Written Answers Nos. 299-316
299. Deputy Michael Fitzmaurice asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the position on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and the way the partnership is being structured; the position on the investor-state dispute settlement element of the proposed partnership; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5002/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraTogether the EU and the US account for almost half of world GDP and 30% of world trade. The purpose of the negotiations on the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP) is to reduce barriers to trade and investment in order to generate jobs and growth in the EU and the US. According to assessments made by the European Commission and other European bodies, a comprehensive TTIP could over time boost the EU's GDP by 0.5% per annum, resulting in 400,000 additional jobs across the EU.
Ireland has particularly strong economic links with the US, with over 118,000 people employed in 585 US companies here. The total level of trade (imports and exports) between Ireland and the US in 2012 was €55 billion. The US is Ireland biggest merchandise export market. The most recent data from the CSO shows that Ireland’s services exports to the US increased by 40% in 2012. Notwithstanding the present high level of trade, significant benefits could be derived from a comprehensive and ambitious TTIP.
My Department commissioned a study on the potential impact of the TTIP for Ireland. This study is intended to assist in guiding the Irish position in the negotiations. The study is expected to be finalised shortly and published in early 2015.
The initial findings of the study show that the benefit to Ireland would be more than double the EU average, with 1.1% added to GDP. Other preliminary findings include increased exports (2.7%), increases in real wages (1.4%) and investment (1.6%). Opportunities are expected mainly in manufacturing – pharmaceutical and chemical industry, electrical machinery and other advanced machinery; in certain services and in processed foods.
The scope of the EU Commission’s mandate to negotiate with the US on TTIP is comprehensive. It is therefore very much in the interests of Ireland that the partnership will be structured according to the mandate, which is publicly available and can be found on the EU Council’s website at
http://www.consilium.europa.eu/uedocs/cms_data/docs/pressdata/EN/foraff/145014.pdf .
The important question of investment protection in the TTIP was the subject of a public consultation by the EU Commission, the results of which were published on 13 January, 2015. [http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/index.cfm?id=1234.] The EU Commission has stated that it will be discussing the report with Member States and the European Parliament, and with different stakeholders, and that following these consultations, it will develop specific proposals for the TTIP negotiations. I very much welcome this approach, and I believe that it is important to take time to have open and constructive discussion following the Commission’s report that will inform the next steps.
The following information was provided under Standing Order 40A
The investment protection part of the EU Commission's mandate to negotiate with the United States on a Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership includes investor state dispute settlement (ISDS).
Investment protection, including ISDS, in the TTIP was the subject of a public consultation by the EU Commission, the results of which were published on 13 January, 2015. [http://trade.ec.europa.eu/doclib/press/indes.cfm?id=1234.]
The EU Commission has stated that it will be discussing the report with Member States and the European Parliament, and with different stakeholders, and that following these consultations, it will develop specific proposals for the TTIP negotiations.
I very much welcome this approach, and I believe that it is important to take time to have open and constructive discussion following the Commission's report that will inform the next steps.
At this stage, there are no negotiations taking place with the United States on this aspect of the proposed agreement. Ultimately this element, as indeed other elements of the mandate, will only be included if the overall outcome is satisfactory to the EU.
300. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation his plans to review the credit guarantee scheme to assist customers of banks whose bank has left the Irish market; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4317/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will be aware that a review of the SME Credit Guarantee Scheme was undertaken last year and laid before the Oireachtas in July 2014. As a result of the review of the CGS and on foot of immediate concerns raised by the Credit Review Office, Business Representative Organisations and the banks, I have decided to take urgent action to assist SMEs whose banks have left or are leaving the Irish SME lending market.
This will see a new CGS 2015 made in accordance with the terms of the Credit Guarantee Act 2012 which will allow guarantees for refinancing loans where an SME's bank has exited or is exiting the Irish SME market. This new Scheme will also increase the maximum length of guarantees under the CGS from 3 years to 7 years.
To bring this Scheme into operation there are a number of steps to conclude with the participating banks including certification, approval and legal agreements. Work is currently being finalised on the Statutory Instrument to give effect to these changes which requires the consent of the Minister for Finance and Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, and on the certification, approval and legal agreements with the banks. It is hoped that the new Scheme will be operational in the very near future.
301. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the date of each visit by an Industrial Development Agency or Enterprise Ireland prospective client to the former NEC factory in Ballivor, County Meath. [4387/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra302. Deputy Peadar Tóibín asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the date of each visit by an Industrial Development Agency prospective client to each town in County Meath for each of the past five years. [4388/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 301 and 302 together.
I am informed by IDA Ireland that in the 5-year period from 2010 to 2014, inclusive, there were a total of five IDA Ireland-sponsored site visits by potential investors to County Meath. IDA sponsored itinerary visits by potential investors include visits to multiple locations where there are greenfield or current turn-key property solutions for them to consider. The majority of these solutions, with the exception of Dublin and to a lesser extent Cork, are usually situated on the outskirts of towns and cities.
For reasons of client confidentiality and commercial sensitivity, such as the potential impact on any future property transactions that may arise from a possible investment, it is prudent to provide details of such visits on a county by county basis only.
IDA Ireland, who also provide property solutions to certain Enterprise Ireland client companies, have informed me that although it has been actively promoting the former NEC site at Ballivor as a potential property solution to prospective clients, as yet this promotion has not translated into a site visit.
Growing both Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and indigenous enterprise is key to Ireland’s economic recovery. I am glad to inform the Deputy that 2014 was a record year for both IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland in terms of investment wins and job creation, with 7,131 net new jobs being created in IDA Ireland client companies and 8,476 net new jobs being created in Enterprise Ireland client companies. In County Meath alone, IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland client companies employ 7,900 people in full and part time employment.
Additionally, two US companies opened their offices in Kells in November 2014, as a result of the Succeed in Ireland Initiative, which is implemented by Connect Ireland on behalf of IDA Ireland. The inclusion of Kells in the national Regional Aid Map will further enhance the prospects of attracting new investment and the expansion of existing enterprises, both foreign and indigenous, in County Meath .
As the Deputy is aware, the Action Plan for Jobs 2015 was launched on Thursday last, 29 January. This is the fourth annual plan in a multi-year process, which started in 2012. When the First Action Plan for Jobs was launched, unemployment stood at 15.1%. Today it stands at 10.6% and we are on track to exceed our target of 100,000 additional jobs by 2016. We are now setting a goal to bring employment to 2.1 million by 2018 – 2 years ahead of our original target.
We are determined that every region will benefit from the recovery and we will be announcing over the coming weeks and month a series of actions to help drive the achievement of this goal.
303. Deputy Frank Feighan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of companies located at the business and technology park in Roscommon town; the profile of those companies; the efforts the Industrial Development Agency has made in the past three years to attract investors to the park, including current active leads; if he will provide details of current active leads; the plans the IDA has to attract investors to the park in 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4422/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by IDA Ireland that the following three indigenous companies are located at the Business and Technology Park in Roscommon Town. System Label, an Enterprise Ireland client company, specialises in the manufacture of Technical Labels, Safety and Instruction Labels, for the Medical Technologies, Electronics and Automotive sectors. Cubis Industries, another Enterprise Ireland client company is a subsidiary of CRH, and manufactures preformed access chamber systems for utility markets e.g. power and water companies, rail and road developers and telecommunications. Tubbercurry Engineering provides mechanical engineering services to industrial projects including the Commercial, Retail, Industrial and Pharmaceutical sectors and companies.
In the past three years, 2012 to 2014 inclusive, there have been a total of 4 IDA Ireland sponsored site visits by potential investors to County Roscommon, all of which took place in 2013. IDA sponsored itinerary visits by potential investors include visits to multiple locations where there are greenfield or current turn-key property solutions for them to consider. The majority of these solutions, with the exception of Dublin and to a lesser extent Cork, are usually situated on the outskirts of towns and cities.
For reasons of client confidentiality and commercial sensitivity, such as the potential impact on any future property transactions that may arise from a possible investment, it is prudent to provide details of such visits on a county by county basis only. IDA Ireland has assured me that the Business and Technology Park in Roscommon has been marketed by IDA Ireland over the past number of years for appropriate mobile investment and I am assured that will continue in the future, as appropriate.
While for similar reasons, IDA Ireland does not comment on upcoming site visits or on current or upcoming pipeline, the Agency has informed me that it is confident that it will be in a position to make an announcement relating to an investment in Roscommon before mid-year. I am sure that the Deputy will appreciate that it would not be appropriate for me to comment further at this stage.
As the Deputy is aware, the Action Plan for Jobs 2015 was launched on Thursday last, 29 January. This is the fourth annual plan in a multi-year process, which started in 2012. When the First Action Plan for Jobs was launched, unemployment stood at 15.1%. Today it stands at 10.6% and we are on track to exceed our target of 100,000 additional jobs by 2016. We are now setting a goal to bring employment to 2.1 million by 2018 – 2 years ahead of our original target.
We are determined that every region will benefit from the recovery and we will be announcing over the coming weeks and month a series of actions to help drive the achievement of this goal.
304. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide a list of the sites owned by the Industrial Development Agency in County Cork and which have potential use for inward investment purposes in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4443/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraIDA Ireland owns a total of 312.63 hectares of land in Cork, City and County which have the potential for use for inward investment purposes. The location of these sites are set out in the tabular statement. In addition, there are a number of units in IDA owned Business Parks in the Cork Region which are also available for use. These units which are a mix of IDA owned and private finance are located as follows.
In Kilbarry, there is approximately 4,200 square metre Industrial Unit (Private Finance) and 4 Cluster units approx. 298 square metres each (Private Finance). In Cork Business and Technology Park there is approximately 1,164 square metre IDA owned (3 storey). While in Youghal there are two units (privately owned), one 2,298 square metres and one 10,313 square metres.
The availability of an adequate supply of marketable, serviced land and office and industrial/technology buildings in advance of demand is a key element in IDA Ireland’s ability to compete for mobile FDI.
The availability of property solutions eliminates the lead times normally associated with acquiring property, enables clients to plan their property needs with a greater degree of certainty and allows for the commencement of projects at an earlier date by eliminating much of the difficulties associated with land acquisition, planning and construction.
At the end of 2014, there were 146 IDA Ireland client companies in Cork, City and County employing 28,545 people in full and part time employment. IDA Ireland has strong relationships with all these companies and works closely with them to ensure their long term sustainability and to encourage their growth, development and continuing re-investment in their sites.
IDA Ireland positions Cork as being a strong cluster in Pharmaceuticals and Medical Technologies (Pfizer, Novatis, GSK, Janssen, Abbvie, Eli Lilly, Gilead, Pepsico, GE, Stryker, Gilead, Astellas among others). The success of Cork for attracting life sciences has seen the growth in associated support services such as experienced building firms and project managers, clean room providers, specialist recruitment agencies, tailored educational courses etc.
The region also has a significant cluster of ICT companies such as Apple, Dell, McAfee, Trend Micro, EMC, VMware, among others. The cluster of companies has led to the growth in suitably qualified individuals, experienced in working with multi-national corporations.
IDA Ireland has also informed me that a new cluster is emerging in the region based around the marine and renewable technologies. The development of the Irish Maritime and Energy Resource Cluster (IMERC) will be a strong magnet of attraction for the South West. IMERC will harness and integrate diverse research and industry expertise through the development of the innovative cluster which incorporates the Beaufort Research Laboratory, The Irish National Maritime College and The Naval Service of Ireland.
Table shows sites owned by IDA Ireland in Cork, City and County, which have potential for use for inward investment purposes.
|
Property Name |
Town |
County |
Property Type |
Net Hectares |
|
Mallow B & T |
Mallow |
Cork |
Land |
1.30 |
|
Charleville |
Charleville |
Cork |
Land |
1.65 |
|
Kanturk |
Kanturk |
Cork |
Land |
2.47 |
|
Kilbarry B&T Park |
Cork City |
Cork |
Land |
57.53 |
|
Carrigtohill B&T Park |
Carrigtohill |
Cork |
Land |
24.30 |
|
Ringaskiddy |
Cork City |
Cork |
Land |
155.56 |
|
Fermoy B & T |
Fermoy |
Cork |
Land |
6.05 |
|
Cork Carrigtohill East |
Carrigtohill East |
Cork |
Land |
53.16 |
|
Youghal Springfield Estate |
Youghal |
Cork |
Land |
1.87 |
|
Youghal Foxhole |
Youghal |
Cork |
Land |
1.23 |
|
Fermoy Rathealy |
Fermoy |
Cork |
Land |
1.00 |
|
Skibbereen |
Skibereen |
Cork |
Land |
3.86 |
|
Bandon Laragh Estate |
Bandon |
Cork |
Land |
1.83 |
|
Cork B&T Park |
Cork City |
Cork |
Land |
0.83 |
|
- |
- |
- |
Total circa. |
312.63 |
305. Deputy Derek Nolan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if local enterprise offices have targets imposed by his Department; if he will provide a breakdown on a county basis as to the targets and budget for each office; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4450/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) are the first-stop-shops providing advice and supports to entrepreneurs and new businesses in the micro and small business sector. They operate within the functional areas of the Local Authorities rather than at a County level, per se. Their performance is monitored in accordance with the ambitious performance indicators and metrics set out in the Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for the LEOs agreed between Enterprise Ireland (EI) – which has operational responsibility for the LEOs – and the Local Authorities as part of the Local Enterprise Development Plan (LEDP) for their areas. The LEDPs for 2015 are currently being finalised and will be available through the local enterprise website at www.localenterprise.ie in due course.
The targets for the LEOs, which are aimed at supporting entrepreneurship, enterprise growth and job creation, cover amongst other things, performance in terms of projects assisted, jobs created and sustained, progression to EI, training delivered and mentoring provided.
Details of the performance of each LEO in 2014 against its targets are being collated by the Centre of Excellence in EI and will be available later this month.
Enterprise Ireland is responsible for allocating budgets to individual LEOs for both current administration and capital requirements. The Board of EI is meeting later this month to agree these allocations. The SLA provides for a review of the methodology used in making allocations and this matter will be progressed in the context of the 2016 Estimates process in Quarter 2 2015.
306. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, for the years 2007 to 2010 the total photography costs in his Department, including a list of which photographers were booked, the photographers used and breakdown of costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4496/15]
Amharc ar fhreagra307. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, for the years 1997 to 2007 the total photography costs in his Department, including a list of which photographers were booked, the photographers used and breakdown of costs associated with each occasion that a photographer was used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4512/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 306 and 307 together.
The photographers booked by my Department over the period 2004 to 2010 and the associated costs incurred on each occasion are detailed in the following table. My Department does not have access to records relating to photography costs incurred during the period 1997 to 2003.
2004
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Not Available (N/A) |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€34 |
|
N/A |
Frank Fennell |
€29 |
|
1 Photo Tanáiste 1 Photo Minister Fahey |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€38 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€204 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€161 |
|
N/A |
Maxwell Photography |
€62 |
|
Photos ASEM Meeting |
Maxwell Photography |
€469 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€381 |
|
Roger Digan |
Prints of Studio Shoot Portrait |
€314 |
|
Photography – Action Plan for European Res. |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€181 |
|
Photography – Annual Report to Minister Fahy. |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€181 |
|
Action Plan for Europe |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€159 |
|
Syndication of Images to National Press |
Jason Clarke |
€178 |
|
Action Plan for Europe |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€92 |
|
Email ISDN Image to Media |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€31 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€254 |
|
Photography – Secretary General’s retirement |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€815 |
|
Photography Minister Martin & US Under Secretary |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€238 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€226 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€102 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€596 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Total |
- |
€4,806 |
2005
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Enterprise Ireland SME Workshop - 2 Multi Use Licences |
Frank Fennell |
€58 |
|
Photography Government Report |
Frank Fennell |
€29 |
|
Minister Ahern |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€41 |
|
Secretary General’s Photos - Retirement |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€71 |
|
Redundancy Computer Launch |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€517 |
|
Redundancy Computer Launch |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€26 |
|
Photos Management Board |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€224 |
|
Photos French Judiciaries |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€224 |
|
Employment Bill Launch |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€480 |
|
National Statement of Trade Policy |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€443 |
|
Photo of Management Board for Annual Report |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Photography Safety Health & Welfare at Work Bill |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€610 |
|
Small Business Forum |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€608 |
|
Photography Safety Health & Welfare at Work Bill |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Publication of Bullying Report |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€403 |
|
Photo request of Minister and Mr Roddy Molloy, CEO, FAS. |
Frank Fennell |
€116 |
|
Photography IDA Investment |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€182 |
|
National Competitiveness |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€429 |
|
Multi use Licence National Competitive Council |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Photography Studio Setting |
Denis Hyland Photography |
€563 |
|
Groceries Order Press Briefing |
Lensmen and Associates |
€269 |
|
Scanned Image Photo from Groceries Order Briefing |
Lensmen and Associates |
€47 |
|
Multi Use Licence Secretary General |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€182 |
|
Photography for Secretary General |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€218 |
|
Photography for SME Section |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€628 |
|
Secretary General’s Retirement |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€246 |
|
Patents Office Presentation |
Frank Fennell |
€24 |
|
Total |
- |
€6,822 |
2006
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Photography Colour Passport Minister Ahern |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€99 |
|
Photography Annual Report |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€170 |
|
2 Email Images NSAI Launch |
Maxwell Photography |
€57 |
|
Electronic image of Department |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Photography – Minister Martin & Croatian Labour Minister |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€244 |
|
Photography for Strategy for Science Technology and Innovation |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€631 |
|
Photography Minister Noel Treacy |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
1 Single use image Mr Paul Farrell |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Photography – Wyeth Launch |
Maxwell Photography |
€656 |
|
Publication of Consumer Legislation |
Lensmen Limited |
€319 |
|
Publication of Consumer Legislation |
Lensmen Limited |
€181 |
|
Passport Photos for Minister Killeen and Minister Ahern. |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€162 |
|
Launch of Booklet on Health & Safety for T.Ds and Senators |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€68 |
|
Launch of Booklet on Health & Safety for T.Ds and Senators |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€183 |
|
Total |
- |
€2,953 |
2007
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Photography – Photo of Minister Martin & Mr Ger Deering in Department |
Maxwell Photography |
€547 |
|
Digital Images |
Lensmen Limited |
€47 |
|
Photography – Launch of Employment Permits Act Green card |
Fennell Photography |
€695 |
|
Photography – Employment Rights Agenda Government Press Centre |
Maxwell Photography |
€642 |
|
Photography – Launch of Forfás Influenza Planning Report |
Maxwell Photography |
€547 |
|
Photography – Photo of Management Board |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€61 |
|
Photography – CSRI Bullying Report. Government Press Centre |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€408 |
|
Photography – Launch of Consumer Protection Bill |
Fennell Photography |
€58 |
|
Photography - Launch of Consumer Protection Bill |
Fennell Photography |
€749 |
|
Photography – Launch of ICT Audit Programme |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€661 |
|
Photography – Annual Report 1999 – 2 High Resolution single use photos |
Mac Innes Photography |
€99 |
|
Photography – CLRG Event |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€578 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography Limited |
€183 |
|
Photography Carlow New Office on 30 July 2007. |
Karl Mc Donagh Photography |
€170 |
|
Photography Carlow New Office on 30 July 2007. |
Karl Mc Donagh Photography |
€545 |
|
Photography – New CEO of IDA |
Maxwell Photography |
€677 |
|
Launch of Code of Practice for Domestic Workers |
Eaon Ward Photography |
€272 |
|
Total |
- |
€6,939 |
2008
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Photography – Employment Law Compliance Bill 2008 |
Mac Innes Photography |
€374 |
|
Photography – Launch of Forfás Study on Impact of Single Market in Ireland |
Mac Innes Photography |
€440 |
|
Launch of Report |
Mac Innes Photography |
€584 |
|
Photography – Minister Kelleher meeting students re. Job Shadow Week Cork |
Provision |
€415 |
|
Photography – Tánaiste Meeting with CEO of FAS, Mr Roddy Molloy |
Mac Innes Photography |
€419 |
|
N/A |
Maxwell Photography |
€174 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€281 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€58 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€289 |
|
N/A |
Maxwell Photography |
€154 |
|
N/A |
Maxwell Photography |
€698 |
|
N/A |
Maxwell Photography |
€218 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography |
€61 |
|
N/A |
Nick Bradshaw |
€574 |
|
Tánaiste Meeting with Enterprise |
Mac Innes Photography |
€144 |
|
Tanáiste Launch of Innovation Policy State IFSC |
Fennell Photography |
€629 |
|
N/A |
SKP & Associates Limited T/A Lensmen& Associates |
€94 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€29 |
|
Annual Report Management Board Photo |
Mac Innes Photography |
€255 |
|
N/A |
Provisions |
€393 |
|
Photo call in Advance of LRC Annual Report |
Provisions |
€415 |
|
Total |
- |
€6,698 |
2009
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Advertisement |
Mac Innes Photography |
€118 |
|
Advertisement – Minister O’Keeffe meeting Chinese Ambassador H.E. Mr Liu Biwei |
Mac Innes Photography |
€194 |
|
Advertisement |
Mac Innes Photography |
€379 |
|
Advertisement – 1st Report on the Strategy for Science, Technology & Innovation |
Mac Innes Photography |
€43 |
|
N/A |
Clive Wasson Photography |
€242 |
|
Photography – Tánaiste Meeting Vice President of EU |
Fennell Photography |
€660 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€519 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€62 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€272 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€31 |
|
Photography – Signing of Agreement – Minister Conor Lenihan and Dr Thirumalachari Ramasami, Indian Secretary of the Department of Science & Technology |
Mac Innes Photography |
€409 |
|
Photography – Tánaiste & Minister Ryan & Mr Joe Halford, Green Enterprise Group. |
Mac Innes Photography |
€352 |
|
Photography – In studio head shots of Minister Calleary |
Mac Innes Photography |
€159 |
|
Photography – Government Buildings Tanáiste & Minister Hanafin re. Workplace Graduate Scheme & Short Term Working Programme |
Fennell Photography |
€866 |
|
Photocall Merrion Square 21/05/09 |
Dublin City Council |
€100 |
|
Photography – Minister Calleary |
Mac Innes Photography |
€135 |
|
N/A |
Fennell Photography |
€226 |
|
Photography |
Fennell Photography |
€592 |
|
Tanáiste meeting with Russian Deputy Prime Minister |
Fennell Photography |
€450 |
|
N/A |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€175 |
|
Advertisement – Launch of Green Enterprise Report |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€486 |
|
Photography – Launch Guide on Procurement - Tánaiste |
Mac Innes Photography |
€583 |
|
Photography Tánaiste meeting Commissioner Kroes. |
Mac Innes Photography |
€259 |
|
Minister Lenihan meeting DG for Research, Mr Jóse Manuel Salva Rodriguez |
Mac Innes Photography |
€387 |
|
Advertisement |
Mac Innes Photography |
€387 |
|
Minister Lenihan Launch of STI Report |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€601 |
|
N/A |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€49 |
|
Photography – Min Calleary meeting with Ms Breege O’Donoghue |
Fennell Photography |
€612 |
|
Photocall with Minister Lenihan/ Mr Dominic McVey at launch of Green Enterprise Report |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€486 |
|
N/A |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€486 |
|
Photography – Minister Kelleher, China Economic Trade Forum Signing |
Mac Innes Photography |
€526 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography |
€526 |
|
Total |
- |
€11,372 |
2010
|
Occasion for which Photographer booked |
Name of Photographer |
Breakdown of costs associated with each event |
|
Photography – Announcement of FÁS Board |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€484 |
|
Advertisement |
Mac Innes Photography |
€582 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography |
€433 |
|
Advertisement |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€486 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography |
€164 |
|
Minister O’Keeffe Meeting Chinese Ambassador H.E. Mr Liu Biwei |
Mac Innes Photography |
€194 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography |
€294 |
|
N/A |
Mac Innes Photography |
€53 |
|
N/A |
Jason Clarke Photography |
€560 |
|
Photographs of Minister O’Keeffe at Official opening. |
Catherine Ketch |
€70 |
|
Photography 15/07/10 of Minister O’Keeffe |
Mac Innes Photography |
€510 |
|
N/A |
Queenan Photography |
€30 |
|
Art & Photography |
Creative Ad Ltd |
€2,263 |
|
Total |
- |
€6,123 |
My Department uses external photographers sparingly and, with a view to keeping costs to a minimum, regularly uses its own facilities and staff to take photographs in-house. My Department also avails of the panel of photography firms, selected following a procurement process undertaken by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, which is available for use by all Departments.
308. Deputy Patrick O'Donovan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide, in tabular form, a list of all external public relations firms hired by his Department and associated costs incurred from 2007 to 2010; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4546/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe providers of public relations services used by my Department and the Offices of my Department, the details of the services supplied by each provider and the expenditure incurred on such services by my Department for the period 2007 to 2010 were as follows:
2007
|
Name of PR Company/PR Consultant: |
Purpose of Expenditure: |
PR Cost (€): |
|
Leo Burnett |
Advertising increase in National Minimum Wage |
€50,163 |
|
Q 4 |
Interim NCA PR Services |
€18,150 |
|
Form Creative Limited |
Advertising Campaign for Work-Life Balance Day 2007 (Main design concept for the Campaign) |
€7,714 |
|
The Media Group |
To devise, implement and manage a national promotion and advertising campaign across a range of media for the ICT Audits Programme for Small Business in Ireland. |
€16,033 |
|
Carr Communications |
Corporate Communications on matters including annual return dates, the availability of the “pre-filed” annual return and company law compliance. |
€45,372 |
|
DHR Communications |
Dissemination of EQUAL Programme |
€28,305 |
|
Keating and Associates |
Communications Strategy for the ODCE |
€32,670 |
|
Millward Brown IMS |
Market Research for the ODCE |
€44,790 |
|
Keating and Associates |
To provide NERA with PR Services in the development of a new Communications Strategy. |
€46,734 |
|
Design Tactics |
NERA – Advertising Media |
€6,285 |
|
OVERALL TOTAL 2007 |
- |
€296,216 |
2008
|
Name of PR Company/PR Consultant: |
Purpose of Expenditure: |
PR Cost (€): |
|
DHR Communications |
Dissemination of EQUAL Programme |
€9,547 |
|
Keating and Associates |
NERA PR |
€63,189 |
|
Ellard Browne Ltd |
NERA Advertising |
€605 |
|
Cawley Nea Ltd |
NERA Advertising |
€27,410 |
|
Carr Communications |
Communications for CRO |
€25,593 |
|
Millward Brown/IMS |
Market Research for the ODCE |
€15,898 |
|
Form Creative Ltd |
Design work for Media Campaign for Worklife Balance Day 2009 (PR element) |
|
|
OVERALL TOTAL 2008 |
- |
€147,900 |
2009
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose |
Cost (€) |
|
Keating & Associates |
To provide NERA with PR Consultancy Services. |
€20,303 |
|
OVERALL TOTAL 2009 |
- |
€20,303 |
2010
|
Name of Consultants |
Purpose |
Cost (€) |
|
Keating & Associates |
To provide NERA with PR Consultancy Services |
€29,011 |
|
OVERALL TOTAL 2010 |
- |
€29,011 |
My Department uses external public relations providers having regard to its business needs. In engaging such providers, the Department is mindful of the need to secure value for money and, accordingly strives to keep costs to the minimum.
309. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he approved the lowering of the national flag over his Department's building on Kildare Street, Dublin 2, on 23 January 2014; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4568/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraDecisions regarding the raising and lowering of the national flag are taken by the Protocol and General Division of the Department of the Taoiseach and not directly by my Department. Accordingly, the national flag was lowered to half-mast on Friday 23 January 2015, on the occasion of the funeral of King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia, as is established protocol upon the death of a head of state in office, as a mark of respect to their country.
310. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the progress that has been made in creating job opportunities in Dublin North East and Dublin North Central; his plans to further encourage job opportunities in these areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4731/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Action Plan for Jobs since 2012 has set a comprehensive set of measures agreed by Government to promote jobs opportunities and employment growth in all parts of the country. The 2015 Action Plan for Jobs was launched on January 29 in ICON Plc. The Action Plan process is working. Almost 80,000 more people are at work since the launch of the first Action Plan for Jobs in 2012. Indigenous exports and foreign direct investment are at all-time record levels. Our competitiveness ranking internationally has climbed to 15th. The rate of unemployment has declined from a peak of 15.1 per cent at the start of 2012 to below 10.6 per cent at end 2014. The achievement of 100,000 additional jobs by 2016 will be an important milestone. Beyond this, we want to replace all of the jobs lost during the economic crisis and bring employment to 2.1 million in 2018.
The Action Plan for Jobs 2015 will be a further step along the way in meeting this medium-term goal for Ireland. The themes in this year’s Action Plan for Jobs build on the reforms of previous years in the areas of competitiveness, innovation and entrepreneurship and in fostering new sources of growth for the economy,
The 2015 Action Plan contains a suite of 380 actions to ensure we deliver not just the promised 100,000 additional jobs by 2016, but an additional 40,000 jobs this year alone. Specifically, in 2015, Enterprise Ireland will target the creation of 13,000 gross new full-time jobs in indigenous firms. IDA Ireland will target the creation of 14,000 gross new jobs in multinationals. It is estimated that every direct job created in agency assisted firms indirectly supports another job in the wider economy thereby making a strong contribution to the overall target of getting to full employment in 2018.
Key among the initiatives in the 2015 Action Plan for Jobs are six new Disruptive Reforms: significant projects that require cross Government collaboration that can make a real difference to enterprise and jobs in a short space of time.
Entrepreneurship is one of our Disruptive Reforms for 2015, supporting new job opportunities at local level. Through driving implementation of the actions in the new National Entrepreneurship Policy Statement we will double the jobs impact of start-ups in Ireland over the next five years, from 93,000 currently. We will increase the number of start-ups, the survival rate, and the capacity of startups to grow to scale, all by 25 per cent.
A major reform of support for creating job opportunities in 2014 was the launch of the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs), to make the operating environment for businesses and the system for delivery of support to micro and small enterprises more coherent, responsive and conducive to entrepreneurship at local level. The LEOs are now the first-stop-shop for those beginning a new business as well as those wishing to expand their existing one. The LEOs provide financial and non-financial supports to help micro and small businesses to expand their growth potential and the LEO staff can advise clients directly or direct them to the most appropriate source of support for their project.
Each LEO is developing a Local Enterprise Development Plan for 2015 which will aim at further boosting enterprise growth within the area within their remit by building on the achievements to date and setting targets for job creation and enterprise growth in their area. Key targets in the Plans will include new business start-ups, business expansions and jobs created or sustained as well as wider economic impacts such as exports, mentoring, training and enterprise promotion. It is expected that this reform will continue the momentum for sustained growth in job creation in each County across the country.
In addition, we will launch an Entrepreneur Partnering Programme, linking start-ups with established businesses. The new Startup Refunds for Entrepreneurs Scheme (SURE) will provide additional finance for entrepreneurs. We will support 130 new entrepreneurs via the New Frontiers Programme, support 185 Competitive and High Potential Startups.
The other Disruptive Reforms include the National Talent Drive in 2015, which will ensure we have the skills supply to underpin the new economy, including through the provision of 1,250 extra ICT places for students in 2015 and developing new apprenticeships in key sectors of the economy. We will also establish the Low Pay Commission, to undertake analysis and make a recommendation on the appropriate level of the national minimum wage. We will shortly launch competitive funding initiatives of up to €25 million to support entrepreneurship and innovation in the regions.
These Disruptive Reforms sit alongside the long menu of actions to support sales and exports, get credit flowing, drive innovation, cut red tape, and stimulate the domestic sectors (agri-food/marine, retail, tourism, construction).
The APJ2015 reforms and initiatives are focused on making it easier to do business and to create jobs in every part of the country and we are determined through these actions to create the conditions to achieve the target of 100,000 extra people at work by 2016 and contribute to our longer-term goal of restoring the country to have 2.1 million at work in 2018.
311. Deputy Terence Flanagan asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation the number of Industrial Development Agency site visits undertaken in Dublin North East and Dublin North Central in 2013 and 2014; his plans to encourage more visits in 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4732/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am informed by IDA Ireland that information in relation to site sponsored visits by potential investors is provided on a county by county basis only and during 2013 and 2014 there were a total of 385 such visits to Dublin, city and county. For reasons of commercial sensitivity and client confidentiality IDA Ireland does not release details of individual locations visited or comment on upcoming visits arranged. The number of site visits by potential investors to Dublin city and county in each of the years 2013 and 2014 are set out in the attached tabular statement. It must also be remembered that decisions as to where to visit and where to locate is ultimately a matter for the investor.
Growing both Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and indigenous enterprise is key to Ireland’s economic recovery. I am glad to inform the Deputy that 2014 was a record year for both IDA Ireland and Enterprise Ireland in terms of investment wins and job creation, with 7,131 net new jobs being created in IDA Ireland client companies and 8,476 net new jobs being created in Enterprise Ireland client companies.
As the Deputy is aware, the Action Plan for Jobs 2015 was launched on Thursday last, 29th January. This is the fourth annual plan in a multi-year process, which started in 2012. When the First Action Plan for Jobs was launched, unemployment stood at 15.1%. Today it stands at 10.6% and we are on track to exceed our target of 100,000 additional jobs by 2016. We are now setting a goal to bring employment to 2.1 million by 2018 - 2 years ahead of our original target.
We are determined that every region will benefit from the recovery and we will be announcing over the coming weeks and month a series of actions to help drive the achievement of this goal.
The Table shows the number of IDA Ireland sponsored site visits by potential investors to Dublin, city and county during 2013 and 2014.
|
- |
2013 |
2014 |
|
Dublin, city & county |
180 |
205 |
312. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation if he will provide the payments in 2014 by Enterprise Ireland by company, county and payment type; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4875/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnterprise Ireland’s mission is to partner with entrepreneurs, Irish businesses, and the research and investment communities to develop. Ireland’s international trade, innovation, leadership, and competitiveness with the ultimate objective of job creation. Enterprise Ireland clients are a vital source of employment in every county in Ireland. In view of the complexity of the information sought, I will forward the draft 2014 payments made by Enterprise Ireland by Company, County and Payment type, in hard copy directly to the Deputy. Please note that this information is in draft form pending the completion of the C&AG audit of Enterprise Ireland’s 2014 accounts and the completion of their Annual Report in June 2015.
313. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation when the BDM programme for community enterprise centres, CEC, will be in place; if he recognises the achievements of CECs; if there are changes to this programme envisaged; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4964/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraI understand from Enterprise Ireland that since the launch of the first Community Enterprise Centre scheme in 1989, Enterprise Ireland has approved €64 million for the development of Community Enterprise Centres in towns and villages across the country. There are currently 117 such centres across the country. There are currently no specific proposals to extend the Community Enterprise Centre Scheme to fund Business Development Management in 2015. The last scheme rolled out was in 2012 and 2013 when Enterprise Ireland provided funding of €2 million to support the recruitment of a total of 46 Business Development Managers.
On the wider issue of the Centres, the success levels, occupancy levels and sustainability of jobs at the Centres varies and therefore I asked Enterprise Ireland to review the operations of the Community Enterprise Centres in the context of regional enterprise development and how the Community Enterprise Centres and the Local Enterprise Offices might work more closely in support of business start-ups before giving further consideration to the matter.
Under the 2014 Action Plan for Jobs, my Department developed a framework for the preparation of Regional Enterprise Strategies. This framework provides a model for co-ordinated action across public bodies and other stakeholders to maximise the potential of each region to support enterprise development and jobs growth, based on the strengths and assets of the region.
The application of the template was tested in the Midlands region towards the end of 2014 and will lead to the publication and implementation of a Regional Enterprise Strategy for the Midlands in early 2015. Similar strategies for the other regions will be commenced over the course of the year, on a phased basis, and will include specific actions on the part of Enterprise Ireland, IDA Ireland, the LEOs, Údarás na Gaeltachta and other public bodies active in each region to promote enterprise growth and job creation. In this context, my Department and Enterprise Ireland will also work to explore how the Community Enterprise Centre network can best be enhanced to support regional job creation.
As part of the Action Plan for Jobs 2015, a number of Government agencies will be shortly outlining their regional enterprise plans to map out what they will do to help create new jobs across Ireland.
These Regional Enterprise Strategies seek to maximise the job potential of each region. It will provide new funding for enterprise support in the regions and seek to leverage and orient existing funds to target initiatives that enable regions to achieve their full employment potential. A significant regional fund of up to €25 million in competitive funding will be announced to support regional initiatives.
314. Deputy Tom Fleming asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if he will provide farm scheme regulations in CD form to assist applicants with literary difficulties such as dyslexia and so on as the Revenue Commissioners provide such service and co-operation to this sector of the public; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4319/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department aims to ensure that the needs of all of its customers, including people with disabilities, are met and the right to equal treatment is upheld in all dealings with the Department. The Department’s business spans a wide range of activities involving direct interaction with many customers. Every effort is made to ensure that we provide the highest level of service to all our customers. As regards people with disabilities my Department has two Access officers appointed in accordance with Section 26(2) of the Disability Act. These officers are available to persons with disabilities to provide assistance as required. When a customer with dyslexia makes contact with one of these officers, arrangements are made whereby the relevant Division makes contact with the individual directly either by phone or in person to go through the paperwork involved and assist/advise as appropriate. My Department has in the past, made available an audio version of certain schemes on CD for this purpose. Material is also provided in a large print format when required. Contact details for the Access Officers are on my Department’s Website.
315. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine if his Department will provide funding to a voluntary organisation (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4375/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe application for ex gratia funding submitted by Kerry Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals has been approved and an amount of €7,200 was awarded to the organisation in December last. The organisation was informed of the allocation on 18 December 2014.
316. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine when a 2013 AEOS payment will issue in respect of a person (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4393/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe person named was approved for participation in the 2012 Agri Environment Options Scheme (AEOS 3) with effect from 1 May 2013. Under the EU Regulations governing the Scheme and other area-based payment schemes, a comprehensive administrative check, including cross-checks with the Land Parcel Identification System, must be completed before any payment can issue. These checks have been successfully completed in respect of the 2013 Scheme year and 75% payment will issue shortly. The balancing 25% payment will issue thereafter.
