Written Answers Nos. 153 - 171
153. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide a list of donations of €1m or more by Irish Aid to organizations in 2012, showing the organisation name and the amount donated. [18430/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraFor 2012, the Government provided almost €630 million in Official Development Assistance (ODA). Some 80% of the funding was managed by Irish Aid in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade under Vote 27 – International Cooperation. The remainder consisted of development contributions made through other Government Departments, and Ireland’s share of the EU Development Cooperation budget. Funding under the Government’s aid programme was provided for long term development programmes and emergency humanitarian assistance in some of the poorest countries and communities in the world. In 2012 the programme continued to prioritise the fight against global poverty and hunger, delivering targeted investments in the areas of education, health, good governance, food security and nutrition.
Funding under Vote 27 was delivered through trusted partners including UN Agencies, International Development Organisations, Non Governmental Organisations and Irish Missionary Organisations. The table below provides a listing of grants in excess of €1.0 million provided to those organisations from the Department’s headquarters in 2012. In addition, approximately one third of the Irish Aid programme was managed through our Embassies in Programme Countries, where we implement long term, strategic development partnership programmes. In 2012, Ireland’s Programme Countries were Ethiopia, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Uganda, Tanzania and Zambia in sub-Saharan Africa, and Timor Leste and Vietnam in Asia. Full details of this expenditure are currently being compiled for the Irish Aid annual report and will be available later in the year on the Irish Aid website, at www.irishaid.ie.
|
Organisation Name |
In € Millions |
|
United Nations Development Programme |
30.00 |
|
Concern Worldwide |
23.43 |
|
Trócaire |
18.47 |
|
The World Bank |
10.39 |
|
Misean Cara |
16.00 |
|
GOAL |
14.70 |
|
United Nations Children’s Fund – UNICEF |
10.25 |
|
The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria |
11.80 |
|
World Food Programme |
11.00 |
|
United Nations Central Emergency Response Fund |
10.00 |
|
International Committee of the Red Cross |
8.80 |
|
United Nations Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees |
8.40 |
|
United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East |
6.34 |
|
International Labour Organisation |
5.95 |
|
United Nations Office of Co-ordination of Humanitarian Affairs |
4.56 |
|
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS - UNAIDS |
3.48 |
|
Oxfam Ireland |
3.30 |
|
International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies |
3.28 |
|
United Nations Population Fund |
3.23 |
|
Christian Aid Ireland |
4.02 |
|
Plan Ireland |
3.02 |
|
Self Help Africa |
2.90 |
|
Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization |
2.75 |
|
World Vision Ireland |
2.73 |
|
Irish Fair Trade Network |
2.66 |
|
World Health Organisation |
2.30 |
|
International AIDS Vaccine Initiative |
2.00 |
|
International Fund for Agricultural Development |
2.00 |
|
Medicines for Malaria Venture |
2.00 |
|
United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights |
1.95 |
|
United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women |
1.73 |
|
The Halo Trust |
1.64 |
|
Sight Savers International |
1.57 |
|
Médecins Sans Frontières |
1.03 |
154. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the restrictions, if any, that apply to Irish businesses and individuals doing business with Burmese Myanmarese military and Burmese individuals and Burmese companies involved in human rights abuses. [18431/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 22 April 2013 at a meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council, Ireland together with our EU colleagues decided to lift all sanctions on Myanmar/Burma with the exception of the arms embargo and embargo on equipment which might be used for internal oppression. This decision was taken in light of the political and economic reforms that have been taking place in Myanmar/Burma since 2011 in the process of democratisation, and further to the Council’s decision to suspend sanctions in April 2012. The current EU restrictions on arms and on equipment which might be used for internal oppression are outlined in the relevant Council Decision of 22 April 2013. Member States and nationals of Member States are prohibited from the sale, supply, transfer or export of arms and related materials to Myanmar/Burma. EU Member States are also prohibited from financing or providing financial assistance to military activities in Myanmar/Burma.
Ireland and our EU partners recognise that Myanmar/Burma still faces complex challenges in terms of democratisation, economic development, human rights, and peace and reconciliation. In keeping with this, the recent decision taken at the Foreign Affairs Council will apply until the 30 April 2014. The decision will be kept under constant review and shall be renewed, or amended as appropriate.
155. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will confirm his Department’s funding provided to the Republic of Uganda in 2012 and in 2013; and his views on that country’s treatment of homosexuals including through its laws, and specifically his views on legislation before the Ugandan parliament at present which reportedly includes provision for a punishment of life imprisonment for consensual sex between two persons of the same sex. [18432/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraUganda is a priority country for Ireland’s development aid programme, where we have a commitment to long term strategic assistance. The anticipated budget for the programme in Uganda in 2012 was €32.75 million. However, when I became aware of the misappropriation of Irish funds in October 2012, I immediately suspended over €16 million of assistance which was due to be channelled through Government of Uganda systems. The final outturn for the Uganda aid programme in 2012 was €15.54 million. An interim Aid Programme for Uganda has been put in place for 2013 with a budget of €16.4 million. This programme is built around support for projects which operate through non-government systems, most of which involve the continuation of existing programmes and commitments, together with some elements where existing support through Government systems can be replaced with bilateral arrangements. This includes direct support to the Ugandan Office of the Auditor General.
The promotion and safeguarding of human rights, particularly those of minority groups, is a central element of Ireland’s foreign policy. I share the widespread concerns about the difficult situation faced by the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community in Uganda. I am particularly concerned about developments in relation to the so-called Anti-Homosexuality Bill. Ireland, together with our EU partners and other international donors in Uganda, has engaged actively on the issue of this draft legislation since it first arose in 2009. The draft Bill was re-introduced in 2012, but has not yet been formally tabled in Parliament. The position of the Government of Uganda on the proposed law is that it was presented as a private member’s bill and is not part of the Government’s legislative programme. President Museveni and the Cabinet have publicly stated that the Bill is unnecessary. He has also made a commitment to engage members of Parliament on the implications of this Bill for Uganda’s international relations and reputation.
I raised the issue directly with President Museveni when I visited Uganda last July and our Ambassador in Kampala has also continued to follow developments closely. She and other EU Ambassadors have outlined our serious concerns in several meetings at the highest levels in Uganda. The Ugandan Government and other interested parties are in no doubt about the Irish Government’s profound concerns on this issue. Ireland, in conjunction with our EU partners and the wider donor community, remains committed to ensuring that citizens of Uganda do not suffer violence or discrimination on the grounds of their sexual orientation. Our Embassy in Uganda will continue to monitor the issue closely over the coming months and to work with partners who are equally concerned to promote respect for these rights.
156. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will confirm the cost of the Irish heritage certificate scheme to date and specifically the amount paid to date to scheme operator, Fexco; and the projected amounts overall to be paid to Fexco to the end of its contract. [18433/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra158. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will confirm the number of Irish heritage certificates issued to date. [18435/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 156 and 158 together.
With the vast majority of the global diaspora no longer eligible for Irish citizenship, the Certificate of Irish Heritage was introduced to recognise descendents of previous generations of Irish citizens in an official way and to give greater practical expression to the sense of Irish identity felt by many around the world. Following a public tender in April, 2010, Fexco were awarded the contract to operate the Certificate of Irish Heritage on behalf of the Department.Under the terms of the contract, Fexco developed the web systems and necessary software. Fexco also process applications, issue certificates and are the initial point of contact for all customer enquiries. To date, 1794 Certificates of Irish Heritage have been issued. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has spent €3,163 to date on the Certificate of Irish Heritage. These costs are mainly on technical issues relating to the websites which the Department owns (registering domains and security validation procedures etc.) as well as travel costs to meetings with Fexco in Killorglin and some photographs at the launch in New York. No payments have been made to date to Fexco nor are any expected to be made during the contract period. Under the terms of the contract, the Department is not liable to Fexco for any costs associated with the establishment or operation of the scheme.
157. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will set out in tabular form for each year 2011 and 2012, the cost, by country, of operating embassies, consulates, chanceries and other diplomatic representation, showing under separate headings for each country, premises, costs, salaries and earnings, and other costs. [18434/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s 73 missions abroad perform a wide range of functions in pursuit of Ireland’s foreign policy interests. These include representing and advancing government policies with other States and in international organisations, in particular the EU and UN; economic and cultural promotion; frontline consular and passport services to Irish citizens overseas; engaging with Irish communities abroad and harnessing the resource they offer in assisting economic recovery; and programme management, particularly in the Irish Aid priority countries. The operating costs of each of Ireland’s diplomatic missions for 2011 and 2012 are provided in the tables below. In 2012 there was an overall reduction in administrative costs of €0.57m for the diplomatic network. The figures in these tables include all expenditure items charged to Mission budgets. Salary and related costs of staff posted from Ireland are not included as they are a charge on the overall budget of the Department rather than on a specific Mission. Likewise, capital expenditure is not included as such expenditure does not form part of the Mission’s budget.
A number of Missions manage significant programmes on behalf of Irish Aid and their effective implementation necessarily entails additional management and oversight costs which are included in the figures provided below.
|
2011 |
Local Salaries, Foreign Representation and Accommodation |
Travel and Subsistence |
Other Costs |
Communications |
Office Supplies |
Premises |
|
BERNE |
355,817 |
6,706 |
14,501 |
15,014 |
3,634 |
103,920 |
|
BERLIN |
527,329 |
17,134 |
21,623 |
27,236 |
8,148 |
325,434 |
|
BOSTON |
235,071 |
4,555 |
1,542 |
8,792 |
3,485 |
106,178 |
|
BRUSSELS (EMBASSY) |
273,398 |
2,738 |
18,024 |
9,978 |
2,524 |
226,495 |
|
BRUSSELS (PR-EU) |
1,884,193 |
145,227 |
60,140 |
109,471 |
70,304 |
1,088,712 |
|
BUENOS AIRES |
198,964 |
14,063 |
14,844 |
10,817 |
3,390 |
173,763 |
|
CAIRO |
196,430 |
18,691 |
7,627 |
28,981 |
1,862 |
169,940 |
|
CANBERRA |
552,669 |
44,958 |
10,806 |
33,624 |
10,495 |
94,018 |
|
CHICAGO |
227,708 |
13,499 |
3,157 |
13,260 |
3,779 |
80,242 |
|
COPENHAGEN |
294,920 |
8,067 |
13,746 |
13,113 |
3,094 |
50,163 |
|
GENEVA |
707,534 |
21,188 |
11,352 |
26,609 |
8,026 |
488,249 |
|
THE HAGUE |
477,619 |
8,358 |
56,278 |
24,203 |
5,576 |
80,079 |
|
HOLY SEE |
254,007 |
1,584 |
20,176 |
11,954 |
2,136 |
123,766 |
|
ABUJA |
127,933 |
40,843 |
29,453 |
13,219 |
4,893 |
36,642 |
|
LISBON |
236,319 |
18,129 |
11,037 |
21,872 |
2,092 |
138,433 |
|
LONDON |
1,548,603 |
54,911 |
100,768 |
130,835 |
54,022 |
979,386 |
|
LUXEMBOURG |
260,544 |
370 |
3,972 |
6,305 |
1,933 |
113,918 |
|
MADRID |
594,575 |
11,813 |
12,410 |
28,957 |
3,505 |
319,757 |
|
MOSCOW |
383,973 |
29,845 |
16,772 |
29,766 |
3,984 |
266,816 |
|
NEW DELHI |
141,790 |
23,930 |
11,435 |
14,837 |
6,678 |
469,766 |
|
NEW YORK - PMUN |
828,845 |
5,997 |
9,719 |
35,516 |
13,958 |
1,062,843 |
|
NEW YORK - C.G. |
826,242 |
12,406 |
16,517 |
8,092 |
16,233 |
789,953 |
|
OTTAWA |
319,544 |
37,616 |
12,647 |
34,676 |
12,763 |
144,058 |
|
PARIS |
1,224,262 |
28,883 |
19,842 |
37,496 |
9,432 |
327,168 |
|
ROME |
542,241 |
23,642 |
21,577 |
28,132 |
8,537 |
522,156 |
|
SAN FRANCISCO |
193,493 |
10,230 |
1,087 |
-14,003 |
8,369 |
140,256 |
|
STOCKHOLM |
311,733 |
856 |
11,893 |
15,001 |
4,100 |
270,763 |
|
TEHRAN |
141,117 |
9,308 |
10,830 |
1,086 |
684 |
158,680 |
|
TOKYO |
795,396 |
20,621 |
48,953 |
26,647 |
8,378 |
1,384,445 |
|
VIENNA |
378,127 |
6,339 |
17,144 |
14,939 |
3,918 |
235,081 |
|
WASHINGTON DC |
873,991 |
29,722 |
26,698 |
39,004 |
9,212 |
93,439 |
|
OSLO |
261,128 |
2,071 |
12,171 |
15,227 |
4,746 |
347,779 |
|
STRASBOURG |
275,881 |
5,840 |
6,328 |
11,933 |
3,223 |
106,407 |
|
RIYADH |
233,982 |
17,647 |
9,848 |
11,324 |
4,338 |
48,515 |
|
ATHENS |
283,671 |
5,492 |
12,381 |
10,852 |
2,250 |
157,211 |
|
BEIJING |
285,743 |
45,996 |
17,160 |
31,382 |
5,577 |
334,170 |
|
BELFAST SECRETARIAT |
232,588 |
22,896 |
33,770 |
27,791 |
4,212 |
347,891 |
|
SEOUL |
162,127 |
9,255 |
8,134 |
10,382 |
3,499 |
164,370 |
|
WARSAW |
286,651 |
14,477 |
23,008 |
23,888 |
5,458 |
382,628 |
|
HELSINKI |
214,127 |
4,599 |
10,463 |
13,287 |
3,914 |
262,529 |
|
PRETORIA |
464,988 |
64,024 |
66,142 |
40,135 |
18,629 |
348,346 |
|
PRAGUE |
311,675 |
5,848 |
14,542 |
14,860 |
4,218 |
219,848 |
|
KUALA LUMPUR |
147,535 |
11,147 |
8,896 |
9,695 |
1,939 |
172,136 |
|
BUDAPEST |
137,066 |
7,802 |
10,760 |
11,466 |
736 |
318,590 |
|
OSCE - VIENNA |
203,660 |
23,315 |
13,490 |
9,887 |
2,304 |
153,511 |
|
TEL AVIV |
214,283 |
4,146 |
15,571 |
12,392 |
2,374 |
299,703 |
|
EDINBURGH |
103,126 |
1,330 |
2,627 |
9,980 |
1,273 |
80,509 |
|
ANKARA |
186,767 |
29,306 |
14,449 |
12,343 |
2,165 |
134,620 |
|
MEXICO |
181,761 |
34,838 |
12,709 |
22,845 |
2,788 |
182,965 |
|
ARMAGH |
30,150 |
58,808 |
10,073 |
5,695 |
4,209 |
465,558 |
|
SYDNEY |
305,428 |
9,526 |
2,236 |
18,432 |
4,538 |
283,884 |
|
SHANGHAI |
129,640 |
11,637 |
6,649 |
15,211 |
1,409 |
387,926 |
|
SINGAPORE |
315,472 |
28,249 |
7,136 |
7,759 |
1,853 |
453,648 |
|
RAMALLAH |
171,025 |
2,253 |
9,797 |
6,547 |
958 |
50,905 |
|
BRUSSELS (P.F.P.) |
67,734 |
2,855 |
279 |
1,412 |
1,534 |
192,691 |
|
NICOSIA |
128,214 |
980 |
6,168 |
4,572 |
1,481 |
225,121 |
|
LJUBLJANA |
205,701 |
7,407 |
16,518 |
7,994 |
1,721 |
161,044 |
|
TALLINN |
61,909 |
1,561 |
5,714 |
8,343 |
1,856 |
299,132 |
|
BRATISLAVA |
138,986 |
2,302 |
8,849 |
7,970 |
835 |
197,813 |
|
BRASILIA |
247,469 |
19,217 |
12,261 |
15,923 |
2,621 |
231,815 |
|
BUCHAREST |
177,794 |
5,467 |
10,104 |
12,227 |
2,893 |
263,587 |
|
SOFIA |
109,053 |
5,968 |
19,324 |
5,993 |
961 |
219,533 |
|
LONDON - PPO |
195,097 |
546 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
RIGA |
63,009 |
2,426 |
6,440 |
4,946 |
1,646 |
105,137 |
|
VILNIUS |
132,043 |
1,175 |
7,185 |
5,903 |
956 |
267,696 |
|
VALLETTA |
84,950 |
9,670 |
1,248 |
8,742 |
990 |
218,648 |
|
ABU DHABI |
160,678 |
16,227 |
11,212 |
13,627 |
3,756 |
180,194 |
|
ATLANTA - CONSULATE |
84,843 |
10,140 |
5,311 |
5,712 |
1,721 |
25,073 |
|
ADDIS ABABA |
469,421 |
14,033 |
70,968 |
9,025 |
10,603 |
58,671 |
|
DAR ES SALAAM |
574,365 |
63,315 |
94,583 |
22,723 |
25,365 |
50,892 |
|
DILI |
59,111 |
19,299 |
3,463 |
6,433 |
2,574 |
36,773 |
|
FREETOWN |
69,035 |
6,940 |
41,340 |
5,137 |
2,451 |
157,016 |
|
HANOI |
267,943 |
56,132 |
23,712 |
9,239 |
11,819 |
334,296 |
|
KAMPALA |
416,342 |
50,924 |
130,209 |
21,521 |
15,457 |
152,267 |
|
LILONGWE |
175,495 |
34,206 |
88,515 |
19,404 |
17,940 |
125,146 |
|
LUSAKA |
798,441 |
70,737 |
94,126 |
20,876 |
17,209 |
132,158 |
|
MAPUTO |
471,827 |
98,148 |
163,390 |
37,265 |
21,893 |
175,871 |
|
MASERU |
299,381 |
24,426 |
61,575 |
26,619 |
10,438 |
82,216 |
|
2012 |
Local Salaries, Rent Allowance, Representation Allowance |
Travel and Subsistence |
Other Costs |
Communications |
Office Supplies |
Premises |
|
BERNE |
352,486 |
6,275 |
12,077 |
14,112 |
3,995 |
105,173 |
|
BERLIN |
485,446 |
18,316 |
25,298 |
24,767 |
8,380 |
350,969 |
|
BOSTON |
233,288 |
4,309 |
1,497 |
11,530 |
4,567 |
67,463 |
|
BRUSSELS (EMBASSY) |
308,370 |
1,537 |
13,285 |
7,291 |
4,372 |
295,065 |
|
BRUSSELS (PR-EU) |
1,863,134 |
187,745 |
158,336 |
113,483 |
78,913 |
1,073,841 |
|
BUENOS AIRES |
188,355 |
24,656 |
10,759 |
10,497 |
907 |
154,068 |
|
CAIRO |
220,509 |
21,395 |
5,597 |
20,183 |
2,360 |
179,860 |
|
CANBERRA |
585,498 |
60,655 |
13,718 |
39,676 |
11,733 |
103,376 |
|
CHICAGO |
234,620 |
13,895 |
1,830 |
17,979 |
4,223 |
37,817 |
|
COPENHAGEN |
271,042 |
6,878 |
15,822 |
13,306 |
3,240 |
61,517 |
|
GENEVA |
703,743 |
35,140 |
11,200 |
24,554 |
9,722 |
498,056 |
|
THE HAGUE |
478,255 |
5,888 |
55,699 |
23,724 |
4,615 |
129,982 |
|
HOLY SEE |
1,688 |
5,646 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
ABUJA |
151,642 |
39,557 |
53,601 |
14,761 |
5,891 |
313,439 |
|
LISBON |
199,341 |
3,412 |
9,279 |
20,474 |
1,486 |
144,181 |
|
LONDON |
1,485,960 |
46,181 |
89,322 |
159,999 |
54,184 |
1,025,019 |
|
LUXEMBOURG |
253,468 |
3 |
4,530 |
6,426 |
1,326 |
125,043 |
|
MADRID |
592,184 |
6,827 |
8,654 |
25,371 |
4,570 |
311,239 |
|
MOSCOW |
404,176 |
38,357 |
24,988 |
33,475 |
8,175 |
237,864 |
|
NEW DELHI |
177,043 |
31,721 |
11,515 |
15,611 |
8,948 |
380,661 |
|
NEW YORK - PMUN |
899,805 |
2,606 |
9,615 |
33,361 |
18,800 |
518,782 |
|
NEW YORK - C.G. |
869,113 |
20,027 |
14,189 |
8,149 |
21,126 |
874,924 |
|
OTTAWA |
340,061 |
39,117 |
19,200 |
24,504 |
11,725 |
157,394 |
|
PARIS |
1,231,041 |
22,147 |
21,924 |
33,339 |
13,235 |
320,851 |
|
ROME |
759,610 |
23,350 |
38,469 |
32,321 |
9,743 |
372,650 |
|
SAN FRANCISCO |
202,647 |
10,289 |
1,292 |
-21,149 |
7,399 |
153,830 |
|
STOCKHOLM |
251,279 |
4,069 |
10,127 |
9,714 |
3,297 |
265,261 |
|
TEHRAN |
274,506 |
145 |
-12,417 |
509 |
12 |
-16,341 |
|
TOKYO |
894,385 |
19,045 |
41,368 |
25,967 |
7,488 |
986,372 |
|
VIENNA |
375,971 |
2,117 |
13,614 |
10,270 |
4,942 |
238,572 |
|
WASHINGTON DC |
884,578 |
47,219 |
27,627 |
42,479 |
9,571 |
88,537 |
|
OSLO |
275,198 |
1,226 |
13,531 |
13,621 |
3,690 |
318,966 |
|
STRASBOURG |
271,237 |
4,987 |
6,752 |
12,505 |
3,452 |
105,731 |
|
RIYADH |
261,172 |
16,321 |
11,084 |
10,411 |
4,547 |
52,768 |
|
ATHENS |
246,386 |
6,609 |
12,141 |
9,527 |
2,033 |
155,638 |
|
BEIJING |
355,444 |
37,459 |
24,786 |
31,498 |
7,795 |
392,959 |
|
BELFAST SECRETARIAT |
266,681 |
25,474 |
19,588 |
26,740 |
2,774 |
307,357 |
|
SEOUL |
156,792 |
10,290 |
5,732 |
10,429 |
2,019 |
176,643 |
|
WARSAW |
278,692 |
30,410 |
28,083 |
21,264 |
7,363 |
392,692 |
|
HELSINKI |
215,505 |
3,305 |
9,910 |
10,738 |
2,641 |
216,022 |
|
PRETORIA |
259,793 |
29,653 |
22,430 |
37,644 |
10,395 |
183,591 |
|
PRAGUE |
441,340 |
50,715 |
77,361 |
40,818 |
15,648 |
271,555 |
|
KUALA LUMPUR |
158,954 |
6,339 |
10,757 |
8,740 |
1,933 |
194,731 |
|
BUDAPEST |
128,007 |
7,884 |
12,550 |
11,926 |
1,789 |
272,898 |
|
OSCE - VIENNA |
192,415 |
17,531 |
10,601 |
15,215 |
3,277 |
163,349 |
|
TEL AVIV |
212,167 |
2,730 |
16,297 |
12,588 |
1,819 |
349,081 |
|
EDINBURGH |
108,743 |
2,057 |
2,890 |
9,243 |
2,201 |
80,309 |
|
ANKARA |
191,677 |
18,209 |
14,560 |
15,099 |
5,925 |
142,747 |
|
MEXICO |
194,623 |
34,647 |
13,359 |
21,559 |
2,605 |
213,576 |
|
ARMAGH |
22,421 |
47,802 |
10,118 |
6,917 |
4,644 |
446,060 |
|
SYDNEY |
348,278 |
6,761 |
2,257 |
21,603 |
4,625 |
311,852 |
|
SHANGHAI |
155,636 |
6,458 |
10,455 |
14,544 |
3,772 |
403,129 |
|
SINGAPORE |
330,317 |
28,798 |
9,687 |
2,357 |
1,984 |
556,700 |
|
RAMALLAH |
169,064 |
2,403 |
19,896 |
7,753 |
1,818 |
157,127 |
|
BRUSSELS (P.F.P.) |
47,135 |
2,630 |
286 |
974 |
3,193 |
181,817 |
|
NICOSIA |
124,581 |
228 |
6,882 |
5,747 |
2,026 |
139,157 |
|
LJUBLJANA |
201,644 |
10,869 |
15,147 |
9,524 |
4,807 |
149,044 |
|
TALLINN |
61,588 |
2,406 |
5,503 |
7,652 |
1,776 |
301,719 |
|
BRATISLAVA |
92,438 |
1,565 |
5,781 |
6,286 |
1,329 |
186,683 |
|
BRASILIA |
237,266 |
25,750 |
11,840 |
17,609 |
2,229 |
227,473 |
|
BUCHAREST |
159,532 |
4,299 |
10,704 |
10,580 |
2,738 |
274,233 |
|
SOFIA |
103,524 |
1,933 |
21,037 |
7,304 |
436 |
221,759 |
|
LONDON - PPO |
210,926 |
290 |
0 |
0 |
10,529 |
0 |
|
RIGA |
62,341 |
1,258 |
7,245 |
4,435 |
1,691 |
98,177 |
|
VILNIUS |
116,847 |
49 |
7,934 |
5,745 |
1,190 |
236,218 |
|
VALLETTA |
88,515 |
11,397 |
1,459 |
10,816 |
3,604 |
217,087 |
|
ABU DHABI |
168,222 |
15,481 |
11,488 |
10,159 |
2,261 |
181,174 |
|
ATLANTA - CONSULATE |
97,905 |
11,430 |
1,843 |
6,575 |
1,350 |
52,385 |
|
ADDIS ABABA |
450,011 |
14,346 |
56,086 |
9,025 |
11,586 |
71,708 |
|
DAR ES SALAAM |
649,047 |
53,401 |
103,820 |
22,723 |
25,303 |
55,356 |
|
DILI |
44,212 |
19,819 |
17,655 |
10,423 |
3,556 |
54,342 |
|
FREETOWN |
103,376 |
29,243 |
25,078 |
9,489 |
5,088 |
116,471 |
|
HANOI |
301,083 |
83,591 |
40,160 |
13,637 |
10,156 |
307,544 |
|
KAMPALA |
533,792 |
57,275 |
160,659 |
21,521 |
17,566 |
198,544 |
|
LILONGWE |
157,560 |
39,983 |
80,326 |
19,404 |
22,997 |
116,952 |
|
LUSAKA |
764,837 |
52,015 |
94,417 |
20,876 |
14,415 |
45,056 |
|
MAPUTO |
550,460 |
80,644 |
149,910 |
37,265 |
33,985 |
215,622 |
|
MASERU |
326,184 |
24,252 |
43,095 |
26,620 |
8,513 |
106,039 |
159. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the contacts that he has had with key players on Capitol Hill in the US following the publication of the Outline of the Border Security, Economic Opportunity, and Immigration Modernization Act of 2013; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18849/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI welcome the publication of the US Senate’s Border Security, Economic Opportunity and Immigration Modernization Bill which provides for reform of the US immigration system, which was published last week. The legislation – which was drafted over several months by a bi-partisan group of eight US Senators – includes provisions that would help resolve the plight of thousands of undocumented Irish people who are living illegally in the US. It also provides for future flows of legal migration between Ireland and the US. The Bill is a very positive development which, if adopted, would help to end the great hardship and uncertainty faced by undocumented Irish in the US and their families here in Ireland. The inclusion of a new provision to allow several thousand Irish citizens to legally avail of employment opportunities in the US every year is also particularly welcome.
Both of these issues have been a key focus of my ongoing engagement with political leaders in the US, particularly during my visit to Washington D.C. over St. Patrick’s Day when I discussed them with Ireland’s key friends on Capitol Hill and in the Administration. The Government has maintained close contact since publication of the Bill with the key players through our Embassy in Washington. I am conscious that the overall issues involved are complex and sensitive ones within the US political system and that much further debate is likely to be required before the final shape of any overall legislation becomes clear.
The plight of the undocumented remains a top priority for Government and we have worked closely with the bi-partisan group of Senators and other legislators in the run-up to the publication of this Bill. The Government will continue to liaise closely with them and other key stakeholders in Congress and throughout the Irish-American community.
160. Deputy Timmy Dooley asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the situation regarding his recent announcement regarding the allocation to refugees in Turkey, to outline the total such payments made in connection with the war in Syria in 2012 /13; the budget head they came under; if they were supplementary or planned amounts; and the way he explains such out payments to Irish people who see the problems here as priority for funding. [18853/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraAfter more than two years of intense and indiscriminate violence in Syria, the civilian population is experiencing appalling suffering and requires the support of the international community if the situation is not to become an outright humanitarian catastrophe. There are currently 4 million people in desperate need of the basic means of survival. Over 2 million Syrians are displaced inside the country, their homes and communities destroyed and uninhabitable. More than 1.3 million people are now taking refuge in neighbouring countries after fleeing the hostilities. Despite serious risks and constraints on their operations, humanitarian workers are entering into these Syrian communities each day to reach the most vulnerable with life-saving assistance.
Children have been particularly affected by the crisis. It is estimated that some 2 million children inside Syria are in need of immediate assistance, with many requiring medical attention and psychosocial support. More than 4,000 schools have been destroyed or are no longer operational, and hundreds of thousands of children are being denied a basic education. One out of every two refugees from the conflict is a child.
When I visited al-Zaatari refugee camp on the Syria-Jordan border last August, all the refugees I spoke to were clear that eland’s assistance was greatly needed. Although Syria’s neighbours, including Jordan, were making a major effort to support Syrians affected by the crisis, they were already under strain because of the scale of the challenge and the steady escalation of needs. Earlier this month, the Tánaiste visited refugee camps in southern Turkey and witnessed the major humanitarian effort underway there to support Syrian refugees. This visit further confirmed our belief that the international community has a duty to move immediately to help protect the lives and dignity of the beleaguered Syrian population. Ireland has responded generously to the humanitarian crisis in Syria and neighbouring countries. To date, through the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Government has provided over €8.15 million in humanitarian assistance. This has been channelled through long-standing and reputable partners such as the World Food Programme (WFP), the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR), the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). They have a demonstrated track record of effective humanitarian response in Syria, with strong strategies for targeting and delivery and robust systems for monitoring and accountability.
The Government’s humanitarian support is allocated through the Emergency Humanitarian Assistance Fund managed by ish Aid. The specific objective of this fund is to save and protect lives in acute crisis situations on the basis of independently assessed humanitarian needs. It is designed to finance activities that provide protection for civilians, the delivery of clean safe water, sanitation services, food, shelter, healthcare, or other forms of assistance necessary to sustain life in natural or manmade disaster situations.
I believe that the ish people strongly support the provision of much-needed humanitarian support for people whose lives and livelihoods are being destroyed by the conflict in Syria. We are continuing to monitor the situation in the region in order to assess the most effective way in which eland can continue to contribute to relief of suffering among the civilian population.
161. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide in tabular form the number of civil/public servants under the remit of his Department who earn more than €500,000, between €400,000-€500,00, €300,000 - €250,000, €250,000 - €200,000, €200,000 - €150,000, €150,000 - €100,000, €100,000 - €80,000, €80,000 - €60,000, €60,000 - €40,000 and less than €30,000. [18870/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe table below sets out the range of earnings within my Department. It is classified in accordance with the breakdown requested. For completeness, I have also included the number of staff in my Department earning between €30,000 and €40,000 and €300,000 and €400,000.
|
>€500,000 |
NIL |
|
€400,000-500,000 |
NIL |
|
€300,000-400,000 |
Nil |
|
€250,000-300,000 |
NIL |
|
€200,000-250,000 |
1 |
|
€150,000-200,000 |
8 |
|
€100,000-150,000 |
58 |
|
€80,000-100,000 |
136 |
|
€60,000-80,000 |
188 |
|
€40,000-60,000 |
299 |
|
€30,000-40,000 |
406 |
|
<€30,000 |
310 |
162. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade in the context of the upcoming Universal Periodic Review of Colombia in the Human Rights Council, if he intends to press the Colombian Government on the security and protection of human rights defenders and trade union workers operating in Colombia; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19096/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe promotion and protection of human rights is a core principle of Ireland’s foreign policy. In line with our priorities in this area, Ireland raises concerns and makes recommendations to States under the Universal Periodic Review mechanism of the UN Human Rights Council, including on the issue of human rights defenders and threats against civil society around the world. In relation to the upcoming Universal Periodic Review of Colombia, it is our intention to contribute to this review, including in relation to the protection of human rights defenders and trade union workers. We will also continue to engage with Colombia in the context of our bilateral contacts. I very much welcomed the opportunity to meet with Colombia’s President Santos and Foreign Minister Holguín last January on the margins of the EU-CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean countries) Summit in Chile. We discussed a range of issues including my concerns regarding the situation of trade unionists and human rights defenders in Colombia. President Santos assured me that this is also an issue of priority for his Government and he briefed me on his Government’s efforts in this regard. Guided by our over-arching commitment to the promotion and protection of human rights, Ireland continues to work closely with our EU partners to support positive developments in Colombia and to promote the progressive improvement of human rights standards.
163. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will consider supporting the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 in Colombia, in the context of Ireland's National Action Plan and its membership of the UN Human Rights Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19097/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s National Action Plan (NAP) on UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 on Women, Peace and Security was officially launched in November 2011. The NAP sets out how Ireland will promote and implement the objectives of the Resolution in its programme support activities, diplomatic advocacy and policy-making, across the interrelated areas of peace, security and development. The NAP commits Ireland to: listen to the voices of women affected by conflict; strengthen women’s leadership and implement accountability mechanisms; strengthen institutional capacities through comprehensive training of staff deployed overseas; support programmes to promote women’s participation in conflict prevention, peacekeeping, peace negotiations, peace building, and post conflict transition and governance; and leverage Ireland’s participation in global and regional fora to champion the implementation of UNSCR 1325. A mid-term review of the NAP is currently underway which will highlight the progress that Ireland has made to date in implementation of the NAP and make recommendations for further actions to fulfil its objectives. As the Deputy may be aware, I attended the EU – CELAC (Community of Latin American and Caribbean States) Summit in Santiago de Chile in January. I was particularly pleased that an important outcome from the Summit was the commitment by the EU and the CELAC countries to prioritise gender in the context of our bi-regional relations and I look forward to the early implementation of the EU – CELAC Action Plan 2013-2015 in this regard.
Ireland was also one of sixty-six States which supported a Joint Statement on Women’s Rights, Peace and Security at the UN Human Rights Council in 2012. The Joint Statement reaffirmed support for, and commitment to, the implementation of UNSCR 1325 and called on all States to fully realise the objectives of the resolution in their national policies. We will continue to follow this issue closely as a member of the Council for the period 2013-2015. My Department engages with a wide range of international partners in discussions on UNSCR 1325. If we were invited to do so by the Government of Colombia, I would be happy to share our experience of developing our National Action Plan, to offer advice on issues relating to implementation of UNSCR 1325 and to consider any request for other support that might be made.
164. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade with regard to the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, if he will indicate which Govrernment Departments and agencies will be taking part in the formulation of a national plan for their implementation and which Departments will have overall responsibility; if he will provide a timetable as to when the national plan will be completed, in view of the request by the European Commission that these be submitted by the end of 2012. [19107/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 16 June 2011, the UN Human Rights Council endorsed "Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights: Implementing the United Nations ‘Protect, Respect and Remedy’ Framework”. The Guiding Principles cover a range of issues which, in this State, span the policy responsibilities of a number of Government Departments and agencies. The Commission Communication of October 2011, entitled “A renewed EU strategy 2011-14 for Corporate Social Responsibility” invited EU member States to develop national plans for the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles by the end of 2012. The EU Strategic Framework and Action Plan on Human Rights and Democracy, adopted by the Council of the European Union in June 2012, asked member States to develop national plans on the implementation of the UN Guiding Principles in 2013. Consideration is being given as to how to address the Guiding Principles and how to best go about formulating our national action plan for their implementation. I would hope that Government Departments will be in a position to take this forward after the conclusion of Ireland’s Presidency of the Council of the European Union.
165. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans for increasing an Irish presence in Taiwan since the closure of the Industrial Development Agency's Taiwan office in December 2011. [19122/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra166. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to increase the Irish presence in Taiwan in view of the fact that 16 EU member states have offices there and the high number of Double Taxation Agreements that have been signed by many of our common partners with Taiwan. [19123/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 165 and 166 together.
Ireland, along with all EU partners, adheres to the One China policy and, as a result, does not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. This does not, however, preclude the development of economic and trade relations and Ireland, together with our EU partners, sees the benefit of encouraging trade with Taiwan, and continues to explore appropriate opportunities which arise. This does not, however, preclude the development of economic and trade relations and Ireland, together with our EU partners, sees the benefit of encouraging trade with Taiwan, and continues to explore appropriate opportunities which arise.
As the Deputy has noted, IDA Ireland had an office in Taipei but closed it following a reorganisation of resources in 2011. Enterprise Ireland and the IDA currently assess that, given the competing demands on limited resources, they can best manage the needs of their clients in China, including those in Taiwan, from their offices in Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong and Shenzen. Decisions regarding the presence of an Irish State Agencies in Taipei are matters for the Agencies concerned.
The European Union has no formal diplomatic or political relations with Taiwan. The EU does, however, recognise Taiwan as an economic and commercial entity and is represented by the European Economic and Trade Office (EETO) in Taipei, which was established in 2003. A number of EU partner countries also have Trade Offices there.
Irish business and other representatives travelling to Taipei on trade promotion and investment activities are free to liaise with the EETO and to welcome any assistance which might be offered by that office, in addition to the support provided by the Irish State Agencies in China.
In terms of the possibility of concluding a Double Taxation Agreement (DTA) with Taiwan, this matter is currently being considered by the relevant Government Departments and agencies. Ireland has a DTA with the People’s Republic of China which entered into force in December 2001. Since the conclusion of the DTA with China, a separate agreement was agreed with the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (HKSAR) and entered into force in February 2011. However, the situation in Hong Kong is different to Taiwan as Hong Kong’s separate taxation status is specifically provided for in the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, as adopted by the National People’s Congress in Beijing in 1997.
167. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance arising from recent demands for local property tax received by homeowners in recent times, if the current actual market value of a person's property remains as the guiding factor in the determination of actual liability; if any regard may be had for situations whereby a number of employed persons are residing in one dwelling alongside a similar dwelling occupied by a widow, widower, couple on pension; if any cognisance is taken of the ability of the latter to discharge the tax; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18288/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Finance (Local Property Tax) Act 2012 (as amended) sets out how a residential property is to be valued for Local Property Tax (LPT) purposes. The LPT is a self-assessed tax and it is incorrect to describe the general issue of LPT Returns and supporting documentation by Revenue as demands for LPT. In accordance with the legislation, it is a matter for the property owner to calculate the amount of LPT due based on his or her assessment of the market value of the property. The level of household income, or the number of residents in the household, has no bearing on the amount of LPT due.
The initial valuation of a property on 1 May 2013, assuming it is made in good faith, will be valid up to and including 2016 and will not be affected by any increase or decrease in property prices or other changes, during this period. A system of deferral arrangements for owner-occupiers is available, one of which is dependent on the level of the owner’s annual income. Where a property owner qualifies for deferral, interest will be charged on LPT amounts deferred at a rate of 4% per annum and the deferred amount, including the interest, will attach to the property and will have to be paid before the property is sold or transferred. Details of all the deferral options are available in Revenue’s Guide to Local Property Tax which was issued to property owners and to Oireachtas Members and is also on Revenue’s website www.revenue.ie.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that as part of the general issue of Returns and booklets, which has been ongoing since last month and is almost concluded, property owners also received a Revenue Estimate of LPT. Revenue has made it clear that the Revenue Estimate is not based on a valuation of each owner’s individual property nor should it be regarded as an accurate calculation of the amount of LPT that the owner should pay. The Estimate is only relevant where an owner does not make his or her self-assessment of the market value and complete and file his or her LPT Return.
To qualify for a deferral, the residential property must be occupied as a sole or main residence. The gross income thresholds for a full deferral will be €15,000 for a single person and €25,000 for a couple, whether married persons, civil partners or cohabitants. A person may claim a deferral if their gross income will not “as can reasonably be foreseen at the liability date” exceed these thresholds in that year. An increased gross income threshold applies in the case of properties occupied as a sole or main residence and subject to a mortgage. In such cases, the gross income thresholds may be increased by 80% of the mortgage interest payments. A deferral option in qualifying cases in this regard will apply until the end of 2017 and will assist individuals currently in mortgage distress.
A deferral of up to 50% of the LPT liability will be possible where the gross income of the liable person does not exceed €25,000 for a single person or €35,000 for married persons/civil partners/cohabitants. A deferral of 50% of the LPT will also be available where gross income does not exceed the above thresholds (€25,000 single, €35,000 couple) as increased by 80% of the gross mortgage interest payments that a liable person expects to make by the end of the year for which the gross income is being estimated. This type of deferral will also be available until 31 December 2017.
168. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Finance in view of developments in Portugal, if he has considered a general increase in PAYE to higher earners over a three year period which would have less deflationary impact on the general economy instead of specifically targeting public sector workers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18501/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn relation to tax policy the position is that the Programme for Government states that as part of the Government’s fiscal strategy we will maintain the current rates of income tax together with bands and credits and not increase the top marginal tax rates. I should point out that the latest OECD data indicates that Ireland has the most progressive tax system of the EU members of its organisation. A progressive taxation system ensures that the burden of taxation falls most heavily on those with a higher ability to pay.
In addition, the marginal tax rate, which is described as the tax rate that applies to the last euro of the base, is an important consideration in the formulation of tax policy. Marginal tax rates are important because they influence individual decisions to work more. The OECD in its working paper ‘Tax and Economic Growth’ points to the “possibility that high top marginal rates will increase the average tax rates paid by high-skilled and high-income earners so much that they will migrate to countries with lower rates resulting in a brain drain which may lower innovative activity and productivity” .
The top marginal tax rate for employees, including USC and PRSI, is now 52%. This has increased from 43.5% in 2008. The top marginal tax rate for self-assessed is now 55%. This has increased from 46.5% in 2008. It is estimated that in 2013, the top 5 per cent of income earners will pay 44 per cent of the total income tax yield, while it is estimated that those earning €50,000 or less, which represents 78 per cent of income earners, will pay 20 per cent of the total income tax yield. It is further estimated that in 2013, 841,000 individuals, which represents approximately 40 per cent of the income tax base, will be exempt from income tax altogether.
The issue of public service pay and other expenditure policy is primarily a matter for the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. However, in view of the Unions’ non acceptance of the measures proposed by the Labour Relations Commission to achieve reductions in the public service pay bill, it will now be necessary for the Government to decide on and secure alternative measures that will deliver the savings to meet our expenditure targets.
169. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the number of full time Customs and Excise staff employed solely in the detection of drugs for 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18542/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Revenue Commissioners that Revenue is an integrated Tax and Customs administration, and all Revenue staff are available for assignment to any required functions in accordance with currently identified priorities and risks. Currently the Revenue Commissioners have approximately 2,000 staff engaged directly in activities that are dedicated to target and confront non-compliance. These staff play an important part in ensuring compliance with all taxes and duties as well as with customs obligations (including drugs interdiction)
Revenue is subject to the Employment Control Framework staffing reductions imposed since 2009. Revenue’s overall staffing levels have reduced from a total of 6,581(Full Time Equivalent) at the end of 2008 to its current level of 5,780. Notwithstanding this reduction, Revenue staff resources assigned to compliance activities have been maintained at around 2,000. Revenue have accorded a very high priority to the tackling of all illegal trade, including drugs, and they are committed to ensuring that, despite the staff reductions, that this enforcement work will continue to be resourced to the maximum extent possible.
Revenue is very aware that it plays a frontline role in protecting society from the importation of illicit drugs. As a stakeholder in the Government’s National Drugs Strategy, Revenue plays an important role in implementing the Supply Reduction Pillar. Strategic and Operation Plans, which are managed on a national basis, have been put in place to ensure Revenue meets its commitments under the strategy. This ongoing commitment is bolstered by the deployment of the two Revenue Customs Cutters, the RCC Suirbhéir and the RCC Faire , two X-Ray scanners and 14 detector dog teams, coupled with the management of the Customs Drugs Watch programme. Revenue works proactively with an Garda Siochana and the Naval Service as part of the Joint Task Force on Drugs Interdiction. Along with effective operational interventions, Revenue has also used its contacts within international law enforcement agencies to proactively profile drug trafficking networks.
170. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Finance if he will confirm the number of part time Customs and Excise staff employed in County Mayo in the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18543/13]
Amharc ar fhreagra171. Deputy Michelle Mulherin asked the Minister for Finance the number of full time Customs and Excise Staff employed in County Mayo in the years 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18545/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 170 and 171 together.
The Revenue Commissioners have provided me with the following information in relation to their overall staffing numbers in County Mayo in response to the Deputy’s questions.
Total Revenue staff numbers in County Mayo
|
Year end |
Full time |
Work Sharing |
Totals |
|
Headcount |
Headcount |
Headcount |
|
|
2009 |
107 |
20 |
127 |
|
2010 |
111 |
21 |
132 |
|
2011 |
111 |
19 |
130 |
|
2012 |
106 |
19 |
125 |
Revenue is an integrated tax and customs administration. The Revenue Commissioners currently has approximately 2,000 staff engaged on activities that are dedicated to target and confront non-compliance. These front-line activities include anti-smuggling and anti-evasion, investigation and prosecution. Revenue has an enforcement presence at strategic locations throughout the State. Enforcement strength at particular locations is regularly augmented with additional personnel on a risk-assessment basis, or when particular operations are taking place. The Deputy will appreciate that for reasons of operational sensitivity the Commissioners are not in a position to provide details or plans of enforcement deployment at any given location.
