Written Answers Nos. 244-267
244. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the situation in Northern Ireland; the efforts being made to restore the Executive; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50377/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs a co-guarantor of the Good Friday Agreement, the Government, working with the British Government, has spared no effort in supporting and facilitating talks on the formation of a new Executive, over many months.
However, devolved power-sharing government can only operate on the basis of an agreement reached between the two largest parties. The other parties represented in the Assembly - which have shown considerable patience - also have a critical role to play.
I am disappointed that, after several phases of negotiations in different formats, we still do not have an agreement to form an Executive. The issues under discussion – particularly those on language and culture – go to the heart of the divisions in society in Northern Ireland and agreement on them was always going to be challenging.
However, I have always believed that it remains possible to reach an agreed outcome which ensures implementation of previous agreements and reflects the core principles of the Good Friday Agreement and power-sharing itself - partnership, equality, and mutual respect. It remains my conviction that this is achievable.
The Government has consistently affirmed our unwavering commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, and determination, as a co-guarantor of the Agreement, to secure the effective operation of all of its institutions.
The Taoiseach and I continue to engage with the British Government and the parties in Northern Ireland to give full effect to that commitment.
245. Deputy Richard Boyd Barrett asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the public contracts between his Department and companies (details supplied) in each of the years 2011 to 2016; the value of each contract; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50402/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department is responsible for two votes - Vote 28 (Foreign Affairs and Trade) and Vote 27 (International Cooperation). The Department commissions external expertise where highly specialised skills are not available within the Department and in particular where ongoing independent evaluation and audit of programmes and projects is required. Professional services provided by external experts has informed, and continues to inform on the Department’s policies, allowing for a more targeted use of resources and greater accountability in the allocation of budgets. ese services are procured by competitive tendering systems in accordance with procurement rules and comply with the overall value for money objective of the Department. The companies referenced in the question were engaged directly by our Missions abroad and provided professional services to the overseas development programme.
|
Year |
Company Name |
Contract Value |
|
2011 |
n/a |
n/a |
|
2012 |
Deloitte & Touche |
€15,600 |
|
2012 |
Deloitte & Touche |
€16,099 |
|
2012 |
KPMG |
€126,852.00 |
|
2013 |
Deloitte & Touche |
€16,970 |
|
2013 |
Ernst & Young |
€25,000.00 |
|
2013 |
KPMG |
€40,646.00 |
|
2013 |
KPMG |
US$24,360 |
|
2014 |
Deloitte & Touche |
€43,105.00 |
|
2015 |
Deloitte & Touche |
€46,000.00 |
|
2015 |
Deloitte & Touche |
€17,970 |
|
2015 |
KPMG |
€49,400.00 |
|
2016 |
KPMG |
€21,920.00 |
246. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a member of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Foreign Affairs and Trade travelled to Azerbaijan in October 2013 to observe the elections there; the name of the person; the capacity in which they travelled; if the person travelled as part of another organisation; if so, the name of the organisation and the reason therefor; if the person subsequently submitted a report on this election; if not, the reason therefor; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50453/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraInternational election monitoring missions play an important role in the promotion of democracy and human rights. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade maintains a roster of election observers for such missions. We aim to ensure that, when requested, Ireland is represented at an appropriate level on international observation missions for elections and constitutional referendums. Irish observers participate primarily in missions organised by the European Union and the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE).
Following a request from the OSCE in 2013 to nominate election observers in respect of the Azerbaijan Presidential Elections, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade circulated the call to members of the Election Roster. Following receipt and consideration of applications, the Department nominated two Long Term Observers and eight Short Term Observers to observe these Elections. These observers travelled in their capacity as members of the election observation roster and while in country operated as part of the OSCE ODIHR election observation mission, as is normal practice for these missions.
None of these ten nominated observers were members of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Houses of the Oireachtas in 2013.
247. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus Trádála cén líon iomlán foirne atá fostaithe ina Roinn faoi láthair; cé mhéid post atá daingnithe nó aitheanta ag an Roinn (i scéim teanga, nó ar aon bhealach eile) mar phoist a bhfuil riachtanas Gaeilge ag baint leo; cé mhéid duine atá ann ag a bhfuil líofacht i nGaeilge agus atá ag feidhmiú sna poist sin atá daingnithe no aitheanta mar phoist a bhfuil riachtanas Gaeilge ag baint leo; an bhfuil sé beartaithe ag an tráth seo aon phost eile de chuid na Roinne a aithint mar phoist a bhfuil riachtanas Gaeilge. [50683/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra248. D'fhiafraigh Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív den Aire Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus Trádála cé mhéid folúntas a líonadh ina Roinn ó thús na bliana seo; cé mhéid de na folúntais sin a bhain le poist a bhí sainaitheanta mar phoist a raibh Gaeilge riachtanach ina leith; cé mhéid folúntas atá le líonadh faoi láthair agus cé mhéid de na folúntais siúd atá sainaitheanta mar fholúntais a bhfuil riachtanas Gaeilge ag baint leo. [50700/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 247 and 248 together.
. Tá Oifigeach Gaeilge ag an Roinn Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus Trádála, mar atá leagtha amach i Scéim Teanga na Roinne. Tá Gaeilge líofa ag an té atá sa phost seo. Rinne mo Roinn ceapacháin anuraidh de bheirt dátheangach feidhmiúil eile dár seirbhísí saoránach bunlíne in Oifigí na bPasanna i gCorcaigh agus Baile Átha Cliath. Maíonn os cionn 80 baill foirne go bhfuil Gaeilge ar a dtoil acu.
Bhí 1,577.6 ball foirne lán-aimseartha coibhéiseacha fostaithe ag an Roinn Gnóthaí Eachtracha agus Trádála ar an 31 Deireadh Fómhair 2017. Tháinig 430 oifigigh san iomlán isteach sa Roinn go dtí seo i 2017. Astu siúd, bhí 273 le rólanna sealadacha agus séasúracha a líonadh, mar shampla sa tSeirbhís Pasanna. Líon an cuid eile dóibh rólanna a d’eascair as daoine ag éirí as, ardaithe céime, baill foirne eile ag fágáil na Roinne agus rólanna nua i líon teoranta d’aonaid. Cé nach raibh an Ghaeilge aitheanta mar riachtanas d’aon chuid de na rólanna a líonadh i 2017 go dtí seo, úsáideann cuid d’ár n-oifigigh an Ghaeilge ar bhonn rialta, go háirithe iad siúd ag obair le saoránaigh Éireannacha thar lear. Moltar d’Oifigigh a gcuid scileanna Gaeilge a fhorbairt, agus tá mo Roinn sásta tacaíocht agus maoiniú a thabhairt ina leith seo. Ó thús na bliana seo, thugamar tacaíocht do 17 oifigigh le tabhairt faoi ranganna seachtracha i gConradh na Gaeilge agus i nGaelchultúr. Chomh maith leis sin, tugadh ceardlanna roimh-postála ag an Oifigeach Gaeilge d’oifigigh sular chuaigh siad ar phostáil chuig ár Mhisin thar lear i mbliana agus eagraíodh roinnt ócáidí le húsáid na Gaeilge sa Roinn a spreagadh.
Ní féidir uimhir a sholáthar don Teachta de líon na folúntais atá sa Roinn faoi láthair. Is féidir liom a rá, áfach, go bhfuil an Roinn ag líonadh rólanna go gníomhach sa chuid is mó de ghráid.
249. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the date and time in May 2015 the then Minister received the email referred to in Leaders' Questions on 21 November 2017. [50414/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra250. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if the email from his Department referred to by the Taoiseach during Leaders' Questions on 21 November 2017 was found on 16 July 2017 by his Department or was sent to the Government from outside a government Department. [50419/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra252. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when and the way in which the attention of the then Minister's personal staff or advisers was drawn to the email from his Department referred to by the Taoiseach during Leaders' Questions on 21 November 2017; and the actions they took in regard to same. [50421/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra253. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the time of the email from his Department referred to by the Taoiseach during Leaders' Questions on 21 November 2017; the person it was addressed to; the persons it was copied to; the location from which it originated; and if the attention of persons in his Department was drawn to the contents of the email previously. [50422/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra254. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the date of the conversation referred to in the email from his Department referred to by the Taoiseach during Leaders' Questions on 21 November 2017. [50423/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 249, 250 and 252 to 254, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy is aware, the relevant series of emails to which he refers have now been published on the website of the Department of Justice and Equality. They have also been disclosed to the Disclosures Tribunal.
This publication contains the relevant information which the Deputy is seeking.
It can be seen there that it was sent by an Assistant Secretary at 16:57 to the Private Secretary of the then Minister, copied to the Secretary General's Office, the then Deputy Secretary and a Principal Officer in the Department. The email originated in the Department and is an account of a telephone conversation between the Assistant Secretary and a senior official in the Office of the Attorney General. The telephone conversation which gave rise to the email of 15 May 2015 took place on the same day, that is 15 May 2015.
The email was subsequently forwarded to the then Minister and her advisors, and her Private Secretary subsequently replied on 25 May 2015 saying it had been noted by the Minister. It was also drawn to the attention of the Secretary General and his private secretary sent a similar reply. All parts of this thread have been published by my Department. There is no record of the email having been subsequently brought to the attention of persons other then those referred to above. The information was uncovered in the course of a trawl of emails in my Department that was undertaken.
251. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the email from his Department referred to by the Taoiseach during Leaders' Questions on 21 November 2017, to which the Government's attention was drawn on 16 July 2017, was not sent to the Disclosures Tribunal until 21 July 2017. [50420/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI assume that the dates of 16 July and 21 July 2017 in the Deputy's question should read 16 and 21 November 2017 respectively.
For the sake of clarity I can confirm that the e-mail to which the Deputy refers was forwarded to the Disclosures Tribunal on 21 November 2017.
The original email of 15 May 2015 was located by officials in my Department on 9 November 2017. I became aware of the existence of the email on 13 November 2017 by way of a telephone call from the Secretary General of my Department. At that stage, my officials were ascertaining if there was any other correspondence or e-mails in or around the time of the May 2015 e-mail to ensure that a full disclosure was made to the Tribunal.
My officials, on 14 November 2017, sought the views of the Attorney General in relation to the discovery of the email to the Tribunal.
A wider check was initiated to ascertain if there was any other relevant correspondence and that search was completed on 16 November.
It was on 16 November that the Tánaiste was informed about the recovery of the email of 15 May 2015.
On 20 November, the Taoiseach was informed about the email.
As already outlined to the Deputy, my Department wrote to the Disclosures Tribunal on 21 November enclosing copies of the relevant emails. The Tribunal last week acknowledged the practical assistance of the Department of Justice to date.
As the Deputy is aware, further e-mails have come to light following a trawl of emails which was completed over the weekend. My Department disclosed these to the Tribunal yesterday, 27 November 2017 and published the full threads on my Department's website.
My statement to the Dáil this evening sets out these issues in greater detail.
255. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the provisions that will be made in view of the refusal of gardaí at Sligo Garda station to operate from the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50462/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra278. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the provisions that will be made in view of the refusal of gardaí to operate from Sligo Garda station to operate from the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50379/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra284. Deputy Marc MacSharry asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason no remedial works have been carried out at Sligo Garda station as committed to by Garda management in October 2016; the timeframe for remedial works to commence and be completed; if these works will be immediately commenced; the process and status of the site acquisition and construction of a new regional Garda station in Sligo in view of previous statements (details supplied); his views on whether following the action of an organisations members on 20 November 2017, there is no functioning regional Garda Headquarters in Sligo or the Border counties. [50625/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 255, 278 and 284 together.
As the Deputies will appreciate, the Office of Public Works (OPW) has primary responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation and works closely with the Garda authorities in this regard. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
It is, of course, a matter of concern when people consider that their working environment does not meet acceptable standards. The Deputies will be aware that the Garda Station Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 includes provision for a new Garda station to be provided in Sligo, together with stations in Macroom and Clonmel, by means of Public Private Partnership and I understand that the OPW is now actively progressing the acquisition of a suitable site in Sligo for the proposed development.
In relation to the current situation at the station, I am assured by the Garda Commissioner that arrangements are in place to ensure that the provision of policing services to the community in Sligo is fully maintained. As part of those arrangements a Public Office, Radio Control Room, and briefing facilities have been established on a temporary basis at another location in close proximity to the station.
The arrangements are reviewed on a daily basis to ensure that the policing service provided to the community of Sligo in terms of service to victims, responses to requests for assistance, high visibility patrols and checkpoints, etc., continues as normal.
I understand that Garda management engaged in lengthy discussions with the representatives of the GRA on Friday 17 November 2017 and set out a comprehensive set of written proposals with the objective of accelerating facility and remedial works at the station and making them a time-bound priority. The proposals focus on the refurbishment of the station and the improvement of services and amenities for the benefit of all the station party. In addition, the OPW has recently tendered for the provision of a new male and female two-storey locker facility to be in place by the end of April 2018. Planning permission for this has been secured and the tender documents are to be returned to the OPW by 6 December, 2017.
I also understand that Garda management has proposed the establishment of a working group, broadly representative of the station party and under the direction of the local Chief Superintendent, to drive consultation process and to address the issues of concern. I would encourage this dialogue in the interests of resolving those issues.
The Deputy will be aware that the GRA has engaged an external Consulting Engineer who has prepared a report in respect of the station. An Garda Síochána has requested the OPW, as the property owners and building agents of An Garda Síochána, to review that report and to advise on the suggested health and safety and fire safety breaches therein and any remedial actions that can be taken to address any breaches arising.
The OPW has advised that the station, having being built and refurbished prior to the introduction of the Building Regulations (1992), is deemed to be exempt from the Regulations and the requirement to obtain a Fire Certificate. However, the provisions of the Fire Services Acts of 1981 and 2003 are relevant to the station.
The Acting Chief Fire Officer in Sligo has advised that, following a fire safety inspection conducted on 25 November 2017, he is satisfied that Garda management are fulfilling their obligations under Section 18 (2) of the Fire Services Acts as far as is reasonably practicable and that, from a fire safety perspective, it is safe for personnel of An Garda Síochána to occupy the premises.
Further, on Monday 27 November 2017, two inspectors from the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) visited the station and identified some necessary improvement works of a relatively minor nature. Based on their observations and assurances given in relation to planned improvements that are to be made, the HSA advised that it would have no concerns about members of An Garda Síochána using the station as a place of work.
The OPW considers that, while the building requires some upgrade works in order to bring it completely in line with current regulations, it is safe and fit for occupation. These upgrade works were included in proposed scheme of works that were submitted to An Garda Síochána for consideration and approval (and referred to in the proposals made by Garda management to the GRA at the meeting on 17 November 2017).
256. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to reallocate resources to Ballymore Eustace Garda station in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49917/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that the Garda Commissioner is primarily responsible for the effective and efficient use of the resources available to An Garda Síochána, including responsibility for the formulation of proposals in relation to the opening and closing of Garda stations. As Minister, I have no role in the matter.
Indeed, this was the basis on which the Garda District and Station Rationalisation Programme was developed and implemented, resulting in the closure of some 139 Garda stations, including Ballymore Eustace Garda station. I am informed by the Garda authorities that the closures have allowed front line Garda to be managed and deployed with greater mobility, greater flexibility and in a more focused fashion particularly with regard to various targeted police operations.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations, both urban and rural, to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order.
The Garda Commissioner has recently submitted his final report in relation to this matter. The report recommends that stations at Ballinspittle, Co. Cork; Bawnboy, Co. Cavan; Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow; Donard, Co. Wicklow; together with Rush and Stepaside, Co. Dublin, be reopened on a pilot basis.
I understand that the Commissioner has written to the Office of Public Works to progress the matter.
It is my intention to bring the report before Government shortly.
257. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of Garda numbers by station in County Kildare. [49919/17]
Amharc ar fhreagra258. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of Garda numbers by station in County Laois. [49920/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 257 and 258 together.
As the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.
I am informed by the Commissioner that on the 30 September 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the strength of the Laois/Offaly and Kildare Division was 324 and 341 respectively. There are also 17 Garda Reserves and 25 civilians attached to the Laois/Offaly Division and there are 20 Garda Reserves and 29 civilians attached to the Kildare Division. When appropriate, the work of local Gardaí is supported by a number of Garda national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Armed Response Unit, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.
I am further informed by the Commissioner that since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, close to 1,400 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide, 66 and 72 of whom have been assigned to the Laois/Offaly and Kildare Division respectively. In addition, another 200 trainee Garda are scheduled to attest next month which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - an increase of 500 since the end of 2016.
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. The substantial increase in Garda numbers is tangible progress on achieving this Government’s vision of an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians.
I am pleased to say that Budget 2018 will support the continuation of this high level of investment in the Garda workforce and ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. A further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College, an additional 500 civilians will also be recruited to fill critical skills gaps across the organisation and to facilitate the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative and technical duties to front-line operational duties. There are plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve with new Reserves expected to commence training early in 2018.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division, including the Laois/Offaly Division and Kildare Division, in the coming years.
The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the strength of An Garda Síochána by county is not readily available in respect of An Garda Síochána as Gardaí are assigned on the basis of Divisions which do not necessarily accord with county boundaries. The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the number of Gardaí by station in the Laois/Offaly and Kildare Divisions as provided by the Commissioner is as set out in the tables attached as of 30 September 2017, the latest date for which figures are readily available.
|
STRENGTH OF THE KILDARE DIVISION 30 SEPTEMBER 2017 |
||
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
KILDARE |
ATHY |
31 |
|
CASTLEDERMOT |
4 |
|
|
KILDARE |
34 |
|
|
MONASTEREVIN |
5 |
|
|
NEWBRIDGE |
46 |
|
|
RATHANGAN |
3 |
|
|
TOTAL |
123 |
|
|
LEIXLIP |
CARBURY |
7 |
|
CELBRIDGE |
9 |
|
|
KILCOCK |
10 |
|
|
LEIXLIP |
60 |
|
|
MAYNOOTH |
12 |
|
|
TOTAL |
98 |
|
|
NAAS |
CLANE |
7 |
|
KILCULLEN |
2 |
|
|
NAAS |
109 |
|
|
ROBERTSTOWN |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
120 |
|
|
KILDARE TOTAL |
341 |
|
STRENGTH OF THE LAOIS / OFFALY DIVISION ON 30 SEPTEMBER 2017 |
||
|
DISTRICT |
STATION |
TOTAL |
|
BIRR |
BANAGHER |
5 |
|
BIRR |
32 |
|
|
CLOGHAN |
1 |
|
|
FERBANE |
3 |
|
|
KILCORMAC |
2 |
|
|
KINNITTY |
1 |
|
|
SHINRONE |
1 |
|
|
TOTAL |
45 |
|
|
PORTLAOISE |
ABBEYLEIX |
21 |
|
ARLES |
1 |
|
|
BALLYLINAN |
2 |
|
|
BORRIS-IN-OSSORY |
1 |
|
|
CLONASLEE |
1 |
|
|
DURROW |
1 |
|
|
MOUNTMELLICK |
5 |
|
|
MOUNTRATH |
3 |
|
|
PORTARLINGTON |
14 |
|
|
PORTLAOISE |
131 |
|
|
RATHDOWNEY |
2 |
|
|
STRADBALLY |
2 |
|
|
TOTAL |
184 |
|
|
TULLAMORE |
CLARA |
5 |
|
DAINGEAN |
2 |
|
|
EDENDERRY |
13 |
|
|
RHODE |
1 |
|
|
TULLAMORE |
74 |
|
|
TOTAL |
95 |
|
|
LAOIS / OFFALY TOTAL |
324 |
259. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the details of Garda numbers by county; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49921/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources. I am informed by the Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. It is the responsibility of the Divisional Officer to allocate personnel within his/her Division.
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. The substantial increase in Garda numbers is tangible progress on achieving this Government’s vision of an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians.
I am informed by the Commissioner that on 30 September 2017, the latest date for which figures are currently available, the strength of An Garda Síochána was 13,412 members.
I am further informed by the Commissioner that since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, close to 1,400 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. In addition, another 200 trainee Garda are scheduled to attest next month which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increase to around the 13,500 mark by year end - increase of 500 since the end of 2016.
I am pleased to say that Budget 2018 will support the continuation of this high level of investment in the Garda workforce and ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. A further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College, an additional 500 civilians will also be recruited to fill critical skills gaps across the organisation and to facilitate the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative and technical duties to front-line operational duties. There are plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve with new Reserves expected to commence training early in 2018.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Garda Division in the coming years.
The information requested by the Deputy in relation to the strength of An Garda Síochána by county is not readily available in respect of An Garda Síochána as Gardaí are assigned on the basis of Divisions which do not necessarily accord to county boundaries. The Garda strength by Division as advised by the Commissioner is as set out in the attached spreadsheet as of the 30 September 2017 (that latest date for which figures are currently available).
Garda Strength by Division as of 30 September 2017
|
Garda Strength by Division as of 30 September 2017 |
|
|
DIVISION |
Total |
|
CAVAN / MONAGHAN |
321 |
|
CLARE |
305 |
|
CORK CITY |
658 |
|
CORK NORTH |
312 |
|
CORK WEST |
287 |
|
D.M.R. EAST |
373 |
|
D.M.R. NORTH |
654 |
|
D.M.R. NORTH CENTRAL |
598 |
|
D.M.R. SOUTH |
526 |
|
D.M.R. SOUTH CENTRAL |
605 |
|
D.M.R. WEST |
652 |
|
DONEGAL |
389 |
|
GALWAY |
570 |
|
KERRY |
312 |
|
KILDARE |
341 |
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW |
318 |
|
LAOIS / OFFALY |
324 |
|
LIMERICK |
554 |
|
LOUTH |
305 |
|
MAYO |
315 |
|
MEATH |
293 |
|
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD |
305 |
|
SLIGO / LEITRIM |
297 |
|
TIPPERARY |
372 |
|
WATERFORD |
285 |
|
WESTMEATH |
267 |
|
WEXFORD |
276 |
|
WICKLOW |
297 |
260. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of vacancies in each State board under the aegis of his Department, in tabular form. [49940/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs requested by the Deputy please find below in tabular form vacancies on each State board under my Department's remit.
|
Name of Board |
Number of vacancies |
|
Valuation Tribunal |
3 |
|
Classification of Films Appeal Board |
2 |
|
Censorship of Publications Appeal Board |
5 |
|
Judicial Appointments Advisory Board |
1 |
|
Courts Service Board |
3 |
|
Legal Aid Board |
1 |
|
Garda Síochána Ombudsman Commission |
1 |
|
Policing Authority |
1 |
|
Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission |
7 |
261. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the process by which a chairperson and members of the group that will examine the scope of the updated research on sexual abuse and violence here will be appointed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49968/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe terms of reference and membership of a scoping group to consider the availability of data and make recommendations on a study to identify the prevalence of sexual abuse and violence in Ireland today and emerging trends was considered by the Cabinet Committee on Social Policy at a meeting on 16 November. Ms Dorothy Watson, Associate Research Professor, Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) and adjunct Professor of Sociology at Trinity College Dublin has accepted an invitation to Chair the Group. Professor Brendan Whelan, expert in survey methods and ex-Director of the ESRI has also accepted an invitation to join the group. A tender process is in train to secure the membership of two academics with appropriate expertise in qualitative and quantitative data gathering in respect of sexual abuse and violence. Invitations have issued to the following organisations to nominate a senior official to the group:
-Department of Health
-Department of Children and Youth Affairs
-Tusla
-Central Statistics Office
My Department will also be represented on the group.
The group will consult with key external groups and organisations as appropriate.
Once the final membership of the group is available its membership and terms of reference will be published.
262. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the names of persons he has appointed to each State board under the aegis of his Department that have not come from the Public Appointments Service list of suitable candidates, in tabular form. [50002/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe question is being read to cover the period subsequent to my appointment on 14th June 2017.
The information requested by the Deputy in relation to persons appointed to State boards under my Department's remit that have not come through the Public Appointments Service list of suitable candidates is laid out below.
|
Name of Board |
Name of person appointed and position on board |
Where was appointment made from |
|
Private Security Authority |
Mr Noel Lappin Discretionary non defined appointee |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Ms Geraldine Kelly Practising legal professional of not less than 5 years standing |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Assistant Commissioner John O'Driscoll Representative of An Garda Síochána |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Mr John Garry Representative of the Department of Justice and Equality |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Mr Bryan Redmond Representative of the Department of Education and Skills |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Ms Siobhan Carew Staff representative of the Authority elected by secret ballot of the staff of the Authority |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended |
The following revised reply was received on 16 January 2017
I wish to clarify the information provided concerning Mr. John Garry, Mr. Bryan Redmond and Ms Siobhan Carew. These three named individuals were not reappointments as originally stated in the answer to this question but instead were in fact appointed for the first time by me as correctly described in the table below.
|
Name of Board |
Name of person appointed and position on board |
Where was appointment made from |
|
Private Security Authority |
Mr Noel Lappin Chairperson Discretionary non defined appointee |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(1) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Ms Geraldine Kelly Practising legal professional of not less than 5 years standing |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(2)(a) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Assistant Commissioner John O'Driscoll Representative of An Garda Síochána |
Reappointed for 2nd term. Appointed under Section 7(2)(d) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Mr John Garry Representative of the Department of Justice and Equality |
Appointed under Section 7(2)(e) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Mr Bryan Redmond Representative of the Department of Education and Skills |
Appointed under Section 7(2)(f) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended) |
|
Private Security Authority |
Ms Siobhan Carew Staff representative of the Authority elected by secret ballot of the staff of the Authority |
Appointed under Section 7(2)(g) Private Security Services Act 2004 (as amended |
263. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number of the McMahon report recommendations that have been fully implemented, partially implemented and that have yet to be implemented respectively. [50013/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Report of the Working Group to Report to Government on Improvements to the Protection Process, including Direct Provision and Supports to Asylum Seekers, also known as the Justice McMahon report, was published in June 2015. Its recommendations have implications for a number of Government Departments and services.
My Department has since published three progress reports on the implementation of its 173 recommendations; the first in June 2016, the second in February of this year and a third and final report in July of this year. All three reports are available to view on my Department's website www.justice.ie .
The final progress report shows that 133 recommendations have been reported as fully implemented and a further 36 are in progress or partially implemented. This represents a 98% full or partial implementation rate.
On 21 November 2017, the Government approved an opt into the EU (Recast) Reception Conditions Directive (2013/33/EU). The Directive provides a framework that will enable international protection applicants to access the work-force in circumstances where their application for international protection status has not received a first instance decision within the timeframe set by the Directive. By opting into the Directive, another important recommendation of the Justice McMahon report will be implemented, which will also bring us into line with the European Union norm.
264. Deputy Gerry Adams asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a memo has been brought to Cabinet on the Supreme Court decision on the right of those in direct provision to work; if he will publish the memo; and the decisions that were taken as a result of this decision. [50014/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Supreme Court judgment in the case of N.V.H. v. The Minister for Justice and Equality found, on 30 May last, that in an international protection system with no temporal limits as to when the application process will be concluded, an absolute prohibition on the right to work for international protection applicants is contrary to the right to seek employment under the Constitution. The Court recognised that this is a matter for the Executive and Legislature to consider and accordingly has adjourned consideration of the Order the Court should make for a period of six months.
I want to clarify something in the Deputy's question. This ruling applies to all those in the protection process whether they are relying on State accommodation and services or not.
Following the approval of Government, I established an Inter-Departmental Taskforce in July to examine the wide-ranging implications of the judgment, and to consider appropriate solutions. The Taskforce was comprised of representatives from nine Government Department, along with the Office of the Attorney General.
On 21 November 2017, the Government approved the recommendations of the Taskforce, including the key recommendation that the State should respond to the judgment by opting-in to the EU (Recast) Reception Conditions Directive (2013/33/EU).
I will move the required Motions to seek approval in the Houses of the Oireachtas for our participation in the Directive at the earliest opportunity. Following the approval of both Houses, the opt in procedure with the formal notifications to the European Council and the European Commission will commence. The European Commission then has four months from receipt of this letter to confirm our participation. During these four months, the State will be required to demonstrate to the Commission how it is compliant with each Article in the Directive.
The EU Directive provides, inter-alia, that international protection applicants shall have access to the labour market no later than nine months from the date the application for international protection was lodged, if a first instance decision has not been taken and if the delay cannot be attributed to the applicant.
The Government has established an Implementation Group to oversee the opt-in procedure and the practical arrangements for facilitating access to the labour market for eligible applicants. The Group will be drawn from the membership of the Taskforce, supplemented by the participation of relevant operational areas in my own Department and in other Departments as required.
The Deputy will be aware that the principle of Cabinet confidentiality applies to all Memoranda for Government.
265. Deputy Michael Harty asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his views on whether many fire service Halloween callouts are prompted by anti-social behaviour and that attacks on fire service personnel are deplorable; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50019/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am, of course, concerned about any attacks against members of fire personnel, and can assure the Deputy that I utterly condemn all attacks on our emergency services personnel. Such acts represent a blatant disregard for the safety of the brave men and women who work in our emergency services, who risk their lives every day in the service of the people of our State.
The Deputy will appreciate that the fire services do not come within my remit, however, I am assured that An Garda Síochána provide every appropriate assistance to emergency service personnel when they are requested to do so. Particular liaison is maintained with fire services and local authorities in the run up to Halloween and on Halloween night itself in the context of overall policing plans to respond to issues of public safety and anti-social behaviour which can arise during this period.
Furthermore, I can advise the Deputy that there is specific legislation in place to deal with attacks on emergency workers in front-line positions, including fire service personnel.
The Criminal Justice (Public Order) Act 1994, as amended by the Criminal Justice Act 2006, provides explicit statutory protection for what are termed “peace officers”, which include members of the Garda Síochána, prison officers, members of the fire brigade, ambulance personnel and members of the Defence Forces. The Act also covers those working in medical services in hospitals, including doctors, nurses, psychiatrists and others involved in the provision of treatment and care. Section 19 of the 1994 Act provides that any person who assaults or threatens to assault any of these front-line workers is guilty of an offence and is liable on summary conviction to a fine of up to €5,000 or a term of imprisonment of up to 12 months or both, or on conviction on indictment to a fine or imprisonment for a term of up to 7 years or both. The maximum sentence was increased from 5 years to 7 years under the 2006 Act.
It is also an offence under the 1994 Act, as amended, to resist, wilfully obstruct or impede a peace officer, or medical staff in a hospital, in the course of carrying out their work. The penalty on summary conviction for such an offence is a fine of up to €2,500 or imprisonment for a term of up to 6 months or both.
In addition, in the case of assault causing serious harm, an offender can be prosecuted under the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act 1997 which deals comprehensively with a wide range of assault provisions, the more serious of which carry heavy penalties. That Act provides for penalties of up to 5 years in prison for an offence of assault causing harm and for a penalty of life imprisonment for an offence of causing serious harm. This general law relating to assault has application to all citizens, including front-line emergency workers such as fire service personnel.
As already outlined, the law recognises the need to protect members of the emergency services carrying out their duties and provides strong penalties where offences against front-line workers are committed.
266. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans to introduce measures to allow family members join refugees and asylum seekers here; the public policy implications of such measures; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [50026/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 14 November last, together with my colleague, the Minister of State with special responsibility for Equality, Immigration and Integration, David Stanton T.D., I announced a new scheme of family reunification in support of refugees and their families, as part of the Government’s commitments under the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP). The new Family Reunification Humanitarian Admission Programme (FRHAP) will see up to 530 immediate family members of refugees from established conflict zones come to Ireland as part of our overall commitment to accept 4,000 persons under the IRPP.
I will operate this humanitarian admission programme under my Ministerial discretionary powers and it will be in addition to the family reunification provisions provided for in the International Protection Act 2015. To allow the maximum number of families to benefit from the scheme sponsors will be asked to prioritise a small number of family members for admission. I am conscious that the measure is being introduced at a time when our national housing supply is under strain. To minimise the impact of the programme, priority may be given to sponsors who can meet the accommodation requirements of eligible family members.
Additional details on the operation of the programme will be announced on the websites of the Department of Justice and Equality (www.justice.ie) and the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (www.inis.gov.ie) in the coming weeks following consultations with UNHCR.
267. Deputy Stephen S. Donnelly asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he has used a private email account to send or receive official documents or positions on Brexit; and if so, the details of this correspondence. [50063/17]
Amharc ar fhreagraI can confirm that I have never used my private e-mail account to send or receive any official documents on Brexit.
