Written Answers Nos. 201-229
203. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Transport if the bus service from Naas via Sallins and Maynooth to Blanchardstown can be augmented given that the bus is heavily overcrowded forcing passengers at peak times to stand for the whole journey; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52649/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs Minister for Transport, I have responsibility for policy and overall funding in relation to public transport; however, I am not involved in the day-to-day operations of public transport. The National Transport Authority (NTA) has statutory responsibility for securing the provision of public passenger transport services nationally and for the scheduling and timetabling of these services in conjunction with the relevant transport operators.
In light of the Authority's responsibility in this area, I have forwarded the Deputy's specific question in relation to the bus service from Naas via Sallins and Maynooth to Blanchardstown, to the NTA for directly reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
204. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Finance the action that is being taken by his Department to help keep down the cost of diesel and petrol which is used by the commercial sector, in view of the fact that the suppliers now appear to be operating on a far higher profit margin than any time over the past 20 years; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52523/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra208. Deputy Niall Collins asked the Minister for Finance his views on a matter (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52562/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 204 and 208 together.
The price of fuel is determined by a number of factors such as global market dynamics, costs of labour, exchange rates, taxation as well as wholesale and retail pricing policy practices which may include additional pricing to cover transport and distribution costs. The Government has acted to limit the impact of increased prices on households and businesses via reductions in VAT, excise and income tax, targeted welfare supports, reduced public transport fares and the provision of energy credits to households.
On 10 March 2022, to alleviate the impact of rising auto fuel prices on households and businesses, the Government introduced VAT inclusive excise duty reductions of 15 cent per litre of diesel and 20 cent per litre on petrol. A further reduction of 1 cent per litre (VAT inclusive) applied from 1 April 2022 to offset the impact of anticipated increased prices as a result of the increase in the Biofuel Obligation Scheme administered by my colleague, the Minister or the Environment, Climate and Communications. These reductions were due to expire on 12 October 2022 but in recognition of the continued impact of high fuel costs on society, I have extended the reductions until 28 February 2023.
According to the European Commission weekly oil bulletin published today 20 October 2022, average national prices in Ireland are €1.82 per litre on petrol and €1.97 on diesel. While garages are not committing an offence by charging a higher price than competitors, all garages must operate within the bounds of consumer protection and competition law in relation to their pricing policies and practices.
The Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (CCPC) is the statutory independent body responsible for the promotion of consumer rights and the enforcement of consumer law. The CCPC provides information on consumer rights and enforces consumer protection laws, including rules on pricing and deceptive trading practices.
If an individual believes that a breach of their consumer rights has occurred, they may make a complaint directly to the business concerned, but also to the CCPC. The CPCC provides advice and guidelines on the process of making a complaint. Full information is available at: www.ccpc.ie
With regard to the haulage sector, the Government has put in place several measures to ease cost pressures including:
- On 15 March 2022, the Government introduced the Licensed Haulage Emergency Support Scheme. The Scheme was administered by the Department of Transport and provided a temporary financial support of €100 per week, for eight weeks, for each eligible heavy goods vehicle authorised on the licence of a road haulage operator as of 11 March 2022. There was good uptake of the scheme, with over €15.6 million paid out to c. 3,080 operators (approx. 80% of licensed operators.)
- The Diesel Rebate Scheme (‘DRS’) has been in operation since 2013 and remains available to qualifying road haulage and passenger transport operators. The DRS operates on a sliding scale basis, whereby the rebate kicks in when the retail price of diesel exceeds €1.00 VAT exclusive and the repayment amount increases gradually as the retail price increases up to a maximum repayment amount of 7.5 cents per litre. Budget 2020 provided for a significant enhancement to the scheme whereby the marginal rate of compensation was doubled at prices over €1.07 VAT exclusive. This enhancement has been maintained to date in light of the current challenges facing sectors of the economy.
- VAT registered businesses are also entitled to recover the cost of VAT on the purchase of diesel, used in the course of their business, as is the case with most business costs.
- The extended excise reduction on diesel also benefits hauliers.
The Government does not have infinite resources but through the measures outlined it has responded to help to ease the impact of high fuel prices.
205. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Finance the reason that mortgage holders whose mortgages were sold by mainstream banks are now subjected to punitive interest rates by the mortgage purchaser without the option to switch providers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52482/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise the Deputy that there is no legal or regulatory measure which prevents a borrower from switching his or her mortgage from one creditor to another mortgage provider. However, the decision on whether or not another lender will provide a new mortgage to a current mortgage holder will, after assessing the creditworthiness of the borrower, be a commercial matter for the new mortgage lender. Neither I nor the Central Bank have a role in such commercial matters. The interest rates that mortgage creditors charge on loans is also a commercial matter for those entities.
There is a comprehensive legislative framework in place underpinned by the European Union (Consumer Mortgage Credit Agreements) Regulations 2016. The Central Bank has also put in place a range of measures, including the Consumer Protection Code, in order to protect consumers who are taking out or already have a mortgage. The consumer protection framework also seeks to ensure that lenders are transparent and fair in all their dealings with borrowers and that borrowers are protected from the beginning to the end of the mortgage life cycle.
Where a loan is sold or transferred to another regulated entity, the regulatory protections that were available to borrowers prior to the transaction continue to be in place with the new owner. Consumers whose loans are sold or transferred, maintain the same regulatory protections that they had, including under the various Central Bank statutory Codes of Conduct, such as the Consumer Protection Code 2012 and the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears 2013 (CCMA).
The Central Bank has said that it expects that all regulated entities take a consumer-focused approach in respect of any decision that affects their customers (existing and new) and communicate clearly, effectively, and in a timely manner with all customers.
206. Deputy Sean Sherlock asked the Minister for Finance the number of recipients of the pandemic unemployment payment who will be expected to pay back tax this year and in 2023, by county, in tabular form. [52492/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am advised by Revenue that 75,825 individuals were in receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and had an underpayment of tax for the tax years 2020 or 2021 when they filed their income tax returns. As the Deputy may be aware, any outstanding tax due at the end of the year is collected through a reduction in the person’s tax credits over four years from 2022.
A Preliminary End of Year Statement is made available to PAYE taxpayers through the myAccount service after the end of each tax year. This statement sets out the taxpayer’s provisional tax position for that tax year based on the information available on Revenue records. However, Revenue may be unaware of any additional credits or reliefs due to the taxpayer as everyone’s circumstances differ and therefore the taxpayer’s position will not be finalised until they complete their income tax return for the year(s) in question.
The following table shows the numbers of taxpayers by county who were in receipt of the Pandemic Unemployment Payment and are paying tax due for those years through a reduction in their tax credits:
|
County |
Number of taxpayers |
|
Carlow |
908 |
|
Cavan |
1,070 |
|
Clare |
1,611 |
|
Cork City & County |
7,837 |
|
Donegal |
1,942 |
|
Dublin City & County |
25,882 |
|
Galway City & County |
4,027 |
|
Kerry |
2,325 |
|
Kildare |
3,231 |
|
Kilkenny |
1,325 |
|
Laois |
1,170 |
|
Leitrim |
345 |
|
Limerick |
2,860 |
|
Longford |
496 |
|
Louth |
2,277 |
|
Mayo |
1,880 |
|
Meath |
3,210 |
|
Monaghan |
917 |
|
Offaly |
1,123 |
|
Roscommon |
749 |
|
Sligo |
880 |
|
Tipperary |
2,041 |
|
Waterford |
1,853 |
|
Westmeath |
1,243 |
|
Wexford |
2,624 |
|
Wicklow |
1,999 |
207. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Finance if he will provide details in relation to the regulation of companies (details supplied); if his attention has been drawn to the fact that these companies have increased the interest rates on lifetime loans by 1.37 %, from 4.82 % to 6.19 %; his views in relation to this dramatic increase in interest rates; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52507/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Central Bank advises that Seniors Money Mortgages (Ireland) Designated Activity Company, trading as Seniors Money/Spry/Spry Finance, is authorised by it as a Retail Credit Firm (RCF). RCFs are required to comply with all relevant requirements of financial services legislation and the regulatory requirements set out in the Central Bank's existing codes of conduct and regulations. These include:
- the Consumer Protection Code 2012,
- the Code of Conduct for Mortgage Arrears 2013,
- the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (Section 48) (Lending to Small and Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises) Regulations 2015 (SME Regulations),
- the Fitness and Probity Regime,
- the Central Bank (Supervision and Enforcement) Act 2013 (Section 48(1)) Minimum Competency Regulations 2017, and
- the Minimum Competency Code 2017.
In addition, RCFs must comply with the authorisation requirements and standards for RCFs. These standards require that RCFs must be able to demonstrate that they are in a position to conduct their affairs in a manner that ensures the best interests of their customers are protected.
The price lenders charge for their loans is a commercial matter for individual lenders. As Minister for Finance I cannot determine the lending policies of regulated financial entities, including the interest rates they charge for loans including mortgages. Neither the Central Bank, nor I, have a statutory role in approving the interest rates that entities which are authorised to provide credit charge on their loans. There are many factors which can influence the interest rates lenders charge on their loans such as the cost of funds, the level of official interest rates and the costs associated with operating business.
However, the Central Bank has stated that it expects that all regulated entities take a consumer-focused approach in respect of any decision that affects their customers (existing and new) and communicate clearly, effectively, and in a timely manner with all customers.
209. Deputy Steven Matthews asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform further to Parliamentary Question No. 115 of 4 October 2022, if the attention of his Department has been drawn to any flood risks associated with a site (details supplied); if any previous flooding incidents took place that caused damage; if so, if this was considered when replacing oil tanks at this location; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52536/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works (OPW) is leading a proactive and whole-of-Government approach to managing flood risk that takes into account the risks associated with climate change. This approach is structured around three pillars: prevention, protection and preparedness. OPW is also the National Authority for the implementation of the EU Floods Directive.
There were three incidents of flooding at the Glendalough Visitor Centre between 2010 and 2012. While there was damage to carpets and seating in the Centre itself, there are no records of any damage being caused to the existing oil tanks during these incidents.
The existing tanks are being replaced due to their age, construction type and condition. The new oil tanks will be located in the same location as the existing structures, but they shall be positioned above ground level and surrounded by a new secure enclosure. The height of the tanks is being increased in order to assist with the gravity feed of oil to the boilerhouse. Raising of the height of the tanks above their current ground level position will also provide for enhanced protection from potential flood events.
Given the nature of the works proposed, a Flood Risk Assessment is not considered necessary, but given the Deputy's concerns, I have instructed my officials to arrange same prior to these works being undertaken.
210. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the agreements that are in place between the Office of Public Works and local authorities in respect of removing debris and trees which have become trapped in bridges crossing rivers; the action that his Department and the OPW are taking together with local authorities to ensure that there is not an adverse outcome at these bridges as a result of increased rainfall and flooding; if all bridges will be inspected before the period of time when there would be increased rainfall and larger volumes of water in rivers; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52518/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraLocal flooding issues are a matter in the first instance for each Local Authority to investigate and address. Concerns regarding potential obstructions or other hazards that might contribute to flooding in the context of a severe weather event should be brought to the attention of the relevant local authority. Under the Government’s Framework for Major Emergency Management, each local authority is designated the Lead Agency for co-ordinating the response to flood events within its functional area.
The Office of Public Works (OPW) is responsible for the maintenance of arterial drainage schemes and flood relief schemes completed under the Arterial Drainage Acts, 1945 and 1995, as amended. Arterial drainage maintenance is an ongoing programme of works of a cyclical nature, typically every four to six years. Each year, the OPW prepares an annual arterial drainage maintenance programme for each region that identifies the proposed maintenance locations within each arterial drainage scheme catchment area. The annual maintenance programme is informed by data gathered from a variety of sources, including maintenance records, observations from inspections and from information provided by members of the public. In addition to these planned maintenance activities, the OPW may also carry out maintenance work where necessary to address issues that come to its attention.
This maintenance work is organised on a regional basis at locations in Mungret, Co. Limerick, Headford, Co. Galway and Trim, Co. Meath. Concerns regarding potential obstructions or other hazards on a channel that is maintained by the OPW should be brought to the attention of the OPW at floodinfo@opw.ie. An online map of the country with detailed information on the location of schemes maintained by the OPW can be found on www.floodinfo.ie.
Riparian owners of land also have an important role in ensuring that watercourses are managed and free flowing so that in extreme weather events the risk of flooding can be minimised. A guide to the rights and responsibilities of landowners is available online at www.flooding.ie.
211. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current position in awarding a contract for the Glashaboy flood relief scheme; if he will outline the likely date when the contract will be awarded; when work is due to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52519/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Glashaboy River Flood Relief Scheme at Glanmire / Sallybrook, Cork is being progressed by Cork City Council. The Office of Public Works (OPW) in partnership with Cork City Council are engaging proactively to progress the flood relief scheme for Glanmire.
The Glashaboy Flood Relief Scheme was confirmed in January 2021 by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform under the Arterial Drainage Acts 1945 to 1995. The scheme is being funded from the €1.3 billion in flood relief measures under the National Development Plan to 2030, and as part of Project Ireland 2040. Provision for the total project budget for this scheme is included in the Office of Public Works multi annual capital allocation.
The Glashaboy River Flood Relief Scheme will protect 103 properties from a significant risk of flooding.
The tender documentation for the procurement and appointment of a contractor was issued in September 2021 with a return date of 24th January 2022. Unfortunately, Cork City Council was not in a position to appoint a Contractor for the works on foot of this procurement process. However, Cork City Council is proceeding towards issuing updated Tender Documents in Q4 2022 with the schedule of works commencing in Q2 2023. Key project partners are working to minimise the overall delay in the completion of these works.
212. Deputy Colm Burke asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform the current position in awarding a contract for the Blackpool flood relief scheme; if he will outline the likely date when the contract will be awarded; when work is due to commence; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52520/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform confirmed the River Bride (Blackpool) Flood Relief Scheme, under the Arterial Drainage Act 1945, as amended, in March 2021, and construction was expected to commence in early 2022.
In June 2021, the community group, Save Our Bride Otters (SOBO), was granted leave to apply for a Judicial Review of the confirmation of the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform. A stay was also granted on works being carried out pursuant to the confirmation, pending the resolution of these proceedings.
Following an extensive legal review of the grounds of the Judicial Review, and the statutory processes around the decision-making process, the Department of Public Expenditure and reform has agreed to consent to an order reverting the evaluation of the River Bride (Blackpool) Flood Relief scheme back to an advanced stage of further public consultation. In agreeing to this, DPER has conceded the matter on a single ground related to public consultation procedures on certain information as part of the confirmation process.
Following this decision, further information was requested by the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform as part of the environmental impact assessment. The Office of Public Works provided this further information on 13 October 2022, which will now be subject to a further public consultation in relation to the scheme.
The confirmation process for the scheme is a matter for the Department of Public Expenditure and Reform. Subject to confirmation procurement for a contractor for the works will commence.
213. Deputy Patrick Costello asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will consent to amendments of the Phoenix Park bye laws by the Commissioners of the Office of Public Works in respect to allowing for the enforcement of the 30 km per hour speed limit in the park. [52530/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI wish to advise that my officials in the Office of Public Works are seeking legal advices on the existing bye-laws which pertain to the Phoenix Park and potential amendments to same. The Phoenix Park Act of 1925 will also be reviewed in this context.
An Gardai Siochána support the introduction of the lower speed limit, which was introduced following an extensive public consultation process. The Phoenix Park Transport and Mobility Options Study Post-Consultation Report was published last year with a number of key recommendations, including the reduction of the speed limit from 50 kilometres per hour to 30 kilometres per hour.
The lower speed limit was introduced for public safety and overall, there has been a reduction of speeds within the Park and a change in driver behaviour is evident, making the Park a safer place for all visitors.
214. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform if he will provide a schedule of the total expenditure by his Department on pension payments to former civil servants in each of the years 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; if he will also provide in tabular form the total payments made to former civil servants including a breakdown of the grade they held upon retirement and the number of persons in each grade; and if he will provide separate schedules for payments to former civil servants appointed before and after 6 April 6 1995. [52620/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI and my Department are responsible for the Civil Service pension schemes, which cover personnel in established and unestablished Civil Service and State Industrial posts.
We would not be in a position to provide figures for 2022 until such time as the full year has elapsed and the Appropriation Account for 2022 has been audited. This will be completed over the course of 2023.
Total pension payments to Civil Servants in each of the years 2019, 2020 and 2021 are outlined below.
Pension Expenditure
|
- |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
|
€000 |
€000 |
€000 |
|
|
A1 - Established Pensions (Pay Group 177, 213) |
429,927 |
456,298 |
494,352 |
|
A2 - Established Spouse and Children Pensions (Pay Group 179) |
42,912 |
43,011 |
44,036 |
|
A3 - Established Ex Gratia Spouse Pensions (Pay Group 179) |
303 |
253 |
199 |
|
A4 - Established Lump Sums |
103,406 |
106,065 |
137,617 |
|
A5 - Unestablished Pensions / Spouse and Children / Ex Gratia Spouse (Pay Group 178, 180) |
21,297 |
21,883 |
21,551 |
|
597,845 |
627,510 |
697,755 |
The grade composition breakdown of Civil Service retirees for each of the years 2019, 2020 and 2021 is outlined below. This information has been prepared by the National Shared Shared Office (NSSO).
Number of Pensioners by Grade
|
- |
2019 |
2020 |
2021 |
|
Secretary General (SEC) |
83 |
85 |
81 |
|
Second Secretary (SSC) |
10 |
10 |
10 |
|
Deputy Secretary (DS) |
35 |
33 |
32 |
|
Assistant Secretary (ASC) |
288 |
299 |
302 |
|
Principal Officer (PO) |
923 |
945 |
998 |
|
Assistant Principal (AP) |
1,878 |
1,949 |
2,046 |
|
Higher Executive Officer (HEO) |
2,652 |
2,838 |
3,043 |
|
Administrative Officer (AO) |
3 |
1 |
2 |
|
Executive Officer (EO) |
2,208 |
2,460 |
2,767 |
|
Staff Officer (SO) |
577 |
572 |
559 |
|
Clerical Officer (CO) |
4,085 |
4,377 |
4,758 |
|
Temporary Clerical Officer (TCO) |
37 |
52 |
61 |
|
Services Officer (SVO) |
1,047 |
1,044 |
1,049 |
|
Sundry Grades |
12,541 |
12,741 |
13,198 |
|
Total |
26,367 |
27,406 |
28,906 |
A breakdown of retirees by pre-1995 and post-1995 is not readily available. However, given the cohort of retirees involved, the majority will be those who joined the Civil Service prior to 1 April 1995.
215. Deputy Catherine Connolly asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media when the audio-visual media services directive will be fully transposed into Irish law; the details of the deadlines that will be applied to the requirement for audio-visual services to be made accessible to people with a visual or hearing disability; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52641/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe revised Audiovisual Media Services Directive (AVMSD) will be transposed through the Online Safety and Media Regulation (OSMR) Bill 2022. Among other things, the Bill will establish a new multi-person Media Commission (to be known as Coimisiún na Meán), dissolve the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland, establish a regulatory framework for online safety, and update the regulatory frameworks for broadcasting and audiovisual on-demand media services.
The OSMR Bill is currently progressing through the legislative process in the Dáil, having been passed by Seanad Éireann on 11 July 2022. I intend to progress the Bill to enactment before the end of the year. Following this, in Q1 2024 Coimisiún na Meán will be formally established and commence its regulatory functions. This will involve the development of regulatory codes and rules which will complete the transposition of the revised AVMSD. It is expected that this work will be a priority of An Coimisiún once formally established.
Regarding the question on accessibility, Article 7 of the revised AVMSD requires Member States to take the following measures:
- Member States shall ensure, without undue delay, that services provided by media service providers under their jurisdiction are made continuously and progressively more accessible to persons with disabilities through proportionate measures;
- Member States shall ensure that media service providers report on a regular basis to the national regulatory authorities or bodies on the implementation of the measures referred to in paragraph 1. By 19 December 2022 and every three years thereafter, Member States shall report to the Commission on the implementation of paragraph 1;
- Member States shall encourage media service providers to develop accessibility action plans in respect of continuously and progressively making their services more accessible to persons with disabilities. Any such action plan shall be communicated to national regulatory authorities or bodies;
- Each Member State shall designate a single, easily accessible, including by persons with disabilities, and publicly available online point of contact for providing information and receiving complaints regarding any accessibility issues referred to in this Article; and,
- Member States shall ensure that emergency information, including public communications and announcements in natural disaster situations, which is made available to the public through audiovisual media services, is provided in a manner which is accessible to persons with disabilities.
Article 7 will be transposed into Irish law by section 9 of the OSMR Bill, which will insert section 46O into the Broadcasting Act 2009. Section 46O will enable An Coimisiún to make media service rules in relation to a number of matters including the accessibility of audiovisual media services in line with the requirements of the revised AVMSD.
Until such time as these rules come into place, section 46O(13) will provide that the current Access Rules made by the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland will continue to apply to broadcasters established in the State.
216. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media the number of domestic and international tourists, respectively, visiting each county annually since 1 January 2010, in tabular form; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52580/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe collection of official national tourism statistics is the responsibility of the Central Statistics Office (CSO); however, Fáilte Ireland provides estimates of overseas tourists and holidaymakers numbers on a regional basis. Accordingly, I have referred the Deputy's question to Fáilte Ireland for direct reply to the Deputy. Please contact my private office if you have not received a reply within ten working days.
217. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if the dance bursary award, distributed by the Arts Council in 2022, will be open again in 2023 for applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52634/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra218. Deputy Jackie Cahill asked the Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media if the next generation artists award, distributed by the Arts Council in 2022, will be open again in 2023 for applications; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [52635/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 217 and 218 together.
As Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, along with having responsibility for policy within the Arts, I allocate funding to the Arts Council who have primary responsibility for the development of the arts in Ireland under the Arts Act 2003.Regarding these specific questions in relation to re-opening of bursary awards in 2023, I have referred your question to the Arts Council for direct reply. Please advise my private office if you do not receive a response within ten working days.
219. Deputy Marian Harkin asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider an increase to the housing adaptation grant for people with a disability and housing aid for older people scheme grant, given the increased construction costs and increased costs of building materials; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52484/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraMy Department provides funding to local authorities for the Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability Scheme. These schemes assist eligible applicants living in privately owned homes to make their accommodation more suitable for their needs, with Exchequer funding of €65 million available nationally in 2022. As part of the annual budgetary process the Exchequer funding provision for 2023 has been increased by €2 million to a total of €67 million, continuing the year on year increases since 2014.
Housing for All commits to reviewing the suite of Housing Adaptation Grants for Older People and People with a Disability. Among the areas which the review, currently underway, will consider are the income thresholds, the grant limits, the application and decision making processes, including supplementary documentation required. The review is to be completed by the end of 2022.
220. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide an update on an application by Cork City Council to build firewalls in Traveller bays. [52488/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Housing (Traveller Accommodation) Act, 1998 provides that the role of my Department is to ensure that there are adequate structures and supports in place to assist housing authorities in providing accommodation for Travellers, including a national framework of policy, legislation and funding.
The Act provides that housing authorities have statutory responsibility for the assessment of the accommodation needs of Travellers and the preparation, adoption and implementation of multi-annual Traveller Accommodation Programmes (TAPs) in their areas.
An application from Cork City Council to carry out upgrade works to a halting site is currently under review by my Department on foot of engagement with the City Council. A decision will made and notified to the City Council at the earliest possible opportunity.
221. Deputy Paul Murphy asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage in relation to the funding put in place for local authorities allowing them to purchase properties from landlords, if he will clarify if he has the authority to intervene in the process and whether his Department will have oversight as to whether local authorities are engaging with tenants facing eviction and landlords who indicate the reason for an eviction of the sale of a property. [52497/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraHousing for All, is the Government’s plan to increase the supply of housing to an average of 33,000 per year over the next decade. This includes the delivery of 90,000 social homes by 2030. Housing for All is supported by an investment package of over €4bn per annum, through an overall combination of €12bn in direct Exchequer funding, €3.5bn in funding through the Land Development Agency and €5bn funding through the Housing Finance Agency. Under Housing for All, the Government will deliver 47,600 new build social homes and 3,500 social homes through long-term leasing in the period 2022-2026. Our clear focus is to increase the stock of social housing through new build projects delivered by local authorities and Approved Housing Bodies (AHB) and, with this, to reduce the numbers of social homes delivered through acquisition programmes. However, acquisitions of second hand properties for social housing fall under a number of local authority and Approved Housing Body (AHB) acquisitions programmes. On 19 January my Department issued a circular letter to local authorities advising that social housing acquisitions by local authorities and AHB CALF acquisitions in 2022 would be focussed on a number of priority areas, as follows:- One-bedroom units to deliver on Housing First and meet the short supply in this category;- Other properties that allow persons/families to exit homelessness; and- Specific housing required for/suitable for individuals with a disability or other particular priority needs.
Local authorities were also advised that limited acquisitions through the Capital Assistance Scheme will also be approved, subject to the available budget for specific vulnerable cohorts, such as housing for older people, accommodation for individuals and families who are homeless and for people with a disability.On 20 April, a further circular letter issued to local authorities in relation to social housing acquisitions. The key purpose of this circular was to advise local authorities that I had reinstated the delegated sanction to local authorities in respect of social housing acquisitions which are:(i) in one of the priority categories set out in the January circular letter;(ii) in line with acquisition cost guidelines; and(iii) can be completed during 2022.The reinstatement of delegated sanction will allow local authorities to respond more flexibility to secure acquisitions which support a household to exit or to prevent homelessness. I have requested local authorities to be proactive in acquiring properties which can prevent homelessness, including properties where a notice of termination has been issued to the tenant. Capital funding is available in my Department to support additional social housing acquisitions.
The Regulation of Providers of Building Works and Miscellaneous Provisions Bill 2022 came into effect on 6 July 2022. Part 11 amended the Residential Tenancies Act 2004 to, inter alia, extend the required termination notice period that tenants must receive (where there has been no breach of tenant obligations). In addition, from 6 July 2022, when landlords are serving a Notice of Termination on their tenants, they must also send a copy to the Residential Tenancies Board at the same time. Failure to send a copy to the RTB at the same time will invalidate the Notice of Termination.
Providing early intervention to people at risk of homelessness is a priority for Government and Local authorities oversee a range of homeless prevention and tenancy sustainment measures. Many of these services are operated in partnership between local authorities and NGO service delivery partners and are funded by my Department.
The HAP Placefinder Service supports households experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness, to identify and secure a HAP supported tenancy in the private rented market. Under the Placefinder service, all local authorities are provided with the options to pay deposits and advance rental payments for eligible households. I have also increased the HAP discretion rate from the previous 20%, to a maximum of 35% for all local authority areas.
222. Deputy Thomas Gould asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the average wait time for approval by the National Standards Authority of Ireland of new biobased construction materials. [52505/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraNSAI 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 operating procedures is a matter for the NSAI and its parent Department.
223. Deputy Cian O'Callaghan asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will provide details of the criteria local authorities use when buying homes for social housing under the Social Housing Investment Programme; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52509/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAwaiting reply from the Department.
224. Deputy Richard Bruton asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the implications that the recent enquiry into the affairs of An Bord Pleanála have for the status of previous decisions by the Board; and if the Board can proceed as envisaged with those decisions. [52516/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraIn the light of the media reports which raised a number of matters in relation to conflicts of interest and certain other matters, the Chairperson of the Board announced in May 2022 that he had established an internal team of senior management personnel to examine a sample of decided cases. The purpose of this internal review is to identify whether there are specific risks to compliance with the internal controls, systems and procedures under the Board’s relevant Statutory Framework and Code of Conduct and whether any other specific matter needs to be brought to the Chairperson’s attention.
The Chairperson of An Bord Pleanála has informed me that he will update me in respect of the outcome of the review and recommended actions, following consultation with the Board’s legal advisors after the internal review is finalised.
An Bord Pleanála ('the Board') is independent in the performance of its functions under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended). Under section 30 of the Planning and Development Act, 2000, as amended, the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage is specifically precluded from exercising power or control in relation to any particular case with which a planning authority or the Board is or may be concerned.
An Bord Pleanála have confirmed that the status of decisions which have already been made by the Board remains unchanged.
225. Deputy Duncan Smith asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if the croí cónaithe scheme will be extended to cities; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52537/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraPathway 4 of Housing for All sets out a blueprint to address vacancy and make efficient use of our existing housing stock. Many areas of cities, towns and villages of all sizes face the blight of vacant properties, which, if brought back into use, could add vibrancy and provide new accommodation in those areas. The Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund is a key initiative which underpins these policy objectives set out in Pathway Four of Housing for All. Schemes under the Fund, which are delivered by local authorities, provide new choices for people to live in towns and villages in Ireland, through the provision of a grant to support the refurbishment of vacant properties and by providing serviced sites in towns and villages to people in order to build their own homes. On the 14 July, I launched the Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, funded by the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. The grant will benefit those who wish to turn a formerly vacant house or building into their principal private residence. A grant of up to a maximum of €30,000 is available for the refurbishment of vacant properties for occupation as a principal private residence, including the conversion of a property which has not previously been used as residential. Where the refurbishment costs are expected to exceed the standard grant of up to €30,000, a maximum top-up grant amount of up to €20,000 is available where the property is confirmed to be derelict, bringing the total grant available for a derelict property up to a maximum of €50,000. On 21 September, I launched the Ready to Build Scheme, also funded by the Croí Cónaithe (Towns) Fund. Under the Ready to Build Scheme, local authorities will make serviced sites in towns and villages available to potential individual purchasers to build their homes. These sites will be available at a discount on the market value of the site for the building of a property for occupation as the principal private residence of the purchaser. When the Fund was launched, I committed to ongoing reviews of the schemes under it. Feedback on the Vacant Property Refurbishment Scheme to date has been very positive, with 304 applications reported at the start of October. Given that Pathway 4 of Housing for All is intended to support re-use of existing buildings and the synergy with the Government's Our Rural Future policy, I do see the sense in extending the eligibility for the scheme to vacant properties in both our cities and rural areas to ensure we are using our existing housing stock to the fullest extent possible. In that context, I am pleased to say that the Government has decided to extend the Vacant Property Refurbishment Scheme and I expect to have that extension to cities and rural properties in place by November. Vacant Homes Officers in each local authority will be available to provide advice and information on the schemes and the application process.
226. Deputy Richard O'Donoghue asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the reason for the delay in the insurance survey (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52545/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraAwaiting reply from the Department.
227. Deputy John McGuinness asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the timeframe for processing submissions made to the housing supply clearing house; the status of an application made by a person (details supplied); the number of applications that have been made to date; the number of approved or rejected applications; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52560/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Housing Supply Clearing House measure was established to facilitate consideration of matters which might warrant action being taken by the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage, local authorities or other State agencies, in order to expedite the delivery of housing which has the benefit of planning permission.
The objective of the Housing Supply Clearing House process is to both identify steps needed to activate the development of housing which has the benefit of planning permission and to expedite the related delivery of local infrastructure required to facilitate housing development, in order to increase the supply of housing generally and in particular to address the emergency which has arisen as a consequence of the conflict in Ukraine.
The first pilot call for submissions to the Housing Supply Clearing House measure was closed on 22 June 2022.
Proposals for consideration under the measure were invited from persons holding planning permissions which may be eligible, namely residential developments which had not commenced, or those which were partly-commenced, in relation to which there was an impediment to development which might warrant action being taken by the Minister, a local authority or another State agency or body.
Proposals were also invited from infrastructure providers who are responsible for delivering key infrastructure required to support the development of housing, where impediments to the delivery of such infrastructure might exist that might warrant action being taken as set out above.
10 proposals were received in response to this first call by the 22nd of June deadline. In light of this limited response, a second call was opened on the 15th of July. This call remains open to submissions, and as of the 19th of October 2022, 5 further proposals have been submitted.
In line with the agreed Housing Supply Clearing House process, all submitted proposals, including the proposal referred to by the Deputy, have been initially assessed to establish eligibility, identify the key issues for consideration and categorise the submissions. In this regard, a report is being prepared for submission to the Minister in the coming weeks to set out the initial assessment of the submitted proposals and the recommended course of action. Further updates will subsequently be provided to the persons who have made submissions in due course.
228. Deputy Cathal Crowe asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage if he will consider issuing a circular to local authorities advising them that a degree of prioritisation be given to retained fighters who are also social housing applicants in order that they can be housed within the required 1.5 km radius of their local fire station; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52579/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraUltimately, decisions on the qualification of households for social housing support, the most appropriate form of such support, and the allocation of that support are a matter solely for the local authority concerned in accordance with the provisions of the Housing (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2009 and the associated Social Housing Assessment Regulations.
This includes decisions on the prioritisation of social housing support for qualifying retained firefighters, which may have regard to the Department’s ‘Keeping Communities Safe’ policy and target appliance mobilising times, the local authority’s own requirements on the time and distance a retained firefighter must reside or work from their assigned stations, and flexibility available within these to provide for local circumstances.
229. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of sites on the derelict sites register of each local authority; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52582/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra230. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of notices issued under section 11 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 by each local authority in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52583/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra231. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of directions made by him and his predecessor under section 12 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in respect of each local authority in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52584/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra232. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of directions made by him and his predecessor under section 13 of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in respect of sites held by statutory bodies in each local in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52585/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra233. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of derelict sites acquired by each local authority under the powers provided in the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52586/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra234. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the sum payable to each local authority in 2019, 2020 and 2021 as a result of the derelict sites levy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52587/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra235. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of prosecutions initiated by each local authority under the powers provided in the Derelict Sites Act 1990 in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52588/22]
Amharc ar fhreagra236. Deputy Michael McNamara asked the Minister for Housing, Local Government and Heritage the number of derelict sites acquired by each local authority under the Derelict Sites Act 1990, the Derelict Sites Act, 1961, or the Acquisition of Derelict Sites Act, 1940, used for the purpose of housing in 2019, 2020, 2021 and to date in 2022; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [52589/22]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 229 to 236, inclusive, together.
Local Authorities are required to submit an annual return to my Department providing information on the operation of the Derelict Sites Act 1990 (the Act) in their functional areas. The derelict sites returns are collected in Q2 of the following year. The information requested in respect of 2019, 2020 and 2021 is provided in the attached Table. Figures for 2022 are not yet available.
I have made no directions under sections 12 and 13 of the Act in the period since taking office. Nor did my predecessor in the period from the beginning of 2019 to the date of his leaving office.
My Department does not collect data on the number of prosecutions initiated by each local authority under the powers provided in the Act nor does my Department collect data on the subsequent use of sites acquired under the Derelict Sites legislation. The relevant local authority should be contacted for this information.
