Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:1. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Taoiseach when he expects the project with the CSO to be complete to establish indicators for energy poverty. [3608/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraCentral Statistics Office
Ceisteanna (1)
Freagraí scríofa
A small group comprising the CSO, the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland was formed in 2019 to discuss the development of indicators on energy poverty in Ireland. Traditionally energy poverty is analysed in the context of comparing expenditure on heating with disposable income using the CSO Household Budget Survey. The CSO agreed to develop a broader set of indicators that would incorporate the transition to a low carbon economy as well as affordability. Those indicators encompass a range of sources and topics, including Building Energy Ratings, environment indicators from the Census of Population, fossil fuels, road fuel use and distances travelled by car, and future data on electric vehicles. Further information on those sources and topics related to energy poverty, and the timetable for statistical outputs, is set out below.
Building Energy Ratings are an important determinant of the amount of heating required to keep a home comfortably warm. The CSO publishes statistics on BER ratings on a quarterly basis using data provided by SEAI. The CSO is undertaking a project to link the BER data with the Census of Population to examine the socio-economic situation of households with low energy ratings. Part of this work will be to examine how Census data could be used to make the BER data representative at the national level. Results from this work should be available by mid-2021.
The CSO published a new report in late 2020 entitled the Census of Population from an Environment Perspective. This report matched 2011 and 2016 Census data at household level and presented detailed tables on how the type of central heating fuel varied by socio-economic characteristics. The report showed that households were more likely to change from solid fuel central heating if there was a change in the occupants. The analysis was undertaken at both county and Dublin postal district level.
The transition to a low carbon economy involves changes in fuels used for transportation as well as fuels used for domestic heating. The CSO launched a new monthly release on Fuel Excise Clearances in mid-2020. This report showed that there has been a large change from petrol to diesel over the last decade and it has also shown the considerable reduction in road travel and related fuel consumption over the course of 2020. The CSO is working towards disaggregating road fuel statistics by county. The CSO published a new Fossil Fuel Subsidies 2000-2018 report in 2020 showing subsidies to various fossil fuels. The report showed that the average effective carbon rate per tonne of carbon dioxide emitted in 2018 was €257.93 for unleaded petrol compared with €183.92 for autodiesel and €24.58 for household heating fuels.
Another view of road fuel use can be provided by analysing National Car Test odometer readings. The CSO publishes annual aggregates in the Transport Omnibus report. The CSO Environment and Transport Divisions are working together to review the odometer data for 2000-2019 with a view to publishing a new statistical release, disaggregated by county and by the gender of the vehicle owner. The new statistical release should be published by mid-2021.
The CSO has been in discussions with the ESB to obtain information on the use of Street Charging Points data for electric vehicles. It is hoped that this data will show both the take-up by county and shed light on the rate of transition from diesel and petrol to electric and hybrid vehicles.
The CSO has focused on developing these new views of energy poverty and incorporating a geographical dimension into the analyses. Time series reports on the more traditional data sources such as the Household Budget Survey and the Survey of Income and Living Conditions are already available and will be reviewed and updated at a later stage.
North-South Ministerial Council
Ceisteanna (2)
Seán Haughey
Ceist:2. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Taoiseach if he will report on the outcome of the North-South Ministerial Council held on 18 December 2020; and if progress was made regarding plans for shared island investment projects at this meeting. [3466/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I led the Government when we attended the 25th meeting of the North South Ministerial Council which was held virtually on 18 December. The meeting was jointly chaired by the First Minister, Arlene Foster MLA, and the deputy First Minister, Michelle O’Neill MLA.
The meeting provided the Irish Government and the Northern Ireland Executive the opportunity to exchange views on a wide range of issues of mutual interest and concern, including Covid 19, Brexit and the New Decade New Approach Agreement.
There was a very positive discussion at the Council on areas of North South cooperation, including the progress being made in implementing NDNA commitments on North-South infrastructure projects. We also discussed the Government’s establishment of the Shared Island Fund with €500m in capital funding over the next five years, ring-fenced for investment in collaborative North/South projects. In December, the Government approved €6m in funding from the Shared Island Fund to launch the delivery of Phase 2 of the Ulster Canal and we are continuing to work in partnership with the Executive and through the North South Ministerial Council on the other cross-border investment projects, which are part of our Shared Island commitments in the Programme for Government.
Ministers noted that discussions on various New Decade New Approach commitments had taken place at NSMC Sectoral meetings and bi-laterally between Ministers and also noted the commitment of both Administrations to progress these projects which include the A5 Road, the restoration of the Ulster Canal, the Narrow Water Bridge, and the Sligo - Enniskillen Greenway.
The Council was briefed by the Chief Medical Officers, Dr Michael McBride and Dr Tony Holohan, on the public health situation and the ongoing close cooperation in the response to the Covid-19 pandemic. Ministers discussed the measures being implemented in the two jurisdictions to protect public health and limit the transmission of the virus.
Ministers also discussed the impact of the pandemic on society and on the economy in both jurisdictions and welcomed the measures put in place by both Administrations to support communities and businesses affected by the crisis and to assist economic recovery. Progress in the development and roll-out of a vaccine was welcomed.
The Council expressed its sympathy to all those who lost loved ones as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and commended the citizens in both jurisdictions for their compliance with the restrictions imposed as a result of the pandemic and their efforts and perseverance in helping manage the outbreak. The NSMC also expressed its gratitude to all those who have participated in the response to the Covid-19 pandemic, particularly the frontline health and social care workers who have demonstrated commendable bravery, resilience and commitment to their work and expressed appreciation to the wider workforce of essential workers who have kept various services and facilities operational, often in challenging circumstances.
The Council also discussed the all island implications of the UK leaving the European Union and agreed that engagement between both administrations on this matter should continue, both within the structure of the Council and elsewhere, taking account of the evolving position.
Commission on the Future of Policing
Ceisteanna (3)
Pa Daly
Ceist:3. Deputy Pa Daly asked the Taoiseach the progress of the A Policing Service for the Future report timelines; the aspects deferred due to Covid-19. [3876/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
A Policing Service for our Future (APSFF) – the Government’s Plan to implement the Report of the Commission on the Future of Policing in Ireland – is a living document which is reviewed and updated, as required, to maintain ambitious but realistic commitments, timeframes and milestones.
The Policing Reform Implementation Programme Office (PRIPO) – which is based in the Department of the Taoiseach – monitors progress on APSFF, supports the work of the Implementation Group on Policing Reform (IGPR), and keeps the High-Level Steering Board on Policing Reform and Government apprised of progress being made.
A Policing Service for our Future is broken down in to four stages of implementation, namely:
1. The Building Blocks Phase (6 months’ duration);
2. The Launching Phase (6 months’ duration);
3. The Scaling Phase (18 months’ duration); and
4. The Consolidation Phase (12 – 18 months’ duration currently envisaged).
The first two phases of A Policing Service for our Future (the Building Blocks and Launching Phases) have been completed and much has already been achieved. For example:
- The roll-out of a new Operating Model for An Garda Síochána, designed to streamline Garda administration and to provide a more visible, responsive and localised policing service to communities nationwide;
- An Garda Síochána has established and strengthened resourcing of a Human Rights Unit and re-established the Strategic Human Rights Advisory Committee;
- The National Security Analysis Centre (NSAC) has been established; and
- The Industrial Relations (Amendment) Act 2019 has been enacted which gives Gardaí access to the Workplace Relations Commission for the first time and provides for a modern industrial relations framework within An Garda Síochána.
There has also been progress on legislative reform, in particular, legislation is being drafted relating to:
- the use of recording devices (including body worn cameras);
- the codification of legislation defining police powers of arrest, search and detention; and
- a new coherent framework for the governance and oversight of An Garda Síochána.
These measures and achievements represent only some of the wide range of actions being progressed under APSFF.
Progress since early 2020 has been impacted as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. The third phase of the implementation of A Policing Service for our Future – the Scaling Phase – was originally scheduled to commence in early 2020. However, as the Scaling Phase was being finalised, a factor to be considered became COVID-19 and the response required.
I have been encouraged to see the responsiveness and flexibility shown by An Garda Síochána in dealing with the demands of this unprecedented situation.
The third phase of A Policing Service for our Future – the Scaling Phase – commenced in October 2020. This is the critical phase of the programme of reform, during which the programme gains momentum. The delivery of the majority of the actions will be started or executed during the Scaling Phase.
The IGPR and PRIPO have been, and continue to be, actively engaged with key stakeholders to ensure continued momentum on reform, in so far as possible, in current circumstances.
Taoiseach's Meetings and Engagements
Ceisteanna (4)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:4. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Taoiseach when he will publish his diary for quarter 4 2020 on the website of his Department. [4080/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My diary for quarter 4 of 2020 has been published and is available on my Department's website at https://www.gov.ie/en/collection/ca035-taoiseachs-diary-2020/.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (5)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:5. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Taoiseach the budgetary analysis being carried out to plan for long Covid-19 impacts in his Department and each State agency under the remit of his Department, in tabular form. [4495/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Since March, my Department has supported the whole-of-government response to COVID-19, mainly through the Cabinet Committee and associated structures. In line with public health advice, a significant proportion of the Department’s staff have been working effectively from home since March with the required level of supports in place. Staff attending the workplace in person are providing essential services to support the continued effective operation of Government and the necessary measures to ensure a safe and healthy working environment for all staff have been implemented. This work will continue to be delivered within the Department’s expenditure provision.
Additional expenditure provision was made in 2020 and 2021 to ensure a coordinated whole-of-government public communications response with broad media reach which will continue to be run for as long as is necessary to inform on crucial public health guidance.
In addition, the National and Economic Social Council Secretariat, within its own expenditure provision, has published seven Working Papers on COVID-19 across a range of issues and will continue to advise and inform future policy responses.
Disability Act Employment Targets
Ceisteanna (6)
Holly Cairns
Ceist:6. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Taoiseach the absolute and relative number of persons with disabilities employed by his Department in each of the years 1 January 2015 to 31 December 2020; and if these persons are in full-time or part-time roles. [4535/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The number of staff working within my Department who have disclosed a disability in each of the years 1 January 2015 to 2019 is set out in the accompanying table. Data for 2020 is currently being collated in line with the statutory annual return to the National Disability Authority.
|
- |
% of Staff who self-declared a Disability |
Total No. of Staff who self-declared a Disability |
|
2015 |
5.3% |
11 |
|
2016 |
4.1% |
8 |
|
2017 |
4.6% |
10 |
|
2018 |
5.4% |
12 |
|
2019 |
4.3% |
10 |
As the responses to the disability census are anonymous and voluntary, it does not distinguish between full-time or part-time roles.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (7)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:7. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Taoiseach the amount of funding allocated by his Department on the Covid-19 communications strategy since the beginning of the pandemic. [4763/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
€20 million was allocated in 2020 and €15 million in 2021 in my Department’s budget for COVID-19 Public Communications. The total provisional spend for 2020 is €16,900,999. This won’t be confirmed until mid-February when the 2020 accounts are finalised.
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (8)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:8. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Taoiseach the amount of funding spent by his Department on the Covid-19 communications strategy since the beginning of the pandemic. [4774/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The 2020/21 Covid19 spend on public information campaigns is listed in the tables below.
Since March, my Department has co-ordinated communications for the whole-of-government response to the pandemic. This necessitated expenditure on a broad range of targeted public messaging across 38 different information campaigns.
The overall communications strategy for Covid-19 is based on a coordinated response that ensures maximum clarity for citizens, businesses and our wider community. This aligns with both World Health Organization (WHO) and European Centre for Disease Control (ECDC) advice, both of which emphasise the importance of ensuring the general public is aware of the seriousness of the COVID-19 outbreak, and further that a high degree of population understanding, community engagement and acceptance of the measures put in place are key in preventing further spread.
It is also recommended that communication strategies should target different audiences and provide the rationale behind the measures, also outlining the necessity to put a support system in place to provide essential services and supplies (e.g. food and medication), and to monitor vulnerable individuals.
Campaigns have included Radio, newspaper and social elements.
Last Spring a number of campaigns were run as restrictions were imposed in order to explain the measures and to reinforce public health messages. Other Campaigns focussed on targeted sectors including the Business Sector, the postponement of the Leaving Certificate, the Return to Work Campaigns and Community Wellbeing.
In May the Government’s Roadmap to Reopen Society and Business was published and a communications campaign was run to explain the different phases of the Roadmap.
During Summer 2020 the Jobs Stimulus was announced by the Government and a Campaign was run which was focussed on restoring confidence and investment in the recovery.
In Autumn Campaigns aimed at Community Wellbeing and Keeping Well and reinforcing public health messaging were run.
The AntiViral Campaign, launched in December, aims to engage with those aged 18-24, recognising that they have been disproportionately impacted by the pandemic. Also in December, there were campaigns to inform citizens of the advice for having a safe Christmas with family and friends, and guidance on shopping safely, to reinforce public health messaging.
It is essential that citizens, business owners and communities are informed of the decisions being made by Government, and campaigns are developed and implemented to make the public aware of these decisions.
Campaigns have achieved impressive audience reach across all media platforms. The #AntiViral Campaign had over 5.7 million impressions by mid-December – we had communicated with over 300,000 young people approximately 5 times across the platforms building awareness of the Campaign. The AntiViral hashtag had over 1.1 million views and the Campaign’s positive sentiment was measured at over 60%.
Data from 25 of the Campaigns advertised in National press show an average reach of 49%, with 17 of these reaching over 50%. The average readership for the 25 campaigns was 1.9 million (with 16 of the 25 campaigns having a readership of over 2 million). Readership figures for regional newspapers is over 1.5 million for each campaign.
Radio advertising had an average audience reach of 79%, with 19 of the campaigns advertised on radio reaching over 80%.
Digital display advertising was used in 13 campaigns, with a combined audience reach of over 33 million. This is an average of 2.6 million impressions, with six of the campaigns reaching over 3 million citizens.
Of 19 campaigns analysed that used Social media advertising, an average of 4.9 million impressions were achieved, with a high of 16.1 million impressions for the Publication of the Roadmap campaign.
Advertising Costs 2020
|
Campaign |
Total |
|
1. Emergency Business Supports |
€492,347 |
|
2. Use of Outdoor/Public Spaces |
€418,016 |
|
3. 14 Day Restrictions |
€477,043 |
|
4. Community Call |
€1,774,624 |
|
5. Business Supports - SMEs |
€1,018,967 |
|
6. Wellbeing |
€835,846 |
|
7. Reopening Roadmap |
€851,613 |
|
8. Business Reopening - Return to Work Safely Protocol |
€868,181 |
|
9. Leaving Certificate |
€58,436 |
|
10. Phase 1 Reopening |
€1,176,759 |
|
11. Business Reopening – Return To Work 2 |
€600,942 |
|
12. Phase 2 Reopening |
€892,545 |
|
13. Phase 3 Reopening |
€1,205,814 |
|
14. Personal Responsibility |
€384,388 |
|
15. Travel |
€323,353 |
|
16. Phase 4 Reopening - July Delay |
€735,735 |
|
17. July Jobs Stimulus |
€652,375 |
|
18. Travel Green List |
€179,252 |
|
19. Phase 4 Reopening - August Delay |
€171,364 |
|
20. 3 Counties Restrictions (National and Regional) |
€119,423 |
|
21. Additional National Measures (August) |
€449,607 |
|
22. Dublin/Limerick High incidence awareness |
€366,059 |
|
23. Living with COVID ( Framework and Household booklet) |
€902,604 |
|
24. Dublin Level 3 (Sept) |
€12,318 |
|
25. Donegal Level 3 (Sept) |
€177,824 |
|
26. Reinforcing Public Health Messaging Nationwide |
€126,348 |
|
27. Nationwide Level 3 (Oct) |
€239,599 |
|
28. 3 Counties L4 / National L3 update |
€44,860 |
|
29. Nationwide Level 5 (Oct) |
€211,736 |
|
30. Keep Well - Community Wellbeing |
€741,559 |
|
31. #SafeChristmas Phase 1 (Level 3) |
€40,160 |
|
32. #Antiviral Campaign |
€87,120 |
|
n/a Third Party Copy/Scriptwriting/Strategy |
€50,820 |
|
33. #SafeChristmas Live action TV ad |
€157,058 |
|
34. #SafeChristmas Animated TV ad |
€36,947 |
|
TOTALS 2020 |
€16,881,642 |
Advertising Costs 2021
|
Campaign: |
Total |
|
33. #SafeChristmas Live action TV ad |
€6,292 |
|
35. #SafeChristmas Phase 2 - (ease of restrictions) |
€22,494 |
|
36. #SafeChristmas Phase 3 - Gathering/Dinner |
* |
|
37. Christmas 2020 – Transition to Level 5 |
* |
|
38. Dec/Jan return to Level 5 |
* |
|
39. January 2021 Additional Level 5 measures |
* |
|
TOTAL 2021 Costs |
€28,786 |
|
TOTAL 2020/2021 COSTS |
€16,910,428 |
*Invoices awaited from suppliers
Covid-19 Pandemic
Ceisteanna (9)
Joan Collins
Ceist:9. Deputy Joan Collins asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment his views on the fact that even at this late stage, the Chief Medical Officer has repeatedly had to make pleas to employers to facilitate home working; his further views on whether there should be fines in place for employers found to be undermining the public health efforts (details supplied). [3594/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government’s Living with COVID-19 Plan sets out how businesses should operate at five different levels. The Country is, at present, at Level 5 and within Level 5 people should work from home unless it is absolutely necessary to attend in person for the delivery of an essential service as listed on www.gov.ie.
I would stress, however, that, at this particular critical juncture, given the seriousness of the overall situation with COVID-19 cases across the Community and the resulting pressure on our hospital systems, it is vital that employers make provision for employees to work from home unless they are delivering an essential service and cannot work for home.
While an employer is responsible, in the first instance, for determining what work can be done remotely, employers and workers should seek to resolve any matters relating to remote working at a local level through mutual dialogue and engagement.
Where this is not possible a dispute may be referred to the State's workplace relations services for mediation or conciliation. The Workplace Relations Commission (WRC) is providing services on both a face to face and virtual basis. Advice can be obtained from the Information & Customer Service of the WRC at Lo-call: 1890 80 80 90 or 059 9178990 or from its website www.wrc.ie.
The settlement of a dispute between an employer and an employee as to whether work can be done remotely is best resolved between the parties, as any imposition of a penalty would not resolve the dispute.
I would add that all matters concerning actions to mitigate against the spread of COVID-19 are, of course, kept under review by Government and Public Health experts.
Separately, I would like to highlight the report “Making Remote Work” which I launched recently. This is Ireland’s National Remote Work Strategy and sets out the path to making remote working a more permanent option in workplaces across Ireland after the COVID-19 pandemic has passed. Its actions will be progressed over the course of 2021 and includes commitments to legislate for the right to request remote working and new rules to allow employees the right to disconnect. The strategy can be viewed on my Department's website.
Trade Strategy
Ceisteanna (10)
Matt Shanahan
Ceist:10. Deputy Matt Shanahan asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if his attention has been drawn to the fact that coiled steel exports to mainland UK, EU and outside the EU have to go through the only two main decoiling lines in the island of Ireland in Lisburn in Northern Ireland (details supplied); the tariff situation for Irish manufacturing sectors; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3689/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I believe the Deputy's question relates to the application and operation of the European Union's Safeguard Measures on steel, which have been in operation since July 2018.
As the Deputy will be aware, trade policy is a competence of the European Commission under Article 207 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union, and referred to as the Common Commercial Policy. Furthermore, Ireland as part of the EU's Customs territory must apply a common external tariff to goods coming into the EU's Single Market, and this includes any tariff measures designed to defend Union interests, when required, such as the Safeguard Measures.
The EU’s Safeguard Measures for steel were initiated in July 2018 in response to the United States applying a 25% tariff on steel imports originating from 3rd countries, including the European Union. This action by the US resulted in steel originally destined for the US market being diverted to the European Union with the associated risk of flooding the EU market with steel products to the detriment of Union industry and producers.
In response, the European Commission brought forward Safeguard Measures to manage the volume of steel entering the Single Market from 3rd countries. The measures currently in place were introduced in 2018 and allow for the importation of steel from 3rd countries - by way of quotas - in line with traditional volumes of trade in steel using the 2015-2017 reference period. Steel imports outside of the quotas are subject to a 25% tariff on landing in the EU. The current measures are due to expire at the end of June 2021.
Due to the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union, as of 1st January 2021, the UK is no longer party to the EU’s measures and the UK is now a 3rd country in relation to the application of the EU’s safeguard measures. Under the EU’s safeguards, the UK - now operating as a 3rd country - has been allocated its own specific quotas for the majority of the EU’s 26 product categories subject to Safeguard Measures.
Furthermore, in anticipation of the UK’s new status as a 3rd country, in September 2020, the UK Government issued a notice to state that it would establish its own set of Safeguard Measures and transition 19 of the 26 product categories subject of EU Safeguards from the 1st January 2021. The UK has also calculated its own quota levels for imports of steel products from 3rd countries, including the EU.
It should be noted that safeguard measures are applied irrespective of whether there is a Free Trade Agreement in place with the 3rd country or not. The EU's range of Free Trade Agreements do not impact the uniform application of the Safeguard Measures. Irish importers can continue to import steel from the UK without the additional tariff of 25% if the volume of imports remain within the EU's quota allocations for the UK. Imports from the UK to Ireland or other EU Member States in excess of those quotas will attract a 25% tariff. Similarly, imports of steel from other 3rd countries into Ireland would also be subject to a 25% tariff if the exporting country exceeds the available quota.
Specifically, in relation to the Deputy's reference to Northern Ireland, the interplay between the EU’s safeguard measures and the application of the measures under the Northern Ireland Protocol is currently being carefully examined and officials in my Department and the Revenue are actively engaging with the European Commission on this matter with the view of finalising how measures should operate and apply in respect of Northern Ireland.
Finally, it is important to note that UK and EU steel can continue to be imported to NI tariff and quota free.
Health and Safety Inspections
Ceisteanna (11)
John McGuinness
Ceist:11. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of construction site inspections conducted by Departmental health and safety officials relative to the use of tower cranes and their safety; if the working condition of the cranes are examined; the process of certification for such machinery; if driver qualifications are inspected; the number of complaints received from crane drivers in relation to these issues; if the role of banksman requires certification; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3842/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Between the 1st January 2020 and the 31st Dec 2020, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has carried out 3,641 inspections as well as 355 investigations in the construction sector. While carrying out an inspection, the HSA inspector will examine the different work activities being carried out on the site along with the examination of operator training and maintenance of plant and lifting equipment on site, including Tower Cranes where applicable.
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (Construction Regulations) 2013 (S.I. No. 291 of 2013) require any person who operates a Tower Crane (with the exception of those in training) to be in possession of a SOLAS Construction Skills Certification (CSCS) Card for Tower Cranes. These Regulations also require any person (sometimes referred to as a banksman) involved in slinging/signalling operations, to be in possession of a SOLAS CSCS Card for slinging/signalling.
The Safety, Health and Welfare at Work (General Applications) 2007 (S.I. No. 299 of 2007) require lifting equipment used on a construction site to be examined weekly by the user, as regards to the features related to its safe working. A record of the results of the examination must be kept in a suitable form and made available to an inspector where such records are requested. The General Application Regulations also require that fixed work equipment used for lifting loads is not taken into use for the first time, unless it has been tested and thoroughly examined by a competent person. A certificate of the test and examination specifying the safe working load must be in place and available for inspection.
Inspectors carrying out inspections on construction sites, where tower cranes are present, will look for evidence of the required training for the Tower Crane Operator and Banksman. Inspectors will also look for evidence that the required safety inspections of the tower cranes have been carried out.
In 2020 the HSA processed 62 complaints related to the use of cranes on construction sites – this figure relates to all crane types and is not limited to tower cranes. Such complaints include general complaints from members of the public as well as complaints from employees. Common topics emerging from these complaints included operation of cranes in windy conditions, slewing over property, safe working loads and questions relating to social distancing when using suspended personnel platforms/cages. None of the complaints received by the HSA in 2020 have been identified as being raised by crane operators.
Enterprise Support Services
Ceisteanna (12)
Neale Richmond
Ceist:12. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the various funds under which the building or development of co-working hubs can be applied in rural and urban areas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [3966/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department has invested in the development of enterprise/co-working hubs in every region. Under the Regional Enterprise Development Fund, the Border Enterprise Development Fund, the Community Enterprise Centre Scheme, and the Community Enterprise Initiative Scheme, Enterprise Ireland has invested over €180 million in these infrastructures. Based on Enterprise Ireland’s analysis, approximately 3,200 co-working/enterprise spaces are being developed across 45 of the 117 projects supported under these Funds.
These facilities provide affordable physical workspace for businesses across the country, deliver training and soft supports to their tenants and other companies in their locality and regional area, and offer co-working facilities.
To support enterprise centres impacted by COVID-19, Enterprise Ireland ran a €12 million competitive fund to provide eligible enterprise centres with financial support for the implementation of a 6 to 12 - month Recovery Plan. On the 20th November, I announced €8.24m in grants for 95 Enterprise Centres. The 95 enterprise centres, which are in every region of the country, will receive grants ranging from €10k to €150k.
My Department’s National Remote Work Strategy, which was published this month, recognises the importance of hubs in facilitating remote working. Under the Strategy, the National Hub Network Working Group, as chaired by the Department of Rural and Community Development, will make a significant investment in remote work hubs and infrastructure to underpin the development of the national hubs network.
I can also advise the Deputy that the Department of Rural and Community Development (DRCD) has invested significantly in remote working infrastructure & connectivity through the Broadband Connection Point Network initiative and a number of programmes and schemes including the Town and Village Renewal Scheme, the Rural Regeneration and Development Fund and the Leader Programme.
The Deputy will be aware that an additional €5 million was allocated to DRCD in Budget 2021 to further develop remote working infrastructure. I have been advised that officials in DRCD are currently designing a Connected Working Call, which Minister Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Rural and Community Development, expects to be in a position to announce shortly.
IDA Ireland
Ceisteanna (13)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:13. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will address a matter (details supplied) regarding the sale of lands. [4028/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Fermoy Business Park is maintained as part of IDA Ireland’s property portfolio and is available to accommodate investment and development by IDA and indigenous industries. The site is marketed to suitable qualifying client companies and is serviced to accommodate both manufacturing and office-based industries as required.
The site offers flexibility in terms of layout and proposed building sizes, for example, there is the facility for client driven units to be constructed depending on the specific project parameters as the need arises. The site is subject to the standard IDA 999 Year leasehold user covenant i.e. for manufacturing and internationally traded services.
IDA Ireland continues to work with all stakeholders to secure tenants for the Park.
Enterprise Support Services
Ceisteanna (14)
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:14. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the specific funding streams available to local authorities to apply for; the amount that has been given by county; the amount awarded under each scheme in each of the years 2018 to 2020 and to date in 2021, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4053/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) programme enables public sector bodies to connect with small businesses to provide innovative solutions to societal problems. SBIR falls under pre-commercial procurement and enables public bodies to purchase research to stimulate innovation, when goods or services are currently not available in the marketplace. It is managed by Enterprise Ireland who refund the public sector bodies for up to 50% of the project costs.
The amounts of funding received by local authorities under the SBIR scheme in each of the years 2018 to 2021 are set out in the table below.
|
Local Authority |
Funding Received 2018 |
Funding Received 2019 |
Funding Received 2020 |
Funding Received 2021 |
|
Dublin City Council |
€200,000 |
€150,000 |
€120,000 |
0 |
|
Limerick County Council |
0 |
€80,000 |
0 |
0 |
|
Cork County Council |
€40,000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Clare County Council |
€43,750 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Waterford Council & Dun Laoghaire Rathdown (DLR) |
€25,000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Fingal and Cork City Councils |
€50,000 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Dublin City Council (with Belfast City Council) |
0 |
€50,000 |
€50,000 |
0 |
The Restart Grant and Restart Grant Plus Schemes were introduced as COVID19 business support measures on foot of Government Decisions and operated by the 31 Local Authorities from May 2020 to October 2020. These schemes were demand led and not operated by a funding scheme that local authorities could apply for.
The table below sets out the total amount of applications paid and corresponding monetary values for the Restart Grant and Restart Grant Plus Schemes for the total duration of the schemes and as at 11 January 2021.
|
Local Authority |
RESTART GRANT TOTAL NUMBERAPPLICATIONS PAID |
VALUE APPLICATIONS PAID € |
RESTART GRANT PLUS TOTAL NUMBERAPPLICATIONS PAID |
VALUE APPLICATIONS PAID € |
|
Carlow |
654 |
€2,373,806 |
702 |
€5,110,543 |
|
Cavan |
1021 |
€3,059,204 |
1039 |
€6,701,168 |
|
Clare |
1403 |
€4,847,508 |
1437 |
€10,146,582 |
|
Cork City |
2634 |
€12,551,153 |
2638 |
€23,808,029 |
|
Cork County |
3235 |
€10,700,791 |
3593 |
€20,043,046 |
|
Donegal |
2070 |
€7,132,781 |
2304 |
€17,058,197 |
|
Dublin City |
4982 |
€23,991,718 |
7237 |
€73,569,983 |
|
Dun Laoghaire Rathdown |
1195 |
€6,528,690 |
1949 |
€19,201,893 |
|
Fingal |
1983 |
€9,215,654 |
2069 |
€20,881,974 |
|
Galway City |
1017 |
€5,185,265 |
1767 |
€13,712,624 |
|
Galway County |
1689 |
€5,482,897 |
1738 |
€11,519,047 |
|
Kerry |
2029 |
€7,624,500 |
2107 |
€15,851,460 |
|
Kildare |
1802 |
€6,935,764 |
1893 |
€18,512,702 |
|
Kilkenny |
1077 |
€3,641,791 |
1117 |
€7,683,603 |
|
Laois |
456 |
€1,545,065 |
920 |
€6,083,736 |
|
Leitrim |
443 |
€1,247,571 |
469 |
€2,956,216 |
|
Limerick |
2215 |
€8,728,059 |
2300 |
€17,816,245 |
|
Longford |
664 |
€1,965,694 |
672 |
€4,231,257 |
|
Louth |
1130 |
€4,897,346 |
1922 |
€13,383,817 |
|
Mayo |
1941 |
€6,465,731 |
2025 |
€13,765,912 |
|
Meath |
1695 |
€6,209,209 |
1765 |
€12,764,470 |
|
Monaghan |
834 |
€2,791,312 |
2029 |
€6,566,366 |
|
Offaly |
889 |
€2,682,224 |
903 |
€6,479,148 |
|
Roscommon |
844 |
€2,556,750 |
871 |
€5,685,494 |
|
Sligo |
907 |
€2,849,926 |
920 |
€6,159,183 |
|
South Dublin |
1731 |
€9,079,672 |
1953 |
€21,638,859 |
|
Tipperary |
2106 |
€6,547,378 |
2165 |
€13,839,865 |
|
Waterford |
1365 |
€5,242,979 |
1421 |
€10,255,714 |
|
Westmeath |
1132 |
€3,710,302 |
1168 |
€7,796,034 |
|
Wexford |
2065 |
€7,544,023 |
2116 |
€14,984,735 |
|
Wicklow |
1450 |
€5,267,386 |
1511 |
€10,629,897 |
|
GRAND TOTALS |
48,658 |
€188,602,149 |
56,720 |
€438,837,799 |
Consumer Protection
Ceisteanna (15)
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:15. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of entities subject to the provisions of SI No. 35 of 2016, Consumer Protection Act 2007 (Grocery Goods Undertakings) Regulations 2016; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4165/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Consumer Protection Act 2007 (Grocery Goods Undertakings) Regulations 2016, S.I. No. 35 of 2016 entered into force on 30 April 2016. The Regulations apply to retailers and wholesalers of food and drink operating in Ireland, who have, or are part of a wider group that has, a worldwide turnover in excess of €50 million. 21 undertakings are currently subject to the Grocery Goods Regulations for the reporting year 2019.
The Regulations apply to written supply contracts which Relevant Grocery Goods Undertakings (RGGUs) have with their direct suppliers and require all the terms and conditions of the agreed contract to be expressed in clear intelligible language and signed by both parties to the contract. The Regulations specify those commercial practices which are prohibited unless the parties mutually agree them in writing in the contract. The Regulations specify the ways in which the RGGUs must comply with the legislation including filing their Annual Compliance Reports (ACRs) and maintaining relevant documentation for examination for 6 years after the end of the financial year in which the grocery goods contract was signed by the parties.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory body responsible for the enforcement of the Grocery Goods Regulations. Section 9 (5) of the Competition and Consumer Protection Act 2014 provides that the Commission is independent in the performance of its statutory functions. As matters of compliance with the Regulations are part of the day-to-day operational work of the Commission, I, as Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, have no direct function in these matters.
However, I understand that the most recent ACRs received from the RGGUs by the CCPC have not raised any new or significant issues and follow-up on-site compliance inspections were conducted in 2020 (public health advice permitting). The RGGUs deadline for submitting their ACRs for 2020 is 31 March 2021.
Proposed Legislation
Ceisteanna (16)
Niamh Smyth
Ceist:16. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he plans to update the Casual Trading Act 1995. [4178/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Casual Trading Act 1995 provides for a control and regulatory system for people trading in public places and involves the issuing of licenses to traders by local authorities who administer the regime in their own respective areas.
In August 2018, my predecessor, Minister Humphreys, launched a public consultation process for the Casual Trading Act 1995 to determine its continued fitness for purpose. The legislation has been on the statute book for a number of years and given the changes in retail and trading environments, it was considered an opportune time to review the legislation. The consultation sought the views of interested parties, including local authorities, on matters relating to the Act.
My Department engaged a legal researcher to examine the submissions received to the public consultation exercise and to prepare an options paper which would provide the basis for a policy review of the legislation. While this was completed last year, unfortunately it has not been possible to progress the review of the Act any further due to the necessity of pursuing other priorities and responding to demands arising in the context of Brexit and COVID-19. The matter will be reviewed in the second half of this year with a view to resuming work in earnest.
In the meantime, local authorities are continuing to operate the provisions of the Casual Trading Act 1995 as before.
Covid-19 Pandemic Supports
Ceisteanna (17)
Brendan Howlin
Ceist:17. Deputy Brendan Howlin asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the supports available to wholesalers that cater for the hospitality industry that has been severely impacted by Covid-19; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4316/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I am keenly aware that businesses are making a massive sacrifice to protect their communities and I am committed to ensuring that the Government will offer as much assistance and support as possible. My Department has worked to ensure that appropriate financial supports are in place for businesses that require finance as they develop their response to their exposure to impacts arising from COVID-19. The uptake of the schemes and grants available has been robust and indicates that businesses are taking action in response to this period of disruption.
Budget 2021 also provides a significant package of tax and expenditure measures to build the resilience of the economy and to help self-employed and vulnerable but viable businesses across all sectors, including second line supply businesses. We are providing for an extension of the tax warehousing scheme to include repayments of Temporary Wage Subsidy Scheme funds owed by employers and preliminary tax obligations for adversely affected businesses.
To ensure that all self-employed taxpayers can benefit from the losses provision introduced in the July Stimulus, we are also providing that debt warehousing provisions be extended to include the 2019 balance and 2020 preliminary tax to allow such taxpayers to defer payment for a period of a year with no interest applying.
The Minister for Finance is also delivering on the Programme for Government commitment to equalise the Earned Income Credit with the PAYE credit by raising it by €150 to €1,650.
These measures are in addition to the July Stimulus of enterprise measures, which includes the Wage Subsidy Scheme extended through 2021, the Pandemic Unemployment Payment, grants, low-cost loans, write-off of commercial rates and deferred tax liabilities, all of which will help to improve cashflow amongst second line support businesses. COVID-19 Business Loans up to €25,000 are available through Microfinance Ireland. The loans can range from €5,000 to €25,000.
Bord Bia is providing a range of supports for impacted food business, including an information hub; training supports; and the introduction of the €1m COVID-19 Response Marketing Package for businesses to accelerate eCommerce and expand marketing activities in the context of rapidly changing trading conditions. Bord Bia continues to support quality assured Irish produce through promotion campaigns and is also supporting food companies to re-orient their produce to meet the needs of retail customers, and to explore any import substitution opportunities. My colleague, Charlie McConalogue, TD, Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, may be able to provide more specific guidance on supports for the second line food supply businesses.
I'm aware that some businesses are not able to access CRSS and might be falling between the stools. I have asked my officials to work with the Department of Finance and other Departments to identify the type and number of businesses that fall outside the scope of CRSS and are not covered by other sectoral schemes, and to report back to me with proposals on how we could amend CRSS or develop a new scheme for those companies.
Job Losses
Ceisteanna (18)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:18. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will address a matter regarding workers at a company (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [4393/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I extend my sympathies to the workers in Debenhams who have lost their jobs. I fully appreciate how difficult the situation is for those involved and their families.
While the Government cannot interfere with the High Court-overseen liquidation process, it has always sought to ensure that the concerns of workers are heard, and that the State’s welfare, employment and training services are responding to the needs of the ex-Debenhams workers.
The State has always guaranteed statutory employment rights to the workers, including statutory redundancy. This right has been honoured by the State at a cost of over €13m.
The talks facilitated by the Chair of the Labour Court, Kevin Foley, concluded in December. In recognition of the exceptional circumstances of this case, as reflected in Kevin Foley’s report, the Government said it was willing to allocate a fund of €3 million to support career guidance, training, education and business start-ups for the former Debenham workers.
On 13 January, the ex-Debenhams workers voted to reject this proposal. I understand that the ex-Debenhams workers are disappointed that their expectations cannot be met.
At this stage, it appears that all avenues have been explored and exhausted and the Government awaits the outcome of the High Court process.
Health and Safety Inspections
Ceisteanna (19)
Louise O'Reilly
Ceist:19. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment the number of Health and Safety Authority inspections carried out in 2020 by NACE sector; and the number that were announced and unannounced, respectively by sector. [4395/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Between the 1 January 2020 and the 31 December 2020, the Health and Safety Authority (HSA) carried out 9,135 inspections across a wide range of NACE sectors. The number of inspections carried out in each sector is shown in the table attached.
2020 Sector breakdown of Inspections carried out by the Health and Safety Authority (Provisional)
|
- |
NACE SECTORS |
INSPECTIONS |
|
A |
AGRICULTURE, FORESTRY AND FISHING |
836 |
|
B |
MINING AND QUARRYING |
92 |
|
C |
MANUFACTURING |
1075 |
|
D |
ELECTRICITY, GAS, STEAM AND AIR CONDITIONING SUPPLY |
20 |
|
E |
WATER SUPPLY; SEWERAGE, WASTE MANAGMENT AND REMEDIATION ACTIVITIES |
117 |
|
F |
CONSTRUCTION |
3641 |
|
G |
WHOLESALE AND RETAIL TRADE; REPAIR OF MOTOR VEHICLES AND MOTORCYCLES |
1981 |
|
H |
TRANSPORTATION AND STORAGE |
565 |
|
I |
ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD SERVICE ACTIVITIES |
186 |
|
J |
INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION |
14 |
|
K |
FINANCIAL AND INSURANCE ACTIVITIES |
4 |
|
L |
REAL ESTATE ACTIVITIES |
14 |
|
M |
PROFESSIONAL, SCIENTIFIC AND TECHNICAL ACTIVITIES |
134 |
|
N |
ADMINISTRATIVE AND SUPPORT SERVICE ACTIVITIES |
66 |
|
O |
PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION AND DEFENCE; COMPULSORY SOCIAL SECURITY |
55 |
|
P |
EDUCATION |
4 |
|
Q |
HUMAN HEALTH AND SOCIAL WORK ACTIVITIES |
152 |
|
R |
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION |
69 |
|
S |
OTHER SERVICE ACTIVITIES |
109 |
|
T |
ACTIVITIES OF HOUSEHOLDS AS EMPLOYERS; UNDIFFERENTIATED GOODS- AND SERVICES-PRODUCING ACTIVITIES OF HOUSEHOLDS FOR OWN USE |
0 |
|
U |
ACTIVITIES OF EXTRATERRITORIAL ORGANISATIONS AND BODIES |
1 |
HSA inspections are predominantly made without prior notification, however in some exceptional circumstances prior notification may be appropriate, for example:
- Where it would be necessary for security reasons, e.g. prisons and banks;
- Where persons required would be unlikely to be available, e.g., a visit to a hospital, a pre-arranged inspection may be more productive as it is more likely that essential people will be available;
- Where the duty holder must be contacted immediately following the receipt of a complaint.
- In relation to COVID-19, in support of Public Health management of an outbreak, advanced notification may be required for operational reasons.
The number of inspections that are announced by the HSA would be less than 5% of the overall number of inspections during 2020. Since announced inspections take place for the reasons above, the breakdown by individual sectors is not fully recorded and available on a sectoral basis.
Inspections carried out by the Health and Safety Authority at meat processing plants involves engagement with on-site personnel including management, health and safety advisors, COVID-19 Lead Worker Representatives, safety representatives and officials from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine. Inspectors also liaise, pre and post-inspection, with the Chair of the relevant local Outbreak Control Team to ensure effective planning and feedback.
Ministerial Meetings
Ceisteanna (20)
Louise O'Reilly
Ceist:20. Deputy Louise O'Reilly asked the Tánaiste and Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if a date has been set for the meeting with social media content moderators and their representatives; and if so, if that date will be communicated with an organisation (details supplied). [4396/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, a date has been set for a meeting with content moderators and their representatives. I understand that the organisation referred to by the Deputy is also aware of the arrangements for the meeting.