Written Answers Nos. 141-159
141. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to parliamentary question number 88 of 6 December 2016, if she will investigate further a case (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41635/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts, including the provision of information on the courts system, is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions.
However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that, based on the information provided, the Courts Service has no record of the Freedom of Information request referenced by the Deputy. In this regard, it should be noted that court records do not fall within the remit of the Freedom of Information Act. However, if any additional information can be provided, for example the date of the Freedom of Information request, the Courts Service will make further enquiries into the matter.
I am advised that the additional issues raised by the Deputy are not matters which the Courts Service can comment on and therefore there is no further information that can be provided in addition to the reply to the previous parliamentary question that issued on 6 December 2016.
In relation to the court case referred to by the Deputy, the position is that the courts are, subject only to the constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions and the conduct of or decision reached in any court case is a matter entirely for the presiding judge. The Deputy makes reference to the individual concerned not being allowed to attend a court case. The Constitution provides that justice shall be administered in public, save in such special and limited cases as may prescribed by law, and members of the public are therefore permitted access to court hearings dealt with in public in which the proceedings set out the issues at hand.
142. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Jim O'Callaghan den an Tánaiste agus Aire Dlí agus Cirt agus Comhionannais an n-aontaíonn sí leis, ón uair nach labhraítear focal Gaeilge ón stáitse agus ón uair nach dtagraítear don Ghaeilge, fiú i mBéarla, ag ócáidí bronnta saoránachta na hÉireann, gurb é atá á chur in iúl ag an stát ná nach bhfuil an Ghaeilge mar chuid den oidhreacht agus den chultúr beo atá ar fáil do suas le 100,000 duine a fuair saoránacht na hÉireann le cúig bliana anuas; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [41641/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra143. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Jim O'Callaghan den an Tánaiste agus Aire Dlí agus Cirt agus Comhionannais an gcinnteoidh sí go dtabharfaidh an stát aitheantas don Ghaeilge ag ócáidí bronnta saoránachta na hÉireann feasta; an ndéanfaidh sí cinnte de seo trí thrácht a dhéanamh ar an nGaeilge, i mBéarla, i gcomhthéacs na féiniúlachta a bhaineann le saoránacht na hÉireann agus ansin trí óráid a mhaireann nóiméad nó dhó ar a laghad a thabhairt i nGaeilge; agus lena chois sin, nuair a léitear amach don slua an fógra dílseachta don náisiún agus don stát, an gcinnteoidh sí go ndéanfar sin i nGaeilge ar dtús agus ansin i mBéarla, agus go mbeidh an fhoclaíocht i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla ar fáil do chách roimh an ócáid; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [41642/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra144. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Jim O'Callaghan den an Tánaiste agus Aire Dlí agus Cirt agus Comhionannais an gcinnteoidh sí go dtabharfar aitheantas do thraidisiúin iontacha an cheoil in Éirinn sa chur i láthair ceoil a dhéantar ag ócáidí bronnta saoránachta na hÉireann; an ndéanfaidh sí cinnte de seo trí leas a bhaint as ar a laghad amhrán deoraíochta amháin ó thraidisiún na tíre, mar shampla, Bánchnoic Éireann Ó, mar nasc idir stair na himirce as Éirinn agus taithí na n-inimirceach ar saoránaigh nua in Éirinn an lae inniu iad; an bhféachfaidh sí chuige go ndéanfar píosa ceoil ar leith a choimisiúnú in Éirinn le seinm ag an ócáid; agus an ndéanfaidh sí ráiteas ina thaobh. [41643/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 142 to 144, inclusive, together.
Tá deonú shaoránacht na hÉireann trí eadóirseacht faoi rialú fhorálacha Acht Náisiúntachta agus Saoránachta Éireann 1956, arna leasú. Mar cheann de na coinníollacha, ní mór don iarratasóir dearbhú sa tslí fhorordaithe go mbeidh sé/sí dílis don náisiún agus tairiseach don Stát agus geallteanas a thabhairt dlíthe an Stáit a chomhlíonadh go dílis agus a luachanna daonlathacha a urramú.
Faoi na socruithe a bhí ann roimh 2011, rinne cléireach cúirte dúiche áitiúil socrú do dhuine ar deonaíodh saoránacht dó/di mionn a thabhairt os comhair Bhreitheamh Cúirte Dúiche agus fuair an saoránach nua a Dheimhniú Eadóirseachta sa phost ina dhiaidh sin. Tugadh searmanais saoránachta foirmiúla isteach in 2011 chun deis a thabhairt d'iarrthóirí ar shaoránacht a ndearbhú a dhéanamh os comhair breithimh agus a ndeimhniú eadóirseachta a fháil ar shlí bhríoch, le dínit, a thiocfadh le tábhacht agus sollúntacht na hócáide. Bíonn banna ceoil an Gharda Síochána i láthair chun Amhrán na bhFiann a sheinm agus bíonn an tArm i láthair chun an Bhratach Náisiúnta a chur ar paráid, rudaí a chuireann le sollúntacht na hócáide.
Aithnítear go forleathan go n-éiríonn go han-mhaith leis na searmanais sin agus go léirítear, tríothu, an tábhacht a bhaineann le deonú na saoránachta mar ócáid mhór don Stát agus don deonaí.
Forordaítear formáid an dearbhaithe faoi Rialacháin Náisiúntachta agus Saoránachta Éireann 2011. Níl sé beartaithe agam faoi láthair leasú a dhéanamh ar na Rialacháin. Cé go dtuigim go hiomlán ábhar imní an Teachta, ag féachaint do raon éagsúil náisiúntachtaí agus teangacha dúchais na ndaoine a bhíonn ag freastal ar na searmanais, agus don ghealltanas an-dáiríre a thugann siad tríd an dearbhú sollúnta a dhéanamh, tá sé tábhachtach go seoltar na himeachtaí i dteanga ar féidir glacadh leis go réasúnach go dtuigfidh iarratasóirí í. Tá an dearbhú déanta ag searmanais ag os cionn 100,000 duine go dtí seo. Ní bhfuarthas ach cúpla iarratas an dearbhú a dhéanamh i nGaeilge le linn an ama sin. Ar na hócáidí annamha a tharlaíonn sin, cuireann oifigigh glaoch teileafóin ar an iarratasóir lena chinntiú go bhfuil tuiscint sách maith acu ar an teanga agus sa chás go mbíonn, is féidir socruithe a dhéanamh chun an dearbhú a dhéanamh i nGaeilge. Tuigim nach raibh ach cás amháin den sórt sin ann le blianta beaga anuas. Go ginearálta, is dúshlán sách mór é suas le 1,000 duine a stiúradh leis an dearbhú sollúnta a dhéanamh le chéile, mar aon ghuth amháin, in aon teanga amháin, ar bhealach intuigthe, le sosanna a thugann deis dóibh a n-ainm agus a seoladh féin a rá. Tá snas curtha ar an modheolaíocht seo in imeacht na mblianta agus ní mheastar go mbeadh sé indéanta an dara teanga a thabhairt isteach le gach dearbhú sna cúinsí sin.
Bíonn suas le 45 nóiméad de dhíth sula dtosaíonn an searmanas féin chun an líon mór iarratasóirí a bhíonn i gceist a chlárú agus a gcuid aíonna a chur ag suí síos. Seinneann Banna Ceoil an Gharda Síochána ceol le linn na tréimhse ullmhúcháin agus feithimh sin. Ní cuid den searmanas féin é an dreas ceoil seo; is ar mhaithe le siamsaíocht amháin is ann dó. An Banna féin a roghnaíonn an ceol. Maidir le ceol le linn an tsearmanais, táim sásta go bhfuil Amhrán na bhFiann oiriúnach mar léiriú ar ócáid shollúnta an tsearmanais féin agus níl sé beartaithe agam imeacht ón nós seo.
Is doiciméad dátheangach (i nGaeilge agus i mBéarla) é an deimhniú eadóirseachta a bhronntar ar na hiarratasóirí a n-éiríonn leo. Bíonn bileog le focail Amhrán na bhFiann i nGaeilge, chomh maith le biorán beag a bhfuil Bratach na hÉireann air, sna pacáistí a bhronntar ar na hiarratasóirí nuair a chláraítear iad lá an tsearmanais. Bíonn bileog eile sa phacáiste a thugann eolas do na saoránaigh nua faoina gcearta clárú agus vótáil i ngach toghchán sa Stát, agus faoin tslí inar féidir leo clárú.
Gabhaim buíochas leis an Teachta as a mholtaí áisiúla agus tá iarrtha agam ar mo chuid oifigeach machnamh a dhéanamh ar conas a d'fhéadfaí tuilleadh Gaeilge a chur sna searmanais saoránachta mhaorga a bhfuil an-tóir orthu.
145. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide relevant information and figures from statistics collected by the courts in relation to convictions for trespass for each of the years 2011 to 2016 or any other similar statistics collected on the matter by the courts; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41646/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, under the provisions of the Courts Service Act 1998, management of the courts is the responsibility of the Courts Service which is independent in exercising its functions, which include the provision of information on the courts system.
However, in order to be of assistance to the Deputy, I have had enquiries made and the Courts Service has informed me that information can be provided in relation to the District Court from 1 January 2011 to 30 November 2016. However, such offences disposed of in the Circuit Criminal Court are not individually coded for reporting purposes. Statistics on burglary and associated trespassing offences are included for Circuit Criminal Court reporting purposes in a category entitled larceny/fraud/robbery and data in relation to this category are included in the Courts Service Annual Reports.
Report on number of convictions for trespassing for each of the years 2011 to 30 November 2016 from the District Court:
|
Offence and Section |
2011 |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
2015 |
Jan – Nov 2016 |
|
TRESPASSING WITH A KNIFE/WEAPON OF OFFENCE ETC. Section 10(1) Firearms and Offensive Weapons Act 1990 |
7 |
6 |
7 |
4 |
1 |
3 |
|
TRESPASS ON BUILDING ETC. Section 13 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act, 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2008 |
269 |
270 |
234 |
213 |
216 |
255 |
|
TRESPASS ON BUILDING ETC. - FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH DIRECTION OF GARDA Section 13 of the Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994 as amended by Section 22 of the Intoxicating Liquor Act, 2008 |
7 |
7 |
1 |
2 |
4 |
1 |
|
Burglary - FullSection 12(1)(b) and (3) of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act, 2001 |
1,405 |
1,354 |
1,343 |
1,220 |
1,125 |
997 |
|
Burglary - Intent Section 12(1)(A) and (3) of the Criminal Justice (Theft and Fraud Offences) Act 2001 |
200 |
156 |
145 |
113 |
132 |
118 |
|
Total |
1,888 |
1,793 |
1,730 |
1,552 |
1,478 |
1,374 |
The Courts Service has also advised that they cannot certify that the foregoing data represents all prosecutions for such offences as data can only be provided where standard offence codes on the Criminal Case Tracking System are used by prosecutors. Where prosecutors use an uncoded free text, it is not possible to report against such offences.
146. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the drug squad numbers in Santry, Ballymun and Finglas Garda stations for each of the years from 2012 to 2016. [41648/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division.
I am advised that Garda Drug Units personnel are assigned on a Divisional basis. Ballymun and Santry Garda Stations are located in the Ballymun Garda District which forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan North (DMR North) Division while Finglas Garda Station is located in the Cabra Garda District which forms part of the Dublin Metropolitan West (DMR West) Division. I have been informed by the Garda Commissioner that as of the 30 November 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, there were 233 members assigned to the Garda Divisional Drugs Units, of whom 22 were assigned to the DMR North Divisional Drugs Unit and 20 to the DMR West Divisional Drugs Unit.
It is important to note that all Gardaí have a responsibility in the prevention and detection of criminal activity whether it be in the area of drug offences or otherwise. The Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau leads out the policing strategy for tackling drugs supply. This approach allows for the co-ordinated use of Garda resources in tackling all forms of organised crime, including illicit drug activity nationwide.
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan to achieve an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. In 2017, funding has been provided for the recruitment of 800 Garda recruits and up to 500 civilians to support the wide ranging reform plan in train in An Garda Síochána. Appointments will also be made to the Garda Reserve of approximately 300.
Since the reopening of the Garda College, 679 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. I am informed that so far 52 and 62 of these probationer Garda have been assigned to the DMR North and DMR West Divisions respectively. I am further informed that another 900 trainee Garda are scheduled to attest in 2017 which will bring Garda numbers to around the 13,500 mark by year end.
Drug law enforcement activities and all other Garda activities will undoubtedly benefit from these resources now coming on stream.
The investment in personnel is complemented by substantial investment in resources across the board for An Garda Síochána. The Deputy will be aware of the significant resources that have been made available to An Garda Síochána under the Government's Capital Plan 2016 - 2021. In particular, some €205 million in additional funding for Garda ICT and €46 million for new Garda vehicles has been allocated over the lifetime of the plan. This investment will facilitate the provision of more effective policing services and support the delivery of An Garda Síochána's Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021.
The strength of the Drug Units for DMR North and DMR West Divisions from the years 2012 to 30 November 2016, the latest date for which figures are readily available, was as set out in the tables below.
|
DMR North and DMR North West Garda Divisional Drugs Unit Strength 2012-2016 |
|||||
|
Division |
2012 |
2013 |
2014 |
2015 |
2016 |
|
DMR North |
31 |
27 |
16 |
25 |
22 |
|
DMR West |
28 |
26 |
24 |
26 |
20 |
147. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the value of capital investment projects and grants under way or approved for funding by her Department for County Wexford; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41765/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are a number of capital investment projects with an approximate valuation of €45m approved and currently underway in Co. Wexford. In addition, the table below gives details of other grants which have been provided by my Department to organisations in Wexford.
|
Year |
Description |
Amount |
|
2016 |
Grant payment to Ferns Diocesan Youth Service for International Roma Day event. |
€1,940 |
|
2016 |
Garda Youth Diversion Project (Slaney) |
€105,235 |
|
2016 |
Garda Youth Diversion Project (Safe) |
€109,500 |
|
2016 |
Garda Youth Diversion Project (Treóin) |
€105,234 |
|
2016 |
Young Persons Probation Project (Wexford Centre Project) |
€87,500 |
|
2016 |
Aiseiri Wexford |
€70,500 |
|
2016 |
Wexford Local Development Ltd (formally Cornmarket project) |
€212,000 |
|
2017 Q1 |
Garda Youth Diversion Project (Slaney) |
€26,309 |
|
2017 Q1 |
Garda Youth Diversion Project (Safe) |
€27,375 |
|
2017 Q1 |
Garda Youth Diversion Project (Treóin) |
€26,309 |
|
2017 Q1 |
Young Persons Probation Project (Wexford Centre Project) |
€21,875 |
148. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the steps she will take to put in place a mechanism such that the actions of a person (details supplied) here may be scrutinised by the Pitchford inquiry and they may be held accountable for their actions while here. [41806/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra149. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality when the report by the Garda Commissioner into the activities of a person (details supplied) while here will be published. [41807/16]
Amharc ar fhreagra150. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will make representations to the British Home Office to the effect that the Pitchford inquiry extends its terms of reference to include the Republic of Ireland. [41808/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 148 to 150, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware, allegations regarding an undercover police officer in this jurisdiction were first made public in 2011. A report was sought from the Garda Commissioner on the matter at that time and that report was provided to my predecessor in March 2011. The report noted that no evidence had been established that the person in question had been involved in any criminal activity while in this jurisdiction. That said, if any evidence of any criminal wrongdoing is available it should be brought to the Garda Authorities in order that it might be fully investigated.
As I have stated to the House previously, in the light of developments which have taken place outside this jurisdiction since these matters first came to light, including the establishment by the UK Government of an inquiry (the Pitchford Inquiry) into undercover policing, I requested a fresh report from the Garda Commissioner on any issues arising. In seeking that report, I have not sought to circumscribe in any way the information which the Garda Commissioner would provide. I will fully consider this report when it is available, including the issue of whether it may be suitable for publication.
The establishment of the Pitchford Inquiry into undercover policing is a matter for the UK Government and the question of my seeking to have its terms of reference extended does not arise. I would, however, reiterate the point I have made previously that should anything emerge from the findings of the Pitchford Inquiry that would be relevant to policing in this jurisdiction I will consider it fully and take any action that may be required.
151. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the timetable for the development of district protective services units in An Garda Síochána. [41840/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Second National Strategy on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence 2016-2021 envisages a range of actions to be implemented by State, voluntary and community sector organisations aimed at preventing and responding to domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. An Garda Síochána is committed to supporting this strategy, and in 2015 a number of Garda units were brought together to leverage their experience and expertise in investigating serious crimes against the person including sexual offences to form the Garda National Protective Services Bureau (GNPSB).
The GNPSB is a specialist team dedicated to making sure each and every complaint relating to child protection, human trafficking and domestic and sexual violence is thoroughly investigated and handled correctly. In addition, the GNPSB is responsible for working with other agencies to manage sex offenders in the interest of community safety. As part of the Garda Commissioner's Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021 Protective Services Units (PSUs) are to be established in every Garda Division with specially trained staff. These PSUs are to ensure a consistent approach to domestic abuse and sexual crime, which will be supported by the national Bureau. The PSUs will work with the Garda Victim Service Offices in their area to ensure that the needs of victims are adequately catered for.
I am advised by the Commissioner that these Divisional PSUs are being rolled-out in two phases. Phase 1 involves the establishment of three Units over a 12-month period on a pilot basis. The pilot Divisions that have been identified are the DMR West, Cork City, and the Louth Division. The assessment of this pilot phase will inform the bigger roll-out to each Garda Division.
This initiative is being managed by Detective Chief Superintendent, Garda National Protective Services Bureau in conjunction with each Divisional Officer and the Strategic Transformation Office which is overseeing the delivery of the Modernisation and Renewal Programme.
152. Deputy Catherine Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will provide an update on the future of the Garda youth diversion projects; her plans to conduct any reviews, reforms, restructuring or other changes to the programme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41841/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, statutory provision in relation to young offenders is set out in the Children Act 2001 (as amended). Part 4 of the Act makes provision for the operation of the Garda Diversion Programme under the general superintendence and control of the Garda Commissioner. The aim of the Diversion Programme is to deal with young people who offend, by way of administering a formal or informal caution, thus diverting the offender away from the courts and minimising the likelihood of further offending.
To support the operation of the Diversion Programme, my Department, through the Irish Youth Justice Service, funds some 106 Garda Youth Diversion Projects around the country. These projects are community based multi-agency crime prevention initiatives which primarily seek to divert young people who have become involved in crime/anti-social behaviour. In 2016, some €12m was allocated by the Irish Youth Justice Service to Garda Youth Diversion Projects and a number of other youth justice community based projects around the country. Similar monies will be expended in 2017. In addition, monies secured from the Dormant Accounts Fund supported the establishment of ten new projects in the period 2015/2016.
The Irish Youth Justice Service working closely with An Garda Síochána monitors the need for Garda Youth Diversion Projects on an ongoing basis. This is achieved in the main through the Garda Youth Diversion Projects annual planning and budget application process. The provision of youth crime statistical information by the Garda Síochána Analysis Service to all Garda Youth Diversion Projects is an integral part of the annual planning process undertaken by the projects. When completed, these plans provide details in relation to youth crime in the relevant catchment area, numbers of persons referred to the Diversion Programme and the programmes and interventions to be implemented in relation to young people admitted to the projects. These plans are assessed by the Irish Youth Justice Service and support it in its monitoring and oversight role in relation to the projects and with any decisions required to be taken in relation to reviewing or restructuring the provision of services in particular areas. The Annual Plans for 2017 are currently being assessed by the Irish Youth Justice Service.
Developments which could have implications in the future for the Garda Youth Diversion Projects include the report of the Review Group established by the Garda Commissioner to examine the operation of the statutory Diversion Programme, the recommendation of the Penal Policy Review Group that a diversion programme be established for offenders aged eighteen to twenty four years, and the Programme for Government commitment to support the expansion of Garda Youth Diversion Projects to that particular age cohort.
The operation of the Garda Youth Diversion Projects have undergone significant development in recent years with the introduction of revised annual planning and budget application and reporting processes. In addition, a comprehensive risk/needs assessment tool has been introduced. The tool is used in the projects to assess the risk of recidivism in young people and developing a case management plan on the basis of the specific risks and needs of the individual. This allows interventions to be tailored appropriately and lead to more positive outcomes for young people. In addition, a new Garda Youth Diversion Project service delivery model has been introduced in County Kerry which, following its evaluation, may give rise to similar models being introduced in other counties.
The operation of the Garda Youth Diversion Projects will continue to undergo development, all the time ensuring that they are located in the areas where the need is greatest having regard to both the quantity and profile of youth crime and its underlying circumstances. Such information will continue to inform decision making in relation to the reform or restructuring of projects and service delivery, or altering project catchment areas.
153. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 114 of 1 December 2016, the number of those appointed detectives in each division that are current firearm card holders. [41871/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for carrying on and managing and controlling generally the administration and business of An Garda Síochána, including by arranging for the training of its members and civilian staff and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter.
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that the information requested by the Deputy in respect of the numbers of appointed detectives in each Division who are current firearm card holders is deemed to be operationally sensitive and cannot be disclosed for security reasons.
I am further informed by the Garda Commissioner that since January 2007, each Garda member who is authorised to carry firearms on duty is required to attend two live fire refresher firearms courses and one judgmental firearms training course each year. Judgmental firearms training involves and requires detailed analysis of the law pertaining to the use of force, with particular reference to the European Convention on Human Rights. Each Divisional Officer has oversight of firearms training in their respective Divisions.
The Firearms Training Unit has responsibility for providing firearms-related training to members of An Garda Síochána. Basic firearms courses are offered to Divisions based on their operational requirements. Members attending for refresher courses are assessed on range safety, weapon safety and accuracy.
Regional Support Unit members receive training throughout the calendar year in firearms, less lethal options (e.g. Taser, Beanbag, Distraction Device) and tactical training.
Members of specialist sections, such as the Emergency Response Unit (ERU) undertake additional and more frequent firearms and other tactical training due to the nature of the duties they perform.
154. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the position regarding the Garda lands at Clonmore, County Tipperary; and if they will be used for firearms training. [41873/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have asked the Garda Commissioner for the specific information requested and when it is to hand I will inform the Deputy accordingly.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 154 for answer on 17 January 2017, in which you requested the position regarding the Garda lands at Clonmore, County Tipperary; and if they will be used for firearms training.
As you will recall, the information you requested could not be obtained in the time available, and I undertook to request information from the Garda Commissioner on the specific queries raised and contact you again.
I have subsequently been informed that there are no current plans for the lands in Clonmore to be utilised for Firearms Training.
I hope this information is of assistance.
155. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the procedure to be followed in the case of a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41875/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that an on-line application may be made on the INIS Automated Visa Application Tracking System (AVATS). The required supporting documentation, including the application summary sheet and original passport, should be sent to the relevant Irish Mission.
I understand the person referred to did complete an on-line visa application on 25 October, 2015. However, the on-line application was not followed up with the submission of the required documents. It is open to the person to make a fresh visa application and to submit that application along with the required documentation for assessment.
The Deputy may wish to note that queries in relation to individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from INIS is, in the Deputy's view, inadequate or too long awaited.
In addition, applicants may themselves e-mail queries directly to INIS (visamail@justice.ie).
156. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will ensure that there is consistency in the prices published for houses on the property price register under the Property Services (Regulation) Act 2011; if the published prices include or exclude VAT in all cases; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [41877/16]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Property Services Regulatory Authority (PSRA) was formally established on 3 April 2012, pursuant to the Property Services (Regulation) Act, 2011. The Residential Property Price Register, available at www.propertypriceregister.ie, is produced by the PSRA in accordance with the provisions of Section 86 of the Property Services (Regulation) Act 2011. The purpose of the Register is to bring transparency to house prices in Ireland. The Register is a list of property prices and it is not a "property price index". The details made available on the register are limited to price, address and date of sale and do not include such details as property size or number of rooms. It is simply designed to provide, on an ongoing basis, accurate prices of residential properties purchased at a particular date.
The Register contains information on residential properties purchased in Ireland since 1 January 2010, as declared to the Revenue Commissioners for stamp duty purposes, and forwarded by the Revenue Commissioners to the PSRA for publication. I am informed that VAT at 13.5% is only chargeable on new properties; it is not charged on second hand properties. Stamp duty in respect of new properties is paid on the property price exclusive of VAT. Accordingly, the prices given to the PSRA by the Revenue Commissioners for new properties are VAT exclusive. The Information Note on the first page of the Residential Property Price Register clearly states that if the property is a new property, the price shown is exclusive of VAT at 13.5%.
157. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the number of persons under 18 years of age living in direct provision in each of the years 2011 to 2016, broken down by year, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1019/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe number of children residing with their parents or guardians in State provided accommodation over the last five years are set out in a table:
|
Year: |
Number: |
|
2011 |
1,771 |
|
2012 |
1,791 |
|
2013 |
1,666 |
|
2014 |
1,452 |
|
2015 |
1,212 |
|
2016 |
1,131 |
It is important to note there is a constant ebb and flow of persons entering and leaving the State provided accommodation system and this is true for families with children as well as single adults and couples. This is illustrated by the fact that a total of 1,632 persons entered the system of State provided accommodation in 2016 and a total of 1,907 persons left the system over the same period of time.
It is also important to note that not all those leaving State provided accommodation would have done so because they received a form of status. The State provided accommodation system is entirely voluntary and some of those leaving the system were exercising their right to live elsewhere.
158. Deputy Dara Calleary asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will outline all funding announcements made by her or by her Department for projects in County Mayo since January 2015, in tabular form; the details of each project; the status of the project at 31 December 2016; the amount drawn down at 31 December 2016; and the reason for the delay in the project or funding draw down. [1063/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy is provided in the table below.
|
Name of Project |
Details |
Status |
Funding drawn down at 31 Dec 2016 |
Delay no/reason |
|
Mayo Women's Support Services |
Local Awareness Raising Grant 2015 (granted €218) |
Complete |
€218 |
No Delay |
|
Traveller Pride Week |
Morning of Traveller Culture |
Complete |
€2,000 |
No Delay |
|
Traveller Interagency Group |
Life as we know it - Educational Resource |
Complete |
€3,900 |
No Delay |
|
Mayo Women's Support Services |
Funding Scheme 2017 for services to victims of crime (€22,000 granted) |
Commenced |
Nil |
No Delay |
|
Mayo Women's Support Services |
Funding Scheme 2016 for services to victims of crime (€22,000 granted) |
Complete |
€8,204 |
No Delay |
|
Mayo Women's Support Services |
Funding Scheme 2015 for services to victims of crime (€22,500 granted) |
Complete |
€18,000 |
No Delay |
|
Youth Action Ballina |
Garda Youth Diversion Project 2015 |
On going |
€118,500 |
No Delay |
|
Youth Action Ballina |
Garda Youth Diversion Project 2016 |
On going |
€118,500 |
No Delay |
|
Youth Action Project Castlebar |
Garda Youth Diversion Project 2015 |
On going |
€108,500 |
No Delay |
|
Youth Action Project Castlebar |
Garda Youth Diversion Project 2016 |
On going |
€108,500 |
No Delay |
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 158 of 17 January 2017 in relation to all funding announcements made by me or by my Department for projects in County Mayo since January 2015, in tabular form; the details of each project; the status of the project at 31 December 2016; the amount of funding drawn down at 31 December 2016; and the reason for the delay in the project or funding draw down.
In addition to the information previously provided, my Department provided €18,342.00 to Claremorris Women’s Group in 2016. This funding was provided as part of the 17 constituent projects under the National Collective of Community Based Women's Network (NCCWN) umbrella. The status of the project is ongoing and there has been no delay in the project or funding draw down.
I apologise that this information was omitted on 17 January.
159. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the reason no courses in the Irish language are listed in the interim list of eligible programmes 25 August 2016 for the granting of a student visa to study here; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [1075/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn May 2015 the Government announced significant reforms of the international education sector and student immigration. One outcome of the reforms was the introduction of the Interim List of Eligible Programmes (ILEP) which replaced the International Register on a phased basis during 2015.
The list is open to any educational programme provider, public or private, who meet the qualifying criteria for inclusion on the list. These criteria broadly concern the following: transparency of ownership, good governance, adequate learner protection and high standards as regards student services and the physical environment. The criteria in no way limit the programme subject area. As such, the list is open to applications in any subject area and the choice of subject is at the discretion of the educational establishment and not my Department.
The ILEP already includes a number of Irish language higher education programmes. A particularly good example of which are a number of programmes listed by National University of Ireland Galway, including: Baitsiléir Sna Dána (Gaeilge & Léann an Aistriúcháin), Máistir Sna Dána (Cumarsáid), Dioplóma Iarchéime (Léann Teanga) and Máistir Sna Dána (Léann Teanga). Several other higher educational institutions, similarly, have Irish language programmes listed on the ILEP.
