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Gnáthamharc

Wednesday, 3 Jun 2020

Written Answers Nos. 1039-1064

CLÁR Programme

Ceisteanna (1039)

Catherine Murphy

Ceist:

1039. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the reason County Kildare is not named as one of the counties in the target group as mentioned in the CLÁR funding round; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9040/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The CLÁR programme provides funding for small scale infrastructure projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population. 

Details of the designated CLÁR areas can be found on my Department's pages on the gov.ie website at www.gov.ie/en/collection/ab7580-clar-funding-area-maps/.  There are no designated CLÁR areas in County Kildare.

The areas originally designated for CLÁR were selected in 2001 based on the level of population decline in each area between 1926 and 1996.  The Cooley Peninsula was also included on the basis of the serious difficulties caused in that area by Foot and Mouth disease at that time. The average population loss in the original CLÁR areas over the period 1926 to 1996 was 50%.

In 2006, an analysis of the 2002 Census data was carried out by the NIRSA Institute (National Institute for Regional and Spatial Analysis) at Maynooth University and the programme was extended to include areas with an average population loss of 35% between 1926 and 2002.

A full review of the CLÁR programme has been initiated by my Department which will examine the most recent changes in population patterns throughout the country on the basis of 2016 Census data.  The review will also consider whether any factors other than depopulation should be taken into account in determining CLÁR areas in the future.  I expect that review to be completed in the coming months.

CLÁR Programme

Ceisteanna (1040, 1048)

Matt Carthy

Ceist:

1040. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if a school (details supplied) is eligible to apply for funding under the CLÁR programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9189/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Matt Carthy

Ceist:

1048. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if a school (details supplied) is eligible to apply for funding under the CLÁR programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9207/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1040 and 1048 together.

The CLÁR programme provides funding for small scale infrastructure projects in designated rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population. This year, the supports provided through CLÁR have been tailored to help rural communities respond to the new COVID-19 environment, including through the addition of new funding measures.

I launched the 2020 CLÁR programme on 25th May, and the closing date for receipt of applications is 28 August 2020. The measures being funded under the programme this year are:

Measure 1: Schools/Community Safety Measures; Measure 2: Community Recreation Areas (new in 2020); Measure 3: Community Wellbeing Supports, comprising:

(a) Meals on Wheels and Linked Services (new in 2020)

(b) Mobility and Cancer Care Transport.

Only projects which are located or provide services in a designated CLÁR area are eligible for funding under the programme. The school referred to by the Deputy does not appear to be in a CLÁR area.

The map of CLÁR areas in Co. Meath is available at: https://assets.gov.ie/2967/151118163731-5c0fd238ebb84964821ba97877e3d9cb.pdf.

The breakdown of CLÁR areas by District Electoral Division is also available at: https://assets.gov.ie/3118/201118151156-877e213445e54444a6cf1fdb9300cf45.pdf.

Local Improvement Scheme

Ceisteanna (1041)

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

1041. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the local improvement scheme allocations to local authorities nationwide; if further funding will be allocated to clear backlogs of over ten years in some cases; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8331/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Local Improvement Scheme, or LIS, is a programme for improvement works on small private or non-public roads in rural areas which are not under the normal maintenance of the Local Authorities. The scheme is funded by my Department and is administered through the Local Authorities. 

As the Deputy will be aware, there was no dedicated funding available for this scheme for a number of years until I re-launched it in 2017. Since then, over €48 million has been allocated to the Local Authorities to deliver the scheme.

In March this year, I confirmed that a further €10 million is being made available for the Local Improvement Scheme in 2020, with each Local Authority being provided with the same financial allocation as 2019. This funding can be drawn down by the Local Authorities as works are completed on the LIS roads.

A number of Local Authorities have already determined the roads to be funded under the scheme this year and this information has been provided to my Department. My Department is currently reviewing the information and issuing  Funding Agreements to the relevant Local Authorities so that the works can commence on the roads in question.

Given the constraints imposed by COVID-19, the process of determining the roads to be funded is still underway in a number of other Local Authority areas.  However, I understand that process will be concluded in the coming weeks.

CLÁR Programme

Ceisteanna (1042)

Niamh Smyth

Ceist:

1042. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the CLÁR scheme for 2020; when applications will open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8332/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I launched the 2020 CLÁR programme on 26th May. 

The programme provides funding for small scale infrastructure projects in rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population.  This year, the supports provided through CLÁR have been tailored to help rural communities respond to the new COVID-19 environment, including through the addition of new funding measures.

The measures being funded under the 2020 programme are:

Measure 1: Schools/Community Safety Measures

Measure 2: Community Recreation Areas (new in 2020)

Measure 3: Community Wellbeing Supports, comprising:

(a) Meals on Wheels and Linked Services (new in 2020)

(b) Mobility and Cancer Care Transport. 

In addition to funding school and community safety areas, funding will be provided under a new Measure in 2020 for Community Recreational Areas where friends and families can socialise outdoors in safe, accessible, community spaces. This Measure will include support for items such as picnic benches/tables, outdoor covered seating or BBQ areas, public lighting, bicycle stands, and bandstand/stage areas.  These areas will be particularly important for community social interaction in the coming months in the context of social distancing measures, but they will also be a lasting asset in CLÁR communities.

The Community Wellbeing Support Measure will offer funding for Community organisations providing Meals on Wheels and other community services, for the purchase of kitchen or food delivery equipment.  Such organisations may also access funds for vehicle adaptations that may be necessary as a result of new public health advice. This Measure will also continue to provide supports for mobility and cancer care transport.

A standard funding rate of up to 90% of the projects costs will be available from my Department across all Measures in 2020.  This should ensure that the burden on communities and Local Authorities to source matching funding is kept to a minimum.

The closing date for receipt of applications under all CLÁR 2020 Measures is 28 August 2020.

Community Services Programme

Ceisteanna (1043)

Michael McGrath

Ceist:

1043. Deputy Michael McGrath asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the length of time he plans for the community services programme support fund 2020 to remain in place to support community organisations through the Covid-19 crisis; his plans to amend the scheme to provide support for a full-time manager position; if participating organisations will also be allowed to avail of the temporary wage subsidy scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8464/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department is committed to continuing to support organisations funded by the Community Services Programme (CSP) during this time.  Due to the COVID-19 crisis some CSP supported organisations are unable to operate their services, nevertheless, both my Department and Pobal are allowing the maximum level of flexibility possible, in order to ensure that organisations can continue to employ their staff and support their communities to a reasonable level, within available resources.   

In that regard the CSP is continuing to provide support to all CSP supported organisations. In addition the 2020 Support Fund is providing an additional once off payment to eligible CSP supported organisations to assist with staffing costs, to cover a 12 week period from 26th March to 18th June 2020 ensuring that organisations can pay their full-time CSP supported employees a maximum of €350 net per week, with a proportionate amount for part-time employees. I have no plans to continue the additional supports under the 2020 Support Fund at this time. However, I will keep the matter under consideration in the context of the national guidelines under the Roadmap for Reopening Society and Business.

Manager positions continue to be funded at €32,000 per annum which is in excess of the €350 net payment per week and also in excess of the level of support available through the Revenue Temporary Covid-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme and I have no plans to provide any additional supports for Manager positions. 

Employees that are already being supported by State schemes are not eligible to apply for the Revenue Temporary Covid-19 Wage Subsidy Scheme or indeed the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection COVID-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment. 

Departmental Schemes

Ceisteanna (1044)

Michael Healy-Rae

Ceist:

1044. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of an application for funding by a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [8479/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Government is aware of the challenges facing community and voluntary organisations and is committed to working closely with the sector in managing through these, recognising that it will require a whole of Government approach.

The Community and Voluntary Sector Covid-19 Stability Scheme is intended to be a targeted once-off cash injection for organisations and groups currently delivering critical front-line services to the most at need in our society and in danger of imminent closure due to lost fund-raised or traded income as a direct result of restrictions to counter the spread of COVID-19.

This scheme is funded by Dormant Accounts Funding and so the criteria align with its objective to support:

1. The personal and social development of persons who are economically or socially disadvantaged; or

2. The educational development of persons who are educationally disadvantaged; or

3. Persons with a disability.

I can confirm that the organisation in question has submitted an application for the scheme via the Pobal online application system. Over one thousand applications have been received and are subject to a verification and assessment process, which is currently ongoing.   

Organisations approved for funding from the Stability Fund will be informed in the coming weeks.

Voluntary Sector

Ceisteanna (1045)

Patrick Costello

Ceist:

1045. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the reason funding for amateur groups nationally that have experienced very heavy losses announced through Pobal prohibited organisations with charity status working in the arts from applying for these funds (details supplied). [8623/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Government is aware of the challenges facing community and voluntary organisations and is committed to working closely with the sector in managing through these, recognising that it will require a whole of Government approach.

The Community and Voluntary Sector Covid-19 Stability Fund will provide a targeted once-off cash injection for organisations and groups currently delivering critical front-line services to those most in need in our society and in danger of imminent closure due to lost fund-raised or traded income as a direct result of restrictions to counter the spread of COVID-19.

This scheme is funded by Dormant Accounts Funding and so the criteria align with its objective to support:

1. The personal and social development of persons who are economically or socially disadvantaged; or

2. The educational development of persons who are educationally disadvantaged; or

3. Persons with a disability.

In line with the objectives of the Dormant Accounts Funding, organisations in sectors delivering critical front-line services to vulnerable communities are being prioritised in this Fund and therefore most organisations working in the Arts are not eligible.

The Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht has produced an information booklet outlining specific supports available to those operating in the Arts Sector. It is available for download at: https://www.chg.gov.ie/app/uploads/2020/05/covid-19-support-and-information-for-the-arts-sector.pdf.

Social Enterprise Sector

Ceisteanna (1046)

Christopher O'Sullivan

Ceist:

1046. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if a grant aid package will be made available for social enterprises; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9118/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 public health emergency, we have seen many social enterprises significantly step-up and diversify their activities to adapt to local needs as part of their valued contribution to the Community Call.

However, I am also keenly aware that many social enterprises find themselves in financial difficulty as their trading activities have been significantly curtailed in line with public health advice.  In recognition of this, I recently announced a number of support measures for social enterprises, along with community and voluntary organisations and charities, which complement other Government supports such as the Wage Subsidy Scheme.

In April, I launched a €2.5 million COVID Emergency Fund to support community and voluntary groups, including social enterprises, involved in the delivery of COVID-19 community response efforts. 

In May, I launched a €40 million package of supports under the Dormant Accounts Fund which comprises:

- a €35 million COVID-19 Stability Fund administered by Pobal, to help organisations who have seen their traded and/or fundraised income drop significantly during the crisis; and  

- a €5 million Government commitment to a Philanthropy ‘Innovate Together’ Fund, administered by Social Innovation Fund Ireland, which focuses on supporting responses to the crisis that require innovative and adaptive solutions to existing and emerging challenges.

While applications have closed for now for the above supports, my Department continues to support the development of social enterprises in line with the National Social Enterprise Policy (2019-2022), in a number of ways.

The Training and Mentoring Pilot scheme, which I launched last year, is supporting over 400 participants to develop their social enterprises, with funding of over €725,000.  This scheme is even more important now in light of the COVID crisis, to help social enterprises to build their capacity and resilience in difficult trading circumstances. 

The €2 million Small Scale Capital Grants for Social Enterprise, which I also launched last year, is supporting 220 projects nationwide.  Both of these schemes are funded from the Dormant Accounts Fund.

My Department also continues to support social enterprises and other community organisations through a number of other programmes including SICAP, LEADER and the Community Services Programme (CSP). 

My officials are maintaining regular contact with social enterprise stakeholders throughout the country to ensure my Department is aware of the evolving needs of the sector. 

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (1047)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

1047. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when decisions will be made under the community and voluntary stability scheme; the number of applications received; the value of the applications; the amount available for the grants; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9176/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Government is aware of the challenges facing community and voluntary organisations and is committed to working closely with the sector in managing through these, recognising that it will require a whole of Government approach.

The Community and Voluntary Sector Covid-19 Stability Fund is intended to be a targeted once-off cash injection for organisations and groups currently delivering critical front-line services to the most at need in our society and in danger of imminent closure due to lost fund-raised or traded income as a direct result of restrictions to counter the spread of COVID-19.

This fund will provide €35million of funding through the Dormant Accounts Fund (DAF) and the criteria align with DAF objectives to support:

1. The personal and social development of persons who are economically or socially disadvantaged; or

2. The educational development of persons who are educationally disadvantaged; or

3. Persons with a disability.

The application deadline was extended by one day in order to facilitate those organisations that had technical issues or required clarification on their eligibility. The application process closed at 8pm on Thursday 21st May 2020.

Over one thousand applications have been received and as these applications are subject to a verification and assessment process, which is currently ongoing, the final number of eligible applications is yet to be determined. Organisations approved for funding from the Stability Fund will be informed in the coming weeks.

Question No. 1048 answered with Question No. 1040.

CLÁR Programme

Ceisteanna (1049)

Matt Carthy

Ceist:

1049. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the eligibility criteria for each element of the CLÁR funding programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9208/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The CLÁR programme provides funding for small scale infrastructure projects in rural areas that have experienced significant levels of de-population.

I launched the 2020 CLÁR programme on 25 May.  This year, the supports provided through CLÁR have been tailored to help rural communities respond to the new COVID-19 environment, including through the addition of new funding measures.

 The measures being funded under the programme this year are:

Measure 1: Schools/Community Safety Measures

Measure 2: Community Recreation Areas (new in 2020)

Measure 3: Community Wellbeing Supports, comprising:

(a) Meals on Wheels and Linked Services (new in 2020)

(b) Mobility and Cancer Care Transport.

Measures 1 and 2 will be administered through the Local Authorities and applications will be submitted to my Department through the Authorities.  Applications under Measures 3(a) and 3(b) will be submitted directly to my Department by organisations providing services in the community.  

The scheme outlines, including the eligibility criteria for each Measure, are available on the Gov.ie website at: https://www.gov.ie/en/policy-information/91ba52-clar/#2019-clar-measures.

The closing date for receipt of applications under all 2020 CLÁR measures is 28 August 2020.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (1050)

Mattie McGrath

Ceist:

1050. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the supports which will be provided to community, social and tourism enterprises that have lost large levels of revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9254/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Since the COVID-19 public health emergency, we have seen many community and voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises, significantly step-up and diversify their activities to adapt to local needs as part of their valued contribution to the Community Call.

However, I am also aware that many of these organisations find themselves in financial difficulty as their commercial activities have been significantly curtailed.  In recognition of this, I recently announced a number of support measures for community and voluntary organisations, charities and social enterprises.

In April, I launched a €2.5 million COVID Emergency Fund to support community and voluntary groups, including social enterprises, involved in the delivery of COVID-19 community response efforts.  This Fund was delivered through the Local Authorities.

In May, I launched a €40 million package of supports under the Dormant Accounts Fund, which comprises:

- a €35 million COVID-19 Stability Fund administered by Pobal, to help organisations who have seen their traded and/or fundraised income drop significantly during the crisis; and  

- a €5 million Government commitment to a Philanthropy ‘Innovate Together’ Fund, administered by Social Innovation Fund Ireland, which focuses on supporting responses to the crisis that require innovative and adaptive solutions to existing and emerging challenges.

While applications have closed for now for the above supports, my Department continues to support the development of social enterprises in line with the National Social Enterprise Policy (2019-2022), in a number of ways.

The Training and Mentoring Pilot scheme, which I launched last year, is supporting over 400 participants to develop their social enterprises, with funding of over €725,000.  This scheme is even more important now in light of the COVID crisis, to help social enterprises to build their capacity and resilience in difficult trading circumstances. 

The €2 million Small Scale Capital Grants for Social Enterprise, which I also launched last year, is supporting 220 projects nationwide.  Both of these schemes are funded from the Dormant Accounts Fund.

My Department also continues to support social enterprises and other community organisations through a number of other programmes including SICAP, LEADER and the Community Services Programme (CSP).  These organisations provide services and products in a variety of sectors, including local tourism.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (1051)

Mattie McGrath

Ceist:

1051. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if the timeframe will be extended to allow for delays and inevitable changes in circumstances as a result of Covid-19 in circumstances in which community facilities were previously awarded funding under the town and renewal scheme for specific works which must be completed by mid-2021 (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9265/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme is one of a number of measures designed to rejuvenate rural towns and villages throughout Ireland under my Department's “Rural Development Investment Programme”.  The Scheme is funded under Project Ireland 2040 and is administered through the Local Authorities.

Since the launch of the Town and Village Renewal Scheme in 2016, almost €68 million has been allocated to more than 830 projects across Ireland.

I recognise that, as a result of the COVID 19 pandemic, many communities are currently experiencing delays in completing projects which were approved for funding under various rural development programmes operated by my Department.  Requests for time extensions to complete projects will be examined on a case by case basis by my officials.  

In relation to the case referred to by the Deputy, my officials will contact the relevant Local Authority to establish further details, including the length of time that is likely to be required to complete the approved project.  A decision on the matter will be made based on this information.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (1052)

Holly Cairns

Ceist:

1052. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development his views on providing additional funding for community organisations to provide young persons with resources and opportunities for socially distanced outdoor activities during the summer months in the context of an absence of usual summer camps. [9360/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department is providing additional vital supports and funding for community organisations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is supporting the following initiatives which could provide  opportunities to deliver social distanced outdoor activities to benefit, young people and individuals of all ages:

The 2020 CLÁR programme was launched on 25 May 2020 and includes a new Community Recreation Areas measure in response to the impact of COVID-19 on communities across Ireland. This Measure will support a variety of capital interventions provided that they contribute to the enhancement of existing, and/or the development of new, accessible Community Recreation areas where people can socialise outdoors in safe community spaces. This measure will include support for items such as picnic benches/tables, outdoor covered seating or BBQ areas, Car and bike parking, bandstand/stage areas, etc.

Community groups may apply through their Local Authority and in turn the Local Authority will select the projects to be submitted to the Department. More information on the CLÁR programme is available on the Gov.ie website. The closing date for applications is 28 August 2020.

The Town and Village Renewal Scheme was launched on 27 May 2020 with an Accelerated Measure to Respond to COVID-19, focusing on immediate interventions that can be delivered in the short-term to assist towns and villages to adapt to COVID-19. It will be administered by Local Authorities who will have the autonomy to identify and develop their own solutions in consultation with local business interests, Town Teams, and community groups as appropriate. The projects funded can be delivered directly by the Local Authority or by a community/business organisation. It is expected that the projects will involve expenditure on supplies and services of a capital nature and can include items such as capital expenditure associated with festivals or smaller-scale events which can be enjoyed by all age groups in the community later in the year when public health guidelines allow.

Funding may also be available through the existing LEADER Programme for the type of project activity referred to by the Deputy. In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy for the relevant LEADER area, and it must comply with the Operating Rules and EU Regulations in place for the programme.

The decision to approve a project, or otherwise, is a matter for the Local Action Group (LAG) which administers the programme in each LEADER area. Interested applicants should, in the first instance, contact the relevant LAG through its Implementing Partners to discuss the funding that may be available.

The list of Local Action Groups, their Implementing Partners and their contact details is available on the National Rural Network website at the following link: https://www.nationalruralnetwork.ie/leader/local-action-groups/.

While recognising that the social recovery of Ireland post COVID-19 will require a whole of Government approach, my Department will continue to work with relevant stakeholders, including Local Authorities and Local Development Companies, to determine how best this can be achieved.

Covid-19 Pandemic Supports

Ceisteanna (1053)

Paul Donnelly

Ceist:

1053. Deputy Paul Donnelly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the details of supports for community centres that will be facing serious financial problems due to the limits placed on the numbers allowed to attend the centres at any one time; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [9469/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Community facilities are funded from a range of different sources across different Government Departments and agencies.  Supports provided by my Department help people to participate in the development of their communities and also provide funding to improve community facilities.

My Department funds the Community Services Programme (CSP) which supports over 400 community organisations to provide local services.  Funding is provided as a fixed annual contribution to the cost of a manager and an agreed number of full-time equivalent positions.

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, my Department recently developed a Support Fund which provides an additional once off payment to CSP organisations to cover a 12 week period from 26th March 2020, ensuring that they can pay their full-time CSP supported employees a maximum of €350 net per week, with a proportionate amount for part-time CSP supported employees.

The Community Enhancement Programme provides small capital grants for facilities in both rural and urban areas.  My Department is considering the appropriate approach for many of its programmes in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2020 Community Enhancement Programme is being considered in that context.

Other funding provided by my Department that can benefit rural community centres are the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the LEADER Programme.  Details can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/organisation-information/216837-the-rural-development-and-regional-affairs-division/ .

Community Development Initiatives

Ceisteanna (1054)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

1054. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the supports that will be put in place to ensure the continued existence of the community groups in Columb Barracks, Mullingar, County Westmeath should the ownership of the site be transferred for development. [9536/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department is committed to the successful delivery of a range of programmes and schemes which are benefiting rural and urban communities.  Programmes such as the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme, the Community Enhancement Programme including Men's Sheds, and the Community Services Programme have delivered funding and supports to numerous projects, many of which are identified and driven by local community organisations. Volunteering supporting infrastructure has been set up nationwide in the form of Volunteer Centres, Volunteering Information Services and Volunteer Ireland.

My Department is continuing to liaise with representatives of the community and voluntary, charity and social enterprise sectors and with other Departments with relevant policy responsibility in relation to the challenges faced at this time as a result of the Covid-19 crises.  Assurances have been provided in relation to the continuation of exchequer funding supports for organisations in the sector. 

I am confident that the work of my Department is benefiting all communities and delivering on our mission statement. I am determined that this will continue to be the case and that available funding and supports continues to deliver positive visible impacts for all of our communities, including the community groups in County Westmeath on a fully inclusive basis.  Further information on all funding programmes and schemes is available on my Department's website on gov.ie.

My Department has been informed by the Department of Housing, Planning and Local Government that once preliminary design is advanced, the LDA will commence the consultation process with key stakeholders, including Westmeath County Council, the local community and community groups currently based on site, as well as the elected members of the Council. The LDA is fully committed to maintaining open lines of communication with all stakeholders throughout the life cycle of the development.

Departmental Advertising

Ceisteanna (1055)

Seán Sherlock

Ceist:

1055. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the amount that has been spent on advertising in 2020 by his Department and its agencies on social media platforms (details supplied) in tabular form; and the name of each campaign advertised. [9844/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department has not incurred any such expenditure this year. 

In terms of agencies under my Department's aegis, only Irish Water Safety has incurred expenditure on the relevant social media platforms this year.  The following table provides details of this expenditure.   

 Irish Water Safety - Social Media Campaigns

Expenditure

Facebook

€1,327.31

Cold Water Shock - St Patrick's Day - Boating Targeting - Video

€222.80

Cold Water Shock - St Patrick's Day - General Targeting - Video

€220.15

Cold Water Shock - St Patrick's Day - Parents Targeting - Video

€228.47

Paws May-June - Parents Targeting - Facebook - Traffic

€101.44

Paws May-June - Teachers Targeting - Facebook - Traffic

€39.20

Social Ads - Boating Targeting - Video - 2019/2020

€170.54

Social Ads - General Targeting - Video - 2019/2020

€171.51

Social Ads - Parents Targeting - Video - 2019/2020

€173.20

Instagram

€136.21

Cold Water Shock - St Patrick's Day - Boating Targeting - Video

€18.17

Cold Water Shock - St Patrick's Day - General Targeting - Video

€20.64

Cold Water Shock - St Patrick's Day - Parents Targeting - Video

€12.93

Paws May-June - Parents Targeting - Instagram- Traffic

€62.35

Paws May-June - Teachers Targeting - Instagram- Traffic

€15.65

Social Ads - Boating Targeting - Video - 2019/2020

€2.51

Social Ads - General Targeting - Video - 2019/2020

€3.30

Social Ads - Parents Targeting - Video - 2019/2020

€0.68

Google Display

€526.77

Display - Paws May/June - Parents Only

€270.35

Display - Paws May/June - Placement Targeting

€256.42

Google Search

€929.56

Search - General - Courses - Exact

€22.00

Search - General - Courses - Modbroad

€313.37

Search - General - General - Exact

€48.95

Search - General - General - Modbroad

€95.58

Search - General - Safety - Exact

€248.77

Search - General - Safety - Modbroad

€132.75

Search - Teach Paws - Brand

€68.13

Youtube

€796.61

Youtube - Angling - Contextual Keyword Targeting

€37.32

Youtube - Angling - Inmarket-Affinity Targeting

€37.65

Youtube - Angling - Topic Targeting

€37.58

Youtube - General - Contextual Keyword Targeting

€92.75

Youtube - General - Inmarket - Affinity Targeting

€92.87

Youtube - General - Topic Targeting

€12.44

Youtube - Lifejackets - Contextual

€37.23

Youtube - Lifejackets - Inmarket

€34.80

Youtube - SPD - Angling - Contextual Keyword Targeting

€73.37

Youtube - SPD - Angling - Inmarket-Affinity Targeting

€74.92

Youtube - SPD - Angling - Topic Targeiting

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Youtube - SPD - General - Contextual Keyword Targeting

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Youtube - SPD - General - Inmarket - Affinity Targeting

€81.00

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Youtube - SPD - Lifejackets - Contextual

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 Total Expenditure

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Employment Rights

Ceisteanna (1056)

Robert Troy

Ceist:

1056. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if a person who works in childcare can be forced to use two weeks of their annual leave during lockdown whilst receiving the Covid-19 pandemic payment in view of a report of a childcare provider which has instructed its staff to use two weeks of their annual leave, leaving them one week of annual leave later in 2020. [8568/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I am a little unclear as to the particulars of the case referred to by the Deputy, however, it is important to note a number of key points.

Firstly, let me set out the current legislation as it pertains to annual leave.  The Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 sets out the key parameters for the taking of annual leave and payment for same.  The times at which annual leave is granted is ultimately determined by the employer, having regard to work requirements and subject to the employer taking into account the need for the employee to reconcile work and family responsibilities, the need for rest and recreation, and the employer having consulted the employee or a trade union (if any), not later than one month before the day on which the annual leave is due to commence.

I note that the Deputy references these particular employees as being in receipt of a “Covid-19 pandemic payment”.  While I am unsure of the details of this particular case, let me now set out the eligibility requirements with regard to the 'Pandemic Unemployment Payment' (PUP), which is administered by my Department.

A person must be fully unemployed to qualify for the PUP and have lost their employment within a particular timeframe as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.  If a person continues to be paid by an employer during the Covid-19 pandemic, they are not eligible for the payment.

The Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme (TWSS), which is operated by the Revenue Commissioners, is designed to support a continued employment relationship between worker and employer.  This contrasts with the PUP, where there is no longer an employment relationship.

It is only possible to negotiate annual leave arrangements, in accordance with the Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 set out above, where an employment relationship has been maintained.

I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy. 

Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment

Ceisteanna (1057, 1084, 1085, 1092)

Danny Healy-Rae

Ceist:

1057. Deputy Danny Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection her plans to support the workers in the bus, tour bus and coach industry (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8880/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Seán Sherlock

Ceist:

1084. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will include adult literacy tutors on the provision of the pandemic unemployment payment in addition to seasonal hospitality workers in view of the fact their employment has ceased due to Covid-19. [8615/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Noel Grealish

Ceist:

1085. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the steps being taken to allow persons who were in the process of changing jobs when the national shutdown commenced but were not actually on the payroll of their new company to avail of the pandemic unemployment payment, many of whom had a full employment history; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8631/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Claire Kerrane

Ceist:

1092. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if those on career breaks can access social welfare supports during Covid-19 in view of the fact that their plans for their career break cannot go ahead and they have no income; the options those affected have; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8694/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1057, 1084, 1085 and 1092 together.

The COVID 19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment was introduced in March 2020 as a time-limited emergency measure to meet the surge in unemployment which resulted from the effects of the Coronavirus pandemic. The conditions for receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment are that a person must be of working age between 18 and up to 66 years old, have been in employment immediately before 13th March and have lost their income from employment.

If a person was not in employment immediately prior to 13th March they are not eligible to receive the pandemic unemployment payment. Similarly a person, who was due to start a new job, enter employment after a career break or take up seasonal employment but was not actually in employment immediately before 13th March, is not eligible to receive the emergency payment.

It would be impossible to construct a scheme based on claims of potential or prospective but unrealised employment, particularly where the economy was operating at full-employment with many unfilled vacancies prior to the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic.

People who do not qualify for the emergency payment are eligible to apply for jobseekers benefit if they meet the social insurance contribution condition requirement otherwise they may apply for means tested jobseekers allowance.

Any person who is experiencing financial hardship may be eligible for financial support under the supplementary welfare allowance scheme subject to satisfying the conditions of the scheme which include a means test.

I trust this clarifies the position.

Job Losses

Ceisteanna (1058)

Cian O'Callaghan

Ceist:

1058. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the steps she is taking to support employees of a company (details supplied) in view of the announcement by the CEO to employees that the company will move forward with the restructuring of the company, including lay-offs; if she will intervene to ensure there is consultation with employees and unions regarding decisions on redundancies and changes to the terms and conditions of employment; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8979/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My sincere thoughts are with all employers and employees faced with the prospect of forced restructuring and redundancies at this difficult time.  Many sectors and industries have been badly affected by the measures the Irish Government, like many other governments across the globe, has had to take in response to the Covid-19 pandemic.  It is probably fair to say that sectors associated with travel, tourism and aviation have been affected more than most.

Having come through previous challenges, I understand how difficult it must be for Aer Lingus employees to now face more renegotiations, restructuring and possibly lay-offs.  I greatly respect the efforts of workers and workers’ representatives to ensure that they get the best possible outcome from the situation. 

It is of course normal for businesses, whether big or small, national or international, to run their own affairs and to respond to financial circumstances in their own way.  As I am sure the Deputy will appreciate, Government Ministers do not dictate how any business is to be run, apart from ensuring that there is a framework of legislative protections for workers.  Ireland has a very advanced industrial relations framework, which includes the services of the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) and the Labour Court.  There is also a suite of employment rights legislation, which helps to get the balance right between the survival of a business and the rights of workers.

For example, the Protection of Employment Act 1977 imposes a number of obligations on employers who are proposing collective redundancies, including an obligation under sections 9 and 10 to engage in an information and consultation process with employees’ representatives and to provide certain information relating to the proposed redundancies. Section 11A of the Act provides that, where an employee believes the employer to be in breach of sections 9 or 10, they may pursue a complaint to the Workplace Relations Commission.  The Workplace Relations Commission’s Customer Service Section provides information in relation to the rights and obligations of employees and employers respectively under employment rights legislation.  It is also an offence under section 11 of the Act where an employer fails to comply with sections 9 or 10.

There is also an obligation under section 12 that makes it mandatory on employers proposing a collective redundancy to notify the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection of the proposed collective redundancy and to provide certain pieces of information to me.

An employer is prohibited from issuing any notice of redundancy during the mandatory employee information and consultation period and until 30 days have elapsed from the date on which the Minister has been notified.  For the avoidance of doubt, the 30 day mandatory information and consultation process and the aforementioned 30 day period from the date of notification to the Minister may run concurrently.

While I, as Minister, and the Government have no power or authority to step in and alter the course of a company’s business plan or to dictate the progress or outcome of the mandatory consultations between the employer and employee representatives, there are industrial relations and employment rights supports available through the WRC and Labour Court mechanisms, where necessary.

Financial supports are available through the Revenue Commissioner’s Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme as well as the Department of Employment Affairs and Social Protection’s wide range of social welfare schemes.  

My Department has been at the centre of the response to the consequences of Covid-19 and will no doubt continue to be called upon in the weeks and months ahead.  While I hope for a very positive outcome to the Aer Lingus renegotiations, you can rest assured that the Department is available through its Intreo service to assist Aer Lingus workers in whatever way we can in terms of income supports and job-seeking if that proves to be necessary.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputy. 

Employment Rights

Ceisteanna (1059)

Christopher O'Sullivan

Ceist:

1059. Deputy Christopher O'Sullivan asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if she will extend workplace protections such as holiday pay and sick leave to school secretaries paid by boards of management. [9117/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Organisation of Working Time Act 1997 sets out the key parameters for the taking of annual leave and payment for same. Under Section 19 of the Act, an employee acquires an entitlement to 4 weeks’ annual leave if he or she works at least 1,365 hours in a leave year, or one-third of a working week for each month in the leave year in which he or she works at least 117 hours, or 8 per cent of the hours he or she works in a leave year (but subject to a maximum of 4 working weeks).

The Act also provides for 9 public holidays in addition to the statutory annual leave entitlements.

Any annual leave entitlements in the contract of employment over and above the statutory minimum will be a matter for negotiation between the employer and employee.

Any plans to increase the current statutory entitlement, which is a minimum level of leave above which employers and employees are free to agree better terms, would have to be considered in the overall policy context. 

In general, an employee has no entitlement under employment law to be paid while on sick leave. Consequently, it is at the discretion of an employer to decide their own policy on sick pay and sick leave, subject to the employee’s contract or terms of employment.

It is worth my pointing out, for information, that the Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) provides general information on employment, equality and industrial relations legislation, through the Workplace Relations Information and Customer Service Unit which can be contacted at Lo-call: 1890 80 80 90 or 059-9178990 or via its website www.workplacerelations.ie.  

I trust this clarifies matters for the Deputy. 

School Meals Programme

Ceisteanna (1060, 1153)

Charlie McConalogue

Ceist:

1060. Deputy Charlie McConalogue asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if her Department will extend the school lunch programme until the end of August 2020; if not, the reason; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9125/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Louise O'Reilly

Ceist:

1153. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the status of the operation of the school meals programme during school closures as a result of Covid-19; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9633/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1060 and 1153 together.

The school meals programme provides funding towards the provision of food to some 1,580 schools and organisations benefitting 250,000 children. The objective of the scheme is to provide regular, nutritious food to children who are unable, due to lack of good quality food, to take full advantage of the education provided to them. The programme is an important component of policies to encourage school attendance and extra educational achievement and coincides with the school year.

Following the announcement of the closure of schools due to the Covid-19 pandemic, by the Taoiseach on 12 March 2020, schools and organisations participating in the school meals programme expressed concerns about the impact of school closures on pupils who avail of school meals, and that the unavailability of school meals impacts in particular on the most disadvantaged in our society.

My Department confirmed that funding to schools would continue to enable schools provide food until the end of the current school year - the end of May for post-primary schools and the end of June for primary schools, in line with the parameters of the school meals scheme.

I trust that this clarifies the position.

Company Closures

Ceisteanna (1061)

Matt Carthy

Ceist:

1061. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the contacts she or her officials had with a company (details supplied) prior to or since the announced closure of the business; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [9182/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

To date my Department has not yet received formal notification of the closure of or proposed redundancies by the Henderson Group or BD Foods, Glaslough, Co Monaghan. However, on 22 May 2020, the local Intreo team heard news of an impending closure and immediately made contact with the Managing Director for an update. Having confirmed the company’s intentions, the local management team invoked the emergency response plan to offer support to the company and the workforce.

I know that this news has come as a shock to the workforce, and I wish to express my deepest sympathy to all of them, their families and the local community. My Department is working with all relevant State agencies to minimise the impact.

 The first priority for my Department is to ensure that the affected employees quickly receive access to all income supports that may be available to them. In parallel, the Department will provide support to them to access new job opportunities, or where required, to access appropriate education and training and development options.

 As a follow up to the initial contact, the Intreo team is currently reaching out to the BD Foods workforce and management team to invite them to a webinar scheduled for 10th June 2020 during which my Department and other relevant stakeholders, including the Money Advice and Budgeting Service, Education and Training Board and Local Enterprise Office will offer comprehensive advice and support to those affected.

I trust that this clarifies the matter for the Deputy.

Covid-19 Pandemic Unemployment Payment

Ceisteanna (1062)

Gary Gannon

Ceist:

1062. Deputy Gary Gannon asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the way in which the cited figure of 38% recipients on the pandemic unemployment payment being disincentivised was arrived at in view of the fact they previously earned less than €300 per week, which was featured in Economic Considerations for Reinstating Economic Activity. [9507/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The earnings analysis in the above mentioned  Department of Business Enterprise and Innovation report was based on work carried out by statisticians in my Department.

The analysis examined the latest available PRSI and earnings data (2018) for Pandemic Unemployment Payment (PUP) recipients as of week commencing April 26th.  Weekly earnings for PUP recipients on the 2018 earnings data were then calculated by dividing total earnings by the number of weeks worked. The results of the analysis are set out in the following table.

Average Weekly Earnings

% of Week 6 PUP recipients where earnings data is available

0 - 150

10.1% 

151 - 200

9.1% 

201 - 300

19.1% 

301 - 400

19.0% 

401 - 600

25.4% 

601+

17.3% 

Domestic Violence Services

Ceisteanna (1063, 1064)

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

1063. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection if the decision not to facilitate access to emergency rent supplement will be reconsidered in view of that fact this would enable women and children in need of immediate relocation due to domestic violence to secure safe housing for a period of three months and-or the duration of the Covid-19 national emergency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8334/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Fergus O'Dowd

Ceist:

1064. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Employment Affairs and Social Protection the person or body with lead responsibility for the co-ordination of the emergency Covid-19 response to domestic, sexual and gender based violence and the need to put in place a short term emergency rent supplement which would enable women and children in need of immediate relocation due to domestic violence to access safe housing for a period of three months and-or the duration of the Covid-19 national emergency; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [8336/20]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 1063 and 1064 together.

Responsibility for the development and provision of services to support victims of domestic violence rests with the Department of Children and Youth Affairs.

The co-ordination of the services addressing the needs of these customers is managed by The Child and Family Agency, Tusla.  Victims of domestic violence accommodation needs are met through this joined-up service delivery model provided by Tusla with the close involvement of the various housing authorities nationwide.

A housing authority can provide, on a humanitarian basis, short-term emergency housing to persons who are unable to return to their homes because of domestic violence without having to assess their eligibility for social housing support or include them on the authority’s waiting list for housing supports. 

Generally, where a victim is not seeking to return to the family home, a social housing assessment by the housing authority is the appropriate response.  Assessments should be conducted in a timely manner to ensure that victims do not end up residing in emergency accommodation, including refuge facilities, for long periods of time.  Once a customer has successfully completed a housing needs assessment, they can then apply for HAP.

As part of this response, Tusla funds and supports over 40 organisations providing support services to victims of domestic violence, including 20 refuges providing safe specialist emergency domestic violence accommodation. Domestic, Sexual and Gender Based Violence Services, and in particular, Domestic Violence refuges have been identified as one of Tusla’s three highest priority services in its crisis management responses to the period of Covid-19 public health measures.  A range of supports have been put in place to assure continuity of essential services and there is ongoing systematic engagement between Tusla and service provider organisations around emerging needs.

Since the introduction of HAP, Rent Supplement continues to revert to original role of providing short-term support to those who have become temporarily unemployed and require income support to meet their tenancy cost whilst they seek alternative employment.  Rent supplement, by virtue of its short-term nature and its targeted customer cohort, is not considered the principal solution in meeting the accommodation needs of those fleeing domestic or sexual violence, in particular where, following a Housing Needs Assessment, HAP is an available option.

There are no indications within my department that the rent supplement scheme is operating in a way that is preventing victims of domestic violence from getting the support they need, and Community Welfare Officers are using the full flexibility of the scheme to assist those in need during the current crisis.

As I have already indicated, I support the call for additional supports to be made available to victims of domestic violence during the current pandemic.  Officials from my Department are engaging with SAFE Ireland representatives to explore their outline proposal to ensure that appropriate supports are provided to victims of domestic violence to access appropriate accommodation during the current COVID-19 pandemic.  Two constructive meetings have been held to date, with the most recent on 29 May 2020. As part of these discussions, officials in my Department are working with SAFE Ireland with a view of providing a formal framework, which will include input for other State actors, providing guidance on the use of rent supplement to this vulnerable group.  I assure the Deputy that the Supplementary Welfare Allowance scheme will continue its key role, alongside the various State agencies, supporting victims of domestic violence.

I trust this clarifies the matter for the Deputies.

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