Written Answers Nos. 213-232
214. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which economic or fiscal policy here continues to be conducive to good and careful management of the economy; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43437/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraDespite facing substantial economic headwinds over the past year, the Irish economy has proven to be remarkably resilient. This has been reflected in strong domestic economic growth in the second quarter, with both modified domestic demand (MDD) and personal consumption growing by close to 1 per cent.
Government supports have clearly played a key role in helping households to weather the recent economic shocks. By responding swiftly and decisively to the cost of living pressures and providing €12bn (or 4½ per cent of national income) in supports over the course of this year and last to households and businesses, Government has helped to mitigate the impact of inflationary pressures with a focus on assisting those most in need.
Despite our economic position remaining strong at present, Government is fully aware that significant challenges remain on the horizon, as capacity constraints in both the housing and the labour markets become increasingly binding. Downside risks to the global economy are to the fore with growth is slowing in some of our main trading partners, which could have knock-on implications for Irish exports.
Against this backdrop, Budget 2024 will once again need to strike the right balance. This will mean making sure the actions government takes are affordable, sustainable and to the greatest extent possible, targeted at those who need them most. It is essential that fiscal policy does not become part of the problem and add to inflationary pressures.
Looking beyond the short term, research by my Department has highlighted that the pace of growth is forecast to moderate over the medium term. The main driver of this slowdown in growth will be Ireland’s rapidly ageing population, which is expected to constrain the supply capacity of the economy.
In recognition of the burden this will place on public finances, work is well underway on the establishment of a long-term savings vehicle. My Department has published a paper titled “Future-proofing the Public Finances – the Next Steps”, which highlights some of the merits of establishing a long-term public savings vehicle in Ireland. The establishment of such a fund could contribute to meeting future budgetary pressures e.g. population ageing and the climate and digital transitions.
215. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he remains satisfied this country continues to remain an attractive location for investments in jobs; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43441/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraIreland is widely acknowledged to promote a stable pro-enterprise economy, reflected in our continued ability to attract and retain foreign direct investment (FDI) and the jobs that this investment brings. I am conscious of the need to maintain our competitive position on an international stage, given the contribution of FDI to the domestic economy, and in light of an increase in geo-fragmentation and protectionist policies the world over.
Latest data shows that the stock of FDI in Ireland stands at almost €1.2 trillion, which continues to support highly-skilled employment. In its latest annual report, the IDA reported the highest ever increase in FDI-related employment last year, with a 9 per cent increase in employment on 2021. The numbers employed in the multinational sector in Ireland in 2022 is estimated at over 300,000 according to the IDA. Furthermore, this investment and job creation supports indigenous SMEs indirectly. Of course, multinational enterprises also contribute to the economy by way of income and corporation tax receipts.
That being said, the global economy is facing into considerable uncertainty. As a small economy highly integrated into global value chains, Ireland is particularly exposed to risks to the global outlook, which include a potential increase in geo-political tensions and a potentially weaker Chinese economy; both of which would have implications for global value chains.
These are factors we cannot control, which means we must put every effort into what we can control so that Ireland retains its competitive advantage. This includes future-proofing our strong regulatory and legal landscape, promoting our reputation as a stable economy in which to make long-term and job-rich investments, the likes of which we have seen most recently in the pharma, med-tech and semiconductor sectors. We will also need to continue to invest directly in critical infrastructure such as housing and health, making Ireland a competitive place to live and work in the context of an increasingly sparse global talent pool, while continuing to invest in our own domestic skills.
This Government will not become complacent, ensuring that Ireland remains a competitive location for investment and job creation, despite the weak global outlook.
216. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the degree to which Ireland remains competitive both within and without the European Union; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43442/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra223. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which he remains satisfied with the performance of Ireland's economy when compared to all others in the eurozone; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43449/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 216 and 223 together.
Economic growth prospects across the Eurozone, the European Union and more broadly remain subdued. In the second quarter of this year, GDP grew by just 0.1 per cent in the Eurozone and was flat in the EU. Irish GDP, by comparison, increased by ½ a per cent in the second quarter, while modified domestic demand – my preferred measure of domestic economic activity – increased by 1 per cent over this period, driven largely by the strength of consumer spending.
There remains significant uncertainty surrounding the outlook for the international economy, and Ireland is facing many of the same headwinds as our European peers. Although headline inflation has eased in many economies, core inflation is proving more persistent. Growth in the Chinese economy has moderated recently, with potential spillovers for the global economy if there is continued weakness in Chinese economic growth, while a further heightening in geopolitical tensions would have negative implications for global trade.
Looking ahead, global GDP growth is projected to remain subdued this year and next. In its recent interim economic outlook, the OECD is projecting historically weak global GDP growth of just 3 per cent in 2023, while euro area GDP is forecast at 0.6 per cent - a marginal downward revision - driven by the German economy which is now forecast to contract by 0.2 per cent.
As a small, open economy, Ireland is particularly exposed to risks in the global economy. However, the Irish economy has proven resilient, and is on a strong footing to face future potential headwinds. The Government will continue to monitor the risks to Ireland’s competitiveness. My Department will publish updated projections next week alongside the Budget.
217. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the degree to which the OECD taxation provisions in respect of inward investment are currently in place and operational; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43443/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the deputy will be aware, the Government, in October 2021, took the decision to join with almost 140 other jurisdictions in a two-pillared agreement to create a new international tax framework and we intend to follow through on that commitment.
Pillar One seeks to reallocate taxing rights to market jurisdictions through Amount A as well as simplifying transfer pricing rules in certain cases through Amount B.
Pillar Two introduces a minimum effective tax rate of 15% for in scope MNEs, with global revenues over €750m, through the GloBE rules and also provides for the introduction of a treaty based rule, the Subject to Tax Rule, in certain instances where a rate below 9% applies.
The OECD Inclusive Framework published an Outcome Statement in July, outlining the significant progress made towards implementation of the agreement.
The GloBE rules will be implemented in Ireland largely via an EU Directive, the transposition of which will be delivered through domestic legislation published as part of this Autumn's Finance Bill. A Qualified Domestic Minimum Top-up tax will be legislated for as part of the transposition allowing Ireland to collect any additional top-up tax arising from the Pillar Two.
It is not envisaged that Ireland will be exposed to the Subject to Tax Rule element of Pillar Two, the technical negotiation of which has now been finalised.
An Outcome Statement was published by the Inclusive Framework of the OECD on 12 July 2023 setting out the progress made to address the other remaining elements of the Two-Pillar Solution. Amount A of Pillar One will be implemented largely via a Multilateral Convention (MLC). While there are still some open issues, negotiation of the MLC's text is at an advanced stage. The MLC will only come into force when it has been signed and ratified by a critical mass of jurisdictions.
Finalisation of the work on Amount B of Pillar One which should reduce the number of costly disputes, is also progressing.
There are a small number of open issues in relation to both elements of Pillar One and Ireland remain actively engaged in the negotiations to resolve these open issues.
I look forward to completing the implementation of this significant agreement. Our long-standing position is that the international tax system needs to keep pace with changes in how business is now being conducted globally and global implementation of the agreement will bring much needed stability to the international tax framework after the turbulence and uncertainty of recent years.
218. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which financial entities operating here in the housing market are obliged to charge interest rates in line with the pillar banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43444/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe setting of retail lending rates by individual entities is a commercial matter for each individual entity and neither the Central Bank nor I have any function or role in such decision making matters by financial institutions. There are no regulatory provisions requiring non-bank financial entities, such as retail credit and credit servicing firms, operating in the housing market to charge interest rates in line with the main banks.
Generally retail banks fund their lending from deposits and wholesale funding sources. Non-banks have a greater reliance on wholesale funding than retail banks as they are not authorised to accept deposits. As such the funding of loans and the interest rates charged by non-bank entities is generally determined by wholesale markets, where interest rates have been rising in line with the increase in official interest rates.
However, it should be noted that where a lender or creditor sells the benefits of a credit agreement or mortgage to another entity, any such sale or assignment of a creditor's rights does not change the terms and conditions of the credit agreement. Any creditor which acquires such benefits and rights will do so based on the existing contractual terms and rights of the borrower.
The Consumer Protection (Regulation of Credit Servicing Firms) Act 2015 provides that the regulatory consumer protections which a borrower had prior to such a sale, such as those set out in the Central Bank Consumer Protection Code and the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears, will continue to apply and will remain available to the borrower following the sale.
A number of measures are in place to support households facing rising interest rates. In particular, the Central Bank has introduced a number of increased protections for variable rate mortgage holders which can which help mortgage holders identify lower cost mortgage options. Firstly, it made changes to the Consumer Protection Code to require mortgage creditors to explain to borrowers how their non-tracker variable interest rates have been set and to clearly identify the factors which may result in changes to variable interest rates. Secondly, it also increased the level of information lenders are required to provide their customers including where there is a possibility for the borrower to move to a lower ‘loan to value’ interest rate band and signpost the borrower to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission's mortgage switching tool.
More recently, on 31 August 2023 I met with the mortgage industry including the Banking and Payments Federation Ireland (BPFI), CEOs and senior representatives of all the main mortgage lenders and servicers. I made it clear that banks and all other mortgage entities should be fully aware of the significant challenges that some of their customers are facing and, therefore, lenders and servicers should respond by assisting their customers who are experiencing difficulty. In relation to customers’ ability to switch to another provider to avail of a more advantageous mortgage interest rate, I also highlighted that greater clarity should be provided to customers on the possibility of switching provider and this option should be fully supported by all mortgage entities, including the existing mortgage creditor. Further I supported the steps taken by the Central Bank to ensure that firms proactively deal with emerging difficulties for their customers since the increase in interest rates. The Central Bank requires firms to enhance the range of supports available to borrowers in or facing arrears and to have sufficient operational capacity to manage applications by borrowers to switch their mortgage or mortgage provider.
Arising from that meeting, on 6 September the Banking and Payments Federation of Ireland announced a number of further initiatives by the mortgage industry. This included:-
• a second phase of a ‘Dealing With Debt’ campaign to highlight new and existing supports for concerned mortgage customers;
• mortgage servicing firms and MABS to collaborate on an expansion of streamlined customer engagement framework; and
• the provision of initial eligibility criteria by the main lenders to provide clear guidelines for home mortgage customers of credit servicing firms who are seeking to switch their mortgage.
This means that, for the first time there is now an agreed industry wide set of initial eligibility criteria to facilitate people switching their mortgage from a non-bank to a bank.
219. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance if he is aware of the renewed vigour with which some investment funds are now pursuing mortgage holders whose mortgages have been sold to them from the pillar banks; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43445/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Government is aware of the pressure that the rising interest rate environment may have on borrowers. I convened a meeting with lenders active in the mortgage market on 31 August. The Central Bank of Ireland, the Insolvency Service of Ireland, the Citizens Information Board and Money Advice and Budgeting Service also attended.
Following this meeting, on 6 September the Banking & Payments Federation of Ireland (BPFI)'s second phase of its Dealing With Debt campaign was launched to highlight new and existing supports available for mortgage customers. One of the initiatives to which I would draw the Deputy's attention is the work between Credit Servicing Firms and MABS on a streamlined customer engagement framework to accelerate the agreement of sustainable repayment plans for customers in financial difficulty.
The consumer protection framework provides the same protections for borrowers regardless of the regulated entity with whom they are dealing, be that a bank, retail credit firm (RCF) or credit servicing firm (CSF). These regulated entities must be authorised and supervised by the Central Bank, and are subject to the full suite of relevant regulatory requirements and financial services legislation, including the Code of Conduct on Mortgage Arrears (CCMA).
There are a broad range of measures in place to protect mortgage holders who are experiencing difficulty with their repayments. The CCMA outlines how a lender must act if a borrower is in or facing mortgage arrears. The CCMA sets out the process that entities must follow when a borrower is experiencing difficulties with their mortgage payments. Due regard must be given to the fact that each case is unique and needs to be considered on its own merits.
Regulated entities must explore all of the options for alternative repayment arrangements (ARAs) in order to determine which ARA, if any, is appropriate and sustainable for a distressed borrower’s individual circumstances. The range of sustainable solutions being offered to consumers has expanded significantly including the use of new ARAs, mortgage-to-rent and personal insolvency arrangements.
The CCMA provides for an appeals mechanism, including where the entity declines to offer an ARA, where the borrower is not willing to enter into the ARA offered or where the entity classifies the borrower as not co-operating. Appeals can ultimately be referred to the Financial Services and Pensions Ombudsman (FSPO).
The CCMA must be complied with under the law and the Central Bank has the power to take enforcement action against any regulated entity who does not act in compliance with the CCMA. The Central Bank continues to supervise compliance with the CCMA and will investigate any issues that arise, including patterns of behaviour which suggest that the CCMA process is not being followed.
Under the CCMA the lender must:
1. Contact the consumer about their mortgage arrears in a timely, clear, and consumer-friendly manner;
2. Get information from the consumer about their financial situation;
3. Assess whether a suitable alternative repayment arrangement can be made; and
4. Resolve the case by offering an alternative repayment arrangement or not.
This CCMA has been designed to protect consumers and regulated lenders are legally obliged to comply with it. The Code requires lenders to:
• Provide dedicated and specially trained staff in their Arrears Support Unit to manage cases. This includes having any meetings with consumers in private and referring them to their online or hardcopy information.
• Follow the Mortgage Arrears Resolution Process (MARP) which sets out how lenders must communicate with consumers, assess their situation with the aim of coming to a resolution. It includes having an appeals process in place so consumers can appeal certain decisions of their lender.
Finally, if the Deputy has evidence that firms are pursuing borrowers contrary to the provisions of the CCMA, the Central Bank of Ireland will consider any such information as part of their supervisory duties.
220. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance when the operation of funding for primary medical certificates is likely to be restored; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43446/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraProgress has been made on efforts to convene a new Disabled Drivers Medical Board of Appeals (DDMBA), to secure new hosting arrangements for the DDMBA and to recommence the appeals process.
I have now formally appointed all five members to the new DDMBA. Funding arrangements between the Department of Finance and the Department of Health have been agreed. On this basis the National Rehabilitation Hospital (NRH) has confirmed that they will again host the DDMBA. Preparatory work is underway, that will include due deliberation on how best to clear the backlog. The appeals process will re-commence upon completion of this work. In parallel, my officials are working with the NRH to conclude other conditions for new hosting arrangements, which may continue after the appeals process is again up and running.
I appreciate that it has taken far longer than anticipated to get to this point. With the Department of Health we have had to run four Expression of Interest campaigns over 18 months to source the legislatively required five members. We have also had to re-negotiate new hosting arrangements with the NRH following their withdrawal of services in February 2023.
As of end August 2023 (latest data available) there were 1,079 appeals outstanding.
221. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which inflation is being brought under control, with consequent reductions in the cost of living; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43447/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraInflation in Ireland averaged just over 8 per cent in 2022, peaking at 9½ per cent last summer. This September, HICP inflation stood at 5 per cent, representing a decline of 4½ percentage points from last year peak. While these developments represent a significant reduction in inflationary pressures, inflation remains far above the ECB’s 2 per cent target and even further above the ½ per cent rate of inflation recorded on average across the decade preceding the current inflationary cycle.
With wholesale energy markets having eased significantly since last year, households will soon see the benefits with nearly all gas and electricity providers having announced price cuts effective from this November.
The easing in energy inflation is anticipated to further reduce the annual inflation rate, although ‘core’ inflation (excluding energy and unprocessed food) is expected to decline more gradually. Indeed, over the past year, inflationary pressures have become increasingly broad-based and persistent. This reflects widespread capacity constraints in the Irish economy, notably in housing and labour markets, which are becoming increasingly binding.
Since last year, the ECB has rapidly tightened monetary policy in an attempt to bring inflationary pressures under control. Interest rates have now increased by 4½ percentage points since July 2022. Whilst this has been a necessary step to prevent inflationary expectations from becoming de-anchored, this increase in interest rates has had a knock on impact on the financing burden faced by both businesses and households.
Against this ever-evolving backdrop, Government supports have and will continue to play a key role in supporting the most vulnerable in society. The Government has continuously sought to ease the burden of inflation through temporary and targeted supports, whilst remaining conscious not to exacerbate price pressures. In Budget 2024 we will, once again, ensure that budgetary policy is calibrated in a manner which avoids adding to the price pressures in our economy while, at the same time, supporting households and delivering the infrastructure and public services that our society needs.
222. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Finance the extent to which any particular economic features require amendment or refocus in order to avoid difficulties in the future; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43448/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraDespite facing multiple headwinds over recent years, the Irish economy has proven to be remarkably resilient. This resilience is most clearly evident in the labour market with the unemployment rate remaining around historically low levels (4.1 per cent in August). This is consistent with the robust growth in modified domestic demand and consumer spending recorded in the second quarter (roughly 1 per cent quarter on quarter).
Government supports have played a key role in helping to weather the impacts of recent economic shocks. By responding swiftly and decisively to the inflationary challenge and providing €12bn in cost of living supports, over the course of this year and last, Government has helped mitigate the impact of inflationary pressures on both businesses and households.
Over the medium term, it is anticipated that the Irish economy will face a number of significant challenges, related to economic features of our society, with a lower growth outlook expected in the second half of the decade due to the rapid ageing of our labour force. Indeed, by 2030, age-related expenditure alone is expected to be €7-8 billion higher than it was at the start of the decade, while other structural changes including digital and climate transitions will also have implications for the economy and the public finances.
The Government is taking steps to ensure that adequate safety measures are in place to protect the fundamentals of the Irish economy as we face the aforementioned economic features and any other obstacles that may arise. A scoping paper entitled Future Proofing the Public Finances – the Next Steps published by the Department of Finance outlined the merits of establishing a long-term public savings vehicle.
Through the National Development Plan, we are putting in place the vital public infrastructure to meet the needs of our society. With this ambitious expansion in capital infrastructure, the Government will boost the productive capacity of our economy and deliver much needed housing investment. This in turn will support long term and sustainable growth in our economy.
224. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if his attention has been drawn to issues regarding land ownership and access to Castletown House; if his Department have at any point in the past made efforts to secure lands around Castletown House; if he and or his officials have assisted the OPW in attempts to secure the lands by purchase and or lease; and if he will involve himself in the current discussions between the OPW and land owners. [43230/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraA response will issue directly to the Deputy on this matter.
225. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform his proposals for Castletown Estate, Celbridge, County Kildare with particular reference to, in the first instance, unimpeded access to the lands already owned by the OPW in the estate and thereafter as may be required; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43416/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraA response will issue directly to the Deputy on this matter.
226. Deputy Michael Healy-Rae asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if a matter will be investigated (details supplied); if a proposal of work to remedy the problem be put in place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43250/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe OPW is aware of erosion of the dune habitat at Derrynane. Whilst there is evidence of erosion at the site, there is also evidence of accretion. It is also important to have regard to the longer-term coastal evolution in the area. An analysis of mapping and imagery indicates that the current extent of the sand dune habitat at Derrynane greatly exceeds that of 1840 and 1915. The area, which is currently subject to erosion, exists as a result of natural accretion that has occurred since 1915 at the earliest. Historic mapping also indicates that the course of the Coomnahorna River has followed a similar course alongside the dunes and grasslands throughout much of the known history of the site.
This is all evidence that the dunes and grasslands at Derrynane are a dynamic system, the size and shape of which is intrinsically linked to a natural cycle of accretion and erosion.
As you may be aware, the dune habitat at Derrynane is located entirely within both the Kenmare River SAC and the Iveragh Peninsula SPA. The OPW is actively monitoring Derrynane and has commissioned and undertaken a number specialist ecological surveys and studies to obtain the evidence needed to support any action deemed appropriate with regard to the site. These surveys and studies are in addition to having consideration of the National Coastal Monitoring Surveys commissioned by NPWS to fulfil their EU obligations.
The area currently experiencing erosion includes both of the dune habitats listed as Qualifying Interests for the Kenmare SAC, along with another Qualifying Interest, Atlantic Salt Meadows. The target for the sand dune habitats at Derrynane is that "there should be no decline or change in the distribution of the sand dune habitats, unless it is the result of natural processes, including erosion, accretion and succession". The document also states that "Sand dunes are highly complex, dynamic systems, where the habitats occur in a complex and constantly evolving and changing mosaic. They function as systems in terms of geomorphology and hydrology and maintaining the favourable conservation condition of the habitats present depends on allowing these processes to continue unhindered".
Given the conservation objectives of the Kenmare River SAC, there are currently no plans to undertake remedial action that may interfere with the natural cycle of erosion and accretion that is currently evident at Derrynane. This does not preclude remedial action from taking place in the future. The OPW will continue to actively monitor the site.
A Dune Grassland and Heathland Habitat survey is being carried out at the site and is due for completion later this year. In recognition of the importance that both OPW and the local community place on access to the sand dune habitats at Derrynane, the OPW is working in partnership with NUI Galway on a science-based and participative approach to monitoring and management of the sand dunes. When the associated coastal monitoring project report and the Dune Grassland and Heathland Habitat Survey are complete, the OPW will review the material and engage with the local community.
227. Deputy Carol Nolan asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if the employment policy of the Civil Service supports the implementation of gender quotas when hiring new staff; if so, the steps that have been taken to implement such a policy from 2020 to date; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43281/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraAs the Deputy is aware, my Department has policy responsibility for recruitment policy in the civil service. As reflected in the Civil Service Renewal 2024 Strategy, the civil service is strongly committed to equality of opportunity for all in terms of its recruitment and employment practices, and building a more diverse and inclusive workforce that is reflective of Ireland and the people it serves.
With respect to the implementation of gender quotas for hiring new staff, in 2018, Government approved a policy for TLAC competitions in support of a goal of attaining a 50/50 gender balance on Management Boards. Where candidates compete for such positions and are of equal merit at the final stage of a competition, priority is given to the female candidate should that gender be underrepresented on the Management Board of the Department/Office in question.
Significant progress has been made in appointment females to the most senior levels in the civil service:
Percentage Female Representation in Senior Grades
|
Grade |
1997 |
2007 |
2021 |
2022 |
|
Secretary General |
5% |
19% |
32% |
40% |
|
Assistant Secretary General |
10% |
19% |
43% |
44% |
|
Principal Officer |
12% |
26% |
48% |
50% |
|
Assistant Principal |
24% |
33% |
53% |
54% |
The Public Appointments Service (PAS), which is a body under the aegis of my Department, is the primary recruiter for the civil service and some parts of the public service. PAS is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce with the skills and attributes to meet the future challenges of the public service. Three key areas of focus include:
• better knowledge and understanding of who works in our civil service,
• creating more inclusive and equitable processes for all candidates, and
• leading by example in creating and encouraging their clients to foster more inclusive work places.
Several pieces of work are underway that will support underrepresented groups in general to access opportunities in the civil and public sector. A key priority is to develop a data driven, evidence-based diversity profile of candidates throughout the recruitment process. To achieve this priority PAS commissioned the Economic and Social Research Institute (ESRI) to review their equality data including data related to gender. As part of the project, the ESRI assessed the robustness of their equality data by conducting a ‘health check’ and analysed data relating to over 1,000 competitions across the civil and public service (over 2019-2021).
In addition to a gender balance policy on interview boards, all interview board members are fully briefed before sitting on an interview board and all members are required to undertake interview training including unconscious bias training, to highlight the impact bias can have on decision making during recruitment.
228. Deputy Éamon Ó Cuív asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform the reason the OPW took the decision to prevent a concert taking place at a venue at the last minute (details supplied); the steps being taken to ensure that as far as possible, this will not occur again; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43326/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraCastletown House plays an important role in hosting concerts and cultural events.
The OPW worked with pianist Annalise, Helen Hancock and Christopher Moriarty to have a performance on Saturday, 30 September 2023. The management of Castletown regrets very much that the concert had to be cancelled but it proved impossible to guarantee access to the site for the attendees due to a community protest which was blocking access to the Castletown House and Estate through the Celbridge Gate.
The management of Castletown continues to monitor the situation closely and should it prove necessary to cancel or curtail any future events planned for the site it is hoped to provide a longer notice period for patrons.
229. Deputy Catherine Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, National Development Plan Delivery and Reform if a health and safety risk assessment was conducted in advance of the opening of Castletown House's main entrance to vehicle traffic; if a vehicle and pedestrian management plan has been developed; and if he is satisfied that the new arrangements meet the needs of persons with a disability and or that require use of mobility aides. [43380/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe Office of Public Works has been engaged in dialogue with the private landowners at Castletown Estate and attended mediation, as requested by private landowners. The details of the process are confidential. This mediation concluded on 29 September 2023. The OPW is disappointed that it was not possible to reach agreement.
It should be noted that it has long been the policy of the OPW to seek to reunite the historic Castletown Estate. In 1994, when the Office of Public Works took responsibility for Castletown House and Estate there was an initial landholding of only 13 acres of land. In 1997, one hundred acres south of the house was acquired. The farmyard adjacent to the house was acquired in 2001. In 2006, lands associated with the Batty Langley Lodge were acquired with former Coillte lands to the north and east of the House acquired in 2007. Since 2008, the OPW has reassembled 227 acres of the original 580 acres of land which formed the historic demesne.
As part of the policy to seek to reunite the historic Castletown demesne lands with the house and lands in the care of the State, the OPW has sought on several occasions to purchase the lands in question from Janus Securities including when the lands were offered for sale on the open market in 2022. However, despite the very best efforts of the OPW, the State was out-bid in the open market process and ultimately, the lands were acquired by a private purchaser.
As Minister, I have spoken with my government colleagues on this issue and my officials in OPW have engaged with the relevant departments. The OPW remains committed to acquiring lands that formed part of the original estate, where they became available. This objective will be pursued in line with the requirements of the Public Spending Code.
At present, the Celbridge gate is the only vehicular access route available to the OPW at Castletown. The M4 access road was used under licence from the previous owner, and until the 29th September 2023 by permission from the current landowners. The private landowners withdrew this permission from the OPW on 29 September.
Until the agreement with the previous landowners in 2007, the Celbridge Gate was the only vehicular access point to Castletown House and Estate. Between 1994 and 2007, there were no problems recorded for the many years that this access route was used by pedestrians, cyclists and vehicles. I note that Castletown has five kilometres of paths which are compliant for use for people using a wheelchair.
In addition, the OPW has put in place a traffic management plan, operated by a professional traffic management company, to ensure safe access for all users. The OPW continues to encourage all visitors to use public transport or active travel to access the site as far as possible. However, vehicular access is required for OPW staff and contractors, deliveries and other services to operate Castletown House and Estate. In addition, there are 6 parking spaces for people with a disability permit and approximately 30 spaces for other visitors.
While the OPW will encourage visitors to use public transport, this may not be possible for all of the approximately 25,000 visitors to Castletown House for guided tours each year. Accessibility for all visitors to this internationally important Historic House is important.
230. Deputy Niamh Smyth asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment for an update on plans for job creation at a vacant site (details supplied) matter; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43216/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraThe factory in Carrickmacross was officially opened in November 2019 when the fit out of the facility was completed. As a proposed manufacturer of infant formula supplying the Chinese market, the company is required to have their facility fully audited and approved for operations prior to the commencement of any production.
Enterprise Ireland continue to engage with and support the company and are actively encouraging them to look at wider business opportunities across the nutritional powders market. Enterprise Ireland are also supporting them to explore the innovation networks and ecosystem available to them here in Ireland that can support their innovation journey.
There are currently a number of full-time workers employed on site, across business development, HR and engineering, with an expectation to grow employment as the business builds.
231. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if he will provide information on the educational seminars, radio marketing campaigns, expenditures on radio marketing, email campaigns, direct mail initiatives or any other related activities that have been conducted between 26 May 2023, and 1 October 2023, with the objective of raising awareness among both public and private employers and employees in Ireland regarding the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality; if he will provide information on any forthcoming activities scheduled for increasing awareness of the Code of Practice during the period from October to December 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43243/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra232. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment if an assessment has been conducted regarding the awareness levels of employees and employers in Ireland, encompassing both the public and private sectors, with regard to the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality; if such an assessment has not been carried out, to outline the strategies and initiatives planned to enhance awareness among both employers and employees regarding the Code of Practice during the period from 1 October 2023, to 31 December 2023; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43244/23]
Amharc ar fhreagra233. Deputy Michael Lowry asked the Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment whether he is confident that both public and private sector employees are well informed about the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality; if he will elaborate on the steps taken to ensure there is awareness of the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [43245/23]
Amharc ar fhreagraI propose to take Questions Nos. 231, 232 and 233 together.
The Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) provides practical guidance on improving and managing indoor air quality in the workplace. It sets out a practical risk assessment approach to be taken to assist employers with making a reasonable determination of IAQ in their workplace. It also provides detailed information on ventilation, air filtration, carbon dioxide monitors and promotes designing out IAQ issues and green procurement and highlights appropriate control measures along with practical checklists and tools for employers.
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has overall responsibility for the enforcement of occupational safety and health legislation in Ireland. It monitors compliance with the legislation and can take enforcement action (up to and including prosecutions).
While, to date, no formal assessment has been conducted regarding the awareness levels of employers and employees in the public and private sectors about the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality, it has been promoted via the HSA’s normal website and social media channels since its publication in late May 2023. Further promotional initiatives are planned over coming months including more newsletter and social media promotion as well as presentations by the HSA at various conferences and promotion of the Code with relevant key stakeholders.
HSA Inspectors are also raising awareness of the Code of Practice with employers during routine workplace inspections, where appropriate, and inspections addressing IAQ will be included the HSA’s 2024 Programme of Work (which is currently being finalised) with a specific question set developed to enable the collection of data to determine awareness, and implementation of, the Code of Practice.
Furthermore, an IAQ risk assessment is currently being included in the HSA’s BeSmart online tool and will be launched shortly which will further increase awareness levels amongst small businesses.
If employers or employees have any questions regarding the Code of Practice for Indoor Air Quality, they can contact the HSA directly at contactus@hsa.ie or visit Contact Us - Health and Safety Authority (hsa.ie) .
