Written Answers Nos. 207-247
207. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will request an organisation (details supplied) to review the costings for the rebuilding of homes in County Donegal and in the west of Ireland that have to avail of the remediation of dwellings damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks scheme given the rapidly changing cost of construction costs since they were last reported. [44460/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing on from the Government decision of the 30 November 2021 in respect of the enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant scheme, the Government approved the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Bill 2022 on 21 June and the Bill passed through both Houses of the Oireachtas and was subsequently signed into law by the President.
The purpose of this Act is to implement and give legislative underpinning to a series of measures to improve and enhance the scheme as agreed by Government on 30 November 2021. Full details can be found at www.gov.ie/en/press-release/328d7-minister-obrien-welcomes-progress-on-enhanced-defective-concrete-blocks-grant-scheme/.
Section 11 of the Act provides for an increase or decrease in remediation and ancillary grant amounts. These amounts can be revised by Government order not more than once every 12 months. Three such orders can be made and thereafter a resolution of the Oireachtas will be required for the making a maximum of three further orders. The maximum overall increase in the overall grant cap which can be applied by the Minister in any single order is 10%.
The grant rates to apply will be prescribed in regulations which my Department are currently working on and will be no less favourable than those recommended by SCSI in their cost report.
As set out in Section 11 (6) of the Act, in making an order to increase or decrease, regard will be given to construction costs prevailing in the designated local authority areas and the economic circumstances of the State prevailing at the time of the making of the order.
208. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will introduce a rent pressure zone in County Donegal in order to reflect the rapid increases in rent in the county. [44461/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Planning and Development (Housing) and Residential Tenancies Act 2016 introduced the Rent Predictability Measure to moderate rent increases in those parts of the country where rents are highest and rising fastest. The Residential Tenancies (No. 2) Act 2021 introduced measures in July 2021 to extend the operation of Rent Pressure Zones (RPZs) until the end of 2024 and prohibit any necessary rent increase in an RPZ from exceeding general inflation, as recorded by the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices (HICP). The Act also provides that rent reviews outside of RPZs can, until 2025, occur no more frequently than bi-annually. This provides rent certainty for tenants outside of RPZs for a minimum 2 year period at a time.
To address the rent affordability challenges building on foot of the unexpectedly fast rising inflation rate, as recorded by HICP (CSO data for July 2022 shows HICP inflation of 9.6% p.a.), the Residential Tenancies (Amendment) Act 2021 was enacted to provide, from 11 December 2021, a cap of 2% per annum pro rata on rent increases in RPZs where the inflation rate is higher. In all cases, section 19(1) of the Residential Tenancies Acts 2004-2022 (RTA) prohibits the setting of a rent that exceeds market rent.
Section 24A of the RTA provides that the Housing Agency, in consultation with housing authorities, may make a proposal to me, as Minister, that an area should be considered as a RPZ. Following receipt of such a proposal, I, as Minister, request the Director of the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB) to conduct an assessment of the area to establish whether or not it meets the criteria for designation and to report to me on whether the area should be designated as a RPZ.
The criteria to be satisfied by an area under section 24A(4) of the Acts for designation as an RPZ are as follows:
- the information relating to the area, as determined by reference to the information used to compile each RTB Rent Index quarterly report, shows that the annual rate of increase in the average amount of rent for that area is more than 7% in each of at least 4 of the 6 quarters preceding the period immediately prior to the date of the Housing Agency's proposal, and
- the average rent for the area in the last quarter, as determined by reference to the information used to compile each RTB Rent Index quarterly report, is –
- in the case of counties Kildare, Meath and Wicklow or a local electoral area (LEA) in any one of those counties, above the average rent in the State, excluding rents in the 4 Dublin Local Authority areas, or
- in the case of any LEA outside of the Greater Dublin Area (i.e. Dublin, Kildare, Meath and Wicklow), above the average rent in the State excluding rents in the Greater Dublin Area.
Each RTB quarterly Rent Index Report includes a table of the data used to establish whether each LEA fulfils the criteria for designation as a RPZ.
The Housing Agency and the RTB will continue to monitor national rents and if any LEA in county Donegal meets the designation criteria it will be designated as a RPZ.
209. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will ensure that the review of IS 465 that is currently being carried out by the National Standards Authority of Ireland and its expert panel will correspond with the opening of the remediation of dwellings damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks scheme. [44462/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing on from the Government decision of the 30 November 2021 in respect of the enhanced defective concrete blocks grant scheme, the Government approved the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Bill 2022 on 21 June and the Bill passed through both Houses of the Oireacthas and was subsequently signed into law by the President on the 23 July, 2022.
The purpose of this Act is to implement and give legislative underpinning to a series of measures to improve and enhance the scheme as agreed by Government on 30 November 2021. Full details can be found at www.gov.ie/en/press-release/328d7-minister-obrien-welcomes-progress-on-enhanced-defective-concrete-blocks-grant-scheme/.
Arising from the Government Decision in November 2021, the National Standards Authority of Ireland (NSAI) was tasked with, inter alia, a review of I.S. 465:2018+A1:2020 - Assessment, testing and categorisation of damaged buildings incorporating concrete blocks containing certain deleterious materials and its application. NSAI does not operate under the auspices of my Department. It is an autonomous body under the aegis of the Minister for Enterprise Trade and Employment, and as such detail on its programme of work is a matter for the NSAI.
An interagency Defective Concrete Blocks – Technical Matters Steering Group has been established to support and inform the NSAI Standardisation Programme in relation to technical issues. The steering group includes representatives from NSAI, Geological Survey Ireland, Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland, and representatives from my Department.
The NSAI have been asked to review I.S. 465 and carry out all necessary research as a matter of priority. This will take time however and it would not be appropriate to delay introduction of the enhanced scheme in order that its launch would correspond with the completion of the important work which the NSAI are carrying out. I am keen to ensure that the significant enhancements contained in the new scheme are made available to homeowners who have not yet applied under the current scheme and that those enhancements can also be retrospectively applied to existing grant applicants as soon as possible.
210. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will increase the income thresholds for persons or families seeking to join the housing waiting list in County Donegal. [44463/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra230. Deputy Martin Browne asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his plans, if any, to increase the income limits for social housing in County Tipperary now that the income limits have been raised for counties Laois, Carlow, Clare, Galway and Westmeath. [44778/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra232. Deputy Brendan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the income eligibility limits for local authority housing in areas such as counties Cavan and Monaghan will be increased given that present limits are unrealistic and deny many low-income families the ability to apply for social housing; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44892/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 210, 230 and 232 together.
Housing for All was published in September 2021 and, as part of a broad suite of social housing reforms, committed to reviewing income eligibility for social housing.
The review, which examined inter alia the efficiency of the current banding model and income limits applicable to local authorities, has been completed and I have recently approved implementation of its recommendations.
To this end, I have approved proposals to scope and develop options for a revised or new social housing income eligibility model. This work will commence shortly and is expected to complete by the end of 2022.
Pending completion of this work later this year, I have also approved changes to the social housing income eligibility bands. Five local authorities - Carlow, Clare, Galway County, Laois and Westmeath - will be moved from Band 3 to Band 2. Accordingly, the baseline income eligibility threshold for these areas will increase from €25,000 to €30,000. The change reflects the movement in rents in recent years in these areas and will ensure local authority areas with similar accommodation costs continue to be grouped together in the respective bands. The changes will come into effect from 1 October 2022.
211. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he and the Minister for Finance have engaged with the banks and financial institutions to ensure that they are entering into reasonable arrangements with families that have to avail of the remediation of dwellings damaged by the use of the defective concrete blocks scheme. [44464/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraOversight of the financial institutions is outside the scope and remit of my Department but I did write to the Minister for Finance on these matters.
The Minister for Finance advised that neither he nor his Department have any role in relation to the commercial decisions of individual regulated entities, such as decisions they may make on applications for credit, or in respect of individual actions they may take to assist households with a mortgage which is secured on a residence affected by mica or pyrite.
Notwithstanding this I can confirm that engagement is on-going with the Banking and Payments Federation on specific issues raised by Defective Concrete Block homeowners to see what can be done to address their concerns.
212. Deputy Fergus O'Dowd asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if consideration has been given to the formation of a Government working group to examine the population growth and city status for Drogheda (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44466/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe question of city status for Drogheda is not being considered at the moment. The National Planning Framework published in 2018 sets out a vision and strategy for the spatial development of Ireland to 2040. The Framework recognises the strategic importance of Drogheda and aims to support its development and its economic potential as part of the Dublin-Belfast Corridor and in particular the core Drogheda-Dundalk-Newry network. Drogheda’s role is reflected at a regional level in the Regional Spatial and Economic Strategy (RSES) for the Eastern and Midland Regional Assembly (EMRA) area. The RSES targets significant growth into the regional growth centres, including Drogheda, to enable them to act as regional drivers. In 2021 both Meath and Louth County Councils adopted new Development Plans which further underline the importance of Drogheda as a key urban centre in both counties.
213. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of new build social homes out of the 122 new homes that were delivered in County Mayo in 2021; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44467/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery which is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/.
The data that is publicly available includes a breakdown on the delivery programmes for all social homes for all local authority areas.
214. Deputy Rose Conway-Walsh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the amount of funding provided to local authorities to deliver social housing in each of the years since 2016, in tabular form; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44468/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides funding to local authorities for the delivery of new social homes through a range of build, acquisition and leasing mechanisms, including in conjunction with Approved Housing Bodies. The funding provided in each of the years 2016 to 2021 is set out in the table below.
|
Year |
€m |
|
2016 |
462 |
|
2017 |
802 |
|
2018 |
1,269 |
|
2019 |
1,482 |
|
2020 |
1,519 |
|
2021 |
1,690 |
215. Deputy Eoin Ó Broin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the amount of capital funding that is owed to each local authority; the quantity of funding owed for 6 months or less, more than 6 months and less than 12 months, more than 12 months, less than 18 months, more than 18 months and less than 24 months and more than 24 months in tabular form. [44471/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department has a wide and diverse business agenda, covering a broad range of functions, including local authority housing, voluntary housing, homeless services, estate regeneration, energy efficiency retrofitting, housing grants, rural water schemes, urban renewal/regeneration, and fire services.
My Department provides funding to local authorities on an ongoing basis as projects are progressed. Grant funding is provided primarily on the basis of vouched expenditure. As such, the position in respect of claims changes constantly as claims are received, validated and processed for payment. Accordingly, the specific level of detail sought is not readily available and its compilation would involve a disproportionate amount of time and work. If the Deputy is concerned regarding a specific claim from a local authority, I will have the matter explored further on receipt of the relevant information.
The capital expenditure provision for my Department in 2022 as set out in the Revised Estimates for Public Services 2022 published by the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform (DPER) and available at www.per.gov.ie/en/rev/ is €3,403m. These provisions will be used to advance capital investment across a range of programme areas within my Department’s remit.
216. Deputy Joe McHugh asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the status of a €3 million housing allocation for the construction of a 32-build housing scheme in Carraig Airt, County Donegal, over four years ago; if his attention has been drawn to the fact that archaeological assessments have been completed along with statutory requirements to comply with Gaeltacht language statutory requirements (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44537/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy officials understand from DCC that they are considering a new social housing Turnkey proposal at Carraig Airt in Co Donegal. This proposal is separate to one which my Department previously gave initial funding approval. To date my Department has not received this new proposal from the Council but we look forward to receiving further proposals from them and will work with them on any such housing projects. All such social housing projects are the responsibility for our Councils to plan and advance and I have assured them all, including Donegal County Council, that funding is available to support housing projects that are viable and meet housing need.
217. Deputy Bríd Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the incremental tenant purchase scheme introduced in 2016 is still operating; the funding allocated to the scheme in the past three years; if changes to the scheme now stipulate that tenants must be in receipt of housing assistance for ten years before availing of such schemes; the reason for this change; if such criteria applies across all local authorities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44544/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Tenant (Incremental) Purchase Scheme remains open to applications from eligible social housing tenants. The scheme is not funding based, rather it operates by way of a discounted price on the purchase of a local authority property by a qualifying tenant. The discount is typically 60%, 50% or 40% depending on the purchaser’s level of reckonable income.The scheme was reviewed in 2021 in line with Programme for Government and Housing for All commitments, with a number of changes coming into effect from 1 February 2022. The changes included a reduced level of income required to qualify under the scheme (down from €15,000 to €12,500), and an increase in the time required to be in receipt of social housing support from one to ten years.
The latter change seeks to encourage good, long-term tenants to stay in their homes and support development of socially sustainable communities. It also seeks to ensure, at a time of high demand, that local authority social housing stock is not excessively reduced and remains available for the most vulnerable in society.
218. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the proposed timeline going forward for the proposed referendum on housing to take place given the closure of the public consultation; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44560/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn line with commitments in the Programme for Government and Housing for All: A New Housing Plan for Ireland, the Housing Commission was established by Government in December 2021 to independently examine and review the housing system in Ireland. The Commission’s Terms of Reference cover a wide range of issues connected to housing, one of which is to consider the complex constitutional issues arising in this area and to propose appropriate wording for a referendum on housing.
As part this process the Commission held a dedicated Conference in May 2022 and launched a public consultation on the 1st of July, which concluded on Friday 02 September. The purpose of the consultation was to encourage as many people as possible to have their say in respect of a referendum on housing in Ireland. More than 2,000 submission have been received and the Commission is pleased that there has been a broad response from members of the public, tenants, landlords, public representatives, organisations involved in housing, the charity sector, the community & voluntary sector, people working in related policy and legal areas and elsewhere. The majority of submissions received came from the general public and reflect a range of disparate views which will greatly assist the Commission in its task of providing independent advice to the government on a potential constitutional amendment. The submissions are currently being processed and will then be analysed to inform the Commission’s deliberations on a proposed wording for a referendum. The submissions will provide invaluable input from the public and stakeholders to assist the Commission in its task of providing independent advice to the government.
The proposed timeline for a referendum on housing will be a matter for Government to consider following receipt of the proposed wording from the Commission.
219. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of persons employed in his Department that have a formal agreement to work from home one day per week, two days per week and five days per week; his Department’s policy in respect of facilitating requests by persons to work from home; and the number of persons that have made requests to work from home in 2021 and to date in 2022, that have been declined. [44583/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department continues to work as per transitional work arrangements following the lifting of restrictions on workplace attendance in the spring of this year. Staff who normally worked from home under pandemic restrictions currently attend the office on a minimum of 2 days per week. Since these arrangements are transitional, no formal agreement is in place and no applications have been made or, in turn, denied, for transitional working arrangements.
In respect of the longer-term, my Department formally launched its Blended Working policy in July 2022, which has been developed in line with the central policy framework for Blended Working in the Civil Service. My Department is moving into the implementation phase of this policy and will commence accepting applications for Blended Working in late September. The Blended Working Framework does not allow for fully remote work and as such 5 day per week working from home arrangements are not available in my Department.
Separately, employees who have been classified as extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 (based on the current HSE guidelines) may apply to work from home. Employees within this category are required to submit a letter to HR, from their doctor, in relation to their condition, stating that the doctor considers them to be in the extremely high-risk category. The employee will then be referred to the Chief Medical Officer who will confirm to my Department whether they should remain working from home. In such cases, the decision on whether an employee may work from home is based on the advice given by the Chief Medical Officer.
My Department considers such arrangements as temporary, and subject to change based on updated public health advice, new medical knowledge about COVID-19 and/or changes to the employee’s medical condition.
A small number (fewer than 10) staff members who are considered extremely vulnerable to COVID-19 (as per the HSE guidelines) have, in line with the Chief Medical Officer’s advice, been granted permission to remain working at home temporarily.
220. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when funding will be provided for a project (details supplied) in County Kerry; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44615/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe provision of a fire service in its functional area, including the establishment and maintenance of a fire brigade, the assessment of fire cover needs and the provision of fire station premises, is a statutory function of individual fire authorities under the Fire Services Acts, 1981 and 2003. My Department supports the fire authorities through setting general policy, providing a central training programme, issuing guidance on operational and other related matters and providing capital funding for equipment and priority infrastructural projects.
Recently a new Fire Services Capital Programme for the period 2021-2025, with a funding allocation of €61m was announced. Following extensive engagement with fire authorities, a number of proposals for station and other works were received. The proposals were evaluated and prioritised on the basis of the:
- Area Risk Categorisation of the fire station (population, local fire risks, etc.);
- established Health and Safety needs;
- state of development of the project (if a site has been acquired?, etc.); and
- value for money offered by the proposal.
This new Programme will see six new fire stations built, continued support for the construction of a further 12 new fire stations, nine fire station refurbishments as well as the allocation of 35 new fire engines. In order to maximise the available Capital Programme funding, my Department re-assesses the status of projects in the Programme on an annual basis, and some flexibility is normally available to advance projects that are ready and that offer best value-for-money, taking account of the state of readiness of projects more generally.
In October 2020, grant aid approval was provided to Kerry County Council by my Department for the extension and upgrade works to Killarney Fire station. Subsequently, Kerry County Council have indicated that the original tender could not proceed. Kerry County Council have indicated that the extension and refurbishment works to Killarney Fire station remains their first priority and are now pursuing a new tender process for the required works. The Department will consider any new proposal submitted by Kerry Council for the required works.
221. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the supports that are in place to support homeowners whose properties are affected by bats, particularly when large numbers of bats have congregated at the dwelling; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44683/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department's National Parks & Wildlife Service has a role in providing advice to home owners about bats in houses and the options for managing them. The most recent advice leaflet (Bats in Houses: Guidance for Householders) can be found at the following link:
www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/NPWS%20Bat%20Leaflet%202015.pdf
Where disturbance is being caused by a large bat colony in a domestic dwelling the homeowner may apply for a Domestic Dwelling Derogation Licence from the National Parks & Wildlife Service to exclude bats from the premises.
Each licence application is individually assessed and a licence may be issued outlining the approved actions that may be taken. Details on how to apply can be found at the following link: www.npws.ie/licensesandconsents/disturbance/application-for-derogation-licence.
222. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the estimated cost to the State of implementing the proposal from the affected homeowners for the penalty-free downsizing of properties that have to be demolished and rebuilt under the remediation of dwellings damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks scheme in order that those homes will cost under the €420,000 cap to rebuild. [44685/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing on from the Government decision of the 30 November 2021 in respect of the enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant scheme, the Government approved the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Bill 2022 on 21 June and the Bill passed through both Houses of the Oireachtas and was subsequently signed into law by the President on the 23 July, 2022.
The purpose of this Act is to implement and give legislative underpinning to a series of measures to improve and enhance the scheme as agreed by Government on 30 November 2021. Full details can be found at www.gov.ie/en/press-release/328d7-minister-obrien-welcomes-progress-on-enhanced-defective-concrete-blocks-grant-scheme/.
The grant awarded to an applicant under the Enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant Scheme, where the remediation option is full demolition and rebuild, will be based on the size of the original dwelling or the size of the home the grant recipient intends to build in the case of downsizing. I and the Government have an obligation to the Exchequer and participants in the scheme to ensure that the grants approved are appropriate to the size of home being rebuilt and that homeowners rebuilding a home of the same size are commensurately grant aided. Setting up a two tier grant system with different grants for the same home size would be fraught with difficulty.
I wish to emphasis that the scheme does facilitate downsizing and whilst downsizing may not be financially rewarded under the scheme it would incorrect to state that the scheme financially penalises homeowners who choose to downsize.
223. Deputy Pádraig Mac Lochlainn asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the estimated cost to the State of implementing the proposal from the affected homeowners for a transfer of eligibility the remediation of dwellings damaged by the use of defective concrete blocks scheme for older persons with no ability to raise additional finance to sell their homes and transfer eligibility to the new homeowners after stage 1 approval. [44686/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraFollowing on from the Government decision of the 30 November 2021 in respect of the enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Grant scheme, the Government approved the Remediation of Dwellings Damaged by the Use of Defective Concrete Blocks Bill 2022 on 21 June and the Bill passed through both Houses of the Oireachtas and was subsequently signed into law by the President on the 23 July, 2022.
The purpose of this Act is to implement and give legislative underpinning to a series of measures to improve and enhance the scheme as agreed by Government on 30 November 2021. Full details can be found at
www.gov.ie/en/press-release/328d7-minister-obrien-welcomes-progress-on-enhanced-defective-concrete-blocks-grant-scheme/.
Section 9 (4) of the Act confirms an individual who purchased a relevant dwelling on or after 31 January 2020, other than a dwelling in respect of which a letter of assurance has been issued, shall not be a relevant owner where he or she knew or ought to have known that defective concrete blocks were used in the construction.
Section 21 of the Act provides for a letter of assurance which attaches to a dwelling and confers an entitlement to apply for a second grant under the scheme in respect of that dwelling, in specific circumstances and where the remediation works are completed. Where a person purchases a dwelling on or after the 31 January 2020, other than a dwelling to which a letter of assurance is attached, they are not considered a relevant owner under the terms of the scheme.
Section 24 of the Act, specifically deals with a change of relevant owner in limited circumstances related to the death of a relevant owner who has been approved for grant assistance. No provision is made for a change of relevant owner in any other circumstance.
224. Deputy Alan Kelly asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if a planning condition approved by a county council planning authority for a development can be overridden as part of a site resolution plan for the development [44687/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraSection 34(4) of the Planning and Development Act 2000, as amended (the Act), provides for the attaching of conditions to planning permissions by planning authorities. Under section 34(5) of the Act, conditions may provide that points of detail relating to a grant of permission may subsequently be agreed between the planning authority and the person carrying out the development. If the planning authority and that person fail to reach agreement on the matter, then it may be referred to An Bord Pleanála (the Board) for determination.
Section 146A of the Act allows for amendments of a clerical or technical nature of planning permissions. A planning authority or the Board may amend a planning permission granted by it for the purposes of: correcting any clerical errors; facilitating an action reasonably regarded as having been contemplated by a particular provision but not expressly provided for in the permission or decision; or otherwise facilitating the operation of the permission or decision. A planning authority or the Board shall not exercise these powers if to do so would, in its opinion, result in a material alteration of the terms of the development, the subject of the permission or decision concerned.
Before it decides to exercise the powers under Section 146A of the Act, a planning authority or the Board may invite submissions in relation to the matter to be made to it by any person who made submissions or observations to it in relation to the permission or other matter concerned and shall have regard to any submissions made to it on foot of that invitation.
225. Deputy Thomas Pringle asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage when the updated planning exemptions to allow for solar photovoltaic panels will be updated; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44731/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended (the Act), all development, unless specifically exempted under the Act or associated Regulations, requires planning permission. Section 4 of the Act and Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended (the Regulations), set out various exemptions from the requirement to obtain planning permission. Any such exemptions are subject to compliance with any general restrictions on exemptions set out in the Act or the Regulations and to the specific conditions set out in each class of exempted development in Schedule 2 of the Regulations. Included in the planning exemptions set out in the Regulations are those applying to the installation of solar infrastructure on a variety of building types, including houses, businesses, industrial and agricultural to which specific conditions are attached.
My Department, in the context of the Climate Action Plan and in consultation with the Department of Environment, Climate and Communications, has undertaken a review of the solar panel planning exemptions set out in the Regulations, with a particular focus on facilitating increased self-generation of electricity. This review is now complete. Substantial changes to the current planning exemption thresholds for solar panels are proposed, including those relating to the installation of solar panels on the roofs of houses, as well as the introduction of new classes of solar panel planning exemptions for apartments and educational/community/sports buildings.
The draft regulations have been reviewed under the Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) Directive and it has been determined that they are likely to have significant effects on the environment, necessitating the undertaking of a full SEA on the draft proposals. The draft regulations have also been screened for Appropriate Assessment (AA) under the Habitats Directive by my Department’s Ecological Assessment Unit (EAU) and the need for AA has been screened out.
A public consultation on the draft solar regulations as part of the SEA process ran from 15 June 2022 to 13 July 2022. My Department is currently reviewing written submissions and observations received as part of the public consultation, which will be taken into consideration before the finalisation of the draft regulations.
As required under planning legislation, the proposed exempted development regulations must be laid in draft form before the Houses of the Oireachtas and receive a positive resolution from both Houses before they can be made and the SEA process concluded. It is intended that the process for finalising the solar panel planning exemptions will be completed in the coming weeks.
226. Deputy Francis Noel Duffy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide a breakdown of the social, cost rental, affordable purchase and private homes delivered in the second quarter of 022 (details supplied).. [44741/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes comprehensive programme level statistics on a quarterly basis on social housing delivery activity. This data is available to the end of Quarter 1 2022, and is published on the statistics page of my Department’s website, at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/collection/6060e-overall-social-housing-provision/
My Department also publishes the Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR). The CSR provides details of social housing developments that have been completed, are under construction or are progressing through the various stages of the design and tender processes. The most recent publication was for Quarter 1 2022 and is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/6912a-social-housing-construction-projects-status-report-q1-2022/
A version of the CSR file can also be downloaded for analysis at the link below: Social Housing Construction Status Report Q1 2022 - Dataset - Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
The Quarter 2 statistics are being collated and will be published in due course, in conjunction with the Quarter 2 Construction Status Report.
Data in relation to new dwelling completions is published by the Central Statistics Office on a quarterly basis and can be accessed via the following link: www.cso.ie/en/releasesandpublications/ep/p-ndc/newdwellingcompletionsq22022/
227. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage his position on the threat to the heritage of thatched cottages in Ireland due to the significant decline of insurance providers willing to cover the properties; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44742/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra228. Deputy Johnny Mythen asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if his Department will intervene to provide support to ensure that the heritage of thatched cottages in Ireland is protected; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44743/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 227 and 228 together.
I am very aware of the concern expressed by owners of thatched properties in relation to their difficulties with insurance. Under Action 6 of the strategy for built vernacular heritage, A Living Tradition, which I launched in December 2021, my Department has undertaken to “investigate and work to resolve the urgent issue of affordability of insurance for thatched buildings” and other relevant issues relating to thatch and thatched buildings.
Insurance is being urgently examined as this has become an acute problem for many owners of thatched properties. A study is under way to examine the issues relating to insurance for thatch and I expect an interim report by the end of this month and a final report by the end of November. As part of the study, officials in my Department have been canvassing thatch owners for their views and experience of securing insurance for their properties. Officials have also consulted with insurance companies and brokers, in Ireland and abroad, fire authorities, and other relevant bodies, to get their assistance in resolving the issue.
On the basis of the recommendations set out in the report, and any avenues for progress that suggest themselves in the meantime, my Department will work urgently to seek practical solutions to the thatch insurance issue.
I have established a steering group to assist my Department in the implementation actions relating to thatch insurance, and wider actions in relation to thatching skills, thatching materials, and the surveying and recording of thatched buildings. Two members of the group are thatch owners, including a thatcher, another is a thatching grant inspector, and the others have key roles in relevant outside bodies.
My Department continues to offer a number of financial supports to owners of protected structures, including thatched properties. Under my Department’s grant scheme for the renewal or repair of thatched roofs, there is a grant of up to €3,810 available, where a house is used as a normal place of residence; in the case of medical card holders, the grant can be up to €6,350; and on certain offshore islands the grant can rise to €8,252.
Other streams of grant assistance to thatch owners include the Historic Structures Fund, a stream of which is directed towards vernacular buildings that are not on a local authority record of protected structures, and the Built Heritage Investment Scheme. I secured combined funding of €8m for these schemes in 2022 and it is intended to run them again in 2023; details of next year's schemes will be made available in November.
229. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the procedure for updating the Electoral Register; the details of the documents that need to be filled in and submitted by a person to a local authority (details supplied) in order to update their surname after a divorce. [44760/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe maintenance and management of the Register of Electors is a matter for each local authority. It is the duty of each authority to ensure, as far as possible, and with the cooperation of the public, the accuracy and comprehensiveness of the Register.
Under the current legislation there are a number of ways in which a person can interact with the register at different points in the cycle. A person who wishes to change their details may do so by completing a supplement form or, in the context of the draft register published on 1 November each year they may complete an RFA1 form. The form relates to the register that will come into force on the following 15 February.
While the process has served the country well for many years, the Electoral Reform Act 2022, provides for a more responsive electoral registration process as part of a range of significant electoral reforms in line with the commitments in the Programme for Government.
Among the changes to the process are the introduction of rolling (continuously updated) registration; the simplification of forms and the overall registration process, and the use of PPSNs in the registration process. Electors will be able to apply to the registration authority to be included or to update their registration details, including changes of name and address at any time, using a single online application, though a paper form will remain available for those who wish to use it.
In order to prepare for the passage and commencement of the legislation, work to update the systems used by registration authorities is underway, it is expected this should be completed shortly.
231. Deputy Seán Haughey asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will review the planning requirements for the erection of small wind turbines by householders in their back gardens; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44802/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended (the Act), all development, unless specifically exempted under the Act or associated Regulations, requires planning permission. Section 4 of the Act and Schedule 2 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001, as amended (the Regulations), set out various exemptions from the requirement to obtain planning permission. Any such exemptions are subject to compliance with any general restrictions on exemptions set out in the Act or the Regulations and to the specific conditions set out in each class of exempted development in Schedule 2 of the Regulations.
Class 2 of Part 1 of Schedule 2 of the Regulations provides an exemption for the construction, erection or placing within the curtilage of a house of a wind turbine. The exemption is subject to a range of conditions and limitations set out in further detail in Class 2, which include factors such as:limiting to one the number of turbines that may be erected within the curtilage of the house;
- the total height of the turbine shall not exceed 13 metres;
- the supporting tower shall be a distance of not less than the total structure height (including the blade of the turbine at the highest point of its arc) plus one metre from any party boundary;
- noise levels must not be exceeded.
Any development of this nature which falls outside of the Class 2 exemption and the conditions and limitations attached to it are subject to planning permission.
Exemptions from the requirement to obtain planning permission in respect of specific forms of development are provided for, when they are considered to be consistent with proper planning and sustainable development. The exemptions provided for in the Regulations are kept under regular review and I have no plans to amend the Class 2 exemption provisions at this time.
233. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the further steps that can be taken to dramatically increase the housing output to meet the requirements of both the public and private housing programmes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44905/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra236. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the degree to which housing needs continue to be met by local authorities and the private sector; if sufficient progress is being made to make adequate impact on the market needs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44908/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 233 and 236 together.
While the Government and I recognise that there remain some challenges to overcome, one year on from its publication, the Housing for All plan is delivering through increased housing supply; a range of affordable purchase and rental measures; new initiatives to tackle homelessness; and ongoing, long-term reforms of the housing and planning systems.
Increasing housing supply and delivering sustainable, affordable homes for people is the Government’s top priority. Housing for All is a plan with real ambition, guaranteed investment and fresh ideas to deliver housing for real people and create a long-term sustainable housing system. Guaranteed State investment of over €4 billion a year in housing is aimed at increasing supply, which in turn will help increase access to affordable housing to buy or rent.
Housing supply is increasing, despite unprecedented challenges. Since the middle of 2021, over 54,000 new homes have been either built (24,916) or commenced (29,343). Last year, 9,183 social homes were provided.
This increase in supply will be key to meeting demand, moderating price inflation, and addressing affordability for those wishing to rent or buy their own home.
Among the main measures delivered since Housing for All was launched in September 2021 are:
- A Government budget of €4 billion for investment in housing in 2022, with a further €4 billion committed for 2023. The 2022 budget is an increase of 20% on 2021;
- The introduction of four affordable purchase initiatives: First Home scheme; a local authority-provided Affordable Purchase scheme; a revised Local Authority Home Loan scheme; the Project Tosaigh scheme by the Land Development Agency;
- A new Croí Cónaithe (Cities) Fund to address the current viability challenges and activate housing supply at density in city centres through the delivery of 5,000 apartments;
- The rollout of Cost Rental, a new form of State-backed secure, long-term rental tenure through which rents are aimed at a minimum of 25% below open market rates;
- Significant funding to assist local authority affordable housing delivery, for purchase and rent, through the Affordable Housing Fund (AHF). To date, more than 1,000 local authority affordable purchase homes have been approved for funding under the AHF;
- Further protections for renters including legislation enacted last year that caps any rent increases in a Rent Pressure Zone at 2% per annum pro rata when the Harmonised Index of Consumer Prices is higher;
- To reduce current cost pressures in construction and increase standardisation, the government and the Construction Sector Group have commissioned a study on the cost of construction;
- The Government also implemented the Inflation Co-Operation Framework, which sees the State bearing up to 70% of the additional inflationary costs on public works contracts;
- Legislative underpinning to a new requirement that residential houses be ring-fenced for individual buyers – almost 16,000 units restricted to single purchasers or social and affordable housing by mid-May as a result of restrictions on permissions, with legislative provision incorporated in housing strategies and development plans going forward;
- To increase supply, legislation introducing a Residential Zoned Land Tax (commencing in 2024 following publication of maps showing land in scope). Coupled with legislation being developed to introduce Land Value Sharing and Urban Development Zones, these reforms will help (1) activate vacant land zoned and serviced for housing (2) reduce land hoarding that drives up the value of land and cost of housing and (3) ensure greater community gain from land value increases. Community gain will secured through a proportion of the uplift in land values for the provision of infrastructure to support development and, where appropriate, social and affordable housing;
- To tackle vacancy, the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund provides a new Vacant Properties Refurbishment Grant; a new Town Centre First policy and changes to the Fair Deal Scheme to remove disincentives to renting or selling vacant property;
- Measures to increase construction sector capacity, including greater investment to increase the availability of apprenticeships and training, international recruitment initiatives and the new ‘Future Building’ initiative to spearhead activation and recruitment for the sector;
- A number of significant measures to accelerate research and innovation in the sector, including Enterprise Ireland’s new Built to Innovate Fund, a €5 million investment for the establishment of a new Construction Technology Centre, and the turning the sod on a new Modern Methods of Construction Demonstration Park, which will focus on increasing specialised training capacity and allow us to better respond to skills gaps in the construction sector;
- More resources have been provided to local authorities to deliver social and affordable housing, including sanction for additional housing posts; the streamlining of pre-construction procurement and delivery of social housing (including the de-risking of potential delays) by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies; the issuing of guidelines to improve the design and delivery of housing, and ensure the delivery of social and affordable housing is based on need and demand;
- The enactment of the Regulation of Providers of Building Works Act to provide a statutory register for builders
While global and external challenges have emerged since Housing for All was published in September 2021, the Government and I remain focused on achieving the targets set out therein. As committed to last year, when Housing for All was launched, the Government will review and update the actions in the plan. The updated actions will be published in the autumn. This will allow us to respond to these challenges and redouble our focus on prioritising measures to activate and accelerate the delivery of housing supply.
234. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the extent to which the number of applicants for local-authority housing or its equivalent has fluctuated in the course of the past twelve months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44906/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraInformation on the fluctuation in the number of applicants for local authority housing over the past 12 months is not held by my Department.
That said, details on the number of households qualified for social housing support in each local authority area is provided in the annual statutory Summary of Social Housing Assessments (SSHA). The SSHA captures the total number of households qualified for social housing support across the country whose social housing need has not yet been met.
The most recent summary for all counties, conducted in November 2021, is available at:
www.gov.ie/en/publication/f6119-summary-of-social-housing-assessments-2021-key-findings/.
235. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage The number of housing starts undertaken by contract or otherwise by each local authority in the past twelve months; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44907/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department publishes the Social Housing Construction Status Report (CSR). The CSR provides details of social housing developments that have been completed, are under construction or are progressing through the various stages of the design and tender processes. The most recent publication was for Quarter 1 2022 and is available at the following link: www.gov.ie/en/publication/6912a-social-housing-construction-projects-status-report-q1-2022/
A version of the CSR file can also be downloaded for analysis at the link below: Social Housing Construction Status Report Q1 2022 - Dataset - Dept of Housing, Local Government and Heritage
The CSR does not include data on Part V schemes funded through local authority Part V delivery or the Capital Assistance Scheme. Part V delivery is contingent on private developers and as such details on Part V delivery are available once projects are complete. Part V delivery data is published on my Department’s website at www.gov.ie/en/collection/fd048-affordable-housing-and-part-v-statistics/.
237. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if further assistance will be provided for a couple (details supplied) in County Kildare to purchase their own home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44911/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUnder Housing for All a number of schemes have been made available to support purchasers including first-time buyers in accessing more affordable homes.
The Local Authority Home Loan is a Government-backed mortgage for those on modest or low incomes who cannot get sufficient funding from commercial banks to purchase or build a home. It has been available nationwide from local authorities since 4 January last for first-time buyers and fresh start applicants. The loan can be used both for new and second-hand properties, or to self-build. Further information on the scheme, including terms and conditions, is available on the dedicated website localauthorityhomeloan.ie/.
Launched on 7 July this year, the First Home Scheme supports first-time buyers and also applicants under the Government’s ‘Fresh Start’ principle. It is being delivered by First Home Scheme DAC, a strategic partnership between the State and participating mortgage lenders. The Scheme will improve access to newly-built homes on the private market by using a shared equity model to bridge the gap between mortgage finance and the cost of new homes. Support of up to 30% of the home value (or 20% if Help to Buy is also utilised) is the maximum available under the scheme. The homes must be priced within regional price ceilings which will reflect the median prices paid by first-time buyers in each area, and will therefore support home purchases in the lower region of the market. Further details on this scheme can be found at www.firsthomescheme.ie/.
The Help to Buy incentive can in its own right can support first-time buyers in obtaining a newly-built house or apartment, or a self-build home. Subject to the level of income tax and DIRT paid over the previous 4 years, the Help-to-Buy scheme provides a maximum benefit to first-time buyers of €30,000 or 10% of the cost of the newly constructed home. Further information on the Help to Buy incentive is available at www.revenue.ie/en/property/help-to-buy-incentive/index.aspx.
I can confirm that Departmental funding has been made available via the Affordable Housing Fund to local authorities to support their delivery of affordable via the Local Authority Affordable Purchase Scheme. This scheme assists first-time buyers purchasing Local Authority-delivered new homes by bridging the gap between the market value of the home and the combined value of the buyer's mortgage and deposit.
Finally, matters such as mortgage deposit requirements and borrowing limits come under the remit of the Central Bank of Ireland, which is an independent body. However, it should be noted that there are limited exemptions allowed to these rules. For first-time buyers, 20% of mortgages can be above the standard 3.5x income limit, and 5% of mortgages can have a lower deposit that the normal 10% required. Relevant information is available at the following Central Bank links:
www.centralbank.ie/consumer-hub/explainers/what-are-the-mortgage-measures and
www.centralbank.ie/financial-system/financial-stability/macro-prudential-policy/mortgage-measures.
238. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the up-to-date position of a project (details supplied) in County Kildare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44913/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe project mentioned by the Deputy is a significant initiative which will support communities, create exciting recreational opportunities including ways to experience interesting places from new perspectives.
Waterways Ireland obtained planning permission for the entire 46km of the Barrow Blueway Project including the canal side works and the roadside works from Lowtown to Athy. Kildare County Council is the Project Manager for the Barrow Blueway Project and is responsible for overall project delivery.
The project objectives are to:
(1) Provide upgraded and new physical infrastructure in accordance with planning permission;
(2) Provision of infrastructure to achieve ‘Accredited Blueway’ status for the route; and
(3) Co-ordinate marketing activity to maximise the potential of the Blueway.
Waterways Ireland is responsible for the delivery of the canal side works elements only. The roadside works elements are being undertaken by Kildare County Council. Work commenced on site in the late summer of 2020 with completion of works by Waterways Ireland expected in late 2022.
Project updates are published regularly by Kildare County Council on its website.
The target completion date for the remaining works is Q2 2023.
239. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he is considering the expansion of the €50 million scheme providing funding for water services’ infrastructure in rural villages that currently is outside Irish Water’s investment programmes; if he has received an application in respect of Carrigaholt, Cooraclare and Doolin, in County Clare; if he will consider their inclusion in any expanded scheme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45016/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra240. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will report on the progress of the proposed sewerage scheme in Broadford, County Clare; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [45017/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 239 and 240 together.
On 28 April 2022 I announced funding for a new measure under the Multi-Annual Rural Water Programme 2022-2025, for the Waste Water Collection and Treatment needs of Villages and Settlements that do not have access to public waste water services. Details of the announcement can be found at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/press-release/f2fa6-minister-obrien-announces-50-million-in-funding-to-improve-the-waste-water-needs-of-rural-villages/
An allocation of €50 million has been committed under the National Development Plan for the new measure, which will focus on areas of most need based on housing and environmental criteria. It is expected that at least ten demonstration projects will be supported under this first round of funding. The demonstration project model will allow for the development of appropriate longer-term strategies, protocols and better inform future funding needs for the progressive development of public waste water collection and treatment infrastructure in villages/settlements that are currently without these services.
Details of the scheme, including terms and conditions and the relevant accompanying documents are available at the following link:
www.gov.ie/en/publication/a524a-group-water-schemes-and-rural-water-issues/#waste-water-collection-and-treatment-needs-for-villages-and-settlements-without-access-to-public-waste-water-services.
It is now open to all local authorities to submit applications for funding and I would strongly encourage them to do so. Completed applications should be submitted in advance of the deadline of 15 September 2022. To date my Department has not yet received any applications.
It is a matter for Clare County Council to decide which villages or settlements within their functional area meet the criteria set out in the framework.
241. Deputy Holly Cairns asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will increase the price limit for homes bought in County Cork under the first home scheme to reflect the increase in house prices and pressure on towns close to Cork city. [45140/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe First Home Scheme, launched on 07 July, supports first-time buyers in purchasing new houses and apartments in the private market through the use of an equity share model. The Scheme uses regional price ceilings based on the median prices of new-build first-time buyer homes. This is to temper any inflationary pressures and to target support at the lower part of the price distribution in each area, as well as to encourage additional housing supply at this price level. Full details of the First Home Scheme, including price ceilings, are available on the scheme website: www.firsthomescheme.ie.
The setting of the initial First Home Scheme price ceilings was informed primarily by an analysis of the most relevant CSO data, specifically the national Residential Property Price Index (RPPI), together with a review of concurrent market data and sales prices for new homes by first-time buyers. The system will broadly reflect price trends, and represent a clear, easily understandable method for utilising appropriate price ceilings.
Any system of geographically-based price ceilings will require defined borders. Inevitably, this will result in examples of homes on either side of given borders with differing price ceilings. However, when considered in the overall, the system will broadly reflect price trends, and represent a clear, easily understandable method for utilising appropriate price ceilings.
The First Home Scheme Designated Activity Company (DAC) now holds responsibility for reviewing and updating price ceilings nationally, as required. The First Home Scheme has confirmed a review of ceilings will be undertaken after six months of operation of the scheme, and periodically thereafter. This is to ensure any ceilings allow the scheme to deliver on its underlying objectives.
The First Home Scheme can be contacted directly at www.firsthomescheme.ie/get-in-touch/.
242. Deputy Matt Carthy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs if he has contacted the Israeli ambassador to Ireland or made any intervention to the Israelian government following the most recent aggression by Israeli armed forces against Palestinian society, individuals and organisations; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44551/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe overall human rights situation in the occupied Palestinian territory remains a key priority for me as Minister for Foreign Affairs. Ireland takes every opportunity to stress the need for respect for human rights and full accountability, including regarding the actions of the Israeli security forces.
I draw the attention of the Deputy to the joint statement released by Ireland with the Foreign Ministries of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and Sweden, following the raids of six Palestinian NGOs by the Israeli Defence Forces on 18 August, labelling these actions as unacceptable, expressing concern at the further reduction of civil space in the oPt, and standing firm with NGOs to uphold the right to freedom of expression and association in the oPt.
Following the issuing of this statement, Ireland’s Ambassador in Tel Aviv also took part in a meeting with the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with the EU Delegation and 16 other European states, to express concern over these actions.
I strongly condemned the killing of Shireen Abu Akleh in Jenin on 11 May 2022 as she carried out her vital work as a journalist. Media freedom and the safety of journalists must be protected, including in situations of conflict, and I called for an impartial, independent and effective investigation. Accountability must be ensured and those responsible brought to justice. The use of force against mourners by the Jerusalem police was wholly unacceptable and rightly attracted widespread condemnation.
My Department is in contact on an ongoing basis with the Israeli Ambassador in Dublin and has raised all these issues with her, in addition to our engagement with the Israeli authorities through our Ambassador in Tel Aviv.
243. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the additional steps that he now proposes to take in order to help create the circumstances where Ireland’s recognition of the state of Palestine would progress efforts to reach a solution in the Middle East peace process and protect the integrity of Palestinian territory; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44562/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Programme for Government states that the Government will “honour our commitment to recognise the State of Palestine as part of a lasting settlement of the conflict, or in advance of that, when we believe doing so will progress efforts to reach a two-State solution or protect the integrity of Palestinian territory”.
Ireland plays a leadership role at both EU and UN level in taking a consistent, clear, and firm line in relation to the situation in the occupied Palestinian territory. Ireland engages regularly on these issues in the context of the EU, including through my attendance at the EU Foreign Affairs Council, and regular bilateral contacts with my EU counterparts. The Middle East Peace Process is also a key priority for Ireland during our current tenure on the UN Security Council, and Ireland engages actively in monthly Security Council meetings on the Middle East, including the Palestinian question. In the coming days I will be travelling to New York to attend the United Nations High General Assembly High Level Week, where the Middle East Peace Process will be a focus of my discussions with a number of key stakeholders.
Regarding the situation on the ground, I have strongly conveyed our concerns on a number of issues when engaging with the Israeli Government, including in relation to illegal settlement expansion in the occupied Palestinian territory, and will continue to do so. Ireland’s Embassy in Tel Aviv also expresses our concerns directly in its regular contacts with the Israeli authorities.
The Government remains committed to a two-State solution, and will continue to work with partners to revive a political process in line with international law, which ensures equal rights and is acceptable to both parties.
244. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs the number of persons employed in his Department who have a formal agreement to work from home one day per week, two days per week and five days per week; his Department’s policy in respect of facilitating requests by persons to work from home; and the number of persons that have made requests to work from home in 2021 and to date in 2022, that have been declined. [44580/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Department’s formal blended working policy came into effect on 5 September 2022 and aligns with the Blended Working Policy Framework for Civil Service organisations.
Those members of staff whose roles are deemed suitable for blended working arrangements are permitted to work up to a maximum of 50% of their regular attendance pattern remotely over a 4-week period, subject to operational requirements.
No member of staff is permitted to work remotely on a full time basis.
As the application process for blended working entered into force recently, only limited data is available yet to confirm the numbers of people formally availing of remote working.
Prior to the implementation of the policy and with the exception of the Passport Service, the majority of staff worked remotely during the period of 2021 and into 2022 in line with Government guidance. No formal requests for remote working were accepted or declined during that time.
245. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44754/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra246. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44755/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra247. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Foreign Affairs when a passport will issue in the case of a person (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [44756/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 245 to 247, inclusive, together.
With regard to the specific applications about which the Deputy has enquired, the Passport Service will contact the Deputy's office directly in relation to the applications.
