Written Answers Nos. 429-464
429. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated total excise rates i.e. mineral oil tax applicable to petrol, diesel and home heating oil in 2023, implicit in the Summer Economic Statement, given its impact on carbon tax revenue; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44296/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe legislative basis for mineral oil tax rates applicable to petrol, diesel and home heating oil in 2023 is as set out in the FINANCE (COVID-19 AND MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS) ACT 2022 (www.irishstatutebook.ie/eli/2022/act/9/enacted/en/print.html).
430. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated number and percentage of taxpayer units who would benefit from an increase in the standard rate cut-off point; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44297/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that the estimated number and percentage of taxpayer units who would benefit in 2023 from an increase in the income tax standard rate cut off point is 1.1m and 33% respectively.
431. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the number of individualised gross incomes across the income distribution for 2019 net; the number of individuals in receipt of working-age social welfare payments and the State pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44298/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that there was just over 3.5 million individualised gross incomes with total gross income of €117.6 billion in 2019. I am further advised that the full distribution of gross incomes of individuals, broken down by income ranges and personal tax status for 2019 can be found on the Revenue website at:
www.revenue.ie/en/corporate/documents/statistics/income-distributors/individualised-gross-income.pdf
For the Deputy’s convenience the table below sets out the high level 2019 position.
|
- |
- |
2019 |
|
Gross income € |
Number of Individuals |
Total Gross Income €m |
|
0 - 10,000 |
579,722 |
2,767.79 |
|
10,000 - 12,000 |
202,369 |
2,247.78 |
|
12,000 - 15,000 |
320,850 |
4,299.40 |
|
15,000 - 17,000 |
137,397 |
2,196.78 |
|
17,000 - 20,000 |
198,676 |
3,676.49 |
|
20,000 - 25,000 |
334,654 |
7,546.80 |
|
25,000 - 27,000 |
130,728 |
3,396.82 |
|
27,000 - 30,000 |
179,557 |
5,115.49 |
|
30,000 - 35,000 |
270,946 |
8,792.18 |
|
35,000 - 40,000 |
240,398 |
8,988.90 |
|
40,000 - 50,000 |
320,521 |
14,285.78 |
|
50,000 - 60,000 |
200,458 |
10,949.82 |
|
60,000 - 70,000 |
123,761 |
7,993.43 |
|
70,000 - 75,000 |
43,916 |
3,180.93 |
|
75,000 - 80,000 |
35,095 |
2,716.51 |
|
80,000 - 90,000 |
49,869 |
4,220.46 |
|
90,000 - 100,000 |
33,112 |
3,136.29 |
|
100,000 - 150,000 |
68,861 |
8,221.74 |
|
150,000 - 200,000 |
20,946 |
3,583.72 |
|
200,000 - 275,000 |
12,805 |
2,965.04 |
|
Over 275,000 |
13,620 |
7,353.00 |
|
Total |
3,518,261 |
117,635.16 |
I am also advised by Revenue that, notwithstanding my response to Parliamentary Question Number 433 also for answer on 8 September 2022, it is not possible to provide a breakout of the information relating to the numbers of individuals in receipt of working-age social welfare payments and the State pension from the Revenue data.
432. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Finance if the living cities initiative is going to be extended past 31 December 2022. [44310/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Living City Initiative (LCI) is a scheme of property tax incentives provided for in sections 372AAA to 372AAD of the Taxes Consolidation Act 1997. It offers income or corporation tax relief for qualifying expenditure incurred in the refurbishment and conversion of qualifying residential and commercial buildings located within ‘Special Regeneration Areas' in Cork, Dublin, Galway, Kilkenny, Limerick and Waterford.
There are three distinct types of relief available under the Initiative. These are:
- owner-occupier residential relief;
- rented residential relief; and
- commercial or retail relief.
As the LCI is currently due to sunset on 31 December 2022, a review of the Initiative has been undertaken by my Department for consideration as part of the normal budgetary process. The review was included in the papers discussed by the Tax Strategy Group and is available at assets.gov.ie/233358/abdf832e-caa4-4f43-ab6e-26e6f356f9f1.pdf.
Ultimately, the future of the LCI beyond its current sunset date is a matter that will fall to be considered by Government in the context of Budget 2023 and Finance Bill 2022, having regard to the sound management of the public finances, and, as the deputy will appreciate, it would not be appropriate for me to comment on those processes at this time.
433. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance if the individualised gross income distributions published by the Revenue Commissioners issued on 30 July 2018 and last modified on 12 April 2022 include all persons in receipt of social welfare payments, including the State pension; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44344/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that prior to 2019 the data set used to create the individualised gross income distributions required taxpayers to have employment income on record to be included in the base data set.
Persons in receipt of the State Pension, which is a taxable social welfare payment, are included in all years provided they also had employment income in each year.
However, from 2019 the base data set widened to include those without employment income, provided they had taxable social welfare income in the year. Persons in receipt of the State Pension, or indeed other taxable social welfare payments, who are without employment income are included in the individualised gross income distributions from 2019 onwards.
434. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the tax expenditures and reliefs that are due to expire at the end of 2022; and the estimated cost of extending each to the end of 2023, in tabular form. [44351/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe table below lists measures with a sunset clause this year i.e. measures that are due to expire at the end of 2022.
|
Tax expenditure |
Sunset clause |
|
CGT Farm consolidation relief (Farm Restructuring Relief) |
31.12.2022 |
|
Residential Development (Stamp Duty) Refund Scheme |
31.12.2022 |
|
Young Trained Farmer Relief |
31.12.2022 |
|
Farm Consolidation Relief |
31.12.2022 |
|
Help to Buy Incentive |
31.12.2022 |
|
Knowledge Development Box |
31.12.2022 |
|
Special Assignee Relief Programme (SARP) |
31.12.2022 |
|
Stock Relief: New arrangements for qualifying farmers (Young Trained Farmer) |
31.12.2022 |
|
Stock Relief: Special provisions for Registered Farm Partnerships |
31.12.2022 |
|
Living City Initiative |
31.12.2022 |
|
Foreign Earnings Deduction |
31.12.2022 |
|
Sea-going naval personnel |
31.12.2022 |
|
Reduced rate of USC for Medical Card Holders |
31.12.2022 |
If any of these expenditures are extended in the upcoming budget, the cost of extending the measures will be set out in the Budget Day documentation based on the latest available data.
It should also be noted that tax expenditures generally involve the state forgoing revenue in order to provide for the each specific expenditure. The revenue foregone varies from year to year and is dependent, amongst other factors, of the take up of each scheme by tax payers.
My Department publishes a detailed Report on Tax Expenditures as part of the package of documentation that accompanies the Budget each year, with the report for Budget 2022 available at gov.ie - Budget 2022 (www.gov.ie) under “Taxation Measures”. Each report includes lists of the tax expenditures currently in effect, and for the most recently available two years, the revenue foregone and number of claims. While containing historical data, the Report may provide a useful guide to the future cost of tax expenditures, however it should be noted that due to various factors it is not possible to provide cost and take-up data for some of the tax expenditures listed.
A number of the expenditures which are due to expire at the end of 2022 are either partially or fully in the base. These are listed in the table below.
|
Tax expenditure |
Sunset clause |
Budget package cost €m |
|
Tax expenditure |
Sunset clause |
Budget package cost €m |
|
Young Trained Farmer Relief |
31.12.2022 |
15 |
|
Help to Buy Incentive |
31.12.2022 |
83 |
|
Stock Relief: New arrangements for qualifying farmers (Young Trained Farmer) |
31.12.2022 |
8 |
|
Sea-going naval personnel |
31.12.2022 |
0.5 |
It is important to note that the figures are based on extending each measure by one year and assume no policy changes in respect of each of the expenditures listed. They also assume no tax payer change in behaviour.
435. Deputy Pearse Doherty asked the Minister for Finance the estimated cost of applying a zero-rate of VAT to non-oral medicines, disaggregated by non-oral medicine type; if zero rates can be applied to individual non-oral medicine types; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44352/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that the VAT rating of goods and services is subject to the requirements of EU VAT law, with which Irish VAT law must comply. In general, the EU VAT Directive provides that all goods and services are liable to VAT at the standard rate, unless they fall within categories of goods and services specified in Annex III of the VAT Directive, in respect of which Member States may apply a lower rate from VAT. Within its rates structure, the EU VAT Directive also allows for historic VAT treatment to be maintained under certain conditions on certain goods and services not provided for in Annex III. Currently Ireland has a standard VAT rate of 23% and two reduced rates of 13.5% and 9%. Ireland is also permitted to retain some historic VAT arrangements, under strict conditions.
Ireland has retained its historic application of the zero rate of VAT to the supply of oral medicines. In accordance with Irish VAT legislation, oral medicines (for human consumption) which are licensed/authorised by the Health Products Regulatory Authority are liable to VAT at the zero rate however, non-oral medicines (products such as injections and infusions) are liable to VAT at the standard rate, currently 23%.
As traders are not required to identify the VAT yield generated from the supply of specific services or goods on their VAT returns, it is not possible to provide an accurate costing for the potential measures as outlined. However, a tentative estimate using the most currently available third-party data for the cost of zero rating non-oral medicines (currently subject to the standard rate of VAT at 23%) is in the region of €142m.
436. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 33 of 25 May 2022, if he will provide a reply including the acreage of lands maintained by the OPW that are designated as biodiverse areas. [42052/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works manages some of Ireland’s most extraordinary habitats for flora and fauna while facilitating visitors to enjoy these unique places. The OPW is committed to the effective management of these diverse areas. The OPW Biodiversity Action Strategy 2022-2026 sets out an ambitious action plan to mainstream biodiversity within the decision-making processes of the OPW.
The OPW participates in the expert and technical working group on the National Biodiversity Action Plan. The National Botanic Gardens share its research on invasive alien species to manage this threat to biodiversity. There is environmental management of flood risk management with in-house guidance documents in place for staff and contractors. In addition, biodiversity enhancement measures are being integrated into flood risk management operations such as the installation of bat boxes and introducing spawning gravels into rivers.
The OPW also develops innovative designs for Government buildings to limit biodiversity loss to achieve net biodiversity gain where possible. While it is not possible to put an exact acreage on projects across the portfolio, biodiversity has been at the heart of projects such as Backweston campus for State laboratories, the Clonakilty Flood relief scheme and the Swift initiative to mitigate the loss of nesting sites due to building maintenance. Across more than 750 National Monument sites, habitats are actively reviewed and conserved with many areas are left uncut to encourage biodiversity.
Within the National Historic Properties division of the Office of Public Works manages over 5,700 acres. On these sites an area of approximately 4,100 acres are managed for the purpose of promoting biodiversity and are maintained as woodland, grassland, moorland or wetland habitats where the primary focus is on promoting biodiverse-rich natural habitats.
Earlier this year, we commenced a biodiversity audit of ten of our larger national historic properties and will be undertaking further biodiversity audits in the coming years. These audits have been completed and the final reports are being compiled. This will lead to further informed guidance on biodiversity improvements at all our sites by 2023.
As part of flood risk management services, the OPW implements a series of work programmes including, flood relief schemes, arterial drainage maintenance and broader flood risk management measures such as voluntary home relocation. The OPW carries out a range of environmental assessments for the various flood risk management plans and projects including Strategic Environmental Assessments, Environmental Impact Assessments, Appropriate Assessments and Ecological Assessments, intertwined with public consultation and stakeholder engagement.
In terms of best practice and national guidance, OPW has developed and published the national ‘Environmental Guidance: Drainage Maintenance and Construction’, which sets a framework for the arterial drainage maintenance service to minimise potential environmental impact and maximise the environmental gain through proactive initiatives such as the river enhancement programme in collaboration with Inland Fisheries Ireland. Similarly, the maintenance of flood defence embankments have been evolved and now embody a series of environmental best practices such as, careful timing of works, mapping of the embankments to identify any protected plants, animals (e.g. otter and badger), treatment of invasive plants where they overlap with works and piloting the use of wildflower meadow seed within grass mixes to stabilise banks while also improving biodiversity for pollinators on the flood defences. In parallel, the design, planning and construction of flood relief schemes embody a major focus on environmental compliance and bring in best practice through specialist consultants combined with stakeholder input.
Overall, the OPW is committed to implementing its action plan over the coming five years to limit biodiversity loss, to contribute to the restoration of ecosystems and to playing a leadership role in biodiversity and plant conservation.
437. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if his Department will install public water dispensers in the War Memorial Gardens, the Royal Hospital Kilmainham and the Phoenix Park, recognising the great public benefit they will bring along with a correspondent reduction in plastic consumption. [42070/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works has installed a water fountain at the Phoenix Park visitor's centre to allow members of the public in refilling their water containers. The pipe infrastructure in the Phoenix Park provides for dispensers at the visitor's centre, but unfortunately, not elsewhere in the Park. This location receives significant volumes of visitors and there is extensive use of the water dispenser.
As the infrastructure is not in place in the Irish National War Memorial Gardens or the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, the Office of Public Works has no plans to install water dispensers in these locations.
438. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the status of Bunadober Mill, County Mayo; and his plans for further works with a view to opening a public amenity at the site. [42193/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works is responsible for the conservation, preservation and presentation of National Monuments in State care and this includes Bunadober Mill. Since the Mill came into ownership of the State, remedial works have been completed to preserve it. These works have included the addition of a new roof and interventions to prevent the structure from collapsing.
The Mill is also reviewed on an annual basis as part of our yearly maintenance regime and is inspected regularly to ensure that the property is in good repair. Presently, there are no plans for further works at this site.
439. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount of money sanctioned by the Office of Public Works for coastal erosion works at Leenane, County Galway; the progress made with this project to date; the reason work has not yet commenced on it; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42232/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraLocal flooding issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each Local Authority to investigate and address. All Local Authorities may carry out flood mitigation works, using either their own resources, or by applying for funding under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme.
Under this scheme, applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for approved projects. Applications are assessed by the OPW having regard to the specific economic, social and environmental criteria of the scheme, including a benefit cost ratio and having regard to the availability of funding for flood risk management. Full details of this scheme are available on www.gov.ie/opw.
Since 2018 under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, funding of €441,000 has been approved to Galway County Council for studies and works at Leenaun Village. The progression of all works and associated duties, is the responsibility of the Council.
Galway County Council has informed the OPW that there was a delay to the commencement of works in this area due to a delay in obtaining a Foreshore Licence.
440. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will report on the discussions between the OPW and Meath County Council in respect of progressing proposals for additional flood relief works, as identified by the catchment flood risk assessment and management programme. [42270/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe current position in relation to flood relief works in County Meath is outlined below.
Mornington
There is an existing Flood Relief Scheme in place in Mornington, Co. Meath providing protection to 162 properties. The Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management Programme (CFRAM) identified potentially viable flood relief works for Mornington that may be implemented after project level assessment and would provide protection to an additional 52 properties. As part of the CFRAM assessment two flood cells were identified, one of which will be incorporated as part of the existing Arterial Drainage Scheme for Mornington. RPS were commissioned by the Office of Public Works (OPW) to review and update the existing CFRAM study carried out in late 2015 for the other Mornington Flood Cell. This work has now been completed and the study has been provided to Meath County Council and a response from Meath County Council is awaited.
Northlands
The Northlands Flood Relief Scheme commenced in November, 2016. Construction of this scheme, consisted of in-situ reinforced concrete walls and precast concrete “U-channels”, and was carried out by the OPW (direct works), and was substantially completed in Q1 of 2018.
There is currently a Steering Group in place with representatives from the Office of Public Works, Meath County Council and a design consultant to progress a design for a culvert upgrade as an extension to the Northlands Flood Relief Scheme.
Works commenced on this culvert in August 2022 with completion of these works anticipated for Q4 of 2022.
Ashbourne
The construction of the Ashbourne Flood Alleviation Scheme commenced in January, 2019 and is being carried out by the OPW (direct works). Construction is due to be substantially completed in Q4 of 2022. The scheme will comprise of the construction of an overflow weir to divert flow to the Broadmeadow River and the improvement of the channel and culvert capacity along the Broadmeadow and Ward Scheme. It will provide protection against a 100 year flood event for 69 properties.
Coastal Erosion
Local flooding and coastal erosion issues are a matter, in the first instance, for each Local Authority to investigate and address. Under the OPW Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme, applications are considered for projects that are estimated to cost not more than €750,000 in each instance. Funding of up to 90% of the cost is available for approved projects. Applications are assessed by the OPW having regard to the specific economic, social and environmental criteria of the scheme, including a benefit cost ratio and having regard to the availability of funding for flood risk management. Full details of this scheme are available on www.opw.ie.
In March, 2022, Meath County Council received funding of €90,000 under the Minor Flood Mitigation Works and Coastal Protection Scheme for a study of coastal erosion on the Meath coastline, from the Boyne Estuary to the mouth of the Delvin River.
Navan
Navan Scheme Viability Review (SVR): Navan was identified as an Area for Further Assessment (AFA) under the Eastern Catchment Flood Risk Assessment and Management (ECFRAM) Study. No economically viable flood relief options were identified under the CFRAM Study for Navan, although a technical solution was identified.
OPW have been working in partnership with Meath County Council to undertake a review of the viability of a flood relief scheme for Navan. This SVR is now completed, however it was identified as not being viable on its own. The progression of a Flood Relief Scheme for Navan should be re-considered in case of a multi-faceted project including an upgrade to the Dublin Road. The sharing of costs and integration of flood relief measures into such a road project is likely to improve the viability of a scheme for Navan.
Navan has also been identified as being vulnerable to change in flood flows arising from climate change, and so should be flagged for further review in future Flood Risk Assessment and Flood Risk Management Programme cycles, and should also be included in future Climate Change Scheme Adaptation Plans, if or when hydrometric evidence indicates a clear rise in flood flow values.
441. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the future use of St. Laurence’s Gate, Drogheda (details supplied); if costings and feasibility reports have been completed in respect of opening the landmark for public tours to encourage tourism into the town centre; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42316/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs has been communicated previously, The Office of Public Works has facilitated limited, controlled access to St Laurence Gate in recent years, for community events such as the All-Ireland Fleadh, Heritage Week and the Drogheda Arts Festival.
On these occasions, access was strictly by ticket only which had to be booked in advance due to the physical constraints within the monument and the significant health and safety challenges presented by the physical nature of the monument itself. Facilitating this access placed a considerable demand on resources, as Office of Public Works staff provided the stewarding within the monument on all of those occasions.
St. Laurence’s Gate has many challenges which makes it very difficult for general public access on a more regular basis but OPW is happy to work with local stakeholders to ensure occasional access for visitors as part of specific festivals or community events locally.
I can confirm that there is ongoing monitoring of potential structural issues within the monument and as with all National Monuments in the State care, OPW will continue to carry out routine maintenance on this monument in line with legislative obligations.
442. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current status in relation to the long-term plans for the historic Westgate House on Narrow West Street in Drogheda, County Louth; if he will confirm whether the legal paperwork and all other processes to transfer the property to Louth County Council have been completed; the total cost of the transfer and any other relevant details; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42317/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraWestgate House, Narrow West Street, Drogheda, County Louth is in the ownership of the Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland.
Officials in my Department have informed me that the property has been identified as a surplus State property and that they are in the process of transferring it to Louth County Council, in line with the OPW’s disposal policy. The transfer has not yet completed and a meeting is taking place between my officials and officials from Louth County Council in the coming weeks in order to progress matters.
443. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of public servants currently working from home; the extent to which adequate technology has been provided to enable such persons to fully undertake and complete their responsibilities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42377/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that my Department does not hold the requested information for every public body. A separate question would need to be submitted to each Minister to answer for their respective Departments and the bodies under their aegis.
In terms of my own Department, all staff in the Department, including the Office of Government Procurement (OGP), are enabled to work from home. There are 452 staff in the Department and 236 staff in the OGP. As part of the Department’s approach to blended working, all staff are required to attend the office at least three days per week. In addition to the provision of end user devices and the appropriate peripherals, my Department has built out a scalable, resilient remote access infrastructure that has provided, and continues to provide, reliable remote access services to users.
The position regarding the bodies under the aegis of my Department is set out below.
Office of Public Works (OPW)
At present, all office-based staff are currently required to attend the official workplace for at least two days a week. Approximately 750 staff connect to the office remotely on a daily basis. Staff whose roles are not office-based (e.g. drivers, guides, general operatives etc.) are largely working the same work patterns prior to the pandemic.
All OPW staff whose roles involve the use of computer technology have been provided with equipment (e.g. notebook computer, mobile devices, headsets etc.) and services (such as video conferencing and telephony) to allow them work from home as and when required.
Public Appointments Service (PAS)
The Public Appointments Service currently has 272 staff and are operating a hybrid working model. At present, 269 PAS staff have access to working from home. However, there is a requirement for staff to attend the office on designated days each week. All staff working from home have been provided with laptops and, where necessary, any additional technical equipment required to fulfil the duties of their role from home, ensuring the continued provision of all services. PAS has also rolled out a digital infrastructure via Microsoft Teams to support effective digital collaboration and communications while operating in a hybrid model.
National Shares Services Office (NSSO)
The NSSO currently has a headcount of 814 staff with 93% of employees currently working in a blended working environment. The NSSO follows best practice in the design and operation of their technology solutions for staff and all necessary relevant hardware and software has been provided for staff to perform their respective functions. This has enabled the NSSO to continue to deliver all of its services since moving to working in a blended working environment.
Office of the Ombudsman
The Office of the Ombudsman currently has 147 staff who work on a blended basis between the office and home. The Office’s ICT Unit has put a technical system in place with adequate supports which allows staff to continue to provide a satisfactory service from home if and when required.
State Laboratory
The State Laboratory currently has 108 staff, of which 87 have access to remote working on a blended basis. A technical system in place with adequate supports which allows staff to continue to provide a satisfactory service from home and includes provision of end user devices and the appropriate peripherals where necessary. Services such as a remote meeting platform have also been provided to allow staff to work effectively from home.
Office of the National Lottery Regulator (ORNL)
The Office of the Regulator of the National Lottery is an office of up to 11 staff. The Office has a remote working policy in place which allows all staff to work from home, with a requirement to attend the office on at least one specified day per week. All ORNL staff have been provided with the required technology to allow them to continue to fully undertake and complete their responsibilities.
444. Deputy Richard O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if discussions are expected on the actions the Government will take to ease the burden on middle-class families who are struggling to put food on the table and to pay their energy bills, along with other unforeseen daily costs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42389/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the economy recovers from the impacts of the pandemic we are encountering new, and significant, challenges from rising energy prices and global supply chain issues. These are exacerbated by the war in Ukraine.
The Government is acutely aware of the challenge posed to many households by the rising costs of living, notably in relation to energy bills and particularly for those on lower incomes. While the Government cannot fully insulate all from the impact of rising prices, significant resources have been provided to protect those that may be struggling due to price pressures. Budget 2022 set out a €1.2 billion package of expenditure measures to support citizens across a range of sectors with cost of living pressures and also contained an income tax package of just over half a billion euro.
Since then, a further €1.3 billion has been provided to put in place additional expenditure supports for citizens and businesses with a focus on alleviating the impact of rising energy prices. This includes the Electricity Credit for all domestic account holders of €200, a 20% reduction in public transport fares and additional fuel allowance payments. Further to this, the Department of Finance introduced temporary reductions in the excise duties charged on petrol, diesel and marked gas oil and reduced the rate of VAT on the supply of gas and electricity. These are real and tangible measures.
In implementing these policies, Government has sought to balance a number of considerations. In the context of increased energy costs driving inflation, several measures have been directed at cushioning the burden of higher fuel and electricity costs on households. To ensure swift support to help lower income households experiencing immediate difficulties, measures were developed to address other areas of the household balance sheet, so that those most in need could receive important assistance in a timely manner.
In the lead up to Budget 2023, Government is committed to doing its part and will continue to assist citizens and businesses in the face of a rising cost of living. We will seek to ease the burden for lower and middle-income families who are facing difficulties. Discussions are now underway as part of the estimates process to bring forward targeted, impactful measures capable of timely implementation. A comprehensive package will be announced in the coming weeks as part of Budget 2023.
445. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the reason that Kilmainham gate in the War Memorial Gardens, Inchicore is locked at night while the Islandbridge and Ballyfermot gates are open 24-7; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42415/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Irish National War Memorial Gardens are a beautiful amenity which open to the public from 8 am each morning. The Gardens are accessible at all times, due to a public right of way at the Islandbridge and Ballyfermot Gates specifically. All other gates are closed in the evenings in line with the OPW's operating plan for the site.
There is no public lighting in the Park which limits the time it can be safely accessed by the public. The Kilmainham gate is closed at night on grounds of safety and security after hours and to discourage anti-social behaviour when there are no OPW staff on site. In so doing, the OPW seeks to protect and preserve the gardens so that the public experience a solemn, elegant, formal garden presented to the highest standards when visiting.
446. Deputy Patricia Ryan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the cost of the modular units being installed in Dara Park, Newbridge; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42525/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) is the lead Department, with the OPW as the contracting authority managing the site preparation and the acquisition and installation of the modular units on the sites.
As you may be aware, the rollout of the modular homes programme is classified as a ‘matter of extreme urgency’ under the EU Directive governing procurement regulations. The OPW has decided to procure this project using the negotiated procedure without prior advertisement, as set out in Regulation 32 of S.I. No. 284/2016 - European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016 (the “Regulations”). In particular, the use of this procedure is justified on the basis of Regulation 32 (2)(c), which permits its use, inter alia, “insofar as is strictly necessary where, for reasons of extreme urgency not attributable to the contracting authority and brought about by events unforeseeable by the contracting authority, the time limits specified for the open procedures or restricted procedures or competitive procedures with negotiation cannot be complied with”.
However, in order to enhance the transparency of the procurement process, and to ensure the best competitive outcome, my Office decided to procure the Main Contract using a competitive procedure, albeit one designed to meet the urgent requirements of this project. This procedure involved inviting main contractors, to submit a combined qualification and tender submission.
The main contractor will deliver the programme of works necessary to ensure that the installation of volumetric modular units can commence before the end of the year. The main contractor will have responsibility for all site enabling works and will also be arranging for the acquisition, transportation and installation of the modular units which will have to meet the standard set by the OPW. In turn the main contractor has gone out to tender to manufacturers for the supply of modular units for delivery towards the end of 2022 and into early 2023. The cost of this programme of works is not yet finalised due to the ongoing tender process.
447. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the measures that can be taken to assist a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42537/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland (CPW) grant licences to Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) who hold a Mobile Telecommunications Licence to provide Mobile Telephone Services to install telecommunications equipment on State property. These properties are primarily Garda telecommunication structures and rooftops of other Office of Public Works (OPW) buildings.
A standard licence agreement sets out the terms and conditions under which mobile phone operators are permitted to locate on OPW property.
Tetra Ireland Communications Limited (Tetra) who provide digital radio services to An Garda Síochána and other emergency services are licensed at the property referred to by the Deputy.
Officials in my Department have been in touch with Tetra regarding the issue raised by the Deputy and they have informed me that engineers have visited the site on behalf of Tetra and have
- Serviced fan modules and cabinet ventilation ducts.
- Replaced all air filter elements.
- Raised the cabinet thermostat setting to 45°C.
It is hoped that these measures will reduce the frequency of fan occurrences and should considerably reduce the issue around noise, however, if the person referred to still has issues he should contact the official in my Department who has responsibility for OPW's Mast Programme directly on 046 942 3079 in order to have the matter investigated further.
448. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the steps he intends taking to ensure, in view of the enormous deficits in infrastructure, that the total capital allocation to all Departments for 2022 is spent, particularly as the capital expenditure to the end of July 2022 was €694 million, or 17%, behind profile; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42629/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, my Department is responsible for the allocation of public funds across each area of Government spending and to ensure that expenditure is managed by Departments in line with these allocations. The responsibility for the management and delivery of investment projects, within the allocations agreed under the National Development Plan 2021 – 2030 (NDP), rests with the individual sponsoring Department in each case.
The drawdown of capital expenditure from the Exchequer is detailed each month and is publicly available in the Fiscal Monitor, which is published on the gov.ie website. All line Departments and agencies submit information on their expenditure levels against profile to my Department, along with an explanation outlining details regarding any variance of under or over spending against profile.
The Fiscal Monitor for July 2022, published on 3 August, recorded gross capital expenditure of just under €3.3 billion to end-July, which is €698 million or 17.5% behind profile. The expenditure figure of €3.3 billion does not include capital carryover from 2021 spent in 2022. The amount of capital carryover spent to end-July amounted to €695 million, giving an overall capital spend of almost €4 billion for this period.
Capital expenditure by its nature tends to be lumpy, with a particularly high drawdown at year-end. It is therefore not unusual for Departments to record an under or over spend against profile throughout the year. There can be any number of reasons for projects to diverge from the profiles submitted at the beginning of the year, such as delays in planning, delays caused by the rising level of costs, supply chain disruptions, fuel costs and skilled labour shortages. These factors may contribute to completion delays and therefore create a variance between the profiled drawdown of expenditure and the submission of invoices by contractors.
As such, capital carryover is in place to assist Departments with the management of their capital spend across years to alleviate pressures and delays caused by timing issues and the impact of unexpected occurrences. This procedure is also designed to promote value-for-money in the use of capital funding, in particular by mitigating any incentive on the part of public bodies or Departments to spend any remaining capital allocation at end-year in an accelerated manner rather than surrender it to the Exchequer.
The Government has committed to investing €165 billion in capital programmes and projects across a range of investment sectors, as set out in the NDP 2021-30 published last October. Over €12 billion is available to spend on vital infrastructure this year, including capital carryover from 2021. This will ensure investment continues to be made in areas such as housing, transport, education, enterprise, sport and climate action.
We will continue to monitor and report on capital expenditure developments as the year progresses.
449. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform when a pension for a person (details supplied) will be awarded; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42672/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the administration of all Civil Service pensions falls under the remit of the National Shared Services Office (NSSO). Officials from my department have contacted the NSSO in relation to this individual case.
The NSSO have advised that they have been in contact with the individual and are taking the necessary steps to complete this case. Once the relevant information is received by the NSSO, payment of the pension will follow shortly afterwards.
450. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the estimated cost to the Exchequer of waiving entrance fees to all OPW sites for students and young adult Transport for Ireland Leap card holders; the estimated cost to the Exchequer of waiving entrance fees for students and young adult TFI Leap card holders to include those under 26 years respectively; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42721/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe OPW currently offers reduced rate entry for students. It is not possible to state the number of students who availed of such tickets as the OPW also offers the same reduced rate entry to children between the ages of 12 and 18, and these are all counted together. Furthermore, the OPW does not ask for, or record, the age of student visitors so cannot differentiate between students under/over 26 years. Figures for Student/Child ticket sales in the current year are not yet available, and 2020 and 2021 were atypical years; 2019 data offers the closest approximation to the current position.
In 2019, 196,696 reduced rate Student/Child tickets were sold, generating income of €807,878, however, it is not possible to estimate how much of this income was generated by ticket sales solely to students.
451. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the opportunities that there are for building companies to tender for the construction of the new modular homes for Ukrainian refugees and, most specifically, the opportunities that exist to tender for the construction of the 60 new modular homes that are set to be built in Thurles, County Tipperary; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42812/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth (DCEDIY) is the lead Department, with the OPW as the contracting authority managing the site preparation and the acquisition and installation of the modular units on the sites.
The rollout of the modular homes programme is classified as a ‘matter of extreme urgency’ under the EU Directive governing procurement regulations.
My Office decided to procure the Main Contract using a competitive procedure, one designed to meet the urgent requirements of this project. This procedure involved inviting main contractors, to submit a combined qualification and tender submission.
The main contractor will deliver the programme of works necessary to ensure that the installation of volumetric modular units can commence before the end of the year. The main contractor will have responsibility for all site enabling works and will also be arranging for the acquisition, transportation and installation of the modular units which will have to meet the standard set by my Office. In turn the main contractor has gone out to tender for the supply of modular units for delivery towards the end of 2022 and into early 2023. This tender process is ongoing and as such it is open to building companies to express their interest to the main contractor directly.
452. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the totality of grant aid and-or subsidy provided to each local authority in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022 (details supplied). [42833/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe only grants funded to local authorities by my Department from 2019 to date has been through the Public Service Innovation Fund subhead of my Department's Vote. This is a competitive fund that aims to support innovative ideas from across the Public Service, with funding available from €25,000 up to €60,000. The table at the link below lists the local authorities that received funding from 2019 to date from my Department.
453. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the development plans for Drogheda Garda station; if he will provide the overall details on the plans; the estimated costs of the plans; the projected date of commencement; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [42914/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe proposed development plans comprise a new 2-storey building, to the north-east of the existing station, to enhance the operational capability of the station and to provide improved accommodation facilities for the serving officers on site.
At present, the wall to the north-east boundary of the station requires repair and conservation before the development can commence. These works, along Old Abbey Lane, are to be carried out in accordance with Part 9 Planning and the conditions set out in Ministerial Consent C000952.
OPW issued tenders for the remedial works to the wall on 18 July 2022, with a tender return date of 22 August. Tenders received are currently being evaluated. It is envisaged that a contract will be placed by end September/beginning of October. The programme duration for these works is 21 weeks.
It is envisaged that the tender package for the main building works will follow completion of said remedial works.
454. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the expenses paid to ministerial advisers in his Department in each of the years 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43159/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy in respect of expenses paid to Ministerial advisers in 2020, 2021 and 2022 is set out in the table below. Expenses to Ministerial Advisers are reimbursed at Civil Service rates as laid out by Department of Public Expenditure and Reform circulars.
|
2020 |
Nil |
|
2021 |
Nil |
|
2022 |
1,577.75 |
455. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the number of companies that applied for the contract to provide restaurant services at Dublin Castle at the last tender process; and when the next tender process for this service is scheduled. [43195/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThree companies tendered for the catering concession at Dublin Castle during the last tender process which commenced on 1 October 2019.
It is not intended to tender for a company to provide restaurant services at Dublin Castle at present as a process is underway to redevelop the visitor reception facilities of Dublin Castle.
456. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the date on which retired public sector workers received their pension increases in line with the pay increases received by their peers in employment (details supplied) and the increased pension-related expenditure paid out on that date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43227/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy may be aware, the previous Government approved the current pension increase policy as part of its commitments under the Public Service Stability Agreement 2018-2020 (PSSA). Under this policy, which applied for the duration of the PSSA, pay increases granted to serving staff over the course of the PSSA were passed on to those pensions awarded under the pre-existing public service schemes where the salary on which the pension was based did not exceed the salary of serving staff with the same grade and scale point, after the pay increase had been applied. If it qualified, the pension was eligible for an increase to the extent that this would ensure alignment with the pay of serving staff.
The Minister has approved the continuation of the above pension increase policy for the period to the end of 2022, including the pension increase in October 2021 as a result of the general round pay increase of 1% or €500, whichever is greater. In that regard, Circular 10/2021 was issued to sanction and give guidance on the application of the policy over that period in respect of pay restoration and pay increases for serving staff under Building Momentum, A New Public Service Agreement 2021-2022. The Circular can be found in electronic form at: www.gov.ie/en/circular/e3bc7-instruction-on-the-pension-increase-policy-in-the-public-service-until-end-2022/.
The application of pension increase policy falls within the remit of the pension administrator for the employing Department or body and therefore all further questions should be directed to the Department of Education in the first instance.
457. Deputy Mairéad Farrell asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will identify the relevant statutory instruments and the relevant sections that deal with procurement (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43292/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe EU Public Procurement Directives were transposed into Irish Law in 2016 and 2017. Article 10 of Directive 2014/24/EU calls out specific exclusions for services contracts. The excerpt from page 87 of the National Public Procurement Guidelines for Goods and Services to which the Deputy refers, reflects the specific exclusions for services contracts provided for in the Directives as transposed into Irish law as detailed below.
S.I. No. 284/2016 – European Union (Award of Public Authority Contracts) Regulations 2016
10. (1) These Regulations do not apply to public service contracts for—
(a) the acquisition or rental, by whatever financial means, of land, existing buildings or other immovable property or any interest in or right over any such land, existing buildings or immovable property,
S.I. No. 286/2016 - European Union (Award of Contracts by Utility Undertakings) Regulations 2016
22. (1) These Regulations do not apply to service contracts for—
(a) the acquisition or rental, by whatever financial means, of land, existing buildings or other immovable property, or any interest in or right over any such land, existing buildings or immovable property,
S.I. No. 203/2017 – European Union (Award of Concession Contracts) Regulations 2017
(12) These Regulations shall not apply to services concession contracts for—
(a) the acquisition or rental, by whatever financial means, of land, existing buildings or other immovable property or which concern interests in or rights over any of them;
458. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the engagement he has had with the Minister for Education on the matter of school transport since June 2022; and if he will publish any correspondence shared with the Minister for Education on same. [43361/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThere is continuous engagement between the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform and the Department of Education in relation to the management and monitoring of expenditure by the Department of Education, including any proposal by the Department in relation to new policy measures. Correspondence between the two Departments relating to School Transport over the period referenced in the question form part of preparations for the forthcoming Budget. In this context, correspondence that has taken place over this referenced period cannot be released.
459. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the amount his Department has spent on advertising on social media in 2021 and to date in 2022; the amount spent per platform; and the campaigns per platform, in tabular form. [43380/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe information requested by the Deputy is set out in the table below. I wish to advise the Deputy that my Department has not incurred any such costs to-date in 2022. In addition, the Office of Government Procurement, which is also part of my Department, did not incur any such costs during the specified period.
|
Year |
Platform |
Detail of Service |
Cost of Service |
|
2021 |
Google Ads X 4 |
Passenger locator form |
€1,700 |
460. Deputy James Lawless asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the spouse's, widow's and orphan's pensions for pre- and post-1995 retired State employee pensioners are calculated the same way; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43507/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the Civil Service, there are different calculation bases for pre and post 1995 retired State employee pensioners.
The Department of Finance Circular 06/1995, part 15 sets out the basis for the change in calculation: circulars.gov.ie/pdf/circular/finance/1995/06.pdf
Prior to April 6th, 1995 serving officers were covered by Class B PRSI. The Spouses and Children's pension for Class B officers was calculated on what the original pension was, or would have been payable to the former member.
Members employed on or after the April 6th 1995 are classified as Class A PRSI. The Spouses and Children's pension is calculated on 1.5% of full pay less one times the annual rate of the contributory old age pension.
For Officers appointed prior to April 6th 1995, the rate of spouse's pension for members employed prior to the 6th of April 1995 is 50% of the deceased's pension.
For Officers appointed on or after April 6th 1995, the spouses and children's element is based on the figure of the Pensionable Remuneration of the deceased person minus the annual rate of the Contributory State Pension. (PR - CSP).
Details of both the pre and post 1995 spouses and children's calculation are referenced in section 16.4 and 16.5 of the Superannuation Handbook and Guidance Notes:
www.cspensions.gov.ie/superannuationhandbookandguidancedec20061.pdf
461. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the details on the total amounts of moneys awarded to Louth County Council by his Department in each of the years 2016 to 2021 and to date in 2022, in tabular form; if he will seek details on the total moneys drawn down and spent by Louth County Council over the same years, in tabular form, and, if not spent, the total moneys that were returned to his Department over the same years, respectively, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43525/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Public Service Innovation Fund is a competitive fund that aims to support innovative ideas from across the Public Service, with funding available from €25,000 up to €60,000. In 2022, Louth County Council was awarded €50,000 from this Fund by my Department to develop an AI Powered Road Asset Management System. No funding was granted to Louth County Council by my Department for the period 2016 to 2021.
462. Deputy Ged Nash asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide an update on the approval for an increase in the pensions and deferred pensions for members of the An Post superannuation scheme by 2% per annum; if he will provide an update on the timeline for the agreed pension increase; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43555/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder section 46 of the Postal and Telecommunications Services Act, 1983, and the rules of the An Post Pension Scheme, pension increases or alterations to the schemes are subject to the authorisation of the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications given with the concurrence of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform.
An Post formally sought Ministerial approval on 4 May 2022 to increase pensions in payment and deferred pensions for members of the An Post Superannuation Scheme by 2% per annum with effect from 1 January 2022 and up to a further 2% per annum with effect from 1 January 2023.
In line with the Code of Practice for the Governance of State Bodies 2016 and Department of Public Expenditure and Reform Circular 16 of 2021 the authorisation of the Minister for Environment, Climate and Communications for the 2% per annum pension increase from 1 January 2022 has been communicated to my Department and a request for my concurrence was received from the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications on the 5th September 2022.
Officials in my Department are currently reviewing the business case provided by the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and a determination will be made shortly.
The business case for the 2% per annum pension increase with effect from 1 January 2023 will be reviewed by the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications and by my Department in 2023 as pension increases cannot legally be approved in advance.
463. Deputy Jim O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if the necessary funding will be secured to provide wheelchair accessibility for members of the public entering the public office to Mountjoy Garda station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43578/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works can confirm that the Universal Access works at Mountjoy Garda Station are included in the 2023 workplan. It is intended to complete the design and necessary planning processes in 2023 and pending approval of the Part 9 planning, the works will be completed in 2024.
464. Deputy Neasa Hourigan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide the dwellings and habitable structures in the ownership of the Office of Public Works in the Phoenix Park, in tabular form; if he will identify whether those dwellings or habitable structures are currently occupied; the basis under which they are allocated; any rent received; and the basis for same. [43612/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by my officials that there are 41 lodges/properties in the Phoenix Park. These properties are primarily allocated to staff in specific posts where there is a requirement for officials to be present on the ground as part of their employment.
Lodges like those in the Phoenix Park are considered intrinsic to the historic estates, parks and gardens in the care of the OPW and are retained for State use. A number of these properties are located within secure areas of the Park e.g. Aras an Uachtarain and as such are not accessible to members of the public.
The OPW has provided to the Deputy, a more general overview of occupancy of lodges in the Phoenix Park, so as to protect both the privacy of individual residents/employees and to avoid potential security issues arising from highlighting individual properties that may be vacant.
Of the 41 lodges in the Phoenix Park, there are 8 currently vacant primarily due to their poor condition and/or location which makes them unsuitable for modern occupation.
In 2021 rent from the lodges in the Phoenix Park generated an income of €53,830 for the exchequer.
There is an ongoing programme to refurbish a number of lodges on a phased basis, subject to resources.
