Written Answers Nos. 766-799
766. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on making 2016 the year of the home gathering, a year in which efforts will be made similar to The Gathering 2013 but this time aimed at the domestic market so that persons would have even more reasons to holiday at home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32344/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraA new draft Tourism Policy Statement was published by my predecessor earlier this month which includes the proposal that “The tourism agencies will evaluate opportunities for future themed years, similar to the successful Gathering.” I hope to have the Policy Statement finalised later this year.
The question of a Home Gathering can be considered in that context but, for now, I have no such plans. However, I can assure the Deputy, that, as in recent years, Fáilte Ireland will continue to run Home Holidays Marketing Campaigns to foster growth in the domestic market and to encourage home holidays.
767. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding plans for the new section of the N70 from Milltown to Killorglin, County Kerry; the anticipated timeframe for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32348/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe planning, design and implementation of individual national road projects (such as the N70) is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.
768. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding plans for the new Adare bypass; the anticipated timeframe for the project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32363/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.
769. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will seek a public private partnership arrangement for the construction of the N22 Cork-Kerry road and the M8 Dunkettle interchange; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32366/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs outlined in the response to a previous similar question from the Deputy (PQ 15128/14 of 2 April 2014), the general approach my Department has taken to future capital projects is to keep under review projects at various stages of planning and design which have been evaluated and appraised in order to have a pipeline of suitable "shovel ready" projects ready to avail of any funding opportunities that may arise. The projects mentioned are among these. However as the Deputy will appreciate, I must prioritise the maintenance and upkeep of existing infrastructure. I understand from the NRA that the Ballyvourney to Macroom scheme, which has been approved by An Bord Pleanála and where land is being acquired, is suitable for consideration as a PPP in the future and could be included in a project bundle.
As the Deputy is no doubt aware, the Government’s Comprehensive Review of Expenditure 2015-2017 and Capital Review 2015-2019 have commenced. The Current and Capital Reviews will consider new ways of achieving Government objectives in the current tight fiscal climate. I cannot say at this point what the outcome of the Comprehensive Review and of the Capital Review process will be. The scope for progressing projects such as this will be dependent on the availability of funding.
771. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if all new road construction projects will include provision for cycle infrastructure in future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32375/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
I am sure the Deputy will appreciate that it is not possible to give a general response in relation to the provision of cycling infrastructure on all new construction projects. The inclusion of cycling infrastructure would depend a variety of issues including road type, topography, suitability, visibility, traffic volume and so on.
As regards national roads, as Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.
772. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide in tabular format the commitments under the programme for Government which his Department is responsible for; the progress made to date with regard to each commitment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32402/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe commitments under the Programme for Government for which my Department are responsible and the progress made to date with regard to each commitment is included in the table below
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Output Indicators |
Progress to date |
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Abolish the Travel Tax as part of a deal with airlines to restore lost routes International access is vital to tourism recovery. We will abolish the €3 travel tax subject to a deal being agreed with Ryanair and Aer Lingus to re-open closed routes and bring more tourists into Ireland. If no deal can be done, there will be no reduction in the tax. |
In Budget 2014 the Government announced the introduction of a zero rate travel tax initiative as part of a process aimed at generating new airline routes into Ireland and this came into effect from 1 April 2014. There has been a positive response to the initiative from airlines the introduction of new routes and increased capacity on existing services from Dublin, Shannon, Cork and Knock. A total of 23 new services have been announced commencing in 2014 along with additional capacity on 21 existing routes from the four main airports. |
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We will work with the Aviation Regulator to cut airport charges in order to deliver increased routes, airlines and passenger numbers.
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There were over 24.8m passengers through Irish airports in 2013 up 4%. Dublin Airport had its third successive year of growth of passenger numbers led by a record-breaking performance on transatlantic traffic. As a result of this strong growth, a €5.6 million rebate in airport charges is being paid to a total of 40 airlines at Dublin Airport under the growth incentive scheme. New and additional routes have been announced out of Dublin, Shannon and Cork to North America, Europe and the UK. On 29 May 2014 the Commission for Aviation Regulation (CAR) published a draft determination proposing to lower charges at Dublin Airport by 22% over the next five years. Stakeholders have until 31 July to make submissions on the CAR draft determination. A final determination is due in September 2014. |
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A modern high speed transport system is essential to ensure our economic competitiveness. We will support the expansion in range and frequency of high capacity commuter services, which will be subject to cost benefit analysis. |
The Public Transport Investment Programme is being rolled out in line with the “Infrastructure and Capital Investment Medium Term Exchequer Framework 2012 -2016”. Projects/Programmes included in the Framework are: The Luas Cross City Project, which will link the two existing Luas Lines in Dublin City Centre, was the key public transport project prioritised under the 5-year capital framework. The project is progressing well to agreed timelines and is on target for completion by end-2017. Other priorities included for implementation are also progressing on time and to budget as follows: - Railway Safety and Capital Maintenance Programme; - Replacement Public Service Obligation (PSO) buses; - Upgrade of existing QBCs in the GDA with emphasis on the Ballymun/Airport/Swords corridor; - Removal of certain pinch points/bottlenecks including some urban rail level crossings; and - The Regional Cities Programme which funds the development of sustainable transport projects in Cork, Galway, Limerick and Waterford. |
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Funding will be provided on a once off basis to repair damage done to non-national roads due to recent severe weather conditions. |
As part of the 2011 Jobs Initiative an extra €60 million was reallocated to regional and local roads to carry out surface restoration and road reconstruction works. Subsequently, an additional €50m. was allocated to regional and local roads under Government stimulus measures in 2013 and funding in 2014 includes an extra €50m allocated in the Budget for work on regional and local roads. In addition, as a result of the severe weather in the December/January period the Government confirmed additional funding of €16.8 million for repairs to roads damaged during the period 13 December 2013 to 6 January 2014. In addition, a further €20m was allocated to local authorities in May 2014 as part of the Infrastructure Stimulus Package (Phase 4). |
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We recognise the need to rebalance transport policy to favour public transport. We will therefore establish a Cabinet sub-committee on Infrastructure to explore the benefits to the public transport passenger of more diverse bus service provision. |
In December 2013, the National Transport Authority (NTA) announced that about 10% of publicly subvented (PSO) bus services currently operated by Dublin Bus and by Bus Éireann will be tendered out with the new services commencing in late 2016. These routes include some orbital routes and local routes in Dublin, and some Dublin commuter routes into Leinster as well as Waterford routes. |
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The rural transport network is vital for rural communities as a reliable and sustainable transport service. We will maintain and extend the Rural Transport Programme with other local transport services as much as is practicable. |
A major restructuring of the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) was announced in July 2013, including the establishment of 18 Transport Co-ordination Units (TCUs) replacing the existing 35 RTP Groups, to manage rural transport services within their area. The new structures will maintain the focus on social inclusion, with stronger links into local policy making by local authorities and will position rural transport within a national integrated public transport network. They will ensure that the provision of rural transport services is mainstreamed as a subsidised public transport service.
The process to establish the 18 TCUs on a phased basis is well advanced with the first TCU, Local Link Kerry, launched on 20 June 2014 |
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We will review and update the regulation of taxis to ensure that taxi services are recognized as a key component of the public transport system and we will provide for a forum for discussion between the regulatory authorities and taxi providers. |
The Taxi Regulation Act, 2013 was enacted in October 2013. Statutory Instrument No. 163 of 2014 completed the commencement of that Act in April this year with the exception of section 49. The National Transport Authority also introduced new small public service vehicle (SPSV) regulations on 7 April 2014 which introduce new measures provided for under the Act as well as consolidating and replacing the existing SPSV regulations. |
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We will legislate to regulate the vehicle clamping industry. |
The Vehicle Clamping Bill 2014 was published on June 9 last. The Bill is scheduled to be introduced in the Seanad on July 16 2014. Under this Bill it will be the function of the National Transport Authority to regulate clamping activities and matters relating to appeals. |
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We will introduce roadside drug testing programmes to combat the problem of driving under the influence of drugs. |
Section 11 of the Road Traffic Act 2014 provides for intoxicant impairment testing which will replace section 11 of the Road Traffic Act 2010. These non-technological tests will assist the Gardaí in forming the opinion that a driver is under the influence of an intoxicant and will form part of the evidence, should a court case ensue. It is expected that section 11 will be commenced shortly.
A working group chaired by the Medical Bureau of Road Safety (MBRS) and with representation from An Garda Síochána and the Department was established last year to consider the scientific, operational, legislative, resource and cost issues with regard to the introduction of roadside chemical testing for drugs. The MBRS is currently finalising detailed specifications for the oral fluid roadside testing devices and expects to issue the invitation to tender for the devices later this year. It is also setting up a laboratory to test the devices. Legislation to provide for the use of such devices is currently being drafted in consultation with relevant agencies and bodies and will form part of the Road Traffic Bill to be introduced later this year. |
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We will continue to invest in the National Cycle Policy and we will look to extend the Dublin Bikes Scheme across the wider Dublin area and to other cities and integrate the scheme much more effectively with public transport links. |
Strategic investment in sustainable travel under key programmes has been continued with on-going support for smarter travel investment committed under a 5 year multi-annual budget of €65 million. .
Works on cycling infrastructure in 13 towns were completed under the 2012/2013 Active Travel Towns programme. 9 towns were selected under a second round of funding awarded in April 2014 in respect of the period 2014-2016.
A total of 15 projects were also funded and completed under the National Cycle Network Funding Programme 2012/2013. A further 3 projects shared in funding of €6.3 million under the second tranche of NCN funding for the years 2014-2016. 11 cycling projects were selected to share in the €10 million set aside for the development of greenways from the recently announced €200 million Government Stimulus Package for Infrastructure Development.
The public bike schemes will be launched to the public in Cork, Limerick and Galway in Autumn 2014
Construction of the expansion of the dublinbikes scheme is currently on-going with several of the additional bike stations completed and operational. It is expected that all of the additional stations will be completed by summer of this year, which will result in the overall provision of 102 dublinbikes stations, 1,500 bikes and a total of circa 3,000 cycle stands under the full dublinbikes scheme. Coca cola was announced as the new sponsor for the Dublin Bikes in June 2014. |
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Safety at sea and decent working conditions must underpin the development of the fisheries sector. We will explore the provision of an emergency towing vessel for the Coast Guard. |
A review study on the necessity for an Emergency Towing Vessel, and the associated risks and possible strategies that may be available to the State was undertaken and its summary findings were presented to Government on 10 July 2013. In the current economic climate and also having regard to the long time frame for developing consensus on a suitable multi-purpose offshore patrol vessel (M-OPV) for the future, it was decided that the focus for the next few years will be on improving pollution and accident prevention, through the range of measures outlined in the Action Plan. The Work in Fishing Convention 2007 sets standards to protect workers in the fishing sector. The Department is working on developing the legislative basis to enable Ireland to ratify the Convention and implement it nationally. The Department has also engaged with the Federation of Irish Fishermen on the development of a new logbook, which is assisting the industry in complying with the requirements of the Convention, when it enters into force. The Irish Maritime Administration of the Department is preparing a new Maritime Safety Strategy which will focus on reducing the number of deaths and injuries in the recreational craft, fishing, passenger and cargo vessel sectors. The development of the Strategy is being informed by a consultation process in the period June to August 2014 designed to engage a range of stakeholders and the general public. Publication of the new Strategy is planned for Q4 2014. |
773. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his proposals to progress the Narrow Water Bridge project in view of the commitment in the statement of Government priorities that a particular emphasis would be placed on infrastructural development in the Border region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32408/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities own resources supplemented by State road grants paid by my Department. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
I know my predecessor, Minister Varadkar, confirmed through Parliamentary Questions and in other fora, the Government’s disappointment that the Narrow Water Bridge tender process resulted in a doubling of the initial costs budgeted for by the project partners for the construction of the bridge.
Given the budgetary constraints my Department is operating under it could not take on full responsibility for the increased project cost and the significant risks involved in the project. While the Department was willing to consider assisting with the shortfall, this was explicitly contingent on significant contributions from other parties, including the Northern Ireland Executive. These commitments were not forthcoming within the timescale required for the INTERREG IVA programme.
At that point SEUPB decided to withdraw its funding for the project and to re-allocate the funding to other eligible projects in the transport sector so as to ensure that the EU funds were not lost.
As to the possibility of the Narrow Water bridge qualifying for funding under the next INTERREG V the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform is the lead Department liaising with the SEUPB regarding the INTERREG V funding process. I understand that SEUPB has now published a draft Operational Programme for public comment with a set of funding priorities.
As regards the possibility of the grant funding from my Department for the project, the position remains that my Department is not in a position to grant aid the project as I do not have the scale of resources required when the priority must be on road maintenance and restoration as against new projects. My Department has to work within the very constrained budget available to it.
774. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his proposals to progress the A5 road project in view of the commitment in the statement of Government priorities that a particular emphasis would be placed on infrastructural development in the Border region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32409/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe planning of the A5 upgrade is a matter for the Road Service in Northern Ireland. The Northern Ireland High Court decided in March 2013 that an Appropriate Assessment of the impact of the A5 scheme on the River Foyle and River Finn special areas of conservation under the Habitats Directive was needed and consequently quashed the Minister for Regional Development’s approval for construction of two road sections of the route.
Since that decision the Northern Ireland authorities have been working on the preparation of the necessary environmental assessments and revised statutory orders and considerable progress has been made in getting the assessments and orders prepared and out for public consultation. The outcome of the public consultation process will have to be considered and factored into the decision on the need for a new Public Inquiry next year.
There will be continued liaison with the Northern Ireland authorities in relation to the project under the aegis of the North South Ministerial Council.
775. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will include guarantees for the pay and terms and conditions for workers in Irish aviation as part of the national policy on aviation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32435/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAviation is an inherently international sector and all parts of the sector, including airlines, airports, aircraft maintenance and repair organisations, training organisations etc. operate in a competitive environment.
It is not proposed to include guarantees for pay and terms and conditions in the National Aviation Policy.
776. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the reason the Road Safety Authority refuses to allow someone who has passed their driving test to receive a licence because they do not have a valid permission to remain in the State; his views that there is a contradictory approach being taken on driving licences for the undocumented in the US and by the RSA here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32500/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe operation of the National Driver Licensing Service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority, and I have no power to intervene in individual cases.
I can however advise that in order to receive a driver licence, certain criteria must be met by the applicant. The criteria includes that the applicant must be normally resident in the State and must also meet certain identification requirements.
The approach being taken by the Department of Foreign Affairs with regards to driving licences for the undocumented in the US is a matter for the Minister for Foreign Affairs.
777. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to provide funding to Iarnród Éireann to eliminate level crossings on the rail network intersecting with public roads that are neither manned nor have electronic barriers; the number of such crossings on the rail network; the estimated cost of eliminating same; if this work is eligible for funding under the stimulus fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32525/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. Issues relating to level-crossings on the rail network are a matter for Iarnród Éireann in the first instance. Exchequer funds are made available each year for investment in railway safety, asset renewal and maintenance. From 2014 these funds are governed by the Infrastructure Manager Multi Annual Contract (IMMAC) a requirement under EU rules. The works covered by this contract are prioritised by Iarnród Eireann based on appropriate risk assessments. Therefore level crossings may be funded under this contract if so prioritised.
There is no provision for the elimination of level-crossings under the stimulus fund provision of €7million for public transport improvements announced in May 2014. The funding will be used to refurbish PSO buses, add additional RTPI signs for public transport users and upgrade bus stops and shelters across the country. It will also see improvements to cycling infrastructure and the commencement of work on improvements in and around Colbert rail station, Limerick.
I have referred the Deputy's question to Iarnród Eireann for a direct reply on the specific queries as regards the numbers of unmanned level crossings on public roads and the costs associated with improvements. If you do not receive a response within 10 working days, please contact my private office.
778. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide funding to upgrade the Cootehill, Shercock, Carrickmacross, Dundalk route in view of the heavy volume of traffic on this road and the urgent need to have necessary improvement works undertaken and taking into account that substantial preparatory work in planning and design has already been undertaken; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32567/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from local authorities' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
Cavan County Council was provided with over €2 million between 2007 and 2013 from my Department in connection with this project under the Strategic Non-National Road Grants Scheme in order to bring this 75 km route to preliminary design stage. A further allocation of €100,000 is being provided this year to facilitate completion of the preliminary design.
Due to budgetary constraints it will not be possible to progress the project further at this point as available funding has to be concentrated on the repair and maintenance of regional and local roads. The construction cost for a scheme of this magnitude would be in excess of €150 million.
779. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if his Department or the National Transport Authority will provide a subvention towards a rural bus service, which has already been licensed by the National Transport Authority (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the fact that this service is extremely important for a large rural area which has no other public transport service; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32726/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe matter raised by the Deputy is the responsibility of the National Transport Authority (NTA).
I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not get a response within 10 working days.
780. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide in tabular form a detailed breakdown of the name and number of ministerial special advisers in his Department; their annual remuneration; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32753/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department and I are currently in the process of selecting and appointing advisors in line with Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Guidelines on the staffing of Ministerial Offices.
781. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the gender quota targets for the boards of State bodies and agencies under their remit; the level reached to date; and their future plans to meet and maintain the targets. [32768/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe commitment in the Programme for Government is to have at least 40% of each gender on State boards. Currently the percentage of women on state boards under the aegis of my Department is 25.9%
My intention is to achieve the commitment in the Programme for Government in the context of future appointments to State boards for which I have responsibility.
782. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his priorities for the remainder of his term in office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32783/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that I have only just taken up Office as the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport and my immediate priority is to get a working knowledge of all aspects of the Department’s functions. I have already been briefed by my officials on the key issues currently facing the Department.
My Predecessor, Minister Varadkar, set out the Department’s priorities for 2014. I have reviewed these priorities, and progress in achieving them to date, and my initial intention is to ensure that they are delivered in full over the remaining half of this year. Over the coming days and weeks I will take stock of all aspects of the Department’s functions before identifying any additional priorities in the context of the Government’s stated priorities, the general economic situation and my own considerations.
I look forward to discussing these priorities with the Joint Oireachtas Committee in due course.
783. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will provide a copy of the briefing he received from his Department upon entering office; if he will publish the briefing; and if so, when the briefing will be published. [32798/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have asked my officials to publish the briefing I received upon entering office on the Department's website in the coming weeks, subject to the redacting of material that would not be releasable under FOI legislation.
784. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for the remaining stretch of pathway along the Royal Canal from the Westmeath-Longford border to the River Shannon; if the new cycle way, walkway will be extended to ensure completion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32804/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraLongford County Council (LCC) submitted a proposal under the National Cycle Network Funding Programme 2014/2016 for the delivery of a greenway along the Royal Canal from the County Boundary to Drinan, Ballymahon. While the proposal was of a high standard given that the number of applications received far exceeded the resources available it was not possible for my Department to provide funding for this project on that occasion.
While this proposal was not successful, I look forward to the participation of LCC in future funding initiatives. It is likely, given the popularity and success of the greenways already delivered, that funding may become available from other sources over the coming years.
It is worth noting that the EU Structural Funds Programme 2014 to 2020 is currently being finalised and there may be significant opportunities for cycle infrastructure development and promotion under the various sub programmes. I understand that many local authorities are already positioning themselves to avail of such opportunities.
As you will be aware two proposals submitted by Westmeath County Council, which link with or run along the route of the Royal Canal, namely the Athlone to Mullingar Greenway and the Coolnahay to the Westmeath/Longford County Boundary Greenway, received €4 million and €700,000 respectively from the Government Stimulus Package for infrastructural measures, €10 million of which has been earmarked for the delivery of greenways.
785. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if he will reconsider an application for lighting in the interest of safety in Tang village, County Westmeath. [32824/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. The planning, design and implementation of individual road projects is a matter for the National Roads Authority (NRA) under the Roads Acts 1993 to 2007 in conjunction with the local authorities concerned.
Within its capital budget, the assessment and prioritisation of individual projects is a matter in the first instance for the NRA in accordance with Section 19 of the Roads Act.
Noting the above position, I have referred the Deputy’s question to the NRA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you don’t receive a reply within 10 working days.
786. Deputy Ciarán Lynch asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the way in which a person (details supplied) in County Cork can obtain medical records relating to a period of detention in an industrial school; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32506/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI note the Deputy's enquiry and have arranged for my Department to carry out a check of children detention school records in relation to person concerned. A further reply will issue separately to the Deputy in the near future.
787. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of agencies or State bodies under the aegis of his Department that have been abolished since 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32235/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to inform the Deputy that there are three agencies which are currently funded by the Exchequer through my Department's Vote. These are the Adoption Authority of Ireland, the Child and Family Agency and the Ombudsman for Children's Office.
Up to 31st December, 2013, my Department also funded the Family Support Agency (FSA) and the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB). The Child and Family Agency, established on 1st January 2014 under the Child and Family Agency Act 2013, has statutory responsibility for services previously provided by the NEWB and FSA. In addition, the Agency has responsibility for children and family services previously delivered by the HSE together with domestic and sexual violence services, certain psychological welfare services, and preschool inspection services. The coming together under one Agency of such a range of services provides a platform for the delivery of more efficient and effective services to children and families. The remit of the Agency will contribute to the achievement of its overall vision, which is seeking to bring about greater integration of services with a focus on early intervention and community engagement.
In July 2011, the Government decided that the Family Mediation Service should transfer from the Family Support Agency to the Legal Aid Board. This is in line with the Government’s commitment to facilitate the use of mediation in family disputes in order to speed up the legal process, reduce costs and ameliorate the stress of contested court proceedings. On 26th October 2011, the Minister for Justice and Equality signed the commencement order for Part 16 of the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011 which gave effect to the transfer from 1st November 2011.
The Children Act Advisory Board was dissolved on 8th September 2011 by means of the commencement of Part 6 of the Child Care (Amendment) Act 2011 by order of the Minister for Health in Statutory Instrument Number 453 of 2011.
788. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of new agencies or State bodies that have been established under the aegis of his Department since 2011; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32250/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Child and Family Agency is the only organisation/agency established by my Department since its establishment in June 2011.
The Child and Family Agency, established on 1st January 2014 under the Child and Family Agency Act 2013, has statutory responsibility for services previously provided by the National Educational Welfare Board and the Family Support Agency. In addition, the Agency has responsibility for children and family services previously delivered by the HSE together with domestic and sexual violence services, certain psychological welfare services, and preschool inspection services. The coming together under one Agency of such a range of services provides a platform for the delivery of more efficient and effective services to children and families. The remit of the Agency will contribute to the achievement of its overall vision, which is seeking to bring about greater integration of services with a focus on early intervention and community engagement.
789. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the total value of bonus payments made to staff under the aegis of his Department in 2013 and to date in 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32265/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll staff under the aegis of my Department are paid in accordance with agreed civil and public service consolidated payscales. These payscales do not include any bonus payments.
790. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the total number of appointments to State boards under the aegis of his Department since March 2011; the total number of appointments that have been advertised on his Department’s website; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32295/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI would like to inform the Deputy that since my Department was established in June 2011 to the present time, five non-commercial State agencies have been funded by the Exchequer through my Department's Vote. These were the Child and Family Agency, the Adoption Authority of Ireland (AAI), the Family Support Agency (FSA), the National Educational Welfare Board (NEWB) and the Ombudsman for Children. With effect from 1 January 2012, I have taken responsibility for the Children Detention Schools as provided in Part 10 of the Children Act 2001. Within this period 48 persons have been appointed to the boards of management of those bodies.
Under the Child and Family Agency Act, 2013, the Family Support Agency and the National Educational Welfare Board were dissolved and the service provision for these Agencies along with Child and Family Services previously provided by the HSE transferred to the new Agency with effect from 1st January, 2014. The membership of the board of the Family Support Agency was appointed to the board of the new Child and Family Agency on its establishment on January 1st 2014. The Ombudsman for Children's Office does not have a board.
As the Deputy may be aware, in line with the Government decision of April 2011, new arrangements were put in place for the making of appointments to State Boards and bodies. Following this Government Decision, on my Department's website, I have invited expressions of interest from persons interested in being appointed to the boards of State Bodies and Agencies operating under the Department's aegis. The notice indicates the vacancies in the boards of the respective bodies. My officials acknowledge all expressions of interest received and maintain a database of those expressions. My Department’s website is monitored and updated on a regular basis to reflect the number of vacancies as they arise.
The Deputy may wish to note that the governing legislation in relation to each of these bodies sets out the composition of the board either in terms of their qualifications and experience, or the Government Minister or body that is responsible for nominating representatives on them or who must be consulted in the nomination process.
In making my decisions on appointments to boards, subject to the governing legislation, I will consider the most suitable persons for the positions available with due regard to the body or agency in question and its particular responsibilities and I will seek to ensure that the appropriate mix of skills and experience is in place to achieve the best result.
791. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of chairpersons appointed to State boards under the aegis of his Department since March 2011 who have appeared before the relevant joint Oireachtas committee; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32310/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the establishment of my Department in June 2011, four chairpersons have been appointed by my predecessor, Frances Fitzgerald TD, to State boards under the aegis of my Department. Each of the four persons concerned appeared before the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Health and Children in line with this Government's policies regarding such appointments.
Mr. Joe Horan, Chairperson of the Board of Management of the Children Detention Schools appeared before the Committee on 8th March, 2012. Ms. Sharon Foley, Chairperson of the Family Support Agency also appeared before the Committee on 8th March, 2012. Ms. Nuala Doherty, Chairperson of the National Educational Welfare Board appeared before the Committee on 26th July, 2012. Ms. Norah Gibbons, Chairperson of the Board of Management of the Child and Family Agency appeared before the Committee on 23rd July 2013.
792. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of retired public servants who have been awarded temporary or term-time posts in his Department in 2011, 2012, 2013 and to date in 2014. [32325/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are no retired public servants on the payroll of the Department of Children and Youth Affairs. Minister Frances Fitzgerald had appointed two retired public servants as her civilian drivers when she was Minister for Children and Youth Affairs. Both of these positions were coterminous with her position as Minister in my Department.
793. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if he will provide in tabular format the commitments under the programme for Government for which his Department is responsible; the progress made to date with regard to each commitment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32390/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Children and Youth Affairs has a lead role in respect of seven Programme for Government (PfG) commitments. It is also leading on one cross-Departmental commitment.
I have set out in the table attached the relevant commitments and a summary of the current status in respect of each.
|
PfG Ref: |
Commitment – Department of Children and Youth Affairs |
Status |
|
2.1.5 |
A referendum to amend the Constitution to ensure that children’s rights are strengthened, along the lines recommended by the All-Party Oireachtas committee |
Completed. Referendum held in November 2012. Currently the subject of Supreme Court proceedings. |
|
3.14.1 |
We will maintain the free preschool year in Early Childhood Care and Education to promote the best outcomes for children and families. We will improve the quality of the preschool year by implementing standards and reviewing training options. |
In addition to maintaining the free preschool year, Budget 2014 provided €4.5m to improve the quality of preschool services through: a Learner Fund to assist existing staff meet the new qualification requirements being introduced in September 2015; the establishment of a Quality Support Service which will assist services in implementing Siolta and Aistear; and the recruitment of additional Early Years Inspectors to strengthen the existing inspection regime. In addition, capital funding totalling €2.5m has recently been allocated to 163 community childcare providers. |
|
3.14.2 |
As resources allow, this Government will invest in a targeted early childhood education programme for disadvantaged children, building on existing targeted preschool supports for families most in need of assistance such as the young Ballymun project. |
Following a call for proposals and an assessment process, a further ten areas around the country were admitted into the design phase of the Area Based Childhood Programme. This is in addition to the three existing initiatives which have already entered the Programme. Existing Tallaght CDI Young Ballymun Northside Partnership (Darndale/Moatview/Belcamp) New sites Bray Ballyfermot/Dublin 10 Clondalkin/Archways Dublin Docklands Finglas (Barnardos-led project) Grangegorman/NW Inner City Knocknaheeny (Cork) Limerick Louth (Drogheda and Dundalk) Midlands (to be included as part of Northside project) A further twelve applicants will be given access to a mentoring programme in the implementation of evidence-based programmes to improve outcomes for children and young people. This is a very important initiative that will lead the way in improving the lives of children and young people who are experiencing disadvantage. The Programme has attracted 50% co-funding from Atlantic Philanthropies bringing total funding to nearly €30 million. |
|
3.32.11 |
We will end the practice of sending children to St. Patrick’s Institution. |
16 year old boys are no longer detained in prison facilities. All boys up to and including 16 year olds, whose detention is ordered on remand or on sentence by the Courts, are detained at the Children Detention Schools. All sentenced 17 year olds are no longer detained in St. Patrick’s Institution and have now been transferred to the Wheatfield Place of Detention. The only children now remaining at St. Patrick’s Institution are 17 year olds who are remanded in custody pending trial. They continue to be detained in a dedicated unit pending their transfer to Oberstown. Construction is continuing on the new €56.4 million facility at Oberstown with the first three new residential units to be available for occupation in the fourth quarter of 2014, which will be used to facilitate the transfer of responsibility for the 17 year olds. |
|
4.1.1 |
We will fundamentally reform the delivery of child protection services by removing child welfare and protection from the HSE and creating a dedicated Child Welfare and Protection Agency, reforming the model of service delivery and improving accountability to the Dáil. |
Completed. The Child and Family Agency was established with effect from 1 January 2014, putting in place a new regime of governance and accountability for child and family services. The Agency has a dedicated remit for child welfare, protection and family support services and involves the merging of Child and Family services from the HSE with Family Support Agency and National Education Welfare Board services. The Agency has a budget of over €600 million and a staff of approximately 4,000, and represents one of the largest single public sector reforms undertaken by Government. |
|
4.1.2 |
We are committed to implementing the recommendations of the Ryan Report including putting the Children First Guidelines on a statutory footing and legislating for the use of “soft information”. |
The Children First Bill was published in April 2014 and a date is awaited for Committee Stage in Dáil Éireann. The legislation will place obligations on professionals and organisations working with children to report suspected child protection concerns, to share information and to engage in inter-agency and multi-disciplinary working. The publication of the National Children and Young People’s Policy Framework 2014-2020 meets one of the key recommendations of the Ryan Report to bring together relevant policies including those relating to prevention and early intervention initiatives, early childhood education, area based approaches to address child poverty, and addressing youth homelessness and aftercare provision. |
|
4.1.6 |
We will enact legislation to consolidate and reform the law on adoption |
Progression of the Adoption (Amendment) Bill will be on foot of the Children's Referendum, currently the subject of Supreme Court proceedings. The Adoption (Information and Tracing) Bill is advancing, with plans to publish the Heads of Bill as soon as possible. |
|
Cross Departmental Commitments |
||
|
3.37.5 Listed under PfG Cross - Departmental commitments – DCYA has lead responsibility |
A new approach is needed to break the cycle of child poverty where it is most deeply entrenched. We will adopt a new area based approach to child poverty, which draws on best international practice and existing services to tackle every aspect of child poverty. Initially, this model will be rolled out to up to ten of Ireland’s most disadvantaged communities, in cooperation with philanthropic partners to co-fund and manage the project. |
See update under 3.14.2 above. |
794. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the extent to which records maintained by the former Department of Local Government and Public Health from 1924 to 1947 are in the possession of his Department including the powers and functions intended to be vested in his Department in the coming weeks; if these records contain information relating to payments made by the State to religious institutions in return for those institutions taking individuals deemed in need of institutional care such as that provided by mother and baby homes, Magdalen Laundries, children's and orphans' homes and related institutions; if he will undertake to determine the fullest extent to which these records exist; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32413/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department does not have power or possession of the records to which the Deputy refers.
The work of the Inter-Departmental Group on Mother and Baby Homes has concentrated on the potentially most salient records which might be of assistance and accessible in the time available so as to inform Government's considerations of the scope and format of the Commission of Investigation. The contribution from a number of Departments and Offices to this work included their assessment of some of the primary records in their possession.
The Commission of Investigation into the concerns relating to the Mother and Baby Homes, once established, will have the requisite statutory powers to compel the production of relevant records in accordance with the provisions of the Commission of Investigations Act, 2004. The extensive process of assembling relevant records will undoubtedly will be required to be undertaken by relevant Departments in due course in accordance with the requirements of the Commission.
795. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number working in early education and childcare here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32539/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra796. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of persons who are currently working in early education and childcare here who have a FETAC level 4 qualification; the percentage of the early education and childcare workforce that this represents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32540/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra797. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of persons who are working in early education and childcare here who have a FETAC level 5 qualification; the percentage of the early education and childcare workforce that this represents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32541/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra798. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of persons who are working in early education and childcare here who have a FETAC level 6 qualifications; the percentage of the early education and childcare workforce that this represents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32542/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra799. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the number of persons who are working in early education and childcare here who have a third level qualification in early childhood; the percentage of the early education and childcare workforce that this represents; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32543/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 795 to 799, inclusive, together.
The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) programme introduced the first-ever requirement for minimum qualifications for staff working in the childcare sector. Prior to the introduction of the programme in January 2010 there was no requirement for staff working directly with children in preschool services to hold any education qualification.
It is a requirement of the ECCE programme that preschool year leaders in services participating in the programme, and who are receiving the standard capitation, hold a qualification in childcare which is equivalent to Level 5 on the National Framework of Qualifications of Ireland (NFQ). A higher capitation rate is available to services participating in the ECCE programme in which all of the preschool leaders hold an appropriate qualification at a minimum of Level 7 and preschool assistants hold a Level 5 on the NFQ.
As part of the Early Years Quality Agenda, new qualification requirements for childcare workers are being introduced. All staff caring for children in an early years service will be subject to a minimum qualification requirement of Level 5, while preschool leaders delivering the ECCE programme will require a Level 6 qualification. These requirements will come into effect from September 2014 for new services, and from September 2015 for existing services.
Pobal, which administers the childcare support programmes on behalf of my Department, compiles an Annual Survey of the Early Years Sector. According to its 2013 Annual Survey, of the childcare services that responded to the question relating to the number of staff employed, 87% of staff have a qualification equal to or higher than Level 5 on the NFQ . This figure confirms the finding of previous annual surveys conducted by Pobal. Further figures provided in the Pobal Survey indicate that the number of childcare workers holding a Level 6 qualification is in the region of 45%.
Figures compiled this year by my Department indicate that approximately 24% of the 4,300 services participating in the ECCE programme are in receipt of the higher capitation. This means that at least one member of staff in the qualifying childcare service holds an appropriate qualifications at Level 7 or higher.
It is estimated by Pobal, from information provided by respondents to their Annual Survey 2013 that there is in the region of 24,000 staff employed in the childcare sector.
