Written Answers Nos. 16-39
16. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if, in his discussion with hill sheep farmers, he will accept their proposals for the forthcoming GLAS and permit them to apply individually for the scheme on commonage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48390/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing my recent meeting with hill-farmer representatives, I have examined very carefully the 12 point Proposed Implementation Strategy for Commonages in Ireland, on which much of our discussion centred.
The proposed measures in the new RDP, including GLAS, have been framed in light of the experience of the previous Rural Development programming period and are based on an objective analysis of sectoral needs and priorities and an extensive stakeholder consultation process.
The issues raised in the Proposed Implementation Strategy for Commonages in Ireland have been thoroughly examined as part of the ongoing process of RDP design and implementation – for example, the issues relating to stocking levels, appointment of advisors for Commonage Management Plans, and the 50% participation rate have been central to the development of GLAS. The need to ensure a coherent approach to commonage management across Pillar 1 and Pillar 2 has also been an important element in the design of GLAS.
On many of the issues raised by the hill-farmers representatives, I am glad to say that there is much common ground.
My priority now is to continue the current negotiations with the EU Commission in relation to reaching agreement on both GLAS and the RDP as a whole. Securing agreement with the Commission on our RDP proposals will enable GLAS to be opened for applications, and agreement by stakeholders on the way forward in terms of commonages is crucial in this regard. Accordingly, I will continue to liaise with stakeholders as the approval process for GLAS and the RDP develops.
17. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide an update on progress made in respect of the implementation of the recommendations contained in the Indecon Bord na gCon report published earlier this year, in particular the poor performance in relation to testing for doping of dogs and publication of the results; if he is satisfied that some of the recommendations will be implemented by the last quarter of 2014, as outlined in Bord na gCon's reply to the report; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48417/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing the publication of the Indecon Report in July 2014, Bord na gCon submitted an action plan with timelines for implementing the 27 recommendations in the Indecon Report dealing with governance, finance, regulation and welfare. This action plan has been published on the Bord na gCon Website.
Bord na gCon has assured my Department that it has assiduously followed up on the undertakings included in its response to the Indecon Report and I am glad to report that it is "on track" to meet almost all of its Q4 2014 deadlines.
Positive test results for prohibited substances are referred by Bord na gCon to the independent Control Committee for consideration and deliberation with a view to deciding on sanctions where appropriate. A decision of the Control Committee can be appealed to the Control Appeals Committee, a process in which the appellant is entitled to due process. Cases differ, some are more complex and require more time in order to reach a conclusion.
The legislative basis for the publication of the findings of the Control Committee and the Control Appeals Committee is contained in Article 8(6) of the Greyhound Industry (Control Committee and Control Appeals Committee) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 301 of 2007) which states that Control Committee and the Control Appeals Committee shall publish its findings in all decisions in a manner it deems fit. Publication of results can be delayed due to the time taken to complete appeal procedures.
Bord na gCon has confirmed to me that it is currently involved in a public consultation process with stakeholders with a view to putting in place legislation which will enable the publication of details of all adverse findings after positive results have been returned by the laboratory and prior to consideration of such cases by the Control Committee. It is envisaged that the information to be published will include the identity of the greyhounds involved and the owners and trainers.
I am informed that Bord na gCon has recently, in a move towards greater transparency, confirmed a finding of positive results after the analytical phase and prior to the hearing at the Control Committee. The complete details in relation to the owners and the greyhounds will be available when the Control Committee, and the Appeals Committee if appropriate, has concluded its deliberations in relation to findings which are upheld.
In the area of regulatory reform, Bord na gCon has:
- Embarked on a consultation process on regulatory reform whereby stakeholders may partake in this process through the Bord na gCon website.
- Commenced a review of Standard Operating Procedures in the areas of sampling at race night operations and also in regard to track maintenance and racetrack security.
- New policies and procedures are being formulated to underpin enhancements in a range of areas of regulation, welfare and engagement with stakeholders.
- Bord na gCon has launched a Review into Anti-Doping and Medication Control under the direction of an international expert in this area. Following the Review, Bord na gCon will consider amendments to legislation, modify practices and policies as appropriate, assess whether any improvements can be made to the current structures that are in place. The objective is to ensure that Bord na gCon will conform with the best international practices.
- Launched the first phase of off-track testing for prohibited substances by testing at trials
- Launched an online resource centre to facilitate the enhanced publication of testing information
- Commenced interviews with licence applicants with a view to attaching conditions to licences where necessary
- Commenced a process of information sharing with other regulatory bodies
- Commenced development of intelligence-led strategies in various areas, in particular Anti-Doping.
- Commenced a process to introduce mandatory penalties, including exclusion orders and disqualification orders, for breaches of regulations.
- Commenced regulatory reform concerning prohibited substances, and in particular is working on developing an improved regulatory definition of prohibited substance as well as a non-exhaustive list of prohibited substances.
18. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine arising from the recent report from Teagasc which drew attention to a serious downturn in income for dairy producers in the wake of the abolition of milk quotas, his Department's proposals to address such issues, with particular reference to the need to ensure the future of the family farm and the importance of the dairy and agrifood sector in the context of the national economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48416/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe dairy sector accounted for exports of over €3 billion in 2013, which is a massive contribution to the national and in particular the rural economy. We currently have almost 18,000 milk suppliers, operating predominantly from family farm supplying 90 registered milk purchasers. Total annual production currently stands at 5.4 billion litres approx, with Food Harvest 2020 targeting a 50% increase in the volume of milk produced by 2020. These statistics speak for themselves regarding the sector's socio-economic importance.
Dairy Prices are a function of global market dynamics, with supply and demand issues in markets across the globe affecting prices across different dairy commodity groups in domestic markets. Price volatility is a continuing feature of dairy commodity markets, and it is clear that managing the price peaks and troughs in a way that allows farmers and others to plan ahead is a significant challenge for the sector. This issue was very much in focus at the recently held National Dairy Conference which I hosted in November.
The consensus emanating from the Conference based on numerous analyses is that the long-term fundamentals of the global dairy market are strong and intact and that the Irish dairy sector is well placed to gain from the opportunities that will arise. World dairy consumption is projected to rise considerably over the next 10 years and much of this is expected to be driven by developing markets in Asia, the Middle East and Africa. This rising demand coincides with the ambitious strategy as outlined in Food Harvest 2020 for growing the dairy sector. In turn the abolition of dairy quotas is expected to be a key driver of the growth envisaged. In tandem with opportunity comes challenge, and chief amongst those is price volatility.
Whilst the long-term fundamentals of the global dairy market are strong objective analysis indicates that we are currently facing into a period of downward price movement following a prolonged period of high prices. Managing the impact of this kind of volatility, particularly on farmer suppliers, remains a key challenge. Market support measures will have a role and I have called on the EU Commission to deploy them as appropriate to support the markets processors and the lending sector will also have a role to play through measures such as fixed price contracts and flexible financing arrangements.
In terms of how the market will evolve in the medium term, Teagasc, in common with a number of other commentators, anticipate that lower milk prices will lead to a slowdown in the expansion of milk production globally through 2015, with global dairy markets set to witness signs of recovery as the year progresses. In the medium to longer term population growth and increasing affluence in developing countries will continue to drive strong growth in demand for dairy products, and Irish producers will be well placed to take full advantage of this demand.
Notwithstanding the aforementioned, in preparing their enterprises for the post quota era, I have at all times urged that farmers have regard for the fact that milk quotas would remain in place until April 2015, along with the associated superlevy regime, and I would take this opportunity today to reiterate this call. I would again urge farmers to use the time period between now and the removal of milk quotas to identify, with their dairy adviser, steps to manage both their milk supply and their dairy herds so that they have an efficient herd as they enter the post quota era.
19. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine his plans regarding super-levy penalties to be imposed on Irish farmers by the EU; if he will ensure these penalties will not be imposed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48284/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, the rules governing the imposition of a super levy fine are set by Milk Quota Regulations agreed at EU level. Under these Regulations each Member State is allocated a volume quota of milk, above which it should not produce. In cases where Member States do produce in excess of their milk quota a super levy fine (of 28 cents/litre) has to be paid to the EU Commission by the milk producers who contribute to the over production.
It is not possible for me on a unilateral basis to adjust super levy rules. However, I have consistently called on the EU Commission to take action to ease the burden of the super levy in the final year of the quota regime. In this context a number of other member states are opposed to any action on this and have sought to link the issue to possible measures to regulate supply after quotas are gone. I am obviously resolutely opposed to supply controls after quota abolition next April on the basis that these quotas have only served to shackle Irish farmers over the last 30 years. The resultant stalemate means there is insufficient support for any change to the regulations and no agreement has been possible. I would urge farmers to use the time between now and the ending of milk quotas next March to identify, in conjunction with their dairy adviser, steps to manage both their milk supply and their dairy herds so that they have an efficient herd as they enter the post quota era. I note that the monthly intake of milk in November was 13% down on the same month last year and this suggests farmers are taking on-farm measures to reduce their exposure to potential super levy payments.
20. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to support a live cattle trade to Britain; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48276/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI attach considerable importance to the live export trade and, over the years, my Department has been very active in facilitating both the cross border live trade and shipments abroad. Live exports serve a dual purpose as a means of satisfying market demands for live animals and providing alternative market outlets for farmers. Total live exports to the end of November this year stand at nearly 227,000 head, of which 66,000 went to the UK, an increase of nearly 5,500 head or 8.8% up on the comparable period in 2013. Specifically, over 16,500 animals have been exported to Britain in 2014, which is an increase of nearly 65% on last year.
In recent years Irish exporters wishing to export livestock to Britain were able to avail of roll-on, roll-off ferry services from Belfast or Larne. Early in 2014 an application was received from a shipping company for approval of a roll-on, roll-off ferry to carry livestock from Rosslare. Following an inspection this ferry was approved for carriage of livestock. The first such consignment to the UK took place in February 2014, and regular consignments of livestock have been carried from Rosslare since then.
The potential to grow the live trade to Britain is impacted by the buying specifications operated by the British retail chains in relation to cattle born in this country and exported live for finishing and processing in that market. The retailers' longstanding policy is to market British and Irish beef separately. This means that beef must be sourced from animals originating in one country or the other; i.e. born, reared and slaughtered in the same country. In addition, logistical difficulties can arise when a small number of Irish-born animals are slaughtered in a UK meat plant. Under mandatory EU labelling rules, these carcasses have to be deboned in a separate batch, packaged and labelled accordingly, thereby incurring additional costs for the processor. These issues are a matter of commercial preference, both of slaughter plants in Britain, and of British retailers. Decisions by processors and retailers in other member states in relation to purchasing policy are matters of commercial preference.
While Bord Bia has repeatedly raised this issue with British retailers over the years, they are unlikely to reverse their marketing policy in the short term and are currently under pressure to stock more British beef. Nevertheless Bord Bia, in its ongoing interactions with British customers, will continue to pursue all opportunities to maximise the full potential of the beef and livestock trade with our largest trading partner. In addition, Bord Bia actively supports the development of the live export trade through the provision of market information, developing market access and promotional activity.
I have also had several meetings with my Northern counterpart, Minister Michelle O'Neill, on this subject. We agreed to make a joint approach to the three British retailers who stock Irish Beef, accepting that these were commercial matters, but also seeking some flexibility given that this beef is produced to the exacting standards required by British consumers. Following on from this, I convened a meeting with Minister O'Neill and the Northern Ireland Retail Consortium which took place in October. At this meeting the NIRC made it clear that their beef buyers had a preference for single origin beef, of which they had ample supply, but they would keep the situation under review. I also met separately with Tesco where we had a full discussion on this and other procurement issues. Tesco were also invited to and attended a meeting of the Beef Roundtable where all stakeholders had the opportunity to engage with them and gain an insight into their view of the beef market in the UK and Ireland today.
I will continue to pursue opportunities for exports of live cattle at every opportunity.
21. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a decision will be made on the application by Bord Iascaigh Mhara for a salmon farming licence in Galway Bay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48279/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn application by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) for an aquaculture licence for the cultivation of finfish near Inis Oirr in Galway Bay was received by my Department in 2012. The application and its accompanying Environmental Impact Statement are being considered under the provisions of the 1997 Fisheries (Amendment) Act and the 1933 Foreshore Act.
A determination in respect of the application will be made as soon as possible following completion of the necessary assessment process. This assessment process will take full account of all national and EU legislative requirements and will reflect the full engineering, scientific, environmental, legal and public policy aspects of the application.
The fullest consideration is being given to all submissions received as part of the statutory and public consultation stages of the process.
There is always a strict separation between my Ministerial role as decision maker in respect of aquaculture licence applications and my Ministerial duty to promote the sustainable development of the industry. This separation of duties is strictly observed.
As the application is under active consideration as part of the statutory process it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this time.
22. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the steps he is taking to support the sheep industry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48277/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe industry wide strategy for developing the sheep industry in Ireland was set out in the Food Harvest 2020 document which envisages a 20% increase in value terms of the sector by 2020. My approach to building on the significant achievements of the strategy up until now is to drive the development of the industry at home and increase Ireland's market share of the world market. This will ensure that producers and processors can plan for the future, increasing the value of the industry for the benefit of all.
In terms of the performance of the sector in 2014, I am pleased to note that, for the period up to week ending 7 December 2014, Irish sheep throughput at DAFM-approved plants was almost the same as for 2013, with a marginal decline of 0.38%. Prices paid to producers over the same period have increased, with the average factory price running at 3.24% of last year's level.
At producer level I continue to put in place incentives to ensure that producers see a viable future in the sector. Earlier this year I announced the extension of the Sheep Technology Adoption Programme (STAP) for a further year. In committing funding of €3m to the programme in 2015 I am acknowledging the success of the scheme in 2013 and 2014 in which 4,000 producers participated.
Support for the sheep sector also comes from the Grassland Sheep Scheme for which I have prioritised funding over the last five years. This scheme delivered €83 million directly to the incomes of Irish sheep farmers. As it was not possible to implement the Grassland payment under the new CAP regime I decided that payments received under the 2014 Grassland Sheep Scheme will be incorporated into the calculation of the entitlement value in each year of the new regime for those farmers who participated in that Scheme. This will have the effect of increasing their entitlement value and ensure that such farmers do not lose through the cessation of the scheme at the end of 2014.
Under the new Rural Development Programme (RDP) I have made provision for improving efficiency and profitability in sheep production under the Knowledge Transfer measure which has a budget of €100m. The experience in STAP will inform the development of this measure. In addition to profitability, the emphasis will be on the key issues of business skills, environmental sustainability and herd health, with increased interaction between individual farmers and advisors in order to customise information exchange. The Knowledge Transfer Programme for the sheep sector will be launched in 2016 when the current STAP concludes.
The current AEOS Scheme supports sheep farming through its commonage measure. The proposed new agri-environment scheme, GLAS (Green Low-carbon Agri-environment Scheme) will also support, amongst others, extensive and hill farmers, who have shown themselves to be careful custodians of the countryside in previous agri-environment schemes. GLAS intends giving priority to those commonage farmers who come together to form an agreed plan to manage these valuable landscapes. It also includes a menu of environmental actions, many of which will be suitable for all sheep farmers.
On the export front I intend to drive further the search for new markets. My Department in consultation with the meat industry and in co-operation with Bord Bia and the Irish Embassies abroad is constantly pushing for new markets and opportunities.
Already this year, we have agreed veterinary health certificates with Lebanon, Namibia, Hong Kong and the Philippines thus allowing for the export of Irish sheepmeat to those countries. Also, during my visit to China leading a Trade Mission in November 2014, I was able to hand over the completed version of a sheep questionnaire which we had been asked to complete in connection with our efforts to gain access to the Chinese market for sheepmeat. This represents the first milestone on the road which will lead, I hope, to Ireland gaining access to the Chinese market for sheepmeat in the future.
23. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when the genomics scheme will open next year in view of the recent observations on this scheme by the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48282/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Beef Data and Genomics Programme (BDGP) is proposed as an EU co-funded scheme which forms part of Ireland's draft Rural Development Programme and will involve a budget of some €300m over a 6-year period. As announced as part of Budget 2015, I have proposed to increase the amount of money available to all farmers within the scheme to €100 a head on the first ten animals. Further animals in the herd will be paid €80 per head.
Payments will, subject to the approval of the programme by the EU Commission, be paid to farmers for work carried out in a range of areas related to data recording and breeding policies. Among the activities being considered for the programme are:
- recording of a range of data related to performance criteria and animal events,
- taking tissue (DNA) samples from selected animals and sending for laboratory testing, and
- selecting high quality replacement bulls and heifers over the period of the BDGP contract.
- Completing an on-farm Carbon Navigator.
The proposed BDGP is intended to deliver an accelerated improvement in the environmental sustainability of the beef herd through the application of genomics technology. This will help farmers to manage their enterprises in a sustainable way that is cognisant of Ireland's climate change commitments, while supporting improved quality and traceability in the national suckler herd. The scheme will have a substantial environmental dividend while reducing input costs and contributing to improved margins for farmers. It will also place Ireland at the global forefront in the application of genomics technology and cement our place as one of the most important and export focused beef producing nations in the world.
All Rural Development Plans submitted to the European Commission are subject to Commission approval following a detailed period of analysis and discussion. The Commission has provided observations on the BDGP and officials from my Department have been engaged in intensive negotiations with the Commission to address these observations and to exchange further information and clarifications as required. This process is ongoing. Subject to the approval of the European Commission, my intention is that the BDGP will open for applications early next year following the conclusion of these discussions.
24. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine in view of the fact that the normal practice in sports is to make public all doping tests, both positive and negative, and to disqualify those who test positive as it provides them with an unfair advantage, the reason this is currently not the standard practice in the Irish dog-racing industry; if new legislation to implement these rules is currently being formulated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48395/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraBord na gCon has statutory responsibility under the Greyhound Industry Acts 1958 &1993 for the control, development and improvement of the greyhound racing industry.
Bord na gCon refers positive tests for prohibited substances to the independent Control Committee for adjudication. The findings of the Control Committee can be appealed to the Control Appeals Committee. These are statutory committees established under the Greyhound Industry Acts, specifically under the Greyhound Industry (Control Committee and Control Appeals Committee) Regulations 2007 (SI Number 301 of 2001).
Under current regulations relating to due process, detailed findings can be published only after consideration at the Control Committee or, in the event of an appeal, at the Control Appeals Committee. Article 8(6) of the Greyhound Industry (Control Committee and Control Appeals Committee) Regulations 2007 (S.I. No. 301 of 2007) provides that the Control Committee shall publish its findings in all decisions in a manner it deems fit, and that and such publication may be delayed subject to appeal procedures.
The decisions of these committees are published after due process has been exhausted. Where there are positive findings, the sanctions are wide ranging and include fines, forfeiture of prize money, testing orders, orders for costs of any investigations and hearings and orders for disqualification and exclusion of a specified person under the 1958 Greyhound Industry Act.
Bord na gCon has confirmed to me that it is currently involved in a public consultation process with stakeholders with a view to putting in place legislation which will enable the publication of details of all adverse findings after positive results have been returned by the laboratory and prior to consideration of such cases by the Control Committee. It is envisaged that the information to be published will include the identity of the greyhounds involved and the owners and trainers.
I am informed that Bord na gCon has recently, in a move towards greater transparency, confirmed a finding of positive results after the analytical phase and prior to the hearing at the Control Committee. The complete details in relation to the owners and the greyhounds will be available when the Control Committee, and the Appeals Committee if appropriate, has concluded its deliberations in relation to findings which are upheld.
I accept that doping results should be published as soon as possible. In that regard, Bord na gCon has recently introduced new administrative procedures which have the effect of bringing cases before the Control Committee in a shorter period of time than was previously the case.
In addition, Bord na gCon has committed to introducing targeted, evidence based, intelligence led testing for prohibited substances in the future. Bord na gCon is also examining what it can do to strengthen its drug surveillance services and its processes and procedures in the short term so as to achieve maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
To this end, Bord na gCon has launched a review into anti-doping and medication control under the direction of an international expert in this area. Following the Review, Bord na gCon will consider amendments to legislation, modify practices and policies as appropriate, assess whether any improvements can be made to the current structures that are in place. The objective is to ensure that Bord na gCon will conform with the best international practices. I anticipate that this report will include recommendations which will improve transparency.
The Indecon Report into certain matters in relation to Bord na gCon which I published in July 2014 contained a number of recommendations to enhance regulatory and integrity aspects. Bord na gCon has undertaken to implement these recommendations and submitted an action plan to me in October 2014, encompassing a timescale in which various matters concerned with enhancing regulatory aspects will be addressed.
In addition officials in my Department are working closely with Bord na gCon with a view to identifying any legislative changes required to underpin a robust and transparent system of regulation.
25. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if, in its reply to the Indecon report published earlier this year, Bord na gCon outlined a schedule for the implementation of the recommendations contained in the report; if he will shed light on progress made in the implementation of recommendations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48394/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to inform the Deputy that Bord na gCon submitted their response to the Indecon report on 10 October 2014.
That response included a programme of action and a timeline for implementation of the recommendations in the report. The action plan is published in the "news" section on the Bord na gCon website. Bord na gCon has indicated to my Department that it is on track to meet the vast majority of its objectives for Quarter four of 2014.
The Indecon Report made a range of recommendations in relation to governance, finance, regulation and welfare. Action is simultaneously being progressed across all of these headings.
In the area of Governance, Bord na gCon has informed me that:
- it has implemented a risk management policy which has been communicated to all staff and has produced a risk register which is subject to review on a quarterly basis by the Audit Committee and the Board. In addition all high level risks are reviewed at every Board meeting.
- It has introduced enhanced reporting and operational arrangements for internal audits and as part of its commitment to ensuring adequate internal resources, Bord na gCon is on track to launch a staff opinion survey to assess the views of all staff. This will be followed by an organisational review in quarter one 2015.
In regard to the recommendations dealing with financial aspects, Bord na gCon has outlined the following:
- it has commenced a plan for asset disposal
- it has calibrated the number of race meetings at poorly performing stadia or on poorly performing race night which is to be reflected in its financial planning for 2015
- it is continuing its priority focus on co-mingling and fixed odds wagering opportunities with particular emphasis of finalising technology solutions to support new markets
- Work is ongoing for the further exploration of commercial income at stadia
- As part of its budget for 2015, BNG has committed resources to a strategic marketing focus to boost attendance.
- Plans are being drawn up to resolve the pension underfunding and will be incorporated into the financial planning for 2015.
In the area of regulatory reform, Bord na gCon has:
- Confirmed to me that it is currently involved in a public consultation process with stakeholders with a view to putting in place legislation which will enable the publication of details of all adverse findings after positive results have been returned by the laboratory and prior to consideration of such cases by the Control Committee. It is envisaged that the information to be published will include the identity of the greyhounds involved and the owners and trainers.
- Has recently, in a move towards greater transparency, confirmed a finding of positive results after the analytical phase and prior to the hearing at the Control Committee. The complete details in relation to the owners and the greyhounds will be available when the Control Committee, and the Appeals Committee if appropriate, has concluded its deliberations in relation to findings which are upheld.
- Embarked on a stakeholder consultation process on regulatory reform;
- Commenced a review of Standard Operating Procedures in the areas of sampling at race night operations and also in regard to track maintenance and racetrack security.
- Begun formulating new policies and procedures to enhance regulation, welfare and engagement with stakeholders.
- Launched a review into anti-Doping and medication control under the direction of an international expert in this area. Following the Review, Bord na gCon will consider amendments to legislation, modify practices and policies as appropriate, assess whether any improvements can be made to the current structures that are in place. The objective is to ensure that Bord na gCon will conform with the best international practices.
- Launched the first phase of off-track testing for prohibited substances by testing at trials
- Launched an online resource centre to facilitate the enhanced publication of testing information. Commenced interviews with licence applicants with a view to attaching conditions to licences where necessary
- Commenced a process of information sharing with other regulatory bodies
- Commenced development of intelligence-led strategies in various areas, in particular Anti-Doping.
- Commenced a process to introduce mandatory penalties, including exclusion orders and disqualification orders, for breaches of regulations.
- Commenced regulatory reform concerning prohibited substances, and in particular is working on developing an improved regulatory definition of prohibited substance as well as a non-exhaustive list of prohibited substances.
- Commenced a process to introduce the principle of strict liability into anti-doping regulations in order to enforce a policy of zero tolerance on the use of prohibited substances.
In the area of welfare Bord na gCon has:
- Commenced the process of strengthening the sanctions for animal cruelty through the use of welfare notices
- Launched an on-line resource centre for future publication of welfare information
- Commenced a process to introduce into IGB regulations a duty to keep records of all medication administered to a greyhound.
The greyhound sector makes a significant contribution to the Irish economy and I am confident that implementation of the Indecon Report can help to ensure that Bord na gCon can continue to make a significant contribution to its development into the future.
26. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will make provision to allow farmers who own 10 ha of land to qualify for both GLAS and organic farming payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48387/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Organic Farming Scheme (OFS) and GLAS are both part of the Rural Development Programme 2014-2020, which is currently awaiting approval from the European Commission.
A registered organic operator may join both the OFS and GLAS, and receive payment under both schemes. In fact, registered organic farmers are guaranteed priority access to GLAS and may select from a range of options to draw down the maximum payment of €5,000 per annum on top of their OFS payments. However, for certain area-based actions under GLAS such as Low-input Permanent Pasture and Traditional Hay Meadow – both of which are capped at ten hectares – a conflict arises in that the basis for compensation under both OFS and GLAS is quite similar, particularly in relation to income foregone. Payment under both schemes for the same parcel of land would constitute double-payment and is consequently prohibited under EU regulations.
However, there is nothing to stop a beneficiary under the OFS from availing of either GLAS option – they will simply remove the relevant parcel from payment under the organics scheme and apply for the higher GLAS payment of €314/€315 per hectare instead.
27. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will formulate a policy akin to that implemented by the former Land Commission to help maintain the viability of small family farms and thereby prevent the further depopulation of rural Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [48391/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe re-introduction of a Land Commission would not be appropriate or practicable in modern Ireland.
My Department, State Agencies, industry and the farming organisations are working together to implement the Food Harvest strategy for the development of the agri-food sector to 2020. Progress to date has been very positive, as shown in the Milestones 2014 report published in September. I recently announced the establishment of a new committee, chaired by John Moloney, with responsibility for developing a strategy up to 2025. Background documents and a consultative questionnaire are available on my Department's website, and I would urge any interested parties to make a submission before the consultation deadline of 9 January. The strategic development of the agri-food sector, focusing on value added products in growth markets, underpinned by sustainable and efficient farming and food processing, makes a vital contribution to farm viability.
The finalisation of CAP reform last year provides a huge degree of certainty to farmers in terms of the policy environment in which they operate. Direct payments provide a valuable source of farm income support and act as a hedge against the price volatility which is now a fact of life. The Rural Development Programme under Pillar II of the CAP will contribute directly to sustaining and improving the viability of Irish farms.
With regard to off-farm rural development, implementation of the CEDRA report has commenced and is being directed through the CEDRA Interdepartmental Group established and chaired by Minister Phelan.
The recent Agri-taxation Review was a joint initiative by myself and the Minister for Finance. To increase the mobility and productive use of land the Review included a comprehensive package to enhance the attractiveness of long-term leasing of land. It also included an enhanced provision for income averaging for farmers, which will allow more scope to smooth farm incomes within a commodity price cycle and thus help mitigate income volatility challenges. I was pleased that Minister Noonan adopted all of these recommendations, which were part of the twelve new agri-tax measures included in Budget 2015 arising from the findings of the Agri-taxation Review.
Finally, it should be borne in mind that off-farm sources of income provide a vital support to farm households. Teagasc estimate that three quarters of farms have off-farm sources of income, whether from off-farm employment, pensions or other social protection payments. Teagasc's Options programme is actively encouraging and supporting farm families to examine new sources of income, both on-farm through diversification and innovative approaches such as contract rearing, partnerships and share farming, and through off-farm employment opportunities.
28. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if her Department has published its annual report for 2013. [48777/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2013 Annual Report of the Department of Social Protection was laid before the Houses of the Oireachtas on 9 April 2014, and was published the following day.
The 2013 Annual Report is available for download on the Department of Social Protection's website at http://www.welfare.ie/en/downloads/ar2013.pdf
29. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will review eligibility for exceptional needs payment in the case of a person (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48816/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department has no record of the person concerned seeking a review of the decision to disallow an application for an exceptional needs payment. If she wishes to make an appeal she should contact the community welfare service of the Department.
30. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection her plans to increase the household benefits package; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48854/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department will spend €230 million this year on the household benefits package for approximately 415,000 customers.
There were no changes to the household benefits package or the fuel allowance arising from Budget 2015. The living alone allowance has been increased to €9 per week, benefiting 177,500 people at a cost of €12 million. A 25% Christmas bonus will benefit over 1.16 million people at a cost of €63.5 million.
I am confident that these measures will continue to meet the needs of those most in need.
I have no plans at this time to increase the household benefits package. Any decision to increase the package would have budgetary consequences and would have to be considered in the context of budget negotiations.
Question No. 31 withdrawn.
32. Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection when a carer's allowance appeal will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [48863/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was registered in that office on 21st October 2014. It is a statutory requirement of the appeals process that the relevant papers and comments by or on behalf of the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal be sought from the Department of Social Protection. These papers were received in the Social Welfare Appeals Office on 12th December 2014 and the case will be referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
33. Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection when a disability allowance appeal will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [48864/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Social Welfare Appeals Office has advised me that an appeal by the person concerned was referred to an Appeals Officer on 05th November 2014, who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
34. Deputy Noel Coonan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection when a carer's allowance appeal will be finalised in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Tipperary. [48865/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by the Social Welfare Appeals Office that an appeal was registered on 15th September 2014 and in accordance with the statutory requirements the Appeals Office contacted the person concerned and asked him to set out the complete grounds of his appeal.
The person concerned responded and on 07th October 2014 and the relevant Departmental papers and comments by the Deciding Officer on the grounds of appeal were sought. When these papers have been received from the Department, the case in question will be referred to an Appeals Officer who will make a summary decision on the appeal based on the documentary evidence presented or, if required, hold an oral appeal hearing.
The Social Welfare Appeals Office functions independently of the Minister for Social Protection and of the Department and is responsible for determining appeals against decisions in relation to social welfare entitlements.
35. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection her views on amending section 249(6A) of the Social Welfare Consolidation Act 2005, as amended by section 8(2)(b) of the Social Welfare and Pensions Bill 2014, to enable recipients of social welfare to continue to receive their welfare payment if they need to travel abroad for medical treatment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48907/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe jobseeker's benefit and jobseeker's allowance schemes provide income support for people who have lost work and are unable to find alternative employment. The revised estimates for the Department provide for expenditure of €3.3bn in 2014 in respect of the jobseekers schemes.
In respect of jobseeker's allowance, legislation provides that a person shall be disqualified from the scheme while he or she is resident, either temporarily or permanently, outside the State. Section 8(2)(b) of the Social Welfare and Pensions Act 2014, extended this provision to provide that an increase in respect of a qualified adult shall not be payable as part of a jobseeker's allowance claim for any period where that qualified adult is resident, either temporarily or permanently, outside the State.
In implementing these provisions allowance is made for periods, of up to two weeks in a calendar year, where a person may be absent from the State on holiday. I am satisfied that these arrangements allow sufficient latitude for customers while protecting the integrity of the scheme.
36. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if a decision has been made on an application for domiciliary care allowance in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Meath; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48910/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraAn application for domiciliary care allowance (DCA) was received from the person concerned on the 5th November 2014. This application has been forwarded to one of the Department's Medical Assessors for their medical opinion. Following receipt of this opinion, a decision will be made by a Deciding Officer and notified to the person concerned. It can currently take 10 weeks to process an application for DCA.
37. Deputy Joanna Tuffy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will provide an update on categories of social welfare recipients and persons who are signing on and are eligible to apply for JobBridge; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48911/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra44. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if persons who are participating in a JobBridge scheme which is not within commuting distance of their home are entitled to a rent allowance or any other additional payment while participating in the scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [49066/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 37 and 44 together.
JobBridge is open to jobseekers with a live claim who have been in receipt of Jobseekers Allowance, Jobseekers Benefit, Jobseeker Transition Payment, One Parent Family Payment, Disability Allowance or who are signing for social insurance contribution credits for a minimum of 3 months within the previous 6 months. I am currently reviewing whether eligibility should be expanded to include people in receipt of a Blind Pension payment.
Participation in JobBridge does not change a jobseeker's underlying entitlement to other Social Welfare payments. The purpose of the €50 top-up which is paid in addition to a person's underlying social welfare payment is to help defray additional costs, such as travel costs, associated with undertaking an internship.
38. Deputy Gabrielle McFadden asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the steps being taken to review the current level of rent supplement for families in view of the increasing levels of rent being charged by landlords; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48932/14]
Amharc ar fhreagra39. Deputy Gabrielle McFadden asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection if she will provide, in tabular form, the respective levels of rent supplement issued in 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013 and to date in 2014; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [48933/14]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 38 and 39 together.
There are approximately 71,800 rent supplement recipients for which the Government has provided over €344 million for 2014. Rent supplement recipient numbers and expenditure since 2010 is provided in the tabular statement. There are currently over 1,500 rent supplement recipients in Westmeath, of which approximately 520, representing nearly 35% of the customer base, were awarded during 2014 while there are over 460 rent supplement recipients in Longford, of which approximately 180 or 39% were awarded this year.
The Department is currently reviewing the maximum rent limits, which will be finalised shortly. I am acutely aware of the difficulties people are experiencing in maintaining affordable rented accommodation in areas of high demand in the current market. However, raising rent limits may not be the solution to the problem as it is likely to add to further rental inflation and could impact, not alone on rent supplement recipients, but also on many lower income workers and students. I am keeping the matter under close review.
Emergency actions are being undertaken in the Department through the increased use of flexibility in relation to the administration of the rent limits, including under the Interim Tenancy Sustainment Protocol operating in Dublin. A notice reminding all Community Welfare Service staff of their statutory discretionary power to award a supplement for rental purposes, for example, when dealing with applicants who are at risk of losing their tenancy was circulated in July 2014 and a further instruction issued last week.
Staff are increasing rent supplement payments as necessary and are actively engaging with the relevant local authorities and local various organisations involved in homelessness. The Department is reviewing the local arrangements in place to strengthen the existing framework to ensure that the necessary supports continue to be provided in a consistent manner.
I advise that where a person in receipt of rent supplement is at risk of losing their tenancy they should make contact with the Tenancy Protection Service provided by Threshold in Dublin on 1800 454 454 or their local Community Welfare Service throughout the country.
Tabular Statement: Rent Supplement End of Year Recipient Numbers & Expenditure: 2010 to Date
|
Year |
Recipients |
Cost €000 |
|
2010 |
97,260 |
516,538 |
|
2011 |
96,803 |
502,747 |
|
2012 |
87,684 |
422,536 |
|
2013 |
79,788 |
372,909 |
|
2014 End of November |
71,831 |
344,100 |
