Written Answers Nos. 54 - 88
54. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the commitment in paragraph 52 of the EU-UK phase 1 agreement refers to all EU rights and opportunities normally associated with residency in a member state including the right to vote and stand in EU elections. [18353/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra55. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the rights that will be included in the commitment in paragraph 52 of the EU-UK phase 1 agreement. [18354/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra56. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the progress to date for the arrangements required to give effect to the commitment in paragraph 52 of the EU-UK phase 1 agreement. [18355/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra57. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade if the commitment in paragraph 52 of the EU-UK phase 1 agreement will extend to both Irish and British nationals born in Northern Ireland. [18356/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra58. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade his plans to ensure equivalency of rights as per the Good Friday Agreement for both Irish and British nationals born in Northern Ireland when paragraph 52 of the EU-UK phase 1 agreement is enacted to avoid a violation of the Good Friday Agreement. [18357/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 54 to 58, inclusive, together.
In the context of the UK withdrawal from the EU, the Government is determined to ensure that the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts is fully protected, including the provisions relating to citizenship.
The Government appreciates the solidarity and support which has been shown by all of our EU partners in respect of Ireland’s unique issues and concerns, including the protection of the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts.
On 8 December last, a Joint Report between the EU and UK negotiators was agreed, and this included important commitments in respect of protecting the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts. In Paragraph 52, the EU and the UK acknowledge that the Good Friday Agreement recognises the birthright of all the people of Northern Ireland to choose to be Irish or British or both and be accepted as such. The Joint Report also confirms that the people of Northern Ireland who are Irish citizens will continue to enjoy rights as EU citizens, including where they reside in Northern Ireland. Both parties agreed that the Withdrawal Agreement should respect and be without prejudice to the rights, opportunities and identity that come with European Union citizenship for such people, and that the next phase of negotiations would examine arrangements required to give effect to the ongoing exercise of, and access to, their EU rights, opportunities and benefits.
This was reflected in the draft Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland that is part of the draft Withdrawal Agreement, published by the European Commission on 18 February.
Discussions on the rights of individuals are ongoing as part of the Phase 2 negotiations on issues related to Ireland and Northern Ireland. Further engagement is needed on which EU rights, opportunities or benefits can be exercised by the people of Northern Ireland who are Irish and therefore EU citizens, when they are resident in Northern Ireland, which will be outside the territory of the European Union after the UK departure.
As the UK leaves the European Union, there is an onus on its Government to ensure that it provides as necessary for the recognition in the Joint Report that the people of Northern Ireland who choose to identify as Irish, and therefore as citizens of the EU, can continue to enjoy the rights, opportunities and benefits of EU citizenship, including where they reside in Northern Ireland.
At the same time, there is an obligation on the UK Government under the Good Friday Agreement to uphold the birthright of all the people of Northern Ireland to identify themselves and be accepted as Irish or British, or both, as they may so choose.
The means by which both of these obligations can be upheld by the UK requires further discussion between the EU and the UK. As in all other areas of the Article 50 negotiations, the operation of EU law will also need to be respected.
The Government will continue to engage intensively on these issues in order to ensure the protection of the Good Friday Agreement in all its parts, including the citizenship provisions.
59. Deputy David Cullinane asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the work carried out to date with regard to the common travel area post Brexit (details supplied). [18358/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMaintaining the Common Travel Area has been a Government priority in the context of the UK’s withdrawal from the EU. The Common Travel Area is an important feature of the close relationship Ireland enjoys with the UK, with long-established bilateral benefits.
It means Irish citizens can move freely North and South, East and West, and live, work, study and access social benefits in the UK on the same basis as UK citizens. Importantly, it also underpins the citizenship provisions of the Good Friday Agreement. The CTA is an arrangement that is valued on both islands and the continuation of this arrangement is a stated objective of both the Irish and UK Governments.
I welcome Article 2 on the Common Travel Area outlined in the draft Protocol on Ireland and Northern Ireland which states that the UK and Ireland may “continue to make arrangements between themselves relating to the movement of persons between their territories”. This is an important outcome of the work so far in seeking to maintain the Common Travel Area.
The focus of the work to maintain the Common Travel Area after the UK leaves the EU continues to be through the appropriate channels of engagement with the UK so as to ensure that the necessary provisions are in place in both jurisdictions.
Domestically, interdepartmental work to maintain the Common Travel Area is ongoing. This work will ensure that associated rights and entitlements provided for under the CTA, but since overlain by EU legislation, will continue after the UK leaves the European Union. This work will continue over the coming months in order to ensure the continuation of the CTA and associated rights and entitlements post-UK exit.
60. Deputy Thomas P. Broughan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade the representations he has made to the Israeli Government regarding its use of live ammunition on civilians involved in the six week great march of return which began on 30 March 2018 in Gaza; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18395/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been greatly concerned by the events in Gaza over recent weeks, and especially by the appalling number of serious injuries to and deaths of people engaged in demonstrations.
Every country is entitled to defend its border, but the use of force, and particularly deadly force, must only be used as a last resort and should be proportionate to a real and immediate threat. Israel is obviously vigilant when there are mass demonstrations close to its border with Gaza. However, the number and nature of casualties in recent weeks, arising from the use of live ammunition, is difficult to understand.
I issued two public statements in relation to these incidents, on 31 March and on 9 April. I called on all sides to show restraint, particularly Israeli forces, in their use of force. And I supported the calls by the EU and by the UN Secretary General for an independent and transparent investigation into these events. The Irish Ambassador in Israel has made Ireland’s concerns known to the Israeli authorities. I have also been in contact with Israel’s Ambassador in Ireland about the events.
I have also made clear in all my contacts in the region that the situation in Gaza is untenable. If the cycle of violence and depression in the Strip is not ended, events of this nature will inevitably recur. The long-standing blockade cannot be accepted as normal. It is for this reason that, in my visits to Gaza and in my many contacts at EU and international level, I have been particularly active in trying to encourage and promote international interest and alternative approaches. I will continue to make this a priority in my work.
61. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if there are legal or regulatory barriers that prevent a licensed credit institution here lending to a person or company that may have had an issue with their credit history in the past; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18394/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe decision to grant or refuse credit is a commercial decision on the part of a regulated entity and there is no legal or regulatory barrier that prevents a licensed credit institution from lending to a person or company that may have an issue with their credit history. However, lenders are required to conduct thorough affordability or creditworthiness assessments. There are a number of rules/regulations in place in this regard which must be complied with by regulated firms when providing credit.
Prior to offering a product or service, a regulated entity must gather and record sufficient information from the consumer before offering, recommending, arranging or providing a product or service appropriate to that consumer. The level of information gathered should be appropriate to the nature and complexity of the product or service being sought by the consumer, but must be to a level that allows the regulated entity to provide a professional service and must include details of the consumer’s needs and objectives, personal circumstances and financial situation.
The European Union (Consumer Mortgage Credit Agreements) Regulations 2016 transposed the Mortgage Credit Directive. The Mortgage Credit Regulations impose certain obligations regarding assessment of the creditworthiness of consumers. The Regulations provide that before concluding a mortgage credit agreement, a lender must make a thorough assessment of the consumer’s creditworthiness. The assessment must take appropriate account of factors relevant to verifying the prospect of the consumer being able to meet his or her obligations under the credit agreement. The lender must ensure that the procedures and information on which the assessment is based are established, documented and maintained. The Regulations provide that a lender should only make credit available to a consumer where the result of the creditworthiness assessment indicates that the consumer’s obligations resulting from the credit agreement are likely to be met in the manner required under that agreement. The assessment of creditworthiness must be carried out on the basis of information on the consumer’s income and expenses and other financial and economic circumstances which are necessary, sufficient and proportionate.
The European Communities (Consumer Credit Agreements) Regulations 2010 apply to the provision of certain credit for amounts between €200 and €75,000. Part 2 of the Regulations include an obligation on creditors to assess the creditworthiness of consumers, on the basis of sufficient information obtained from the consumer and where necessary, on the basis of a consultation of the relevant database.
With regard to the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (Section 48) Regulations 2015 (the SME Regulations) provide that, prior to entering into a credit facility agreement with a micro or small enterprise, a regulated entity must gather and record sufficient information from the borrower to assess whether that credit is suitable to that borrower. The level of information gathered must be:
- appropriate to the nature and complexity of the credit facility agreement being sought by the borrower, and
- to a level that allows the regulated entity to assess the borrower’s likely ability to repay the debt over the duration of the agreement.
The SME Regulations provide that a regulated entity can offer a credit facility agreement to a micro or small enterprise borrower only where it has satisfied itself on reasonable grounds that:
- the credit is suitable to that borrower, and
- the borrower will likely be able to repay the debt over the duration of the credit facility agreement
It should also be noted that the Central Bank’s Consumer Protection Code 2012 (the Code) must be complied with by all regulated entities providing financial services in the State. The Code requires assessments of affordability to be carried out when providing credit to consumers. These requirements apply to credit agreements to consumers as defined in the Code which do not fall within the scope of the various Regulations outlined above.
A regulated entity must take account of the result of the affordability assessment when deciding whether a personal consumer is likely to be able to repay the debt for that amount and duration in the manner required under the credit agreement.
62. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if a waiving of local property tax liabilities in respect of properties in which defective block work that is not pyrite has been identified is being considered; if so, when such a scheme will be introduced; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18420/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe legislation governing the administration of Local Property Tax (LPT) provides for a limited number of exemptions from LPT. There is no specific exemption for properties affected in the way described in the Deputy’s question and there are no plans to introduce such an exemption.
LPT operates on a self-assessment basis and it is a matter for the property owner in the first instance to calculate the tax due based on his or her assessment of the market value of the property. When making an assessment, issues such as those described by the Deputy may be one of the factors that a property owner should take into account in valuing their property.
63. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his plans to change the qualifying criteria for the disabled drivers and disabled passengers tax concession scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18448/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs you may be aware, the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Scheme provides relief from VAT and VRT (up to a certain limit) on the purchase of an adapted car for transport of a person with specific severe and permanent physical disabilities, payment of a fuel grant, and an exemption from Motor Tax.
To qualify for the Scheme an applicant must be in possession of a Primary Medical Certificate. To qualify for a Primary Medical Certificate, an applicant must be permanently and severely disabled within the terms of the Disabled Drivers and Disabled Passengers (Tax Concessions) Regulations 1994 and satisfy one of the following conditions:
- be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both legs;
- be wholly without the use of one leg and almost wholly without the use of the other leg such that the applicant is severely restricted as to movement of the lower limbs;
- be without both hands or without both arms;
- be without one or both legs;
- be wholly or almost wholly without the use of both hands or arms and wholly or almost wholly without the use of one leg;
- have the medical condition of dwarfism and have serious difficulties of movement of the lower limbs.
The Scheme represents a significant tax expenditure. Between the Vehicle Registration Tax and VAT foregone, and the fuel grant, the scheme is estimated to have cost of the order of €65m in each of 2016 and 2017. This figure does not include the revenue foregone in respect of the relief from Motor Tax provided to members of the Scheme.
Given scale and scope of the scheme, I have no plans to amend the qualifying medical criteria at this time.
64. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of active investigations the Central Bank is running into matters related to insider information; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18473/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra65. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of persons or companies that have been reprimanded by the Central Bank as a result of investigations into insider information by year and nature in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18474/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 64 and 65 together.
"Insider information" as referenced by the Deputy is a form of market abuse. The Central Bank of Ireland has been designated as the single administrative competent authority for the purpose of Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 on market abuse.
Securities markets activity encompasses a high number of participants engaged in significant levels of trading activity in a range of securities across global markets. I am informed by the Central Bank that it collects significant volumes of data on market activity including transaction reports from Irish authorised firms and other EU competent authorities; there were 270 million such reports in 2016. The Central Bank adopts a systematic approach to identifying from this data any suspicious transaction reports obtained from Irish authorised firms and other EU competent authorities of potential breaches of market abuse legislation (55 suspicious transaction reports received in 2016). All of this information may trigger an investigation by the Central Bank and further action, adopting a risk-based approach. Such action may include referrals to other competent authorities, risk mitigation actions for regulated firms and instigation of enforcement action.
The Central Bank does not comment on any ongoing investigation(s), nor would it be appropriate for me to do so.
The Central Bank have provided the following table on Monitoring Compliance of Market Participants against Market Abuse Directive; this data is published in the Central Bank’s Annual Performance Statement 2016-2017.
|
Monitoring Compliance of Market Participants against Market Abuse Directive |
2015 |
2016 |
|
Enquiries initiated regarding possible contraventions |
143 |
76 |
|
Enquiries completed regarding possible contraventions |
161 |
89 |
|
Suspicious Transaction Reports submitted to the Bank by persons professionally arranging transactions |
28 |
35 |
|
Suspicious Transaction Reports submitted to the Bank by other EU Competent Authorities |
26 |
20 |
|
Suspicious Transaction Reports transmitted by the Bank to EU Competent Authorities |
26 |
34 |
|
Assistance rendered to other EU Competent Authorities |
17 |
22 |
The Central Bank provided the following table, which details sanctions imposed by the Central Bank for matters under the Market Abuse Regulations 2005 and/or the Market Abuse Rules 2006. Public statements in respect of each of the actions taken are available on the Central Bank’s website.
|
Description |
Relevant Regulations |
Outcome Year |
Sanction |
|
Disclosure failures when issuing a recommendation |
Regulations 18 and 21 of the Market Abuse Regulations 2005 |
2007 |
€5,000 |
|
Disclosure failures when issuing a recommendation |
Regulation 18 of the Market Abuse Regulations 2005 |
2008 |
€10,000 |
|
Failure to adequately maintain Insider List |
Regulation 11 of the Market Abuse Regulations 2005 |
2010 |
€40,000 |
|
Failure to notify CBI of a transaction that might constitute market abuse |
Regulation 13 of the Market Abuse Regulations 2005 |
2012 |
€20,000 |
|
Failure to adequately maintain Insider List |
Regulation 11 of the Market Abuse Regulations 2005 and Rule 6.1 of the Market Abuse Rules 2006 |
2013 |
€90,000 |
66. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Finance the number of properties that are exempt from the local property tax by different exemption categories; and the estimated revenue forgone by the State in each of these categories. [18523/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that the number of properties exempt from Local Property Tax (LPT) up to Quarter 1 2018, by exemption category, is available in the LPT statistics on the Revenue website at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/information-about-revenue/statistics/local-property-tax/index.aspx. A breakdown of the cost by individual exemption category is not available but the overall revenue foregone for all LPT exemption categories is estimated at €13m per year.
67. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of split mortgages in each of the State supported banks; the number of these mortgages deemed to be performing and non-performing, respectively; the number of cases in which the borrower is adhering and not adhering, respectively, to the terms of the split mortgage agreement in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18529/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have received the following response from Ptsb:
“The Bank’s forbearance information is set out on pages 204 to 206 of its 2017 Annual Report. At 2017 year-end, the Bank had 6,157 (€1,162m) Residential Split Mortgages accounts and 390 (€111m) Residential Buy-to-Let Split Mortgage accounts. As these loans are classified as impaired under Accounting convention, all of the Bank’s Split Mortgages Loans and balances are classified as Non-Performing. The Bank does not publish or make publicly available the levels of re-default on its Treated loan Books as this is considered commercially sensitive information.”
I have also received the following response from AIB:
"All disclosures on Forbearance, including Split Mortgages to December 2017, are available on pages 140 – 141 of AIB’s Annual Financial Report 2017, and are prepared in line with EBA (European Banking Authority) definitions. The 558 accounts classified as non-performing include restructured accounts which must fulfil a 12 month probationary period before moving to Performing status."
|
Split Mortgage Overview |
Total |
Performing |
Non-Performing |
Meeting Terms |
|
Number of accounts |
1,966 |
1,408 |
558 |
Over 90% |
68. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of split mortgages owned by unregulated loan owners; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18530/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI have been advised by the Central Bank of Ireland that while it does collect and publish information on mortgages held by non-bank entities which includes unregulated loan owners, it does not give a breakdown in terms of how many are split mortgage arrangements.
The number of split mortgage arrangements are available for PDH and BTLs. At the end of Q4 2017, there were 27,475 PDH mortgage accounts restructured with a split mortgage arrangement. The vast majority of split mortgages arrangements were provided by banks. The figure for BTLs with split mortgage arrangements at the end of Q4 2017 was 2,058.
The Central Bank Residential Mortgage Arrears and Repossessions Statistics can be found at: https://www.centralbank.ie/statistics/data-and-analysis/credit-and-banking-statistics/mortgage-arrears
69. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the process required for credit unions to offer a debit or credit card service; if consultation has taken place between credit unions, the Central Bank and his Department with regard to the provision of such services; if an impact assessment will be undertaken as to the likely impact on credit unions if An Post is permitted to offer debit or credit card services; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18531/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Credit Union Act, 1997 (1997 Act) sets out the services that a credit union may provide to its members. In addition, the Credit Union Act 1997 (Regulatory Requirements) Regulations 2016 (2016 Regulations) provides for services exempt from additional services requirements. Where a credit union wishes to provide services to its members, other than those services that are provided for under the 1997 Act or the list of services exempt from the additional services requirements set out in the 2016 Regulations, an application may be made to the Central Bank for approval to provide such additional services, in accordance with the provisions in sections 48-52 of the 1997 Act.
Debit card provision is subject to formal application and approval by the Central Bank, whether it be direct provision or distribution of third party debit cards under sections 48 and 49 of the Credit Union Act.
There is currently a fully defined current account service including debit card, Members Personal Current Account Services (MPCAS) which is available to eligible credit unions as an additional service. The Central Bank is currently processing a significant number of applications for this service. Details and applications forms are available on the Central Bank website.https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/industry-sectors/credit-nions/Pages/apply.aspx. The Central Bank has also indicated it is open to applications for alternative debit card proposals and recommends the MPCAS framework as a scalar template for such alternative proposals.
The Central Bank has approved 43 credit unions for MPCAS and have another 9 in progress. Combined these 52 credit unions have c€7.6bn in assets.
In respect of prepaid debit cards, there has been little interest to date albeit the operational considerations and costs are less onerous. No credit unions issue credit cards at present, nor has there been any sectoral demand for this product.
The Government wants not only strong, vibrant credit unions offering a safe and secure place for members' savings but also credit unions being appropriately positioned to offer their members a wide range of services including loans, debit card facilities and new products and services based on the needs of their membership.
The credit union sector is considering various proposals to increase its income and develop its business model. CUAC is also considering business model development.
Finally, while there are currently no plans to carry out an assessment on the likely impact on credit unions if An Post is permitted to offer debit or credit card services, the matter will be kept under review.
70. Deputy Jan O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; the steps he will take to resolve the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18383/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra71. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18392/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra72. Deputy Mary Butler asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18397/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra73. Deputy Eamon Scanlon asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; the steps he will take to resolve the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18398/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra74. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18399/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra75. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18400/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra76. Deputy Declan Breathnach asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18401/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra77. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18402/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra78. Deputy Pat Casey asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; the steps he will take to resolve the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18403/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra79. Deputy John Brassil asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18404/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra80. Deputy Kevin O'Keeffe asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18405/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra81. Deputy Eugene Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18406/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra82. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; the steps he will take to resolve the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18407/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra83. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18408/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra84. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18409/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra85. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18410/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra86. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18430/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra87. Deputy Martin Ferris asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18431/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra88. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18434/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra90. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and the steps he will take to resolve the matter. [18444/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra91. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; the steps he will take to resolve the matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18445/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra96. Deputy John Curran asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18539/18]
Amharc ar fhreagra97. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if a date has been set for a meeting of the high level forum on community employment supervisor pensions; if his attention has been drawn to the anger and frustration of community employment supervisors and assistant supervisors; his views on the fact that their contribution to improving the life chances of scheme participants and to their overall local communities is not being properly recognised at the end of their careers in spite of a Labour Court ruling in their favour; his further views on whether the Government may be undermining the Labour Court by ignoring its recommendation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18542/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 70 to 88, inclusive, 90, 91, 96 and 97 together.
I would refer the Deputies to my responses to question No. 262 of 16 January 2018 and No. 227 of 27 March 2018.
