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Gnáthamharc

Thursday, 8 Jul 2021

Written Answers Nos. 192-214

Housing Policy

Ceisteanna (192)

Charles Flanagan

Ceist:

192. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider putting a mechanism in place to allow local authorities to exercise discretion in approving housing adaptation grants for persons with a disability particularly for those with severe medical conditions which would allow for expenses to be factored into circumstances in which the income threshold is exceeded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36885/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department provides funding to local authorities so as to enable them administer the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability scheme. These schemes assist eligible applicants living in privately owned homes to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs.

The schemes are means tested and operate on a sliding scale with the highest percentage grants available to those with the lowest incomes and vice versa. Grant assistance is not available to applicants whose household income, after disregards and deductions, exceeds €60,000 per annum. Local authorities must adhere to the income thresholds set down by the regulations, so that the funding is focused on those households who need it most. My Department will commence a review, this year, of the means test criteria and maximum grant limits applicable to the housing adaptation grants.

Local authorities, in administering the scheme, should always work with qualifying applicants to ensure they get the most beneficial outcome possible in line with their financial circumstances.

Further detail on these schemes is available at the following link:

https://www.gov.ie/en/service/6636c-housing-adaptation-grants-for-older-people-and-people-with-a-disability/

Local Authorities

Ceisteanna (193, 194)

Martin Browne

Ceist:

193. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will increase the funding that his Department makes available to local authorities for the housing adaptation grant; his views on the way in which the level of funding is continually excluding many persons from getting work done; his views on the way Tipperary County Council’s budget for 2021 is already fully allocated; his views on the fact that as a result, Tipperary County Council is now processing cases that will come out of the 2022 allocation; his further views on the fact that only priority 1 cases are being considered in this regard; his plans to address same; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36894/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Martin Browne

Ceist:

194. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his views on the way the underfunding of the housing adaptation grant results in families being unable to get sensory rooms fitted out; his further views on the fact that when families apply for this funding from Tipperary County Council that the money allocated has been spent; his views on the impact that his is having on persons with disabilities; and if he will consider requesting an increase in funding for the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability. [36895/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 193 and 194 together.

My Department provides funding under the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability, to assist people in private houses to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs. The grants include the Housing Adaptation Grant for People with a Disability, the Mobility Aids Grant and the Housing Aid for Older People, which are 80% funded by my Department, with a 20% contribution from the resources of the local authority. The detailed administration of this scheme including assessment, approval and prioritisation, is the responsibility of local authorities. Local authorities receive an overall allocation, with the responsibility for the apportionment between the three schemes being a matter for each authority given their knowledge of local need.

My Department's approach each year is to issue a single full year allocation to each local authority, so they can plan and implement the grants programme. Over the course of the year, my Department works closely with the local authorities to monitor spend and to achieve a full drawdown of the available funding. This means that if underspends arise on the part of some local authorities, they can be redistributed to other authorities which have high levels of grant activity. My Department will give due consideration to any request received from Tipperary County Council for additional Exchequer funding in this regard.

My Department recommends that all valid applications should be processed within 6 weeks from the date of submission. However, in the event of a backlog, local authorities should prioritise applications on the basis of the medical needs of the applicant. Tipperary County Council has advised my Department that it is currently dealing with a backlog of applications. Officials from my Department have engaged with the Council and have emphasised that the Scheme must be open to all applicants and ensure that they are dealt with in accordance with Departmental guidelines.

The schemes are means tested and operate on a sliding scale with the highest percentage grants available to those with the lowest incomes and vice versa. Grant assistance is not available to applicants whose household income, after disregards and deductions, exceeds €60,000 per annum. Local authorities must adhere to the income thresholds set down by the regulations, so that the funding is focused on those households who need it most. In administering the schemes, local authorities should always work with qualifying applicants to ensure they get the most beneficial outcome possible in line with their financial circumstances. My Department will commence a review this year of the means test criteria and maximum grant limits applicable to the housing adaptation grants.

Separately, grant aid may be considered for the provision of infrastructural and safety related adaptations to create appropriate space for applicants with specific sensory needs. Applications of this nature should be supported by a multidisciplinary assessment of the applicant by specialist healthcare professionals. This should outline who will be responsible for therapy services and/or the provision and upkeep of sensory related equipment. The scheme does not fund the provision of sensory equipment.

Funding of €75 million is available nationally in 2021 for the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme. This funding has increased year on year since 2014. As part of the annual budgetary process, consideration will be given to increasing this funding in future years in line with the Programme for Government commitments and the Policy Statement on Housing Options for Our Ageing Population, which is available on my Department's website at the following link:

https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ea33c1-housing-options-for-our-ageing-population-policy-statement/

Question No. 194 answered with Question No. 193.

Planning Issues

Ceisteanna (195, 196)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

195. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the seven-year rule is paused when a local authority issues an enforcement notice regarding an unauthorised development. [36925/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

196. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the obligation on a local authority to ensure that a development is removed when an application for retention is refused. [36926/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 195 and 196 together.

Under planning legislation, enforcement of unauthorised development is a matter for the relevant planning authority, which can take action if a development does not have the required permission, or where the terms of a permission have not been met.

There are extensive enforcement provisions provided for in Part VIII of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended (the Act), with a view to ensuring that works pertaining to permitted developments are carried out in accordance with the planning permission granted and any associated conditions and that no unauthorised development takes place. In addition, any person or a planning authority may seek a court order under section 160 of the Act in relation to unauthorised development with a view to ensuring that the development works in question are not carried out or continued.

In this connectionn, section 157(4)(a)(i) of the Act provides that enforcement proceedings shall not be commenced in respect of development where no permission has been granted, after seven years from the date of commencement of development. Under section 157(4)(aa), enforcement action may be taken against unauthorised quarrying or unauthorised peat extraction at any time.

Enforcement proceedings against unauthorised developments other than quarries or peat extraction may be commenced at any time within the seven year period referred to where the planning authority receives representations from any person under section 152(1)(a) or in accordance with section 125(1)(b) where it otherwise appears to the authority that unauthorised development may have been, is being or may be carried out.

Where enforcement proceedings have commenced, in accordance with Section 162(3) of the Act, no enforcement shall be stayed or withdrawn by reason of an application for permission for retention of unauthorised development under section 34(12C) of the Act or the grant of that permission.

Provision for the recoupment of costs arising from enforcement action taken by planning authorities is provided for under section 154 of the Act. Section 154(5)(b) provides that an enforcement notice shall require that such steps as may be specified in the notice be taken within a specified period, including, where appropriate, the removal, demolition or alteration of any structure and the discontinuance of any use and, in so far as is practicable, the restoration of the land to its condition prior to the commencement of the development.

Section 154(5)(c) further provides that if the steps specified in the enforcement notice are not taken within a specified period (not being more than 6 months), the planning authority may enter on the land and take such steps and may recover any expenses reasonably incurred by them in that behalf.

Furthermore, section 154(5)(d) provides that an enforcement notice shall require the person or persons served with the notice to refund to the planning authority the costs and expenses reasonably incurred by the authority, including costs incurred in respect of the remuneration and other expenses of employees, consultants and advisers.

Section 154(7) further provides that if required, any expenses reasonably incurred by a planning authority may be recovered as a simple contract debt in any court of competent jurisdiction from the person or persons on whom the notice was served. Alternatively, the costs incurred by a planning authority may be secured by charging the land under the Registration of Title Act, 1964, or where the person on whom the enforcement notice was served is the owner of the land, an instrument vesting the ownership of the land in the authority subject to a right of redemption by the owner within five years.

Section 156 sets out the penalties that may be applied in relation to non-compliance with specific sections of the Act. In this connection, 156(1) provides that a person who is guilty of an offence shall be liable, on conviction on indictment, to a fine not exceeding £10,000,000 or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 2 years, or to both. It further provides that a person who is guilty of an offence shall be liable, on summary conviction, to a fine not exceeding £5,000, or to imprisonment for a term not exceeding 6 months, or to both. Under section 156(2) of the Act, where a person is convicted of an offence and there is a continuation by him/her of the offence after his/her conviction, he or she shall be guilty of a further offence on every day on which the contravention continues and for each such offence shall be liable.

Under section 30 of the Act, I am specifically precluded from exercising any power or control in relation to any particular case, including an enforcement issue, with which a planning authority or An Bord Pleanála is or may be concerned.

Question No. 196 answered with Question No. 195.

Departmental Data

Ceisteanna (197)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

197. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of demountable dwellings by county; the year that they were installed in tabular form. [36928/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department does not have data on the number of demountable dwellings by county. The use of demountables is not commonplace and where they might be used, it will a decision of the individual local authority for whatever specific reasons might apply to an individual case.

On occasions some funding support may be provided to a local authority from my Department if a demountable was part of an emergency accommodation response, or where a single rural dwelling was being developed, the local authority may provide a demountable as an interim accommodation arrangement for their tenant pending the completion of the new build. In such a case, the demountable may be funded as part of the overall project costs supported by my Department.

Other situations might arise where a local authority uses a demountable which is funded from their own resources. Information on the use of demountables by individual local authorities may be available from the authorities themselves.

Departmental Policies

Ceisteanna (198)

Denise Mitchell

Ceist:

198. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason the principle generally applied to pay related agreements in respect of local elected representatives was not backdated to the point at which the agreement was made; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36941/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

On 18 May 2021 the Government approved proposals to reform the remuneration payable to local councillors, which rebalance financial supports away from expenses allowances in favour of more normal, taxable salaried income.

The proposals approved by Government take account of the recommendations of the independent review of the Role and Remuneration of Local Authority Elected Members, led by Ms Sara Moorhead SC, published in 2020, and subsequent feedback from councillors and their representative associations.

They were given effect by way of new regulations made under section 142 of the Local Government Act 2001, as amended, that came into effect from 1 July 2021. This in line with the Programme for Government commitment to implement the Moorhead Report within 12 months.

Housing Provision

Ceisteanna (199)

Cian O'Callaghan

Ceist:

199. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of affordable and social homes built by the State in each year from 1930 to 2020; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36944/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on social housing delivery activity. This data includes details on the number of social houses built between 2004 - 2015 and from 2016 onward. This data is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website, at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/.

Since 2016, in addition to the statistical overview of activity in each local authority, the Social Housing Construction Status Report is published each quarter which provides scheme level detail on new build activity in each local authority. The most recent publication covers the period up to the end of Q1 2021 and is available at the following link: rebuildingireland.ie/news/minister-obrien-publishes-social-housing-construction-status-report-for-q1-2021/.

My Department does not hold data on the delivery of social or affordable housing for the extent of the period requested by the Deputy.

Housing Provision

Ceisteanna (200)

Cian O'Callaghan

Ceist:

200. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of State-owned sites that are suitable for social and affordable housing; the estimated number of homes that could be built if all of these sites were used; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36945/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

My Department does not hold the details requested by the Deputy.

The Land Development Agency (LDA) is currently developing a register of all relevant public lands, which is lands owned by public bodies in population areas greater than 10,000. An initial version of the register has been completed and is available on the LDA website. The Land Development Agency Bill will put the register on a statutory basis. When completed, it will contain information on all relevant public lands, including lands owned by local authorities in population areas greater than 10,000.

Water Services

Ceisteanna (201)

Brian Leddin

Ceist:

201. Deputy Brian Leddin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of the commitment to develop a scheme between local authorities and Irish Water to provide drinking water fountains nationwide to reduce plastic bottle litter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36955/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Programme for Government includes a commitment that the Government will develop a scheme between local authorities and Irish Water to provide drinking water fountains nationwide to reduce plastic bottle litter.

In addition, EU Directive 2020/2184 (the Drinking Water Recast Directive) as adopted on 16 December 2020 updates the obligations on Member States in relation to the quality of water intended for human consumption. The objective of this Directive is to protect human health from the adverse effects of any contamination of water intended for human consumption by ensuring that it is wholesome and clean, and to improve access to water intended human consumption. In order to promote the use of tap water intended for human consumption, article 16 of the Directive requires that Member States shall ensure that outdoor and indoor equipment is set up in public spaces, where technically feasible, in a manner that is proportionate to the need for such measures and taking into account specific local conditions, such as climate and geography. Member States must transpose article 16 of the Directive by 12 January 2023.

My Department will implement the commitment in the Programme for Government as part of the transposition and implementation of article 16 of Directive 2020/2184, as described above.

Rental Sector

Ceisteanna (202)

Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire

Ceist:

202. Deputy Donnchadh Ó Laoghaire asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department or any organisation measures rental increases within parts of a local electoral area in circumstances in which the area is partially within a rent pressure zone and partially not within a rent pressure zone; and if this information is only gathered for rental increases or decreases for the area as a whole. [37021/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Section 24A of the Residential Tenancies Acts 2004, as amended, provides that the Housing Agency, in consultation with housing authorities, may make a proposal to the Minister that an area should be considered as a Rent Pressure Zone. Following receipt of such a proposal, the Minister requests the Director of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) to conduct an assessment of the area to establish whether or not it meets the criteria for designation and to report to the Minister on whether the area should be designated as a Rent Pressure Zone (RPZ). For the purpose of the Act, ‘area’ is defined as either the administrative area of a housing authority or a Local Electoral Area (LEA) within the meaning of section 2 of the Local Government Act 2001. There is no provision for any other type of area to be designated as a Rent Pressure Zone.

The criteria to be satisfied by an area under section 24A(4) of the Residential Tenancies Act for designation as an RPZ are as follows:

a. the information relating to the area, as determined by reference to the information used to compile each RTB Rent Index quarterly report, shows that the annual rate of increase in the average amount of rent for that area is more than 7% in each of at least 4 of the 6 quarters preceding the period immediately prior to the date of the Housing Agency's proposal, and

b. the average rent for the area in the last quarter, as determined by reference to the information used to compile each RTB Rent Index quarterly report, is –

- in the case of counties Kildare, Meath and Wicklow or an LEA in any one of those counties, above the average rent in the State, excluding rents in the 4 Dublin Local Authority areas, or

- in the case of any LEA outside of the Greater Dublin Area (i.e. Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow), above the average rent in the State, excluding rents in the Greater Dublin Area.

Each RTB quarterly Rent Index Report includes a summary in Table 9 of the data used to establish whether each Local Electoral Area fulfils the criteria for designation as a Rent Pressure Zone. This ensures transparency in relation to the position of individual areas in terms of average rent levels and increases.

The RTB Rent Index measures rent increases in LEAs using the 2019 boundaries for these LEAs and there is no specific measure to calculate rental increases broken down to any lower level (i.e. part of an LEA).

The Housing Agency and the RTB will continue to monitor national rents and if any LEA (in its entirety) meets the designation criteria it will be designated as a RPZ.

Rental Sector

Ceisteanna (203)

Eoin Ó Broin

Ceist:

203. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the four Dublin local authorities have had the inspections of private rental properties disrupted by Covid-19 restrictions; if so, the details of the extent of this disruption; and if his Department has provided guidance or support with respect to inspection of private rental properties. [37023/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Responsibility for the enforcement of the Housing (Standards for Rented Houses) Regulations 2019 rests with the relevant local authority. With increased Exchequer funding provided by my Department, the number of rental inspections undertaken by all local authorities reached an all-time high in 2019 with 40,727 conducted. However, given the need for inspectors to enter tenants’ homes, Covid-19 pandemic restrictions have impacted on the inspection of all rented dwellings, with the number of inspections falling to 25,703 in 2020.

The number of private rental inspections undertaken by the four Dublin local authorities in 2019 and 2020 are set out in the table below:

2019

2020

Dublin Local Authorities

18,137

11,053*

* Includes 1,226 virtual inspections

The City and County Management Association’s (CCMA) Local Authority Services Frameworks for Future Covid-19 Pandemic Response does not permit rental inspections at present. This is in order to protect tenants, landlords and inspectors. The CCMA Framework is developed in accordance with Government public health guidance and restrictions and is reviewed as necessary and in line with updated guidance and restrictions.

In response to the pandemic some local authorities have been piloting virtual inspections. Dublin City Council have led this initiative, which entails landlords receiving a checklist for self-assessment and being required to submit photographic/video evidence by email, tenants being invited to raise any non-compliance issues they are aware of and the Council reserving the right to conduct a physical on-site inspection when it is safe to do so.

While virtual inspection systems present certain challenges and limitations, they do offer a way of improving the standard of rental accommodation despite the pandemic. My Department is encouraging local authorities not involved in the pilots to consider adopting them and providing Exchequer funding to those that do.

Some 1,400 virtual inspections were undertaken in 2020 by Dublin City Council, Kildare County Council and Monaghan County Council. Q1 2021 saw nearly 1,900 virtual inspections conducted. There are now 20 local authorities participating in the pilot project, including all four Dublin local authorities.

Annual data in respect of the level of inspections carried out by each local authority is available on my Department's website at https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/da3fe-private-housing-market-statistics/

Legislative Measures

Ceisteanna (204)

Éamon Ó Cuív

Ceist:

204. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will seek to re-commit the Wildlife (Amendment) Bill 2016 to Dáil Éireann; the reason for the delay; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37031/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Wildlife Amendment Bill 2016 was passed by the Dáil on 13 December 2018. The Bill was passed by the Seanad on 6 November 2019. 16 amendments to the Bill were made in the Seanad. The Bill has to be restored to the Order Paper of the Dáil in order for these amendments to be considered by that House. I am hopeful that the Bill can be restored soon. My officials are currently in discussions with the Bills office in relation to this process.

World Heritage Sites

Ceisteanna (205)

Michael McNamara

Ceist:

205. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide information on the applications received for inclusion on Ireland's World Heritage Tentative List 2020-2030 including each site applied for and the local authority or other entity from which the respective application was received; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37038/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

In line with UNESCO advice that World Heritage Tentative Lists be reviewed at least every ten years, my Department launched a call for applications in January 2019 to update Ireland’s Tentative List of World Heritage Properties. The closing date for receipt of applications was 30 June 2021. My Department received seven applications by the deadline:

1. The Cultural Landscape of the Burren Uplands, County Clare;

2. Iniscealtra (Inis Cealtra/Inishcaltra/Holy Island), County Clare;

3. The Chq Building and George’s Dock (Formally Custom House Docks), Dublin City;

4. Trans-Atlantic Cable Ensemble: Valentia, County Kerry-Heart's Content, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

5. Royal Sites of Ireland, Counties Kildare, Westmeath, Tipperary, Roscommon and Meath (it should be noted that the Royal sites of Ireland also envisages the inclusion of Navan Fort (Eamhain Macha), County Armagh as part of a transnational nomination of the Royal Sites of Ireland);

6. The Passage Tomb Landscape of County Sligo; and

7. Glendalough Valley, County Wicklow.

An initial screening of the applications received has determined that the Chq Building and George’s Dock application does not meet the basic requirements to progress to assessment by the independent Expert Advisory Group (EAG) established by me to evaluate the Tentative List applications.

The EAG is comprised of four experts in the heritage sector; Dr Carol Westrik, Chairperson and World Heritage Expert; Dr Alison Sheridan, International Archaeological Expert; Prof Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, Irish Archaeological Expert; and Ms Jane Jackson, Industrial Architectural Expert.

Over the coming weeks, the EAG will evaluate the remaining six applications based on the ability of each of those applications to demonstrate Outstanding Universal Value, integrity and/or authenticity, long-term protection and management frameworks, and evidence of local stakeholder support. It is intended that the EAG will complete its evaluation and make recommendations as to which properties should be considered for inclusion on a new Tentative List by early September.

Any EAG recommendations will then be appraised by the National Monuments Service of my Department in terms of their readiness and suitability to form a new Tentative List for Ireland. Subject to my approval, it is envisaged that this new Tentative List, which will replace the existing Tentative List, will be submitted to the UNESCO World Heritage Centre early in 2022.

The Deputy should note that in order for a property to proceed to nomination for full World Heritage status, it must first be on the Tentative List for at least one year. Eventual nomination to full World Heritage Status, which will be led by my Department in partnership with relevant Local Authorities and stakeholders, will include the preparation of detailed nomination documentation and conservation and management plans. This stage of the process, including further public consultation, is expected to take a number of years to finalise, and local support and engagement will be critical to any subsequent and successful nomination.

It is envisaged that the Tentative List process will be reopened for review within the next five years to allow my Department further assess other sites that may be proposed that may demonstrate Outstanding Universal Value. This may include properties on the current Tentative List for which applications were not submitted under the current application process.

Foreign Policy

Ceisteanna (206)

Catherine Connolly

Ceist:

206. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the engagement he has had with his counterparts in relation to the use of State-sanctioned violence against peaceful pro-democracy protesters in Eswatini; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36940/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I am deeply concerned by the recent tensions and civil unrest in Eswatini, and at reports of the deaths of civilians and the destruction of property. It is vital that all sides take immediate action to deescalate the current situation, and to allow for dialogue to take place.

The right to peaceful protest is a fundamental human right, enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. Citizens’ rights to demonstrate and to freedom of expression and freedom of assembly must be respected and protected, and must not be suppressed by force. The killing of civilians, the use of violence and the destruction of property are unacceptable and must be investigated thoroughly and transparently, with perpetrators prosecuted according to the law.

I welcome the joint statements issued on 1 and 4 July by the Missions of the European Union, the United Kingdom and the United States in Eswatini, and I echo their calls for inclusive dialogue, respect for civil liberties, and respect for the rule of law. I also welcome the efforts of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to facilitate dialogue to resolve the situation peacefully.

Ireland’s Ambassador to Eswatini, based in Mozambique, is in regular communication with the European Union (EU) Delegation and EU counterparts in Eswatini. In June 2021, Ireland, together with the EU Delegation and Member States, participated in a formal dialogue with the Government of Eswatini, in which the EU raised concerns regarding democratic space and human rights in Eswatini.

Ireland will continue to follow up and engage on these issues through the EU Delegation in Eswatini, and to monitor this situation closely.

Northern Ireland

Ceisteanna (207)

Patrick Costello

Ceist:

207. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the actions the Government will take to ensure that justice is secured for the families of the Bloody Sunday victims by making Soldier F and Soldier B stand trial in view of the announcement that the British public prosecution service will no longer prosecute Soldier F and Soldier B in respect to alleged murders they carried out on Bloody Sunday 1972; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36952/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I am aware of the decision taken by the Public Prosecution Service of Northern Ireland not to proceed with the prosecution of 'Soldier F' in relation to charges of murder and attempted murder in Derry on Bloody Sunday (30 January 1972), as well as the decision not to prosecute 'Soldier B' in connection with the fatal shooting of Daniel Hegarty also in Derry in 1972.

I know that this is deeply upsetting for all the families involved who have spent so many years in pursuit of justice for their loved ones and our thoughts are with all of them. While it is important that nothing is said or done that could be seen to prejudice ongoing due legal process, it is vital that the rationale for these decisions is clearly communicated.

All victims’ families must have access to an effective investigation and to a process of justice in accordance with the law and regardless of the perpetrator. Officials from my Department are keeping in contact with the families at this time on behalf of the Government.

It is essential that we make progress in addressing the legacy of the past in Northern Ireland. Our position is that the Stormont House Agreement, which was agreed by the two Governments and political parties, provides the framework to address the legacy of the Troubles. Where there are genuine concerns regarding its implementation, or proposals to further strengthen it in different areas, we are ready to engage together with the parties and the British Government to find a collective way forward. Crucially, victims and survivors must be at the heart of this process.

At the British Irish Intergovernmental Conference on 24 June last, we agreed with the British Government that we would begin a process of intensive engagement. Secretary of State Brandon Lewis and I issued a joint invitation and framework paper to party leaders last week, inviting them to begin this process. The first meeting at working group level has already taken place, and meetings are scheduled to continue throughout the period ahead. As outlined in the framework document issued to party leaders last week, our objective is to find an agreed way forward that will allow implementing legislation to be introduced in both this jurisdiction and the UK, by the end of this autumn.

Passport Services

Ceisteanna (208)

Michael Collins

Ceist:

208. Deputy Michael Collins asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the reason for the delay in obtaining passports for children especially; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36982/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Passport Service commenced the scaling up of operations on 4 May 2021 in line with the phased easing of restrictions set out in “COVID-19 Resilience and Recovery 2021 – The Plan Ahead”.

The Service has been focused since then on four priority areas.

- Clearing the COVID-19 backlog of 89,000 passport applications.

- Processing all adult renewal applications (including new applications) within 10 working days.

- Processing urgent and emergency applications.

- Providing customer services through our telephone and web chat team.

Very substantial progress has been made in clearing the COVID-19 backlog: all backlog applications which were completed properly have been processed and related passports issued. As regards incomplete COVID-19 backlog applications, the Passport Service has been in contact with the applicants regarding the need to send in outstanding documents. Once all outstanding required documentation is received, issuance of passports will be expedited.

The Deputy will appreciate that processing of applications for Irish citizen children is particularly complex, given that the consent of all guardians must be obtained and fully verified before any application can be approved and a passport issued. Over the last two months as the Passport Service has scaled up its operations, renewal of a child’s passport has taken on average 16 days, in cases where the application was completed properly. The Passport Service’s goal is to continue to scale up operations post Covid-19 and to return to normal levels of service as soon as possible.

I wish to highlight that our telephone and web chat services are available to all citizens whose passport applications have unfortunately been affected by COVID-19 restrictions. Customers are encouraged to contact our Customer Service Hub if they require assistance urgently.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (209, 211)

Alan Kelly

Ceist:

209. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Defence if Ireland remains a neutral state; if he is satisfied that Ireland’s membership of PESCO and EPF is compatible with Irish neutrality; if there will be an update to Ireland’s defence policy given the potential infringement on Irish neutrality implied by membership of these organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36888/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Alan Kelly

Ceist:

211. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Defence the reason that public consultation was not conducted upon joining PESCO and EPF; if there will be a review of the membership of these organisations by the State; if greater public consultation in relation to similar future policy changes will be committed to; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36890/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

I propose to take Questions Nos. 209 and 211 together.

Ireland's policy of military neutrality as set down in the White Paper on Defence 2015 is characterised by non-membership of military alliances and non-participation in common or mutual defence arrangements. This policy has not changed nor are there any plans to change it.

Membership of PESCO and participation in the EPF have no implications for Ireland’s traditional policy of military neutrality. Participation in PESCO relates to the collaborative development of military capabilities in support of CSDP operations launched in support of international peace and security and in accordance with the UN Charter. The European Peace Facility incorporates the existing EU Athena Mechanism on the funding of common costs of CSDP missions and operations in which Ireland has participated for many years, and the existing African Peace Facility albeit with a broader mandate. including allowing EU financing of peace support operations outside of Africa. While the EPF may, in certain circumstances and with strong safeguards, provide funding for military equipment up to and including lethal force equipment, Ireland made clear from the start of negotiations that we would not fund assistance measures which include such weapons reflecting the Programme for Government commitment that ‘Ireland will not be part of decision making or funding for lethal force weapons for non-peacekeeping purposes’ and this is reflected in the Council Decision.

Neither PESCO nor the EPF represent new organisations but rather mechanisms within the framework of the EU treaties to support CSDP.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (210)

Alan Kelly

Ceist:

210. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Defence the amount of carbon emissions as a result of the activities of the Defence Forces; the plans of the Defence Forces to reduce its carbon output; the breakdown of the extra carbon emissions emitted as a result of extra duties carried out by the Defence Forces through memberships of PESCO and EPF; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [36889/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Defence Forces, as a public body, reports its Total Final Consumption (TFC) through SEAIs Monitoring and Reporting System. In 2020, the activities of the Defence Forces accounted for 46.8m kg CO2. This includes all electricity, thermal and transport (road, air and sea) energy consumption. .

The Defence Forces Senior Energy Executive (SEE) approves the Annual Energy Plan of Action for the Defence Forces. The SEE has been examining courses of action to achieve 2030 decarbonisation targets across all energy types. The current Plan of Action includes energy saving initiatives across all domains (naval, air and road transport and infrastructure) such as electrification of heating through the use of heat pumps, use of EVs for administration road transport and increasing onsite electricity generationwith solar photo-voltaic systems while also examining a number of potential wind turbine projects. The SEE has also established a working group to examine the use of Sustainable and Alternate Fuels (SAF) for naval vessels, aircraft and heavy vehicles.

The Defence Organisation has fully engaged with green procurement and where ever possible green procurement considerations are utilised as either selection or award criteria in procurement projects published to the market. All future infrastructure projects, be they new build or refurbishment, will consider and include appropriate options to improve and optimise the energy efficiency of our defence infrastructure.

The Defence Forces are actively involved in the EDA Energy and Environment Working Group and the European Commission funded Consultation Forum on Sustainable Energy in the Defence and Security Sector. Both of these fora bring together experts from the defence and energy sectors to share information and best practices on improving energy management, energy efficiency, the use of renewable energy as well increasing the protection and resilience of defence energy-related critical infrastructures. Ireland also participates in the EDA Smart Water Camps project, a water management project which aims to address environmental concerns with regard to water usage on military bases. There is also an energy related PESCO project, Energy Operational Function, on which Ireland has observer status. Participation in PESCO and the EPF will not of themselves give rise to any additional carbon emmisions.

Senior civil and military management engage at the Strategic Management Committee, which comprises the senior leadership teams from the Department and the Defence Forces, to ensure coherence in climate change actions.

Question No. 211 answered with Question No. 209.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (212)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

212. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence the steps that have been taken to properly record overtime worked by members of the Permanent Defence Forces. [36913/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

Unlike other areas of the Public Service and due to the nature of the duties performed, overtime payments are not available to members of the Defence Forces and comparisons with other areas of the Public Service must be cognisant of the unique role, structure, duties and working conditions of service which are particular to military personnel.

In that regard a Military Service Allowance, which is designed to compensate for the special disadvantages associated with military life including long and unsocial hours, is paid to all ranks up to the level of Colonel. It is of course also the case that in addition to basic pay and military service allowance, certain positions in the Defence Forces also attract specialist and technical pay and that a range of duties also attract additional allowances. These duty based allowances are not analogous to overtime as such payments are in addition to basic pay and MSA and are related to the duties undertaken.

The Deputy will be aware a Commission on the Defence Forces has been established and is currently working to meet its terms of reference. As part of its Terms of Reference the Commission will examine the evolution of all remuneration systems and structures currently in place in the Defence Forces noting what the Programme for Government states in relation to a future Permanent Pay Review Body. It will also set out a strategic perspective on HR policies, and associated strategies, to fulfil the requirements of military capabilities for a more agile and adaptive Defence Forces in a manner congruent with modern society, and in light of the prevailing dynamics of the labour market, while also remaining consistent with public sector pay and personnel policy.

I look forward to the Commissions Report, expected at the end of this year.

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (213)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

213. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence the most recent date that each military installation or training centre either owned or hired by the Defence Forces has had fire, health and safety inspections in tabular form. [36914/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

As the day to day management of military installations is a matter for the Permanent Defence Force the information sought is not readily available in my Department. Accordingly my Department has sought this information from the military authorities and as soon as same is received, I will forward this information onto the Deputy.

The following deferred reply was received under Standing Order 51
I refer to the above Parliamentary Question, in which you sought information in relation to the most recent date that each military installation or training centre either owned or hired by the Defence Forces has had fire, health and safety inspections. It is the policy of the Defence Forces to comply with Irish legislation governing fire safety and to fully discharge its obligations under the Fire Services Act (1981 and 2003).
Please find attached in tabular format, information on annual fire inspections as well as Health and Safety audits that have been recently carried out.

Annual Fire Safety Inspection by an Approved Competent Contractor

Location

Date of Most Recent Inspection

Collins Bks, Cork

Bealt 2021

Stephens Bks, Kilkenny

Feabh 2021

Sarsfield Bks, Limerick

Ean 2021

Dún Uí Mhaoilíosa, Galway

Aib 2021

Lynch Camp, Kilworth

Már 2021

Ballymullen Bks, Tralee

Feabh 2021

Bere Island, Co. Cork

Ean 2021

Cathal Brugha Bks, Dublin

D.Fómh 2020

McKee Bks, Dublin

Meith 2021

St. Bricins Hospital, Dublin

Bealt 2021

Custume Bks, Athlone

Már 2021

Finner Camp,Donegal

Már 2021

Aiken Bks, Dundalk

Aib 2021

Gormonston Camp, Meath

Aib 2021

Kilbride Camp, Dublin

Már 2021

Curragh Camp, Kildare

Feabh 2021

Coolmoney Camp, Wicklow

Iúil 2021 - Currently in progress.

Baldonnel, Co. Dublin

Már 2021

Haulbowline, Cork

Feabh 2021

UNP 2-45, UNIFIL, Lebanon

M.Fómh 20

Date

Installation

Unit/s

06-Nov-2020

St. Bricins

CMU

06-Nov-2020

McKee Bks, Dublin

McKee Bks Coy

09-Nov-2020

Finner Camp, Donegal

28 Inf Bn

10-Sept-2020

Baldonnel, Dublin

Air Corp

12-Nov-2020

DFTC, Curragh Camp, Kildare

1 Mechanised Inf Coy

13-Nov-2020

Aikin Bks, Dundalk

27 Inf

15-Sept -2020

Dun Ui Mhaoliosa, Galway

1 Cn Cois

17-Nov-2020

DFTC, Curragh Camp, Kildare

TISK

22-Sept-2020

Athlone, Roscommon

6 Inf Bn

23-Oct-2020

Athlone, Roscommon & Cathal Brugha Bks, Dublin

2 Bde BTC

23-Nov-2020

Stephens Barracks, Kilkenny

3 Inf Bn

29-Sept-2020

Naval Dockyard, Cork

Naval Service

30-Sept-2020

DFTC, Curragh Camp, Kildare

Cadet School

30-Sept-2020

DFTC, Curragh Camp, Kildare

Inf School, Mil Col

30-Oct-2020

Collins Barracks, Cork

1 Bde BTC

30-Nov-2020

Sarsfield Barracks, Limerick

12 Inf B

Health and Safety. From a DFHQ level the last visit made to installations are as follows

Defence Forces

Ceisteanna (214)

Sorca Clarke

Ceist:

214. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Defence the initial outlay for each of the nine ships in the Naval Service. [36915/21]

Amharc ar fhreagra

Freagraí scríofa

The Naval Service is the State's principal sea-going agency and is tasked with a variety of defence and other roles. The main day-to-day role of the Naval Service is to provide a fishery protection service in accordance with the State's obligations as a member of the European Union. On any given patrol day the Naval Service can carry out a number of taskings on behalf of other State agencies such as the Sea Fisheries Protection Authority, An Garda Síochána and the Customs Service of the Revenue Commissioners.

The initial outlay cost of a Naval Service vessel depends on several factors, including the date that it was built and the specification and type of vessel. The service life of a Naval Service vessel is generally in the region of 30 years and is determined by the level of the ship's operational activity. Details are provided below for the different classes of vessels within the Naval Service fleet of 9 ships, including ship names and the approximate initial outlay for that class of vessel.

P31 LE Eithne: Cost approximately £25 million, commissioned in 1984.

P41 LÉ Orla, P42 LÉ Ciara: Cost approximately £Stg8 million in total for both ships. Both were purchased in 1988 at which point they had 3 to 4 years service with the Royal Navy.

P51 LÉ Róisín, P52 LÉ Niamh: Cost approximately €50 million in total for both ships, commissioned in 1999 and 2001 respectively.

P61 LÉ Samuel Beckett, P62 LÉ James Joyce, P63 LÉ William Butler Years, P64 LÉ George B Shaw: Cost approximately €250 million in total for the four ships, commissioned in 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2019 respectively.

The replacement of the flagship LÉ Eithne with a multi-role vessel, MRV, is the immediate project currently under way. The MRV project is an important capability development project and indicative of the commitment to ongoing investment in and development of defence capabilities. It is intended to hold a public tender competition in due course to cover the supply of the MRV, subject to availability of funding within the overall defence capital funding envelope. Projects for other vessel replacements will be considered over the lifetime of the White Paper on Defence in the context of overall capability development and funding, and in accordance with the overall equipment development planning process.

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