Vol. 751 No. 2
14 Deputy Jonathan O’Brien asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to develop a strategy for the promotion of cycling as a mode of transport and to develop safer more accessible resources to support cyclists. [1578/12]
The Government set out its commitment to invest in the National Cycle Policy in the Programme for Government. The National Cycle Policy calls for a wide programme of action including investment in cycling infrastructure and soft measures to promote cycling.
I recognise that the development of safe cycle routes is a key factor in encouraging more people to cycle and encouraging those who already cycle to use their bikes for more journeys.
The Government will therefore continue to provide funding to local authorities for the development of urban cycle lanes, greenway cycling trails and progressing the development of a national cycle network. In developing cycle schemes local authorities are obliged to have regard to the National Cycling Manual, which has sustainable safety as its guiding principal.
In addition to funding new on and off-road cycle routes my Department and the National Transport Authority are working with local authorities in Dublin and Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford to develop proposals for the expansion of the very successful Dublin Bike rental scheme and the establishment of similar schemes in other cities. The Dublin Bike scheme has allowed commuters who do not use their own bikes to get into town to cycle for trips within the city and also allows non-cyclists and lapsed cyclists to try city cycling.
Along with capital investment, my Department supports a number of initiatives to promote and develop cycling such as Bike Week, the smarter travel workplaces project and the Green Schools Travel programme.
15 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent of service reductions in public transport services provided by CIÉ for 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1547/12]
The public transport services provided by the CIÉ operating companies in 2012 are a matter for the companies concerned in conjunction with the National Transport Authority. I have referred the Deputy's question to the National Transport Authority for direct reply. Please inform my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Notwithstanding the NTA's statutory responsibilities, Government recognises that there is a need for the CIE companies to respond to the challenge of reduced PSO subvention funding, reduced fares income arising from reductions in passenger numbers and increased costs, such as fuel costs, which are outside their control. As a general principle it is my belief that efficiencies in operational costs should, in the first instance, be examined over fare increases and service reductions. However, in the current environment there has to be a recognition that unfortunately fare increases will be inevitable if costs cannot be reduced sufficiently in order to maintain a reasonable level of service provision.
While a recovery in passenger numbers could increase company revenues, all concerned in my Department and the NTA must focus on identifying key public transport priorities in our cities and across the country. In turn, the PSO public transport service providers will have to achieve greater efficiency and cost effectiveness in the years ahead based on a realistic assessment of the scope and level of contracted services.
17 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he is taking to support tourism in the regions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1344/12]
The Government recognises that tourism is very important to all regions of Ireland. It employs an estimated 180,000 people spread throughout the country and much of this in rural areas.
The Government's Jobs Initiative last year placed the tourism and hospitality sector at the heart of our economic recovery, recognising its vital contribution to employment, economic activity and foreign revenue earnings. The VAT reduction on a range of labour-intensive tourism services from 13.5% to 9% with effect from 1 July 2011 enhances further the competitiveness of our tourism product. The new Visa Waiver Scheme will encourage visitors from emerging markets to add Ireland to a trip to the UK. The Government has also significantly reduced the cost of employing people by halving employers' PRSI for those on modest wages.
In addition, the necessary structures to deliver "The Gathering" in 2013 are being put in place. This year will be critical in starting our marketing efforts to help achieve the target we have set of bringing an extra 325,000 visitors to Ireland.
We are seeing a recovery in overseas visitor numbers with year-on-year growth of just under 7% in the first eleven months of 2011.
Operational responsibility for promotion and development of tourism in individual regions, rests with the State tourism agencies. The Government is providing more than €138 million to support tourism in 2012 across a diverse range of activities including overseas and domestic marketing, investment in the development of tourism product and vital business supports to tourism enterprises. I am satisfied that the tourism agencies are pursuing the appropriate strategies to support the continued promotion and development of the sector.
18 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the date on which the number of road fatalities in 2011 on a county basis will be available; and his priorities to further reduce the national number of fatalities in 2012. [1403/12]
The Deputy's question relates to road fatality statistics, the record in 2011 and future initiatives.
Provisional figures show that there were 185 road fatalities on Irish roads in 2011. This is a reduction of 27 on 2010 and is the lowest annual figure since records began. Detailed analysis of the statistics, including on a county basis, will be carried out by the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and will be published in their Road Collision Facts 2011 report later in the year.
However, provisional figures have been provided which breaks the road fatalities down by Garda Division. I will provide this directly to the Deputy, but he may be interested to note that in respect of the Carlow/Kilkenny Garda Division the number of fatalities reduced from 11 in 2010 to 9 last year.
The steady reduction in fatalities over the last number of years has been brought about through a number of factors, including legislation, initiatives by organisations such as the Road Safety Authority and the Garda Síochána, better roads and improved vehicle standards and by changes in driver behaviour. Since the Road Safety Strategy 2007 to 2012, with its many actions for addressing road safety issues, was introduced in 2007 road deaths have dropped by 50%. I have asked the RSA to draft a successor Strategy from 2013 and work has already begun on this.
The Government has made road safety a key priority. New drink driving levels and other significant road safety measures were rolled out last year. Additional measures will be launched in the years ahead, including the new plastic drivers' licence, enhanced commercial vehicle roadworthiness testing, the publication of legislation to provide for impairment testing of drug drivers at the roadside and the introduction of new penalty points offences.
19 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress made in developing new routes and additional capacity to airports here; the estimated impact that this will have on tourist numbers visiting Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1555/12]
54 Deputy Tom Barry asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his position regarding the future of the travel tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1355/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 54 together.
The questions relate to progress made in developing new routes and additional capacity to Irish airports, and the position regarding the future of the travel tax.
As the Deputies will be aware, the market for air services in the EU is fully liberalised so it is a matter for carriers to decide what routes to serve; there is no scope for Government intervention in the market except through public service obligation routes and strict conditions are laid down in EU law for the application of PSOs.
The Deputies will also be aware of the Government's 2011 Jobs Initiative which included a three-pronged plan to enhance overseas access and thereby promote inbound tourism through:
abolishing the travel tax conditional on clear commitments by airlines to increase inbound capacity from our source markets;
the introduction of a new growth incentive scheme by the Dublin Airport Authority; and
more targeted co-operative marketing of new routes from key source tourism markets by Tourism Ireland, DAA and the airlines to encourage more tourists to fly into Ireland.
Subsequently, the Government decided, in the absence of a sufficient response from the airlines, to retain the air travel tax and to avail of part of the receipts from its retention to fund additional co-operative marketing activities. A €9 million overseas tourism marketing campaign over the Autumn/Winter period was led by Tourism Ireland, inclusive of matching funding provided by partner companies, including Ryanair, Aer Lingus and Aer Arann, overseas airlines, tour operators and online travel agents, and ferry companies.
The Central Statistics Office Overseas Travel statistics for the first 11 months of 2011 show that there were just over 6 million overseas visits to Ireland in that period, representing an increase of 6.8% compared to the corresponding period of 2010. Ireland grew market share from all its top markets, including Great Britain. Tourism Ireland has set a target of growth of 4.5% for visit numbers for 2012 based on expected levels of access.
In relation to the future of the travel tax, despite the failure to conclude an agreement with the airlines last summer, I undertook at that time to review the position in the Spring of this year. As my colleague Minister Noonan stated in his Budget speech: "This offer is still on the table and while the Government appreciates the contribution to the Irish economy being made by the main carriers, we want them to bring additional tourists into the country." Therefore, I will be engaging with the airlines again on this matter and hopefully we will achieve further progress on the matter this year.
20 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the efforts he has made to ensure the Olympic torch passes through Ireland in the run up to the London Olympics in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1554/12]
The International Olympic Committee agreed last month that the Olympic Flame will visit Dublin in June as part of the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay. This proposal was developed with the full support of the Government.
21 Deputy Joe Carey asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a progress report on The Gathering 2013 project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1356/12]
58 Deputy Marcella Corcoran Kennedy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a progress report on The Gathering 2013 project. [1398/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 21 and 58 together.
I presented proposals for "The Gathering 2013" at last October's 2011 Global Irish Economic Forum. The National Tourism Development Authority, Fáilte Ireland is the lead agency for the implementation of The Gathering initiative. The event will be the biggest tourism initiative ever staged in Ireland and will consist of a year-long programme of festivals, events and other gatherings in every region of the country. The aim is to bring an additional 325,000 overseas visitors to Ireland.
As outlined at the Global Irish Economic Forum, the initiative is being overseen by a small, tightly-focused working group, bringing together the tourism bodies and my Department, along with other members with relevant expertise on a pro bono basis, in a Project Board, under the chair of Ann Riordan (formerly Chair of Tourism Ireland and of Dublin Tourism). The Project Board will oversee planning and delivery of the Gathering, supported by a small executive team drawn mainly from the tourism agencies alongside graduates under the JobsBridge programme. This will be supported by a Council of Champions, which will act as a forum to engage the wider community at home and abroad to provide support. Tim O'Connor, former Secretary-General to the President, will act as Chair of the Council of Champions and he is also a member of the Project Board.
As operational progress in relation to the Gathering is primarily a matter for Fáilte Ireland, I have referred the Deputy's questions to them for additional reply. If you have not received a response from them in ten working days, please inform my private office.
22 Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport in view of his stated intention to reduce funding for local and regional roads in Budget 2012, the details of any safety audit that has been carried out to ensure that reduced funding will not lead to a less safe environment for motorists. [1565/12]
The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is a statutory function of each road authority within its area, in accordance with the provisions of section 13 of the Roads Act, 1993. Works on such roads are a matter for the relevant local authority to be funded from its own resources and may be supplemented by State road grants.
The Department continues to assist Road Authorities with supplementary funding under a range of headings. The main focus of that funding is to assist with the maintenance of the existing road network. Grants also continue to be made available towards Low Cost Safety schemes for which the criteria for grant approval is based on accident data, inspection of sites and targeting locations showing a demonstrable hazard which can be improved through engineering measures.
23 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the number of overseas visitors to Ireland in 2011; and his targets for 2012. [1339/12]
25 Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for increasing tourist numbers in 2012 ahead of The Gathering in 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1534/12]
56 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the number of overseas visitors to Ireland in 2011; and his targets for 2012. [1494/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 23, 25 and 56 together.
The target for overseas visits in 2012, set out in the Marketing Plan of Tourism Ireland, the agency with responsibility for marketing Ireland as a holiday destination overseas, is to increase visit numbers to Ireland by a further 4.5%. This will build on the growth in visits achieved in 2011, for the first time since 2007. While final statistics in relation to overseas visits to Ireland in 2011 are still being compiled by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), figures for the first 11 months of 2011 were published by the CSO on Monday 9 January. These show that there were just over 6 million overseas visits to Ireland in that period, an increase of 6.8% compared to the corresponding period of 2010. Numbers of visits to Ireland grew from all our main market areas, including Great Britain, our largest and most important tourism market.
To help achieve the targeted growth, I have allocated over €39 million this year for overseas tourism marketing which allows Tourism Ireland to implement its Plan, as well as funding Fáilte Ireland's enterprise supports and product development. Prioritising tourism marketing investment, along with continued implementation of other measures in the Programme for Government and the Jobs Initiative to support levels of access and enhance competitiveness, such as the Visa Waiver Scheme, the lower VAT rate for tourism services, and continued investment in tourism infrastructure and product, will provide the platform on which the tourism industry, working in partnership with the tourism agencies, can deliver this growth. Our targets for 2012 will in turn be built on by The Gathering 2013, the largest ever tourism initiative for Ireland, which aims to deliver an additional 325,000 visitors to Ireland in 2013.
24 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to improve the tourist experience here through the use of mobile Internet devices and applications similar to and including the culturefox app; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1540/12]
The provision of information to tourists including through facilities such as mobile internet devices is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland. I am aware, for example, that Fáilte Ireland launched a free Discover Ireland app for Apple and Android mobile operating systems during the summer of 2011. For further information, I have referred the Deputy's Question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
26 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the percentage of State-owned or contracted public transport vehicles which are wheelchair accessible; and his plans to ensure that wheelchair users are sufficiently provided for. [1582/12]
The percentage of public transport vehicles which are wheelchair accessible is a matter for the public transport providers and I have referred the Deputy's question to Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
Public Transport accessibility is being progressed by my Department through the implementation of the Department's Sectoral Plan under the 2005 Disability Act, a copy of which is available on my Department's website.
27 Deputy Michael Colreavy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when he will open a new round of applications for the capital sports grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1524/12]
72 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he is taking to re-establish a sports capital programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1345/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 27 and 72 together.
I recently announced that the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport will be advertising two new rounds of the Sports Capital Programme between now and 2016.
Officials in my Department are currently making the necessary arrangements with a view to launching a new round of the Sports Capital Programme in early 2012.
28 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount that has been allocated to Bus Éireann for its 2012 public service obligation provision; if he will outline the PSO provision for Irish Rail in the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1342/12]
64 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount that has been allocated to Dublin Bus for its 2012 public service obligation provision; if he will outline the PSO provision for Irish Rail in the years 2008, 2009, 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1343/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 28 and 64 together.
The provision of public service obligation services by the CIÉ companies is subject to contract between the companies and the National Transport Authority (NTA). The total Exchequer allocation in respect of the provision of Public Service Obligations(PSO) services for 2012 is €242.32m. The amount to be allocated to Bus Éireann and Dublin Bus is determined by the NTA in line with their contracts. I have requested the NTA to provide you with the agreed allocations in respect of 2012. If you do not receive a reply within ten working days please notify my private office.
Exchequer funding in respect of PSO services provided by Irish Rail since 2008 is as follows:
2008 — €181.152m;
2009 — €170.624m;
2010 — €155.137m;
2011 — €148.689m.
30 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to reinstate funding for the grants to support sport in disadvantaged areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1559/12]
The funding referred to by the Deputy relates to funding provided through the Dormant Accounts Fund for the appointment of Sports Inclusion Disability Officers (SIDOs) in Local Sports Partnerships.
Any funding secured from the Dormant Accounts Fund is clearly time bound and the SIDO appointments were made on that basis. In 2010, the Irish Sports Council agreed a funding mechanism to ensure the continuation of the SIDO scheme beyond the dormant accounts funding. This funding is part of an overall package of funding for the Local Sports Partnership network.
31 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the role he sees for sport in the promotion of the national image in 2012; the way he intends to ensure that role is realised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1535/12]
Sport undoubtedly showcases Ireland around the world and we have a proud tradition in the international sporting arena where we consistently punch above our weight. On the back of the success of Irish golfers in major golf tournaments in recent years, Tourism Ireland has developed the "Home of Champions" campaign to promote golfing holidays in Ireland.
As Minister of State with responsibility for both Sport and Tourism, I want to ensure that Ireland's position as a leading location for international sporting events is further developed and enhanced. The Programme for Government includes a provision that event tourism will be prioritised to continue to bring major events to Ireland. The hosting of sports events gives an opportunity to show that a small country can successfully host big events, such as the Tall Ships, Volvo Ocean Race or the Solheim Cup.
The hosting of sports events also provides a great showcase for Ireland as a country. Millions around the world watch big sporting events on their television screens and this provides a great opportunity for people to view a positive image of Ireland. The media coverage of sports tourism events helps to put Ireland onto travel itineraries as a holiday destination.
Fáilte Ireland supports the sports tourism sector under the festivals and events initiative and allocated €3.8 million in 2011 for direct financial support to festivals and events, including sports. The Volvo Ocean Race will return to Ireland in 2012 with its finale in Galway while Dún Laoghaire will host the World Youth Championship sailing event next year. The major international publicity drive around the Volvo Ocean Race has already commenced.
32 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount of money that was raised by e-flow from Irish road users since its founding; the amount of this that was raised from late fee penalties. [1574/12]
The statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads is vested in the National Roads Authority (NRA) under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000 and the Roads Act 2007).
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy's Question to the NRA for direct response. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.
33 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his reaction to recent reports of criticism from the European Commission over the front loading of capital spending cuts in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1570/12]
My Department's capital allocation for 2012 and the following 4 years as set out in the "Infrastructural and Capital Investment 2012-16: Medium Term Exchequer Framework" published in November 2011 represents the outcome of the Capital Expenditure Review carried out last year across all Government Departments.
Throughout the process I recognised the need for my Department to deliver on its share of the required reduction in public expenditure.
The capital allocation for Transport, Sport and Tourism for 2012 is €1,231 million. This is a reduction of €98 million, or just under 7.4%, from the allocation of €1,329 million under the National Recovery Plan. Cuts in subsequent years are greater, ranging from over 12% in 2014 to almost 18.3% in 2016.
I have prioritised funding to protect existing investment and to maintain safety standards but have also secured funds to advance a small number of projects which will add value to the existing network and support economic recovery and job creation.
Unfortunately, given the difficult financial situation hard decisions as regards spending cuts had to be taken as part of the fiscal consolidation now required of Ireland.
36 Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the amount that State owned public transport companies paid in road tolls in the years 2007 to date in 2012. [1576/12]
The statutory power to levy tolls on national roads, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into toll agreements with private investors in respect of national roads is vested in the National Roads Authority (NRA) under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended by the Planning and Development Act 2000 and the Roads Act 2007).
Noting the position above, I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct response. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
37 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the funds that have been made available for tourism capital projects over the coming years; if he will provide details of funds that have been committed from such capital funds for projects in the south west region in particular; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1354/12]
67 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views in relation to capital funding becoming available to enhance and create major tourist attractions here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1340/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 67 together.
Under the Infrastructure and Capital Investment Medium Term Exchequer Framework, the projected level of support for capital investment in tourism is €81 million for the period 2012 to 2016.
For 2012, there is an allocation of €21.2 million to Failte Ireland to support investment in tourism product development, in recognition of the contribution that capital investment in tourism can make to increasing visitor numbers and to supporting the economic recovery. It is important to develop, upgrade and enhance our tourism product offering in order to continue to attract visitors to Ireland. I should point out that there is a high level of existing funding commitments to be met under the Programme, particularly over the next couple of years.
My Department's role in relation to tourism lies primarily in the area of national policy. It is not involved in the administration of tourism-related funding programmes, which are operated by Fáilte Ireland who administer the Tourism Capital Investment Programme, which provides support for investment in certain categories of visitor attraction, visitor activities and tourism infrastructure.
Projects funded or approved under the Programme are spread throughout the country, including Waterford Viking Triangle, Trinity College Book of Kells, Sliabh Liag Cliffs in Donegal, King John's Castle in Limerick and the Mayo Greenway. Projects funded or approved in the South West include Derrynane House, Killarney House, Garnish Island, Mizen Head Footbridge, Tralee Eco Park and Fota House.
In relation to the specific details of projects funded by Fáilte Ireland in the South West I have referred the Deputy's Question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
38 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the progress that has been made to date in securing properties under the control of the National Assets Management Agency that might be suitable for use as local sports facilities; if he will provide a list of these properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1544/12]
Under the Sports Capital Programme the Department provides funding at local, regional and national level to sporting clubs and organisations, voluntary and community organisations and, in certain circumstances, local authorities and schools/colleges towards the provision of sporting facilities. The Programme does not provide funding towards the purchase of land or buildings.
My officials have had discussions with NAMA with regard to how NAMA properities can be made available to sporting organisations. From these discussions, I understand that NAMA has already made arrangements with some sports groups to lease land controlled by NAMA and that NAMA tries to accommodate these requests where it is possible. However, such arrangements are a matter for NAMA and the sporting organisations involved.
39 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a timeframe for when there will be a proper aviation policy put forward to ensure that we have joined up thinking when it comes to plotting the future of aviation, distributing of resources and so on throughout the country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1347/12]
I reject the Deputy's assertion that there is a lack of joined up thinking in our aviation policy. The aim of our aviation policy is to ensure that the sector supports Irelands economic and social goals in a safe, competitive, cost-effective and sustainable manner and to ensure maximum connectivity for Ireland with the rest of the world for the benefit of Irish business and tourism. Bringing aviation and tourism together under one Department and Minister in itself has been helpful in developing more joined up thinking across the two sectors.
The Deputy will be aware that since taking office the Government has been actively encouraged airlines to deliver more tourists to Ireland. In our 2011 Jobs Initiative, we included a three-pronged plan to enhance overseas access and thereby promote inbound tourism through:
abolishing the travel tax conditional on clear commitments by airlines to increase inbound capacity from our source markets;
the introduction of a new growth incentive scheme by the Dublin Airport Authority; and
more targeted co-operative marketing of new routes from key source tourism markets by Tourism Ireland, DAA and the airlines to encourage more tourists to fly into Ireland.
While the Government subsequently decided, in the absence of a sufficient response from the airlines, to retain the air travel tax, we have undertaken the review the matter again this Spring. In the meantime, part of the receipts from its retention were made available to fund additional cooperative marketing activities. A €9 million overseas tourism marketing campaign over the Autumn/Winter period was led by Tourism Ireland, inclusive of matching funding provided by partner companies, including Ryanair, Aer Lingus and Aer Arann, overseas airlines, tour operators and online travel agents, and ferry companies; further evidence of joined up thinking in developing and implementing policies across both sectors.
As regards the Deputy's point about the distribution of resources, the Government decided in June last year on the future funding arrangements for Donegal, Knock, Kerry and Waterford airports for both operational and capital purposes. From this year onwards, operational subvention (OPEX) and capital expenditure (CAPEX) funding will be available for Waterford, Kerry, Knock and Donegal Airports. Furthermore, the Dublin/Kerry and Dublin/Donegal PSO routes have been maintained. The financial allocations in this regard have been published in the Infrastructure and Capital Investment 2012-2016: Medium Term Exchequer Framework.
43 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has met his ministerial counterpart in the Stormont Assembly and other interested parties to discuss a plan for the integration and rationalisation of transport provision and infrastructure in the Border region; and if he will give an update on any such meetings. [1586/12]
As part of the North South Ministerial Council (NSMC) I meet formally with my Ministerial counterparts at the Department for Regional Development and the Department of Environment, bi-annually, to discuss a range of transport topics of mutual interest and where there is potential for an integrated approach across both jurisdictions. The topics covered include road safety, road and rail transport, sustainable transport and freight. Additionally, opportunities to meet with both Ministers occur at the bi-annual NSMC Pleanary meetings.
Apart from those discussions, I have not had any separate discussions on the development of a formal plan for the integration and rationalisation of transport provision and infrastructure in the border region.
44 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to extend the provision of free wifi on public transport networks. [1577/12]
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has responsibility for the implementation and development of infrastructure projects in the Greater Dublin Area (GDA).
A project to install Wi-Fi on the Dart and commuter rail fleet in the GDA commenced in 2011 and this will be completed in the current year. A similar project to install Wi-Fi on the remainder of the Inter-City fleet also commenced in 2011. In addition the Railway Procurement Agency is installing Wi-Fi for passengers on Luas trams this year. Dublin Bus also hopes to carry out a Wi-Fi pilot on 10 buses during the coming year and, depending on the results of this pilot phase, the company will examine the technical and financial feasibility of retrofitting Wi-Fi to the wider fleet.
In late 2011, Bus Eireann began the roll out of Wi-Fi on its PSO services and Wi-Fi is now fitted in 36 buses. Subject to funding availability, Bus Éireann plans to continue the roll out of Wi-Fi services on its PSO fleet through 2012. The 60 new PSO buses which Bus Éireann took delivery of in late 2011, and which are due to enter service in 2012, have Wi-Fi fitted. In addition, I understand that Bus Eireann will be using its own resources to fund the roll out of Wi-Fi across its commercial Expressway fleet during the second half of 2012.
45 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport when the capital sports funding figure for 2012 will be announced; the amount of money that will be available and the criteria for availing of this funding. [1404/12]
A sum of €21.2m has been provided in 2012 for the D3 subhead, out of which sports capital grant payments are made. In addition, there is carryover of €3.6m into this subhead in 2012. The terms and conditions for the most recent round of the Sports Capital Programme are available on the Department's website www.dttas.ie. These are, of course, subject to change for the next round of the programme.
46 Deputy Sandra McLellan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to maximise the tourist dividend form the Titanic anniversary in 2012; the budget available to promote the anniversary; the scope for co-operation with his counterpart in Northern Ireland and with the stakeholders, including Cobh and Belfast; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1536/12]
This year's centenary of the Titanic sailing — while commemorating a tragic event — also presents significant opportunities for Irish tourism. Tourism Ireland commenced its Titanic promotion activities in 2010 which included the setting up of a dedicated website and the bringing of overseas journalists to Cobh to highlight the links to the Titanic. While the allocation of resources to particular activities is a matter for the tourism agencies themselves, I understand that Failte Ireland will be providing funding for events in Cobh in April and that the two tourism agencies plan to bring further international media to selected Cobh Titanic 100 events.
In terms of cooperation with Northern Ireland, as the Deputy will be aware, tourism was specifically identified in the Good Friday Agreement as one of the key areas for North/South cooperation, and consequently it is one of the sectors on which the North/South Ministerial Council meets in sectoral format, to make decisions on common policies and approaches in the area of tourism. The next meeting in Tourism Sectoral format is scheduled for the 25th January at which I will meet the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Investment in Northern Ireland, Ms Arlene Foster MLA. Among the items to be discussed at this meeting will be major tourism initiatives this year including the centenary of the Titanic sailing.
47 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he made a poverty impact assessment on the recent fare increases in Dublin Bus; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1551/12]
The issue raised is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA). I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
48 Deputy Noel Harrington asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a detailed breakdown of the tourists visiting the west Cork region during 2011; the major attractions that they visited; the obstacles he perceives to greater growth of this sector in this area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1353/12]
The collection of statistics are primarily a matter for the Central Statistics Office (CSO). I understand that the CSO does not provide a regional breakdown of statistics in their monthly ‘Overseas Travel' publication. I am aware, however, that Fáilte Ireland, provides an estimated regional breakdown of overseas visits on an annual basis, based on research of its own as well as available CSO statistics. The most recent full year figures are for 2009 with provisional figures available for 2010. The data is available, on a regional and county basis, under Tourism Facts / Tourism Regions in the Research and Statistics section of the www.failteireland.ie website.
In regard to 2011 figures, I have asked Fáilte Ireland, if possible, to provide the Deputy with an estimate of the number of tourists to West Cork during 2011 together with the attractions they visited. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
The obstacles to growth in the tourism sector in West Cork are similar to those in the rest of the country, namely the difficult economic conditions in overseas markets and here in Ireland. The Government is assisting the sector, in particular by maintaining this year the VAT rate cut, introduced in the Jobs Initiative in 2011. There is also provision in 2012 for expenditure of more than €138 million on tourism services across a diverse range of activities including overseas and domestic marketing, investment in the development of our tourism product and providing tourism enterprises with a range of business supports.
49 Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the work of the high level co-ordinating group which is identifying opportunities that might arise from the proximity of the London Olympics and paralympic games in 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1542/12]
57 Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update in the discussion on the efforts to have teams and supporters visit Ireland and use facilities here during and in the run up to the London Olympics; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1548/12]
252 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he has any plans in respect of London Olympics 2012 to attract foreign teams to Ireland for pre-Olympic training; his views on the enormous potential for Ireland in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1713/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 49, 57 and 252 together.
As the Deputies are aware, I am chairing the London 2012 Coordinating Group which comprises representatives from the Irish Sports Council, Paralympics Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Tourism Ireland, the Arts Council, Culture Ireland, the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. The biggest potential benefits around the London Games have been identified in the enterprise and tourism sectors and these are being actively pursued. Enterprise Ireland is pursuing opportunities for Irish business and Tourism Ireland has been rolling out a programme of promotional activity to target a wide range of potential visitors around the world in the run-up to and during the Games. The cultural agencies are also developing proposals for a cultural programme around the Games.
A number of international teams have chosen the National Aquatic Centre as a training base in the lead up to the London Games which is a reflection of the world-class calibre of the facility. My Department is working on attracting other teams to train here and a CD, containing details of a number of Irish elite sports facilities which are suitable as training camps, has been widely circulated internationally. A difficulty that arises in attracting teams is that the UK is offering financial incentives to international teams to train in the UK in the lead up to the Games. The London 2012 Coordinating Group will continue to meet in the coming year with the relevant Government Departments and State Agencies continuing to work together to maximise the opportunities across each of the sectors.
50 Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the funding being provided by the State for the A5 Dublin to Derry road and progress in its construction. [1580/12]
The most recent position is that the A5 project was discussed at the North-South Ministerial Council Plenary meeting on 18th November 2011. At the plenary meeting, Ministers noted that the provision of further funding by the Irish Government for the A5 road was being deferred but that the Government will provide £25m per annum in 2015 and 2016 towards the project. It was also noted that the relevant Departments will now prepare a new funding and implementation plan for the project for agreement at the next NSMC Transport meeting with endorsement at the next NSMC Plenary meeting.
51 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the efforts he has made to ensure a viable and sustainable bed and breakfast sector here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1523/12]
The development of particular accommodation sectors including the Bed and Breakfast Sector is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland. I am aware that Fáilte Ireland works very closely with the sector and in recent times have put in place a voluntary classification and categorisation system, supported by a new brand. Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
52 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the effect of cuts to Dublin Bus; the way that this is affecting services throughout the city; and his plans to ensure persons who rely on public transport are not left without a service. [1581/12]
As the Deputy will be aware, the operation and provision of bus services is a matter for Dublin Bus in conjunction with the National Transport Authority.
The Deloitte Cost and Efficiency Review of Dublin Bus and Bus Éireann was published in January 2009. The Review identified some scope for greater efficiencies in Dublin Bus. Following the publication of that Report, Dublin Bus undertook an extensive review of their bus network and subsequently announced plans for the re-organisation of routes and timetables. The objective of the redesign was to provide current and future bus customers with a service that will be modern, accessible, integrated, easy to understand, punctual and frequent. I understand that Dublin Bus has held over 30 public meetings and 250 meetings with key stakeholders as part of its consultation programme. All changes are advertised in advance through national and local media, and through social media, as well as house leaflet drops to areas serviced by the bus routes where changes occur.
I am supportive of the efforts of Dublin Bus to achieve greater efficiency and effectiveness. Given the losses recorded by Dublin Bus in recent years and having regard to unavoidable constraints on the availability of Exchequer funds for PSO subvention, it is important that Dublin Bus deliver greater efficiency and effectiveness in order to safeguard the overall sustainability of effective and efficient public transport services in the future.
55 Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the steps he will take in the current dispute between a company (details supplied) and its permanent workforce in Dún Laoghaire calling on the company to ensure that all redundancies sought will be purely voluntary and that those workers who wish to seek redeployment or remain with the company will be accommodated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1632/12]
65 Deputy Joe Higgins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will intervene in the current dispute between Stena and its permanent workforce in Dún Laoghaire calling on the company to insure that all redundancies sought will be purely voluntary and that those workers who wish to seek redeployment or remain with the company will be accommodated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1635/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 55 and 65 together.
Officials from my Department maintain regular contact with the ports and various shipping companies and have been kept apprised of Stena Line's most recent adjustments to its services. I recently met senior executives from the company. However, I do not have any function with regard to commercial operational matters.
Stena Line's current contract with Dún Laoghaire Harbour Company was renewed in 2011. Stena Line, as a commercial company, has taken a decision to introduce greater efficiencies and reduce their overall operating overheads in order to continue to provide services from Dún Laoghaire according to Stena Lines. The HSS Stena Explorer, operating on the Dún Laoghaire-Holyhead route, generates most of its turnover during the period May to September. Stena say that this, coupled with high fuel operating costs, leaves the remaining months commercially unviable. The company also say that, as a result, it will continue to operate the route, but on a seasonal basis only, from April to September 2012, leading to a consequential reduction in port operations jobs.
The company has been in consultations with their staff and their trade union representatives over the last three months, and more recently, with the Labour Court. The company have informed me that there is no scope for retaining or redeploying staff as there are no Stena vacancies to be filled. I understand that many staff have indicated their interest in accepting the redundancy terms on offer.
I also understand that negotiations are ongoing and the company has deferred the most recent proposed redundancy termination dates while the Labour Court continues to explore matters.
59 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his intentions with regard to the regulation of clamping; and his plans in this area. [1495/12]
254 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to investigate the possibility of replacing the car clamping system that currently exists in Dublin with a fine and emergency clamping removal system as has recently happened in Cork city. [1756/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 59 and 254 together.
I am aware of the range of issues which have been raised by members of the public regarding difficulties they have encountered with elements of the clamping industry. While current legislation permits local authorities to clamp vehicles in public places, either directly or by contract with a clamping company, there is no legislation covering clamping on private property. In line with the commitment in the Programme for Government to regulate the vehicle clamping industry, I recently presented a discussion document to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on the Environment, Transport, Culture and the Gaeltacht, outlining the issues involved in regulating the industry, my proposals on the shape of appropriate legislation and inviting their views. When the Committee's views have been received, I anticipate that appropriate legislation will be brought before the Oireachtas.
60 Deputy Brian Walsh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a public bike scheme will be operational in County Galway by summer 2012; if a decision was made to roll out such a scheme and if sufficient support from the private sector was forthcoming following the upcoming symposia announced this week; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1348/12]
Recognising the success of the Dublinbikes scheme, the Programme for Government commits my Department to look to extend the scheme to other cities and integrate the scheme more effectively with public transport links. Following an analysis, carried out at my request, on the potential for the extension of the Dublinbikes scheme to other cities, consultations on the potential for and means of securing new city bike schemes were launched in November 2011 with symposia held in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Galway to inform and involve key business and civil stakeholders.
My Department and the National Transport Authority are currently considering the responses to those symposia, including how to address key issues identified such as the changed commercial environment to that pertaining when the Dublinbikes scheme was negotiated and different characteristics of scheme provision in smaller cities. I am committed to exploring a range of mechanisms to secure public bike schemes in other cities and work is ongoing in that regard.
61 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will indicate the extent to which the specific targets identified in his Department’s statement of strategy have been met; his proposals, if any, to monitor any such targets on an annual or other basis; the extent to which it is anticipated that this strategy will impact positively on the development and operation of the sectors under his aegis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1636/12]
My Department's Statement of Strategy is currently being finalised and will be published shortly. The predominant focus of the strategy will be the implementation of the commitments in the Programme for Government and the maximisation of the contribution that my Department and the sectors under its aegis can make to the achievement of national economic recovery and fiscal consolidation. The document will contain a full suite of Key Performance Indicators which I will use to monitor the implementation of the strategy and which will provide publicly available objective indicators of progress.
62 Deputy Arthur Spring asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the current status of the proposed dual carriageway from Adare to Abbeyfeale, County Limerick, and of the Adare bypass; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1346/12]
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national roads, is a matter for the National Roads Authority under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Noting this I have referred the Deputy's question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
63 Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his policy regarding tourism marketing for the west of Ireland, including Shannon Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1351/12]
The matter raised is an operational one for Fáilte Ireland, in the first instance, working together with Tourism Ireland where appropriate. I have referred the Deputy's Question to both agencies for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
66 Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans regarding the minority stake the State still holds in Aer Lingus. [1538/12]
The Government has considered the various options open to it in terms of generating revenue from the sale of state assets — including the recommendations of the State Assets Review Group (McCarthy Report). That Report had recommended that the Government dispose of the State's shareholding in Aer Lingus "as soon as is opportune" but no decision has yet been taken by the Government on the future of its shareholding.
Subsequently, a group was established led by the Department of Public Expenditure & Reform and including my Department, other relevant Departments and the NTMA, to consider possibilities in this regard and advise the Government in relation to the appropriate valuations to be placed on the assets in question, and on the most appropriate method of disposal, likely timeframe and economic impact of any such disposals. The State's shareholding in Aer Lingus is one of the State Assets that is being considered as part of this process.
Question No. 67 answered with Question No. 37.
68 Deputy Aengus Ó Snodaigh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on the report published recently by the Dublin City Business Association on tourism in Dublin entitled Rejuvenating Dublin’s Tourism Product; his plans to act on the recommendations of the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1560/12]
70 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on reports of findings from a recent study on Irish tourism commissioned by the Dublin City Business Association, particularly the aspects of the report relating to the Irish share of the world market and Ireland’s marketing spend per arrival; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1341/12]
250 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views that value for money is achieved in our marketing spend to attract tourists to Ireland in view of the finding from the World Tourism Organisation in 2009 that Ireland had the highest marketing spend per tourist arrival of 29 European countries; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1695/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 68, 70 and 250 together.
There are some interesting and informative points in the recent report commissioned by the Dublin City Business Association, entitled "Rejuvenating Dublin's Tourism Product" which I and my Department are considering. However, there also appear to be some doubtful conclusions.
For example, it is incorrect to say that 6% of Fáilte Ireland's current spending in 2009 was in Dublin. This only reflects funding granted to Dublin Tourism and does not take account of direct spending by Fáilte Ireland that supports tourism in Dublin, e.g. on domestic marketing and sectors concentrated in Dublin such as business tourism. Similarly, Dublin has a very high profile in Tourism Ireland's overseas marketing.
The Report says that in 2009 Scotland attracted 9 million visitors "from abroad". However, data from Visit Scotland show 2.5 million overseas trips to Scotland that year, with 6.5 million visits from the rest of Great Britain. Scotland is a regional market in Britain, sharing the same transport networks and currency and such trips should not be compared to overseas visits.
Ireland's reduction in world market share has to be viewed in the context of Europe's decreasing share of world tourism at the expense of emerging regions such as Asia.
The analysis of Ireland's marketing spend per visitor as the highest in Europe is incorrect as it excludes the two highest spending countries per head, Cyprus and Malta, which like Ireland are peripheral island destinations. In addition, as the report acknowledges, Tourism Ireland markets the whole island; when trips to Northern Ireland are included, spend per head drops very considerably. In terms of value, the World Economic Forum's 2011 Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Index ranks Ireland 10th of 139 Countries for effectiveness of marketing and branding to attract tourists.
The Government, through Fáilte Ireland, is already supporting capital investment in tourism as we recognise that tourism attractions constantly need refreshing — for example, Dublinia, the Book of Kells experience and all-weather facilities in Meeting House Square in Temple Bar have all received or have been approved for investment support from Fáilte Ireland.
69 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a breakdown of recent and planned increases in public transport fares in the 2011 to 2013 period; and his view of the way that this will effect service users. [1583/12]
Public Transport fares are a matter for the operating companies in conjunction with the National Transport Authority (NTA). I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
71 Deputy Brian Stanley asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the plans he has to introduce a requirement for taxi licence holders to have an acceptable knowledge of the roads of an area in which they are licensed to operate. [1584/12]
The regulation of the taxi industry, including arrangements for the sitting of the taxi suitability and area knowledge tests that operators have to undergo, are a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the Taxi Regulation Act, 2003.
As part of the Taxi Regulation Review the matter of standards for taxi drivers including area knowledge has been considered by the Review Group among a range of issue concerning SPSV Regulation. I hope to announce the outcome of the Review Report shortly.
73 Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide an update on the developments in outdoor tourism including off-road biking tourism; his views on the work that Fáilte Ireland is doing in this respect; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1552/12]
My Department's role in relation to tourism relates primarily to the area of national policy, and it is not involved in the development of individual sectors of the tourism industry. The matter raised is an operational matter for Fáilte Ireland and I have referred the Deputy's Question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
For the Deputy's information, I am aware that Fáilte Ireland has supported capital investment in off-road biking facilities. In 2011, Fáilte Ireland approved funding, under the Tourism Capital Investment Programme, for the development of a mountain biking facility near Killarney, Co. Kerry. Also, a mountain biking facility at Ballyhoura, Co. Limerick, was supported under a previous tourism capital funding programme.
The Mayo Greenway, developed with support from both my Department and from the Fáilte Ireland Tourism Capital Investment Programme, also provides a safe, motor traffic-free route for walking and cycling. In 2011, funding was announced for the extension of the Greenway, including a cycleway to Croagh Patrick and the development of a linear route to connect to Castlebar, via Islandeady and also establish a link onto the existing Castlebar walking loops.
74 Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will detail any commitments he has made regarding the A5-N2 road project. [1779/12]
The A5 project was discussed at the North South Ministerial Council Plenary meeting on 18th November 2011. At the plenary meeting, Ministers noted that the provision of further funding by the Irish Government for the A5 road was being deferred but that the Government will provide £25m per annum in 2015 and 2016 towards the project.
It was also noted that the relevant departments will now prepare a new funding and implementation plan for the projects for agreement at the next NSMC Transport meeting with endorsement at the next NSMC Plenary meeting.
75 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if it is correct that the closure of the Vatican embassy and others will now not save €1.2 million and may in fact cost this country more. [1810/12]
The economies that will be achieved by the closure of the Embassies to the Holy See and Tehran and the Irish Aid office in Dili are estimated to amount to €1.175 million over a full year. This figure includes the relocation of the offices of the Embassy to Italy and the residence of the Ambassador to Italy to the state-owned Villa Spada, which will allow for a considerable saving in rent, amounting to €445,000 annually. It is expected that the savings will be fully realised in 2013. However, in 2012, there will be immediate disengagement costs (for example, local staff severance packages, running down of rental and other contracts) and the net savings from the closure this year are estimated at about €480,000. In addition, as a result of the closures, it will be possible to relocate 6 diplomatic staff to help offset staff losses elsewhere in the service.
76 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Finance the criteria upon which a primary medical certificate may be awarded, and in specific, if there is any mechanism under which chronic illnesses, which relapse and remit, may be recognised; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1653/12]
The Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme provides relief from VAT and VRT (up to a certain limit) on the purchase of a car adapted for the transport of a person with specific severe and permanent physical disabilities, to those who meet certain disability criteria. The disability criteria for eligibility for the tax concessions under this scheme are set out in the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994. To get the Primary Medical Certificate, an applicant must be severely and permanently disabled and satisfy one of the following conditions:
a) be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both legs;
b) be wholly without the use of one leg and almost wholly without the use of the other leg such that the applicant is severely restricted as to movement of the lower limbs;
c) be without both hands or without both arms;
d) be without one or both legs;
e) be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both hands or arms and wholly or almost wholly without the use of one leg;
f) have the medical condition of dwarfism and have serious difficulties of movement of the lower limbs.
Some 13,500 people benefited under the scheme in 2010 at an overall estimated cost of €55 million. I have no plans to widen the qualification criteria.
77 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Finance if all Government offices in County Kerry will be retained; if current staffing levels will be maintained; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1705/12]
My Department does not occupy any Government offices in County Kerry. The Office of Public Works is responsible for the leasing and purchase of most Government offices within the State. You should contact OPW regarding any future plans they may have for the Government offices which are based in County Kerry.
78 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Finance if he is satisfied that the letter from the Revenue Commissioners regarding the Department of Social Protection weekly pension was not, as reported, sent to persons who have no liability for additional taxation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1724/12]
81 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the date on which he was made aware by the Revenue Commissioners of their intention to target a compliance campaign at persons in receipt of a State pension and a private occupational pension; the estimate of the amount of money he expects to be raised from the initiative; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1784/12]
82 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the way the figure of €45 million in 2012 and €50 million in a full year, and which appears in the summary of budget measures document published with budget 2012, was arrived at as an estimate of the revenue to be raised from various tax enforcement and compliance initiatives to be undertaken by the Revenue; if he will provide a breakdown of this amount; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1785/12]
83 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if it is his intention that the Revenue should pursue back payments of tax due from pensioners who are in receipt of a State social welfare pension and a private occupational pension, and who are the subject of the current compliance initiative by the Revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1786/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 78 and 81 to 83, inclusive, together.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that in September 2011, under the auspices of a High Level Group of officials charged with ensuring ever closer working between the Department of Social Protection and Revenue, work commenced on looking afresh at data holdings in both organisations which had not previously been exchanged and which, with improvements in technology, could now be exchanged.
Subsequently, under its existing data exchange arrangements with the Department of Social Protection, information relating to long-term social welfare recipients was received by the Commissioners in late November 2011. This consisted of some 560,000 records relating to the State Pension, the Transition Pension, Widows/Widowers/Surviving Civil Partner's Pension and Invalidity Pension.
At the end of November, Revenue advised my Department that the aggregate amount of additional tax likely to be collected from this and other compliance activities with DSP was material in the context of the Budget with a view to my Department factoring it in to the Budget arithmetic. This is a normal part of the interaction between my Department and the Commissioners and is what every Government has always expected from them. On the basis of discussions between officials, it was estimated that it would be appropriate to factor into the Budget figures some €55 million in additional income tax in a full year. This estimate was arrived at on the basis of Revenue's view that some €300 million of previously untaxed income had been identified from the data exchange referred to above. It also took account of a previous data exchange in relation to lone parents' payments.
It must be emphasised that Revenue was not, and still is not, in a position to analyse the cases in question individually. Having regard to the profile of the population to whom the data relates, in arriving at the Budget estimate, a prudent view was taken of the likely effective tax rate which might apply and of the possibility that not all tax credits and other tax reliefs might have been claimed by those affected.
Revenue has carried out a high level analysis of the records received from the Department of Social Protection in November 2011 and has matched them with Revenue's own records. Following this exercise, it transpired that in approximately one quarter of the cases — 150,000 — the amounts of income on record did not match for a variety of reasons — some were paying too much tax, others were paying too little. A large proportion of this group of 150,000 cases had not reported their DSP pension to Revenue as they are required to do, and had been advised to do, by the Department of Social Protection when they were first awarded the pension in question.
In some 15,000 cases, and these are the cases which have caused the most confusion, the taxpayers involved had not reported their DSP pension to Revenue but it appeared to Revenue that, if there were no other unreported sources of income, they were most likely exempt from tax. Revenue wrote to those taxpayers indicating that there could be a temporary impact on their salary/occupational pension but that they would shortly issue a new Tax Credit Certificate which reflects the fact that they are exempt from tax.
I am advised by Revenue that in these 15,000 cases, the appropriate new Tax Credit Certificates will issue within a number of weeks.
Apart from these cases, based on the information available on Revenue's records and that received from the Department of Social Protection, Revenue have very little evidence that letters were issued to taxpayers who have no additional tax liability. However, individual taxpayers are now approaching Revenue to correct their tax records and it may, indeed, be the case, depending on individual circumstances, that no additional tax liability will arise in some cases. If the Deputy is aware of such cases, he may wish to bring them to the attention of the Commissioners so that the necessary adjustments may be made.
The Revenue Commissioners have accepted that the communications strategy could have been handled better in this instance, in particular if they had more time before the start of the tax year to inform the persons affected that additional tax would be deducted from their occupational pensions once those pensions started to be paid in 2012. The Commissioners overarching objective was to ensure that the taxpayers involved paid the right amount of tax at the right time for 2012 and beyond, and I support that objective. Otherwise, arrears of tax for 2012 would have quickly built up in the early part of 2012. These arrears would then have had to be collected at a very much higher rate later in 2012 had this exercise not begun at the start of the tax year. By acting early and adjusting tax certificates at the start of the tax year Revenue's aim was to spread the payment of the additional tax evenly throughout the tax year.
Revenue has a job do to administer the tax system fairly and efficiently. Government policy encourages exchange of information to support smarter working and it also supports fairness in the tax system. In fairness to the vast majority of taxpayers, including pensioners, who fully pay their taxes and who make full information available to Revenue in good time to allow for the correct calculation of tax liabilities, the information received from the Department of Social Protection had to be acted on by Revenue and, for the reasons already set out, had to be acted on quickly in order to ensure the orderly deduction of the correct tax payments from the occupational pensions of those affected from the start of the 2012 tax year.
Revenue has advised me that, as respects the information received from the Department of Social Protection, they are not carrying out a wide scale arrears programme on the basis that any such wide scale programme would be unfocussed and unlikely to be cost effective. In accordance with Revenue's normal practice, I expect and believe that Revenue will deal with the question of tax arrears, for those cases that actually have arrears, on the basis of a full and detailed risk analysis of the data and will target those cases where there is every likelihood of material amounts of extra tax being collected. Some cases will be uneconomic to pursue having regard to the resources available to Revenue, the cost of collection compared with the amount that may be recovered and having regard to the other tasks that Revenue must do in order to ensure that the necessary taxes and duties are collected for the Exchequer and that adequate border controls are maintained. Some cases relate to very recent pensioners so the question of arrears will not arise at all. I expect that the issue of arrears will not arise for a large proportion of the cases.
Revenue has a good track record in managing large projects in a sensible way while at the same time collecting the tax that the State needs and I am confident that they will on this occasion also.
79 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the position regarding a tax clearance certificate in respect of a company (details supplied). [1760/12]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that a tax clearance certificate has not been issued to the company concerned because the tax affairs of directors of the company are not up to date. Some directors of the company are partners in a partnership that has outstanding tax returns. However, in view of the particular circumstances of the case, the Revenue Commissioners have now decided to issue a tax clearance certificate to the company for a period of six months. This is being done on the basis that all outstanding tax issues will be resolved within that period.
80 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Finance when the living alone allowance became taxable for persons on the widow’s contributory pension and the old age contributory pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1782/12]
The position is that the amount representing what is known as the "living alone allowance" payable under the Social Welfare Acts is not a separate pension but rather is an increased amount of certain pensions such as the widows' pension and the State pension (previously known as the old age pension). Such pensions, including the living alone increase, are taxable.
84 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance when he expects Ireland to return to the international sovereign debt markets; and the latest date, based on current projections, by which Ireland would have to successfully return to borrowing on the debt markets. [1787/12]
It is the stated intention of the National Treasury Management Agency (NTMA) to return to sovereign debt markets as soon as market conditions permit. My hope is that a full return to the bond markets will become possible by mid-2013. The steps necessary to position the NTMA for such a return include continued progress in the reduction of the budget deficit in line with the targets agreed in the EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support, together with the implementation of policies that will see us return to sustainable economic growth. Of course, resolution of the wider euro area sovereign debt and banking crisis is also a critical factor. The NTMA is in ongoing contact with market participants and will advise me when it feels that the time is right to re-enter the markets.
I should say that, based on conservative projections of our funding needs, there is no urgency about a return to the markets. Indeed, the purpose of a programme such as the EU/IMF Programme for Ireland is to provide the space necessary for economic and fiscal adjustment to take place. Based on current projections and assuming no market access, the State has access to sufficient funds for its needs well into the second half of 2013.
85 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance when the 2012 stress tests of Irish banks will be carried out; the arrangements that will apply to the appointment of consultants to work on the stress tests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1791/12]
The assessment and application of the stress tests of Irish Banks is not a function of the Department of Finance but the Central Bank has informed me that it is preparing its plans for the 2012 Financial Measures Programme, including the nature, timing and specification of solvency stress tests. The activities proposed in these plans are subject to the review by, and agreement with, the IMF/EU/ECB and thus the details of which cannot be disclosed in advance of signing an updated Memorandum of Understanding with the troika. The appointment of consultants to assist with these proposed plans is on-going in accordance with public procurement rules and again subject to the signing of an updated Memorandum of Understanding with the troika.
86 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance in regard to the results of the PCAR stress tests for the Irish banks announced in March 2011, if he has any concerns that the emerging data relating to the level of owner occupier mortgage arrears, the state of buy to let residential loans, commercial loans, non-National Asset Management Agency property loans and various forms of personal credit, could approach and possibly exceed the adverse scenario assumptions with the possible consequence of additional recapitalisation being required for the banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1792/12]
The assessment and application of the stress tests of Irish Banks is not a function of the Department of Finance but the Central Bank has informed me that the solvency stress test applied by the Central Bank of Ireland in 2011 was used to recapitalise the Irish guaranteed institutions. The stress test scenarios were designed to represent extreme but plausible events, but they were not forecasts. The macroeconomic environment deteriorated in 2011 and as a result, arrears levels and loan loss provisioning has increased. As the realised scenario in 2011 was within the bounds considered for the purposes of recapitalising the banks in 2011, the Central Bank is currently of the view that the banks are adequately capitalised.
The Central Bank is preparing for the 2012 Financial Measures Programme, including the development of an updated solvency stress test. The activities proposed in these plans are subject to the review and agreement by the IMF/EU/ECB and thus the details of which cannot be disclosed in advance of signing an updated Memorandum of Understanding with the troika.
87 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent it is expected that the income of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare is likely to be affected by the recent decision of the Revenue Commissioners in respect of taxation of employment, pensions and social welfare payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1817/12]
I have been advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, based on the information currently available, the weekly income of the person concerned will be reduced by an amount of €9.94 per week. Revenue will be contacting the person concerned directly to ensure that the details on record are up to date.
88 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm if a person (details supplied) in County Cork is exempt from the universal social charge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1838/12]
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that as the person concerned has an annual income in excess of €10,036 he is liable for the Universal Social Charge. The rates of the charge are 2% on amounts up to €10,036 (€193 weekly), 4% thereafter on amounts up to €16,016 (€308) weekly, and 7% on income over €16,016. A Tax Credit and Universal Social Charge Certificate for the year 2012, which sets out the rates and income bands for the Universal Social Charge, issued to the person's employer on 19 December 2011.
The taxpayer can obtain a copy of the Tax Credit Certificate by registering online for PAYE Anytime and viewing or printing the Certificate or by contacting Mr. Diarmuid O'Connor at Revenue House, Blackpool, Cork (Tel. 021-6027506).
89 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of IT 38 forms filed with the Revenue Commissioners from 2001 to 2011. [1845/12]
90 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of IT 38 forms filed with the Revenue Commissioners in each of the years, 2001 to 2011 which referred only to gifts. [1846/12]
91 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of CA24 forms filed with the Revenue Commissioners in each of the years 2001 to 2011. [1847/12]
92 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of IT 4 forms filed with the Revenue Commissioners in each of the years 2001 to 2011. [1848/12]
93 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of IT 32 forms filed with the Revenue Commissioners in each of the years 2001 to 2011. [1849/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 89 to 93, inclusive, together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that figures of the numbers of Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) returns filed in the years 2001 to 2010, as published in the "Volume of Business" table of their Annual Reports, are as shown in the following table.
|
Year |
Inland Revenue Affidavits |
Gift/Inheritance and Discretionary Trust Returns |
|
2001 |
17,000 |
13,000 |
|
2002 |
14,575 |
12,583 |
|
2003 |
14,264 |
11,661 |
|
2004 |
15,039 |
15,054 |
|
2005 |
21,881 |
19,601 |
|
2006 |
22,225 |
22,954 |
|
2007 |
23,196 |
24,574 |
|
2008 |
23,748 |
28,069 |
|
2009 |
19,218 |
27,524 |
|
2010 |
14,319 |
16,560 |
"Inland Revenue Affidavits" are forms CA24; "Gift/Inheritance and Discretionary Trust Returns" are forms IT 38, IT4 and IT 32.
Corresponding figures for 2011 are not yet available.
A separate breakdown by type of return or by type of disposal is not readily available and could not be identified without a protracted investigation of Revenue records.
94 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of IT 4, IT 32, IT 38 and CA 24 forms examined by staff of the Revenue Commissioners with a view to carrying out an audit; the number of actual audits carried out; and the yield arising for each of the years 2005 to 2011. [1850/12]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the overall approach to tackling compliance is to examine all the tax risks to the Exchequer and to make the appropriate intervention in carefully selected cases. By carefully selecting the cases for intervention, and carefully choosing the type of intervention, Revenue maximises the use of resources, and minimises the compliance burden on compliant taxpayers. Accordingly the focus of an inquiry may vary from a comprehensive look at all the taxes and duties for which a taxpayer may be liable, to a detailed look at a single tax-head, such as CAT, or to a concentration on a single issue of concern. The targeted approach uses all the information available in a case, and is supported by Revenue's automated risk management system, REAP. REAP categorises taxpayers in accordance with defined risk criteria, including specifically Capital Acquisition Tax risks. In addition all CAT return forms are screened for specific risk and evaluated for further intervention where necessary.
The relevant information on audits that is centrally available relates to the numbers of CAT, Stamp Duty and pension audits carried out in the years 2007 to 2011. These are as follows:
|
Year |
2007 |
2008 |
2009 |
2010 |
2011 |
|
Number of audits |
1,026 |
1,187 |
757 |
256 |
73 |
|
Yield |
€5.4m |
€9.7m |
€5.3m |
€2m |
€0.6m |
Corresponding figures for 2005 and 2006 are not available, and a separate breakdown of these figures for CAT audits alone is not available.
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that, although the number of audits has fallen significantly in recent years, the REAP system enables Revenue to better target audit resources at cases more likely to achieve a yield. In addition, as noted above, the figures in the table include Stamp Duty audits, and the significant fall in Stamp Duty transactions and property values would affect the number of cases available for audit.
95 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the number of deceased in the State in each of the years 2005 to 2010 for whom no CAT return of any type was received. [1851/12]
The Central Statistics Office, CSO, provides data on the number of deaths in a calendar year. I am advised by the CSO that the figures for deaths occurring in the year from 2005 to 2008 are as follows:
|
Year |
2005 |
2006 |
2007 |
2008 |
|
No. Deaths |
28,260 |
28,488 |
28,117 |
28,274 |
Information for 2009 and 2010 is currently only available on the number of deaths registered in those years, as opposed to the number of deaths which took place in those years. The number of deaths registered in 2009 was 28,898 and the number registered in 2010 was 27,122. Some of the deaths which were registered in 2009 would relate to deaths which occurred in 2008.
The Revenue Commissioners' statistics are based on the number of CA24 forms filed in a calendar year, rather than the number of forms filed for individuals who died in a particular year.
For example, under the current Capital Acquisitions Tax, CAT, pay and file system, the returns for CAT in respect of inheritances between 1 September 2010 and 31 August 2011 could be filed up to 30 September 2011, so the returns filed in 2011 will relate to inheritances in 2010 and 2011, with possibly some late returns for earlier years. In addition, in some cases the death may have taken place before 1 September 2010 but the valuation date for inheritance tax purposes occurs after that date.
The numbers of CAT returns filed in the years 2005 to 2010, as published by the Revenue Commissioners in the "Volume of Business" table of their Annual Reports, are as shown in the following table:
|
Year |
Inland Revenue Affidavits (form CA24) filed |
|
2005 |
21,881 |
|
2006 |
22,225 |
|
2007 |
23,196 |
|
2008 |
23,748 |
|
2009 |
19,218 |
|
2010 |
14,319 |
As the statistics are compiled on a different basis, it is not possible to directly relate the number of deaths in a year to the number of CA24 forms filed in that year, in order to work out the number of deaths in a particular year in respect of which no form CA24 was filed.
96 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the total net value assets listed on forms IT 38 returns on death only in each of the years 2001 to 2011. [1852/12]
97 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the total net value assets listed on forms IT 38 gifts only in each of the years 2001 to 2011. [1853/12]
98 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance the gross amounts listed on forms CA24 filed with the Revenue Commissioners of property in the State passing under the will intestacy of the deceased and property outside the State passing under the will intestacy of the deceased for the years 2006 to 2011. [1854/12]
I propose to take Questions No. 96 to 98, inclusive, together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the relevant available figures are as follows:
|
Year |
Taxable Benefits — Form IT38€ million |
|
|
Death |
Gift |
|
|
2001 |
903 |
286 |
|
2002 |
1,095 |
371 |
|
2003 |
1,068 |
723 |
|
2004 |
1,696 |
408 |
|
2005 |
2,110 |
672 |
|
2006 |
2,542 |
1,026 |
|
2007 |
3,374 |
1,726 |
|
2008 |
4,081 |
585 |
|
2009 |
3,213 |
993 |
|
2010 (to 14 June) |
807 |
419 |
|
Year |
Gross Amounts of Property — Form CA24€ million |
|
|
Irish |
Foreign |
|
|
2006 |
6,651 |
197 |
|
2007 |
7,692 |
158 |
|
2008 |
8,244 |
248 |
|
2009 |
6,776 |
877 |
|
2010 (to 14 June) |
2,510 |
71 |
Figures in the tables are rounded to the nearest €1 million.
A single pay and file date was introduced for CAT with effect from 14 June 2010 to bring it into line with the timing arrangements of other self-assessment taxes and significant structural and system changes had to be made to implement these changes. While the necessary basic data to enable statistics to be provided for the second half of 2010 and for 2011 is not yet available, work is ongoing to obtain statistical information from the new system as soon as possible.
99 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance if he will publish his Department’s methodology in calculating the expected yield tax profile for capital acquisitions tax for 2011 and 2012. [1855/12]
100 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance in estimating the expected yield from capital acquisitions tax for the years 2008 to date in 2012, if he will give details of the assumptions made by him under each of the following headings: number of deaths, number of transfers to spouses only, total value of the assets of all deceased, total value of assets transferred to spouses, total value of assets transferred to those other than spouses, the number of taxable gifts and their collective value, the total number of taxable inheritances, the numbers of claims for business and agricultural relief and the costs of the exemptions granted such claims, the number of claims for favoured nephew status and the number of claims in respect of the relief on dwelling houses. [1856/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 99 and 100 together.
In preparing forecasts for capital acquisition tax receipts, the methodology adopted by my Department involves the estimate of the outturn for the outgoing year. This becomes the base for the preparation of the projection for the forecast year. The resulting projected outturn is then adjusted as necessary to take account of the effects of previous Budget measures which may have a pass-through effect or any known one-off factors likely to impact upon the yield. To this resulting "cleaned" base a macroeconomic multiplier, in this case the estimated nominal GNP growth rate is applied. The impact of any Budget day policy measures is also incorporated.
Accordingly, projections for capital acquisition tax receipts are not produced by reference to details of the numbers of deaths, gifts, property values, reliefs and exemptions. Therefore it is not possible to provide the data requested by the Deputy in relation to the above mentioned factors.
The illustrative table below presents the Department's projections for capital acquisition tax against outturn for the 2008-2011 period. The projections in each of the past two years have been reasonably robust with very minor shortfalls against target recorded in both 2010 and 2011. It should be pointed out that over the 2008-2009 period the Irish economy was subject to unprecedented volatility which impacted adversely upon the nominal GNP growth rates. Hence the forecasting performance was not as robust in those years. It should be noted that the 2008 report of the Tax Forecasting Methodology Review Group found that the Department's tax forecasting methodology in line with international practice.
|
Budget Day Forecast |
Outturn |
% Deviation |
|
|
€m |
€m |
||
|
2008 |
405 |
332 |
-18.1% |
|
2009* |
295 |
254 |
-13.8% |
|
2010 |
240 |
238 |
-0.9% |
|
2011 |
250 |
244 |
-2.6% |
*Supplementary Budget — April 2009.
The Budget 2012 estimate of receipts from capital acquisitions tax in 2012 is €295 million.
101 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide an analysis of the capital acquisitions tax take for the years 2009 and 2010 inclusive, indicating the value of gifts or inheritances under the various thresholds and the tax take under each threshold. [1857/12]
I am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that the breakdown of yield from Capital Acquisitions Tax (CAT) for the years in question is as follows:
|
Year |
Inheritance tax€m |
Gift tax€m |
Discretionary Trust tax €m |
Probate tax€m |
|
€m |
€m |
€m |
€m |
|
|
2009 |
201.6 |
50.5 |
2.9 |
0.6 |
|
2010 |
86.2 |
46.8 |
3.0 |
0.5 |
On the basis of the taxable values of gifts or inheritances liable to tax, the breakdowns of the 2009 and 2010 yield from Inheritance tax and Gift tax by Group Thresholds A, B and C are estimated as follows:
|
Group threshold — relationship to disponor |
% of total Inheritance tax and Gift tax |
|
2009-2010 (Provisional) |
|
|
A — Son/Daughter |
31.530 |
|
B — Parent/Brother/ Sister/Niece/ Nephew/Grandchild |
5.049 |
|
C — Relationship other than Group A or B |
18.521 |
102 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills the rationale behind the exclusion of persons in receipt of the disability allowance from labour activation and further education programmes such as Springboard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1655/12]
The Springboard initiative which was introduced in 2011 was not a general education measure. It was a specific initiative to provide part time reskilling opportunities to enable unemployed people who had lost jobs in sectors where employment levels will not return, to reskill while actively seeking employment. It was not targeted at school leavers or new graduates who have never been in employment or at those who may have lost their job as a result of an illness or disability and who may be able to return to work in their chosen profession when their illness or disability has ended. Disability Allowance was not included as an eligible payment for access to Springboard as it is paid in recognition of the fact that a person may not be available to take up employment due to illness or disability. It was open to any person with a disability who met the eligibility criteria to apply for a place on a Springboard programme and providers were also reminded of their obligations to ensure that appropriate facilities were in place to support the participation of people with disabilities. The eligibility criteria for access to the new round of Springboard programmes provided for in the 2012 Budget will be informed by the findings of the evaluation of the first phase of the initiative which is almost finalised.
103 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to provide short-term training courses in the hospitality area especially in preparation for bar work and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1684/12]
It is not in the current remit of FÁS to provide courses in the hospitality area such as Bar work. Such training provision is under the remit of Fáilte Ireland.
However, companies who have a specific need to access bar work training can contact Skillnets (www.skillnets.com) who fund enterprise-led training through a network model, where companies from networks representing specific industry sectors or geographical regions co-operate to deliver training programmes appropriate to current market requirements.
104 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Education and Skills the number of non-national pupils in primary schools over the past five years; the number at the present time needing English tuition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1687/12]
Data relating to nationality was collected for the first time in 2007/08 as part of the National School Annual Census. The 2007/2008 data show that there were almost 44,000 non-Irish national pupils in mainstream primary schools. As not all schools had this information available in 2007/2008 data is based on principal's best estimates and therefore figures should be treated as indicative only.
The most recent data available, for the 2010/11 school year, indicates just under 60,000 non-Irish national pupils at primary level (including both mainstream and special primary schools). Statistical information in respect of the current school year is currently being compiled in my Department and is due for publication in September 2012.
Significant support is given to schools by way of language support provision. The level of extra teaching support provided in respect of language support to any school is determined by the numbers of eligible pupils enrolled and the associated assessed levels of those pupils' language proficiency. In the current school year my Department has provided temporary full-time teaching posts in respect of English as an additional language (EAL) to support circa 28,500 such pupils at primary level.
Under the proposed reforms for the coming school year the combined resources available for GAM (General Allocation Model) and language support (currently 4,700 posts) will be used to create a single simplified allocation process to cover both the GAM and language support. Schools will have autonomy on how to deploy the resource between language support and learning support depending on their specific needs.
The new GAM arrangements also provide for additional permanent teaching posts (350) to be given to schools with high concentration of pupils that require language support. Further additional temporary EAL support will also be provided, as necessary, to schools that will have high concentrations of pupils that require language support in the 2012/13 school. These allocations will be made on the basis of appeals by any of these schools to the Staffing Appeals Board.
105 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Education and Skills the reason no special needs assistants have been assigned for this school year for children with behavioural needs; the number of SNA posts that have been retained for future appointments; and if he is satisfied that the learning of other pupils is not being adversely affected by the presence of pupils with major behavioural needs not being assigned SNA support. [1700/12]
I wish to advise the Deputy that approximately 6,000 children in primary and post primary schools are currently being supported by some 4,500 SNAs either wholly or partly to address behavioural issues. These allocations have been made in relation to students with an assessment of Emotional Behavioural Disorder (EBD) or in relation to students who may have a disability diagnosis other than EBD, but who may have been allocated care support for behavioural issues. It is therefore not the case that no special needs assistants have been assigned for this school year for children with behavioural care needs.
Approximately 10,290 of the 10,575 Special Needs Assistant (SNA) posts available for allocation, have now been allocated to schools by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), leaving approximately 285 posts available for allocation between now and the end of the school year for cases such as emergencies, acquired injuries or new school entrants with care needs. Some adjustments may also be made where pupils have moved or transferred between schools during the school year.
NCSE Circular 01/02/2011 set out the measures which should be taken into account in arriving at a level of SNA allocation to schools. It advised that in the case of new applications for SNA support where a professional report has identified care needs as being related to behaviour, access to SNA support will be considered only after the school has set out the specific strategies that have been employed to manage behaviour and that have been implemented to minimise the pupil's difficulties. Provision of SNA support should only be provided where it is clear that other behavioural management strategies have not been successful.
My Departments Circular 0009/2009 also advises that where an application for SNA support relates to the management of a student's behaviour, there must be clear evidence that the student's behaviour is a danger to themselves or others and that sustained efforts by the school have not proven to be successful in the amelioration of such documented behaviours.
It should be noted that SNAs are only one of a number of interventions in place in Irish schools which either directly or indirectly address behaviour. Other supports include the National Behaviour Support Service (NBSS) in post primary and the support teacher scheme in primary and also the support of National Educational Psychology Services. More indirectly, the enhanced Pupil Teacher Ratios under Delivering Equality of Opportunity in Schools (DEIS) and Home School Completion Liaison (HSCL) programmes all seek to address attendance and participation levels, which often account for the underlying reasons for behaviour problems. I am satisfied that adequate resources are being provided to schools to support them in dealing with pupil behaviour.
The National Educational Psychological Service has published "Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties — A Continuum of Support for Primary Schools — Guidelines for Teachers". In addition, my Department will shortly publish new Guidelines for Schools for Supporting Students with Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties to give further guidance to schools.
106 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Education and Skills the annual cost of providing home tuition to students at both primary and secondary level; if he will give a breakdown of the figures for the past five years; the categories of students that are being catered for by the provision of home tuition and the number of teachers involved. [1701/12]
The Deputy will be aware that my Department's home tuition scheme provides funding to parents to provide education at home for children who, for a number of reasons such as chronic illness, are unable to attend school. The scheme was extended in recent years to facilitate tuition for children awaiting a suitable educational placement and also to provide early educational intervention for preschool children with autism. A separate home tuition scheme provides for children who are unable to attend school for reasons other than medical condition or special education needs. This later scheme includes cases where a child is currently without a school place or the offer of a school place and where the child's parent/guardian wishes to enrol their child in a school recognised by the Department of Education and Skills.
The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the annual costing of providing home tuition under both schemes to students both at primary and post primary level for the past five years is as follows:
Year 2007: €5,952,256;
Year 2008: €8,910,150;
Year 2009: €9,307,294;
Year 2010: €9,787,058;
Year 2011: €10,348,098.
The number of tutors who delivered tuition in the 2010/2011 school year was 1,490. Information regarding the number of tutors who delivered tuition in the previous years is not readily available in my Department.
107 Deputy Pat Deering asked the Minister for Education and Skills the criteria he will use for the amalgamation of small schools and the amount of money he expects to save by the amalgamation; if these amalgamations will involve capital expenditure on refurbishments and extensions; and the way this cost will compare with the savings achieved in the first place. [1702/12]
The Deputy will be aware that as part of the Budget 2012 decisions, the number of pupils required to gain and retain a teaching post in small primary schools will be gradually increased between September 2012 and September 2014. The schools concerned are those with four or less classroom teachers. It is important to emphasise that no small schools will be forcibly closed by my Department due to the changes that have been announced.
However, the existing staffing schedule acts as a disincentive for small schools to consider amalgamation. At a time of great strain in our public finances, we have to ensure that the very valuable but limited resources available for the education system are used in the best way possible.
The decision making authority for any amalgamation belongs to the Patron of a school, subject to the approval of the Minister for Education and Skills. My Department's role is to facilitate any such proposal or discussions between the relevant parties. I want to reiterate that the initiative for an amalgamation may come from a variety of sources, such as parents, staff, Board of Management and in particular, the Patron. I have said on several occasions that any decisions to amalgamate schools will be taken at a local level.
The phasing of these measures provides the schools concerned with time to consider the potential for amalgamation with other schools where this is feasible. We have a very significant number of small schools across the country.
Given the constraints on capital funding, the Government has to prioritise school building projects and the very real need to ensure that every child has access to a school place. The need, if any, for any capital expenditure to facilitate an amalgamation will depend on the individual circumstances of the schools concerned. In determining the level of expenditure, my Department must take account of the continuing requirement to manage expenditure within the context of overall educational policy and the level of capital provision available at the time.
The Deputy will also be aware that a value for money review on small primary schools is currently underway in my Department. This review is part of the normal review processes undertaken by all Departments on an annual basis on selected areas of expenditure and is being conducted in line with the standard procedure for value for money reviews. Work on the review is well advanced and I expect that the report of the review should be available to me early in this year. I will then have to consider its outcomes and proposals.
108 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will give details of plans he has announced for the building of a second level school at his Department’s site at Kingswood Heights, Tallaght, Dublin 24; if he will confirm the schedule being followed; the discussions he has had locally in respect of the proposed catchment area for this school; if he will also note the need to stress to his architectural planners that provision must be made to cater for the local traffic challenges associated with the site; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1716/12]
My Department has identified a requirement for a new 1,000 pupil post primary school which will serve the general Tallaght area to cater for increasing demographic demand in the area. The school will be constructed on the site at Kingswood Heights. Traffic management issues associated with the proposed new school will be dealt with as part of the normal planning application process.
The Deputy may be aware that my Department is promoting a two stage competition for the design of this post-primary school in conjunction with the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI). This will provide a real opportunity for innovative design in new second-level schools. The winning entry will be announced in September 2012. The successful Design Team will design the new school and manage its construction with a view to the school opening in late August 2017. Further details of the competition are available on the RIAI website www.riai.ie.
109 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will present details of plans to provide new permanent school buildings at a school (details supplied) in Dublin 24; his views on the fact that the school community has conducted a long campaign over many years for such a development; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1717/12]
The building project for the school referred to by the Deputy was included in the School Building Works Programme for 2012 announced on 19th December 2011. It is one of a number of schools authorised to proceed to tender and construction in 2012.
A Stage 2(b) submission (i.e. detailed design and tender documents) was recently submitted to my Department and is currently being reviewed. When that review is complete, officials from my Department will be in contact with the Board of Management regarding the progression of the project to tender and construction stage.
110 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills if his attention has been drawn to instances in which schools are limiting the attendance of children with special educational needs on health and safety grounds; his views that this situation is unacceptable; if he concurs that in such instances all necessary resources to ensure a child can fully attend school are in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1725/12]
I wish to advise the Deputy that I am not aware of any widespread difficulties regarding schools limiting the attendance of pupils with special educational needs on health and safety grounds.
The Deputy will be aware that all schools have access to a full range of supports to facilitate the enrolment and full attendance of pupils with special educational needs. These supports include a permanent allocation of additional teaching support in all Primary schools through the General Allocation Model of additional teacher support as well as additional resource teaching and Special Needs Assistant (SNA) care supports which may be allocated to schools by the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) in respect of qualifying pupils.
In total, 9,950 whole time equivalent (WTE) Resource Teaching/Learning support posts and 10,575 WTE Special Needs Assistant (SNA) posts are being provided for schools in the current school year. The NCSE has advised all schools of their resource teaching and SNA allocations for the current school year and has retained capacity to respond to late applications for SNA support for emergencies, acquired injuries, or new school entrants with care needs.
Other supports which are available for schools include the National Behaviour Support Service (NBSS) in post primary and the support teacher scheme in primary and also the support of National Educational Psychology Services. The National Educational Psychological Service has published "Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties — A Continuum of Support for Primary Schools — Guidelines for Teachers". In order to further assist schools, my Department will shortly publish new Guidelines for Schools for Supporting Students with Behavioural, Emotional and Social Difficulties, in order to give further guidance to schools.
I am satisfied that schools have access to the range of supports which allow for the enrolment and full attendance of pupils with special educational needs to schools. In circumstances where it is agreed that the best interests of a child, or the effective provision of education for children with whom the child is to be educated, are not best served by a mainstream school placement, my Department also makes provision for special school and special class placements.
Finally, where a school refuses to enrol, or expels a pupil, the school is obliged to inform parents of their right under Section 29 of the Education Act 1998 to appeal that decision to the Secretary General of my Department. The Deputy may also be aware that in 2011, I launched a "Discussion Paper on a Regulatory Framework for School Enrolment". My officials are co-ordinating the submissions received. The feedback from this consultation will help inform the nature and scope of a new regulatory framework for school enrolment, to make the process of enrolling in schools more open, equitable and consistent, not least for children with special educational needs. I will be reviewing the matters referred to by the Deputy as part of this process.
111 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will ensure that documentation is produced for parents from either the National Council for Special Education or the special educational needs organiser outlining the way a decision was reached regarding the resources to be allocated to a child; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1726/12]
The Deputy will be aware that the NCSE is responsible, through its network of local Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs) for allocating resource teachers and Special Needs Assistants to schools to support children with special educational needs. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.
Applications are made by schools directly to the NCSE for additional resources to meet the special educational needs of identified pupils. Accordingly, the NCSE informs the school of the decision in relation to their application, in writing.
Where parents seek to meet the SENO at any stage to discuss their particular case SENOs are available to do so. SENO contact details are available on the NCSEs website www.ncse.ie.
In order to provide further assistance and information for parents, the NCSE recently published a comprehensive Information Booklet for Parents for Children with Special Educational Needs which provides information to parents regarding provision of services. This information guide is available at www.ncse.ie.
112 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills the actions he is taking in conjunction with the National Council for Special Education to ensure a standardising of the decision-making process regarding resources allocated by special educational needs organisers; if he is concerned that standards can differ significantly from locality to locality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1727/12]
The Deputy will 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-ordinate special needs education provision at local level and arrange for the delivery of special educational services. The NCSE operates within my Department's criteria in allocating such support.
The NCSE adopts a consistent approach to the consideration of applications from schools for supports for children with special educational needs, in accordance with the policies of my Department. However, each case must be considered individually given the differing requirements of pupils with special educational needs and the fact that the care needs of pupils may emerge in schools in different ways, due to varying factors, including the layout and design of a school. The NCSE will also take into account the existing level of resources which schools may have, along with the individual diagnosis of a child and details of the care needs which might arise in a school setting outlined in professional reports.
113 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to expedite the co-ordination of the assessment of needs process for a child with special educational needs prior to them commencing school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1728/12]
I wish to advise the Deputy that, for children under the age of 5, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE), through its network of Special Educational Needs Organisers (SENOs), liaises with Assessment Officers in the Health Service Executive (HSE) in respect of the assessment of need process under the 2005 Disability Act 2005.
The Assessment Officer contacts the relevant SENO when an educational need is identified as part of the assessment process.
My Department's Circular 0020/2011 clarifies the roles of the NCSE and the HSE in relation to the assessment of need process, as well as the role of the school in this regard. This Circular is available on my Departments website at www.education.ie.
114 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will consider reforming the role of special needs assistants in classrooms; if he has considered the experience of other education systems in Europe in this regard; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1729/12]
The Deputy will be aware that my Department recently published a Value for Money (VFM) and Policy Analysis review of the Special Needs Assistant scheme. This review is available on my Department's website: www.education.ie. The review makes a number of recommendations for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the scheme and with regards to the future basis for the scheme.
The review contains a Literature Review, which considered the national and international literature regarding approaches used to allocate support staff to schools and assessed the impact of support staff on students' outcomes. Information on the allocation and deployment of support staff to schools in ten other European Countries was also collected as part of this review and is presented in an Appendix to the review.
My Department has now established a working group which will consider and implement the recommendations of the SNA Value for Money and Policy Analysis review.
115 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Education and Skills his plans to provide for more post-primary school places in Droichead Nua, County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1734/12]
My Department is progressing plans to provide a significant expansion to St. Conleth's post-primary school in Droichead Nua, which will provide over 500 additional pupil places for the area. It should also be noted that the newly-opened Community School in the neighbouring Kildare town feeder area is likely to further ease demand and pressure for places in the Newbridge area. My Department will continue to monitor enrolments in the Newbridge area to ensure that there is sufficient school accommodation to meet any future projected demands.
116 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he has received an application for a new school building from a school (details supplied); the status of the application; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1737/12]
I can confirm to the Deputy that the school to which he refers applied for capital funding towards ancillary accommodation and external improvement works. The project has been assigned a band rating of 2.2. The current status of all projects on the school building programme, including the school referred to by the Deputy, may be viewed on my Department's website at www.education.ie and this will be updated regularly throughout the year.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Government's Medium Term Infrastructure and Capital Investment Framework, which was published on 10th November 2011, sets out the demographic challenge facing the education system in the coming years. In view of the need to ensure that every child has access to a school place, the delivery of major school projects and smaller projects devolved to schools to meet the demographic demands will be the main focus for capital investment in schools in the coming years. On that basis, it is not possible to give an indicative timeframe for the progression of the project, referred to by the Deputy, at this time. I also wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has approved grant support towards the rental of 2 classrooms to meet its accommodation needs.
117 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding an application for a new building in respect of a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1738/12]
My Department has confirmed the need for a new school building to the school in question. The school building can only be provided when a site has been secured. The process of identifying a site is currently underway. My Department will be in further contact with the school regarding progress in this matter.
118 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Education and Skills the progress made to date on the provision of a secondary school in Claregalway, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1739/12]
My Department has identified a requirement for a new post-primary school which will serve the Claregalway area to meet the demographic demand. The process of identifying a site for a new school building is underway.
119 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will investigate whether any higher education grant or assistance is available in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1742/12]
The decision on eligibility for a student grant is a matter for the relevant grant awarding authority. The Deputy will appreciate that in the absence of all of the relevant details that would be contained in an individual's application form and supporting documentation it would not be possible for me to say whether or not a student would qualify for a grant. The student in question should apply directly to her local grant awarding to have her eligibility for a student grant assessed.
120 Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Education and Skills the full year expenditure saving arising from his decision to implement from 2012 a phased withdrawal of supports in some schools from earlier disadvantage programmes or schemes predating the current DEIS scheme. [1753/12]
It is important to note that a key aspect of the EU/IMF Programme of Support and Ireland's overall budgetary strategy is a requirement to reduce the public sector payroll. In the Education sector finding savings and controlling the increase in public sector numbers is particularly difficult given that one third of all public sector employees work in the education sector.
Savings measures for my Department announced in the budget are estimated to provide savings of some €76 million in 2012 increasing to some €241 million in 2014. Included in the savings proposals is a range of measures for reform within the education sector to ensure optimum use of the significant investment being made in education by this Government.
Achieving this level of savings in my Department's budget has required very difficult decisions across various expenditure streams alongside meeting the demographic pressures of a school going population that is increasing. This is a significant challenge in our education sector, unlike other countries, as we have a rapidly rising schoolgoing population requiring additional school places for the extra 70,000 pupils arriving in our schools in the next six years.
Providing for increased enrolments is a key priority and while achieving savings in my Department's budget has required very difficult decisions to be made the Government has shielded, to the greatest extent possible, front-line services in schools.
Conscious of the concerns of some schools that will be adversely affected by the withdrawal of certain posts under previous disadvantage schemes, I have met with school principals, teachers, parents and communities in recent weeks, to hear their concerns and clarify the position in relation to changes announced under Budget 2012. Consequently, I have asked my Department for a report within the coming weeks on the position of DEIS Band 1 and Band 2 schools who currently have posts under older schemes, in the context of the staffing allocations due to issue to all schools in the coming weeks.
My Department is currently working on the staffing allocation for all schools and is not in a position at the present time to give details of staffing measures for individual schools. Schools will be notified in the coming weeks of their staffing entitlements under the new arrangement for 2012/13.
121 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the proposed strict criteria for the small primary school teacher complement with a view to providing more flexibility so that they can continue providing high-quality education, as these schools are a crucial factor in maintaining the fabric and viability of rural areas; if he will take cognisance of the fact that the majority of these schools have been extended and upgraded in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1761/12]
123 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will retain the three-teacher status of a school (details supplied) in County Kerry which had an extension built in the recent past and is in excellent structural condition; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1763/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 121 and 123 together.
The Deputy will be aware that as part of the budget 2012 decisions, the number of pupils required to gain and retain a teaching post in small primary schools will be gradually increased between September 2012 and September 2014. The schools concerned are those with four or less classroom teachers. It is important to emphasise that no small schools will be forcibly closed by my Department due to the changes that have been announced.
However, the existing staffing schedule acts as a disincentive for small schools to consider amalgamation. At a time of great strain in our public finances, we have to ensure that the very valuable but limited resources available for the education system are used in the best way possible. Even when all of these phased increases are implemented, the threshold will still be significantly lower than the minimum of 28 pupils that were required for the appointment of the second teacher in schools prior to the mid 1990's.
The decision making authority for any amalgamation belongs to the Patron of a school, subject to the approval of the Minister for Education and Skills. My Department's role is to facilitate any such proposal or discussions between the relevant parties. I want to reiterate that the initiative for an amalgamation may come from a variety of sources, such as parents, staff, Board of Management and in particular, the Patron. I have said on several occasions that any decisions to amalgamate schools will be taken at a local level.
The phasing of these measures provides the schools concerned with time to consider the potential for amalgamation with other schools where this is feasible. We have a very significant number of small schools across the country. The existing staffing schedule also acts as a disincentive for small schools to consider amalgamation. We have to ensure that the very valuable but limited resources we have available in the system are used in the best and fairest way across the whole system. It is hoped that all school communities will consider how greater efficiencies and better educational outcomes can be achieved for all of our children.
Given the constraints on capital funding, the Government has to prioritise school building projects and the very real need to ensure that every child has access to a school place. The need, if any, for any capital expenditure to facilitate an amalgamation will depend on the individual circumstances of the schools concerned. In determining the level of expenditure, my Department must take account of the continuing requirement to manage expenditure within the context of overall educational policy and the level of capital provision available at the time.
The Deputy will also be aware that a value for money review on small primary schools is currently underway in my Department. This review is part of the normal processes undertaken by all Departments on selected areas of expenditure and is being conducted in line with the standard procedure for value for money reviews. I expect that the report of the review should be available to me early in this year. I will then have to consider its outcomes and proposals.
122 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Education and Skills if he will review the budget changes to the guidance counselling allocation in second level education; if he will take cognisance of the fact that students will be deprived of one-to-one counselling support for a wide range of personal problems and issues including low self-esteem, family breakdown, mental issues, self-harm and bereavement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1762/12]
125 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Education and Skills when a circular will issue to schools in respect of the employment of career guidance counsellors following the changes announced in budget 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1802/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 122 and 125 together.
The change that has been announced gives schools greater autonomy in how they allocate staff resources to best meet the needs of their students, including how they provide for guidance and counselling. It is a change to how resources are allocated to schools not a policy decision to terminate guidance provision as some may chose to present it.
Until now, a specific resource was provided for guidance in addition to the standard teacher allocation to post primary schools. In future, schools must meet their guidance requirements from within the overall resource provided by that normal staffing schedule. Individually schools can continue to make provision for guidance and counselling. Decisions on how this will be done will be taken at school level in the best interests of students and to ensure the best use of resources available. In this way, the main teacher allocation can be maintained at 19:1 for schools generally, while schools will have discretion to balance what they allocate for guidance against the competing demands of providing subject choice.
I have also provided for the filling of 300 Assistant Principal posts in second-level schools over the level originally planned. This will ensure that schools have sufficient management positions to ensure appropriate supports are available for all students.
A key priority for me is to continue to prioritise and target available funding at schools with the most concentrated levels of educational disadvantage. All 195 second-level school in DEIS will be given targeted support by a more favourable staffing schedule of 18.25:1. This is a 0.75 point reduction compared to the existing PTR of 19:1 that applies in non-fee-paying second-level schools.
The budget measures, including those relating to guidance, come into effect from September 2012. Schools will be notified in the normal manner in relation to these changes. My Department will be issuing a Circular in the coming weeks that will outline the staffing arrangements in schools for the 2012/13 school year. The Department will set out the position clearly and this should dispel any potential for misunderstanding the budget measure.
124 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Education and Skills the position regarding payments to subcontractors (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1773/12]
The contract for the project to which the Deputy refers is between the Board of Management and the main contractor. There is no contractual relationship between any of the sub-contractors engaged on this project and either my Department or the Board of Management.
In general, all sub-contractors employed on school building projects are employed directly by the main contractor or indirectly by the main contractor through other sub-contractors. It is a matter for all sub-contractors to agree terms and conditions and a schedule of payments with the main contractor as their direct employer.
I can confirm that all monies due to be paid under the terms of the main contract have been paid to the Board of Management.
126 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills the current teacher allocation for a school (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1840/12]
127 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for Education and Skills if a school (details supplied) in County Cork will lose a teacher due to budgetary readjustments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1842/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 126 and 127 together.
The criteria used for the allocation of teachers to schools are published annually on my Department's website. The key factor for determining the level of staffing resources provided at individual school level is the staffing schedule for the relevant school year and pupil enrolments on the previous 30 September. The staffing schedules for the current school year and for the coming school year were published on my Department's website in March and December 2011 respectively.
My Department's focus is on implementing the staffing arrangements for the coming school year and I do not propose to divert scarce staffing resources to deal with individual queries from the Deputy. My Department will be notifying schools in the coming weeks of the new staffing arrangements for 2012/13 school year.
128 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will direct the board of the An Post National Lottery Company to compile and publish a report which will identify each of the organisations, schemes, projects and so on across all Votes and subheads to which national lottery funding was awarded in the years 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1679/12]
An Post National Lottery Company does not have any role in relation to how the surplus which it generates is spent. The surplus from the National Lottery is paid to the Exchequer in a number of instalments each year. This surplus is treated as an item of non-tax revenue to the Exchequer. It is not possible to indicate the amount or percentage of Lottery funding provided to any individual Vote or subhead. However, it is estimated that in 2011 total funding from the Lottery represented 66% of the overall allocation for all subheads which were part-funded by the proceeds of the Lottery.
Figures for total annual funding from the National Lottery and total spending under subheads which are part-funded by the proceeds of the National Lottery are published each year in Appendix 1 of the Revised Estimates for Public Services. Individual Government Departments with responsibility for expenditure that is part-funded by the National Lottery surplus publish details of such expenditure (including lists of recipient organisations and amounts involved) on their websites.
129 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if in view of the decision of the electorate in the recent referendum on judicial pay, he has considered using similar methods in respect of the pension entitlements and severance packages of specific grades of public and or civil servants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1741/12]
The recent referendum was required because of the special position of the judiciary under the Constitution. The same considerations do not apply to public and civil servants. Accordingly, as the Deputy will be aware, there have been considerable changes to public service pensions over the past number of years without recourse to referenda.
In 2009 a Pension-Related Deduction (PRD) was introduced. Also, a pension reduction (the Public Service Pension Reduction) was implemented with effect from 1 January 2011 across all areas of the public service. This measure was most recently amended at end 2011 to impose a new top reduction rate of 20% on pension amounts above €100,000. It is also worth noting that the pay cut introduced in 2010 will impact on the pensions and lump sums of those retiring after the end of the "grace period" i.e. from 1 March 2012 onwards.
The Deputy will also know that the process of modernising and restructuring the pensions system is ongoing, and in this context, I introduced a Bill in the House on 19 October 2011 — the Public Service Pensions (Single Scheme) and Remuneration Bill 2011 — to give effect to a new single pension scheme for new-entrant public servants which will reduce longer-term pension costs by around one-third. This new scheme will be based on a career average system with later pension age (phased increase to 68) and pension increases linked to CPI.
130 Deputy Heather Humphreys asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans to address the issue of below-cost selling in supermarkets which is having a serious, negative impact on both primary producers and processing companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1689/12]
The use of sales promotions and pricing strategies in any business is a legitimate marketing tool and is the normal outcome of the competitive process. I have no direct function in relation to such practices which are matters for retailer themselves and are not an offence unless they involve abuse of a dominant position. A determination on whether a retailer is abusing a dominant position in the marketplace would necessitate a comprehensive investigation by the Competition Authority. The Authority is the independent statutory body responsible for enforcing competition law in the State and complaints of any alleged anti-competitive practice should be referred to it.
As regards the grocery goods supply chain, the Programme for Government contains a specific commitment to enact legislation to regulate certain practices in the supply chain . It is my intention to give effect to this commitment by including a specific enabling provision in the legislation, currently being prepared by my Department to merge the National Consumer Agency and the Competition Authority, which will allow for the introduction of statutory Codes of Practice in areas such as the grocery goods sector.
The Government is strongly committed to ensuring that Ireland continues to have vibrant agri-food and retail sectors, particularly given the importance of these sectors to the national economy. The Government considers it important, therefore, that there is balance in the relationship between the various players in the grocery goods sector. The introduction of a Code of Practice, as provided for in the Programme for Government, is intended to achieve such a balance taking into account the interests of all stakeholders in the grocery goods sector including the interests of the consumer and the need to ensure that there is no impediment to the passing on of lower prices to consumers.
131 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the measures he is taking to create jobs in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1676/12]
Job creation is at the top of the Government's agenda. Since we came into office, we have been working hard to create the improved economic conditions which will support the maintenance of existing jobs and the creation of new ones. Our objective is to put the country back on the road to economic recovery and full employment.
The Jobs Initiative, announced on 10 May 2011, focuses our limited resources on measures that offer the greatest potential for expansion and employment creation in the domestic economy. The Initiative had a significant focus on tourism and the reduction in the VAT Rate has helped provide an important stimulus to tourism generally, such that visitor numbers were up 7.4% in the first 10 months of last year. This would have benefited the tourism industry generally, but undoubtedly in Co. Kerry.
Work is also continuing on the Government's Action Plan for Jobs which will set out a series of clear, actionable measures to support the creation and retention of jobs. The Strategy will focus on areas such as:
improving competitiveness and intensifying competition in sheltered sectors;
assisting indigenous business to grow;
supporting indigenous start-ups;
attracting inward entrepreneurial start-ups;
developing and deepening the impact of Foreign Direct Investment;
exploiting opportunities in new and emerging sectors; and
supporting employment initiatives within the community.
Specifically in relation to Co. Kerry, two Industrial Development agencies under the aegis of my Department, IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland, together with Kerry County Enterprise Board (CEB) support enterprise development in Co. Kerry.
IDA Ireland continues to promote Kerry for new inward investment across the ICT, International Financial Services and Globally Traded Business sectors. In line with the National Spatial Strategy, the agency concentrates its efforts on the linked hub locations of Killarney in South Kerry and Tralee in North Kerry. According to the latest figures available, there are 15 IDA Ireland supported companies in Kerry employing 1,313 permanent staff. In selecting locations to show companies, IDA Ireland seeks to include locations which have been affected by closures/job losses.
At present, there are 124 Enterprise Ireland client companies in Co. Kerry employing more than 3,000 people in full time jobs. In 2011, Enterprise Ireland paid almost €2.6m in financial support to its client companies in Co. Kerry. The number of full time new jobs created in Enterprise Ireland client companies in Co. Kerry 2011, exceeded jobs lost for the first time in the past decade. This positive outcome in Co. Kerry in 2011 reflects the national picture, where employment in Irish exporting companies stabilised.
The latest figures available indicate that in 2011, Kerry CEB approved funding amounting to €440,600 to 37 projects; 45 payments issued to 32 grantees to the value of €222,600, with associated job creation figures of 56 full time and 18 part time jobs. I am confident that the measures outlined in the Action Plan for Jobs, together with the policies and initiatives being pursued by the Industrial Development agencies and the County and City Enterprise Boards, will continue to bring about employment and investment opportunities for Co. Kerry and the country generally.
132 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position regarding the EU directive on temporary agency work, now in effect, and when he expects it to be implemented; the application date in respect of the payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1683/12]
I can advise the Deputy that EU Directive 2008/104/EC on Temporary Agency Work was adopted in 2008 with a transposition date of 5 December 2011. At its core, the Directive aims to afford protection to temporary agency workers by extending the principle of equal treatment to their basic working and employment conditions.
In terms of transposition of the Directive into Irish law, a Bill entitled Protection of Employees (Temporary Agency Work) Bill 2011 was published on 16 December, 2011. This is a priority Bill for my Department and is being progressed with a view to early enactment in the Houses of the Oireachtas in 2012. The Bill commenced Second stage in the Dáil on Wednesday 11th January and Committee Stage of the Bill is provisionally scheduled for Tuesday 24 January 2012. It is intended that, when enacted, the Bill will, with the exception of the provisions that create offences, have retrospective effect to the Directive transposition date i.e. 5 December, 2011. This means in effect that from 5 December 2011, temporary agency workers employed by employment agencies and assigned to work with a hirer are entitled to equal treatment in basic working and employment conditions in the same way as if they were directly recruited by the hirer to the same job.
133 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the steps she has taken to resolve the dispute between the former employers of a company (details supplied) and its former employees in respect of the non-payment by the company of redundancy to the staff; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1790/12]
155 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection when a decision will be made on the application by a company (details supplied) to the social insurance fund for payment of statutory redundancy payments to former employees; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1789/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 133 and 155 together.
Responsibility for the processing of claims under the Redundancy Payments Scheme transferred from the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Innovation to the Department of Social Protection in January 2011.
The purpose of the Redundancy Payments Scheme is to compensate workers under the Redundancy Payments Acts 1967 to 2007 for the loss of their jobs by reason of redundancy. Under the Redundancy Payments Acts an eligible employee is entitled to two weeks statutory redundancy payment for every year of service, plus a bonus week. Compensation is based on the worker's length of reckonable service and reckonable weekly remuneration, subject to a ceiling of €600 per week. Employees must have at least two years' service to be eligible for a redundancy payment. Rebates to employers and lump sums paid directly to employees are paid from the Social Insurance Fund (SIF).
It is the responsibility of the employer to pay statutory redundancy to all eligible employees. An employer who pays statutory redundancy payments to employees is then entitled to a rebate from the State of a percentage of the relevant amount. Where an employer can prove to the satisfaction of the Department that he/she is unable to pay the statutory redundancy to his/her employees the Department will make lump sum payments directly to the employees and will seek to recover the debt from the employer. To prove inability to pay the employer must submit documentary evidence to confirm that this is the position.
An official from my Department contacted the company concerned to establish the position in relation to redundancy claims and to ensure that the workers of the company are in a position to access any redundancy payments to which they may be entitled. The company submitted 34 applications on-line on 22 December 2011 and hard copies/associated papers were received on 4 January 2012. Straightforward redundancy claims submitted since October 2011 are generally processed for payment within 6 to 8 weeks but this can vary considerably depending on the complexity of the claims.
136 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the labour activation measures available to persons in receipt of disability allowance; if there is any mechanism by which the additional costs and barriers preventing persons with disabilities from re-entering the workforce my be recognised; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1654/12]
Persons with a disability, who meet the entry criteria, are able to participate in the full range of programmes and services available from my Department and the Department of Education and Skills. Persons with a disability may call into one of my Department's Employment Service Office or Local Employment Service Office to meet with an Employment Services Officer or Mediator who will provide them with full information, advice and guidance in relation to training and employment.
The Supported Employment Programme, is an employment and recruitment service to assist people with a disability to secure and maintain a job in the open labour market. The range of supports provided by job coaches under the programme include work experience placements as well as support with the job application process, matching skills with employers needs and assistance with integrating into the workplace.
As well as the Supported Employment Programme, my Department provides a range of other supports to support the employment of people with disabilities. These include the Disability Awareness Training Support Scheme, the Wage Subsidy Scheme, and the Reasonable Accommodation Fund for the Employment of Disabled People, the Workplace Equipment Adaptation Grant, the Employee Retention Grant Scheme and a range of Employment Schemes. Many of these schemes provide specific assistance to enable people with disabilities secure and retain employment. Individuals in receipt of a disability allowance can also avail of many of the education and training programmes that are provided under the auspices of the Department of Education and Skills and delivered by the VECs and the training side of FÁS.
137 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the rationale behind the exclusion of persons in receipt of the disability allowance from labour activation and further education programmes such as JobBridge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1655/12]
The National Internship Scheme provides internship opportunities of either 6 or 9 months for unemployed individuals on the Live Register, in organisations in the private, public and community voluntary sectors. The scheme is limited to individuals who are currently on the Live Register and have been in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance/Benefit or are signing on for credits for at least 3 of the last 6 months.
My Department continues to monitor and review the operation of the JobBridge scheme including its eligibility criteria on an ongoing basis. The eligibility to access the National Internship Scheme is based on the overall objective of labour market policy in ensuring a pathway to appropriate employment, training and education opportunities for those on the Live Register. It is important that as employment opportunities become available they are taken up by those on the Live Register. The structure for achieving this objective is through a reinvigorated National Employment Action Plan (NEAP) which currently provides the framework for engaging with the unemployed.
Given the scale of the unemployment crisis, the key objective of labour market policy and of the NEAP will be to keep those on the Live Register close to the Labour Market and prevent the drift into long-term unemployment. This will ensure that Live Register members availing of activation measures such as the National Internship Scheme will, while retaining social welfare unemployment payments and a top up allowance of €50, get an opportunity to engage in the workplace, get work experience and so be in a position to avail of employment opportunities as the economy improves.
For these reasons, it has been proposed as a matter of public policy that eligibility for the scheme be confined to those on the Live Register and in receipt of unemployment payments or signing for credits for 3 of the last 6 months. As such, the policy objective is to prioritise scarce resources on those on the Live Register so as to increase their chances of leaving it thereby ensuring a reduction in Exchequer costs over time.
Individuals in receipt of Disability Payments may access a wide range of activation supports including the Work Placement Programme, which is designed to provide participants with valuable work experience, thereby improving their prospects of securing employment.
138 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications for disability allowance for each of the years 2007 to 2011; if these figures will be broken down to indicate the total number of successful applications; the number of applications that were successful at first instance; the total number of appeals made; the number of applications that were successful on appeal in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1656/12]
The statistics requested are in the tabular statement hereunder. The number of disability allowance applications that were successful at the first instance is not available.
|
Number received |
Number Awarded |
No. of Appeals Received |
No. of Appeals Allowed |
No. of Appeals Partially Allowed |
|
|
2007 |
19,989 |
11,684 |
2,938 |
536 |
35 |
|
2008 |
21,358 |
13,176 |
3,522 |
658 |
27 |
|
2009 |
20,794 |
10,179 |
4,696 |
719 |
43 |
|
2010 |
21,409 |
8,306 |
4,840 |
935 |
44 |
|
2011 |
24,264 |
9,246 |
5,472 |
1,699 |
131 |
139 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the total number of applications for domiciliary care allowance for each of the years 2007 to 2011, and if these figures will be broken down to indicate the total number of successful applications; the number of applications which were successful at first instance; the total number of appeals made; the number of applications which were successful on appeal in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1657/12]
The Department has been accepting new claims for domiciliary care allowance (DCA) since 1 April 2009. Statistics relating to the allowance for the period prior to April 2009 are a matter for the HSE, the previous administrators of the scheme.
The number of applicants for DCA that were received, awarded and refused in each year from April 2009 to date is set out in table 1 below while details in relation to appeals are set out in table 2.
|
Applications received |
Applications fully processed in year |
Applications allowed incl. on review* |
Applications refused |
|
|
2009 (from 1st April) |
3,389 |
2,823 |
1,220 |
1,603 |
|
2010 |
5,457 |
5,333 |
2,576 |
2,757 |
|
2011 |
5,525 |
5,396 |
2,502 |
2,894 |
*Includes cases initially disallowed but allowed on review following receipt of additional information.
|
Appeals registered |
Appeals withdrawn (allowed on medical review) |
Medical reviews outstanding on appeal |
Appeals allowed |
Appeals disallowed |
Appeals outstanding |
|
|
2009 |
836 |
189 |
0 |
293 |
353 |
1 |
|
2010 |
1,858 |
518 |
0 |
528 |
728 |
84 |
|
2011 |
2,270 |
424 |
293 |
220 |
421 |
912 |
140 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on the proposed evaluation of the JobBridge national internship scheme; the persons who have been appointed to evaluate the scheme; the nature of their remit; the time timeframe in which it is envisaged the evaluation will be completed; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1660/12]
The Department of Social Protection has invited tenders for consultancy for an evaluation of the JobBridge, National Internship Scheme for the Department. The Department has received a significant number of tender responses and is currently in the process of reviewing and scoring these tender responses. It is envisaged that a successful vendor will be selected in the coming weeks.
Remit of the Evaluation
The Department requires this Project to be undertaken to assess the design, delivery and impact of the JobBridge scheme on the unemployed. It should also assist the Department in making further policy decisions on the benefit of work placement programmes in the overall context of the Government's activation policy which is to engage with every unemployed individual to provide them with a pathway to employment and to prevent and reduce long term unemployment.
The evaluation should include the following key outcomes:
Socio economic profile of the participants on the scheme;
Information on the host organisations that have used the scheme including, size, sector and reason for participating;
Details of the progression of those on the scheme into education, training or job placement. In the case of job placement this should detail if placement is with the same company, in the same sector and the sustainability of that placement;
Details of the nature of the work experience of the participants and a measurement of the relevance of that experience to the labour market and to progression into employment;
An assessment of the displacement effect of the scheme;
An assessment of the level of deadweight in the scheme;
Information on the satisfaction of participants with their experience of the scheme;
Information on the satisfaction of host organisations with their experience of the scheme;
An assessment of the process and procedures used by the Department in running the scheme;
Recommendations on how the scheme might be improved.
Timescale
It is anticipated that the entire work will be undertaken by the successful vendor and will be completed by the end of the year.
141 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of participants on the JobBridge scheme to date; the number who have now completed their internships; the number who have successfully entered the workforce; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1661/12]
JobBridge, the National Internship Scheme, came into operation on 1 July 2011. As of Wednesday, 11 January, a total of 3,916 internships have commenced. The first internships did not commence until mid July. As JobBridge internships are for either 6 or 9 months it is too early to report on the number of interns who have completed their internship. It is also too early to determine the number of interns who have attained full employment as a result of their internship. My Department has invited tenders for consultancy for the evaluation of the JobBridge, National Internship Scheme for the Department. Progression rates from JobBridge into employment will feature as part of this evaluation. It is expected that this evaluation will commence in early 2012.
142 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the supports available to those unemployed persons who do not qualify for social welfare payments to re-enter the workforce; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1662/12]
144 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the supports available to unemployed persons in receipt of a payment other than jobseeker’s benefit or allowance to re-enter the workforce; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1664/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 142 and 144 together.
The Department of Social Protection operates a range of employment support measures designed to encourage and support social welfare recipients of working age to reduce their dependency on welfare payments. Individuals that are in receipt of a social welfare payment other than a jobseekers payment can avail of the back to education programme, the back to work scheme, the rural social scheme and the Work Placement Programme.
These individuals can also access the training programmes provided by FÁS under the auspices of the Department of Education and Skills but they will not receive a training allowance, while participating on these programme. My Department through its Employment Service and Local Employment Service offices provides a full range of services and supports to jobseekers. This includes providing jobseekers with information on the labour market including information on appropriate job vacancies mediation and guidance and advice on the employment and training programmes that are available to the jobseeker. Jobseekers should call to their local Employment Service and Local Employment Service Social Welfare Office to get information on the full range of services they are entitled to.
143 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of unemployed persons who did not qualify for social welfare payments in each of the years 2007-11; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1663/12]
The metrics used in my Department in relation to claim processing are Awarded, Disallowed or Withdrawn. An unemployed person may submit several claims for payment under the Jobseeker's Benefit or Jobseeker's Allowance schemes over a period, for example if they move in and out of employment and having regard to the level of social insurance cover they have at the time they become unemployed. Each claim is considered on its own merit and a decision made whether to award or disallow the claim under the terms of the relevant scheme.
I have set out below, for your information, a table which sets out by scheme the number of claims that were disallowed in each of the years 2008 to 2011. The information requested by the Deputy is not available prior to 2008.
|
Year |
Jobseeker’s Allowance Disallowed |
Jobseeker’s Benefit Disallowed |
Total Disallowed |
|
2007 |
Not Available |
Not Available |
Not Available |
|
2008 |
14,561 |
7,133 |
21,694 |
|
2009 |
23,681 |
7,237 |
30,918 |
|
2010 |
27,884 |
7,243 |
35,127 |
|
2011 |
23,017 |
7,680 |
30,697 |
|
Total |
89,143 |
29,293 |
118,436 |
145 Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Social Protection her plans to expedite the introduction of the total contribution-credit system for the assessment of applications for State pension from 2020 to September 2012, in view of the proposed changes she announced as part of budget 2012 in regard to rates of payment of State pensions for those who become entitled to a pension after September 2012, particularly for those who have a contribution record of over 30 years payment-credits and who will lose out under the averaging rule because of the changes introduced by her; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1673/12]
Recognising that the State pension (contributory) is a very valuable benefit, it is important to ensure that those qualifying have made a sustained contribution to the Social Insurance Fund (SIF) over their working lives. Aligning the rate of pension with the contributions made ensures that those who contribute more during a working life benefit more in retirement than those with lesser contributions thereby ensuring equity in the social welfare system.
The changes to rate bands, to be introduced for new customers in September 2012, supports the total contributions approach whereby payment made will be linked to contributions paid over a working life. When the total contributions approach is implemented in full, it will replace the current averaging system and remove the associated anomalies whereby those who pay less could in fact receive a higher payment under the current arrangement. It had been expected that the total contributions approach would be introduced in 2020. However, in light of economic circumstances, this date is being reviewed.
The Social Insurance Fund is expected to have a deficit of €1.9 billion this year. One of my key priorities has been to balance the books, in particular by starting to put the Social Insurance Fund on a sustainable footing. It is a reality that people need to contribute and work for longer if they are to achieve the sort of financial support they expect to receive in retirement. A core principle of sustainable social protection systems in advanced economies is that citizens receive benefits in proportion to their contributions. The changes to rate bands will move significantly towards that aim and supports the social contract between the State and the individual.
146 Deputy Billy Timmins asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding carer’s allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Wicklow; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1686/12]
I confirm that the department is in receipt of an application for carer's allowance from the above named person. In the interests of fairness and equity and unless there are exceptional circumstances, applications are dealt with in order of date of receipt in the department.
On completion of the necessary investigations relating to all aspects of his claim a decision will be made and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome.
148 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will review the budget measure whereby carer’s allowance is now to be considered as assessable means in the calculation of entitlement to family income supplement; if she will take into account that carer’s are the only group of social welfare recipients that work 168 hours for their payment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1708/12]
Carers play a particularly important role in society which the Government acknowledges through a range of supports, including carer's allowance, half-rate carer's allowance, carer's benefit, the respite care grant, free travel and household benefits.
The means test for carer's allowance is one of the most generous means tests in the social welfare system, most notably with regard to spouse's earnings. Since April 2008, the income disregard has been €332.50 per week for a single person and €665 per week for a couple. A couple with two children can earn up to €35,400 and qualify for the maximum rate of carer's allowance while a couple earning €59,300 will still qualify for the minimum rate of carer's allowance.
There are currently just over 51,000 full-time carers in receipt of a carer's allowance payment from the Department. This includes almost 22,000 who are receiving half-rate carer's allowance in addition to another social welfare payment. There are just over 1,700 people in receipt of carer's benefit. Customers in receipt of carer's allowance and benefit also receive an annual respite care grant of €1,700 in respect of each person for whom they care. In addition, more than 17,000 carers who are not in receipt of a carer's allowance or benefit payment received the annual respite care grant of €1,700 last June.
One of the measures introduced as part of Budget 2012 is that income from weekly carer's payments will be included for the purposes of calculating entitlement to Family Income Supplement (FIS) in line with other welfare payments, on a phased basis with effect from January 2012. Entitlement to FIS is based on the level of a family's income including net income from employment and the value of any social welfare payments they might have. However, income from carer's allowance and carer's benefit was an exception and was not taken into account in assessing family income for FIS purposes prior to January 2012.
From January 2012, for new applicants and upon renewal for existing claimants, income from carer's allowance and carer's benefit payments will be included in the (FIS) income assessment. The measure will be implemented over 3 years with 1/3rd of the income from carer's allowance and carer's benefit payments assessed in 2012, 2/3rds in 2013 and full assessment in 2014.
This provides for a more consistent approach to the concurrent payment of FIS with other social welfare benefits through the standardisation of the treatment of social welfare income for this purpose. The reform reduces a person's secondary payment (FIS) without affecting their primary payment, therefore targeting available scarce resources at those in most need.
149 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding an application for disability allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1710/12]
I am advised by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an Appeals Officer having fully considered all the available evidence disallowed the appeal of the person concerned by way of a summary decision.
Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of the Appeals Officer is final and conclusive and may only be reviewed by the Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts.
Following the submission of additional evidence, the file has been requested to be returned to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. On receipt of this file, the Appeals Officer will review the case. The person concerned will be contacted when the review of his appeal has been finalised.
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.
150 Deputy Jim Daly asked the Minister for Social Protection the reason a rebate on redundancy payments has not issued (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1723/12]
Two redundancy rebate claims in respect of the company concerned were received on 30 May 2011. Redundancy rebate claims received at the start of May 2011 are currently being processed.
151 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Social Protection if she is satisfied that the online application facility for redundancy payments is currently operating correctly and has been over the past few months; the steps being taken by her to correct any possible faults with the online application facility; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1731/12]
There were initial issues with the online application facility since it went live on 3 October 2011, but most of these have been resolved. Any remaining issues are being addressed. We are conscious, however, that the application can be improved and the Department is developing plans to do this over the next few weeks.
152 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will consider increasing the number of Tús places available; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1747/12]
153 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Social Protection if she will extend the length of the Tús contract beyond one year; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1748/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 152 and 153 together.
Tús, the community work placement initiative introduced during 2011, will provide up to 5,000 short-term, quality work opportunities for those who are unemployed for more than a year when fully operational. This initiative is being delivered through the network of local development companies and Údarás na Gaeltachta and, at the end of December 2011, over 2,250 people are engaged in the delivery of services nationally.
Consideration of the expansion of this initiative can only be undertaken in the context of the resources allocated to my Department. The funds allocated for 2012 amount to €84m. These funds are required to meet the pay costs of participants and supervisors, provision of materials, insurance, health and safety, training and related operational costs. I have no plans to increase the number of places available on this initiative at this time.
The purpose of Tús is the provision of quality work for those who are unemployed in order to break the cycle of unemployment and to improve a person's opportunities in returning to the labour market. I consider the existing 12-month period on Tús to be adequate to meet the objectives of the initiative whilst also ensuring that as many unemployed people as possible are able to benefit. I intend to keep the operations of this initiative under review.
154 Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of applications by employers, including the number of individual employee payments involved, to the Social Insurance Fund claiming inability to pay statutory redundancy payments; the anticipated waiting period for a new application; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1788/12]
The Department does not maintain statistics in relation to the number of companies with regard to their inability to pay statutory redundancy. However, as lump sums are paid where companies refuse to pay or are unable to pay, an indicator, which may be useful to the Deputy in this regard, is the level of lump sums in comparison to rebate payments, as shown in the table below:
|
Year |
Total Expenditure |
Rebate Expenditure |
Lump Sum Expenditure |
Lump Sum % of Overall |
|
2008 |
€193.71m |
€161.8m |
€31.91m |
16% |
|
2009 |
€335.86m |
€247.9m |
€87.96m |
26% |
|
2010 |
€469.97m |
€373.2m |
€96.77m |
21% |
Straightforward redundancy claims submitted online through a new processing system, since October 2011 are generally processed within 6 to 8 weeks, but this can vary considerably depending on the complexity of the claims.
156 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection when she transferred information to the Office of the Revenue Commissioners relating to 560,000 pensioners that resulted in 115,000 pensioners being informed of additional tax liability. [1796/12]
157 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection when she was requested by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners to provide the information that led to 115,000 pensioners being informed of additional tax liability. [1797/12]
158 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection the additional information that has been requested by the Office of the Revenue Commissioners regarding pensioners' tax liability. [1798/12]
159 Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Social Protection the cross-governmental agency information transfer procedures that have been put in place since March 2011 regarding tax liability and welfare payment recipients. [1799/12]
160 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the way the pension tax issue will affect our senior citizens and particularly those under the fair deal scheme in nursing homes; and if she will clarify this matter. [1807/12]
161 Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection her views on the huge concerns from our pensioners on the tax issue. [1808/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 156 to 161, inclusive, together.
For the past number of years, my Department has been actively engaged in data matching with other Government Departments and public bodies for control purposes. To this end, there is an extensive legal structure to support the sharing of data for the purpose of controlling the entitlement and payment of benefits. The legislative provisions that allow for the specific sharing of data — with the Revenue Commissioners and other Government Departments and agencies — are contained in section 261 of the Social Welfare (Consolidation) Act 2005. In exercising these functions, the Department also operates in accordance with the relevant data protection legislation.
One of the Department's primary relationships in relation to data sharing is with the Revenue Commissioners. In recent years, bilateral liaison with Revenue has been improved through the establishment of a High Level Group at Management Board level, whose purpose is to ensure on-going collaboration and interaction between the two bodies, including in relation to social welfare fraud and tax non-compliance. Both organisations are working together with a view to aligning expertise and information across their operations. In this context, a number of working groups have been established which are looking at a range of specifics issues, including that of social welfare abuse and tax compliance.
In this context, it is important to emphasise that data exchange operates on a two-way basis between the Revenue Commissioners and the Department and has been on-going for many years.
On foot of a specific data matching exercise carried out by the Department in late 2011, following work done by one of the High Level Group's sub-groups, as outlined above, some 563,800 records of pensioners were provided to the Revenue Commissioners on 1st December 2011. The data in question related to customers in receipt of five social welfare schemes, namely state pension state pension (contributory), state pension(transition) state pension (non-contributory), widow's/widower's/surviving civil partner's pension and invalidity pensions. The data provided contained the customer's PPS number, name, pension type and rate of payment.
The Deputies should note that this is part of an on-going policy to enhance data sharing between the Department and other public service bodies. As technology develops, in the Department and elsewhere, it is expected that the exchange of data with other organisations will continue to be improved.
The taxation of all citizens is a matter for the Revenue Commissioners. However, in the case of social welfare payments which are subject to tax, the Department notifies its customers that their payments are taxable and that the customer should contact his/her local tax office in this regard. A notice to this effect is contained in the award letter issued by the Department to the customer. These leaflets are available for download from the Department's website (welfare.ie) and are sent out to the customer, along with the relevant application form for the schemes, when an enquiry is made about entitlement. The Department's website also contains information on this matter and with effect from Monday 9th January, a link to the relevant page on the Revenue website from the Department's website has also been set up.
With regard to the Fair Deal scheme, each applicant undergoes a financial assessment of income and assets in order to calculate their contribution towards the cost of care. Should there be any change to any individual's financial circumstances, it is open to the individual to seek a review of their contribution by contacting the local HSE Nursing Home Support Office.
162 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection the basis on which it was determined by a medical referee that a person (details supplied) in County Kildare was no longer entitled to domiciliary care allowance, given the existence of clear and incontrovertible medical evidence to the affect that the child requires significantly more attention than is normally required for a child of that age; if she will therefore urgently review the case with a view to immediate restoration of the payment or, in default thereof, arrange for an oral hearing to appeal the matter; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1814/12]
An application for domiciliary care allowance (DCA) was received on 16th June 2010 from the person concerned. This application was referred to one of the Department's Medical Assessors who found that her child was medically eligible for the allowance. DCA cases processed by the Department have a review date entered when initially awarded. This date is based on the recommendation of the Medical Assessor having considered the child's medical prognosis. A review date of 12 months was entered in this case.
The person concerned was contacted on 24th October 2011 in relation to the review of her DCA claim and she submitted up-to-date information regarding the medical condition and the substantial extra care and attention required by her son. This information was referred to one of the Department's Medical Assessors who found that her child no longer met the medical eligibility criteria for the allowance. A letter issued on 6th December 2011 advising her of the decision.
In the case of an application which is refused on medical grounds, the applicant may submit additional information in support of their case and this information will be reviewed and/or they may appeal the decision to the Social Welfare Appeals Office. The person concerned requested a review and the case was subsequently examined by another Medical Assessor who also found that the child was no longer medically eligible for the payment. She was notified of this decision on 3rd January 2012 and informed of her right of appeal to the Social Welfare Appeals Office.
163 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Social Protection when the date for an oral hearing is likely to be set in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare in respect of an application for domiciliary care allowance; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1816/12]
The Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that the appeal from the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer who proposes to hold an oral hearing in this case. There has been a very significant increase in the number of appeals received by the Social Welfare Appeals Office since 2007 when the intake was 14,070 to 2010 and 2011 when the intake rose to 32,432 and 31,241 respectively. This has significantly impacted on the processing time for appeals which require oral hearings and, in order to be fair to all appellants, they are dealt with in strict chronological order.
While every effort is being made to deal with the large numbers awaiting oral hearing as quickly as possible, it is not possible to give a date when the person's oral hearing will be heard, but s/he will be informed when arrangements have been made. 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.
164 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to put in place a waiver system in cases of hardship where people are unable to afford the cost of switching to Saorview; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1730/12]
I am very much aware of the challenges digital switchover brings, in particular for households that are reliant on the existing "free to air" analogue TV network. I wish to make clear from the outset, however, that I have no plans to introduce waivers for persons to upgrade their television equipment. All households solely reliant on the existing "free to air" analogue TV network will need to upgrade to digital TV by 24th October 2012, the date of analogue switch off, or they will lose access to television services. TV households can choose to upgrade to digital TV by moving to a pay-TV service or by upgrading to Saorview, Ireland's national digital TV aerial network, which was launched by RTÉ on 26th May 2011.
To upgrade to Saorview, TV households will need to purchase either a Saorview approved set top box to connect to their existing TV or a new Saorview digital TV. In some cases, depending on the type of aerial, the orientation and age of the aerial, some TV households may need a new aerial or aerial adjustment. The number of these is estimated to be around 20,000 TV households. Experience from other European countries indicates that the cost of set top boxes and other digital receivers reduces as the date for digital switchover approaches, and there is increased competition in the market. There is clear evidence that this is now happening in Ireland with affordable set top boxes that meet the Saorview standard now coming on the market, as well as a range of suitable digital televisions. In addition, experience from other European countries also shows that the availability of accurate and reliable information and the provision of practical assistance is the most effective approach towards assisting people in making the switch to digital television.
In this regard, therefore, to overcome the challenges that digital switchover brings, I have undertaken to deliver a substantial information campaign providing households with information on the digital switchover and on their options for going digital. This information campaign commenced in quarter four 2011. There are a number of strands to the campaign including a national telephone helpline and a national advertising and public relations campaign. The campaign will run up to the end of 2012.
In conjunction with this, my Department has been working to address the particular information and assistance needs of vulnerable households as they prepare to go digital. In this context, the expertise and local knowledge of the many voluntary and charity organisations around the country is of critical importance in ensuring the success of the switchover process. On January 10th 2012 I signed an agreement with national voluntary organisation, the Wheel, to develop and operate a nationwide community outreach digital switchover programme (Outreach Programme).
The Wheel, in conjunction with voluntary and community organisations throughout the country, will roll out a countrywide Outreach Programme in April 2012, which will provide additional assistance and advice at community level to those who may find the move to digital TV difficult. The aim of the Outreach Programme is to ensure that everybody is made aware of the switchover and that no TV viewers are left without a TV service once the national analogue TV service switches off on October 24th 2012. A press release issued and is available on my Department's website at www.dcenr.gov.ie.
165 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the level of grant aid being paid annually to an organisation (details supplied). [1740/12]
Under Section 123 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, as amended by Part 4 of the Communications Regulations Act 2011, with the approval of the Minister for Finance, I may pay RTÉ and TG4 in respect of each financial year an amount equal to the total of receipts in that year in respect of broadcasting (TV) licence fees, less (i) any expenses incurred in relation to the collection of those fees and (ii) an amount being equal to 7% of these net television licence fee receipts, which is paid under Section 156 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 to the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) in respect of the Broadcasting Funding Scheme.
The following table sets out details of the amounts paid to RTÉ in the years 2008 to date in 2011 in the form of a grant-in-aid.
|
Year |
RTÉ |
|
2008 |
€199 million |
|
2009 |
€204 million |
|
2010 |
€195.7 million |
|
2011 |
€182.4 million |
166 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of qualified applications under the warmer homes grant scheme that are awaiting completion installation; the number of contractors that are assigned or designated to the scheme; if he is satisfied with the waiting time and list; his plans to overcome the concerns being expressed by many of the applicants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1767/12]
Better Energy: Warmer Homes delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to households that are vulnerable to energy poverty with a total of 20,388 being addressed in 2011. The scheme is managed on behalf of my Department by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) and delivered through a range of Community Based Organisations (CBOs), augmented by a panel of private contractors in order to ensure national coverage. The SEAI had 28 CBOs and 20 contractors operational on the scheme in 2011. It is anticipated that a similar number of CBOs and contractors will be active in 2012.
SEAI advise that there are a total of 8,833 homes on the national waiting list as of 4 January 2012. Service delivery plans, within the available 2012 budget, are currently being finalised. Households on the waiting list on 31 December 2011 will be retrofitted according to their position on the waiting list.
2012 will mark a shift in emphasis on the Better Energy: Warmer Homes scheme to take account of the Government's Affordable Energy Strategy, which I launched last November. Heretofore, applicants were considered eligible for retrofit measures if they met defined criteria, such as eligibility for the National Fuel Scheme. All successful applicants were placed on a waiting list and addressed in rotation. The focus in 2012 will shift to addressing those households considered in extreme energy poverty as a priority; such households typically spend over 20% of their disposable income on energy services. This will ensure that those most in need receive the benefit of energy efficiency measures first.
167 Deputy Willie Penrose asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the reason a person (details supplied) in County Longford who was approved for participation in the better energy homes schemes by the Sustainable Energy Authorityof Ireland, has not received payment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1843/12]
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Programme, on behalf of my Department. The Scheme has paid out €119,057 million for the installation of 274,184 measures in 110,254 homes. All applicants are required to undertake complete works in accordance with the Terms and Conditions of the Scheme. In accepting the grant offer the applicant accepts all conditions of the scheme indicating those set out in the Application Guide.
SEAI advise that homes of mixed construction types require different solutions in order to ensure the property is insulated to the optimum level. Where this is the case, applicants will only be eligible for a Better Energy Homes grant for the measure addressing the majority area of the property. Partial solutions are only acceptable by SEAI in exceptional cases where it is not "physically or economically possible" to provide a whole-element solution. The idea of internally dry-lining all exposed walls in a particular dwelling may become economically unviable where for example it would require kitchen units to be removed. SEAI require that justification for these exceptional partial solutions must be given in the Declaration of Works.
Queries in relation to individual applications are an operational matter for the SEAI and a dedicated hot line can be reached at 1800 250 204. In addition, the SEAI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members, which can be sent to oireachtas@seai.ie and will be dealt with promptly.
168 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government to set out, in tabular form, the number of cases of anti-social behaviour in private accommodation which were brought to the attention of the Private Residential Tenancies Board for each of the past four years; the number of these cases in which action was taken by the PRTB against a tenant engaging in anti-social behaviour; and the number of times this included the eviction of a tenant. [1642/12]
I have no function in the operational matters of the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB), an independent statutory body established under the Residential Tenancies Act 2004. The PRTB publishes statistics, which include anti-social behaviour disputes, in its Annual Reports available on the website www.prtb.ie.
169 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the remuneration packages for each of the members of the board of the Private Residential Tenancies Board. [1643/12]
Board members of the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB), who are entitled to fees, are in receipt of such fees for meetings, inspections and training sessions on an attendance basis only. Details of attendance and remuneration are published in the PRTB's Annual Reports available on the website www.prtb.ie.
170 Deputy Robert Dowds asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to introduce legislation to enable residents in private accommodation to lodge complaints to the Private Residential Tenancies Board regarding anti-social neighbours through a proxy, such as a member of the Garda Síochána or a public representative, rather than forcing them to reveal their identities and thus put them at risk of intimidation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1644/12]
The Residential Tenancies Act 2004 regulates the tenant-landlord relationship in the private rented residential sector. The Act sets out the obligations of tenants and landlords in the sector and the Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) is the independent statutory body charged with the administration of the Act and the enforcement of those obligations, as necessary. While action to deal with anti-social behaviour is primarily a matter for An Garda Síochána, in the case of private rented dwellings landlords are responsible for enforcing the obligations that apply to their tenants under the Act.
The Act, in this regard, prohibits a tenant in a private residential tenancy from engaging in anti-social behaviour in, or in the vicinity of, a dwelling to which the Act applies and allows a landlord to terminate any tenancy where the tenant is engaging in or allowing others to engage in such behaviour, subject to a notice period of only 7 days in the case of serious anti-social behaviour or 28 days in the case of less serious but persistent behaviour. The Act also provides that a third party directly and adversely affected by anti-social behaviour may, subject to certain conditions, refer to the Board a complaint against a landlord who has failed to enforce tenant obligations. A specific condition is that the third party complainant must have taken reasonable steps to resolve the matter by communicating or attempting to communicate with the parties to the tenancy concerned.
Breaches of tenants' or landlords' obligations may be referred to the PRTB in the context of applications to it for its dispute resolution services. Parties involved in a dispute can apply for either adjudication or mediation as a means of dispute resolution. In the event of an appeal from adjudication or an unsuccessful mediation the dispute will be referred to a tenancy tribunal and the PRTB may then issue directions regarding those obligations in its Determination Orders and, in the event of non-compliance with the Orders, it may pursue enforcement via Court proceedings.
I am satisfied that the Act is adequate in the matter of third party disputes. While I have no plans to amend the legislation in this regard, I will keep the matter under review.
171 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to address the situation whereby planning applications for an extension of time are being refused, following on from a previous grant of permission, due to a change in environmental guidelines; if he will amend the 2010 Planning Act to resolve this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1645/12]
Article 24 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 (as amended) requires an outline application, in addition to the requirements of article 22(2), to be accompanied only by such plans and particulars as are necessary to enable the planning authority to make a decision in relation to the siting, layout or other proposals for development in respect of which a decision is sought. Article 22(2)(c) requests evidence of site suitability where it is proposed to dispose of wastewater other than into a public sewer.
Where an application for permission is made to a planning authority consequent on the grant of outline permission, the planning authority cannot refuse to grant permission on the basis of any matter which had been decided in the grant of outline permission, provided that the authority is satisfied that the proposed development is within the terms of the outline permission. However, an outline permission does not operate to authorise the carrying out of any development to which the outline permission relates until a subsequent permission has been granted. My Department has written to all Planning Authorities to clarify that, where at outline stage an applicant has carried out a site suitability test which is in compliance with the EPA code of practice, there should be no requirement to carry out a further test at the consequent permission stage.
172 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the amount collected from commercial rates levied on Irish businesses by local authorities for each of the years 2000 to 2011, inclusive; the number of businesses levied each year; the percentage for local authority expenditure this total represented for each of the years concerned in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1665/12]
173 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a breakdown of the amount collected from water charges levied on Irish businesses by local authorities for each of the years 2000 to 2011, inclusive; the number of businesses levied each year; the percentage of local authority expenditure this total represented for each of the years concerned in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1666/12]
174 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has conducted any review of the economic impact of local authority rates on small and medium businesses; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1667/12]
175 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his plans to review the commercial rates payable to local authorities in view of the funding such bodies will receive from water charges and property tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1668/12]
178 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he has considered granting local authorities the power to reduce all or part of a business’ commercial rates bills in cases of extreme financial hardship, as is the practice in the United Kingdom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1671/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 172 to 175, inclusive, and 178 together.
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, determined by the Valuation Office, 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. As with all local charges, the invoicing and collection of due amounts is a matter for the local authority concerned to manage in the light of prevailing local circumstances and in accordance with normal accountancy procedures.
The Commissioner of Valuation, who has sole responsibility for all valuation matters, is conducting a programme of revaluation of all commercial and industrial properties throughout the State on a county by county basis. The purpose of the revaluation process is to provide for more consistent and up-to-date valuations for rating purposes and to assist in providing a more equitable distribution of valuations across those liable to pay rates. The Commissioner, in consultation with my colleague, the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, has been reviewing various options for streamlining the valuation process and speeding up the national revaluation programme. In this regard, the Government recently approved the drafting of a Valuation Bill to amend the Valuation Act.
I recognise that these are difficult economic times for many small and medium size businesses. I have asked local authorities to exercise restraint in setting their 2012 ARVs in the context of the adoptions of their 2012 Budgets. Local authorities have responded positively to similar requests in recent years. I will continue to keep all matters relating to rates under consideration in my Department. Local authorities play a central role in supporting economic development and enterprise at local level. They do this in a number of ways, including through their capital and current budgets, economic planning and development and the provision of goods and services as well as community infrastructure. Business support units in each county and city council are providing a focal point for businesses to engage appropriately with the local government system on relevant matters in setting up and managing their businesses. The Government's commitment to align the community development sector with local government will also see a more co-ordinated focus on the support of local enterprise and community development.
The EU/IMF Programme of Financial Support for Ireland commits to the introduction of a property tax and domestic water charges. In the light of the complex issues involved in the introduction of a property tax, the Government decided to introduce a household charge in 2012 to meet the EU/IMF commitment. The household charge, which, if collected in full, will contribute €160 million towards the provision of local services, is an interim measure and proposals for a full property tax will be developed and considered by the Government as soon as possible. The property tax will provide a more stable funding base for the local government sector.
The Programme for Government also commits to the introduction of a fair funding model to deliver clean and reliable water. The objective is to install water meters in households connected to public water supplies and to move to a charging system that is based on usage. My Department is finalising a strategy to implement these proposals and I will be in a position to announce further details shortly.
The information requested in respect of commercial rates and water charges is set out, where available, in the following tables. In the years 2000 to 2003, local authorities published their accounts on a cash accounting basis and from 2004 on an accruals basis. The figures are, therefore, not directly comparable across all years.
The information requested on the number of businesses levied for commercial rates and water charges is not available in my Department. In addition, the data requested in relation to commercial water charge receipts for the years 2000 to 2003 are not available to me. For these years consolidated figures in respect of "Receipts for Public Water Supply" are available. However, these figures would include commercial water charges and other income such as charges related to group water schemes, state grants and inter-local authority payments. The data requested in respect of 2010 and 2011 are not yet available in my Department. Audited annual financial statement data for 2010 and 2011 will be available by 31 March 2012 and 31 March 2013 respectively.
|
Cash Receipts |
Cash Receipts as % of Cash Expenditure |
Income — Accruals Basis |
Income as % of Expenditure — Accruals Basis |
|
|
2000 |
€586,455,728 |
24% |
N/A |
N/A |
|
2001 |
€662,750,756 |
23% |
N/A |
N/A |
|
2002 |
€750,154,327 |
23% |
N/A |
N/A |
|
2003 |
€839,297,992 |
25% |
N/A |
N/A |
|
2004 |
€875,908,097 |
N/A |
€942,791,171 |
25% |
|
2005 |
€1,020,425,365 |
N/A |
€1,050,449,231 |
26% |
|
2006 |
€1,134,488,242 |
N/A |
€1,188,865,931 |
27% |
|
2007 |
€1,232,785,108 |
N/A |
€1,267,366,002 |
26% |
|
2008 |
€1,276,265,552 |
N/A |
€1,356,392,809 |
26% |
|
2009 |
€1,263,368,440 |
N/A |
€1,408,720,936 |
29% |
|
Cash Receipts |
Cash Receipts as % of Cash Expenditure |
Income — Accruals Basis |
Income as % of Expenditure — Accruals Basis |
|
|
2004 |
€106,305,672 |
N/A |
€120,903,711 |
3% |
|
2005 |
€134,286,704 |
N/A |
€132,767,080 |
3% |
|
2006 |
€141,896,649 |
N/A |
€147,228,576 |
3% |
|
2007 |
€145,232,026 |
N/A |
€169,238,004 |
3% |
|
2008 |
€163,845,502 |
N/A |
€195,436,502 |
4% |
|
2009 |
€169,932,784 |
N/A |
€210,352,288 |
4% |
176 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the programme for Government commitment to abolish the position of county manager and replace it with a chief executive mandated to implement democratically decided policy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1669/12]
I refer to the reply to Questions Nos. 24, 44, 42 and 122 of 30 November 2011 which sets out the position in this matter.
177 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide an update on the programme for Government commitment to examine the potential to merge services between two or more local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1670/12]
A range of work relevant to the delivery of the Programme for Government commitments on shared services is underway and will be developed further. In pursuance of the implementation of the Local Government Efficiency Review, I have established an independently chaired Implementation Group to drive forward the recommendations, including in relation to shared services. The Group has recently completed an interim report, which I have asked the Group to develop further. I understand the Group is engaging with the County and City Managers' Association in this regard.
Other specific measures in relation to shared services are being implemented under the programme for Public Service Review and the Public Service Agreement (PSA). Reports on progress and savings under the Local Government Sectoral Action Plan of the PSA were made to the Implementation Body in May 2011. An updated and revised Action Plan under the PSA for the local authority sector is currently being prepared and will be submitted to the National Implementation Body this month. The Action Plan will contain actions designed to examine the potential for and the implementation of shared services across the functional areas of local authorities.
179 Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on a matter regarding self-regulation (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1672/12]
I refer to the reply to Question Nos. 509 and 575 of 11th January 2012 which sets out the position in this matter.
180 Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government when the vacant positions on An Bord Pleanála will be filled; when a qualified architect will be appointed to the board in view of the necessity to have architectural and urban design expertise on the board; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1677/12]
188 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will appoint an architect to the board of An Bord Pleanála in view of the fact that there is no one with architectural, urban design or conservation expertise currently sitting on the board that deals with planning appeals; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1751/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 180 and 188 together.
The procedures for the appointment by the Minister of ordinary members of An Bord Pleanála are set out in sections 104-106 of the Planning and Development Acts 2000-2010. Nominating bodies that are specified in the associated Planning and Development Regulations are requested to nominate persons. The persons appointed by the Minister are from panels formed from these nominations. The Board is not intended to be an expert body as such (it has experts to advise it) but should be a balanced group of people with diverse backgrounds who can reach a considered view on issues.
The statutory process of filling a number of the current vacancies on the Board is now underway and the first of the new appointments will be made in the coming weeks. Cognisance will be given when appointing new board members to the balance of skill sets and expertise required at Board level for the effective discharge of An Bord Pleanála's complex and wide ranging functions.
181 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will direct the Dormant Accounts Board to compile and publish a report which will identify each of organisations, schemes, projects and so on, across all Votes and subheads to which dormant accounts funding was awarded in the years 2010 and 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1678/12]
In compliance with the Dormant Accounts (Amendment) Act 2005, details of all the organisations that have been awarded Dormant Accounts Funding to date are available on my Department's website (www.environ.ie). This material includes the schemes and projects across all votes and sub-heads to which Dormant Accounts Funding was awarded in the years 2010 and 2011.
182 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if consideration will be given to making a concession in the household charge to home owners who paid high stamp duty on house purchases both first time and second hand before the collapse in house values and the reduction in stamp duty rates; if consideration will be given to providing tax credits to such persons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1693/12]
The Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 provides for a number of exemptions and waivers from payment of the household charge. The exemptions from payment of the household charge are:
Residential properties that are part of the trading stock of a business and have not been sold or been the source of any income since construction;
Residential property owned by a Minister of the Government, a housing authority or the Health Service Executive;
Voluntary and co-operative housing;
Residential property to which commercial rates apply;
Residential property owned by a charity or a discretionary trust; and
Residential property which an owner has vacated due to long-term mental or physical infirmity (e.g. elderly person that has moved into a nursing home).
Two waivers apply for:
Owners of residential property entitled to mortgage interest supplement; and
Owners of houses in certain unfinished housing estates.
The legislation does not provide for an exemption or waiver from payment of the household charge in respect of persons who paid stamp duty in recent years and I have no proposals in this regard. Tax credits are a matter for my colleague, the Minister for Finance.
183 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will instruct each of the city and county managers to compile in 2012 a comprehensive register of estate management companies in each of their functional areas; if he will collect and publish figures on the numbers of households paying management charges; if he is satisfied that the services provided by estate management companies to residents are of a reasonable standard and are proportionate to the estate management costs levied by such companies; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1697/12]
My Department has no function in relation to the operation of property management companies. The Multi Unit Developments Act 2011 which falls under the remit of my colleague, the Minister for Justice and Equality, regulates the management and operation of such companies.
184 Deputy Patrick O’Donovan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will provide a status report on a scheme (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1703/12]
In April 2009 a proposal by Clúid Housing Association to provide eleven voluntary housing units at Ardagh was submitted for funding under my Department's Capital Loan and Subsidy Scheme (CLSS). Due to the high level of commitments at that time it was not possible to approve the proposal. A decision was subsequently made in 2010 to discontinue the CLSS.
Approved housing bodies may put forward proposals to meet housing need under my Department's Social Housing Leasing Initiative and the Capital Advance Leasing Facility. It is open to Clúid Housing Association to consider this approach with regard to meeting housing need at Ardagh.
185 Deputy Nicky McFadden asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if a person (details supplied) will be liable to pay both the household charge and second home tax in respect of the same property; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1744/12]
The €200 charge on non-principal private residences is payable by the owners of private rented accommodation, holiday homes and other non-principal residences. The most important exemption under the Local Government (Charges) Act 2009 is for a person's sole or main residence. However, any one individual can have only one such residence.
In a situation where a person owns a property in which he or she does not live and his or her sole or main residence is a rented property, there would be a liability for the non-principal private residence charge in respect of the property owned by the person, unless it is otherwise exempted under section 4 of the Act.
Under the Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011, owners of residential property are liable to the €100 household charge. This liability extends to property owners with a liability to pay the charge on non-principal private residences.
186 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total number of properties expected to be registered under the household charge scheme. [1749/12]
Section 5 of the Local Government (Household Charge) Act 2011 requires an owner of a residential property who, on a liability date, is liable to pay a household charge, or is entitled to a waiver from payment of a household charge under section 4, to provide to the relevant local authority a declaration stating that he or she is so liable or so entitled, as the case may be.
The total number of properties registered will be dependent on the numbers of residential property owners that declare a liability for the household charge. It is estimated that there are some 1.6 million residential properties liable to the charge.
187 Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total amount collected under the household charge scheme each day since the 1 January 2012. [1750/12]
The daily amounts paid or mandated by direct debit up to and including the 10th of January 2012 are set out in the table.
|
Year |
Amount |
|
01/01/2012 |
€20,900 |
|
02/01/2012 |
€25,300 |
|
03/01/2012 |
€46,200 |
|
04/01/2012 |
€942,100 |
|
05/01/2012 |
€624,000 |
|
06/01/2012 |
€386,200 |
|
07/01/2012 |
€151,700 |
|
08/01/2012 |
€156,900 |
|
09/01/2012 |
€294,400 |
|
10/01/2012 |
€214,400 |
189 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if a property tax will apply to vacant residential properties, that are not rented and are up for sale. [1759/12]
It will be a matter for the Government to decide on the scope and application of the property tax to replace the interim household charge in due course.
190 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the position regarding the issuing of bin waivers for low income households; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1765/12]
The Programme for Government contains a commitment to introduce competitive tendering for household waste collection, under which service providers will bid to provide waste collection services in a given area, for a given period of time and to a guaranteed level of service.
A public consultation designed to inform the policy development process concluded in September 2011. A large number of responses were received from a broad spectrum of interests. As one might expect, a consensus is not apparent and, on almost all of the relevant issues, a considerable breadth of opinion was expressed including in relation to the issue of waiver schemes. All of the responses received, in addition to a summary document, are available on my Department's website.
I expect to be in a position to submit final proposals in relation to household waste collection to Government early this year. All policy proposals will be carefully considered by Government and will take account of the full range of issues and perspectives. The issue of waivers for low income households will be among the issues for consideration in this context.
191 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government further to Parliamentary Questions Nos. 139 of 9 November 2011 and 221 of 15 December 2011, if his attention has been drawn to the fact that Dublin City Council local authority mortgage holders have received no communication from the council on the interest rate cuts and that some mortgage holders are reporting that their monthly payments have not decreased; if he will ensure that these and future cuts are passed on immediately, uniformly and in a transparent manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1835/12]
As outlined in the reply to Question 221 of 15 December 2011, the Board of the Housing Finance Agency decided at its meeting on 9 December 2011 to pass on in full the rate cut of 0.25%, announced the previous day by the European Central Bank, to those local authority borrowers with variable interest rate mortgages. As a result of this latest decrease local authority borrowers will enjoy a differential of well over 1.5% below the average variable rate in the wider mortgage market. The new rate will take effect from 1 February 2012. The November rate cut announced by the ECB on 3 November 2011, has already been passed on to local authority variable mortgage holders. In responding to future movements in ECB rates, the Agency will give careful consideration, on each occasion, to the fluctuating relationship between its lending rates and the cost of funds.
192 Deputy Michael McCarthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the reason behind a recent increase in landfill levy rates; when the increase was introduced; the amount by which the levy was increased; the current levy rate; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1863/12]
Ireland's current reliance on landfill as the principal method of managing our waste is unsustainable. The landfill levy is chargeable on waste presented for disposal at landfill facilities and is designed to encourage a shift away from landfill to waste management practices which are higher in the internationally accepted waste hierarchy. In addition, Ireland must comply with challenging targets under Directive 1999/31/EC with regard to the diversion of biodegradable municipal waste from landfill or face potential fines for non-compliance. Landfill gate fees have fallen in recent years, thus undermining the dissuasive effect of the levy.
Therefore, the landfill levy was increased by €20 per tonne (from €30 per tonne to €50 per tonne) with effect from 1 September 2011. This increase is intended to send a strong price signal to the producers, collectors and managers of waste that the current reliance on landfill cannot be sustained. Further increases in the landfill levy are also planned, to €65 per tonne in July this year and to €75 per tonne in July 2013. I hope to see significantly improved levels of prevention, recovery, recycling and reuse of waste as a consequence of these increases.
193 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when he expects to publish a Bill on mental capacity; if he intends that Ireland will ratify the UN Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities following the publication of this legislation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1658/12]
The Government Legislation Programme, published on 11 January 2012, indicates that the Mental Capacity Bill is expected to be published in this session. The Bill will reform the law on mental capacity taking into account the Law Reform Commission's Report on Vulnerable Adults and the Law. The enactment of new mental capacity legislation is one of the core elements of the remaining work to be completed towards ratifying the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.
It is the Government's intention to ratify the UN Convention as quickly as possible, taking into account the need to ensure that all necessary legislative and administrative requirements under the Convention are being met.
194 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has given consideration to issues relating to the former Bethany Home, Dublin and the practicality of addressing the issues arising from the home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1680/12]
The Government has charged the inter-departmental committee with clarifying any State interaction with the Magdalen institutions and producing a narrative detailing such interaction. There are presently no plans to expand its brief beyond those institutions.
I can assure the Deputy however that consideration is being given to issues related to the former Bethany Home and the appropriateness and practicality of such issues being addressed in a satisfactory manner at the present time.
195 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to transfer any current function and related staff from the Department of Justice and Equality offices in Killarney, County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1709/12]
My Department operates a Financial Shared Services Centre in Killarney, County Kerry. It provides payroll, pensions, financial management and other related support services to my Department, and to a number of other client organisations, including the Garda Síochána, the Courts Service, the Irish Prison Service, the Property Registration Authority and other Government Departments and Agencies. There are no plans involving the transfer of any current functions and related staff from Killarney.
196 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has had any contact with South Dublin County Council in respect of the decision of the council in the Fortunestown local area draft plan to include a site in Tallaght west for a Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1715/12]
In accordance with the provisions of the Garda Síochána Act 2005, decisions in relation to the opening of Garda stations are a matter, in the first instance, for the Garda Commissioner.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that they are not aware of any plans to provide a site for a Garda station at the location referred to by the Deputy. In addition, I have not had any contact with South Dublin County Council in relation to this matter.
197 Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has considered giving priority to applicants who are members of the Garda Reserve in any future recruitment drives; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1745/12]
Recruitment to An Garda Síochána is governed by Statutory Regulations, namely the Garda Síochána (Admission and Appointments) Regulations 1988/2005. These regulations incorporate the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) (Amendment) Regulations 2006 which allow the Public Appointments Service to give due recognition to any satisfactory service by a person as a reserve member of the Garda Síochána.
198 Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will quantify the number of marked patrol cars available for use in each of the Garda divisions as of 9 January, 2012; the number of marked patrol cars that have reached the 300,000 km limit in the past six months by division; the number of marked patrol cars that have been replaced by division in the same six months; the number of marked patrol cars by division that have in excess of 250,000 km clocked; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1746/12]
Decisions in relation to the provision and deployment of Garda transport are matters for the Garda Commissioner.
I am advised by the Garda authorities that provision has been made in the Garda Vote for 2012 to acquire new vehicles for An Garda Síochána and in that general context a Request for Tender is currently being developed in conjunction with the National Procurement Service. This is a matter which will be pursued in the light of An Garda Síochána's operational priorities and the availability of financial resources.
No new marked patrol cars were added to the Garda fleet during the last six months and the further information requested by the Deputy is contained in the table:
|
DIVISION (including DMR Traffic) |
MARKED PATROL CARSas at 9/1/12 |
MARKED PATROL CARS WITHDRAWNJul-Dec 11 |
MARKED PATROL CARS 250,000KM+as at 9/1/12 |
|
TOTAL |
683 |
71 |
165 |
|
CAVAN-MONAGHAN |
27 |
5 |
8 |
|
CLARE |
16 |
1 |
7 |
|
CORK CITY |
27 |
4 |
5 |
|
CORK NORTH |
21 |
0 |
9 |
|
CORK WEST |
27 |
7 |
5 |
|
DMR EAST |
14 |
2 |
3 |
|
DMR NORTH |
20 |
3 |
3 |
|
DMR NORTH CENTRAL |
15 |
1 |
2 |
|
DMR SOUTH |
16 |
0 |
3 |
|
DMR SOUTH CENTRAL |
18 |
1 |
4 |
|
DMR TRAFFIC |
13 |
1 |
2 |
|
DMR WEST |
29 |
4 |
6 |
|
DONEGAL |
37 |
3 |
6 |
|
GALWAY |
44 |
3 |
16 |
|
KERRY |
18 |
2 |
4 |
|
KILDARE |
24 |
7 |
6 |
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW |
20 |
2 |
7 |
|
LAOIS-OFFALY |
23 |
3 |
10 |
|
LIMERICK |
34 |
2 |
7 |
|
LOUTH |
20 |
0 |
4 |
|
MAYO |
30 |
1 |
6 |
|
MEATH |
28 |
1 |
6 |
|
ROSCOMMON-LONGFORD |
16 |
1 |
2 |
|
SLIGO-LEITRIM |
26 |
5 |
5 |
|
TIPPERARY |
26 |
3 |
9 |
|
WATERFORD |
24 |
2 |
5 |
|
WESTMEATH |
18 |
4 |
4 |
|
WEXFORD |
27 |
2 |
10 |
|
WICKLOW |
25 |
1 |
1 |
199 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when it is expected that matters regarding the entitlement to citizenship will be determined in the case of the child of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 15; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1818/12]
I refer the Deputy to my reply to Parliamentary Question No. 231 on 15th December, 2011. The case referred to has not yet received a hearing date and as the Deputy will be aware the scheduling of cases is a matter for the judiciary.
Reply to Parliamentary Question No. 231 of 15th December, 2011.
The legal issues that bear on the case referred to by the Deputy are the subject of an appeal to the Supreme Court in another preceding case and, as they are sub-judice, I am constrained as to any comment I can make on the matter.
200 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the extent to which a medical condition is being monitored in the case of a person (details supplied) currently serving a sentence in the Midlands Prison, Portlaoise, County Laois; if the person has received the required and regular medical attention in line with his or her condition; if the full extent of the condition has been determined; if and when the person is likely to be referred for further surgery or procedures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1820/12]
The Irish Prison Service provides general healthcare services for the assessment, treatment and care of prisoners comparable to those available in a community primary care setting and which are appropriate to a custodial environment. Prisoners are referred to external specialist services as clinically indicated by the prison doctor and referrals are on the same basis as for citizens in the general community covered by the GMS (Medical Card) Scheme.
I have been assured by the Irish Prison Service that the person referred to is receiving all appropriate medical care as required by his medical condition in Midlands Prison. However, as I am sure you are aware, medical confidentiality is a time-honoured principle of professional healthcare ethics and accordingly I am not at liberty to divulge information relating to aperson's medical records.
201 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the progress made to date and-or procedures to be followed in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare who is resident here for the past 13 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1821/12]
I am informed by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) that the person concerned was granted residence for 5 years on the basis of EU Treaty Rights on 21 October 2003. The person in question was subsequently granted a further 5 year period under EU Treaty Rights on 24 November 2007.
The current position is that, following the granting of permission on 24 November 2007, the individual's passport was stamped with the appropriate permission (Stamp 4EUFam) by the Garda National Immigration Bureau (GNIB) until the passport's expiry date of 30 July 2011. On the 18 August 2011 the individual attended the GNIB seeking to have the remainder of his permission registered and to receive a further residence card. The individual, however, failed to present a valid passport to GNIB for registration and was informed that he must do so before he can be granted the remainder of his permission. To date the individual in question has failed to present a valid passport to GNIB.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
202 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if and when citizenship or residency status is likely to be determined in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1822/12]
The person concerned is a failed asylum applicant. Arising from the refusal of her asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 4th February, 2011, that the then Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against her. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the provisions of the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006.
The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection. 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 a final decision is made. 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 as the person concerned has no current right of residency in the State, the issue of an application for Irish citizenship does not arise at this time.
I should remind the Deputy that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the 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.
203 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if, further to Parliamentary Question No. 439 of 15 of November 2011, he will carry out or cause to be carried out a review of the circumstances relating to the application for refugee, asylum, residency or other status in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 24 in view of the fact that they appear to have proceeded in fashion other than that in the person's best interests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1823/12]
I refer the Deputy to my detailed Reply — set out beneath — to his earlier Parliamentary Question, No. 439 of Tuesday, 15th November, 2011. The position is unchanged since then. The Deputy can be assured that the procedures followed, and to be followed, in the case of the person concerned are as set out in the relevant national asylum and immigration legislation and also take account of the State's international obligations in this area. As a result, I see no justification for any review of any of the actions taken to date in this case.
Parliamentary Question, No. 439 of Tuesday, 15th November, 2011
The person concerned applied for asylum on 26th January, 2010. In accordance with the provisions of Section 9 of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended), the person concerned was entitled to remain in the State until her application for asylum was decided.
On 2nd February, 2010, the person concerned applied to the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to voluntarily return to her country of origin. The person concerned subsequently applied for a student visa and the IOM closed its file on the case.
On 11th June, 2010, the person concerned withdrew her asylum application and was declared not to be a refugee on 16th June, 2010 by the Refugee Applications Commissioner, in accordance with section 13(2)(a)(b) of the Refugee Act 1996 (as amended).
Arising from the withdrawal and subsequent refusal of her asylum application, and in accordance with the provisions of Section 3 of the Immigration Act 1999 (as amended), the person concerned was notified, by letter dated 7th July, 2010, that the then Minister proposed to make a Deportation Order in respect of her. She was given the options, to be exercised within 15 working days, of leaving the State voluntarily, of consenting to the making of a Deportation Order or of making representations to the Minister setting out the reasons why a Deportation Order should not be made against her. In addition, she was notified of her entitlement to apply for Subsidiary Protection in accordance with the provisions of the European Communities (Eligibility for Protection) Regulations 2006.
The person concerned submitted an application for Subsidiary Protection. When consideration of this application has been completed, the person concerned will be notified in writing of the outcome. In assessing the application, regard will be given to the specific claims made by the applicant as measured against objective, reputable, up to date information relating to the applicant's country of origin.
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 a final decision is made. Once a decision has been made, this decision and the consequences of the decision will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
204 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 249 of 15 December 2011, if he will examine the case for residency and citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare, in view of the fact that the applicant has lived here in the company of his parent for the past 13 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1824/12]
The person concerned was granted permission to remain in the State, initially on Stamp 2A (student) conditions and subsequently on Stamp 4 conditions. The decision to grant him permission to remain had regard for the fact that his mother had been granted permission to remain in the State, in 2002, based on her parentage of an Irish born citizen child. The Stamp 4 based permission to remain granted to the person concerned expired on 5th October, 2011, the expiry date on his Passport.
The person concerned would appear to have left the State without first having secured a re-entry visa. Upon receipt of an enquiry as to how the person concerned could re-enter the State, he was advised, via a family member who made enquiries on his behalf, that the only option available in such circumstances was that a fresh visa application be made, from outside the State.
A visa application for the person concerned was received in the Visa Office, Dublin on the 14th November, 2011. Given the circumstances, the application was dealt with in an expeditious manner. A Visa Officer considered the application and refused the granting of the visa sought on 15th November, 2011 for the following reasons:
(i) There was insufficient documentation submitted in support of the application. The Visa Officer noted that a detailed explanation was not provided as to why the person concerned travelled outside the State without a valid Garda registration card or a re-entry visa and
(ii) There was an inconsistency noted in that the passport submitted by the applicant had not been signed.
As is the case with all refused visa applications, the refusal decision, and the reasons for that decision, were sent to the applicant in writing. In addition, and in common with all visa applications refused in Dublin, the refusal decision and the reasons for that decision were posted promptly on-line, in a secure format.
It is open to the person concerned to submit an appeal within two months of the date of refusal, in this case before 15th January, 2012. Guidelines on the visa appeals process are available on the Website of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie).
It would appear that the person concerned proceeded to re-enter the State illegally i.e. without a valid visa. It would appear also that the person concerned wishes to have his permission to remain renewed. If he wishes to have his case formally considered, he must make a formal written renewal request to my Department c/o The Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS), PO Box 10003, Dublin 1.
Upon receipt of any such renewal application, the case of the person concerned will be examined by the relevant officials in my Department. Once a renewal decision has been made, this decision, and the consequences of the decision, will be conveyed in writing to the person concerned.
I understand also that the person concerned submitted an application for a Certificate of Naturalisation in March, 2010. On examination of the application submitted, it was determined that the person concerned did not meet the statutory residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956 (as amended). The person concerned was notified to this effect by letter dated 14th July, 2010.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
205 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the procedures to date and yet to be followed in the matter of examination of entitlement to citizenship in the case of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 6; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1825/12]
An application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to in the Deputy's Question was received in the Citizenship Division of the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) in June 2006.
On examination of the application submitted it was determined that the person in question did not meet the statutory residency requirements as set out in the Irish Nationality and Citizenship Act 1956, as amended. The person concerned was informed of this in a letter issued to him on 21 October, 2006.
Section 15 of that Act provides that the Minister may, in his absolute discretion, grant an application for a certificate of naturalisation provided certain statutory conditions are fulfilled. The conditions are that the applicant must—
be of full age.
be of good character.
have had a period of one year's continuous residency in the State immediately before the date of application and, during the eight years immediately preceding that period, have had a total residence in the State amounting to four years.
have, before a judge of the District Court in open court, in a citizenship ceremony or in such manner as the Minister, for special reasons, allows—
(i) made a declaration, in the prescribed manner, of fidelity to the nation and loyalty to the State, and
(ii) undertaken to faithfully observe the laws of the State and to respect its democratic values.
In the context of naturalisation, certain periods of residence in the State are excluded. These include—
periods of residence in respect of which an applicant does not have permission to remain in the State.
periods granted for the purposes of study.
periods granted for the purposes of seeking recognition as a refugee within the meaning of the Refugee Act, 1996.
It is open to any individual to lodge an application for citizenship if and when they are in a position to meet the prescribed statutory requirements. Officials in the Citizenship Division inform me that they have no record of any further application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person concerned.
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.
206 Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Defence if it is the case that Irish Air Corps pilots can retire after 15 years service and receive a pension payable from the date the pilot leaves the service; the number of persons who currently benefit from this arrangement and are in receipt of a pension before normal retirement age; the cost to the State on an annual basis; his plans to review the current practice; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1732/12]
Under the pre-April 2004 Defence Forces Pensions Schemes, commissioned officers in the Permanent Defence Force (PDF) — including Air Corps pilots — may qualify for payment of pension and lump sum immediately on retirement after 12 years' pensionable service, regardless of age. However, these arrangements have undergone fundamental reform. This process of reform began with the previous Government's acceptance of the broad thrust of the recommendations of the Commission on Public Service Pensions, including the pension terms to apply to future new entrants across the public service generally. Under the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions)Act 2004, revised occupational pension arrangements apply to all military personnel — including Air Corps pilots — who join the PDF as new entrants on or after 1 April 2004. Their pension scheme terms provide for a “minimum pension age” of 50. This means that pensions and gratuities will not normally be payable immediately on retirement unless the person serves to age 50. Where leaving the PDF before age 50, benefits are not payable immediately but are “preserved” and payable from age 60.
As part of further reforms, a new single pension scheme will apply to all future new entrants joining the public service, including the PDF. It is expected that this new single scheme will come into operation in 2012. As provided in the relevant Bill published in September 2011 by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, the new scheme will include a move to calculating retirement benefits based on career average earnings rather than on final salary. For such new entrant PDF personnel, it is proposed that the current minimum pension age of 50 will continue to apply.
It should be noted that the requirement for certain groups e.g. military, police and fire-fighters, to have enhanced pension arrangements together with earlier retirement ages is internationally accepted in the public service context. Given the robust nature of their duties such groups are required to retire earlier than the norm and, as such, have traditionally had accelerated pension arrangements.
With regard to the numbers of retired Air Corps officers in this category and their associated pension costs, the relevant detailed information sought by the Deputy is not readily available. However, I have asked that a search of records be undertaken in both the Department and the Defence Forces to determine the extent to which the information sought by the Deputy can be made available and once this is complete I will revert further to him in the matter.
207 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Defence his plans to pardon Irish soldiers who fought with the Allies during World War II; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1764/12]
This is a very complicated issue and covers a wider range of individuals other than those who deserted to join the British Army during World War II. Having regard to the wider dimensions of the issue, including for those who were actually tried by Court Martial for desertion during the Emergency and thereafter, the matter has been referred to the Attorney General's Office for advice. The matter will require some further research by that office and detailed consideration of the wider implications of any proposed course of action. I am awaiting the advice of the Attorney General and will consider the matter further at that stage. I expect to receive that advice shortly.
208 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a REP scheme 4 payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1801/12]
The person named commenced REPS 4 in June 2008 and received payments for the first three years of the contract.
REPS 4 is a measure under the current 2007-13 Rural Development Programme and accordingly is subject to EU Regulations which require detailed administrative checks on all applications to be completed before any payments can issue. Those administrative checks highlighted a discrepancy leading to an over-claim in relation to Natura land. As a consequence, a reduction penalty will apply to the payment to the person named. A letter outlining the nature of this penalty will issue shortly and, in the meantime, the claim will be processed further and payment will issue shortly.
209 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the total sum expended by the Health Service Executive in each of the years 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2010 in the provision of those supports, envisaged for transfer to the yet to be established child and family support agency; the directly attributable HSE management and staff costs covering these services in each of the specified years, being a part of the totals above; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1707/12]
I established the Task Force on the Child and Family Support Agency in September 2011 under the chairmanship of Ms Maureen Lynott. The Task Force will advise my Department in regard to the necessary transition programme to establish a Child and Family Support Agency, and will base its work on best practice in child welfare, family support and public administration; consistent with the Government's public sector reform agenda.
The Task Force has been asked to advise on the appropriate service responsibilities for the Agency during the course of its work from amongst those within the HSE that relate to children and family services, or from within the relevant operational responsibilities of my Department or its agencies. Resource allocation for the new Agency will largely be determined by the services for which it will have responsibility; in terms of both direct provision and commissioning. The Task Force will review the existing budgets, staffing and other corporate supports in respect of the services transferring. Further, the Task Force has been asked to assess and propose, within the resources available for the transferring services, a plan for resource and staffing configuration which takes full account of the overall corporate vision, indicators of need (geographically and by service) and the objectives of public sector reform and modernisation.
I am firmly committed to the transformation of Ireland's child protection and welfare services. Central to this is delivering transparent and accountable management and budgeting. The establishment for the first time of a dedicated budget sub-head within the HSE Vote for children and families is an important part of the ongoing ‘change agenda', which is aimed at strengthening organisation capacity, business processes and systems, and will pave the way for the transition to the new Child and Family Support Agency in 2013. Management of these services will be led by the National Director (Mr Gordon Jeyes) who already has a very close working relationship with me and my Department. These developments are an integral part of preparations for the new stand alone Agency.
The full remit of child and family services that will transfer to the new Agency has not yet been decided. In this regard, I look forward to receiving the report of the Task Force's work, which will inform preparations for the new Agency, including the drafting of legislation. For the purposes of the information requested it is assumed that the Deputy is referring to HSE expenditure in the area of children and family services. The HSE reports, in its annual service plan, high level financial information by care group on estimated expenditure levels for the previous year. The estimated expenditure levels for the period 2008-2010 are as follows:—
2010 €601m (source: HSE Service Plan 2011);
2009 €575m (source: HSE Service Plan 2010);
2008 €570m (source: HSE Service Plan 2009).
An outturn in respect of 2007 is not readily available as financial information was presented in regional and not care group format at that time. The reported expenditure levels do not distinguish between pay and non-pay elements. Accordingly I have asked the HSE to examine the matter and to reply directly to the Deputy.
210 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her plans to address the significant increase in calls to the Childline helpline on Christmas Day; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1690/12]
Childline is a confidential listening service for children and young people operated by the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children (ISPCC). The service is available by telephone, online and mobile texting and is operated by professionally trained ISPCC staff and volunteers. The ISPCC reported that Childline received 1,387 calls and messages on Christmas day and that 85 ISPCC volunteers gave freely of their time to listen and support children who needed to talk to someone.
I have no precise information regarding the breakdown of the nature of the calls received by Childline on Christmas Day. It is difficult therefore to make any assessment of the issues raised. However, I have asked the Health Service Executive, as the body charged with statutory responsibility for child welfare and protection matters and which has an established relationship with the ISPCC, to liaise directly with the ISPCC on this issue with a view to identifying any particular areas of concern arising from the level of contact made with Childline on Christmas Day.
211 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of unprocessed reports of suspected abuse of children across each of the child protection services areas at 2011 year end; the number of these in each area that suggest child sexual abuse; the date of first report of the longest known such cases by area; the average waiting time by area for the processing of all reports; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1706/12]
As this is a service matter, I have asked the Health Service Executive for the information in question which I will forward to the Deputy.
212 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 471 of 27 September 2011, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [1811/12]
I have asked the Health Service Executive to update the Deputy as a matter of urgency.
213 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 472 of 27 September 2011, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [1812/12]
I have asked the Health Service Executive to update the Deputy as a matter of urgency.
214 Deputy Caoimhghín Ó Caoláin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs further to Parliamentary Question No. 146 of 3 November 2011, when a reply will issue from the Health Service Executive. [1813/12]
My Department has sought the information from the HSE requested by the Deputy on the number of children who have left care this year. I will provide the Deputy with the information when it becomes available.
215 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of unaccompanied children in State care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1864/12]
216 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of unaccompanied children who have not had personal guardians appointed to them; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1865/12]
217 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of unaccompanied children who went missing from State care in 2011; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1866/12]
218 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of unaccompanied children who are currently missing from State care; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1867/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 215 to 218, inclusive, together.
As these are service matters, I have asked the Health Service Executive to respond directly to the Deputy with the most up-to-date information.
219 Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Health if he will seek to have urgently required surgery expedited in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1646/12]
I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.
As a priority, public hospitals were instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they had no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. I can confirm that the vast majority of hospitals achieved this objective. During 2012 the SDU will support hospitals in the delivery of a 9 month maximum wait time for inpatient or daycase surgery
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.
220 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the progress made to date in implementing the programme for Government commitment to put the standards for residential care in respect of persons with disabilities on a statutory footing; if this will extend to those providing home care facilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1647/12]
As the Deputy will be aware, residential services for people with disabilities are currently unregulated. This is acknowledged as a matter of concern. The legislative framework for the regulation of these services is provided for by the Health Act 2007, which envisages a role for the Health Information and Quality Authority, HIQA, in this regard. Part 7 of the Act outlines the role of the Office of the Chief Inspector of Social Services in terms of registering and inspecting designated centres for people with disabilities.
HIQA has prepared and published standards for this sector, which outline what is expected of a provider of services and what a person with a disability, his or her family, and the public can expect to receive from residential care services. They clearly set out what a quality safe residential service for people with disabilities should be and support the delivery of person-centred care in this sector.
The Government is committed to ensuring that vulnerable people with disabilities in residential services are safeguarded and protected, and that their quality of life is enhanced. With this in mind, the current Programme for Government commits to mandatory standards for this sector and inspections of services by HIQA. As I announced on 16 June last, discussions have begun between the Department of Health and HIQA to progress this commitment. Given the complex nature of residential service provision for people with disabilities, ranging from congregated settings to dispersed housing in the community, careful consideration is being given to designing the most appropriate regulatory model and this work is ongoing. A target date of January 2013 has been provisionally set for the commencement of the proposed regulatory scheme.
Part 7 of the Health Act 2007 does not provide for this arrangement to be extended to home care facilities.
221 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the progress made to date in implementing the programme for Government commitment to introducing personal budgets for persons accessing disability services; when it is expected personal budgets will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1648/12]
The funding of disability services by the Department of Health is the subject of a detailed Value for Money and Policy Review as part of the Government's Value for Money Reviews for the period 2009 to 2011.
As part of the overall VFM review, a separate Expert Reference Group on Disability Policy was established to look specifically at existing disability policy and whether it needs to be changed to better meet the expectations and objectives of people with disabilities. As part of this review, a public consultation process on existing disability services was also undertaken which confirmed that people with disabilities and their families, more than anything else, are looking for more choice in the services they receive and more control over how they access them.
The report proposes a very significant reframing of disability services towards a model of individualised supports, underpinned by mainstreaming of all public services. On this basis, State funding would be allocated based on an independent assessment of individual needs. Following the needs assessments, individual support plans would then be drawn up and individualised budgets allocated from which the supports and services needed would be purchased.
A number of mechanisms are proposed to achieve this, including a broker system where the person has the choice and control but the broker administers the budget and commissions supports and services on their behalf, or direct payments where the person manages the budget and purchases the supports themselves.
The Group's final report has already been the subject of both internal consultation within the Department of Health and external consultation with other Government Departments. The Report was also released in October last for the public and interested parties to have their say on the future direction of disability policy in this country.
The Department received 94 submissions from individuals and organisations. The submissions from the public consultation on the Disability Review are currently being considered by officials in the Department. Following this exercise, it is my intention to look at the VFM Review, which is nearing completion, and the Disability Review together and in conjunction with Minister Reilly to ensure that proposals for the future of disability services are brought to Government.
222 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on the current review of disability spending, and details on the group of persons conducting the review; the manner in which they were appointed; the remit of the review group; the timeframe for the completion of the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1649/12]
The Value for Money and Policy Review (VFM&PR) of the Efficiency and Effectiveness of Disability Services in Ireland is being undertaken in the context of the Government's Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative 2009-2011 and is due to be completed in the first quarter of 2012. The review, which encompasses statutory and non-statutory service providers, is assessing how well current services for people with disabilities are meeting their objectives and how the future planning and development of services should be supported and delivered.
As part of the overall VFM review, a separate Expert Reference Group on Disability Policy was established to look specifically at existing disability policy and whether it needs to be changed to better meet the expectations and objectives of people with disabilities. The Group's final report has been the subject of internal consultation within the Department of Health and with other Government Departments. During November 2011 it was released for public consultation and submissions received on foot of this are now being considered.
On completion, it is my intention to look at both reports together and in conjunction with Minister Reilly to ensure that proposals for the future of our disability services are brought to Government for its consideration and publication in due course.
A Steering Group has been established to oversee the VFM&PR. The Steering Group is chaired by an independent chairperson, Mr. Laurence Crowley, and has two other independent members, as well as members drawn from the Disability Sector, Department of Health, the Department of Finance, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the HSE. Members of the group were appointed in line with the Department of Finance Value for Money and Policy Review Initiative 2009-2011 guidelines. The Members of the Steering Group are:
|
Membership of the Steering Group |
|
|
Laurence Crowley |
Chairperson |
|
Gerard Flood |
External Member |
|
James O’Dwyer |
External Member |
|
Bairbre Nic Aongusa, Director, Office for Disability & Mental Health, Department of Health (DoH) |
|
|
Jim Breslin, Assistant Secretary, Finance, Performance Evaluation, Information & Research, DoH(Substitute Tracey Conroy) |
|
|
Mr. Brendan Broderick, Chief Executive Officer, Sisters of Charity of Jesus and Mary Services |
|
|
Mr. John Dolan, Chief Executive Officer, Disability Federation of Ireland |
|
|
Colm Desmond, Office for Disability & Mental Health, DoHC (Replaced Dermot Ryan, November 2009) |
Lead Reviewer & Project Team Lead |
|
James O’Grady, Policy Advisor, Office for Disability & Mental Health, DoHC. (Resigned end 2010) |
Lead on Policy Review |
|
Tom Heffernan, Sectoral Policy Unit, Department of Finance (Replaced Patricia Purtill mid 2010) |
|
|
Dr. Cate Hartigan, Assistant National Director, Disability Services, HSE (Replaced Ger Crowley HSE, February 2012) |
|
|
Yvonne O’Neill, Assistant National Director, HSE VFM Directorate |
|
|
Eoin Dormer, Central Expenditure Evaluation Unit, Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (replaced Cormac Gilhooley February 2010) |
|
|
Malachy Corcoran, Office for Disability & Mental Health |
Secretary |
The Terms of Reference for the review are as follows:
1. Identify the objectives, which have pertained to date, for the disability services programme in the health sector.
2. Examine the current validity of those objectives and their compatibility with the overall strategy of the Department of Health, the National Disability Strategy and Towards 2016.
3. Define the outputs associated with the programme activity and identify the level and trend of those outputs.
4. Identify any issues with the availability of information regarding current outputs and outcomes.
5. Examine the extent to which the programme's objectives have been achieved, and comment on the effectiveness with which they have been achieved.
6. Identify the level and trend of costs and staffing resources associated with the disability services and thus comment on the efficiency with which it has achieved its objectives. Compare overall costs, including wage costs and non-pay costs, across the sector [both statutory and non-statutory].
7. Having regard to the range of providers of disability services, examine whether there is scope to minimise overheads, including administrative costs, management structures, research, advertising, profile-building, and infrastructure costs.
8. Evaluate the degree to which the objectives warrant the allocation of public funding on a current and ongoing basis and examine the scope for alternative policy or organisational approaches to achieving these objectives on a more efficient and/or effective basis.
9. Specify potential future performance indicators that might be used to better monitor the performance of the disability services programme.
10. A final robust report containing findings and recommendations in relation to TORs 1 to 9 above.
223 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the amount spent by the State in providing services for persons with disabilities for each of the years 2007 to 2011, inclusive; the amount which was paid to private service providers for this purpose in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1650/12]
224 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the level of consultation undertaken between him and private service providers for persons with disabilities to ensure that value for money is obtained; the basis on which private service providers are evaluated; if he is able to track the amount spent on service provision for the end user; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1651/12]
225 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the mechanisms available to him to prevent an unnecessary duplication of services, among disability service providers serving the same catchment area; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1652/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 223 to 225, inclusive, together.
Specialist disability services are provided in a variety of community and residential settings in partnership with service users, their families and carers, and a range of statutory, non-statutory, voluntary and community groups. Some services are delivered directly by the Health Service Executive (HSE) and include basic health services as well as assessment, rehabilitation, community based care and residential care. Most specialist disability services are provided by voluntary organisations with funding from the HSE. The integral role of the non-statutory, voluntary and community groups is of particular relevance in the disability sector. These agencies provide a very significant and broad range of services in partnership with and on behalf of the HSE.
The statutory basis for this is Sections 38 and 39 of the Health Act 2004, which is now the primary legislative provision under which funding is made to non-statutory bodies in the State by the HSE. There are over 500 diverse voluntary providers delivering disability services on behalf of the State. However the core group of providers which deliver the majority of residential, day, respite and personal assistants services amount to roughly 75 organisations. Arising out of a C&AG Report in this area the HSE introduced a new governance framework in 2009. The Service Level Arrangement or Grant Aid Agreement between the HSE and the Service provider governs the funding relationship between the relevant bodies and formalises a relationship between both parties which seeks to address the needs of each in an open way. It ensures that robust and equitable agreements are put in place based on a formal specification of services to be provided in return for funding and agree clearly defined service levels, outcomes and performance indicators.
The HSE spends approximately €1.5 billion on specialist disability services through the arrangements outlined above and, in this context I have asked the HSE to answer the specific queries you have raised and to reply to you directly.
226 Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Health the position regarding an application for a hip replacement in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1685/12]
I am determined to address the issues which cause unacceptable delays in patients receiving treatment in our hospitals. In this regard I have established the Special Delivery Unit (SDU), which will work to unblock access to acute services by dramatically improving the flow of patients through the system, and by streamlining waiting lists, including referrals from GPs. The SDU is working closely with its partner agencies — mainly the HSE and the NTPF.
As a priority, public hospitals were instructed to ensure that, by the end of 2011, they had no patients waiting more than 12 months for treatment. I can confirm that the vast majority of hospitals achieved this objective. During 2012 the SDU will support hospitals in the delivery of a 9 month maximum wait time for inpatient or day-case surgery
As this is a service matter, it has been referred to the HSE for direct reply. Should the patient's general practitioner consider that the patient's condition warrants an earlier appointment, he/she would be in the best position to take the matter up with the consultant and facility involved.
227 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health if he will address the situation in County Kerry whereby victims of sexual assault and rape have to face the long journey of travelling to Cork, by making the necessary funding available as a matter of urgency for the provision of a dedicated sexual assault treatment unit at Kerry General Hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1692/12]
The sexual assault treatment unit (SATU) for the Cork and Kerry region is located in the South Infirmary Victoria University Hospital Cork. The provision of the service at a regional level was based on the sustainability of the service provision and ensuring that the skills, experience and training required by the clinical staff should be at a level which would be appropriate from a legal perspective when and if such cases come before the courts. A national review of the Sexual Assault Treatment Services undertaken in 2006 (O'Shea Report) indicated that the unit available for the Cork/Kerry area was seen as sufficient to meet the needs of the region.
I have been advised by the HSE South that a revenue provision of €100K funding for sexual assault treatment services in Kerry was provided and they have confirmed that this funding is incorporated into the Emergency Department's budget at Kerry General Hospital where victims of such violence will frequently present. The Emergency Department at Kerry General Hospital, provided on a 24/7 basis at the hospital, is often the first point of contact for such victims and where appropriate clinical care can be provided when necessary.
Management of Kerry General Hospital have had a number of engagements with the Kerry Rape Crisis Centre with regards to the services and this communication will continue to ensure best practice is followed within the available resources.
In the context of the current financial climate, the HSE is focused on maintaining the current level and responsiveness of these critical services.
228 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Health the disciplinary procedures that are being taken against hospital consultants who did not sign off on health insurance claim forms in a timely manner, resulting in the loss of €76 million to the State; if he will consider pursuing the individual consultants for these losses where negligence occurred; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1699/12]
There is no explicit contractual requirement that medical consultants sign off on health insurance claim forms within an agreed timeframe. However, Consultant Contract 1997 provides that a consultant will co-operate with the employing authority in the collection of maintenance fees, while Consultant Contract 2008 provides that consultants are to work within the framework of the hospital/agency's service plan and to ensure that functions are undertaken in a manner that minimises possible disruptions in service. Where there is a delay in finalisation of claim forms the charges due to public hospitals are not lost. Receipt, however, is delayed. This impacts negatively on the hospital's cash flow and financial position.
While the HSE and voluntary hospitals recoup considerable sums from private health insurance companies in respect of private and semi-private treatment services provided to their members, lengthy delays often occur between the discharge of patients and the receipt of payment from the companies. This has led to an unacceptably high level of debtor days with a significant amount in fees outstanding. Some hospitals are much more efficient at collecting this income than others. It is intended that more hospitals will achieve the income collection standard of the better performing hospitals, and, as a result, a target of €50 million in accelerated income has been set for 2012.
I have already indicated my intention to have health service management engage with the consultant representative bodies to achieve efficiencies, productivity increases and reform under the Public Service Agreement. The timely completion of private patient claim forms is among the issues which I wish to see addressed in this context.
229 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health if he will report on his recent visit to Tallaght hospital, Dublin; the discussions he had with management and board in respect of funding and governance issues; his views on the concerns of the wider community in respect of the future of the Tallaght hospital; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1714/12]
Having been advised that the first meeting of the new interim Board of Tallaght hospital was taking place, I attended to offer my support and real encouragement to the Board and its new chairperson, Sir Keith Pearson. I discussed the important role the Board will play, not just in relation to the new governance arrangements in Tallaght but also in the context of the governance arrangements that may apply to many hospitals as part of the reform of our health services. I thanked the board members for taking on this role. I also thanked the outgoing Board and, in particular, the outgoing chairperson David Pierpoint and his deputy chair Mairead Shields who had given sterling service on the previous Board and who had brought Tallaght to this new and very promising place. I wished Sir Keith all the very best in his new endeavour and thanked him very much for giving of his time on a pro bono basis to such an important task.
I am aware of the concerns to which the Deputy refers, however I am convinced that with the new governance structure now in place, with the leadership of Sir Keith Pearson and the hospital's new CEO, Tallaght Hospital is now in a good position to face the challenges of the future. The new Board and the CEO are working closely with the HSE to take the necessary steps to address the financial and organisational issues at the hospital.
230 Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Health his plans to assist a voluntary organisation (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1719/12]
Under the HSE's National Cancer Control Programme (HSE-NCCP), cancer surgery and diagnosis are undergoing a process of consolidation into eight centres (and one satellite centre), while radiation oncology services are provided in a limited number of centres. Consequently, patients may need to travel for treatment. There are a number of systems of support in place for these patients including the HSE-NCCP's Travel2Care scheme. The HSE is also currently reviewing its policy in relation to eligibility for non-ambulance based transport services in order to ensure that a consistent policy is adopted nationally for these services.
231 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Health his views on the possibility of whether cuts to palliative care were contained in the health budget. [1757/12]
The HSE has statutory responsibility for the delivery of health and personal social services, and the question of funding specific care programmes, or individual non-statutory care providers, can only be addressed in the context of finalising the HSE Service Plan 2012. The allocation of funding across care groups, including Palliative Care, has yet to be agreed. As was the case in previous years, the Executive will engage with voluntary providers to discuss services levels for 2012, in line with resources available. A focus of such discussions will be to identify savings designed to have minimum effects on the provision of services to patients.
232 Deputy Eoghan Murphy asked the Minister for Health if he will consider the possibility of putting in place a director for mental health with budgetary authority and accountability. [1758/12]
Significantly the new system of governance will involve seven Directorates, including a separate Directorate for Mental Health which will have full responsibility and accountability in that area. In this context, my colleague Minister Reilly intends to bring forward detailed proposals at a later date for the re-organisation of the HSE at directorate, regional and local levels in a manner which facilitates a smooth transition from the current governance arrangements to the proposed new structures.
233 Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Minister for Health if he will provide an update on recent reports in the media that there is to be an increase in the health insurance levy; the anticipated impact this will have on incomes of families that are already facing increasing levels of charges for a number of services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1766/12]
Community rating, in principle, provides that everybody is charged the same premium for a particular health insurance plan, irrespective of age, gender and the current or likely future state of their health. The only exceptions to this rule relate to children less than 18 years of age and students in full time education.
Community rating therefore means that the level of risk that a particular consumer poses to an insurer does not directly affect the premium paid. It also means that premiums for younger or healthier lives are typically higher than their expected claims would require, whereas for older or less healthy lives, premiums are typically lower than the expected claims would require.
The Interim Scheme of Age-Related Tax Credits and Community Rating Levy was introduced in 2009 in order to provide direct support to community rating. It achieves this by way of a mechanism which provides for a cost subsidy from the young to the old. It works by allocating Tax Credits for persons in six age bands and funding this by the collection of an annual levy on health insurance companies based on the number of lives covered by policies underwritten by them. The scheme is designed to be Exchequer neutral and ensures that every customer has the benefit of a community rated health insurance premium.
The Scheme provides that health insurers receive higher premiums in respect of insuring older people, but that older people receive tax credits equal to the amount of the additional premium so that all people continue to pay the same amount for a given health insurance product. In this way community rating is maintained and insurers are partly compensated for the higher level of claims associated with older people.
Last month I was pleased to announce changes to the Interim Scheme which will help to make private health insurance more affordable for older people. With the agreement of the Minister for Finance, there will be extra age-related income tax credit for insured persons aged 60 years and over, from 1 January 2012, funded by an increase in the annual levy on health insurers based on the number of lives insured by them. The new rates will be included in the forthcoming Finance Bill.
The new rates are calculated to result in no overall increase in the total amount paid to health insurers by way of premiums and to spread the risk more evenly between the healthy and the less healthy, the old and the young. It is important to note that the levy on policies is not a revenue collecting mechanism for the Exchequer.
The Community Rating Levy, under the Interim Scheme is placed on private health insurance providers for each insured individual, and not on the individuals themselves. It is a matter for the companies as to the extent, if any, they pass the levy on to their clients. I welcome the announcements by both Aviva Healthcare and the VHI that they do not envisage passing an increase on to customers' premiums on foot of the revised rates of Age-Related Tax Credit and Community Rating Levy for 2012.
234 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1771/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
235 Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Health the position regarding a medical card in respect of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1772/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
236 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health in view of the failure over the past number of years by Galway primary community and continuing care to remain within budget and following the appointment of a super-manager for the Galway-Roscommon PCCC areas, if he will ensure that the budget for each county remains separate; the steps he is taking to protect the Roscommon service from any debt carry-over; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1775/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
237 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health the number of home help hours allocated in the 2011 service plan for County Roscommon; the corresponding allocation for home care packages; the end of year out turn in each case; the corresponding figures for 2012; the additional steps being taken to ensure the full uptake of this allocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1776/12]
238 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health the number of home help hours allocated in the 2011 service plan for County Leitrim; the corresponding allocation for home care packages; the end of year out-turn in each case; the corresponding figures for 2012; the additional steps being taken to ensure the full uptake of this allocation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1777/12]
239 Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Health the number of home help hours allocated in the 2011 service plan for County Galway; the corresponding allocation for home care packages; the end of year out-turn in each case; the corresponding figures for 2012; and the additional steps being taken to ensure the full uptake of this allocation. [1778/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 237 to 239, inclusive, together.
As these are service matters they have been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
240 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health if his attention has been drawn to a Health Information and Quality Authority report (details supplied) which states that many older persons were not given rehabilitation after suffering strokes and did not have adequate access to speech and language therapy; the steps the Health Service Executive is taking to ensure that similar problems do not occur in other HSE regions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1780/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.
241 Deputy John O’Mahony asked the Minister for Health the reason a person (details supplied) in County Mayo has not received a decision on their appeal for a medical card. [1800/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
242 Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Health the action being taken to deal with concerns outlined by doctors in the north east in relation to delays in processing medical card applications and also the reduction in out of hours services which occurred some months ago; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1803/12]
Any undue delay in the processing of medical card applications and reviews is a matter of serious concern to me and I have held detailed discussions with the Health Service Executive on this issue. I have asked the HSE for a report on each of the issues raised by the GPs mentioned in the question and this is being worked on at present. I will be communicating with the GPs concerned once this is complete.
I was particularly concerned at some of the reports in relation to medical card renewals. A medical card holder who genuinely engages with the review of their medical card should not have their entitlement withdrawn before that review is complete. The HSE is taking steps to ensure that cards are not withdrawn in such circumstances going forward.
The HSE will this month introduce a new medical card review process for persons aged 66 years or over. This will result in these reviews being based on a self-assessment review model, as currently operates for persons aged over 70. The HSE also plans to introduce this self assessment model for medical card holders aged under 66, who were granted their medical card on the basis of a means assessment. The HSE is also standardising eligibility review periods from two years to three years for people aged under 66 years, with a new four year eligibility review period for medical card holders aged 66 years or over.
In addition, from early February, the HSE will implement a new system that provides additional functionality to GPs to maintain the eligibility of their patients where a patient is going through the renewal process. This new system will also allow GPs to add details of newly born babies online.
These reforms should significantly reduce the administrative burden on medical card holders and the HSE, and contribute to a more efficient service. I am continuing to engage with the HSE on a range of other issues in relation to the processing of medical card applications.
In relation to out-of-hours services in the North East, the North East Doctor On-Call (NEDOC) Service has been in place for the past eleven years and is provided by GPs with appropriate supports from the HSE. In 2010, the Health Service Executive published a report entitled "National Review of GP Out of Hours' Services". This review identified 13 recommendations aimed at standardising the operation of GP out-of-hours co-operatives. Part of this standardisation resulted in the fees for GP out-of-hours services set by Regulation under the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act (2009) being applied to NEDOC, rather than the grant payment which applied prior to this. These GP out-of-hours fees now apply to all GP out-of-hours co-operatives.
In March 2011, NEDOC Ltd. put in place revised rotas which reduced the number of doctors on duty in each of the four treatment centres. From July to September 2011, the number of night time doctors was reduced from four to three — however, with the onset of winter and increased activity, the fourth night time doctor was re-instated from 1st October 2011, resulting in a night time doctor being available in each of the four treatment centres.
The HSE will continue to monitor the rostering arrangements put in place by NEDOC to ensure that a safe and effective level of GP rostering is in place to meet the demands of the service.
243 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Health if and when a medical card applied for several months ago is likely to issue in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1826/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply to the Deputy.
244 Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Health the position regarding the steps he has taken regarding the future of a hospital (details supplied) in County Wicklow; if he will appreciate the concerns of families of residents and the wider community in respect of the threatened closure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1836/12]
As this is a service matter it has been referred to the Health Service Executive for direct reply.However, the HSE has given assurances that they will engage fully in a local consultation process with all the stakeholders before any decision is taken in relation to the Community Nursing Unit in question.
245 Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Health further to Parliamentary Question No. 595 of 22 November 2011, the position regarding same; if there is a timeframe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1858/12]
I wish to advise the Deputy that the matter remains under consideration by the HSE and I shall inform the Deputy as soon as the process has been concluded.
246 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Health the rehabilitative supports, programmes and funding that the Health Service Executive provides to older patients who have suffered strokes or similar impairments; the inspection regime which is in place to ensure that every effort is made to rehabilitate these patients; if he is satisfied that this inspection regime is stringent enough; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1868/12]
As these are service matters, they have been referred to the HSE for direct reply.
247 Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way applicants for parking permits for the disabled are assessed; the person who determines eligibility for this scheme; if the new disabled drivers’ permits incorporate anti-fraud measures; his plans to review or revise the medical eligibility criteria, for example, focus more on a person’s level of mobility impairment rather than the type of disability they have; if he will include cardiac and respiratory criteria when these limit mobility; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1698/12]
The Disabled Parking Scheme is operated on behalf of my Department by the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI) and the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA). The Scheme functions under Regulations, and my Department has agreed terms and conditions with the DDAI and the IWA for its detailed operation.
Applicants for the permit apply to the DDAI or IWA, who must verify the identity of the applicant and assess the application against agreed medical criteria. If applications are rejected there is an appeals process, with cases reviewed independently by an Occupational Therapist or Medical Practitioner.
Last year, I amended the regulations governing the Scheme in order to move the focus of eligibility from diagnosis with particular medical conditions to level of mobility impairment. For example, people with cardiac and respiratory conditions which severely restrict their mobility are eligible, based on their mobility impairment rather than on their particular medical conditions. In addition, people who hold a Primary Medical Certificate or who have been certified blind by the National Council for the Blind are entitled to a permit. Details of eligibility are further fleshed out in the terms and conditions agreed with the DDAI and IWA.
The format of the disabled parking permit conforms to EU requirements. At the same time, the DDAI and IWA have worked to improve the permit to introduce anti-fraud measures. The DDAI and IWA have the right to withdraw permits where they have been abused, and the Gardaí and traffic wardens have powers to inspect and detain permits if they have reason to believe they are forged or are being used illegally.
248 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to introduce mechanisms to reduce the abuse of disabled driver parking spaces by non-disabled drivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1659/12]
Disabled parking spaces are provided for the use of people who have a legitimate need and have qualified for a disabled parking permit. Unfortunately there are abuses, in particular people parking in disabled spaces without a permit, people using permits issued to someone else, and people using forged permits. All of these abuses are particularly deplorable because they deprive those who genuinely need them of access to appropriate parking spaces.
In 2010, my Department published a study of the workings of the Disabled Parking Scheme. The study noted a number of measures taken already to enforce the Scheme, including the fact that the penalty for illegal parking in a disabled parking space is double that for any other parking offence, and that Gardaí and traffic wardens have been given powers to inspect permits and consfiscate permits which are false or being used illegally.
Since the study was published, my Department has agreed terms and conditions for the Scheme with the Disabled Drivers Association of Ireland (DDAI) and the Irish Wheelchair Association (IWA), the two bodies charged with oversight of the Scheme. These provide a number of grounds on which permits may be withdrawn if they are abused. The DDAI and IWA have improved the permit in order to make forgery more difficult. In addition, I have revised the legislation governing the Scheme to ensure that permits go to those truly in need. On-street-enforcement of the Scheme is a matter for An Garda Síochána and for traffic wardens.
At present, I am satisfied that the existing laws and enforcement powers are sufficient. However, my Department remains in ongoing contact with the DDAI and IWA, and I remain open to considering any improvements to the Scheme which may be needed in future.
249 Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will consider making changes to current driver licensing regulations for holders of foreign licences, in particular holders of full US licences, who on being resident here for more than 12 months are required to sit and pass theory and practical driving examinations in addition to taking 12 driving lessons before they can be issued with a full Irish licence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1682/12]
Driver licensing law in Ireland operates within the framework of EU legislation, and its purpose is to ensure a minimum level of assurance regarding the competence of people who drive on our roads. As part of the driver licensing regime, Ireland recognises and has exchange relationships with other EU Member States, whose nationals, if resident in Ireland, can therefore exchange their driving licences for the equivalent Irish licence.
In addition, we have driver licence exchange agreements with a number of countries outside the EU. These arrangements are made only following detailed examination on both sides of the mutual compatibility of licensing regimes. From Ireland's point of view, this means that we need to be assured that the licence regime in the countries in question meets EU standards. As a matter of policy, in particular with regard to the need for assurance of an adequate standard of competence to driver on our roads, and with regard to the need to maintain EU standards, I cannot change the the basis on which we accord recognition to foreign driving licences.
Where the driver licensing system in another jurisdiction is not compatible with EU standards, we cannot engage in a licence exchange relationship and must insist on testing drivers from such jurisdictions. In the case of the USA we do not have an exchange arrangement, because driver licensing in the US operates at State rather than federal level, and there are therefore many different standards applied to licences in different states. However, the six months waiting rule before sitting a driving test does not apply to applicants that come to Ireland with a full in date licence from their own country.
251 Deputy Kevin Humphreys asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will legislate to allow for partial parking on footpaths in dense urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1696/12]
Under the Traffic and Parking Regulations, partial parking of vehicles on pavements is currently not permitted. Since coming into office, I have been asked about this issue a number of times and have given it some consideration.
The argument for changing the Regulations relates to the difficulty which many people have parking in urban areas, especially areas with high residency and narrow streets. Last year, Dublin City Council wrote to me arguing in favour of partial parking, and submitted a Footway Parking Study Report in support. However, it was clear from that Report that the number of locations where partial parking would be suitable is fairly limited, and so the benefits from changing the Regulations would be small.
The potential risks from a change would be serious. Footpaths are provided for the safety of pedestrians, by segregating them from passing or parking traffic by means of the kerb. Safety is my number one concern, and pedestrians are innately vulnerable road users. Furthermore, footpaths are not constructed to the same specifications as roads and are not built to bear the weight of vehicles. There would be potential damage to kerbs, paths and utility access covers, as well as congestion and obstruction.
On balance, I believe the arguments in favour of the current Regulations substantially outweigh those for change. In dealing with urban parking, local authorities have a range of options open to them. It remains a matter for them to apply whichever of the legally permitted range of parking arrangements they consider most appropriate on any given street. As the Minister responsible for the Regulations, I am satisfied that partial parking would entail great risker than benefit.
253 Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of spectators who attended the Irish Open 2011 broken down by country from which they are from; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1752/12]
Data on spectator numbers for the 2011 Irish Open is primarily a matter for the organisers of the event, the European Tour. As sponsors of the event in question, Fáilte Ireland may be in a position to assist in relation to the Deputy's query. I have referred the Deputy's Question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
255 Deputy Simon Harris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the date on which the National Transport Authority will begin to examine the structure of commuter rail fares, in order to eliminate the current anomalies in the pricing structure which sees commuters in peripheral DART regions paying substantially higher fares than other rail users, in view of the fact the NTA has promised to undertake a review of commuter rail fares once it has completed its current rationalisation of intercity rail fares; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1781/12]
The issue raised is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA). I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
256 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which air freight costs here are competitive and in line with the such costs in adjoining jurisdictions; the factors if any making a difference; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1827/12]
262 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which the cost of air passenger and freight transport here is competitive with similar services throughout Europe having particular regard to the availability of rail services as an alternative on mainland Europe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1833/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 256 and 262 together.
My Department engages with freight interests for the various modes, including air and rail, through its involvement with the All-Island Freight Forum. The Forum is jointly chaired by my Department and the Northern Ireland Department for Regional Development. One of its primary roles is to draw together the Government side and industry stakeholders to characterise and progress the roles each can play in identifying and implementing measures to secure competitive, sustainable and safe freight transport domestically and internationally. In the context of the Working Groups established under the Forum, the Irish Maritime Development Office is currently undertaking a study on international connectivity encompassing air and sea connections and freight flow mapping on the island of Ireland which should provide clarity to all including business on the options available for the movement of goods.
As regards the competiveness of air transport costs, costs of both freight and passenger transport by air are set by the market. Policy on competitiveness is led by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation.
257 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he expects to be in a position to provide adequate funding to meet the remedial work arising from the identification of well-known accident black spots on the roads throughout the country in the current year; if a specific programme targeting such locations is likely; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1828/12]
260 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent that he and or his Department and the National Roads Authority have examined the locations at which numerous accidents have taken place on minor or major roads including motorways throughout the country with particular reference to the frequency of such accidents with a view to identifying the cause or causes and addressing the issues by way of remedial action; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1831/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 257 and 260 together.
The construction, improvement and maintenance of individual national road projects are a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under sections 17 and 19 the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. This includes funding for safety related works on national roads. The selection and prioritisation of projects to be funded is a matter for the NRA in conjunction with the relevant the local authority. The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is a statutory function of each road authority in accordance with the provisions of section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. The carrying out of safety works on these roads is a matter for each local authority to decide. The initial selection and prioritisation of projects to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
258 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which efforts can be made and or increased to attract major sporting events to this country over the next five years keeping in mind the economic benefits accruing therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1829/12]
267 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he has had discussions with international sporting organisations with a view to increasing interest on the holding of such events in this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1869/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 258 and 267 together.
As Minister of State with responsibility for both Sport and Tourism, I want to ensure that Ireland remains an attractive location for international sporting events. The Programme for Government includes a commitment that event tourism will be prioritised in order to continue to bring major events to Ireland. The hosting of sports events gives an opportunity to show that a country like Ireland can host big events, such as the Ryder Cup, the Tall Ships Race, Volvo Ocean Race or the Solheim Cup, in an efficient and professional manner. It also provides a great showcase for Ireland and the media coverage of sports tourism events helps to put Ireland onto travel itineraries as a holiday destination. Fáilte Ireland continues to support the sports tourism sector and in 2012 the Volvo Ocean Race will return to Ireland with its finale in Galway while Dún Laoghaire will host the ISAF Youth World Sailing Championship.
The common procedure in regard to the hosting of an international sporting event is that the Irish affiliate of the relevant governing body will bid to host the event in Ireland. Where appropriate, the State Tourism agencies will provide advice and assistance to the sporting body which is seeking to secure an international event. In certain cases it may also be appropriate for Fáilte Ireland to provide financial support towards the event, in return for a contractually-agreed package of tourism benefits.
I am supportive of the efforts of the State Tourism Agencies and the National Governing Bodies of Sport to attract international events, subject, of course, to an assessment of the costs/benefits involved in any State financial support.
Question No. 259 answered with Question No. 7.
Question No. 260 answered with Question No. 257.
261 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number if any of public private partnerships likely to be involved in new capital projects promoted by him over the next four years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1832/12]
As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The implementation of individual national road schemes, including Public Private Partnership schemes, is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) in accordance with the Roads Acts 1993-2007.
The Infrastructure and Capital Investment Framework 2012- 2016 makes provision for the N11 Arklow-Rathnew/N7 Newlands Cross PPP project to proceed. Also, the intention is to pursue the N17/N18 Gort-Tuam PPP with a view to the project going ahead within the Capital Investment framework period.
263 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he has had discussions with his counterparts in the EU and the US with a view to enhancing tourist traffic through this country; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1834/12]
I have had no specific meetings with my counterparts, as Minister for Tourism, in the EU and the US to discuss enhancing tourist traffic through this country. By its nature, tourism is an area where countries compete to maximise the number of visitors coming from abroad. In this regard, primary responsibility for the overseas promotion of Ireland as a tourist destination rests with Tourism Ireland. Since coming into Office, both Minister of State Ring and I have attended a number of overseas promotional events on behalf of Tourism Ireland with the aim of highlighting the attractions of Ireland as a holiday destination. Also, my Department officials meet with their foreign counterparts to discuss the legal/regulatory framework under which air transport services can be provided.
264 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the study that has taken place on the issue of the increased number of motor accidents on motorways with particular reference to the M4 and M7; if such accidents relate to road design, speed, traffic levels, driver error or other factors; the steps proposed or taken to address this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1859/12]
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the analysis of road collision statistics.
Noting this, I have referred the Deputy's question to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply. He should advise my private office if he does not receive a reply within 10 working days.
265 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he intends to take any specific measures to encourage the maximisation of benefit from the sport and recreational sectors in the effort toward economic recovery in view of recent recognition, as reported, of the major influence the sector has on national and local economic issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [1860/12]
I recognise the wider economic benefits that continued investment in sport can achieve. The allocation for the Irish Sports Council (ISC) for 2012 is almost €44.5 million. Participation in sport can bring benefits in terms of health and well-being which can in turn produce an economic dividend through reducing costs to the health sector. The funding to the ISC will continue to support the work of the National Governing Bodies of Sport and a wide range of programmes through the Local Sports Partnerships to increase participation rates.
The ISC will also continue to support our elite athletes as they compete on the world stage. The performance of Irish athletes internationally, in areas including golf, rugby, soccer and boxing, not only boosts the morale of the country itself but promotes our image internationally and draws tourism to Ireland from around the world. It is estimated that sports tourism brings in around €350 million per year into the country.
Over the next five years, capital funding has been set aside for two Sports Capital Programmes and the completion of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme, as well as the development of the National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown (Abbotstown) on an incremental basis. This sports funding will support local sporting facilities, and will also ensure that all projects in the current round of the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme can be completed. These capital programmes will also help to support existing jobs, and in some cases create new ones.
266 Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the extent to which he has evaluated the degree to which the rail services can be enhanced with a view to making it possible to commute daily over larger distances from areas in which surplus housing exists and extra population can be beneficial. [1861/12]
In accordance with the Programme for Government, I recognise the need to rebalance transport policy to favour public transport. The public transport system will play a critical role in supporting a return to sustainable economic growth, the maintenance of a competitive environment for investment and addressing the challenge of climate change. Despite the reduced sums available for capital and current expenditure, this Government will continue to prioritise the role of public transport.
The issue of enhancement of existing services is a matter for the transport operator in the first instance and a matter between the operator and the National Transport Authority (NTA) in relation to amendments to existing services. I have referred the Deputy's question to the NTA and Iarnród Éireann for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.
268 Deputy Dessie Ellis asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of cars in the period 2009 to date in 2012 which have received NCT examination that have failed; the proportion of these that were passed within the 30 days allowed for partial retest; and the proportion that passed a full retest after the end of the 30 day cut off. [1585/12]
269 Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the rationale for the 30 day cut-off point for the period in which a car can avoid a full retest when it has failed a part of a NCT examination [1575/12]
I propose to take Questions Nos. 268 and 269 together.
Under the Road Safety Authority Act 2006 (Conferral of Functions) Order 2006 (S.I. No. 477 of 2006) the Road Safety Authority has responsibility for the delivery of the National Car Test (NCT).
I have referred the Deputies' questions to the Road Safety Authority for direct reply. They should advise my private office if they do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
