Written Answers Nos. 1260-1276
1260. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the legislation regarding the strengthening of the guidelines for dog breeding establishments; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52529/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has overall policy responsibility for the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. The Act provides a robust regulatory framework for, inter alia, the licensing, monitoring and inspection of dog breeding establishments by local authorities and, where a serious and immediate threat exists to public health or animal health and welfare, for the closure of such establishments.
The day to day regulation of dog breeding establishments to ensure compliance with the Act is a matter for local authorities. It is the responsibility of each local authority to maintain the register of dog breeding establishments in its functional area. The Act also places an obligation on any person seeking to operate a dog breeding establishment to have the premises included on the register. Welfare standards regarding dog breeding establishments have been provided for through guidelines.
In July 2018, following a public consultation, my Department published revised guidelines for Dog Breeding Establishments. These came into effect on 1 January 2019. There is a substantial shift in the new guidelines towards a focus on the welfare of dogs and pups. Each local authority is responsible for the monitoring of these standards with regard to the registration of such establishments.
Following a review, my Department is currently developing necessary legislative amendments to the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010, with a view to inclusion in the 2022 Government legislative programme.
Separately, the enforcement of welfare standards regarding all animals, including dogs, is a matter for the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine under the Animal Health and Welfare Act 2013. Both Departments work together to ensure a coordinated approach is taken in this area.
1261. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will issue a circular to all local authorities advising them to make public in a standardised manner all information relating to dog breeding establishments including particular information (details supplied). [52530/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has overall policy responsibility for the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010. The Act provides a robust regulatory framework for, inter alia, the licensing, monitoring and inspection of dog breeding establishments by local authorities and, where a serious and immediate threat exists to public health or animal health and welfare, for the closure of such establishments.
The day to day regulation of dog breeding establishments to ensure compliance with the Act is a matter for local authorities. It is the responsibility of each local authority to maintain the register of dog breeding establishments in its functional area. The Act also places an obligation on any person seeking to operate a dog breeding establishment to have the premises included on the register.
The Act references the details which must be entered onto the register. It also states that the local authority shall publish in such manner as it thinks fit, and make available for inspection at all reasonable times by members of the public, the register maintained by it.
Following a review, my Department is currently developing necessary legislative amendments to the Dog Breeding Establishments Act 2010, with a view to inclusion in the 2022 Government legislative programme. The points raised by the Deputy will be considered as part of that process.
1262. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the extent to which the concept of working from home or through digital hubs is being progressed with a view to ensuring the optimum results for employer, employee and the taxpayer; if there are further plans in this regard; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52838/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraOur Rural Future, Ireland’s Rural Development Policy 2021-2025, recognises the opportunity for rural rejuvenation that remote working presents and also the potential of remote working hubs as key economic assets for our rural towns and villages.
In May I launched the National Connected Hubs network together with the connectedhubs.ie platform. This platform will offer a suite of booking, hub management and e-commerce applications to members of the Network. The Network will also facilitate the sharing of innovation, experience and best practices across the community. These supports will serve to maximise benefit to member hubs, hub clients, employers, local communities and the wider economy.
The National Hub Network Working Group led by my Department has so far identified and mapped over 425 remote working hubs across the country. These hubs are invited to join the Connected Hubs Network to create shared infrastructure that will deliver real benefits across the country. To date, approximately 150 hubs have joined the Connected Hubs Network, with this number rising on an ongoing basis.
Membership of the Connected Hubs Network is open to all existing and new hubs who wish to offer remote working services. A significant number of initiatives will be developed through the Network including: supporting collective engagement between Connected Hubs and large scale employers; supporting collective engagement between Connected Hubs and Government agencies; supporting collaborative projects in the Network to drive economies of scale; developing a dataset to inform future investment decisions in remote working facilities and helping to identify the benefits Connected Hubs deliver for their local communities and the wider economy. A Connected hubs app and marketing campaign is currently in the final stages of development and will be launched in the coming weeks.
In July this year, through the Connected Hubs funding stream, I awarded close to €9 million in funding to over 100 successful applicants. This funding supports the addition of capacity to existing remote working infrastructure in digital hubs and broadband connection points throughout the country. My Department also continues to invest extensively in remote working and hub developments via the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and the Rural Regeneration Development Fund.
In addition to this, in January the Government published a National remote working strategy - ‘Making Remote Work’. The objective of this Strategy is to ensure remote work is a permanent feature in the Irish workplace in a way that maximises economic, social and environmental benefits. The National Remote Work Strategy is built on three pillars - these pillars are:
1. Create a Conducive Environment
2. Develop and Leverage Remote Work Infrastructure
3. Build a Remote Work Policy and Guidance Framework
Through its work on the development of the National hub network, my department is leading on three of the five actions within pillar two (to develop and leverage a remote work infrastructure).
Furthermore in Budget 2022, the Minister for Finance announced an income tax deduction amounting to 30% of the cost of vouched expenses for heat, electricity and broadband incurred by employees while working remotely.
The development of a national hubs network is a key commitment in Our Rural Future and I am committed to continuing my Department's support for the development of remote working hubs in recognition of the vital role that they can play in our post-Covid recovery.
1263. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will advise on EU funding sources available to support local heritage groups and with regard to Leader allocations for local heritage groups in County Roscommon up to 2023 and as recently announced for beyond 2023; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53112/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe social and economic development of rural Ireland is integral to the wellbeing of our country as a whole and to our quality of life. Ireland’s economy, heritage and culture is heavily dependent on the contribution of rural areas. Our Rural Future, the government’s new rural development policy, provides a framework for the development of rural Ireland over the next five years.
The LEADER programme, which is co-funded by the EU and the Exchequer, will play a key role over the lifetime of this policy. Last December, I launched the Transitional LEADER Programme which came into effect from 1 April 2021 and will run to the end of 2022, with a successor programme commencing in 2023. The programme is delivered through Local Action Groups (LAGs) in each of the 28 LEADER sub-regional areas around the country.
Funding under the LEADER programme is not targeted at any particular group or sector in rural communities. It is, rather, focused on a thematic approach to rural development under the headings of Economic Development, Enterprise Development and Job Creation; Social Inclusion; and the Rural Environment.
In order for a project to be eligible for LEADER funding, it must be compatible with the actions outlined in the approved Local Development Strategy in the area concerned, and it must comply with the Operating Rules and EU Regulations in place for the programme. Decisions on the nature of the projects to be supported and the funding to be awarded are solely a matter for each LAG.
The programme is delivered in County Roscommon by the Roscommon LAG in partnership with its Implementing Partner; Roscommon LEADER Partnership.
1264. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the funding that is available to transition year groups in rural communities with regard to projects that support sustainability in their local area in County Roscommon particularly funding sources which are immediately available or currently open for applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53129/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraSupporting the development of resilient and sustainable communities is at the heart of my Department's mission and, as part of that, we are working with local communities to help Ireland's transition to a low carbon, sustainable and climate resilient society through the wide range of programmes, supports and initiatives we deliver.
While we do not provide direct funding to transition year groups in rural communities at present, my Department is increasing awareness of the Sustainable Development Goals through the Tidy Towns Competition with the alignment of categories in the 2021 Tidy Towns Competition to the Sustainable Development Goals, including those related to Climate Action.
My Department also provides relevant supports through the Dormant Accounts Fund, through the Social Enterprise and Social Innovation Fund measures, and the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme. Grants to applicants have included those for providing home insulation services, reducing our food waste, sustainable energy actions, bee-keeping and training in thermal insulation installation.
Additionally, programmes such as the Town and Village Renewal Scheme and Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme support the diversification of the rural economy and the effective use of communities' areas of natural heritage, creating employment opportunities associated with local tourism projects such as Greenways and Blueways and through funding for enterprise hubs and other projects.
My Department will continue to keep each of the schemes and programmes we administer under review, to ensure they complement the overall objectives of sustainability.
1265. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development when the funding allocation for Leader for 2023-2027 will be confirmed given the recent announcement under Pillar II of the Common Agricultural Fund of €180 million for Leader from 2023 is an indicative allocation; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53148/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra1267. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the way the indicative allocation of €250 million for Leader from 2023-2027 under Pillar II of the Common Agricultural Policy compares with previous periods; if the indicated allocation is taken as correct, if Leader funding has increased for the period 2023-2027 in comparison with the 2007-2013 and 2014-2020 periods and transition programme period of 2021-2023 respectively; if she will provide the data on Leader allocations for each period in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53150/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1265 and 1267 together.
The LEADER programme is a key intervention implemented by my Department which will help to underpin the Government's rural development goals as outlined in Our Rural Future.
The programme is co-funded by the EU under Pillar II the Common Agricultural Policy (CAP). The Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) is Ireland's Managing Authority for the CAP and thus has lead responsibility for negotiations of the new CAP which is to be introduced from 2023.
An indicative allocation of €180 million has been made to the LEADER Programme for the 2023-2027 period as part of the new CAP Strategic Plan. In conjunction with the funding of €70 million for the LEADER Transitional Programme announced earlier this year, this indicative allocation will result in total funding of €250 million being made available for LEADER over the period 2021 – 2027. This allocation maintains the level of funding provided for the 2014-2020 programming period. Table 1 below gives a breakdown on the LEADER allocations for the periods as requested by the Deputy. It should be noted that the original allocations for LEADER in the 2007-2013 period were revised on foot of the agreement with the EU Commission of a formal amendment to the 2007-2013 Rural Development Programme - both allocations are included in the table below.
A draft of the CSP is due to be submitted by DAFM to the European Commission early 2022, and a formal negotiation and agreement process will then commence on all elements of the CSP, including the financial allocations across all the proposed schemes contained in the CSP. As this process develops, consultation with stakeholders will continue.
Table 1: LEADER Programme Allocations
|
Programming Period |
Allocation |
|
2007-2013 (Original) |
€399,999,998 |
|
2007-2013 (Revised) |
€376,758,090 |
|
2014-2020 |
€250,000,000 |
|
2021-2022 (Transitional) |
€ 70,000,000 |
|
2023-2027 |
€180,000,000 |
1266. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the way the €70 million allocated by her Department with regard to the existing LEADER transition programme until 2023 will be allocated for 2021, 2022 and 2023, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53149/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra1268. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the funding for the LEADER and LEADER transition programme by county for the periods 2007 to 2013, 2014 to 2020 and 2021 to 2023, in tabular form; and the breakdown of LEADER funding by county in each year since 2014. [53151/21]
Amharc ar fhreagra1269. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the funding allocation per local action group for the periods 2007 to 2013, 2014 to 2020 and 2021 to 2023 with regard to LEADER and the LEADER transition programme in tabular form; and the LEADER funding allocations to each group in each year since 2014. [53152/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 1266, 1268 and 1269 together.
The original allocation for the LEADER elements of the Rural Development Programme 2007-2013 was almost €400 million.
LEADER funding for the 2007-2013 programming period was not allocated based on county boundaries but to individual Local Action Groups (LAGs) on completion of the Local Development Strategy process. The allocations were revised in 2013 on foot of the formal amendment of the Rural Development Programme, resulting in a decrease in the overall programme allocation.
Table 1 below provides a breakdown of the 2007-2013 Programme allocations, including the original and revised allocations.
The 2014-2020 LEADER programme had a total allocation of €250 million. €225 million of this budget was allocated directly to the LAGs who deliver the programme and approve projects at local level. Funding was allocated to each LAG for the full duration of the Programme to give greater flexibility to the LAGs to manage their resources.
The balance of €25 million is provided for thematic projects which are approved at national level.
In December 2020, I launched the Transitional LEADER Programme, which came into effect from 1 April 2021 and will run to the end of 2022. A total of €70 million has been made available over this programming period. €65 million of this budget is available to LAGs who deliver the programme and approve projects at local level. This funding is distributed between the LAGs on a pro-rata basis, commensurate with the allocations made at the start of the 2014-2020 LEADER programme.
A further €3 million of the funding has been allocated to support Co-operation projects and innovation between LAGs, while the remaining €2 million is being provided to support strategy development for the next LEADER programme.
Table 2 below provides details of the LAG allocations for the 2014-2020 and Transitional LEADER Programmes.
The new LEADER programme will commence in 2023. I recently announced the indicative allocation for the new LEADER programme of €180m. Taken together with the €70m secured for the transitional programme this gives a total funding allocation of €250m for the originally envisaged 7 year programming period from 2021- 2027.
Table 1: LEADER 2007-2013 programme allocations
|
Local Action Group |
Original Allocation |
Revised Allocation |
|
Avondhu Blackwater Partnership Ltd. |
€9,057,810 |
€7,563,093 |
|
Ballyhoura Development Ltd. |
€11,673,519 |
€18,832,677 |
|
Carlow County Development Partnership Ltd |
€8,878,177 |
€7,619,278 |
|
Cavan-Monaghan LEADER |
€12,035,118 |
€10,235,403 |
|
Cill Dara Ar Aghaidh Teo |
€12,282,448 |
€10,642,073 |
|
Clare Local Development Company Ltd. |
€14,028,529 |
€16,175,841 |
|
Co. Kilkenny LEADER Partnership |
€11,523,729 |
€13,587,910 |
|
Co. Wicklow Community Partnership |
€11,135,560 |
€9,128,172 |
|
Co. Sligo LEADER Partnership Company Ltd |
€10,888,673 |
€9,791,787 |
|
Comhar na nOileáin Teoranta |
€4,642,415 |
€7,218,571 |
|
Donegal Local Development Company Ltd. |
€12,831,901 |
€12,693,035 |
|
Fingal LEADER Partnership Co. |
€7,766,780 |
€6,488,129 |
|
FORUM Connemara Ltd. |
€9,668,965 |
€7,925,982 |
|
Galway Rural Development Company |
€15,257,985 |
€12,512,676 |
|
Inishowen Development Partnership |
€8,286,143 |
€7,410,663 |
|
IRD Duhallow Ltd. |
€10,315,943 |
€12,852,160 |
|
Laois Community and Enterprise Dev |
€10,993,608 |
€9,564,731 |
|
Leitrim Integrated Development Co Ltd |
€10,845,497 |
€10,332,659 |
|
Longford Community Resources Ltd |
€8,714,110 |
€7,198,679 |
|
Louth LEADER Partnership |
€8,839,815 |
€7,265,162 |
|
Mayo North East LEADER Partnership Co. |
€10,751,894 |
€9,663,562 |
|
Meath Community Rural and Social Dev. |
€12,748,771 |
€15,139,043 |
|
North East Kerry LEADER Partnership Teo |
€10,558,882 |
€9,267,641 |
|
North Tipperary LEADER Partnership |
€9,708,008 |
€12,917,884 |
|
Offaly Integrated Local Dev Co. Ltd. |
€11,520,489 |
€10,856,445 |
|
Roscommon Integrated Development Company |
€12,838,021 |
€11,230,957 |
|
South and East Cork Area Dev Ltd. |
€10,641,494 |
€10,600,928 |
|
South Kerry Development Ltd. |
€12,370,667 |
€10,341,450 |
|
South Tipperary Local Development Co Ltd |
€11,106,187 |
€12,515,649 |
|
South West Mayo Development Company Ltd |
€12,150,007 |
€10,820,318 |
|
Waterford LEADER Partnership Ltd. |
€10,558,519 |
€11,486,013 |
|
West Cork Development Partnership Ltd. |
€14,601,149 |
€13,481,280 |
|
West Limerick Resources Ltd |
€9,997,751 |
€9,091,221 |
|
Westmeath Community Development Ltd |
€10,987,060 |
€9,015,451 |
|
Wexford Local Development |
€12,515,565 |
€11,919,814 |
|
Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta* |
€17,278,809 |
€3,371,751 |
|
Overall Total |
€399,999,998 |
€376,758,090 |
*Meitheal Forbartha na Gaeltachta (MFG) went into liquidation in 2012
Table 2: Funding Allocations for the 2014-2020 and 2021-2022 LEADER Programmes
|
Local Action Group |
LEADER 2014-2020 Allocation |
LEADER 2021-2022 Allocation |
|
Carlow |
€6,416,803 |
€1,895,874 |
|
Cavan |
€9,022,286 |
€2,517,948 |
|
Clare |
€8,920,225 |
€2,635,521 |
|
Cork North |
€5,591,846 |
€1,504,409 |
|
Cork South |
€3,831,303 |
€1,131,976 |
|
Cork West |
€5,015,674 |
€1,481,904 |
|
Donegal |
€13,413,878 |
€3,815,464 |
|
Dublin Rural |
€6,370,438 |
€1,882,175 |
|
Galway East |
€7,655,851 |
€2,261,956 |
|
Galway West |
€4,540,033 |
€1,341,373 |
|
Kerry |
€10,719,868 |
€3,019,507 |
|
Kildare |
€5,261,600 |
€1,554,564 |
|
Kilkenny |
€7,791,573 |
€2,302,056 |
|
Laois |
€7,124,587 |
€2,104,992 |
|
Leitrim |
€6,498,475 |
€1,772,277 |
|
Limerick |
€9,776,594 |
€2,740,812 |
|
Longford |
€7,597,623 |
€2,244,752 |
|
Louth |
€6,101,862 |
€1,802,823 |
|
Mayo |
€11,621,432 |
€3,285,878 |
|
Meath |
€6,903,124 |
€2,039,559 |
|
Monaghan |
€7,592,720 |
€2,243,303 |
|
Offaly |
€8,536,761 |
€2,374,498 |
|
Roscommon |
€8,852,659 |
€2,615,558 |
|
Sligo |
€7,655,648 |
€2,261,896 |
|
Tipperary |
€10,603,443 |
€2,985,108 |
|
Waterford |
€8,022,796 |
€2,222,644 |
|
Westmeath |
€7,384,206 |
€2,181,697 |
|
Wexford |
€9,840,141 |
€2,907,314 |
|
Wicklow |
€6,336,549 |
€1,872,162 |
|
Total |
€225,000,000 |
€65,000,000 |
1270. Deputy Claire Kerrane asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development if she will provide an overview of funding allocations under the LEADER+ programme from 2000 to 2006, by county and local action group or equivalent in tabular form for this period. [53155/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe LEADER + Programme which operated from 2000 to 2006 had a total allocation of €72 million and was delivered by 22 Local Action Groups (LAGs) throughout the country.
Table 1 below provides a breakdown of the LEADER allocations for the LEADER + period.
Table 1 - Local Action Group Allocations 2000 – 2006
|
LAG |
Allocation |
|
Ballyhoura Development |
€3,311,251.00 |
|
Blackwater Resource Development |
€2,976,875.00 |
|
Barrow Nore Suir Rural Development |
€3,968,393.00 |
|
Dongal Local Development Company |
€3,903,463.00 |
|
IRD Duhallow |
€2,739,252.00 |
|
Inishowen Rural Development Co. |
€2,418,206.00 |
|
Kildare European LEADER Teo |
€3,959,105.00 |
|
Laois LEADER Rural Dev. Co. |
€3,279,516.00 |
|
Longford Community Resources Ltd. |
€2,485,373.00 |
|
Louth LEADER |
€3,168,832.00 |
|
Mid South Roscommon Rural Dev. Co. |
€2,294,191.00 |
|
Offaly LEADER II Co. |
€3,373,222.00 |
|
Sligo Co. LEADER Partnership |
€2,963,717.00 |
|
South Kerry Dev. Partnership |
€3,029,508.00 |
|
Tipperary LEADER Group Ltd. |
€4,025,670.00 |
|
Rural Dublin LEADER Company |
€2,318,384.12 |
|
Waterford Development Partnership |
€2,983,841.00 |
|
West Cork Co-op Society |
€5,178,184.00 |
|
Western Rural Development Company |
€3,532,620.00 |
|
Westmeath Community Development Co. |
€2,854,752.00 |
|
Wexford Org. for Rural Dev. |
€3,734,639.00 |
|
Wicklow Rural Partnership |
€3,601,508.00 |
|
Total |
€72,100,502.12 |
1271. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the further funding that will be allocated in 2021 to accommodation roads on offshore islands; and the number of such roads on offshore Islands off the coast of County Donegal. [53186/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides funding for an annual programme for minor capital works on our offshore islands, including island road repair. Each year the Department requests the relevant local authorities to submit a list of minor capital works that they wish to undertake on the islands and after review the Department provides co-funding to the Local Authority to undertake these projects.
Projects involving the repair of county roads, that is roads that have been taken in charge by the Local Authority, regularly receive funding under this scheme. To date in 2021, works to the value of €227,500 have been sanctioned under this programme for works on the islands in Donegal.
Approaching the end of the year, weather and sea conditions together with the normal logistical challenges in undertaking work on the islands, means that the window to effectively undertake construction and road works is almost closed and accordingly it is unlikely that there will be any further projects sanctioned for works commencing in 2021.
However, my Department has contacted all the relevant Local Authorities to ask them to submit their lists for work for projects they wish to undertake in 2022.
The information requested regarding the number of roads on the offshore islands in Donegal is not available in my Department.
1272. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the number of existing contracts of an indefinite period entered into by her Department prior to the enactment of the EU Procurement Directive. [53236/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Rural and Community Development was established in July 2017 and does not have any contracts of an indefinite period entered into prior to the enactment of the EU Procurement Directive 2014/24/EU.
1273. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the funding programmes within his Department that may be available to an organisation (details supplied); and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53278/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Community Enhancement Programme (CEP), managed by my Department, provides small capital grants to community groups to enhance facilities. Typical projects funded can include the renovation of community centres, community amenities, disability access projects, improvements to town parks, common areas and spaces. While the CEP programme is now closed it is hoped to run the CEP programme again in future. It will then be advertised in each Local Authority area by the Local Community Development Committees (LCDCs) who administer the grant on behalf of this Department.
The Valued Added Tax (VAT) Compensation Scheme aims to reduce the VAT burden on charities and to partially compensate for VAT paid by a charity, subject to certain qualifying criteria. Charities are entitled to claim a refund of a proportion of their eligible VAT costs, based on their level of non-public funding. Charities can submit one claim per year, which should relate to VAT paid in the previous year only. The total amount of claims in each year may exceed the capped amount. If this happens, any refunds due will be paid to charities on a pro-rata basis. Further details on the VAT Compensation Scheme including on eligibility and the application process can be found at www.revenue.ie.
1274. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the status of the roll-out of broadband connection points; the number that have been connected to date by county; the number planned to be connected; the component shortages that may impact the delivery of broadband connection points; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53281/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Broadband Connection Point (BCP) initiative includes both Public BCPs and School BCPs, the latter are the responsibility of the Department of Education and any queries relating to them are accordingly a matter for that Department.
There are two companies involved in the delivery of Public BCPs: NBI, under contract to the Department of the Environment, Climate and Communications, delivers the initial connectivity to the majority of sites via a temporary wireless link and Vodafone Ireland, under contract to my Department, provides and manages the onsite customer equipment and support development of the BCP network. At a small number of BCPs, Vodafone will also provide the initial connectivity. Before a BCP becomes live it must have both the initial connectivity and the customer equipment installed and operational.
BCPs are key facilities for communities with inadequate broadband services. As such, before any BCP is accepted as complete, my officials must be satisfied that the work has been completed to the appropriate standard. This may, at times, lead to an apparent discrepancy between the number of sites listed as 'live' on the online map and the actual number of live sites. The period between completion, acceptance and inclusion in the online maps is for quality assurance and due diligence work and should not be taken as an indication that there are issues with works carried out at any BCP.
There are currently 300 Public BCPs planned, of these 214 have been accepted by my Department as live and operational and are visible as such on the online map at myconnectedcommunity.ie.
I understand that some 25 further sites are live and operational that have yet to be accepted as such (and updated on the map) by my Department.
By the end of this year, my officials expect that some 285 sites will be fully operational, with a small number of more difficult to install sites due for completion early in the New Year. A full list of live BCPs and the dates that they were accepted as live is set out below. Full details of all BCPs, live and planned, are available at myconnectedcommunity.ie.
With regard to the impact of component shortages on the BCP project, specifically the global shortage of microchips, at this point there has not been a noticeable impact. Supply lines for customer premises equipment (this includes the switches and WIFI access points deployed at BCPs) appear to be stable, notwithstanding some delays. My officials remain alert to developments and have expedited a number of orders and upgrades to protect the project, as far as possible, against the worst potential impacts of any further deterioration in supply lines.
|
Site Name |
Local Authority |
Accepted Date |
|
Duckett's Grove Historic House |
CARLOW |
08/12/2020 |
|
Borris Library |
CARLOW |
08/12/2020 |
|
Altamont Gardens |
CARLOW |
10/02/2021 |
|
Rathanna Community Hall |
CARLOW |
22/02/2021 |
|
Newtown Community Centre |
CARLOW |
11/05/2021 |
|
Clashganny Looped Walk |
CARLOW |
14/07/2021 |
|
Castlerahan Community Centre |
CAVAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Templeport Community Centre |
CAVAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Mullahoran Community Centre |
CAVAN |
13/01/2021 |
|
Drumavaddy Community Centre |
CAVAN |
13/01/2021 |
|
Cornafean Communty Centre |
CAVAN |
13/01/2021 |
|
GallonRay House |
CAVAN |
13/01/2021 |
|
Glengevlin Community Hall |
CAVAN |
10/02/2021 |
|
Kildallan Parish Hall |
CAVAN |
29/03/2021 |
|
Killenkere Leisure Centre |
CAVAN |
04/05/2021 |
|
Bunnoe Community Centre |
CAVAN |
04/05/2021 |
|
Castle Saunderson Scout Centre |
CAVAN |
22/02/2021 |
|
Michael Cusack Visitor Centre |
CLARE |
08/12/2020 |
|
Cree Community Centre |
CLARE |
08/12/2020 |
|
Loop Head Lighthouse & Visitors Centre |
CLARE |
08/12/2020 |
|
Loughraney Kids Playschool |
CLARE |
08/12/2020 |
|
Caherconnell Stone Fort & Visitor Centre |
CLARE |
24/05/2021 |
|
Lisavaird Community Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Castletownkenneigh Community Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
T.O. Park Community & Sports Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ballindangan Community Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Whitechurch Community Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Aghabullogue Community Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Bere Island Heritage Centre |
CORK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Laharn Heritage Centre |
CORK |
13/01/2021 |
|
Mealagh Valley Community Centre |
CORK |
08/02/2021 |
|
Glash School Community Centre |
CORK |
08/02/2021 |
|
Clogagh Community Hall |
CORK |
26/02/2021 |
|
Ballydaly Community Hall |
CORK |
29/03/2021 |
|
Sherkin Island Community Hall |
CORK |
04/05/2021 |
|
Coláiste Phobal Cléire - Cape Clear Island |
CORK |
04/05/2021 |
|
Courtbrack Community Centre |
CORK |
24/05/2021 |
|
Aubane Community Centre |
CORK |
12/02/2021 |
|
Amharclann Ghaoth Dobhair |
DONEGAL |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ray Community Centre |
DONEGAL |
08/12/2020 |
|
Fort Dunree |
DONEGAL |
08/12/2020 |
|
Leghowney Community Hall |
DONEGAL |
08/12/2020 |
|
Cranford Community Centre |
DONEGAL |
08/12/2020 |
|
Tory Co-op |
DONEGAL |
08/12/2020 |
|
Meenreagh Hostel |
DONEGAL |
08/02/2021 |
|
Stáisiún an Mhaoir, Sliabh Liag |
DONEGAL |
10/02/2021 |
|
An tSean Scoil |
DONEGAL |
29/03/2021 |
|
Malin Head |
DONEGAL |
04/05/2021 |
|
Stars of Erin GAA |
DUBLIN / DLR |
13/01/2021 |
|
Newbridge House & Farm |
DUBLIN / Fingal |
29/03/2021 |
|
Man O War GAA Club |
DUBLIN / Fingal |
08/12/2020 |
|
Fingal Ravens GAA Club |
DUBLIN / Fingal |
13/01/2021 |
|
Tyrellstown Community Centre |
DUBLIN / Fingal |
29/03/2021 |
|
Glenasmole Community Centre |
DUBLIN / SDCC |
08/12/2020 |
|
Comhar Chuigéal Teoranta Leitir Mealláin |
GALWAY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Cortoon Community Centre |
GALWAY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Leitrim Ballydugan Community Centre |
GALWAY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Comhar Caomhán Teo |
GALWAY |
13/01/2021 |
|
Old Secondary School |
GALWAY |
10/02/2021 |
|
Leabharlann Inis Mór |
GALWAY |
11/05/2021 |
|
Inishbofin Community Centre |
GALWAY |
18/06/2021 |
|
Clonberne Community Enterprise Centre |
GALWAY |
18/06/2021 |
|
Tureencahill Community Centre |
KERRY |
12/02/2021 |
|
Killeenagh (Inch Community Centre) |
KERRY |
12/02/2021 |
|
Kells Railway Station Community Space |
KERRY |
12/02/2021 |
|
Bonane Community Centre @St Fiachnas |
KERRY |
29/03/2021 |
|
Ionad na Dromoda, Cillín Liath |
KERRY |
26/07/2021 |
|
Chapeltown Community Centre - Valentia |
KERRY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Cable Station - Valentia |
KERRY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Kielduff Community Centre |
KERRY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Bigstone Community Hall |
KILDARE |
08/12/2020 |
|
Crookstown Further Education Centre |
KILDARE |
08/02/2021 |
|
Lullymore Heritage Park |
KILDARE |
11/05/2021 |
|
Tullahought Community Centre |
KILKENNY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Crosspatrick Community Hall |
KILKENNY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Muckalee Handball Club |
KILKENNY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Galmoy Community Centre |
KILKENNY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ballyouskill Community Centre |
KILKENNY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Graine Community Hall |
KILKENNY |
13/01/2021 |
|
Vicarstown Community Centre |
LAOIS |
08/12/2020 |
|
Oisin House, Rossmore |
LAOIS |
08/12/2020 |
|
Emo 'Old School' Community Centre |
LAOIS |
08/12/2020 |
|
Donaghmore Workhouse and Agriculture Museum |
LAOIS |
26/02/2021 |
|
Aghanlish Community Centre |
LEITRIM |
13/01/2021 |
|
Killargue Hub |
LEITRIM |
10/02/2021 |
|
Askill Community Centre |
LEITRIM |
10/02/2021 |
|
Gortlettragh Community Centre |
LEITRIM |
22/02/2021 |
|
Glencar Waterfall |
LEITRIM |
26/02/2021 |
|
Aughawillan GAA Clubrooms |
LEITRIM |
24/05/2021 |
|
Aughavas GAA Park |
LEITRIM |
09/06/2021 |
|
Aughawillan Community Centre |
LEITRIM |
09/06/2021 |
|
The Old School, Caherline |
LIMERICK |
08/12/2020 |
|
Strand Community Centre |
LIMERICK |
26/02/2021 |
|
Cappamore Community Centre |
LIMERICK |
09/06/2021 |
|
Galbally GAA Club |
LIMERICK |
09/06/2021 |
|
Coolcappa Communtiy centre |
LIMERICK |
18/06/2021 |
|
Kildimo GAA Club |
LIMERICK |
18/06/2021 |
|
Patrickswell GAA Club |
LIMERICK |
18/06/2021 |
|
Glenroe GAA Club |
LIMERICK |
14/07/2021 |
|
Halla Íde Naofa, Abbeyfeale |
LIMERICK |
26/07/2021 |
|
Rathkeale Riverside Training Workshop (LCETB) |
LIMERICK |
12/08/2021 |
|
Mullinalaghta Community Centre |
LONGFORD |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ballymore Shamrocks GAA Club |
LONGFORD |
08/12/2020 |
|
Colmcille GAA Club |
LONGFORD |
08/12/2020 |
|
Abbeyschrule Airport |
LONGFORD |
10/02/2021 |
|
Latin School Community Centre Moyne |
LONGFORD |
10/02/2021 |
|
Corlea Trackway Visitor Centre |
LONGFORD |
10/02/2021 |
|
Moydow Community Centre |
LONGFORD |
29/03/2021 |
|
Carrickedmond GAA Club |
LONGFORD |
24/05/2021 |
|
Port Beach |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Templetown Beach |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Clogherhead Pier |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Annaghminnan Rovers GAA Club |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Killanny GAA |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Mattock Rangers Community Centre |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Stephenstown Pond Nature Park |
LOUTH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Killaser Community Centre |
MAYO |
08/12/2020 |
|
Bofeenaun Community Centre |
MAYO |
08/12/2020 |
|
Taugheen Community Centre |
MAYO |
08/12/2020 |
|
Islandeady Community Centre |
MAYO |
08/12/2020 |
|
CLARE ISLAND COMMUNITY CENTRE |
MAYO |
13/01/2021 |
|
Cushlough Community Centre |
MAYO |
13/01/2021 |
|
Keel Community Centre |
MAYO |
13/01/2021 |
|
Kilmovee Community Centre |
MAYO |
08/02/2021 |
|
Belderrig Community Centre |
MAYO |
10/02/2021 |
|
Finny Community Centre |
MAYO |
05/05/2021 |
|
Aghamore Community Centre |
MAYO |
24/05/2021 |
|
Teach Raithneach Heritage & Cultural Centre |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Meath Hill Community Centre |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Castletown GAA Club |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
iDesk Cormeen |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Meath GAA Centre Of Excellence |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Boardsmill GAA Club/Community Centre |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Drumree GAA Club, Knockmark |
MEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Syddan Gaelic Football Club |
MEATH |
13/01/2021 |
|
Rathkenny Hall |
MEATH |
11/05/2021 |
|
Ballinlough |
MEATH |
09/06/2021 |
|
Moynalty |
MEATH |
14/07/2021 |
|
Bective GAA Clubrooms |
MEATH |
14/07/2021 |
|
The Wetlands Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Connons Community Hall |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Latton Resource Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Mullyash Community Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Corcaghan Community Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Carn Resource Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Corduff Raferagh Community Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Tannagh Outdoor Education Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/12/2020 |
|
Monaghan GAA Centre of Excellence |
MONAGHAN |
13/01/2021 |
|
Tullycorbet Community Centre |
MONAGHAN |
08/02/2021 |
|
Drumhowan Community Centre |
MONAGHAN |
24/05/2021 |
|
St. Patrick's Accommodation Centre |
MONAGHAN |
24/05/2021 |
|
Latton Community Centre |
MONAGHAN |
09/06/2021 |
|
Ballycommon Telework & Training Centre |
OFFALY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Croghan Community Hall |
OFFALY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Kilclonfert Community Centre |
OFFALY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Rosfaraghan Business Park |
OFFALY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Coolderry Community Hall |
OFFALY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Shannon Harbour |
OFFALY |
08/02/2021 |
|
Seir Kieran Community Hall |
OFFALY |
08/02/2021 |
|
Killavilla Community Hall |
OFFALY |
05/05/2021 |
|
Irish Parachute Club |
OFFALY |
14/07/2021 |
|
Creeve Community Centre |
ROSCOMMON |
08/12/2020 |
|
Tulsk DigiHub |
ROSCOMMON |
08/12/2020 |
|
Marian Hall Community Centre, Gortaganny |
ROSCOMMON |
08/12/2020 |
|
St Patrick's Hall |
ROSCOMMON |
08/12/2020 |
|
Cam Community Centre |
ROSCOMMON |
08/12/2020 |
|
Tawnytaskin Community Centre |
ROSCOMMON |
13/01/2021 |
|
Dangan Community Centre |
ROSCOMMON |
13/01/2021 |
|
Kiltoom Parish Hall |
ROSCOMMON |
29/03/2021 |
|
Highwood Community Centre |
SLIGO |
12/02/2021 |
|
Castleconnor Community Centre |
SLIGO |
12/02/2021 |
|
Eastern Harps GAA Club |
SLIGO |
04/05/2021 |
|
Killavil Community Centre |
SLIGO |
18/06/2021 |
|
Moyglass Community Hall |
TIPPERARY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Killurney Community Centre |
TIPPERARY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Drom Community Hall |
TIPPERARY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Killea Community Centre |
TIPPERARY |
08/12/2020 |
|
Rossmore Community Hall |
TIPPERARY |
10/02/2021 |
|
Curreeney Community Hall |
TIPPERARY |
22/02/2021 |
|
Aglish Community Hall |
TIPPERARY |
10/02/2021 |
|
Killoscully Community Centre |
TIPPERARY |
29/03/2021 |
|
Fanure Community Hall |
TIPPERARY |
07/05/2021 |
|
Ballinahinch Community Centre |
TIPPERARY |
24/05/2021 |
|
Boher Parish Hall |
TIPPERARY |
24/05/2021 |
|
The Pavillion Ballinderry |
TIPPERARY |
09/06/2021 |
|
Kilecolman Community Centre |
TIPPERARY |
18/06/2021 |
|
The Apple Camping & Caravan Park |
TIPPERARY |
12/08/2021 |
|
Mount Melleray Community Hall |
WATERFORD |
08/12/2020 |
|
Knockanore Community Centre |
WATERFORD |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ballysaggart Community Centre |
WATERFORD |
13/01/2021 |
|
Modeligo Community Hall |
WATERFORD |
22/02/2021 |
|
Milltown Community Centre |
WESTMEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ringtown GAA Club |
WESTMEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Ballycomoyle GAA Club |
WESTMEATH |
08/12/2020 |
|
Streete Parish Park & Community Centre |
WESTMEATH |
13/01/2021 |
|
Clonkill Hurling Club |
WESTMEATH |
12/02/2021 |
|
Castledaly Community Centre |
WESTMEATH |
09/06/2021 |
|
Wexford Swimming Pool And Leisure Centre |
WEXFORD |
13/01/2021 |
|
St Mary's GAA Complex Rosslare |
WEXFORD |
13/01/2021 |
|
Ballyfad Community Centre |
WEXFORD |
13/01/2021 |
|
Ballyroebuck Hall |
WEXFORD |
13/01/2021 |
|
Askamore Community Centre |
WEXFORD |
08/02/2021 |
|
Marshalstown GAA Club |
WEXFORD |
08/02/2021 |
|
Stella Maris Community Hub |
WEXFORD |
10/02/2021 |
|
Hook Head Visitor Centre |
WEXFORD |
29/03/2021 |
|
Raheen Family Resource Centre |
WEXFORD |
29/03/2021 |
|
Ballycooge Community Hall |
WICKLOW |
08/12/2020 |
|
Wicklow GAA Centre of Excellence |
WICKLOW |
08/12/2020 |
|
Knockree Youth Hostel |
WICKLOW |
29/03/2021 |
|
Wicklow County Campus, Clermont House |
WICKLOW |
04/05/2021 |
|
Ballinacor Community Park |
WICKLOW |
24/05/2021 |
|
Crossbridge Community Hall |
WICKLOW |
26/07/2021 |
|
ABEC (Arklow Business Enterprise Centre) |
WICKLOW |
26/07/2021 |
|
Brockagh Resource Centre |
WICKLOW |
08/12/2020 |
1275. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development the development activities that her Department will scale up following the completion of the roll-out of broadband connection points; the details of pilot projects; the locations of same; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [53282/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraBroadband Connection Points (BCPs) are among the first deliverables under the National Broadband Plan (NBP) contract. Initially, these sites were considered an interim measure for those areas likely to wait longest for permanent connections under the NBP - publicly accessible internet for those without adequate connectivity at home. However, as the BCP network build began, it became very clear that great potential existed to develop BCPs as digitally-enabled, long-term community assets.
Against the backdrop of the public health crisis and the attendant exponential growth in demand for remote working facilities and travel restrictions, the role of BCPs has rapidly evolved. Communities expect their BCPs to be remote working hubs as well as study and training spaces. Many communities also want to take part in cultural activities and share their own creativity with others.
In response, my Department and the local authority Broadband Officers upgraded the technical specifications at the majority of BCPs allowing for additional functionality, such as you would expect in any professional workplace, and also began trialling new activities and services. These trials serve two purposes: they establish what may work well at BCPs and they also encourage those managing BCPs to imagine other uses for the high-speed connectivity that has been provided.
Trial projects may either be available to all operational BCPs, or may be limited to a few selected sites. Where there is a limit to the number of sites that may take part in a trial, these sites were selected on a first come, first served basis, or on the basis of a needs and suitability assessment.
There are currently 18 pilot projects live under the following four headings, including the following examples:
- eHealth - dedicated e-health rooms in Co. Sligo and on both Tory & Clare Islands: These e-health facilities will complement the HSE Attend Anywhere initiative and be suitable for a range of virtual consultations.
- Training & Education - adult digital literacy training; CoderDojo and OurKidsCode for children and families
- Arts & Culture - a nationwide BCP film festival curated by the IFI; tuition in the Uilleann pipes by NPU
- Remote Working – training for hub managers provided by the Ludgate Hub in Skibbereen; Grow Remote chapter training.
There is no charge to the BCPs or the public for participation in any of the trial activities. Furthermore, grants of €1,000 are available for devices and equipment to support training and education activities and €10,000 has been made available to each local authority to procure additional activities or training, either under the headings above or under another heading as proposed by the Broadband Officer.
Details of events at BCPs can be found at myconnectedcommunity.ie/events/. This recently added function on the BCP network’s website will be updated over the coming months with additional details as new events are added.
1276. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Rural and Community Development her plans to progress phase 3 of the development of Caladh Mór pier on Inis Meáin. [53343/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy will be aware, Galway County Council are the body responsible for development of stage three of the Caladh Mór pier development on Inis Meáin. Officials from my Department have been in ongoing contact with the relevant officials in the County Council to progress this development.
As part of the preparatory works, the National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) have been developing a model simulation for the harbour on Inis Meáin, which will inform the Business Case options for the development. Progress with the model simulation was somewhat delayed due to COVID-19 restrictions however the NMCI were able to host a small group of islanders, ferry operators and officials at their facility in Ringaskiddy in July for a demonstration of the initial iteration of the marine simulation.
I understand from Department officials who viewed the simulation that it presents vessel operators with an extremely realistic experience of sea conditions and that it is expected to greatly assist in identifying development options for the pier.
Following feedback from the various parties who attended the demonstration, the NMCI are furthering the development of the simulation and there will be a further, more extensive demonstration held upon completion. Following this, further steps will be taken to progress this project.
