Wednesday, 18 Apr 2018

Written Answers Nos. 204-225

Public Transport Fares

Ceisteanna (204)

Fiona O'Loughlin

Ceist:

204. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the NTA's plans to consider rail prices in County Kildare for 2018; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16852/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.  However, I am not involved in the day to day operations of public transport, nor decisions on the issue of rail fares in any part of the country.  Following the establishment of the National Transport Authority (NTA) in December 2009, the NTA is the statutory body with responsibility for the regulation of fares charged by the public transport providers.

Therefore, I have forwarded your query to the NTA for direct reply.  If you do not receive a response within 10 working days, please contact my private office.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A

Sport Ireland

Ceisteanna (205)

John Brassil

Ceist:

205. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to address an issue (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16857/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

Sport Ireland, under the Sport Ireland Act 2015, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport in Ireland. One of its more important functions is to act as the national anti-doping organisation (NADO) in Ireland. To that end, it provides important services in the fight against the use of illegal performance substances in sport, including testing and education. Irish anti-doping efforts are internationally renowned to be of a high standard, as Sport Ireland continues to work to ensure that the integrity of sporting competitions is maintained and all clean athletes compete on a level playing field.

In relation to the specific cases referred to by the Deputy, it is important to note that the awarding and rescinding of medals, whether immediately after competition or a number of years thereafter, is a matter for decision by the organisers of the events in question. The International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) is responsible for awarding and rescinding medals in the case of the World Championships in Athletics. The IAAF's regional associations are responsible in cases of regional athletics championships.

Minister Ross and I have made clear our dissatisfaction with the chaotic situation currently in the World Anti-Doping Agency. We believe it is essential to address the clear conflict of interest that arises from having sport policy decision makers involved in the anti-doping process. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has a clear conflict of interest and should have no influence or role in the affairs of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). The status quo undermines the credibility of a system which is failing clean athletes, who dedicate their lives to sport and deserve a level playing field. We believe it is necessary for Governments to take concerted and collaborative action and we are in ongoing contact with our fellow sports ministers in this regard.

National Driver Licensing Service

Ceisteanna (206)

John Brassil

Ceist:

206. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans to assist elderly persons who do not have access to computers or broadband to book an appointment for the National Driver Licensing Service; if they will be facilitated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16859/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

This is a matter for the Road Safety Authority. I have referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response is not received within 10 days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Rural Transport Programme

Ceisteanna (207, 208, 209, 210, 211)

Robert Troy

Ceist:

207. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the scoring system which is used when tenders and applications are being assessed for operators of the rural link service; the way in which the scoring process is weighted in terms of costing, age of vehicle, experience and local knowledge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16939/18]

Robert Troy

Ceist:

208. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the criteria in the tender process of the rural link scheme which requests that operators have a legal right to a suitable bus; the way in which this information is assessed; his views on whether there is a need for applicants to own their own vehicle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16940/18]

Robert Troy

Ceist:

209. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the way in which the local link service monitors the usage of a primary vehicle by a successful applicant to the scheme; if there is a minimum requirement for usage time of the highlighted primary vehicle; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16941/18]

Robert Troy

Ceist:

210. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if the possibility of harmonising contracts on the rural link service will be investigated (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16942/18]

Robert Troy

Ceist:

211. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the discussions that have taken place between the NTA and rural link in counties Longford and Westmeath regarding service issues within the region; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16943/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 207 to 211, inclusive, together.

As I advised the Deputy in response to similar questions last January, the National Transport Authority (NTA) has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including management of the Rural Transport Programme (RTP) which now operates under the "Local Link" brand.

In light of the NTA's responsibilities regarding Local Link services, I have referred the Deputy's questions to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Taxi Data

Ceisteanna (212)

Thomas P. Broughan

Ceist:

212. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the number of accessible taxis available here; his plans to increase the number of wheelchair accessible taxis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [16946/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. 

In order to support an increase in the number of wheelchair accessible vehicles (WAVs) in Ireland's SPSV fleet, licences for new taxis or hackneys will only be granted in respect of WAVs.  This requirement was introduced in 2010.

To supplement this measure, the NTA administers a WAV Grant Scheme, which offers grants on a sliding scale from €2,500 to €7,500. The set amounts awarded by grants through this scheme aim to align with the cost difference in purchasing a WAV or converting a vehicle to fulfill the WAV requirements. This scheme is open to all SPSV drivers, with grants offered on a first-come-first-served basis.

The share of WAVs in our SPSV fleet is currently 8%. We are on trajectory towards meeting our goal of a 10% share by 2020. I remain committed to increasing the number of WAVs within our SPSV fleet and supporting the NTA in the administration of the WAV Grant Scheme.

In relation to your question on the number of accessible taxis available in Ireland, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Taxi Regulations

Ceisteanna (213)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

213. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the policies that exist for the transferability of taxi plates including but not limited to wheelchair accessible taxis; and his plans to adjust same. [16970/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013. 

At present, the transfer of SPSV licences is prohibited under section 14(1) of the 2013 Act which was commenced with effect from 6 April 2014. However, in the case of the death of a licence holder, section 15 of the same Act applies special provisions.  In such circumstances, a SPSV licence may continue to be operated by a person who was nominated by the licence holder in advance of his or her death.  I have no plans at present to adjust these provisions.

However, I was recently made aware that there have been some cases where licence holders have passed away without completing and submitting the required nomination form to the NTA. As a result, I am asking the NTA to consider raising the level of awareness around the associated nomination process and would certainly urge all SPSV licence holders to take the time to complete the nomination form as soon as possible.

Given the particular role of the Authority in these matters, I have referred your question to the NTA for direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Taxi Regulations

Ceisteanna (214, 215)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

214. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his views on whether taxi enforcement officers have enough powers; his plans for additional powers in this regard; and the number of enforcement officers in place. [16971/18]

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

215. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if taxi enforcement officers are available to work, inspect and enforce at night; and if so, the extent to which they are. [16972/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 214 and 215 together.

The regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) industry is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA).  The Authority's functions, along with the functions of taxi enforcement officers, are established under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.

My Department has regular liaison meetings with the NTA regarding the full suite of the Authority's responsibilities, including the regulation of the SPSV industry and, as I understand that issues relating to enforcement powers have not been raised as a matter of concern in that context, I have as a consequence no plans to provide additional powers at this time. 

As outlined above, the NTA is responsible for appointing taxi enforcement officers and issues relating to the availability of officers to work at night is a matter for them. 

To be of assistance, I have referred your question to the Authority for their consideration and direct reply to you. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within 10 working days

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Taxi Regulations

Ceisteanna (216)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

216. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the position regarding the regulation of rickshaws. [16973/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As the Deputy may be aware, I asked the National Transport Authority (NTA) to conduct a public consultation on rickshaws last year, which concluded at the end of September. A report on the consultation, along with recommendations by the NTA, were submitted to my Department in the latter part of 2017. 

My Department is now considering a range of options for regulating rickshaws from the perspective of proportionality, public safety and enforcement as well as regarding the question of costs and benefits.  I intend to select a preferred approach in the near future, with any corresponding legislative provisions to be developed shortly thereafter.

Tourism Policy

Ceisteanna (217, 218)

Robert Troy

Ceist:

217. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for investment and spending in County Longford as part of the new Hidden Heartlands tourism brand. [16985/18]

Robert Troy

Ceist:

218. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport his plans for investment and spending in County Westmeath as part of the new Hidden Heartlands tourism brand. [16986/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

I propose to take Questions Nos. 217 and 218 together.

The matter raised by the Deputy is one for the board and management of Fáilte Ireland.  Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question to the agency for further information and direct reply. 

Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Sports Capital Programme Eligibility

Ceisteanna (219)

Jackie Cahill

Ceist:

219. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport if a sports club that does not own the land on which it operates is adversely affected when applying for the sports capital grant; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17003/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister of State at the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport

The Sports Capital Programme (SCP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and physical recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment. 

Over recent years, the SCP has invested several hundred million euro into sports facilities throughout the country. It is prudent for the Department to ensure that any organisation receiving capital funding can guarantee that any facilities developed with SCP funding will stay in sporting use.  At application stage, such a guarantee is provided by way of a template, filled out and signed by the applicant's solicitor confirming ownership of the site where the proposed development is taking place.

Where the applicant does not own their land or have a long lease, a smaller capital grant (€25,000 in the case of the 2017 round of the SCP) can still be applied for.  In these cases the property owner must fill out a template confirming continued access to property for a minimum of five years.

It is also open for any club or organisation to apply for funding for sports equipment up to the maximum level of grant (under the 2017 round of the SCP this equated to €150,000 for local projects and €200,000 for regional projects) even if the applicant does not have title to the property in question. In these cases the owner of the land is simply required to confirm that he/she has no intention of taking the facility away from the applicant for a minimum of five years.

Rail Network

Ceisteanna (220)

Jack Chambers

Ceist:

220. Deputy Jack Chambers asked the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport the status of the planned train station in the Ashington and Pelletstown areas of Dublin 7; the precise location for the station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17052/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport

As the Deputy is aware, work commenced last year to complete a detailed design and prepare tender documents for a new train station at Pelletstown which is located approximately mid-way between Broombridge and Ashtown railway stations.

In light of the National Transport Authority's statutory responsibility for the planning and development of public transport infrastructure in the Greater Dublin Area, I have forwarded the Deputy's question to the NTA for an update on the matter raised.  Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.

A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 42A.

Child Protection

Ceisteanna (221)

Fiona O'Loughlin

Ceist:

221. Deputy Fiona O'Loughlin asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs her views on whether her Department is adequately resourced to protect children; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16847/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I am committed to the protection and welfare of children and believe that there is a moral duty on Government and on society to work together to protect children and to ensure their safety. As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I have sought to maximise the resources available for this important work and the effectiveness in the deployment of these resources.

From my Department’s perspective Tusla, the Child and Family Agency, has a statutory duty under the Child Care Act 1991 to promote the welfare of children who are not receiving adequate care and protection. Any child who resides in Ireland and who is not receiving adequate care and protection can be received into the care of the State if deemed to be the appropriate action required. Tusla is required under the 1991 Act to investigate allegations of abuse, including historical abuse, and to engage with An Garda Síochána where appropriate. Tusla has a key role in supporting some of the most vulnerable children and young people in State care. My Department provides funding for Tusla. In 2018 it has been allocated exchequer funding of €757 million, representing an increase of €44 million on 2017. Tusla provides a comprehensive range of services and supports for vulnerable children and families. These include child welfare and protection, including family support; educational welfare; pre-school inspection and domestic, sexual and gender-based violence. These services and supports are provided by Social Workers, Educational Welfare Officers, and Early Years Inspectors. The precise level of funding available to services for children is considered by Tusla in implementing its 2018 Business Plan, based on the Performance Statement. The Business Plan is available at - www.tusla.ie/uploads/content/Tusla_Business_Plan_2018.pdf.

Internet Safety

Ceisteanna (222)

Seán Sherlock

Ceist:

222. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the process by which her Department will develop and contribute draft actions to be considered as part of the action plan on Internet safety to be published in June 2018; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16887/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I can confirm that the development of an Action Plan is being coordinated by the Department of the Taoiseach, that officials from my Department are participating in the process and that actions for inclusion in the Plan are being considered as part of this process.

National Counselling Service

Ceisteanna (223, 224, 225)

Denise Mitchell

Ceist:

223. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs when a person has been deemed to have met the criteria for counselling with regard to counselling being provided to survivors of mother and baby institutions; the average waiting time for the first appointment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16952/18]

Denise Mitchell

Ceist:

224. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the criteria for being eligible to receive counselling services with regard to counselling being provided to survivors of mother and baby institutions; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [16953/18]

Denise Mitchell

Ceist:

225. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs the provisions made for those who have, previous to the granting of cover under the Commission of Investigation into Mother and Baby Homes, been attending attend their own counsellor with regard to counselling being provided to survivors of mother and baby institutions; and if there is provision for that person to continue on the counsellor-client relationship that is already in existence. [16954/18]

Freagraí scríofa

Minister for Children and Youth Affairs

I propose to take Questions Nos. 223 to 225, inclusive, together.

Persons affected by experiences connected to mother and baby homes may wish to contact the HSE National Counselling Service (NCS) which provides free professional, confidential counselling and psychotherapy services in all regions of the country.

Persons seeking access to this support and other health services can contact the HSELive team, on Low Call Telephone [phone] from 8am - 8pm Monday to Friday 10am-5pm on Saturdays, for further information.

As the Deputy will be aware, responsibility for health services is a matter for my colleague the Minister for Health and the Health Service Executive. I do not have information in relation to the eligibility criteria or arrangements for access to individual health services.

With regard to the statutory Commission of Investigation (Mother and Baby Homes and certain related Matters), it is important to recognise that the Commission is independent in the conduct of its investigations. Any arrangements with witnesses are a matter for the Commission and I have no role in this regard.

Separately, health and well-being supports is one of the specific areas to be examined through the Collaborative Forum process which I am establishing. I have appointed a selection panel and it has commenced the process to select representative members for the Forum. Participants in the Forum will identify and prioritise actions on issues of concern to them and their families.

I will engage with colleagues across Government in relation to the recommendations which emerge from the Collaborative Forum in the course of its work.