Seán Fleming
Ceist:264. Deputy Sean Fleming asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount paid on rented accommodation at a location (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17487/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraDepartmental Expenditure
Ceisteanna (264)
Freagraí scríofa
The table below illustrates the rental amounts paid by the Office of Public Works in respect of leased buildings in Portlaoise occupied by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine for 2019, 2020 and 2021.
The comments provide an explanation for variances for each year.
|
BUILDING NAME |
2021 |
2020 |
2019 |
Comments |
|
Portlaoise Agriculture Warehouse |
€107,919.24 |
€134,899.05 |
€80,939.43 |
One Quarter’s rent was held in 2019 pending verification of title and was subsequently paid in 2020 |
|
Portlaoise Agriculture Office Eircom - Eircom 2 |
€100,000.00 |
€100,000.00 |
€100,000.00 |
|
|
Portlaoise Grattan House |
€43,650.00 |
€43,650.00 |
€43,650.00 |
|
|
Portlaoise Agriculture Records |
€98,133.16 |
€98,133.16 |
€98,133.16 |
|
|
Portlaoise DAF Appeals Office |
€294,180.18 |
€0 |
€0 |
In accordance with the terms of the lease, rent was withheld in 2019 & 2020. The 2021 figure includes rent and arrears dating back to October 2018. |
|
Portlaoise Agriculture Office Eircom - Eircom 1 |
€114,381.72 |
€114,381.72 |
€114,381.72 |
|
|
Portlaoise Grattan Pavillions |
€0 |
€0 |
€0 |
The annual rent is being withheld pending the outcome of ongoing litigation. |
Public Sector Staff
Ceisteanna (265)
Michael Ring
Ceist:265. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform 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. [17604/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to advise the Deputy that there is currently one member of staff employed by my Department absent for a period greater than 12 months due to the circumstances set out in the question.
There are no staff in this position in the bodies under the aegis of my Department with the exception of the Office of Public Works (OPW), where there is one member of staff absent for a period between 3 to 6 months due to these circumstances.
Land Issues
Ceisteanna (266)
Marian Harkin
Ceist:266. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when a tender will be issued for the agricultural use of lands (details supplied) in County Sligo; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17620/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
It is the intention of the Office of Public Works that Expressions of Interest will be invited from interested parties for grazing licences for the Carrowmore site in early April.
Full details of this process will be advertised in the local newspapers at this time.
Public Sector Pay
Ceisteanna (267)
Cormac Devlin
Ceist:267. Deputy Cormac Devlin asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of negotiations around pay and conditions for staff employed on the Houses of the Oireachtas scheme for secretarial assistance; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17631/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission Act 2003, the Houses of the Oireachtas Commission (the “Commission”) has the power to regulate the provision of “secretarial facilities” to Members. “Secretarial facilities” is a term encompassing the staff employed under the Scheme for Secretarial Assistance. The Act requires the Commission to obtain the consent of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform before reaching an agreement with any person in relation to rates of pay, conditions of employment or superannuation rights. In practice, this means that the Commission advises on matters relating to resourcing, grading and terms and conditions of employment and submits proposals for the Minister’s consideration and agreement.
In that regard, and as the Deputy is aware from a previous reply, there is a process underway at the Workplace Relations Commission dealing with the issues. This process is continuing and I understand that there is ongoing contact between the parties.
I look forward to a successful resolution of the matter and the early presentation of proposals for my consideration.
Flood Risk Management
Ceisteanna (268)
Robert Troy
Ceist:268. Deputy Robert Troy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the catchment flood risk assessment and management programme to date; and if all of the pinch points identified have been resolved at this stage. [17663/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Flood Risk Management Plans (FRMPs) are an output of the Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management study. The OPW has produced an individual FRMP for each of the 29 River Basins including the Shannon Upper & Lower River Basin. The focus of the reply to the Deputy’s question is on the Shannon River Basin District.
The Government has committed €1.3 billion to the delivery of flood relief schemes over the lifetime of the National Development Plan (NDP) to 2030 to protect approximately 23,000 properties in threatened communities from river and coastal flood risk. Since the launch of the FRMPs in 2018, as part of a phased approach to scheme delivery, this funding has allowed the OPW to treble to nearly 90 the number of schemes at design and construction at this time.
Today, work by the OPW is complete or underway to deliver protection to 80% of properties to be protected by this significant investment programme.
In the Shannon River Basin District, along with the 13 already completed schemes (see Appendix 1), a further 36 flood relief schemes will be delivered under the Government’s €1.3bn investment in flood relief measures over the lifetime of the NDP.
The OPW and the Local Authorities have been engaging pro-actively on the arrangements and structures to be put in place to advance the implementation of the Tranche 1 schemes.
Of the 24 Tranche 1 schemes currently being progressed (see Appendix 2), 2 schemes (Athlone and Springfield) are at construction. Engineering Consultants have been appointed for a further 13 schemes which are progressing through Stage 1 - Option Assessment, Scheme Development and Design including Kings Island which has received planning permission. Construction is expected to commence in Q3 2022 with a completion date of approximately two years thereafter.
Work is ongoing to progress the other 9 schemes in the Shannon River Basin District. 8 of the schemes will be progressed directly by the relevant Local Authorities with full funding from the OPW. The OPW is progressing the scheme for Rahan.
While the other 12 schemes recommended in the FRMPs have not yet commenced, it is planned that they will be underway in the lifetime of the NDP (see Appendix 3).
The Government has noted the study by the Shannon Flood Risk State Agency Co-ordination Working Group that supports a programme of strategic maintenance to help mitigate flooding along the River Shannon and a further study on the removal of a series of constrictions or ‘pinch points’ through the Shannon Callows that can help to delay flooding in the area. The Government has agreed that the OPW will provide €7m for all of these works, of which €4m relates to the removal of ‘pinch points’ through the Shannon Callows.
Work is advancing to progress the project for the removal of the ‘pinch points’ in the Shannon Callows between Athlone and Meelick Weir. A Steering Group has been established to oversee this project and a brief has been developed for the appointment of a consultant to carry out the initial analysis and design work. It is anticipated that the tendering process for this service will commence during Q2 2022. Waterways Ireland, on behalf of the Shannon Group, will act as the Contracting Authority for this project.
The works can only commence following the completion of the appropriate environmental assessments which are expected to be significant. In addition, planning consent will be required to progress the project. This is a time intensive process and there are a range of variables outside the control of the Shannon Group that may impact on the overall timescale for the delivery of this project.
Should the Deputy require any further information, the OPW will be glad to provide the specific details.
Appendix 1 Completed Flood Relief Schemes
|
Completed Flood Relief Schemes |
|
|
1 |
Sixmilebridge, Co. Clare |
|
2 |
Ennis Upper, Co. Clare |
|
3 |
Foynes (Tidal), Co. Limerick |
|
4 |
Newcastlewest, Co. Limerick |
|
5 |
Cappamore, Co. Limerick |
|
6 |
Dromcollogher, Co. Limerick |
|
7 |
Harry's Mall, Limerick City |
|
8 |
Clancy Strand, Limerick City |
|
9 |
Tullamore, Co. Offaly |
|
10 |
Ballymakeogh/Newport, Co. Tipperary |
|
11 |
Mullingar, Co. Westmeath |
|
12 |
Ennis Lower, Co. Clare |
|
13 |
Ennis South, Co. Clare |
Appendix 2: Flood Relief Schemes currently being progressed (Tranche 1)
|
Flood Relief Schemes Under Construction |
|
|
1 |
Athlone, Co. Westmeath |
|
2 |
Springfield, Co. Clare |
|
Flood Relief Schemes At Design & Development Stage (Contracts Awarded) |
|
|
3 |
Adare, Co. Limerick |
|
4 |
Athea, Co. Limerick^ |
|
5 |
Ballinasloe, Co. Galway* |
|
6 |
Castleconnell, Co. Limerick* ^ |
|
7 |
Carrick-On-Shannon, Co. Leitrim* |
|
8 |
Clonaslee, Co. Laois* ^ |
|
9 |
Killaloe, Co. Clare* ^ |
|
10 |
Kilkee, Co. Clare |
|
11 |
King’s Island, Limerick City (Detailed Design Stage) |
|
12 |
Leitrim, Co. Leitrim |
|
13 |
Limerick City & Environs* |
|
14 |
Shannon, Co. Clare |
|
15 |
Tralee, Co. Kerry |
|
Surveys and/or reviews commenced with a view to appointing Design & Development consultants (includes some schemes where the tender process has already commenced) |
|
|
16 |
Abbeydorney, Co. Kerry ^ |
|
17 |
Banna, Co. Kerry ^ |
|
18 |
Bunratty, Co. Clare ^ |
|
19 |
Kilrush, Co. Clare ^ |
|
20 |
Longford, Co. Longford*^ |
|
21 |
Mohill, Co Leitrim *^ |
|
22 |
Nenagh, Co. Tipperary* ^ |
|
23 |
Rahan, Co. Offaly* ^ |
|
24 |
Rathkeale, Co. Limerick ^ |
Appendix 3: Future Flood Relief Schemes (Tranche 2)
|
Flood Relief Schemes Planned for Next Phase of Delivery |
|
|
1 |
Portumna, Co. Galway* |
|
2 |
Ballylongford, Co. Kerry |
|
3 |
Listowel, Co. Kerry |
|
4 |
Dromod, Co. Leitrim* |
|
5 |
Askeaton, Co. Limerick |
|
6 |
Foynes, Co. Limerick |
|
7 |
Newcastle West, Co. Limerick |
|
8 |
Birr, Co. Offaly* |
|
9 |
Athleague, Co. Roscommon* |
|
10 |
Boyle, Co. Roscommon* |
|
11 |
Roscommon, Co. Roscommon* |
|
12 |
Roscrea, Co. Tipperary* |
*Communities in the catchment of the River Shannon
^Small projects (<€1m) that have been prioritised for delivery and which will be progressed directly by the relevant local authority
Legislative Reviews
Ceisteanna (269)
Denise Mitchell
Ceist:269. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when the review of ethics legislation by his Department will be completed; if there are plans to publish the review; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17969/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
We made a commitment the 2020 Programme for Government to “reform and consolidate the Ethics in Public Office legislation”. The review of the statutory framework that I have initiated and to which the Deputy’ question refers is the first step in meeting this commitment.
In brief, this review is examining:
- Ireland’s existing ethics legislative framework;
- The recommendations made by the Standards in Public Office Commission (SIPO) based on its operation of the current regime;
- International best practice; and
- The views of stakeholders including through a public consultation.
It will also consider the outstanding recommendations of the Moriarty and Mahon tribunals and take account of more recent developments such as:
- The ‘Hamilton Report’ recommendations on preventing economic crime and corruption, published in December 2020; and
- The Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) recommendations on reform of our statutory framework for ethics.
The review’s tasks have been underway since September 2021: formal stakeholder engagement commenced in November and a public consultation exercise based on a detailed proposed policy approach closed in mid-January 2022. I envisage that this process will be completed by end June 2022 and a report published. The outcome of the Review will then inform proposals for legislative reform that I intend to bring to Government later in 2022. In this, my ultimate goal is a fit-for-purpose, easy to understand and user-friendly statutory framework that contributes to the quality and effectiveness of our public governance and by so doing enhances trust and confidence in public officials and democratic institutions.
Legislative Measures
Ceisteanna (270)
Denise Mitchell
Ceist:270. Deputy Denise Mitchell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he intends to publish and enact legislation similar to the public sector standards Bill 2015; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17970/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Bill to which the Deputy refers was brought forward by the previous government in 2015 with the broad aims of:
- Modernising, simplifying and streamlining the existing legislative framework covering Ethics in public office;
- Responding to the recommendations on conflicts of interest contained in the final report of the Mahon and Moriarty Tribunals; and
- Consolidating local and national ethics requirements.
The Public Sector Standards Bill (PSSB) was last considered in the Dáil at Committee Stage in April 2017, but it lapsed when the Dáil was dissolved in January 2020 in advance of the last General Election.
In the subsequent Programme for Government we committed to “reform and consolidate the Ethics in Public Office legislation”. However, instead of restoring the PSSB to the Dáil Order Paper, I asked my Department to undertake a review of the statutory framework in advance of bringing new proposals for reform back to Government. In this, my intention was to take account of any developments since the PSSB was last considered in the Dáil, such as, for example, further potential gaps in the ethics framework that have arisen as matters of public debate, as well as relevant recommendations of the Review of Structures and Strategies to Prevent, Investigate and Penalise Economic Crime and Corruption (the ‘Hamilton Report’), which was published in December 2020.
The Ethics Review has been underway since September last, and I expect that the process will be completed by the end of June. The Review's outcome will then inform proposals for legislative reform that I intend to bring to Government later in 2022. In developing these fresh proposals, my Department will take as its point of departure the policy approach that was developed for the PSSB, given that it represents best practice on a number of fronts, and addresses many of the long-standing recommendations of the Council of Europe’s Group of States against Corruption (GRECO) and the Standards in Public Office Commission for reform of Ireland's statutory framework for standards in public life.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (271)
Patrick Costello
Ceist:271. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the proposed walking and cycling bridge across the River Liffey from the War Memorial Gardens, Islandbridge; if funding has been assigned to the project; if so, the amount; the proposed timeline for works to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17974/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Irish National War Memorial Gardens at Islandbridge, Dublin, were designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens to commemorate the memory of the Irish men and women who died in the First World War. The original design for the Irish War Memorial Gardens included a bridge across the Liffey linking the northside of the river with the gardens. This element of the gardens has not been realised to date.
At present, the current access point to the Irish War Memorial Gardens from the South Circular Road is confusing and ill-defined, with many visitors have trouble locating the gardens.
In May 2019, the Office of Public Works (OPW) and the Royal Institute of the Architects of Ireland (RIAI) announced a competition to design a new commemorative bridge at the Irish National War Memorial Gardens in Dublin. Sixty one submissions were received from nine countries. The winning design was submitted by Ian Ritchie Architects based in London.
It is envisaged that the new commemorative bridge and entrance plaza linking the Irish National War Memorial Gardens to Cunningham Road and Phoenix Park will provide a formal entrance to the Gardens, will improve visitor experience and provide a significantly enhanced pedestrian and cycling access to the Gardens. The bridge will also support the development of blue way and greenway cycle infrastructure in this part of the city by providing a clear connecting route across the river.
To date there has been high-level engagement with key stakeholders including Dublin City Council, Fáilte Ireland, The Irish National War Memorial Garden Trustees, University College Dublin and local stakeholders including the various boat clubs based in the vicinity of the gardens. The development of this bridge is included in the Dublin City Council Development Plan 2022-2028.
The OPW is now working closely with Ian Ritchie Architects, who won the architectural design competition for the commemorative bridge, to bring the original concept design to full planning permission. All appropriate baseline studies have been completed including the Feasibility Study, Ecological studies and a Business Development Strategy. A variation to the local area development plan to support this type of development was approved by DCC councillors in 2021. It is anticipated that a planning application will be lodged later this year. Funding has been approved to planning permission stage.
Subject to further availability of funding, a full procurement process will be undertaken and it is hoped that works will commence on site before the end of 2023.
National Parks
Ceisteanna (272)
Patrick Costello
Ceist:272. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of the proposed renovation of the Magazine Fort in the Phoenix Park; if funding has been assigned to the project; if so, the amount; the proposed timeline for works to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [17975/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Magazine Fort in the Phoenix Park is the major surviving Magazine Fort in the country. The complex has had a long history of continuous use spanning three centuries and is considered to have special architectural, military, historical, social and archaeological interest. The Magazine Fort came into the care of the Office of Public Works (OPW) in the 1980's from the Department of Defence. It is a Protected Structure in the Dublin City Council Development Plan 2016 – 2022.
Over the years, the OPW has undertaken certain works to protect the site and provide some minimal public access but is now embarking on a more substantial programme to conserve the Magazine Fort. The condition of the buildings and rampart walls is poor due to a series of interventions over the centuries. The OPW has commissioned a team of experts to progress the restoration and conservation of this unique fortification.
This is a complex conservation project which will be addressed in a phased manner. The first phase of the project will focus on the stabilisation and structural repairs to the Rampart walls; roof and structural repairs to the Vaulted Magazine Store Buildings; conservation refurbishment works to the Bakery and minor drainage works surrounding the Magazine Store Buildings. This first phase of works will be tendered in May and it is anticipated that works will commence on site later this year. These works will be funded from within the OPW vote and total costs for this phase will be in the region of €5million.
Flexible Work Practices
Ceisteanna (273)
David Stanton
Ceist:273. Deputy David Stanton asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current policy with respect to remote working options for staff in his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18171/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I was pleased to publish, along with Minister of State Ossian Smyth, the Civil Service Blended Working Policy Framework on Thursday 31st March.
This Framework provides direction to individual Departments on the development of their own tailored Blended Working policies, and ensures a consistency of approach across the Civil Service.
This new model of working marks another feature of the Civil Service as an employer of choice.
Each individual Department can now use this Framework to shape their own policy, striking the right balance of blended working appropriate to local business needs, and to continue to deliver high quality services to Government, the public and business.
My own Department is currently developing our local policy, and once complete, it will be published. It will follow the template available in the Civil Service Blended Working Framework, which is now publicly available.
In the interim, and in line with current public health guidelines, we are continuing with a phased return to onsite working, with most Department employees returning to a minimum of 3 days of onsite working with effect from Monday 4th April. As has been the case since restrictions were lifted, the staff in my Department also have the choice to work onsite full-time if they wish. Should public health advice change at any point, the Department will adjust its response accordingly.
Ports Policy
Ceisteanna (274)
Johnny Mythen
Ceist:274. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the additional resources that are being provided to Rosslare Port in response to, and in order to support, the growing number of persons seeking asylum arriving there; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18280/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In line with EU wide arrangements, the Government is fully committed to delivering a comprehensive humanitarian response to refugees who arrive in Ireland seeking protection having had to flee the war in Ukraine. Over the last number of weeks, the number of Ukrainian refugees arriving into Rosslare on ferry services from Cherbourg have been steadily rising from about 30 to around 200 at present. As a result of the increasing numbers, it was clear to the port authorities that new facilities were urgently required to provide for the care and comfort of refugees as they waited to be brought to suitable accommodation, while also meeting the needs of the various departments and agencies interacting with them on their arrival.
The Port authorities therefore obtained the agreement of the Revenue Commissioners to vacate, on a temporary basis, an area normally used by them to facilitate the location of a mobile hub “one stop shop” for the processing of Ukrainian refugees arriving into Ireland seeking safety and support. The Revenue Commissioners relocated their operation to their other facilities just outside the port at Kilrane.
Following a request for assistance on 24th March from the Department of Transport, officials from the Office of Public Works immediately visited the site and identified an appropriate solution involving the installation of a large Marquee, a portacabin and toilet facilities. The installation of these units commenced on Sunday 27th of March and the works were completed last weekend. As a result, new arrivals, predominantly women and children, can now access suitable facilities at the port to meet with relevant officials from a number of organisations to quickly complete the immigration process and immediately apply for access to relevant services. The facility also contains an open lounge area with seating for 110 people, which will be manned by a humanitarian team. Refugees will be provided with food and drinks and can also access a storage area where they can select essential items such as clothes, sanitary items and toys for the children provided by charities and local communities before being brought to their assigned accommodation. In addition to the main space two adjacent tents are being managed by the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine with vets available to examine any pets coming through. Toilets are also available just outside the marquee.
These facilities will ensure that refugees can be provided with temporary protection and immediate access to essential services on arrival in a timely and efficient fashion with minimal delay after a long and arduous journey to reach Ireland.
The cost of the installation of this new infrastructure, including the initial month’s rental payment, is €165,000. The overall cost will depend on how long it is necessary to keep these units in place which is dependent on the flow of new arrivals at the port seeking international protection. While it is not possible to predict, with any degree of certainty, the likely numbers over the coming months, I can assure the Deputy that the government is fully committed to maintaining these services at the port for as long as they are needed. The overall cost that would arise if the facilities remain in place for the rest of the year is estimated at €650,000 inclusive of the initial installation cost.
Departmental Contracts
Ceisteanna (275)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:275. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform 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. [18893/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I wish to advise the Deputy that details of the spend by my Department on consultancy services, professional fees and legal advice is regularly updated and published on gov.ie. Details of this spend since the Department’s establishment in 2011 up to the end of December 2021 can be found at the link below and the spend to end Q1 2022 will be published shortly.
gov.ie/en/organisation-information/8b97d6-consultancy-costs/
Commemorative Plaques
Ceisteanna (276, 277, 278)
Paul Murphy
Ceist:276. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when the inaugural 2008 national famine commemoration day plaque will be unveiled in the Custom House. [18205/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraPaul Murphy
Ceist:277. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the exact location in Custom House in which the inaugural 2008 national famine commemoration day plaque will be mounted. [18206/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraPaul Murphy
Ceist:278. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when and the location in which the commemorative stone or plaque will be unveiled and placed at the famine sculptures on Custom House Quay given that the sculptures were part of the 2008 inaugural national famine commemoration day ceremony with a community group (details supplied). [18207/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 276 to 278, inclusive, together.
As the Deputy will be aware both the Customs House and its surrounding grounds are protected structures in the ownership of the Office of Public Works.
I am advised that, at the National Famine Commemoration in 2020, my predecessor as Chair of the National Famine Commemoration Committee, Minister Josepha Madigan T.D. unveiled a plaque marking the first Annual Famine Commemoration held in the Custom House in 2008. This will be installed at the Custom House following the completion of the refurbishment works being undertaken there.
My officials are in contact with officials from the Office of Public Works and the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage with a view to this plaque being installed at a suitable location within the Custom House campus later this year.
Question No. 277 answered with Question No. 276.
Question No. 278 answered with Question No. 276.
Heritage Promotion
Ceisteanna (279)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:279. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media further to the granting by UNESCO of intangible heritage status to the game of hurling, the measures that are underway to animate this status; if funding has been granted by her Department to any entity to reflect this status; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [18259/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Since Ireland’s ratification of the UNESCO 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) four elements of our living heritage have been inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of ICH; Uilleann Piping, Hurling, Irish Harping , and most recently Irish Falconry in 2020 joined the existing multinational inscription of Falconry.
Hurling was officially inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List in 2018 following the successful application process which was progressed in close cooperation between my Department and both the GAA and The Camogie Association. Since the inscriptions of Hurling, my officials have met with both organisations on a number of occasions to discuss how best the Department can support them in safeguarding and raising awareness Hurling as an ICH practice. These discussions are ongoing and as with all elements on the Representative List, my Department is conscious that practitioners are the custodians of their practice and therefore safeguarding and transmission of same are led by the practitioners themselves.
By achieving recognition of these practices on the UNESCO Representative List the practices are safeguarding for future generations. Inscriptions also serve to acknowledge and celebrate the work of the generations who have kept these traditions alive and provide a platform to highlight and share these cherished aspects of Irish culture with others.
Earlier this year, Ireland submitted its periodic report to UNESCO to outline the legislative, regulatory and other measures undertaken for the safeguarding of ICH. The preparation of Ireland’s report focused on the broad surveying of and engagement with relevant stakeholders including the GAA and The Camogie Association. The findings of the report will help inform and guide plans and priorities for ICH safeguarding over the coming years, while incorporating the Vision, Mission and Principles outlined for ICH in Ireland.
My Department also works closely with its Expert Advisory Committee to examine how it can most effectively work with ICH practitioners and existing agencies to raise awareness of and safeguard these practices for generations and looks forward to continuing to work with both the GAA and The Camogie Association in this regard.
In relation to funding it should be noted that Sport Ireland, which is funded by my Department, is the statutory body with responsibility for the development of sport, increasing participation at all levels and raising standards. This includes the allocation of funding across a variety of funding schemes to the GAA and The Camogie Association. In 2021, the GAA received in excess of €2.3m and The Camogie Association received in excess of €435,000 which assists with the wide promotion and engagement with Hurling. In addition, in December 2021, Government allocated Covid-19 funding under five separate streams to help sports organisations to recover and grow post-pandemic, support our grassroots networks of clubs and local sports partnerships, and ensure that people of all ages and abilities could return to sport and physical activity. This included €20m allocated to the GAA, primarily to offset losses from the lack of spectators at matches, with €6m being ring-fenced to support GAA, LGFA, Camogie & Handball Clubs.
Sports Funding
Ceisteanna (280)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:280. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the date for the next round of sports capital funding. [17428/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP) is the primary vehicle for Government support for the development of sports and recreation facilities and the purchase of non-personal sports equipment throughout the country. Over 13,000 projects have now benefited from sports capital funding since 1998, bringing the total allocations in that time to over €1.1 billion. The Programme for Government commits to continuing the SCEP and to prioritising investment in disadvantaged areas.
The 2020 round of the Programme closed for applications on 1 March 2021. By this date, 3,106 applications were submitted seeking over €200 million in funding. This is the highest number of applications ever received.
Approximately one thousand of the submitted applications were for 'equipment-only' projects. These applications were assessed first and grants with a total value of €16.6 million were announced on 6 August 2021. The remaining capital applications were then assessed and 1,865 individual grant offers with a total value of over €143.8 million were announced on Friday 11 February 2022.
Currently my Department is assessing appeals from unsuccessful applicants. The deadline for submission of appeals was Monday 4 April 2022. Of the record €150 million made available for capital projects, €6 million has been kept in reserve for any successful appeals.
When the appeal process is complete, a full review of the 2020 round of the SCEP will be undertaken and recommendations arising will be reflected in the terms and conditions of the next round. The precise timing of this next round of the Programme will be announced once this review is complete.
Sports Funding
Ceisteanna (281)
Michael Creed
Ceist:281. Deputy Michael Creed asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if an appeal regarding an allocation under the sports capital grant scheme has been received from a club (details supplied); when she expects to be in a position to adjudicate on these appeals; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17475/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I can confirm an appeal has been lodged by the club mentioned by the Deputy.
€6 million has been kept in reserve for any successful appeals lodged by unsuccessful applicants and Departmental officials, not involved in the original assessment process, will review all appeals submitted and determine the outcome of those appeals. The timeline for completion of the process will depend on the volume and complexity of appeals submitted but there will be no undue delay on the Department’s part in bringing the appeals process to a close.
Tourism Schemes
Ceisteanna (282)
Seán Sherlock
Ceist:282. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she will report on the Housing for All new short-term lettings regulation through a Fáilte Ireland registration system. [17532/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Action 20.4 of Housing for All, the Government's housing plan to 2030, commits to the development of "new regulatory controls requiring short-term and holiday lets to register with Fáilte Ireland with a view to ensuring that houses are used to best effect in areas of housing need”.
Funding was allocated in Budget 2022 to Fáilte Ireland which has been tasked with the design and implementation of a short term lettings registration system. The agency is currently recruiting staff to work on this project, with the project lead in place. My officials are also working in consultation with the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage on scoping out the legislative provisions that will be required to underpin such a system with a view to bringing forward legislative provisions in this regard later in 2022.
Public Sector Staff
Ceisteanna (283)
Michael Ring
Ceist:283. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the number of staff who are currently absent from work on full pay due to suspension or workplace disputes in her Department and in agencies and public bodies within her 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 she will make a statement on the matter. [17608/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I am advised that there are no staff absent from work on full pay due to suspension or workplace disputes in my Department.
In relation to the State Agencies under my remit, this is an operational matter for those bodies.
Departmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (284)
Ruairí Ó Murchú
Ceist:284. Deputy Ruairí Ó Murchú asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the considerations that will be given in terms of support for those rejected from Strand II of the live performance support scheme; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17698/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Throughout the pandemic I have been very cognisant of the challenges the restrictions caused for the arts, culture and live entertainment industry and I remain committed to the live entertainment sector as the industry recovers following the lifting of all restrictions in January.
To this end I have provided a €50 million suite of supports for the live performance sector in 2022 including;
- €15 million allocated for the Live Performance Restart Grant Scheme to support the recovery of the live performance sector by providing business restart grants as a support to de-risk the planning of events across spring and summer of 2022. This scheme is open for applications and further details can be accessed on my department's website at gov.ie/en/publication/d1d0c-live-performance-restart-grant-scheme-lprgs-guidelines/;
- €4m allocated for the MEBAS 2022 (Music and Entertainment Business Assistance Scheme) scheme specifically to support small music and entertainment businesses which do not operate out of a rateable premises;
- €5m for Local Authorities to support local artists and performances through the LLPSS (Local Live Performance Support Scheme). This scheme in particular has provided thousands of hours of employment for local musicians, artists and crews;
- €5m to continue the capital supports scheme (CECGS) to venues, including for ventilation upgrades and other COVID adaptations. This scheme is open for applications until 31 May 2022, and
- €1m for the Saint Patrick's Festival 2022
€5m was allocated for the LPSS- Strand II to support pantomime and seasonal musical theatre impacted by the Covid restrictions in place in December and January. In order to be eligible for this scheme a business must have VAT-exclusive turnover of €100,000 or above as a result of seasonal musical theatre /pantomime for each of at least two of the past 3 years (2018-2020) in order to be considered.
An applicant may appeal appeal a decision on their LPSS - Strand II application via the appeals process for this scheme, further details of which can be found on my departments website here - gov.ie/en/publication/c2f62-live-performance-support-scheme-2021-strand-ii-seasonal-musical-theatre-panto-support-scheme-appeals/.
Departmental Meetings
Ceisteanna (285)
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:285. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if she or her officials have spoken with a person (details supplied) since her appointment as Minister. [17701/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The person referred to by the Deputy is a member of the Venue Operators and Promoters Forum with whom I have met a number of times during the pandemic to discuss the impact of Covid restrictions on the Live Entertainment Sector. The person was nominated as a representative of the Venue Operators and Promoters Forum to represent them at my Department's Live Entertainment Stakeholder Forum. That Forum, chaired by my Department, provided multiple stakeholders from across the arts and live events sector with the opportunity to discuss issues arising during the pandemic. Stakeholder consultation has been at the heart of my approach to the Covid and to ensure I had the best information available when framing supports for the live entertainment sector.
Swimming Pools
Ceisteanna (286)
Duncan Smith
Ceist:286. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if there is a dedicated fund for the building of new swimming pools; the amount that is allocated to that fund since 2016; the amount that has been drawn down since 2016; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [17906/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In relation to my Department's capital funding for new swimming pools or the refurbishment of existing pools, previously this support was provided through the Local Authority Swimming Pool Programme (LASPP). A total of 52 pools has been completed under the LASPP and three swimming pool projects (Lucan, Buncrana and Edenderry) remain in the programme with the Lucan project currently under construction. Since 2016, €11.1 million has been drawn down under the LASPP.
My Department's capital support for any new swimming pools is now being provided through the Large Scale Sport Infrastructure Fund (LSSIF). The National Development Plan provided a capital allocation of at least €100m for the Fund over the period to 2027.
The first call for proposals under the LSSIF closed in 2019 with applications confined to local authorities and National Governing Bodies (NGBs) of Sport. All applications were assessed in accordance with the published Evaluation Procedures and Guidelines and the first allocations were announced in January 2020. Thus far, approximately €86.4 million has been awarded to 33 different proposals. These initial allocations include funding for 8 swimming pool projects as follows:
1. Laois: Portarlington Leisure Centre Swimming Pool [Allocation €300,000]
2. Sligo: Waterpoint Aqua Park [Allocation €300,000]
3. Kilkenny: The Watershed Development, [Allocation €1,443,750]
4. Limerick: Askeaton Pool and Leisure [Allocation €646,659]
5. Wicklow: Wicklow Swimming Pool and Leisure Centre [Allocation €864,177]
6. Louth: Dundalk Leisure Centre [Allocation €300,000]
7. Galway: Galway Regional Aquatic & Fitness Centre [Allocation €8,003,415]
8. Dublin: Samuel Beckett Civic Campus Phase 2 [Allocation €5,000,000]
The priority in the short term is to advance all LSSIF projects, including these swimming pools, to construction stage. To date, none of the funding in respect of swimming pools has been drawn down.
In relation to future swimming pool funding, my Department is currently undertaking a review of progress on all existing LSSIF grants. As part of this review, my Department is also considering the timing of any new call for proposals. The review work is at an advanced stage and is expected to be finalised shortly.
In addition, the National Sports Policy commits to the development of a National Swimming Strategy. As part of this, there will be a review of swimming pool provision to identify where gaps exist and how these can be met. Furthermore, the Sports Action Plan 2021-2023, which was published in November 2021, contains an action to develop and implement a National Swimming Strategy to provide additional swimming opportunities indoors and outdoors. Initial preparatory planning work has been undertaken by my Department in this regard. It is intended to establish a working group in the near future to take forward the detailed work of preparing a national swimming strategy, with a view to its completion and publication later this year.
The outcome of these reviews and strategies will be fully considered when deciding on the future funding provision for swimming pools.