Written Answers Nos. 11-36
11. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the recent meeting of the EU Foreign Affairs Council; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11077/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI attended the meeting of the Foreign Affairs Council on 26 February. The Council discussed developments in Moldova, the situation in Venezuela and the Middle East Peace Process.EU Foreign Ministers had a comprehensive discussion on Moldova and adopted Council Conclusions taking stock of the reform process and setting out expectations for the period ahead. Ministers also discussed developments in Venezuela, expressing deep concern at the deteriorating humanitarian, economic, political and social situation. During the discussion on the Middle East Peace Process, I updated my EU counterparts on my recent meetings in Washington with US Secretary of State Tillerson and Jared Kushner. I urged that the EU play a strong and proactive role in any new peace initiative and encouraged the Palestinians and other regional interlocutors to engage constructively on this. EU Ministers met over lunch with Foreign Ministers from Palestine, Jordan, Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Kuwait and the United Arab Emirates, and the discussion focussed on the Middle East Peace Process.
12. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will provide an update on the Rohingya; the efforts being made by the EU and the international community to address the humanitarian crisis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11078/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the months since military security operations began in Rakhine State, Myanmar in August 2017, more than 680,000 refugees, mostly Rohingya have fled to Bangladesh. Most of these people have settled in refugee camps that have existed in the region since the early 1990s where conditions are precarious and ongoing international efforts will be required to sustain those living in the camps. An estimated 120,000 Rohingya remain in Northern Rakhine and humanitarian access there has been heavily restricted.
The exodus of refugees has been accompanied by credible claims of serious human rights violations by the Myanmar Security Forces. These include reports of killing of civilians, sexual and gender based violence, arbitrary arrests, and the burning of Rohingya villages. Recent allegations of the existence of mass graves within Rakhine State have also emerged, which is deeply concerning.
As access to the region remains restricted, independent confirmation of these reports remains challenging but they absolutely reinforce the need for the Myanmar authorities to heed the calls by the international community for access to the area by humanitarian workers and the media in order to assess and verify what has occurred in the region especially since last August.
It also reinforces the importance of the role being played by the U.N. special envoy on human rights in Myanmar, Yanghee Lee, who has said that the military's operations against the Rohingya bear "the hallmarks of a genocide".
There has been widespread international condemnation of the actions of the Myanmar Security Forces in Rakhine State and the international community is continuing to press for a positive and long-term solution to the situation in Rakhine State, including for the Rohingya community, and for the large number of refugees who are now situated in Bangladesh. For our part, Ireland has sought to deploy political pressure with the aim of easing the crisis through bilateral contacts in Myanmar and via participation in the EU and UN.
Recently, Ireland was an active participant in the formulation of new EU Council Conclusions on Myanmar adopted by the EU Foreign Affairs Council on 26 February. These conclusions condemn the human rights violations in Myanmar, and call for the implementation of the findings of the Advisory Commission on Rakhine State. The conclusions also call for the voluntary, safe and dignified return of refugees to Myanmar. The new Council conclusions invite High Representative/Vice-President Mogherini to make proposals for targeted restrictive measures against senior military officers of the Myanmar armed forces responsible for serious human rights violations. I would like to express my support of these conclusions and hope that the forthcoming proposals will send a clear message to those in military control in Myanmar.
At the UN, the 37th Session of the UN Human Rights Council is currently ongoing in Geneva where the situation in Myanmar is one of the main topics of discussion. The Council will receive an update from UN Special Rapporteur to Myanmar Yanghee Lee as well as the UN mandated independent international fact-finding mission. Minister of State Cannon addressed the Council on 27th February and outlined Ireland’s ongoing concerns in the matter.
Ireland and the international community are also continuing to support the humanitarian response to the refugee crisis. In October 2017, the EU hosted a Pledging Conference on the Rohingya Refugee Crisis in Geneva where Ireland pledged €2 million in direct support. We provided €1 million 2017, and an additional €1 million has been allocated for 2018. In addition, Ireland’s Rapid Response Corps have provided humanitarian expertise to the international response.
My Department will continue to liaise closely with EU and other international partners to contribute to the international response to this issue including through our Embassy in Thailand who are closely monitoring the situation.
13. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on the recent kidnappings of a number of school girls by Boko Haram; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11079/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe brutal activities of Boko Haram have resulted in thousands of deaths and the displacement of millions more. They also involve the clear and persistent abuse of human rights, especially of women and girls. These acts undermine, as is the perpetrator’s intention, the peace, stability, and prosperity of Nigeria and its neighbouring countries.
I reiterate the Government’s deep concern regarding Boko Haram’s practice of kidnapping women and girls, including the 200 girls known as the ‘Chibok girls’, kidnapped in Borno State in 2014. Around 50 of these girls are believed to remain in Boko Haram custody.
The risk of abduction in the north-east of Nigeria remains high, as the reports that over 100 girls were kidnapped last month from a Girls Science and Technical School in Dapchi, Yobe State. I unreservedly condemn this act.
The safe release of the kidnapped girls and their early return to their communities, and to education, must be a priority.
Ireland, with our EU partners, continues to support the Nigerian Government in its efforts against Boko Haram, and reiterates the need for a regional approach to ensuring that those in captivity are released, and to prevent future occurrences. The EU has pledged up to €50 million in support Nigeria and neighbouring countries.
The Embassy of Ireland in Abuja closely monitors the situation on the ground, and works with national and international partners in Nigeria in the coordination of support.
14. Deputy Darragh O'Brien asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will report on recent meetings held by the Government's special envoy to the United States of America; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11080/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government continues to seek a solution to the plight of thousands of undocumented Irish citizens living in the US and avails of all opportunities to raise US immigration reform and the status of the undocumented Irish with the US administration and with contacts on Capitol Hill. The appointment by the Taoiseach of Deputy John Deasy as the Government’s Special Envoy to Congress on the Undocumented underlined the Government’s commitment to achieving a solution for the undocumented Irish in the US.
Since Deputy Deasy’s appointment, officials based at our Embassy in Washington, D.C., have been working closely with him, and they also remain in regular contact with Ireland’s contacts in the Administration and on Capitol Hill.
Deputy Deasy has visited Washington, D.C., on six separate occasions in his capacity as Special Envoy and he has in the course of those visits met with representatives of the US Administration and members of Congress. Most recently, he was in Washington, D.C., between 5-9 February and he will next visit over the St. Patrick’s Day period.
In addition to Deputy Deasy’s ongoing work, the forthcoming Ministerial visits to the United States over the St. Patrick’s Day period will provide an important opportunity to raise the issue with key stakeholders across the United States, including in Washington, D.C. I can assure the Deputy that Deputy Deasy, working with officials of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, will, under my direction, continue to give priority to this issue, mindful of its importance to the thousands of undocumented and to their families in Ireland.
15. Deputy Bobby Aylward asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the formal engagements with the New Zealand Minister for Foreign Affairs, Mr. Winston Peters, that have taken place recently; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11496/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am glad to report that Ireland-New Zealand bilateral relations have never been closer, and that 2017 saw an unprecedented amount of high-level contact between our two countries, culminating in the very successful State Visit there by President Higgins last October. I am pleased to confirm that Ireland will open a resident diplomatic mission in Wellington, New Zealand in the coming months, and that New Zealand also plans to open an Embassy in Dublin in the near future. These decisions reflect the strong and friendly links between our states. In the interim, our Embassy in Australia is also accredited to New Zealand.
Mr. Winston Peters assumed the position of New Zealand Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs late last October and the Irish Ambassador attended a reception hosted by him in early February, on the eve of New Zealand’s Waitangi Day celebrations. The Ambassador also had the opportunity to speak briefly to Ms. Jacinda Ardern, the Prime Minister of New Zealand, on that occasion.
16. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he has spoken to Mr. Barnier since the draft withdrawal agreement; and his views on his comments on Brexit transition being far from a sure thing. [11333/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI and my officials are in ongoing contact with Michel Barnier and his team on the Irish-specific issues and on the draft Withdrawal Agreement. I met with Mr Barnier on a number of occasions since taking office, most recently in Brussels on 26 February, in advance of the General Affairs Council (Article 50) on 27 February. Mr Barnier gave me an overview of the draft Withdrawal Agreement, which was published two days later, on 28 February. We spoke in detail about the draft protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland, which is an integral part of the proposed withdrawal agreement. The draft protocol gives legal effect to the commitments agreed in December’s EU-UK Progress Report on avoiding a hard border and protecting the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts. It also includes elements on rights and on the Common Travel Area. Since they were agreed in December, we have been working closely with the Task Force to ensure that commitments and guarantees provided by the UK are reflected faithfully in draft Withdrawal Agreement. I took the opportunity to express our satisfaction to Mr Barnier with how this process was managed.
I also reiterated to Mr Barnier, the Government’s preference to resolve the Irish-specific issues through the wider future relationship agreement between the EU and the UK. We agreed that while both Ireland and the EU stand ready to consider proposals from the UK on specific solutions, it is necessary to have legal certainty on the backstop as part of the Withdrawal Agreement. This is a default and will only be triggered if the commitments made by the UK in phase one cannot be delivered through the wider future relationship agreement or specific solutions.
The draft Withdrawal Agreement also sets out the legal terms of the transition period, which will be hugely important for Ireland in giving certainty to individuals and businesses. We welcome that the EU has proposed that the whole of the EU acquis will apply during the transition, which means that the status quo will be preserved with the aim of avoiding any gaps or cliff edge effects between the UK leaving the EU and when a future relationship agreement enters into force.
Michel Barnier’s comment on the transition period reflects that fact that the negotiations between the EU and the UK on the transition period, which is an integral part of the draft Withdrawal Agreement, are progressing but have yet to be completed. I welcome that these discussions are proceeding at pace. The EU Task Force will provide an update on progress to the Member States following the latest round of negotiations, which conclude this week.
The European Council was clear in December that negotiations in phase two, which includes transitional arrangements, can only progress as long as all commitments undertaken in phase one are respected in full and translated faithfully into legal terms. As transitional arrangements are an integral part of the Withdrawal Agreement, agreement on transition will depend on agreement on the entire Withdrawal Agreement, including on the Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland. The aim is to conclude the withdrawal agreement by October and this is why it is important the UK engages positively with the Commission’s draft in the coming weeks and months. However, I am hopeful that the European Council in March will be in a position to register good progress on agreeing the fundamental elements of the transitional arrangements as proposed by the EU.
17. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which information is available in respect of links between major financial investment corporations or banking institutions with national or international aid agencies; if the agencies involved have been audited in recent times; if such links might indicate a conflict of interest; if there are other implications in the context of aid for trade; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11570/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra18. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which major private contributors to international aid organisations have secured an understanding for a quid pro quo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11571/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 17 and 18 together.
There is a global recognition that greater volumes of finance are needed to eradicate poverty and to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. This finance can come from many sources, including governments, international development NGOs, multilateral bodies, international finance institutions, philanthropists, and the private sector.
Regardless of the source, the Government position is that funding for international development should be transparent and used to improve the delivery of development results for the eradication of poverty. The OECD Development Assistance Committee, of which Ireland is an active member, has strict criteria for what can be counted as official development aid.
Ireland is a member of the International Aid Transparency Initiative (IATI) – a multi-stakeholder initiative that seeks to improve the transparency of aid, development and humanitarian resources in order to increase their effectiveness in tackling poverty. IATI publishes information on the financial flows of over 650 organisations, including international aid agencies, and as such is an important tool in mitigating potential conflicts of interests.
Ireland is committed to implement fully our international commitments on aid transparency, and to publish aid data in the internationally agreed format. In addition, Ireland is subject to regular peer review by the OECD Development Assistance Committee: this important quality assurance mechanism has consistently found Ireland’s commitment to continued untied aid to be exemplary.
Robust Irish legislation and guidelines assist in ensuring transparency and accountability standards in Irish Aid funded organisations, including making declarations on the source, amount and purpose of all other funding they receive, as well as the submission of annual audited accounts.
The Irish Charities Regulatory Authority has important guidance to prevent conflict of interest arising as a result of aid agencies receiving funding from major financial investment corporations or banking institutions. These include Internal Financial Controls Guidelines for Charities (June 2017), Guidance for Charity Trustees (June 2017) and Guidance for Charities on the Promotion of Political Causes (February 2018).
In addition, Dóchas, the umbrella body of Irish international development NGOs recommends that their members adhere to the Irish NGOs Code of Corporate Governance and the Dóchas guidelines for financial reporting. Dóchas members endeavor to comply with the Charities Statement of Recommended Practice, Accounting and Reporting (SORP) standard of financial accounting. SORP requires a high level of transparency in financial reporting and an in depth report on the charities activities by the Trustees.
All NGO partners in receipt of Irish Aid funding are also expected to be fully compliant with all relevant Irish legislation, including the Regulation of Lobbying Act 2015.
The Government will continue to promote transparency and accountability and work to ensure its partners adhere to the legislative guidance and frameworks governing international aid organisations.
19. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade when the United Nations might be reinvigorated with a view to re-establishing its importance as major peace keeper and champion of human rights in all areas throughout the globe; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11572/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra20. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the action that will be taken by the membership of the UN with a view to making that organisation respected and effective; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11573/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 19 and 20 together.
The United Nations plays a critical role in the resolution of conflicts and the maintenance of international peace and security. It does this primarily through the UN Security Council. The Council has a variety of tools at its disposal to address threats to international peace and to contribute towards the settlement of disputes and conflicts: it has the power to authorise military action, deploy peacekeeping and political missions, and to impose sanctions against non-compliant States.
On the one hand the Member States of the UN undoubtedly have a central role to play in addressing conflict. On the other hand, ongoing crises in various parts of the world serve to underscore the need for the UN to be much more effective. Ireland will continue to support efforts to reform the UN’s structures and systems.
In 2015, the then UN Secretary General initiated three major review exercises which were aimed at improving the overall effectiveness of the UN’s response to conflict. The findings from the high level policy reviews on (1) UN Peace Operations, (2) Peacebuilding Architecture and (3) Women, Peace and Security were published and are in the process of being implemented. Ireland engaged fully with all three reviews, calling for the recommendations to be discussed and implemented as part of our broader calls for UN reform. In 2017 the current Secretary-General moved forward on these reviews and has sought to reform the Organisation’s policies and structures.
Ireland has also called for reform of the UN Security Council and has consistently stated that the Council needs to become more representative, more transparent and more effective. Ireland believes that such reform is critical to ensuring that the UN maintains its efficacy and respected position within the rules based international system architecture.
Every Member State requires a UN that works better – in the field, where Peacekeeping Missions and Development work are ongoing, and at Headquarters, where the management and administrative systems need to be improved. In an era of international uncertainty there is a pressing need for a multilateral system that is strong and that can successfully address the many global challenges facing us.
In addition to participating in the ongoing discussions and reviews, Ireland will continue to advocate for reform of the UN’s structures and systems to ensure it is enabled to fulfil its crucial role in the maintenance of international peace and security, prevention, reduction and resolution of conflict and the upholding of fundamental human rights.
21. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which all Irish aid, bilateral and general, has successfully been delivered to those for whom it was intended in all locations throughout Africa, the Middle East, Haiti and-or other locations that have suffered disaster in recent years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11575/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland’s humanitarian assistance focuses on providing timely and effective support to the most vulnerable and hard to reach populations experiencing severe humanitarian disasters and emergencies. Ireland pays particular attention to the needs of those enduring protracted crises, and those in crises no longer at the forefront of public attention but where needs are great.
Over the past five years, significant levels of funding have been provided in response to the crises in Syria (over €90 million), South Sudan (over €50 million) and Somalia (over €34 million), in particular. Ireland is also a significant funder of the responses in Iraq, Yemen and the Democratic Republic of Congo which, together with Syria, are currently categorized under the highest level alert in the humanitarian system. Ireland provided €2 million for humanitarian needs in Haiti in 2016, in response to Hurricane Matthew.
In addition to our earmarked funding to these and other crises, Ireland is a strong supporter of the UN’s Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF), a global pooled funding mechanism which is one of the fastest and largest enablers of life-saving humanitarian action for people affected by conflict and natural disasters around the world. The CERF, to which Ireland contributed €22 million in 2017, enables humanitarian partners to immediately jump-start or scale up urgent aid in new or rapidly deteriorating emergencies.
Ireland’s humanitarian assistance is needs-based, with an annual categorisation of need identifying the highest priorities for the allocation of funds and highlighting areas where early funding is required: in addition, Ireland can and does respond to emergency situations, such as the devastation caused by the Caribbean hurricanes last year.
In 2018, Ireland will continue to provide humanitarian support to the most severe ongoing crises, as well as reacting to sudden-onset crises or sudden spikes in humanitarian need due to conflict or natural disasters. Our focus on forgotten and underfunded crises will remain, and it is anticipated that we will continue to provide support to crises such as the Central African Republic, Eritrea, Lake Chad and Sudan. Ireland will also continue to work to ensure that our assistance is targeted at and reaches those in greatest need, in the most efficient and effective way possible.
22. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he and his EU and UN colleagues continue to address the threat of international terrorism; if particular initiatives are likely with a view to protecting peaceful citizens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11576/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is fully engaged in the approaches being developed by the European Union and the United Nations to combat terrorism, in particular, the need for greater international cooperation to address the underlying factors that contribute to terrorist related threats and violence. In the case of the European Union, Foreign Ministers remain focused on implementation of the June 2017 Council Conclusions on Counter-terrorism and on the contribution that the EU can make through external action to preventing and countering terrorism. Engagement with third countries to prevent violent extremism and to strengthen their capacity to detect and prevent terrorism, in full compliance with international law and human rights, remains at the core of the EU’s strategy.
The EU has also placed considerable emphasis on strengthening cooperation with its immediate neighbours in the Western Balkans, Turkey and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries through dedicated political dialogue and the cultivation of effective counter-terrorism partnerships.
The European Council has also expressed its support for practical cooperation and coordination between the EU and the United Nations in the area of counter-terrorism and has welcomed the establishment in June 2017 of the UN Office of Counter-Terrorism by the UN Secretary General. This office will provide strategic leadership to United Nations counter-terrorism efforts.
The former UN Secretary General’s comprehensive Plan of Action to Prevent Violent Extremism and subsequent reports are an important and welcome contribution to addressing the threat posed by international terrorism. These highlight the need to examine drivers of violent extremism through dialogue and conflict prevention, strengthening governance and the rule of law, gender equality and empowering women, community engagement and youth empowerment, and education and skills development.
Two initiatives in which Ireland has been particularly engaged are the effects of violent extremism on Youth and Women, and their role in countering such extremism. Ireland was strongly supportive of the adoption by the Security Council of Resolution 2250 on Youth, Peace and Security. This Resolution confirmed that inclusion and participation by young people must lie at the core of efforts by the international community to respond to crises and conflict.
Women, Peace and Security is also a key element in the fight against violent extremism. Ireland has long been a supporter of the full implementation of Resolution 1325 on Women Peace and Security and its successor Resolutions. Women can have an important role to play in helping to counter radicalisation and extremism in their families and communities, and also have the potential to be radicalised themselves. Therefore, effective Countering Violent Extremism strategies must take cognisance of the particular situation and perspectives of women and girls into consideration.
23. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which efforts are ongoing within the European Union to address the issue of Euroscepticism; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11577/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraEuroscepticism is not new but in recent years it has become more vocal. In the Rome Declaration of March last year, EU Heads of State and Government pledged ‘to listen and respond to the concerns expressed by our citizens’ and to “address the challenges of a rapidly changing world. ”Having gone through a series of crises in recent years, including the Eurozone crisis, terror attacks, Migration and Brexit, the EU is now moving in a more positive direction characterised by economic growth across all member states. To maintain this impetus we need to ensure that the EU is delivering practical improvements to the lives of citizens through policies to promote jobs and growth and by addressing internal and external challenges such as migration and international terrorism. Completion of the single market and Digital Single Market – which Ireland has been pushing – are two ways of doing that.
The public launch of the Citizens’ Dialogue on the Future of Europe by the Taoiseach in November marked the formal start of a process designed to engage the Irish public directly in a debate on the kind of Europe they want to see evolve. Our aim is to raise awareness of the issues involved; to encourage participation in the debate; and to use this engagement process to formulate Ireland’s contribution to the wider European debate and specifically to President Tusk’s Leaders’ Agenda, an ambitious work programme for the EU for the next two years.
Engaging meaningfully with citizens across the Union; listening and responding to their concerns is the best means of ensuring support for our work on EU issues.
24. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which he remains assured that all other EU member states support Ireland's position in negotiations on Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11578/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraSince the launch of the Article 50 negotiations last year, Ireland has received continued support from our EU partners on addressing the unique challenges for the island of Ireland posed by Brexit. This steadfast support and solidarity has been demonstrated through the adoption of the various EU negotiating positions which have consistently identified the need to address these unique challenges as a Union priority for the Brexit negotiations. This point was again highlighted recently at the General Affairs Council (Art. 50) of 27 February where I was once again impressed by the level of support expressed by the EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier and all Member States around table for Ireland. All our EU partners share the need to ensure that the commitments and guarantees provided by the UK in phase 1 of the Brexit negotiations on protecting the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts and the gains of the peace process, including on avoiding a hard border, and on maintaining the Common Travel Area, must be given legal effect in the draft Withdrawal Agreement. Going forward, I and my officials will continue to set forward Ireland’s position in the negotiations at EU level through the General Affairs Council (Art. 50) and the relevant preparatory bodies as well as through bilateral contacts with the EU Taskforce and EU27 counterparts. My ongoing programme of bilateral engagement has, most recently, included my meetings with EU Chief Negotiator Michel Barnier and European Parliament Brexit Coordinator Guy Verhofstadt separately in Brussels on 26 February, Foreign Minister Linas Linkevièius of Lithuania on 13 February and Foreign Minister Angelino Alfano of Italy, on 14 February last.
25. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the new steps that can be taken to address the refugee crisis in Syria and Iraq; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11579/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe situation in Syria continues to be one of utmost concern. The conflict, which is now in its seventh year, has cost an estimated half a million lives. Over 13 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance inside Syria, including close to 3 million people trapped in besieged and hard-to-reach areas. Over 6 million people are displaced internally, and a further 5.5 million have fled to neighboring countries and the wider region. The recent increase in violence in Syria, in particular the vicious siege of Eastern Ghouta which has cost the lives of hundreds of civilians, underscores the extent to which an end to the violence is urgently needed in order to relieve the suffering of the Syrian people. Ireland and the EU support the UN-led Geneva peace process and the work of UN Special Envoy for Syria, Staffan de Mistura. I was present at a UN Security Council briefing on Syria in New York in late February, where UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres appealed for an immediate suspension of violence in Eastern Ghouta to allow for the delivery of humanitarian aid, and for evacuations. I fully support those calls.
Since 2012, Ireland has contributed over €90 million to the humanitarian response to the Syria crisis, including €25 million in 2017 alone. In addition, the EU and its Member States have to date mobilised more than €10.4 billion for humanitarian, stabilisation and resilience assistance inside Syria and in neighbouring countries, making the EU the largest single donor to the effort. The EU will host another donors’ conference for Syria in April of this year. The EU is also supporting the Turkey Refugee Facility in response to the almost 3 million refugees being hosted in that country, and €3 billion has been committed to this by the EU between 2016 and 2019, with Ireland providing €22.9 million.
Under the terms of the Irish Refugee Protection Programme (IRPP), administered by the Department of Justice, Ireland has also committed to accept up to 4,000 refugees from the region. To date, almost 2,000 people have already arrived.
In Iraq, the UN estimates that 11 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance, as the country begins to recover from the atrocities committed by Da’esh. The current number of internally displaced persons requiring humanitarian assistance stands at almost 3.3 million, of which 1.6 million are living outside of camps in host communities. In addition, there are an estimated 240,000 Syrian refugees in Iraq. The EU is working to support the Iraqi government on stabilisation and reconciliation.
Since 2014, Ireland has provided over €8 million in humanitarian assistance to Iraq, including €2 million in 2017 for the UN Iraq Humanitarian Pooled Fund. Via our annual contributions to the EU budget, Ireland also supports the EU’s humanitarian response to the situation in Iraq, which amounts to €650 million since 2014.
The situations in both Syria and Iraq were discussed by EU Foreign Ministers at the Foreign Affairs Council meeting in Brussels in December. At the Foreign Affairs Council in January, Foreign Ministers adopted the new EU strategy for engagement with Iraq, and initiated a formal exchange on migration with Iraq. EU Foreign Ministers discussed the situation in Syria at their informal meeting in February of this year, and at the February Foreign Affairs Council.
Through the EU, Ireland has long advocated for and supported the development of durable solutions for refugees and internally displaced persons, and in tackling the root causes of displacement. Through our engagement with conflict-affected countries, refugee hosting countries and our EU counterparts, Ireland supports conflict resolution and development in Syria, Iraq and the wider region.
26. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the extent to which Ukraine, Georgia and Armenia continue to receive co-operation and support from the European Union; the extent to which Ireland's trade with such countries can be enhanced post Brexit; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11581/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Eastern Partnership Initiative provides a framework for cooperation between the EU and six countries in the EU’s Eastern Neighbourhood, including Ukraine, Georgia and Armenia. The aims of the Eastern Partnership are to promote peace and stability in the region and to enhance economic and political integration between the participating countries and the EU. The model of cooperation with each of the participating states has been tailored to meet their needs and priorities and those of the EU. The fifth Eastern Partnership Summit which took place on 24 November 2017 adopted a roadmap setting out future priorities for the initiative, entitled “Eastern Partnership - 20 Deliverables for 2020". A range of short and long-term milestones including improving connectivity, energy efficiency, support to SMEs, engaging with youth and a broadened outreach to civil society are identified.
The EU is committed to assisting Ukraine in delivering its ambitious and wide-ranging programme of reform and has provided unprecedented levels of support. This assistance includes loans, budget support, humanitarian aid, technical assistance as well as important trade preferences, granted under the Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement which came into force in 2016. In addition, the EU is helping to reform the civilian security sector through its Advisory Mission to Ukraine.
In terms of the situation in eastern Ukraine, the EU continues to support diplomatic efforts to secure full implementation of the Minsk peace agreements, which provide the basis for a comprehensive settlement of the four year conflict.
The High Representative is travelling to Ukraine on 12 March in advance of a discussion on Ukraine at the upcoming Foreign Affairs Council. Together with our EU partners, we have called on all parties to the conflict to support and facilitate the vital work of international humanitarian organisations, to ensure their protection and to allow the provision of assistance to the civilian population in accordance with international law.
Georgia signed an Association Agreement and a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade Agreement with the EU in 2014 which entered into force on 1 July 2016. By removing customs tariffs and quotas and by comprehensively approximating trade-related laws and regulations to the standards of the European Union, the Agreement offers Georgia a framework for boosting trade and economic growth. As part of this process, Georgia has committed to undertaking a number of reforms, including on democratic development and fundamental freedoms, on constitutional and parliamentary reform, and anti-corruption reforms.
On 24 November 2017, in the margins of the Eastern Partnership Summit, Armenia signed a Comprehensive and Enhanced Partnership Agreement with the EU which facilitates political, economic and sectoral cooperation. By intensifying political dialogue and improving cooperation in a broad range of areas, the Agreement lays the foundations for more effective engagement with Armenia.
Ireland remains a committed member of the EU and of the Eurozone. Now, more than ever, our membership of the EU must remain at the heart of our engagement with the world. Continuing access to a Single Market of 500 million consumers is vital to the well-being of the Irish people and EU membership has been central to Ireland’s economic and social development. To this end, membership of the EU also includes trading arrangements with third countries such as those with Ukraine, Georgia and Armenia.
27. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to make a case within the EU against entering new contracts with Israel until the Palestinian occupation is ended; and his further plans to push for support for BDS until Israel withdraws from Palestine in accordance with EU resolutions. [11689/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU’s position on Israel’s occupation of Palestine is clear and known to the Israeli government. In December EU Foreign Ministers had the opportunity to reiterate this during an informal breakfast meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu of Israel before the Foreign Affairs Council.The EU side used the meeting to underline to PM Netanyahu our key concerns about the Middle East Peace Process and the occupation, including actions by his government that we consider to be unhelpful or indeed unacceptable. We also reiterated that our position on Jerusalem has not changed – that it must be the capital of two states, following an agreement between the parties on all of the final status issues. In this context, I raised the need for a freeze on settlement construction, and pressed Israel on the issue of a two-state solution.
I also raised a number of specific concerns about the occupation with the Israeli authorities during my visit to the region in January of this year.
I believe that these opportunities for dialogue are extremely useful, including as an opportunity to raise issues of concern.
The Government does not support a policy of “Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions”, or BDS, in relation to Israel. I firmly believe that such an approach is counter-productive, and that it will not help to increase ordinary Israelis' understanding of the sound basis for international concern about the impact of the occupation. Such an all-encompassing policy also conflates the State of Israel, on the one hand, and illegal settlements on Palestinian land, on the other. I believe it is important to be clear on the distinction between the two, and I know that many Israeli citizens are also opposed to the construction of settlements.
In relation to the decision taken by Israel to exclude members of certain groups supporting BDS, I believe that this action also does not help to build a better mutual understanding or to move the situation forward. Israel is of course entitled to decide who it allows into its territory, as is any other state. However, I believe that excluding people simply for critical opinions they hold is not the usual practice of a democracy. Moreover, such exclusions also have the effect of denying people access to the occupied Palestinian territory which Israel controls. During my visit to the Middle East in January, I raised this issue directly with Prime Minister Netanyahu.
While the Government does not support a policy of “Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions”, it is a legitimate and non-violent political viewpoint, albeit one regarded in Israel as hostile, and one that I fundamentally disagree with.
28. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if he will use his influence diplomatically at all international levels to persuade Greece and Cyprus to withdraw from their planned agreement with Israel for the supply of gas. [11690/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe recent discovery of gas deposits in the eastern Mediterranean may make a contribution to efforts to enhance Europe’s gas security of supply through diversification of routes and sources. The proposed EastMed pipeline project, which would connect East Mediterranean resources to Greece via Cyprus and Crete, could contribute to the aim of creating a single European market for gas and a reliable and safe transmission network capable of meeting Europe's current and future needs. In that regard, increased cooperation and consultation between Greece and Cyprus and their maritime neighbours, including Israel, is a natural step. The European Union, and its Member States, have close economic ties with Israel, and positive relations with Israel in a range of areas. This partnership, and the areas on which we cooperate, do not prevent us from raising concerns with Israel on a range of issues, especially the many concerns related to Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian Territory.
In discussions with my EU colleagues, most recently at the Foreign Affairs Councils in January and February this year, I have stated that the EU must continue to work actively in support of progress in the Middle East Peace Process, but also that the EU must continue our own work, including work on the ground, to help preserve and create the political and physical space in which the two state solution can be achieved.
29. Deputy Clare Daly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the steps he will take with the British authorities and his EU counterparts in relation to the violation of human rights and the rule of law in relation to the detention of a person (details supplied) without allegation or evidence of wrongdoing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11692/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am aware of the case to which the Deputy refers and my officials in the Belfast Secretariat monitor this and other cases as part of their ongoing work on prison issues generally in Northern Ireland. The person concerned was detained in March 2016 when the release licence granted to him under the terms of the Good Friday Agreement was revoked by the then Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, Theresa Villiers. The case has been raised on an ongoing basis with the Northern Ireland Office (NIO) by my officials at the Belfast Secretariat. It also has also been the subject of representations to the NIO by various public representatives in Northern Ireland.
As part of the revocation process, the independent Northern Ireland Parole Commissioners carried out a full review of the case in June 2017. The Parole Commissioners are charged with taking into account the obligations on the State of the European Convention on Human Rights in making their recommendation. This includes assessing the risk to the public should the person remain at liberty. Those whose licence is revoked under this process are provided with a copy of the independent Parole Commissioners recommendation, which sets out the reasons the licence was revoked.
I understand that the Parole Commissioners hearing made a decision to uphold the revocation of this person’s license. My understanding is that a further parole hearing is due in the coming months.
A senior official from the Secretariat visited the person in custody in Maghaberry prison in July, at his request. I have asked that a further visit be arranged in the weeks ahead.
My officials will continue to actively monitor the case and remain in contact with the NIO on this issue.
30. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the number of staff assigned in his Department to the press office, public relations or communications roles in each year since 2015; the positions by staffing grade and designated role; when each new position came into existence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11704/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra31. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if a panel has been established in his Department for communications officers; if a Civil Service position of head of communications or similar role or description has been appointed in his Department; if so, when the appointment occurred; the grade at which it occurred; the reason for same; the policy basis for same; the person that approved the appointment; his plans to make such an appointment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11720/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 30 and 31 together.
A Communications Unit was established within my Department in February 2015 on the initiative of the Secretary General of my Department and with the approval of the Department’s Management Board and of my predecessor as Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade.
The purpose of the Unit is to:
Provide support to me in my capacity as Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and to my Minister of State colleagues at the Department and at wider Government and State levels on all issues affecting Irish interests that have an international communications/public diplomacy dimension;
Strengthen the abilities of my Department including Ireland’s network of 80 diplomatic missions abroad to deliver our communication and public diplomacy goals on behalf of Ireland;
Strengthen communication to Irish citizens on the role, services and activities of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade including its diplomatic missions; and
Enhance public awareness and understanding of Ireland's aid programme, Irish Aid, and of global development issues.
At the time of its establishment, the Unit was structured to combine the Department’s existing Press Office, Web Unit and Irish Aid Public Outreach Section that had previously operated separately. Details of the Unit’s staffing for each year since 2015 are set out below, with those for 2017 reflecting the establishment of a small Brexit / EU Communications Section within the Unit last autumn. The Unit was also combined last year with my Department’s Policy Planning Unit to form a new Policy and Communications Division which is led at Deputy Secretary General level.
Within the Communications Unit, staffing grades and roles have evolved over the period in question as a function of differing communications needs and regular ongoing re-assignments of staff to other roles at home and abroad. The Unit’s Director since its establishment has been a career diplomat at Counsellor grade (Principal Officer equivalent), appointed to the position by the Secretary General of my Department in consultation with the Department’s Management Board.
Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Communications Unit – Staffing Arrangements
|
- |
Director |
Press Relations Section |
Web & Digital Section |
Public Outreach Section |
Brexit / EU Communications Section |
Total |
|
2015 |
1 x Counsellor (PO equivalent) |
1 x First Secretary (AP equivalent); 4 x Third Secretary (Higher Executive Officer (HEO) equivalent); 1 x Clerical Officer (CO) Total: 6 |
1 x First Secretary; 1 x Staff Officer (SO); 4 x CO; 2 x External Consultants Total: 8 |
1 x Third Secretary; 1 x HEO (part-time); 1 x EO; 1 x CO Total: 4 |
19 |
|
|
2016 |
1 x Counsellor |
1 x First Secretary; 4 x Third Secretary; 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x First Secretary; 1 x Third Secretary; 1 x HEO (part-time); 1 x SO; 1 x Junior Professional Intern (JPI); 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x AP; 1 x HEO; 1 x EO; 4 x CO Total: 7 |
20 |
|
|
2017 |
1 x Counsellor |
1 x First Secretary; 2 x Third Secretary; 2 x HEO; 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x First Secretary; 2 x Third Secretary; 1 x SO; 1 x JPI (part-time); 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x AP; 2 x HEO; 2 x EO; 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x First Secretary; 1 x Third Secretary Total: 2 |
21 |
|
2018 |
1 x Counsellor |
1 x First Secretary; 2 x Third Secretary; 2x HEO; 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x First Secretary; 2 x Third Secretary; 1 x SO 1 x JPI (part-time); 1 x CO Total: 6 |
1 x AP; 2 x HEO; 2 x EO Total: 5 |
1 x First Secretary; 1 x Third Secretary Total: 2 |
20 |
32. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the backstop arrangements he envisages if option 1, the Government's preferred option, and option 2 fail to be negotiated in the context of the withdrawal agreement. [11334/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government has always been clear that our preference is to resolve the Irish-specific issues through the wider future relationship agreement between the EU and the UK, a view we share with the UK government. We also stand ready to consider proposals from the UK on specific solutions. At the same time, it is necessary to have legal certainty on the backstop as part of the Withdrawal Agreement. This is a default and will only be triggered if the commitments made by the UK in phase one cannot be delivered through the wider future relationship agreement or specific solutions.
Since the principles and commitments set out in the Joint Report from the EU and UK negotiators published on 8 December 2017 were agreed, including on citizens’ rights, the financial settlement and on the Irish specific issues, my team and I have been working closely with the Task Force to ensure that the agreements reached in December are given legal effect through the Withdrawal Agreement. I am fully satisfied with how this process was managed by the EU Chief Negotiator, Michel Barnier and I welcome the proposed Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland.
The draft protocol, which is an integral part of the proposed Withdrawal Agreement, gives legal effect to the commitments on avoiding a hard border, protecting the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts and also includes elements on rights and on the Common Travel Area.
In terms of protecting North South cooperation and avoiding a hard border, and in line with the commitments agreed by the UK in paragraph 49 of the joint progress report of December, the protocol proposes a common regulatory area in which the UK in respect of Northern Ireland would stay fully aligned with those rules of the Customs Union and Single Market necessary to achieve these objectives. It also proposes the establishment of a joint EU-UK specialised committee to ensure the ongoing effective implementation of the protocol, including a robust oversight and enforcement mechanism. This is important both in terms of the implementation of the protocol but also to ensure the integrity of the Single Market and Customs Union and Ireland’s place in them.
33. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the impact he and his officials view the draft withdrawal agreement will have on talks on reconvening the Northern Ireland Assembly. [11332/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs 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 an Executive, over many months. Recent developments in Stormont are of serious concern to all of us who want to see the establishment of a functioning, power-sharing Executive in Northern Ireland, and the other Institutions of the Good Friday Agreement.
The devolved, power-sharing Institutions of the Good Friday Agreement are the only way forward for Northern Ireland, and are urgently required.
The Government is now working with the British Government to decide on the best way forward. The Irish and British Governments, as co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, have a shared responsibility to make every effort to seek a route that will get the devolved institutions operating as soon as possible.
The Taoiseach has spoken with Prime Minister May to emphasise the Government's full commitment to the Good Friday Agreement, and its determination to secure the effective operation of all its institutions. I am in very regular contact with Secretary of State Karen Bradley as we seek a way forward from the current impasse in the discussions to secure the formation of a new Executive.
As co-guarantors of the Good Friday Agreement, the Irish and British Governments have an obligation to uphold and protect the letter and spirit of that Agreement. The Good Friday Agreement remains the indispensable framework for providing stable, inclusive, power-sharing government for all the people of Northern Ireland and for sustaining our interlocking relationships - within Northern Ireland, on the island of Ireland and between the UK and Ireland.
Last week, the Taoiseach and I welcomed the publication of the draft EU-UK Withdrawal Agreement, including the protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland, which gives legal effect to the commitments made in December. This represents the practical and logical outworking of the commitments made by the UK, including the protection of the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts and the gains of the peace process and avoiding a hard border on the island of Ireland.
The Government has also welcomed Prime Minister May’s reiteration in her speech last Friday, of the UK’s commitment to the Good Friday Agreement and to the agreement reached last December, including on avoiding a hard border. These commitments need to be translated into concrete proposals and the Government looks forward to UK setting out its proposals in more detail in the Article 50 negotiations.
The Government is of course acutely conscious that the Article 50 negotiations could impact on the urgent need to secure the formation of a new Executive. The negotiations on the UK’s exit from the European Union are fundamentally political in nature, as is the formation of a power-sharing Executive and the operation of the devolved institutions.
It is incumbent on all with responsibilities in both processes to work to ensure that the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts can operate fully and effectively, consistent with the resounding democratic endorsement of the Agreement by the people, North and South on this island, almost 20 years ago.
That will remain the Government’s unrelenting focus and solemn duty as a co-guarantor of the Agreement, as we continue to engage to address the impact of the UK exit for the island of Ireland and support the urgent resumption of the devolved institutions in Belfast.
34. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Finance the status of flood insurance reform; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11620/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am conscious of the difficulties that the absence or withdrawal of flood insurance cover can cause to homeowners and businesses, and that is one of the reasons why the Government has been prioritising investment in flood defences over the last number of years. However, you should be aware that the provision of insurance and the price at which it is offered is a commercial matter for insurance companies, which has to be based on a proper assessment of the risks they are willing to accept. Neither I nor the Central Bank can interfere in this process.
My Department carried out a review of policy in relation to flood insurance in 2016, which formed part of the Interdepartmental Flood Policy Coordination Group Interim Report, as approved by Government in November 2016. As part of the review, a number of possible approaches were examined including those in other jurisdictions. For example, an Insurance Pool with State Indemnification similar to Flood Re in the UK was considered, however it was concluded that such an approach would lead to additional levies being imposed on all household insurance policies at a time of increasing insurance costs, and could potentially lead to a considerable financial exposure to the Exchequer.
The review recommended the continuation of the existing policy approach which has been in place since 2010, and confirmed by Government again in November 2016. This policy is focused on the development of a sustainable, planned and risk-based approach to dealing with flooding problems. This in turn should lead to the increased availability of flood insurance. To achieve this aim, there is a focus on:
- prioritising spending on flood relief measures by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and relevant local authorities,
- development and implementation of plans by the OPW to implement flood relief schemes, and
- improving channels of communication between the OPW and the insurance industry, in order to reach a better understanding about the provision of flood cover in marginal areas.
This strategy is complemented by a Memorandum of Understanding between the OPW and Insurance Ireland, the representative body for insurance companies in Ireland, which provides for the exchange of data in relation to completed flood defence schemes which should provide a basis for the increased provision of flood insurance in areas where works have been completed. In this regard, the Insurance Ireland/OPW working group, which the Department of Finance attends, now meets on a quarterly basis to support the information flow and improve the understanding of issues between both parties.
Directly related to the above is the OPW Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme. The CFRAM Programme focussed on 300 Areas for Further Assessment (AFAs) including 90 coastal areas, mainly in urban locations nationwide, identified as being at potentially significant risk of flooding. The proposed feasible measures, both structural and non-structural, identified for AFAs are outlined in Flood Risk Management Plans.
I am advised by the OPW that the finalised Flood Risk Management Plans were submitted to the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform in Summer 2017 for an independent review of the environmental assessments. Having now received the outcomes of the independent review, the Commissioners of Public Works expect in the coming weeks to formally submit the Flood Risk Management Plans for my approval.
Finally, you should be aware that a consumer can make a complaint to the Financial Services Ombudsman in relation to any dealings with a Financial Services or Insurance provider during which they feel they have been unfairly treated. In addition, individuals who are experiencing difficulty in obtaining flood insurance or believe that they are being treated unfairly may contact Insurance Ireland which operates a free Insurance Information Service for those who have queries, complaints or difficulties in relation to insurance.
35. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the reason the Central Bank's Code of Practice on the Transfer of Mortgages is not enforceable (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10836/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Central Bank of Ireland has informed me that the Code of Practice on the Transfer of Mortgages was issued by the Central Bank in 1991 to institutions involved in mortgage credit and it is a voluntary code.
It may be applied on a voluntary basis by any institution involved in mortgage credit. The Code of Practice applies to a loan secured by the mortgage of a residential property. For the purposes of this Code of Practice, residential property is not limited to principal private residences. The Code is available at this link (https://centralbank.ie/regulation/consumer-protection/consumer-protection-codes-regulations)
Most loan agreements include a clause that allows the original lender to sell the loan on to another firm. The loan agreement is the document that describes the terms and conditions of a person’s loan.
Provision 3.11 of the statutory Consumer Protection Code 2012 requires that, where a regulated lender intends to transfer all or part of its ‘regulated activities’ to another regulated entity, it must provide advance notification to both the Central Bank and affected consumers. Specifically, a lender must provide a consumer with at least 2 months’ notice before transferring all or part of its loan book covered by the Code to another person, including where the transferee is an unregulated entity. Where the transferee is an unregulated entity, the Code requires that the regulated lender also notify the consumer of the regulated entity that will be ‘servicing’ the loan for the unregulated entity.
36. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the steps the cost of insurance working group has examined to ensure a greater data granularity in the price of motor insurance in view of the fact that despite the CSO showing a decrease in premiums many persons are still receiving quotes for insurance that include a large increase in price; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [10837/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, the Cost of Insurance Working Group examined the need for greater data transparency in relation to the factors that influence the cost of motor insurance premiums. While the Central Statistics Office (CSO) collects data on the price of motor insurance premiums as part of the Consumer Price Index (CPI) each month, the Working Group believed that there was a need to develop an understanding of how claims costs are impacting premiums, in particular understanding the relationship between the price paid by a customer for motor insurance and the cost to insurance undertakings.
Consequently, one of the key recommendations of the Working Group was to establish a National Claims Information Database, (NCID), the purpose of which will be to facilitate a more in-depth annual claims’ trends analysis. Work is underway on this project, and in this regard, the Government recently approved the General Scheme of the National Claims Information Database Bill. It will provide the Central Bank with powers to hold and maintain this database and to carry out statistical analysis of movements in private motor insurance claims costs and trends. Drafting of the Bill has been given priority status in the Government’s Legislative Programme for this term, and has been commenced by Parliamentary Counsel. In addition, the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Finance, Public Service and Reform, and Taoiseach, informed me recently that no further pre-legislative scrutiny is required on the draft Scheme. I would like to thank the Committee for this and am hopeful that the Government will be able to publish the final Bill in the coming months.
In relation to the CSO data, I am informed that it uses a variety of detailed profiles (including car age, car model, driver experience, driver history) sent directly each month to motor insurance companies that represent a substantial portion of the market share. The profiles each company receives remain consistent each month so that the CSO can use a continuous "like with like" comparison in the best way possible and in this regard each company is sent a representative set of profiles for their consumer base. The risks vary based on the detail contained in each of the profiles in order to get a larger spread of the realistic market.
Finally, the most recent CSO data (for January 2018) indicates that private motor insurance premiums have decreased by 17% since peaking in July 2016. I am satisfied that the CSO statistics indicate a particular direction of travel in relation to pricing and also a greater degree of stability on an overall basis. However, I do accept that these figures represent a broad average and therefore there are some people who may still be seeing increases. However, I am hopeful that this greater stability in pricing will be maintained and that premiums should continue to fall from the very high levels of mid-2016.
