Written Answers Nos. 1611-1639
1611. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government if he will consider reducing the rates of motor tax for pre-2008 vehicles that can accommodate seven persons or more; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34797/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraMotor tax on cars registered prior to July 2008 is calculated on the engine capacity of the car. I have no plans to review the basis of charging motor tax for these vehicles to take seating capacity into account.
It should be noted that the average increase in motor tax for cars taxed on engine capacity was 7.5% in Budgets 2012 and 2013, considerably less than the increases applied to vehicles registered after 01 July 2008, in respect of which motor tax is based on CO2 emissions.
1612. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government under the EIA directive, the tonnage threshold above which an EIA must be carried out in an anaerobic plant; the threshold below which there is no requirement for the EIA; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34828/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraSection 172(1) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended, provides that an environmental impact assessment must be carried out by a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála, as the case may be, in respect of an application for consent for -
(a) proposed development of a class specified in Schedule 5 to the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 which exceeds a quantity, area or other limit specified in that Schedule, and
(b) proposed development of a class specified in Schedule 5 to the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 which does not exceed a quantity, area or other limit specified in that Schedule but which the planning authority or the Board determines would be likely to have significant effects on the environment.
Part 2 of Schedule 5 provides that environmental impact assessment is mandatory in respect of -
- in relation to energy industry, industrial installations for the production of electricity, steam and hot water with a heat output of 300 megawatts or more (No.3);
- in relation to other projects, installations for the disposal of waste with an annual in take greater than 25,000 tonnes (No.11).
In relation to proposed developments of this type which do not exceed the thresholds set out, article 103(1) of the Planning Regulations provides that where a planning application for sub-threshold development is not accompanied by an Environmental Impact Statement, and the likelihood of significant effects on the environment cannot be excluded by the planning authority, the planning authority must make a determination as to whether the development would be likely to have significant effects on the environment. Where it determines that the development would be likely to have significant effects, it is required to carry out an environmental impact assessment before making a decision on the planning application.
1613. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which part-time or whole-time fire services currently exist throughout the country; the extent to which it is expected to develop these services in the future on a part-time or whole-time basis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34844/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of a fire service in local authority areas, including the establishment and maintenance of fire brigades, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the provisions of the Fire Services Act 2001. My Department supports fire authorities through the setting of general policy, provision of training support, issue of guidance on operational and other related matters and the provision of capital funding. The provision of fire services by local authorities is based on a risk management approach which involves an analysis of the nature of the fire hazards and the incidence and extent of fires which occur, as well as the fire protection measures in place. The fire services in the cities of Dublin, Cork and Limerick are staffed on a full-time basis; Galway, Waterford, Drogheda and Dundalk have a combined full-time and retained service; fire services in all other communities are provided with the retained staffing system, which operates on the basis of alerting staff in response to 999 calls and mobilising brigades. All fire services, full-time and retained, are mobilised on the basis of pre-determined attendances (PDAs), which set out the number and type of fire appliances and the associated crews, to be dispatched initially to the incident. The PDA depends on the type of incident and its location and may be varied by the Incident Commander. In February 2013, Keeping Communities Safe (KCS) was published which, as national policy, is intended to keep fire safety and fire services in Ireland in line with international best practice. For the first time in Ireland, KCS sets out national norms and standards for fire services with a view to achieving consistency in fire service provision. KCS provides for fire services remaining as part of local authorities, but service delivery is to be reshaped from the current 30 fire services to 21 service delivery units. KCS is based on a risk management approach, which addresses the critical elements of fire prevention and fire protection within buildings as well as response by fire brigades. Each fire service is currently undertaking an initial risk categorisation process for its functional area and will prepare a new Fire and Emergency Operations Plan as required by section 26 of the Fire Services Act, 1981 and 2003. The section 26 Plan, when adopted by the local authority members, shows the provision made in respect of fire service organisation, appliances, equipment, fire stations, training, operational procedure and any such matters as may be relevant, such as staffing arrangements.
1614. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which the various local authorities continue to receive adequate provision to meet the disabled persons housing adaption grant requirements; the numbers currently awaiting approval throughout the various local authorities countrywide, with particular reference to County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34845/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraCapital allocations to local authorities amounting to €38.4m under the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability were announced on 16 January 2014. Every local authority received increased funding for these grants in 2014 compared to the 2013 allocations. My Department provides 80% funding for these schemes, with a 20% contribution from the local authority. The allocation to Kildare County Council for 2014 was €2,274,787, of which €454,957 is to be provided by the Council. Some 51% of this had been drawn down by the council to end-August.
The detailed administration of these schemes, including the assessment, approval and payment of grants to applicants under the various grant measures, is the responsibility of the relevant local authority. My Department does not monitor the number of applications awaiting approval across all local authorities on an ongoing basis.
1615. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of persons currently on the various local authority housing lists throughout the country, with particular reference to County Kildare; the extent to which rent increases in the private sector are making it impossible for such families to exist or remain in their homes; if urgent provision can be made to meet their requirements, thus preventing a further escalation in homelessness; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34847/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe statutory Summary of Social Housing Assessments in 2013 showed that there were 89,872 households on local authority waiting lists as at 7 May 2013. This represents a 9% decrease on the previous summary of 2011 and is the most up-to-date figure available on waiting list numbers, which are subject to on-going fluctuation due to households being allocated housing and new households applying for housing support in the intervening period. The results of the 2013 summary, including breakdowns by each local authority across a range of categories, are available on my Department’s website at http://www.environ.ie/en/PublicationsDocuments/FileDownLoad,34857,en.pdf.
The Reports shows that 5,454 households were on waiting lists in Co. Kildare as at 7 May 2013.
The private rented sector is an increasingly important element of the housing market, with the proportion of households in the sector almost doubling in the period 2006-2011. I am conscious of the difficulties caused by rising rents and the problem of sourcing suitable accommodation, especially in Dublin and other urban centres. The fundamental reason behind the rise in rents is a lack of supply. The Private Residential Tenancies Board (PRTB) was asked to conduct a study to explore options to address the difficulties being experienced in segments of the private rented sector due to rising rents to report back with policy recommendations. The Report is currently being finalised and is due to be presented to me very shortly. The overriding objective is to achieve stability and sustainability in the private residential rental market for the benefit of tenants, landlords and society as a whole.
On 20 May 2014, the Implementation Plan on the State's Response to Homelessness was published in which the Government's approach to delivery on its objective of ending involuntary long-term homelessness by the end of 2016 was outlined. This Plan sets out a range of measures to secure a ring-fenced supply of accommodation for homeless households within the next three years and to mobilise the necessary supports.
Action 1 of Construction 2020 – A Strategy for a Renewed Construction Sector provides for a National Framework for Housing Supply to be established on a statutory footing with an annual National Statement of Projected Housing Supply and Demand published every June. I have asked the Housing Agency to take the lead in implementing this Action.
The proper management of all State land is critical; accordingly, both lands that have been transferred to the Housing Agency and local authority held lands suitable for development will be the first sites considered in any future targeted social housing building programme.
The Review of Part V of the Planning and Development Acts, which provides for social and affordable housing supply, has been completed by the Housing Agency, at my Department’s request, and will be submitted to Government shortly. It is anticipated that any legislative changes required on foot of the review will, subject to Government approval, be incorporated into the General Scheme of a new Planning Bill, which is expected to be published shortly.
In relation to providing social housing for those on the waiting lists, a new Social Housing Strategy is currently in preparation, with the intention that it will be considered by Government in the coming weeks. It will contain clear, measurable actions to increase the supply of social housing, based on innovative solutions that will harness new funding streams, in order to continue to protect the most vulnerable and disadvantaged in our society.
In the meantime, my Department is continuing to oversee the provision of social housing for people on the housing waiting list and for homeless persons through local authorities and other providers. Overall, I expect some 6,000 social housing units to be delivered across the range of programmes this year.
1616. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the extent to which reduction targets in respect of carbon emissions continue to be met; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34850/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland has an ambitious greenhouse gas emission reduction target under the 2009 EU Effort-Sharing Decision (406/2009/EC) for each year between 2013 and 2020. The extent of the challenge posed by these emission reduction targets is well understood by Government, as reflected in the National Policy Position on Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development and the General Scheme of the Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill, both of which were published in April of this year. The National Policy Position provides a high-level policy direction for the adoption and implementation by Government of plans to enable the State to move to a low-carbon economy. Proposed statutory authority for the plans is set out in the General Scheme of the Climate Action and Low-Carbon Development Bill.
In anticipation of the planned legislation, work is already underway on developing a low-carbon plan - the National Low-Carbon Roadmap to 2050 - the primary objective of which will be to track implementation of measures and identify additional measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and progress the overall national low-carbon transition agenda. As I am satisfied that Ireland is on course to comply with the annual mitigation targets in the first half of the 2013-2020 compliance period, the immediate focus of the national low-carbon roadmapping process will be the compliance challenge in the years 2017 to 2020.
1617. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of applications received in his Department for funding from Kildare County Council to complete development works in unfinished housing estates within the past two years to date; the extent to which he expects to be in a position to respond to such applications, in the short and medium term; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [34851/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraBudget 2014 contains a special provision, in the form of a targeted €10m Special Resolution Fund (SRF), to assist further in addressing the legacy of unfinished housing developments. The SRF is designed to encourage the resolution of the remaining tranche of unfinished developments identified in the National Housing Development Survey 2013 and, particularly, those developments not likely to be resolved in the normal way through solely developer/owner/funder action because of the presence of specific financial barriers. It is envisaged that the SRF should be particularly targeted to address the remaining unfinished developments with residents living in them and, in particular, any developments that local authorities identified, for the purposes of the Local Property Tax waiver, as in a seriously problematic condition.
In December 2013, my Department wrote to local authorities seeking proposals for funding support under the SRF and the deadline for receipt of applications was 28 February 2014. All submissions were evaluated by my Department in accordance with the criteria circulated to the local authorities. On 2 May 2014, allocations from the Special Resolution Fund were announced and 86 developments were approved for funding. The following link contains a list of all developments approved for SRF funding:
http://www.environ.ie/en/DevelopmentHousing/Housing/News/MainBody,37940,en.htm.
Kildare County Council submitted 4 applications for funding from the Special Resolution Fund, of which 1 was approved.
It is hoped that the SRF will enable very substantial progress to be made in resolving as many of the remaining unfinished developments as possible.
1620. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the fire service. [34859/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of fire services in local authority areas, including the establishment and maintenance of fire brigades, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of premises, is a statutory function of the individual fire authorities under the provisions of the Fire Services Act 1981. My Department supports fire authorities through the setting of general policy and guidance, and the provision of capital funding, including the recoupment (within the overall funding available) of costs incurred by fire authorities in relation to the approved purchase of fire appliances and emergency equipment as well as construction and upgrading of fire stations.
Fire appliances and emergency equipment are purchased by individual fire authorities. Eligible and approved costs incurred by fire authorities in relation to such purchases may be reimbursed as appropriate within the overall funding available to my Department under the Fire Services Capital Programme. The Fire Services Capital Programme, like all public service expenditure and tendering processes, is subject to the Public Spending Code and is also subject to public service auditing, along with all public bodies.
It is generally recognised that, the operation of the Fire Services Capital Programme has over many years provided Ireland’s fire services with a first class infrastructure of fire stations, fire appliances, specialist equipment and mobilisation and radio communication facilities. As a general point, the procurement of emergency vehicles typically takes up to two years, and involves specialist appliance-building firms. It is understood that, in the fire authority referred to, there have been occasional difficulties in introducing new/ replacement appliances to the fleet due to restrictive practices.
1622. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the total number of new appointments made in his Department and those bodies under his remit since March 2011 to date in 2014, with a breakdown of the grade to which they were appointed during the period. [35120/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested is set out in the tables below.
Department Appointments
|
Grade |
No of Appointments |
|
Secretary General |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary General |
5 |
|
Principal Officer |
13 |
|
Assistant Principal Officer |
19 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
2 |
|
Executive Officer |
15 |
|
Staff Officer |
1 |
|
Clerical Officer |
3 |
|
Special Adviser* |
5 |
|
Personal Assistant * |
6 |
|
Personal Secretary* |
6 |
|
Civilian Driver* |
11 |
|
Parliamentary Counsel |
1 |
|
Assistant Director Met Eireann |
1 |
|
Principal Adviser |
1 |
|
Senior Meteorologist |
1 |
|
Principal Auditor |
1 |
|
Senior Adviser |
2 |
|
Advisory Counsel |
1 |
|
Meteorologist |
7 |
|
Principal Meteorological Officer |
1 |
|
Auditor |
1 |
|
Planning Inspector |
2 |
|
Assistant Auditor |
2 |
|
Meteorological Officer |
2 |
|
Total |
110 |
* Ministerial appointments in both 2011/2012 and 2014
The information in the table reflects appointments to or within my Department during the relevant period including transfers and secondments, temporary short term Presidency assignments, Ministerial appointments and those resulting from internal or external promotion competitions, in line with sanction received from the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Of the 110 appointments, 41 of these were made from the existing staff complement.
During the same period there were over 180 permanent departures from my Department. These figures exclude the staff moves connected to the transfer in of the Community function (approx. 8 0) and the transfer out of the Heritage function (approx. 400) in 2011.
My Department continues to balance business needs and staff resources in accordance with sanctioned staff levels and budgetary provisions.
Information on Agency appointments during the same period is set out below.
Agency Appointments
|
Civil Service Equivalent Grades |
No of Appointments |
|
Secretary General |
1 |
|
Assistant Secretary |
9 |
|
Principal Officer |
12 |
|
Assistant Principal |
11 |
|
Higher Executive Officer |
8 |
|
Executive Officer |
4 |
|
Clerical Officer |
2 |
|
Total |
47 |
In addition, 44 temporary appointments were made to various agencies, including 30 posts for the Household Charge Bureau (which has now completed its work).
Agency staff numbers have fallen to 693 as of end Q2 2014, the latest date for which figures are available, as compared to a peak of 951 at the end of 2008 – a reduction of 258 (27%).
1623. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of public sector employees under his remit who are subject to a freeze on their increment payment in 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35134/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn accordance with the Haddington Road Agreement 37 staff in my Department have been subject to a deferral of an incremental payment of between 3 and 6 months in 2014. In addition, incremental progression has been suspended for 3 years in respect of 2 further staff at my Department.
The corresponding information in terms of Agencies and Local Authorities is not held in my Department.
1624. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Community and Local Government the number of civil servants, public servants and semi-State employees in his Department on career break at the time of the Haddington Road agreement who lost their right to return to their positions; of these, the number who have since been offered redeployment opportunities; the number who availed of suitable redeployment opportunities; the number who terminated their employment; the number who have been accommodated with supernumerary positions after being on redeployment lists of over one year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35145/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere were 28 officers in my Department availing of career breaks at the time the Haddington Road Agreement came into effect on 1 July 2013. The present status of these officers is as follows: 9 returned to a position in my Department shortly after the period of their career break expired as they had indicated they wished to do so; a further 2 officers were facilitated in a position in another Department via redeployment; 7 decided to resign from the Civil Service at the conclusion of their career break; 7 are still on career break and the remaining 3 will return to duty in my Department before the end of 2014.
The corresponding information requested by the Deputy in terms of Agencies and Local Authorities is not held in my Department.
1625. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if he will review his decision to indefinitely close the River Suir to snap net fishermen from 2014 onwards; his reasons for same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32922/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) that the stock, genetically unique to each of Ireland's more than 140 salmon rivers, is assessed annually by the Independent Standing Scientific Committee for Salmon (SSCS) which includes Scientists from IFI, the Marine Institute, BIM, ESB, the Loughs Agency and the Agri-Food and Bioscienes Institute (AFBI) Northern Ireland. The Scientific Committee annual assessments are carried out with reference to the established Conservation Limit (CL) for each individual river. The Salmon Conservation Limit (CL) in any river is the number of spawning salmon required to maintain a sustainable population and is used to indicate the number of salmon in a river system above which a harvestable surplus can be considered.
The assessments reference the most recent 5 years of available data and is considered by IFI in formulating its management advice as to whether each individual river may be open, open to catch and release angling or closed to all exploitation for the coming year. The SSC advice for the Suir for 2014 was that the river was below its CL with a deficit of 2,449 salmon.
I am advised that it not the case that management advice in respect of closing the River Suir for 2014 amounts to a decision to indefinitely close the River Suir to snap net fishermen from 2014 onwards as an assessment is carried out every year and will be carried out again in respect of the 2015 season. I am also advised that the River Suir closed to snap net fishing in 2006-2010 but was opened again in 2011, 2012 and 2013 as the conservation limit was sufficiently exceeded to facilitate a commercial snap net fishery.
The opening of a Snap net fishery on the River Suir can be considered if and when there is a suitable surplus of salmon (in excess of CL) available for harvest and Ireland must be particularly careful to ensure that all national and international legislation and other obligations are met in any future management regime.
1626. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if high speed broadband will be made available in an area (details supplied) in County Offaly; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32934/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra1632. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when broadband service will be approved for a location (details supplied) in County Laois. [33174/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1626 and 1632 together.
The Government’s Statement of Priorities for the period 2014 to 2016 reaffirms our commitment to delivering a State-led broadband intervention in rural areas. The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This is being achieved through measures designed to accelerate commercial investment and the development of a State-led intervention for non-commercial areas.
Since publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector have accelerated. Commercial operators have invested, or are committing to invest approximately €2.5 billion in upgrading telecommunications networks and services. I understand that at least one network operator has published a programme to roll out 21 fibre-based broadband networks in County Laois and 17 fibre-based broadband networks in County Offaly by July 2016. In addition, the announcement of a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone includes a proposal to provide high speed broadband in both Portlaoise and Tullamore. Previous interventions by the State have also delivered Metropolitan Area Networks to four towns in Offaly and one in Laois which are providing advanced services in Edenderry, Birr, Tullamore and Portlaoise. There is also a Metropolitan Area Network capacity situated in Banagher, Co. Offaly.
While the accelerated commercial investment is welcome, it is largely focussed on cities and larger towns. The intervention strategy envisaged by Government recognises that quality broadband is a priority service for a 21st Century society. Central to the strategy therefore will be a major infrastructure build, which is likely to be primarily fibre-based. This will be designed to ensure that high quality broadband services are available in all parts of Ireland that cannot be served by the commercial sector.
Under EU State Aid Guidelines Member States cannot intervene where commercial investors have plans to roll out services. A comprehensive mapping exercise is underway in my Department to identify those areas that require a State intervention. An initial list of areas has already been identified. It includes 20 areas in County Laois and 28 areas in County Offaly.
As part of the mapping process, a stakeholder consultation was launched in June with a deadline of mid-September for submissions. I expect to publish the maps for public consultation later this year. Details of the areas requiring State intervention will not be confirmed until then. A further public consultation on the proposed intervention strategy will be launched in mid-2015.
EU State Aid clearance will be required for the proposed State intervention. My Department will be working closely with the EU Commission on this important aspect of the programme.
Finally, a detailed procurement process will have to be undertaken in order to select a potential preferred bidder(s) prior to commencing the roll out of high speed broadband services.
This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government and for my Department. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in a sustainable and meaningful way. Our goal is to ensure that quality broadband services are available to all citizens regardless of where they are located
1627. Deputy Jerry Buttimer asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the proposed public service broadcasting charge, if he has considered different charging structures for commercial premises from those levied on residential properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33061/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government commits to examining the role and collection of the TV licence fee in light of existing and projected convergence of technologies and to transforming the TV licence into a household based Public Service Broadcasting (PSB) Charge to be applied to all eligible households and applicable businesses, regardless of the device used to access content or services. In line with these commitments, my Department is involved in the ongoing analysis and policy development work that is necessary in advance of the implementation of any changes that may be required. This work includes detailed consideration of the nature of any charges on commercial premises. I am also reviewing the results of a public consultation process on the introduction of the proposed PSB Charge and the outcome of a Value for Money (VFM) Review on the charge, which was conducted by my Department last year.
1628. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the position regarding the introduction of postcodes in a timely fashion; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33068/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn December 2013 a ten-year contract with Capita Business Support Services Ireland Limited was signed under which the company will develop, roll-out and operate the National Postcode System following a public procurement process.
The design of the Postcode was approved by Government last April and the ‘Eircode’ brand was launched for the National Postcode System on 28 April. Information about Eircodes is now available on www.eircode.ie.
The project is currently in the implementation phase and is scheduled to roll out nationwide by the middle of 2015. Every Irish address will receive a unique Eircode.
1629. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources in relation to the new Oireachtas TV channel, which will be available to households with UPC, Eircom or Sky, if the channel will be available on Saorview; if so, if there will be a cost to the State for Saorview distribution; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33096/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraSections 125 and 126 of the Broadcasting Act 2009 make the necessary provision to allow for the development of an Oireachtas TV channel to be known as the “Houses of the Oireachtas Channel” on the SAORVIEW TV network. The legislation provides that the channel should be established by the Commission of the Houses of the Oireachtas and that the oversight of the channel should be the responsibility of the Joint Administration Committee, which is a joint committee of the Houses of the Oireachtas.
The Commission of the Houses of the Oireachtas may enter into such contracts as are necessary to establish and maintain the Houses of the Oireachtas Channel. In this context, I should mention that section 126 of the Act amends Schedule 1 of the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission Act 2003 to enable the Commission to fund the channel and to meet all expenses incurred in this respect.
RTÉ has built, owns and controls the SAORVIEW TV network and is responsible for the roll-out, coverage and operation of that network. This is in accordance with Part 8 of the Broadcasting Act 2009, which provides that the development of the RTÉ network is an operational matter for RTÉ. RTÉ has informed my Department that there are on-going operational costs associated with the delivery of the SAORVIEW service. All broadcasters availing of SAORVIEW are required to pay their fair proportion of the associated costs.
Decisions regarding the carriage of Oireachtas TV on SAORVIEW are a matter for the Commission of the Houses of the Oireachtas, subject of course to the agreement of the necessary commercial terms with RTÉ as owner of the SAORVIEW network. I understand that contacts between officials of the Houses of the Oireachtas and SAORVIEW management have taken place and I hope that these contacts and discussions come to an early positive conclusion.
1630. Deputy Jack Wall asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if development setback distances from high voltage transmission pylons are prescribed in proportion to the associated magnetic field levels; the setback distances that are prescribed for the various kilovolt levels used on transmission links; the way such distances are consistent with the findings of the Government published report of the expert group on health effects of electromagnetic fields 2007; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33100/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe matter of setback distances from high voltage transmission pylons is not one in which I, as Minister, have a role of function. While the distances are not prescribed in law I understand that both Eirgrid and ESB Networks (ESBN) operate in accordance with strict guidelines on separation distances. I have referred the matter to both Eirgrid and ESBN and I have asked them to respond directly to the Deputy. Similarly, neither I nor my Department have a role or function in the matter of Electro Magnetic Fields (EMF). Responsibility previously held by the former Department of Communications, Marine and Natural Resources in relation to EMF, and questions arising regarding potential health effects of EMF, transferred to the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government in 2007. I should also highlight that non-ionising radiation comes under the remit of the Radiological Protection Institute of Ireland (RPII), a national organisation with regulatory, monitoring and advisory responsibilities pertaining to radiation. The RPII merged with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) earlier this year.
1631. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding a reduction in energy costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33161/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI refer to the reply to Priority Question No. 1 of 17 July 2014.
While I am acutely aware of the financial challenges faced by many families at the current time, I have no statutory function in the monitoring or setting of electricity prices. Responsibility for the regulation of these markets is a matter for the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER), which is an independent statutory body. Prices are deregulated in the retail electricity and gas markets.
At a national level, the competitive energy market in place results in choices for consumers and businesses in terms of suppliers, products and prices. Such competition places downward pressure on prices. Consumers can try to mitigate rising electricity prices by shopping around and measures such as comparison websites, approved by the CER, exist to assist them. They can and should shop around to get the best possible price and service deal from suppliers.
The CER is focussed on actions that can mitigate costs for business and domestic customers, including rigorous regulatory scrutiny of the network costs component of retail prices.
Households can reduce their energy costs by being energy efficient. There are energy efficiency measures in place to assist both business and domestic energy consumers, with significant funding allocated to them. Details are available at: http://www.seai.ie/Power_of_One/Grants_Available/#sthash.OLDT5wQG.dpuf.
Under the Energy Engage Code, published earlier this year, energy suppliers guarantee that no customer engaging with them will be cut off. They will seek to identify vulnerable customers at an earlier stage and will treat each customer individually, with realistic and achievable payment plans offered to any customer in difficulty. The new Code will be independently audited to ensure that all energy suppliers are complying with it. The publication of the code followed several months of intensive work by a taskforce established to examine what could be done to better protect energy consumers in financial difficulty. While the taskforce was carrying out its work there was a complete moratorium on the disconnection of the energy supplies for all domestic customers from December 2013 to February 2014.
1633. Deputy Michael Moynihan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources when he expects the commencement of negative pricing of wind energy exported over the east-west interconnector; if he will clarify whether there is any clause in the pricing arrangements made between the UK and Ireland that allows for negative pricing between Ireland and Northern Ireland, and between Ireland and the rest of the UK; the pricing arrangements that have been made between Ireland and the UK on wind energy exports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33184/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraInterconnector trading is an operational matter for EirGrid and not one in which I, as Minister, have a role or function. Information in relation to the East West Interconnector, including the current electricity transfer in MW, is available on Eirgrid's website at www.eirgrid.ie.
The Single Electricity Market (SEM) is the wholesale electricity market for the island of Ireland, regulated jointly by the Commission for Energy Regulation (the CER) and its counterpart in Belfast, the Utility Regulator. By combining what were two separate jurisdictional electricity markets, the SEM became one of the first of its kind in Europe when it went live on 1 November 2007. The SEM is designed to provide for the least cost source of electricity generation to meet customer demand at any one time across the island, while also maximising long-term sustainability and reliability.
With regard to the potential for future wind energy export, it should be noted that no pricing arrangements have been made between Ireland and the UK on wind energy exports. Following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Energy Cooperation with the UK in January 2013, a joint programme of work was undertaken to complete consideration of how Irish renewable energy resources might be developed to the mutual benefit of Ireland and the UK. However, it was not possible to conclude an Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) as originally envisaged. Economic analysis conducted on the Irish side clearly indicated that under agreed policy and regulatory conditions, renewable energy trading could deliver significant economic benefits to Ireland and the UK, as well as being attractive to developers. However, renewable energy trading has to be designed to work, and given the economic, policy and regulatory complexities involved, and the key decisions yet to be taken by the UK, delivery by 2020 of renewable energy trading is not now a realistic proposition. In the context of a European Internal Energy Market, greater trade in energy between Britain and Ireland is inevitable in the post 2020 scenario.
1634. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of staff who retired, left or otherwise departed from their employment from 1 July 2013 to 31 December 2013 and the expected annual savings arising therefrom; the number of staff expected to leave in 2014 and the annual expected savings therefrom; the number of staff expected to leave in 2015 and the annual savings therefrom; the number of staff expected to leave in 2016 and the annual savings therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33200/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested is set out in the following table.
|
Year |
No. of staff departures |
Total annual salaries associated with departing staff |
|
2013 – July to Dec inc |
7 |
€531,000 |
|
2014 |
16 |
€1,582,000 |
|
2015 |
1 |
€27,000 |
|
2016 |
3 |
€115,000 |
Figures for 2013 and 2014 are based on departures to date and include expected departures to end of 2014.
It is not possible to forecast future departures. The figures specified for 2015 and 2016 are based on those that reach compulsory retirement age.
The amounts provided in the table for 2013 and 2014 are for salaries of those who left the Department. This does not represent the savings accruing as many of these staff would have been replaced.
1635. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources the number of new staff employed since 1 July 2013 up to 31 December 2013 and the expected annual costs arising therefrom; the expected number to be employed in 2014 and the estimated annual cost arising therefrom; the expected number to be employed in 2015 and the estimated annual cost arising therefrom; the expected number to be employed in 2016 and the estimated annual cost arising therefrom; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33217/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe tables below set out the number of new staff employed in 2013 and 2014 in my Department and the annual cumulative costs arising from these hires:
|
Number of new staff |
Annual salary cost |
|
|
1/7/13 – 31/12/13 |
3* |
€281,173 |
|
1/1/14 to date |
12** |
€471,840 |
*Two of which were to replace existing staff.
** Four of which were to replace existing staff and a further four of which were taken from the redeployment panel
In terms of future hiring, my Department has requested two Clerical Officers from the panel to be established from the current Public Appointments Service competition; the annual cumulative salary cost is expected to be in the region of €45,000. While no decision on further specific appointments has yet been made, my Department is currently examining proposals to fill human resource deficits in critical areas of Departmental responsibility.
1636. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding the Grid Link project; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33366/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe consultation process on the Green Paper on Energy Policy has given rise to a wide range of contributions on energy policy which my Department is currently considering. These will form a valuable input to the development of an Energy White Paper which will be published next year.
In terms of electricity infrastructure, I should highlight that the Grid25 project is EirGrid’s plan to develop and upgrade the electricity transmission network from now until 2025. This major initiative will maintain the safe, secure and affordable electricity supply currently available throughout Ireland. It involves extensive work throughout the country, including the construction of 800km of new power lines and upgrading 2,000 km of existing lines. Grid25 will enable Ireland to compete for foreign investment and to strengthen our security of electricity supply by allowing us to use more of our own natural resources. Using our own resources, such as wind, to generate electricity will help Ireland to minimise Green House Gas emissions and will also enable us to reach our legally binding 40% Renewable Electricity target by 2020.
1637. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if a new subsidy will be introduced to help keep down the cost of broadband services for dwellers in rural areas, in place of the current subsidy which expired at the end of August. [33423/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of telecommunications services, including broadband services, is a matter in the first instance for private sector service providers operating in a liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg). Developments in the broadband market over recent years means that there is now a choice of commercial operators offering broadband services over a diverse range of technology platforms throughout much of rural Ireland, including the area previously covered by the National Broadband Scheme. Details of commercial services available in each county can be found on a number of websites, including the websites of individual operators.
The State can only intervene to ensure access to broadband services in areas where the competitive market has failed to deliver such services, as in the case of the National Broadband Scheme (NBS). Following an extensive mapping exercise and a competitive tendering process, my Department entered into a contract in late 2008 with Hutchison 3G Ireland Ltd (“3”) for the delivery of the NBS. The Scheme offered a basic and affordable broadband service to fixed residences and businesses located within certain designated rural areas where the extent of broadband coverage by commercial operators, at the time the Scheme was launched in 2008, was deemed to be inadequate. EU State Aid approval was granted for a scheme of limited duration and, following a 68 month operational period, the Scheme expired on 25th August 2014.
“3” have confirmed that, following the expiry of the Scheme, they will continue to provide coverage throughout NBS areas on a commercial basis offering consumers the same choice of Broadband plans and tariffs as those offered to consumers outside of the NBS areas. Furthermore, they have also informed my Department of their plans to extend 4G coverage across all of the NBS Coverage Areas within the next 3 years.
The Government’s Statement of Priorities for the period 2014 to 2016 reaffirms our commitment to delivering a State-led broadband intervention in rural areas. Through the implementation of the Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) we aim to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland, ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This is being achieved through measures designed to accelerate commercial investment and the development of a State-led intervention for non-commercial areas.
Since publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector have accelerated. Commercial operators have invested, or are committing to invest approximately €2.5 billion in upgrading telecommunications networks and services. I understand that at least one network operator has published a programme to roll out 33 fibre-based broadband networks in County Kerry by mid 2016.
While the accelerated commercial investment is welcome, it is largely focussed on cities and larger towns. The intervention strategy envisaged by Government recognises that quality broadband is a priority service for a 21st Century society. Central to the strategy therefore will be a major infrastructure build, which is likely to be primarily fibre-based. This will be designed to ensure that high quality broadband services are available in all parts of Ireland where commercial investment will not be forthcoming.
Under EU State Aid Guidelines Member States cannot intervene where commercial investors have plans to roll out services. A comprehensive mapping exercise is underway in my Department to identify those areas that require a State intervention. An initial list of areas has already been identified and includes 59 areas in County Kerry.
As part of the mapping process, a stakeholder consultation was launched in June with a deadline of this month for receipt of submissions. I expect to publish the maps for public consultation later this year. Details of the areas requiring State intervention will not be confirmed until then. A further public consultation on the proposed intervention strategy will be launched in mid-2015.
EU State Aid clearance will be required for the proposed State intervention. My Department will be working closely with the European Commission on this important aspect of the programme.
Finally, a detailed procurement process will have to be undertaken in order to select a potential preferred bidder(s) prior to commencing the roll out of high speed broadband services.
This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government and for my Department. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in a sustainable and meaningful way. Our goal is to ensure that quality broadband services are available to all citizens regardless of where they are located.
1638. Deputy Finian McGrath asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources his views on correspondence (details supplied) regarding fracking; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33437/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraA major research programme directed at examining the potential environmental impacts of hydraulic fracturing was recently commissioned by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The key questions that this research programme, which is to be carried out over a minimum period of two years, needs to answer are:
- Can unconventional gas exploration and extraction projects and operations be carried out in the island of Ireland whilst also protecting the environment and human health? and
- What is ‘best environmental practice’ in relation to such projects and operations?
To this end this scientific research programme is based on the consideration of existing baseline data with respect to groundwater, air and seismicity and the potential implications and mitigations that are required to be considered in order to understand the possible environmental impacts of using this technology and whether or not it can be undertaken in an environmentally protective manner in accordance with the requirements of environmental law.
I can confirm that no decision will be made on any proposal for the use of hydraulic fracturing in exploration drilling as part of an unconventional gas exploration programme, until there has been time to consider the outcome of this EPA research.
In addition I can confirm that any application for an exploration licence that proposed the use of hydraulic fracturing as part of an unconventional gas exploration programme would be subject to an environmental impact assessment, including a public consultation phase. Any such environmental impact assessment would be informed by the findings of the research commissioned by the EPA.
1639. Deputy Brendan Ryan asked the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources if his attention has been drawn to a lack of fibre optic broadband provision in an area (details supplied) in County Dublin; if there are any plans to roll out fibre optic broadband to the rural regions of County Dublin in the near future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [33700/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s Statement of Priorities for the period 2014 to 2016 reaffirms our commitment to delivering a State-led broadband intervention in rural areas. The Government’s National Broadband Plan (NBP) aims to radically change the broadband landscape in Ireland by ensuring that high speed broadband is available to all citizens and businesses. This is being achieved through measures designed to accelerate commercial investment and the development of a State-led intervention for non-commercial areas.
Since publication of the Plan, investments by the commercial sector have accelerated. Commercial operators have invested, or are committing to invest approximately €2.5 billion in upgrading telecommunications networks and services. I understand that at least one network operator has published a programme to roll out 79 fibre-based broadband networks in County Dublin, including Swords by July 2016. In addition, the announcement of a joint venture between ESB and Vodafone includes a proposal to provide high speed broadband to Swords.
The intervention strategy envisaged by Government recognises that quality broadband is a priority service for a 21st Century society. Central to the strategy therefore will be a major infrastructure build, which is likely to be primarily fibre-based. This will be designed to ensure that high quality broadband services are available in all parts of Ireland where commercial investment will not be forthcoming.
Under EU State Aid Guidelines Member States cannot intervene where commercial investors have plans to roll out services. A comprehensive mapping exercise is underway in my Department to identify those areas that require a State intervention. An initial list of areas has already been identified. It includes 5 areas in County Dublin.
As part of the mapping process, a stakeholder consultation was launched in June with a deadline of mid-September for submissions. I expect to publish the maps for public consultation later this year. Details of the areas requiring State intervention will not be confirmed until then. A further public consultation on the proposed intervention strategy will be launched in mid-2015.
EU State Aid clearance will be required for the proposed State intervention. My Department will be working closely with the European Commission on this important aspect of the programme.
Finally, a detailed procurement process will have to be undertaken in order to select a potential preferred bidder(s) prior to commencing the roll out of high speed broadband services.
This complex and ambitious project is a key priority for Government and for my Department. It aims to conclusively address current connectivity challenges in a sustainable and meaningful way. Our goal is to ensure that quality broadband services are available to all citizens regardless of where they are located.
