Written Answers Nos. 510 - 534
510. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Social Protection if, in view of new evidence submitted, her Department will revise its decision to refuse domiciliary care allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [5985/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn application for domiciliary care allowance was received on the 30th July 2012. This application was referred to one of the Department’s Medical Assessors who found that the child was not medically eligible for the allowance. A letter issued on the 19th September 2012 advising of the decision.
In the case of an application which is refused on medical grounds the applicant may submit additional information and/or ask for the case to be reviewed or they may appeal the decision directly to the Social Welfare Appeals Office within twenty one days. As yet no additional information has been received and no appeal has been registered against the decision in this case.
511. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Social Protection the position regarding a carer's allowance appeal in respect of a person (details supplied) in Dublin 8. [6059/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer on 28th January 2013, who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions on social welfare entitlements.
512. Deputy Áine Collins asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht his plans to extend the season for hedge cutting as land is too wet at present. [5517/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI refer to the previous reply to Question Nos. 157, 158, 160 and 161 of 23 January 2013.
513. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the position regarding a licence in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5540/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised that my Department has no record of an application as referred to by the Deputy.
514. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the date on which the Waterways Ireland feasibility study between Longford and the main Royal Canal will be published; and if it is already been published, the result of same [5857/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been informed by Waterways Ireland that the feasibility study on the extension of the Royal Canal between Longford and the Main Line of the Canal is currently being undertaken by Waterways Ireland and is due for completion at the end of December 2013.
515. Deputy Dominic Hannigan asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if his attention has been drawn to any European grants that Irish towns can apply for to help with town twining projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6060/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Europe for Citizens Programme is the EU programme that, inter alia, has a strand dealing with town twinning with other towns and cities throughout the EU.
Details of the Europe for Citizens Programme, including the town twinning element of the programme, can be found on the following website - www.europeforcitizens.ie
516. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will provide a breakdown of the the €13 million of capital funding spent by his Department during December; the reason 30% of his Department’s overall capital spend was held until December; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5131/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department’s gross capital allocation for its range of programme and measures in 2012 was €43m. Some 26% of this, amounting to approximately €11.2m., was expended in December as follows:
Arts, Culture and Film €3.5m
Heritage €3.9m
Irish Language, Gaeltacht and Islands €3.8m.
These expenditure figures are provisional and are subject to verification by the Comptroller and Auditor General.
The spending profile expected over the course of the year is set out at the beginning of each year, based on the best estimate that can be made at that time regarding the delivery timeframes and associated payment milestones for the full range of programmes concerned. As the Deputy will appreciate, the actual pattern of spending that eventually occurs will usually show some variance from an estimate of this nature, for various reasons related to the particular projects concerned. In the event, it transpired that the actual level of spending in December 2012 was €3.7m. higher than was forecast at the beginning of the year.
I would point out that my Department's total expenditure in 2012 at €41.6m represents 97% of the actual allocation for the year. €1.2m. of the balance of €1.4m. related to subhead B.5 Natural Heritage (National Parks and Wildlife Service) and was identified for carryover into 2013 via the deferred surrender of unspent capital mechanism. The remaining €200k in savings were achieved against the Department’s own Administrative Budget.
When account is taken of the capital carryover, approximately 100% of the capital programme allocation for 2012 will have been spent. This underlines my commitment to ensuring that the maximum value is derived from my Department's budget in terms of maintaining, promoting and protecting Ireland’s heritage and culture, developing cultural tourism, advancing the use of the Irish language and supporting the sustainable development of the islands.
517. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the amount of his Department’s €38 million capital spending for 2013 that will go towards construction projects; the projects involved; the details of these projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5269/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, in excess of €27m of the capital allocation to my Department's Vote Group will be channelled through a variety of bodies/agencies within my Department's ambit, including the National Cultural Institutions, the Irish Film Board, the Heritage Council, Údarás na Gaeltachta and Waterways Ireland. In the majority of cases, decisions as to the actual projects on which capital funding is expended will be operational matters for the individual bodies/agencies concerned. While a proportion of the overall capital allocation for my Department and for those bodies/agencies for 2013 will undoubtedly be spent on construction projects, the Deputy will appreciate that it is too soon to provide a definitive listing of all such liabilities that are likely to mature across my Department's Vote Group before the end of the year.
518. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the dialogue that has taken place between the relevant agencies and representatives from organisations (details supplied) regarding proposals made at the Peatlands Forum, and in the proposed approach for the development of the National Raised Bog Special Area of Conservation Management Plan, Section 8.1.1 which states that relevant State bodies will engage with local liaison committees to agree and implement local solutions. [5298/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra519. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the dialogue that has taken place between his Department officials, turf bank and land owners to progress the proposals made at the Peatlands Forum, and in the proposed approach for the development of the National Raised Bog Special Area of Conservation Management Plan, Section 8.1.1 which states that relevant State bodies will engage with local liaison committees to agree and implement local solutions; and when any such further discussions will occur in the future. [5299/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 518 and 519 together.
Last April, together with Minister Hogan, I met Commissioner Potonik in Brussels, where we secured his support for developing a National Raised Bog Special Area of Conservation (SACs) Management Plan. This was in keeping with the recommendations of Justice Quirke following the Peatlands Forum and with the motion agreed unanimously by Dáil Éireann on 7 March 2012.
The proposed approach to the development of the National Plan is available on my Department’s website at www.npws.ie. The Plan will provide for the long-term protection of Ireland’s raised bog SACs, will address the needs of turf-cutters and can unlock the flexibility available for dealing with the most difficult of bogs, within the terms of the Habitats Directive.
Following a request for tenders, my Department is currently assessing proposals from prospective teams of consultants who will undertake the necessary scientific work to inform the future restoration and management of each of the SACs. Draft proposals for each of the sites will be discussed with affected land-owners as part of this process.
The detailed exploration of relocation sites is a key element in progressing the National Plan. In collaboration with the Peatlands Council, and with the assistance of Bord na Móna, my Department is actively engaging with turf cutting communities to consider how relocation can be progressed.
Some 766 applicants for compensation to my Department have indicated an interest in relocation. Arrangements for the relocation of turf cutters to non-designated bogs have been finalised, or are close to finalisation, for groups from 4 raised bog SACs. Out of the remaining 49 raised bog SACs, potential relocation sites have been identified for a further 31 SACs and work is ongoing on investigating these sites. Relocation is unlikely to be required, or is likely to be small-scale, for another 15 raised bog SACs due, for example, to the small number of turf cutters that have been active on these sites. Options for the remaining sites are also being investigated.
If, following an in-depth examination, there are a small number of SACs where there are genuinely no alternatives in terms of relocation, the National Plan may be able to provide some flexibility in this regard. I hope that the Plan can be completed by November, in time to submit an application to the European Commission under Article 6(4) of the Habitats Directive, if required, prior to the 2014 cutting season.
My Department has stepped up contact with turf-cutting groups to seek long-term resolutions to the issues for their particular bogs, in compliance with EU and national law. The engagement and agreement of turf-cutting communities to its proposed approaches will be essential to meeting this timeline and to unlocking the potential flexibility it offers.
Officials of my Department have been in continuous contact with the organisation referred to by the Deputy over the past year and have met with members of the organisation on several occasions. My Department is currently awaiting a report from Bord na Móna on the feasibility of using the specific relocation site mentioned by the Deputy to accommodate turf-cutters from the nearby SAC. It will be discussed with the local committee once it has been received. My Department expects to receive this report within the next few weeks.
520. Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will provide details of all funding programmes in his Department that community, voluntary and sporting organisations may apply to for funding; if he will provide a brief overview of each programme; the opening and closing dates of each programme; the minimum and maximum amounts of funding that may be applied for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5377/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to inform the Deputy that details of the funding programmes operated by my Department can be accessed through its web-site at www.ahg.gov.ie.
However, for ease of reference I point the Deputy to my Department's Section 15 and Section 16 Reference Book, which has been prepared and published in accordance with the requirements of sections 15 and 16 of the Freedom of Information Acts. The reference book can be accessed at:
http://www.ahg.gov.ie/en/AboutUs/FreedomofInformationFOI/
The purpose of the reference book is to facilitate access to official information held by my Department by outlining the structure and functions of the Department; details of the services provided and how they may be availed of; information on the classes of records held; and information on how to make a request to the Department under the Freedom of Information Acts. The reference book outlines details of all the schemes and programmes operated by the Department.
If the Deputy has a query in relation to any specific funding programme, officials within my Department will be happy to provide the necessary information.
521. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will outline in tabular form the total cost of all conferences and seminars attended by his Department in 2012; the purpose of each conference/seminar; the location; the number of delegates that attended from his Department/agencies or otherwise that were represented; the total cost of each conference/seminar; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5631/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is not possible to collate the information requested in respect of my Department in the time-frame permitted for a Parliamentary Question but it will be sent directly to the Deputy as soon as possible.
With regard to bodies funded from my Department's Vote Group, the Deputy will appreciate that the matters raised are part of the day-to-day operational responsibilities of the bodies in question. I am arranging, therefore, for the terms of the Deputy’s Question to be transmitted to the heads of relevant bodies with a request that they provide information, to the extent feasible, directly to the Deputy.
522. Deputy Willie O'Dea asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the number of former public servants recruited before 6 April 1995 who are currently receiving a public sector pension including both pensions funded by the Exchequer and through the Local Government Fund, and those pension schemes for which he has responsibility; the age profile of those public servants; if he will provide in tabular form the numbers of public sector pensioners in the following parameters between €1,000 intervals up to €20,000 and those on more than €20,000. [5885/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, civil service pensions are a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
With regard to bodies under the aegis of my Department, the information requested by the Deputy is set out in the tables below.
Age
|
Age Group |
Number |
|
50 to 55 |
7 |
|
56 to 60 |
26 |
|
61 to 65 |
48 |
|
Over 65 |
146 |
|
Total |
229 |
Pension
|
Pension band (€) |
Number of pensioners |
|
0 – 2,000 |
3 |
|
2,001 - 3,000 |
1 |
|
3,001 - 4,000 |
2 |
|
4,001 - 5,000 |
4 |
|
5,001 - 6,000 |
4 |
|
6,001 - 7,000 |
16 |
|
7,001 - 8,000 |
5 |
|
8,001 - 9,000 |
11 |
|
9,001 - 10,000 |
5 |
|
10,001 - 11,000 |
10 |
|
11,001 - 12,000 |
8 |
|
12,001 - 13,000 |
9 |
|
13,001 - 14,000 |
11 |
|
14,001 - 15,000 |
5 |
|
15,001 - 16,000 |
4 |
|
16,001 - 17,000 |
5 |
|
17,001 - 18,000 |
3 |
|
18,001 - 19,000 |
8 |
|
19,001 - 20,000 |
10 |
|
Above 20,000 |
105 |
|
Total |
229 |
523. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht the location of all Údarás na Gaeltachta premises in County Donegal; the size of these premises; when they were last occupied; the name of the occupying company; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5950/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that the details sought by him are extensive and, accordingly, it has not been possible to collate the requested information in the time available. Údarás na Gaeltachta has been requested to supply the relevant data as soon as possible and I can assure the Deputy that it will be forwarded directly to him when it becomes available.
524. Deputy Patrick Nulty asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will provide an update on the implementation of the 20 year strategy for the Irish language; his plans to support local communities outside the Gaeltacht to promote the language in their neighbourhoods; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6057/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 20-Year Strategy for the Irish Language 2010-2030 recognises that the implementation of the various measures contained therein requires a phased approach. While my Department has the overarching responsibility for the Strategy, it is working in co-operation with other key stakeholders, including the Department of Education and Skills, Údarás na Gaeltachta and Foras na Gaeilge, to implement the Strategy on an incremental basis, within available resources.
Priority was given during 2011 to implementing the Strategy’s establishment phase. This involved providing information about the Strategy and establishing the organisational and operational structures required for its implementation. Priority was given during 2012 to legislative matters. The enactment of the Gaeltacht Act 2012 was a significant achievement as it provides for a statutory language planning process, both within and outside the existing Gaeltacht, and for a statutory role in this regard for Údarás na Gaeltachta and Foras na Gaeilge, as appropriate. It is intended to publish a progress report this year on the implementation of the Strategy to date by the various key stakeholders.
With regard to supporting communities outside the existing Gaeltacht in promoting the Irish language in their neighbourhoods, the Deputy may wish to note that statutory provision has been made in the Gaeltacht Act 2012 for the designation of Irish Language Networks outside existing statutory Gaeltacht areas. These will be areas, predominantly in urban communities, that will have a basic critical mass of community and State support for the Irish language. Foras na Gaeilge has been given a statutory role under the Gaeltacht Act to assist communities with the preparation and implementation of language plans in order to achieve Irish Language Network status.
525. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on the EC targets to increase the number of charging points for electric cars here by 2020; his plans in relation to this policy; if he will be engaging in talks with the industry; if there has been a projected cost of this policy to the Exchequer; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5180/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 24 January 2013, the European Commission published a proposal for a Directive on the deployment of alternative fuels infrastructure for fuels including biofuels, hydrogen, gaseous fuels and electricity. This Directive aims to ensure the availability of such infrastructure and the implementation of common technical specifications for this infrastructure.
One of the proposals within the draft Directive is that each Member State shall ensure that a minimum number of Electric Vehicle charge points are installed. The proposal for Ireland is for at least 22,000 charge points in the State by the end of 2020, of which 2,000 are to be publicly accessible. My Department is currently analysing this proposal and will consult with key stakeholders on its appropriateness for the Irish market and the costs of implementation.
The ESB, through its Ecars programme, is continuing to roll out both publicly accessible charging infrastructure and domestic charge points and its targets are to install at least 1,000 publicly accessible charge points in all main towns and cities and 60 fast chargers on major roads by the end of this year. This investment is funded by the ESB and there is no cost to the Exchequer.
526. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans regarding pylons in County Meath; if he has considered any alternatives to installing overhead power lines; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5682/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have no direct role in the planning and construction of the transmission network. These are operational matters for EirGrid which is the independent statutory State body responsible for the development and maintenance of the national electricity transmission system.
However, the Programme for Government committed to the establishment of an independent international expert commission to review the case for, and cost of, undergrounding all or part of the planned Meath-Tyrone 400kV electricity line. The Commission was appointed by me in July 2011 and its Report was published in January 2012. The Report is available on my Department’s website: www.dcenr.gov.ie. This Report was subsequently considered by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Communications, Natural Resources and Agriculture and the outcome of their deliberations was published in June 2012 on the Oireachtas website: www.oireachtas.ie .
EirGrid is fully committed to public consultation with local communities and all stakeholders on its transmission network development projects.
In keeping with best international practice EirGrid will undertake regular reviews at all key stages of the project to test key technology assumptions. This will take account of potential advances in technology.
The Government wants to give a strong consistent message to Irish business and multinationals, and our citizens, that Ireland’s electricity networks are robust, modern comprehensive and safe. The investment programmes of EirGrid are critical to ensuring that the national energy infrastructure is maintained and built cost effectively to the highest standards and with full regard for environmental, safety and health requirements and the needs of local communities.
The strategic and economic importance of investment in networks and energy infrastructure was emphasised in the ‘Government Policy Statement on the Strategic Importance of Transmission and Other Energy Infrastructure’, published in July 2012, which is available on my Department’s website: www.dcenr.gov.ie
The North-South transmission line is vital infrastructure for the island. The lack of sufficient interconnection between the North and South is preventing the full benefits of the all-island market being realised for consumers. The continued absence of the transmission line is costing the economies and consumers, North and South, up to €30 million every year, since without it, the electricity system is more inefficient from an operational perspective. I understand from EirGrid that it is undertaking design work on the North South transmission line with a view to submitting the project to planning before the end of the year. To date, every single affected landowner has been given the opportunity to participate in the consultation process. EirGrid will also conduct new consultation with landowners and the general public before finalising its application for planning approval.
Completion of the North South project will further consolidate the all-island electricity market established in 2007, providing for the seamless transfer of electricity across the island, delivering greater competition, reducing the need for further investment in thermal generation and ensuring the availability of low cost generation to the market.
527. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide a breakdown of the the €29 million of capital funding spent by his Department during December; the reason 28% of his Department’s overall capital spend was held until December; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5132/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2012 outturn figures show capital spending by my Department in December 2012 of just over €19m which represents approximately 18.5% of the Department’s total annual capital spend.
A breakdown of this expenditure is set out in the table below. Expenditure patterns are subject to a number of considerations especially in the case of demand led measures. The bulk of capital spend by my Department in 2012 was in respect of demand led energy efficiency grant schemes. The take up of such schemes can be difficult to predict and as the Deputy will note some €11.5m of the €19.3m was in respect of such energy efficiency measures. The Department made a number of adjustments over the course of the year to ensure productive spend in certain areas through the transfer of funds from some areas where expenditure levels had been less than envisaged. This resulted in higher spend towards year end.
Provisional Outturn for December 2012, Capital
|
Administration |
€000s |
|
|
A05 |
Office Machinery & Other Office Supplies |
69 |
|
Communications |
||
|
B01 |
Information & Communications Technology Programme |
2469 |
|
B02 |
Multimedia Developments |
1010 |
|
Broadcasting |
||
|
C03 |
Deontas I Leith TG4 (Deontas-I-gCabhair) |
85 |
|
Energy |
||
|
D02 |
Sustainable Energy Ireland Programmes (Cash Limited) |
11518 |
|
D03 |
Energy Research Programmes (Cash-Limited) |
2059 |
|
Natural Resources |
||
|
E04 |
Geoscience Initiatives |
501 |
|
E05 |
National Seabed Survey |
811 |
|
F01 |
Inland Fisheries |
800 |
|
Total |
19322 |
528. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide details on the number of applicants who have applied for the warmer homes scheme; if he will provide details in tabular form of the number of applications received, approved and declined for the years 2011 and 2012. [5166/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) administers the Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme under the Better Energy Programme.
The Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme delivers a range of energy efficiency measures to households that are vulnerable to energy poverty. The scheme is delivered through a combination of SEAI-appointed Community Based Organisations (CBOs), augmented by a panel of private contractors, in order to ensure national coverage and via an area-based approach. Measures available include draught proofing, attic insulation, lagging jackets for hot water tanks, low energy light bulbs and cavity wall insulation and are free of charge to the customer.
The Scheme is an important element of the Affordable Energy Strategy that was launched in November 2011. The energy efficiency measures are targeted at low income families and will make a lasting impact on households experiencing energy poverty. Exchequer funding of over €101 million has been allocated to the programme since 2000, which has successfully delivered energy efficiency measures to 92,563 homes. In 2011 the scheme delivered energy efficiency measures to 20,388 homes experiencing energy poverty while in 2012 the programme delivered energy saving measures to 12,175 homes. Despite the current economic challenges, the Government is committed to continuing to deliver energy efficiency measures to vulnerable households. The Better Energy Warmer Homes scheme has been allocated Exchequer funding of €20 million for 2013, and according to the most up to date analysis available, it is anticipated that the scheme will deliver upgrades to approximately 12,000 homes this year.
Following is the information requested regarding the number of applications received, approved and declined under the Better Energy Warmer homes scheme in 2011 and 2012. The number of applications approved differs from the number of homes which had measures delivered, as set out above, due to timing factors between approved and delivery of measures.
Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme Applications
|
Year |
2011 |
2012 |
|
New applications |
26,573 |
17,349 |
|
Applications Eligible |
24,933 |
16,232 |
|
Applications not Eligible |
1,640 |
1,117 |
529. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the impact for Irish energy users of the recent signing of the Memorandum of Understanding between Ireland and the UK; if he will report on any potential knock-on job creation opportunities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5208/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Memorandum of Understanding on energy cooperation that UK Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Edward Davey and I signed on 24 January will result in completion of consideration of how Irish renewable energy resources, onshore and offshore, might be developed to the mutual benefit of Ireland and the United Kingdom. This will determine whether it is beneficial for both countries to enter into an Inter-Governmental Agreement under the Renewable Energy Directive to provide for renewable energy trading.
If an Inter-Governmental Agreement is entered into, there are potential significant employment opportunities. As an example, employment creation arising from a 3,000MW project would be expected to be in the order of 3,000 to 6,000 job years in the construction phase, with the actual number dependent on the construction schedule to 2020. There would also be additional jobs created in the on-going maintenance of turbines over a 20-year operating life. Further employment opportunities could arise if turbines or components were to be manufactured in Ireland. All relevant State agencies, particularly in the enterprise area, would have to co-ordinate their activities early in the process to ensure employment potential of export projects is maximised. This opportunity has already been identified by the Industrial Development Authority and Enterprise Ireland in their clean technology growth strategies.
In terms of the impact on Irish energy users, the mechanisms for sharing the resultant economic benefits of renewable energy trade with the UK is a matter to be addressed in the coming year, and ahead of signing a potential Inter-Governmental Agreement, which would have to ensure no financial cost or risk to the Irish State or energy user.
530. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his plans to change the current TV licence system to a content licence system encapsulating laptops, smartphones, Kindles, iPads; the reason the content licence system would work in terms of the division of the content licence revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5209/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to examining the role and collection of the TV licence fee in light of existing and projected convergence of technologies and to transforming the TV licence into a household based Public Broadcasting Charge to be applied to all eligible households and applicable businesses, regardless of the device used to access content or services.
In line with this commitment, my Department is involved in the ongoing analyses and policy development work that is necessary in advance of the implementation of any changes that may be required.
Although subject to a degree of evasion, the existing TV licence fee system has provided a stable funding base for our public service broadcasters. The rationale for providing State funding for public service broadcasting is to provide an independent and reliable income flow that allows these corporations to attain their public service objects while ensuring they can maintain editorial independence. This is especially important in the context of news and current affairs.
The overall aim of Public Service Broadcasting is to provide services and content which cater for all interests in society, while ensuring that the varied elements of Irish culture and its intrinsic values are protected. Through the obligations placed on the Public Service Broadcasters, which are established in legislation passed by the Oireachtas, and the criteria set for the funding of content through the Sound & Vision Scheme, the production of quality indigenous programming and the production of minority interest programming is strongly promoted.
Whatever the system of funding, the rationale for providing funding will continue to apply and any changes that may be implemented must continue to provide a secure funding base for public service broadcasting and content.
It is also important, of course, that any changes to the system of funding should take account of the reality of new mechanisms to access such content and services and the pervasiveness of such content in today’s society.
Publicly-funded public service broadcasting and content are now available to everyone on an ever-increasing range of platforms and devices (radio, television, smart phone, pc, laptop and many other devices) and, in fact, access is not dependent on the ownership of a device. In short, everyone benefits from the availability of these services, regardless of how content is accessed or relayed to the public, and, therefore, it is my view that the cost should be borne by society as a whole. That said, I would like to make clear at this point that, while the Deputy’s question refers to a “content licence system”, the charge will not relate to the amount or type of content accessed by any one individual: it will be a charge that will be applied across all eligible households and businesses, the proceeds of which will be used to fund public service broadcasting and content.
The replacement of the existing funding system based on the collection of television licence fees with one based on the imposition of device-independent charge on eligible households and businesses is a complex process and much of the detail has yet to be worked out.
This includes identifying the most appropriate method for collecting the charge and the manner in which issues such as exemptions and enforcement should be dealt with. In this regard, my Department is currently carrying out a Value for Money Policy Review conducted by an independently chaired group on the proposed policy. I would expect to receive a copy of the group’s recommendations and report for my consideration by the end of quarter 1 2013.
At this point, however, I can state that it is my intention that the charge, which will be device independent, will replace the current licence fee and all households and businesses will be subject to the charge, except for those that are specifically exempted.
In regard to the issue of exemptions under any new system, this will have to be given detailed consideration when the type of model to be developed is agreed. That said, it is my expectation that the current exemptions in relation to pensioners and those entitled to the Household Benefit Package will continue to apply.
531. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if correspondence (details supplied) in relation to the national broadband scheme is an example of an isolated incident or if it is common place; if he will engage with the provider in question and Comreg to ascertain if the provider's obligations are being met and if not, the reason for same; the action that will be taken to address the situation and when it will be taken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5240/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe broadband service contracted under National Broadband Scheme (NBS) is a basic, affordable, scalable product in keeping with EU State Aid clearance for the Scheme. Under the terms of the contract which my Department has in place with “3”, the NBS service provider, the NBS mobile wireless service currently offers minimum download and upload speeds of 2.3Mbps and 1.4Mbps respectively, subject to a maximum contention ratio of 18:1. The NBS satellite service, which is utilised in a small number of cases for technical reasons associated with the location of the premises, offers minimum download and upload speeds of 3.6Mbps and 384 kbps respectively, subject to a maximum contention ratio of 48:1.
As regards service quality, my Department has well-established monitoring arrangements in place to ensure that the NBS delivers the minimum specified service or better to all users. The NBS contract guarantees service levels and imposes a service credit regime on “3”, with significant financial consequences in the event that minimum specification service levels are not met. The NBS contract also provides that where NBS customers do not receive the minimum guaranteed service, as set out in the terms and conditions of their contract, they are entitled to service rebates.
My Department liaises very closely with “3” to ensure that any issues relating to service performance, which are brought to its attention, are addressed as quickly as possible. In the case of the person referred to by the Deputy, my officials had already, on receipt of earlier representations on his behalf, been in contact with “3” to assist in resolving his performance issues with his NBS mobile wireless service. Likewise, my officials have been in direct contact with the customer in the matter.
In this case, I understand that the customer was provided with an additional piece of equipment in order to boost the signal to his home and a review of his customer user experience across the NBS network found it to be performing within the contractually agreed specifications of the Scheme. I have been informed that the customer to whom the Deputy refers has elected to use a different service provider and I regret that this customer’s experience of the NBS was not to his satisfaction.
While my Department has previously dealt with a small number of individual complaints from NBS customers in County Kerry there is no evidence to suggest widespread poor quality performance in the area. Such a scenario would be of major concern to me.
With basic broadband services widely available across Ireland, the focus is now on accelerating the roll out of high speed services. The Government is committed to the provision of high speed broadband to all citizens and businesses across Ireland through a combination of public and private sector investment, which is set out in its National Broadband Plan. The Plan commits to the provision of at least 30Mpbs connectivity to all parts of Ireland, including all areas within County Kerry.
532. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the amount of his Department’s €85 million capital spending for 2013 that will go towards construction projects; the projects are involved; the details of these projects; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5271/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn relation to the capital budget of DCENR, the primary vehicle for direct investment in jobs is capital expenditure on Energy Programmes, which in 2013 amounts to just over €59m. Virtually all (85%) of this expenditure will be spent on Energy Efficiency measures which Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland estimates will sustain between 2,500 and 3,000 construction-related jobs in 2013.
The balance of the capital expenditure is primarily in the energy research, natural resources and ICT areas which are not primarily related to the construction sector.
533. Deputy Damien English asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will provide details of all funding programmes in his Department that community, voluntary and sporting organisations may apply to for funding; if he will provide a brief overview of each programme; the opening and closing dates of each programme; the minimum and maximum amounts of funding that may be applied for; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5379/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that there are a number of funding programmes operated by the agencies under the aegis of my Department for which funding can be applied for by community, voluntary and sporting organisations. I have set out in tabular format below details of the programmes and the web address where further information may be obtained.
The Benefit3 scheme which provided funding for digital training closed to new applicants in 2012.
|
Name and Overview of Programme |
Opening Date of Programme |
Closing date of Programme |
Minimum Amount of Funding that can be applied for |
Maximum Amount of Funding that can be applied for |
|
Better Energy Homes is administered by the SEAI and provides financial assistance for a range of energy efficiency measures to increase the energy efficiency of homes and businesses. |
March 2009 |
On-going |
Applications are subject to a minimum grant of €400. |
Based on application |
|
Better Energy Warmer Homes is administered by the SEAI and provides a range of energy efficiency measures to low income families free of charge to the customer. |
Year 2000 |
On-going |
Based on application |
Based on application |
|
Better Energy Communities is administered by the SEAI and provides innovative approaches to delivering energy efficiency measures at a community level and by building on existing community groups/networks. |
August 2012 |
On-going |
Based on application |
Based on application |
|
Salmon Conservation Funds are generated from the sale of salmon angling and commercial fishing licences which represents a major contribution by license holders to wild salmon conservation. The revenue generated from the Salmon Conservation Fund is reinvested to promote the recovery of our salmon stocks and habitats taking into account project feasibility, funding availability and value for money considerations The fund is being managed by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI). Fishery Owners, Angling Clubs, Commercial Fishers, and IFI are implementing projects throughout Ireland. Projects are assessed based on the river’s conservation limit status, its water quality (Q-value) and the maximum potential project benefits to the river with funding prioritised for those rivers in most need of rehabilitation. |
3/12/2012 |
15/3/2013 |
No Minimum |
An initial fund of €200,000 has been made available for clubs, fisheries owners etc with a project guide value of €15,000 to ensure a spread of projects. However Inland Fisheries Ireland will consider larger projects.This funding is non-exchequer and may be used as match funding for LEADER etc |
|
The IFI Sponsorship Programme aims to increase awareness of IFI, its work, recreational angling and the inland fisheries resource. IFI may support events on the basis of - Location and nature of the Event; - Potential of the Event to introduce new users to angling in an active capacity, i.e. not just as spectators; - Educate/Inform stakeholders of angling /environmental/commercial salmon fisheries/habitat issues; - Development of non-established Events; - An even distribution of sponsorship across all angling disciplines and all River Basin Districts. |
30/11/2012 |
15/01/2013 |
No Minimum and applications can be for IFI staff support only and equipment only or for any combination of funding, staff or equipment. |
No Maximum, however the scheme is subject to budget availability. |
|
Broadcasting Funding Scheme (Sound and Vision II ) is administered by theBroadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI). The core objective of the Schemeis to increase public access at national, local and community level to high-quality television and sound broadcasting programmes in English and Irish which explore the themes of Irish culture, heritage and experience, in contemporary or historic contexts. The Scheme provides funding to broadcasters and independent producers to enable them to produce such programmes. |
Three open rounds will operate during 2013 |
Round 1: 31 January Round 2: 6June Round 3: 19 Sept |
Up to 95% of the production costs for the programme – see table 1 below |
Up to 95% of the production costs for the programme – see table 2 below |
|
Community Broadcast Support Scheme is administered bythe BAI and offers funding to community radio and television broadcasters to conduct internal or external evaluations of their respective services. The completed evaluations are then used by broadcasters to identify and address areas of their operations that may need review or alteration. |
To be announced by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) |
To be announced by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) |
A total of €30,000 is available in 2013 |
A total of €30,000 is available in 2013 |
Sound & Vision Funding Radio Programmes:
Table 1
|
Minimum award |
Maximum award |
Grant awarded will not represent more than the following percentage of the total budget |
|
€20,000 |
Up to 95% |
|
|
€20,001 |
€40,000 |
Up to 90% |
|
€40,001 |
€55,000 |
Up to 85% |
|
Greater than €55,001 |
To be negotiated on a case-by-case basis |
Sound & Vision Funding Television Programmes:
Table 2
|
Minimum award |
Maximum award |
Grant awarded will not represent more than the following percentage of the total budget |
|
€50,000 |
Up to 95% |
|
|
€50,001 |
€250,000 |
Up to 90% |
|
€250,001 |
€750,000 |
Up to 85% |
|
Greater than €750,001 |
To be negotiated on a case-by-case basis |
Funding is also provided to broadcasting networks in order to facilitate them in delivering specific training and development activities to their members. The BAI offers grants to qualifying industry networks such as CRAOL (Irish Community Radio Forum) and CTA (Community Television Association) on an annual basis.
534. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he has reviewed the operation of the Broadband Delivery UK within the British Department of Culture, Media and Sport which acts as a central co-ordinating unit for the rollout of superfast broadband across the UK; his views on whether there would be advantages to the establishment of a similar programme in his Department; if he will state his approximate targets for the average highest bandwidth across the country for 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5466/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe National Broadband Plan, which I published on 30th August last, commits to high speed broadband availability across the country, well in advance of the EU’s target date of 2020. Specifically, it commits to:
- 70Mbps to 100Mbps will be available from the commercial market operators to more than half of the population by 2015;
- At least 40Mbps, and in many cases faster speeds, to at least a further 20% and potentially as much as 35% of the population; and
- A minimum of 30Mbps for every remaining home and business in the country.
During the preparation of Ireland’s National Broadband Plan, the commercial market operators indicated that they expect to provide 70Mbps to 100Mbps services to 50% of the population by 2015.
The commercial sector is already making these investments in high speed services, particularly in urban and semi-urban areas. The Government is committed, in the Plan, to investing in areas where high speed services are not commercially viable and will not be provided by the market.
My Department is making preparations to commence a formal national mapping exercise to identify where the market is expected to succeed and fail in the delivery of high speed broadband over the coming years. This exercise will inform the level of Government interaction that may be required and the areas that need to be targeted for a State-led investment. It will also form a critical input to an EU State Aids application in respect of any State-led intervention.
Through the implementation of the National Broadband Plan, we are committed to increasing the availability of next generation speeds significantly, with a view to ensuring that all citizens and business can participate fully in a digitally enabled society.
The challenge of rolling out high speed broadband is being addressed by EU Member States as well as other countries across the world. Cognisance will be taken of other countries’ experiences, including the UK, as and where appropriate, having regard to the particular circumstances and challenges faced by Ireland.
