Written Answers Nos. 68-92
68. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the estimated first and full year cost of increasing the group A CAT threshold of €335,000 by €3,000, €10,000, €32,000, €100,000 and €200,000, respectively, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43994/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra69. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the estimated first and full year cost of reducing the CAT rate from 33% to 32%, 30%, 28% and 23%, respectively, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43995/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra70. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the estimated first and full year cost of reducing the CAT rate from 33% to 32%, 30%, 28% and 23%, respectively, in tabular form while simultaneously increasing the group A CAT threshold of €335,000 by €3,000, €10,000, €32,000, €100,000 and €200,000, respectively, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43996/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 68 to 70, inclusive, together.
I am informed by the Revenue Commissioners that the estimated full year costs of increasing the CAT Category A threshold to the proposed amounts, and the costs of increasing the Category A threshold while simultaneously reducing the CAT rates as proposed, is as set out in the following table.
Category A - Full Year Cost (€m)
|
|
Current Threshold |
Proposed Thresholds |
||||
|
CAT Rate % |
335,000 |
338,000 |
345,000 |
367,000 |
435,000 |
535,000 |
|
33 |
* |
2 |
8 |
22 |
54 |
83 |
|
32 |
6 |
8 |
13 |
27 |
58 |
87 |
|
30 |
17 |
20 |
24 |
37 |
66 |
93 |
|
28 |
29 |
31 |
36 |
48 |
75 |
100 |
|
23 |
58 |
60 |
63 |
73 |
95 |
116 |
*Current rate and threshold.
The first-year cost of changes depends on the date of introduction but would be in the region of 85% of the amounts shown, if the changes were implemented from Budget day.
71. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Finance the number of financial settlements reached by his Department and statutory bodies within his remit nationally; and the number which included confidentiality clauses in each of the past five years by organisation. [44062/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has made 4 financial settlements from 1 January 2015 to date. A breakdown of these is contained in the following table.
|
Year |
Number of Financial Settlements |
Number of which included Confidentiality Clauses |
|
2015 |
1 |
0 |
|
2016 |
0 |
0 |
|
2017 |
1 |
0 |
|
2018 |
1 |
1 |
|
2019 |
1 |
1 |
There are 17 bodies under the aegis of my Department, 11 of which have not reached any financial settlements within the past five years. These are the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General, Credit Review Office, Credit Union Advisory Committee, Credit Union Restructuring Board, Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeal, Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman, Investor Compensation Company DAC, Irish Financial Services Appeals Tribunal, Irish Fiscal Advisory Council, Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland and Tax Appeals Commission.
The National Asset Management Agency has reached 2 financial settlements in the past 5 years, in 2018 and 2019 respectively. The terms of both settlements are confidential.
It was not possible for 3 bodies, the Central Bank of Ireland, the National Treasury Management Agency and Home Building Finance Ireland to respond to this information request in the time available and therefore I will make arrangements to provide a response in line with Standing Orders.
In respect of the Irish Bank Resolution Corporation (IBRC), it is not possible to provide the requested information as I am advised that a manual exercise would need to be undertaken, at considerable expense to the liquidation of IBRC, in order to collate this information. While IBRC records the claims it is involved in and the status of each of those cases, IBRC does not have summary data readily identifying which claims were the subject of a financial settlement (including those with confidentiality clauses) in each of the last 5 years.
The Office of the Revenue Commissioners has provided the following details in relation to financial settlements reached in the past 5 years:
|
|
Total No. of Financial Settlements reached in the past 5 years |
No. which included confidentiality clauses |
|
Tax appeals settled and resulting in financial payment by taxpayer (There were no cases where Revenue made a financial payment to a taxpayer) |
2015 - 38 2016 - 7 2017 - 4 2018 - 11 2019 - 24 |
2015 - n/a 2016 - n/a 2017 - n/a 2018 - n/a 2019 - n/a |
|
Court litigation settled and resulting in Financial Payment by either party |
2015 - 7 2016 - 6 2017 - 9 2018 - 8 2019 - 1 |
2015 - 0 2016 - 0 2017 - 0 2018 - 1 2019 - 0 |
72. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he will address a matter regarding the case of a person (details supplied). [44110/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Finance I am responsible for the development of the legal framework governing financial regulation. As such, it would be inappropriate for me to comment on or intervene in an individual case such as that referred to in the details supplied by the Deputy.
I would note however that a consumer can make a complaint to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO) in relation to any dealings with a financial services or insurance provider during which they feel they have been unfairly treated. The FSPO can be contacted via email (info@fspo.ie) or phone (01 567 7000) after the complaints handling process with a financial services or insurance provider has been exhausted.
73. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the level of checks that will be required between Ireland and Great Britain if the current Brexit deal were to be ratified; the number of extra customs officials that will be required to deal with the number of checks; the contingencies at ports here with regard to the increased level of checks required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44155/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraOn 17 October, the EU Taskforce and UK Government agreed a revised text of a Withdrawal Agreement and Political Declaration, which was subsequently endorsed by the European Council.
Subject to ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement by both the UK Parliament and the European Parliament, the UK will enter a transition period until the end of 2020, with the possibility of an extension for a further 1 or 2 years. During this transition period, Union law shall be applicable to and in the United Kingdom. This means that, from a customs standpoint, there will be no checks during this period.
It is only after the UK has left the EU that formal negotiations can commence on the future EU-UK economic relationship, based on the broad terms outlined in the Political Declaration. The Political Declaration contains the shared ambition to have a Future Trade Agreement with zero tariffs and quotas between the EU and the UK. Given that these negotiations have yet to commence, it would not be appropriate to comment on the nature of future checks that may be required. It is important to note however, that it is still the case that the UK is leaving the EU and this will bring change. It is important that Ireland is ready for that change, both for our citizens and out business, and our work to prepare for all scenarios surrounding the UK’s exit continues.
In planning for Brexit, Revenue had determined that in an orderly withdrawal of the UK from the EU, to include a transition period and the implementation of a Free Trade Agreement between the EU and UK, an additional 600 Revenue staff would be required. This was based on the introduction of customs formalities for East-West trade between Ireland and the UK. This recruitment was accelerated in preparation for a potential No Deal exit on 31 October. This requirement for an additional 600 staff remains Revenue’s best estimate of the resources that will be required in the context of the current proposed Brexit deal to facilitate and support legitimate trade.
In a Brexit context, the efficient flow of trade through our ports and airports is a key priority for the Government and various government departments and agencies have undertaken and continue to undertake significant preparations to facilitate this post-Brexit. During 2018, Revenue chaired an Inter-Departmental group which was established to consider the adequacy of port and airport infrastructure and facilities, post-Brexit. The group included representatives from Revenue; the Department of Agriculture Food and the Marine (DAFM); the Department of Health; the HSE’s Environmental Health Service (EHS); the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport (DTTS); the OPW; the Department of Justice; and An Garda Síochána.
I am advised that the group considered the physical infrastructure requirements for both the ‘Central Case’ and the ‘no-deal’ scenarios to facilitate and support the movement of legitimate trade. This included the requirements of Revenue; DAFM; and the HSE’s EHS; to carry out any necessary customs interventions and Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) checks at ports and airports as a result of Brexit. The group identified that infrastructure was required at Dublin Port, Rosslare Europort and Dublin Airport and agreed proposals on the nature and scale of new or extended facilities that would be required. The Office of Public Works (OPW) are responsible for the delivery of the necessary infrastructure. Temporary facilities are in place for 31 October 2019 in the event of a no-deal Brexit. OPW are currently working to ensure that these temporary facilities will be replaced by permanent facilities by 1 January 2021 which will accommodate the full requirements of the different agencies from that date.
74. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if his Department is undertaking an economic impact analysis of the current Brexit deal; if he will publish updated fiscal and macroeconomic forecasts based on the current Brexit deal; when he expects such a study to be completed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44156/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraBudget 2020, including the macroeconomic outlook which underpins its, was based on the prudent assumption that the UK would leave the EU on 31 October without an agreement. The macroeconomic outlook is set out in the Economic and Fiscal Outlook published with Budget 2020. This included, at Box 4, an assessment of the macroeconomic outlook that would apply in the event of an agreed exit by the UK at end October.
The Withdrawal Agreement endorsed by the European Council, will now require ratification by the European Parliament and the British Parliament. Pending ratification of the deal, it is not possible to say if the outlook will be different to that set out in Budget 2020.
If the Withdrawal Agreement is ratified, the UK will enter a transition period until at least the end of 2020. In this situation the outlook would be broadly similar to that set out in Table 4 (Box 4) in the Economic and Fiscal Outlook. This shows that, in the event of an agreed exit, GDP growth is forecast to be 3.1 per cent in 2020, with employment growth projected at 1.7 per cent next year and the unemployment rate expected to be 5.1 per cent.
Until there is greater clarity on the post-transition relationship there is likely to be continued uncertainty, particularly with respect to private sector investment. There are a range of possible future relationships, ranging from a free trade agreement (of which there could be many forms), or a trading relationship under World Trade Organisation (WTO) frameworks. The impact of these have been modelled and estimated earlier this year in joint research by the Department of Finance and ESRI. Over the medium-term (i.e. 5 years) the level of GDP would be of the order of between 1.9 and 3.3 per cent lower, compared to a situation where the UK remains in the EU.
My Department will continue to monitor developments with respect to the ratification of the Withdrawal Agreement, and the future relationship with the UK, and will update the macroeconomic and fiscal projections to take account of any developments in the Spring.
75. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the Central Bank has officially commenced an investigation into whether dual pricing by the insurance industry complies with the consumer protection code and the law; when he expects this investigation to conclude; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44157/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, the Minister of State for Financial Services and Insurance, Mr. Michael D’Arcy, TD, has raised the issue of dual pricing with the Central Bank at a recent meeting and sought their views.
In response, the Central Bank has confirmed that they will undertake a review of price optimisation, which includes the practice of dual pricing, as this has been identified as a potential consumer risk by the Central Bank in its sectoral risk assessment of the insurance sector. I understand that the first step of this review will be a comprehensive data gathering and analysis exercise to determine the scale and prevalence of price optimisation across the insurance sector and its precise effects on consumer groups. I also understand that the Central Bank intends to engage with key stakeholders, most notably the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, on the terms of reference of this review and on the nature and scope of any potential remedies. It is the Central Bank’s intention that the data gathering exercise will inform its views on any legal, supervisory and policy measures that may be required – but any such interventions will need to be carefully considered and may not be a matter for the Central Bank alone.
I would agree with the Central Bank’s assessment of the complexity of this issue and that we will need to carefully consider any potential remedies, as to do so may improve matters for certain consumers while at the same time impact negatively on other consumers. I do not think we are at the point of making conclusions on this issue and I will await the views of the Bank in this regard. Given the need for extensive and meaningful consultation, scoping, data gathering and analysis by the Bank, it is not possible for me or the Central Bank to say when this review will conclude at this stage. I would note the comments recently by insurers that they will engage constructively with the Central Bank and I welcome this, as it will be an important factor in how long the review takes.
Finally, by way of information to the Deputy, I think it is important to also reference new measures being introduced by the Central Bank arising from recommendations of the Cost of Insurance Working Group from 1 November. These are designed to increase consumer engagement and pricing transparency, and are as follows:
- For private motor insurance renewals, insurers will be required to provide the amount of the insurance premium paid in the previous year or, where any mid-term adjustments were made to the policy during the year, an annualised premium figure;
- Insurers will be required to provide the total premium for each policy option available for the customer in the renewal notices/quotations (i.e., comprehensive; third party, fire and theft cover; third party only, if offered by the insurer); and
- The renewal notification period will be extended from 15 working days to 20 working days for all non-life insurance policies.
I believe that each of these measures should assist consumers in making decisions at renewal time, including encouraging them to shop around and, if favourable to them, switch insurance provider.
76. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the Central Bank is in the process of reviewing the macroprudential mortgage rules; if he anticipates changes to the rules particularly with regard to first-time buyers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44158/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Central Bank of Ireland has an overall and independent responsibility to promote and protect financial stability and the mortgage lending measures, which were introduced in 2015, are an important tool available to the Bank for that purpose.
The Central Bank has committed itself to keeping the particular leading measures under review and the Bank is conducting its annual review of the measures to ensure that their overall calibration and operation remain appropriate given the stated objectives of the policy to:
(1) enhance bank and borrower resilience to negative financial and economic shocks and
(2) dampen pro-cyclicality and limiting the probability of a damaging credit-house price spiral emerging.
The Central Bank has informed me that it will publish the details and outcome of the annual review in December.
77. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance if the economic and fiscal projections outlined in budget 2020 documents are applicable to the current Brexit deal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44159/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraBudget 2020 was presented on the basis of a disorderly exit by the United Kingdom (UK) from the European Union (EU). Given uncertainty around the manner and timing of the UK’s departure this was the correct approach to take.
Should the UK leave the EU on an orderly basis, through implementation of the Withdrawal Agreement recently agreed between the UK and EU, Ireland’s fiscal position will, inter alia, improve via increased revenues and lower expenditure than forecast at Budget 2020.
The Summer Economic Statement (SES), published in June 2019, was based on an orderly scenario and is instructive in this regard.
78. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the budgeted yield from tax compliance measures in budgets since budget 2012 and the actual yield taken by the Revenue Commissioners from compliance measures in each year in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44160/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that the following table ##sets out the compliance measures introduced since Budget 2012. The table includes the projected yields and the actual yields achieved. Links to various relevant analysis and reviews published by Revenue are also included for the Deputy’s information.
The total yields are determined using a conservative approach as other actions and interventions by Revenue may have stimulated partial uplift.
TAX COMPLIANCE MEASURES
|
YEAR |
Measure |
Projected Yield |
Actual Yield |
|
2012 |
Increased data sharing with government bodies |
+€55m |
€65m |
|
2013 |
No Compliance Measures presented in Budget 2013 |
|
|
|
2014 |
A continued focus on the shadow economy in the mineral oil and alcohol products sectors |
+€20m |
€200m1 |
|
2015 |
No Compliance Measures presented in Budget 2015 |
|
|
|
2016 |
Addressing non-compliance in the oil market Addressing non-compliance in the construction sector Deploy enhanced debt analysis tool to reduce tax arrears Increase resource to confront non-compliance |
+€10m +€20m +€20m +€25m |
€35m €29m €56m €25m |
|
|
Total |
€75m |
€145m2 |
|
2017 |
Section 110 and Funds Changes Tackling offshore tax evasion Increase resource to confront non-compliance |
+€50m +€30m +€50m |
€63m €88m €62m |
|
|
Total |
€130m |
€213m3 |
|
2018 |
Employer PAYE Compliance Project eCommerce/Online Business Compliance Project Tax Avoidance and Base Erosion Capacity |
+€50m +€30m +€20m |
€77m €26m €20m |
|
|
Total |
€100m |
€123m4 |
1 Analysis of additional taxes and duties collected on oil published at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/documents/research/oil-market-analysis.pdf.
2 Analysis published at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/documents/research/budget-2016-compliance-measures.pdf.
3 Analysis published at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/documents/research/budget-2017-compliance-measures.pdf.
4 Analysis published at: https://www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/documents/research/budget-2018-compliance-measures.pdf.
79. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance his views on the concerns raised by an association (details supplied) over issues faced by the industry in terms of the high capital gains tax rates here; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44161/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraOfficials from my Department met with the association referred to by the Deputy as part of the normal pre-Budgetary consultation process in September, 2019. I have noted the issues raised and proposals made in respect of Capital Gains Tax (CGT) by the organisation in its pre-Budget submission and in particular around possible changes to the revised Capital Gains Tax Entrepreneur Relief.
The Deputy will be aware that an external evaluation of the relief was published on Budget day. I indicated in my Budget speech that I did not intend to propose any changes to the relief at this time. My decision making process was influenced by the information provided in and the conclusions of the evaluation. I have asked my Department to consider the outcome of the evaluation to determine possible changes that could be made to the relief to better support entrepreneurs and entrepreneurial activity. My Department and I are open to engagement on this specific matter.
80. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Finance the number of financial service providers that have not got the relevant authorisation from the Central Bank in the event the UK leaves the European Union by type of financial services provider in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44162/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Central Bank has received more than 100 Brexit-related applications for authorisation. These include applications both to establish new legal entities and from existing entities seeking to extend their current authorisation. I am advised that the Central Bank does not comment on individual applications for authorisation.
The Central Bank is working to ensure that firms that have applied, and meet the Bank's requirements, are authorised prior to Brexit. The Central Bank has a gatekeeper role to ensure only firms that meet its standards (including transitional requirements) are authorised. In this regard, it should be noted that the Single Supervisory Mechanism is the competent authority for banking authorisations.
The Regulatory Service Standards Performance Report for H1 2019 is published on the Central Bank website. These service standards are designed to inform stakeholders with regard to the length of time certain regulatory processes will take. The report is available at: https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/how-we-regulate/authorisation
As set out in the Central Bank’s Brexit FAQ - Financial Services Firms (https://www.centralbank.ie/regulation/how-we-regulate/brexit-faq), firms that meet the Bank's requirements will be authorised in a timely manner. There may be a delay for those firms that applied late or failed to plan, which may cause some disruption, as they may not conduct business during this time. All firms that have sought authorisation, and have been deemed unlikely to be authorised by 31 October have been advised of same.
In the event of a no-deal Brexit, where a firm does not have an authorisation in place, the Withdrawal of the United Kingdom from the European Union (Consequential Provisions) Act 2019 provides for a temporary run-off regime for insurance. UK/Gibraltar insurers and insurance intermediaries, that satisfy the conditions of the legislation, will be able to continue the administration of both life and non-life insurance policies written in Ireland after Brexit. This “run-off” regime applies for a maximum period of three years from the date of Brexit. It should be noted that, under this regime, insurers and insurance intermediaries cannot write any new policies or renewals unless they receive authorisation in an EU/EEA Member State (including Ireland).
81. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the €200 million of the €1.2 billion Brexit package will be spent regardless of the Brexit outcome; if this €200 million is part of the €2.8 billion fiscal package announced in the summer economic statement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43985/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra82. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the €650 million of the €1.2 billion Brexit package will only be used if there is a no-deal Brexit outcome; if this is additional to the €2.8 billion fiscal package announced in the summer economic statement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43986/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra83. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the €365 million and the €45 million in social protection expenditure that forms part of the €1.2 billion Brexit package will only be made available if there is a no-deal Brexit outcome; if this is additional to the €2.8 billion fiscal package announced in the summer economic statement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43987/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 81 to 83, inclusive, together.
Table 2 on page 38 of Expenditure Report 2020 sets out the elements that comprise the overall gross voted expenditure amount of €71.4 billion for 2020. As set out in this table, before taking account of certain Brexit related costs of €1.2 billion and timing related cash costs of €169 million, the overall increase in core voted expenditure on public services and infrastructure in 2020 is estimated at €3,371 million. After taking account of discretionary revenue measures of over €0.4 billion, this results in a net budgetary package of over €2.9 billion. This compares to the projected budgetary package of €2.8 billion set out in the Summer Economic Statement.
The Brexit related expenditure of €1.2 billion is made up of:
- €650 million to support the sectors identified as most affected by Brexit; Agriculture, Enterprise and Tourism, and to help stabilise the worst affected regions;
- €365 million in Social Protection expenditure on the Live Register and Related schemes;
- €45 million for Labour market activation supports; and
- a further amount of €160 million, relative to the Revised Estimates Volume 2019, to ensure that the staff, facilities and infrastructure are in place at Dublin Port, Rosslare Europort and Dublin Airport to allow for the necessary compliance checks to be carried out by the regulatory agencies.
As the risk of a disorderly Brexit increased, preparations for essential compliance checks by our regulatory agencies that would be required in the event of a disorderly Brexit were accelerated, with recruitment of additional staff and development of facilities and infrastructure. Consequently, as outlined in Table 1 on page 24 of Expenditure Report 2020, €51 million of the estimated costs, primarily related to staff required to carry out compliance checks at the ports and airport, are included in the departmental Budget Estimates for 2020. The allocation of the balance of funding in relation to facilities and infrastructure for compliance checks will be assessed taking into account the up to date Brexit position, including the expected form of the UK’s exit from the European Union and future relationship.
In the event of a no-deal Brexit, the sectoral expenditure of €650 million will be released in multiple tranches. Adopting a multi-tranche approach to expenditure management of required Brexit policy is prudent as it helps to facilitate responses to a wide range of possible Brexit impacts, which may take time to fully materialise.
The additional funding for the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection would also be made available in the event of a no-deal Brexit.
As part of normal budgetary processes the allocation of these additional funds would either be provided in the allocations set out in the Revised Estimates Volume; included as Further Revised Estimates; or allocated via Supplementary Estimates, as may be appropriate in each case.
Of course, mitigating the effects of Brexit has been a feature not just of Budget 2020, but over the last three years as well. This has included initiatives to increase competitiveness and embed greater resilience in our economy. For these ongoing initiatives, which are already in place, approximately €0.2 billion is included within the Departmental allocations published on Budget Day. This amount is additional to the €1.2 billion discussed above.
84. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the specific projects planned for 2019 to increase the capacity of the River Shannon; the associated cost of the projects; the expected completion dates for the projects; the impact these projects will have on increasing capacity on the River Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43982/19]
Amharc ar fhreagra85. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the specific projects planned under the National Development Plan 2018-2027 to increase the capacity of the River Shannon; the dates in which they are planned to commence and finish; the funding dedicated under the plan for increasing capacity of the River Shannon; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43983/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 84 and 85 together.
On 3rd May, 2018, I was delighted to launch 29 Flood Risk Management Plans and €1bn investment in flood risk over the coming decade. These Plans are the output from the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (CFRAM) Programme - the largest ever flood risk study carried out in the State. The Plans set out the measures proposed to address the flood risk nationally, and include 19 new flood relief schemes to protect towns in the catchment of the Shannon River in particular, in addition to the scheme underway in Athlone due to be completed in 2021.
Flood Relief Works have already been completed in a number of areas in Limerick City, including Clancy’s Stand and Harry’s Mall (mid 2000’s) and Howley’s Quay (2012).
In King’s Island (Limerick City), funding was provided by the Office of Public Works to Limerick City and County Council for preliminary flood defences involving the construction of sheet piling behind an embankment, completed in 2014, and for advance works flood defence works on Verdant Place, completed in 2017. Consultants were appointed in 2015 to develop the permanent flood relief scheme for King’s Island and it is estimated that the full scheme will protect approximately 450 residential and 23 commercial properties. Limerick City and County Council is scheduled to lodge a planning application with An Bord Pleanála later this year, with an anticipated construction completion date approximately two years thereafter.
In Athlone (Co. Westmeath), the Office of Public Works (OPW) and Westmeath County Council (WCC) are working together to advance flood relief works for the town with WCC as the Contracting Authority and OPW funding the costs of the works in addition to undertaking the construction works with its own workforce. Engineering consultants were appointed in April 2017, to identify appropriate flood risk alleviation measures for Athlone. The Option Appraisal Report identified eight discrete cells of flood defence works. These flood cells are each being progressed individually under Part 8 or Part 10 of the Planning and Development Regulations. It is anticipated that the construction works for the Athlone Flood Alleviation Scheme will be completed during 2021.
Consultants have also been commissioned by the OPW and/or the relevant Local Authority to undertake the design, development and planning of Flood Relief Schemes in Springfield (Co. Clare) and Castleconnell (Co. Limerick). Procurement is scheduled to commence in the coming months to appoint Engineering Consultants for the design, development and planning of Flood Relief Schemes in Limerick City & Environs, Leitrim Village and Carrick-on-Shannon (Co. Leitrim), and Killaloe/Ballina (Co. Clare/Tipperary). It is intended to progress the development of flood relief schemes in Dromod (Co. Leitrim) and Portumna (Co. Galway) within the lifetime of the National Development Plan 2018 to 2027.
The Government also established the Shannon Flood Risk State Agency Co-ordination Working Group in 2016 to support existing plans in place to address flooding on the Shannon and to enhance the ongoing co-operation of all State Agencies involved with the River Shannon. The Group has taken a number of significant decisions since its establishment, including targeted maintenance activities at a number of locations, trialling the lowering of the levels on Lough Allen, studies to explore managing flood risk at the Callows and a study on the cause, degree and rate of restriction downstream of Parteen Weir. The Group is also considering a feasible long term maintenance programme for the River Shannon.
86. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the overspend in the health Vote for 2016; when the extra €500 million in expenditure was granted for the health Vote; when it was allocated in the Further Revised Estimates Volume; the area this funding came from; the reason a Supplementary Estimate was not required for the health Vote in 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43992/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe initial Revised Estimates for 2016 (published in December 2015) set out an allocation of €13.149 billion of current expenditure for the Health Vote. However, these Revised Estimates were not considered by Committee or agreed by the Dáil before the Dáil was dissolved on 3 February 2016. In June 2016, the Revised Estimates were amended, and a total of €13.695 billion was allocated to the Health Vote for current expenditure. Up until that point, all spending was based on Section 2 of the Central Fund (Permanent Provisions) Act 1965 which allows spending up to four-fifths of the amount appropriated in the previous year’s Appropriation Act. Please note that this was not a Further Revised Estimate; the Revised Estimates were simply agreed at a later stage than usual due to the dissolution of the Dáil.
The additional funding was provided to the Department of Health to deal with spending pressures, including overspends in the acute sector and PCRS up until the point at which the Revised Estimates were agreed, and to ensure that service levels were maintained in relation to health and social care. A Supplementary Estimate was not required for the Health Vote in 2016, as total spending was maintained within the overall ceiling as set out in the Revised Estimates (€14.109 billion).
87. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when a decision will be made on an application from Galway County Council to the OPW for funding for a study of coastal erosion problems in Tawin Island, County Galway; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44008/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI visited this area in July this year and met the residents.
I am advised by my Department that it is a matter for Local Authorities, in the first instance, to assess and address problems of coastal erosion in their areas. Where necessary, Local Authorities may put forward proposals to relevant central Government Departments, including the OPW, for funding of appropriate measures depending on the infrastructure or assets under threat.
In this regard, the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works & Coastal Protection Scheme provides funding to Local Authorities to undertake minor flood mitigation or coastal protection works or studies, costing less than €0.75 million each, to address localised flooding and coastal protection problems within their administrative areas. Funding for coastal erosion risk management studies may also be applied for under this scheme. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for projects which meet the eligibility criteria including a requirement that the proposed measures are cost beneficial. The OPW has published guidelines for coastal erosion risk management measures and funding applications under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, available on the OPW website.
I am advised that OPW has not received an application from the location referred to in the Deputy’s question.
88. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of promotional videos on budget 2020 which were produced; the cost of producing same; the cost of promoting same on social media and other channels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44028/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that my Department did not produce any promotional videos on Budget 2020 or pay for any social media promotion.
89. Deputy Jonathan O'Brien asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of financial settlements reached by his Department and statutory bodies within his remit nationally; and the number which included confidentiality clauses in each of the past five years by organisation. [44067/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraNo financial settlements (as defined by the Deputy's office), were reached by my Department in the stated period.
The detail of financial settlements reached by bodies under the aegis of my Department, and any inclusion of a confidentiality clause, is set out in the following table.
I am advised that the Office of Public Works will respond directly to the Deputy.
|
Bodies under the aegis |
2019 |
2018 |
2017 |
2016 |
2015 |
|
State Laboratory |
- |
- |
- |
- |
1* |
|
National Shared Service Office |
1 |
- |
- |
- |
- |
*Confidentiality Clause included
90. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform his views on whether the national children’s hospital will cost in excess of the €1.43 billion already committed to the project; when his attention was drawn to the fact that the cost will exceed the €1.43 billion; if the cost will surpass the €200 million reserve set aside for 2019; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44180/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe roll out of the national children’s hospital is a matter for the Minister for Health and it is his responsibility to manage this cost within his multi annual capital envelope. As the Deputy will be aware the capital allocation for Health increased by €80 million in the recently published Budget figures. The increase in the Health capital expenditure allocation for 2020 takes account of the additional funding required for the National Children's Hospital, as well as the re-profiling of other elements of capital expenditure both within the Health sector and within the overall NDP capital envelopes. As such to date, there was no substantial charge made in respect of the National Children’s Hospital on the €200 million expenditure reserve announced in the Summer Economic Statement.
91. Deputy Barry Cowen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the public procurement representative from his Department on the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board has been replaced following the resignation of the previous representative; if not, the way in which his Department is monitoring the national children’s hospital project both in terms of procurement and public expenditure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44182/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraAppointments to the National Paediatric Hospital Development Board are a matter for my colleague the Minister for Health and all matters relating to this Board should properly be addressed to him. The Chief Procurement Officer (CPO) served on the Board in a personal capacity and not as part of his role as CPO nor as a representative of my Department.
The roll-out of the National Paediatric Hospital is also a matter for the Minister for Health to manage within his overall multiannual capital envelope. The Project Ireland 2040 Delivery Board, comprising top officials from relevant Departments and Agencies, jointly chaired by the Secretaries-General of the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) and the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government (DHPLG), provides strategic direction and leadership to the overall Project Ireland 2040 implementation process. However, it is a matter for each Department to manage its projects, subject to the usual long-established arrangements for oversight, monitoring and management of voted Exchequer resources.
92. Deputy Micheál Martin asked the Minister for Education and Skills if the number of healthcare assistants being trained is being increased through FETAC and-or SOLAS training programmes in view of the shortage of same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43866/19]
Amharc ar fhreagraFurther education and training programmes are primarily delivered or contracted by the 16 Education and Training Boards (ETBs). ETBs are funded to deliver these programmes by SOLAS, who also provide overall strategic direaction for the sector.
In 2017, there were 3,764 individuals began courses that led to a Level 5 QQI Major award in Healthcare Support (ISCED code 900). In 2018, 4,202 individuals began such courses.
In addition, there is a new national Healthcare Assistant apprenticeship programme in development at Level 6 that is scheduled to begin in 2020.
