Written Answers Nos. 73 - 95
73. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on whether family resource centres are provided with adequate funding and supports to carry out their responsibilities; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6755/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI very much value the role that Family Resource Centres play in providing support to vulnerable children and families around the country.
Tusla provides financial support to some 109 communities through the Family and Community Services Resource Centre Programme. This typically covers the employment of two to three members of staff and some overhead costs. In 2016, Tusla provided €13.5m in core funding under the Programme. In addition, Tusla provided funding of €595,000 to Family Resource Centres for counselling services under the Agency's Counselling Grants Scheme. Also, in December, 2016, and in recognition of the valuable work that the Family Resource Centres do, Tusla provided additional once-off funding of €1.422m to centres. This additional funding, which was in the form of minor capital assistance, allowed for the upgrade of equipment and other remedial works at centres.
Family Resource Centres are supported by two Regional Support Agencies, which are funded by Tusla under the Family and Community Services Resource Centre Programme. These support agencies play a key role in promoting good practice, providing technical support, advice and training to Family Resource Centres.
Tusla also provides funding under the Programme to the Family Resource Centre National Forum. The Forum operates as a network for all Family Resource Centres. It provides networking and training opportunities, and information and support.
Tusla plans to build on the strengths of the programme in the years ahead as it delivers on its mandate for community-based early intervention and family support.
Tusla is currently finalising details of the funding to be allocated to Family Resource Centres in 2017, and will be confirming funding levels for individual centres shortly.
74. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the reason funding has been withdrawn from an organisation (details supplied) in respect of a number of youth projects, namely Roscommon town, Castlerea, Arigna and Ballaghaderreen in County Roscommon and also Castleblakeney in County Galway; the reasons for the closure of each of the specific projects in each location; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6715/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraIt is important to note at the outset that there is no reduction in funding for youth services in Roscommon North East Galway. My Department withdrew funding from the Special Projects for Youth project in Ballygar, County Galway in early 2016 as Youth Work Ireland Roscommon North East Galway had moved the service elsewhere without my Department's permission and no service was being provided in the area. My Department did not provide funding for youth services in Castlerea or Arigna in County Roscommon or in Castleblakeney, County Galway, as suggested by the Deputy.
The decision to withdraw funding from the Special Projects for Youth projects in Ballaghaderreen and the Youth Information Centre in Roscommon town, both of which were operated by Youth Work Ireland Roscommon North East Galway, was arrived at based on a Finance and Governance Review and a Service Review of the organisation that were carried out on behalf of my Department its funding intermediary, the City of Dublin Youth Service Board. Following engagement with Youth Work Ireland Roscommon North East Galway, my Department received no assurances that the youth services being provided in Ballaghaderreen and in Roscommon town were to a level that met the needs of young people in these towns. Nor was my Department provided with any assurances as to the organisation's capacity to support, operate and manage the provision of quality youth services and to make good use of Government funding for these purposes.
It is important to note that the Department's decision to cease funding to Youth Work Ireland Roscommon North East Galway was supported by Youth Work Ireland's National Office and by the Galway Roscommon Education and Training Board, which has a statutory role in the provision of youth services.
I am pleased to inform the Deputy that Galway and Roscommon Education and Training Board is putting in place replacement quality youth services in all three locations from this month onwards, on a transitional basis, with more permanent targeted services to be in place from later this year.
75. Deputy Kathleen Funchion asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on whether the child care settings will be equipped to cope with the roll out of the single affordable child care scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7090/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe systems that are being developed for the Affordable Childcare Scheme are being designed so as to minimise the administrative burden on both parents and childcare providers. Full information on the Scheme will be made available well in advance of September, and a range of supports will be provided to help parents and childcare providers manage the transition to the new Scheme. As part of this, officials of my Department are developing detailed plans for communications and training to ensure that both parents and childcare providers are equipped to cope with the Scheme’s rollout.
76. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the progress which has been made in the commencement of the outstanding sections of the Children First Act 2015, particularly in relation to mandatory reporting of child abuse and child safeguarding statements; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7015/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the Children First Act 2015 was signed into law on 19 November 2015, a number of provisions of the Act have already been commenced as follows:
(i) Sections 1 to 5 (Part I) and section 28 (Part V) of the Act were commenced on 10 December 2015. Sections 1 to 5 are standard provisions in relation to title, citation, regulations, definitions etc. Section 28 relates to corporal punishment and removes the common law defence of reasonable chastisement in relation to same.
(ii) Section 18 (Part III) and Sections 20-26 (Part IV) were commenced on 1 May 2016. Section 18 of the Act is a technical amendment to ensure that the Child and Family Agency is a specified body for purposes of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012. Sections 20-26 deal with establishing the Children First Interdepartmental Implementation Group (CFIDIG) on a statutory basis and expanding the Group to include all Government Departments.
As the Act imposes obligations on certain individuals working with children and on relevant service providers, it is vital that all individuals and sectors are fully prepared and ready to implement the legislation before it is commenced. Therefore, in relation to those provisions of the Act which have not yet been commenced, I have recently signed off on a proposal for phased and structured preparations for implementation which will allow for full commencement of the remaining provisions of the Act by end 2017. These provisions include those related to mandated reporting of child abuse, mandated assisting and the preparation of Child Safeguarding Statements by organisations providing relevant services to children.
The phased implementation timetable will also allow Tusla to undertake the significant preparatory work required to enable it to fully meet its obligations under the legislation. This will include ensuring that the appropriate internal systems are in place to deal with the intake of mandatory reports by Tusla and that a suite of resources is available to support and assist all sectors in implementing the legislation. My Department is working closely with Tusla in relation to making available basic Children First training, information and resource materials.
In the meantime, my Department will continue to work closely with the Statutory Children First Inter-Departmental Implementation Group, which includes Tusla, an Garda Síochána and the HSE, who will take a key role in ensuring that all necessary preparations and supports are in place for those who will acquire legal obligations under the Act.
77. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on lowering the voting age to 16 years of age in local, general and European elections. [7088/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to inform the Deputy that my Department has no function with regard to lowering the voting age to 16 in local, general and European elections. The lead responsibility for this matter is the Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government.
78. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if a commitment will be made to the value for money scheme post-2017; if more resources and funding will be allocated to this initiative which is running successfully in County Cavan; her plans to extend the value for money scheme to other counties; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6940/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn 2016, funding of €51m was provided to my Department for various youth schemes. I was delighted to receive an additional €5.5m in current funding in Budget 2017 to support the provision of youth services, bringing the total youth funding in 2017 to €57.4m. This additional funding will be used for programmes that target disadvantaged young people and to assist national youth organisations in their work to support local voluntary youth services. My Department has commenced the process with national organisations to identify service development needs for 2017 and to agree their 2017 allocations.
As the Deputy may be aware, a number of funding schemes supporting youth services were the subject of a Value for Money and Policy Review in 2014. The review involved an in-depth scrutiny of the impact youth service provision has on young people’s lives. The review made a number of recommendations for the future operation of the youth schemes and their development in the years ahead.
Work on the development of a new funding scheme has been prioritised by my Department and consultations with youth services are continuing with a view to introducing the new youth funding programme in line with the review.
My Department has embarked on an exercise, in conjunction with Pobal and each Education and Training Board (ETB) Youth Officer, which will map youth service provision across the State. This mapping exercise will assist my Department and the relevant ETB in developing a detailed socio-demographic profile in terms of both population numbers and deprivation levels. It is my intention that this mapping exercise will inform future development and investment in youth services.
During 2016, my Department provided funding for the commencement of five “Sample VFMPR” youth projects commenced in South East Cavan, West Wicklow, Drogheda, County Louth, in Cahir, County Tipperary and in the Fethard/Killenaule area of Tipperary.
It is my intention to support these five new projects during 2017 and details of the allocations to these projects will issue shortly. In addition, I hope to allocate further funding towards the costs of developing and establishing further new sample projects. Over the next year, my Department will work closely with the sixteen ETBs in this regard. The mapping exercise will inform future development and investment in youth services.
79. Deputy Mick Wallace asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the resources, existing or additional, that have been allocated to Tusla to facilitate the arrival and integration of unaccompanied child refugees from the former Calais camp; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7040/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am very conscious of the need for additional resources for the Separated Children Seeking Asylum team in Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, to allow us to respond to the current crisis facing all of us in Europe. I saw this for myself when I met with Greek ministers and with vulnerable families being assisted by our efforts in Greece under the Irish Refugee Programme. I want to acknowledge the work of the Tanaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality and the support of our Cabinet colleagues in pushing forward the work of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme and the Dáil resolution on Calais.
I have asked Tusla to expand the Separated Children's team to progress the Dail resolution on unaccompanied minors who were previously in unofficial camps near Calais. Tusla is putting in place a project office and increasing the number of staff on this team. The additional staff will include a senior social work practitioner, social workers and social care staff. I understand that Tusla is examining how best to manage the required psychological support for the young people, including the recruitment of a psychologist into the team. I have been assured that residential accommodation being sourced will be homely in nature and in line with national standards.
I have committed to making sure that this service is properly resourced, and that the high standard of the current service continues. I am sure you will understand that the estimates of the cost involved will be kept under review as the situation evolves. For example, the range of therapeutic and legal supports to be provided will only become clear once the young people have arrived and been assessed. I am closely monitoring the emerging situation and am determined to ensure this humanitarian effort will be successful.
80. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs if she will urgently establish an interdepartmental task force to address the escalating national crisis of child poverty in view of the fact that according to the most recent SILC report 2015 a child is now more than four times more likely to live in poverty based on their family status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7026/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe reduction of children's poverty is a key political priority for me as a Minister. I have devoted all of my professional life in Ireland to the development of community based approaches to tackle children's poverty and designing and delivering effective prevention and early intervention strategies to do same.
In recognition of the higher risks and life-long consequences of child poverty, the Government set a child-specific poverty target in Better Outcomes, Better Futures: the National Policy Framework for Children and Young People 2014-2020 to reduce consistent child poverty by at least two-thirds by 2020. This figure currently represents 102,000 children. The rate of consistent poverty among children has fallen to 11.5%, from 12.7% in 2014.
The Department of Social Protection has the lead role in coordinating government strategies on child poverty. It also has lead responsibility for the National Action Plan for Social Inclusion and has identified child poverty as a key cross-sectoral priority to be addressed.
Officials in my Department are working closely with the Department of Social Protection in informing the development of this cross-sectoral priority.
Officials in the Department of Social Protection have co-convened a subgroup with members of the Advisory Council for Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures to progress solutions to child poverty. In recognition of the fact that child poverty is a multi-faceted problem, this group includes officials from other Departments, including the Department of Health and the Department of Education and Skills.
Led by the Department of Social Protection, this group has produced a paper which outlines a whole of government approach to tackling child poverty. This is based around the three pillars outlines in the EU Recommendation on Investing in Children:
- Access to adequate resources
- Access to affordable quality services
- Children’s right to participate.
This paper covers issues relating to my Department, such as childcare, prevention and early intervention and family support, as well as issues in other Departments, such as healthcare inequalities, DEIS schools, and income supports. It also recognises that children of lone parents are particularly at risk of poverty.
My Department is developing a Single Affordable Childcare Scheme to provide families with good quality childcare at a cost they can afford. Budget 2017 provided additional funding for the scheme’s development and initial roll-out, to include both a targeted and a universal element. Subsidies will be available for children aged from 6 months up to 15 years and will meet families’ full-time and part-time childcare needs, including outside of school hours and during school holiday time. The highest levels of subsidy will be provided to those on low incomes, helping families to overcome disadvantage and contribute to a reduction in child poverty.
This paper will be discussed at the Children and Young People’s Policy Consortium in February, which includes representatives from all departments, and is responsible for whole of government implementation of Better Outcomes, Brighter Futures.
81. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Taoiseach the level of expenditure by his Department or any organisations under the aegis of his Department for each of the years from 2005 to 2016, in tabular form, on photography, advertising, communications advice, public relations, website development, interview training and preparation, including details of the events, campaigns or policies to which this expenditure related, and the company or individual to whom such payments were made. [6649/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe following tables detail expenditure by my Department on photography, advertising, communications advice/public relations and website development for the years 2010 to 2016 inclusive - the years for which information is readily available, given the volume of detail requested. There was no expenditure on interview training and preparation in those years. Expenditure was only incurred by the Department for communications advice/public relations in the years 2012 and 2013. Relevant expenditure in the various categories is also included for the National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO) - the only body under the aegis of my Department.
PHOTOGRAPHY
2010
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
James Higgins Photographer |
Taoiseach Brian Cowen & delegation at UN Climate Change Summit NY 21-23 Sept 09 |
€102.44 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach on Gerry Ryan Show. |
€554.95 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach Media Briefing 21-12-2009. |
€607.5 |
|
Hacketts |
Chief Whips Office 08 Mar 2010 |
€15 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach Meets Chinese Ambassador 25-02-2010. |
€401.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Innovation Task Force 11/3/2010 |
€893.59 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
New Cabinet |
€393.25 |
|
Leslie E. Kossoff, |
Taoiseach Brian Cowen & delegation during trip to Washington 16-17 March 2010.. |
€1919.38 |
|
Terry Murphy Media |
St.Patricks Church, Waterford. |
€440.44 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
1916 Easter Commemoration, 4/4/10 |
€439.84 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Aviva, 9/4/10 |
€439.84 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach at Polish Embassy - Book of Condolences, 13/4/10 |
€486.72 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach’s meeting with Loretta Brennan Glucksman, 26/4/10 |
€209.94 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach Print, 30/04/10, |
€42.35 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach’s meeting with Lithuanian President 10/5/10 |
€371.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Finish PN / Gleo Awards |
€349.08 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Pol Cors meeting 14/5/10 |
€401.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach: Kathleen Kennedy Townsend & Derry meet |
€453.75 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
2 Innovation Seminar on 24th May 2010 |
€591.08 |
|
Joan Hackett Chicago Photography |
Taoiseach Brian Cowen & delegation visit 12-14 Mar 2010. (St. Patrick's Day in Chicago). |
€597.23 |
|
Chris Ryan, San Francisco, Photographer |
Taoiseach Brian Cowen & delegation, official events on 14-15 Mar 2010 in San Jose, San Francisco |
€1083.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets victims’ families of Bloody Sunday, 16/6/10 |
€349.08 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Kennedy Family visit, 21/6/10, |
€310.67 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach head shots, 29/6/10, |
€156.09 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets Pres of Harvard, 30/6/10 |
€530.58 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets NI Sec of State Patterson, 2/6/10 |
€431.67 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach NI meetings/events, 3/6/10, |
€962.26 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets Presbyterian church 15/6/10, |
€340.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Print Order |
€55.06 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
North/South meeting Farmleigh 5/7/10 |
€720.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Fr. Mac Greil Book Launch 7/7/10 |
€219.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Libyan Special Envoy Meeting, 16/7/10 |
€219.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Cabinet Meeting Farmleigh, 21/7/10 |
€470.08 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Governor of Alabama visit, 22/7/10 |
€340.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Capital Review 26/7/10 |
€538.75 |
|
Hartografie Photo Atlanta |
Atlanta: coverage of meeting 14 July 2010 |
€733.44 |
|
European Press Agency |
European Press Agency 07 July 2010 |
€214 |
|
James Higgins Photographer |
Taoiseach Brian Cowen's 2 Day visit to New York July 12 & 13 2010 |
€692.69 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Cabinet Committee on Economic Renewal, 22/09/01 |
€461.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets SDLP, 20/09/10 |
€401.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets Bob Kelly, 10/09/10 |
€461.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Special Olympics welcome home 30/09/10 |
€593.2 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos: Taoiseach meets President Bill Clinton |
€780.75 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos: Meeting Venture Capital Firms |
€219.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos: Prime Minister of Finland |
€409.58 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos: John Liu, NYC Comptroller |
€401.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos: Your Country Your Call & US Bankers 2 |
€409.58 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos: Cabinet Meeting Farmleigh 25/10/10 |
€498.22 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for ORP Seminar 21st October 2010 |
€698.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach meets US sec of Energy 04/11/10 |
€371.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
European Comm. Monetary Affairs 09/11/10 |
€419.57 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
4 Yr Plan 24/11/10 |
€797.09 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Press Conf 28/11/10 |
€613.17 |
2011
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Venture capital investment 15/12/10 |
€478.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
De Valera Author 22/12/10 |
€371.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
IFSC Green Initiative 27/01/11 |
€349.09 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach - Media briefing 20/01/11 |
€181.50 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
US chamber of commerce Iveagh House27/01/11 |
€530.59 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Intel Meeting 14/01/11 |
€570.82 |
|
The Press Association |
The Press Association, Nottingham |
€ 139.30 |
|
Hackett's Reprographics |
Visa photos for 1 of the Taoiseach's delegation for USA Mar 2011, 10 Mar 2011 |
€ 20.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
1916 Commemoration 24/04/2011 |
€ 502.45 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
SDLP 14/04/2011 |
€ 371.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Launch of Census 10/3/2011 |
€ 357.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Newly appointed Ministers 15/03/2011 |
€ 478.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Jesse Jackson 21/03/2011 |
€ 409.58 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Book of Condolence - Japan 22/03/2011 |
€ 401.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
US Ambassador Dan Rooney 28/03/2011 |
€ 401.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Jpegs 1916 Commemoration 04/04/2011 |
€ 60.50 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Mass New Dail 09/03/2011 |
€ 508.50 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach Office Photo Call 09/03/2011 |
€ 538.75 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Reception New Ministers 09/03/2011 |
€ 391.13 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
New Cabinet Meeting 10/03/2011 |
€ 492.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
New Ministers Appointments 09/03/2011 |
€ 780.75 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
The Late Dr. Garret Fitzgerald's Funeral 21-22 May 2011 |
€ 2,359.50 |
|
My Photobook.ie |
27 May 2011 - My PhotoBook.ie |
€ 140.80 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
President Obama Visit 23 May 2011 |
€ 4,537.50 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach Enda Kenny & Church Leaders on 19 May 2011 at Government Buildings |
€ 409.58 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
British PM Visit to Gov. Buildings on 18 May 2011. |
€ 629.50 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
US Congressman on 16 May 2011. assignment covering attendance, taking colour, processing, digital contact sheet. |
€ 280.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Hungarian Prime Minister 01-06-11 |
€ 409.58 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Excellence Awards 09/06/2011 |
€ 857.59 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
North South Ministerial Council 10-6-11 |
€ 812.21 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
President of European Council 17/6/11 |
€ 562.04 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
President Obama Visit 23 May 2011 |
€ 260.15 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Obama and Cabinet Ministers 23 May 2011 |
€ 740.52 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Maxwells Invoice - New Ambassadors 30-6-11 |
€ 332.75 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Chinese Delegation |
€ 357.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Saudi Minister 14 June 2011 |
€ 280.42 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Richard Haass meets Taoiseach Enda Kenny on 01/04/2011 |
€ 371.17 |
|
LK Photo |
Costs relating to St. Patricks Day Visit to Washington 2011 |
€ 2,106.14 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
New Sec Gen and Ian Paisley on 26/07/2011. |
€ 318.84 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Meeting EU Parliament President 12 July 2011. |
€ 696.05 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Strategy for International Services Industry 14-7-2011 |
€ 349.08 |
|
Hackett's Reprographics |
Product code FPP75DIG10-15, (QTY 10-15) 7x5 Digital Prints. |
€ 30.76 |
|
J. Higgins Photos |
Photos Taoiseach 4/5 May 2011 visit to New York |
€ 303.30 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Arvato meeting with Taoiseach 21 Sept 2011. |
€ 560.84 |
|
Bank of Ireland |
19 November 2011 - www.gettyimages.com |
€ 212.96 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photocall TAOISEACH & New SDLP Leader 09/11/2011. |
€ 340.92 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photographer for the Presidential Inauguration 11/11/2011. |
€3,956.70 |
2012
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach signs Book of condolence 20 Dec 2011. |
€ 371.17 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach - Christmas Media Meeting 22 Dec 2011. |
€ 296.75 |
|
The Press Association |
12 January 2012 - Photos of Prime Minister David Cameron with Taoiseach Enda Kenny 10 Downing Street. |
€ 122.01 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
British Irish council 13/01/12 |
€ 531.05 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photos/Taoiseach meeting with Deputy PM Nick Clegg |
€ 377.30 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Blue Star Programmes on 07/02/2012. |
€ 539.36 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
EU Presidency Job winning logo on 02/02/2012. |
€ 687.26 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach & Tánaiste attend 'Progress to date' launch 07/03/2012. |
€ 195.57 |
|
Frank Fennell Photography Ltd |
Launch of the Stability Treaty Website, 19 April 2012. |
€ 409.63 |
|
Frank Fennell Photography Ltd |
Olympic Torch Photocall at Govt Buildings on 06/06/2012. |
€ 268.45 |
|
QiLai |
Photographer for Taoiseach's visit to China 25/28 March 2012 |
2,817.49 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Carers Strategy Launch in the Italian Room on 19th July 2012. |
€ 439.11 |
|
LK Photos |
Taoiseach's visit to US 19-21 March 2012. |
€ 1,774.78 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
NSMC in Farmleigh on 15/06/2012 |
€ 174.24 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
National Day of Commemoration 08/07/2012 |
€ 555.75 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
Olympic Reception at Farmleigh 15/08/2012 -CD of photographs |
€ 330.16 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
Official Photography services for visit of Secretary of State Northern Ireland on 01 Oct 2012. |
€ 87.66 |
|
Michael Hudson Photos |
Taoiseach's Visit to Chicago, 17 March 2012 |
€ 302.35 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
18hrs of photography over 4 days for the JPEGs for Who's Who on the Irish Presidency Website |
€ 3,168.51 |
2013
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Frank Fennell Photography Ltd |
EU Conference of Presidents, Dublin Castle on 31 December 2012 |
€ 116.85 |
|
Frank Fennell Photography Ltd |
Presidency meeting of European Parliament Leaders, Dublin Castle 29th Nov 2012 |
€ 430.51 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography Prints for Convention Inaugural Meeting on 1st Dec 2012. |
€ 1,763.46 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Family photo shot, post production touch up + prints (36copies) for the EU Directors General Informal meeting (13-14/1/2013) |
€ 512.62 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
2 JPEG images of the Taoiseach/Cyprus President Nov 2005 - 28 Jan 2013. |
€ 34.44 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
Eucharistic Congress Reception Dublin Castle 1st July 2012 |
€ 171.01 |
|
Lafayette Photography Ltd |
Visit of Secretary of State Northern Ireland on 01 Oct 2012, 18 images sent to media |
€ 19.43 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Photocall for 40 years in the EU, Art Exhibition, 25 February 2013. |
€ 318.54 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal Justice and Home Affairs meeting, Dublin Castle, 18/01/13 |
€ 1,471.99 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
EU Council President Herman Van Rompuy visit, Dublin Castle, 9/1/2013 |
€ 1,645.47 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal Justice and Home Affairs meeting, session 2, Dublin Castle, 17/1/2013 |
€ 1,449.89 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal EU Affairs meeting, Dublin Castle 21/01/13. |
€ 1,564.62 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal meeting of Employment 8th Feb. 2013 Dublin Castle. |
€ 817.91 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal meeting of Employment 7th Feb. 2013 Dublin Castle. |
€ 1,573.31 |
|
Levon Biss Photography Ltd |
Prints of Taoiseach's Time Magazine cover 26/11/2012 |
€ 111.95 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
31st Dec 2012 for EU Flag Raising Ceremony attended by Taoiseach at Dublin Castle. |
€ 669.09 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Visit of Presidents Barroso & Schulz at Government Buildings on 28/2/2013. - Post Production Fee |
€ 257.43 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal meeting of Defence Ministers 13/2/2013, Dublin Castle. |
€ 817.91 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal meeting of Development & Co-operation Ministers 12/2/2013, Dublin Castle. |
€ 1,559.45 |
|
M M McNally Photographer |
Taoiseach's visit to Downing Street on 11 March 2013. |
€ 335.03 |
|
E Hill Photography |
Taoiseach's visit to Enniskillen, 11 November 2012. |
€ 700.60 |
|
Peter Cavanagh Photography |
Whos Who for Presidency. 27/28 Sept. 2012 & 16 Oct 2012. |
€ 1,600.00 |
|
Magnum Computers |
Photos of Taoiseach's visit to Cleveland, Ohio. October 2012. |
€ 192.41 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Gymnich meeting - 23rd March 2013. |
€ 484.58 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Prints, Presentation Folders, Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of Energy Ministers at Dublin Castle 24 April, 2013 |
€ 1,181.62 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Prints, Presentation Folders, Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of Environment Ministers at Dublin Castle 23 April, 2013 |
€ 1,307.04 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal Meeting of Environment Ministers at Dublin Castle on 22nd April 2013 |
€ 821.57 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Prints, Presentation Folders, Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of Ministers for Trade at Dublin Castle 18 April, 2013 |
€ 1,535.67 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Hunger-Nutrition Conference at Dublin Castle 15 April,2013 |
€ 968.41 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
ECOFIN Ministerial Informal meeting on 13/4/2013 |
€ 1,870.49 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Prints, Presentation Folders, Envelopes relating to Host Photography for Informal Meeting of ECOFIN Ministerial Informal 12 April 2013. |
€ 4,126.55 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Hunger-Nutrition & Climate Change at Dublin Castle on 16th April 2013. |
€ 817.91 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Commission College meeting Dublin Castle on 10 Jan 2013 - Prints & Digital Imaging |
€ 2,042.61 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Health Informal Ministerial Meeting 4th March, Dublin Castle attendance |
€ 276.75 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
EU Presidency Team Group Shot on 01 May 2013. |
€ 302.58 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Health Informal Ministerial Meeting 5th March 2013- Dublin Castle. |
€ 1,134.33 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Gymich meeting 22 March 2013, Photography &Hi Res imaging |
€ 1,570.00 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Ministerial Informal, Agriculture Ministers on 27th & 28th May 2013 |
€ 2,453.74 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Ministerial Informal - Competitiveness [Dept. DJEI] 2 May 2013 |
€ 817.91 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Informal meeting of Competitiveness - Council day on 03 May 2013. |
€ 1,134.34 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Family photos of Presidency team at Government Buildings on 01 May 2013. |
€ 31.38 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Presidency Liaison Officers Photos at Dublin Castle on 27 May 2013. |
€ 162.01 |
|
Marty Katz Photography & James Higgins Photography |
St Patrick's Day Visit, New York - 16-17 March 2013 |
€ 2,235.66 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
North South Ministerial Meeting on 05/07/2013 at Dublin Castle Sundays F.T.P. images to Media outlets |
€ 706.02 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
EU Presidency staff event on 05/07/2013 at Dublin Castle - Upload of images to online gallery |
€ 292.74 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Round table discussion with the Taoiseach and on Online Retailers on 06 Sept 2013. |
€ 292.74 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Taoiseach's meeting with Bill Clinton at Government Buildings - 09/10/2013 |
€ 249.69 |
2014
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Extra copies of prints of the Queen & President Obama's visit, May 2011 ordered for Taoiseach |
€77.18 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography assignment, Taoiseach's Address of the Nation, 15th December 2014 |
€956.94 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography Services for the Convention on the Constitution final plenary meeting 22nd & 23rd February 2014 |
€511.68 |
|
DNP Service |
Taoiseach's visit to Japan, 3-4 December 2013. |
€244.23 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography assignment for the visit of the Spanish PM on the 6th March 2014 |
€519.06 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography assignment for the visit of the German Prime Minister on the 7th March 2014 |
€396.06 |
|
Maria Photography |
Taoiseach's visit to Abu Dhabi & Dubai, January 2014. |
€2695.8 |
|
Dan Hallissey Photography |
Taoiseach's visit to Boston, 16 March 2014. |
€506.77 |
|
Marty Katz Photography |
Photography for Taoiseach Enda Kenny & delegation's trip to Washington DC on 13 & 14 March 2014 |
€1740.64 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Official Photography at State Funeral of the late Albert Reynolds 23rd and 25th Aug 2014 at Mansion House and Donnybrook Church |
€2841.3 |
|
James Higgins Photography |
Photographs of the Taoiseach's visit to New York on 17 March 2014. |
€252.71 |
|
Dowlings Pharmacy |
Passport photos 04 Sep 2014 |
€6 |
|
Boots Chemist |
Photo's for Taoiseach 13 July 2014 |
€2.10 |
|
Getty Images International |
EU, All About Jobs campaign, purchase of iStock photo subscription for 3 months, 7th Oct 2014 |
€207.87 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for North South Ministerial Council on 3rd Oct 2014, Dublin Castle. |
€547.35 |
|
CreativeShot Photography |
United Irish Cultural Center - San Francisco 4 June 2014. |
€753.07 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
EU - Photography of Minister Ged Nash at 2 events in Carlow 26th November 2014 |
€491.14 |
2015
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
EU - 10 Low Resolution images from Minister Ged Nash events in Carlow 26 November 2014 |
€124.85 |
|
Getty Images International |
EU 'All About Jobs campaign' purchase of monthly iStock photo subscription for January 2015 |
€207.87 |
|
Department of Foreign Affairs |
Photographs of the Taoiseach Enda Kenny attending Youth Reception - Irish Consulate New York September 2014 |
€198.68 |
|
Mr John Kingman |
Photography for Taoiseach's visit to New York, 22-24 September 2014. |
€317.89 |
|
Getty Images International |
All About Jobs - purchase of one year iStock subscription for stock photos for All About Jobs section of Merrion St, 25 Feb 2015 |
€1,966.77 |
|
Dowlings Pharmacy |
Dowlings Pharmacy - Passport photos 26 Feb 2015 |
€6.00 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Photography costs for the visit of Mr. Manuel Valls Prime Minister of France to Government Buildings 24 April 2015 |
€160.00 |
|
Mac Innes Photography Ltd |
Photography costs for the visit of Mr. Manuel Valls Prime Minister of France to Government Buildings 24 April 2015 |
€181.50 |
|
Marty Katz Photographer |
St. Patrick's Day 2015. Taoiseach's visit to Washington, DC, USA. 16-17 March 2015. |
€2,459.34 |
|
Allison Shirref Photographer |
Taoiseach's visit to Atlanta, USA, 13 & 14 March 2015. |
€1,112.10 |
|
Lensmen & Associates |
Minister J. Deenihan TD photoshoot with Sonia O'Sullivan on 30 April 2015 at Government Buildings |
€553.50 |
|
Conor McKeown Photographer |
Photographer for US Ambassador's visit to Castlebar - April 2015 |
€120.00 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography costs for Data Protection Event on 2 July 2015 |
€447.72 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography Assignment for State Funeral of Thomas Kent - 18 September 2015 |
€1,475.80 |
|
Fotogioberti Studio |
Taoiseach's photos with PM Renzi, 10 July 2015. |
€488.00 |
2016
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Supply of Jpeg Images of Ceann Comhairle with Queen, taking during her visit to Ireland in 2011 - January 2016 |
€17.22 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for Flag-Raising Ceremony, 1 January 2016 |
€120.52 |
|
Ulster Bank Ireland Ltd |
Photos from National Library for Press Office |
€28 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for Flag-Raising Ceremony, 1 January 2016 |
€524 |
|
Getty Images International |
All About Jobs - purchase of one year iStock subscription for stock photos for All About Jobs section of Merrion St, from 18th February 2016 to 18th February 2017 |
€1966.77 |
|
M. McNally Photographer |
Taoiseach's visit to London, U.K. 9 November 2015. |
€278.47 |
|
AM Photography |
9 September 2015. Taoiseach's visit to Paris, France. |
€250 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for Commemoration Ceremony and Parade and Kilmainham Gaol Wreath-Laying Ceremony, Easter Sunday 27 March 2016 |
€2520 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for Commemoration Ceremony and Parade and Kilmainham Gaol Wreath-Laying Ceremony, Easter Sunday 27 March 2016 |
€579.6 |
|
Irish Gallery of Photography Ltd |
Photograph presentation for State Reception Dublin Castle 27th March 2016 |
€4674 |
|
Lensmen & Assoc |
Photography at Interfaith Ceremony and Unveiling of Remembrance Wall, Glasnevin Cemetery, Sunday 3 April 2016 (1916 Centenary event) |
€430.50 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photographs of new Cabinet at first meeting in Cabinet room, Government Buildings, 11 May 2016, and syndication to daily and Sunday newspapers and online media outlets |
€873.76 |
|
British Irish Council |
Official Photo of the British Irish Council Summit Dublin 2015 |
€782.04 |
|
MacInnes Photography Ltd |
Photography services for Somme Centenary Commemoration Ceremony 9 July 2016 |
€1554.72 |
|
MacInnes Photography Ltd |
Photography services for National Day of Commemorations, 10 July 2016 |
€1554.72 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photography for Visit of VP Biden, 21-26 June 2016 |
€3047.94 |
|
Marty Katz Photographer |
Taoiseach's visit to Washington DC, USA, 14-15 March 2016. St. Patrick's Day Visit. |
€1405.36 |
|
Marty Katz Photography |
Taoiseach's visit to Washington DC. USA. 17-18 May 2016. Ireland 100 at Kennedy Centre. |
€1703.42 |
|
Lensmen & Assoc |
Event Photography for inaugural meeting of Citizens Assembly on 15th October 2016 |
€553.5 |
|
Provision Photographs Ltd |
Photography for Smart Cities Event - 9th December 2016 - Cork |
€170.25 |
|
Maxwell Photography |
Photocall Package for meeting of Citizens Assembly 26th & 27th Nov 2016 |
€854.85 |
ADVERTISING
2010
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Brindley Advertisng Ltd |
National Day of Commemoration |
€3690.55 |
|
FCR Media Ltd |
State Directory entries in phone books |
€7688.34 |
|
Conradh Na Gaeilge |
Information notice in Conradh na Gaeilge |
€200 |
2011
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
President Obama's visit 23/05/2011 |
€79032.31 |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
National Day of Commemoration |
€6533.1 |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
DPP competition advertising on 19/09/2011 |
€8530.19 |
|
Truvo Ireland Ltd |
Advertising in State Directory Section of Phonebook for Year 2011. |
€6766.32 |
|
Conradh na Gaeilge |
Half page advertisement in Conradh na Gaeilge brochure - 4/2/11 |
€200 |
2012
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
Media advertisments for the duration of the Stability Treaty Public Info Campaign - April/May 2012.Print, TV & Radio (national and local) & online advertising |
€528840.70 |
|
Lesley Conroy |
Voice over work for radio, TV and website advertising on the Stability Treaty |
€3129.20 |
|
MM Motion Design |
Provision of Radio & television advertisement for the Stability Treaty information campaign 2012. |
€8364 |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
Advertisement in National - newspapers 21st & 23rd Dec 2012, seeking submissions/comments from the public on the first 2 issues on the Constitutional Convention Agenda |
€16047.76 |
|
FCR Media Ltd |
Advertising in State Directory Section of Phonebook for Year 2013. |
€6191.82 |
2013
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
FCR Media Ltd |
Advertising in State Directory Section of Phonebook for Year 2014. |
€6191.82 |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
EU Presidency |
€51660 |
|
Brindley Advertising Ltd |
Public Consultation on Economic Regulation |
€10276.45 |
2014
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
FCR Media Ltd |
Advertising in State Directory Section of Phonebook for Year 2014/2015 |
€6191.82 |
2015
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
DAA (Dublin Airport Authority) Shared Services |
Home To Work advertising |
€24600 |
|
Mediavest Ireland Ltd |
Home To Work advertising |
€18200.06 |
|
Audrey Elliott |
Home To Work advertising (Knock Airport) |
€615 |
|
FCR Media Ltd |
Advertising in State Directory Section of Phonebook for Year 2015/2016 |
€6191.82 |
|
Mediavest Ireland Ltd |
Data Protection “Data Forum” |
€3379.55 |
|
Mediavest Ireland |
Irish language advertising |
€679.78 |
2016
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Clear Channel Ireland Ltd |
Home To Work advertising – Shannon Airport |
€6150 |
|
DAA (Dublin Airport Authority) Shared Services |
Home To Work advertising |
€1722 |
|
Dawn Recruitment Ltd |
Home To Work advertising – leaflet distribution |
€2516 |
|
WC O’Brien Ltd |
Home To Work advertsing – Cork and Shannon airports |
€3314.2 |
|
Mediavest Ireland Ltd |
Citizens Assembly: Call for Submissions on Eighth Amendment |
€4746.81 |
|
FCR Media Ltd |
Advertising in State Directory Section of Phonebook 2016/2017 |
€5881.86 |
COMMUNICATIONS ADVICE/PUBLIC RELATIONS
2012
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Behaviour & Attitudes |
Constitutional Convention |
€16912.5 |
2013
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Glass Eye Productions |
EU Presidency video |
€801.31 |
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT
2010
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
pTools |
Development of Dept Taoiseach sites |
€27225 |
|
Arekibo Communications |
Development of Merrionstreet.ie |
€26771.25 |
2011
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Arekibo Communications |
Website development Merrionstreet.ie |
€8433.65 |
2012
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Bluebloc |
Development of Stability Treaty site |
€7964.87 |
|
MM Motion Design |
Development of Stability Treaty site |
€4920 |
|
Terminal Four Ltd |
Development of EU Presidency site |
€232406.62 |
2013
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Terminal Four Ltd |
Development of EU Presidency site |
€4367.89 |
2014
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
pTools |
Development of Dept. Taoiseach sites |
€24354 |
|
pTools |
Development of Allaboutjobs section on Merrionstreet.ie |
€4059 |
|
Escher Group (IRL) |
Development of Convention on the Constitution site |
€6150 |
2015
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
pTools |
Development of Dept. Taoiseach sites |
€13530 |
2016
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
pTools |
Development of Citizens' Assembly site |
€22004.70 |
|
pTools |
Development of Dept. Taoiseach sites |
€6765 |
National Economic and Social Development Office (NESDO)
2010 NESC (National Economic & Social Council)
PHOTOGRAPHY
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Tommy Clancy Photography |
NESC |
€477.95 |
ADVERTISING
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
ActiveLink Website |
An event for one of NESDO’s constituent bodies |
€90 |
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Dara Creative |
NESC website |
€19723 |
2015 NESC (National Economic & Social Council)
WEBSITE DEVELOPMENT
|
Company |
Detail |
Amount |
|
Fusio |
NESC Website |
€13671.45 |
82. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Taoiseach the total number of jobs created here in the past five and a half years. [6640/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe exact information requested by the Deputy is not available. The Quarterly National Household Survey (QNHS) is the official source of estimates of employment in the State. The most recent figures available are for Q3 2016.
Table 1a shows the number of persons aged 15 years and over in employment in Q3 of each year from 2010 to 2016.
Table 1b shows the annual change in the numbers of persons aged 15 years and over in employment in Q3 of each year from 2011 to 2016.
As Table 1a shows the overall stock of persons employed at given points in time, the annual changes which are calculated using these stock figures depend both on the number of jobs lost and jobs created over the period in question. The QNHS does not record whether a job is newly created.
Table 1a Persons aged 15 years and over in employment (ILO), Q3 2010- Q3 2016
'000
|
Q3 10 |
Q3 11 |
Q3 12 |
Q3 13 |
Q3 14 |
Q3 15 |
Q3 16 |
|
|
In employment |
1,886.1 |
1,845.6 |
1,841.3 |
1,899.3 |
1,926.9 |
1,983.0 |
2,040.5 |
Table 1b Persons aged 15 years and over in employment (ILO), Q3 2011- Q3 2016 - Annual change
'000
|
Q3 11 |
Q3 12 |
Q3 13 |
Q3 14 |
Q3 15 |
Q3 16 |
|
|
In employment |
-40.4 |
-4.3 |
58.0 |
27.7 |
56.0 |
57.5 |
Data may be subject to sampling or other survey errors, which are greater in respect of smaller values or estimates of change.
Source: Quarterly National Household Survey, Central Statistics Office.
Reference period: Q3=July-September.
83. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Taoiseach if each of the Ministers of State in his Department has appointed a programme manager and policy adviser; the date for each such appointment; and the remuneration and expenses allowance respectively for each. [6860/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere are four Ministers of State assigned to my Department:
Regina Doherty, T.D., Government Chief Whip;
Dara Murphy, T.D., Minister of State for European Affairs, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection;
Paul Kehoe, T.D., Minister of State with responsibility for Defence; and
Joe McHugh, T.D., Minister of State with responsibility for the Diaspora.
The Government Chief Whip has two Special Advisers - one Adviser was appointed with effect from 6th May 2016; and a second Adviser was appointed with effect from 3rd October 2016 due to the expanded role of the Office of the Government Chief Whip in relation to Parliamentary liaison. The salaries of both Advisers are €87,258 and €79,401 per annum respectively and are paid by my Department.
The Minister of State for European Affairs, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection has one Special Adviser (whose appointment will be submitted to Government shortly for approval) with an annual salary of €64,257. This salary is paid by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The Minister of State with responsibility for Defence has two Special Advisers, both appointed with effect from 6th May 2016 and both are paid an annual salary of €79,401 by the Department of Defence.
The Minister of State with responsibility for the Diaspora has no Special Advisers.
With regard to expenses, it should be noted that the normal civil service travel and subsistence provisions apply to Special Advisers.
84. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Taoiseach the total current de facto official population, both residential adult and child inhabitants, in the city of Galway as of 31 December 2016; and the projected population of Galway city for each of the years 2020, 2030, 2040 and 2050. [6870/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe detailed results of the 2016 Census of Population, which are due to be published on 6 April 2017, will include a breakdown of the population by county and age. The most recent data available therefore is based on the 2011 census; these results showed there were 15,821 persons aged 18 or under and a further 59,708 persons aged 19 and over enumerated in Galway city in our Census 2011 results, giving a total of 75,520 persons. Census 2016 Preliminary results showed there were 79,504 persons in Galway city in April 2016.
The Central Statistics Office publishes State and regional population projections for the usually resident population following each Census. The regional projections are a disaggregation of the State totals.
The latest set of regional projections were published in December 2013 and cover the period 2016-2031. The projections are based on assumptions relating to future trends in fertility, mortality and migration. While the exact breakdowns you require are not available, the following table contains projections using the M2F2 assumption for the Western region. The Western region includes Galway City, Galway County, Mayo and Roscommon.
The M2F2 assumption is based on net outward migration combined with a decline in fertility in the Western region for the period 2011-2031.
Under this assumption the population of the Western region is forecast to increase by 15,300 between 2011-2030.
|
Projected usually resident population in the Western region (M2F2) by age group and year |
|||
|
Year |
0 - 17 years |
18 years and over |
Total |
|
2011 |
108,900 |
331,900 |
440,800 |
|
2020 |
114,100 |
335,200 |
449,300 |
|
2030 |
93,700 |
362,400 |
456,100 |
85. Deputy Noel Rock asked the Taoiseach 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. [6888/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department is aware of the NTMA website incident and keeps its security safeguards under constant review. My Department uses industry leading security products to protect all its systems and maintains ongoing contact with the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT-IE) in the National Cyber Security Centre. The CSIRT-IE provide regular guidance and advice relating to current internet security alerts and threats. Prevention and mitigation measures recommended by the CSIRT-IE are reviewed as soon as they are received and, where appropriate in my Department's IT environment, implemented.
86. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will make concerns regarding the potential effect of President Trump's executive order (details supplied) on the privacy of Irish and EU citizens' data known to the US Administration; the steps she will take to ensure that the data privacy of Irish persons is protected notwithstanding the order; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6720/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe position is that the Data Protection Act 1988, as amended by the Data Protection (Amendment) Act 2003, which gives effect to the 1995 EU Data Protection Directive, contains provisions which govern the transfer of personal data to third countries, including the US. Section 11 of the 1988 Act, which gives effect to Chapter 4 (Transfer of Personal Data to Third Countries) of the Directive, generally prohibits such transfers unless the third country concerned ensures an adequate level of data protection. Article 25 of the 1995 Directive provides that the European Commission may, following an examination of the applicable standards and safeguards, adopt a decision to the effect that a third country ensures an adequate level of protection by reason of its domestic law or international commitments that it has entered into. Member States are required to comply with such a decision.
On 12 July 2016, the European Commission adopted Decision (EU) 2016/1250 on the adequacy of the protection provided by the EU-US Privacy Shield. This means that the Privacy Shield's data protection standards and safeguards are recognised as adequate for the purposes of facilitating transfers of personal data to US organisations which have signed up to it. Article 4 of the Decision states that the European Commission will continuously monitor the functioning of the EU-US Privacy Shield with a view to assessing whether the United States continues to ensure an adequate level of protection of personal data transferred thereunder from the EU to organisations in the US. It also provides for an annual review of its operation. The importance of ongoing and continuous monitoring is, therefore, fully recognised and the European Commission is required to report to the member states on any shortcomings or deficiencies that may emerge. Apart from the Privacy Shield, transfers of personal data to the US may take place on the basis of standard contractual clauses approved by the European Commission. The adequacy of protection levels afforded by such clauses is currently the subject of proceedings before the Irish High Court.
87. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the ongoing efforts by her Department to counteract internet bullying in respect of children and young adults outside of an educational environment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [7443/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn September 2016, the Law Reform Commission published its Report on Harmful Communications and Digital Safety. While noting the positive benefits to society of the interconnected digital world in which we live, the report also noted the negative aspects and the emerging trend to engage in online communications that cause significant harm to others. The key recommendations of the report are that:
- The existing offence of sending threatening or indecent messages should be extended to apply to all online communications.
- The offence of harassment should be extended to include all forms of communication, including online or digital communications.
- A specific offence of stalking should be created.
- A new offence should be created of non-consensual distribution of intimate images with intent to cause harm or distress (generally referred to as “revenge pornography”).
- A new offence should be created to address the taking and distribution of intimate images without consent, whether or not there is intent to cause harm or distress.
In December 2016, the Government gave its approval for the drafting of a General Scheme of a Bill which would provide for new and amended criminal offences along the lines set out in that report. This Bill will address the criminal law aspects of the Law Reform Commission’s report. The Commission has proposed extending some existing offences and creating some new criminal offences.
The precise formulation of the offences will be subject to review and potential variation during the drafting of the General Scheme.
By way of providing the public with tools to deal with the ever evolving world of online communications, the Office for Internet Safety in my Department has a booklet aimed at parents and dealing specifically with the issue of cyberbullying. The booklet gives information on such matters as prevention and key advice for children, young people and parents. These information resources are made available free of charge on the Office for Internet Safety website as well as in hard copy on request.
88. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 101 of 24 January 2017, if, as part of the report she has requested from the Garda Commissioner, she has a review of whether any person was convicted of any crime here on the basis of evidence provided by a member of the UK's special demonstrations squad. [6687/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra89. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 101 of 24 January 2017, if, as part of the report she has requested from the Garda Commissioner, she has ordered a review of all operations of members of the UK's special demonstrations squad here since the squad was formed in 1968. [6688/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 88 and 89 together.
When concerns were raised in 2011 with regard to allegations about the conduct of a UK police officer operating undercover in Ireland, my predecessor sought a report from An Garda Síochána. The report from the then Garda Commissioner was received in March 2011 and made it clear that there was no evidence that the individual in question was involved in any criminal activities here. The report also outlined the position in respect of the basis on which co-operation from police services in other jurisdictions might be sought in special circumstances relating to the presence in this State of persons with a record of violence whose identities would be unknown to the Garda Authorities and who might seek to foment or shape violent protest here or to engage in other criminal activities in the State. The report also emphasised the need for confidentiality in respect of any such arrangements that might be put in place.
In the light of developments which have taken place outside this jurisdiction since these matters first came to light, including the establishment in 2015 by the UK Government of an inquiry into undercover policing in England and Wales since 1968 (the Pitchford Inquiry), 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 have been informed by the Garda Authorities that they have met with their counterparts in the London Metropolitan Police Service and will remain in ongoing contact with them in respect of this issue.
As I have stated to the House previously, I will fully consider this report when it is available, including the issue of whether it may be suitable for publication.
My colleague Minister Flanagan met with the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland yesterday and, as part of their wider discussions, raised with him concerns that have been expressed in this House on matters relating to the Pitchford Inquiry. The Secretary of State for Northern Ireland agreed to convey those concerns to the Home Secretary.
90. Deputy Paul Kehoe asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if there are any exceptions to the upper age limit for a person wanting to apply to An Garda Síochána; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6690/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraRecruitment competitions for full time members of An Garda Síochána are open to all who meet the eligibility criteria set out in the Garda Síochána (Admissions and Appointments) Regulations 2013.
Regulation 4 (a) specifies that the age at which a person may apply to join An Garda Síochána as a full time member is not more than 35 years.
This upper age limit of 35 was set having regard to equality legislation and also took into account the following criteria:
(1) the cost of training and the need for recruits to serve for a sufficient period of time as full members of the service to recoup this cost,
(2) the operational requirements of the service in terms of having an age profile appropriate to the physical demands placed on members in the course of their duty.
Regulation 11 allows the Commissioner, with the consent of the Minister, to appoint and enrol a person as a member of An Garda Síochána without regard to the requirements of the 2013 Regulations. However, this exception is rarely used and is limited to where the Commissioner is satisfied that a person has special aptitudes, knowledge, skills or technical qualifications which justify their appointment and enrolment as a member of An Garda Síochána. The person must also be of good character, in good health and of sound constitution and be suited physically and mentally to perform the duties to which they will be assigned.
91. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the status of an application for citizenship by a person (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6697/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the processing of the application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy is ongoing and will be submitted to me for decision as expeditiously as possible.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.
It is recognised that all applicants for citizenship would wish to have a decision on their application without delay. While most cases are now generally processed within six months, the nature of the naturalisation process is such that, for a broad range of reasons, some cases will take longer than others to process. In some instances, completing the necessary checks can take a considerable period of time.
The Deputy may wish to note that queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to INIS by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been established specifically 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.
92. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality the current policy for gardaí when called to domestic incidents by a family member whereby the incident involves a child or young adult with mental health and behavioural issues such as adult ADHD and high anxiety; and the specific training gardaí receive for dealing with such incidents. [6726/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have no direct role in the matters raised by the Deputy which fall under the remit of the Garda Commissioner. I have requested the specific information sought by the Deputy from the Commissioner and I will write to the Deputy on receipt of same.
The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 42A:
I refer to Parliamentary Question No. 92 for answer on 14 February 2017, in which you requested my views on the current policy for Gardaí when called to domestic incidents by a family member whereby the incident involves a child or young adult with mental health and behavioural issues such as adult ADHD and high anxiety; and the specific training Gardaí receive in relation to dealing with such incidents.
As you will recall, the information you requested could not be obtained in the time available, and I undertook to contact you again.
I am informed by An Garda Síochána that the policy of An Garda Síochána on Domestic Violence Intervention 2007 is available on the Garda website (www.garda.ie) and includes guidance for Garda personnel called to an incident of domestic abuse in circumstances involving persons with disabilities. The Policy also provides guidance in circumstances where a child may be a victim of domestic abuse, instructing that, in accordance with the Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children, a notification is sent to Tusla - the Child and Family Agency (formerly the HSE, Children & Families Services).
The Children First Act 2015 was enacted on 19 November 2015 and while, to date, not all Parts of the Act have been commenced, new National Guidance is also being prepared, taking into account the amendments being introduced resulting from this legislation.
When domestic abuse is recorded as having occurred, and which has resulted in a referral from An Garda Síochána to Tusla where a child or young person appears to have mental health or other educational issues, Tusla - the Child and Family Agency - is best placed to work with and ensure that appropriate services are provided to that child and their family.
In 2012, the Independent Monitoring Group, in its Sixth Annual Report on the Implementation of ‘A Vision for Change’, states in respect of Recommendation 15.1.9, a senior Garda should be identified and trained in each Garda division to act as resource and liaison mental health officer.
In this regard, a member of Inspector rank is to be appointed to fulfil this role. Following recent promotions to the rank of Inspector and consequential appointments and transfers, arrangements are being put in place to ensure that each Garda Division has made the relevant appointment, and that arrangements are in place for appropriate training to be provided to such nominated personnel.
As outlined in the Modernisation and Renewal Programme 2016-2021 for An Garda Síochána, Divisional Protective Service Units are to be established in every Garda Division to ensure a consistent approach to domestic abuse and sexual crime, which will be supported by the Garda National Protective Services Bureau.
Divisional Protective Service Units are being rolled-out in two phases, with the establishment ofan initial three Units over a 12-month period. These Divisions are identified as the Dublin Metropolitan Region West; Cork City and the Louth Division. This pilot phase will see the implementation of this initiative on a smaller scale which will inform the bigger roll-out to each Garda Division by assessing and evaluating the pilot areas, by geographical size and population profile. This initiative is being managed by the Detective Chief Superintendent, Garda National Protective Services Bureau with each Divisional Officer in conjunction with the Strategic Transformation Office of An Garda Síochána.
Taking into account, inter alia, developments in legislation; Cosc National Strategies on Domestic, Sexual and Gender-based Violence; the Istanbul Convention and the EU Victims Directive (as well as amendments to other procedures and practices which have been implemented in the intervening period) a review has recently been completed of the policy on domestic abuse intervention which is currently under consideration. Following approval of same, a public-facing document will be prepared to be uploaded onto the Garda website to replace the 2007 Policy document.
I hope this information is of assistance.
93. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will report on the work on recognition of the Traveller community's ethnicity; the expected timeframe for recognition of ethnicity; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6733/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I have indicated previously, the question of recognition of Travellers as an ethnic group in Ireland is being considered in the context of the development of the National Traveller and Roma Inclusion Strategy.
In September 2015, my predecessor brought a paper to the Cabinet Sub-Committee on Social Policy on the question of recognising Travellers as a distinct ethnic group within Irish society. This followed a process of dialogue with the national level Traveller NGOs during 2015 which culminated in the presentation of an agreed position paper by them and confirmation that there are no legal or expenditure implications arising from such recognition. The key point is that recognition of the distinct heritage, culture and identity of Travellers and their special place in Irish society would be hugely important to Traveller pride, to Traveller self-esteem and to overcoming the legacy of marginalisation and discrimination that the community has experienced.
I have had a long standing interest in this area, most notably through my chairing of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Justice, Defence and Equality when it produced its report on the Recognition of Traveller Ethnicity (April 2014). I made a presentation to the Cabinet Committee on Social Policy and Public Service Reform in relation to this issue in December 2016 following which an invitation was extended to Traveller representatives to meet that Cabinet Committee to further these discussions; that latter meeting took place on 06 February 2017 and further engagement at this level is planned. My officials and I are continuing to work to advance this matter.
94. Deputy Ruth Coppinger asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality if she will report on the statistics on domestic violence; her views on whether there is under-reporting of the figures here in view of the figures in Northern Ireland; her further views on whether there is a need to change a culture in An Garda Síochána on the accurate recording of domestic violence; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [6734/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by An Garda Síochána that there is no generally-accepted international standard classification for the recording of incidents concerning domestic violence/abuse, or for the definition of such incidents.
The recording of incidents relating to domestic abuse is being closely monitored by the Garda National Protective Services Bureau to ensure:
- a uniform approach is maintained in the recording and investigation of such incidents
- that records accurately reflect such violence/abuse; and
- that victims receive appropriate supports from members of An Garda Síochána, in the monitoring, managing and investigation of such incidents and from other state and non-governmental organisations within the community.
Since the publication of the Garda Inspectorate Report on Crime Investigation, in November 2014, the Central Statistics Office (CSO) has been providing strong support for measures to improve the quality of crime figures. The CSO is chairing an Expert Group which is considering the Inspectorate’s recommendations on crime statistics, including an examination of the crime counting rules. I understand that the Expert Group is due to provide a report in the coming weeks, which will be published.
Work to address the full range of the Garda Inspectorate’s recommendations, including in relation to data quality is ongoing and is supported by very large investments totalling €330 million from 2016-2021 for Garda technology and systems, including €250 million under the Capital Plan.
Significant work is underway to improve the collection of data relating to the recording of domestic violence. While progress has been made, further incremental improvements will occur over time, resulting in the delivery of far more robust data to support An Garda Síochána in analysing and improving their service to victims of domestic violence.
95. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality her plans for immediate treatment for prisoners who have drug or alcohol problems as a key means of reducing recidivism in view of the fact that two thirds of prisoners have such problems. [6772/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been advised by the Irish Prison Service that any prisoner who enters the custody of the Irish Prison Services while presenting with addiction issues has access to addiction services, and is actively encouraged to engage with those services.
The Irish Prison Service has confirmed that the treatments available are based on the principles of best practice, and are similar to those available in the community setting. This includes access to harm reduction methods, detoxification, stabilisation, and opiate replacement therapies. These interventions are based on a multi-professional approach to ensure that the prisoners motivation, commitment and likelihood of success are always at the centre of planned care.
The Irish Prison Service has advised that the healthcare team which delivers these treatments include, inter alia, GP Specialist Addiction services, Consultant Addiction psychiatrist, specialist addiction nurses, addiction counsellors, addiction links workers, pharmacists, primary care GPs, and prison nurses.
The Irish Prison Service also works very closely with the Probation Service, community, voluntary, and statutory agencies to maintain a pathway of care ensuring supports remain in place for prisoners on their release from custody.
All prisoners have access to group and individual counselling services where they can address their own personal requirements, and specific support arrangements can be put in place and implemented during the prisoners period in custody. The person in custody can also benefit from peer support groups, music therapy, and a nine week psycho-social based programme similar to community residential treatment services, which assists the person in remaining drug free.
The Irish Prison Service, and the Probation Service are considering the recommendations of an independent evaluation of the addiction and drugs services in prisons, and are developing an Action Plan for those services based on the evaluation undertaken. The Action Plan will be informed by the recommendations of best practice from the National Drugs Rehabilitation Implementation Committee, and the National Drugs Strategy which is under review at present.
