Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:167. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the emissions saved per retrofit scheme for 2021, in tabular form. [17668/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraEnvironmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (167)
Freagraí scríofa
The National Residential Retrofit Plan is one important measure contained in the 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP21) aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the built environment. Other measures announced as part of CAP21 include strengthening the building regulations, supporting the roll-out of district heating, the development of low carbon construction materials and technologies, and an ambitious public sector decarbonisation programme. These measures, in conjunction with the National Residential Retrofit Plan, will contribute towards emissions reductions in the built environment.
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has provided the data below setting out the estimated emissions saved for each retrofit scheme in 2021.
|
SEAI Grant Scheme |
Estimated CO2 Savings ktCO2 for 2021 |
|
Better Energy Homes |
10.7 |
|
Solar PV |
4.3 |
|
Better Energy Warmer Homes |
2.4 |
|
Warmth and Wellbeing Pilot |
0.2 |
|
Deep Retrofit Pilot |
0.1 |
|
One Stop Shop Call |
2.4 |
|
Communities Energy Grant - of which relates to Homes |
18.7 1.5 |
Environmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (168)
Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:168. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the shortfall, and the measures that are proposed to make up the shortfall, in emissions reductions from buildings, given that the retrofit schemes will only go part of the way to meeting the 2030 emissions target. [17669/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP21) sets out a range of emissions reductions for each sector that together will contribute towards achieving the 2030 greenhouse gas emissions reduction target set out in the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act, 2021. The range of emissions reductions for the built environment published in CAP21 is 44% - 56% relative to 2018 levels and includes direct emissions associated with buildings in the residential, commercial and public sectors.
The National Residential Retrofit Plan is just one of many measures contained in CAP21 aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from the built environment. Other measures announced as part of CAP21 include strengthening the building regulations, supporting the roll-out of district heating, the development of low carbon construction materials and technologies, and an ambitious public sector decarbonisation programme. These measures, in conjunction with the National Residential Retrofit Plan, will contribute towards the achievement of the targeted range of emissions reductions in the built environment.
In October 2021 the Climate Change Advisory Council published the first proposed carbon budget programme. This programme has since been approved by Government and has been laid before both Houses of the Oireachtas for approval. The programme is due to be discussed in both Houses in early April. When approved by both Houses of the Oireachtas, my Department will prepare proposed sectoral emissions ceilings, including a sectoral emissions ceiling for the built environment, for Government consideration and approval. I intend that the next iteration of the Climate Action Plan will, in turn, be informed by these agreed sectoral emissions ceilings.
Environmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (169)
Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:169. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the average cost of retrofits for the deep retrofit scheme for each year since it opened, in tabular form; and the length of time after the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland stopped receiving applications that the payments will cease being made. [17670/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Deep Retrofit Pilot Scheme was launched in 2017 as a time bound pilot to investigate the challenges and opportunities of deep retrofit in Ireland. Under the scheme 50% grant funding was available for homes that carried out retrofit to an A rating and replaced fossil fuel heating systems with heat pumps and renewables, with 95% support available for people at risk of energy poverty. The pilot has provided detailed information on the types of upgrades and technologies suited to particular homes, the costs associated with deeper retrofit, post works energy performance of homes retrofitted as well as customer and contractor experience of undertaking deeper retrofit projects. A key requirement of the scheme was that applications came from service providers rather than homeowners and involved at least 5 homes.
The following table gives the details of the number of projects approved, the total and average funding per project, the number of homes on each project approved and the average grant per home. They are assigned to the year in which the grant agreement was issued to the applicant.
|
- |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
|
No. of projects approved |
6 |
36 |
56 |
13 |
|
Total funding approved (€ million) |
1.55 |
7.98 |
13.61 |
2.73 |
|
Average approved funding per project (€ million) |
0.26 |
0.22 |
0.24 |
0.21 |
|
Total number of homes on approved projects |
42 |
252 |
275 |
66 |
|
Average Grant per Home |
€36,900 |
€31,700 |
€49,500 |
€41,400 |
The deadline for applications to be submitted was 19th July 2019. Each project was evaluated and the timeline between the application date and the date the letter of offer was issued is largely due to the speed of the responses to technical and cost queries raised by SEAI through the course of the evaluation process.
The final letter of offer was issued on 5th May 2020. Covid-19 has had a significant impact on works both in terms of the restrictions on the construction industry and the supply of materials. It is anticipated that all works will be completed and grant monies drawn down by the end of 2022.
Further information on the results of the Deep Retrofit Pilot Scheme are available on SEAI’s website: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/deep-retrofit-grant/key-findings/
Environmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (170)
Eoin Ó Broin
Ceist:170. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps that are being taken to increase warmer homes scheme output to 400 per month; and the average monthly output for the scheme in each of the years 2016 to 2021, in tabular form. [17671/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Better Energy Warmer Homes Scheme delivers free energy upgrades for eligible homeowners in low-income households who are most at risk of energy poverty. It is administered by the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI). Since the start of the scheme in 2000, over 145,000 free upgrades have been supported by the scheme. In 2021, the average cost of the energy efficiency measures provided per household had increased significantly to €17,100.
Activity under the scheme, and the associated expenditure, were significantly impacted in both 2020 and 2021 by the COVID pandemic, when construction activity was paused for approximately 12 months in total, and access to properties during restricted periods, in line with Government guidelines, was challenging. SEAI data indicates that for homes completed so far in 2022, the average cycle time from application to completion was approximately 27 months. While this delay was largely driven by COVID related issues, the deeper measures being provided under the scheme since 2018, also involve more substantive works.
This is a top priority for my Department and SEAI and in order to reduce this timeline to completion and target a monthly average of 400 completions this year, the following actions have already been taken:
- The budget, at €109 million, is nearly three times the 2021 outturn (€38 million) and funding has also been sought through the European Regional Development Fund;
- SEAI has been allocated additional staff for the Warmer Homes Scheme;
- SEAI is working to Increase contractor output through active contract engagement and management.
Any necessary further measures identified as required by SEAI to increase output under this key Scheme will also be taken.
The average monthly output for the Warmer Homes Scheme from 2016 to 2021 is detailed in the table below.
|
Warmer Homes Scheme |
2016 |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
|
Average Monthly Output |
562 |
546 |
434 |
262 |
127 |
177 |
In comparing the annual data, it is important to note that the depth and associated cost of the retrofits available under the scheme has increased significantly since 2018.
Recycling Policy
Ceisteanna (171)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:171. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of, and the timeline for, the introduction of a deposit return scheme; if he plans to include glass in the scheme or has plans to introduce glass in the scheme at a later stage; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17851/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The roadmap for the introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme for plastic bottles and aluminium cans was outlined in the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, published in September 2020. In November last year, I signed the Separate Collection (Deposit Return Scheme) Regulations 2021, providing the legal framework for the scheme, in particular the terms under which a scheme operator may be approved. The regulations also set out the obligations that will fall to producers, retailers and return point operators under the scheme, which will be launched later this year.
The introduction of a Deposit Return Scheme will assist in reducing single use plastics, thus helping Ireland meet EU targets while promoting a wider circular economy. Materials to be included in the scheme will be those for which Ireland faces immediate, challenging EU recycling and separate collection targets. The scheme will therefore focus on plastic bottles and aluminium beverage cans. Recycling rates in Ireland for glass are significantly above current EU targets. The Regulations provide that other materials may be considered for inclusion in the Deposit Return Scheme when the scheme is fully established.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (172)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:172. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the amount that is currently in the environment fund; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17852/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The most recent balance of the Environment Fund, reflecting the position at 28 February 2022, is €6.17m. Final accounts for 2021 have been prepared for submission to the Comptroller and Auditor General in accordance with Section 74(6) of the Waste Management Act (amended) 1996.
The previous year’s annual accounts for the Environment Fund are published at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/f6b84-environment-fund-accounts/
Waste Management
Ceisteanna (173)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:173. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide a list of activities that will be funded from the new circular economy fund to be established under the Circular Economy, Waste Management (Amendment) and Minerals Development (Amendment) Bill 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17853/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Circular Economy, Waste Management (Amendment) and Minerals Development (Amendment) Bill 2022 is a key step in the transition to a circular economy and will provide a robust statutory framework for moving from a focus on managing waste to a much greater focus on adapting patterns of production and consumption.
Recognising the role played by the Environment Fund since its inception, and the need to align its objectives more closely with the promotion of the Circular Economy, the Bill provides for the replacement of the Environment Fund by a new Circular Economy Fund. While the terms and scope of the Fund are generally unchanged, the new Fund will signal a key commitment to Circular Economy principles and the establishment of a Circular Economy.The objectives of the Fund will continue in the spirit of the Environment Fund in capturing environmental levy funds generated and utilising this to support projects in line with Fund objectives. The purposes for which monies may be paid out of the Circular Economy Fund are provided for under section 8(9) of the Bill.
Environmental Policy
Ceisteanna (174)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:174. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the action that he is taking to end the use of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances in biodegradable containers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17854/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Per- and poly-fluoroalkylated substances (PFAS) are a family of chemicals used for their water repellent and heat resistant characteristics and can be found in many everyday products, such as outdoor clothing, non-stick coatings on cookware, fire-fighting foam as well as food packaging. Approximately 4,700 PFAS have been identified to date. PFAS are a significant concern in the EU and globally as they can cause long-lasting environmental damage and potentially adverse health impacts. In this regard it is important that they are strongly regulated at an EU level. In recent years the EU has set in place a number of new strategies aimed at strengthening chemical legislation to ensure that chemicals are safe and sustainable by design, and that the most hazardous chemicals are banned. My Department actively engages with the EU in this matter and strongly supports the initiatives being undertaken. These include: - EU Farm to Fork Strategy: The Commission is currently revising food contact materials legislation to improve food safety and public health. The proposed revisions are to be published by end of 2022. - EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability: The Commission is proposing a set of actions to address the use of, and contamination with, PFAS. This includes a commitment to address PFAS with a group approach and to only allow PFAS use where it is proven to be essential. In addition, the European Commission-led review of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive is ongoing and may include measures to deal with compostable packaging, mandating recycled content in plastic packaging, reuse, prevention, and restricting substances of concern. I am committed to ensuring that Ireland plays a lead role in pushing the level of ambition for proposals emerging from the review.
Environmental Policy
Ceisteanna (175)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:175. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if additional staff or funding has been provided to the Environmental Protection Agency given the additional work the agency will have establishing a circular economy programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17858/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In December 2021, the existing National Waste Prevention Programme, which is operated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), was revised and restructured into a national Circular Economy Programme. The new programme was published on 16 December in tandem with the All of Government Circular Economy Strategy.
The Circular Economy Programme, which together with the Circular Economy Strategy will be placed on a statutory basis by the Circular Economy, Waste Management (Amendment) and Minerals Development (Amendment) Bill 2022, focuses on transitioning business, citizens, and the public sector towards the circular economy. The overall approach is to influence behavioural change, support sustainable choices and inform circular economy policy.
While the previous National Waste Prevention Programme was led by an EPA Programme Manager who also has responsibility for Climate Science, Evidence and Services, the Agency has now established an additional Programme Manager position to lead the Circular Economy Programme on a stand-alone basis.
The new programme is fully funded for 2022 and the Agency has allocated some €2,791,000 to the Programme this year . Some €825,000 of this allocation will come from the EPA's own resources, with the remainder provided by my Department.
Wind Energy Generation
Ceisteanna (176)
Seán Haughey
Ceist:176. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to increase the production of offshore wind energy; if climate change and the war in Ukraine have given an added impetus to these plans; the level of Government investment in offshore wind energy production; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17946/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Maritime Area Planning Act 2021 (MAP Act) and the National Marine Planning Framework (NMPF) (Ireland's first marine spatial plan) provide for long-term forward planning for Ireland's maritime area and will enhance the effective management of marine activities and more sustainable use of our marine resources. The MAP Act 2021 also provides for the establishment of a new agency to regulate development in the Maritime Area, the Maritime Area Regulatory Authority (MARA). While MARA will take time to establish and become operational my Department have been developing the Maritime Area Consent (MAC) consenting regime and guidance to process the relevant Phase 1 projects for the first offshore wind auction. A consultation on the MAC assessment regime for Relevant Projects concluded in February. Alongside this, my Department have been drafting the terms and conditions for offshore wind-specific auctions under the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS). Owing to the specific scale and nature of typical offshore wind farms, dedicated auctions are initially required to support the longer-term potential of this technology in Ireland. At least three offshore RESS auctions are currently planned for this decade.
Additionally, the new framework for Ireland’s future offshore electricity transmission system, approved last year, provides for offshore grid development, operation and ownership. Progress in this area includes the publication of CRU’s decision in February on the Phase 1 Grid Connection Assessment. Following engagement with industry, EirGrid will also shortly publish requirements for participants in the first offshore auction regarding offshore transmission system functional specifications, ownership boundaries, and timing of asset transfer from developers to EirGrid.
Our investment in offshore wind energy production includes a suite of actions in our Climate Action Plan to realise the potential of Ireland’s offshore renewable energy (ORE), while the Programme for Government commits to the achievement of 5GW of installed offshore wind capacity by 2030 and a long-term plan to take advantage of a potential of at least 30GW of floating wind thereafter.
The current crisis in Ukraine has dramatically concentrated EU efforts to address European dependence on Russian oil and gas through proposed new measures to diversify fossil fuel imports, enhance security of supply, and accelerate energy system decarbonisation to remove regional reliance on fossil fuels. In this regard, the European Commission is working closely with Member States to protect the resilience of Europe’s gas security of supply through solidarity measures.
Both the International Energy Agency (IEA) and the EU have stressed that the current situation further strengthens collective resolve to accelerate the clean energy transition, in line with the European Green Deal.
National Broadband Plan
Ceisteanna (177)
Aindrias Moynihan
Ceist:177. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the measures that are being considered to address the issue of component shortages that may impact the delivery of the National Broadband Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18034/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Covid 19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of good reliable broadband to ensure that citizens in rural Ireland can have the high speed connectivity required to facilitate remote working and schooling.
While substantial progress has been made to date, the Covid-19 pandemic has had an impact on the delivery of the fibre network leading to delays to the build programme. The full extent of this impact continues to be assessed and NBI has committed to put in place measures to mitigate the impact in as far as possible.
My Department asked NBI about mitigating potential impacts and NBI have said that they are implementing a number of measures to help lessen the consequences of these delays on the rollout. Such measures include:
- Increasing the rate of pole replacement and duct remediation per month;
- Bringing in additional NBI resources;
- Earlier procurement of materials used in the build stages;
- Bringing in additional subcontractors.
As a result of the earlier procurement of materials necessary to rollout the fibre network, NBI have not highlighted any immediate issues or shortages to date through their regular engagement with the Department in terms of the key components necessary for the rollout.
As a result of actions taken by NBI the project has been building momentum and an increasing number of premises passed are being recorded. This is expected to continue throughout 2022 and beyond although it is likely that the impact of Omicron will be felt in Quarter 1 of 2022 outturns.
Public Service Obligation
Ceisteanna (178)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Ceist:178. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the amount collected through the public service obligation levy each year since its introduction, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18153/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Public Service Obligation (PSO) levy is a vital policy support for the development of renewable electricity and to enable Ireland reach national and EU renewable energy and climate targets. The PSO levy is charged to all electricity final customers in Ireland and is collected from customers by electricity suppliers. The money raised from the levy is paid, via suppliers, to qualifying generators eligible for support under a number of Government schemes including the Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) and Renewable Energy Feed in Tariff (REFIT) schemes.
The legal basis for the PSO levy and its method of calculation are set out in regulations made under the Electricity Regulation Act 1999 and the Public Service Obligations Order 2002 (S.I. 217 of 2002). Under this legislation, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is responsible for the calculation of the levy each year and ensuring that the scheme is administered appropriately and efficiently.
The table below sets out the total annual PSO levy since 2011.
|
PSO Period |
Total Levy (€M) |
|
11/12 |
€92.12 |
|
12/13 |
€131.24 |
|
13/14 |
€210.89 |
|
14/15 |
€335.44 |
|
15/16 |
€325.25 |
|
16/17 |
€392.42 |
|
17/18 |
€471.90 |
|
18/19 |
€209.29 |
|
19/20 |
€176.46 |
|
20/21 |
€393.13 |
|
21/22 |
€263.70 |
The latest CRU Decision on the PSO Levy for the period October 2021 to September 2022 period is available at: www.cru.ie/cru-publishes-public-service-obligation-levy-for-2021-2022.
Energy Prices
Ceisteanna (179)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Ceist:179. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the role gas plays in setting the wholesale electricity price of other forms of generated electricity, particularly renewable energy. [18154/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Single Electricity Market (SEM) is the wholesale electricity market for the island of Ireland. The SEM is regulated by the SEM Committee and administration of the SEM is managed by the Single Electricity Market Operator. The SEM Committee comprises the two energy regulators, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) and Northern Ireland’s Utility Regulator and an independent member.
In the SEM, all electricity generators, including gas and renewables, are obliged to sell their output into the “pool”. The wholesale price is based on the last bid by a generator that is accepted by the Market operator to meet the demand for electricity at that time. The market operator accepts all the available renewable power and any other power source that has priority and then accepts the lowest bid followed by the next lowest and so on until the demand is matched by supply. The last bid required to meet demand sets the wholesale price for electricity.
The regulation of the electricity market is carried out by the CRU, which is an independent regulator. I have no statutory function in the matter of the regulation of electricity prices. The Electricity Regulation Act provides that the CRU shall account for the performance of its functions to a Joint Committee of the Oireachtas.
Wind Energy Generation
Ceisteanna (180)
Rose Conway-Walsh
Ceist:180. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the average cost of producing wind energy in the State; the average wholesale price of wind energy each month since January 2021, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18155/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Single Electricity Market (SEM) is the wholesale electricity market for the island of Ireland. The SEM is regulated by the SEM Committee and administration of the SEM is managed by the Single Electricity Market Operator. The SEM Committee comprises the two energy regulators, the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) and Northern Ireland’s Utility Regulator and an independent member.
In the SEM, all electricity generators, including gas and renewables, are obliged to sell their output into the “pool”. The wholesale price is based on the last bid by a generator that is accepted by the market operator to meet the demand for electricity at that time. The market operator accepts all the available renewable power and any other power source that has priority and then accepts the lowest bid followed by the next lowest and so on until the demand is matched by supply. The last bid required to meet demand sets the wholesale price for electricity. The operation and administration of the Single Electricity Market is managed by the Single Electricity Market Operator (SEMO). Market-related data, including monthly day ahead prices, is available in the public domain via the SEMO website: www.sem-o.com/.
According to the SEM Committee's most recent market monitoring report for Q4 2021, published February, the average day-ahead market wholesale prices in the SEM for Q4 2021 was €223.42/MWh with a highest average daily price of €378.35/MWh and lowest of €123.50/MWh.
Renewable energy generation such as wind lowers wholesale electricity prices during periods when they are generating power, highlighting the need to accelerate the delivery of renewable electricity projects and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels for energy generation.
The Renewable Electricity Support Scheme (RESS) is one of the major Government policies to help deliver on the ambition in the Climate Action Plan 2021 of up to 80% renewable electricity by 2030. Renewable energy projects compete under the RESS in auctions for support for a period up to 16.5 years under a two way floating feed in premium. This means that they receive the price they bid in at which for RESS-1 projects was an average of €74.08/MWh, which is significantly below the current average wholesale electricity price.
Environmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (181)
Noel Grealish
Ceist:181. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the one-stop-shop under the national home energy upgrade scheme will open; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18156/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The recently launched National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme introduces a new, highly customer centric, way to undertake home upgrades. SEAI registered One-Stop-Shops will provide an end-to-end service for homeowners. This includes surveying; designing the upgrades; managing the grant process; helping with access to finance; engaging contractors; and quality assurance. The Scheme offers unprecedented grant levels, increased from around 30% to 50% of the cost of a typical B2 home energy upgrade with a heat pump.
Following Government approval, the SEAI registration portal opened for companies to apply to be a One-Stop-Shop. The SEAI advise that there are currently 19 companies going through the important registration process, at various stages, from Stage 1 pre-qualification review to having their OSS appointment letter issued. Of these, there are two One Stop Shops registered by the SEAI with one more to follow imminently. Once the One Stop Shops are registered, homeowners will then be able to make applications for upgrades under the new Scheme.
The One Stop Shop approach is one of a number of SEAI Schemes available for home energy upgrades, details of which can be found on their website at Individual Energy Upgrade Grants | Home Energy Grants | SEAI
Homeowners can familiarise themselves with the scheme details on SEAI’s One Stop Shop webpage covering the benefits of engaging a One Stop Shop, the ranges of services on offer and the grant amounts available per energy efficiency measures installed: www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/one-stop-shop/
SEAI have also produced a homeowner guide to advise homeowners through the various steps to completing a whole house upgrade under the One Stop Shop Service:
National_Home_Energy_Upgrade_Scheme_-_Homeowner_Guide[1].pdf
SEAI are focused on engaging organisations capable of professionally managing all aspects of a One Stop Shop service. Organisations interested in becoming a registered OSS should visit the SEAI dedicated One Stop Shop registration webpage: www.seai.ie/register-with-seai/one-stop-shop/
Flexible Work Practices
Ceisteanna (182)
David Stanton
Ceist:182. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the current policy with respect to remote working options for staff in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18164/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department, following engagement with staff, began new working arrangements to facilitate the transition to blended Working on Monday the 21st of March. Under the transition to blended working, staff are encouraged to work remotely for 2 days each week, from the Department's offices for 2 days each week and may work a third day either from home or from the office based on the business needs of the Department. These arrangements are planned to stay in place for 6 months, with the intention that we will be in a position to implement our formal Blended Working Policy at that point. The Department's Blended Working Policy will be fully aligned to Civil Service Blended Working Framework, which was publicly announced by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform, Michael McGrath, and the Minister of State with responsibility for Public Procurement and eGovernment at the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform, Ossian Smyth on the 31st March 2022.
The publication of the policy framework facilitates remote working on a blended basis across the Civil Service. It provides direction to individual organisations in the Civil Service to develop tailored policies on blended working that are appropriate to their business needs. It is also consistent with the Civil Service being an employer of choice. This move to blended working supports commitments in Our Rural Future, the Climate Action Plan and the National Planning Framework.
Blended working represents a fantastic opportunity to transform how we work, live, interact and deliver results for the citizen. I believe that blended working will facilitate and drive the Department, and each individual and team within it, to deliver on our vision as set out in Le Chéile 23, my Department's statement of strategy for a climate neutral, sustainable and digitally connected Ireland.
Electricity Generation
Ceisteanna (183)
Róisín Shortall
Ceist:183. Deputy Róisín Shortall asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his plans to ensure that persons with solar panels on their homes and smart meters whose excess units are going into the electricity grid will either get their units back or else have them taken off their bills, given the worsening cost of energy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18327/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
On the 15 February this year I signed the Regulations that transpose Articles 21 and 22 of the recast Renewable Energy Directive which brings these Articles into force. These Regulations mean the Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) tariff is now available for new and existing micro-and small-scale generators so that they can receive payment from their electricity supplier for all excess renewable electricity they export to the grid, reflective of the market value. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) published a decision on an interim enabling framework for the CEG on 1 December 2021. This decision outlines the interim arrangements for the implementation of the CEG, including eligibility criteria and remuneration methodology. The CRU has decided that suppliers will set their individual CEG tariffs on a competitive market basis. A number of suppliers are now advertising their CEG rates and the CRU advise consumers to check with their supplier in the first instance. The Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU) is not setting a date or deadline for the timing of the first payment. Eligible micro- and small-scale generators can expect an initial payment or credit from their supplier within a reasonable time after June 2022. The CRU has asked suppliers to communicate their decision on when initial Clean Export Guarantee (CEG) payments will be made at the earliest opportunity. From January 2022, a tax exemption will apply to income up to €200 per annum received by domestic micro-generators from their suppliers by way of the CEG. This will mean that for the vast majority of domestic renewables self-consumers, who will typically have an installation of below 6kW, there will be no need to declare their income from the CEG.
Pension Provisions
Ceisteanna (184)
Niall Collins
Ceist:184. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to Parliamentary Question No. 207 of 15 February 2022, if he will provide an update; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18350/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Further to my last update on this case, the relevant information has been sent to the National Shared Services Office who process such claims. My Department has sought an update on this case and will revert to the Deputy when it is received.
Departmental Contracts
Ceisteanna (185)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:185. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the cost of consultants to his Department in 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will provide an outline of the role of each. [18898/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The information requested is being compiled and will be forwarded to the Deputy.
Traffic Management
Ceisteanna (186)
Patrick Costello
Ceist:186. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Transport the status of the implementation of the recommendation of the Committee on Budgetary Oversight Interim Pre-Budget Report 2022 for the examination of congestion charges to be undertaken. [17564/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Climate Action Plan makes clear that we need to reduce fossil fuelled passenger vehicle kilometres by up to 10% to fully achieve a 51% emissions reduction for the transport sector by 2030. While all options are on the table as we strive to achieve carbon neutrality, we must ensure that if policies like this are pursued that they are evidence based and that viable alternatives exist for people to continue to make their journeys.
My Department published the Five Cities Demand Management Study in December 2021, pursuant to Action 81 of the Climate Action Plan 2019. The purpose of the Study is to identify transport demand drivers in Dublin, Cork, Waterford, Limerick and Galway, and to assess the impact and suitability of an array of different demand management measures for each city. The Study focused on addressing four main challenges facing our cities: decarbonisation, air quality, congestion, and, improving the overall urban environment. The Study is evidence-based using insight from an extensive international best practice review, national and local stakeholder engagement and supported by detailed qualitative (Phase 1) and quantitative (Phase 2) appraisal - available to view at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/c6571-five-cities-demand-management-study/
While the Study has identified that the introduction of congestion charges can prove effective, the Study also found that there are a variety of alternative measures that can be pursued with greater effect. The three priority measures that have been recommended for implementation across the five cities are:
- Develop and embed the concept of 15-minute neighbourhoods through national and local plans and strategies, providing resources to incentivise their implementation through national funding/grants schemes.
- Enhance delivery of the National Planning Framework.
- Public Parking Controls.
Importantly, the Study has also made clear that there is no single solution to tackling the challenges facing our urban environments. Utilising an integrated Travel Demand Management approach to policy development, planning and delivery of our land use and transport systems will be fundamental to addressing these challenges in the coming years.
In line with our Climate Action Plan commitments, my Department, NTA and the Regional Assemblies are engaging to identify a pathway for the implementation of suitable demand management measures at national and local level, and to advancing these measures by 2025.
National Car Test
Ceisteanna (187)
Cian O'Callaghan
Ceist:187. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Transport if the long waiting times for persons requiring NCT tests will have consequences for persons waiting; the reason persons now have to pay upfront for NCT tests; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18406/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The operation of the National Car Test (NCT) service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority. I have therefore referred the question to the Authority for direct reply. I would ask the Deputy to contact my office if a response has not been received within ten days.
It is however worth noting that under road traffic legislation, all vehicle owners must be in possession of a valid roadworthiness certificate for their vehicle while it is being used in public places or on public roads. Enforcement of road traffic legislation is a matter for An Garda Síochána.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
Airport Security
Ceisteanna (188, 196, 202, 210, 211, 214)
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:188. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to significant delays for passengers on the ground side of Dublin Airport (details supplied); and his plans to assist the Dublin Airport Authority to process persons in a more efficient manner in advance of the summer holiday season. [17480/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Cormac Devlin
Ceist:196. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Transport the efforts his Department is making to alleviate the chronic delays to passengers going through security at Dublin Airport; if consideration has been given to requesting support from the Defence Forces or State agencies as an interim measure; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17629/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraCatherine Murphy
Ceist:202. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Transport if he has spoken recently with the CEO of the Dublin Airport Authority regarding the lengthy delays being experienced at the security baggage area at Dublin Airport; and the immediate steps being taken to resolve this issue. [17713/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDarren O'Rourke
Ceist:210. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport his recent engagements with the Dublin Airport Authority in relation to the unacceptable delays that passengers are facing to transit through security in Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17856/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDarren O'Rourke
Ceist:211. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for Transport if the Dublin Airport Authority has requested additional funding for security staff or funding to upgrade the security screening systems in Dublin Airport; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17857/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra
Duncan Smith
Ceist:214. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Transport the communication he has had with Dublin Airport Authority to resolve staffing issues at security clearance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17904/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 188, 196, 202, 210, 211 and 214 together.
daa is a commercial state company funded through its own resources and has not sought funding for security staff or funding to upgrade the security screening systems in Dublin Airport.
I have met with and had briefings from the CEO, Dalton Philips, and other senior staff over the last week where I expressed concern at the current situation relating to security screening and the impact the delays are having on passengers. I have established a daily crisis management meeting between the Department and daa to monitor the situation.
The company has undertaken significant work to mitigate the security queue times at Dublin Airport. It has put in place a number of measures including establishing a senior management taskforce; stepping up recruitment efforts; redeployment of staff where possible; opening security lanes on a 24/7 basis, and enhancing communications with passengers. These measures made a difference last weekend compared to the previous weekend, with 95% of passengers through T2 on Sunday having a queue time of less than 30 minutes and 100% less than 45 minutes. The comparable passenger queue times for T1 on Sunday were 82% at less than 30 minutes and 97% at less than 45 minutes.
The company has also recruited over 100 new security staff recently and this should assist in the alleviation of the excessive queue times over the coming period. These security staff are being deployed following the necessary training.
Dublin Airport is planning for a significant increase in passenger volumes this coming weekend and into the Easter holidays. It does note that this increase will present a considerable challenge. Management is reviewing the experience of last weekend to further develop and refine measures to cater for the increased passenger numbers. I will continue to monitor the situation over the coming days and weeks and continue to engage with daa to ensure that all that can be done is being done for passengers using Dublin Airport.
Electric Vehicles
Ceisteanna (189)
Francis Noel Duffy
Ceist:189. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Transport if clarity and guidance will be provided in relation to charging electric vehicles in multi-unit developments in which there is a pathway between the home charger and the car; if households can charge their electric vehicle by running the charging cable on the pathway from their household to the car space; if cables should be covered; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17490/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Climate Action Plan 2021 set a target of 945,000 EVs by 2030. The Deputy will be aware that the Government is fully committed to supporting a significant expansion and modernisation of the electric vehicle charging network over the coming years, to facilitate the expansion of EVs in the Irish car fleet. A draft national charging infrastructure strategy has been published for public consultation which sets out a pathway to stay ahead of demand over the critical period out to 2030.
The EV Home Charger Grant Scheme has been in operation since January 2018 to support the installation of home chargers for purchasers of new and second-hand BEVs and PHEVs. The grant provides generous support towards the full cost of installation of a home charger up to a maximum of €600.
As regards existing apartment buildings and shared residences, work is currently being progressed to expand the EV home charger grant to include shared parking in apartment blocks and similar developments.
As per the draft strategy, for those who cannot charge at home, provision of residential charging solutions that give the same benefits and mirror the home charging option should be the first objective. This will provide a safe and accessible charging solution for those without access to a driveway without the use of cable extensions running from the house over pathways.
Residential charge points should replicate the home charging pattern of charging vehicles at night, during off peak periods, and at a low cost. There is an onus on national and local government to facilitate the provision of these charging solutions for citizens who do not have access to a home charge point. It is expected that as growing numbers of people switch to EVs, there will be an increased need for publicly accessible and on-street charge points to cater for those who do not have access to private off-street parking and cannot charge their vehicles at home.
Zero Emission Vehicles Ireland will provide co-funding to support Local Authorities in developing local area network plans for EV infrastructure, comprising both on-street charging in areas where residents do not have access to home charging solutions, and destination charge points at Local Authority facilities.Local Authorities will then be able to apply for funding from a new Residential Charging Scheme which will replace the Public Points Scheme.
Driver Licences
Ceisteanna (190)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:190. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Transport the provisions in relation to driving licences that will be put in place for Irish persons who were living in Russia and had to leave due to the war in Ukraine (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17514/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
A person who is resident in Ireland must have an Irish or other EU driving licence to drive here.
Irish driver licensing law operates within a framework of EU law, which sets out the standards to be met in driving tests to qualify for a licence. When it comes to driving licences issued by non-EU states, we may make bilateral agreements on licence exchange, but only where the two licensing regimes are comparable. Ireland does not have a driving licence exchange agreement with Russia.
When people come to Ireland with a non-exchangeable licence, we have no option but to require them to go through the process of obtaining an Irish licence. This is a matter of public safety. While many may have a safe driving record, we have no way of measuring the standard of the driving test through which they obtained their licence.
A person who has held a full Russian driving licence for more than two years can avail of a shorter process to a full licence, involving Essential Driver Training of six lessons only instead of twelve, and they will not have to wait the minimum of 6 months before taking a driving test.
An Irish learner permit can be renewed up to 5 years after its expiry date.
Rail Network
Ceisteanna (191)
Alan Kelly
Ceist:191. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Transport if he will request Irish Rail to include the Limerick to Ballybrophy via Nenagh railway line on the manual level crossing upgrade project and to ring-fence the required funding to automate the manual level crossings; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17573/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy may be aware, the Infrastructure Manager Multi-Annual Contract (IMMAC) provides the funding framework for the protection and renewal of our railway infrastructure, including the Ballybrophy to Limerick rail line.
This is the third year of the current five-year IMMAC programme, as approved by Government in 2020, and over the five years of the programme in excess of €1.1 billion in Exchequer funding will be made available to support delivery. This funding will increase service reliability and punctuality, improve journey times and ensure continued safety of rail services. Usage of level crossings is reviewed on an annual basis through an on-going programme of inspections.
The Deputy may wish to note that the IMMAC programme supports an enhanced programme of track relaying on the Ballybrophy line.
Noting Iarnród Éireann's (IÉ) responsibility in the matter, I have referred the Deputy's question to IÉ for a direct reply on the specific matter raised. Please contact my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 days.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
Public Sector Staff
Ceisteanna (192)
Michael Ring
Ceist:192. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Transport the number of staff who are currently absent from work on full pay due to suspension or workplace disputes in his Department and in agencies and public bodies within his area of responsibility; the number who have been absent from work for up to three, three to six, six to twelve and over twelve months, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17609/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to inform the Deputy that one member of my Department's staff is presently on suspension from work on full pay for a period in excess of 12 months.
I have asked the aegis bodies to provide the relevant information for their respective organisations, but if you do not hear from them within 10 days you should contact my office.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
Air Services
Ceisteanna (193)
Mairéad Farrell
Ceist:193. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Transport the number of operators which applied to his Department for multiple flight operation authorisations to operate in 2021. [17614/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In 2021, my department received applications for a Multiple Flight Operations (MFO) authorisation from 34 air operators. All applications were approved.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (194)
Mairéad Farrell
Ceist:194. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Transport if he will confirm the transportation of kerosene to or from Shannon via airplane (details supplied) on dates 21 or 22 March 2022. [17615/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Shannon Group has confirmed to my department that there was no kerosene transported to or from Shannon via airplane on 21 or 22 March 2022.