic of Austria) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital gains) (Republic of South Africa) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital gains) (United Arab Emirates) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Hong Kong special administrative region) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Kingdom of Morocco) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Malaysia) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Montenegro) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Republic of Albania) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Republic of Singapore) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Antigua and Barbuda) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Cook Islands) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Republic of the Marshall Islands) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Saint Lucia) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Saint Vincent and the Grenadines) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Samoa) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to taxes (British Virgin Islands) order 2010 [draft]

19 Nov 2010

2010

European Union (Côte d’Ivoire) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

10 Dec 2010

2010

European Union (Iran) (financial sanctions) (No. 2) regulations 2010

10 Dec 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Côte d’Ivoire) (prohibition) order 2010

10 Dec 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) (No. 3) order 2010

10 Dec 2010

2010

Central Bank act 1942 (Financial Services Ombudsman Council) levies and fees regulations 2010

13 Dec 2010

576

14 December 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) (No.3) regulations 2010

23 Dec 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) (No.3) regulations 2010

23 Dec 2010

2010

European Union (Eritrea) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

23 Dec 2010

2010

European Union (value-added tax) regulations 2010

23 Dec 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Eritrea) (prohibition) order 2010

23 Dec 2010

2010

European Union (directive 2010/76/EU) regulations 2010

30 Dec 2010

2010

Taxes (publication of names of tax defaulters) order 2010

30 Dec 2010

2009

Central Bank act 1942 (sections 33J and 33K) regulations 2009

5 Aug 2009

300

04 September 2009

2009

Ethics in public office (designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2009

10 Aug 2009

321

11 August 2009

2009

Finance act 2008 (commencement of section 76(1)) order 2009

12 Aug 2009

2009

Oireachtas (allowances to members) and ministerial and parliamentary offices (amendment) act 1992 (allowances) (amendment) regulations 2009

20 Aug 2009

325

21 August 2009

2009

Oireachtas (allowances to members) and ministerial and parliamentary offices (amendment) act 1992 (constituency office allowance) regulations 2009

20 Aug 2009

234

21 August 2009

2009

Oireachtas (allowances to members) (constituency telephone allowance) regulations 2009

20 Aug 2009

327

21 August 2009

2009

Oireachtas (allowances to members) (travelling facilities and overnight allowance) regulations 2009

20 Aug 2009

326

21 August 2009

2009

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (EirGrid) order 2009

27 Aug 2009

2009

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Electricity Supply Board) order 2009

27 Aug 2009

2009

European Communities (Belarus) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

1 Oct 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Belarus) (prohibition) order 2009

1 Oct 2009

2009

Agreement concerning information on tax matters (Cayman Islands) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital gains) (Bosnia and Herzegovina) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital gains) (Kingdom of Bahrain) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Double taxation relief (taxes on income and capital) (Republic of Belarus) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Republic of Moldova) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Republic of Serbia) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to tax matters and double taxation relief (taxes on income) (Jersey) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Gibraltar) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Principality of Liechtenstein) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to taxes (Anguilla) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to taxes (Bermuda) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Exchange of information relating to taxes (Turks and Caicos Islands) order 2009 [Draft]

18 Nov 2009

2009

Law Reform Commission superannuation (consolidation) (amendment) scheme 2009

27 Nov 2009

2009

Credit institutions (eligible liabilities guarantee) scheme 2009 [Draft]

30 Nov 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2009

30 Nov 2009

2009

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 3) 2009

30 Nov 2009

2009

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) regulations 2009

30 Nov 2009

2009

European Communities (Democratic Republic of Congo) (financial sanctions) regulations 2009

2 Dec 2009

2009

Financial transfers (Democratic Republic of Congo) (prohibition) order 2009

2 Dec 2009

2009

Credit institutions (eligible liabilities guarantee) scheme 2009

10 Dec 2009

490

11 December 2009

2009

Credit institutions (financial support) (financial support date) order 2009

10 Dec 2009

488

11 December 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (commencement of section 79(1)) order 2009

10 Dec 2009

2009

Finance (no. 2) act 2008 (schedule 5) (commencement of certain provisions) order 2009

10 Dec 2009

2010

European Communities (financial collateral arrangements) regulations 2010

4 Jan 2011

2010

European Communities (settlement finality) regulations 2010

4 Jan 2011

2010

Ethics in public office (designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2010

19 Jan 2010

5

19 January 2010

2009

Pensions insolvency payment scheme 2010

19 Jan 2010

4

19 January 2010

2010

Ethics in public office (prescribed public bodies, designated directorships of public bodies and designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) regulations 2010

27 Jan 2010

15

26 January 2010

2010

National Asset Management Agency (determination of long-term economic value of property and bank assets) regulations 2010

4 Mar 2010

88

05 January 2010

2010

European Communities (assessment and management of flood risks) regulations 2010

26 Mar 2010

122

26 March 2009

2010

European Communities (revocation of financial sanctions concerning Uzbekistan) regulations 2010

26 Mar 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Uzbekistan) (revocation) order 2010

26 Mar 2010

2010

Guidelines issued under section 210(1) of the National Asset Management Agency act 2009 regarding lending practices and procedures and relating to the review of decisions of participating institutions to refuse credit facilities

30 Mar 2010

2010

Ethics in public office (prescribed public bodies, designated directorships of public bodies and designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) (no. 2) regulations 2010

31 Mar 2010

126

30 March 2010

2010

European Communities (award of contracts by utility undertakings) (review procedures) regulations 2010

31 Mar 2010

2010

European Communities (public authorities’ contracts) (review procedures) regulations 2010

31 Mar 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

22 Apr 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

22 Apr 2010

2010

European Communities (cross border payments) regulations 2010

18 May 2010

2010

National Solidarity Bond and State Savings Account

20 May 2010

2010

European Communities (Republic of Guinea) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

25 May 2010

2010

European Communities (Slobodan Milosevic and associated persons) regulations 2010

25 May 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Republic of Guinea) (prohibition) order 2010

25 May 2010

2010

Law Reform Commission superannuation scheme 2010

25 May 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Bord Gáis Éireann) order 2010

28 May 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Eircom) order 2010

28 May 2010

2010

European Communities (credit rating agencies) regulations 2010

4 Jun 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

10 Jun 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

10 Jun 2010

2010

European Communities (consumer credit agreements) regulations 2010

11 Jun 2010

281

11 June 2010

2010

Capital acquisitions tax consolidation act 2003 (section 46(B) (appointed day) order 2010

15 Jun 2010

2010

Financial measures (miscellaneous provisions) act 2009 (Institute of Public Administration) transfer order 2010

15 Jun 2010

2010

Financial measures (miscellaneous provisions) act 2009 (the Economic and Social Research Institute) transfer order 2010

15 Jun 2010

2010

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) regulations 2010

22 Jun 2010

2010

Public service pension rights order 2010

28 Jun 2010

2010

Oireachtas (allowances and facilities) (amendment) regulations 2010

8 Jul 2010

331

09 July 2010

2010

Vehicle registration tax (permanent reliefs) (amendment) regulations 2010

15 Jul 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Zimbabwe) (prohibition) order 2010

19 Jul 2010

2010

Oireachtas (allowances) (certain Ministers of State) order 2010

19 Jul 2010

2010

European Communities (Zimbabwe) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

20 Jul 2010

2010

European Communities (Iraq) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

30 Jul 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Iraq) (prohibition) order 2010

30 Jul 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2010

3 Aug 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (counter terrorism) (financial sanctions) regulations (no.2) 2010

3 Aug 2010

2010

Credit institutions (eligible liabilities guarantee) (amendment) scheme 2010 [Draft]

23 Sep 2010

2010

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) (no. 2) regulations 2010

28 Sep 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (BT Ireland) order 2010

1 Oct 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Meteor Mobile Communications Limited) order 2010

1 Oct 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (O2 Ireland) order 2010

1 Oct 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Vodafone Ireland) order 2010

1 Oct 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Waterways Ireland) order 2010

1 Oct 2010

2010

Central bank reform act 2010 (commencement of certain provisions) order 2010

4 Oct 2010

2010

Credit institutions (eligible liabilities guarantee) (amendment) scheme 2010

4 Oct 2010

470

01 October 2010

2010

Credit institutions (financial support) (financial support date) order 2010

4 Oct 2010

471

01 October 2010

2010

Credit institutions (financial support) (financial support period) order 2010

4 Oct 2010

472

01 January 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Burma/Myanmar) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

7 Oct 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Burma/Myanmar) (prohibition) order (no. 2) 2010

7 Oct 2010

2010

National Asset Management Agency (conferral of additional function) Order 2010

22 Oct 2010

505

05 November 2010

2010

National Asset Management Agency (determination of long-term economic value of property and bank assets) (amendment) regulations 2010

22 Oct 2010

504

05 November 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(2)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) (no. 2) regulations 2010

1 Nov 2010

2010

Criminal justice (terrorist offences) act 2005 (section 42(6)) (Usama Bin Laden, the Al-Qaida network and the Taliban) (financial sanctions) regulations (no. 2) 2010

1 Nov 2010

2010

European Union (Iran) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

9 Nov 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Iran) (prohibition) order (no. 2) regulations 2010

9 Nov 2010

2010

Credit Union act 1997 (Section 85) Rules 2010

515

05 November 2010

2010

The Consumer Credit Act 1995 ( Section 2) (No. 1) Regulations 2010

551

26 November 2010

2010

European Communities (Somalia) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

15 Nov 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Somalia) (prohibition) order 2010

15 Nov 2010

2010

Credit institutions (eligible liabilities guarantee) (amendment) (no. 2) scheme 2010 [draft]

16 Nov 2010

546

23 November 2010

2010

Credit Institutions (Financial Support ) (Financial Support DATE) (No.2) Order 2010

16 Nov 2010

547

23 November 2010

2010

Credit Institutions (Financial Support ) (Financial Support period) (No.2) Order 2010

16 Nov 2010

548

23 November 2010

2010

Double taxation relief (taxes on income) (State of Kuwait) order 2010

1 Dec 2010

2010

Exchange of information relating to tax matters (Belize) order 2010

2 Dec 2010

2010

European Communities (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY)) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

6 Dec 2010

2010

European Union (Lebanon) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

6 Dec 2010

2010

Financial transfers (International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY)) (prohibition) order 2010

6 Dec 2010

2010

Financial transfers (Lebanon) (prohibition) order 2007

6 Dec 2010

2010

Valuation act 2001 (global valuation) (apportionment) (Iarnród Éireann) order 2010

6 Dec 2010

2010

European Communities (Slobodan Milosevic and associated persons) (financial sanctions) regulations 2010

9 Dec 2010

2010

Financial Transfers (Slobodan Milosevic and associated persons) (prohibition) order (No. 2) 2010

9 Dec 2010

2010

Ethics in public office (designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) (no. 2) regulations 2010

15 Dec 2010

596

17 December 2010

2010

Credit Institutions (stabilisation) Act 2010 (Commencement) Order 2010

22 Dec 2010

623

28 December 2010

2010

European Communities (tobacco products tax) regulations 2010

22 Dec 2010

2010

Ethics in public office (prescribed public bodies, designated directorships of public bodies and designated positions in public bodies) (amendment) (no. 3) regulations 2010

4 Jan 2011

645

31 December 2010

2011.

Marine tourism (transfer of departmental administration and ministerial functions) order 2010

12 Jan 2011

2009

Credit institutions (financial support) (financial support period) order 2009

10 Dec 2009

489

11 December 2001

2007

Superannuation (designation of approved organisations) (no. 3) regulations 2007

19-Sep-07

2007

Stamp duty (designation of exchanges and markets) regulations 2007

27 Sep 2007

2010

Central Bank Act 1942(Section 33J and 33K)Regulations 2007

487

12 October 2010

2010

Income tax (relevant contracts) (amendment) regulations 2010

12 Jan 2011

Revenue Commissioners

Year

S.I. No.

Title

Date in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid in Oireachtas

2010

608

European Communities (Tobacco Products Tax) Regulations 2010

24.10.10

22.12.10

674

Income Tax (Relevant Contracts) (Amendment) Regulations 2010

14.12.11

12.12.10

612

European Union (Value-Added Tax) Regulations 2010

28.12.10

23.12.10

639

Value-Added Tax Regulations 2010

31.12.10

23.12.10

559

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Clearing Houses) Regulations 2010

30.11.10

2.12.10

317

European Communities (Value-Added Tax) Regulations 2010

02.07.10

01.07.10

282

Capital Acquisitions Tax Appointment Day Order

15.06.10

15.06.10

191

Natural Gas Carbon Tax Regulations 2010

11.05.10

10.05.10

168

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 2) Regulations 2010

30.04.10

29.04.10

146

Control of Excisable Products Regulations 2010

09.04.10

08.04.10

144

Value-Added Tax (Amendment) Regulations 2010 (SI 144 of 2010)

09.04.10

08.04.10

53

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) Regulations 2010

19.02.10

19.02.10

2009

577

Value-Added Tax (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2009

08.01.09

30.12.09

573

Income Tax (Employments) Regulations 2009

05.01.09

21.01.10

520

European Communities (Value-Added Tax) Regulations 2009

18.12.09

21.12.09

476

Stamp Duty (e-Stamping of Instruments) Regulations 2009

08.12.09

07.12.09

353

European Communities (Mutual Assistance for the Recovery of Claims Relating to Certain Levies, Duties, Taxes and Other Measures) Regulations 2009

11.09.09

08.09.09

343

Medical Insurance (Age-Related Tax Credit Relief at Source) Regulations 2009

01.09.09

31.08.09

331

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 4) Regulations 2009

28.08.09

21.08.09

289

Value-Added Tax (travel agent’s margin scheme) (Amendment) Regulations 2009

31.07.09

30.07.09

254

Return of Payments (Banks, Building Societies, Credit Unions and Savings Banks) (amendment) Regulations 2009

10.07.09

7007.09

184

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 3) Regulations 2009

19.05.09

18.05.09

135

TAXES (Electronic Transmission of Air Travel TAX Returns) (Specified Provisions and Appointed Day) ORDER 2009

14.04.09

09.04.09

134

Air Travel TAX Regulations 2009

14.04.09

09.04.09

118

Stamp Duty (Designation of Clearing Houses) Regulations 2009

10.04.09

06.04.09

99

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 2) Regulations 2009

31.03.09

27.03.09

46

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) Regulations 2009

13.02.09

10.02.09

2008

592

Income Tax (Employments) Regulations 2008

06.01.09

06.01.09

480

European Communities (Tax Exemption for certain noncommercial Goods Imported in the Personal Luggage of Travellers from Third Countries) Regulations 2008

28.11.08

26.11.08

468

Stamp Duty (Designation of Market) Regulations 2008

21.11.08

21.11.08

357

Film Regulations 2008 — Arrangement of Regulations

12.09.08

10.09.08

341

Tax Returns and Payments (Mandatory Electronic Filing and Payment Of Tax) Regulations 2008

29.08.08

27.08.08

339

Taxes (Electronic Transmission of VAT eServices Returns and VIES Statments) (Specified Provisions and Appointed Day) Order 2008

26.08.08

22.08.08

321

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 2) Regulations 2008

19.08.08

15.08.08

302

Stamp Duty (Designation of Clearing Houses) (No. 2)

05.08.08

31.07.08

250

Stamp Duty (Designation of Clearing Houses)

04.07.08

09.07.08

238

Value-Added Tax (Amendment) Regulations 2008

04.07.08

03.07.08

156

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) Regulations 2008

06.06.08

29.05.08

136

Return of Payments (Banks, Building Societies, Credit Unions and Savings Banks) Regulations 2008

13.05.08

08.05.08

80

Income Tax (Relevant Contracts) (Amendment) Regulations 2008

28.03.08

26.03.08

2008

592

Income Tax (Employments) Regulations 2008

06.01.09

06.01.09

480

European Communities (Tax Exemption for certain noncommercial Goods Imported in the Personal Luggage of Travellers from Third Countries) Regulations 2008

28.11.08

26.11.08

468

Stamp Duty (Designation of Market) Regulations 2008

21.11.08

21.11.08

357

Film Regulations 2008 — Arrangement of Regulations

12.09.08

10.09.08

341

Tax Returns and Payments (Mandatory Electronic Filing and Payment Of Tax) Regulations 2008

29.08.08

27.08.08

339

Taxes (Electronic Transmission of VAT eServices Returns and VIES Statments) (Specified Provisions and Appointed Day) Order 2008

26.08.08

22.08.08

321

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 2) Regulations 2008

19.08.08

15.08.08

302

Stamp Duty (Designation of Clearing Houses) (No. 2)

05.08.08

31.07.08

250

Stamp Duty (Designation of Clearing Houses)

04.07.08

09.07.08

238

Value-Added Tax (Amendment) Regulations 2008

04.07.08

03.07.08

156

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) Regulations 2008

06.06.08

29.05.08

136

Return of Payments (Banks, Building Societies, Credit Unions and Savings Banks) Regulations 2008

13.05.08

08.05.08

80

Income Tax (Relevant Contracts) (Amendment) Regulations 2008

28.03.08

26.03.08

2007

830

Taxes (Electronic Transmission of Statements made by Certain High-Income Individuals)

04.01.08

20.12.07

677

Stamp Duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) (No. 2) Regulations 2007

09.10.07

04.10.07

651

Stamp duty (Designation of Exchanges and Markets) Regulations 2007

28.09.07

04.10.07

627

Excise Duty on Tobacco Products (Quantitative Restrictions) (Amendment) Order 2007

14.09.07

17.09.07

544

Taxes (Electronic Transmission of Certain Excise Returns) (Specified Provisions and Appointed Day) Order 2007

31.07.07

27.07.07

281

European Communities (Controls of Cash Entering or Leaving the Community) Regulations 2007

15.06.07

15.06.07

272

Value-Added Tax Regulations 2007

15.06.07

14.06.07

250

European Communities (Mutual Assistance In The Field Of Direct Taxation, Certain Excise Duties And Taxation Of Insurance Premiums) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

01.06.07

29.05.07

249

European Communities (Mutual Assistance For The Recovery Of Claims Relating To Certain Levies, Duties,Taxes And Other Measures) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

01.06.07

29.05.07

Valuation Office

Year

S.I. No.

Title

Date published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas

2007

54

Valuation Act 2001 (Revaluation Appeals) (Fees) Regulations 2007

Unknown

8th February 2007

2007

237

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Hutchinson 3G Ireland Limited Trading as 3) Order 2007

25th May 2007

18th May 2007

2008

18

Valuation Tribunal (Revaluation Appeals) (Fees) Regulations 2008

12th February 2008

4th February 2008

2008

158

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Eirgrid) Order 2008

30th May 2008

21st May 2008

2009

339

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Eirgrid) Order 2009

28th August 2009

26th August 2009

2009

340

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Electricity Supply Board) Order 2009

28th August 2009

26th August 2009

2010

229

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Eircom) Order 2010

26th May 2010

26th May 2010

2010

230

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Bord Gais Eireann) Order 2010

28th May 2010

26th May 2010

2010

462

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Meteor Mobile Communications Limited) Order 2010

1st October 2010

29th September 2010

2010

463

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Vodafone Ireland) Order 2010

1st October 2010

29th September 2010

2010

464

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (O2 Ireland) Order 2010

1st October 2010

29th September 2010

2010

465

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Waterways Ireland) Order 2010

1st October 2010

29th September 2010

2010

466

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (BT Ireland) Order 2010

1st October 2010

29th September 2010

2010

567

Valuation Act 2001 (Global Valuation) (Apportionment) (Iarnrod Eireann) Order 2010

3rd December 2010

29th November 2010

Archaeological Sites

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

196 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Finance if renovation work will commence in 2011 on Ratoo round tower, Ballyduff, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3603/11]

Conservation works will commence on Rattoo Round Tower this year. Arrangements have been made to erect scaffolding to enable masons to access the structure.

Coastal Protection

John O'Donoghue

Ceist:

197 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Finance the work that has been undertaken by the Office of Public Works to prevent coastal erosion on or near Inch Strand, County Kerry; if the office has undertaken recent inspections on the work; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3609/11]

The Office of Public Works has not carried out any works at Inch Strand to prevent coastal erosion and has not carried out any inspections in the area.

Coastal protection works would normally be undertaken by the relevant Local Authority. Kerry County Council has carried out works at Inch Strand in recent years with the assistance of funding from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government and the Department of Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs. In 2010 the Council submitted an application in respect of works at Inch Strand under the OPW Minor Flood and Coastal Protection Works scheme. The application was not successful because the scale of the proposed works exceeded the scope of projects that qualify for funding from the scheme.

Tax Code

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

198 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if he will examine a matter regarding carbon tax and VAT (details supplied). [3617/11]

Since Budget 2010, the Mineral Oil Tax on motor fuels includes a carbon charge in respect of the carbon dioxide emitted by those fuels.

The application and operation of Value-Added Tax is governed by the EU VAT Directives. Article 78 of Council Directive 2006/112/EC provides that the taxable amount to which VAT is applied shall include "taxes, duties, levies and charges, excluding the VAT itself". Section 37(1) of the Value-Added Tax Consolidation Act 2010 provides, therefore, that the amount on which VAT is chargeable is the total consideration receivable by the supplier, "including all taxes, commissions, costs and charges whatsoever", but not including the VAT itself. Accordingly, and as in the case of excise duties on other products, VAT is chargeable on the price of motor fuel inclusive of Mineral Oil Tax.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

199 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Finance if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the persons appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3660/11]

In the period in question I have made no appointments to bodies under the aegis of my Department.

Tax Code

Jack Wall

Ceist:

200 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a tax clearance certificate in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3670/11]

I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an application form has been issued to the person concerned for completion and return to their local Revenue office.

Consultancy Contracts

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

201 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide a comprehensive report on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3703/11]

The table sets out the list of payments made in respect of external advice given to my Department since taking office in 2008, including advice provided to my Department through the Financial Regulator, the Central Bank and all agencies under the NTMA umbrella.

Office of the Minister for Finance

Consultant/Firm offering advice

Payment Date

Gross Cost including VAT

Brief details of the advice provided

Hay Group Ireland, Lr. Mount Street, Dublin 2

2008

114,344

Job evaluation of senior posts in the Public Sector

Petrus Consulting

2008

4,114

Evaluation of value for money and policy review on construction procurement reform initiative

McCann Fitzgerald

2008

63,024

To draft conditions of engagement for construction related services and a price variation clause for construction contracts based on a proven cost basis; and draft legal changes resulting from consultation process and training.

A&L Goodbody

2008

182,008

To develop standard conditions of contract for civil engineering and building works projects and associated outline guidance; and draft legal changes resulting from consultation process and training .

IPA — Institute of Public Administration

2008

50,000

Review of the Capacity of the Dept of Finance

Ernst & Young

2008

193,901

Study on the economic and budgetary implications of a CCCTB

Arthur Cox

2008

1,628,024

Legal advice in relation to the Bank Guarantee Scheme, Recapitalisation issues, Nationalisation, the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA), the Eligible Liabilities Guarantee Scheme (ELG), general financial and banking matters.

Arthur Cox

2009

4,173,689

Legal advice in relation to the Bank Guarantee Scheme, Recapitalisation issues, Nationalisation, the National Asset Management Agency (NAMA), the Eligible Liabilities Guarantee Scheme (ELG), general financial and banking matters.

Mercer (Ireland) ltd

2009

3,308

Advice to CIROC in relation to Human Capital.

Watson (Wyatt) ltd

2009

7,290

Advice to CIROC in relation to the Executive Compensation market.

Hay Group Ireland Ltd

2009

4,860

Advice to CIROC in relation to Banking Remuneration.

Life Strategies Ltd

2009

32,805

Parallel Benchmarking pensions.

Hay Group Ireland Ltd

2009

215,937

Review Body on Higher Remuneration benchmarking

Pricewaterhouse Coopers

2010

118,580

Professional Fees in respect of accounting advice on promissory notes

Arthur Cox & Co

2010

4,804,884

Legal advice in respect of guarantees (CIFS & ELG), nationalisation of Anglo Irish Bank, recapitalisations and restructuring plans

Central Bank and Financial Regulator

The Central Bank and Financial Regulator incurred the following advisory costs:

Year and total cost

Detail

2008 total cost €4,295,115

Financial Capability Study consultancy for 2008/09

Loan book analysis and assessment review

Review of trading controls

Consumer tracking research

Report on calculating a consumer rebate

Review of the Life Assurance Disclosure Regulations

Consumer Research for Review of the Intermediary Market

2009 total cost €778,724

Review of Business Processes

Review of Directors Loans

Review of Banking System pre NAMA (at request of Department of Finance)

2010 total cost €2,031,423

Strategic Review of the Credit Union Sector in Ireland (requested by the Minister for Finance)

Organisational effectiveness of financial sector regulators/Supervisors

Due Diligence Report (at request of Department of Finance)

Review of NAMA Asset Valuation Methodology

The Central Bank and Financial Regulator are self-financing institutions. Accordingly the costs incurred are included for information only and do not represent a cost to the taxpayer. The Central Bank has advised my Department that they are not in a position to divulge individual consultant details/costs due to client confidentiality arrangements.

In addition to the above, the following costs were incurred in respect of reports commissioned by the Consumer Panel:

Year

Amount

2008

114,836

2009

4,860

2010

4,599

National Treasury Management Agency Group

Consultant/Firm offering advice

Gross Cost including VAT

Brief details of the advice provided

NTMA

Merrill Lynch

€7.33m

The NTMA was requested by the Minister for Finance to engage advisers to provide advice on structural issues in financial markets.

Total fees paid were €7.3m. Of this amount, €2.4 million was paid in 2008 for advice on structural issues in the financial markets and €4.9 million was paid in 2009 for advice given regarding investment of National Pensions Reserve Fund moneys by way of preference shares in financial institutions.

Rothschild

€4.54m

Rothschild was appointed to provide banking advisory services to the Minister for Finance, acting through the NTMA under two separate contracts: 15 September 2009 and 12 July 2010. There is a further final payment of €2 million (ex VAT) due to be paid on the July 2010 contract.

Goldman Sachs

€286,360

Advice in relation to Anglo Irish Bank. There is a further payment of €100,000 (ex VAT and expenses) due on this contract.

Peter Bacon

€82,012

Report on the options for resolving property loan impairments at Irish credit institutions

Peter Bacon

€21,870

Evaluation of a proposal to establish an Irish Residential Property Trust.

Arthur Cox

€1,020,190

Advice from Arthur Cox in relation to legal issues arising in the performance of banking system functions

NPRF Commission

PWC

€1.58m

Due Diligence on the NPRF’s investment in Bank of Ireland and AIB Preference Shares

Arthur Cox

€1.95m

Due Diligence on the NPRF’s investment in Bank of Ireland and AIB Preference Shares

Sir Andrew Large

€120,000

Due Diligence on the NPRF’s investment in Bank of Ireland and AIB Preference Shares

Arthur Cox

€390,000

Advice in relation to Bank of Ireland’s April 2010 capital raising and in relation to management of preference shareholding in AIB

NAMA

Arthur Cox

€911,250

Advice in relation to the drafting of the NAMA Act

*The objectives of the due diligence exercise which the National Pensions Reserve Fund Commission had carried out at the request of the Minister for Finance in respect of Bank of Ireland and Allied Irish Banks plc (AIB) were to form judgements with respect to the probability of each bank's core Tier 1 Capital being above the regulatory minimum at end 2011 and to identify any matters or issues which might be considered of a "red flag" nature.

Sir Andrew Large, former Deputy Governor of the Bank of England, was engaged as a "trusted advisor" on certain aspects of the due diligence process including the judgements to be made in the light of the final reports because of his specialist expertise in the banking area. Sir Andrew also had a significant input into setting the scope of the due diligence exercises and in working with the NTMA in monitoring PwC and Arthur Cox as the due diligence exercises progressed.

It should also be noted that the NPRF received arrangement fees of €60 million (€30 million from each bank) in respect of these transactions.

Tax Yield

Paul Kehoe

Ceist:

202 Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm when a charge commenced and ceased; the amount raised under this charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3724/11]

I understand that the Deputy is referring to royalty payments for petroleum production. These payments were provided for in the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act, 1960 and were abolished in 1987 for new petroleum leases. Royalties continue to be paid in respect of the Kinsale lease, which was signed in 1959. Royalties are paid into the Exchequer as an Exchequer Extra Receipt and are accounted for in Statement 1.2 of the annual Finance accounts. The amount received in royalties to date from the Kinsale, Ballycotton and South West Kinsale Gas fields, is €187,880,642.

Tax Code

John Browne

Ceist:

203 Deputy John Browne asked the Minister for Finance when a C2 cert will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Wexford. [3741/11]

I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that an application for a C2 certificate was received from the taxpayer. The Revenue district is in ongoing correspondence with the taxpayer's agents in connection with this matter. There has been no reply to date from letters which issued on the 3rd November and 25th November 2010.

Exchequer Funding

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

204 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Finance if the balances in departmental funds can be used to fund the Exchequer; if these funds, as per the National Treasury Management Agency funding of Exchequer balance Q4 2010 are accounted for in Departments or can they be used; is it is cash that has yet to be spent or cash not spent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3742/11]

Departmental funds mainly comprise the Exchequer account at the Central Bank and Exchequer bank deposits, along with short-term borrowing from, and lending to, a number of funds under the control of the Minister for Finance. The €15.7 billion in balances available as at end-2010, as per the National Treasury Management Agency's Quarter 4 2010 Funding of Exchequer Balance statement, represents cash mainly held in the Exchequer Account to fund future Exchequer requirements. As the NTMA’s statement outlines, the Exchequer deficit in 2010 was funded by an overall net cash borrowing of €12.6 billion and a €6.1 billion reduction in Exchequer deposits and other balances.

The build up of Exchequer cash balances in recent years has assisted in the timing of borrowing, allowing the NTMA to raise funds as opportunities arise without having to enter the market at particularly turbulent times.

Budget 2011 projects an Exchequer deficit of €17.7 billion in 2011. Under the terms of the Joint EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland, the Exchequer's cash balances will be reduced to part-fund this requirement.

Tax Code

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

205 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance when the review of the excise duty payable for licences for on-trade and off-licence sales of alcohol products which he announced on 7 December 2010 will be commenced; the terms of reference for the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3926/11]

As announced in my Budget Statement on 7 December 2010, a review will be undertaken of the excise duty payable for licences for on-trade and off-licence sales of alcohol products during 2011 to ensure that the system is transparent and fair. No terms of reference have to date been drawn up.

Tax Collection

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

206 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance the revenues received from DIRT tax in the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3927/11]

The following table sets out the net yield from Deposit Interest Retention Tax (DIRT) collected from 2006 to 2010:

Year

€m

2006

254.4

2007

471.8

2008

653.8

2009

614.1

2010

445.7

Ministerial Appointments

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

207 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Finance if the consumer advisory group provided for in the Central Bank Reform Act 2010 has been established; if so if he will provide details of the persons appointed to this group; if he will confirm if the group has met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3928/11]

Under the Central Bank Reform Act 2010, the Central Bank of Ireland is responsible for appointing members to the Consumer Advisory Group. The Central Bank Reform Act 2010 commenced on 1 October 2010.

I have been informed by the Central Bank that it advertised in November 2010 inviting applicants for the Consumer Advisory Group and that the appointment process is ongoing. I understand that it is planned to announce the names of the members of the inaugural Consumer Advisory Group at the end of January.

Flood Relief

Rory O'Hanlon

Ceist:

208 Deputy Rory O’Hanlon asked the Minister for Finance if there has been contact between the Office of Public Works and Monaghan County Council regarding an issue of flooding at a location (details supplied) in County Monaghan; the arrangements in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3940/11]

The flooding problem at the location concerned was investigated by the Office of Public Works last year on foot of representations by the Deputy, and it was found that it did not involve a channel for which the OPW has a statutory maintenance responsibility.

It would be open to Monaghan County Council to submit an application under the OPW Minor Flood Works Scheme for funding to undertake flood mitigation works. No such application has been submitted to date. If an application is submitted that meets the eligibility criteria of the scheme, it will be considered having regard to the overall availability of resources for flood risk management.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

209 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3948/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is set out in the table.

Year

2007

162,981.89

2008

125,843.70

2009

37,918.13

2010

42,375.23

2011 (to date)

220.92

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

210 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Finance if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their cars or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3963/11]

The current Minister of State and previous Ministers of State since 2007 employed 2 drivers on a week on week off basis. Details of salary provided to the drivers together with details of mileage expenses paid to each Minister of State since 2007 is contained in the table.

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Minister Parlon’s Driver 1

16,512

Minister Parlon’s Driver 2

15,813

Minister Ahern’s Driver 1

17,152

13,531

Minister Ahern’s Driver 2

17,152

13,531

Minister Mansergh’s Driver 1

11,346

35,374

32,845

2,527

Minister Mansergh’s Driver 2

11,346

31,369

32,844

2,527

Minister of State

Year

Kms Claimed

Total Paid

Minister Parlon

2007

37,633

19,769

Minister Ahern

2008

35,770

18,474

Minister Mansergh

2008

18,285

9,537

Minister Mansergh

2009

31,665

12,075

Minister Mansergh

2010

32,510

11,223

Fiscal Policy

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

211 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) is eligible for the public service pension levy despite the fact that the person is employed indirectly through a semi-State body, is not classified as a public sector worker and does not receive a public sector pension; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3324/11]

I have been informed by the IBTS that the individual concerned is an employee of the Irish Blood Transfusion Service and a member of the IBTS Pension Scheme. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service (IBTS) is a statutory body under the aegis of my Department. A contributory funded pension scheme, sponsored by the employer, was set up for employees in 1963. The Irish Blood Transfusion Service is a public service body as defined in the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act, 2009 and, consequently, its employees are public servants within the terms of that Act. The pension scheme in place comes under the scope of a public service pension scheme as defined in section 1 of the Act ‘provided for under an administrative measure to like effect as the Superannuation Acts'.

Special Educational Needs

Mary Upton

Ceist:

212 Deputy Mary Upton asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if additional funding has been allocated to Beechpark services for approved schools; the number and the approved schools included and if she has set a timeline for approved schools including a school (details supplied) to move forward. [3330/11]

As the Deputy's question relates to service matters, I have referred this question to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Medical Cards

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

213 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for renewal of a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3253/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

Joe Carey

Ceist:

214 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 229 of the 16 December 2010, when will a reply issue from the Health Service Executive; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3265/11]

I understand that the HSE replied to the Deputy on the 20 January regarding this matter.

Medical Cards

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

215 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [3268/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

216 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 3. [3277/11]

The Deputy's question relates to a service matter and accordingly has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Lucinda Creighton

Ceist:

217 Deputy Lucinda Creighton asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a company (details supplied) has not yet been paid by the Health Service Executive for its services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3287/11]

As this is a matter for the HSE, it has been referred to them for direct reply.

Medical Cards

Pat Breen

Ceist:

218 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when an application for a medical card will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3289/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

219 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding a change of medical card in respect persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3294/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Medical Aids and Appliances

John O'Mahony

Ceist:

220 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health and Children when approval will issue for a hearing aid in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3319/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Hospital Services

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

221 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Offaly will receive a date for a procedure in Tallaght hospital, Dublin 24, in view of the fact that they have been placed on a priority list; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3329/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Health Service Institutions

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

222 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will explain the policies and protocols behind the management of the charitable donations given to all Irish health institutions under her control or the Health Service Executive; if she will explain the way each fund is distributed; the annual reports in which they are accounted; if they are audited separately or in the HSE annual accounts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3331/11]

Jan O'Sullivan

Ceist:

223 Deputy Jan O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Health and Children if Health Service Executive institutions will be governed by the Charities Act; if each HSE institution has a separate bank account to manage charitable donations; the HSE institutions which have a CHY number from the Revenue Commissioners or, alternatively, have separate charitable bodies to receive, manage and distribute these charitable funds; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3334/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 222 and 223 together.

My Department provides funding to numerous organisations through the National Lottery fund for various projects and services in any given year, many of which would have charitable status. A list of the organisations that received lottery funding in 2010 is available on the Department of Health & Children website at www.dohc.ie. The procedures governing the disbursement of the National Lottery fund are also set out on the website, and all organisations must provide certificates of expenditure and accounts where appropriate to confirm that the funding provided was properly spent.

The HSE also provides funding to a large number of voluntary organisations for services, many of these organisations would have charity status. Details of all the organisations funded by the HSE are set out in its Annual Financial Statements. In addition, Section 40 of the Health Act 2004 provides that the Executive may receive donations and gifts subject to such gifts and donations not having conditions attached to them which would be inconsistent with the Executive performing its functions.

With regard to the general management of charitable donations to the HSE and HSE funded agencies, I have referred the matter to the Executive and asked that it reply directly to the Deputy.

Care of the Elderly

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

224 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will support the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 5. [3335/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Preschool Services

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

225 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason for the delay in issuing a response to representations (details supplied). [3339/11]

I understand that the representations referred to by the Deputy were made by him on behalf of a person in relation to the free Pre-School Year in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) scheme, which is implemented by my Office.

As you know, the representations in question relate to correspondence between the person in question and my Office both of which were issued on 7 January 2011. I understand from you that the person in question forwarded a copy of this correspondence to you on that same date which you forwarded to me with a request to examine the matter further. On foot of your representations, this issue was again examined and a further response was issued to the person concerned and subsequently copied to you on 20 January 2011.

Medical Cards

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

226 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will review an application for a general practitioner visit card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3345/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

227 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a full medical card in respect of persons (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3347/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

Pat Breen

Ceist:

228 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children the reason a person (details supplied) in County Clare has not been facilitated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3373/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Hospital Accommodation

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

229 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will address an issue (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3375/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Medical Cards

Jack Wall

Ceist:

230 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3392/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Hospital Services

Pat Breen

Ceist:

231 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will be facilitated; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3397/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

232 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Galway will be called for surgery; if the person is viewed as a priority case; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3398/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

233 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of semi-State bodies that fall under her auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3408/11]

I understand the Deputy is referring to commercial semi state companies of which Vhi Healthcare is the only one established under the auspices of my Department. Vhi Healthcare has provided the following table which provides the information requested by the Deputy.

Annual turnover and the losses incurred over the past five years for Vhi Healthcare

Year Ending 28/02/05

Year Ending 28/02/06

Year Ending 28/02/07

Year Ending 29/02/08

10 months 01/03/08 -31/12/08

Year Ending 31/12/09

€’m

€’m

€’m

€’m

€’m

€’m

Earned Premium

868.7

919.6

1,020.1

1,153.0

1,025.4

1,313.6

Deficit/Surplus for the period

1.4

(31.2)

69.5

119.6

(65.0)

(41.7)

Note: Parentheses denote a deficit for year.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

234 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of her Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by her Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3431/11]

The information requested is being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is available.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

235 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by her Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3446/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is currently being collated within my Department and will be forwarded as soon as it is available.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

236 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will list all statutory instruments signed by her or agencies under the aegis of her Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3461/11]

With regard to Statutory Instruments made by my Department, the volume of information sought by the Deputy is such that it would not be practical to provide it in this format. I have therefore arranged for this information to be sent to the Deputy as a separate document.

Statutory Instruments made by agencies under my Department's aegis is an operational matter for the agencies themselves and my Department does not hold this information.

Medical Cards

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

237 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Health and Children the position regarding an application for a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3475/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

David Stanton

Ceist:

238 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive an appointment for a hearing test; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3481/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Joe Carey

Ceist:

239 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Clare will receive an appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3529/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Hospital Services

James Bannon

Ceist:

240 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be admitted to the National University Hospital, Galway, for surgery; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3600/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Hospital Accommodation

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

241 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health and Children the number of acute hospital beds in each hospital that were unavailable in 2010. [3601/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Health Services

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

242 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 205 of 16 December 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [3610/11]

A response to your question about the cost of providing a single primary care facility was issued on 20 January 2011 from the HSE.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

243 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 219 of 16 December 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [3611/11]

As this is a service matter it has again been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

244 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Health and Children further to Parliamentary Question No. 220 of 16 December 2010, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [3612/11]

My Department has made inquiries of the Health Service Executive regarding the status of its reply to the Deputy's Parliamentary Question No. 220 of 16th December 2010 and the Executive reports that a reply issued to the Deputy on 20th January, 2011 in this matter.

Departmental Funding

Alan Shatter

Ceist:

245 Deputy Alan Shatter asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the reason the former Minister for Health and Children, Deputy Harney, and the Minister of State, Deputy Moloney, participated in a series of meetings with the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation during the period May 2010 to December 2010, inclusive, during which the financial needs of the organisation were discussed with regard to its maintaining its services and providing additional services to children between the ages four and six years; to confirm that those who attended the meeting were led to believe that additional funding would be made available to the organisation when no such funding has been so provided; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that the organisation has been notified by the Health Service Executive that its funding is to be cut by €10,000 this year; if her attention has been drawn to the fact that it is impossible for this organisation to continue to provide its current level of service without additional funding; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3623/11]

The meetings referred to were held with a view to addressing the service needs of families and children identified by the Jack & Jill Children's Foundation as being at risk of losing their service due to the significant shortfall in private donations experienced by the Foundation in recent times. As a direct result of those meetings, the Health Service Executive (HSE) is now working jointly with the Jack and Jill Foundation to identify and prioritise the needs of the children on a case-by-case basis. The HSE will work closely with Jack & Jill to ensure that no child is hospitalised for want of adequate home support, provided by either Jack & Jill Children's Foundation or the HSE. However, if a child needs hospital care, the HSE will provide this.

The Health Service Executive will continue to fund Jack & Jill Children's Foundation in 2011. The Minister's guidance to the HSE in developing their service plan for 2011 was that there should be a particular focus on protecting services to vulnerable groups. The Minister requested the HSE to give favourable treatment to disability services by setting a lower savings target for disability services of a maximum budget reduction of 1.8%. As is the case with all charities, the HSE is not in a position to provide additional funding for the Foundation to compensate for the drop in its private fund-raising income. This position was made clear to the Foundation in the meetings referred to.

Health Service Staff

Paul Connaughton

Ceist:

246 Deputy Paul Connaughton asked the Minister for Health and Children if there is a secretarial position due to be filled in a nursing home (details supplied) in County Mayo; if such a vacancy exists, if it will be filled by public advertisement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3625/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Health Services

James Bannon

Ceist:

247 Deputy James Bannon asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will facilitate a person (details supplied) in County Longford with a primary care certificate. [3633/11]

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 to the Deputy.

Ciaran Lynch

Ceist:

248 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the grounds on which a person (details supplied) in County Cork was refused supplementary payment by a local community welfare officer; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3639/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for attention and direct reply to the Deputy.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

249 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will list all appointments made by her between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of her Department; the persons appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3662/11]

Two appointments were made between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011. Both were new appointments.

Dr. John McAdoo was appointed as an ordinary member of the Medical Council on the nomination of University College Cork (UCC) in accordance with the provisions of the Medical Practitioners Act 2007. Dr. McAdoo is Director of the ASSET Centre in UCC. Ordinary members of the Medical Council are entitled to an annual fee of €7,695. This is subject to the "one person one salary" (OPOS) principle which provides that as a general rule public servants should not receive additional remuneration for undertaking other duties in the public service.

Ms Joan Ryan was appointed as an ordinary member of the Board of the National Treatment Purchase Fund. Ordinary members of the Board of the National Treatment Purchase Fund are entitled to an annual fee of €7,000 which is also subject to the OPOS principle. Ms Ryan was appointed by the Minister to represent the public interest.

Accident and Emergency Services

James Reilly

Ceist:

250 Deputy James Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will provide an update on the former premises of St. Vincent’s Hospital; her plans for this facility and if the former hospital beds, now closed at this unit would be suitable as step-down beds or other type of facility to alleviate the bed shortage and assist with the overcrowded accident and emergency departments at this time of year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3732/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Hospital Services

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

251 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children when a person (details supplied) will be called for surgery; the reason for the delay; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3740/11]

As this is a service issue, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Medical Cards

John McGuinness

Ceist:

252 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a full medical card will be issued to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if she will expedite the matter. [3776/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

John McGuinness

Ceist:

253 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if a full medical card will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; the reason the card was not issued on renewal in view of the fact that the case for the card was already established when the original card was issued; if the person’s spouse will also be included on the card as the spouse too has medical problems and if she will expedite the matter. [3778/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.

Health Services

John McGuinness

Ceist:

254 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if funding will be provided to a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; if she will expedite a response. [3779/11]

As this is a service matter it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Hospital Staff

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

255 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if she will have the recruitment embargo lifted for critical staff who are required to maintain services at Roscommon County Hospital and within the Roscommon psychiatric services; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3788/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply.

Hospital Services

John McGuinness

Ceist:

256 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children if an operation will be arranged as a matter of urgency in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Carlow; if matters can be expedited [3792/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Jack Wall

Ceist:

257 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the plans she has to upgrade the lithotripsy services provided at Tallaght General Hospital, Dublin 24; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3796/11]

As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.

Cancer Screening Programme

James Reilly

Ceist:

258 Deputy James Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the cost to rollout the colorectal screening programme in 2012; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3929/11]

James Reilly

Ceist:

259 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if a cost benefit analysis has been conducted on extending the colorectal screening programme beyond the 60-69 age group; if she will provide details on same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3930/11]

James Reilly

Ceist:

260 Deputy James Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children acknowledging the fact that to date no commitment has been made by her to extend the colorectal screening programme beyond the 60-69 age group, the estimated cost to extend this programme to those in the 55-74 age group; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3931/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 258 to 260, inclusive, together.

The Deputy's questions relate to service delivery matters and accordingly I have asked the HSE to respond directly to him.

Tobacco Control Strategy

James Reilly

Ceist:

261 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she plans to develop a new tobacco control strategy with specific targets to reduce prevalence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3932/11]

The Department is currently carrying out a review of tobacco policy in Ireland. In this regard a Workshop was held in June 2010, attended by the key stakeholders involved in smoking policy, to discuss how to reduce smoking rates in the Irish population. Following the workshop the Department established a Group comprising of the Department, the Health Service Executive and the Office of Tobacco Control to consider the outcome of the Workshop and to formulate proposals on what further measures might be taken to reduce initiation and prevalence of smoking in Ireland. The work of this Group is continuing.

Health Action Plan

James Reilly

Ceist:

262 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she has commenced work on a national dementia strategy; the date this strategy will be completed; the estimated cost to implement this strategy; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3937/11]

The Department of Health & Children has started the process of developing a policy on dementia that will support the delivery of long-term care services having regard to future demographic trends and the consequential increase in demand for long-term care. This policy will be developed on the basis of the best evidence available from national and international sources.

Officials in the Department have engaged with relevant stakeholder groups on the first stage of the process which is to assemble a report containing the research and evidence upon which the policy will be developed. I expect to receive this in 2011, at which stage work on the policy will formally commence.

James Reilly

Ceist:

263 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children the status of the national rehabilitation strategy; when this strategy will be published; when an implementation plan will be agreed; if it forms part of the Health Service Executive Service plan for 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3938/11]

The Department of Health and Children and the Health Service Executive (HSE) established a Working Group to develop a national policy and strategy for the provision of neuro-rehabilitation services. Its terms of reference include the development of an appropriate policy framework for neuro-rehabilitation and a preferred model of care for the provision of neuro-rehabilitation services.

The Group has now completed its work. It is hoped to formally publish the report in the coming months.

The HSE National Service Plan for 2011 includes a commitment appoint a national clinical lead, develop an implementation plan and an implementation structure for the provision of neuro-rehabilitation services.

Departmental Funding

James Reilly

Ceist:

264 Deputy James Reilly asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide a breakdown of all funding provided to neurological charities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3939/11]

My Department provides funding to organisations based upon their service or other contribution rather than their charitable status per se. Funding is provided to many organisations through the National Lottery fund for various projects and services in any given year, many of which would have charitable status, and some of which may provide services for those with neurological conditions. However, given the wide range of conditions covered within the term "neurological", it is not possible to specifically identify each organisation. A list of the organisations that received lottery funding in 2010 is available on the Department of Health & Children website at www.dohc.ie.

In addition, the HSE provides funding to a large number of voluntary organisations for services, many of these organisations would also have charitable status. The HSE also operates its own National Lottery scheme. Details of all the organisations funded by the HSE are set out in its Annual Financial Statements.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

265 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Health and Children if she will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3950/11]

The amounts paid by my Department to staff in respect of mileage for travel purposes for the years 2007 to 2011 are set out in the table. These payments do not include payments made to Ministers and Ministers of State.

Year

Amount

2007

128,753

2008

114,310

2009

51,070

2010

47,310

2011

0

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

266 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Health and Children if the Ministers of State in her Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3965/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is being collated by my Department and will be forwarded direct to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

267 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4260/11]

Staff members availing of maternity leave at my Department are not replaced as a matter of routine during the period of their absence. Normal practice is to reallocate work among remaining staff for the duration of such absences. There have been 32.2 (WTE) instances of maternity leave since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment on the 27th March 2009. Similar arrangements apply in relation to other types of leave such as annual and sick leave. As such, there are no vacancies created by such leave.

The information relating to the agencies that come under the aegis of my Department is currently being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as it is available. The Health Service Executive has advised that it does not collate information in relation to these vacancies.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

268 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Health and Children the proportion between office administrators and frontline staff in the public sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4270/11]

One of the objectives of the Employment Control Framework 2011-2014 is to reduce the numbers of management/administrative staff and non-frontline staff employed in the health sector, while simultaneously increasing the numbers employed in certain frontline grades including Medical Consultants, Physiotherapists, Social Workers and Speech and Language Therapists.

The numbers employed in the public health service, by grade category, as at November 2011 (latest data) are as follows:

Numbers (WTE excld. career break) employed in the public health service, as at November 2011.

Grade Category

Number Employed

Medical/Dental

8,125

Nursing

36,544

Health & Social Care Professionals

16,316

Management/Administrative

17,354

General Support Staff

11,470

Other Patient & Client Care

18,350

Total

108,159

However, it is important to note that the category of ‘Management/Administrative' includes Consultant's Secretaries, Out-Patient Departmental Personnel, Medical Records Personnel, Telephonists and other staff who are engaged in front-line duties together with staff in the following categories Payroll, Human Resource Management (including training), Service Managers, IT Staff, General Management Support and Legislative and Information requirements. Therefore, it is not possible to derive the proportion of office administrators compared to frontline staff.

In addition, on 1 November 2010, it was announced that the Government had decided to approve a voluntary early retirement (VER) scheme and a voluntary redundancy (VR) scheme for certain categories of staff in the public health service. The purpose of the schemes was to achieve a permanent reduction in the numbers employed in the public health sector from 2011 onwards and to facilitate health service reform.

The VER and VR schemes were open to management and administrative staff and general support staff but priority was given to management and administrative grades. The schemes were not targeted at those providing front-line services.

Taxi Regulations

Joe Costello

Ceist:

269 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport the amount of revenue received by the office of the Taxi Regulator from the taxi industry in each year since the office was established; the purposes for which this money is used; the quantity of money which the Regulator transferred to the National Transport Authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3251/11]

Under Statutory Instrument 614 of 2010, the Commission for Taxi Regulation (CTR) was dissolved at the request of the National Transport Authority (NTA) on 1 January 2011. From that date the CTR was subsumed into the NTA along with its staff and functions. Information relating to revenue and expenditure of the former Commission for Taxi Regulation is available from published Annual Reports and Financial Statements. Information not currently published with regard to the financial arrangements pertaining to the dissolution of the CTR and transfer to the NTA is available from the National Transport Authority directly.

Road Traffic Offences

Joe Costello

Ceist:

270 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport his plans for testing drivers for drugs as provided for in the Road Safety Act 2010; when the testing will start; the number and location of gardaí who have been trained for such testing; if he has satisfied himself that persons who are on legal medication will not be detained, arrested or prosecuted; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3262/11]

Enforcement of the law on drug driving is a matter for An Garda Síochána. Currently, where a member of the Garda Síochána is of the opinion that a person in charge of a mechanically propelled vehicle in a public place is under the influence of a drug or drugs to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of that vehicle, he or she may require that person to go to a Garda station and further require that person to submit to a blood test or to provide a urine sample. The influence of drugs, including legal medication, on driving behaviour is an issue of increasing concern but the process of identifying the presence of drugs is more complex than it is for alcohol.

As yet, there is still no feasible basis for the introduction of a preliminary roadside test for drugs in Ireland or in Europe. Testing devices are still in the prototype stages but the Medical Bureau of Road Safety will be keeping abreast of developments in this area.

In the interim, section 11 of the 2010 Road Traffic Act, provides for preliminary impairment testing. This provision will assist Gardaí in forming the opinion that a driver is under the influence of an intoxicant to such an extent as to be incapable of having proper control of the vehicle. The Medical Bureau of Road Safety, in association with the School of Medicine UCD, will be responsible for providing the relevant training to Gardaí. It is hoped to commence the training of Garda trainers in the coming months with the commencement, thereafter, of Section 11.

State Airports

Michael D. Higgins

Ceist:

271 Deputy Michael D. Higgins asked the Minister for Transport his views on the need to change the law here to ensure that Irish airports are not used for illegal rendition flights and that aircraft involved in such activity are subject to proper inspection by authorities here; and if he will legislate accordingly. [2882/11]

The Cabinet Committee on aspects of international human rights which was established in October, 2008 to review the Programme for Government commitments in relation to extraordinary rendition agreed that the statutory powers currently available to the civil and police authorities regarding search and inspection of aircraft, including those under the Air Navigation and Transport Acts, should be examined. That process is underway but no conclusions have yet been reached.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

272 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3413/11]

There are currently 31 State Agencies under the remit of my Department, including five Harbour Authorities under the Harbours Act 1946. The relevant Annual Reports and Accounts of each State Body will list the annual turnover or losses they may have incurred over the past five years.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

273 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3436/11]

Advertising campaigns carried out by public bodies within my remit are a day to day matter for the bodies concerned. I have no function in the matter.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

274 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3451/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is contained in the table.

Name of Campaign/Programme

Cost of Advertising in Publications

Cost of Broadcast Advertising

Cost of Outdoor Advertising

Consultancy/Production costs on the advertising campaigns

Bike Week 2010

42,881.15

50,820*

Transport 21 Investment Programme

7,996.50

*This was paid to Alchemy Events for events management of Bike Week.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

275 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3466/11]

All Statutory Instruments are available on www.irishstatutebook.ie and their date of publication in Iris Oifigiúil is shown too. The Statutory Instruments are laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas in accordance with the statutory requirements in the primary legislation under which the regulations are made.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

276 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Transport if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3667/11]

Since my appointment as Minister for Transport on 20th January 2011 no appointments have been made to State Boards under the aegis of my Department. However, Mr. Daithí Alcorn was appointed as a new member of the Board of the National Transport Authority by my predecessor on 14 January 2011. The NTA was established on 1 December 2009. Appointments are made on the basis of appointees having the necessary skills, competencies and experience to contribute effectively to the work of the boards. Mr Alcorn is a full time Public Representative. He will be paid a fee of €11,970 per annum.

State Airports

Joe Costello

Ceist:

277 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport if he will consider removing overall responsibility for the operation of Cork and Shannon Airports from the Dublin Airport Authority; if he will allow greater freedom to these airports to govern and develop policy independently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3790/11]

Joe Costello

Ceist:

278 Deputy Joe Costello asked the Minister for Transport his plans for the development of Dublin Airport including Terminal 2 and to maximise use of its infrastructure; if he will consider establishing Dublin Airport Authority as a stand alone authority with responsibility only for Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3791/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 277 and 278 together.

The State Airports Act 2004 provided for the separation of Cork and Shannon into independent autonomous airports. The former Minister for Transport announced on 22 December 2008 that as Minister he would be deferring a decision on the separation of the three State Airports until this year given the very difficult circumstances in the aviation sector.

It would be premature to speculate on any decisions to be taken on airport separation having regard to the current commercial environment facing the three State Airports.

Any plans for the further development of Dublin Airport, including Terminal 2 which was only opened in November last, and to maximise use of its infrastructure are a matter for the DAA.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

279 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Transport if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3955/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is as follows:

Year

2007

493,478

2008

374,078

2009

281,786

2010

247,218

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

280 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Transport if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3970/11]

Minister of State Pat ‘The Cope' Gallagher engaged two civilian drivers in the period to June 2007 at an annual salary of €33,154 and incurred expenses of €14,178. Minister of State Noel Ahern engaged 2 civilian drivers from 13th May, 2008, to 21st April, 2009 at an annual salary of €34,826, incurring expenses of €16,222. Minister of State Ciaran Cuffe did not engage civilian drivers and incurred no expenses. I am not aware of any family connection between the drivers and the Ministers of State concerned.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

281 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4265/11]

When staff avail of maternity and other leave (such as paternal leave, study leave, force majeure), the resultant vacated posts remain unfilled.

Since the introduction of the embargo, the number of staff in my Department has been reduced from 517.78 Whole Time Equivalents in 2009 to 495.51 Whole Time Equivalents at end-2010. This number does not include staff on maternity leave, as the posts of such staff are not counted as vacant posts.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

282 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport the proportion between office administrators and frontline staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4275/11]

The information sought is being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

Pension Provisions

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

283 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding retired gardaí (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3393/11]

It is not correct to say that retired Gardaí received their monthly pension payments for December 2010 in January 2011. Pensions are paid to retired Gardaí and their dependents on a monthly basis in advance and fall due on the first banking day of each month. Therefore the payments for the month of January 2011 were due on the 4th January 2011 and the new Budget changes were correctly applied to these payments. However, the pension payments to retired members of the Commissioner ranks are made on the last banking day of each month in arrears. Therefore the payments due to for the month of January 2011 will be dated 31st January 2011 and the new budget changes will then be applied to these payments also.

Citizenship Applications

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

284 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when a decision on naturalisation will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Limerick. [3246/11]

Issues in relation to certificates of naturalisation were brought to the attention of my Department by the person referred to in the Deputy's question and officials in my Department are working to resolve those issues. Further correspondence in this regard will issue in due course.

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

285 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when will the application for a certificate of naturalisation made in May 2007 in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Louth, be completed and a decision made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3278/11]

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 May 2007.

The application is being processed in the normal way with a view to establishing whether the applicant meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation.

The average time from application to decision is 26 months. It is not possible to provide more specific information in an individual case as processing requirements and time taken to carry out necessary checks vary from case to case.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Garda Training

Dan Neville

Ceist:

286 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the training given to trainee gardaí to deal with suicide incidents, including approach to next-of-kin. [3285/11]

I have been informed by the Garda authorities that in the existing Student/Probationer programme, suicide related issues are dealt with under the ‘Social and Psychological' study area on Phases I and III. The training includes responding in a sensitive and appropriate manner to those who may be suicidal and also to the families and loved ones of those who have committed suicide.

Citizenship Applications

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

287 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when an application for citizenship will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Louth; the average time for processing these applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3291/11]

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 February 2009.

The application is being processed in the normal way with a view to establishing whether the applicants meets the statutory conditions for the granting of naturalisation and will be submitted to me for decision in due course.

The average time from application to decision is 26 months. It is not possible to provide more specific information in an individual case as processing requirements and time taken to carry out necessary checks vary from case to case.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual Immigration cases may be made direct to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Departmental Correspondence

Ruairí Quinn

Ceist:

288 Deputy Ruairí Quinn asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will confirm receipt of a letter sent by registered post on 2 September 2010 from a person (details supplied); if he will confirm that he has personally read the letter; his plans to respond to the questions raised therein; if a reply will issue before 31 January 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3323/11]

Correspondence from the person in question was originally received by e-mail on 1 September 2010. A hard copy of the correspondence was also received in the Department by registered post on 6 September 2010. The Private Secretary to the Minister replied to the correspondence on his behalf on 16 September 2010.

Deportation Orders

Brendan Kenneally

Ceist:

289 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when a decision will issue on an application for permission to remain in the State in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; if a decision will be expedited in view of their serious medical condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3349/11]

The person concerned arrived in the State on 28 July 2000 on foot of a D Visa and was subsequently granted permission to remain in the State until 4 September 2009. The person concerned has remained unlawfully in the State since that date.

Consequently, in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 13 September 2010, 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. Representations have been received on behalf of the person concerned.

The position in the State 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) on the prohibition of refoulement. All representations submitted, including those of a medical nature, 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.

The Deputy might wish to note that my Department wrote to the legal representative of the person concerned on 12 October 2010 seeking certain clarifications in relation to him. As the substantive issues raised in that letter have not been adequately addressed, my Department again wrote to that legal representative on 5 January 2011. However, as of yet, the required clarifications have not been received.

It is noted that the address supplied in the Deputy's Question for the person concerned does not match the address currently on record in my Department. If, as it appears, the person concerned has changed address, he is legally obliged to communicate such an address change to my Department. In any event, the position in the State of the person concerned will be considered further upon receipt of a substantive response to my Department's letter dated 5 January 2011.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Proposed Legislation

Brian Hayes

Ceist:

290 Deputy Brian Hayes asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when he will publish the legal cost reform Bill which was promised last summer; if he will set out the major elements in the proposed Bill; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3353/11]

The Legal Costs Bill will provide for regulation and assessment of legal costs and for the establishment of a Regulator to replace the Office of Taxing Master. The details of my proposals will be published as soon as possible this year in line with a commitment in the EU-IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland.

Road Traffic Offences

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

291 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will support a matter (details supplied). [3379/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities that the location referred to is in the Raheny Garda District. Local Garda management is aware of difficulties relating to parking at the location.

The area is the subject of regular patrols by uniform and plain clothes personnel, including the Community Policing Unit and Mountain Bike Unit, supplemented as required by Traffic Corps personnel. A member of the local Community Policing Unit is allocated specifically to the area and liaises with local residents.

Local Garda management closely monitors and keeps under review patrols and other operational strategies in place. The situation will be kept under review, with primary consideration being given to the needs of residents.

Visa Applications

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

292 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding foreign volunteer workers (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3384/11]

I wish to inform theDeputy that new guidelines for volunteer workers came into effect on 1 January 2011. These guidelines are available on the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service website (www.inis.gov.ie).

The three year duration applies only to volunteers who are permitted to enter the State on or after 1 January 2011. I do not intend at this time to extend this permission beyond three years.

For volunteers lawfully present in the State prior to 1 January 2011 the guidelines mean that those persons may have their immigration permission renewed annually subject to the person meeting certain conditions.

Public Order Offences

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

293 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of behaviour warnings that were issued to adults; the number of behaviour warnings issued to children; the number of good behaviour contracts that were created in respect of children; the number of civil orders that were issued in respect of adults; the number of behaviour warnings that were issued in respect of children for the year 2009 in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3387/11]

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 Court. With regard to adults, they include a warning and the making of a civil order by the court.

I am informed by the Garda authorities that 487 behaviour warnings were issued to adults and 436 to children in 2009. One good behaviour contract was made in respect of a child. No civil orders (in respect of adults) or behaviour orders (in respect of children) were issued by the courts in the year.

In setting up the regime in the Act the intention was that the different interventions would address the problem behaviour. If they succeeded, there would be no need to apply to the courts for an order. It is only if they failed to lead to a behaviour adjustment by the person in question, that a court order would be applied for.

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

294 Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of cases arising out of non-compliance of civil orders or behavioural orders that came before the courts in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3388/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, the administration and management of the courts is a matter for the Courts Service under the Courts Service Act 1998. The functions of the Service include the provision of information on the courts system. However, I understand that the information sought by the Deputy is not readily available and its compilation would require a disproportionate amount of courts staff time and resources.

Garda Operations

Kieran O'Donnell

Ceist:

295 Deputy Kieran O’Donnell asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the reason behind the reported cut in the budget for Operation Anvil from €21 million to €10 million; the impact of this cut on Garda capacity to combat gangland crime; the budgetary implications for operations and policing in the Limerick Garda district; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3390/11]

While the total Garda budget in 2011 of €1.412 billion represents an increase on the outturn for the Garda Vote in 2010, certain allocations within the Garda budget have to be reduced, as a result of the very difficult situation with the public finances and in common with other areas of public expenditure. The Garda Commissioner, who is the Accounting Officer with responsibility for expenditure within the Garda Vote, recently indicated that the overtime budget for Operation Anvil has been set at €10 million. This, of course, forms only a small part of the overall resources devoted by An Garda Síochána to tackling gangland crime.

In this context, the Commissioner made clear that where funding is required to meet any serious threat it will be found from within the Vote. I am confident that the substantial level of funding available to An Garda Síochána will provide sufficient resources to enable the Force to fulfil its functions effectively, including in the area of combating organised crime.

Considerable Garda resources within Limerick Garda Division are targeted at disrupting the criminal activities of crime groupings. These include high visibility patrolling in areas where there is serious criminal activity, with the aim of disrupting the activities of such groupings, preventing and detecting criminal activity and supporting the local community; intelligence driven operations targeting specific persons or activity; the Regional Support Unit which carries out patrols; and the work of the Criminal Assets Bureau in identifying individuals of interest within the Division and profiling their assets as probable proceeds of crime. In addition, legislation targeted at organised crime, including the Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Act 2009 and the Criminal Justice (Amendment) Act 2009, is utilised.

There have been significant successes in the Division, including a considerable decrease in the number of incidents of discharge of firearms incidents, from 99 in 2007 to 18 in 2010.

I am informed that senior Garda management is satisfied that sufficient resources and support are available to continue the ongoing strategies to disrupt and dismantle organised criminal activities within Limerick Garda Division. An Garda Síochána will continue to develop and implement strategies to dismantle and disrupt criminal networks, utilising advanced analytical and intelligence methods to facilitate targeted operations aimed at early intervention and the prevention of crime. Such initiatives will continue to be put in place in all Garda Regions to tackle organised criminal gangs.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

296 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3409/11]

I am assuming that the Deputy is referring to semi-State bodies who have a significant element of commercial or trade activities within their remit. The bodies and agencies attached to my Department provide public services in the broad Justice area, and, as such, do not engage in any significant commercial activity.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

297 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3432/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

298 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3447/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 297 and 298 together.

I can inform the Deputy that my Department carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies within its area of responsibility. The relevant campaigns related to awareness raising on human trafficking, awareness raising on the dangers of fireworks and notification to the public about firearms licensing. The details are as follows:

Anti-Human Trafficking

As the Deputy may be aware, Ireland has recently ratified theUN Protocol to Prevent Suppress and Punish Trafficking in Persons especially Women and Children, Supplementing the United Nations Convention Against Transnational Organised Crime and also the Council of Europe Convention on Action Against Trafficking in Human Beings.

Within these international instruments there are obligations on Ireland to raise awareness of human trafficking as set out in Articles 9(2) and 9(5) of the UN Protocol and Articles 5(2) and 6(b) of the Council of Europe Convention. There are also commitments on awareness-raising in the National Action Plan to Prevent and Combat Trafficking in Human Beings 2009 — 2012. For the year 2010 my Department spent a total of €25,945.46 on such awareness raising activities.

Fireworks

This campaign involved providing the public with information, via the print media, of the dangers of fireworks and the penalties associated with their misuse. The campaign was considered an essential element in ensuring that incidents relating to illegal fireworks, many of which involve injuries to children, are reduced insofar as possible. For the year 2010 my Department spent a total of €109,000 on this campaign.

Firearms Licensing

This campaign again involved providing the public with information, via the print media and on behalf of the Gardaí, about a Firearms Licensing Awareness Day. The campaign was considered necessary to encourage existing gun-holders to seek Garda advice if they wished to renew their licence under the new licensing system. For the year 2010, my Department spent a total of €9,850 on this campaign.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

299 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3462/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that copies of Statutory Instruments signed and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas during the period concerned are available in the Oireachtas Library. The dates on which these documents were laid before the Houses are also available from the Library. Information concerning the publishing of notices re the making of Statutory Instruments can be found on the printed and published versions of these documents and on the Iris Oifigiúil website (www.irisoifigiuil.ie).

Courts Service

Arthur Morgan

Ceist:

300 Deputy Arthur Morgan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the action he proposes to take following the admission by the Courts Service that it made an error by backdating a High Court Order in the case of a person (details supplied); if he will ask the Courts Service to correct the acknowledged error; his plans to resolve this serious matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3467/11]

I refer the Deputy to the answer to Question No. 354 on Tuesday 29 June, 2010. The position is unchanged.

National Drugs Strategy

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

301 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the amount of the money obtained by the Criminal Assets Bureau that has been put into drug rehabilitation nationally and in Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3605/11]

Revenue which has been accumulated by the Criminal Assets Bureau is not earmarked for a specific expenditure programme. Such revenue is paid into the Government's Central Fund. This fund, except where provided otherwise by law, is the destination of all State revenues and the source of all Government spending. It is the Central Fund from which the Government draws for expenditure on all necessary public services and investment including the provision of drug rehabilitation services.

Departmental Surveys

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

302 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 924 of 29 September 2010, the position regarding the outstanding information requested. [3613/11]

Further information in respect of the matters raised by the Deputy is now being finalised taking account of full year figures for 2010 and will be forwarded to the Deputy shortly.

Garda Vetting

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

303 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform when an application for Garda clearance will be processed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3641/11]

I am informed by the Garda Authorities that an application for vetting in respect of the person to whom the Deputy refers has been received by the Garda Central Vetting Unit and is in the course of being processed. A response will issue to the registered organisation in due course.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

304 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a reappointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3663/11]

I wish to inform the Deputy that, between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011 inclusive, I did not make any appointments to State Boards, agencies or other bodies within the aegis of my Department.

Crime Prevention

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

305 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding cash for gold operations (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3708/11]

The Deputy will be aware that there has been a significant increase in the number of outlets offering to buy gold for cash in towns and cities in the State. I am aware that the trade gives rise to concerns reported in communities about crime that may be linked to the cash for gold trade.

The informal purchase of jewellery is not specifically regulated in criminal legislation; however the circumstances under which jewellery is being bought and/or sold may indicate the commission of certain offences, for example handling stolen property and / or possession of stolen property under sections 17 and 18 of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001.

An Garda Síochána enforces the provisions of the criminal law in respect of theft and robbery including the theft and robbery of jewellery and gold. Should members of the public have suspicions that goods being sold or traded may be stolen, the correct action is for these suspicions to be referred to An Garda Síochána for investigation. To take account of concerns about the matter, my Department recently asked the Commissioner of An Garda Síochána to ascertain his view as to the extent, if any, that criminal offences are being committed in the procurement and receipt of gold and similar items in transactions carried out at the cash for gold locations. In particular the Commissioner has been requested to examine whether the trade may be linked generally or in particular areas to burglary offences; whether Criminal Justice legislation, and in particular, the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001 is adequate in the context of cash for gold transactions; whether criminal elements involved in organised crime or otherwise may be connected with the operation and ownership of the cash for gold outlets; and whether any new legislative provision may be required to address criminality in respect of cash for gold transactions.

I can inform the Deputy that my Department has now received the Commissioner's report and is in contact with him in the matter. The Commissioner has indicated that there has been an overall decrease both in the number of burglaries recorded in the years 2005 to 2010 and in the number of burglaries recorded involving jewellery/trophies and antique gold in the same period. He is also of the view that the relevant provisions of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001 are adequate. I might also add that the Commissioner has indicated that a significant number of the premises in question have been visited by Gardaí and the responsibilities of the owners in respect of purchases of the relevant items under the criminal law have been brought to their attention.

I can assure the Deputy that as soon as the Commissioner's report has been given full consideration by my Department, I will make an assessment as to what if any action, legislative or otherwise may be required.

Garda Strength

Michael Creed

Ceist:

306 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the current strength of the Garda Síochána; when it is anticipated that this number will drop below 13,000 members; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3710/11]

I am informed by the Garda authorities, that as of the latest date for which figures are readily available, the personnel strength of An Garda Síochána was 14,364. The National Recovery Plan 2011-2014 outlines a reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána to 13,000 by the end of 2014.

Deportation Orders

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

307 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the position regarding an application for leave to remain here in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway; if a decision on this application is imminent; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3716/11]

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 April 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 accordance with the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006.

The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection and this application will be considered first. 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.

I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by Email using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. The service enables up-to-date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek this information through the more administratively expensive Parliamentary Questions process.

Prisoner Complaints Procedures

Jack Wall

Ceist:

308 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if the concerns of a family (details supplied) in County Kildare will be addressed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3739/11]

I can advise the Deputy that the concerns of the family in relation to the person referred to have been brought to the attention of the Governor in St Patrick's Institution. I understand too that arrangements are in place there and indeed in all institutions for dealing with such matters. The Deputy may also wish to note that the Samaritans provide support to prisoners in St Patrick's Institution and are available to meet with them in this regard.

Sale of Alcohol

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

309 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he has received the second report on compliance with the code of practice on the display and sale of alcohol in mixed trading premises; if he will arrange for this report to be made available on his Department’s website; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3923/11]

Mr Padraic White, Chairperson of RRAI, submitted the second Compliance Report on the Code of Practice on the Display and Sale of Alcohol in Mixed Trading Premises in November last. Following initial examination of the Report, RRAI was requested by the then Minister to submit proposals for strengthening the Code's mechanisms for receiving and resolving complaints concerning infringements of its provisions. A response containing proposals for strengthening the Code's complaints mechanisms has recently been received from RRAI and is being examined at present. It is intended to publish the second Compliance Report, together with details of the amended Code, in due course following a decision in relation to section 9 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act 2008.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

310 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of test purchases of alcohol which have been carried out by the Garda Síochána since the introduction of the guidelines for their application on 1 October 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3924/11]

In the time available it has not been possible for the Garda authorities to supply the information requested by the Deputy. I will be in contact with the Deputy when the information is to hand.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

311 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 286 of 10 November 2009, the progress made following his meeting with the Minister for Social Development, Margaret Ritchie MLA, on developing a joint North-South initiative to tackle alcohol promotions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3925/11]

In October last, Mr Alex Attwood, MLA, Minister for Social Development in Northern Ireland, launched a public consultation on alcohol promotions. The consultation process concluded in December. Joint discussions on an all-island initiative to tackle price-based alcohol promotions are continuing. Contacts are taking place at official level to prepare for a meeting of the respective Ministers in due course.

Residency Permits

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

312 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the current waiting period for applications for residency on the basis of a de facto relationship. [3935/11]

I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that residency applications on the basis of a de facto relationship in respect of Non EEA partners of Irish Citizens, or non-EEA nationals lawfully resident in the State, are considered under national immigration measures. The current average processing time is 6-8 weeks, although this may be longer where insufficient supporting documentation is submitted with the application.

Partners of EU citizens exercising EU Treaty Rights in accordance with the European Communities (Free Movement of Persons) Regulations 2006 and 2008 are dealt with under those regulations. The rules applicable to those persons are available on the website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. Form EU1 is the appropriate application form in that situation. I am advised that all applications for residence in the State on the basis of EU Treaty Rights by non-EEA family members of EU or EEA citizens are currently being processed within the six month statutory time frame set out in Directive 2004/38/EC as implemented in Ireland by Statutory Instrument 656/2006 as amended by Statutory Instrument 310/2008.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

313 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3951/11]

The total amounts paid to staff in the Head Office areas of my Department in respect of mileage (kilometre) expenses was in the region of €86,000 in 2007, €94,000 in 2008, €52,000 in 2009 and €47,000 in 2010.

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

314 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3966/11]

Mr Barry Andrews, T.D., Minister of State with special responsibility for Children and Youth Affairs, is the only Minister of State attached to my Department. However, as the Department of Health and Children is responsible for the staffing of his office, I understand that the Minister for Health and Children is providing the information requested.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

315 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4261/11]

At any given time, a number of staff of my Department are on maternity leave or other types of leave available under the various family friendly schemes. The general practice is that these vacancies are not filled for the duration of the leave period. The only exception to this is the Shorter Working Year Scheme, where my Department has continued to recruit temporary staff to fill critical vacancies.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

316 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Justice and Law Reform the proportion between office administrators and front line staff in the public sector. [4271/11]

There are approximately 24,000 people employed by my Department and Agencies under its aegis. This includes some 14,400 members of An Garda Síochána; 3,400 Prison Officers; and 300 Probation Officers, most of whom could be described as "front-line". The remainder includes a range of staff, including administrative civil servants, many of whose roles involve a mixture of administrative/front-line duties.

International Trade

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

317 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding illegal business practice by Irish companies in Western Sahara; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3336/11]

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

323 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding illegal business practice in Western Sahara; if he will request Irish companies operating there to suspend their business until such time as the Saharawi people benefit from the presence of international companies in their country; if he will make it clear to Irish companies abroad that unethical and illegal business practices will not be accepted by him; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3485/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 317 and 323 together.

The Government has consistently supported the right to self-determination of the people of the Western Sahara. Ireland has not taken a position on the future status of the territory, so long as that status is decided in a genuine exercise of self-determination. At present, the Western Sahara is a non-self governing territory. Under international law, the economic resources of a non-self governing territory may only be exploited for the benefit of the people of the territory, on their behalf or in consultation with their representatives.

The Government has consistently made clear its view that any exploration and exploitation activities that proceed in disregard of the interests and wishes of the people of Western Sahara would be in violation of the principles of international law applicable to natural resource activities in non-self governing territories. The Government would expect that any Irish company operating abroad would have due regard to the principles of international law and the rights of the inhabitants of the territory.

Passport Applications

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

318 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs the position regarding an application for an Irish passport in respect of a person (details supplied). [3348/11]

The passport for this applicant was produced on 19 January and has been sent by diplomatic bag to the Embassy, Canberra. It should now have been received in the Embassy.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

319 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3407/11]

There are no semi-State bodies under the auspices of the Department of Foreign Affairs.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

320 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3430/11]

There are no State Agencies operating under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs. There are four bodies operating under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs. These are: the Ireland — United States Commission for Educational Exchange (the Fulbright Commission); the Development Education Advisory Committee; the Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group; and the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee. None of these bodies carried out an advertising campaign during 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

321 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3445/11]

The Department of Foreign Affairs carried out no advertising campaigns in 2010 to promote any policies or programmes it was implementing. Advertising undertaken by the Department typically includes: advisory notices on public opening hours over holiday periods, changes in passport application procedures and fees, public information notices relating to significant developments in the European Union or to promote public awareness of Ireland's official Development Aid Programme.

Much of this material is now placed on the Department's Website but advertising continues to be necessary in order to reach all of our citizens including those with no access to internet, particularly in relation to important passport and consular services. The following tables give the details of such advertising under Votes 28 (Foreign Affairs) and 29 (International Cooperation) in the course of 2010.

Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs)

Company

Transaction Date

Description/Invoice

Amount

National newspapers

February 2010

Communicating Europe Initiative grant scheme

8,740.00

Criminal Justice mutual assistance

274.00

Iris Oifigiúil

3/3/10, 12/8/10 and 24/8/10

Public Awareness in respect of industrial action in the Passport Office

13,256.00

Brindley

1/4/10

List of agreements entered into by the State

387.27

Iris Oifigiúil

9/7/10

Phone Book entry in EIRCOM’s Golden Pages etc.

15,369.42

Truvo

26/8/10

Total

38,026.69

Vote 29 (International Cooperation)

Company

Transaction date

Description/Invoice

Amount

Brindley

11/02/2010

Africa Day advertisement

2,219.73

Brindley

24/03/2010

Volunteering Fair Cork

7,484.83

Brindley

09/06/2010

Africa Day ‘Call for Proposals’

4,335.28

Brindley

18/10/2010

Promoting awareness of global hunger at National Ploughing Championships

1,842.59

Brindley

18/10/2010

Volunteering Fair Dublin

3,095.79

GTI Specialist Publishers Ltd

18/10/2010

Volunteering Fair Dublin

484.00

Voluntary Service International

17/06/2010

Advertisement in Voluntary Service International booklet 2010

320.00

PG Print Media

26/04/2010

Promoting awareness of global hunger at the National Ploughing Championships

968.00

Education Matters

21/10/2010

Education Matters Year Book 2010

1,050.00

Red Dog

13/08/2010

Africa Day banner Harcourt St, Dublin

2,628.00

Red Dog

13/08/2010

Africa Day street posters for Limerick & Dublin

697.00

Total

25,125.22

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

322 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3460/11]

There are no State Agencies under the aegis of the Department of Foreign Affairs. The following is a list of Statutory Instruments falling within the remit of this Department and signed by the Minister for Foreign Affairs since 2007.

Statutory Instrument

Title

Laid before Oireachtas

Published Iris Oifigiúil

2007

18/2007

European Arrest Warrant Act 2003 (Designated Member States) Order 2007

29 January 2007

9 February 2007

38/2007

European Communities (Amendment) Act 2006 (Commencement) Order 2007

6 February 2007

6 February 2007

39/2007

European Communities (Amendment) Act 2006 (Commencement) Regulations 2007

7 February 2007

7 February 2007

59/2007

European Arrest Warrant Act 2003 (Designated Member States) (No. 2) Order 2007

19 February 2007

4 December 2007

659/2007

Transfer of Execution of Sentences Act 2005 (Designated Countries) Order 2007

28 September 2007

2 October 2007

2008

220/2008

Child Abduction and Enforcement of Custody Orders Act, 1991 (Section 4) (Hague Convention) Order, 2008

7 July 2008

1 July 2008

412/2008

Passports Act 2008 (Commencement) Order 2008

24 October 2008

24 October 2008

413/2008

Passports (Appeals) Regulations 2008

24 October 2008

24 October 2008

414/2008

Passports (Periods of Validity Regulations) 2008

24 October 2008

24 October 2008

2009

9/2009

Extradition Act 1965 (Application of Part II) (Amendment) Order 2009

16 January 2009

20 January 2009

21/2009

Diplomatic and Consular Fees (Amendment) Regulations 2009

29 January 2009

3 February 2009

408/2009

Foreign Births (Amendment) Regulations 2009

12 October 2009

13 October 2009

410/2009

Cluster Munitions and Anti-personnel Mines Act 2008 (Commencement) Order 2009

15 October 2009

13 October 2009

451/2009

European Union Act 2009 (Commencement) Order 2009

23 November 2009

24 November 2009

2010

42/2010

Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Act 2008 (Section 4) Order 2010

4 March 2010

19 February 2010

43/2010

Extradition (European Union Conventions) Act 2001 (Section 4) Order 2010

4 March 2010

19 February 2010

44/2010

Extradition (European Union Conventions) Act 2001 (Section 10) Order 2010

4 March 2010

19 February 2010

45/2010

Extradition Act 1965 (Application of Part II) (Amendment) Order 2010

4 March 2010

19 February 2010

365/2010

Diplomatic and Consular Fees (Amendment) Regulations 2009

26 August 2010

27 July 2010

372/2010

Criminal Justice (Mutual Assistance) Act 2008 (Section 4) (No. 2) Order 2010

6 August 2010

30 July 2010

682/2010

Protection of Children (Hague Convention) Act 2000 (Section 15) Order 2010

To be laid before Oireachtas once copies of Order are printed

18 January 2011

Question No. 323 answered with Question No. 317.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

324 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3661/11]

The Development Education Advisory Committee; the Irish Aid Expert Advisory Group; and the Emigrant Services Advisory Committee. The Minister for Foreign Affairs makes the appointments to these bodies. No appointments to these bodies have been made during the period in question. However, the two-year term of the current Emigrant Services Advisory Committee, with a membership of twelve persons, expired on 31 December 2010. The Chair and Secretary are both officers of the Embassy in London, while the ten other Committee members serve in a voluntary capacity. Appointments to the Committee are made by the Minister for Foreign Affairs, following consultation with Embassy London and the Irish Abroad Unit in this Department.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

325 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3949/11]

The Department of Foreign Affairs is responsible for two Votes — Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs) and Vote 29 (International Cooperation). Details of mileage payments paid to officers in the Department for the period in question are included in the table. In addition to the Department of Finance guidelines, the Department of Foreign Affairs also operates its own internal travel guidelines and practises which ensure cost effective travel practises, both in Headquarters and throughout our network of 76 diplomatic missions abroad. The central aims of the travel policy are to minimise official travel costs and to achieve value for money for expenditure necessarily incurred, consistent with the effective discharge of official duties.

Year

Mileage

2007

274,975

2008

300,111

2009

173,863

2010 (provisional outturn)

103,715

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

326 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3964/11]

The Department of Foreign Affairs employs two Civilian Drivers for each of the two appointed Ministers of State. Details of expenditure on salary and allowances during each of the past four years are contained in the following tables. I am not aware of any familial relationship between any of the Ministers of State and any of their Drivers.

Approximate annual salary cost per Driver

Approximate salary cost per annum: 4 Drivers

2007: €32,482

2007: €129,928

2008: €34,120

2008: €136,480

2009: €34,826

2009: €139,306

2010: €32,965

2010: €131,859

Mileage expenses

2010

2009

2008

2007

Minister of State Power

9,144

27,919

15,175

0

Minister of State Roche

17,712

21,563

28,467

11,779

Minister of State Kitt

0

0

17,697

13,222

Minister of State Lenihan

0

0

0

8,177

Annual total:

26,856

49,482

61,339

33,178

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

327 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Taoiseach and Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4259/11]

The information requested by the Deputy is provided in the table.

Vacancies which have arisen in the Department of Foreign Affairs since 27 March 2009 and which remain unfilled

Reason

Number

Maternity Leave

13

Career break

7

Special Incentivised Career Break

22

Special leave without pay

3

Total:

45

Social Welfare Benefits

Jack Wall

Ceist:

328 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an appeal against the decision to reduce rent supplement in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3272/11]

Jack Wall

Ceist:

335 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason rent allowance has ceased in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3271/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 328 and 335 together.

The Health Service Executive advised that payment of rent supplement ceased as the rent payable by the person concerned was in excess of the limit for his family size. The person concerned appealed this decision to the HSE Appeals Office and the decision was upheld.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

329 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Cork is entitled to rent allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3322/11]

The Health Service Executive advised that the person concerned is in receipt of rent supplement at the maximum rate appropriate to his circumstances.

Redundancy Payments

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

330 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Social Protection the criteria relating to a person (details supplied) whose former employer is unable to pay redundancy; the scheme and entitlements available to this person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3369/11]

On 1 January 2011, the Department assumed responsibility for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. There are two types of redundancy payment made from the fund i.e. 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 wish to advise the Deputy that there is no current record of a valid redundancy claim on the Redundancy Payments System in respect of the individual in question. There is a record of a redundancy payment in respect of the individual concerned dating from 2001. It is normal practice not to enter incomplete claims on the system as these claims cannot be processed until the necessary documentation is submitted. Forms are returned in order for missing details and/or supporting documentation to be submitted. Submission of correctly completed redundancy claim forms (RP50's) with all of the required documentation greatly facilitates the processing.

The onus is on the employer in the first instance, to pay eligible employees their redundancy entitlements. The employer is then entitled, by virtue of contributions to the Social Insurance Fund, to recover 60% of the amount paid to the employee. However, i n circumstances where the employer is unable to pay a redundancy entitlement, a claim may be lodged by the employee. It is necessary to provide proof of the employer's inability to pay the redundancy entitlement. Such proof could consist of a statement from the company's accountant or solicitor attesting to the inadequacy of assets to make the redundancy payment and/or the latest set of financial accounts for the company. The employer is also asked to admit liability for the 40% portion attaching to the company arising from the redundancy payment.

If the necessary information is provided, the employee is paid the appropriate redundancy entitlement from the Social Insurance Fund. Upon payment, the Department pursues the company for the 40% share that the company would ordinarily have been expected to pay to the employee.

If the necessary supporting documentation is not provided, the employee is advised to take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal (EAT) against the employer to seek a determination establishing the employee's right and entitlement to redundancy. If a favourable determination is made, the Department is then in a position to make the payment to the employee concerned. Should the outstanding documentation be provided by the employer while the case is pending a hearing before the EAT, this would allow the claim to be processed in the usual way.

Noel Coonan

Ceist:

331 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons in north Tipperary and nationally waiting on redundancy payments from his Department; the length of time these persons have been waiting; when these payments will be awarded; the number of persons waiting nationally; the steps being taken to speed up the process; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3722/11]

On 1 January 2011, my Department assumed responsibility from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. The practical arrangements that are needed to give effect to the transfer of the redundancy service are currently underway. The two Departments are working closely together during this transitional period to ensure that there is no deterioration in the level of service for individuals and businesses waiting on redundancy entitlements as a result of the transfer.

Statistical information on redundancy claims is not maintained in respect of North Tipperary. At the end of 2010, provisional figures indicate that nationally there were 25,167 claims waiting to be processed which is a reduction of some 16,000 on the corresponding figure for the end of 2009. Claims in general dating from June 2010 are currently being processed so that the waiting time is now around 6 months. In some instances, where the necessary supporting documentation is not provided, or where queries arise, processing of claims can be further delayed until the required documentation is provided and/or outstanding queries are resolved.

In 2009, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation undertook a number of measures to reduce the backlog of claims. These included the almost doubling of the number of staff working on redundancy claims; increasing the amount of overtime allocated to redundancy claims; the establishment of a special call handling facility by the National Employment Rights Authority; providing better quality information relating to current processing times on the Department's website and improving arrangements with the Revenue Commissioners to facilitate the offset of redundancy rebate payments by employers.

In 2011, my Department will undertake a review of the current redundancy claims processing procedures as part of the development of a new computer system which will be integrated into my Department's service delivery modernisation programme. The prime focus of this initiative will be to streamline the redundancy claim process so as to improve claim processing times.

Departmental Schemes

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

332 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of jobs that are being supported under the PRSI exemption scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3921/11]

The Employer Job PRSI Incentive Scheme was launched on the 20th June 2010. Under the scheme, if an employer takes on an additional member of staff in 2010, who has been unemployed for 6 months or more, s/he will be exempted from paying employers' PRSI for 12 months. The job must be new and additional, be for at least 30 hours a week and last for at least six months.

Up to 21st January 2011, applications were received from 1,029 employers in respect of 1,885 employees. 775 employers have been awarded exemptions in respect of 1,247 employees. The Government has agreed the extension of the Employer Job PRSI Incentive scheme to end 2011 in the context of the Budget and National Recovery Plan.

Departmental Correspondence

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

333 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will confirm that he has received correspondence of 8 December 2010, in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; if same will be followed up in the context of dealing with the request for information which has been sought; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3934/11]

On 1 January 2011, my Department assumed responsibility from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. The practical arrangements that are needed to give effect to the transfer of the redundancy service are currently under way.

I understand that a collective redundancy notification under the Protection of Employment Act, 1977 was received by the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation on the 19th August, 2010. A subsequent letter from the person concerned regarding the notification was received and a reply was issued on 12 October, 2010. However, there is no record of any correspondence dated 8 December. It should be noted that an employee, trade union, staff association or accepted body acting on behalf of an employee, may present a complaint to a Rights Commissioner in the Labour Relations Commission in relation to the provision of information and consultation of employees. An employee disputing a redundancy may also take a case to the Employment Appeals Tribunal for adjudication.

Pension Provisions

Michael Ring

Ceist:

334 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection if a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid the contributory pension from the date that the person turned 66 and the reason this has not been paid to date. [3252/11]

The person concerned submitted a claim for State pension (contributory) in September 2010. In examining his pension entitlement, the Department was advised by Revenue that he had an outstanding social insurance liability in respect of period(s) of self-employment. Section 110(1) of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 2005, as amended, provides that a self-employed contributor shall not be regarded as satisfying the qualifying conditions for State pension (contributory) unless all outstanding PRSI contributions are paid. Consequently his claim was provisionally disallowed. In the communication of this decision on 29th November 2010, he was advised to contact his local Tax Office in relation to the outstanding PRSI liability, and when this was resolved, to notify the Department, whereupon his pension claim would be reviewed.

When confirmation that he had fully discharged this liability was received by the Department in January 2011, his claim was reviewed without delay and he was awarded a reduced (98%) State pension (contributory) at a rate of €225.80 per week, with effect from his 66th birthday, 2nd August 2010. A letter issued to the person concerned on 17th January 2011 detailing this pension award. Arrears of pension in respect of the period 2nd August 2010 to 20th January 2011 were paid to him on that date also.

Question No. 335 answered with Question No. 328.

Social Welfare Appeals

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

336 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a rent allowance appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3281/11]

The person concerned was refused rent supplement as she was deemed to not have a housing need as she is living in accommodation provided by a local authority. The person concerned appealed the decision to the HSE Appeals Office and the decision was upheld.

The person concerned further appealed the decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised that her appeal was refused on 17 December 2010 as she failed to attend the oral hearing. The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised the person concerned of the decision.

Social Welfare Code

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

337 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Social Protection the way the income of a self-employed person is assessed for jobseeker’s allowance where a fall in business means the activity is not generating sufficient income to support the applicant and their family; if the business assets are valued as available capital even though their sale would end the business venture; the way debts are treated as an offset; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3304/11]

Self-employed people can apply for the means-tested jobseeker's allowance if their business ceases or if they are on low income as a result of a downturn in demand for their services. Self-employed customers do not have to de-register as self-employed persons in order to claim jobseeker's allowance. Information on social welfare entitlements, including for self-employed people, is set out on the Department's website —www.welfare.ie.

Legislation provides for the assessment of "all income in cash and any non-cash benefits which the person or his or her spouse may reasonably expect to receive during the succeeding year". The assets of an operating business are not assessed as income. While accounts provide significant information, a means assessment is not based solely on audited accounts. The income from the previous twelve months is used as an indicator of likely future earnings but it is not simply assumed that the previous year's earnings will be received in the following year. Given the variety of self-employment situations, the means assessment procedures in these cases are applied in a flexible manner and they ensure that any circumstances that would be likely to lead to a significant variation, either upward or downward, in the level of a person's income from one year to the next are taken into consideration. Any debts incurred by the customer are not taken into account when assessing means.

It is recognised that the present downturn in the economy is having a significant impact on many self-employed persons and the consequent reduction in their income and activity levels would be reflected in any assessment of their means from self-employment for jobseeker's allowance purposes.

If a self-employed person's situation changes after they have made an initial claim for jobseeker's allowance, the person can apply to have his or her means reviewed in the light of these changed circumstances. In addition, it is open to the individual to appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office if he or she is dissatisfied with the level of means assessed.

Guidelines are issued to Deciding Officers in order to ensure a consistent and uniform application of the rules governing the deciding of jobseeker's allowance claims.

Social Welfare Benefits

James Bannon

Ceist:

338 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for invalidity pension and illness benefit in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3312/11]

Invalidity pension is a payment for people who are permanently incapable of work because of illness or incapacity and who satisfy the contribution conditions. On 13 January 2011, an application for invalidity pension was received from the person concerned. A diagnostic report issued on 20 January 2011 to the customer concerned to be completed by her General Practitioner. When this is completed and returned, it will be forwarded to the Chief Medical Advisor for an opinion on her medical suitability for invalidity pension.

James Bannon

Ceist:

339 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) with five children, who has been receiving family income supplement for over two years and whose spouse has been unemployed for over three years, is not entitled to back to school allowance in respect of the relevant children; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3314/11]

The back to school clothing and footwear allowance (BSCFA) scheme is administered by the Health Service Executive (HSE) on behalf of the Department. A person may qualify for BSCFA if he or she is in receipt of a social welfare or health service executive payment, is participating in an approved employment scheme or attending a recognised education or training course, and has household income at or below certain specified levels. The HSE has advised that the family concerned were refused BSCFA as their income was above the limit allowable to qualify for payment and they were advised of their right to have the decision reviewed. The person in question sought this review but the decision to refuse the payment was upheld.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

340 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3410/11]

There are no semi-State bodies operating under the aegis of the Department.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

341 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3433/11]

The three statutory bodies operating under the aegis of this Department are the Social Welfare Tribunal, the Citizens Information Board and the Pensions Board. In addition, the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of the Department. The information sought is set out in the table.

Details of Campaign/ Programme

Cost of Advertising in 2010

Publications

Broadcasting

On-Line

Outdoor

Other forms of Advertising

Consultancy/ Production

Social Welfare Tribunal

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Citizens Information Board

The Citizens Information Board (CIB) had no major advertising campaigns during 2010 and there were no production or consultancy costs incurred. The CIB incurred costs in the order of €218,500 in 2010 for routine advertising and promotion of Citizens Information Services and Money Advice and Budgeting Service.

Pensions Board

€88,000 (national, regional, trade magazines etc.)

Nil

€115,500

Nil

Nil

€17,000

The National Pensions Awareness Campaign (NPAC) advertising programmes promote pension awareness, retirement planning and education. As per the NPAC objectives, the target audiences comprise the general public as well as specific groups where pensions coverage has traditionally been low, including the agriculture sector, women, the hospitality and retail sectors and young people.

Pensions Ombudsman Office

€25,200

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Nil

Public Information and Pensions Adjustment Order Campaign in national press and magazines.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

342 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3448/11]

The Department had no major advertising campaigns during 2010 and there were no production or consultancy costs incurred. General office notices such as office closures and staff vacancies were placed in newspapers. Newspaper advertisements were also placed inviting submissions in relation to the Review of Regulations made under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2009 and on proposals regarding Gender Recognition. The Back to School Clothing and Footwear Allowance was advertised in a number of targeted newspaper supplements/features. The total cost of advertising for 2010 incurred by my Department was in the region of €155,000.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

343 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3463/11]

Details of the various Statutory Instruments made by the Minister for Social Protection for the years 2007 to 2010 are set out in the tables. As none of the agencies under the aegis of my Department have the power to make Statutory Instruments themselves, any Statutory Instruments relating to these agencies have also been made by the Minister for Social Protection and are included in the table. Given the limited time available and the considerable level of resources that would be necessary, it has not been possible to compile details of the date on which each of these Statutory Instruments was published in Iris Oifigiúil and laid before the House of the Oireachtas.

Statutory Instruments signed by the Minister for Social Protection in 2007

Name of Statutory Instrument

S.I. Number

Occupational Pension Schemes (Revaluation) Regulations, 2007

S.I. No. 30 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Payments Provisions (Amendment) (Jobseeker’s Benefit) (Redundancy — Exemption From Disqualification) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 43 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (Diet Supplement and Maximum Rents) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 44 of 2007

Personal Retirement Savings Accounts (Disclosure) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 91 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Occupational Injuries) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 102 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Payments Provisions) (Amendment) (No. 1) (Maternity Benefit and Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 128 of 2007

Social Welfare Law Reform and Pensions Act 2006 ( Section 42) (Commencement) Order 2006

S.I. No. 136 of 2007

Occupational Pension Schemes (Review of Actuarial Work) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 137 of 2007

Citizens Information Act 2007 (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 141 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 142 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Section 35) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 146 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (Carer’s Income Disregard and Family Income Supplement) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 148 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 1) (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 176 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Section 37) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 181 of 2007

Trust RACS (Disclosure of Information) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 182 of 2007

Pensions Ombudsman Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 183 of 2007

Trust RACS (Cross-Border) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 184 of 2007

Trust RACS (Investment) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 185 of 2007

Trust RACS (Trustee) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 186 of 2007

Trust RACS (Registration) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 187 of 2007

Occupational Pension Schemes (Investment) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 188 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Sections 5, 8, 22, 23 and 28) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 219 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Rent Supplement) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 221 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Illness, Jobseeker’s, Maternity, Adoptive and Deserted Wife’s Benefit) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 222 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 3) (Pre-Retirement Allowance) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 223 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Sections 18, 20, 25(1), 35 and 36) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 256 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 267 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Section 34) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 268 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Contributions and Insurability) (Amendment) (Modified Social Insurance) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 298 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 412 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment No. 4) (Bereavement Grant and Payments After Death) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 536 of 2007

Social Welfare Law Reform and Pensions Act 2006 (Section 39) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 631 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Section 37) (Commencement) (No. 2) Order 2007

S.I. No. 632 of 2007

Pensions Act (Notice of Alleged offence) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 633 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Sections 21 and 24) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 699 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 5) (Assessment of Earnings) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 700 of 2007

Social Welfare (Bilateral Agreement With the United Kingdom on Social Security) Order 2007

S.I. No. 701 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Section 9) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 702 of 2007

Social Welfare (Temporary Provisions) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 748 of 2007

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2007 (Section 14) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 749 of 2007

Trust RACS (Fees) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 768 of 2007

Pensions Act (Disclosure of Information) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 842 of 2007

Pensions (Amendment) Act 2002 (Section 43) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. No. 843 of 2007

Occupational Pension Schemes (External Schemes and Schemes With External Members) (United Kingdom) (Revocation) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 844 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 7) (Child Benefit) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 859 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 6) (Entitlement to Pro-Rata State Pension) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 860 of 2007

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 8) (Increase in Rates) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 862 of 2007

Social Welfare (Rent Allowance) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 863 of 2007

Social Welfare (Occupational Injuries) (Amendment) Regulations 2007

S.I. No. 864 of 2007

Statutory Instruments signed by the Minister for Social Protection in 2008

Name of Statutory Instrument

S.I. Number

Occupational Pension Schemes (Revaluation) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 20 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (Carers Income Disregard) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 75 of 2008

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Sections 26, 29, 30 and 31) (Commencement) Order 2008

S.I. No. 84 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Earnings Disregard) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 138 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 3) (Prescribed Time) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 243 of 2008

Pensions Act 1990 (Register of Administrators) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 275 of 2008

Pensions Act 1990 (Registration and Renewal of Registration of Administrators) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 276 of 2008

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Section 27) (Commencement) Order 2008

S.I. No. 277 of 2008

Occupational Pension Schemes (Funding Standard) (Amendment) Regulations, 2008

S.I. No. 295 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (Maximum Rent Limits) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 334 of 2008

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Section 27) (Commencement) (No. 2) Order 2008

S.I. No. 398 of 2008

Social Welfare (Temporary Provisions) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 500 of 2008

Pensions Act 1990 (Disclosure of Information) (Amendment) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 531 of 2008

Occupational Pension Schemes (Small Schemes in Wind Up Exemption from Actuarial Funding Certificate Requirements) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 532 of 2008

Social Welfare (Agreement With the Republic of Korea on Social Security) Order 2008

S.I. No. 552 of 2008

Social Welfare (Rent Allowance) (Amendment) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 600 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 4) (Increase in Rates) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 601 of 2008

Social Welfare (Occupational Injuries) (Amendment) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 602 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 2) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 603 of 2008

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 5) (Graduated Rates) Regulations 2008

S.I. No. 604 of 2008

Statutory Instruments signed by the Minister for Social Protection in 2009

Name of Statutory Instrument

S.I. Number

Occupational Pension Schemes (Revaluation) Regulations, 2009

S.I. No. 22 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (Jobseeker’s Benefit) Regulations, 2009

S.I. No. 24 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Early Childcare Supplement) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 54 of 2009

Occupational Pension Schemes (Funding Standard) (Amendment) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 62 of 2009

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2008 (Section 24) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 69 of 2009

Occupational Pension Schemes (Preservation of Benefits) (Amendment) Regulations, 2009

S.I. No. 70 of 2009

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2008 (Section 8) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 112 of 2009

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Sections 15 and 16) (Commencement) Order, 2009

S.I. No. 143 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Domiciliary Care Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 3) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 162 of 2009

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2008 (Section 22) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 164 of 2009

Occupational Pension Schemes (Duties of Trustees In Connection With Bulk Transfer) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 177 of 2009

Social Welfare (Reduction of Payments To Health Professionals) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 198 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (Rent Supplement) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 202 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 4) (Island Allowance) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 230 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 5) (Prescribed Time) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 240 of 2009

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2008 (Part 5) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 241 of 2009

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2008 (Part 4) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 244 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Rent Supplement) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 265 of 2009

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Section 17) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 347 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 6) (Nominated Persons) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 378 of 2009

Occupational Pension Schemes (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 465 of 2009

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Section 28) (Commencement) Order 2009

S.I. No. 506 of 2009

Occupational Pension Schemes (Wind-up) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 509 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Contributions and Insurability) (Amendment) (Refunds) Regulations, 2009

S.I. No. 563 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 8) (Prescribed Time) Regulations, 2009

S.I. No. 564 of 2009

Social Welfare (Occupational Injuries) (Amendment) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 565 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 9) (Treatment Benefit) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 578 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 7) (Change In Rates) Regulations 2009

S.I. No. 584 of 2009

Social Welfare (Consolidated Contributions and Insurability) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Contributions) Regulations, 2009.

S.I. No. 585 of 2009

Statutory Instruments signed by the Minister for Social Protection in 2010

Name of Statutory Instrument

S.I. Number

Occupational Pension Schemes (Revaluation) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 47 of 2010

Social Welfare and Pensions (No. 2) Act 2009 (Part 3) (Commencement) Order 2010.

S.I. No. 56 of 2010

Occupational Pension Schemes (Preservation of Benefits) (Amendment) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 148 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (Assessment of Means) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 157 of 2010

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2008 (Section 16(c)) (Commencement) Order 2010

S.I. No. 246 of 2010

Social Welfare (Employers’ Pay-Related Social Insurance Exemption Scheme) Regulations 2010.

S.I. No. 294 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (Rent Supplement) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 295 of 2010

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010 (Part 4) (Commencement) Order 2010

S.I. No. 443 of 2010

Occupational Pension Schemes (Investment) (Amendment) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 455 of 2010

Social Welfare (Agreement with the Government of Japan on Social Security) Order 2010

S.I. No. 527 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 3) (Homemakers) (Prescribed Time) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 545 of 2010

Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010(Part 3) (Commencement) Order 2010

S.I. No. 581 of 2010

Occupational Pension Schemes (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2010.

S.I. No. 634 of 2010

Trust RACs (Fees) (Amendment) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 635 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No.2) (Claims) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 661 of 2010

Civil Registration (Delivery of Notification of Intention to Enter into a Civil Partnership) (Prescribed Circumstances) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 666 of 2010

Civil Registration (Delivery of Notification of Intention to Marry) (Prescribed Circumstances) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 667 of 2010

Civil Registration (Register of Civil Partnerships) (Correction of Errors) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 668 of 2010

Civil Registration (Civil Partnerships) (Fees) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 669 of 2010

Civil Registration (Marriage Registration Form) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 670 of 2010

Civil Registration (Civil Partnership Registration Form) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 671 of 2010

Civil Registration (Register of Marriages) (Correction of Errors) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 672 of 2010

Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2010 (Sections 15 to 26) (Commencement) Order 2010

S.I. No. 673 of 2010

Social Welfare Act 2010 (Sections 7, 8, 9 and 10) (Commencement) Order 2010

S.I. No. 679 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Supplementary Welfare Allowance) (Amendment) (No. 2) (Rent Supplement) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 680 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Claims, Payments and Control) (Amendment) (No. 3) (Change in Rates) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 681 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Occupational Injuries) (Amendment) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 683 of 2010

Social Welfare (Consolidated Contributions and Insurability) (Amendment) Regulations 2010

S.I. No. 684 of 2010

Social Welfare Appeals

Michael Ring

Ceist:

344 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection when an appeal will be heard in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Mayo. [3478/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in the case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

There was a 46% increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 25% in the number of appeals received in 2010. These increases have caused delays in the processing of appeals. In order to be fair to all appellants, oral hearings are arranged in strict chronological order.

The Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010 facilitated the use of experienced retired former Appeals Officers, on a strictly temporary basis to assist in reducing the backlog of Social Welfare Appeals cases. In addition to the provision of extra staff, more emphasis is now being placed on dealing with appeals on a summary basis so as to increase productivity. As a result, the number of appeals dealt with by way of oral hearing was reduced from 59% in 2009 to 31.5% in 2010. In addition, a project to improve the business processes in the office was undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented and significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

As a result of all of these initiatives, a total of 17,499 appeals were finalised by Appeals Officers in 2010 in comparison to 10,027 for 2009. When revised decisions and withdrawn cases are taken into account the total number of cases finalised in 2010 was 28,166 in comparison to 17,787 for 2009.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

345 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding the appeal against the refusal of carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; the length of time taken to process the case; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3627/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned has been referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in the case. The person concerned will be informed when arrangements have been made.

There was a 46% increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office in 2009 when compared to 2008, which in itself was 27% greater than the numbers received in 2007. There was an increase of a further 25% in the number of appeals received in 2010. These increases have caused delays in the processing of appeals. In order to be fair to all appellants, oral hearings are arranged in strict chronological order.

The Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010 facilitated the use of experienced retired former Appeals Officers, on a strictly temporary basis to assist in reducing the backlog of Social Welfare Appeals cases. In addition to the provision of extra staff, more emphasis is now being placed on dealing with appeals on a summary basis so as to increase productivity. As a result, the number of appeals dealt with by way of oral hearing was reduced from 59% in 2009 to 31.5% in 2010. In addition, a project to improve the business processes in the office was undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented and significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

As a result of all of these initiatives, a total of 17,499 appeals were finalised by Appeals Officers in 2010 in comparison to 10,027 for 2009. When revised decisions and withdrawn cases are taken into account the total number of cases finalised in 2010 was 28,166 in comparison to 17,787 for 2009.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

346 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when mortgage support will be reviewed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3628/11]

The position remains as I advised in reply to Question Number 685 which I answered for the Deputy on 12 January 2011. The Health Service Executive advised that following a review of the claim in July 2010, the rate of mortgage interest supplement was reduced from €489.60 to €32 per calendar month reflecting the reduction in the interest repayments on the loan. The HSE further advised that this amount is the full and correct amount payable based on his circumstances.

Redundancy Payments

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

347 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social Protection in respect of each year from 2002 to 2010, the number of redundancies notified to his Department; the number of projected redundancies for the full year of 2011; the amount of money paid out in statutory redundancy payment in respect of each year from 2002 to 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [2525/11]

On 1 January 2011, my Department assumed responsibility from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. There are two types of redundancy payment made from the fund i.e. 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.

The number of redundancy claims and the expenditure for each of the years from 2002 to 2010 are set out in the attached tabular statement. It is not possible to provide an accurate projection of the number of redundancies that will arise in 2011 as this will depend on a number of factors, including job stability and the rate of recovery in the economy. I understand that since last March there is a downward trend in incoming redundancy claims and I believe that it is possible to be confident that the number of redundancy claims will continue to decline in 2011. Overall, new redundancy claims received in 2010 amounted to 58,731 — a fall of just over 24% on 2009 when 77,001 new claims were lodged. The backlog of claims on hands decreased by some 16,000 in the past 12 months from a high of 41,249 in December 2009 to 25,167 at the end of December, 2010.

Statutory Redundancies for years 2002 to 2010

Year

Claims

Expenditure

2002

24,432

53,977,980

2003

25,769

88,933,175

2004

25,041

152,161,952

2005

23,156

149,173,195

2006

23,684

166,482,830

2007

25,459

183,328,036

2008

40,607

193,711,387

2009

77,001

335,854,336

2010*

58,731

469,971,466

*Provisional figures.

Expenditure relates to claims processed in the year and thus can include claims received in prior year(s).

Pension Provisions

Charlie O'Connor

Ceist:

348 Deputy Charlie O’Connor asked the Minister for Social Protection if the assumptions in the national pensions framework have been cross-checked with any independent expert body such as the Society of Actuaries in Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3631/11]

The demographic projections quoted in the National Pensions Framework are from the Central Statistics Office's publication "Population and Labour Force Projections 2011-2041". These were the most up to date data available when the framework document was being prepared. The projections take account of the structure of the population identified in the 2006 Census of Population and the most up to date demographic trends at the time. These data are in line with previous projections which showed a broadly similar pattern of increasing old age dependency over the medium to long term. Projected increases in expenditure on public pensions and the projected economic outlook were prepared by the Department of Finance.

Social Welfare Benefits

James Bannon

Ceist:

349 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for a carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3632/11]

On 28 October 2010, payment of carer's allowance to the person concerned was stopped on the grounds that she did not respond to requests from the department for information necessary to review her claim. She was notified of this decision and the reason(s) for it. Her file was subsequently referred to an investigative officer of this department for review. Investigations indicated that the claimant may have been working more than 15 hours per week, contrary to the conditions for receipt of that payment. Enquiries are ongoing to establish the number of hours worked per week by the claimant in 2009 and 2010 and she has been asked to provide further documentation to the department in this regard. On completion of these investigations, a decision will be made and she will be notified directly of the outcome.

Social Welfare Appeals

Brendan Kenneally

Ceist:

350 Deputy Brendan Kenneally asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will issue on an appeal for carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3643/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 9th September 2010. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought.

These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 12th January 2011 and the appeal will be referred to an Appeals Officer in due course, who will decide whether the case can be decided on a summary basis or whether to list it for oral hearing. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Willie O'Dea

Ceist:

351 Deputy Willie O’Dea asked the Minister for Social Protection when a person (details supplied) in County Limerick will be advised of the status of their appeal for carer’s allowance. [3648/11]

The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was received in that office on 06 December 2010. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Social Welfare Services on the grounds of appeal be sought. When received, the appeal in question will be referred to an Appeals Officer for consideration. The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.

Social Welfare Benefits

Catherine Byrne

Ceist:

352 Deputy Catherine Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a person (details supplied) is not entitled to illness benefit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3649/11]

The person concerned was in receipt of illness benefit from 31/5/04 to 24/11/09 when she ceased claiming. She claimed illness benefit again on 23/11/10. This claim is not linked to a previous claim and as such it must satisfy the current qualifying conditions that apply to any new claim for illness benefit. The records of the Department show that, while the person concerned has credited PRSI contributions, she has no reckonable paid PRSI contributions since the 2005 contribution year. She does not therefore qualify for illness benefit. The decision on this claim was made on 1/12/10 and the person concerned was notified shortly thereafter. She is currently in receipt of supplementary welfare allowance at a weekly rate of €245.60 which includes an increase in respect of her two children.

The person concerned qualifies for the award of credited PRSI contributions based on the medical evidence of incapacity for work that she is currently submitting to the Department. These credited PRSI contributions could help to qualify her for the payment of benefit or pension at a future date. If the person concerned returns to work and gains a further 13 reckonable paid PRSI contributions in the current year (2011) and subsequently claims illness benefit this year, she will satisfy the contribution conditions for illness benefit, albeit at a reduced rate.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

353 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3664/11]

The three statutory bodies operating under the aegis of the Department are the Social Welfare Tribunal, the Citizens Information Board and the Pensions Board. In addition, the Pensions Ombudsman comes under the remit of the Department. There were no new appointments to the above statutory bodies during the period 14 January 2011 to 25 January 2011.

Departmental Schemes

Michael Ring

Ceist:

354 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Social Protection further to parliamentary Question No. 171 of 7 October 2010, the proposals that have been devised in relation to the development of new initiatives based on the rural social scheme and the community services programme [3685/11]

Willie Penrose

Ceist:

360 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Social Protection the eligibility criteria for persons to participate in the new Tús scheme; the way it will operate; the date on which it will commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3780/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 354 and 360 together.

The Minister for Finance announced a community work placement initiative for up to 5,000 persons in his Budget statements to the Dáil on the 7th December 2010. This initiative, to be known as Tús, was launched by me on the 21st December 2010. The aims of Tús are to provide short-term, quality work opportunities for those who are unemployed for more than a year. Tús will be delivered at local level by each of the Local Development Companies and by Údarás na Gaeltachta and is built on the proven architecture of the Rural Social Scheme (RSS).

My Department is consulting with the Local Development Companies at present on the arrangements for the roll-out of Tús nationally. In the first instance, suitable work placements will need to be identified by the Local Development Companies within community, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations operating in their area of operations. Promotion of Tús to local organisations is already being undertaken.

My Department is currently preparing support material for Tús in co-operation with Local Development Companies through their national network. This support material will include a short guide to Tús focused on community, voluntary and not-for-profit organisations and other support material for use by the companies in identifying suitable placements, identification of the skill level of participants referred by the Department and terms and conditions of engagement in the placement.

Work has already begun on the roll-out of Tús across the country with the first placements expected towards the end of February when recruitment and other procedures have been completed.

Participants who meet the qualifying conditions of being continuously unemployed for at least twelve months and in receipt of a jobseeker's allowance will be identified by the Department of Social Protection and invited to participate. Those interested in participating on Tús will be referred to a panel maintained by the relevant Local Development Company for placement in a suitable position.

Social Welfare Code

Jim O'Keeffe

Ceist:

355 Deputy Jim O’Keeffe asked the Minister for Social Protection further to Parliamentary Question No. 77 of 23 November 2010, regarding the conditions of habitual residence to be eligible for social welfare benefits, if the Department guidelines have been reviewed to make the conditions clearer and more user-friendly for deciding officers and customers alike and if not when will the guidelines be available. [3705/11]

The HRC guidelines are currently being revised with a view to making them more user-friendly for deciding officers and customers alike. All issues that have been raised recently by Deputies and interested groups are being fully considered in this process.

Work on the review of the Guidelines is nearing completion and it is anticipated that the roll-out to deciding officers will commence in February. The revised guidelines will then be published on the Department's website.

Redundancy Payments

Noel Coonan

Ceist:

356 Deputy Noel J. Coonan asked the Minister for Social Protection when an application for redundancy will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3720/11]

On 1 January 2011, the Department assumed responsibility for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. There are two types of redundancy payment made from the fund i.e. 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 wish to advise the Deputy that there is no record of a valid redundancy claim on the Redundancy payments system in respect of the individual in question. It is normal practice not to enter incomplete claims on the system as these claims cannot be processed until the necessary documentation is submitted. Forms are returned in order for missing details and/or supporting documentation to be submitted. Submission of correctly completed redundancy claim forms (RP50's) with all of the required documentation greatly facilitates the processing of claims.

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

357 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for redundancy in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath [3735/11]

On 1 January 2011, the Department assumed responsibility for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. There are two types of redundancy payment made from the fund i.e. 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 a statutory redundancy lump sum claim in respect of the individual concerned was received on 28 September, 2010. This claim is pending processing. Lump sum claims dating from June 2010 are currently being processed.

Question No. 358 withdrawn.

Thomas Byrne

Ceist:

359 Deputy Thomas Byrne asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for redundancy in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath [3758/11]

On 1 January 2011, the Department assumed responsibility for making redundancy payments from the Social Insurance Fund. There are two types of redundancy payment made from the fund i.e. 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 a statutory redundancy lump sum claim in respect of the individual concerned was received on 5 November, 2010. This claim is pending processing. Lump sum claims dating from June 2010 are currently being processed.

Question No. 360 answered with Question No. 354.

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

361 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number of applications for disability allowance received in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the total approved and the total rejected in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3806/11]

The requested statistics for disability allowance claims are set out in the table.

Year

No. of Applications Received

No. of Applications Approved

No. of Applications Disallowed

2006

17,581

11,099

6,810

2007

19,989

11,684

6,539

2008

21,358

13,176

8,046

2009

20,794

10,179

9,677

2010

21,409

8,306

10,316

2011 (To 14/01/11)

604

350

561

Pension Provisions

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

362 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number of applications for invalidity pension received in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the total approved and the total rejected in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3807/11]

The information requested by the deputy is shown on the following table:

Invalidity Claims

Year

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011(to 14/1/11)

No. of claims: Received

7,552

8,116

7,757

7,476

8,774

359

No. of claims: Awarded

5,657

5,909

5,431

4,580

3,643

127

No. of claims: Rejected

1,665

2,051

2,165

2,933

3,760

103

Social Welfare Appeals

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

363 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number of appeals against disallowance of various social welfare payments currently with appeal officers; the average length of time taken to determine such cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3808/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

367 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for carer’s allowance currently on appeal; the number on appeal for two months, four months, eight months, 12 months or more whose cases have not been determined; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3812/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

378 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the average time it took to process social welfare appeals in 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3918/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

379 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number of social welfare appeals outstanding at the end of 2010; the number of appeals per social welfare payment at that time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3919/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

380 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of social welfare appeals decided and the numbers upheld and rejected in 2008, 2009 and 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3920/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 363, 367 and 378 to 380, inclusive, together.

The figures requested in relation to the number of appeals outstanding at the end of 2010, broken down by social welfare payments and the number of appeals decided, with their outcomes, for 2008, 2009 and 2010 are given in the tables attached to the reply. At 31/12/10, there were 2,145 applications for carer's allowance on appeal but figures are not readily available as to the number on appeals awaiting determination for two months, four months, eight months, and 12 months or more as requested by the Deputy.

The average waiting time in cases decided by way of a summary decision is 27.4 weeks, while the average time to process an oral hearing is 45.6 weeks. These processing times are calculated from the registration date of the appeal to the date of its finalisation and include all activities during this period including time spent in the Department for comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal put forward by the appellant and any further investigation, examination or assessment by the Department's Inspectors and Medical Assessors that is deemed necessary. A considerable period of time is added to the process when an oral hearing is required because of the logistics involved in this process.

The annual intake of appeals has increased from 14,070 in 2007 to 32,432 in 2010, an increase of 18,362 (130.5%). A number of initiatives have been taken to deal with these increases, including the deployment of additional staff resources to the Office. The Social Welfare (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2010 facilitated the use of experienced retired former Appeals Officers, on a strictly temporary basis to assist in reducing the backlog of Social Welfare Appeals cases.

In conjunction with the provision of extra staff, more emphasis is now placed on dealing with appeals on a summary basis so as to increase productivity. As a result, the number of appeals dealt with by way of oral hearing was reduced from 59% in 2009 to 31.5% in 2010. A project to improve the business processes in the office was also undertaken which has resulted in a number of improvements being implemented and significant enhancements have been made to the office's IT and phone systems.

I am assured by the Chief Appeals Officer that she is keeping current processes under continuous review with a view to achieving a more effective throughput of appeals, while ensuring that any progress does not conflict with due process in terms of the rights of appellants and adherence to the requirements of natural justice.

Appeals awaiting decision at 31/12/2010

Adoptive Benefit

2

Blind Pension

7

Carers Allowance

2,145

Carers Benefit

73

Child Benefit

1,187

Disability Allowance

3,046

Illness Benefit

2,658

Domiciliary Care

1,386

Deserted Wives Benefit

14

Farm Assist

163

Bereavement Grant

30

Family Income Supplement

105

Homemakers

Invalidity Pension

612

Liable Relatives

22

One Parent Family Payment

819

Maternity Benefit

21

State Pension (Contributory)

110

State Pension (Non-Cont)

230

State Pension (Transition)

11

Occupational Injury Benefit

18

Occupational Injury Ben (Med)

49

Disablement Pension

334

Death Benefit (Pension)

Incapacity Supplement

15

Guardian’s Payment (Con)

26

Guardian’s Payment (NonCon)

9

Pre-Retirement Allowance

1

Jobseeker’s Allow (Means)

2,496

Jobseeker’s Allowance

3,312

Jobseeker’s Benefit

766

JA/JB Fraud Control

6

Respite Care Grant

114

Insurability of Employment

112

Supplementary Welfare All

343

Treatment Benefits

4

Survivor’s Pension (Con)

14

Survivor’s Pension (NonCon)

13

Widows Parent Grant

1

Total

20,274

Appeals decided with their outcomes 2008-2010

Year

Allowed

Partly Allowed

Revised decision

Disallowed

Withdrawn

Total

2008

2,940

348

4,235

6,135

2,066

15,724

2009

3,175

520

4,873

6,332

2,887

17,787

2010

4,124

623

7,282

12,752

3,385

28,166

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

364 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for back to education allowance received in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the number granted or refused in the same period; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3809/11]

The back to education allowance (BTEA) scheme is a second chance education opportunities scheme designed to remove the barriers to participation in second and third level education by enabling eligible people on social welfare to continue to receive a payment while pursuing an approved full-time education course that leads to a higher qualification than that already held.

Annual statistics are collated by the Department for the number of participants awarded the back to education allowance on the basis of the relevant academic year. Participants in the scheme transfer from another social welfare payment. Because these claims are not recorded as a separate scheme until the person transfers from their primary payment to the back to education scheme, statistics are not available on the number of applications received or refused entry to the scheme. Accordingly, the number of applications received or refused the allowance is not available.

As of 21st January 2011, in the region of 25,000 participants were approved the BTEA scheme. This represents a 20% increase on the 2009/10 academic year where the number of participants was 20,808. The 2009/2010 academic year saw an increase of 79% on the previous academic year. (Table 1 details number of participants in the previous 5 full academic years).

BTEA participants 2005/06 to 2009/10

Year

Total

2005/06

7,285

2006/07

8,090

2007/08

8,883

2008/09

11,646

2009/10

20,808

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

365 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons currently in receipt of a basic supplementary welfare payment pending determination of a claim; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3810/11]

The supplementary welfare allowance scheme is administered on behalf of the Department by the Community Welfare service. At 14th January 2011 there were 36,965 recipients of a basic supplementary welfare allowance payment of which some 26,000 are awaiting a payment from the Department.

Pension Provisions

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

366 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for contributory State pension refused on the grounds of insufficient contributions or other criteria in the past 12 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3811/11]

According to the Department's records at 31st December 2010, 3,784 customers had a claim for State pension (contributory) disallowed during 2010. However, it should be noted that some of these applicants may qualify for pension following further examination of their claims using other qualifying criteria.

Question No. 367 answered with Question No. 363.

Social Welfare Code

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

368 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number Irish citizens whose applications for various social welfare payments were refused in each of the past five years to date in 2011 under the habitual residency criteria; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3813/11]

I have set out below a table which sets out by scheme the number of Irish people who were disallowed a social welfare payment based on the failure to satisfy the habitual residence condition during the years 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010. Due to industrial action which took place during the first half of 2010 figures in respect of 2010 are incomplete.

Table: Habitual Residency Condition Disallowance 2006-2010

Irish

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

Jobseeker’s Allowance

438

351

879

530

463

State Pension (Non-Con)

8

3

0

9

1

Blind Pension

0

0

0

0

0

Widow/er’s & Orphan’s Non-Con Pensions

0

0

0

0

0

One-Parent Family Payment

4

16

37

23

24

Carer’s Allowance

24

6

7

33

51

Disability Allowance

17

3

40

98

54

Child Benefit

6

2

22

45

57

Domiciliary Care Allowance

n/a

n/a

n/a

0

0

Total

497

381

985

738

650

Irish nationals returning to Ireland on a permanent basis should experience no difficulty in demonstrating that they satisfy the requirements of the habitual residence condition.

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

369 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for jobseeker’s allowance and unemployment assistance received by him in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the numbers approved; the numbers rejected; the degree if any to which the qualification guidelines changed during that period to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3814/11]

The statistical information requested by the Deputy is set out in the tabular statement.

In September 2007, the means assessment for insurable employment was changed. The assessable income is the gross earnings less deductions for PRSI, superannuation (including AVCs and PRSAs), the pension levy and union dues. The new means assessment is based on a family rate which is comprised of a personal rate, a full increase in respect of a qualified adult and a full increase in respect of each qualified child less full means. In determining the rate to be paid to a customer, a full increase for a qualified adult is payable regardless of the amount of gross weekly income generated by the spouse/civil partner/cohabitant. The insurable earnings of the claimant and his/her spouse/civil partner/cohabitant are assessed in the same manner. A disregard of €20 per day applies to earnings from each day of employment up to a maximum of three days. The balance is assessable at 60%.

From 30 April 2008, the means assessment for benefit and privilege customers was changed. The means assessment is now based on the net income of the parents. The net income includes the income from all sources including Department of Social Protection payments (with some exceptions) less deductions. When the net income of the family is calculated, a disregard of €600 applies for a two parent family and €470 for a one parent family. 34% of the balance is assessed as means.

Table: Jobseekers Allowance Claims 2006-2010

Year

Registered

Awarded

Rejected

Withdrawn

Cleared

(A)

(B)

(C)

(D)

(B+C+D)

2006

104,521

77,026

N/Avail

N/Avail

77,026

2007

109,949

77,193

N/Avail

N/Avail

77,193

2008

169,879

99,522

14,561

41,051

155,134

2009

273,653

176,912

23,681

56,544

257,137

2010

263,942

191,144

27,884

54,358

273,386

Pension Provisions

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

370 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for non-contributory old age pension received by him in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the numbers approved; the numbers rejected; the degree if any to which the qualification guidelines changed during that period to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3815/11]

The following table sets out details of the number of applications received, awarded and refused for each year during the period 2006-2010.

Year

Received*

Awarded

Refused

2006

10,380

7,373

2,641

2007

12,219

8,812

2,974

2008

10,980

7,797

2,855

2009

10,802

7,811

2,642

2010

9,835

7,831

2,470

*Note — There is no direct relationship in the data between the total numbers awarded and refused and numbers received as a number of applicants would have withdrawn their applications before final decision. Also cases pending at the beginning and end of year are carried from one year to the next.

The following is a summary on a yearly basis of changes in the rate of payment and qualifying conditions for the State pension non-contributory (SPNC) from 2006 onwards (figures quoted are for maximum rates):

2006

Personal rate of SPNC was increased by €16 per week to €182 (6 January).

Qualifying adult payment increased by €10.60 to €120.30 per week (6 January).

Increase in means disregard to €20 per week (September).

In September, a €100 employment earnings disregard was introduced

The over 80 allowance increased to €10 a week (6 January).

Fuel allowance was increased by €5 to €14 per week (October).

2007

Personal rate increased by €18 per week to €200 (5 January).

Qualifying adult payment increased by €11.90 to €132.20 per week on (5 January).

Means disregard was increased by €10 to €30 per week (5 January).

Employment earnings disregard increased by €100 to €200 per week (January).

Fuel allowance was increased by €4 to €18 per week (October).

From September onwards, certain claimants in receipt of SPNC could also receive up to half rate carer's allowance.

2008

Personal rate increased by €12 per week to €212 on personal rate (4 January).

Qualifying adult payment increased by €7.90 to €140.10 per week (4 January).

Fuel season was extended by 1 week to 30 weeks (October).

2009

Personal rate increased by €7 per week to €219 (2 January).

Qualifying adult payment increased by €4.60 to €144.70 per week (2 January).

Fuel season was extended by 2 weeks to 32 weeks and fuel allowance was increased by €2 to €20 per week (October).

2010

No changes in rates or qualifying conditions.

2011

No changes in rates or qualifying conditions.

A once-off "cold weather" fuel allowance payment worth €40 was made.

Social Welfare Benefits

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

371 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for domiciliary care allowance received by him in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the numbers approved; the numbers rejected; the degree if any to which the qualification guidelines changed during that period to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3816/11]

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

373 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for domiciliary care allowance received by him in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the number granted, refused or referred to appeal in each year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3818/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 371 and 373 together.

Domiciliary Care Allowance (DCA) has been the responsibility of this Department since April 2009, statistics prior to this date are a matter for the HSE who administered the scheme up to that point. The qualifying conditions have not changed in the time that the scheme has been administered by this Department and remain broadly in line with what were operated by the HSE. The significant changes to the operation of the scheme with the transfer from the HSE included giving the scheme a legislative basis, the removal of the means test that applied to the child and a change to the assessment process to determine the level of additional care that the child's disability requires, this is now done by way of a desk assessment.

In 2009, a total of 3,389 applications were received, 1,078 applications were awarded, including 47 on review on the basis of additional information received. 1,792 were disallowed and 836 appeals received.

In 2010, a total of 5457 applications were made. 2697 applications were awarded, including 639 awarded on review, 3275 applications were disallowed in the year.

Bernard J. Durkan

Ceist:

372 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for carer’s allowance received by him in each of the past five years to date in 2011; the numbers approved; the numbers rejected; the degree if any to which the qualification guidelines changed during that period to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3817/11]

Carer's Allowance is a social assistance payment, made to persons who are providing full time care and attention to elderly people or to people with disabilities and whose income falls below certain limits.

The information requested by the Deputy is set out below in tabular format.

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011 to date*

Carer’s allowance Claims Received

10,657

18,097

18,928

16,574

18,212

572

Carer’s allowance Claims Awarded

5,813

9,109

15,457

10,730

8,769

277

Carer’s allowance Claims Refused

2,814

3,537

5,015

5,776

6,972

190

Carer’s allowance Claims Withdrawn

992

1,272

1,210

1,451

888

30

*To the 14 January 2011.

The following are changes to the qualification guidelines from 2006 to date.

On the 1st of June 2006 the amount of hours a carer was permitted to work outside the home per week was increased from ten hours to fifteen hours.

In Budget 2007, the Minister provided for new arrangements whereby people in receipt of certain social welfare payments, who are also providing full time care and attention, will be able to retain their main welfare payment and receive, depending on their means, half rate carer's allowance. This was introduced on the 27th September 2007.

The means test for carer's allowance has been significantly eased over the years, and is now one of the most generous means tests in the social welfare system, most notably with regard to spouse's earnings. In April 2006 the income disregard increased from €540 to €580 per week for a couple. In April 2007 it increased to €640 per week for a couple. Since April 2008 the income disregard has been €332.50 per week for a single person and €665 per week for a couple

There have been no other changes to the qualification guidelines from 2006 to date, apart for rate changes in accordance with the budget each year.

Question No. 373 answered with Question No. 371.

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

374 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons under 25 years in receipt of jobseeker’s benefit and jobseeker’s allowance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3914/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

375 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons under 25 years in receipt of jobseeker’s benefit for less than six months and less than 12 months, for more than 12 months and less than 24 months and those in receipt of this payment for more than 24 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3915/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

376 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons under 25 years in receipt of jobseeker’s allowance for less than six months, for between six months and 12 months, for more than 12 months and less than 24 months and those in receipt of this payment for more than 24 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3916/11]

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

377 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons under 25 years in receipt of jobseeker’s credits only, for less than six months and less than 12 months, for more than 12 months and less than 24 months and those in receipt of this payment for more than 24 months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3917/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 374 to 377, inclusive, together.

The information requested by the Deputy is set out in the tabular statement.

The number of persons under 25 years in receipt of Jobseeker's Benefit is 9,886, Jobseeker's Allowance is 58,831 or claiming Credits Only is 346, making a total of 69,063.

The total number of persons on the Live Register who are under 25 years of age is 81,280. This includes people claiming Jobseeker's Benefit or Jobseeker's Allowance whose claims have not yet been decided or whose payments have been suspended.

Numbers of Persons under 25 years in receipt of payment at week ending 02/01/2011

< 6 mths

6-12 mths

12-24 mths

>24 mths

Total in payment

Jobseeker’s Allowance

19,367

12,310

15,270

11,884

58,831

Jobseeker’s Benefit

7,720

2,110

53

3

9,886

Credits Only

130

128

80

8

346

Questions Nos. 378 to 380, inclusive, answered with Question No. 363.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

381 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3952/11]

Details of mileage payments made to staff for travel purposes from 2008 to date in 2011 are set out in the table.

Year

Amount

2008

2,003,176

2009

1,618,530

2010

1,551,875

2011 (to date)

30,056

Mileage figures were not recorded separately from overall travel costs for 2007 and previous years. The total amount of payments made to staff for home travel in 2007 was €2,448,497. This figure includes mileage paid to staff for travel purposes as well as transportation costs such as taxis, buses, trains and airfares.

Departmental Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

382 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4262/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is not available as details of the number of cases where cover has not been provided are not recorded centrally.

Following the introduction of the moratorium on recruitment in the civil service, the Department of Finance has sanctioned the recruitment of a limited number of temporary clerical staff in my Department to provide cover for some of the absences of permanent staff on maternity leave, long-term sick leave and other statutory leave and also to provide cover for some staff availing of the shorter working year scheme.

I can advise that there are currently 148 temporary staff employed in my Department. These provide cover for in the region of three quarters of the total number of staff on maternity and other leave.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

383 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Social Protection the proportion of office administrators to front-line staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4272/11]

At 1st December 2010 there was a total of 4847 posts in the Department. Of this, 4,240 posts are classified as frontline and have direct dealings with customers of the Department. The remaining 607 posts are in management roles and support areas of the Department including, HR, Finance, IT and Policy.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

384 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of semi-State bodies that fall under her auspices; the annual turnover of each body; and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3412/11]

There are 13 agencies under the aegis of my Department. None of these are commercial semi-State bodies, so the issue of turnovers and losses does not arise. However, the Estimates provisions and outturns for the thirteen agencies are as set out in tabular form.

Agency

Year 2006

Year 2007

Year 2008

Year 2009

Year 2010

Estimates

Outturn

Estimates

Outturn

Estimates

Outturn

Estimates

Outturn

Estimates

Outturn

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

€,000’s

Arts Council

82,310

82,310

83,000

83,000

82,102

81,620

73,350

73,350

68,649

68,649

Chester Beatty Library

3,083

3,083

3,208

3,208

3,648

3,488

3,083

3,083

2,714

2,714

Crawford Art Gallery

1,190

1,174

2,080

1,980

1,991

2,016

1,753

1,753

1,579

1,579

Fáilte Ireland

81,457

81,457

80,646

80,646

82,819

82,594

78,687

76,694

68,299

67,016

Irish Film Board

19,426

19,426

22,159

22,159

23,197

23,189

21,840

21,840

19,272

19,272

Irish Museum of Modern Art

8,835

8,835

7,892

8,272

8,260

8,341

7,332

7,317

6,671

6,671

Irish Sports Council

40,914

40,914

54,025

54,025

57,631

57,182

51,689

51,677

49,572

49,572

National Concert Hall

3,927

3,927

4,370

4,090

3,903

3,918

3,478

3,478

3,105

3,105

National Gallery of Ireland

9,440

9,351

11,766

11,754

12,611

12,467

11,231

10,903

10,416

10,147

National Library of Ireland

11,817

11,817

12,701

12,701

12,002

11,875

10,742

10,742

9,348

9,251

National Museum of Ireland

19,842

19,842

19,512

18,332

19,058

19,017

15,415

15,415

15,125

15,125

National Sports Campus Development Authority

10,798

2,245

22,198

9,005

6,710

6,503

4,398

6,397

7,754

5,459

Tourism Ireland

18,737

18,737

19,600

19,600

20,010

19,954

19,400

18,970

18,740

18,740

Notes:
Figures for 2006 to 2009 are as published in the Appropriation Accounts and include supplementary estimates and capital carryovers for those years.
Figures for 2010 Outturns are provisional.
The National Sports Campus Development Authority was formerly known as Campus and Stadium Ireland Development Limited.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

385 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of her Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by her Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3435/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

386 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by her Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3450/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 385 and 386 together.

In respect of my Department, the information sought by the Deputy is as set out in tabular form.

Title of Advertising Campaign

Total Cost of Campaign

Advertisement for the Interim Board of Irish National Opera to recruit a General Director

1,875

Culture Ireland Advertisement for the APAP 2011 Arts Presenters Delegate Book

1,562

Culture Ireland Advertisement for the Tanzmesse Dance Showcase Arts Presenters Delegate Book

773

The carrying out of advertising campaigns by the agencies under the aegis of the Department is a matter for the agencies themselves. However, I would like to point out to the Deputy that in 2011, there are very significant reductions in the expenditure allocations for administration, including advertising, for all State bodies under the aegis of the Department.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

387 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will list all statutory instruments signed by her or agencies under the aegis of her Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which each Statutory Instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3465/11]

The information sought by the Deputy in respect of statutory instruments made by me as Minister is as set out in tabular form.

Year

Title

Date Published in Iris Oifigiúil

Date Laid Before Houses of Oireachtas

2008

Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 (Section 21) Regulations 2008 (S.I. 388 of 2008)

3 October 2008

2 October 2008

2009

Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 (Regional Tourism Pension Scheme Fund) Transfer Order 2009 (S.I. 524 of 2009)

22 December 2009

18 December 2009

2009

Financial Measures (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 (Fáilte Ireland Contributory Pension and Death Benefits Scheme Fund (Formerly Known as CERT)) Transfer Order 2009 (S.I. 525 of 2009)

22 December 2009

18 December 2009

2010

Intoxicating Liquor Act 2003 (Section 21) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 160 of 2010)

23 April 2010

26 April 2010

2010

Intoxicating Liquor (National Conference Centre) Act 2010 (Prescribed Areas) Regulations 2010 (S.I. 305 of 2010)

29 June 2010

28 June 2010

Any statutory instruments signed by the agencies under the aegis of the Department are a matter for the agencies themselves.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

388 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will list all appointments made by her between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of her Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the case of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3666/11]

Since 14 January 2011, I have made six appointments to the board of the National Museum of Ireland. The names of the persons appointed by me are set out as follows:

Professor Dervilla M.X. Donnelly, MRIA

Professor Peter Woodman, MRIA

Dr. Chris Nicholas, RDS

Professor Gearoid O'Tuathaigh

Ms. Máirín de Brún

Ms. Mary Crotty

Professor Donnelly was reappointed. She originally served from 2 May 2005 to 2 May 2010. The remainder are new appointments.

Both Professor Donnelly and Professor Woodman are members of the Royal Irish Academy and the appointments were made under the provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997 (Section 19(3)(c)) (Number 11 of 1997).

Dr. Nicholas is a member of the RDS and was appointed under the provisions of the National Cultural Institutions Act, 1997 (Section 19(3)(a)) (Number 11 of 1997).

Professor Gearoid O'Tuathaigh is a historian and academic, Ms Máirín de Brún a linguist and retired public servant and Ms Mary Crotty an expert in marketing and public relations.

The remuneration as sanctioned by the Department of Finance for membership of the board of the National Museum of Ireland is currently €5,985.

In making these appointments to the Board of the National Museum, I was mindful of Section 19 of the National Cultural Institutions Act 1997 (Section 19(10)) (Number 11 of 1997) which states that "in the selection of persons for appointment to membership of a Board regard shall be had to the person's attainments or interest in or his knowledge of art, craft design, librarianship, museum curatorship, genealogy, education, management and administration, industrial relations, sales and marketing, or his or her competence otherwise to assist the Board in the performance of its functions."

The selection process for Board members generally employed by me is based on the skills and knowledge required at Board level and also takes account of expressions of interest received from persons wishing to serve and on the advice of the Chairs.

National Lottery Funding

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

389 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport when a lottery grant sanctioned in respect of a club (details supplied) in County Wexford will be paid; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3672/11]

The club in question was provisionally allocated €78,000, including a RAPID top up of €18,000, under the Sports Capital Programme 2008. The allocation was formally approved on 3 June 2010. Invoices and other documentation in respect of the allocation were received by the Department from the grantee on 12 August 2010. The Department wrote to the club on the same date seeking, inter alia, a breakdown of the specific work carried out relating to an invoice submitted. This was again sought from the club on 13 January 2011. Further documentation was received from the club on 21 January 2011 and this is currently being reviewed to ensure that it meets the requirements of the Sports Capital Programme. When the Department is satisfied that the grantee has complied in full with the terms and conditions of the Programme, the grant will be paid subject to the normal retention arrangements which apply under the Programme.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

390 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if she will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3954/11]

All expenses paid to staff of my Department are in accordance with the Department of Finance circulars governing travel and subsistence.

The total mileage payments made annually since 2007 for the purposes of official travel are tabulated.

Year

2007

82,981.34

2008

61,507.43

2009

34,819.13

2010

30,085.56

Year-to-date 2011

723.72

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

391 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport if the Ministers of State in her Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver, if any; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3969/11]

Minister Martin Mansergh is a Minister of State at my Department with special responsibility for the Arts and is also Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for the office of Public Works. The salary and expenses for any drivers associated with the Minister of State are not paid by my Department.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

392 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4264/11]

Since the introduction of the moratorium on public service recruitment in March 2009, there have been 5 instances of maternity leave in my Department. None of the staff on maternity leave were replaced.

In relation to other types of extended leave, there were 2 instances in my Department of staff availing of the Shorter Working Year Scheme (i.e. unpaid leave of 8 weeks or more) in 2009 and 5 instances in 2010. In only one case, in each of the years, was the person replaced. In this one case, the person concerned was a member of staff in the National Archives, which is particularly busy during the summer period.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

393 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sport the proportion of office administrators to front-line staff in the public sector; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4274/11]

The staff in my Department are deployed across the Tourism, Arts, Culture, and Sports Divisions and in the Corporate Services areas. The detailed breakdown by programme area, with staff from corporate services distributed proportionately, is set out in the Department's Annual Output Statement 2010, which is accessible on the Department's website www.tcs.gov.ie.

Local Authority Staff

Paul Nicholas Gogarty

Ceist:

394 Deputy Paul Gogarty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if it is a legal requirement for local authorities, including town councils, to advertise vacancies for temporary positions, including traffic wardens, or else fill them from the council staff; the penalties that would apply should local authorities or individuals within local authorities appoint a person to a temporary position without advertising it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3279/11]

It is not a legal requirement for local authorities, including town councils to advertise vacancies for temporary positions.

Under section 159 of the Local Government Act 2001, each County and City Manager is responsible for staffing and organisational arrangements necessary for carrying out the functions of the local authorities for which he or she is responsible.

Local Authority Housing

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

395 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if legislation is necessary to facilitate the introduction of a tenant purchase scheme for tenants of voluntary housing associations whose homes were funded under the capital loan and subsidy scheme, and who took up occupancy of the properties prior to the introduction of the incremental purchase scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3320/11]

Seán Ó Fearghaíl

Ceist:

396 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will include long-standing tenants of voluntary housing associations, housed under the capital loan and subsidy scheme, in the new tenant purchase provisions announced in the recent budget; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3321/11]

Jack Wall

Ceist:

412 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans to change legislation in respect of ownership, funding of, or controlling interests in, tenancies of housing (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3719/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 395, 396 and 412 together.

The support of accommodation provided by approved housing bodies is an integral part of my Department's overall response to delivering on social housing need. Local authorities and approved housing bodies are working in close co-operation to deliver an expanded range of social housing options and a wide range of accommodation types to meet the needs of low-income families and persons with specific categories of housing need.

There is no provision at present in the voluntary housing sector for the purchase of individual houses by tenants. The increased tenant purchase discounts announced in the Budget for Local Authority houses will not, therefore, apply to houses owned by approved bodies.

Ownership of dwellings financed under the Capital Funding Schemes is vested in the relevant approved housing body. In order to ensure that dwellings are used in accordance with the terms of the Capital Funding Schemes, approved housing bodies are required to enter into a legal agreement for a period of up to 30 years with the relevant housing authority, creating a mortgage charge on the dwelling in respect of which funding was advanced.

Any changes in these arrangements would require the consent of individual approved housing bodies and a national tenant purchase scheme for dwellings provided by approved bodies would require legislative underpinning. My Department is currently examining, in consultation with the voluntary and co-operative housing sector, the future funding and governance arrangements for the sector and the need for any policy and legislative changes, including changes to facilitate the sale of dwellings to tenants or others, will be determined in the light of the outcome of this examination.

Local Authority Charges

Ciaran Lynch

Ceist:

397 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if consideration or direction have been given to local authorities to reduce rates for 2011 in view of the adverse trading conditions experienced by many businesses; his plan to require local authorities to compensate businesses such as restaurants, which have suffered losses when the local authority was unable to provide essential services such as a consistent water supply; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3327/11]

Local authorities are under a statutory obligation to levy rates on any property used for commercial purposes in accordance with the details entered in the valuation lists prepared by the independent Commissioner of Valuation under the Valuation Act 2001. The levying and collection of rates are matters for each individual local authority. The Annual Rate on Valuation (ARV), which is applied to the valuation of each property to obtain the amount payable in rates, is decided by the elected members of each local authority in the annual budget and its determination is a reserved function of a local authority.

However, my predecessor consistently urged local authorities to exercise restraint in setting rates in their budgets in order to support competitiveness in the economy, nationally and locally, and to protect the interests of communities. A significant number of local authorities accordingly decreased their ARV for 2010 while the majority kept the same rate as 2009. I expect the same positive response from the sector this year and the information obtained by the Department to date in respect of 2011 suggests this trend is continuing.

Local authorities recognise that these are difficult economic times for many businesses and have taken a number of initiatives to promote and support enterprise and economic development, including in particular the establishment of business support units or equivalent arrangements in each county and city council.

In respect of water, the Government's Water Pricing Policy requires local authorities to recover in full the cost of providing water services from non-domestic users of these services. The implementation of the Pricing Policy is in line with the requirements of the European Union Water Framework Directive. Under this Directive, Member States are required to recover in full the cost of providing water services from the users of these services by 2010. Water charges are based on metered usage.

Animal Welfare

Maureen O'Sullivan

Ceist:

398 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government further to Parliamentary Question No. 196 of 13 January 2011, the justification for allowing the use of the Larsen cage trap, the unnecessary and wilful cruelty of which has been confirmed by various officials and organisations. [3362/11]

As stated in the previous reply to Parliamentary Question No. 196 the Larsen cage trap complies with the provisions of the Wildlife Act, 1976 (Approved Traps, Snares and Nets) Regulations 2003 and I have no plans to change the Regulations in this regard.

Local Authority Staff

Brendan Howlin

Ceist:

399 Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has received a request from New Ross Town Council, County Wexford, to fill the vacancy for a full time community warden; if he will sanction this request; when a decision will be made on this matter and if there are departmental policy guidelines on the filling of such a vacant post on a temporary basis. [3368/11]

The Department has not received a request from New Ross Town Council to fill a vacancy for a full time community warden; however, I understand that a request has been received to fill a vacancy for a full time traffic warden in New Ross.

Since August 2009, the Department has delegated sanction from the Department of Finance, in relation to the filling of vacancies in local authorities as exceptions to the general moratorium on the filling of public sector posts. The delegated sanction is conditional on overall staffing levels in the Sector reaching targets in accordance with the Government's Policy on Staffing and Numbers. In relation to the identification and filling of vacancies, in the first instance, Local Authorities must, where vacancies in key areas are identified, fully examine all options for reorganisation and reallocation of work to meet requirements from within the existing staff complement. In the event that a Local Authority cannot fill an important vacancy through reorganisation or reallocation it may apply to the Department for approval to fill the vacancy as an exception to the moratorium on recruitment and promotion.

The Department examines and decides each application on a case by case basis taking into account, inter alia, statutory requirements on local authorities, value for money and health and safety issues including the provision of emergency services. The application from New Ross Town Council has been examined in accordance with the process outlined above, and I understand that sanction has been granted for the filling of the post on a fixed term contract basis.

Land Reclamation

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

400 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if a certain area of Dublin Bay is now safe from any further infills. [3385/11]

An Bord Pleanála recently refused a proposal by Dublin Port to expand the port by infilling an area of Dublin Bay which is within a Special Protection Area.

The Planning and Development Acts 2000 to 2010 provide the primary framework in which development proposals are considered by local planning authorities, and An Bord Pleanála in the case of an appeal. Assessment of the potential impact of a proposed development on sites designated for protection under the Habitats Directive or Birds Directive must also be undertaken in accordance with the requirements of the Directives themselves, as transposed into Irish law.

Any proposal for development must be considered on its own merits.

Private Rented Accommodation

Richard Bruton

Ceist:

401 Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the reason an additional fee has to be paid to the Private Residential Tenancies Board every time a new tenant takes up residence in a registered property; and if he has issued a direction to agencies operating under his Department that fee increases should not exceed rises in the general price index, especially at times when the rental income stream is falling sharply. [3395/11]

The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 provides that a landlord must apply to register the tenancy of a dwelling with the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB). Such registration must be accompanied by a fee, the level of which is dependent on whether the tenancy is registered within one month of its commencement or later than one month after the commencement of the tenancy. There is also a specific fee for the registration of several tenancies within the same property within one month of the commencement of the tenancies.

It is not the case that a new fee is payable every time a new tenant joins a tenancy. Where the details of an existing tenancy, including the addition of a new tenant to the tenancy, are updated to the Board by the landlord no fee is payable.

The maximum duration of a tenancy under the Act is four years, after which a new tenancy must be registered with the Board. In the case of a dwelling subject to several different tenancies in a 12 month period, no more than two registration fees are payable.

I have not issued any directions to agencies operating under the aegis of my Department in relation to fee increases of the type mentioned.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

402 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3405/11]

The following table identifies the bodies under the aegis of the Department:

Bodies under the aegis of the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government

Affordable Homes Partnership/National Building Agency/Centre for Housing Research (being amalgamated into the Housing and Sustainable Communities Agency)

An Bord Pleanála

Building Regulations Advisory Body

An Chomhairle Leabharlanna

Comhar

Designated Area Appeals Advisory Board

Dublin Docklands Development Authority

Environmental Protection Agency

Heritage Council

Housing Finance Agency

Irish Water Safety

Limerick Northside and Southside Regeneration Agencies (being amalgamated)

Local Government Computer Services Board/Local Government Management Services Board (being amalgamated into the Local Government Management Agency)

Private Residential Tenancies Board/Rent Tribunal

Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland

Detailed information in relation to finances and other matters is contained in the Annual Report/Accounts of the relevant bodies.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

403 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3428/11]

The Department does not hold information in relation to advertising campaigns carried out by State Agencies, Boards or other bodies under the aegis of the Department.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

404 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3443/11]

The Department carries out a number of advertising campaigns relevant to its remit, in order to promote awareness and behaviour change, to consult with the public, or to provide information. Details of advertising campaigns carried out by the Department in these regards in 2010 are set out in the following table. Costs shown include the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising or outdoor advertising, which incorporates consultancy and production costs, where applicable.

Advertising Campaign

Cost

National Climate Change Awareness Campaign

22,192

National Tidy Towns Competition

21,319

National Biodiversity Week

8,850

International Year of Biodiversity

2,414

Fire Safety Promotion (October 2009 – February 2010)

636,984

Fire Safety Promotion (October 2010 – February 2011)

571,903

Fire Safety Week 2010 (including contribution to Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Services towards Fire Safety Week 2010)

45,740

National Inventory of Architectural Heritage

4,603

Built Heritage Advice Series

424

World Heritage (UNESCO World Heritage Programme)

5,748

‘Value your Vote’ Electoral Register Awareness Campaign

37,017

Heritage Week 2010

4,235

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

405 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3458/11]

The information requested is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible.

The Deputy may wish to note that a list of Statutory Instruments from the Department, for each of the years 2007, 2008, 2009 is published as an Appendix to the relevant Annual Report; these Reports are available on www.environ.ie. The Annual Report for 2010 is currently under preparation. Additionally, all Statutory Instruments are available to view on www.irishstatutebook.ie.

Local Authority Charges

Michael Creed

Ceist:

406 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for the introduction of a landfill levy; the steps he will take to ensure a uniform charge for access to local authority landfill sites; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3469/11]

A levy on waste disposed of at landfills has been in place since 1 June 2002. Section 73 of the Waste Management Act 1996, as inserted by section 11 of the Waste Management (Amendment) Act 2001, allowed for the introduction of the landfill levy by regulations and the Waste Management (Landfill Levy) Regulations 2002 came into operation on 1 June 2002. The current landfill levy rate is €30 per tonne.

Under the Waste Management Acts 1996 to 2010, operational matters, such as charges to be set at local authority landfill sites, are a matter for the local authorities concerned.

Waste Management

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

407 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide the latest figures for the amount of municipal waste generated annually; the amount landfilled; the latest recycling rates; the amount of landfilled municipal waste that is biodegradable; if Ireland met its 2010 Landfill Directive; his views whether 2013 and 2016 targets can be met with existing waste policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3477/11]

In 2008, the latest year for which figures are available, Ireland generated a total of 3,224,281 tonnes of municipal waste, with a total of 1,938,712 tonnes landfilled. The overall recovery rate was 37.5%.

The latest figures also show that Ireland landfilled 1,196,044 tonnes of biodegradable waste in 2008, which leaves a gap of some 280,000 tonnes to be achieved to comply with the 2010 target set out in the Landfill Directive.

The National Waste Report for 2009, showing the figures for that year, is, I understand, currently being finalised by the EPA, and is expected to be published shortly.

The Government has accorded priority attention to the work associated with positioning Ireland to achieve compliance with the Landfill Directive's targets for the diversion of biodegradable waste from landfill. Taking account of policy initiatives including source segregated collection of household organic waste in urban areas, the new regulations introduced requiring the separate collection of food waste from commercial premises and increases already in place and planned for the Landfill Levy, as well as revised projections for waste generation, I am confident that it will be possible to demonstrate compliance with the Directive's targets for 2010, 2013 and 2016.

Special Areas of Conservation

John O'Donoghue

Ceist:

408 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for the development of Inch Strand, County Kerry; if his attention has been drawn to discussions regarding it being developed as a golf course; his views on same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3608/11]

The sand dune system at Inch is possibly the best example of its kind in the country and has been designated as both a candidate Special Area of Conservation and a candidate Special Protection Area. The National Parks and Wildlife Service of the Department met with the developer of this proposed golf course in July 2010 and explained that, in seeking development consent for development proposals for the site, the provisions of the Habitats Directive, including the need to carry out an appropriate assessment under article 6(3) of the Directive, must be complied with. No detailed plan for the development has yet been submitted to the planning authority or to the Department; at this stage, therefore, it is not possible to say what impact the proposed development would have on the integrity of the site.

Urban Regeneration

Deirdre Clune

Ceist:

409 Deputy Deirdre Clune asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will publish the Wrixon report on the Cork docklands; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3622/11]

The Cork Docklands Forum Report is now available on my Department's website at www.environ.ie and on the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation’s website at www.deti.ie. A copy has also been furnished to the Oireachtas Library.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

410 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide further funding to complete a project (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3624/11]

The Mitchel's Regeneration Masterplan, which was completed in 2008, sets out a multi-annual programme of regeneration for the Mitchel's Crescent area of Tralee. In line with my Department's policy on regeneration, the Masterplan addresses not just physical improvements involving demolition, construction and refurbishment of the estate but also seeks to address social isolation and educational and economic disadvantage in the area. My Department continues to support this ambitious project as an integral part of the national regeneration programme. To that end, approximately €3.7 million was recouped to Tralee Town Council in funding for regeneration initiatives in 2010. My Department will continue to provide necessary capital funding in 2011 to support ongoing social regeneration in Tralee and the development of a number of projects, including a residential development of 18 units at Mitchel's Crescent and the refurbishment of the landmark Moyderwell Convent building.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

411 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will list all appointments made by him between the 14 of January 2011 to the 25 of January 2011 inclusive to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3659/11]

No appointments were made to State boards under the aegis of the Department between the 14 January and the 25 of January 2011 inclusive.

Question No. 412 answered with Question No. 395.

Waste Management

Emmet Stagg

Ceist:

413 Deputy Emmet Stagg asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the amount of funding assigned by him to carry out renovation, clean up and other works at Kerdiffstown landfill site, Naas, County Kildare; the source of the funding and the time scale for making the landfill safe from all pollution threats [3786/11]

It is essential that every effort is made to ensure that those responsible for environmental damage fully meet the costs involved. Any question of State funding for any remedial works involved, whether from the Environment Fund or any other source, would fall to be considered in that context. Any facility giving rise to environmental pollution is a cause of concern but there is a system in place under which competent authorities can ensure that obligations under waste legislation are met. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) — through its Office of Environmental Enforcement (OEE) — is charged with ensuring that the Irish enforcement system is capable of securing timely compliance with the requirements of the Waste Management Act 1996, including under section 32, which provides that the holder of waste is responsible for ensuring that waste is managed in a manner which does not cause environmental pollution.

The EPA is the competent authority in relation to landfills and all such waste facilities must obtain a waste licence from the Agency. Such licences are subject to stringent conditions so as to ensure that the facilities concerned operate to the highest environmental standard. Enforcement of licence conditions is also a matter for the EPA. The need for strong enforcement action has been aided by Ministerial policy directions which issued in May 2005 and July 2008, respectively, providing guidance where illegal deposition is discovered.

The policy direction issued in 2005 sets the standard in terms of the expected response from the regulatory authorities, who are obliged to ensure that the necessary remedial measures are taken to ensure that sites are restored and that waste illegally deposited is appropriately disposed of or recovered. The 2008 direction deals with the use of sanctions to ensure effective actions against those involved in unauthorised waste activities. The particular landfill site at Kerdiffstown is the subject of enforcement action by the EPA, including legal proceedings which, in line with these Ministerial policy directions, are being pursued at the highest possible level. In these circumstances it would not be appropriate for me to comment further on the matter at this stage.

Local Authority Housing

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

414 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government his plans for the proposed reorganisation of local government social housing provision with specific reference to the transfer of social housing provision powers from town councils to county councils; the transfer of social housing provision powers from city and county council to new regional housing bodies and whether these new regional bodies will be contiguous with existing regional authority boundaries [3789/11]

In the context of the broader Local Government Efficiency Review, I am giving consideration to the organisational structure that currently supports the delivery of housing services with a view to mapping out how we can get the best use of the resources available to us in the organisations charged with providing housing services. This includes a consideration of the possible rationalisation of housing functions, including potentially at a regional level. I would intend that any proposals which may result would be the subject of stakeholder consultation. Any consequent organisational changes may of course require legislative underpinning.

Wildlife Protection

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

415 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the estimated number of wild deer in County Wicklow for the years 2000 and 2010; the number of deer officially culled during both of these years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3794/11]

As counting deer in afforested areas is highly prone to error, there is no reliable estimate of the deer population in Wicklow. The most recent estimate of the deer population in Wicklow Mountains National Park, which is largely an open landscape, was 2,800 in 2009. The number of wild deer culled in County Wicklow, based on figures provided by licensed deer hunters to my Department for the 2009/2010 season, was almost 13,700. This compares with just over 4,200 during the 1999/2000 hunting season.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

416 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3947/11]

The annual mileage payments made to staff in my Department since 2007 are set out in the table below:

Year

Amount

2007

1,493,231.36

2008

1,518,747.16

2009

931,424.42

2010

823,845.76

2011 (to 20th January)

28,410.19

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

417 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3962/11]

The Minister of State at the Department, Deputy Michael Finneran, has two civilian drivers who work on a week on/week off basis. The first civilian driver was paid salary of €25,170 in 2008, €40,707 in 2009, €38,082 in 2010 and €1,895 to date in 2011. The second civilian driver, a son of Mr. Finneran, was paid salary of €16,471 in 2008, €41,911 in 2009, €37,324 in 2010 and €1,895 to date in 2011. In 2008, a brother and daughter of Mr. Finneran provided relief duties and received salary of €2,605 and €651 respectively.

Payments made to Minister of State Finneran in respect of domestic travel amounted to €26,944 in 2008, €34,708 in 2009, € 24,060 in 2010 and €10,849 to date in 2011.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

418 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4258/11]

The Department's staffing numbers are controlled by the March 2009 Moratorium on Recruitment and Promotions and the Employment Control Framework 2010-2014 which seeks to reduce public service numbers generally. As a result most vacancies arising in the Department are not being filled, whether they are permanent staff losses due to retirement or departure from the Department, or temporary vacancies arising from maternity or other leave. The Department has reorganised its business structure to reflect reduced staffing numbers while ensuring delivery of key priorities. In the period from March 2009, 54 staff have taken maternity leave and currently there are 50 staff on career breaks (including incentivised career breaks).

Grant Payments

Michael Ring

Ceist:

419 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a decision in relation to a grant can be appealed in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Galway [3479/11]

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Warmer Homes Scheme (WHS) on behalf of my Department. I have no function in relation to individual grant applications. Queries in relation to individual applications are an operational matter for the SEAI. Dedicated hot lines for both schemes are available (WHS hot line — 1800 250 204 and HES hot line — 1850 927 000) and all queries, from scheme applicants and public representatives, on delivery dates for individual households and/or funding agreements are dealt with immediately.

Telecommunications Services

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

420 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the progress made in relation to the roll-out of the rural broadband scheme to bring broadband connectivity to a townland (details supplied) in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3337/11]

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services, is a matter in the first instance for private sector service providers operating in a liberalised market regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). Broadband services are provided by private service providers over various platforms including DSL (i.e. over telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile, cable, fibre and satellite. ComReg's website www.callcosts.ie provides detailed information on the various private sector telecommunications products and services available on a county by county basis, including County Donegal.

In cases of market failure the Government will intervene, where it is appropriate and possible to do so. The National Broadband Scheme (NBS) represents such an intervention. Since the completion of the roll out of the NBS in October 2010, there is at least one service provider offering a broadband service in all areas of Ireland. Attention is now being focussed on isolated cases where broadband is not being delivered due to technical or line of sight reasons.

The European Commission has set aside a portion of the European Economic Recovery Programme (EERP) funding for rural broadband initiatives. Using this funding, which will be augmented by an Exchequer contribution, I will formally announce the launch of a Rural Broadband Scheme, shortly. This scheme will aim to provide a basic broadband service to individual unserved rural premises outside of the NBS areas. Drumkeen, Ballybofey, County Donegal, is not covered by the NBS and therefore any un-served premises in that locality will be eligible to apply under the scheme.

There will be a competitive process to engage a service provider who will offer a broadband service to qualified applicants under the scheme. While the exact details have yet to be finalised, I expect that the service offered under this scheme would at least match the service offered under the NBS and that the scheme will be fully rolled out by the end of 2012. I am satisfied therefore that between the services being provided by the commercial operators, the service now available through the NBS and the forthcoming Rural Broadband Scheme, which will target individual un-served premises, Ireland will very shortly be fully served from a broadband perspective.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

421 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years [3400/11]

I can inform the Deputy that the number of semi-State bodies under the remit of my Department is 8. The information requested by the Deputy is reported in each body's published Annual Report. These reports are made available in the library of the Houses of the Oireachtas.

Telecommunications Services

Olwyn Enright

Ceist:

422 Deputy Olwyn Enright asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the broadband services available in an area (details supplied) in County Offaly; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that broadband services are available in some parts of this area and not in others; his plans to expand the current provision of services in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3421/11]

The provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services, is a matter in the first instance for private sector service providers operating in a liberalised market regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). Broadband services are provided by private service providers over various platforms including DSL (i.e. over telephone lines), fixed wireless, mobile, cable, fibre and satellite. ComReg's website www.callcosts.ie provides detailed information on the various private sector telecommunications products and services available on a county by county basis, including County Offaly.

In cases of market failure the Government will intervene, where it is appropriate and possible to do so. The National Broadband Scheme (NBS) represents such an intervention. The area of Shannon Harbour was not included in the NBS as it was deemed to be already served by at least one other service provider.

Since the completion of the roll out of the NBS in October 2010, there is at least one service provider offering a broadband service in all areas of Ireland. Attention is now being focussed on isolated cases where broadband is not being delivered due to technical or line of sight reasons.

The European Commission has set aside a portion of the European Economic Recovery Programme (EERP) funding for rural broadband initiatives. Using this funding, which will be augmented by an Exchequer contribution, I will formally announce the launch of a Rural Broadband Scheme (RBS), shortly. This scheme will aim to provide a basic broadband service to individual un-served rural premises outside of the NBS areas. As Shannon Harbour is not covered by the NBS any un-served premises in that locality will be eligible to apply under the scheme.

There will be a competitive process to engage a service provider who will offer a broadband service to qualified applicants under the scheme. While the exact details have yet to be finalised, I expect that the service offered under this scheme would at least match the service offered under the NBS and that the scheme will be fully rolled out by the end of 2012.

I am satisfied therefore that between the services being provided by the commercial operators, the service now available through the NBS and the forthcoming RBS, which will target individual un-served premises, Ireland will very shortly be fully served from a broadband perspective.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

423 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3423/11]

The arrangements regarding advertising campaigns carried out by bodies under the aegis of my Department are a day-to-day operational matter for the bodies concerned. As the Deputy will be aware, Public Bodies are required to comply with national and EU public procurement rules when procuring goods and services.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

424 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3438/11]

There were no advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by my Department carried out during 2010.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

425 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3453/11]

The details requested by the Deputy are available from the Oireachtas Library and Research Service. However, to be of assistance to the Deputy, my Department has asked the Service to provide the table. The Deputy can also access information on all legislation on the website of the Attorney General via the following link www.irishstatutebook.ie.

If the Deputy has questions about a specific Statutory Instrument he is invited to contact my office and I will arrange to have the matter looked into.

Publication date

Title

Date laid

Prn.

Date laid

2007

European Communities (electronic communications networks and services) (authorisation) (amendment) regulations 2007

20070705

Prn.A7/1201

5 Jul 2007

2007

European Communities (electronic communications networks and services) (universal service and users’ rights) (amendment) regulations 2007

20070705

Prn.A7/1203

5 Jul 2007

2007

Electricity regulation act 1999 (public service obligations) (amendment) (No.2) order 2007

20070816

Prn.A7/1550

16 Aug 2007

2007

Electricity regulation act 1999 (public service obligations) (amendment) order 2007

20070816

Prn.A7/1524

16 Aug 2007

2007

Sea fisheries (conservation and rational exploitation of hake) regulations 2007

20070913

Prn.A7/1684

13 Sep 2007

2007

Fisheries (commercial fishing licences) (alteration of duties and fees) order 2007 [draft]

20071108

Prn.A7/2046

8 Nov 2007

2007

Regional Fisheries Boards (postponement of elections order) 2007(draft)

20071108

Prn.A7/2045

8 Nov 2007

2007

Communications (mobile telephone roaming) regulations 2007

20071210

Prn.A7/2202

10 Dec 2007

2007

Fisheries (commercial fishing licences) (alteration of duties and fees) order 2007

20071228

Prn.A7/2304

28 Dec 2007

2007

Regional Fisheries Boards (postponement of elections order) 2007

20071228

Prn.A7/2303

28 Dec 2007

2007

Inland fisheries (fixed payment notice) regulations 2007

20080103

Prn.A7/2346

3 Jan 2008

2007

Wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations 2007

20080103

Prn.A7/2345

3 Jan 2008

2007

Television licences regulations 2007 = Rialacháin um cheadúnais teilifíse 2007

20080109

Prn.A7/2347

9 Jan 2008

2007

Foyle area and Carlingford area (angling) (amendment) regulations 2007

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2007

Foyle area and Carlingford area (licensing of fishing engines) (amendment no.2) regulations 2007

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2007

Foyle area and Carlingford area (licensing of fishing engines) (amendment) regulations 2007

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2007

Foyle area and Carlingford area (tagging and logbook) (amendment) regulations 2007

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2007

Foyle area (control of drift and draft net fishing) (amendment) regulations 2007

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2007

Foyle area (control of netting) (amendment) regulations 2007

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2007

Sea-fisheries (incidental catches of cetaceans in fisheries) regulations 2007

20070615

Prn.A7/1104

15 Jun 2007

2007

Bass fishing conservation bye-law no. 826 of 2007

20070703

Prn.A7/1198

3 Jul 2007

2007

Bass (restriction on sale) regulations 2007

20070703

Prn.A7/1197

3 Jul 2007

2007

Cockle (fisheries management and conservation) regulations 2007

20070705

Prn.A7/1098

5 Jul 2007

2007

Cockle (fisheries management and conservation) (Dundalk Bay) regulations 2007

20070801

Prn.A7/1450

1 Aug 2007

2007

Cockle (fisheries management and conservation) (Tramore Bay) regulations 2007

20070801

Prn.A7/1451

1 Aug 2007

2007

Cockle (fisheries management and conservation) (Waterford Estuary) regulations 2007

20070801

Prn.A7/1449

1 Aug 2007

2007

National Oil Reserves Agency act 2007 (remaining provisions) (commencement) order 2007

20070802

Prn.A7/1501

2 Aug 2007

2007

National Oil Reserves Agency act 2007 (returns and levy) regulations 2007

20070802

Prn.A7/1504

2 Aug 2007

2007

National Oil Reserves Agency act 2007 (share transfer day) order 2007

20070802

Prn.A7/1502

2 Aug 2007

2007

Mussel seed (conservation) (no. 3) regulations 2007

20071009

Prn.A7/1248

9 Oct 2007

2007

Mussel seed (conservation) (no. 4) regulations 2007

20071010

Prn.A7/1593

10 Oct 2007

2007

Mussel seed (conservation) (no. 5) regulations 2007

20071010

Prn.A7/1655

10 Oct 2007

2007

Mussel seed (conservation) (no. 6) regulations 2007

20071010

Prn.A7/1707

10 Oct 2007

2007

Salmon rod ordinary licences (alteration of licence duties) order 2007

20071213

Prn.A7/2262

13 Dec 2007

2007

Special tidal waters (special local licences) (alteration of duties) order 2007

20071213

Prn.A7/2263

13 Dec 2007

2008

Control of fishing for salmon order 2008

20080416

Prn.A8/0440

16 Apr 2008

2008

European Communities (postal services) (amendment) regulations 2008

20080509

Prn.A8/0604

9 May 2008

2008

European Communities (internal market in natural gas) (BGÉ) (amendment) regulations 2008

20080709

Prn.A8/0967

9 Jul 2008

2008

European Communities (internal market in electricity) (Electricity Supply Board) regulations 2008

20080723

Prn.A8/1065

23 Jul 2008

2008

Regional fisheries board (postponement of elections) order 2008 [Draft]

20081125

25 Nov 2008

2008

Regional fisheries boards (postponement of elections) order 2008

20081222

Prn.A8/2001

22 Dec 2008

2008

Inland fisheries (fixed payment notice) regulations 2008

20081231

Prn.A8/2068

31 Dec 2008

2008

Wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations 2008

20081231

Prn.A8/2067

31 Dec 2008

2008

Foyle area and Carlingford area (angling) (amendment) regulations 2008

20080222

22 Feb 2008

2008

Foyle and Carlingford Fisheries act 2007 (commencement) (no. 1) order 2008

20080606

Prn.A8/0678

6 Jun 2008

2008

Foyle area and Carlingford area (prohibition of sale of salmon and sea trout caught by rod and line) regulations 2008

20080729

29 Jul 2008

2008

The Foyle area (control of oysters fishing) regulations 2008

20080729

29 Jul 2008

2008

The Foyle area (landing areas for oysters) regulations 2008

20080729

29 Jul 2008

2008

Foyle area (licensing of oyster fishing) regulations 2008

20080729

29 Jul 2008

2008

Foyle area (oyster logbook and identification tagging) regulations 2008

20080729

29 Jul 2008

2008

European Communities (electronic communications networks and services) (data protection and privacy) (amendment) regulations 2008

20081212

Prn.A8/1958

12 Dec 2008

2009

European Communities (internal market in electricity) (amendment) regulations 2009

20090302

Prn.A9/0268

2 Mar 2009

2009

Control of fishing for salmon order 2009

20090423

Prn.A9/0528

23 Apr 2009

2009

Foyle area and Carlingford area (licensing of fishing engines) (amendment) regulations 2009

20090609

9 Jun 2009

2009

National oil reserves agency act 2007 (returns and levy) (amendment) regulations 2009

20090611

Prn.A9/0779

11 Jun 2009

2009

National Oil Reserves Agency act 2007 (returns and levy) (amendment) (no. 2) regulations 2009

20090618

Prn.A9/0803

18 Jun 2009

2009

European Communities (internal market in electricity) regulations 2009

20090714

14 Jul 2009

2009

European Communities (control of dangerous substances from offshore installations) regulations 2009

20090910

Prn.A9/1270

10 Sep 2009

2009

Electricity regulation act 1999 (appointment of person to calculate power to heat ratios of combined heat and power units) order 2009

20091022

Prn.A9/1073

22 Oct 2009

2009

Energy (miscellaneous provisions) act 2006 (commencement of section 6) order 2009

20091022

Prn.A9/1072

22 Oct 2009

2009

Foyle area and Carlingford area (coarse angling) regulations 2009

20091202

2 Dec 2009

2009

Foyle area and Carlingford area (conservation of eels) regulations 2009

20091202

2 Dec 2009

2009

Salmon rod ordinary licences (alteration of licence duties) order 2009

20091222

Prn.A9/1849

22 Dec 2009

2009

Special tidal waters (special local licences) (alteration of duties) order 2009

20091222

Prn.A9/1850

22 Dec 2009

2009

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) (amendment) (no. 3) order 2009

20100121

Prn.A9/1891

21 Jan 2010

2009

Inland fisheries (fixed payment notice) regulations 2009

20100130

Prn.A9/1902

30 Jan 2010

2009

Electricity regulation act 1999 (public service obligations) (amendment) order 2009

20091208

Prn.A9/1575

8 Dec 2009

2009

Regional fisheries boards (postponement of elections) order 2009

20091218

Prn.A9/1785

18 Dec 2009

2009

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) (amendment) (no. 2) order 2009

20100121

Prn.A9/1351

21 Jan 2010

2009

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) order 2009

20100121

Prn.A9/0355

21 Jan 2010

2009

Wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations 2009

20100130

Prn.A9/1899

30 Jan 2010

2009

European Communities (repeal of section 26 (4) of the National Oil Reserves Agency act 2007) regulations 2009

20090703

Prn.A9/0900

3 Jul 2009

2009

Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (establishment day) order 2009

20091001

Prn.A9/1337

1 Oct 2009

2009

The Foyle area and Carlingford area (angling) (amendment) regulations 2009

20091202

2 Dec 2009

2010

Petroleum (exploration and extraction) safety act 2010 (commencement of certain provisions) order 2010

20100527

Prn.A10/0708

27 May 2010

2010

Electronic commerce (certification service providers supervision scheme) regulations 2010

20100604

Prn.A10/0737

4 Jun 2010

2010

Inland fisheries act 2010 (form of instrument of appointment) regulations 2010

20100702

Prn.A10/0938

2 Jul 2010

2010

Inland fisheries (fixed charge notice) regulations 2010

20100707

Prn.A10/0959

7 Jul 2010

2010

Wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme regulations 2010

20100707

Prn.A10/0953

7 Jul 2010

2010

Energy (biofuel obligation and miscellaneous provisions) act 2010 (commencement of certain provisions) order 2010

20100712

Prn.A10/0952

12 Jul 2010

2010

Petroleum (exploration and extraction) safety act (commencement of certain provisions) (no.2) order 2010

20100729

Prn.A10/1096

29 Jul 2010

2010

National Oil Reserves Agency act 2007 (returns and biofuel levy) regulations 2010

20100809

Prn.A10/1034

9 Aug 2010

2010

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) (amendment) (no. 2) order 2010

20100903

Prn.A10/1009

3 Sep 2010

2010

European Communities (internal market in electricity) regulations 2010

20100923

Prn.A10/1366

23 Sep 2010

2010

BAI rules on advertising and teleshopping (daily and hourly limits) = Rialacha fógraíochta agus teilishiopadóireachta an BAI

20101026

26 Oct 2010

2010

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) (amendment) (no.4) order 2010

20101231

Prn.A10/1804

31 Dec 2010

2010

Control of fishing for salmon order 2010

20100319

Prn.A10/0364

19 Mar 2010

2010

Communications (mobile telephone roaming) (amendment) regulations 2010

20100422

Prn.A10/0540

22 Apr 2010

2010

The Foyle area and Carlingford area (angling) (amendment) regulations 2010

20100506

6 May 2010

2010

The Foyle area (control of oyster fishing) (amendment) regulations 2010

20100506

6 May 2010

2010

Communications regulation (premium rate services and electronic communications infrastructure) act 2010 (part 2) (appointed day) order 2010

20100603

Prn.A10/0738

3 Jun 2010

2010

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) (amendment) order 2010

20100604

Prn.A10/0674

4 Jun 2010

2010

Foyle area (licensing of oyster fishing) (amendment) regulations 2010

20100916

16 Sep 2010

2010

Electricity regulation act 1999 (public service obligations) (amendment) order 2010

20101203

Prn.A10/1666

3 Dec 2010

2010

Taxes consolidation act 1997 (accelerated capital allowances for energy efficient equipment) (amendment) (no. 3) order 2010

20101207

Prn.A10/1526

7 Dec 2010

2010

Wild salmon and sea trout tagging scheme (no. 2) regulations 2010

20110111

Prn.A10/1981

11 Jan 2011

2010

Salmon rod (ordinary licences) (alteration of licence duties) order 2010

20110114

Prn.A10/1918

14 Jan 2011

2010

European Communities (public pan-European cellular digital land-based mobile communications) regulations 2010

20100511

Prn.A10/0623

11 May 2010

[2010].

Draft Fisheries (commercial fishing licences) (alteration of duties) order 2010

20100113

13 Jan 2010

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

426 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January and 25 January 2011 inclusive to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a reappointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3654/11]

I assume that the Deputy is referring to appointments to boards of State bodies under the aegis of my Department. I can inform the Deputy that I have made no appointments to the boards of State bodies under the aegis of my Department between 14th January 2011 and 25th January 2011.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

427 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3942/11]

Payments made to staff in my Department for mileage for each of the years since 2007 are contained in the following table.

Year

Amount

2007

434,229*

2008

158,179

2009

94,946

2010

72,960

2011 to date

395

*The figure for 2007 takes into account expenditure paid in respect of staff who transferred to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food due to the transfer of some marine functions to that Department in 2007.

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

428 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3957/11]

There are no civilian drivers employed on behalf of the current Minister of State at my Department. A former Minister of State at my Department, Mr Seán Power, T.D., employed two civilian drivers during his tenure at my Department from May 2008 to April 2009. These drivers were paid a salary of €33,713 and €33,866 respectively for that period.

Minister of State Power was paid €17,723 in 2008 and €16,054 in 2009 in respect of mileage allowance.

I am not aware of any familial relationship between former Minister of State Power and his civilian drivers.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

429 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4253/11]

The number of staff in my Department who availed of maternity and other leave, following the implementation of the embargo on recruitment announced in March 2009, is 65. It is not Departmental policy to fill vacancies created by maternity and other types of leave.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

430 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the proportion between office administrators and front-line staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4352/11]

The total number of full-time equivalents currently employed in my Department is 263. My Department is primarily engaged in policy advice and delivery of professional services. The number of frontline staff is therefore a very small proportion of the overall number referred to above.

Fisheries Protection

John Deasy

Ceist:

431 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to review the regulations and restrictions relating to the licensing of inshore fishing boats and the tonnage restrictions applying to small boats; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3242/11]

I am assuming that the Deputy is referring to the licensing regime for the potting sub-segment. A ‘Scheme for the Licensing of Traditional Pot Fishing Boats in the Irish Inshore Fleet' was introduced in 2003 with a closing date of 18 June 2003, following approval from the European Commission, in order to regularise the position of a substantial number of under 12 metre vessels engaged in commercial fishing by means of pots. These vessels had been in the fleet but, for various reasons, had not been formally licensed or registered. This implementation of this scheme was completed in August 2006 because of an obligation imposed by the European Commission on Ireland to complete the licensing and registration of eligible vessels under the scheme at the earliest possible date, as part of a process of finalising the fishing fleet capacity limits of all Member States. Ireland received a credit of 1,239 gross tonnes and 15,955 kilowatts in its reference level (i.e. fleet capacity ceiling) in respect of these vessels.

While there were some conditions attached to the scheme, these were necessary in order to secure approval at EU level for this increase in Ireland's fleet, that allowed unregistered vessels regularise their position. The approval of the European Commission for the potting scheme was strictly on the basis that it would not lead to an increase in fishing effort in the existing polyvalent segment of the Irish fleet. Accordingly, boats licensed and registered under the scheme were ring fenced within the fleet and a condition of the scheme was that the vessels involved would not target quota species. As it remains a priority not to increase the number of vessels targeting quota stocks, I do not consider that there is a case to review the licensing regime for inshore fishing boats, in this regard.

It is open to owners of vessels in the potting sub-segment who wish to target quota stocks to apply for a polyvalent general fishing boat licence. In order to do so, and to comply with the existing entry/exit regime for the fleet, 100% replacement capacity within the polyvalent segment would have to be acquired.

John Deasy

Ceist:

432 Deputy John Deasy asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the current number of sea fisheries officers; the number in each of the past ten years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3243/11]

The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority has advised my Department that the number of Sea Fishery Protection officers in the Authority at the start of each year that the SFPA has been in existence is as follows:

Date

Number

01//012007

42

01/01/2008

55

01/01/2009

73

01/01/2010

70

01/01/2011

69

State Bodies

Sean Sherlock

Ceist:

433 Deputy Seán Sherlock asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food his plans to sell off all or any parts of Coillte; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3256/11]

I have no plans to sell off all or any part of Coillte.

A Review Group on State Assets and Liabilities, under the Chairmanship of Mr. Colm McCarthy, was established by the Minister for Finance in 2010 to examine and provide advice on the proper stewardship of state assets and on opportunities for the better use of those assets. Coillte Teoranta is being reviewed as part of this process and the outcome of that review is awaited.

Grant Payments

John O'Mahony

Ceist:

434 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive their payment for area aid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3273/11]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment/ Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 13 May 2010 declaring 19.78 hectares of forage land. A number of land parcels listed on the application required re-digitisation. Payments based on clear land parcels were made to the person named under the Single Payment Scheme on 27 October 2010, 12 November and 2 December 2010 respectively. My Department has now completed the re-digitisation process and a final balancing payment is due shortly. The person named was paid in full under the Disadvantaged Area Scheme on 24 January 2011.

James Bannon

Ceist:

435 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath has not been paid their REP scheme 4; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3276/11]

Payment issued to the person named on 19th January, 2011.

Compensation Payments

James Bannon

Ceist:

436 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the compensation available to a person (details supplied) in County Westmeath; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3313/11]

There is no scheme operated by the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food to compensate farmers for losses incurred due to the recent adverse weather conditions.

Grant Payments

Michael Ring

Ceist:

437 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid under a scheme. [3325/11]

The person named registered 62 beef breed calves in 2009 under the Suckler Welfare Scheme. Payment was issued to the person named in respect of 45 animals. Errors were established in case of the remaining animals during the validation process. The applicant has been informed in writing regarding these errors.

The person named registered 68 beef breed calves under the 2010 Suckler Welfare Scheme. 46 of these animals are validated for payment, which will issue shortly. The remaining calves have outstanding errors and a letter regarding same issued on 5 January 2011. Payments will issue on the remaining animals on an on-going basis upon resolution of the errors concerned.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

438 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will be paid the REP scheme 4 payment. [3326/11]

The file is currently under examination following the re-digitisation of land parcels. My officials will be in contact with the person named when this examination is complete.

Bobby Aylward

Ceist:

439 Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when the balance of area aid due a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny will issue. [3344/11]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on 17 May 2010. The 50% advance payment under the Single Payment Scheme, which issued on 18 October, the further 30% payment under the same Scheme, which issued on 1 December, as well as the 75% advance payment under the Disadvantaged Area Scheme which issued on 21 September, were on the basis of those parcels cleared for payment at that stage, as a number of other land parcels listed on the application of the person named required re-digitisation. This process is now complete and the application is being processed, with a view to the further payments due issuing shortly.

Phil Hogan

Ceist:

440 Deputy Phil Hogan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when single farm payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kilkenny; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3350/11]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme was received from the person named on 12 May 2010. The 80% Interim SPS Balancing Payment issued to the applicant on 8 December, on the basis of those parcels cleared for payment at that stage, as a number of other land parcels listed on the application of the person named required re-digitisation. This process is now complete and the application is being processed, with a view to the further payments due issuing shortly.

Food Industry

Sean Fleming

Ceist:

441 Deputy Seán Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the prospects for Irish agriculture and food production for 2011 and in future years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3357/11]

The agriculture and food sector recovered well in 2010 following a very difficult year in 2009. According to Bord Bia, food and drink exports in 2010 are expected to show an increase of 11% to €7.88bn. Dairy exports rose 17% to €2.29bn and meat and livestock exports rose by 8% to €2.66bn. Overall food and drink exports accounted for 30% of the growth in total merchandise exports.

The Bord Bia survey completed in December 2010 showed a more positive outlook by food and drink manufacturers across all categories with 70% of those responding viewing prospects for their industry as good or very good. Consumers are less pessimistic about 2011. UK food prices are running ahead of inflation and if the exchange rate with sterling continues to favour Irish exporters the strong export performance to this key market should continue. Global commodity prices are also expected to remain strong. Tightened supply in some sectors also suggests that 2011 will provide good opportunities for Irish food exporters. However, input costs are also rising and this could affect the margin received by farmers for their produce.

Looking beyond 2011 the Food Harvest report has set challenging growth targets for the sector over the next decade, including: Increasing the value of primary output by €1.5bn; Achieving €12 billion in exports, which is about a 42% above our 2007-2009 average; Increasing milk production by 50%; Adding 20% and 40% to the value of the beef and seafood sectors respectively.

These targets were adopted by a committee consisting of senior figures in the agri-food sector. They are challenging but achievable provided all industry participants take the necessary actions outlined in the food harvest report.

Grant Payments

Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin

Ceist:

442 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason for the delay in full processing of area aid and single farm payments in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan; when he expects full payment of these grants; when REP scheme grant payment be processed for the person; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3374/11]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Area Scheme was received from the person named on 10 May 2010. The 50% advance payment under the Single Payment Scheme, which issued on 18 October, the further 30% payment under the same Scheme, which issued on 1 December, as well as the 75% advance payment under the Disadvantaged Area Scheme which issued on 21 September, were on the basis of those parcels cleared for payment at that stage, as a number of other land parcels listed on the application of the person named required re-digitisation. This process was completed and the balancing payments under both the Single Payment and Disadvantaged Areas Schemes have issued to the applicant. The REPS application from the person named has been processed and payment will issue shortly.

John O'Donoghue

Ceist:

443 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their REP scheme payment. [3382/11]

My officials have been in contact with the person named by letter dated 18th January, 2011. The REPS payment application cannot be further progressed until a reply is received to that letter.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

444 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when REP scheme 4 payment will issue to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3389/11]

Payment to the person named will issue within 10 days.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

445 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years. [3399/11]

The information requested for the years concerned is not readily available but will be collated and forwarded directly to the Deputy.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

446 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3422/11]

Details of any advertising campaign carried by the public bodies under the remit of my Department for 2010 would be an operational matter for the State Bodies/Agencies concerned.

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

447 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3437/11]

The details sought by the Deputy in relation to advertising campaigns carried out by my Department in 2010 are as follows:

Name of Campaign

Total Cost of Campaign

Forestry Programme

€16,900

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

448 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3452/11]

The information sought by the Deputy is publicly available and can be accessed directly from both the website of the Irish Statute Book (www.irishstatutebook.ie) and the website of Iris Oifigiúil (www.irisoifigiuil.ie).

Grant Payments

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

449 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when REP scheme payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cavan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3470/11]

Payment issued to the person named on 18th January 2011.

Michael Ring

Ceist:

450 Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) will receive the disadvantaged area payment and the single farm payment and the reason for the delay with same. [3480/11]

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on the 15 May 2010. This application was selected for and was the subject of a Ground Eligibility and Animal Identification Inspection. The inspection process is complete and the results are now being processed.

Under EU regulations governing the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme and the Single Payment Scheme all Ground Eligibility inspections must be completed before any payment can issue to any applicant under either scheme, including those not selected for a Ground Eligibility inspection. In the vast majority of cases that were inspected amendments have had to be made to the maps in order that the Land Parcel Identification System that is used for making payments to farmers is kept up-to-date. Processing of these changes is continuing with priority being given to applications that were the subject of a Ground Eligibility inspection.

John O'Donoghue

Ceist:

451 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) will receive the result of their application for early retirement. [3530/11]

My Department has requested the applicant's agent to make amendments to the application. The application will be processed once the amended application is received.

John O'Donoghue

Ceist:

452 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive their second REP scheme 4 payment. [3531/11]

The file is currently under examination following a field inspection and my officials will be in contact with the person named when this examination is complete.

Pat Breen

Ceist:

453 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 396 of 18 January 2011, the reason payment has not issued to a person (details supplied) in County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3602/11]

The person named registered twenty-three animals under the 2009 Suckler Welfare Scheme. This holding was transferred during 2009 from father to son. Payment has issued in respect of eight animals, and a further animal has been processed for payment, which will issue shortly. One animal was not eligible for payment as it was a twin, and the remaining thirteen animals have been deleted as ineligible as the animals were sold prior to the required measures being carried out. Of the thirteen animals, which are ineligible, six animals were sold in the livestock mart and a further six animals were transferred to another family member. These animals were not transferred to the person, who took over the herd number, and participated in the Suckler Welfare Scheme. Finally, the remaining animal was sold to a third party.

On-farm Investment Schemes

Michael Creed

Ceist:

454 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if there is any scheme at national or local level to help a farmer who has a capital cost to meet in trying to convert an existing farm building into a purpose laid out unit with pens for the intensive rearing of calves on a commercial basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3634/11]

I am not aware of any Scheme in place at present, either at national or local level, which provides grant-aid for the type of investment referred to by the Deputy.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

455 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Agriculture; Fisheries and Food if he will list all appointments made by him between the 14 of January 2011 to the 25 of January 2011 inclusive to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3653/11]

The only appointments made by me during the period concerned were the appointment of four ordinary members of the Bookmakers Appeals Committee, as provided for by section 56 of the Irish Horseracing Act 1994. That section outlines the conditions of membership of the Committee.

Those appointed to the Committee are:

Mr Liam Carroll

Mr Leo McAuley

Mr Michael McCarthy

Mr Colm Quirke

Mr McCarthy and Mr Quirke are both being reappointed to the Committee, while Mr Carroll and Mr Quirke are both first-time members of the Committee. It is considered desirable, but not essential, that Committee Members have a knowledge of racing which would help them in the discharge of their duties. I am satisfied that all four ‘ordinary members' have a good knowledge and understanding of the horse-racing industry and are suitably qualified for appointment to the Committee. The Committee meets to hear appeals from bookmakers in cases in which Horse Racing Ireland would have refused, suspended or revoked on-course betting permits, in accordance with section 57 of the Irish Horseracing Industry Act 1994. Committee members have received a fee of €2,000 per annum plus travelling and subsistence expenses at normal civil service rates. I propose to reduce the annual fee in respect of these new appointments.

The Act provides that the chairman of the Committee shall be “a judge or a practising barrister or solicitor of at least 7 years’ standing”. That position is currently vacant, following the recent death of the outgoing chairman, and I intend to appoint an appropriately qualified person shortly in order to ensure that the Committee is in a position to consider any appeals which may arise.

Rural Environment Protection Scheme

Denis Naughten

Ceist:

456 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food further to Parliamentary Question No. 447 of 22 June 2010, the position regarding this matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3671/11]

To date no documentation has been received from the person named regarding continuation of the REPS 3 contract. My Officials will contact the person named immediately with a view to resolving this issue.

Grant Payments

Beverley Flynn

Ceist:

457 Deputy Beverley Flynn asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not received their area aid based payments and REP scheme 4 payments for 2010. [3681/11]

An application under the Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 28 April 2010. As the land parcels declared by the person named required re-digitisation payment could not issue until this process was complete. This process was recently completed, thereby allowing full payment under the Disadvantaged Areas Scheme to issue on the 24 January directly to the nominated bank account of the person named. The REPS application of the person named has been processed. Payment will issue shortly.

James Bannon

Ceist:

458 Deputy James Bannon asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding area based payments in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Longford which are due since September 2010 and are urgently needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3683/11]

An application under the 2010 Single Payment Scheme/Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 11 May 2010. The 50% advance payment under the Single Payment Scheme, which issued on 18 October, the further 30% payment under the same Scheme, which issued on 1 December, as well as the 75% advance payment under the Disadvantaged Area Scheme which issued on 22 September, were on the basis of those parcels cleared for payment at that stage, as a number of other land parcels listed on the application of the person named required re-digitisation. This process is now complete and the application is being processed, with a view to the further payments due issuing shortly.

Billy Timmins

Ceist:

459 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding the availability of grants in respect of a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3709/11]

There is no scheme within my Department to provide grants to individuals for cutting down dangerous trees. It should be noted that under the Forestry Act, 1946, with certain exemptions, it is illegal to uproot any tree over ten years old, or to cut down any tree of any age, unless notice of the intention to do so has been given in accordance with the Act.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

460 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the position regarding a REP scheme 3 application in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Cork; if he has received correspondence from the person outlining the grounds of their appeal against his Department’s finding on their application; the timeframe in which the Department will deal with same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3712/11]

My officials are currently examining the appeal submitted by the person named. The applicant will be notified of their decision within three weeks.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

461 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will be paid their REP scheme 4 grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3714/11]

The file is currently under examination following a field inspection and my officials will be in contact with the person named when this examination is complete.

Martin Ferris

Ceist:

462 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the reason moneys due under the sheep grassland scheme have not been paid and when payments will issue. [3718/11]

Last year, I launched the three-year, €54 million Grassland Sheep Scheme, availing of the unused Single Payment funds. During the CAP Health Check negotiations, I had as one of my high priorities getting access to these CAP funds and, immediately it became clear this had been achieved, I identified the sheep sector as one that was vulnerable and in need of specific supports. I am confident that this Scheme, which focuses on those flocks with breeding ewes, will maintain the breeding flock and will act as a real incentive to farmers anxious to maintain their production levels, which are essential for the future of a viable sheep industry in this country .

The supply of lambs is a key and fundamental element underpinning the sheep and lamb processing industry. This is a hugely valuable export-orientated part of the Irish agri-food sector, supplying a high-value product to consumer markets throughout Europe. The industry is worth around €250 million to the Irish economy and over two thirds of the product is exported. Irish sheep farmers are facing significant production and demand pressures at present, though Ireland is not alone in this regard. To maintain a viable industry, we must arrest the decline in reducing flock numbers, income pressures and producers leaving the sector. I believe that this Grassland Sheep Scheme will achieve these aims and will provide a much needed and very valuable income support to an important and vulnerable sector . This is a new stream of income which, I am satisfied, will be of immense benefit to this very important and valuable sector.

While it had been my intention that payments under the Scheme would commence in December, as the EU Commission raised some technical questions regarding payments to sheep farmers under EU Pillar I and Pillar II Schemes, including the Grassland Sheep Scheme, it has not yet been possible to do so. My officials responded in detail to the Commission and there were subsequent discussions between both parties. I am pleased to say that these matters have now been satisfactorily resolved, as a result of which payments under the Scheme will begin issuing as and from 1 February to those cases confirmed eligible for payment at that stage. Payments will continue to issue thereafter, as individual cases are confirmed eligible for payment.

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

463 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when payment of suckler welfare scheme will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry, following their successful appeal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3743/11]

The person named registered 19 animals under the 2009 Suckler Welfare Scheme. This application was originally rejected as the applicant weaned all the animals on the same date contrary to requirements of the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme. This decision was appealed to the Agriculture Appeals Unit. During an oral hearing the applicant presented new evidence, which enabled my Department to reverse the original decision. The file was processed for payment but as 5 animals were sold before the prescribed measures were completed, these animals were deleted as ineligible. The person named was notified of this position in a letter of 8 November 2010. The validation process has been completed in respect of the remaining 14 animals and payment will issue shortly.

John O'Mahony

Ceist:

464 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Mayo will receive payment under REP scheme 4; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3775/11]

The REPS application of the person named has been processed. Payment will issue to the person named shortly.

Seymour Crawford

Ceist:

465 Deputy Seymour Crawford asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Monaghan will be paid their area aid payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3787/11]

An application under the 2010 Disadvantaged Areas Scheme was received from the person named on 13 May 2010. A number of parcels listed on the application of the person named required re-digitisation. This application is now processed and payment will issue shortly.

John O'Donoghue

Ceist:

466 Deputy John O’Donoghue asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Kerry will receive the result of their application for single payment and headage [3798/11]

In order to receive payment under the Single Payment/Disadvantaged Area schemes it is a requirement for applicants to submit an application prior to the closing date, which for the 2010 scheme year was 17 May 2010. Records held by my Department indicate that a preprinted 2010 SPS application form was sent to the person named on 24 March. My Department has no record of receiving a 2010 Single Payment/Disadvantaged Area application from the person named. All Single Payment applications sent out by my Department contained a pre-addressed return envelope with a Swiftpost label attached for which the herd owner receives a receipt from the Post Office upon posting. If the person named can provide this proof of postage or provide an explanation as to why the application form does not appear to have been returned, my Department will review the case based on any information and documentation submitted to it.

Michael Creed

Ceist:

467 Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when a person (details supplied) in County Cork will receive their 2010 single farm payment and disadvantaged area payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3910/11]

An application was received on 16 September 2010 requesting the transfer of 32.66 Single Payment entitlements by way of inheritance from the first person named to the second person named. As the closing date for receipt of applications to transfer entitlements under the 2010 Single payment scheme was 17th May 2010, payment under the 2010 scheme year will issue to the Representatives of the first person named. An official from my Department has been in contact with the legal representatives of the first person named requesting the necessary testamentary documentation required to release the 2010 Single payment.

The requested transfer of entitlements to the second person named will be processed under the 2011 scheme year.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

468 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3941/11]

The total annual mileage (kilometre) expenses paid to the staff in respect of official travel undertaken since 2007 is set out in the following table:

Year

Amount Paid

2007

10,626,814.23

2008

10,904,801.63

2009

7,118,766.90

2010

5,951,970.50

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

469 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3956/11]

The Ministers of State within my Department have civilian drivers, the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007 is detailed in Table 1.

The expenses provided to the Ministers of State for their mileage annually is detailed in following tables.

Minister Connick's brother is employed as his driver; no other familial relationships exist between any of the Ministers of State of my Department and their drivers since 2007.

Table 1: Salary Provided to Civilian Drivers annually since 2007.

Civilian Driver

Salary Costs 2007

Salary Costs 2008

Salary Costs 2009

Salary Costs 2010

Salary Costs 2011

Driver for Minister Browne

17,914.61

15,437.64

Driver for Minister Browne

17,914.61

16,786.38

Driver for Minister Sargent

19,439.26

36,412.42

36,041.22

10,394.14

Driver for Minister Sargent

16,389.97

33,993.64

34,706.36

7,533.72

Driver for Minister Killeen

23,490.26

35,373.79

14,936.58

Driver for Minister Killeen

22,155.40

34,706.36

10,407.29

Driver for Minister Wallace

32,838.60

18,496.06

Driver for Minister Wallace

35,264.54

18,498.65

Driver for Minister Connick

22,743.00

2,167.54

Driver for Minister Connick

25,143.65

2,167.54

Driver for Minister Smith

20,768.47

Driver for Minister Smith

16,321.58

Table 2: Expenses Provided to Ministers of State for Mileage annually since 2007.

Minister

Mileage Costs 2007

Mileage Costs 2008

Mileage Costs 2009

Mileage Costs 2010

Mileage Costs 2011

Minister Smith

10,981.32

Minister Wallace

44,765.52

15,065.96

Minister Killeen

17,812.87

25,652.80

7,180.10

Minister Browne

19,662.73

17,525.55

Minister Sargent

7,710.88

14,969.83

11,403.16

2,829.58

Minister Connick

11,702.83

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

470 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime [4252/11]

The following table details the number of staff in my Department availing of various types of leave under the schemes outlined, from 27 March 2009 to date, and any replacements provided. Sanction was sought from and granted by the Department of Finance in respect of these replacements.

Type of Leave/Scheme

Number of staff availing of leave

Replacements

Maternity — paid

167

0

Maternity — unpaid

77

0

Parental Leave

255

0

Term Time 2009/Shorter Working Year Scheme 2009

280

82 temporary replacements

Shorter Working Year Scheme 2010

219

33 temporary replacements

Career Breaks

8

0

Special Incentive Career Breaks

53

0

Carers Leave

13

0

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

471 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Food the proportion between office administrators and front-line staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4266/11]

Following is the information requested by the Deputy.

Staff

Number

Administrative

1,898

Agricultural Inspectorate

189

Veterinary

299

Specialist (incl. Lab. Staff)

194

Technical

841

Other

142

Industrial

69

Total

3,632

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

472 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years [3404/11]

None of the State Bodies that come under the remit of my Department are commercial, and, accordingly, their financial reports provide details in respect of their income and expenditure rather than on their "annual turnover" as requested by the Deputy.

Such financial information is published in the Annual Reports and/or Annual Accounts of each Agency each year following consideration by the Comptroller and Auditor General and is available in the Oireachtas Library or on the websites of the Agencies concerned. As all the information sought has been made available to Deputies through the Library and can be sourced directly from publicly available material, resource constraints militate against the compilation of the information requested for the last five years.

The Agencies concerned are:

1. Enterprise Ireland,

2. IDA Ireland,

3. Science Foundation Ireland,

4. Shannon Development,

5. County & City Enterprise Boards (35),

6. National Standards Authority of Ireland,

7. InterTradeIreland (the North / South Trade & Business Development Body),

8. Forfas,

9. National Consumer Agency,

10. Competition Authority,

11. Irish Auditing and Accounting Standards Authority,

12. Personal Injuries Assessment Board,

13. Health & Safety Authority, and

14. Labour Relations Commission.

Croke Park Agreement

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

473 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the position regarding the roll-out of the Croke Park agreement; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3414/11]

The Croke Park Agreement has committed the Civil and Public Service management to working with their staff to increase efficiency and reduce costs across the public sector. In that regard, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation and its Agencies submitted Croke Park Implementation Plans last October to the Department of Finance and the Agreement "Implementation Body" for consideration. Updated Plans were subsequently submitted on 6th January this year to reflect the implications of Budget 2011 and the National Recovery Plan and a formal response from the Department of Finance and the Implementation Body on the revised proposals is awaited. The Department's Plan has combined high-level proposals, which will impact across the Department, together with individual items that will have a more local impact in a particular business area. Similar approaches have been taken by the Department's Agencies.

Due to the nature of public expenditure generally, the area where greatest savings could be achieved would be through a reduction in pay budgets i.e. reducing numbers in the Civil and Public Service. Through the effects of the various "exit" schemes and the moratorium on recruitment, staff levels in the Department have already dropped significantly such that since Spring 2009 overall staffing numbers have fallen by more than 9% while demand for services has increased. For example, many of the bodies in the Employment Rights disputes resolution area as well as a number of other "front-line" areas are already dealing with significantly increased workloads. In addition increased demands across the Department are expected arising from Ireland's EU Presidency in 2013.

I should add that the Departmental Implementation Plan — and those of its Agencies — must be set against the backdrop of further resource reductions required of the Department and its Agencies resulting from implementation of the National Recovery Plan (NRP) and the EU/IMF Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) of late 2010. During the lifetime of the Croke Park Agreement, therefore, additional measures will be effected to achieve cost reductions to meet NRP and other obligations, and such additional measures will be incorporated into future iterations of the Croke Park Agreement Implementation Plan.

I can confirm for the Deputy that all officials in the Department and its Agencies are fully apprised of the crucial importance of delivery of all actions in our Croke Park Agreement Implementation Plans. In particular, the Department's Management Board has accorded a high priority to driving and monitoring implementation of the Department's own Plan in the period ahead, and has engaged at both Partnership Committee and Departmental Council level with relevant unions on the substance of the Plan. However, implementation of some proposals in the Department's Plan will be influenced by the manner in which staff and unions respond to the challenges of using the mechanisms negotiated centrally to implement the agreement in areas such as general staff mobility, shared services and outsourcing.

Finally, I am happy to confirm that each iteration of the Plan, and the Progress Reports on Implementation, will be published on the websites of the Department and the individual Agencies, once they have been accepted by the Implementation Body.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

474 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of her Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by her Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3427/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

475 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if she has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by her Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3442/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 474 and 475 together.

My Department and the Offices that come under the aegis of my Department have carried out the following advertising campaigns, during the course of 2010, to promote policies or programmes being implemented by my Department or the Offices of my Department.

Name of the Advertising Campaign/ Programme

Total Cost

Labour Market Activation Fund

6,214

Annual Company Filing Dates — (CRO)

15,056

Contact details for Information Service — (NERA)

2,820

Advertising undertaken by my Department and the Offices of my Department typically includes advisory or information notices for industry, employers, employees and members of the public. Although much of this material is now placed on the Department's/Offices website(s), a certain amount of advertising still continues to be necessary in order to reach all of our customers, particularly in relation to important company, legislative and employment services. In addition, there is also an obligation on the Department to insert notices in Iris Oifigiúil in respect of Statutory Instruments.

The total spend of my Department and the Offices of my Department on public advertisements in national and local print media, publications, broadcast advertising and outdoor advertising for 2010 was in the region of €136,000. Statutory requirements accounted for approximately 92% of this overall spend. No additional monies were expended on consultancy or production costs associated with these public advertisements.

I am not in a position to provide information on this matter in relation to the Agencies of my Department, as this is a day-to-day matter for the Agencies concerned.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

476 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if she will list all statutory instruments signed by her or agencies under the aegis of her Department from 2007-10, inclusive; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the House of the Oireachtas; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3457/11]

All Statutory Instruments signed by Ministers or Ministers of State at my Department are published and are listed, from 1997 onwards, on my Department's website at www.deti.ie/legislation. The dates on which they are subsequently laid before each House of the Oireachtas are available from the Oireachtas Library and Research Service, and details of the dates on which each Instrument was published in An Iris Oifigiúil can be obtained from the website of that service. One of the Offices of my Department is empowered to publish statutory instruments in its own right. Details of Employment Regulation Orders made by the Labour Court are published on their website at www.labourcourt.ie and the dates on which each Order was listed in An Iris Oifigiúil can be obtained from the website of that service. However, these Orders are not required to be laid before the Oireachtas. Information on Statutory Instruments signed by Agencies under the remit of my Department is a day-to-day matter for the Agencies concerned for which I have no function. The relevant Agencies, and the websites from which information can be obtained in this context are the Irish Auditing and Accounting Supervisory Authority at www.iaasa.ie and the Personal Injuries Assessment Board at www.injuriesboard.ie.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

477 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if she will list all appointments made by her between 14 January 2011 to 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of her Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3658/11]

Following is the information requested by the Deputy.

Forfás:

Two appointments were made to the Board of Forfás in the period in question. Under the Industrial Development Act 1993, members of the Board of Forfás are appointed by the Minister with the consent of the Minister for Finance. Each year, the two longest serving members are required to retire from office. A retiring member is eligible for reappointment.

Mr Eoin O'Driscoll was reappointed as Chairman to the Forfás Board on 17th January 2011 and Dr Don Thornhill was reappointed as an ordinary Board member on the same date.

Mr O'Driscoll was first appointed to the Board of Forfás as Chairman in July 2004. Dr Thornhill was first appointed to the Board of Forfás in 2003.

Persons are considered for appointment to the Forfás Board in light of the objectives of the organisation and on the basis of their particular competencies, expertise and experience.

Forfás is a Category 2 Board. A fee of €20,520 per annum is currently payable to the Chairperson of such bodies and a fee of €11,970 per annum is payable to ordinary Board members.

National Competitiveness Council (NCC):

Three appointments were made to the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) in the period in question. Under the Terms of Reference of the NCC, members of the Council are appointed by the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation.

Mr. Declan Purcell, Mr. Harry Lorton and Mr. Michael Delaney were all appointed to the Council on 20th January 2011 to fill vacancies created by the resignation of other members. All three are new appointees to the NCC.

Appointments to the NCC are made having regard to several factors, including the expertise and experience of the individuals relative to the objectives of the Council, and the balance of skills and attributes in the overall composition of the Council.

No remuneration is paid to members of the National Competitiveness Council.

Departmental Agencies

John Perry

Ceist:

478 Deputy John Perry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the supports given by State enterprise companies to a company (details supplied); the number of new jobs promised following recent investment announcements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3682/11]

On 18th October 2010 the then Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation, Mr Batt O'Keeffe, TD, announced that Hollister would invest €65 million in expanding its current manufacturing facility in Ballina, Co. Mayo. This major development project will add approximately 75,000 sq ft to the company's existing manufacturing facility in Ballina and will allow the creation of 250 new jobs upon completion. The expansion project will create in the region of 200 jobs over the period of construction. The investment is supported by the Irish Government through IDA Ireland. As is normal, details of support to individual projects are not made public for reasons of commercial sensitivity and client confidentiality.

Hollister Incorporated is an independent, employee-owned company that develops, manufactures, and markets health care products and services worldwide. Expansion of the company’s Ballina facility will allow for increased manufacturing capability in both the company’s Ostomy and Continence Care product ranges. The expansion will further support training and development for both new and existing employees. Hollister is a client company of IDA Ireland. IDA continues to work closely with the company in order to maximise investment for the area.

Industrial Disputes

Finian McGrath

Ceist:

479 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if she will support a matter (details supplied) [3759/11]

Aer Lingus cabin crew are currently engaged in ‘work to rule' action at the airline over the introduction of new rosters. The action regrettably has resulted in disruption to services recently. I understand that new rostering arrangements have been introduced by the company under its "Greenfield" €97m cost saving plan and that cabin crew last year voted to accept the plan. A part of that agreement required that cabin crew would increase their working hours to 850 per year. The detailed arrangements necessary to meet the 850-hour condition were the subject of extensive negotiations last year and the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) issued a recommendation in August 2010. However, both sides failed to agree on certain technical aspects of the proposed new arrangements. I understand that Aer Lingus wrote to cabin crew employees on Thursday 13 January detailing the new roster arrangements and associated rules and that a number of cabin crew have been removed from the pay-roll for refusing to co-operate with the new rosters.

The LRC had facilitated meetings with both management and the unions up to and including 14 January last when an exploratory meeting with the parties was held. However, the Commission felt that it was unable to assist the parties further and additional talks were not arranged. In addition, IMPACT formally requested the Labour Court to intervene in the dispute. However, I understand that Aer Lingus have indicated that they do not wish to engage with the Court on the matter. In the absence of agreement of both parties, the Labour Court is not disposed to intervene at this stage. The LRC remains in touch with the parties. I would urge staff, their union representatives and management, to continue to work towards finding a resolution to this dispute. The LRC and the Labour Court are available to facilitate further consultations, if necessary. In my opinion, continued engagement with the State's industrial relations machinery offers the best way whereby the parties involved in this dispute can hope to resolve their differences.

Industrial Development

Jimmy Deenihan

Ceist:

480 Deputy Jimmy Deenihan asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if she has received a proposal for the Global Centre for Pharmaceutical Excellence, Tralee, County Kerry; if she supports this project, and if she has communicated her views on the project to IDA Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3772/11]

Representatives of the Pharmaceutical Centre on Excellence (GPCE) met with the Taoiseach on 22 December last. At this meeting the Taoiseach reiterated his interest in the concept and welcomed the submission of a Business Plan as a significant step forward. An expert analysis of this plan is now being undertaken by an enterprise agencies team led by IDA and involving representatives from Enterprise Ireland, Science Foundation Ireland and Shannon Development. The Taoiseach has requested that the Agency team provide analysis and advice to me by the end of the first quarter this year.

Departmental Properties

Róisín Shortall

Ceist:

481 Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the proposed uses for a site (details supplied) in Dublin 11. [3781/11]

The National Metrology Laboratory (NML) of the National Standards Authority of Ireland occupies a portion of the site in question. A new vehicular entrance is currently under development to facilitate the continued operation of the NML as a stand-alone entity on the site. Options regarding the future of the remaining portion of the site are being considered by my Department to determine its best usage for the State.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

482 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if she will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3946/11]

Details are provided on the following table of mileage payments made by my Department to staff for travel purposes since 2007 to date. It should be noted by the Deputy that my Department processes travel expenses payments for the staff of certain Offices and Agencies under the remit of my Department and these payments are included in the figures provided. A list of the relevant bodies included is provided at Note 2 below. The figures indicated also include mileage costs in respect of Ministers of State at my Department since 2007.

It should also be noted that the total expenditure provided below includes an element of cost on bus and rail travel and some other travel-related expenses which are aggregated with mileage allowances on my Department's accounting system. It is not feasible to identify these costs separately, as this exercise would require such a large volume of the expenses claims processed by my Department since 2007 to be reviewed.

Year

Mileage Costs*

2007

851,994.48

2008

1,182,085.30

2009

842,481.11

2010

586,696.33

2011 YTD

19,424.06

Note 1:

*Includes an element of bus and rail costs and some other travel-related expenses.

Note 2:

Mileage costs included in respect of staff in:

National Employment Rights Authority

Office of the Director of Corporate Enforcement

Labour Court

Companies Registration Office

Register of Friendly Societies

Patents Office

Employment Appeals Tribunal

National Consumer Agency (up until 31st December 2010)

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

483 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation if the Ministers of State in her Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [3961/11]

Each Minister of State at my Department has two civilian drivers. It has not been possible in the time available to compile the other information sought by the Deputy. My Department has, however, begun the process of collating the information requested and I will communicate with the Deputy as soon as the exercise has been completed.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

484 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Innovation the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [4257/11]

Since the implementation in my Department and Offices of the embargo on recruitment and overtime on 27 March 2009, 117 staff availed of either Maternity or Extended Maternity Leave. 4 staff availed of Carer's Leave. 210 staff availed of Term Time / Shorter Working Year Leave, with a further 118 staff applying in 2011. In addition, 20 staff availed of Career Breaks; this figure does not include the staff who availed of the Special Incentive Career Break scheme. As a result of the embargo none of these vacancies were filled.

Departmental Programmes

Dan Neville

Ceist:

485 Deputy Dan Neville asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the position regarding the introduction of the revitalising areas by planning, investment and development, RAPID, programme to Rathkeale County Limerick. [3286/11]

The Deputy will be aware that, on 28 May 2009, the decision of Government to include Ballina, Co. Mayo, Dungarvan, Co. Waterford, Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford, Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, and Rathkeale, Co. Limerick, in the RAPID Programme was announced. Including the 5 new areas, there is now a total of 51 designated RAPID areas in the country.

Each RAPID area has an Area Implementation Team (AIT), which draws up a plan based on the particular needs of the area so that available funding can be targeted at where it will do the most good in the community. The Rathkeale AIT includes representatives of the Department Social Protection, Limerick County Council, An Garda Síochána, Limerick Youth Service, HSE, VEC and West Limerick Resources. I understand that the community forum structure has been agreed, task groups have been formed and there is agreement on the role of agencies and on chairing of task groups. A RAPID Co-ordinator is in place since January 2010. This post has been funded by Limerick County Council.

The inaugural meeting of the Rathkeale RAPID AIT took place on 15 April 2010. From the amount of €250,000 allocated by my Department as "catch-up" funding for new RAPID areas, the RAPID AIT in Rathkeale identified and prioritised 8 projects, which were submitted to Pobal for assessment by 28 October 2010. These projects are currently being considered by my Department.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

486 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years [3401/11]

Table 1 lists the State bodies/agencies funded from my Department's Vote Group, as well as the website address in each case. Table 2 provides similar information in relation to North/South Implementation Bodies co-sponsored by my Department. The annual accounts or financial statements of each body are published annually and laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas. Relevant information is also available on the websites of the organisations.

TABLE 1

Name of Agency/Body

Website Address

Equality Authority

www.equality.ie

Equality Tribunal

www.equalitytribunal.ie

Human Rights Commission

www.ihrc.ie

National Disability Authority

www.nda.ie

Family Support Agency

www.fsa.ie

Dormant Accounts Board

www.dormantaccounts.ie

Commissioners of Charitable Donations and Bequests for Ireland

www.charitycommissioners.ie

Western Development Commission

www.wdc.ie

Údarás na Gaeltachta

www.udaras.ie

An Coimisinéir Teanga

www.coimisineir.ie

TABLE 2

North-South Implementation Body

Website Address

Waterways Ireland

www.waterwaysireland.org

An Foras Teanga, which comprises:

Foras na Gaeilge

www.forasnagaeilge.ie

The Ulster-Scots Agency/Tha Boord o Ulstèr-Scotch

www.ulsterscotsagency.com

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

487 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3424/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

488 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3439/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 487 and 488 together.

I assume that the Deputy is referring to advertising campaigns carried out for particular promotional purposes, rather than cases where advertising was used in a standard way to draw the attention of the public to grant or sponsorship schemes. One such campaign was carried out by the Office of the Minister for Drugs, which is a cross-Departmental office located in my Department. The campaign, which was rolled out in 2010 in conjunction with the Drugs Task Forces, aimed to increase awareness and use of the confidential "dial to stop drugs" phone service, as part of the Government's response to increased intimidation in local communities. The total cost of the campaign was €178,016. This included the cost of national radio advertising (€40,000); on-line advertising (€10,000); printed material and Local Task Force initiatives, including delivery of leaflets, etc (€53,206); and local radio advertising (€37,500). The cost of planning & PR services, phone line rental, call centre services for the public, etc, amounted to €37,310.

With regard to State bodies/agencies funded from my Department's Vote Group, I am advised that two advertising campaigns were carried out by the Equality Authority in 2010. Relevant details are set out in the following table.

Name and purpose of campaign

Total cost

Advertising media and cost

Consultancy or production costs

To promote the Say No to Ageism Campaign

€10,713

Outdoor advertising — €7,025

€3,688

To promote the Employment Rights Campaign

€54,793

Advertising in publications — €9,669

€12,160

Outdoor advertising — €25,688

Advertising on-line — €7,276

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

489 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will list all Statutory Instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the Statutory Instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3454/11]

The details sought by the Deputy with respect to Statutory Instruments signed by me, or by my predecessor, in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 are provided in the following table. I am advised that no Statutory Instruments were signed in respect of agencies under the aegis of my Department. Arrangements are being made for any Orders not yet placed before the Houses of Oireachtas to be laid as a matter of urgency.

Statutory Instruments

Date of publication in Iris Oifigiúil

Date laid before Houses of the Oireachtas

S.I. No. 407/2010 Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order 2010

30/07/2010

26/08/2010

S.I. No. 408/2010 Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) (No. 2) Order 2010

30/07/2010

26/08/2010

S.I. No. 335/2010 Appointment of Special Adviser (Minister of State at the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs) Order 2010

13/07/2010

06/08/2010

S.I. No. 315/2010 Charities Act 2009 (Commencement) Order 2010

02/07/2010

29/06/2010

S.I. No. 215/2010 Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Alteration of Name of Department and Title of Minister) Order 2010

21/05/2010

25/05/2010

S.I. No. 198/2010 Appointment of Special Advisors (Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs) Order 2010

23/04/2010

Not Laid

S.I. No. 580/2009 An Coimisinéir Teanga Superannuation Scheme Order 2009

08/01/2010

06/01/2010

S.I. No. 579/2009 An Coimisinéir Teanga Pension Scheme for Spouses and Children 2009

08/01/2010

06/01/2010

S.I. No. 284/2009 Charities Act 2009 (Commencement) Order 2009

31/07/2009

06/08/2009

S.I. No. 200/2009 Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order 2009

29/05/2009

Not Laid

S.I. No. 574/2008 Island Connecting Bus Passenger Services (Centres of Population) Regulations 2008

30/12/2008

Not Laid

S.I. No. 573/2008 Island Connecting Bus Passenger Services (Centre of Second Level Education) Regulations 2008

30/12/2008

Not Laid

I.R.Uimh. 391/2008 Na Rialacháin um Acht na dTeangacha Oifigiúla 2003 (Alt 9) 2008

03/10/2008

01/10/2008

S.I. No. 218/2008 Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs (Delegation of Ministerial Functions) Order 2008

01/07/2008

27/06/2008

S.I. No. 170/2008 Appointment of Special Advisers (Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs) Order 2008

10/06/2008

11/06/2008

I.R. Uimh. 115/2008 An tOrdú Logainmneacha (Contae Luimnigh) (Leasú) 2008

02/05/2008

30/04/2008

S.I. No. 577/2007 Appointment of Special Adviser (Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs) Order 2007

17/08/2007

03/08/2007

S.I. No. 569/2007 Appointment of Special Adviser (Minister for Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs) Order 2007

07/08/2007

31/07/2007

Deontais Reáchtála

Dinny McGinley

Ceist:

490 D’fhiafraigh Deputy Dinny McGinley den Aire Gnóthaí Pobail, Comhionannais agus Gaeltachta an t-allúntas iomlán ina Roinn i mbliana le haghaidh deontais reáchtála do Chomharchumainn Ghaeltachta agus cén uair a íocfar na deontais leis na Comharchumainn [3599/11]

Tá soláthar airgid reatha de €3.3m curtha ar fáil ag mo Roinnse d'Údarás na Gaeltachta i mbliana le caitheamh ar fhorbairt teanga, cultúir agus pobail. Is as an soláthar seo a íocann an tÚdarás na deontais reáchtála leis na comharchumainn Ghaeltachta.

Tuigim ón Údarás nach bhfuil soláthar críochnúil do na comharchumainn socraithe fós ach go mbeidh litreacha tairisceana agus comhaontuithe deontas i leith na ndeontas reáchtála seo á n-eisiúint chuig na comharchumainn chomh luath agus is féidir. Íocfar an chéad tráthchuid den deontas reáchtála le gach comharchumann chomh luath agus atá na comhaontuithe deontas sínithe agus faighte ar ais ag an Údarás, ach na riachtanais eile a bheith in ord. Íocfar na tráthchodanna eile leis na comharchumainn le linn na bliana.

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

491 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will list all appointments made by him between 14 January 2011 and 25 January 2011, inclusive, to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a reappointment; in the cases of reappointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3655/11]

I have made no such appointments during the period referred to by the Deputy. For completeness, however, I should inform the Deputy that my colleague, Mr John Moloney, TD, Minister of State at my Department with responsibility for Disability and Mental Health, appointed Mr James O'Grady to the National Disability Authority on 18 January 2011 at an annual rate of remuneration of €5,985. This was a new appointment. Mr O'Grady, a former Assistant National Director of the HSE, who worked for many years on disability issues with the former Mid-Western Health Board, was appointed in line with the criteria set out in section 20 of the National Disability Authority Act 1999 (as amended by the Disability Act 2005).

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

492 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3943/11]

All payments made to staff in my Department for use of private cars for official travel are in accordance with the Department of Finance guidelines and procedures. The payments made in 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, and to date in 2011, are set out in the table. The amount shown for 2010 includes payments made in respect of staff transferred into my Department on foot of the reconfiguration of Departmental functions announced last March.

Table: Amounts paid for use of private car on official business

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011(to date)

€362,338

€386,299

€211,673

€225,109

€2,411

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

493 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3958/11]

As the Deputy will be aware, Ministers of State are paid expenses towards the usage for official purposes of their private cars and, in this regard, can engage two civilian drivers, who work on a week on/week off rota.

Details requested in relation to drivers employed on behalf of Ministers of State by my Department since 2007 are set out in Table 1.

TABLE 1

Minister of State

Civilian Drivers

Salary 2007

Salary 2008

Salary 2009

Salary 2010

Salary 2011

Conor Lenihan, T.D.

Tom Collins

12,324

29.6.07-1.11.07

John Fogarty

12,246

Pat Carey, T.D.

Derek Brannigan

17,661

15,273

21.6.07-7.5.08

Kenneth Swift

17,661

15,143

John Curran, T.D.

James Clifford

20,593

36,959

8,999

13.5.08-23.3.10

Anthony Murphy

21,247

36,976

8,747

Mary White, T.D. 23.3.10-23.1.11

Michael Talbot*

24,007

James O’Brien

24,638

1,895

Peter Pearce

1,264

1,895

*Resigned on 5.12.10.

A total of 63,980 was paid to Ministers of State in the period 2007-10 in respect of usage of their private cars for official purposes, as set out in Table 2.

TABLE 2

Minister of State

2007

2008

2009

2010

Pat Carey, T.D.

9,012

9,344

John Curran, T.D.

9,527

12,406

4,106

Mary White, T.D.

19,585

For completeness, I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department does not employ civilian drivers on behalf of Mr John Moloney, T.D., who has been Minister of State at my Department with responsibility for Disability and Mental Health since 23 March 2010. In addition, no payments were made to Ministers of State Conor Lenihan or John Moloney in respect of usage of their private cars for official purposes during the periods referred to by the Deputy.

I have not been made aware of any familial relationships between the relevant Ministers of State and their respective drivers.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

494 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4254/11]

I am advised that it is not the practice in the public service to recruit staff to fill positions where an officer has gone on maternity leave or another similar type of leave. The undertaking and covering of work arising from such absences is met from within existing resources.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

495 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs the proportion between office administrators and frontline staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4267/11]

I assume the Deputy is referring to the deployment of staff across the Department of Community, Equality and Gaeltacht Affairs.

As the Deputy will be aware, staff of my Department interact with a broad spectrum of stakeholders, including members of the Government, public representatives and representatives of other Government Departments, Offices and agencies, as well as a wide range of groups and individual members of the public who use our services. In many cases, the provision of frontline services is delivered through intermediary bodies that receive funding from my Department.

A breakdown of the deployment of staff across my Department, by strategic priority and activity, can be accessed in my Department's Annual Output Statement, which is available on my Department's website at www.pobail.ie.

Defence Forces Property

Jack Wall

Ceist:

496 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Defence the reason a family (details supplied) removed from their home for urgent and necessary housing repairs has now being informed that they cannot return to the house which has being their home for the past twelve years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3283/11]

It is government policy for some years now that the use of Married Quarters should be discontinued in a managed and orderly fashion. A limited number of Married Quarters are still occupied by serving members of the Permanent Defence Force. The family in question were asked to vacate their house on safety grounds following an examination by the Military Area Engineer Officer, who deemed the house unsafe due to hazardous electrical wiring. An arrangement was made by the local military authorities in the Curragh with Kildare County Council to temporarily house the family in the area.

There are no other suitable properties within the Curragh Camp to house this family. Due to the stated policy of discontinuing the provision of such quarters it is not possible to fund the provision of new accommodation. I understand that the person concerned has been in contact with Kildare county Council regarding his accommodation needs.

State Bodies

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

497 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Defence the number of semi-State bodies that fall under his auspices; the annual turnover of each body and the losses incurred over the past five years [3402/11]

There are no commercial semi-State bodies under the aegis of the Department of Defence. Civil Defence Board, Army Pensions Board and Board of Coiste an Asgard come under the aegis of the Department. The budget allocation for Civil Defence Board, Army Pensions Board and Board of Coiste an Asgard for 2010 is set out below:

Year

Civil Defence Board

Army Pensions Board

Coiste an Asgard

2010

€6.148m (Grant In Aid)

€110,000

Nil

None of the above agencies incurred losses in the previous 5 years.

Departmental Expenditure

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

498 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence if agencies, boards, quangos or other bodies within the remit of his Department have carried out advertising campaigns during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes being implemented by those agencies or by his Department; the details of the campaign or relevant programme; the cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, online advertising, outdoor advertising and other forms of advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3425/11]

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

499 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence if he has carried out, during the course of 2010, advertising campaigns to promote any policies or programmes being implemented by his Department; the name of the campaign or relevant programme; the total cost of advertising in publications, broadcast advertising, outdoor advertising and consultancy or production costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3440/11]

I propose to take Questions Nos. 498 and 499 together.

No advertising campaigns were carried out during the course of 2010 to promote policies or programmes.

Statutory Instruments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

500 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence if he will list all statutory instruments signed by him or agencies under the aegis of his Department in 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010; the date on which the statutory instrument was published in Iris Oifigiúil; the date on which it was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3455/11]

The following is a list of Statutory Instruments signed in the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010:

2007

Defence (Amendment) Act, 2007 (Section 71) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. 204 of 2007

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 11 May 2007

Laid before the Houses: 10 May 2007

Defence (Amendment) Act 2007 (Section 70) (Commencement) Order 2007

S.I. 660 of 2007

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 2 October 2007

Laid before the Houses: 4 October 2007

Rules of Procedure (Defence Forces) (Form of Oath of Military Judge), 2007

S.I. 661 of 2007

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 2 October 2007

Laid before the Houses: 4 October 2007

2008

Rules of Procedure (Defence Forces), 2008

S.I. 204 of 2008

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 11 July 2008

Laid before the Houses: 14 July 2008

Court-Martial Rules, 2008

S.I. 205 of 2008

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 11 July 2008

Laid before the Houses: 14 July 2008

Courts-Martial (Legal Aid) Regulations, 2008

S.I. 206 of 2008

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 11 July 2008

Laid before the Houses: 14 July 2008

Air Raid Precautions Services (compensation for Personal Injuries) (Seventh Amendment) Scheme 2008

S.I. 244 of 2008

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 8 July 2008

Laid before the Houses: Currently being laid

Defence (Amendment) Act 2007 (Commencement) Order, 2008

S.I. 254 of 2008

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 11 July 2008

Laid before the Houses: 14 July 2008

2009

Courts-Martial (Legal Aid) (Amendment) Regulations, 2009

S.I. 153 of 2009

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 28 April 2009

Laid before the Houses: 28 April 2009

2010

Criminal Justice (Surveillance) Act 2009 (Written Record of Approval) (Defence Forces) Regulations 2010

S.I. 80 of 2010

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 26 February 2010

Laid before the Houses: 1 March 2010

Courts-Martial (Legal Aid) (Amendment) Regulations, 2010

S.I. 327 of 2010

Published in Iris Oifigiúil: 6 July 2010

Laid before the Houses: 6 July 2010

Ministerial Appointments

Leo Varadkar

Ceist:

501 Deputy Leo Varadkar asked the Minister for Defence if he will list all appointments made by him between the 14 of January 2011 to the 25 of January 2011 inclusive to State boards, agencies, quangos, bodies, authorities and other bodies within the aegis of his Department; the person appointed in each such case; their professional or personal qualifications which recommended them for the appointment in each case; the remuneration associated with the position; the selection process employed; if it was a new appointment or a re-appointment; in the cases of re-appointments, when the person was first appointed to the body; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3656/11]

The bodies under the aegis of the Department of Defence are the Civil Defence Board, the Board of Coiste an Asgard and the Army Pensions Board. There have been no appointments to these bodies in the period 14 January 2011 to the 25th January 2011.

Departmental Expenditure

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

502 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Defence if he will provide mileage payments made annually since 2007 to staff for travel purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3944/11]

The annual motor travel payments to Civil Servants in the Department of Defence and staff in the bodies under the aegis of the Department (the Civil Defence Board, the Army Pensions Board and the Board of Coiste an Asgard) are set out in tabular form:

Annual motor travel payments

Departmental Civil Servants

Civil Defence staff

Coiste an Asgard staff

Army Pensions Board staff

2007

59,925.80

25,012.86

1,918.71

4,779.00

2008

63,604.85

32,145.19

1,184.67

4,525.50

2009

45,705.91

24,272.98

Nil

2,802.00

2010

42,634.57

24,493.41

1,136.87

2,413.04

To date in 2011

1,390.74

209.99

Nil

Nil

Simon Coveney

Ceist:

503 Deputy Simon Coveney asked the Minister for Defence if the Ministers of State in his Department have drivers; the salary provided to each driver annually since 2007; the expenses provided to the Ministers of State for use of their car or mileage annually since 2007; the familial relationship between the Minister and the driver if any; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3959/11]

There are no drivers employed by the Department of Defence on behalf of the Government Chief Whip and the Minister of State at the Departments of the Taoiseach and Defence.

Public Sector Staff

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

504 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Defence the number of public sector places made vacant by maternity or other leave that have not been filled since the implementation of the embargo on recruitment and overtime; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4255/11]

Since the staffing embargo was introduced in March 2009, 115 staff at my Department have availed of leave schemes for varying periods of time, such as maternity leave, carers leave, shorter working leave year, career breaks etc. As it was not possible to fill these posts for the duration of the absence because of the embargo, the work of these officials was managed by re-prioritising work and streamlining business processes to achieve greater efficiencies.

Pearse Doherty

Ceist:

505 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Defence the proportion between office administrators and frontline staff in the public sector; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4268/11]

The personnel of the Defence Organisation comprise members of the Defence Forces, civilian employees and civil servants. The role of those personnel is to work together as an integrated team to provide the full a range of defence outputs as laid down by government. Given the wide variety of tasks performed by staff, it is not possible to categorise staff into two categories as requested.

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