Written Answers Nos. 80 - 100
80. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Defence the measures he is taking to keep members of the Defence Forces out of poverty, caused by pension related deductions and various changes to tax and pay related social insurance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41213/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraRates of remuneration and conditions of employment in the Irish public sector have traditionally been set by reference to relative levels of pay across the various parts of the Irish public sector. In this regard, the level of remuneration in the Defence sector has maintained relativity with the levels available in other related public sector employments. The Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Acts of 2009-2013 and the Public Service Stability Agreement 2013-2016 define current pay policy. I believe that measures contained in the Lansdowne Road Agreement (LRA) and the recently introduced Budget 2016 will be of benefit generally to members of the Permanent Defence Force (PDF).
The LRA proposals apply to all public servants, including members of the PDF, who accept the terms of the Agreement. I understand that members of the PDF who are represented by the Representative Association for Commissioned Officers (RACO) have already voted to accept the LRA proposals. Members of the Permanent Defence Force Other Ranks Representative Association (PDFORRA) are due to ballot on the Agreement in December.
The LRA proposes to increase salaries during 2016 and 2017 in a manner which will disproportionately benefit the lower paid. These benefits come in the form of increases in gross pay in 2016 for those earning up to €31,000 and in 2017 for all those earning up to €65,000.
In relation to the Pensions Related Deduction (PRD), which is commonly referred to as the ‘Pension Levy’, the exemption threshold for payment of the ‘Levy’ will increase substantially during the course of 2015 and 2016 from €15,000 to €28,750 which means that annual income subject to the levy below €28,750 will no longer be liable to the deduction.
In regard to Budget 2016, various measures will be introduced which will reduce the Universal Social Charge (USC) burden on the lower paid through reductions in rates and increases in exemption limits. Budget 2016 also provides for the introduction of a weekly PRSI credit for certain Classes of PRSI whose weekly earnings are between €352 and €424.
The tax implications of the various measures outlined in the LRA and Budget 2016 will vary depending on individual circumstances but the measures are weighted in favour of the lower paid who will receive a disproportionately higher percentage pay increase.
81. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the status of the development of a new institute for peace support and leadership training at the Curragh Camp in County Kildare. [41175/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe White Paper on Defence, which was published in August 2015, sets out the policy framework for the Defence Organisation for the next ten years and beyond. I have asked the Secretary General and the Chief of Staff to submit a joint implementation plan which will identify priorities, responsibilities and timescales in relation to implementing the White Paper. Work on development of the implementation plan is ongoing. With regard to the development of a new Institute for Peace and Leadership at the Curragh, the Government has committed to evaluating and developing this concept over the coming months. It is foreseen that the new Institute would have international standing and contribute to the overall development of knowledge and experience in the areas of peace support and conflict resolution.
Initial scoping work in relation to the development of the concept for the Institute has commenced within the Defence Organisation however it is too early in the process to identify specific timescales for the establishment and roll out of the proposal.
82. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Defence the extent to which the Defence Forces continue to be upgraded, in terms of military equipment, transport including aircraft, sea-going vessels and road and land vehicles; if such equipment remains in line with best practice internationally; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41161/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe acquisition of new equipment and equipment upgrades for the Defence Forces remains a focus for me as Minister for Defence, and I am satisfied that the Defence Forces have a modern and effective range of equipment, which is in line with best international standards, as required to fulfil all roles that are assigned to them by Government. Going forward, the equipment priorities for the Army, Air Corps and the Naval Service will be considered in the context of the lifetime of the recently published White Paper. The White Paper recognises that there are several new and or enhanced platforms to be procured.
In the context of the Air Corps fleet, this includes the replacement of the Cessna fleet with three larger aircraft suitably equipped for Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance tasks. In addition it is intended that the two CASA 235s Maritime Patrol Aircraft will also be replaced. The current EC 135 and AW 139 helicopter fleet in the Air Corps will continue to deliver the required Defence Forces support and other support capabilities over the lifetime of the White Paper. The existing Pilatus PC9 training aircraft are not due for replacement until 2025.
The current Naval Service ship replacement programme will have replaced three Naval Service vessels when completed by July 2016. The White Paper recognises that a minimum eight ship flotilla will be required.
The Army will continue to retain all-arms conventional military capabilities, and the principal aim over the period of the White Paper will be to replace and upgrade, as required, existing capabilities in order to retain a flexible response for a wide range of operational requirements at home and overseas. There will be a focus on the essential force protection provided by armoured vehicles and the most cost effective option of upgrading or replacing the current fleet will be identified. A small number of armoured logistical vehicles will be procured for force protection overseas.
I am satisfied that the current provisions, together with the courses of action in the White Paper, will ensure that the Defence Forces are fully equipped to meet the roles placed on them.
83. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Defence further to his meeting with a local authority delegation on 5 November 2015 on the matter of Custume Barracks in Athlone in County Westmeath, and given his commitment to maintain the current strength of 1,110 personnel in Custume Barracks, if there is a need to amend any ministerial order to ensure that this commitment is honoured; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41211/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere has been a lot of scaremongering concerning the future of Custume Barracks over the last few years, and I was very happy to meet local representatives from the Athlone area recently to put to rest the unfounded rumours in this regard. As I stated at that meeting, I am committed to the future of Custume Barracks as an important, operational military Barracks. There are no plans to change this.
The Emergency Aeronautical Service was put on a permanent footing earlier this year. There are also plans for a major refurbishment of the Barracks’ Dining Hall in 2017.
At the time of the re-organisation there was some speculation that the number of PDF personnel serving in Custume Barracks would be reduced by figures that varied from 400 to 600 personnel. This was based on an incorrect assumption that there were approximately 1,400 personnel permanently based in Custume Barracks at that time. The figure of 1,400 personnel appears to be based on the number of personnel that would have been permanently posted to Custume Barracks if the PDF strength was at 11,500 personnel. This PDF strength level has not been seen since the 1990’s.
I am advised that the establishment strength for units based in Custume Barracks is 995. The military authorities have advised that the strength of personnel in Custume Barracks, Athlone as at 31st October, 2015 was 919. Recruitment is ongoing.
84. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the length of time it is expected that the Naval Service will continue to be deployed in the Mediterranean; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41173/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe deployment of naval assets to support Italy in addressing the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean has been very significant. L.É. Samuel Beckett, which is currently deployed, is the third ship to join the mission, following the successful deployments of L.É. Eithne and L.É. Niamh. The three Naval Vessels have rescued a combined total of 8,592 migrants to date. Ireland’s participation has been warmly welcomed and positively endorsed by the Italian authorities who appreciate the costs and demands of such deployments.
The rate of operations in the Mediterranean has declined in recent weeks as the deteriorating sea conditions at this time of the year increases the danger for all those who embark on the dangerous journey from North Africa to Europe. L.É. Samuel Beckett is scheduled to complete its deployment in early December 2015 subject to ongoing assessment of the crisis and the operational need to continue to provide such assistance.
The question of a further deployment to the operation in the Mediterranean next year will be evaluated over the coming months and will be considered in the context of the ongoing situation in the Mediterranean and the overall EU response thereto, the demands on the Defence Forces, our overseas commitments and available resources.
85. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Defence how the budget allocation of over €900 million will be spent; how, in particular, the measures for which he will be responsible, given the refugee crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41201/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2016 Defence allocation, amounting to €904m, is made up of two Votes, Vote 35 (Army Pensions) with €224m and Vote 36 (Defence) with €680m. The Army Pensions allocation, which is primarily demand-led and non-discretionary, will provide retirement benefits to some 12,100 military pensioners and their dependants. The Defence Vote allocation includes €498m for the pay and allowances of up to 9,500 Permanent Defence Force (PDF) personnel, 550 civilian employees and 350 civil servants. It also includes €182m for non-pay costs relating to the replacement and maintenance of essential defence equipment and operational costs.
This non-pay allocation contains a capital provision of €66m towards replacement programmes for defensive equipment, ongoing investment in Defence Forces Built Infrastructure and the necessary upgrading of ICT infrastructure. The allocation for core capital funding in 2016 includes an increased provision of €4m, which will facilitate increased investment in equipment as prescribed in the White Paper on Defence. This funding will enable the Defence Forces to continue to deliver operational outputs, both at home and overseas and will allow for necessary investment, as identified by the White Paper on Defence, to ensure all of the roles assigned by Government are fully met.
The possible participation by the Naval Service in humanitarian search and rescue operations in the Mediterranean during 2016 will be considered in due course.
The Department of Justice and Equality is the lead Department in relation to providing refugee accommodation. Following discussions with that Department, consideration is being given to the use of some Defence properties on a short-term basis.
86. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence his views on Ireland's participation in a European Union battlegroup, led by Germany, to be established in 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41205/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraParticipation in EU Battlegroups demonstrates Ireland's commitment to the development of EU capabilities in the area of crisis management and contributes to our overall credibility within the Union. Ireland's continuing active engagement in EU Battlegroups enhances our capacity to influence the ongoing development and evolution of the rapid response capacity of the EU, in particular, the role Battlegroups can play in reinforcing and acting as a strategic reserve for UN operations. The United Nations strongly supports the development of Battlegroups as a capability that could be made available in support of UN mandated missions. It also supports the development of rapid deployment skills and capabilities within the Defence Forces, together with improved interoperability with like-minded States. Participation in EU Battlegroups further supports Ireland’s international security and defence policy and enhances our bilateral relations with contributing Member States.
The 2016 German led Battlegroup will comprise Germany, acting as Framework Nation, Ireland, Luxembourg, Austria, Croatia, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands. The total number of Irish Defence Forces personnel involved in this Battlegroup will be approximately 175 personnel. The Defence Forces contribution will involve a Recce/ISTAR Company together with staff posts at both the Operational and Force headquarters. The role of a Recce/ISTAR Company is to generate and deliver specific information and intelligence to decision makers in support of the planning and conduct of operations. ISTAR can be characterised as the co-ordinated direction, collection, processing and dissemination of timely, accurate, relevant and reliable information and intelligence.
As is the case in all Battlegroups, each participant retains the right to deploy or not to deploy its forces, irrespective of an EU decision to launch a Battlegroup operation. Equally, each Battlegroup participant retains the sovereign right to withdraw its contingent at any time. Accordingly, any deployment of the Irish contribution as part of the German Battlegroup will be subject to the “Triple-Lock”.
87. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence the projects and proposals that he submitted to the Government’s 2016 to 2021 capital investment plan; the projects that were accepted; and those that were rejected. [41163/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government’s 2016-2021 Capital Investment Plan provides a significant boost in capital funding for the Defence Sector. The €437m allocated to Defence, which includes an additional €65m over the 2016-2021 timeframe, will allow Defence to make significant investments in equipment and infrastructure over the lifetime of the Capital Plan. Proposals under the Capital Investment Plan were submitted and approved in the aggregate and are based on priorities identified in the White Paper on Defence. The White Paper on Defence identifies the priorities for the investment of these funds over the coming years. It sets out proposals for the replacement of major equipment platforms and other priorities for the Army, Air Corps and Naval Service, in accordance with capability requirements. The funding allocated in this Capital Plan will play a vital role is ensuring that the priorities identified in the White Paper can be met and that the Defence Forces can deliver fully on the roles assigned by Government.
While specific investment decisions are still at the planning stage, the broad areas in which these capital funds will be invested are as follows:-
- Replacement programmes for defensive equipment across the Army, Naval Service and the Air Corps, including payments arising under the Naval Vessel replacement programme;
- Investment in Defence Forces Built Infrastructure including refurbishment of the Defence property portfolio and provision of replacement and additional facilities where required;
- Development of the Peace & Leadership Institute;
- Purchase of new and replacement Information and Communication Technology hardware across the Department and the Defence Forces.
88. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence for further details on his announcement that all-female Defence Forces units will be created and embedded in United Nations peacekeeping operations, where gender-based violence has occurred. [41166/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn May 2015, during a visit to Ireland, the Secretary General of the United Nations Mr. Ban Ki-moon, observed the value in some situations of being able to call upon female peacekeepers having regard to the multifaceted nature of peacekeeping challenges. He requested that consideration be given to the contribution of women soldiers to UN operations and that Ireland might factor this into its approach to such operations. The recent White Paper on Defence highlights the importance of UNSCR 1325 in setting out the vital role that women can play in conflict prevention, conflict resolution, peace building, post-conflict reconstruction, reform and governance. This, and subsequent UN Women, Peace and Security (WPS) resolutions, call on nations to ensure that a gender perspective is included in the planning and conduct of all military operations, something that is particularly relevant in circumstances where gender based violence has occurred.
In the continuing development of the State’s approach to overseas peace support and in response to the Secretary General’s comments, the Department is examining the UN Secretary General’s request in consultation with the UN and will engage in due course with other stakeholders involved, including the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, the Department of Justice and Equality, An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces to explore the contribution of gender focused measures, particularly in relation to the appropriate formation and deployment of female personnel.
It is important to stress that the Government remains committed to a policy of equal opportunity for men and women throughout the Defence Forces and that the Defence Forces have no restrictions as regards the assignment of men or women to the full range of operational and administrative duties, including in respect of participation in UN peacekeeping operations.
89. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence his views on the safety of members of the 51st Infantry Group who will leave later this month for service with the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon, given the recent attacks on civilians and soldiers in Lebanon, and given the prospect of greater destabilisation. [41165/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 51st Infantry Group is the latest contingent of the Defence Forces who deployed this month to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The Irish contingent comprising 197 personnel is based primarily in Camp 2-45 as part of a joint battalion with Finland. The decision by Government to send troops overseas is never taken lightly. The safety of all Irish Defence Forces personnel serving on all overseas missions is always a concern to me, my Government colleagues and to the military authorities. Troops selected for overseas service undergo a rigorous programme of mission specific training. Such training, which is updated on an ongoing basis in the light of increased threat, has been designed to allow Defence Forces personnel to carry out their tasks and to provide for their protection.
Defence Forces personnel serving on all overseas missions are equipped with the most modern and effective equipment to carry out their mission. This equipment enables troops to fulfil the roles assigned to them, as well as providing the required protection specific to the mission. In addition to training and equipment, ongoing threat assessments are carried out in mission areas and both equipment and force assets are continually reviewed to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfill their roles.
The reality is that no peacekeeping mission is without danger. I am confident, however that all appropriate security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all Defence Forces personnel currently serving overseas.
90. Deputy Seán Kyne asked the Minister for Defence his plans for the continued participation of the Irish Defence Forces, building on their exemplary work to date, in assisting persons seeking refuge from the conflict in parts of the Middle East; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41184/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe main overseas missions in which Defence Forces personnel are currently deployed in the Middle East are the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) with 192 personnel and the United Nations Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in Syria with 150 personnel. In addition, the deployment of naval assets to support Italy in addressing the humanitarian crisis in the Mediterranean has been very significant. L.É. Samuel Beckett, which is currently deployed, is the third ship to join the mission, following the successful deployments of L.É. Eithne and L.É. Niamh. The three Naval vessels rescued a combined total of 8,592 migrants to date. Ireland’s participation has been warmly welcomed and positively endorsed by the Italian authorities who appreciate the costs and demands of such deployments.
While the rate of operations in the Mediterranean has declined in recent weeks, the deteriorating sea conditions at this time of the year increases the danger for all those who embark on the dangerous journey from North Africa to Europe. L.É. Samuel Beckett is scheduled to withdraw in early December 2015 subject to ongoing assessment of the crisis and the operational need to continue to provide such assistance.
The question of a further deployment to the operation in the Mediterranean next year will be evaluated over the coming months and will be considered in the context of the ongoing situation in the Mediterranean and the overall EU response thereto, the demands on the Defence Forces, our overseas commitments and available resources.
91. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Defence given the attacks in Paris, France, if he has had discussions with the Department of Justice and Equality regarding potential threats to Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41186/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhilst matters of internal security are primarily the responsibility of the Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána, discussions with my colleague the Minister for Justice and Equality take place on an ongoing basis in relation to such matters. Both Minister Fitzgerald and I have discussed the tragic events that took place in Paris last Friday week and there is also ongoing liaison between our two Departments at a senior level. In terms of potential threats to Ireland, the threat assessment remains that whilst an attack on Ireland is possible, it is not likely. This assessment is however kept under constant review by An Garda Síochána, particularly in light of ongoing developments and the current international climate.
92. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Defence if his Department has engaged in consultations with the Department of Justice and Equality regarding the implications of the terrorist attack on Paris in France for Ireland, with particular reference to whether any discussion took place regarding developing our peacekeeping expertise. [41208/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraWhilst matters of internal security are primarily the responsibility of the Department of Justice and Equality and An Garda Síochána, there is ongoing liaison between my Department and the Department of Justice and Equality in relation to such matters. Following the Paris attacks, there have been discussions between officials at the most senior level in relation to the implications for Ireland. Furthermore, I have had discussions with both the Taoiseach and the Minister for Justice and Equality and I have been briefed by the Secretary General of my Department and the Chief of Staff of the Defence Forces.
In addition, there is ongoing and close liaison between An Garda Síochána and the Defence Forces regarding security matters, including arrangements for Aid to the Civil Power (ATCP) deployments. The provision of ATCP is one of the roles assigned to the Defence Forces and, in practice, this means to assist An Garda Síochána when requested to do so. Regular coordination and liaison meetings also take place between the Defence Forces and An Garda Síochána in relation to ATCP issues.
With regard to developing peacekeeping expertise, the current contribution of some 494 personnel to 12 overseas missions reflects the Government’s continued commitment to our responsibilities in the area of international peace and security. Ireland receives requests, from time to time, in relation to further participation of Defence Forces personnel in various missions and these are considered on a case-by-case basis having regard to the objectives of the mission, clarity of mandate, the potential to contribute to a political solution, consideration of how the mission relates to the priorities of Irish foreign policy and the degree of risk involved.
93. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence for an update on the work of the LÉ Samuel Beckett in the Mediterranean, and on his recent meeting with the ship’s captain and members of the crew. [41164/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraL.É. Samuel Beckett is the third Irish Naval vessel deployed to the Mediterranean to assist the Italian Authorities with the migrant crisis, in line with the Government Decision on 12 May 2015. L.É. Samuel Beckett is continuing the excellent work undertaken by L.É. Eithne and L.É. Niamh in the Mediterranean. The role of the Irish Naval vessel is to provide a search and rescue capability and to undertake humanitarian rescue operations at sea in the Mediterranean. Assistance to persons in distress at sea is being provided in accordance with the applicable provisions of international conventions governing search and rescue situations. Co-ordination of search and rescue efforts and the provision of humanitarian assistance is being achieved through close co-operation with the relevant Italian authorities.
During her deployment in the Mediterranean, L.É. Eithne rescued a total of 3,377 migrants. She was replaced in the mission on 18 July by L.É. Niamh who rescued a total of 4,127 migrants during her deployment. Tragically, 39 bodies were also recovered by L.É. Niamh.
L.É. Samuel Beckett, commenced patrolling duties on the waters between Libya and Sicily on 01 October 2015. To date L.É. Samuel Beckett has rescued 1,088 migrants.
The success of the operations carried out to date by L.É. Eithne, L.É. Niamh and L.É. Samuel Beckett involving the rescue of 8,592 migrants demonstrates clearly the value of Ireland’s participation in this important humanitarian response.
During my recent visit to L.É. Samuel Beckett on 08 November, I met with Lieutenant Commander Geraghty and his crew and commended them on providing an invaluable service in assisting with the crisis in this region. I thanked them on behalf of the Government for the outstanding role they have played, in what can be very difficult circumstances, in saving the lives of men, women and children, some of whom are fleeing desperate circumstances.
L.É. Samuel Beckett is scheduled to complete its deployment in early December 2015 subject to ongoing assessment of the crisis and the operational need to continue to provide such assistance.
The question of a further deployment to the operation in the Mediterranean next year will be evaluated over the coming months and will be considered in the context of the ongoing situation in the Mediterranean and the overall EU response thereto, the demands on the Defence Forces, our overseas commitments and available resources.
94. Deputy Seán Ó Fearghaíl asked the Minister for Defence the action that is being taken to ensure that Irish troops in the United Nations Interim Force in Lebannon contingent are guaranteed freedom of movement in fulfilling their United Nations mission; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41172/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 51st Infantry Group is the latest contingent of the Defence Forces who deployed this month to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL). The Irish contingent comprising 197 personnel is based primarily in Camp 2-45 as part of a joint battalion with Finland. The decision by Government to send troops overseas is never taken lightly. The safety of all Irish Defence Forces personnel serving on all overseas missions is always a concern to me, my Government colleagues and to the military authorities. Troops selected for overseas service undergo a rigorous programme of mission specific training. Such training, which is updated on an ongoing basis in the light of increased threat, has been designed to allow Defence Forces personnel to carry out their tasks and to provide for their protection.
Defence Forces personnel serving on all overseas missions are equipped with the most modern and effective equipment to carry out their mission. This equipment enables troops to fulfil the roles assigned to them, as well as providing the required protection specific to the mission. In addition to training and equipment, ongoing threat assessments are carried out in mission areas and both equipment and force assets are continually reviewed to ensure that Defence Forces personnel are appropriately equipped to fulfil their roles.
The reality is that no peacekeeping mission is without danger. I am confident, however that all appropriate security measures are in place to ensure the safety of all Defence Forces personnel currently serving overseas. I am advised by the Defence Forces that Commanders in the mission, at all levels, liaise with the Host Nation, the Lebanese Armed Forces and local stakeholders to ensure that all aspects of the mission, including Freedom of Movement, are achievable.
95. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Defence for a breakdown of how the €6 million increase in his Department’s budget, outlined in budget 2016, will be spent. [41162/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe 2016 Defence allocation of €904m is made up of two Votes, Vote 35 (Army Pensions) with €224m and Vote 36 (Defence) with €680m. The overall allocation is some €6m more than last year’s corresponding allocation of €898m, which comprised of €221m in Vote 35 (Army Pensions) and €677m in Vote 36 (Defence). The overall increased allocation in 2016 is mainly to provide for pay and pension adjustments arising under the Lansdowne Road Agreement on both Votes. In addition, there is an increased provision arising from a Government decision to provide additional funding for the Defence Vote towards the reimbursement of Air Corps costs incurred in the provision of the Emergency Aeromedical Support (EAS) service, which was previously funded through the Health Vote.
The Capital Investment Plan 2016-2021 also provides for an additional €4m for core capital funding in 2016, which will facilitate increased investment in equipment and infrastructure as prioritised in the White Paper on Defence.
The 2016 Budget provision will enable the Defence Forces to continue to deliver their operational outputs, both at home and overseas and will also allow the necessary investment, as identified by the White Paper on Defence, to ensure all of the roles assigned by Government are fully met.
96. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Taoiseach all instances from 1 January 2000 to 2015 to date where legislation introduced by him or on his behalf, which is enacted and still in force, contains a provision amending the data protection Acts to allow for the transfer of personal or other data collected, retained and processed by the State for a particular purpose towards another specific purpose, in tabular form; the financial cost of creating and administering such databases, by case; the projected financial cost for databases not yet complete; the specific legislative provision which enabled such data transfers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41129/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraNo Act introduced by my Department from 1 January 2000 to date contains a provision amending the Data Protection Acts.
97. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Taoiseach the number of new State bodies and agencies under his remit that have been established since February 2011; the number of these that are subject to a sunset clause; the number of new public bodies currenty being planned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41276/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraNo new State bodies or agencies have been established under my Department's remit since February 2011.
98. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Taoiseach the number of defined benefit pension schemes currently listed for employees under his remit; the number that are in deficit; his plans to consolidate these schemes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41277/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraAll civil servants under the remit of my Department are members of civil service pension schemes operated by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform.
All employees of the National Economic and Social Development Office - the only statutory body under the aegis of my Department - are members of the Non-Contributory Pension Scheme for Non-Established State Employees.
99. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the extent to which provision is being made, or has been made, for the costs associated with the Moriarty tribunal, in respect of which legal or other costs are still outstanding; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [41094/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Moriarty Tribunal was established in 1997 and published its Final Report in March 2011. Following publication of that Report, the Tribunal’s back-up team was substantially reduced. A small legal and administrative staff remains in place to deal with applications for third-party costs and with the ongoing business of wind-down. The Tribunal is also subject to a number of legal proceedings for which it uses its own legal resources as much as possible.
Total expenditure by my Department from the establishment of the Moriarty Tribunal in 1997 to end-October 2015 was €53.3 million.
In 2014, my Department paid €3.7 million in respect of the Tribunal. This was made up of costs in respect of its legal team, administration, third-party costs and other (legal cost accountant fees and witness appearance costs). To end October in 2015, my Department has paid €2.5 million out of a budget allocation of €4.755m in respect of the Tribunal.
The Sole Member has indicated to my Department that the majority of applications for third-party costs have now been considered by him and that there remain only a very limited number of applications which are still being considered. He has made 125 orders to date.
The Tribunal determines only entitlement to such costs, not the costs themselves. When an order for costs is made, it is a matter for the claimant then to make a claim. Initially, claims were processed by the Chief State Solicitors Office, using professional legal cost accountants, but claims received since early 2013 are processed by the State Claims Agency. Claims are usually settled in negotiation or, failing agreement, by the Taxing Master.
So far, a total of 57 claims have been settled, all by negotiation. The claims amounted to €13.9m and the amount paid in settlements was €6.62m. Of this, €1.86m has been paid to end October this year.
100. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Social Protection the number of positions within the Civil Service that have been filled by persons on the JobBridge scheme, since 2011; if she is concerned that positions in the Civil Service that could be filled by full-time or part-time workers on standard rates of pay, are being displaced through the use of internship schemes such as this scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [40618/15]
Amharc ar fhreagraJobBridge, the National Internship Scheme, was introduced in July 2011 and to date has attracted the participation of 44,388 participants, including 381 in the Civil Service. There are currently 4,865 participants on the programme, of which 10 are in the Civil Service.
The Terms and Conditions of the scheme include a basic requirement that an internship must not under any circumstances be used to displace paid employment. The Department does not tolerate any abuse of the scheme and will investigate any specific allegations brought to its attention.
The Department has commissioned an independent evaluation of the scheme. This will include an assessment of any displacement. The results of the review are expected in early 2016.
