Written Answers Nos. 270-288
270. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if a person (details supplied) who was approved for Irish citizenship in December 2017 will be invited to attend the citizenship ceremony taking place in Dublin. [22411/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the processing of the application for a certificate of naturalisation from the person referred to by the Deputy is ongoing.
Information was requested from this applicant in December 2017 by officials of my Department. A further letter issued to the person concerned on 3 May 2018 requesting certain documentation with a reminder letter issuing on 10 May 2018 and a reply is awaited. Upon receipt of the requested documentation the case will be further processed.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the granting of Irish citizenship through naturalisation is a privilege and an honour which confers certain rights and entitlements not only within the State but also at European Union level and it is important that appropriate procedures are in place to preserve the integrity of the process.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
271. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the Garda strength by reference to division and rank; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22487/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.
I am informed by the Commissioner that in regard to the deployment of Garda personnel, a distribution model is used which takes into account all relevant factors including population, crime trends and the policing needs of each individual Garda Division. Where a deficiency in resources is identified the matter is considered fully and addressed accordingly.
I am further informed by the Commissioner that on the 30 April 2018, the latest date for which figures are readily available, the strength of An Garda Síochána was 13,632. There are also 562 Garda Reserves and more than 2,280 civilians attached to An Garda Síochána.
This Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. To achieve this the Government has put in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021 comprising 15,000 Garda members, 2,000 Reserve members and 4,000 civilians. We are making real, tangible progress on achieving this goal.
Since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide. Garda numbers, taking account of retirements, increased to 13,551 at the end of 2017 – a net increase of over 600 since the end of 2016.
I am pleased that funding is in place to maintain this high level of investment in the Garda workforce to ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. This year a further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College, some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year which will see Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 by 2021 will require some 1,600 more Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next two years. This is an ambitious programme of accelerated recruitment. To ensure a continuous pipeline of candidates a new recruitment drive was launched by the Commissioner last week with a closing date of 6 June. The competition is being undertaken by the Public Appointment Service on behalf of the Commissioner and applications should be made to www.publicjobs.ie.
In addition, a further 500 civilians will also be recruited to fill critical skills gaps across the organisation and to facilitate the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative and technical duties to front-line operational duties. There are plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve with new Reserves expected to commence training in 2018.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. The moratorium on recruitment introduced in 2010 resulted in a significant reduction in the strength of An Garda Síochána. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí across every Division.
For the Deputy's information I have set out in the following table the Garda strength by Divison and rank as of 30 April 2018, the latest date for which information is readily available.
GARDA STATISTICS MONTH ENDING 30 APRIL 2018
|
-Division |
GD |
SG |
IN |
SU |
CS |
AC |
TOTAL |
|
CAVAN / MONAGHAN |
284 |
47 |
7 |
5 |
1 |
344 |
|
|
CLARE |
262 |
43 |
5 |
2 |
1 |
313 |
|
|
CORK CITY |
572 |
93 |
9 |
6 |
1 |
1 |
682 |
|
CORK NORTH |
267 |
45 |
7 |
3 |
1 |
323 |
|
|
CORK WEST |
246 |
43 |
4 |
4 |
1 |
298 |
|
|
D.M.R. EAST |
309 |
48 |
8 |
3 |
1 |
369 |
|
|
D.M.R. NORTH |
590 |
72 |
10 |
5 |
1 |
678 |
|
|
D.M.R. NORTH CENTRAL |
550 |
79 |
12 |
4 |
1 |
646 |
|
|
D.M.R. SOUTH |
461 |
55 |
12 |
3 |
1 |
532 |
|
|
D.M.R. SOUTH CENTRAL |
544 |
63 |
13 |
5 |
1 |
626 |
|
|
D.M.R. WEST |
584 |
70 |
13 |
4 |
1 |
672 |
|
|
DONEGAL |
338 |
44 |
7 |
4 |
1 |
394 |
|
|
GALWAY |
481 |
79 |
7 |
7 |
1 |
1 |
576 |
|
KERRY |
273 |
43 |
5 |
3 |
1 |
325 |
|
|
KILDARE |
311 |
46 |
4 |
3 |
1 |
365 |
|
|
KILKENNY/CARLOW |
273 |
47 |
6 |
4 |
1 |
1 |
332 |
|
LAOIS / OFFALY |
288 |
47 |
8 |
2 |
1 |
346 |
|
|
LIMERICK |
478 |
72 |
10 |
4 |
1 |
565 |
|
|
LOUTH |
264 |
43 |
3 |
2 |
1 |
313 |
|
|
MAYO |
271 |
50 |
4 |
4 |
1 |
330 |
|
|
MEATH |
262 |
39 |
6 |
4 |
1 |
312 |
|
|
ROSCOMMON / LONGFORD |
251 |
51 |
4 |
4 |
1 |
311 |
|
|
SLIGO / LEITRIM |
244 |
47 |
6 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
302 |
|
TIPPERARY |
335 |
51 |
6 |
5 |
1 |
398 |
|
|
WATERFORD |
259 |
39 |
5 |
3 |
1 |
307 |
|
|
WESTMEATH |
220 |
39 |
4 |
3 |
1 |
1 |
268 |
|
WEXFORD |
247 |
38 |
6 |
3 |
294 |
||
|
WICKLOW |
256 |
40 |
5 |
3 |
1 |
305 |
272. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the Garda numbers in the Donegal division to date; his plans for improving Garda numbers in the county in the years ahead; his plans for maintaining and improving Garda stations in the county; if he will consider designating Glenties station to its former district status; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22491/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, it is the Garda Commissioner who is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and I, as Minister, have no direct role in the matter. Garda management keeps this distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that, as of the 30 April 2018, the latest date for which figures are available, the strength of the Donegal Division was 394. When appropriate, the work of local Gardaí is supported by a number of Garda national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Armed Support Units, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.
I can assure the House that the Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021, including 15,000 Garda members.
Since the reopening of the Garda College in September 2014, just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and have been assigned to mainstream duties nationwide, 32 of whom have been assigned to the Donegal Division.
I am pleased that funding is in place to maintain this high level of investment in the Garda workforce to ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. This year a further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College; some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year, some 200 of whom attested in March. Further, Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, are on track to reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí. Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities and enhance visibility within our communities and will enable the Commissioner to provide additional resources across every Garda Division, including the Donegal Division, as new Garda recruits continue to come on stream.
The Deputy will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. This includes identifying and progressing any necessary remedial or refurbishment works required at individual stations. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I can however confirm that the Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 includes the full upgrade and refurbishment of Donegal town Garda Station. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the OPW has advised that tender documents are currently being prepared. It is expected that the project will be tendered for in early Q3 2018.
In relation to Glenties Garda Station and in particular its former status as District headquarters, it should be noted that such designation or status is a matter for the office of Deputy Commissioner Policing & Security, in conjunction with District and Divisional Officers, having regard to the policing requirements of Glenties and the surrounding communities. As Minister I have no role in the matter.
More generally, the Deputy will also be aware that the Garda Síochána Inspectorate, at the request of the Policing Authority, is carrying out a review of the dispersal and use of resources available to An Garda Síochána in the delivery of policing services to local communities. The Authority has informed the Inspectorate that the review should take account of:
- the changing environments in rural, developing urban and suburban areas;
- the views of local communities;
- the allocation to and deployment of Garda resources at the local policing level, including the use of the Garda Reserve, Garda facilities and Garda equipment; and
- relevant recommendations made in previous Inspectorate reports.
It is expected that the review will be completed within the first half of 2018.
273. Deputy Pat The Cope Gallagher asked the Minister for Justice and Equality his plans for Donegal town Garda station to date; the improvement plans for same; the staffing numbers he plans for the station; if he will further consider designating Glenties Garda station to its former district status and by extension improving Garda numbers in the south and west areas of County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22492/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. This includes identifying and progressing any necessary remedial or refurbishment works required at individual stations. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
I can however confirm that the Garda Building and Refurbishment Programme 2016-2021 includes the full upgrade and refurbishment of Donegal town Garda Station. I have been informed by the Garda authorities that the OPW has advised that tender documents are currently being prepared. It is expected that the project will be tendered for in early Q3 2018.
Regarding future personnel levels at the station, it should be noted that the Garda Commissioner is responsible for the distribution of resources, including personnel, among the various Garda Divisions and, as Minister, I have no direct role in the matter. I am informed that Garda management keeps the distribution of resources under continual review in the context of crime trends and policing priorities so as to ensure that the optimum use is made of these resources.
In relation to Glenties Garda Station and in particular its former status as District headquarters, it should be noted that such designation or status is a matter for the office of Deputy Commissioner Policing & Security, in conjunction with District and Divisional Officers, having regard to the policing requirements of Glenties and the surrounding communities. As Minister I have no role in the matter.
More generally, the Deputy will also be aware that the Garda Síochána Inspectorate, at the request of the Policing Authority, is carrying out a review of the dispersal and use of resources available to An Garda Síochána in the delivery of policing services to local communities. The Authority has informed the Inspectorate that the review should take account of:
- the changing environments in rural, developing urban and suburban areas;
- the views of local communities;
- the allocation to and deployment of Garda resources at the local policing level, including the use of the Garda Reserve, Garda facilities and Garda equipment; and
- relevant recommendations made in previous Inspectorate reports.
It is expected that the review will be completed within the first half of 2018.
I am informed by the Garda Commissioner that, as of the 30 April 2018, the latest date for which figures are available, the strength of the Donegal Division was 394. When appropriate, the work of local Gardaí is supported by a number of Garda national units such as the National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Armed Support Units, the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau and the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau.
I can assure the House that the Government is committed to ensuring a strong and visible police presence throughout the country in order to maintain and strengthen community engagement, provide reassurance to citizens and to deter crime. To make this a reality for all, the Government has in place a plan for an overall Garda workforce of 21,000 personnel by 2021, including 15,000 Garda members.
Real, tangible progress has been made towards this goal. Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, increased to 13,551 at the end of 2017 - a net increase of over 600 since the end of 2016.
The Deputy will be aware that in 2010 a previous government closed the Garda College and imposed a moratorium - the measures imposed at that time had a negative impact on Garda numbers across all Divisions and the legacy of these decisions continues to have consequences for policing. When it had brought about an early exit from the bailout and stabilised the public finances, in September 2014 the then Government reopened the College and since then just under 1,800 recruits have attested as members of An Garda Síochána and are performing mainstream duties nationwide, 32 of whom have been assigned to the Donegal Division.
I am pleased that funding is in place to maintain this high level of investment in the Garda workforce to ensure that the vision of an overall workforce of 21,000 by 2021 remains on track. Taking account of projected retirements, reaching a strength of 15,000 by 2021 will require some 1,600 more Garda members to be recruited on a phased basis over the next two years. This is an ambitious programme of accelerated recruitment. To ensure a continuous pipeline of candidates a new recruitment drive was launched by the Commissioner last week with a closing date of 6 June. The competition is being undertaken by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Commissioner and applications should be made to www.publicjobs.ie.
This year a further 800 new Garda Recruits will enter the Garda College, some 400 of whom have already done so. In total, 800 Garda trainees are scheduled to attest during the year, some 200 of whom attested in March. Further, Garda numbers, taking account of projected retirements, are on track to reach 14,000 by the end of this year.
In addition, a further 500 civilians will be recruited to fill critical skills gaps across the organisation and to facilitate the redeployment of Gardaí from administrative and technical duties to front-line operational duties. There are plans to strengthen the Garda Reserve with new Reserves expected to commence training in 2018.
This focus on investment in personnel is critical. We are now rebuilding the organisation and providing the Commissioner with the resources needed to deploy increasing numbers of Gardaí. Undoubtedly, the ongoing recruitment process will support all Garda activities and enhance visibility within our communities and will enable the Commissioner to provide additional resources across every Garda division, including the Donegal Division, as new Garda recruits continue to come on stream.
274. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 568 of 17 April 2017, when the relevant reports will be provided; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22497/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs I advised the Deputy earlier in my answer to Parliamentary Question No. 568 of 17 April 2017 the information sought to a number of his questions was not available at the time of asking. I requested the information from the Garda Commissioner with a view to reverting to the Deputy when it was received. Having received the information from the Commissioner I indicated that I would collate the information into a single response as the issues raised related to a number of different matters. I now propose to set out this response below.
With regard to the Deputy's question on the number and names of Garda stations that are opened on a 24-hour basis, I am informed by the Garda authorities that the following 109 stations are open on a 24-hour basis.
Dublin Metropolitan Region
|
Balbriggan |
Clontarf |
Irishtown |
Rathfarnham |
|
Ballyfermot |
Coolock |
Kevin Street |
Rathmines |
|
Ballymun |
Crumlin |
Kilmainham |
Ronanstown |
|
Blackrock |
Dun Laoghaire |
Lucan |
Shankill |
|
Blanchardstown |
Dundrum |
Mountjoy |
Store Street |
|
Bridewell |
Finglas |
Pearse Street |
Swords |
|
Clondalkin |
Fitzgibbon Street |
Raheny |
Tallaght |
South Eastern Region
|
Carlow |
Kilkenny |
Tipperary |
Waterford |
Wexford |
|
Carlow |
Kilkenny |
Cahir |
Dungarvan |
Enniscorthy |
|
Clonmel |
Tramore |
New Ross |
||
|
Thomastown |
Nenagh |
Waterford |
Wexford |
|
|
Tipperary Town |
||||
|
Thurles |
Southern Region
|
Cork |
Limerick |
Kerry |
|
|
Anglesea Street |
Macroom |
Bruff |
Killarney |
|
Bandon |
Mallow |
Henry Street |
Listowel |
|
Bantry |
Mayfield |
Newcastle West |
Tralee |
|
Clonakilty |
Midleton |
Roxboro Road |
|
|
Fermoy |
Togher |
||
|
Gurranabraher |
Western Division
|
Clare |
Galway |
Longford |
Mayo |
Roscommon |
|
Ennis |
Ballinasloe |
Granard |
Ballina |
Castlerea |
|
Kilrush |
Clifden |
Longford |
Bellmullet |
Roscommon |
|
Shannon |
Galway |
Castlebar |
||
|
Gort |
Claremorris |
|||
|
Loughrea |
Westport |
|||
|
Salthill |
||||
|
Tuam |
Eastern Region
|
Kildare |
Laois |
Meath |
Offaly |
Westmeath |
Wicklow |
|
Kildare |
Portlaoise |
Ashbourne |
Birr |
Athlone |
Baltinglass |
|
Leixlip |
Kells |
Mullingar |
Bray |
||
|
Naas |
Navan |
Tullamore |
|||
|
Trim |
Wicklow |
Northern Region
|
Cavan |
Donegal |
Monaghan |
Leitrim |
Louth |
Sligo |
|
Bailieboro |
Ballyshannon |
Carrickmacross |
Carrick-on-Shannon |
Drogheda |
Ballymote |
|
Cavan |
Buncrana |
Castleblaney |
Dundalk |
Sligo |
|
|
Donegal Town |
Monaghan |
||||
|
Letterkenny |
|||||
|
Milford |
With reference to the question regarding the number of Garda Reserve members as at the end of 2017 and the percentage that completed the minimum of 208 annual hours per annum duty obligations it is worth recalling that the Garda Reserve was established in accordance with the Garda Síochána Act 2005 to enhance the links between An Garda Síochána and local communities. It consists of voluntary unpaid members, drawn from the community, to support the work of An Garda Síochána. However, an allowance is payable to Reserve members who complete a minimum of 208 hours duty annually as a contribution towards expenses incurred in performing their duties. The allowance is currently set at €1,000 per annum. Members of the Reserve are also reimbursed for expenses incurred while attending court in respect of their service in the Garda Reserve.
The strength of the Reserve was 589 on 31 December 2017. I am informed that 205 members or 34.8% were paid the allowance in 2017.
The Deputy also asked a number of questions relating to the criteria applied by An Garda Síochána for determining whether a crime should be recorded as a burglary as opposed to a criminal damage offence, whether both crimes are recorded on the PULSE system in circumstances in which criminal damage is committed in the course of a burglary, the checks in place to ensure that An Garda Síochána are correctly classifying crimes recorded on the PULSE system and the process and policy in place for the re-characterisation of crimes already submitted in the PULSE system.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that reviewing and re-classification of incidents, both crime and non-crime, is routine. Incidents recorded on PULSE are subject of review by supervisors, Performance and Accountability Framework (PAF) Administrators and District Officers, as well as staff at the Garda Information Service Centre (GISC) who are tasked with the recording of crime statistics. This is part of the normal process of regular review.
I am advised that An Garda Síochána, in determining whether a crime should be recorded as a burglary as opposed to criminal damage, provide that both incidents should be recorded on PULSE as both instances occurred during the same criminal incident. Both incidents are grouped together and the most serious one is flagged for crime counting purposes in the official statistics. This is determined by which incident carries the greatest penalty. In this case burglary would be flagged as the primary incident as it carries the greatest penalty and would be counted for official statistics.
I understand that the PULSE Classification Project is being rolled out incrementally in An Garda Síochána. This project assigns the GISC team as the classifier of PULSE incidents, thereby reducing the number of decision makers on the classification of crime and other incidents to the GISC team. This project is operational in the Northern and Western regions and is working successfully and it will be implemented in the Eastern and South Eastern, Southern Region and the DMR over the coming months.
With reference to Parliamentary Question No. 248 concerning the number of staff serving on the unit within An Garda Síochána known as the Charleton Liaison Unit that were appointed to the position by a person, a substantive reply was given on 23 January 2018 to this question.
275. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Justice and Equality further to Parliamentary Question No. 310 of 15 May 2018, if this application will be sent to an address; if a list of outstanding documentation can be included for the person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22523/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS) of my Department that the responsibility to inform INIS of changes to an individual’s personal details lies with the person concerned, and in this regard it is advisable that the person concerned make direct contact with INIS.
Queries in relation to the status of individual immigration cases may be made directly to the INIS of my Department by e-mail using the Oireachtas Mail facility which has been specifically established for this purpose. This service enables up to date information on such cases to be obtained without the need to seek information by way of the Parliamentary Questions process. The Deputy may consider using the e-mail service except in cases where the response from the INIS is, in the Deputy’s view, inadequate or too long awaited.
276. Deputy Margaret Murphy O'Mahony asked the Minister for Justice and Equality when Ballinspittle Garda station will reopen; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22567/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Deputy will appreciate that the programme of replacement and refurbishment of Garda accommodation is progressed by the Garda authorities working in close cooperation with the Office of Public Works (OPW), which has the responsibility for the provision and maintenance of Garda accommodation. This includes identifying and progressing any necessary remedial or refurbishment works required at individual stations. As Minister, I have no direct role in these matters.
As the Deputy will be aware, the Programme for a Partnership Government commits to a pilot scheme to reopen 6 Garda stations, both urban and rural, to determine possible positive impacts that such openings will have on criminal activity, with special emphasis on burglaries, theft and public order.
The Garda Commissioner's final report, which is available on my Department's website, recommends that Ballinspittle Garda Station be reopened, along with stations in Bawnboy, Co. Cavan, Leighlinbridge, Co. Carlow, Donard, Co. Wicklow, and Rush and Stepaside, Co. Dublin.
I am informed by the Garda authorities that a brief of requirements was provided to the OPW in relation to the reopening of these 6 stations, including Ballinspittle Garda Station, and that the Garda authorities requested the OPW to undertake technical surveys to determine the works which would be required to enable the stations to reopen and the estimated cost of any such works.
I am further informed that the OPW has now conducted the necessary technical survey and has written to the Commissioner outlining the works and estimated cost involved. An Garda Síochána is now considering that information. An Garda Síochána and the OPW remain in discussion regarding the pilot reopening.
I understand that at this stage it is not possible to provide a timeframe for reopening the stations concerned, which is dependent on a number of factors.
277. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the reason the process time for Garda vetting has increased recently; the measures he has taken to reduce the time back to the recommended guide of five to six days; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22587/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, the processing of vetting applications by the Garda National Vetting Bureau is an operational matter for the Garda Authorities and is carried out in accordance with the provisions of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012-2016 and other relevant law. My Department has no role in the processing of individual vetting applications.
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that the National Vetting Bureau works to ensure that the processing time for vetting applications is kept to the minimum necessary in order to ensure that the statutory obligation to receive a vetting disclosure prior to permitting any person to undertake relevant work or activities on behalf of an organisation can be facilitated without undue delay.
Across 2017 and the first quarter of 2018, the National Vetting Bureau placed an emphasis on encouraging relevant organisations to meet their statutory obligations with regard to completing retrospective vetting arrangements, the deadline for which was 30 April 2018.
While the National Vetting Bureau has the capacity to process large volumes of vetting applications over a sustained period, the retrospective vetting deadline resulted in a significant short-term increase in the volume of vetting applications received in the first quarter of this year which has resulted in the turnaround time increasing in excess of the 5-6 days target. Additional resources have been applied to address this additional demand and it is envisaged that turnaround times will reduce to the target time in the short term.
278. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if Garda vetting requests (details supplied) will be expedited to ensure applicants do not miss out on job opportunities. [22588/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, the processing of vetting applications by the Garda National Vetting Bureau is an operational matter for the Garda Authorities and is carried out in accordance with the provisions of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012-2016 and other relevant law. My Department has no role in the processing of individual vetting applications.
I am informed by the Garda Authorities that a vetting application was received by the National Vetting Bureau from a registered organisation in respect of the first person referred to by the Deputy on 17 April 2018. This application was processed and returned to the registered organisation on 17 May 2018.
I am further informed by the Garda Authorities that a vetting application was received by the National Vetting Bureau from a registered organisation in respect of the second person referred to by the Deputy on 10 May 2018. This application was processed and returned to the registered organisation on 18 May 2018.
In respect of certain applications, it is necessary for the National Vetting Bureau to conduct further enquiries, for example to confirm information provided by the applicant, with external bodies and the time required to receive such information may be outside of the control of the vetting bureau. In such instances processing times may be significantly longer than the general average.
279. Deputy Anne Rabbitte asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the way in which the courts interpret the voice of the child with specific reference to guardianship of children Acts from 1964 to 1997, section 11 interim order on questions affecting the welfare of children (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22634/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder section 11 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964, the guardian of a child may apply to the court for an order giving directions on any question affecting the welfare of the child, including the custody of, and access to, the child and the payment of maintenance. Either parent of a child, whether or not he or she is also a guardian of the child, may apply to court for a direction regarding custody of, or access to, the child. Section 11(5) of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 provides that the court may, of its own motion or on application, give directions to procure a report from such person as it may nominate on any question affecting the welfare of the child.
The Deputy will be aware that Article 42A.4.1o of the Constitution requires that provision be made by law that in the resolution of all proceedings concerning the guardianship or custody of, or access to, any child, the best interests of the child shall be the paramount consideration. Article 42A.4.2orequires that provision be made by law for securing, as far as practicable, that in all such proceedings in respect of any child who is capable of forming his or her own views, the views of the child shall be ascertained and given due weight having regard to the age and maturity of the child.
The Children and Family Relationships Act 2015 contains provisions regarding the best interests of children in family law proceedings which have been in operation since 18 January 2016. Section 3 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964, as amended by section 45 of the 2015 Act, provides that the best interests of the child shall be the paramount consideration for the court in proceedings where the guardianship, custody or upbringing of, or access to, a child is in question.
The best interests of a child are to be determined in accordance with the new Part V of the 1964 Act, inserted by section 63 of the 2015 Act. Part V, entitled “Best Interests of the Child”, contains two important sections.
Section 31 sets out an extensive list of factors and circumstances to be taken into account by a court when determining the best interests of a child. These include the views of the child that are ascertainable (whether in accordance with section 32 or otherwise). The court can ascertain the views of the child in person or through an expert. Section 31(6) provides that in obtaining the ascertainable views of a child, the court shall facilitate the free expression by the child of those views and endeavour to ensure that any views expressed by the child are not expressed as a result of undue influence, and may make an order under section 32.
Section 32 facilitates the hearing of the voice of the child by enabling the court to appoint an expert to determine and convey the child’s views to the court, so that the child’s voice can be heard in the proceedings.
These provisions allow the courts to take account of the evolving capacity of children and also give the courts the flexibility to ensure that all children’s views can be heard.
As the Deputy will appreciate, the courts are, subject only to the Constitution and the law, independent in the exercise of their judicial functions. The conduct of any case relating to section 11 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1964 and the arrangements made in such a case to enable the voice of the child to be heard are a matter for the presiding judge, subject to the legislative provisions set out above.
280. Deputy Gino Kenny asked the Minister for Justice and Equality the number and location of all direct provision centres; the person or body they are owned by; the amount direct provision has cost to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [22660/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 6 May 2018, the Reception and Integration Agency area of my Department had contracts for 35 accommodation centres for protection applicants, located throughout the State. Details of their location, whether they are owned privately or by the State and the name of the contractor concerned are provided in the following table.
|
- |
County |
Centre |
Ownership / Address |
Contractor |
|
1 |
Clare |
Knockalisheen |
State owned / Meelick, Clare |
Campbell Catering Ltd t/a Aramark Ireland |
|
2 |
Clare |
King Thomond Hotel |
Private / The Bog Road, Lisdoonvarna |
James White & Co Ltd t/a King Thomond Hotel |
|
3 |
Cork |
Ashbourne Hse |
Private / Glounthaune |
Barlow Properties Ltd |
|
|
Cork |
Clonakilty Lodge |
Private /Clonakilty, Co. Cork |
D and A Ltd |
|
4 |
Cork |
Glenvera |
Private /Wellington Road |
Bideau Ltd |
|
5 |
Cork |
Kinsale Road |
State Owned /Cork City |
Campbell Catering Ltd t/a Aramark Ireland |
|
6 |
Cork |
Millstreet |
Private /Millstreet |
Millstreet Equestrian Services |
|
8 |
Dublin |
Balseskin |
Private / St. Margarets, Finglas, Dublin 11 |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) |
|
9 |
Dublin |
Hatch Hall |
Private / 28 Lower Hatch Street, Dublin 2 |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) |
|
10 |
Dublin |
The Towers |
Private / The Ninth Lock, Clondalkin, D.22 |
Fazyard Ltd |
|
11 |
Dublin |
Watergate House |
Private / 11-14 Usher's Quay, Dublin 8 |
Maison Builders Ltd. |
|
12 |
Galway |
Eglinton |
Private / The Proms, Salthill |
Maplestar Ltd |
|
13 |
Galway |
Great Western House |
Private / Eyre Square |
Sidetracks Limited T/A Great Western House |
|
14 |
Kerry |
Atlas House (Killarney) |
State Owned /Killarney |
OFM Ltd |
|
15 |
Kerry |
Atlas House (Tralee) |
State owned /Tralee |
OFM Ltd |
|
16 |
Kerry |
Johnston Marina |
State owned / Tralee |
OFM Ltd |
|
17 |
Kerry |
Linden House |
Private / New Road, Killarney |
Millstreet Equestrian Services |
|
18 |
Kerry |
Park Lodge |
State Owned / Killarney |
OFM Ltd |
|
19 |
Kildare |
Eyrepowell |
Private / Newbridge |
Peachport Ltd |
|
20 |
Laois |
Montague |
Private / Emo, Portlaoise |
Fazyard Ltd |
|
21 |
Limerick |
Hanratty's |
Private / Glentworth Street, Limerick |
Birch Rentals Ltd |
|
22 |
Limerick |
Mount Trenchard |
Private / Foynes, Co. Limerick |
Baycaster Ltd |
|
23 |
Longford |
Richmond Court |
Private / Richmond Street, Longford |
Mint Horizon Ltd |
|
24 |
Louth |
Carroll Village |
Private / Dundalk |
East Coast Catering (Ireland) |
|
25 |
Mayo |
The Old Convent |
Private / Ballyhaunis |
Bridgestock |
|
26 |
Meath |
Mosney |
Private / Mosney |
Mosney |
|
27 |
Monaghan |
St. Patricks |
Private / Monaghan |
Tattonward Ltd |
|
28 |
Sligo |
Globe House |
Private / Chapel Hill |
Bridgestock |
|
29 |
Tipperary |
Bridgewater House |
Private / Carrick-on-Suir, Co. Tipperary |
Millstreet Equestrian Services |
|
30 |
Waterford |
Atlantic House |
Private / Tramore, Co. Waterford |
Atlantic Blue ltd |
|
31 |
Waterford |
Ocean View |
Private / Tramore, Co. Waterford |
Ocean View Accommodation Ltd |
|
32 |
Waterford |
Birchwood |
Private / Ballytruckle Road |
Stompool Investments Ltd |
|
33 |
Waterford |
Viking House |
Private / Coffee House Lane |
Millstreet Equestrian Services |
|
34 |
Westmeath |
Temple Accommodation |
Private / Horseleap, Moate, Westmeath |
Townbe Ltd |
|
35 |
Westmeath |
Athlone |
State Owned / Athlone |
Campbell Catering Ltd t/a Aramark Ireland |
The 2018 budget for this accommodation is €66.6 million.
281. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Justice and Equality if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding Garda vetting. [22720/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will appreciate, the processing of vetting applications by the Garda National Vetting Bureau is an operational matter for the Garda Authorities and is carried out in accordance with the provisions of the National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012-2016 and other relevant law. My Department has no role in the processing of individual vetting applications.
The Deputy will wish to be aware that an individual vetting subject is entitled to receive a copy of their vetting disclosure from the organisation with whom they were vetted. This is in accordance with section 16 National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Acts 2012 to 2016, which states that a relevant organisation shall, as soon as practicable, make available a copy of the vetting disclosure to the person concerned.
I am advised by the Garda Authorities that on completion of the vetting process, the vetting applicant receives an email to advise that the vetting process is now complete and a disclosure has been made to the relevant organisation. In accordance with the Acts a disclosure shall be issued in respect of each person who is the subject of a vetting application, whether or not there is data to disclose.
282. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the specific outcomes that were achieved from the engagement between the Personal Injuries Commission and medical stakeholders with regard to recommendation No. 14 of the report on the cost of motor insurance; the specific date she expects the final report to be published by the Personal Injuries Commission; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22348/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Personal Injuries Commission (PIC) was established in January 2017 by the then Minister for Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation, with former President of the High Court, Mr Justice Nicholas Kearns appointed as chair.
Since its establishment, the Personal Injuries Commission has been actively engaged in delivering in accordance with the terms of reference of its work. A considerable amount of research into approaches in other jurisdictions has been carried out along with a consultation exercise with the medical community and key stakeholder groups. The responses received to this consultation are available on the Department’s website at www.dbei.gov.ie. The First Report of the PIC sets out the detail of the consultation.
This research and consultation has informed the key findings of the Commission’s First Report which suggest that adopting a standardised and internationally recognised approach to the diagnosis, treatment and reporting of soft tissue injuries will improve the personal injuries environment in Ireland.
The PIC produced its first Report which was approved by Government and published on 7 December 2017. The Report recommends that the Quebec Task Force (QTF) Whiplash Associated Disorder (WAD) grading scale should be used going forward by all medical professionals reporting on relevant injuries. These are internationally recognised scales based on severity of symptoms and associated physical signs. A standardised medical reporting template is included in the Report.
The Report recommends that training and accreditation of medical professionals who complete personal injury medical reports should be promoted.
The Report also recommends the linking of future publications of the Book of Quantum to the newly standardised examination and reporting injury categories.
Finally, the Report recommends that relevant injury data should be collated and published by appropriate bodies. The Commission also suggests that there may be merit that data available from insurers relating to the incidence of ‘whiplash’ soft-tissue injuries, forms part of the National Claims Information Database which is being developed by the Central Bank of Ireland.
The next Report of the Personal Injuries Commission will predominately deal with benchmarking of Irish awards with international awards. Independent consultants have been engaged to carry out the data validation/verification of the data received and work with the Personal Injuries Commission on the benchmarking exercise. This Report is expected in June/July 2018 subject to the completion of the validation/verification exercise and will include any recommendations arising from the deliberations of the Commission. The Report will be the Final Report as the second and third reports will be merged.
When the Final Report is submitted to me, I intend to bring it to Government and publish it soon after.
283. Deputy James Browne asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation if the hospitality skills oversight group examines the need to sustain hotels in rural towns and their associated economic benefits; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22052/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Hospitality Skills Oversight Group (HSOG) was set up on foot of a recommendation contained in the report on the Future Skills Needs of the Hospitality Industry, which was published in November 2015 by the national Expert Group on Future Skills Needs (EGSFN), to which my Department provides the Secretariat.
The Group provides a forum for practical action and collaboration to address the skills needs of the sector, including hotels in regional and rural areas. The Group was formed in March 2016 and Membership of the Group includes the Restaurant Association of Ireland (RAI), the Irish Hotels Federation, the Irish Hospitality Institute, Licensed Vintners Association, Vintners Federation of Ireland, Fáilte Ireland, Higher Education Authority, Skillnets, SOLAS, Education and Training Boards Ireland (ETBI),Technological Higher Education Association(THEA), Quality and Qualifications Ireland, Regional Skills Dublin and the Departments of Business, Enterprise and Innovation, Education and Skills and Employment and Social Protection.
The Group is aware that the hospitality sector is very diverse with many different kinds of employers and occupations. As a result, different priorities and needs have emerged within the industry. While Fáilte Ireland has a defined role for the development of tourism enterprises, many of the constituent hospitality businesses fall outside of the tourism sector. Areas such as contract catering, institutional catering, artisan food production, delicatessens etc are all sources of employment for trained hospitality staff.
The Group focused on the following priority areas between March 2016 and March 2018:
- Promoting careers in the hospitality industry
The hospitality sector has suffered from poor career perception in the past. Since the establishment of the Oversight Group in 2016, the IHF, IHI in partnership with FI came together and launched a National Tourism Careers Programme. The programme is being run in close collaboration with tourism and hospitality businesses and is designed to enable second-level students aged 15-18 to explore the full range of exciting career paths and educational and training options available all over the country. The Irish Hotels Federation’s “Get a Life in Tourism” is an example of a positive response to the challenges of attracting new entrants to the industry. The Careers Roadshow undertaken by the IHF, IHI and Tralee demonstrates how effective collaboration can yield positive outcomes. Tourism Insight is another positive development resulting from collaboration between IHI, Fáilte Ireland, IHF, Tralee and regional skills fora. It is an interactive online programme for students and teachers featuring tutorials and videos, which can be delivered as part of class in school or for students to complete in their own time at home. The Transition Year programme was launched in September 2016.
- Audits of hospitality-related courses and facilities in further and higher education
The Audit of Hospitality Courses in Further and Higher Education Report was published in November 2017. This report was commissioned by SOLAS and the HEA on behalf of the Hospitality Skills Oversight Group. It provides a high level of analysis of the data available that shows the alignment of skills provision against identified gaps in the hospitality sector. The HSOG is considering a proposal to carry out a pilot exercise into facilities and capabilities in specific geographical areas. The pilot project would look at a designated geographical area where a FE and HE institution exist and audit the equipment, space and downtime available.
- Development of apprenticeship and traineeship programmes
The Oversight Group sees apprenticeships as an alternative model of learning and an opportunity for certain cohorts of learners to start on the pathway of a career in a variety of sectors, including hospitality. The Commis Chef Apprenticeship Programme was launched in January 2018 and will take place in the ETBs - led by Kerry ETB. The apprenticeship will involve two days in training and 3 days in work. This will lead to a Level 6 award and will take two years to complete.
In 2015 a new Career Traineeship initiative was begun by SOLAS in collaboration with ETBs and enterprise to develop a more effective model of work-based learning. As of late 2017, eight hospitality programmes have been completed in 4 ETBs (Laois & Offaly ETB, Limerick & Clare ETB, Mayo, Sligo & Leitrim ETB and Cavan& Monaghan ETB). One programme is currently running in Louth & Meath ETB. 5 programmes are currently planned for Limerick& Clare ETB, Kildare & Wicklow ETB, Kilkenny & Carlow ETB, Donegal ETB & Kerry ETB.
There is considerable scope within the Career Traineeships to provide a range of craft level skills training in supported employments. This model compares well against the much commented upon former CERT training model. The Group notes that early indicators are that the participating enterprises are very satisfied with the traineeship approach.
- Launch of Skillnets for the hospitality industry
Skillnet Ireland is a national body with responsibility for the promotion of enterprise-led training. It is funded through the National Training Fund by the Department of Education and Skills. The RAI-promoted Restaurant and Hospitality Skillnet was formally launched by Minister Bruton in March 2017 to help drive employment growth, talent attraction and retention in the hospitality sector, with a particular focus on career progression for those at lower skilled levels.
Skillnet Ireland has a rolling Expression of Interest process open to new applicants, and in April 2017 a second hospitality-sector network was approved, the Tourism & Food Skillnet. Promoted by Ballyhoura Development CLG, this network was developed to address the skills needs of tourism and food businesses in a rural catchment area in the south-west region. The training plan in year one comprises a mix of courses on digital marketing, business skills and sector -specific technical skills. As Skillnet Ireland continues to seek to develop new networks to expand its reach, the Expression of Interest process remains open to interested parties including the hospitality sector.
- Connecting people with jobs through initiatives of the Department of Social Protection
As part of its role in providing supports and information to unemployed people, the Department of Employment and Social Protection (DEASP) helps to match jobseekers with employers and vacancies, including in the hospitality sector. The jobsireland.ie website is the national job matching service run by the DEASP. Vacancies advertised on the Jobs Ireland website are also promoted through the EURES service to maximise awareness of the opportunities across Europe. A proposal regarding a recruitment campaign in Portugal was submitted for consideration by RAI and an invitation extended to participate in the European Online Job Fairs. Ongoing support for recruitment has been offered and availed of by employers in the hospitality sector.
284. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the breakdown of the training and development and incidental expenses incurred by her Department in the year ending 31 December 2017. [22133/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe total expenditure in Subhead Ad3 of the Department's Vote, Learning and Development and Incidental Expenses, amounted to €1.05 million in 2017.
Learning and Development related expenditure last year amounted to €399k and covered:
- The provision of over 230 training courses attended by 1,280 staff.
- Attendance at various seminars and conferences.
- Payment of fees for a range of third level courses undertaken in their own time by 43 staff of the Department.
The remaining €653k expended covered a wide range of incidental expenses and primarily on items such as:
- Health & Safety requirements and cleaning materials.
- Room Hire and related costs for hosting various meetings, conferences, seminars across the country.
- Translation & Interpreter Services.
- The Department’s provision to the National Shared Services Office (NSSO) for centralised HR and Payroll services.
- Costs associated with Departmental staff seconded to foreign postings in Brussels, Geneva and London such as removal costs, rental costs and school fees.
285. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the breakdown of the travel and subsistence expenses incurred by her Department in the year ending 31 December 2017. [22149/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraA breakdown of the travel and subsistence incurred by my Department, for the year ending 31 December 2017, is detailed for the Deputy in the following table. This is the total for my Department and its Offices only and does not include the Agencies of the Department.
|
Travel and Subsistence |
Expenses |
|
Home Travel |
€527,886.83 |
|
Home Subsistence |
€297,841.11 |
|
EU Travel |
€212,842.63 |
|
EU Subsistence |
€192,143.10 |
|
Non-EU Travel |
€101,285.49 |
|
Non-EU Subsistence |
€68,275.76 |
|
Travel Management Fees |
€13,459.12 |
|
Miscellaneous |
€56,764.91 |
|
Total |
€1,470,498.95 |
286. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the consultancy services, value for money and policy review expenses incurred by her Department in the year ending 31 December 2017. [22165/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department spent €1,133,297 on external consultancy, value for money and policy reviews in 2017.
My Department considers hiring external consultants in cases where there is not the necessary expertise to deliver the project in-house, in cases where an external assessment is deemed essential, or in cases where a project must be completed within a short time scale, and although the expertise or experience may be available in-house, performing the task would involve a prohibitive opportunity cost.
In each particular case, criteria specific to the project are used in selecting an outside agency or consultancy, including cost and value for money. Contracts are awarded based on the most economically advantageous tender (specifying, in addition to price, various other criteria including running costs, servicing costs, level of after sales service, technical assistance, technical merit, environmental characteristics).
My Department complies with the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform's guidelines for engagements of consultants by the civil service, having regard to public procurement guidelines.
287. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation when she expects to introduce the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (amendment) Bill; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22349/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 27 June 2017, the Government gave approval to the drafting of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board (Amendment) Bill along the lines of the General Scheme. The purpose of the Bill is to amend the existing legislation to strengthen PIAB in terms of operational issues to ensure greater compliance with the PIAB process and encourage more claims to be settled through the PIAB model.
The General Scheme addresses issues highlighted in submissions made to the public consultation held in 2014, by the then Minister, on the operation of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Acts 2003 and 2007 in addition to issues highlighted by the Cost of Insurance Working Group Report on the Cost of Motor Insurance published in January 2017 and the Report of the Rising Costs of Motor Insurance published by the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Finance, Public Expenditure and Reform, and Taoiseach.
The Bill is currently being drafted by the Office of the Parliamentary Counsel. This is a technical and complex piece of legislation and it requires careful consideration during drafting in conjunction with the Office of the Attorney General. It is hoped to have the drafting of the Bill completed in Q 2 2018 and published thereafter.
288. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation the number of times the Personal Injuries Assessment Board has met with the Judiciary regarding the compilation of the next book of quantum with regard to recommendation No. 18 of the report on the cost of motor insurance; if the board will report on the outcomes of these meetings; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [22351/18]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Personal Injuries Assessment Board (PIAB) is an independent statutory agency and I, as Minister, am not permitted in my executive function to interfere in any way with the day to day operations and functions of PIAB.
Section 54 of the Personal Injuries Assessment Board Act 2003 sets out the principal functions of the Board. Section 54(1)(b) states: ‘to prepare and publish a document (which shall be known as the ‘‘Book of Quantum’’) containing general guidelines as to the amounts that may be awarded or assessed in respect of specified types of injury’.
PIAB are leading on the implementation of recommendation 18 of the Cost of Insurance Working Group Report on the Cost of Motor Insurance and in this regard, I understand there have been two meetings held with the judiciary in relation to the Book of Quantum since the Cost of Insurance Report on the Cost of Motor Insurance was published in 2017 and the dialogue is continuing.
