Niall Collins
Ceist:292. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Social Protection the assistance he will provide in a circumstance (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7175/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraNational Internship Scheme
Ceisteanna (292)
Freagraí scríofa
JobBridge was introduced in July 2011 in response to the unprecedented collapse of our economy and particularly the sharp and dramatic increase in unemployment. A robust external evaluation of the scheme recommended that it should be replaced with a new work experience programme that is better suited to the much-improved labour market and addresses some criticisms of the current scheme.
JobBridge was closed to new applications from 27 October 2016 to allow for a period of consultation with key stakeholders on design principles for a proposed new work experience programme and to facilitate an orderly wind down of the current scheme. The consultation process is well underway and I expect my officials to report back to me shortly on the outcome.
In the meantime, employers who wish to offer work experience opportunities are welcome participate in the First Steps programme. This is a variant of JobBridge targeted at young jobseekers who face barriers to employment. Organisations who would like to express an interest in this scheme can contact my Department at firststeps@welfare.ie. Further information available at http://www.welfare.ie/en/Pages/youth-development-internship.aspx.
Alternatively, employers can avail of JobsPlus which offers cash incentives of up to €10,000 to recruit jobseekers from the Live Register. Further information on the full range of employer supports, including free recruitment services, is available at the nationwide network of Intreo Centres.
Money Advice and Budgeting Service
Ceisteanna (293)
Joan Burton
Ceist:293. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social Protection if his attention has been drawn to the plans to regionalise the MABS services; if a cost benefit analysis has been carried out on this proposal; his views on the current governance of the MABS services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7233/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
It is important to remember that the planned restructuring of services is at local company board level only. The implementation of restructured governance arrangements, on completion of this process, will not result in any diminution of locally-provided services, nor in the closure of any service delivery locations, nor result in any staff redundancies.
As the Deputy is aware, the plan to restructure the Citizens Information Board’s (CIB) service delivery partners, comprising 42 Citizens Information Services (CIS) companies and 51 Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS) companies has been under consideration for a number of years now. One of the priority objectives of CIB’s Strategic Plan 2015-2018 is “to revise the structures of Citizens Information Services and MABS to better serve the citizen by improving management structures and governance, management of resources and the delivery of consistent high quality services...”.
Since the circulation to all CIS and MABS services in September 2014, of the feasibility study, commissioned by the Board of CIB, on the proposed restructure of these services, there has been ongoing and extensive consultation with all stakeholders about what the future structural model would look like. More recently, the Board of CIB established a Restructuring Sub-Committee, comprised of a number of CIB Board members, a number of staff of CIB, and representatives of both CIS and MABS services. This Subcommittee is expected to report its findings on the optimal regional structure for CIS and MABS companies to the Board of CIB shortly. Following receipt of the Restructuring Sub-Committee’s proposal, the Board of CIB will make a decision on the future regional structure for CIS and MABS companies.
While a full cost benefit analysis has not been undertaken, indicative medium term savings achievable are estimated by CIB to be in the region of €340,000 per annum. The final model as decided by the Board of CIB will ultimately determine the establishment costs of implementing the new structure, and the resultant savings achievable.
A more streamlined governance structure will result in a more targeted use of valuable staff resources, re-directed to increased front line service delivery, following a reduction in the significant administrative burden associated with maintaining 93 individual companies nationwide. This in turn should improve the service-user experience, allow for the development of additional specialist roles where required, and achieve consistency in service delivery standards across the network. Additionally, a more streamlined service delivery partner model would assist CIB in the fulfilment of its statutory obligations, help to promote awareness of the wide range of services and supports available to citizens on behalf of Government, and, in so doing, further raise the profile of both MABS and CIS Services.
In 2017, CIB is set to receive State funding of €54 million, of which €15 million is allocated to CIS services, and €24 million is allocated to the network of MABS services.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Maternity Benefit
Ceisteanna (294)
Joan Burton
Ceist:294. Deputy Joan Burton asked the Minister for Social Protection if the decision on the application for maternity benefit by a person (details supplied) could be reviewed in view of their long-term employment history and contributions; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7291/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
An application for maternity benefit by the person concerned was refused on the grounds that she was not in insurable employment at the time of her application.
In order to qualify for payment of maternity benefit, in addition to meeting the PRSI contribution condition for the tax year relevant to the claim the person concerned must also be in insurable employment that is covered by the Maternity Protection Act, 1994. The last day of insurable employment must be within 16 weeks of the end of the week the baby is due. According to the information supplied, the person concerned was last in employment on 22nd April 2016 and as her baby was due on 8th December 2016, she could not be certified for maternity leave.
The person concerned has lodged an appeal with the Social Welfare Appeals Office who will carry out a full and independent review of the decision.
Carer's Allowance Appeals
Ceisteanna (295)
Fiona O'Loughlin
Ceist:295. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Social Protection if he will review the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7312/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
It is a condition for receipt of carer’s allowance (CA) that the carer must be providing full-time care and attention to a person requiring that level of care. CA claims are reviewed periodically to ensure continued entitlement.
CA was in payment to the person concerned from 22 January 2015 and a review was carried out in 2016. As part of that review the matter was referred to a local social welfare inspector (SWI) to assess the level of care being provided, assess means and confirm that all the conditions for receipt of carer’s allowance continued to be satisfied.
As a result of this investigation, it was determined that carer was not providing care on a full-time basis and her entitlement to CA ceased from 21 April 2016. An overpayment of €2,618 was also assessed against her.
The person concerned appealed this decision and the case was submitted to the Social Welfare Appeals Office for determination. An appeals officer (AO), having fully considered all of the available evidence, disallowed the appeal but decided that the date of disallowance took effect from 23 June 2016 and that therefore no overpayment arose.
The person concerned was notified on 11 January of the AO’s decision and the reasons for it. She was further notified on 25 January 2017 that the debt arising from the overpayment was cancelled.
Under Social Welfare legislation, the decision of an Appeals Officer that someone is not entitled to a social welfare payment can only be revised by another Appeals Officer in the light of new evidence or new facts.
Following the receipt of new evidence from the person concerned, the Social Welfare Appeals Office reviewed the file on 26 January 2017, but there was no change to the original Appeals Officer’s decision.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Youth Unemployment
Ceisteanna (296)
Maurice Quinlivan
Ceist:296. Deputy Maurice Quinlivan asked the Minister for Social Protection if his attention has been drawn to the fact that in the progress report of the Limerick regeneration framework published in December 2016 that, of 32 electoral divisions in Limerick city, 11 have a youth unemployment rate of 60% or more; his plans to address this; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7321/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The youth unemployment statistics quoted for the Limerick electoral divisions relate to 2011, and are drawn from the Census carried out in that year.
Strictly comparable data will be available only when the full small-area results of Census 2016 are published. However, an indication of trends in youth unemployment in Limerick since 2011 is available from the Live Register. The number of young people signing on in Limerick City, and included in the Live Register, has fallen by over 60%, from 2,853 in January 2011 to 1,080 in January 2017.
The 2011 figures mentioned, together with other relevant data, provided an indication of the scale of social and economic disadvantage in the areas of the city that were to be covered in the Limerick Regeneration Framework Implementation Plan launched in late 2013. The Implementation Plan, envisaged a significant works programme comprising of physical works as well as economic and social initiatives, all with the aim of improving the lives of people living in the Regeneration communities and in the wider city areas.
My cabinet colleague, Minister Coveney launched the Review of the Limerick Regeneration Framework Implementation Plan in Limerick on 9 December 2016. The review of the Plan is an important milestone which examines progress across a number of thematic areas including youth unemployment using common socio-economic indicators.
Amongst the actions being supported under the overall Regeneration programme are precise actions to support work training and skills development focused on addressing youth unemployment. Training for residents in new work skills and investment in community and social enterprises and in strategic projects has resulted in over 300 jobs. The regeneration-supported Hospitality Education and Training Centre in Roxboro has achieved an exceptional 85% placement rate from the training course that finished recently and of some 250 full and part-time jobs that have been secured to date, 220 went to people from the regeneration areas.
Investment in school services, community centres, family support and youth work and activities for young people, have supported increased attendance at schools, a reduction in early school leaving and higher numbers going on to third level education which will all ultimately help improve levels of youth unemployment. A dedicated resource for economic development in regeneration areas has been established within Limerick City and County Council to provide a focal point for Community Enterprise, Agencies and the private sector and drive forward the key recommendations of the Review. The next phase of economic development will concentrate on projects of scale that will become city wide catalysts for economic development and ensure a sector-focused skills training approach and include replication of the successful model employed for the Hospitality Education & Training Centre.
At national level, the Government’s primary strategy to tackle unemployment – including youth unemployment – is twofold. The Action Plan for Jobs support continuing strong economic recovery and employment growth. Policies and actions to ensure that unemployed people benefit from the increase in employment are set out in the strategy paper Pathways to Work 2016-2020.
To date, these policies have been effective in reducing youth unemployment. Youth unemployment is generally higher than adult unemployment in all EU member states – because, at any time, a large number of young people are recent leavers from education and seeking a first job. However, the most recent data show that Irish youth unemployment has fallen from a peak of 31.1% in 2012 to 14.5% in December 2016. Irish youth unemployment has thus fallen from well above the EU average in 2012 (23%) to well below the current EU figure of 18.8%.
Policy continues to focus on support for the young unemployed. Under the Youth Guarantee process there is monthly engagement by case officers with unemployed young people to assist them to prepare and implement personal progression plans for employment. Where young people do not find work quickly, additional supports are offered through places on employment and training schemes.
I am confident that these current and planned measures will support further reductions in youth unemployment, nationally as well as in Limerick.
Labour Activation Measures
Ceisteanna (297)
Niamh Smyth
Ceist:297. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Social Protection if there are any other schemes to replace the Gateway scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7409/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Gateway is a work placement scheme designed to provide short-term work opportunities for unemployed people in Local Authorities. The scheme commenced in December 2013. To be eligible to participate on Gateway, a person must have been continuously unemployed for at least 24 months and receiving a jobseeker's allowance payment.
Participants benefit by improving their work readiness and are able to apply their existing skills and learn new ones. The scheme is also intended to assist the personal and social development of participants, with the objective of bridging the gap between unemployment and re-entering the workforce. Participants work for an average of 19½ hours a week.
With the ongoing welcome reductions in the live register, the operation of all of the activation schemes, including Gateway, are being examined. This is necessary to ensure that the number and nature of schemes, as well as the conditions governing participation on these schemes continues to be appropriate. It is recognised by Government that these activation schemes are positive initiatives that enable the long-term unemployed to make a contribution to their communities whilst up-skilling themselves for prospective future employment. I plan to bring a Memorandum to Government on these matters in the coming weeks.
I hope this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Jobseeker's Benefit
Ceisteanna (298)
John Lahart
Ceist:298. Deputy John Lahart asked the Minister for Social Protection the number of persons on jobseeker's benefit in Dublin and specifically in Dublin South West; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7425/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I am informed that at the end of January there were 9,835 persons in receipt of Jobseeker's Benefit in the Dublin area. A breakdown of this number by office is given in the following tabular statement.
It should be noted that the number of people in receipt of a jobseeker’s benefit payment at the offices below is calculated based on the offices’ catchment areas, some of which may cross county borders, rather than the addresses of the recipients themselves.
Recipients of Jobseeker’s Benefit in Dublin at the end of January by office
|
Office |
Recipients |
|
Balbriggan |
620 |
|
Ballyfermot |
221 |
|
Ballymun |
188 |
|
Bishop Square |
653 |
|
Blanchardstown |
817 |
|
Clondalkin |
675 |
|
Coolock |
476 |
|
Cork St |
678 |
|
Dun Laoghaire |
938 |
|
Finglas |
636 |
|
Kilbarrack |
637 |
|
Kings Inns Street |
621 |
|
Navan Road |
415 |
|
Nutgrove |
692 |
|
Swords |
623 |
|
Tallaght |
945 |
|
Grand total |
9,835 |
Disability Allowance Applications
Ceisteanna (299)
Pat Breen
Ceist:299. Deputy Pat Breen asked the Minister for Social Protection when an application for a disability allowance by a person (details supplied) will be processed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7455/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I confirm that my department received an application for disability allowance from this lady on 1 December 2016. On completion of the necessary investigations on all aspects of the claim a decision will be made and the person concerned will be notified directly of the outcome.
The processing time for individual disability allowance claims may vary in accordance with their relative complexity in terms of the three main qualifying criteria, the person’s circumstances and the information they provide in support of their claim.
I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.
Passport Applications Data
Ceisteanna (300)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:300. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of applicants for Irish passports from England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland in 2014, 2015 and 2016, in tabular form. [6848/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The number of passport applicants born in Great Britain and Northern Ireland respectively for the years in question is set out in the following tables. A further break-down of the data into applicants born in England/Scotland/Wales is not possible.
Applications - Born in Northern Ireland
|
Year of Registration |
Total Applications |
|
2014 |
64,416 |
|
2015 |
72,242 |
|
2016 |
91,448 |
Applications - Born in Great Britain
|
Year of Registration |
Total Applications |
|
2014 |
32,538 |
|
2015 |
34,211 |
|
2016 |
48,741 |
Cyber Security Policy
Ceisteanna (301)
Noel Rock
Ceist:301. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the actions his Department is taking to strengthen against cyber attacks after the NTMA website was temporarily down for several hours after a suspected hacking attack; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6882/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I am aware of recent attacks on the website of the NTMA and other sites hosted in Ireland. My Department is not a user of the particular website technology apparently compromised in these incidents. It is the policy of my Department to constantly update security features on our hosted services in order to maintain the security and integrity of its systems.
Middle East Issues
Ceisteanna (302, 308)
Clare Daly
Ceist:302. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the actions, above and beyond the public statement issued by his Department on 25 January 2017, he will take in response to Israel's approval of the construction of 566 new illegal settlement units in occupied east Jerusalem and its plan to build another 5,500 units throughout the occupied West Bank. [6895/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:308. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his Department's position on the recent approval by the Israeli Government of the construction of over 500 settlement units in occupied east Jerusalem and 5,500 settlement units in the occupied West Bank; the steps he has taken both bilaterally and through the EU to assert Ireland's position on this issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7231/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 302 and 308 together.
I issued a public statement on 25 January in response to the recent Israeli settlement announcements, which was as follows: “The Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade, Charlie Flanagan TD, has condemned recent announcements by Israeli authorities of further settlement construction in the occupied Palestinian Territories.
Minister Flanagan said:
Ireland’s views on Israeli settlements couldn’t be clearer. Indeed, the views of the international community on settlements couldn’t be clearer – they are comprehensively set out in UN Security Council Resolution 2334 and in the declaration of the Paris Conference which I participated earlier this month. These settlements are illegal, they actively undermine the prospects for a sustainable negotiated two-state solution, and the relentless expansion of settlements inherently involves injustice and provocation for Palestinians.
These most recent announcements, proposing more than 3,000 units, are deeply disappointing. Such actions serve only to undermine Israel’s reputation and the credibility of its government’s declarations of support for a negotiated, peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
In particular, the intention to proceed with new settlements in East Jerusalem only serves to call further into question the commitment of the Israeli government to engage in meaningful negotiations aimed at achieving a two-State solution.
Ireland remains steadfast in its support for a comprehensive two state solution which protects the future of both the Palestinian and Israeli peoples.
I call for an end to all settlement construction, and the reversal of these announcements.”
Ireland also contributed to the drafting of a firm statement issued on behalf of the EU by High Representative Mogherini.
I have consistently argued, at EU and international level, that the international community needs to take stronger action in response to settlement activities. This has contributed to a number of EU actions in recent years, including excluding settlements from EU research funding, refusing to accept Israeli health certification for meat produced in settlements, and guidelines on labelling of products from settlements. I will continue to pursue this policy approach.
Visa Agreements
Ceisteanna (303)
Darragh O'Brien
Ceist:303. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has discussed issues regarding the J1 visa programme during his recent trip to Washington DC; if he has raised the matter with the US Embassy in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6918/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The US J1 Summer Work and Travel programme has been a tremendously successful part of the Irish-US bilateral relationship for almost 50 years, with 150,000 Irish third level students taking the opportunity to experience life and work in the US over that time.
The Government does not have any role in administering the J-1 scheme, which is a programme of the US Department of State run by a number of not-for-profit US sponsoring bodies, who, in turn, work with commercial agencies here in Ireland.
Nevertheless, the Embassy of Ireland in Washington, DC, led by Ambassador Anne Anderson and her colleagues, are in on-going contact with the US State Department regarding the J1 cultural and educational exchange programme. Following my recent visit to the US, representatives of the State Department have held meetings with Irish officials in Washington to discuss the importance of the J1 programme in our relationship with the US.
In addition, officials from my Department are also in regular contact with the US Embassy in Dublin in relation to the J1 programme. As recently as 8 February, 2017, officials in my Department met with representatives of the US Embassy in Dublin – at the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade – to review the various options available to Irish participants in the J1 suite of programmes.
I am particularly conscious of the importance of the J1 Summer Work and Travel (SWT) option within the J1 programme, which continues to offer important learning opportunities to Irish students, to work and visit the US each summer. I can assure the Deputy of the Government’s commitment to the continued success of the J1 programme, which is an important component of our bilateral relationship with the United States.
Foreign Conflicts
Ceisteanna (304)
Darragh O'Brien
Ceist:304. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the actions of the Fulani in Nigeria; the efforts being made by the international community to address this situation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6919/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Our Embassy in Abuja follows developments in Nigeria closely, including in relation to inter-ethnic tensions in parts of the country. These include tensions in southern Kaduna, between members of the Fulani people, a predominantly nomadic group dispersed across the Sahel region and West Africa, and other communities. They have given rise to clashes over land access and use, including acts of violence allegedly perpetrated by some members of the Fulani, as well as other groups. I condemn all such acts, which have caused hundreds of deaths and the destruction of property. It is vital that all those responsible be brought to justice.
We strongly support efforts to find solutions to the underlying issues which give rise to such conflicts. In this case, I particularly welcome the signing, in March last year, of the Kafanchan Peace Declaration, which commits a range of stakeholders and community leaders to the principles of dialogue and non-violence in finding lasting solutions to the problems of inter-communal conflict. The negotiation of this Declaration was facilitated by the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. Ireland has supported the international work of this organisation for a number of years, including through the provision of €100,000 in 2016 for its work in Nigeria. Our Embassy staff in Abuja attended the signing of the Declaration, and continue to monitor and report on the situation in the region. We will continue to encourage all parties to engage in the ongoing efforts to address the root causes of this conflict.
Diplomatic Representation
Ceisteanna (305)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:305. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that 7 February 2017 would have marked the twenty-fifth birthday of a person (details supplied) who went missing in the south of Spain in the summer of 2008 and that a vigil was held outside Dáil Éireann on that date; if his attention has been further drawn to the fact that members of the person’s family are calling on the Government to request that the Spanish authorities launch a cold case investigation; and if he will raise the issue with his Spanish counterpart. [6920/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I am fully aware that a vigil was held on 7 February outside Dáil Éireann to mark the 25th birthday of the citizen who remains missing in Spain since 2008. Officials from my Department met with members of the citizen’s family in December 2016 and met with the appointed Garda Family Liaison Officers in January 2017. The Garda FLO remains the primary point of liaison with the family.
The Spanish government has provided assurances that the case is under active police investigation and that the police continue to follow up every possible lead and to cross-check new cases for any potential links to the disappearance of this Irish citizen. It is my Department’s understanding that the concept of a ‘cold case’ review does not exist in Spain.
While from a judicial point of view the case has been temporarily archived in Court in Fuengirola - due to the time that had passed since the citizen’s disappearance and the lack of new information or leads - I understand that this is not unusual and that the case may judicially be re-opened at any stage if there are developments.
Any relevant information pertaining to the ongoing Spanish police investigation should be referred directly to An Garda Síochána, who can liaise with the Spanish authorities through appropriate police to police channels. The designated Garda Síochána family liaison officer stands ready to provide the family with any updates on developments in this case.
Diplomatic Representation
Ceisteanna (306)
Seán Crowe
Ceist:306. Deputy Seán Crowe asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the case of a person (details supplied) who has been incarcerated in Evin prison in Iran and who has been reportedly sentenced to death; and if he will raise this case with his Iranian counterpart. [6921/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I have not previously been aware of this case, on which I have no information other than some publicly available reports.
It is not clear from these that the person in question has yet been charged with any offence, still less sentenced, but his continued detention would appear to be a matter of concern in itself.
There is a worrying trend in recent years of Iranians long resident in western countries, many of them academics, being arrested and held for long periods during visits to Iran, often with little or no clarity about their case. I echo the calls that have been made for this person to be either charged with a credible offence or released, and for his family to be kept properly apprised of his case. I will convey these concerns to the Iranian authorities.
Foreign Policy
Ceisteanna (307)
Darragh O'Brien
Ceist:307. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his views on recent events in Turkey, including the dismissal of thousands of public servants in recent days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7123/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I am deeply concerned at the ongoing developments in Turkey, including the latest dismissals of some 4,500 public servants following the introduction of a new Decree on 7 February. The Decree, issued under the State of Emergency which has been in place in Turkey since the failed coup in July 2016, has been used to target officials at the Education Ministry, the gendarmerie, and academics, as well as many other public servants, for their suspected links with certain organisations, e.g. the Gülenist movement.
This Decree brings the numbers of public servants dismissed since the coup to almost 100,000 people. Many others have been detained or arrested. I acknowledge that Orders issued on 23 January limit the period of detention without charge to seven days rather than 30, and establish a complaints process for those who feel they have been mistreated under the emergency measures. However, this latest round of dismissals heightens my ongoing concerns about human rights, democracy, rule of law and freedom of expression in Turkey. I once again call on the Turkish authorities to exercise restraint in responding to the challenges they continue to face in the post-coup environment.
I am monitoring closely the Constitutional amendment package which was approved by the Turkish Grand Assembly on 21 January. President Erdogan, who was the originator of many of the proposed changes, gave his formal approval to the package on 10 February. The proposed amendments will now be put to the people in a referendum scheduled to take place on 16 April. Among the proposals are provisions for an increase in the number of MPs from 550 to 600, a lowering of the minimum age to sit in Parliament from 25 to 18, the holding of concurrent parliamentary and presidential elections every five years, the abolition of the post of Prime Minister and a considerable expansion of the executive powers of the President.
While the Head of State in many democracies has a strong executive function, the ongoing concerns at EU level and internationally about democracy and the rule of law in Turkey, mean that there are serious considerations about the substance, timing and context of the constitutional proposals. The assessment of the Venice Commission (Council of Europe), which is currently studying the amendments, will be important in informing the position that the EU and Ireland take on the proposed reforms.
Question No. 308 answered with Question No. 302.
Counterfeit Passports
Ceisteanna (309)
Eamon Scanlon
Ceist:309. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a case pertaining to the passports of two persons (details supplied) has been referred to his Department for investigation following the attempted illegal use of these passports; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7259/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department is aware of this case and is pursuing it with the German authorities who detected the mis-use of Irish identities with fraudulent documentation. For security reasons I cannot share details of these investigations.
I reiterate the advice of the Passport Service that for their own security the persons concerned apply to renew their passports. They should include details of their statement to An Garda Siochána with their applications.
I have requested that the Passport Service contact the persons concerned immediately about their renewal applications.
Diaspora Issues
Ceisteanna (310, 311)
Darragh O'Brien
Ceist:310. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the funding allocated in 2017 to the emigrant support programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7292/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraDarragh O'Brien
Ceist:311. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the funding allocated to all diaspora activities in 2017; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7293/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 310 and 311 together.
The Emigrant Support Programme administered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provides funding for projects to support Irish communities overseas and to facilitate the development of deeper and more strategic links between Ireland and the global Irish community.
The Emigrant Support Programme prioritises culturally sensitive, frontline welfare services that address the needs of the most vulnerable Irish emigrants. The programme also supports a wide range of other diaspora engagement projects, particularly cultural, community and heritage projects that foster a vibrant sense of Irish community and identity, as well as strategic capital projects.
The overall budget for the Emigrant Support Programme in 2017 is €11,595,000. This matches the allocation for 2016. The 2017-18 grant round is open for applications until 15 February.
In addition to the Emigrant Support Programme which is specifically targeted at funding projects supporting and engaging the global Irish community, this important objective is also an integral part of the wider work of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and in particular the work of our Missions abroad. As such this important area of the Department’s work attracts significant other resources, both human and financial, but this expenditure is not part of a specific allocation or diaspora activity budget that is reported on separately. Rather this work is undertaken annually as part of the core work of Missions, within the wider Departmental and Mission budget.
For 2017 an additional budget of €400,000 was allocated to my Department to support local diaspora engagement. My Department is currently considering strategic priorities around this aspect of our engagement with the global Irish and how that new fund can be best structured and administered to achieve priority outcomes.
A full list of previously funded organisations under the ESP can be found at www.dfa.ie/global-irish/support-overseas/emigrant-support-programme/.
Defence Forces Personnel
Ceisteanna (312, 313)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:312. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when members of the Defence Forces who took part in the Mediterranean Sea missions will be paid their extra allowance which was already agreed to be paid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6693/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Micheál Martin
Ceist:313. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the agreement reached in November 2016 between PDFORRA and his Department for an additional hazard pay of €15 per day for Naval Service personnel serving in the Mediterranean Sea will be honoured; and when those who have served on these missions will receive this remuneration. [6695/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 312 and 313 together.
The issue in question has been referred to my Department for consideration and this process remains to be concluded.
Public Sector Pay
Ceisteanna (314)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:314. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the public sector pay increase due on 1 April 2017 will apply to all public sector staff in all positions; if this will apply to political staff; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6857/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Public Servants on annualised salaries of up to €65,000, who are parties to the Lansdowne Road Agreement, and who do not stand to benefit from the Labour Court Recommendations (CD/16/321 & CD/16/322) issued in respect of the Garda Associations, will have their annualised salaries increased by €1,000 from 1 April 2017 to 31 August 2017. This will benefit approximately 250,000 public servants (whole time equivalents (WTE)).
Under the terms of the Haddington Road Agreement, the additional pay cut imposed on public servants earning over €65,000 is to be restored within a maximum of 18 months from the end of that Agreement. The Lansdowne Road Agreement, underpinned by the Financial Emergency Measures in the Public Interest Act 2015, provides that, for those on salaries in excess of €65,000 and less than €110,000, restoration will take place in two equal phases on 1 April 2017 and 1 January 2018; and that for those on salaries in excess of €110,000 restoration is to be in three equal phases on 1 April 2017, 1 April 2018 and 1 April 2019. These measures will apply to Special Advisers as appropriate. However, notwithstanding these provisions, the Government, in approving the terms of the Lansdowne Road Agreement, decided that Ministers, Ministers of State and Special Advisers on remuneration in excess of €100,000 should not avail on a personal basis of the pay restoration provided for in the FEMPI Act 2015.
Public Sector Pensions
Ceisteanna (315)
Noel Grealish
Ceist:315. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if public sector pension liabilities are calculated using the same formula and assumptions as private sector defined benefit pension schemes; if not, the detail of the formula and assumptions which are used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6973/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under EU Regulation (EU) 549/2013, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) will be required to report on the gross accrued public service pension liabilities of Irish public servants as part of the National Accounts. Reporting is mandatory, commencing with an end 2015 position for reporting in 2017. The assumptions underpinning the required report are prescribed under the EU Regulation.
Having previously carried out the 2012 actuarial valuation of the public service accrued pension liability, the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform has agreed to update this work on behalf of the CSO. A report including the principal assumptions applied in the 2012 valuation exercise can be accessed at www.per.gov.ie/en/public-service-pensions-accrued-liability/.
Valuation exercises in respect of private sector defined benefit pension schemes and the assumptions applied are a matter for the relevant Trustees of each scheme based upon expert advice and in line with legislative and regulatory requirements.
Public Procurement Regulations
Ceisteanna (316)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:316. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason decentralised Government Department offices are precluded from purchasing office supplies locally in favour of centralised purchasing in view of the fact the practice is contrary to the concept of Government decentralisation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [7246/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Procurement reform is a key element of the Government's overall reform programme and is aimed at delivering increased value for money, more accurate and timely data and improvement in the capacity and capability of the procurement function across the public service. The fragmented procurement arrangements across the public service which existed prior to this facilitated amongst other things suppliers charging different public service bodies different prices for the same goods and services. This was not sustainable, as the State could not afford to continue to purchase works, goods and services in a manner that undermined the efficient delivery of services.
All public bodies are keenly aware of the importance of maximising the value for money achievable when procuring any commonly acquired goods or services. The central procurement frameworks and contracts established by the Office of Government Procurement (OGP) have been designed to optimise benefits to the public service through the strategic aggregation of its buying power.
Central procurement frameworks are targeted at securing best value for money and facilitating contracting authorities to deliver services within their budgetary constraints. In this regard, public bodies are encouraged to use these frameworks arrangements. The benefits arising from these central procurement frameworks include: cash savings; administrative savings from reduced duplication of tendering; greater purchasing expertise; improved consistency; enhanced service levels and legal certainty. It is Government policy, as set out in Circular 16/2013, that public bodies, where possible, should make use of all such central arrangements. Where public bodies choose not to utilise central procurement frameworks they should be in a position to provide a value for money justification. It should also be noted that the OGP issued Circular 10/2014 which contains initiatives aimed at facilitating SME access to public contracts.