Seán Sherlock
Ceist:202. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will take steps to notify homeowners of the high-levels of radon in their home. [28915/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraRadon Gas Levels
Ceisteanna (202)
Freagraí scríofa
In response to the threat posed to public health by radon gas the Government established a National Radon Control Strategy (NRCS). The Strategy is now in its second phase covering the period 2019 to 2024. Implementation of the Strategy is overseen by an interdepartmental and agency Group chaired by my Department. A key component of the work of the NRCS is to raise awareness of the dangers of radon. As part of this work a revised radon risk map was published on 26th May and is available at www.radon.ie. The new map combines the latest geological data and scientific research. Homeowners can search the map using their Eircode to establish if they are in a high risk location.
Departmental Policies
Ceisteanna (203)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:203. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to his commitments to the meeting of the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment and Climate Action of 1 February 2022 (details supplied), if the papers and policy initiatives indicated have been published; if not, the timeline for publication; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29005/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
In 2021, I set out and published the Inland Fisheries Roadmap to commence preparation of a revised overall policy statement across all aspects of the Inland Fisheries sector. I have appended this Roadmap for your information.Six themes were identified under which the overall policy statement was to be framed – - Conservation & Habitats;
- Protection;
- Access & Coaching;
- Species Specific Policy & Stock Management;
- Governance & Funding,
- Inland Fisheries Management Regimes.A number of initial draft policy papers have been prepared within the broad themes and work is ongoing on further draft policy papers. These initial draft policy papers would characteristically reach across a number of the roadmap themes. Once the component draft policy papers are complete, they will be merged to constitute the single comprehensive draft policy statement.It is expected that the draft policy statement will undergo a screening for Appropriate Assessment in terms of the EU Habitats Directive as well as other processes. Thereafter, I intend that it will be submitted for detailed public consultation later this year and I will be happy to immediately provide the Deputy with the draft policy statement as soon as it is finalised.
Departmental Functions
Ceisteanna (204)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:204. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the divisions and units that operate within his Department; the agencies that operate under its aegis; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29093/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Departments Statement of Strategy 2021-2023, Le Chéile 23, sets out our vision for climate neutral, sustainable and digitally connected Ireland. This ambitious strategy is supported by enablers and a Department wide transformation programme, Ag Obair Le Chéile. The Department's sectors and divisions have been strategically aligned to delivery effective outcomes for the citizen, and I include a listing of these sectors and bodies under the aegis below. My Department has the political, legislative and resourcing support required for delivery. We are uniquely positioned with the National Development Plan 2021-2030 setting out a €12.9 billion allocation for our Department over the next decade. Department Sectors and Divisions
Corporate Affairs and Strategic Development
Communications and Media Relations Division
Corporate Governance Unit
Corporate Operations Office
Finance Division
Legal Unit
Project Ireland 2040 –Strategy, Governance & Delivery
Strategic Human Resources Division
Strategic Implementation Unit
Work Environment, Digital Transformation & Data Security
Energy - built environment, energy regulation and retail energy
Energy Programme Performance & Delivery
Heat and Business Energy Efficiency
Residential Energy Efficiency
Retail Energy Policy and Regulation
Energy –Electricity & Gas
Electricity Networks & Systems
International & Offshore Energy
Offshore Energy Environment and Consenting & Long term strategic planning
Renewable Electricity
Wholesale Electricity & Gas Policy
Communications
Chief Technical Advisor’s Office
National Broadband Plan
National Digital Strategy & Eircodes
Telecommunications Policy and Regulation & Postal Policy
Environment -Climate, Air Quality, EU & International Policy
Air Quality, EU & International
Engagement and Adaptation
Environment and Climate Action Plan Delivery
Environment and Climate Research and Advisory Unit
Just Transition and Sectoral Policy
Land use and Sectoral Policy
Environment –Circular Economy and Governance
Circular Economy –Materials Management
Circular Economy –Strategic Policy
Environment Policy
Geoscience Policy
Geoscience Regulation
Geological Survey Ireland
Inland Fisheries
Planning Advisory
National Cyber Security Centre
Cyber Security
Agencies that Operate under the Aegis of My Department
Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU)
Commission for Communications Regulation (ComReg)
Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA)
Mining Board
Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI)
National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA)
Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI)
Loughs Agency of the Foyle, Carlingford and Irish Lights Commission (North/South body)
Electricity Supply Board (ESB)
Bord na Móna
EirGrid
An Post
Irish National Petroleum Corporation (INPC)
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Inland Fisheries
Ceisteanna (205)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:205. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he intends to broaden the scope of the inquiry into Inland Fisheries Ireland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29113/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I refer the Deputy to the response to Question No. 130 of 2nd June 2022
North-South Interconnector
Ceisteanna (206)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:206. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has received the review into the north-south interconnector; when the findings of the review will be published; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29115/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The new North-South Interconnector, which will allow for the flow of 900 MW electricity between Ireland and Northern Ireland, will be critical for improving the operation of the all-island Integrated Single Electricity Market (ISEM). It will also facilitate the achievement of the goal of generating up to 80% of our electricity from renewable sources by 2030. A resilient and well-connected energy infrastructure is vital for Ireland's economic well-being and the ability to respond to the future needs of energy consumers. The option of undergrounding the North-South Interconnector has been comprehensively assessed on several occasions. Most recently, the key finding from the International Expert Commission's report of October 2018 was that an overhead line remains the most appropriate option for this critical electricity infrastructure.
Notwithstanding this, I decided to commission a further short review to assess if the overall finding from the 2018 report remains valid. Formal procurement of international experts in electricity grid infrastructure was completed last September. The international experts are continuing their work on the report, which has taken longer than expected, but I hope to receive it shortly.
Electricity Supply Board
Ceisteanna (207)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:207. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the total profits registered by the Electricity Supply Board from both domestic and foreign activities in 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29172/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As set out in the Annual Report 2021, ESB made a profit after interest and tax of €191m in 2021, from which it paid dividends of €126m. Full details are available in the Annual Report published on the ESB website and laid before the Houses in March earlier this year.
Interest Rates
Ceisteanna (208)
Noel Grealish
Ceist:208. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the amount of interest that his Department has been charged by financial institutions since negative interest rates were introduced by year; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29200/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The information requested in the Question is set out in the table below.The charges relate to negative interest in respect of funds held in commercial bank accounts operated by my Department. These accounts are managed in accordance with the requirements set out in Public Financial Procedures and Circular 16/2014 (Public Bank Accounts) issued by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. The Departments bank accounts are also audited by the Comptroller and Auditor General as part of the annual Appropriation Account and Environment Fund Account audits.
|
Year |
DECC Bank Accounts € |
Environmental Fund Bank Accounts € |
||
|
2022 (Jan – Mar) |
0.00 |
203.04 |
||
|
2021 |
0.00 |
119.24 |
||
|
2020 |
457.10 |
1,488.50 |
||
|
2019 |
588.73 |
1,759.16 |
||
|
2018 |
1,146.23 |
3,230.45 |
||
|
2017 (May-Dec) |
608.20 |
2,207.37 |
||
|
Total |
2,800.26 |
9,007.76 |
||
|
TOTAL NEGATIVE INTEREST |
11,808.02 |
Interest Rates
Ceisteanna (209)
Noel Grealish
Ceist:209. Deputy Noel Grealish asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the State agencies, organisations or boards under the responsibility of his Department or that receive funding from his Department that have been charged negative interest by financial institutions since negative interest rates were introduced; the amount of interest that has been charged to each State agency, organisation or board in 2021 in each of the preceding years in which such charges were applied; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29219/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department complies with the requirements set out in Circular 13/2014 on Management of and Accountability for Grants from Exchequer Funds in relation to the agencies which receive grant funding from the Department – to limit cash held by the agencies, it is a requirement of the Circular that payments should be made in instalments over the year as needed by each agency and should be no more that is necessary for the period the advance relates to.
The information requested in relation to the bodies under the aegis of my Department is an operational matter for each body. The Department will request the relevant bodies to reply directly to the Deputy with the information requested in respect of their organisations.
Energy Prices
Ceisteanna (210)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:210. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the €200 electricity subsidy that was given to homeowners will be made available to persons who both live and work within the same property and who use the same provider for living and working purposes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29229/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Electricity Costs (Domestic Electricity Accounts) Emergency Measures Act 2022 established a scheme for the making, of a once-off Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Payment to each domestic electricity account, in 2022, having regard to the exceptional rise in energy prices. The credit of €176.22 ex VAT, which suppliers began applying in April, will be applied to remaining domestic electricity accounts through May and June, and includes prepay meters. The Scheme is one important part of the significant Government response to address energy poverty and protect vulnerable customers in the last Budget, subsequently and most recently in the National Energy Security Framework.
The scheme is operated by ESB Networks and electricity suppliers with oversight by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities. To deliver such a widely applicable Scheme in a tight timeframe it uses a single eligibility criterion of a meter point registration number with the credit being applied automatically to all domestic electricity accounts held with suppliers on 29 March.
The payment is being applied to domestic electricity accounts i.e. those which are subject to distribution use of system charges at the rate for urban domestic customers (DG1) or the rate for rural domestic customers (DG2), as set out in section 1 of the Act.
The Deputy may also wish to note that Frequently Asked Questions, are available on gov.ie at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/4ae14-electricity-costs-emergency-benefit-scheme/.
Energy Conservation
Ceisteanna (211)
Alan Farrell
Ceist:211. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of retrofitting applications the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland have received to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29237/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The National Retrofit Plan sets out the Government's approach to achieving the Climate Action Plan targets of upgrading the equivalent of 500,000 homes to a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2/cost optimal level and installing 400,000 heat pumps to replace older, less efficient heating systems by 2030. The Plan is designed to address barriers to retrofit across four key areas: driving demand and activity; financing and funding; supply chain, skills and standards; and governance. In line with commitments in the Plan, the Government earlier this year in February approved a package of significantly enhanced supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades. Since the announcement in February, all SEAI’s grant schemes have seen increased interest with the application rate nearly double the rate of last year. This now stands at nearly 18,300 grant applications across the Better Energy Homes Scheme; Warmer Homes Scheme; and the Solar PV Scheme.
Energy Conservation
Ceisteanna (212)
Alan Farrell
Ceist:212. Deputy Alan Farrell asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of retrofitting contractors that have been approved for the one-stop-shops; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29238/22]
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 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, building on the preparatory work already undertaken. SEAI are focused on engaging organisations capable of professionally managing all aspects of a One Stop Shop service. Therefore, the registration process, for this new service, is necessarily robust.
To date, five One Stop Shops have now been registered with each planning to provide a national service. Details of the registered One Stop Shops, including their contact details, are available on the SEAI website. The SEAI continues to actively work with other applicant organisations to support them through this registration process.
It is expected that the One-Stop-Shops will be distributed across Ireland, with a considerable number offering services nationwide through their network of contractors throughout the country. Other One-Stop-Shops will likely work within geographic regions. This will ensure that every home can benefit from the One-Stop-Shop service on offer.
Departmental Staff
Ceisteanna (213)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:213. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if any former Secretaries General are seconded from his Department; the locations of same; the purpose of the secondment; the remuneration they are in receipt of from his Department or additional allocation to the agency or institution to which they are seconded arising from the secondment; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29262/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
There are no former Secretaries General seconded from my Department.
Climate Action Plan
Ceisteanna (214)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:214. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of lost jobs that have been replaced and the number of new jobs created through the Just Transition Commission in 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form. [29391/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Just Transition Commissioner was appointed by the Government in November 2019 with the mandate to engage with those affected by the accelerated exit from peat for electricity generation in the Midlands region and to recommend to Government the essential elements of a just transition for those workers and communities. The Commissioner has prepared four progress reports, all of which are available at www.gov.ie/en/publication/e0e7e-climate-action-plan-to-tackle-climate-breakdown-just-transition/. The Government has responded to the Commissioner’s recommendations through the Midlands Implementation Plan, published as part of the Government’s Climate Action Plan 2021.
The National Just Transition Fund, launched in 2020, is supporting projects across the wider Midlands region that will have significant employment and enterprise potential and will support the transition of the region towards a low carbon economy. A total of €20.5 million has been committed in funding by my Department to 55 projects in the region. It is estimated by the projects that this will lead to the creation of 154 direct jobs, as well as 932 indirect jobs throughout the region. A full list of all projects supported under the Just Transition Fund can be viewed at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/ed10d-just-transition-fund/.
In addition to the National Just Transition Fund, the Government has also committed to invest up to €108 million to the Enhanced Decommissioning, Rehabilitation and Restoration Scheme, which will create over 300 jobs and will be delivered by Bord na Móna to rehabilitate 33,000 hectares over 80 Bord na Móna bogs.
Broadcasting Sector
Ceisteanna (215)
Chris Andrews
Ceist:215. Deputy Chris Andrews asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if television service providers are permitted to insist that customers must purchase a subscription to broadband in addition to their television service. [29416/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Providing electronic communication services, is a matter for the relevant service providers operating in a fully liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communication Regulation (ComReg), as independent regulator.While I have no function or statutory authority to influence the prices set, or packages offered by providers of electronic communications services, including television subscriptions services, I would welcome further information from the Deputy as to the specific circumstances that gave rise to his asking the question.
Climate Action Plan
Ceisteanna (216)
Carol Nolan
Ceist:216. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications his position on the role of liquified petroleum gas and bio-liquified petroleum gas in delivering a Just Energy Transition for rural homes and businesses off the gas grid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29444/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP21) committed to reducing emissions from the residential sector to between 3.5 - 4.5 Mt CO2eq. by 2030, from 7 Mt in 2018. As part of the achievement of this reduction the CAP set ambitious targets to retrofit the equivalent of 500,000 homes to a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2/cost optimal or carbon equivalent and the installation of 400,000 heat pumps in existing homes to replace older, less efficient heating systems by end-2030. This represents approximately 30% of the housing stock and is among the most ambitious retrofit programmes worldwide.
Recognising that the achievement of these targets will require a step-change in the pace and scale of delivery of Ireland’s residential retrofit programme, the Government has approved a package of supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades, for warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills.
To support the overarching policy objectives, the grants available to homeowners are focused towards those measures which will be most effective in reducing energy use, reducing carbon emissions and reaching the targets set out in the Programme for Government and Climate Action Plan. Heat pumps are extremely efficient and very economical to run offering lower energy costs to homeowners as well as reduced carbon emissions.
The SEAI published the National Heat Study on 22 February 2022. The study considered a number of potential decarbonisation options for a wide range of dwelling and business types. This included the use of liquid biofuels, solid biomass, biogases and other technologies such as heat pumps and district heating networks. The Study, which was prepared at my Department’s request, contains detailed analysis which will now facilitate the development of options, policies and measures to decarbonise the heating and cooling sectors to 2050.
Energy Infrastructure
Ceisteanna (217)
Carol Nolan
Ceist:217. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the very considerable savings that would accrue to the Exchequer and consumers if a mixed technology approach was adopted for the Government’s retrofitting scheme, which currently only covers heat pumps, to include lower carbon fuel options such as liquified petroleum gas and bio-liquified petroleum gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29445/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The 2021 Climate Action Plan (CAP21) committed to reducing emissions from the residential sector to between 3.5 - 4.5 Mt CO2eq. by 2030, from 7 Mt in 2018. As part of the achievement of this reduction the CAP set ambitious targets to retrofit the equivalent of 500,000 homes to a Building Energy Rating (BER) of B2/cost optimal or carbon equivalent and the installation of 400,000 heat pumps in existing homes to replace older, less efficient heating systems by end-2030. This represents approximately 30% of the housing stock and is among the most ambitious retrofit programmes worldwide. Recognising that the achievement of these targets will require a step-change in the pace and scale of delivery of Ireland’s residential retrofit programme, the Government has approved a package of supports to make it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades, for warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills.
To support the overarching policy objectives, the grants available to homeowners are focused towards those measures which will be most effective in reducing energy use, reducing carbon emissions and reaching the targets set out in the Programme for Government and Climate Action Plan. Heat pumps are extremely efficient and very economical to run offering lower energy costs to homeowners as well as reduced carbon emissions.
The SEAI published the National Heat Study on 22 February 2022. The study considered a number of potential decarbonisation options for a wide range of dwelling and business types. This included the use of liquid biofuels, solid biomass, biogases and other technologies such as heat pumps and district heating networks. The Study, which was prepared at my Department’s request, contains detailed analysis which will now facilitate the development of options, policies and measures to decarbonise the heating and cooling sectors to 2050.
Inland Fisheries
Ceisteanna (218)
Alan Dillon
Ceist:218. Deputy Alan Dillon asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the arrangements that have been entered into in relation to the leasing out of an Inland Fisheries Ireland property (details supplied); the person or body that entered into this arrangement; when the Board of Inland Fisheries was informed; the monies that were accrued from this lease; and if this money was accounted for in accounts by Inland Fisheries Ireland. [29497/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The management of property owned by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) is an operational matter in which neither I nor my Department have any role or function. IFI have established a dedicated e-mail address: oireachtas@fisheriesireland.ie where direct detailed queries may be made by members of the Oireachtas.However, as the Deputy will be aware, annual reports and accounts are signed off by the Board every year before the normal submission to the Comptroller and Auditor General (C&AG). The latest report and accounts were submitted to C&AG on 31 March last. Submissions include the then Chair’s annual Statement of Internal Control, on behalf of the Board. The Statement of Internal Control confirms assurance that the assets of IFI are being appropriately managed. My Department has fully accepted these assurances.
Telecommunications Infrastructure
Ceisteanna (219)
Patrick Costello
Ceist:219. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has had any engagement with telecommunications companies regarding the sharing of masts rather than each provider installing their own given the proliferation of new masts across the country including in Dublin 12 in which a company (details supplied) has recently commenced the process of installing two such masts in close proximity to each other through the road opening licence process which results in increased street clutter to the detriment of the streetscape; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29498/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I have no direct role or function in relation to the issue raised in the Question. This is a matter for telecommunication operators, operating on a commercial basis subject to relevant planning laws. These operators function in a liberalised market, regulated by the Commission for Communication Regulation (ComReg).
Section 57 of the Communications Regulation Act 2002 provides network operators with the right to negotiate an agreement to share physical infrastructure. ComReg may specify the time in which negotiations must be concluded. ComReg may also take steps to resolve any dispute, according to its own procedures. ComReg may impose conditions for infrastructure sharing. ComReg must consider a range of factors, including, the interest of consumers of electronic communications services, the public interest, including traffic control and the protection of the environment and of amenities, and the desirability of encouraging the sharing of electronic communications infrastructure.
Article 44 of the European Electronic Communications Code provides that “where an operator has exercised a right under national law to install facilities on, over or under public or private property …. Competent authorities may impose co-location and the sharing of network elements and associated facilities… in order to protect the environment, public health, public security or to meet town and country planning objectives”. My Department is currently in the process of transposing the European Electronic Communications Code into Irish legislation. How best to implement Article 44 in the State is also being considered.
Ministerial Correspondence
Ceisteanna (220)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:220. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when a reply will issue to correspondence from this Deputy (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29513/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
A response is being prepared and will issue to the Deputy shortly.
Pension Provisions
Ceisteanna (221)
Niall Collins
Ceist:221. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications further to Parliamentary Question No. 184 of 5 April 2022, if he will provide an update; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29534/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department has sought an update from the National Shared Services Office, who administer pension related queries. The NSSO have advised that the officers information has been sent to the Department of Social Protection for review.
Climate Action Plan
Ceisteanna (222)
Ivana Bacik
Ceist:222. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps being taken to produce the annual Climate Action Plan; when the public consultation on same will be released; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29578/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The climate ambition in the Programme for Government has been placed on a statutory footing through the Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021, which was signed into law in July 2021. The Act commits Ireland to achieve a climate neutral economy by no later than 2050, and provides for a 51% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 compared to 2018 levels. The significantly strengthened legally binding framework under the Act also ensures delivery of successive Climate Action Plans, as well as National Long-term Climate Action Strategies, and National Adaptation Frameworks,To deliver on the ambition set out in the Act, the Government published the Climate Action Plan 2021 last November. The 2021 Plan identifies the actions necessary to achieve our emissions reductions targets for each sector of the economy, based on their respective starting points, and the relative challenges and benefits, of reducing emissions. In the coming months my Department will engage proactively with the public, key stakeholders, and other Government Departments to prepare this year’s Climate Action Plan, which I expect to publish before the end of the year. It is envisaged that this will be the first statutory plan under the 2021 Act, fully reflecting the sectoral emission ceilings which the Government intends to adopt shortly.In terms of public engagement, there will be a particular focus on engaging with those who may be vulnerable to the transition to carbon neutral society, and those who have not yet engaged in climate discourses. This will be achieved this through an online public consultation, focus groups with specific populations, workshops with Public Participation Networks, and a range of stakeholder interviews. My Department is in the final stages of planning this detailed programme of engagement activities and expect to launch the consultation in the coming weeks.
Environmental Policy
Ceisteanna (223)
Ivana Bacik
Ceist:223. Deputy Ivana Bacik asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the steps being taken to produce Ireland’s Long-Term Strategy (LTS); if there are plans to submit the LTS in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29579/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Ireland’s Long-term Climate Action Strategy (LTS) is currently being finalised and will be submitted to the European Commission in the coming weeks.
Ireland prepared a draft of the LTS in 2019 in line with the then climate ambition set out in Ireland’s Climate Action and Low Carbon Development Act 2015. However, with the Programme for Government commitment to substantially increase our climate ambition, including our 2050 objective, submission of Ireland’s draft LTS to the European Commission was paused to ensure it fully aligned with our enhanced climate ambition.
In July 2021, Ireland’s Climate Action and Low Carbon Development (Amendment) Act 2021 was enacted giving legal effect to a 2050 climate neutrality target. The Act also provides for a 51% reduction in greenhouse gases by 2030, compared to 2018 levels, and puts in place a rigorous governance structure, including a requirement for Government to prepare a National Long-term Climate Action Strategy at least once every five-years.
As we finalise Ireland’s LTS, we are ensuring that the ambition aligns with our recently legislated for national climate targets, as well as making a strong contribution to the overall EU ambition of achieving climate neutrality by 2050 and achieving an interim reduction in overall EU greenhouse gas emissions of 55% by 2030, compared to 1990 levels. Similarly, the LTS will support our commitment to the international objective of limiting global warming to 1.5°C relative to pre-industrial levels, as established under the Paris Climate Agreement, and recently reaffirmed in the Glasgow Climate Pact.
Ireland, as one of several Member States still to submit its Long-term Climate Strategy, has continued to engage with the European Commission on this issue, and has fully appraised the Commission of the approach as set out above.
Inland Fisheries
Ceisteanna (224, 225)
Jackie Cahill
Ceist:224. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department has received correspondence from Inland Fisheries Ireland in relation to the numbers of mink along the River Shannon and Lough Derg; if so, if he has liaised with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage on same and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29590/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraJackie Cahill
Ceist:225. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if Inland Fisheries Ireland has conducted surveys to investigate the damage that the growing mink population is causing to other species of animals and fish along the River Shannon and Lough Derg; if so, if he has liaised with the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage on same and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29591/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 224 and 225 together. I propose to take Questions No’s 224 and 225 together:
Surveys carried out by Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI) are an operational matter in which neither I nor my Department have any role. IFI has established a specific email address for queries from Oireachtas members so that queries can be addressed promptly, in line with IFI’s objective to deliver services to the highest standards. The email address is oireachtas@fisheriesireland.ie
I am advised that my Department has not received correspondence from IFI on the matter raised by he Deputy.
Question No. 225 answered with Question No. 224.
Building Regulations
Ceisteanna (226)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:226. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to the fact that there is only one S.I. 496 auditor based in County Donegal and very few of the remaining auditors will provide services in County Donegal; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29607/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under S.I. 426 of 2014, the SEAI shall register and maintain the register of energy auditors under the energy audit scheme. The registered energy auditors are not restricted by county to carry out audits in respect of the class or classes in which they are so registered. The SEAI works with professional bodies such as Engineers Ireland to provide training to ensure that there are sufficient auditors to service the market.
At this time, there are 129 Registered Auditors and there are currently 87 Auditors on the Register of Energy Auditors that service Ulster.
Sustainable Energy Communities
Ceisteanna (227)
Seán Haughey
Ceist:227. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will request the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland to routinely inspect works carried by building contractors in cases in which grant assistance has been paid; the number of inspections that were carried out in 2018, 2019, 2020 and 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29635/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the retrofit industry transforms to accommodate much higher levels of output in line with our national targets, quality must be maintained at a high level to ensure value for money for the tax-payers and to sustain consumer confidence and demand. Contractors operating under any scheme supported by a Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) grant must carry out the works in line with the SEAI’s Contractor Code of Practice and Domestic Technical Standards and Specifications as well as best practice and technical guidance documents. In addition, contractors are required to demonstrate their tax compliance and insurance cover and cooperate with the scheme's Quality Assurance (QA) programme. The QA programme has been designed to maintain high standards of contractor workmanship; build consumer confidence; monitor health and safety; and ensure proper governance of the spending of public money. Inspections are undertaken on a risk-based approach in accordance with international best practice. When sub-standard works are found, contractors are required to rectify the works to the satisfaction of the inspector, at no cost to the home-owner.
The SEAI carries out verification inspections on grant aided works on a sample basis to ensure grants are paid in accordance with SEAI’s terms and conditions. Inspections may take the form of site inspections where an Inspector verifies the works completed on site, or a desktop audit where documentary and photographic evidence is reviewed to substantiate the works that have been completed.
The information requested regardng the number of inspections carried out is set out in the Table below.
|
- |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
|
Site Inspections |
6,403 |
6,131 |
3,906 |
3,777 |
|
Desktop Audits |
912 |
2,610 |
4,047 |
8,971 |
|
Total |
7,315 |
8,741 |
7,953 |
12,748 |
Energy Policy
Ceisteanna (228)
Michael Ring
Ceist:228. Deputy Michael Ring asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the status of an issue (details supplied) that has been under consideration by the Geoscience Regulation Office in his Department since 28 March 2022; if his attention has been drawn to the possibility that the opportunity may pass for Ireland to establish the potential for a strategic reserve of indigenous gas if the exploration licence is allowed to expire; if he has considered this issue in the context of increased security of supply and gas pricing issues; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29636/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The application referred toin the Question is under consideration by my Department as any applications for follow-on authorisations require Ministerial consent, and are assessed against a number of criteria in accordance with Section 9A (1) of the Petroleum and Other Minerals Development Act, 1960 and Section 3 of the 2007 Licensing Terms for Offshore Oil and Gas Exploration, Development and Production. This includes the technical competence of the applicant and the financial resources available to it in order to undertake the work programme and any other commitments pursuant to the relevant petroleum authorisation. My Department does not publish information on individual applications for authorisations whilst they are under consideration.
Renewable Energy Generation
Ceisteanna (229, 230)
Jim O'Callaghan
Ceist:229. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the consultation on private wires direct line renewables will be released; his Department’s plans for the consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29927/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraJim O'Callaghan
Ceist:230. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if direct line renewables have value in addressing the challenges caused by the projected rise in electricity demand by large energy users such as data centres; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29928/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 229 and 230 together. I propose to take Question Nos 229 and 230 together.The Climate Action Plan 2021 includes a commitment to review the policy position on the development of private networks/direct lines (Action 115). A consultation paper on policy options for private wires was due to be published in Q1 of this year. Unfortunately, this work is currently delayed, and a date has not yet been set for when this consultation will issue. However, I appreciate that private wires/direct lines are an issue that is of interest and importance to many stakeholders. Publishing a consultation and, ultimately, providing a clear policy position on the issue of private networks/direct lines is a priority for the Department. The specific role that direct line renewables could play in helping to meet the projected increase in electricity demand from data centres in Ireland will ultimately depend on the outcome of this review. However, Government is already taking a number of steps to help address these challenges. For example, the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment is currently reviewing the 2018 'Government Statement on the Role of Data Centres in Ireland's Enterprise Strategy' to align with our renewable energy targets, sectoral emission ceilings and security of supply. This is part of a suite of actions included in the Climate Action Plan 2021 to ensure that Ireland is planning appropriately for new energy demand in the context of our electrification and decarbonisation ambitions, while facilitating growth in digitalisation and our technology sector. My Department has been engaging with officials in the Department of Enterprise, Trade and Employment, as well as relevant state agencies, on the development of this revised Statement to ensure that there is a plan-led, regionally balanced approach to large developments such as data centres, taking into account congestion, existing grid availability and the opportunity to co-locate significant renewable energy opportunities.
Question No. 230 answered with Question No. 229.
Renewable Energy Generation
Ceisteanna (231)
Patricia Ryan
Ceist:231. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he has engaged with EirGrid on it's Shaping Our Electricity Future document attempting to set energy policy; the way this clashes with the stated objective of the renewable electricity support scheme auction to decide the mix of renewable energy technologies that will connect to the system by 2030; the actions he has taken to resolve the issue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29957/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Government sets national energy policy and targets, and this policy will direct EirGrid as to what must be delivered. As such, EirGrid’s roadmap will be adapted as time goes on to realise national energy policy whilst ensuring a safe, secure and reliable supply of electricity through the transition. In that regard, EirGrid is currently in the process of updating its Shaping roadmap in light of the increased Government ambition to deliver up to 80% renewable electricity on our system by 2030.
Broadband Infrastructure
Ceisteanna (232)
Aindrias Moynihan
Ceist:232. Deputy Aindrias Moynihan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the timeline for roll-out of fibre broadband for a business (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30039/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Question refers to a premises located in the AMBER area on the National Broadband Plan (NBP) High Speed Broadband Map which is available on my Department's website www.broadband.gov.ie. The AMBER area represents the area to be served by the network to be deployed under the NBP State led intervention. I am advised by National Broadband Ireland (NBI) that, as of 3 June 2022, construction is complete or underway across 26 counties demonstrating that the project is reaching scale. Over 67,800 premises can order or pre-order a high-speed broadband connection across 23 counties, with over 60,400 premises passed across 22 counties and available for immediate connection. Almost 13,000 premises are connected. To date, the level of connections is increasing on a daily basis and is in line with projections with some areas exceeding expectations. NBI has advised that, as of the end of May, over 8,800 premises in County Cork are passed with a highspeed fibre broadband network and available for immediate connection.
Further details are available on specific areas within County Cork through the NBI website which provides a facility for any premises within the intervention area to register their interest in being provided with deployment updates through its website www.nbi.ie. Individuals who register with this facility will receive regular updates on progress by NBI on delivering the network and specific updates related to their own premises as works commence. NBI has a dedicated email address, reps@nbi.ie, which can be used by Oireachtas members for specific queries.
NBI has made recent improvements to their website to enhance the provision of information to Oireachtas members. NBI has now completed a suite of changes, creating a portal that will serve as a means for Oireachtas members to proactively search for information relevant to their county/local area. The portal provides an up-to-date picture of NBI’s deployment schedule across the 227 Deployment Areas (DAs) in all 26 counties. A particular county can be selected to view an update of the overall number of premises in the Intervention Area, the overall NBP investment in the county, the number of premises passed to date and the status of each of the Deployment Areas with the anticipated date for connection over the lifetime of the project. The dedicated webpage can be accessed here: www.nbi.ie.
Broadband Connection Points (BCPs) are a key element of the NBP providing high speed broadband in every county in advance of the roll out of the fibre to the home network. As of 3 June 2022, 617 BCP sites have been installed by NBI and the high speed broadband service will be switched on in these locations through service provider contracts managed by the Department of Rural and Community Development for publicly accessible sites and the Department of Education for school BCPs. In County Cork 24 BCP’s have been installed to date. The site at Ionadh Áise, Renaniree, Cork, which is now connected with high speed broadband, is located approximately 5.4km from the premises referred to in the Question. Further details can be found at https://nbi.ie/bcp-locations/.
In County Cork 50 schools have been installed by NBI to date for educational access. My Department continues to work with the Department of Education to prioritise schools with no high speed broadband, within the Intervention Area. Further details of schools in scope are available on the NBI website at nbi.ie/primary-schools-list/.
Departmental Staff
Ceisteanna (233)
Charles Flanagan
Ceist:233. Deputy Charles Flanagan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of staff members posted at the Irish Permanent Representation to the European Union, including all counsellors and attachés, in each of the past seven years 2016 to 2022; the functions of each staff member; the new posts that have been created or discontinued, respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30050/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The figures requested by the Deputy are included in the table below:
|
- |
2016 |
2017 |
2018 |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
2022 |
|
Environment Attaché |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
0 |
|
Communications Attaché |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
|
Junior Attaché Communications |
0 |
0 |
0 |
1 |
1 |
1 |
0 |
|
Total |
1 |
1 |
1 |
3 |
2 |
2 |
1 |
My Department does not currently have a Junior Communications Attaché assigned. We are currently reviewing our representation needs for Cyber Security.
To avoid duplication these numbers do not include any representatives who are seconded to the Department of Foreign Affairs, details of secondees have been provided in the reponse to Quesion No 339 of 31 May 2022.
Energy Usage
Ceisteanna (234)
Neale Richmond
Ceist:234. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his attention has been drawn to apartment blocks such as apartments (details supplied) in County Dublin being forced to utilise an energy provider such as one that charges rates much higher than those on the general market; the steps that can be taken to ensure that these residents will be able to choose their own energy provider; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30085/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Gas and electricity retail markets in Ireland operate within a European regulatory regime wherein electricity and gas markets are commercial, liberalised, and competitive. I am acutely aware of the impact that current, internationally influenced, energy price increases are having on people and families. For that reason, Government has put in place a series of measures to help alleviate the impact, particularly on lower income households. In cases where apartment blocks or groups of buildings are supplied with heat, rather than fuel, commercial rates apply, as the energy service operator is purchasing the fuel at a large scale. However, under the Multi-Unit Developments Act, 2011, Owners’ Management Companies are precluded from entering contracts of duration greater than three years, and this provides a possibility to renegotiate energy supplier contracts.
The 2018 Renewable Energy Directive includes, inter alia, provisions concerning use of unavoidable waste heat when planning district heating and provisions requiring Member States to facilitate the development of heating and cooling derived from renewable sources. District heating, within a structured framework, is a technology that: offers the potential to diversify fuel supply used to heat the building sector; can offer flexibility in fuel choice; and the ability to adapt to changes in the economic and policy landscape.
The Climate Action Plan 2021 contains actions that will provide a solid basis for the appropriate expansion of district heating in Ireland, including the establishment of a multi-disciplinary District Heating Steering Group. The District Heating Steering Group, which is up and running and has met four times already this year, is working on recommendations to ensure that there is a robust governance and regulatory framework in place along with any legislation that may be required, in line with the requirements of the Renewable Energy Directive and the Energy Efficiency Directive. Considerations in this regard will also encompass pre-existing district heating and local heating schemes that are already in operation in Ireland.
Departmental Funding
Ceisteanna (235)
Darren O'Rourke
Ceist:235. Deputy Darren O'Rourke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department or other Government Departments provide funding to an organisation (details supplied); if so, the amount of funding that has been provided in 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30149/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
My Department does not provide funding to this organisation directly. However, my Department does provide funding to the Irish Environmental Network (IEN) who fund smaller member organisations. These national environmental NGOs are active on a broad range of environmental issues, including wildlife conservation, biodiversity and climate change. In this context, I have approved funding of €2.1 million for 2022 for the IEN and its constituent members. In previous years the IEN received the following amounts of funding:
- €1,764,000 in 2021
- €1,060,000 in 2020
- €1,002,476 in 2019
- €988,299 in 2018
This funding is granted subject to the recipients complying with the provisions of Department of Finance Circular 13 of 2014, “Management of and Accountability for Grants from Exchequer Funds”.
The IEN is an independent umbrella organisation for environmental NGOs with its own corporate governance structures. The distribution and allocation of funding to its members is decided by the IEN. Member organisations are requested by the IEN to submit funding proposals, and member applications for core funding are then evaluated by an independent panel of adjudicators.
Energy Prices
Ceisteanna (236)
Niall Collins
Ceist:236. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will address the query raised in correspondence (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30218/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Electricity Costs (Domestic Electricity Accounts) Emergency Measures Act 2022 established a scheme for the making in 2022, of a once-off Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Payment to each domestic electricity account, having regard to the exceptional rise in energy prices.The scheme is operated by the Distribution System Operator (ESB Networks) and electricity suppliers with oversight by the Commission for Regulation of Utilities (CRU).This is an exceptional measure which uses the single eligibility criterion of a meter point registration number, to ensure payments to each domestic electricity account as early as possible this year, without any additional means testing. The scheme includes pre-pay customers. The Electricity Costs Emergency Benefit Payment is €176.22, exclusive of VAT as set out in section 5(2) of the Act.
The benefit payment is being allocated to billed costs in the first bill issued after 31 March 2022. Suppliers began applying the benefit payment in April and May, and will credit remaining domestic electricity accounts through June. VAT is applied at the date the bill is issued to the customer.VAT has been reduced from 13.5% to 9% on gas and electricity bills from the start of May until the end of October as part of the suite of measures introduced in the National Energy Security Framework.The impact of the reduction of VAT to 9% will result in a reduction in the overall bill inclusive of VAT for customers. As the benefit payment was applied excluding VAT this reduction in rate has an impact on the total estimated benefit of €200 which was based on a 13.5% VAT rate as the VAT rate that applied in March 2021.The Deputy may also wish to note that Frequently Asked Questions are available on gov.ie at: www.gov.ie/en/publication/4ae14-electricity-costs-emergency-benefit-scheme/.
Social Welfare Payments
Ceisteanna (237)
Peter Burke
Ceist:237. Deputy Peter Burke asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if those who are in receipt of the invalidity pension will be considered for full grant-aid under the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland grant aid scheme considering that those in receipt of the disability allowance are included in the scheme; the other social welfare payments which are included in the scheme as qualifying payments; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30236/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Earlier this year, the Government approved a package of supports aimed at making it easier and more affordable for homeowners to undertake home energy upgrades, for warmer, healthier and more comfortable homes, with lower energy bills and lower emissions. Households in receipt of an Invalidity Pension, whose homes meet the eligibility criteria, can apply for support including whole home upgrade grants under the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme and individual grants for energy efficiency measures.
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 to €17,620.Free upgrades available under the Warmer Homes scheme are available to households who are in receipt of certain Department of Social Protection payments such as:
- Fuel Allowance as part of the National Fuel Scheme;
- Job Seekers Allowance for more than six months (and having children under 7);
- Working Family Payment;
- One-Parent Family Payment;
- Disability Allowance for more than six months (and having children under 7);
- Domiciliary Care Allowance;
-Carer’s Allowance where you live with the person you are caring for.
Further information can be found on SEAIs website www.seai.ie/grants/home-energy-grants/free-upgrades-for-eligible-homes.
I understand that the Invalidity Pension is a qualifying payment for the Fuel Allowance, which is a means tested payment. Households can contact the Department of Social Protection to check whether they meet the relevant means test.The eligibility criteria for the scheme were selected as they represented my Department’s view on those areas where the limited resources available to the scheme could have the greatest impact. They are kept under ongoing review with the Department of Social Protection to ensure they are consistent with, and complementary to, the other income support schemes offered by that Department.
Environmental Schemes
Ceisteanna (238)
Bríd Smith
Ceist:238. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the number of environmental permits issued by the Environmental Protection Agency; the dates of issue of same for industrial and greenhouse gases to operators of data centres; the total annual purchase of emission allowances through the European Union emissions trading system from these permits in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30317/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) is a cornerstone of EU policy on climate change mitigation promoting cost-effective emissions reduction in heavy industry and power-generation. It is the first and largest carbon market and works on the ‘cap and trade’ principle. A cap is set on the total amount of greenhouse gases that can be emitted by installations covered by the system. The cap is reduced over time so that total emissions fall. Within the cap, companies receive (for free) or buy emission allowances which they can trade with one another as needed. The limit on the total number of allowances available ensures that the allowances have a value. A list of operators holding greenhouse gas emitting permits, and the dates of issue of the permits, can be found at the following link:
www.epa.ie/our-services/licensing/climate-change/eu-emissions-trading-system-/emissions-trading-system---stationary-installations/access-to-current-permits-/.
It should be noted that no free allowances are provided for the generation of electricity, and that data centres fall under this classification.
The information requested in the Question regarding the date of permitting and allowances bought and surrendered each year is publicly available on the European Union Trusted Lists (EUTL). Public information is limited to compliance and is available on the EUTL at the following link ec.europa.eu/clima/ets/oha.do?form=oha&languageCode=en&account.registryCodes=IE&accountHolder=&installationIdentifier=&installationName=&permitIdentifier=&mainActivityType=20&account.complianceStatusArray=A&searchType=oha¤tSortSettings=&resultList.currentPageNumber=4&nextList=Next%3E.
The purchase of allowances under the EU ETS is a matter for the operators seeking to purchase allowances themselves.
Energy Usage
Ceisteanna (239)
Bríd Smith
Ceist:239. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if the new Eirgrid restrictions on data centre connections to the national grid relate only to new applicants or those already approved by Eirgrid for connection; the number of approved but unconnected applications from data centre developments that Eirgrid expect to connect in the coming years; the locations of new data centres that Eirgrid expect to connect to the grid in the coming years; the total extra mw of power expected to be used by these new data centre connections in the coming years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30325/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The management of connections to the electricity grid is a matter for the system operators, EirGrid and ESB Networks, under rules determined by the Commission for Regulation Utilities (CRU), which is an independent statutory body and solely accountable to a committee of the Oireachtas for the performance of its functions. The matter raised in the Question relate both to the statutory function of CRU and the statutory role of EirGrid and is not a matter in which I have any role or function.
Fuel Prices
Ceisteanna (240)
Michael Healy-Rae
Ceist:240. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide the details of fuel shortage plans (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30526/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Any significant disruption to the supply of oil has to potential to impact across all sectors, and accordingly any response would utilise the established Strategic Emergency Management (SEM) Framework structures for dealing with a major emergency, to provide for a ‘whole of Government’ response. In such circumstances, my Department would become the Lead Government Department and convene and chair the National Emergency Coordination Group in the National Emergency Coordination Centre (NECC). Key to any response would be the implementing of contingency plans, including as the primary response tool, the release to the market of oil stocks managed by the National Oil Reserves Agency (NORA) from the State’s strategic oil reserve and the communication to the general public of the need to reduce their usage of petroleum products by eliminating unnecessary journey's and eco-driving etc. In the unlikely event of a prolonged and severe shortage it may be necessary to prioritise the supply of product to the emergency and crucial services. Such contingency planning is kept under review and has recently been updated in the context of the war in Ukraine.
On May 26th my Department, as part of ongoing oil contingency planning, chaired a desktop oil emergency exercise in the NECC. The exercise was attended by key Government Departments, Agencies and key oil industry participants with a range of expertise, including in shipping, logistics and retailing. The exercise included the modelling of significant oil shortages in domestic supply chains.
While significant and prolonged oil emergencies are considered unlikely, oil emergency exercises are conducted periodically by the Department. Such exercises are considered a valuable tool in ensuring the State is prepared to respond effectively to any significant supply disruption. In particular, NORA ensures that it remains ready to release product onto the market at short notice, if required.
The Deputy will be pleased to note however that the oil industry have expressed confidence to the Department about the reliability of oil supplies going forward.
Waste Management
Ceisteanna (241)
Pádraig O'Sullivan
Ceist:241. Deputy Pádraig O'Sullivan asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if his Department has plans to ensure access to domestic compost bins to people in rural areas (details supplied) who are unable to get them through their provider; if not, if there is a plan to compensate people who incur the additional cost of having to dispose of their compostable waste in general waste bins; if there is a timeline in place for when people in rural areas will be able to access brown bins as per the Waste Action Plan; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30602/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy, published in September 2020, contains a number of specific measures to support the expansion of the brown bin service to all households in the State including making the provision of an organic waste bin mandatory as part of a waste collection service for all households. Officials have commenced the process of engaging with the key stakeholders, including the waste collection industry, to implement this measure in as short a time frame as possible while ensuring that the national rollout of organic bins is consistent with other measures in the Plan.
Question No. 242 answered with Question No. 198.
Inland Fisheries
Ceisteanna (243)
Catherine Murphy
Ceist:243. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will initiate an organisation wide review of Inland Fisheries Ireland. [30758/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I refer to the reply to Question No. 122 of 2 June 2022.
Radon Gas Levels
Ceisteanna (244, 245)
Johnny Mythen
Ceist:244. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the supports that are in place for persons to carry out remediation works to their homes if their homes are found to be at high-risk of radon gas; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30856/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraJohnny Mythen
Ceist:245. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications the future plans that are in place to provide grants to assist households in high-risk areas for radon gas to monitor radon levels and to carry out remediation works; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30857/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 244 and 245 together. I propose to take Question Nos 246 and 245 together
Radon gas is recognised as a serious threat to public health and estimated to be responsible for approximately 350 cases of lung cancer annually in Ireland. In response to this issue, the Government established a National Radon Control Strategy (NRCS). The Strategy is now in its second phase covering the period 2019 to 2024. Implementation of the Strategy is overseen by an interdepartmental and agency Group chaired by my Department. While there are currently no financial supports in place in respect of radon testing or remediation works the development of such a scheme is one of the action points for the next phase of the NRCS which will run until 2024.
Question No. 245 answered with Question No. 244.
Energy Conservation
Ceisteanna (246)
Jennifer Whitmore
Ceist:246. Deputy Jennifer Whitmore asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications if he will provide an update on the new scheme for the installation of photovoltaic for households that have a high reliance on electricity for medical reasons; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30910/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The National Energy Security Framework (NESF), published in April 2022, is a response to the challenges of ensuring the ongoing and long-term security of affordable energy supply. The Framework provides a single overarching and initial response to address Ireland’s energy security needs in the context of the war in Ukraine. It coordinates work connected to energy security across the electricity, gas and oil sectors and sets out a ‘Whole-of Government’ response to the challenges posed to energy security and energy affordability. Included in measures to address consumers under the NESF, in Response 8, SEAI will introduce a targeted scheme for the installation of solar PV panels for vulnerable customers/households in Q2 of this year. SEAI are currently finalising the scheme in consultation with key stakeholders including the Commission for the Regulation of Utilities (CRU), ESB Networks (ESBN), Money Advice and Budgeting Service (MABS), and publication of the details will follow this process in due course.
Research Funding
Ceisteanna (247)
Denis Naughten
Ceist:247. Deputy Denis Naughten asked the Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications when the analysis of the warmth and well-being scheme that was carried out by a university (details supplied) commenced; when preliminary results were presented to his Department; when the final report will be presented to his Department; the total funding allocated to date for the research; the total funding drawn down to date for the research; if the institution concerned has issued an apology for its failure to provide research in a timely manner in order that it can facilitate policy development in this area by his Department; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [30948/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Warmth and Wellbeing pilot scheme aims to objectively measure and validate the health and wellbeing impacts of improving the living conditions of vulnerable people living in energy poverty with chronic respiratory conditions. The scheme is a collaboration between my Department and the Department of Health and was jointly administered by the Health Service Executive and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland. Since 2016, almost 1,500 homes have received free upgrades to their homes, including attic and wall insulation, window and door replacement and heating system upgrades where needed. Given that the research element of the scheme has now closed to participants having reached a sufficient number, new applications for the scheme ceased on 28 February. Existing applicants are receiving their upgrades in line with the existing terms and conditions.
The London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) were engaged in April 2017 to carry out, in collaboration with the HSE, an independent analysis of the health impacts of improved energy efficiency among the participants in the research element of this scheme. The LSHTM has been working closely with the research committee for the project, which consists of officials from my Department, the HSE, the Department of Health and the SEAI since then. An interim report including preliminary results was submitted to my Department in December 2021 and the final results and draft final report are due in the coming weeks. The value of the contract is €162,378.41 and to date the LSHTM have received payment of €107,812.80 excluding VAT.
Delays in completing this work have been due to various unavoidable issues including data protection in light of the introduction of the GDPR, Brexit – as the researcher is based in the UK, and the COVID-19 pandemic which meant that some HSE staff were unable to work on the data collection and management for this project for a period of time.
The Exchequer investment in this scheme has significantly improved the warmth and comfort of the homes involved. The interim report has indicated that the upgrades are also delivering benefits to the health and wellbeing of participants. Participants have also reported needing fewer GP and hospital visits, fewer prescriptions for antibiotics as well as increased engagement with other support services in the community.
The learnings from the scheme have already influenced the development of policy for other SEAI schemes, in particular in relation to improving the customer journey and working with vulnerable homeowners. The details of how the scheme can further inform Government’s approaches to retrofitting, especially with regard to those who are more vulnerable and at risk of energy poverty, will be considered when the final findings of the analysis are available.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (248)
Mattie McGrath
Ceist:248. Deputy Mattie McGrath asked the Minister for Transport her role in ensuring that State services are fully accessible and supportive for people with a disability in cases in which issues have been raised with the Road Safety Authority in relation to difficulties with the driver theory test for those with learning disability; if she will engage with the Authority to ensure that immediate efforts are made to make the theory test more inclusive in terms of the manner in which the questions are worded for those with language difficulties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29170/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
Under legislation, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) is the body responsible for the operation of the Theory Test and my Department has no involvement in creating the test material or the operation of the test. 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.
I am aware that the Driver Theory Test provider offers various options to accommodate candidates who may require special assistance to take their test.
For instance, they offer a voiceover option whereby the questions and answers are read out to the candidate over the headphones. Additional time is also allowed for the candidate to take the test. There is also a reader recorder service whereby a staff member will read the questions and answer options to the candidate and record their answers on screen. Other services offered include dyslexia support, professional and Irish Sign Language (ISL) video clips, or ISL interpreters.
To avail of extra time or a reader recorder service during their test, I understand that a candidate must write to the Driver Theory Test Service with medical evidence on official headed paper from a school, doctor or professional person confirming the assistance the candidate requires. This should be posted to: Driver Theory Test, PO Box 15, Dundalk, Co. Louth.
Translator support tests are available by special arrangement at certain centres. This support is for candidates who do not speak or understand English. Evidence of a candidate’s requirement for this service must be provided.
Test Day Assistance and Support Services must be booked in advance by calling 0818 606 106 or via the postal application form available for download at theorytest.ie/general-information/test-day-assistance-support/.
A referred reply was forwarded to the Deputy under Standing Order 51
Dublin Airport Authority
Ceisteanna (249)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:249. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport the steps that he is taking to ensure that the passengers who were discommoded as a result of the delays at Dublin Airport on 28 and 29 May 2022 are reimbursed for the cost of missed flights and for the cost of missed holidays; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28830/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware, daa is the body with statutory responsibility to operate, manage and develop Dublin Airport and issues with regards to security delays at Dublin Airport fall within the operational responsibility of daa.
daa has advised passengers who missed flights recently due to security queue delays to make contact with their Customer Experience team directly by email to customerexperience@dublinairport.com to initiate the claims process for valid out of pocket expenses incurred. daa has advised that they will endeavor to process claims as quickly as possible.
Question No. 250 answered with Question No. 105.
Coast Guard Service
Ceisteanna (251)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:251. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Transport if the cliff rescue element will be restored to the Bunbeg Coast Guard Station which is based in Bunbeg, Letterkenny, County Donegal (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28858/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The provision of Irish Coast Guard cliff rescue services in Donegal is currently provided by the Greencastle, Mulroy and Killybegs Coast Guard Units. There is also an ability to transport any of these three units to an island on the Sligo based Coast Guard Rescue helicopter.
The strategic decision was to retain cliff rescue services in Donegal through the Greencastle, Mulroy and Killybegs Units.
The Bunbeg / Tory Island CGU will continue to be a well-resourced team while the enhancement of boat rescue services and shoreline search by the unit will continue to be the priority based on need and risk.
Coast Guard Service
Ceisteanna (252)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:252. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Transport the savings that have been made since the downgrading of the cliff rescue element of the Bunbeg Coast Guard station which is based in Bunbeg, Letterkenny, County Donegal (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28859/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The provision of Irish Coast Guard cliff rescue services in Donegal is currently provided by the Greencastle, Mulroy and Killybegs Coast Guard Units. There is also an ability to transport any of these three units to an island on the Sligo based Coast Guard Rescue helicopter.
The strategic decision was to retain cliff rescue services in Donegal through the Greencastle, Mulroy and Killybegs Units.
The Bunbeg / Tory Island CGU will continue to be a well-resourced team while the enhancement of boat rescue services and shoreline search by the unit will continue to be the priority based on need and risk.
Road Projects
Ceisteanna (253, 254)
Matt Carthy
Ceist:253. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport the funding that has been provided to Monaghan County Council for the maintenance and upkeep of local and regional roads in each of the years 2016-2022 inclusive, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28906/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMatt Carthy
Ceist:254. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Transport the funding that has been provided to each local authority for the maintenance and upkeep of local and regional roads in 2021 and 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28907/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
I propose to take Questions Nos. 253 and 254 together.
The improvement and maintenance of regional and local roads is the statutory responsibility of each local authority, in accordance with the provisions of Section 13 of the Roads Act 1993. Works on those roads are funded from Councils' own resources supplemented by State road grants. The initial selection and prioritisation of works to be funded is also a matter for the local authority.
As regards the funding provided to Monaghan County Council from 2016 to 2022 and to each local authority in 2021 and 2022 for the maintenance and upkeep of regional and local roads, details of the regional and local road grant allocations and payments to local authorities are outlined in the regional and local road allocations and payments booklets which are available in the Oireachtas Library.
In addition to funding allocations under the main Regional and Local Road Grant Programmes, Monaghan County Council has received funding of €1,114,218 since 2020 for a number of pilot schemes relating to road materials with a further allocation of €500,000 provided in 2022. These allocations are included under pilot schemes in the miscellaneous section of the allocations and payments booklets.
The tables included in the allocations and payments booklets outline expenditure by type of grant programme. For the Deputy's information an explanation of the purpose of the main Regional and Local Road Grant Programmes is set out below:
Restoration Maintenance (RM): The purpose of the RM grant is to protect the structural integrity of the road by way of surface dressing through the sealing of the road surface. The purpose of restoration maintenance is to maintain the asset before it requires improvement.
Restoration Improvement Grant (RI): The RI grant programme is the main road strengthening programme and caters for surface restoration, pavement overlay works, complete road rehabilitation works and for drainage works where required.
Discretionary Grant (DG): Councils have discretion in spending these grants for improvement and maintenance works subject to selecting from a list of eligible works. However Councils are requested to prioritise projects which involve strengthening works, remedying road defects, winter maintenance and drainage works.
Bridge Rehabilitation (BR): This programme allows local authorities to apply for monies to undertake bridge rehabilitation works.
Safety Improvement Works (BS) : This programme allows local authorities to apply for monies to undertake safety improvement works.
Community Involvement Scheme (CIS): Facilitates community involvement in the repair and improvement of roads.
Drainage Programme (DR): The purpose of this grant is to promote network resilience.
Former National Roads (FN): The purpose of this grant is to provide assistance to local authorities specifically for the maintenance of former national roads.
Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience (CCAR): The purpose of this grant is to provide assistance to local authorities for road adaptation/resilience works which have become necessary due to the effects of climate change.
Specific Grant and Strategic Grants: The Department no longer seeks annual applications from local authorities in respect of the Specific and Strategic grant programmes. Instead it considers projects on a case by case basis taking into account the availability of funding and the outcome of project appraisals.
Question No. 254 answered with Question No. 253.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (255)
Thomas Pringle
Ceist:255. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Transport the status of the feasibility study for free public transport in Ireland which was recommended by the Houses of the Oireachtas Joint Committee on Environment and Climate Change; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28958/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport. I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport, nor decisions on fares.
It is the National Transport Authority (NTA) that has the statutory responsibility for the regulation of fares in relation to public passenger transport services and also has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public transport services by way of public transport services contracts in respect of services that are socially necessary but commercially unviable. The funding of those services comprises both the fares paid by passengers and the subvention payments from the Exchequer. The main purpose of the subvention payment is to meet the gap between income from fares and the cost of operating services.
The provision of public transport services is heavily dependent on passenger fare revenue as it normally contributes about 65% of the operational cost. The remaining 35% of cost is covered by the PSO grant and the Department of Social Protection grant under the free travel scheme.
Prior to COVID-19, €287 million of Exchequer funding was provided for PSO services in Budget 2020; however, since 2020, additional funding has been required to continue to address the significant COVID impacts on public transport provision.
In 2022, I secured €538m to support PSO services including over €200m to address COVID expenses (i.e. loss of fare revenue, cleaning costs). Up to €12m will be provided as ongoing support for the licensed bus sector; while, over €15m has also been allocated to support Local Link regular service provision in rural Ireland.
In view of the importance of incentivising young people to use public transport, as part of Budget 2022 I secured €25m of funding to provide for the introduction of a young adult card (YAC) which will allow any person nationwide who is between 19 and 23 years old, to avail of an entitlement for discounted travel costs, and to increase the level of discount over and above the current student discount to an average of discount of 50% across all services, including city, intercity and rural services.
The YAC was launched on PSO services on the 9th of May, with over 1000 applications received by the NTA on launch day alone. The initiative will be broadened to include commercial operators later this year, with the aim to have it in place before the recommencement of third level colleges. This will not only promote modal shift in the transport sector among this age group but should also contribute towards a reduced reliance on private transport with associated benefit of transport emission savings.
In addition, as the Deputy will be aware a 20% average reduction is being introduced on PSO services as part of a suite of Government measures to help combat the rising cost of living. This fare reduction was applied to all services outside the Greater Dublin Area (GDA) from the 11th of April and nationwide from the 9th of May. The fare reduction will be in place until the end of the year and €54m in Exchequer funding has been secured to allow for the introduction of these discounted fares, this is in addition to the REV22 allocations.
The PSO programme represents a significant expenditure of taxpayers' money, and funding has increased in recent years to cater for additional services and growing capacity. Any assessment of a proposed change to public transport fare structures would be a matter for the NTA to consider in the first instance. Therefore, I have forwarded the Deputy's specific question in relation to a feasibility study for free public transport in Ireland, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
Driver Test
Ceisteanna (256)
Mary Lou McDonald
Ceist:256. Deputy Mary Lou McDonald asked the Minister for Transport if a driving test will be expedited for a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [28970/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The operation of the national driving test service is the statutory responsibility of the Road Safety Authority and 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.
Airport Policy
Ceisteanna (257)
Neale Richmond
Ceist:257. Deputy Neale Richmond asked the Minister for Transport if his attention has been drawn to the possibility that taxi drivers will be refused applications for Dublin Airport taxi permits if their vehicles are not wheelchair-accessible; if exceptions can be made for vehicles which are not adaptable in this manner; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29001/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As the Deputy will be aware daa has the statutory responsibility to operate and manage Dublin Airport.
The issue raised is an operational matter for daa, I have therefore forwarded your question to the company for direct reply. If the Deputy does not receive a reply within ten working days, please advise my Private Office.
Ukraine War
Ceisteanna (258)
Thomas Gould
Ceist:258. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Transport if leap cards are provided to Ukrainian refugees under 18; and the way that they can apply for same. [29003/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for promoting the development of an accessible, integrated and sustainable public transport network. This includes securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and the development of the Leap Card. The NTA also has national responsibility for integrated local and rural transport, including the Rural Transport Programme management, which operates under the TFI Local Link brand.
In line with the whole of Government approach, my Department and the NTA have been working on practical and meaningful responses to the Ukrainian humanitarian crisis.
From the beginning of the crisis, we have provided newly arriving Ukrainians with free travel from their port of entry to their end destination on any PSO or Local Link service. Indeed, many commercial bus services similarly offered this assistance in getting people to a safe location.
I was also pleased to announce the provision of emergency public transport services to those refugees housed in rural or isolated locations to ensure better access to our local communities. This will be achieved through an acceleration of network improvements identified through the Connecting Ireland public consultation, including additional stops, route modifications, and more services with the aim of increasing connectivity. Rural areas will avail of such improvements, in practice catering for both existing demands as well as responding to the increased pressures on services where the local population has grown in response to the humanitarian crisis. Additional bus services will also be deployed to cater for those housed away from the existing public transport network. Such measures will provide better access to a range of amenities, employment opportunities and to onward public transport connections to larger centres.
In addition, I would like to advise the Deputy that the Free Travel Scheme is a non-statutory scheme administered by the Department of Social Protection, which is available to persons aged 66 years or over who are permanently resident in the State, and to all carers in receipt of Carers' Allowance. The Scheme is also available to certain people with disabilities and people who are in receipt of certain welfare type payments. Any extension of this scheme would therefore be a matter for the Department of Social Protection to consider.
Cycling Facilities
Ceisteanna (259)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:259. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport the expected impact of the rising cost of construction materials on the proposed cycleway bridge in Athlone; and the contingency to facilitate increased costs that is included in the contract. [29009/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and exchequer funding in relation to Greenways. The planning, design and construction of individual Greenways is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. In this context, TII is best placed to advise you on the status of this project.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Road Tolls
Ceisteanna (260)
Sorca Clarke
Ceist:260. Deputy Sorca Clarke asked the Minister for Transport the engagement that his Department had with toll operators in locations in which the booths remain on automatic mode regarding the safe return to work for their employees; and if his attention has been drawn to any planned redundancies in the sector. [29016/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
As Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for overall policy and funding in relation to the national roads programme. Under the Roads Acts 1993-2015, the operation and management of individual national roads is a matter for Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), in conjunction with the local authorities concerned. Therefore, matters relating to the day to day operations regarding national roads, including toll roads and the establishment of a system of tolls, are within the remit of TII. More specifically, the statutory power to levy tolls, to make toll bye-laws and to enter into agreements with private investors are vested in TII under Part V of the Roads Act 1993 (as amended).
I have not have been made aware of any planned redundancies in the sector.
Noting the above position, I have referred your question to TII for a direct reply regarding the safe return to work of toll operator staff. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a reply within 10 working days.
Public Transport
Ceisteanna (261)
Patrick Costello
Ceist:261. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Transport the initiatives that his Department is supporting to increase the availability of public transport and public service vehicles after 11pm in Dublin; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [29038/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFreagraí scríofa
The Minister for Transport has responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, he is not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally, including night-time bus services.
In addition, the regulation of the small public service vehicle (SPSV) sector is a matter for the National Transport Authority (NTA) under the provisions of the Taxi Regulation Act 2013.
The Government and the NTA have recently taken a number of steps to support taxi drivers who are already in the industry.
The draft Maximum Fares Order 2022, which was open for public consultation until May 27th, included a proposed average increase in taxi fares of 12.5%. By facilitating this increase in maximum fares, the NTA is addressing the pressures that the taxi industry clearly faces, particularly the rising cost of fuel. This is designed in such a way as to provide a larger increase for premium hours (20.00 to 08.00, Sundays and Bank Holidays) and shorter journeys. This is the period, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights, when there are the most complaints about the unavailability of taxis. It is hoped that increasing taxi fares, particularly the premium fare, will encourage more taxi drivers to operate during that time, as well as making the sector more attractive to new entrants, thus increasing availability to passengers nationally.
The 2022 driver survey, undertaken by the NTA, shows that 93% of drivers are now working but only 29% currently work this period. 30% of drivers (up from 17% in 2019) reported that they would consider working these hours if fares were to increase for this “night work”. In recognition of this, the proposed fare has been weighted in favour of the Premium Rate period. The increase in cents/euro for each taxi user per journey is not substantial; however, the cumulative impact of the increase is significant for drivers and it is hoped that this will encourage more taxi drivers to operate during these periods and also encourage drivers to reactivate their licences.
My Department and the NTA introduced a number of supports during the Covid-19 pandemic to reduce the costs for licenced SPSVs to continue in the industry during this very difficult period. These included an increase in the maximum vehicle age, and licence fees at no cost. The NTA also introduced a regulatory measure to allow licence holders to be inactive for 24 months (previously 12 months) to allow them to remain attached to the industry with no associated costs during this very uncertain period. It is hoped that a significant proportion of these licences will return now that demand for services is increasing.
The SPSV Motor Tax Refund Scheme was introduced as an additional financial support to assist the SPSV industry in its recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. and I provided €2m in funding for this Scheme. The Scheme commenced on 1 September 2021 following NTA’s extensive efforts to put in place the necessary process to ensure SPSV licence holders could receive a reimbursement of €95 for their SPSV Motor Tax. The Scheme will end on 31 August 2022.
The NTA also introduced the NCT Initial Test Fee Waiver Scheme for the SPSV sector on September 1st 2021, with funding of €1.5m from my Department. As a result, SPSVs presenting for the NCT received, and continue to receive, this test for free. This Scheme also ends on 31 August 2022.
My Department has made available funding to the NTA to provide grants for the provision and conversion of vehicles to being wheelchair accessible which is a requirement for new entrants to the SPSV industry. The uptake of the Wheelchair Accessible Taxi (WAT) grant scheme has been strong, with 3,341 grants allocated for the purchase of a WAT between 2014 and 2021, with associated funding of over €3 million given over that period.
I remain committed to supporting the transition of the SPSV fleet towards zero/low-emission vehicles. The SPSV industry is regarded as a champion in the normalisation of electric vehicle use. The Scheme is funded by the Department and administered by the NTA. €15m was allocated in 2022 to support the industry to switch to electric. The Scheme is kept under continuous review and is currently paused to allow for the drawdown and payment of provisional grant offers. Once these grant offers have been drawn down, there will be a clearer picture of the funding available for the second half of the year and, at this stage, I anticipate the scheme will reopen for applications in the summer, allowing SPSV operators to again apply for the supports on offer.
In light of the Authority's responsibility in these areas, I have forwarded the Deputy's specific question in relation to the availability of public transport and public service vehicles after 11pm in Dublin, to the NTA for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.